2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 72
Celebrating the life of John P. McSweeney, Jr.
Agreed to by the Senate, March 5, 2026
WHEREAS, John P. McSweeney, Jr., of Lynchburg, the highly admired head coach of the Liberty High School boys' basketball team, died on January 29, 2026; and
WHEREAS, John McSweeney grew up in New York and graduated from Saint Mary's High School in Manhasset, then continued his education at Columbia University; and
WHEREAS, John McSweeney worked as a high school athletics coach for two schools in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before he was hired to reinvigorate the boys' basketball program at Liberty High School in Bedford beginning with the 2023–2024 season; and
WHEREAS, John McSweeney presided over an incredible turnaround for the team, and in his third season as head coach, he led the Liberty High School Minutemen to a 10–2 record and the top spot in the Virginia High School League Region 2C power rankings prior to his passing; and
WHEREAS, John McSweeney inspired his players with his energy and dedication, challenging them to achieve their fullest potential on and off the basketball court; and
WHEREAS, John McSweeney was highly admired by his colleagues at Liberty High School for his kindness, work ethic, and dedication to youth leadership; and