SR 341: Honoring the Denison University women's basketball team on securing the 2026 NCAA Division III Championship.

As Adopted by the Senate

136th General Assembly

Regular Session

S. R. No. 341

2025-2026

Senator Schaffer

Honoring the Denison University women's basketball team on securing the 2026 NCAA Division III Championship.

WHEREAS, The members of the Senate of the 136th General Assembly of Ohio are pleased to extend special recognition to the Denison University women's basketball team as the 2026 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III Champion; and

WHEREAS, The Denison University women's basketball team is comprised of excellent athletes who collectively worked to showcase the talents of their exceptional squad. The Big Red trained diligently, combining stamina, drive, and dedication, and as a result, they were victorious over the University of Scranton with a final score of 55-41 to win this year's NCAA Division III Championship, the program's first such title, and finish the season with an impressive 30-2 record. Time and again, they have risen to the occasion, amply demonstrating their unflagging determination, and their impressive maturity and finesse have gained them widespread respect, even among their most daunting rivals. They are certainly deserving of this crown; and

WHEREAS, This triumph reflects the staunch resolve of these young women, and it signifies the acquisition of valuable experience that is sure to benefit them in later life. Thanks in part to the tireless efforts of their exemplary head coach, Maureen Hirt, and her assistants, the members of the Denison University women's basketball team have met the demands of an extensive training regimen, and it has paid handsome dividends; and

WHEREAS, The players of the Denison University women's basketball team have set themselves apart as a fine example of what a dedicated group of athletes can achieve when guided by a committed coaching staff and surrounded by loyal fans and sports families. Throughout the season, the Big Red have developed into a group of dynamic leaders, and they can rest assured that as they meet challenges, they will take with them the lessons of camaraderie, hard work, and discipline;

therefore be it

RESOLVED, That we, the members of the Senate of the 136th General Assembly of Ohio, in adopting this Resolution, applaud the Denison University women's basketball team for its brilliant 2025-2026 season and wish its members and coaches continued success in all of their future endeavors; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Clerk of the Senate transmit a duly authenticated copy of this Resolution to the Denison University women's basketball team.