A House RESOLUTION

 

TO CONGRATULATE THE SALUDA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOFTBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR A SUPERB SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING THE SOUTH CAROLINA CLASS AA DIVISION I STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.

 

Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives is pleased to learn that the Saluda High School softball team achieved an extraordinary milestone during the 2026 season by capturing the South Carolina Class AA Division I State Championship title, the first in program history; and

 

Whereas, the Lady Tigers completed a remarkable 30-4 season, finishing the year on a 14-game winning streak and posting a perfect 8-0 record throughout postseason play; and

 

Whereas, Saluda High School defeated Chesterfield High School by a score of 3-0 on Thursday, May 28, 2026, completing a sweep of the Class AA best-of-three state championship series and securing the program's first state title; and

 

Whereas, after finishing as runner-up in 2025 during the program's first state championship appearance, the Lady Tigers demonstrated resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment in returning to claim the championship in 2026; and

 

Whereas, throughout the season, Saluda High School successfully competed against and defeated numerous highly regarded Class 3A, 4A, and 5A opponents, proving itself among the state's elite softball programs; and

 

Whereas, the Lady Tigers captured the region championship for the third consecutive season with a pivotal victory over Batesburg-Leesville High School; and

 

Whereas, Saluda High School earned its third consecutive district championship with a victory over Blacksburg High School and secured back-to-back upper state championships with a victory over Chesnee High School; and

 

Whereas, Head Coach Hannah Towery guided the program to unprecedented success and became the winningest coach in Saluda softball history, finishing the season with 85 career victories; and

 

Whereas, Coach Towery's leadership, dedication, and vision helped establish a championship culture that culminated in the program's first state title; and

 

Whereas, Miller Martin was named the South Carolina Class AA State Player of the Year and delivered a record-breaking season by surpassing her own school strikeout record, finishing with 248 strikeouts, 5 home runs, and 32 RBIs; and

 

Whereas, the Lady Tigers earned additional recognition through three All-Region selections and one All-State selection; and

 

Whereas, the Saluda pitching staff combined for an outstanding 366 strikeouts during the 2026 season; and

 

Whereas, the success of the 2026 Lady Tigers was built upon an unselfish team culture, strong leadership, accountability, relentless work ethic, and a commitment to playing for one another every day; and

 

Whereas, the accomplishments of this team have established a lasting legacy and brought tremendous pride and recognition to Saluda High School and the Saluda community.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate the  Saluda High School Girls Softball team, coaches, and school officials for a superb season and honor them for winning the South Carolina Class AA Division I State Championship title.  

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Head Coach Hannah Towery.

----XX----