As Adopted by the Senate

136th General Assembly

Regular Session S. R. No. 102

2025-2026

Senators Roegner, Weinstein

A R E S O L U T I O N

Honoring John Groce on receiving the 2025 Hugh Durham National Coach of the Year Award.

WHEREAS, The members of the Senate of the 136th General Assembly of Ohio are pleased to commend John Groce as the 2025 Hugh Durham National Coach of the Year; and

WHEREAS, John Groce is truly worthy of recognition, for as the head coach of The University of Akron men’s basketball team, he has completed an array of challenging duties with genuine distinction, proving himself to be a tireless champion of athletic excellence. This season, he guided his squad to a program best 28-7 record, including 17-1 in Mid-American Conference play, the MAC Tournament championship for a second consecutive year, and the program’s seventh appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Truly, he has inspired trust and confidence by motivating students and coaches alike to set ambitious goals and high standards for themselves; and

WHEREAS, This notable accomplishment is a justifiable source of pride and an excellent reflection on John Groce but also on his family, his players, his school, and his community. Without question, he has been one of The University of Akron’s most precious assets, and his exceptional record of personal and professional achievement stands as a hallmark worthy of emulation; and

WHEREAS, With athletic competition playing such an important role in the total education of our young people, we are overjoyed to pay tribute to Coach Groce and his fine players for a job well done. The maturity and experience the team members have gained under his mentorship will greatly aid them in meeting the challenges of the future; therefore be it

RESOLVED, That we, the members of the Senate of the 136th General Assembly of Ohio, in adopting this Resolution, pay tribute to John Groce as the 2025 Hugh Durham National Coach of the Year and offer best wishes for continued success; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Clerk of the Senate transmit a duly authenticated copy of this Resolution to John Groce.