The Utah Senate convened on January 19, 2024, to celebrate the achievements of local athletes and discuss legislative matters. The meeting highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of the Salt Lake Community College cross country teams, which included two national championship titles and a runner-up position.
Senator McCall took the floor to honor the athletes, emphasizing the pride the community feels for their achievements. He introduced the women's cross country team, who won the national championship for 2023, and acknowledged the men's team for their runner-up finish. Notably, JQ Harris, a standout athlete, was recognized for his exceptional performance, with Senator McCall predicting that a book would eventually be written about him.
The senator also praised the team's coach, Isaac Wood, who was named NCAA Coach of the Year. He expressed gratitude for the support of the college's administration and coaches, highlighting the importance of their roles in fostering athletic success.
In addition to the accolades, the meeting included a call for community members to wear scarves in support of the athletes, reinforcing the connection between sports and community pride. The event concluded with a round of applause for the teams and their coaches, celebrating their hard work and dedication.
As the session progressed, the Senate also addressed legislative matters, with the rules committee recommending the assignment of various bills to standing committees. This blend of athletic recognition and legislative business underscored the Senate's commitment to both community engagement and governance.