House Resolution 1688
By: Representatives Williams of the 168th and DeLoach of the 167th
A RESOLUTION
Congratulating the First Preparatory Christian Academy boys basketball team for winning
the 2026 GIAA Class A Boys State Basketball Championship; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, First Preparatory Christian Academy, located in Hinesville, is a private
Christian school serving approximately 300 students in grades PK2 through 12 that is
dedicated to academic excellence, athletic achievement, and the development of strong
Christian character; and
WHEREAS, under the leadership and direction of Headmaster Leah Gumatatao, the school
continues its mission of educating and guiding students to excel both in the classroom and
in extracurricular activities; and
WHEREAS, the mission of the First Preparatory Christian Academy athletic program is to
compete athletically at the highest level by placing the utmost importance on a "fundamentals
first" mentality while maintaining a primary focus on the development of Christian character
in each individual associated with the program through the teaching of six Core Values:
Courage, Integrity, Patience, Humility, Discipline, and Enthusiasm; and
WHEREAS, the First Preparatory Christian Academy boys basketball team achieved
extraordinary success by winning the 2026 GIAA Class A Boys State Basketball
Championship, securing back-to-back state championships and demonstrating exceptional
teamwork, dedication, and perseverance; and
WHEREAS, this achievement was made possible through the leadership of Head Coach
Shane Smith, who has invested deeply in the lives of each and every student he has had the
opportunity to coach and teach, building not only talented athletes but also young men of
strong character; and
WHEREAS, the accomplishments of the First Preparatory Christian Academy basketball
team bring great pride to their school, families, and the broader community of Hinesville and
the State of Georgia.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body congratulate the First Preparatory Christian Academy boys
basketball team for winning the 2026 GIAA Class A Boys State Basketball Championship
and for representing their school and community with excellence, discipline, and
sportsmanship.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of this body recognize the outstanding
leadership of Head Coach Shane Smith, Headmaster Leah Gumatatao, and the coaching staff,
players, students, and families whose dedication made this remarkable achievement possible.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to First
Preparatory Christian Academy.