Derek Bush won the Virginia High School League’s Class 4A individual State Wrestling title at 113 pounds during the 2023-24 school year to become just the second State Wrestling Champ in Salem High School history. The freshman phenom finished the seasons with a 37 and 2 record with 21 pins and he was named team captain in just his first year on varsity. Monday night City Council formally honored Derek with Resolution 1478 which passed unanimously. Derek also has a 3.9 Grade Point Average in the classroom.

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SALEM, VIRGINIA, August 12, 2024: RESOLUTION 1478

RESOLUTION HONORING 2024 SALEM HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING STATE CHAMPION

WHEREAS, with a great deal of pride and enthusiasm the City of Salem champions the development of its young people by providing an array of opportunities in both the academic and sporting arenas; and

WHEREAS, throughout the years, our youth have excelled in both areas, bringing numerous accolades to the city and school division; and

WHEREAS, the high school wrestling program instills in its participants the significance of teamwork and creates accord and purpose among its participants and coaches; and

WHEREAS, Derek Bush distinguished himself, his school, and the entire community by being crowned a Virginia High School League State Wrestling Champion in Class 4 at 113 pounds; and

WHEREAS, the state title, which is the first ever for a first-year Salem varsity wrestler, capped off an amazing year for the “Freshman Phenom” who completed the season with an incredible 37 and 2 record with 21 victories by pin; and

WHEREAS, Despite being just a ninth grader, Derek served as team captain and exhibited leadership skills that helped the varsity team place in the Top 5 of every tournament in which it competed; and

WHEREAS, Derek led the Spartans in wins and pins, as he became only the second VHSL State Wrestling Champion since Salem High School opened in 1977. Heavyweight Jake Semones, in 2018, is the only other Salem wrestler to accomplish this feat; and

WHEREAS, Derek also excelled in the classroom by posting a 3.9 grade point average and setting an example for his teammates off the mat; and

WHEREAS, along with Wrestling Coach Lawrence Van Liew, Derek Bush and his teammates have brought recognition to the Salem community and the high school by showcasing their skills regionally and statewide; and

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SALEM, VIRGINIA, that Council joins with the citizens of the City of Salem in saluting these amazing achievements during the 2023-24 Wrestling season.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be presented to the coaches and each team member and that a copy be placed on display at Salem High School.