March 25, 2026 — Wednesday morning, members of the Campbell Spartans’ defending State Champion boys soccer team boarded the bus for a field trip. With coaches and school administrators joining them, the squad headed to downtown Atlanta to visit the Georgia State Capitol. This, however, wasn’t just an added-value educational experience. While examples of civics, lawmaking, and government in action were observed, the purpose of this trip was to honor the 2025 Boys Soccer State Champions, as recognized by the Georgia State Senate.
“Having State Champions here from Smyrna at our state Capitol is unbelievable,” Derek Norton, the Mayor of Smyrna, said. “Our city is a destination across the Southeast, and Smyrna’s schools and sports programs are a big reason why. I’m so proud of these boys.”
The team walked the halls and stairs of the Capitol Building and posed for photos with local politicians before entering the Senate Gallery to watch the proceedings. Eventually, the floor was given to Senator Jaha Howard as the state Senate praised Campbell Athletic Director Phillip Howard(no relation), Head Coach Troy Connolly, and assistants Cess Vega and Manny Silvano for their leadership. The Senate then asked the team to stand to be recognized by all in attendance, and they were recognized by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones.
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“When you come to a Cobb County school like Campbell,” Athletic Director Howard pointed out, “this is what you’re going to get: different opportunities to get exposure to make you a better overall human being.”
The Senate also presented team captains with a framed copy of Senate Resolution 922. It read, in part: “Whereas the phenomenal performance of the team is a clear indication of the outstanding athletic ability, dedication, hard work, and unity of purpose and spirit of each member of the team… Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate that the members of this body congratulate the Campbell High School boys soccer team for winning the 2025 GHSA Class 6A State Soccer Championship and extend best wishes for their continued success.”
It was a unique and special moment that the Campbell soccer squad won’t soon forget.
“We’re not taking a second of this for granted,” Head Coach Connolly admitted. “It’s a big deal. I’m glad it’s being made a big deal, because these boys deserve to be recognized.”
The occasion was not lost on the players, either.
“I’ve never been to the Capitol,” senior Gavin Banks said. “I’ve only seen it from the outside, and it’s such a grand place to be able to walk in and experience all of this.”
Receiving an invitation to be honored at the State Capitol is almost as rare as winning a State title.
“Not everyone can say they’ve won a State Championship, and not everyone can say they’ve been to the Capitol, so it’s a great experience and I’m so glad we could do it,” said Athletic Director Howard.
The Spartans now turn their focus back to the pitch and this 2026 season, where they continue working toward their title defense.
