Chatham state champ loses home & medals in fire, but VHSL steps up to replace state champ medal

Chatham rising senior Marissa Thompson (pictured left by Scott Rigler), a Group A state champion as a sophomore in the 100 meter dash, was dealt a tragic event last Tuesday when her home was destroyed in a fire. In the house fire, her mother was injured badly and rushed to the Wake Forest Burn Center. Thankfully, Thompson's mother is recovering well now, but something beloved to the Region B track star was lost in the flames...her VHSL State Championship medal in the 100 meter dash. After Chatham coach Trip Emerson contacted MileStat.com and VHSL about the unfortunate incident and the loss of her medal, the Virginia High School League and VHSL assistant director Tom Dolan were quick to respond as Marissa Thompson will now be sent a new state championship medal from the VHSL. The Chatham area community has rallied behind Thompson's family to help replace their needs, but the Virginia high school track community can help as well. More information forthcoming on how you can help Marissa and her family.