With graduation fast approaching, it is time to celebrate the Class of 2026 as its members enter the final stage of high school. Among them is Truett Bartlett, a member of the soccer team and a future student at Virginia Tech.
At Hidden Valley High School, Truett channeled much of his energy and passion into soccer. A varsity starter all four years, soccer played a major role in his high school experience. Through the sport, he built lasting friendships and found a strong sense of community.
“Soccer has been my favorite sport my whole life, and it was fun to play with so many of my friends throughout the years,” Bartlett said.
His love for soccer also helped him connect with Dr. Neale, an English and journalism teacher at Hidden Valley. As a first-year journalism student, Bartlett said Dr. Neale made a strong impact on him because of his welcoming personality and positive classroom environment.
“I can always talk soccer with him, and he always keeps a friendly classroom,” Bartlett said.
After graduation, Bartlett plans to major in business at Virginia Tech, a decision he said felt right because of the university’s proximity to home. Many of his friends will also attend the school, which he believes will help him maintain those close relationships after high school.
A lifelong soccer fan, Bartlett said he would most want to have dinner with Lionel Messi if given the opportunity.
“It would be really cool to ask how he sees the game and what his thought process is while playing,” Bartlett said.
Although Messi is not necessarily his favorite player, Bartlett said he greatly respects his talent and influence on the sport.
Outside of soccer, Bartlett enjoys science fiction films, especially Interstellar.
“It’s just a really cool movie. I like all the space elements,” Bartlett said.
After four years at Hidden Valley, Bartlett leaves behind a positive impact on the school community while preparing for an exciting new chapter in college. Friends, classmates and teachers wish him the best as he begins this next stage of his life.
