Wildcats win Eden Bisker Trophy

 

Slideshows by Shari Harris

Senior Night

By Shari Harris, Publisher

The Licking High School Cheerleaders and Boys Basketball team recognized their seniors on Tuesday, February 17. Two senior cheerleaders, a mascot, and four members of the boys basketball team and their families were honored.

Cheerleader Aleksey Cook was escorted by her parents, Tracy Cook and Thomas Gilmour. She has been a cheerleader for two years and is also involved in Science Club (where she is Secretary), Pep Club, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), and Art Club. Aleksey is undecided on her plans after graduation, but she is interested in possibly pursuing teaching or coaching, or being a nail technician or a dental hygienist. Included in her advice for future cheerleaders is, “Putting time, effort and consistency into a sport while you’re growing up is always worth it. Don’t be afraid to try something new. It’s not even about the sport—it’s about finding the right people to surround yourself with.”

Cheerleader Hannah Payne was escorted by her parents, Mike Payne and Jessica Harris. She has been involved in cheerleading for four years and is also involved in FFA. After graduation, Hannah plans to attend Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) to obtain her welding certification. Her advice for future cheerleaders is, “Even when it gets hard and you are struggling with something, remember we all help each other and are like family. Don’t be afraid if you do not get it the first time, you have people who can and will help you!!”

Mr. Winston Wildcat this year has been senior Isaac Rinne. He was recognized for his role as the school mascot during basketball season.

Cheerleading Coach Kaitlyn Cook prepared a statement celebrating her seniors which was read by the emcee, high school principal Dr. Jarad Rinne.

Boys Basketball seniors were recognized next, beginning with Kohen Blankenship, who was escorted by his parents, Kevin and Tiffany Blankenship. He has been involved in basketball for 12 years, and is also involved in FCA, Golf, and Student Council his junior year. Kohen plans to pursue his journeyman certificate and become an electrician after graduation. His advice for future basketball players is, “Work hard and never give up!

Benton Corley was escorted by his mother, Stephanee Denbow. He has been involved in basketball for 14 years and is also involved in Golf, Cross Country manager, FCCLA and Yearbook. Due to injury, his senior year on the basketball team, he supported his team from the bench. Benton is undecided on where he will be attending college, but plans to one day work as an investor and coach basketball. His advice for future basketball players is, “If you can see the rim, you might as well shoot it. AND the best way to get out of a slump is to keep shooting.”

Caleb Owen was escorted by his mother, Angela Owen. He has been involved in basketball for seven years and is also involved in Tennis and was in Student Council his sophomore year. Caleb plans to pursue his journeyman certificate and become an electrician after graduation. His advice for future basketball players is, “Work hard and don’t give up.”

Karson Walker was escorted by his parents, Willie and Carla Walker. He has been involved in basketball for 12 years and is also involved in FCCLA, Wildcat Baseball, National Honor Society (NHS), is Senior Class President and is a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) captain. After graduation, Karson plans to attend OTC then a four-year university to pursue a medical degree. His advice for future basketball players is, “Let it fly.”

Coach Chris Harris celebrated his players for their contributions to the team.

A senior slideshow was shown after the seniors were presented with gifts from their teammates.

Senior night was also Cancer Night, and the Licking Wildcats competed against the Plato Eagles for the Eden Bisker trophy.

The Wildcats steadily built their lead, going into halftime with a 34-25 advantage. The third quarter saw the gap widen to 56-32. The final score of 73-44 was a decisive win and the Eden Bisker trophy was claimed by the Wildcats.

Seniors scoring were Karson Walker with 25, Kohen Blankenship with 8, and Caleb Owen with 2. Other scorers included Jason Ingram 17, Conway Adey 6, Jett Sullins 5, Logan Buckner 5, and Parker Huff 5.

The JH Wildcats were also successful against the Eagles, winning 79-32. The Wildcat defense held the Eagles to 15 first half points, and only 17 in the second half.

Slideshow by Shari Harris