Wildcats & Lady Wildcats recognized at Winter Sports Banquet

 

The Licking R-8 Winter Sports Banquet was held on Thursday evening, March 12, at the Intercounty Electric Auditorium. High school principal Dr. Jarad Rinne welcomed guests to the banquet and celebrated the dedication and accomplishments of athletes and coaches this season. He thanked Mrs. Whitley Hart and her students who made treats for the event, and Mrs. Kaitlyn Cook, who created a balloon arch for keepsake photos to be taken.

Mrs. Cook presented awards to her squad of cheerleaders. Miss Taylor Hicks received the Wildcat Award. This year’s MVP was Miss Gwendolyn Campbell. The Spirit Captain Award went to Mr. Isaac Rinne, who was Winston the Wildcat, the school’s mascot. Miss Josie Gifford received the Fearless Flier Award and Miss Teagan Lewis was named the Backspot Ace of the year.

Coach Steve Rissler and his Lady Wildcats basketball team were the next team to be recognized. Coach Rissler congratulated Miss Addison Floyd, his lone senior, for having a great year and recognized her for being a great leader, on and off the court. He also recognized the efforts of manager Miss Sadie Hutsell, saying she was a big contributor to the team. Miss Keely Gorman received the Teammate of the Year Award; though injured during the season, she continued to come to everything to support her team. The Rebounding Award went to Miss Hadlee Davis, and she also received the Scoring Title for the season. Miss Penelope Huff was the Newcomer of the Year. The X-Factor Award went to Miss Bailee Medlock and Most Improved was Miss Kylee Rinne. Miss Hadlee Davis was also named to the First Team All Conference. Coach Rissler congratulated Assistant Coach Callie Smith, who did a great job with the junior varsity this year. He also recognized the work of Coach Smith and Rick Mosher in developing the post players this year.

Boys basketball Coach Chris Harris reviewed the highlights of his team’s season, including the junior varsity team, which was heavy with freshmen. The varsity Wildcats finished 14-12 overall, and many varsity players will be receiving their first letter this year. He recognized senior Mr. Karson Walker’s accomplishments, setting a school record of 54-points in a game, and being in the top 25 of nine different stats with MSHSAA. Mr. Conway Adey’s 42-point game against Newburg, with 78 percent shooting from the field was also recognized, as was the hard work of Mr. Benton Corley to rehabilitate after an injury and return to the floor in the post season. All Conference awards this year went to Mr. Karson Walker, who made first team, and Mr. Conway Adey and Mr. Jason Ingram received Honorable Mention. Coach Harris presented the Defensive Player of the Year award to Mr. Jett Sullins and the Offensive Player of the Year award to Mr. Karson Walker. This year’s rebounding leader was Mr. Conway Adey, and Mr. Karson Walker had the most assists. The team voted on the following awards: Most Improved – Mr. Parker Huff; Powercat Hustle – Mr. Jason Ingram; Teammate of the Year – Mr. Benton Corley; and Leadership Award – Mr. Karson Walker.

Dr. Rinne closed the event and thanked everyone for attending.