Wildcats claw their way to victory over Heritage

The boys’ varsity basketball team won its first game of the season 54-49 at home against Heritage High School. Heritage led in scoring until the second half at which time a strong shooting performance by junior Travis McClendon helped the Wildcats to take the lead. The game marks the first time the team has defeated Heritage, as well as the team’s first regular-season victory as a member of the Cape Coast Conference.

“I think the win definitely improved our confidence heading into the season,” sophomore Scott Maggio said. “We have some things that we need to clean up, but overall it was a good win.”

The team lost nine seniors following graduation last year.

“West Shore isn’t just a team you can walk all over anymore,” Maggio said. “We will give any team a run for their money, and I think everyone is excited to face some more powerhouse schools.”

This is the team’s first season playing in the Cape Coast Conference, where they will compete against more challenging opponents.

“Our team has good chemistry — better than last year,” center Tony Hedrick said. “This year, everyone seems to know how to play well with each other.”

Hedrick, a returning varsity player and Senior, added he is a disappointed that the game was his last home-opener, but that he is happy his team came out on top.

The boys’ next game is against Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy on Friday at 7 p.m. in the West Shore gymnasium.

By Cullen Capaldi