Seniors Noah Feltner, Natalie Nelson, Megan Oliver, Addison Looney, Camryn Anderson, Wavelynn Peart and Drew Hornback. [Photos by Liyana Autery, with The Kewanee Voice Student Journalism Program]

***Alisha Chaidez is a participant of The Kewanee Voice Student Journalism Program, funded by the Harry Anderson Memorial Trust.

Last Tuesday, the Wethersfield boys basketball team had their last home game for their seniors with a great crowd and a great game that unfortunately ended in a loss, 69-50 to the Stark County Rebels.

Before the game, senior boys basketball players, cheerleaders and band members were recognized for their dedication to the Wethersfield program throughout their years in high school.

“I have coached these boys (Noah Feltner and Drew Hornback) since they were in eighth grade, so seeing them graduate and become the individuals that they are is tough for me and a hard goodbye, but it won’t hit me until the last game,” said Coach Kyle Galli. “They have always come to practice and played hard. These boys have meant so much to the program in their years of playing.” 

Kruz Galbraith puts up a three=pointer.

The game started strong on both sides, with Hornback scoring the first point with a three-point splash. The Rebels came with strong competitiveness and quickly regained possession. The tension between the teams was felt throughout the gym.

The Geese and Rebels went back and forth, playing strong defense and scoring quickly.

Alejandro Garcia shoots a layup.

The first quarter of the game ended with the score being 18-24, with Stark in the lead.

The Rebels claimed control over the second quarter, forcing many turnovers and fouls for the Geese. The score at halftime was 24-33, with Stark still ahead.

The Lady Geese cheerleading squad put on a fun halftime dance, which recognized the seniors, Natalie Nelson, Addison Looney, Megan Oliver, Wavelynn Peart and Camryn Anderson.

The Geese came out for the third period with energy to fight back. The Rebels started with possession of the ball, but Hornback started off once again, with the first point coming out from halftime, knocking down another three-pointer. 

The Geese brought defensive intensity, but could not seem to take down Stark County. The third quarter ended with the Rebels being up by 14.

The final period of the game went similarly to the previous ones, with both teams putting in a noticeable amount of effort, but in the end, the Geese could not pull through. The Rebels seized the win by 19 points.

Leading scorers for Wethersfield were Hornback with 18, followed by Collin Hodge with 12, Hodge also stood out with assists.