Cape unified basketball tips off 2024 season
The Cape Henlopen unified basketball team welcomed Caesar Rodney to the Big House Jan. 5.
The Riders won 46-27, but both teams generated generous amounts of appreciation from the spectators thanks in large part to effort and sportsmanship.
“It’s my first year as head coach,” said coach Katie Collick. “I’ve been with the program here and there in past years, but this is my first year head coaching. We’re looking to have fun and trying to play within the spirit of the game.”
While the Riders secured the victory, several Vikings made plays to garner cheers from onlookers. Cape junior Sophia Adams caught the fans’ attention with her relentless defense early on, then again when she showed off her shooting prowess. Zane Richardson garnered some cheers for his athletic plays and outside shooting. The sophomore said playing makes him feel good about himself, especially when he’s connecting from downtown.
“I like waiting out there to shoot, with my right foot ready to launch so that no one can get to me when I’m shooting,” Richardson said.
Lina Frederick, rocking the coveted No. 23, displayed excellent leadership on and off the court during the contest. The Vikings junior credited the victors for having a great team and said Cape had a fun time competing with them.
“To see all of the athletes have a great time and to get so excited, that means a lot to everyone,” Frederick said.
Collick, who has coached several different sports over the past 20 years, professed unified basketball as her favorite sport. She said the team, particularly the athletes, deserves recognition for all the work they put in each day at practice.
“It was just so fun to hear the atmosphere and look across to see all those fans cheering – we cheer for both sides,” Collick said. “Whether it's CR, Dover or whoever we're playing against, cheering with them makes for a great environment.”
Sara Davis may have won the applause competition after an outstanding display of sportsmanship from the Riders. The Vikings junior collected two points for her team in the paint with a smile that got bigger the louder the cheers were, signaling to the crowd her appreciation for their shower of encouragement.
Cape will welcome Middletown at 3:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9, as the team tries to even up its early season record.
