Delmarva Christian Schools honored a family member they lost this past summer during Jan. 25.

Ashlee McCoy, who graduated in 2016, lost her battle with breast cancer July 5, 2023. Delmarva Christian students and staff paid tribute to one of its past student leaders by wearing pink at both campuses. McCoy was a key member of the 2014-15 and 2015-16 ESIAC championship teams, and her family took part in a ceremonial tip-off before the first leg of a doubleheader against Salisbury Christian School. Proceeds of ticket sales were donated to the American Breast Cancer Society in Ashlee’s name.

Head coach Frank Roach started the contest with all five of his seniors on the floor, challenging them to execute at a high level. 

“I wanted to let the seniors go out there and really put on a performance, at least in the first quarter together. I told them the goal is not to play a lot – do your business, do your job early and you can rest,” Roach said.

The girls answered the call, knowing the consequences could be a ball-free practice, with suffocating defense the visiting Jaguars could not beat. 

“It starts with defense, but [executing] also comes from our energy. We had five seniors starting tonight and we all love each other. We all knew we were playing with passion and for a cause that’s really important to us,” senior Lily Hutt said.

The forced turnovers led to easy buckets, and the proficient shooting became contagious. Seniors Lily Hutt and Josie Peranteau, who usually operate in the paint or set picks for their teammates, both connected from deep. It was Hutt’s first career three.

“It was definitely shocking! I didn’t think it was going to go in, and I was joking when I told coach I was going to shoot a three, but there it is,” Hutt said.

Leading 27-1 at the end of the first quarter, the Royals’ depth gained valuable experience to close out the contest as Delmarva Christian cruised to a 53-7 victory over Salisbury Christian.

Seniors Journey Handy with 11 points and Mia Elliott with 10 led the Royals in scoring. Sophomores Eva Elliott with five blocked shots and Evelyn Bohinski with seven boards joined Josie Peranteau with four steals as team leaders on the night.

“I’m excited for the remainder of the season; I think the girls are ready to perform,” Roach said.

Following the game, both teams joined the McCoy family on the court for prayer. The Royals will open up a three-game week on the road at Gunston Monday, Jan. 29, in a game rescheduled from Jan. 23.