Fueled by a rowdy student section, the sharp shooting of a standout guard, and unwavering school spirit, the Clover Hill boys’ varsity basketball team delivered a valiant effort against rival Cosby on Dec. 11 in the first spirit game of the winter sports season.
The game began slowly for the Green and Gold, as Cosby surged to an early lead in the first quarter, briefly silencing the home crowd. However, head coach Scott McCandlish rallied his team during the break, and the Cavaliers responded with a confident, high-energy second quarter that brought the gymnasium to life. The Cavalier Crazies, Clover Hill’s student section, erupted as junior Zih’kee Dickerson ignited a 10-2 run with a fast break, narrowing the deficit to just four points.
By halftime, Cosby held a 35-26 lead. At the beginning of the second half senior shooting guard Carter Hine checked into the game, he took the court to cheers from the Crazies, including his baseball teammates chanting his name and jersey number. Hine answered the call, draining four of five three-pointers in rapid succession to notch a season-high 14 points and inject momentum into the Cavalier offense.
Defensive efforts by senior center Ian Watts and junior small forward Brayden Hughes, including key steals and blocks, kept Clover Hill in contention late into the fourth quarter. However, Cosby’s dominance on the boards and efficiency from the field proved decisive, as the Titans secured a hard-fought 58-49 victory.
While the result wasn’t in Clover Hill’s favor, the packed student section and infectious enthusiasm showcased the school’s growing spirit. This revival has been led by English teacher Rhonda Clopton, who reformed the Cavalier Crazies club to better unite and energize the student body.
Senior Bailey Burket, a proud member of the Cavalier Crazies, was exuberant about the atmosphere of the night.
“I was so happy to see everyone there, and I just felt the great Cav spirit,” Burket said.
With their first win of the season still in their sights, the Green and Gold will return to Dominion District play on Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m., when they face Midlothian at home.
