By Stephen Smoot
Individuals and teams can each win titles at the state level, bringing home the laurels of victory at the conclusion of a season.
The Health Plan Champions Cup, however, gives an entire school honors for athletic excellence across the board. Lincoln High School’s girls won the Health Plan Champions Cup for Class AA.
According to the website of the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission,the award “honors the leading boys’ and girls’ athletic programs in each of the WVSSAC’s four classifications.”
It adds that “Standings are based on performances across a variety of sports, with points awarded for success in state championship events. Teams are also awarded points based on the previous year’s graduation rate” because student-athletes must win in the classroom as well.
Point totals revealed that the Cougars took the Cup decisively, earning 684 points to Williamstown’s 486.5.
The jewel in the crown of achievements came in the form of a State Cheerleading title in December. Lincoln’s cheer squad initially did not appear to have the points needed for a title. A clerical error in the scoring, however, revealed that the team tied opponent Westside High School.
Both teams took home championship trophies.
Fueled by Raley Cochran, who won the 800 meter run and also Kaylin Sipher who took first in the long jump, the Cougar girls’ track squad placed second in the West Virginia State Track Meet, finishing behind Williamstown.
Cougar girl’s soccer also climbed the mountain and nearly took the summit, placing second in state championship competitions. The team won 15, lost five, and tied one, losing only one game in Big 10 action.
Lincoln’s girl’s basketball team reached the state tournament as well, upending Moorefield but then falling to James Monroe while the girls also placed third in cross country in state level competition. Softball made the trip to South Charleston to compete at states as well.
Lincoln High School’s boys programs tallied a very respectable fifth place in Class AA.
