Federal Hocking win first District Championship in 36 Years
By: Charlie Lusk
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CHILLICOTHE, Ohio (WOUB) — The Federal Hocking Lancers tournament run continued when they traveled back to Southeastern High School for the district final. They ran into a familiar opponent, having to go through the Portsmouth West Senators who eliminated the Lancers last year. After 4 grueling quarters, Federal Hocking captured their first District title in 36 years, beating Portsmouth West 50 to 36.
The first quarter saw the Lancers ahead early. A Takira Walker 3 set the tone offensively and the Senators struggled to break through the defense as they grabbed most of their points from the free throw line.
In the second quarter, Portsmouth West took their first lead and held on till the end of the half 18 to 16. Their zone defense kept forcing turnovers and contested shots from Federal Hocking. Additionally, the Senator’s offense started to open with Brayleigh Pistole and Macy Whisman converting from behind the arc.
But the defensive efforts of the Lancers, especially Jaylee Orsborne with 4 steals in the first half, kept the game within one possession going into the locker room.
With the season on the line Federal Hocking was white hot in the third quarter, outscoring Portsmouth West 19 to 5. After a slow start, Brenlee Cottrill hit 2 three-pointers in the third quarter and grabbed multiple assists.
She and Orsborne commanded the offense into a freer flowing unit. On the defensive end, the Lancers did a much better job of initiating pressure and clogging the passing lanes as they have well as season.
With their backs against the wall, Federal Hocking had one of the most explosive quarters of their season to take a 35 to 23 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Despite some late scoring from Hailey Carver and Kayla Throckmorton, the Senators were unable to stage a comeback in the fourth quarter.
For the first time in 36 years, the Federal Hocking Lancers are district champions. They continue their campaign when they play the Central 1 District Champions in the Region 23 semi-finals.