Last Wednesday, the Calais Cougars basketball team took a trip to ECLC of Chatham, NJ for a game filled with intensity, desire, and teamwork. The day began in CRC, where Mrs. Vitaletti lead an EFT tapping session to settle everyone’s nerves before the big game. After the team settled in we got on the bus and discussed the confidence that our home game last week generated. Once on the bus, the driver told Coach Femia and the team that ECLC was a very good team and that they would have their hands full, so the team began to draw up a game plan on the ride over to be prepared.

ECLC showed strength and charisma and challenged the team throughout the game. Their tempo was fast-paced and our athletes had to dig deep to continue to play at a high level. In the first quarter the team came out on the court confident but were outplayed and fell behind 16-8. After a few adjustments the team was able to cut the lead to 2 points at the half. After numerous lead changes and what felt like a roller coaster ride of a game, the Cougars prevailed, winning 45 to 39.

Chester led all scorers with 18 points, Omar scored 13 points, Alex scored 12 points, and Justin S. scored 2 points. Coach Femia shared his admiration for each of his players, stating,

Regardless of who scored our team all had roles and delivered on those roles. Mike D. was able to set picks and create space for our shooters. He was also a defensive threat and used his senior leadership on and off the court. Justin W. showed improvement throughout the season and continued to be an asset to our team. Justin W. is the kind of player a coach loves to have as he is willing to accept many challenges and try his best.

Players and managers weighed in on the game as well, sharing about their role models, teammates, and love of the game:


After the game everyone was excited and celebrated on the ride home. When the team got back to school, they were greeted by the Calais cheerleading team, staff, and students, all congratulating our Cougar team on their accomplishment. The team wrapped up the season with an ice cream party, reminiscing on the challenges of the day.

Great job Cougars!!