Edmonson Voice Sports: photo, ECHS:
On Thursday, Edmonson County High School senior Michael Shaw officially signed his letter of intent to cheer at Campbellsville University in Campbellsville, Kentucky.

Shaw has been part of both football and the cheer team for all four years of high school. Both former football coach Nathan Smith and Cheer Coach Courtney Jones spoke highly of Shaw's work ethic.

Shaw said he's excited to begin his new path at Campbellsville. He is the son of Carl and Kimberly Mills.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Jhonna Basil has been named the first female assistant athletic director in the history of Edmonson County High School, according to ECHS Principal Jonathan Williams.

Basil, an English teacher at ECHS, was also a former multi-sport student athlete at ECHS, playing softball, basketball, and golf, where she graduated in 2016.

Ms. Basil said she is excited for the new opportunity within ECHS athletics.

"I was always an athlete myself, and it has been a big part of my life," she said. "I loved representing Edmonson County High School as an athlete, so it will be a great privilege to get to represent ECHS athletics again in this role."

Newly named head boys basketball coach Brad Johnson was also recently named the interim athletic director to complete the current school year. That's just one of many changes in a shuffling of positions at ECHS due to the departing A.D. Kyle Pierce, who was recently named head football coach at Barren County High, as well as the departing boys basketball coach, Coach Mike McClintic, who is retiring after 43 years in coaching. Coach Mac was also the assistant athletic director. Williams said filling positions left by quality leaders like Pierce and McClintic can be challenging, but he's thankful that things have gone well so far.

"We are fortunate to have the opportunity to hire people as talented as Coach Johnson and Coach Basil to lead our athletic programs going forward," he said. "She excelled as an athlete and as a student, was a very successful college student, and now is doing an exceptional job for us in the classroom.  I'm thankful to have good, moral, respectable young ladies like Ms. Basil for our kids to look up to.  As a Principal, you want to hire the very best to work with our kids and she is that, one of the best."

Throughout Basil's five years of varsity sports, she made four trips to the region tournament in basketball and won two softball district tournaments, in 2013 and 2016. She also became an assistant softball coach at ECHS after her playing days came to an end. 

Williams said he's looking forward to where her leadership takes her. 

"Ms. Basil is getting the opportunity to learn from one of the best in Coach Johnson and I am very excited about the direction they'll be leading our athletic programs."

Basil will officially begin her role on July 1, 2021. She said she's spent over half her life in sports and she looks forward to continuing that in a new role at ECHS. 

"I think we have the best kids in the state, and I’m happy to do anything and everything I can for them," she said. "This is just a wonderful opportunity for me, and I am very happy and thankful to have been given the opportunity." 

Edmonson Voice Sports: Rick Walters, photos:
Several members from the 1976 Kentucky High School Basketball Edmonson County Wildcat Championship team paid a visit to the KY High School Basketball Hall of Fame this past Sunday, April 11th.

One exhibit features a photo of Wildcats team member Mark Hennion cutting down the net, which happened 45 years ago on March 27, 1976. 

Edmonson County defeated Betsy Lane 77-72 in round one of the Sweet Sixteen, then Harrison County 61-57. They narrowly topped Shelby County 53-52 in the final four and then dominated Christian County 74-52 in the championship game.

Team members attending the museum together were Timmy Ashley, Chester Bethel, Phil Rich, Mark Hennion, Aaron Goad, Kevin Clemmons, Jimmy Cole, and Larry Starnes, along with their respective families.

Hennion, who was a sophomore starter, recently visited the museum with his family where a tribute to the '76 Wildcat team is on display with the championship trophy.

​The KHSBHF is located at Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame, 212 W. Dixie Avenue, Elizabethtown, KY 42701. You can reach them by clicking here.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Brad Johnson was named the head boys basketball coach at Edmonson County High School today by Principal Jonathan Williams. He takes over for retiring coach Mike McClintic, who just finished his 43rd year in coaching.

Johnson brings an impressive resume to ECHS as not only a coach, but also a teacher and administrator over the course of his nearly 30 year professional career, which includes:

• 1992-99 Barren County High School: teacher and assistant boys basketball and football coach
• 1999-02 Edmonson County High School: teacher, head boys basketball coach
• 2002-03 LeGrande Elementary, teacher
• 2003-09 Ohio County High, teacher, head girls basketball coach, asst. boys basketball coach
• 2009-14 Grayson County High, teacher, head girls basketball coach
• 2014-15 Barren County High, assistant principal, head girls basketball coach
• 2015-19 Barren County High, principal
• 2019-20 Park City Elementary, interim principal
• 2020-21 Edmonson County High, teacher, assistant boys basketball coach

Johnson thanked the administration for the opportunity to come back to ECHS as a Virtual Advisor and AE teacher, and he was invited to be part of the boys basketball program as an assistant. Johnson thanked Coach Mac for his friendship and mentorship over the years.

"I can't say enough good things about Coach Mac, one of the absolute best friends I have in the whole world and one of the absolute best people I've ever met."

Johnson said he was one of the first that Coach Mac told when he was thinking about retirement.

"I tried to talk him out of it," he said. "He told me he wanted me to take his job and if he hadn't told me that, I wouldn't have taken it. If he'd have told me they were forcing him out and not wanting him to coach anymore, then I'd have been out with him. That's how much I think of him."

Johnson told the Edmonson Voice to expect lots of shooting from next year's team.

"We've got some kids that can really shoot, so right now I anticipate having the green light to shoot threes," he said. "At the varsity level with scouting reports, people might take that away, so you have to be able to have a plan B, be able to cut and to drive. Unselfishness. These kids really like each other and you'll see a brand of unselfish basketball. We'll try some up-tempo stuff this summer. You can always slow down if you need to. We'll press some this summer to see what it looks like and adjust on the fly. You'll see man-to-man and switch up because we're all about the same size. You'll see a motion game. Not a whole lot of plays, but trying to teach them how to play and play off each other. The main thing is really playing hard. Going for loose balls, 50/50 balls, and taking charges. This team played very, very hard, but we have to take that out there everyday where the community is proud of the effort we give."

Johnson also offered little leaguers and middle school players spots behind the bench during games and an open invitation for them to hear pregame speeches in the locker room. He said he believes a basketball team is a community product and all teams should be part of the same program, no matter the ages.

Principal Jonathan Williams, who played for Johnson from 1999 to 2002, said he was confident that Johnson was the right person for the job because he felt like Johnson would not only make the kids better players, but also better people.

"When an era ends, someone else has to come in and lead the program from where it is and take it to wherever it's going, and he's the absolutely, 100% the right person to do that."

Some achievements from Coach Johnson are:

• 304 wins, 126 losses as head coach
• 2015 NABC Court of Honor Inductee
• 3-time 3rd Region Coach of the Year
• 3-time Regional Champion
• 2-time KHSAA Elite 8
• 11 out of 11 District Championships when making finals

Principal Williams also told the Edmonson Voice that Johnson has also been named interim athletic director at ECHS to finish out this school year. He will fill the role of the departing Kyle Pierce, who has served as AD since 2010. Williams said a new AD will be named for the next school year. 

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Edmonson County High School Athletic Director Kyle Pierce will be turning over his job to someone else as he has been hired as the newest head football coach at Barrren County High School. The announcement was made earlier today at Barren County.

Pierce, who has spent the past 17 years at Edmonson County as a teacher, coach, and athletic director, said the decision to change roles and move schools was a very difficult one to make; however, after much prayer, he says the time is right for the change.

"I came here at age 24 to coach the football team in June of 2004 by my mentor, Coach Rick Wood," Pierce said. "It's going to be very hard to leave here because Edmonson County is the best place there is, but I'm a believer in prayer. I've always felt like staying here was what I needed to do until now."

As head football coach, Pierce finished 12 seasons for the Wildcats, where he also played four years from 1995-1999. During those twelve years, the Wildcats were 68-66, made the playoffs nine years, had an undefeated regular season with a district championship in 2011, and made it to the regional championship game in 2008.

Pierce has also taught P.E., weightlifting, driver's education, and teen health over his years in education and coaching.

"I know how much influence my teachers and coaches had on me when I was a student and player and that's the reason I went into education and coaching. When I stepped away from coaching in 2015, that was the right thing for my family at the time, but I'd been praying again about coaching because I just felt like that was were I needed to be headed again, even though I'd told myself 'no'". Once I got some clarity within my prayers--once the Lord told me it was okay--I started looking that way."

Pierce said when the ECHS football coaching job reopened a few months ago, he couldn't get a clear answer about it and started to worry.

"I felt like I had a good chance of being hired if I applied, but it just didn't feel like that's what I was supposed to do, so I just waited. That wasn't for me. Sometimes things don't work out like we expect, but I know our football program is in good hands with Coach Smart. I know he's going to do great things at Edmonson County,"

Pierce has been the athletic director at ECHS for past 11 years. While he's enjoyed that position, he says the time it requires to do the job correctly is very consuming.

"Being an AD is very rewarding, being able to work with all our coaches, but it can be very tiresome," he said. "I have to be gone around 90 to 100 nights per year for games and events. Coaching is more of a set schedule. Right now, I leave school, go home and see my boys for about 30 minutes, then have to leave again. This has been a great job, but it's worn on me from time away from the family."

Pierce will also be a P.E./weightlifting coach at Barren County and will likely assume his duties there after spring break. He still plans to live in Edmonson County with his wife, Leanne, who is also a teacher at ECHS, along with his two sons.

The move will also cause an open athletic director position at Edmonson County for the remainder of this school year. Principal Jonathan Williams said he would like to name an interim immediately to finish out the remainder of the school year and post for a more long-term position later on, but he's still researching his options. He said that he fully supports Pierce's decision.

"I've known Kyle Pierce since I was in the second grade and he was in the fourth grade at Kyrock Elementary," he said. "He's been a teammate, a coach, mentor, and friend of mine, and I've always trusted that. I've gone to church with him for the past 12 years and I know he believes in prayer. If his prayers lead him somewhere, I'll support it. There's nothing I can negatively say about Kyle and I fully support him in his decision. Barren County is getting a good one. He's a good coach and an even better person."

Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander wanted to thank Coach Pierce for his years of service as a teacher, coach and athletic director for Edmonson County Schools. 

"No one can dispute Kyle's dedication to Edmonson County High School and the athletics programs here over the years," he said. "Barren County is getting a great coach and an ever better man to serve as a coach, mentor and role model in their football program.  We wish him the best of luck as he guides the Trojan Football Program."

Pierce said he's cherished all his time here and is proud to have been part of this school system over his career.

"I've been blessed to work here with good people. All our teachers, our coaches, our great kids and parents here have been first class. We have administrators that care about our schools, our programs, and that means so much. I know some might not understand, but this wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision. I know this is what I'm supposed to do and I look forward to it. I've been able to see some great projects come through here at home, like the new gym floor, our video board, the improvements at the football field, baseball field, and softball field, and I know more of that will continue in the future."

Pierce said one of the hardest things about the move is putting on new school colors.

"I told the folks at Barren County that I don't have one thing that's burgundy or gold. All my stuff is navy, red, and white," he said with a laugh. "I've got a closet-full of Edmonson County gear and I'm not getting rid of it. As we say around here, 'once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat,' and I know it's true."

​This edition of the show features Edmonson County's own "Larry Legend," Larry Starnes.  Larry is a witness to many years of Edmonson County sports, and served as a manager, teacher, and athletic trainer before his eventual retirement.  We talk to him about a little bit of everything related to his time with Edmonson County Schools.

Darren Doyle, story: photos by Rick Walters and Kristin McGrew
One local man and his family reminisced together at the Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame recently.

Mark Hennion, who was a sophomore starter on the Edmonson County Wildcat 1976 state basketball championship team, heard about the facility and the current exhibit that features the '76 team. His photo is featured on one of the displays and shows Hennion cutting down a portion of the net on championship night, which was March 27, 1976. 

Hennion said the visit brought back plenty of good memories from that magical season 45 years ago.

"We proved that a little school could play ball with the bigger schools," he said. "We didn't really know how big of a deal it was when we won it; I know I didn't. Every time we went out there we wanted to win that game. And when we won that one, we'd want to win the next one. Looking back on it, boy it really was something."

Hennion scored 25 points in the championship game in a 74-52 win over Christian County. While he was the leading scorer for the Wildcats over the course of the Sweet Sixteen tournament, putting up 69 total points and averaging 17.3 ppg during that span, he said that playing together as a team is what brought them success.

"Once I had a radio guy asking me all these questions about me scoring this on that game, and that on another, and I just told him 'Look, this wasn't about me. We won this thing by playing team ball and none of us cared about how many points somebody was scoring. It was about winning together and if I'd have only scored two points and we won, that would've been plenty good for me, and all the other guys would say the same.'"

KSHBHF Board Member Rick Walters said they were thrilled to see the Hennion family visit the museum and hopes this will encourage others to visit. The facility is currently featuring the Edmonson County display, which features the team trophy, currently on loan from Edmonson County High, a team photo, and other items from the historic achievement from the tiny school in Brownsville.

Hennion said he and his family enjoyed the visit and said nothing but good things about the facility.

"It tickled them to death that we came," he said. "They treated us like royalty and just kept on taking pictures."

The KHSBHF is located at Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame, 212 W. Dixie Avenue, Elizabethtown, KY 42701. You can reach them by clicking here.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Seven different student athletes from Edmonson County have been named to all-District 12 basketball teams.

For the Lady Cats, the following basketball team members were named:

• All-Academic Team: Katie Lindsey
• All-Season Team: Katie Lindsey, Macie McCombs, Lily Jayne Vincent
• All-Tournament Team: Macie McCombs, Lily Jayne Vincent

The following Wildcats were named to the boys' all-district teams:

• All-Academic Team: Gavin Rose
• All-Season Team: Chaz Wilson, Jon Smith, Gavin Rose
• All-Tournament Team: Chaz Wilson, Braden Wall

While the shortened season didn't end as hoped for either team with the girls finishing 6-14 and the boys ending the year at 6-13, there were still milestones achieved for both. Senior Katie Lindsey became a member of the 1000 point club earlier in the season for the Lady Cats and senior Chaz Wilson achieved the same for the boys this year. 

It was also the final year of coaching for Wildcat Head Coach Mike McClintic, who is retiring after his 43-year career in high school sports. 

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
The Wildcats' season ended last night as they fell 40-39 to Butler County in the first round of the District 12 Tournament, hosted by Trinity High School in Whitesville.

Three consecutive Wildcat turnovers in the final minutes and a couple of calls that didn't set well with Edmonson County fans were part of a 9-2 run from Butler County that gave them their first lead since the second quarter.

Edmonson County had a mediocre start to the game as Butler led 12-7 after the first. The Wildcats cranked up the defense in the second and held the Bears to only 5 points as Edmonson County took a 23-17 lead at the break.

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​It was all Chaz Wilson for the Wildcats in the third quarter--literally. The senior center scored all 11 of Edmonson County's points as they took a 34-29 lead going into the fourth.

Butler County knocked down some shots early in the quarter and tied it at 36 on a Bears 7-2 run with 5:29 to go. The Bears took their first lead since the second at 38-36 but senior Gavin Rose hit a three with 3:13 left to put the Cats back on top by one; however, Edmonson County committed three straight turnovers, which kept the momentum on the side of the Butler County.

A couple of missed shots that simply were in and out for the Wildcats allowed Butler County more opportunities. The Bears missed a shot on an inbounds play but tipped it in with 7.6 seconds on the clock. The Wildcats would have to come the length of the floor for one more attempt. Chaz Wilson put up a final shot against four Bear defenders as the ball bounced just short and left of the hoop as time expired.

Wilson led the Wildcats with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Wilson averaged 17 points and 13 rebounds for Edmonson County this season and joined the 1,000 point club this year. 

Sophomore Braden Wall had 10 points and 5 rebounds, Daniel Woosley had 4 points and 5 rebounds, Gavin Rose, Lane Lindsey, and Isaiah Johnson all had 3 points each. 

Edmonson County shot 27% from the field on 13 of 48 shots.

It was the final high school basketball game for 7 seniors: Chaz Wilson, Daniel Woosley, Gavin Rose, Jon Smith, Isaiah Johnson, Lane Lindsey, and Dylan Lindsey, as well as long-time coach Mike McClintic. Coach Mac discussed the game, his seniors, the team, and season.

​"We obviously didn't want it to end like this, but as I've said many times before, I couldn't ask for any better effort than our kids gave me last night," he said. "We cranked up our defense in the second and switched a couple things up and I really felt like that put us in a good position. We didn't shoot well and that hurt us, but some mistakes we made in the fourth just allowed the momentum to go to Butler County and we weren't able to overcome that. It wasn't one shot here or there, or a single play or a call that lost it, there were just some things that didn't go our way."

Coach Mac ends his 43-year coaching career after this season. 

"My shoes are not hard to fill because whoever comes in after me has a great group of kids coming up," he said. "Whoever takes my place is already in a position for success because of these kids. I know it's really tough for our seniors and I can't say enough about them. I couldn't ask any more from a group of kids that we have. It's been special and it's been a wonderful experience."

McClintic said what makes Edmonson County different from other places he's been is the character of the players and students.

"They're the best, period. It's just something special that we have here that you don't find just anywhere. I'm going to miss it."

The Wildcats end the season with a 6-13 record. 

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
The stat sheets for both teams were nearly identical in most categories but timely turnovers and missed opportunities were obstacles that the Lady Cats couldn't overcome last night in a 53-46 loss to Grayson County in the first round of the District 12 Tournament, hosted at Whitesville Trinity.

Both teams shot poorly in the first quarter that ended in a 6-6 tie. Edmonson County shot 2-16 (12%) from the field while Grayson wasn't much better from the field on 3-11 shooting for 27%.
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Grayson County held a slight edge at the half, leading 19-16. Edmonson County continued to struggle to score with no one scoring more than 3 points at the break.

The Lady Cats looked much better coming out of the locker room for the third, as they began to drive to the rim and making shots. Edmonson County took the lead on multiple occasions and the teams swapped back and forth. Both teams were still shooting under 30% from the field and Edmonson County had pulled to within one point (30-29) at the end of the third. 

The first few minutes of the fourth saw much of the same, and Edmonson County took the lead with around 5 minutes to go; however, their next three possessions ended in consecutive turnovers and the momentum shifted greatly in favor of the Lady Cougars. That momentum helped Grayson build a 10-point lead with about 3 minutes to go. The Lady Cats were forced to foul down the stretch and Grayson County held on for the win.

Coach Bart Weaver said Grayson County had a great game plan.

"I've said before that if I were to coach against us, I'd double team Katie, make sure Macie didn't get any threes, and hope that Lily, Page, Jay, Hallie, and everybody else doesn't beat me," he said. "So give Grayson credit. They had a good game plan and they did what they were supposed to."

Weaver said it was obviously a tough locker room atmosphere after last night's loss that ended their season.

"It was really difficult last night because these girls have meant so much and saying goodbye to the seniors was tough. I told them I loved them and I'd always be there for them because we're family. I told them that no one is going out the gym door a loser. These kids have been a part of 102 wins over the last four years and that's unbelievable. Not many girls can say that. They've just meant so much to me."

Lily Jayne Vincent led the Lady Cats with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Macie McCombs added 8 points and 6 rebounds, Shea VanMeter had 7 points and 7 rebounds, Katie Lindsey and Paige Wolfe each added 7 points as well. Cariann Williams had 3 points and Hallie Cassady and Jaedlyn Simon scored 2 points each.

Edmonson out-rebounded Grayson 36-35, and in shooting, it was Edmonson 29% from the field-Grayson, 34%. Both teams shot 52% from the free throw line. Edmonson shot 19% from behind the arc while Grayson shot 29%.

The Lady Cats end their season with a record of 6-14, 3-3 in region play, and 2-2 in the district. They will lose three seniors: Katie Lindsey, Macie McCombs, and Shea VanMeter. 

Darren Doyle, story: photos by Rick Walters:
The Dr. Mark and Cindy Lynn Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame, or the KHSBHF, has a new exhibit currently on display at their Elizabethtown facility that highlights one of the Commonwealth's most unlikely stories; the 1976 Edmonson County State Champion Wildcats.

KSHBHF Board Member Rick Walters said the display features the team trophy, currently on loan from Edmonson County High, a team photo, and other items from the historic achievement from the tiny school in Brownsville.

"If you pay attention to high school basketball in Kentucky, you remember the 1976 team," Walters said. "We're looking for great feedback on this display when we reopen on March 19th, and we want to keep it here as long as Edmonson County will let us use the trophy. Hopefully that will be until basketball season opens up next year. We also hope that the folks in Edmonson County will be proud of the display."

According to the KHSBHF website, The Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame was born from an idea from the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches. Under the direction of North Hardin High School’s Men’s Head Basketball Coach Ron Bevars, the project began in October 2009 with the stated purpose of recognizing and protecting the heritage of Kentucky High School Basketball.

One exhibit features a photo of Wildcats team member Mark Hennion cutting down the net, which happened 45 years ago this month. 

Edmonson County defeated Betsy Lane 77-72 in round one of the Sweet Sixteen, then Harrison County 61-57. They narrowly topped Shelby County 53-52 in the final four and then dominated Christian County 74-52 in the championship game.

"We will be open Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00AM to 4:00PM," Walters added. "We will increase the days as we progress with COVID restrictions.  We can also schedule a visit on other days, they just need to call us and set something up."

The KHSBHF is located at Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame, 212 W. Dixie Avenue, Elizabethtown, KY 42701. You can reach them by clicking here.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
The Edmonson County Lady Cats notched a 57-47 win against the Lady Mustangs of Muhlenburg County last night in the final home game of the 2020-21 season at ECHS. It was a much needed win for the Lady Cats who have struggled late in the season; losing nine games out of their last ten until last night. 

Although out-rebounded 40-28 by the Lady Mustangs and committing 18 turnovers, Edmonson County shot 51% from the field and held Muhlenburg to only 25% shooting, which proved to be the difference. Coach Bart Weaver said the win was crucial going into the District 12 Tournament, which begins Monday night. 

"Finishing this game tonight was big for our girls," he said. "I told them after the game that we'll have to shore up a couple of areas, which are rebounding and passing. They pounded us on the boards tonight and we had way too many turnovers, yet won anyway."

Senior Katie Lindsey led the Lady Cats with 25 points, 6 steals, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and a blocked shot. 

"We've been really working hard to get some momentum to get ready for Grayson County," she said. "We've been trying to get better and play well for all four quarters. Everything with this virus has hurt our momentum, but we knew we had to have a win tonight, so we pulled it together and we did."

Lindsey said while the emotions were high for her last home game, it's now time to put all the focus on Grayson County, who will meet the Lady Cats in the first round of the district tournament.

"I'm ready for them. I love playing them and love the atmosphere when we play. They're talking a lot of smack so let's see if they can back it up," said Lindsey.

Senior Macie McCombs also discussed the much-needed win.

"We've been on a losing streak and we knew we needed to win this one," she said. "We told everybody to fight tonight, and they fought."

When asked about preparing for Grayson County on Monday night, she said it will take a complete, 100% effort.

"We have to give it all we have. We want the 4-peat. We want to win, to upset Grayson, we want to win it, everybody wants it."

Until this season, Senior Shea VanMeter saw limited playing time, but she's been a leader and important role player on this year's team. She said last night's win was crucial.

"We knew we needed this win. We need momentum going into Monday because it's such a big game. Grayson County just expects to win and they don't really think it's a big deal we beat them earlier in the year at their place, but they'll be just as hungry as we are, we'll just have to be more." 

The remaining box score for Edmonson County was Vincent 9, Simon 8, McCombs 7, VanMeter 2, Cassady 2, Wolfe 2, Williams 2.

Coach Weaver said the team discussed the importance of the win as part of the preparation for next week.

"It meant a lot to the seniors as it was the last game they'll ever play here, but I think in the mindset of the whole team, a loss tonight would've been really tough with Grayson next week," he said. "We have two days to prepare and we feel good about our matchups. We're going to be watching film and breaking it down. Our girls will get ready for Grayson."

The girls will take on Grayson County in round one of the tournament on Monday, with a 7:30PM tip scheduled at host school Whitesville-Trinity. The Edmonson Voice will stream the game live on video and audio with the pregame show starting around 7:15PM.

Cameron Whitfill, photos:
Edmonson County High School celebrated Senior night 2021 for the ECHS Band and Cheer squad last night at the final home basketball game of the season. Senior band members Skylyn Arms and Elise Richmond, along with cheer members Jessica Butts, Kaylee Cook, Michael Shaw, and Heather Todd were honored at center court with their families.

Please enjoy the slideshow published below: 

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
A high-contact shot attempt at the buzzer that ended with a miss and a no-call was the final play of the night as the Wildcats fell to Green County 52-50 last night at ECHS.

With 7 seconds remaining and the Wildcats down 2 points, senior Chaz Wilson drove to the basket for a shot attempt that missed as Green County's Jackson Johnson attempted to take a charge. Jackson and Wilson got tied up on the missed shot but no call was made. Most fans would agree that it appeared as though Wilson committed a charge, which could have changed the outcome of the game.

Had the charge call been made, Green County would've had the ball underneath the Wildcat basket with under a second left, giving the Wildcats one more attempt for a possible steal and shot attempt at the buzzer. While the outcome of the game would not have likely changed, most Wildcat fans thought at least some call had to be made. 

"There was contact there, I don't care what anybody says," said Coach Mike McClintic. "There was contact. Either it's a charge, or it's a foul on them. It's got to be called something."

While Wildcat fans wanted some sort of a call, no game is ever decided by one single play or an official's call, or in this case, a lack of a call. Edmonson County found themselves down 9 points at the half and had to scrape and claw to tie the score at 40 at the end of the third quarter. 

Edmonson County outrebounded the Dragons 27-17 and while the turnovers were about equal, those turnovers came at the wrong times for Edmonson County and Green County capitalized on them.

"I'm proud of the boys again, we were down early," said Coach Mac. "We're fighting back all the time and I'm proud of them. Everybody that got in their game did their job and I can't ask anymore out of them than what they gave me tonight."

McClintic was recognized before the game for his 43-year career of coaching. He announced earlier in the week that he will retire from coaching and teaching after this season.

The Wildcats were led by Chaz Wilson's 11 points and 10 rebounds. Gavin Rose had 10 points, Lane Lindsey added 8, Braden Wall had 7, Jon Smith had 5 points and 5 rebounds, Isaiah Johnson added 4, Cole Saling had 3, and Trace Taylor scored 2 points.

Edmonson County falls to 6-11 on the season. After today's game at Russellville scheduled for 10AM, the boys will not play during the upcoming week as a COVID precaution before the District 12 tournament, scheduled at Trinity the following week. 

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
The Lady Dragons of Green County soon forgot about the solid first quarter they faced from the Lady Cats as a big run in the second was enough to keep Edmonson County playing catchup for the rest of the night.

Edmonson's girls came out with a good start; something that's plagued them throughout the season, as they shot well and crashed the boards. Hallie Cassady gave the Lady Cats a 16-14 lead with 4 seconds remaining in the quarter when a controversial call put Green County at the line for three free throws. Edmonson's Jaedlyn Simon fouled Green County's Kylie Jackson at half court with 0.1 seconds on the clock. The foul appeared to be on the floor but Jackson tossed the ball up after the foul, and she was awarded three free throws, hitting all of them for a 17-16 lead.

While down 17-16 after one, the Lady Cats kept it up at the start of the second and took a 26-21 lead with four minutes to go in the half; however, during that 4-minute stretch, Green County went on a 14-3 run and took a 35-28 halftime lead. Edmonson County trailed for the remainder of the contest; most of the time in double digits.

Green County remained in control during the second half and the Lady Cats were unable to mount a comeback. 

Despite a sore thumb on her shooting hand, Macie McCombs led the Lady Cats in scoring with 11 points and also grabbed 5 rebounds. Katie Lindsey, who was also recognized after the game for scoring her career 1000th point earlier in the week in a win against Warren Central, added 8 points and 8 assists, Shea VanMeter had 7 points and 6 rebounds, Lily Jayne Vincent had 5 points and 7 rebounds, Hallie Cassady had 4 points, Jaedlyn Simon had 4 points, and Paige Wolfe and Leah Ballance added 3 points each.

The Lady Cats are now 5-11 on the season and have the final three regular season games scheduled for next week: Monday at Glasgow, Tuesday at home against Campbellsville, and Friday at home against Muhlenburg County.

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
Edmonson County Wildcat Head Basketball Coach Mike McClintic has announced his retirement from both coaching and teaching after the 2020-21 school year.

Coach Mac joined the boys' basketball program at ECHS in 2013 as an assistant coach and took over the program during the 2014-15 season. In 2017, McClintic led the Wildcats to their first district championship since 1993, breaking a 24-year drought.

McClintic discussed his career and his thoughts on moving forward after the school year ends.

"It's been fun and I've loved it," he said. "I've been blessed with great kids, with great parents, and the only complaint I have is that we didn't get more wins--and that's not for me, that's for the kids."

Coach Mac began his professional career as a teacher at his Alma Mater at Orleans High School in Orleans, Indiana in 1978, where he also began coaching JV basketball and was assistant coach to the varsity team. In 1986 he moved to Cannelton High School in Indiana where was named head varsity coach and stayed until 2000, when he retired from Indiana schools.

He came to ECHS in 2002 as a special education teacher and began coaching the ECMS boys team until 2004 when he took over the Edmonson County Lady Cat basketball program. He remained head coach for the Lady Cats through 2011 until he was named head coach of Lady Cat Volleyball. He came to the boys' basketball program as assistant during the 2013-14 season and became head coach in 2014 where he has remained ever since.

In addition to coaching basketball and volleyball, he also coached ECHS track from 2012-16 and he has been the assistant athletic director at Edmonson County since 2010. 

​This season makes his 43rd year in basketball, not counting all the years as a player in both high school and college. As a player at Orleans High School in Indiana in the early 70s, McClintic regularly took on NBA legend Larry Bird, as Bird played for Springs Valley High in French Lick, a rival school of McClintic's Bulldogs from Orleans.

"We played against each other all the time," said Coach Mac. "He was a fantastic player when he was 6'2", but after one summer he came back and he was 6'8". He was unstoppable then."

Bird and McClintic were actually teammates, if only for a couple months in college.

"He never talked about it, but he transferred to Northwood Junior College where we were teammates," Mac said. "He didn't stay long, it was only a couple of months before he left there and went to Indiana State. From there, well, he became "Larry Legend."

The 65-year old McClintic simply said, "It's time." He has two daughters and six grandchildren in Indiana, with whom he wants to spend more time. 

"As you get older, you get more mellow, you get softer, or at least I have," he said. "I don't really have any plans for the future except spending more time with my family. That, and I'll probably play a little golf."

He said any success that may have come his way was because of the kids he coached and the people around him.

"I've been lucky. I have a wife like Teresa who has supported me and encouraged me, and she was a big part of why I got back into basketball. The administration has been great here, we've always gotten along great. And everyone knows how close Bart (Weaver) and I are. We had a lot of great times together here, I just can't say enough about this place. Not just him, but all the great coaches we've had and still have on our staff. It's just been great. I'm proud of all the kids that I've seen come through our programs. Most all of them have been successful after they leave here. Anything good that's ever come out of here while I've been here is because of those kids."

McClintic said he hopes that he'll be remembered as a positive person that tried to brighten the lives of the kids he coached. He said while everyone wants to win and see banners hanging, he said he also wanted to focus on mentoring kids and helping players and students become better people.

McClintic's record as head coach for the Lady Cats was 73-108 and 87-99 (as of today) as head coach for the Wildcats, which is not likely to turn any heads or win awards. However, at every graduation ceremony at ECHS, you'll find a long line of seniors--boys, girls, players, and students-- waiting to get their photos taken with Mike McClintic, and that says all a person really needs to know.

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
It's one that definitely slipped away from the Lady Cats last night at ECHS as the Lady Bears of Butler County overcame a 17-point halftime deficit to defeat Edmonson County 66-65. 

Butler County held the Lady Cats to only 5 fourth quarter points as they knocked Edmonson County out of a guaranteed first seed in the upcoming District 12 Tournament, which is scheduled to be hosted by Whitesville Trinity. The seeding will now be determined by a draw between the three tied teams: Edmonson, Butler, and Grayson.

​Butler County outscored the Lady Cats 20-5 in the final quarter.

While Edmonson County stuck to their game plan that allowed success for three quarters, untimely turnovers (19) and poor free throw shooting (6/16 =38%) overshadowed excellent rebounding (38 team rebounds), much better shooting (46%, 7/8 from 3pt), and a 29-point, 6 assist performance from senior Katie Lindsey.

Coach Bart Weaver discussed the Lady Bear comeback.

"It's a tough one, especially when you're up by 17 at the half," he said. "We missed some free throws, we missed several loose balls, and those things just add up."

​Weaver said the only thing to do after a game like this is look forward and try to learn from the result.

"We were desperately needing a good start, we got a good start. We pounded the boards. We just have to move on and we have to move on, quickly. We have to play Warren East Tuesday night. Don't hang your heads, they gave it all they got, physically. Both teams gave it every ounce of energy that they had."

In addition to Lindsey's 29, Macie McCombs had 15 points and 5 rebounds, Paige Wolfe added 10 points, Lily Jayne Vincent added 7 points and 8 rebounds, Shea VanMeter had 3 points and 9 rebounds, Hallie Cassady added one point and 5 rebounds, and Jaedlyn Simon pulled down 7 rebounds.

It's the 5th consecutive loss for the Lady Cats and they now fall to 4-9 on the season. They are scheduled to take on Warren East at home tonight in a JV/V match with JV set for a 5:30PM tip.

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
The Lady Cats struggled to make shots early tonight while Larue County found it hard to miss. The Lady Cougars shot nearly 60% from the field in the first half, putting the Lady Cats in a deficit they couldn't overcome. 

Edmonson County shot only 26% from the field during the first half, which included only 1-16 from the three-point line. 

Larue County also outrebounded Edmonson 31-28 and both teams were equal in turnovers with 12 each. 

Edmonson trailed 19-9 after one quarter and 33-20 at the half. Despite a couple of Lady Cat runs in the third, Larue was efficient in the paint and took advantage of second-chance points. 

Katie Lindsey's 24-point performance wasn't enough to dig out of the hole they faced early; however, despite the loss, the Lady Cat seniors were honored before the game for senior night, which included Lindsey, Macie McCombs, and Shea VanMeter.

Lily Jayne Vincent added 7 points and 5 rebounds, Macie McCombs had 6 points, Hallie Cassady had 6 points and 8 rebounds, and Jaedlyn Simon had 2 points and 10 rebounds. 

Coach Weaver discussed the loss after the game.

"I've been around this game for a long time and the old saying is if you lose your legs before the district tournament, you're done, and I just hope and pray that's not the case right now," he said. "But it sure looks that way and we've got four games next week and three or four the next week so I'm really concerned about that."

Weaver said the focus now would be on Monday night's game at home against Butler County that will determine the top seed for the District 12 tournament. He said the plan was for the team to get some rest on Saturday and then prepare for the Lady Bears. He then discussed the three seniors on the team honored tonight for senior night, and began with Katie Lindsey.

"The ball is in her hand. Good or bad, it's in her hand. I've had a hard time in three years finding someone else to go get that ball and give her a break. I can never give her a break. She never comes out, God bless her. She's meant so much to this program over the last three years." 

He then discussed Macie McCombs.

"Macie's been our best three-point shooter, this is the third year and she's hit some really big shots in tournaments and the district," he said. "Katie's more of a quiet leader but Macie's a verbal one."

Finally, he talked about Shea VanMeter. 

"She didn't play much last year but she's provided some shooting for us and the thing about Shea that I'd never dreamt of, she's like our second or third leading rebounder at her size, and that's guts right there."

The Lady Cats are now 4-8 on the season and are scheduled to play Butler County at home Monday night in a JV/V game with JV tip set for 6PM, varsity will begin immediately after.

Alyssa Doyle, photos:
Three senior Lady Cats were honored with their families tonight at ECHS for 2021 senior night, just before the game against Larue County. 

Katie Lindsey, Shea VanMeter, and Macie McCombs were recognized at center court for their contributions to Lady Cat Basketball over their careers.

​

Darren Doyle, story:
After a solid first quarter, the Wildcats struggled to answer Logan County's hot shooting and was unable to dig themselves out of a hole on the road last night in a 59-45 loss.

Logan County's Blake Wood, (20 points), connected on 6 of 10 three-pointers, all in the first half, which allowed the Cougars to establish and keep a lead for this game. Logan's leading scorer, Anthony Woodward, (24ppg) put up 29 points against the Cats. The duo scored all but 10 of the Cougars points last night.

The highly charged game, which saw double technical fouls and multiple player separations from officials, was the second-lowest scoring total of the season for the Wildcats as they struggled on the offensive end early.

Trace Taylor led the Cats in scoring with 11 points while adding 4 rebounds. Chaz Wilson had 10 points and pulled 14 rebounds. Daniel Woosley added 6 points and 6 rebounds, and Lane Lindsey had 6 points and 4 rebounds. Isaiah Johnson had 4 points, Dylan Lindsey and Tyler Anderson added 3 points each, and Gavin Rose added 2 points.

​Edmonson County shot 35% from the field and only 42% from the free throw line. They were outrebounded by Logan County 36-34. The Wildcats are now 6-8 on the season and will travel to the Owensboro Sportscenter on Monday to take on Ohio County at 7:30PM.  

Darren Doyle, story:
It was a tough night for the Lady Cats as they took on Logan County on the road last night. 

The Lady Cats were looking to bounce back from a close loss to South Warren on the road earlier this week, but the Lady Cougars, with a 1-17 record, would prove to be hungry for their second win of the season on their senior night.

Edmonson County struggled in transition, which allowed several easy buckets for the Lady Cougars. Early hot three-point shooting allowed Logan County to take a 18-12 lead after one quarter. The Lady Cats were more efficient in their offense in the second and had cut their deficit to 26-23 at the half.

Logan was able to push back in the third quarter and they extended their lead to 8, which set up a very tight 4th quarter where the Lady Cats went on a 9-1 run to tie the score at 39. Paige Wolfe drove the baseline and hit a pull-up jumper to give the Lady Cats their first lead since early in the first quarter with 3:51 to go.  

Hallie Cassady hit two free throws with 3:32 left to give Edmonson a 43-39 lead, but they wouldn't score again after failing to capitalize on several opportunities during the final minutes, including two shots near and at the buzzer that would've given them the win. Logan County hit key free throws in the final 30 seconds of the game that allowed them to regain the lead.

The Lady Cats were led by Katie Lindsey's 15 points and 7 rebounds. Macie McCombs added 11 points and one rebound, Lily Jayne Vincent had 6 points and 10 rebounds, Paige Wolfe added 6 points and 3 rebounds, Hallie Cassady had 3 points and 4 rebounds, and Shea VanMeter added 2 points and 3 rebounds. 

Edmonson County shot 36% from the field and 63% from the free throw line. They are now 4-7 on the season and will play Larue County tonight at home for their senior night activities. The ceremony is scheduled to start at 6pm with tip off at 6:30pm. 

Darren Doyle, story: Cameron Whitfill, photos:
The Wildcats were defeated by Hart County last night at ECHS 72-67, but the boys were still able to celebrate their 2021 senior night with their families. During the ceremony, senior Chaz Wilson was recognized for scoring his 1000th career point, which occurred at Glasgow on February 8th. 

Wilson, who is averaging 18 points per game and is ranked 4th in the state at nearly 14 rebounds per game, was presented a special basketball commemorating the event. 

In addition to Wilson, six other seniors and their families were honored during the ceremony which included Isaiah Johnson, Dylan Lindsey, Lane Lindsey, Gavin Rose, Jon Smith, and Daniel Woosley.

The Wildcats were led by Chaz Wilson's 19 points and 15 rebounds, followed by Daniel Woosley's 18 points and 4 rebounds. Gavin Rose added 13 points, Jon Smith scored 6 and pulled 5 rebounds, Jon Smith and Trace Taylor added 6 points each, Isaiah Johnson had 5 points, and Lane Lindsey added one point.

The Wildcats are now 6-7 on the season and are scheduled to travel to Logan County on Thursday for a girl/boy doubleheader with the Lady Cats scheduled for a 6pm tip.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
The Edmonson County High School girls basketball team will continue postponing games for now due to a positive COVID case on the team, according to ECHS Athletic Director Kyle Pierce.

"We've had a positive COVID case within our varsity girls basketball program," he said. "We will be in quarantine through all of next week. Our girls games with Caverna, Todd County, and Whitesville Trinity have been postponed."

Games for the boys varsity team has also been paused until February 2nd.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County High School is postponing Friday night's girls varsity basketball game against Grayson County as a precautionary measure, due to possible sickness related to the program.

"Out of precaution, we're postponing our girls varsity game with Grayson County," said ECHS Athletic Director Kyle Pierce. "Our Saturday game with Warren Central was already cancelled."

He said the school is currently waiting on the results of a particular COVID-19 test to determine what will be the course of action over the next few days.

"Our girls will need to remain quarantined until the results have been returned," he said.

On Tuesday the boys varsity team postponed their games until February 2nd due to do at least one active case on the Wildcat team.