The Cony High School Rams beat the Boothbay Region High School (BRHS) Seahawks, 62-49, in Unified basketball’s season opener, Tuesday, Feb. 4. The game began with a run of equal scoring on both sides. By the end of the first half, the Rams were up eight points (28-20) and grew their lead in the second half of play.

Seahawk Casey Phelps and Ram Aryana Ellsworth tipped off the match-up with first possession going to the Seahawks. Freshman Matthew Jackson scored the first points of the game for the Seahawks.

This year’s Seahawk team is light on seniors and heavy on freshmen and sophomores. Senior Eddie Carpenter (“Easy Eddie”) continues to hold the mantle for high scores, draining eight baskets for 16 points in the opener. Jackson posted an impressive six baskets for 12 points, most coming from the top of the key just inside the 3-point line. Junior Anthony Angelico played his best game yet for the Seahawks, scoring 10 points. Two of his baskets were one-handed shots, made to look easy.

Freshman Brandon Seigars scored the only 3-pointer of the game late in the second half. And he scored two layups as did Chloe Joneth.

Each player brought the ball downcourt during the game, with Jackson and Joneth settling into the guard positions, while Carpenter used his height advantage to snag rebounds under the basket. Angelico and Seigars posted up in forward positions.

In general, it was a shy season opener as the Seahawks looked to find their rhythm. The Seahawks are a team full of potential with Angelico hitting his stride and freshmen making significant contributions to the game. Carpenter has moved easily into a role as team leader, playing the most versatile game in his high school career; baskets and rebounds came easily for him from nearly any spot on the court and, this year, he passes more to his teammates, sets the pace of the game and mentors his teammates.

The game was officiated by Ed Behr. Seahawks are coached by Dennis Dacus and Tanya Thibault. The Rams are coached by Brenda Weis, Jennifer Smith and Stephanie Peatfield and managed by Kate Sirois. Their team consists of six seniors, six juniors, four sophomores and three freshmen.

Seahawks will face off at Lincoln Academy Monday Feb. 10 at 3:30 p.m. before hosting Hall Dale at home Feb. 13. Unified basketball is a community-level extension of Special Olympics Maine Unified Championship Club which promotes social inclusion, leadership, and friendship for student-athletes both with and without disabilities.