The Pirates beat the Cowboys of Chimicum 62-36 in their opening league contest of the season. After a relatively tight first half that found the Pirates up 32-24, the Pirates came out running and gunning in the second half, outscoring the Cowboys 40 to 12.

“They tried to full court press us and half court trap us in the second half,” said Coach Henry Porter. “We responded by pushing the ball up and scoring lay-ins. The defense of freshman Charlotte Kehoe was especially instrumental, with 7 blocks and 10 rebounds. Also, the steady bench play of Autumn Shotridge coming in the second half was a factor.”

Pirates were led by Kelly Costello with 18 points and 6 rebounds; Chrissy Swope 18 points, 9 rebounds and 8 of 8 free throws; Zelda Porter 10 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists; Kiki Means 6 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals; Kehoe 6 points; and Shotridge 4 points.

Vashon played a snow day game Saturday, Dec. 20, against the Wildcats of West Seattle. Vashon put on the chains, went over and got the job done against the 3A school. The Pirates defeated West Seattle 48-35.

The Pirates were led by Swope with 18, Costello 16, Porter 8, and Means and Abby Dolmseth with 2 apiece.

Vashon’s next home game is Jan. 6 against the Cardinals of Orting.

— This article was compiled with information supplied by Coach Henry Porter.