Tebbs wins No. 300

Amid the excitement of Senior Night at Westminster on Saturday night, the Wildcat faithful, both past and present, came together to celebrate a milestone.

But the throngs of fans were nothing compared to the words of senior center Jeff Chrjapin.

"I've been here for four years, and everybody says I've changed so much, and I think a lot of that has to do with (Coach Mark Tebbs) being a role model in my life," Chrjapin said. "Really working with me every day, loving me; we have a really tight relationship."

And as the clock wound down on a 56-45 victory over First Presbyterian, the fans held up signs signifying another accomplisment for Tebbs - 300 victories.

"The 300 wins is great, but what makes this so great is the kids that you saw come back," Tebbs said.

"They've impacted my life, and that's why we coach, is to be a part of their lives. But this is the real success story, what God's doing in their lives."

Tebbs has worn several hats in his 15 years at Westminster, where he not only coaches the basketball team, but also serves as athletic director.

The victory marks the sixth in a row for the Wildcats (16-6), who celebrated by starting seniors Chrjapin and Daniel Welsh.

"Ever since I was a little boy, watching my dad coach and enjoying the Westminster team throughout the years, for him to come this far, 300 wins, it's special for everyone here," said Tebbs' son, Jared, a junior who enjoyed the moment alongside his brother, Marcus, a freshman on the team.