Jim Hohman, left, Cindy Sampson, Ned Sampson, Elilie Templin, Brenda Thomas, Carol Loew and Madison Templin wait for the return of the West Liberty University Hilltoppers in Woodsdale on Sunday.
WHEELING, W.Va. — More than 100 fans of all ages lined National Road in Woodsdale on Sunday to welcome the West Liberty University Hilltoppers home after their disappointing loss to Central Missouri in the NCAA Division II national championship game.
“We’re proud, very proud,” said area resident Kirck Collins as he waited with family and friends to welcome the team’s bus home late Sunday afternoon. For Collins, the Hilltoppers have personal relevance because his son was an alumnus of West Liberty University, graduating three years ago.
After following their team through a highly successful season to see them come in as runners-up, fans felt mixed emotions as they waited.
“We’re sort of sad but still very proud,” Cindy Sampson said…