WESTPORT — It was a night of joy and happiness for the Westport boys soccer team.

The Wildcats celebrated their long awaited 2023 Division 5 state championship on Thursday in front of family, friends, alumni and school administrators before a packed banquet room at White's of Westport.

The Westport players received a bag of goodies which included a state champion jacket, a picture of their visit to the state house and a tiny replica of the state championship trophy with their names on it. The state championship rings are delayed but are on the way. The rings will be presented to the team in May.

"This means a lot [tonight]," Wildcats senior midfield captain Ben Novo said. "How much work everyone put in during the season."

Read more from Steven Sanchez at heraldnews.com.