Page 2 - October/November 2016 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscence.com www.highschoolsportsscence.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News October/November 2016 Page 3

Vol. 8, Issue 83 • October/November 2016 Publisher’S NOTE Hey Sports Fans! It’s another great day at Sports Scene. CONTENTS As the football playoffs begin Oct. 28, a big shout out goes to Breckenridge High School, the same team that 4 Division 1-2 Football Playoff Previews graces the cover of this month’s issue. WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE® 989-224-3900 5 Division 3-4 Football Playoff Previews After finishing 0-9 a year ago, Breckenridge finished the 2016 season a perfect 9-0 this season for the first EXIT 99 Off US-127 ST. JOhnS fOr SavIngS TAX & PLATES INCLUDED IN ALL PAYMENTS! 6 Division 5-6 Football Playoff Previews time in school history. Division 7-8 Football Playoff Previews 7 For the Huskies efforts, The Detroit Lions named 2015 CHRySLER 200 2015 DODgE gRAnD 2009 HuMMER H-3 2008 CADILLAC DTS 2012 FORD F-150 xLT Kris Robinson of Breckenridge High School the week 555 E Downie St 8 10 Questions With Ithaca’s Terry Hessbrook Moon PLATInuM, CRew nine recipient of the 2016 Farm Bureau Insurance of 4x4 Moon 4x4 Student Vs. Mentor SALE SALE SALE SALE Alma, MI 48801 10 4x4 Michigan High School Football Coach of the Week PRICE PRICE PRICE SALE PRICE PRICE (517) 202-1808 12 Alma Football Gets Defensive Program. Midland Dow’s Jason Watkins won the award $ $ $ $ 8,900 $ 13 Freeland Puts Together Another Solid Season earlier this season. 13,500 21,900 17,900 26,500 www.highschoolsportsscene.com Robinson directed his Huskies to a 22-12 victory over $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Breckenridge Makes History 255/DOWn 255/MOnTH 333/DOWn 333/MOnTH 289/DOWn 289/MOnTH 179/DOWn 179/MOnTH 375/DOWn 375/MOnTH 14 Burton Bendle to finish their season undefeated at 9-0 TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT 15 Davison Football Won’t Be Denied and win the Mid-State Athletic Conference, the first in Publisher 16 Westside Ramblings school history. Breckenridge is the first 11-man football 2012 CHEVy SILVERADO LT 2010 FORD ESCAPE xLT 2014 CHEVy CRuZE LT 2009 gMC SIERRA SLT 2013 BuICk EnCORE team in the Michigan High School Football playoff era Randy Miniard Stat Leaders CRew LeATHeR, Moon, 17 (since 1975) to have a regular season record of 9-0 after 4x4 4x4 ALL TeRRAIn LeATHeR [email protected] 4x4 Western Michigan University Connection SALE SALE SALE 18 going 0-9 the year before. Currently in his 4th season PRICE PRICE PRICE SALE PRICE SALE PRICE 517-202-1808 as a head coach at Breckenridge, Robinson previously 20 Mason’s Autumn Kissman $ $ $ $ $ spent one year as an assistant at Farwell. Breckenridge, 27,500 9,900 12,900 19,900 19,700 Division 1 Golf Roundup Editor 22 currently ranked No. 9 in Division 8. Breckenridge $389/DOWn $389/MOnTH $199/DOWn $199/MOnTH $249/DOWn $249/MOnTH $309/DOWn $309/MOnTH $305/DOWn $305/MOnTH Division 2 Golf Roundup hosts Saginaw Nouvel during the first round of the TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT Scott Keyes 23 24 Division 3 Golf Roundup playoffs that kicked off Friday. [email protected] Each winning coach during the regular season will Division 4 Golf Roundup 2008 CHEVy SuBuRBAn LT Z 2005 CHEVy SILVERADO 2500 2011 FORD EDgE LIMITED 2006 BuICk LuCERnE CxL 2008 gMC SIERRA Z-71 989-890-4036 25 receive a $2,000 donation to his school’s football pro- LeATHeR DIeSeL CRew Midland Dow Golfers Win D2 Title gram. AWD 26 4x4 SALE 4x4 SALE SALE SALE 4x4 SALE High School Liaison 27 Carras Sisters Lead Way For Midland Dow Congrats to the Huskies on a great season. Keep it PRICE PRICE PRICE PRICE PRICE going. Paul Hornak 28 DeWitt Golfers Finish Fifth In D2 $ $ $ $ $ Dow Sweeps 19,900 9,900 18,900 6,900 21,500 [email protected] 29 Shiawassee Peak Performers $309/DOWn $309/MOnTH $199/DOWn $199/MOnTH $299/DOWn $299/MOnTH $159/DOWn $159/MOnTH $329/DOWn $329/MOnTH The Midland Dow boys tennis team is back on top TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT 989-331-1168 30 Franks Having Big Season For Laingsburg of the Division 2 mountain capturing its sixth state 31 Ruggles Family Continues To Make championship in eight years recently. The girls were Northern Michigan Sales Impact At Sacred Heart not about to be out done as the Chargers girls golf 2002 OLDS AuRORA 2013 FORD FLEx SEL 2013 CHEVy IMPALA LT 2010 gMC SIERRA 2011 CHEVy TRAVERSE LT LeATHeR, LeATHeR exT. CAb LeATHeR Scott Salowich 32 Swan Valley Building Volleyball Tradition team went onto win the Division 2 tiitle going away. Moon AWD SALE 4x4 SALE 4x4 SALE AWD SALE 33 Division 1 & 2 Tennis Roundup Two state championships. What a away to start out the [email protected] school year. SALE PRICE PRICE PRICE PRICE PRICE Division 3 Tennis Roundup $ 313-408-4410 34 7 in a row 4,500 $24,500 $11,900 $19,500 $16,900 Division 4 Tennis Roundup 35 Now that New Lothrop lost to Michigan Lutheran $99/DOWn $99/MOnTH $349/DOWn $349/MOnTH $229/DOWn $229/MOnTH $303/DOWn $303/MOnTH $275/DOWn $275/MOnTH Editorial 36 Dow Dynasty Returns Seminary to New Lothrop to end the 2016 regular sea- TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT Scott Keyes, John Raffel, David Cook, 38 Northern Report son, Ithaca holds the distinction to being the lone team that holds the longest regular season winning streak at Cross Country Runners Eye States 2013 CHRySLER 200 S LIMITED 2008 gMC SIERRA SLT 2012 CHEVy TRAVERSE LT 2006 FORD RAngER xLT SPORT 2007 FORD F-150 LARIAT Butch Harmon, Jeff Chaney, 39 63 games. Think about it. Obama was just starting his Alma’s Seeley Inducted Into LeATHeR, CRew CRew, Scott Salowich , Dan Strickrandt first year in office when the Yellowjackets lost their last 4x4 ToPPeR 40 Bowling Green University Hall Of Fame Moon SALE SALE SALE regular season. Crazy that it has been seven years. A lot SALE PRICE PRICE PRICE PRICE SALE PRICE Photographers has happened since then, but the one constant remains $ $ - Ithaca Football. 12,500 $ $ $ 19,900 Chuck Prikasky, Alan Holben, Vol. 8, Issue 83 October/November 2016 19,900 15,900 9,900 Find Us On Good luck to all of the teams as the football playoffs $235/DOWn $235/MOnTH $309/DOWn $309/MOnTH $259/DOWn $259/MOnTH $199/DOWn $199/MOnTH $309/DOWn $309/MOnTH Zip Widman, Mike Schutt, get underway. TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT

Russ Pierce, Skip Traynor, PERFECTION Breckenridge Finishes 9-0 For First Time In School History Bob Campbell, Gary Williams, Randy Miniard 2014 CHEVy MALIBu LT 2008 MERCuRy MARInER 2014 CHEVy IMPALA LT 2008 BuICk EnCLAVE CxL 2012 FORD ExPLORER Also Inside: Fall Tournaments Underway! Publisher/Owner Midland Dow Sweeps D2 Boys Tennis, LeATHeR, LIMITeD, Girls Golf; Stephanie Carras Comes Up Big On Links For Chargers Phil Niekerk, Don Goostrey www.highschoolsportsscene.com Tomorrow’s Anywhere Adventure Tomorrow’s517-202-1808 Anywhere Adventure SALE SALE SALE Moon LeATHeR [email protected] SALE PRICE PRICE PRICE PRICE SALE PRICE * * $ $ Anywhere Tomorrow’s Checking withAnywhere MobileAnywhere Banking Adventure Checking with Mobile Banking $11,400 $4,900 $18,500 12,500 20,900 Tomorrow’s Anywhere Adventure $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Mobile Deposit Mobile Deposit 219/DOWn 219/MOnTH 119/DOWn 119/MOnTH 295/DOWn 295/MOnTH 245/DOWn 245/MOnTH 325/DOWn 325/MOnTH TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT TAx & PLATE InCLuDED In PAyMEnT Anywhere Checking with Mobile Banking* * Bill Pay withAnywhere Person-to-Person CheckingBill Payments Pay with with Person-to-PersonMobile Banking Payments

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isabellabank.com  800.651.9111 isabellabankmi  *Third party data charges isabellabank.com may apply. Please contact your800.651.9111 mobile service provider forisabellabankmi details. Account *Thirdholders party under data 18 must charges have may a parent/guardian apply. Please ascontact co-owner. your mobile service provider for details. Account holders under 18 must have a parent/guardian as co-owner. Page 4 - October/November 2016 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscence.com www.highschoolsportsscence.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News October/November 2016 Page 5 Football Division 1 and 2 Playoff preview Football Division 3 and 4 Playoff preview Can Lowell Make It All The Way To Ford DeWitt Peaking At Right Time, While Field For Second Straight Year? Williamston Surprises In D4 Bruce Harmon Ledge reeled off seven consecutive wins Division 2 Bruce Harmon DeWitt (8-1) Division 4 Sports Scene to win the CAAC Blue title. Quarterback Region 1 Sports Scene Breakdown: DeWitt is 4-1 against playoff Region 1 Nolan Bird leads a productive offense Division 1 Greenville (5-4) Division 3 teams this season and its only stumble was Alma (8-1) that is putting up 29 points per game. a 28-21 loss against Grand Ledge in week Region 1 The trip to Grandville in the first round Breakdown: The good news for Region 3 two. The Panthers are averaging 42 points Breakdown: It’s been a landmark season Rockford (6-3) will be a tall task as Grandville handed Greenville is that they are back in the East Lansing (6-3) per game and enter the playoffs on a roll for Alma as the Panthers have turned in Hudsonville its lone loss of the season playoffs for the first time since 2010. their best season since the 2007 squad Breakdown: The Trojans are back in the capable of a deep playoff run. Breakdown: The season has been a by a 36-6 margin. The bad news is the Yellow Jackets must that reached the D4 regional finals and playoffs for the first time since 2012. After challenge for the Rams who had to travel to Lowell to open the district. Mason (8-1) finished 11-1. Look for Alma to advance Region 2 starting the season with a 1-2 mark, East forfeit their season-opener due to Breakdown: Mason turned in its best to the regional finals against this season Lowell (9-0) Lansing won five of its next six games and medical reasons. The Rams remained Grand Blanc (5-4) regular season since 2011. The one where they will be tested by either a solid fell by only three points to Grand Ledge. strong and shared the OK Red Breakdown: The Bobcats are back in the Breakdown: Rebuilding? What blemish on the record is a concerning one Grand Rapids Catholic Central team or Conference title this season. Rockford The Trojans open the playoffs with a tough playoffs for the first time since the 2013 rebuilding? In a year where the Red as the Bulldogs fell to DeWitt 47-0. The Allendale. opens at Hudsonville in the first round Arrows needed to replace some 16 trip to DeWitt. season. A four-game winless streak in Bulldogs face a dangerous Fowlerville Region 2 in a tough test right off the bat. the middle of the season almost derailed starters, the Red Arrows turned in an team in the first round with a possible Grand Ledge (7-2) Grand Blanc’s playoff hopes before a unbeaten season that included five wins rematch looming against DeWitt in the Lake Odessa Lakewood (8-1) against playoff teams. The region will Breakdown: After opening the season big win in week nine against Waterford district finals. Breakdown: The champions of the Greater Kettering kept them alive. provide plenty of tests with the likes Lansing Conference boast a high-powered with a 21-14 loss at Hudsonville, Grand of Traverse City Central and Portage Linden (6-3) Davison (9-0) offense that has scored 30 or more points Central looming. Breakdown: It’s a Flint Metro League in every game this season. Breakdown: The Cardinals have one of Lowell wrapped up another perfect 9-0 rematch for the Eagles who face DeWitt soars into the playoffs with an 8-1 Region 2 season under junior quarterback David Williamston (5-4) record season record. (Kim Larner, High their best teams in years and are poised Kruse. (Butch Harmon, High School Sports Ortonville-Brandon in the first round. School Sports Scene Photo) for a deep playoff run. Quarterback Bay City Central (6-3) Scene Photo) Brandon defeated Linden 38-14 the first Breakdown: The Hornets stunned Lake Lake Fenton (8-1) Brenden McRill and talented junior Breakdown: It’s been a special season time around. Fenton in the final regular season game running back Tariq Reid give Davison for the Wolves who are in the playoffs Flint Carman-Ainsworth (6-3) Bay City John Glenn (7-2) and face another tall task in the first round Breakdown: You can bet the Blue Devils outstanding balance on offense where against Lansing Sexton. remember last year’s 41-0 district final loss for the first time since 2007. Central Breakdown: The Cavaliers are always Breakdown: The Bobcats drew the short the Cardinals are averaging 46 points opens the playoffs against a Midland to Flint Powers. dangerous come playoff time and if they straw in Division 3 as they face a loaded Lansing Sexton (6-3) per game. Davison’s defense is also Dow team that it dropped a 34-14 can get past Fenton in the opener they Orchard Lake St. Mary’s team in the first Breakdown: After missing the playoffs last Corunna (7-2) stingy having allowed just 21 points in decision to in week two. are capable of winning the district title. the last six games of the regular season. round. A positive for John Glenn is that it season, the Big Reds are back in the big Breakdown: Corunna is poised for a Davison opens the playoffs against Midland Dow (8-1) Fenton (7-2) hosts the Eaglets on its own field. dance this season and have a talented team run at a district title this year where they capable of a playoff push to the regional former Big 9 rival Grand Blanc and will Breakdown: The Chargers can score Breakdown: After a pair of non-league HSSS Regional picks. R1)Muskegon, R2) would face either Lake Fenton or Flint round. have a tough second-round test against points with the best of them as they are losses to start the season, the Tigers Chelsea, R3) DeWitt, R4) Allen Park Powers provided it gets past Croswell- Lexington in the district opener. the winner of Lapeer/Clarkston. averaging 39 points per game. Senior rolled through the Flint Metro League. HSSS Finals pick: Muskegon over DeWitt Region 3 HSSS Regional picks: R1) Detroit quarterback Bruce Mann is one of the Facing Carman-Ainsworth in the first Breakdown: Flint Powers (6-3) Catholic Central, R2) Davison, most productive passers in the state and round will be a major challenge. HSSS Regional picks. R1) Grand Rapids is capable of leading Dow a long way. Division 4 state finalists last season, the R3) Detroit Cass Tech, R4) Utica HSSS Regional picks. R1) Lowell, R2) Chargers have hit a number of bumps in Catholic, R2) Benton Harbor, R3) Detroit Eisenhower Walled Lake Western, R3) Detroit King, Alma’s Drew Humm helped lead the the road this season, but are prepared for Country Day, R4) River Rouge Panthers to an 8-1 record in the regular HSSS Finals pick: Detroit Cass Tech R4) Birmingham Brother Rice season. Alma turned in its best season what will be an interesting first-round HSSS Finals pick: Grand Rapids Catholic over Detroit Catholic Central HSSS Finals pick: Lowell over Detroit since 2007. (Scott Keyes, High School matchup at Lake Fenton. Central over River Rouge Sports Scene Photo) Grand Ledge finished the regular season King 7-2 and opens the D1 playoffs against Grandville. (Marvin Hall, High School Sports Scene Photo) Supporting Gratiot County’s Youth JIM NAVARRE for Over 25 Years! 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Main Street Phone (989) 463-4921 Phone (989) 584-6411 EDMORE Edmore True Value 418 E. Main Street Phone (989) 427-5637 Page 6 - October/November 2016 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscence.com www.highschoolsportsscence.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News October/November 2016 Page 7 Football Division 5 and 6 Playoff preview Presents Football Division 5 Chippewa Hills, R2) Ithaca, R3) and 6 Playoff preview Ithaca’s Move To Division 5 Changes Complexion Grand Rapids West Catholic, R4) Richmond Of Football Playoffs; Can Yellowjackets Make HSSS Finals pick: Ithaca over Can Smith Carry P-W Back To Ford Field, D7 Finals; History In Upper Division? Grand Rapids West Catholic Division 6 Breckenridge Gets Taste Of Playoff Football Since 1993 Bruce Harmon Chippewa Hills (8-1) to go even further this season. If Region 2 the Falcons get past Swan Valley, Bruce Harmon track to face Ubly for the regional title. Central. Sports Scene Breakdown: Defense has been Harrison (5-4) the calling card for the Warriors a rematch with Frankenmuth will Sports Scene Division 5 Breakdown: The Hornets qualified Flint Hamady (7-2) Vestaburg (5-4) this season. Chippewa Hills has be standing between them and a for the playoffs with five wins, must Division 7 Region 1 allowed just 50 points all season possible meeting with Ithaca in the Breakdown: If Hamady can get past Breakdown: Like its Mid-State rival now hit the road for their playoff and only two teams were able to regional. Region 1 Whittemore-Prescott in the district Sacred Heart, Vestaburg faces the team Clare (8-1) opener at Leroy-Pine River. reach double figures. Essexville-Garber (7-2) opener, it could have a rematch with it lost to in last year’s district opener Breakdown: After a three-point Beaverton (6-3) Pewamo-Westphalia (9-0) loss against Ithaca in the season Region 2 Breakdown: The Dukes have New Lothrop in the district finals. when it travels to Beal City. Breakdown: Football season has Breakdown: After reaching the D7 opener, the Pioneers have been Belding (5-4) a first-round matchup with been special in Beaverton, where rolling. Clare’s offense will face a Frankenmuth, a team Garber state finals last season, the Pirates are Beal City (6-3) Breakdown: The good news for the Beavers are making only their tough test against the Chippewa dropped a 26-point decision too in poised to bring home the state title this Belding? The Redskins are in the second playoff appearance in Breakdown: The Aggies have played Hills defense in the district opener. week six. playoffs for the first time since school history, their lone prior year. Along with its explosive offense a rugged schedule this season but it Frankenmuth (8-1) Ithaca completed its seventh 2013. The bad news? Belding playoff game coming in 2000. straight undefeated regular that is putting up 54.8 points per game, still may not be enough to overcome must travel to Ithaca to face a Breakdown: Frankenmuth’s hopes Morley-Stanwood (6-3) season in 2016. (Russ Pierce, Pewamo-Westphalia brings a punishing Muskegon Catholic in the district finals. Yellowjackets team looking to for a perfect regular season ended High School Sports Scene Photo) defense that has pitched six shutouts make a statement in their first-ever with a 7-3, week-nine loss to Breakdown: Morley-Stanwood Region 3 D5 playoff game. Freeland. A district finals rematch is not a team to take lightly as this year and allowed just 4.4 points per the Mohawks three losses, all to three-game winning streak into its Merrill (6-3) Ithaca (9-0) with Freeland is very possible. game. After opening up with Hesperia, playoff teams, came by a combined district opener at Laingsburg. Region 3 the Pirates are on a collision course Breakdown: The Vandals face a familiar Breakdown: It’s a new ball 12 points. Open the playoffs with Laingsburg (8-1) game for Ithaca this year as the Portland (9-0) with Saugatuck in what can be a classic foe in the district opener when it travels Beaverton and are capable of a long Last year the Wolfpack reached defending D6 state champions Breakdown: The Red Raiders playoff run. district title showdown. to former TVC rival Michigan Lutheran move up to D5. After opening the regional title game where it fell turned in a second-consecutive Lakeview (6-3) to Ithaca. With Ithaca moving up Region 2 Seminary. up with Belding, Ithaca will face undefeated regular season. The Breakdown: Wildcats finished the to D5, Laingsburg could advance finalist, in the possible district final. its first big D5 test in the district key to the post-season will be a New Lothrop (8-1) Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Seminary season strong with three straight even farther provided it can get finals against a rugged Muskegon district final showdown with either (7-2) HSSS Regional picks. R1) St. Ignace, wins. Face a tall task in the district past Millington in the potential Breakdown: After reeling off eight Oakridge squad. Lansing Catholic or Grand Rapids R2) Muskegon Catholic Central, R3) opener at a tough Ravenna squad. district final. Breakdown: MLS reached the regional Saginaw Swan Valley (6-3) West Catholic. straight wins to open the season, the Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Seminary, Region 3 Byron (7-2) finals last year. This season, the Breakdown: It’s rematch time for Lansing Catholic (8-1) Hornets were upended by Michigan R4) Climax-Scotts Swan Valley as the Vikings open Hemlock (5-4) The Eagles bring a solid defense Lutheran Seminary in week nine. New Cardinals may have an even stronger Breakdown: Lansing Catholic’s into the playoffs and are more than the playoffs with a trip to Freeland. Breakdown: Hemlock returns to Lothrop looks to rebound in the first team and head into the playoffs with HSSS Finals pick: Muskegon Catholic lone loss this year was by one point capable of winning the district. Freeland won the earlier meeting to Portland. To get a rematch with the playoffs for the first time since round against Reese and could be on plenty of momentum after defeating over Saginaw Michigan Lutheran 29-14. Portland, the Cougars must get 2012. The Huskies have a difficult HSSS Regional picks. R1) New Lothrop in week nine. Seminary Freeland (9-0) past a West Catholic team it has opener as they travel to Millington Negaunee, R2) Montague, R3) fallen to the last three times they to take on a solid Cardinal team. Millington, R4) Jackson Lumen Saginaw Nouvel (6-3) Breakdown: After reaching Christi the regional finals the past two met in the playoffs. Montrose (6-3) Breakdown: Competing in D8 for HSSS Finals pick: Jackson Lumen seasons, Freeland is determined HSSS Regional picks. R1) Solid Montrose team takes a Christi over Montague the first time ever, the Panthers are a HSSS Regional picks. R1) Pewamo- dangerous team capable of making a Freeland’s Jake Kelsey launches a pass earlier this season against Swan Valley. (Scott Keyes, High School Sports Scene Photo) Westphalia, R2) New Lothrop, R3) deep playoff run. Cassopolis, R4) Hudson Breckenridge (9-0) “We Care Enough To Make A Difference” Good HSSS Finals pick: Pewamo-Westphalia Helping people stay home with dignity and independence. 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A: We were very anxious to watch the selection show A: We have never been the staff that sits back and pats this year. Not knowing who or where we would be ourselves on the back for what we have done. We will playing really created a great deal of excitement. Now someday, but that is not going to happen now. We try that we know who and where we will be playing we to improve every day as coaches. I think that we con- will try to keep everything the same as in past years as sistently question what we are doing and how we are far as our preparations go. doing it. I have a great coaching staff that works very Q: Ithaca potentially will have two home games and a hard and takes great pride in the product that we put ‘Jackets Pride... on the field every Friday night. possible regional finals matchup with Kevin Townsend and Freeland. I guess this go around your team is Q: To be able to accomplish what Ithaca has done over doing the hunting instead of being the hunted. Would the years, how fortunate have you been not to have you agree with that assessment? that big injury bug plague your past teams? A: We will have a very difficult first round opponent A: We have been very fortunate to not have several 10 Questions With Ithaca Football in Belding. They will not be impressed or in awe in any injuries in the same season. However, to say that we way with the Yellowjackets. They have played some haven’t had injuries would be an understatement. In very good football teams and have played in some fan- 2011 we lost our starting quarterback in the first game tastic stadiums around the state. They are very talented of the season vs. Williamston. We did not have David Coach Terry Hessbrook team that scares me a great deal. Brown for eight games that season. In 2012, we lost Q: With everything that has been accomplished over our All-State QB Travis Smith on the second offensive the last seven years, what can you say about this 2016 play of the state championship game vs. Constantine. Hessbrook Discusses Move To D5, Importance team versus all the other squads in the past? We were already trailing at the time of his injury 7-0. We have lost someone every season at some point. The A: I was very proud of this year’s team for completing key has been in our backups being prepared to step in Of Family, And Big-Leg Kicker Adam Culp the regular season at 9-0. Going 9-0 is not an easy task to the position and continue to play at a high level. breeds success. Success breeds winning. It seems and something that these guys can cherish forever. Scott Keyes Q: Lastly, as you know it’s playoff time, and as you Sports Scene easy enough, but anyone who has been associated Ithaca has had football for more than 100 years. Yet we with the Ithaca program over the past 94 games have only had 10 perfect regular seasons of 9-0. Just so know anything can happen. Adam Culp proves to be a When you have won five of six Division 6 (93-1) heading into this year’s playoffs will tell happens that seven of them have been in a row. big weapon to this year’s team. What are the intangi- titles, finished the regular season undefeated bles that Adam brings to the table heading into the you take nothing for granted, because you never Q: I read somewhere that Ithaca’s 6th, 7th and 8th for the seven straight seasons and was recently playoffs? know when the ride will end. grade teams this season went undefeated. When you elected to the Michigan Football Coaches Hall of Now the fun begins - Hessbrook took the time have kids buying into what you are trying to do at A: Adam Culp is a very big part of our success on both Fame, Ithaca football coach Terry Hessbrook is out of his busy schedule to talk to Sports Scene those ages, how easy is it for you to have them buy into sides of the ball. He is a weapon. When he puts the ball having the time of his life molding young minds about Ithaca’s upcoming playoff run and its move your teachings at the varsity level? in the end zone for a touch back that means a team has while building a juggernaut football team in the into Division 5. Not to mention the fun he had to drive 80 yards vs. our defense. If our defense can get small farming community in Gratiot County. A: Our 6th, 7th and 8th grade football teams all fin- off the field quickly that means our offense is going to this season coaching his son Brady’s eighth grade ished their season undefeated. That bodes well for the As Hessbrook and the Yellowjackets prepare get good field position. So Adam is really a key to what team. future of Ithaca Football. Our youth coaches and kids for another long playoff run, this year is going to we are doing. All in a day’s work for Hessbrook and the have bought in to our system and our players learn it be a little different than previous seasons, as Itha- entire Ithaca staff. Here is what Hessbrook had to at a very young age. That makes our job at the JV level Q: You have had the luxury of having your fair share ca makes the move to Division 5. Ithaca moves say about the move to D5 and what lies ahead in that much easier when terminology and the funda- of quality kickers through the years. From Sage De- into unfamiliar surroundings, but Hessbrook and the coming weeks for the Yellowjackets. mentals are getting taught at the youth level. mull to Jake Pierce. That experience factor of Adam is the Yellowjackets are preparing for the unknown Q: there. Is that something he has if it comes down to a like they always do entering the post season of Now you know where you are headed and Q: Can you talk a little about your experience coach- big kick in the playoffs? every football season. who you will be facing, it’s a whole different ball ing Brady this season and the rest of the eighth grade game this season compared to previous years. Is team? A: I have full and complete confidence in Adam Culp However, the goal remains the same: Winning the move to Division 5 just another hurdle that at any time. Last year as a sophomore in a very tightly is becoming something the Ithaca communi- A: Coaching our 8th grade team has created many contested semifinal game in the snow, he hit a FG that Ithaca has to face or have been facing for seven great memories for me personally having the opportu- ty expects. No excuses. None taken. Winning years now? changed the momentum of the game. He is very good nity to coach Brady and his teammates. Our coaching and I won’t hesitate to put him on the field. staff was together for four years and really became good friends with each other over the years. I hope Q: Could you sum up the move from six to five in on our boys learned a few things that they can carry with sentence? them to their high school careers. A: We were fairly comfortable with the landscape in Q: When you have won 93 of 94 and still have the D6. We knew the opponents that we could likely have longest streak at 23 games in the state, do you ever to face. In D5 everything is a little different. We will be second-guess yourself at any time, even though people facing some very unfamiliar foes. sees W’s in the win-loss column?

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I do know that wherever we are placed, we will see very good com- petition.” Neither Ahern nor Hessbrook were thrilled with the prospect of a possible Catholic-Ithaca matchup. “If we happen to play Lansing Catholic I am quite sure that is not something that Jim or I will be looking forward to happening for many reasons,” Hessbrook Student vs. Mentor said. “He is a great friend and mentor to all of us coaches here in Ithaca.” “I hope we don’t,” Ahern said. “All the guys that coached there either played for me or coached with me. We’re all good friends. That would be a tough game All Eyes On Potential Matchup mentally for me. I hope it doesn’t happen.” Between Familiar Foes LCC, Ithaca John Raffel games without him.” Sports Scene Eli Whitney is a returning linebacker and Willoughby Urquhart is excelling on Jim Ahern and Terry Hessbrook had the defensive line. two strong football teams again at Lansing Catholic and Ithaca this season. During the 2016 season, both were ranked in Division 5 state polls during the Both entered the playoffs expecting to regular season, pollsters take all 11-player be very competitive. Ithaca (9-0) has won teams and divide them by eight to come five of the last six Division 6 titles while up with the eight divisions. Lansing Catholic (8-1) has made appear- ances in the Division 5 championship The prospect that Ahern, a former games. Ithaca coach, could be facing his friend Hessbrook in the Division 5 playoffs was “We’ve been playing good offensively an intriguing thought, to say the least. But and are improving defensively,” Ahern it wasn’t necessarily a certain deal. said. “It’s hard to compare teams because you’re talking about different personnel. Because the polling method is different This team has some positives other teams than what’s done for playoffs when the 256 didn’t have. It’s a good team. We play in a teams that meet the postseason are divid- really tough conference. We lost to Port- ed into eight, it’s possible for teams that land by one point. They went for two at were ranked in a poll to be in a different the end of the game and made it. We had a playoff divisions. tough nonconference schedule and played The Cougars finished the regular season a couple of Class A schools: (Lansing) 8-1, losing only 36-35 to another potential Waverly and Everett. Division 5 playoff opponent, Portland. “We had tough schedule this year and Ithaca went 9-0 for the seventh straight our kids have been up to the task,” he regular season. continued. “We’ve hung in there where “There’s some really good teams in our we’ve been able to come from behind in area in Division 5,” Ahern said. “It de- a couple of them and pull out the victory. pends on the draw and how we play. We’re This hasn’t been a dominant team as some not a dominant team. The whole team has of the ones we’ve had. But I think they’ve to play well to be successful.” had a great team chemistry and lot of for- The Yellow Jackets had one of their titude and stick-to-it-ness. They probably toughest games of the regular season on won some games they shouldn’t have won week nine 31-24 over Shepherd. Hess- because of that.” brook ahead of time knew it wouldn’t be Junior Michael Lynn has had a strong easy. season at quarterback for the Cougars. “They have really improved and have “Konnor Maloney was having a great several athletes that are going to cause With Ithaca making the jump up to Division 5 in 2016, the move potentially year for us,” Ahern said. “He was an all- some problems for the Jackets,” Hessbrook pairs Lansing Catholic coach Jim Ahern and Ithaca coach Terry Hessbrook state player for us last year. He was a cor- said. “Looking ahead to the playoffs, I am in a D5 showdown at Ford Field. Ahern coached Hessbrook while he was ner. But he’s having an outstanding season. not sure what division that we would even at Ithaca High School and the two are still close friends to this day. (Russ We may not have won some of those early be in. So I am not sure about any possible Pierce, Randy Miniard and Tom Pearson, High School Sports Scene Photos)

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Portland’s football program has estab- more diverse on offense and have been Brock Gross ran for a 68-yard TD and lished itself as a team to watch during the able to throw the ball,” Novara said. also caught a 42-yard TD from quarter- postseason. “We’ve had a strong defensive perfor- back Austin Allison. Logan Lefke had a The Red Raiders, for the second mance. Our team speed is one of the big 24-yard touchdown run in the fourth Defense-Minded Alma straight regular season, were 9-0, but strengths this year. We’re a little quicker quarter. Griffin Hager ignited the Raiders they hope to go further in the playoffs this year. Our quarterback has thrown with 13 tackles and Dean Battley had 10. this time. Last year, they beat Lansing more than 1,000 yards this season.” Brett Patrick and Gavin Dennany each Catholic 28-6 during the regular season, Gabe Schrauben has about 700 yards had eight tackles and an interception. Goes On The Attack but lost in the playoffs to the same team carrying the football. Those individuals have been key in Scott Keyes runs the sprints. 21-14. “We have a good core of receivers,” leading the Raiders to their undefeated Other top senior defenders are two- Sports Scene During the 2016 regular season, Port- Novara said. regular season, although it wasn’t easy way linemen Troy Bastian and Tristan land had its biggest scare with a 36-35 at times. Coach Dan Falor often says defense Villalobos. Defensive backs who double As for playoff potential, “it’s a luck of edging of Lansing Catholic. It’s possible Portland won the Division 5 state title comes first for his Alma High School as offensive threats are seniors Anthony the draw,” he said. “We have a team that the two teams could again meet in the over West Catholic 12-9 in 2012 and Panthers, whose 8-1 regular season record Humm and Konner Vedrode, and junior can go a long way, but we’ll probably run playoffs. may wind up playing the Falcons in an is the school’s best since an undefeated Brandon Huff. into a strong team early on.” regular season in 2007. Coach John Novara has been happy upcoming playoff game. “We don’t have a great deal of depth of Evidence comes from four shutouts this experience,” Coach Falor explained. “But Portland finished the regular season 9-0 for the second fall, including a season-closing 30-0 white- five of our seniors are in their third year straight year. (Chuck Prikasky, High School Sports Scene wash of Big Rapids. on the varsity.” Photo) “Basically, our defense leads and our Falor is in his 19th season with the Alma offense takes what it given,” Coach Falor football program, including his third as said. head varsity coach. He has guided the But sophomore Brec Alward has played Panthers to the state playoffs for the past both the defensive and offensive side of two years. the coin. He was talented enough to start A Tough Playoff Schedule Will Be The Panthers finished second in the the season as a defensive back. After he Tri-Valley Conference Central Division, showed the speed and the instincts to rack losing only to the undefeated champs, up four early-season pass interceptions, he Freeland, by a narrow 12-6 margin early in earned some time on offense at halfback Nothing New for Freeland the season. beginning in midseason. In four late-sea- Scott Keyes you had asked the kids, they would In an offense that emphasizes son games, Brec zoomed for more than 600 Sports Scene have said they expected to go 9-0,” the ground game, no single runner yards on the ground. Coach Townsend said. “That is the shoulders the entire load. A trio On the path to a 9-0 regular sea- mindset that we have developed. -- Kubiak, Metiva and senior Chris A conservative offense son, Freeland High School defeated The goal now is to get beyond the Bell -- all finished the regular sea- quarterbacked by another a pair of schools that would have regionals.” son in the 700- to 800-yard range. sophomore, Drew Humm, been undefeated if their schedules gained some zip. During each of the past two Passes are rare, fewer than 10 per had not included the Falcons. seasons, Freeland won a pair of game, but when called upon, junior The Panthers were Freeland 12, Alma 6, early in the playoff games before dropping close Jake Kelsey displays 55 percent scheduled to open Division season. contests in the regional finals, first completion. Even more impressive 4 playoff action on Oct. 28. Freeland 7, Frankenmuth 3, in to Menominee (in 2014) and then to Coach Townsend is that Jake Even with the emergence the grand finale that matched the to Lansing Catholic Central a year threw only one interception, the of the two sophomores, Tri-Valley Conference Central and ago. same as last year. Alma’s team leader con- East division champions. “Our seniors were sophomores Senior Zach Townsend, the tinues to be senior Ryan when he had took the 10-hour coach’s son, is the top pass receiver Cornejo, a speedy and Coach Kevin Townsend said he is bus ride home from Menominee,” -- both on offense and on defense, rangy linebacker who will proud that his team faced a rugged Townsend said. “They remember where he picked off three intercep- be playing at the next level schedule that also included Saginaw that feeling, and then last year at tions. next season. Ryan amassed Swan Valley, Bay City John Glenn home we were within one play of more than 100 pre-playoffs and Shepherd. “We also were 9-0 a year ago winning. They’re hungry.” tackles. At 6-foot-4 and As a result, the Falcons have (for the regular season), and so 210 pounds, his combina- gained solid experience heading The focus remains on defense, it’s difficult to say we exceeded tion of strength and speed into the Division 5 state playoffs. as seen especially in the Alma and expectations this year,” Townsend is reflected on the track The Falcons open the Division 5 Frankenmuth games. Top tackler said. “Still, when there are only 28 are seniors Matt Kubiak and Chase to 30 undefeated teams out of 500 team, on which he throws playoffs against rival Swan Valley Freeland senior Zach Townsend catches an shot put and discus, and Oct. 28. Crook, and juniors Garhet Metiva across the state, that’s a reason to extra point against Swan Valley in a game and Toby Niedzwiecki. take pride.” “Before the season started, if played earlier this season, (Scott Keyes, High School Sports Scene Photo)

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news is, everyone’s back. The bad news 100 yards running and another 100- “To have a winless season may have (could have been), everyone’s back plus yards passing per game, averaging been the best thing ever to happen to from an 0-9 team.” nearly three touchdowns per contest. these kids,” Coach Robinson reflected. We’re here for you to help make your Quarterback Carter Fellow sophomore Hunter Collins “It made them hungry. They didn’t like COVER YOUR DREAMS dreams come true. Ask us about our Staley, still only a amassed a 1,100-yard losing.” farm insurance! sophomore, pointed regular season with 12 Principal Pilmore said the entire out that older players in touchdowns. school is winning, even while the main last year’s junior class Senior pass receiver mission remains academics. became discouraged, Gavin Ostrander, with- “It’s a great experience that the stu- but the younger fellows in the limited passing dents will be talking about for years to appealed to their pride attack, is good for a pair come,” she said. “The main experiences during summer work- of catches per contest. that we remember aren’t always the outs and weightlifting On defense, leading ones from the classrooms.”rooms.” sessions. Coach Rob- tacklers are senior line- From 0-9 To 9-0 inson added that some backer Brad Siler and athletes who did not junior defensive end play football in the past Kenyon Story, who also were encouraged to is the team’s top pass Breckenridge finished the regular come out for this year’s squad, pushing rusher. Defensive back Garrett Miller is season 9-0 for the first time in school Breckenridge Makes team membership to 28 -- outstanding the top pass interceptor and returned a history. The Huskies also won its first for such a small school. fumble for a touchdown in the narrow league championship in nearly 70 Staley is accounting for more than win over Merrill. years in 2016. (Randy Miniard and Don Goostrey, High School Sports School History Scene Photos) Scott Keyes How has this happened? Coach Robinson eraging 3.56 touchdowns a game Division title this season and the joked that he did not all of a sudden become individually. school’s first unbeaten regular season Sports Scene THAT much better of a coach between 2015 Those early-season performances since 2006. “The kid is tough. He Unless a Breckenridge High School football and 2016. He has described the progression as Davison’s Tariq Reid Spinning Heads, really helped set the tone and attract has good speed and has great vision. fan is a senior citizen (and then some), there are “a perfect storm.” plenty of attention from opposing If you’re a scout, I don’t know what no memories of winning a conference football To start, Breckenridge High School moved you’re waiting for.” championship. teams as well as land him firmly on from the larger-school Tri-Valley Conference the recruiting map in Michigan — Western Michigan, Central Mich- Not until this fall. to join similar smaller schools in the Mid-State Fooling Defenders On Grid-Iron and even in some adjacent states. igan, Michigan State and Ohio State league. Some onlookers have viewed this factor Reid spent his first two prep sophomore. The Huskies wrapped up the Mid-State Ac- Dan Stickradt Davison will host Grand Blanc have jumped on the bandwagon once as the main reason for the turnaround, but they football campaigns at Class C Burton tivities Conference crown. Their “most recent” Sports Scene This season as a junior, Reid in the first round of the MHSAA Reid began to explode against large- are overlooking the Atherton, where he put up some league title wasn’t — whose family moved east to Division 1 districts on Oct. 29. The school competition. He recently took fact that the Huskies It’s one thing to put up gaudy impressive numbers without gaining recent at all. It was Davison in April — has carved Cardinals have collected 420 points an unofficial visit to Ohio State and are vastly improved. numbers at a small school. much attention outside of the Gene- in 1946, before most through opposing defenses like a in nine games — almost scoring at is planning on setting up others in For example, Breck- For Tariq Reid, it’s a case of been see Area Conference. anyone who follows knife through soft butter. Behind a will on some teams — and averaging the upcoming months at a variety of enridge trounced there, done that. the team was even Now at a large high school, Reid is dominating athletic offensive line 46.7 points a game with Reid as the schools. Vestaburg 35-0 this born, much less putting up big-time numbers at Class that is also drawing attention, Reid main attraction. “I’m very ecstatic at the oppor- fall after losing 46-12 owned a television A Davison of the Saginaw Valley has racked up 1,837 rushing yards, tunities to go see some of these last season. In a key Davison’s defense has stepped up, set. League. averaged 10.1 yards-per-carry, and schools,” said Reid, who also carries game, Breckenridge too, to make the Cardinals a serious And beyond the Finally, Reid is spinning heads of collected 204.1 yards an outing for around a 3.8 GPA. “It is my dream to blanked Merrill 12-0 threat for a lengthy postseason run. first conference not only spectators in the stands, the 9-0 Cardinals, who bolster one play college football. I’ve always been after being blasted Davison has yielded only 74 points championship in defenders on the field and defensive of the most explosive offenses in a Michigan State fan, but I am open 48-6 last season. (8.3 points a game) with two shut- 70 years, and the coordinators on the sidelines, but fi- Division 1. to listen to a lot of schools. I have to And the regular outs, holding six teams to seven or first state playoff nally in the recruiting circuit as well. He has finished off 32 scoring really give this a lot of thought.” season nonleague fewer points and eight opponents to berth in 23 sea- drives, collecting 31 rushing touch- closer was a come- “I had a few letters (before the under 20 points. Davison has reached the Final sons, this year’s downs and one receiving touch- from-behind 22-12 season), but no really serious offers,” Four three times in school history — squad achieved an down. In a Week 1 game against “We knew that this year could be triumph over Burton said Reid. “This year I have a great 2002, 2006 and 2008 — and is one historical first-ever, Saginaw Arthur Hill, Reid raced for a good year for us. Throw in Tariq Bendle, the same offensive line in front of me. They are of the favorites this season thanks all-time milestone five touchdowns and followed that in there and he has really helped Burton Bendle that the reason I have so much room.” to its dominating regular season. with a perfect 9-0 up with five more touchdowns in a us become a very good team,” said squashed the Hus- The Cardinals’ closest games were a regular season. Reid, a 6-foot, 210-pound junior Week 2 victory over Mount Pleasant. Davison coach Kyle Zimmerman, kies 49-6 a year ago. running back, gained more than a whose team captured the SVL Blue 20-0 shutout of Midland and a 28-7 The teens in the 1,000 yards as both a freshman and He has not slowed down, av- victory over Lapeer. current student body Coach Robinson may not know, or noted that last fall’s ill-fated team had Davison’s Tariq Reid has rushed for even appreciate, all nearly 2,000 yards in 2016 and has of the history. Main- only three seniors, and so underclass- helped lead the Cardinals to a perfect ly, they know their 9-0 season record. (Submitted Photo) team was winless, men gained an 0-9, a year ago. uncommon amount of experience. “There is unbe- BOLAND’S lievable excitement The team’s pair of The Leader In happening all across big wins early in the season -- 38-29 over TIRE The Field town, with ‘Huskies EST NE BRECKENRIDGE vintage gifts antiques Pride’ signs lining up Houghton Lake and B O General • Cooper Doug Belles and down M-46,” said Coach Kris Robinson, in 40-32 over Mount 120 S. Pine Street Breckenridge, MI 48615 Fireston • Bridgestone Manager his fourth season. “There’s a buzz going on.” Pleasant Sacred Heart drew the attention of Mick McCabe, the longtime Detroit Free Press 989-842-5855 Goodyear Principal Sheila Pilmore added, “The atmo- Office: (989) 842-1185 high school sportswriter, who picked resur- 24 Hour On The Road Service [email protected] 118 E. Superior St. sphere around this place is electric. The kids are 8263 N. 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Committed 989-842-3161 to our www.biaofmi.com Future ... Village of Breckenridge Inspired by our Past. Page 16 - October/November 2016 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscence.com www.highschoolsportsscence.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News October/November 2016 Page 17 Westside TINNEY Presents Mid-Michigan Ramblings Brings You Stats Leaders

Rushing touchdowns Tackles Kills per game season and ran its regular-season attack that enabled the offense to Tariq Reed, Davison 31 Mike VanSummeren, Essexville-Garber 153 Meredith Norris, Corunna 6 Football Jared Smith, Pewamo-Westphalia 28 Daniel Smith, Carson City-Crystal 117 Kayla Belles, Ithaca 5 winning streak to 17 games. average over 28 points per game. Passing yards Michael Lynn III, Lansing Catholic 23 Lucas Williams, Essexville-Garber 106 Kristen Huebner, Swan Valley 4.9 Lowell Shows Comeback Belding’s playoff assignment is Ian Ruggles, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 2,053 David Spedowski, Chippewa Hills 21 Ryan Pummell, Clare 99 Ellie Jensen, Midland 4.4 Josh Czarnota, Fenton 1,899 Gabe Kanouse, Hemlock 17 Ryan Cornejo, Alma 93 Lexi Nordmann, DeWitt 4.4 Greenville football team qualifies an imposing one as it must travel Bruce Mann, Midland Dow 1,887 Cole Stipcak, Fulton-Middleton 16 Gabe Kanouse, Hemlock 93 Paige Porter, Lansing Christian 4.3 for playoffs to Ithaca to take on last year’s Lucas Leak, Lansing Waverly 1,804 Drew Stout, Carson City-Crystal 16 Elijah Whitney, Lansing Catholic 90 Abby Francis, Goodrich 4 Skills As It Closes Out Division 6 state champions. Aaron Sarkon, Linden 1,725 Dylan Crankshaw, Fenton 15 Storm Miller, Mason 89 Blocks per game Logan Sella, Essexville-Garber 1,592 Dequez Weathers, Bay City Central 15 Logan Fenech, Williamston 86 Allie Leslie, Greenville 1.6 First-year head coach Eddie Travis Vida, Clare 1,552 Casey Williams, Mich. Lutheran Sem. 15 James Smith, Lakeview 85 Camdyn Odykirk Mt. Pleasant 1.5 Ostipow has Greenville football Rockford overcomes adversity to Hunter Helmic, East Lansing 1,428 Andrew Fox, Ionia 14 Brandon Zinser, Clare 85 Ryleigh Beyersdorf, Hemlock 1.3 Unbeaten Season Drew Stout, Carson City-Crystal 1,424 Owen Walter, Corunna 13 Hunter Norris, Mt. Pleasant 83 for an undefeated regular season. fans excited about Yellow Jackets earn share of league title Maya Ferland, Laingsburg 1.2 Butch Harmon Joey Bentley, Ithaca 1,368 Emmett Boehler, Swan Valley 12 Alex Stockwell, Holt 83 Hannah Greenwood, Portland St. Pat 1.2 as he led Greenville to its first Sports Scene Trailing Forest Hills Central by John Meyer, Ionia 1,337 Addison Mitchell, Lakeview 12 Nathan Bellinger, Ithaca 82 Kayla Belles, Ithaca 1.1 17 points in the fourth quarter of playoff berth since 2010. Led After health issues resulted in Spence Pnacek, Coleman 1,307 Antonio Rush, Grand Ledge 12 Collin McMillan, Davison 80 Kristen Danz, Goodrich 1.1 There were times it looked like it by quarterback Cal Syrjala and a slow start for the Rockford Nick Putnam, Laingsburg 1,275 Jaden Sutton, Waverly 12 Rachel Lefor, Greenville 1.1 their game in week seven, the Red Will Nagel, DeWitt 1,217 Erik Birchmeier, New Lothrop 11 Lexi Nordmann, DeWitt 1.1 wouldn’t happen, but the Lowell Jimmy Pierce, St. Louis 1,204 Andrew Humm, Alma 11 Arrows rallied for a 41-37 win to running back Kyle Lorenz, football team, the Rams went on Digs per game Austin Allison, Portland 1,190 Joe Hill, Swartz Creek 10 football team never gave up its bid the Yellow Jackets turned in a a roll during conference play to Brooke Bloome, Goodrich 6.8 keep their unbeaten season alive. Nolan Bird, Grand Ledge 1,156 Rushing yards Elle Lalonde, Chippewa Hills 6.3 The following week against Forest number of big efforts this season win a share of the OK Red title Kenny Schmidt, Lansing Everett 1,136 Jared Smith, Pewamo-Westphalia 1,898 Megan Lynch, Lake Fenton 5.7 Brian Elder, Bay City Central 1,133 Hills Northern, Lowell found itself highlighted by a 35-34 win over for a second straight season. A Tariq Reed, Davison 1,837 Skye Rivett, Corunna 5.6 Drew Humm, Alma 1,021 Gabe Kanouse, Hemlock 1,282 Allison Conway, Mt. Pleasant 5.0 trailing 28-13 before it rallied for Forest Hills Central. stingy defense has been a key to Charles Garrett, Bridgeport 958 Cole Stipcak, Fulton-Middleton 1,238 Assists per game

Rockford’s success this season as Jerod Fattal, Corunna 851 Volleyball a 41-34 win. Junior quarterback Dequez Weathers, Bay City Central 1,233 Hailey Delacher, Rockford 10.8 to a 6-3 regular-season record, Jerry Parra, Mt. Pleasant 873 David Kruse came up big for the Belding to take on powerhouse the Rams are allowing less than David Spedowski, Chippewa Hills 1,200 Brooke Binkley, DeWitt 10.5 the fifth straight winning season Adam Arrowsmith, Mich. Lutheran Sem. 823 Owen Walter, Corunna 1,086 Kennedy Franks, Laingsburg 9.9 Red Arrows as he rushed for 242 Ithaca in return to playoffs two touchdowns per game. Eric Birchmeier, New Lothrop 810 turned in by the Wildcats who will Addison Mitchell, Lakeview 1,055 Betsy Cook, Freeland 9.1 yards and three touchdowns and be competing in the playoffs for Michael Lynn III, Lansing Catholic 1,051 Emily Buska, Swan Valley 9.1 The Belding football team is Lakeview football team turns in Andrew Humm, Alma 973 added 164 yards passing against the third time in the last four years. Lane Valley, Haslett 8.9 Northern. returning to the playoffs for the fifth straight winning season Joe Hill, Swartz Creek 966 Emma Wolf, Midland 8.6 Quarterback Jacob Cole and young Dylan Crankshaw, Fenton 964 Alex Bialik, Chippewa Hills 8.2 first time since 2013. Led by Lowell capped the regular running backs Addison Mitchell, Drew Stout, Carson City-Crystal 965 Adair Cutler, Lansing Christian 8 season with a 51-22 win against talented running back James The Lakeview Wildcats closed Casey Williams, Mich. Lutheran Sem. 912 Boys D1 a sophomore, and Jason Kroeze, Andrew Fox, Ionia 898 Northview as it won the OK White Daniel and junior quarterback out the regular season in a big Cole Johnson, Rockford 15:12 a junior, keyed Lakeview’s strong Vondre Warren, Midland 852 Saano Murembya, Okemos 15:36 Trent Collins, the Redskins have way with three straight wins. The title for the fourth consecutive ground game this year. Jaden Sutton, Waverly 850 Christian Hubaker, Grand Ledge 15:39 featured a productive running winning streak helped Lakeview Max Kubiak, Freeland 829 Paul McKinley, Okemos 15:41 Emmett Boehler, Swan Valley 817 Dominic Dimambro, Fenton 15:43 Luke Burns, Blanchard-Montabella 456 Lowell and Greenville square off for the Boys D2 second time this season in the first round of Noah Jacobs, Corunna 15:05 the Division 2 playoffs. (Butch Harmon, High Thomas Mueller, Lake Fenton 16:08 School Sports Scene Photos) Dakota Hundley, Corunna 16:12 Ben Jacobs, Corunna 16:16 Receiving yards Mark Jacobs, Big Rapids 16:17 Sy Barnett, Williamston 726 Kyle Tackett, Waverly 724 Boys D3 Evan Goodell, St. Louis 15:42 Brendon Kuch, Midland Dow 686 Ben Haupt, Clare 15:57 Andy Gruss, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 676 Greenville Girls Golf Team Saves Best Tyler Travis, Shepherd 16:16 Ben Vansummeren, Essexville-Garber 656 Ethan Markey, Lansing Catholic 16:18 Cameron Sanicki, Ionia 647 Will Peters, Lansing Catholic 16:29 Touchdown passes Britten Stanley, Carson City-Crystal 620 Tanner Koth, Bay City Central 594 Boys D4 For Last, Reaches D2 State Finals Bruce Mann, Midland Dow 24 Chanse Setzke, Fenton 587 Ashton Walker, Portland St. Pat 16:35 Josh Czarnota, Fenton 23 “My message to the girls at the the second-best effort for the Yellow Jason Beckner, Coleman 548 Bryce Thelen, Pewamo-Westphalia 16:35 David Cook Ian Ruggles, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 21 Colton Hyble, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 500 Davis Tebben, Lansing Christian 16:36 regional was to go out and have fun Jackets at the state finals. Lucas Leak, Lansing Waverly 18 Sports Scene Kentre Patterson, East Lansing 496 Matt Bartels, Saginaw Nouvel 16:37 and focus on the game,” Johnson Nick Putnam, Laingsburg 18 “For the seniors it’s a nice way to end Jacob Sansburn, Essexville-Garber 478 Viktor Bedaine, Fowler 17:06 An outstanding team effort at the said. “They felt at home playing on Will Nagel, DeWitt 16 Jackson Wilcox, Lansing Catholic 471 regional tournament enabled the their high school careers as golfers,” Aaron Sarkon, Linden 15 Girls D1 their home course. The didn’t feel any Nick Baker, Lansing Catholic 470 Johnson said. “Not many teams can Logan Sella, Essexville-Garber 15 Anna Jensen, Midland Dow 17:40 Greenville girls golf team to end the pressure, they just went out and had Ethan Quinn, Corunna 466 Ericka VanderLende, Rockford 18:10 do that in any sport. That is something Travis Vida, Clare 15 season in a big way. fun and came on strong.” Spence Pnacek, Coleman 14 Alexa Keiser, Fenton 18:22 to be very proud of. It’s all about the Joey Bentley, Ithaca 13 Touchdown receptions Jenna Magness, Grand Ledge 18:23 After missing out on the state Greenville enjoyed a balanced team memories. When they get together Austin Allison, Portland 12 Sy Barnett, Williamston 9 Jessi Lindstrom, Flushing 18:32 tournament last season, the Greenville effort at the regional. Senior Landon years from now they won’t remember Jerod Fattal, Corunna 12 Jason Beckner, Coleman 8 Girls D2 golfers qualified for the state Brenden McRill, Davison 12 Andy Gruss, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 8 Cecilia Stalzer, Mason 18:15 Kemp led the Yellow Jackets with a 91 the scores, but they will remember that Brendon Kuch, Midland Dow 8 tournament for the 18th time under John Meyer, Ionia 11 Jillian Lange, Goodrich 18:31 to place 15th overall as an individual. they made it to state.” Brian Elder, Bay City Central 10 Ethan Quinn, Corunna 8 Julia Vanitvelt, Flint Powers 18:33 coach Nancy Johnson. Greenville Senior Anna Wierda finished one Jacksosn Pollak, Williamston 10 Kyle Tackett, Waverly 8 Alia Frederick, Linden 18:59 With four seniors on the team, Receptions Nate Mentus, Laingsburg 7 punched its ticket to the Division stroke behind with a 92. Junior Sydney Eric Birchmeier, New Lothrop 9 Country Cross Paige Deitering, Flint Powers 19:00 Andy Gruss, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 47 Ben Vansummeren, Essexville-Garber 7 2 state finals with a big effort at Greenville will be in for some Hunter Helmic, East Lansing 9 Girls D3 Zayler placed 20th overall with a 97 Sy Barnett, Williamston 44 Jordan Jones, Laingsburg 6 the regional tournament held on rebuilding next season. Drew Humm, Alma 9 Olivia Theis, Lansing Catholic 17:21 while junior Rylee Welsh added a 100. Adam Arrowsmith, Mich. Lutheran Sem. 8 Colton Hyble, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 43 Jacob Sansburn, Essexville-Garber 6 Lauren Cleary, Lansing Catholic 18:10 Greenville’s home course, The Links at Cameron Sanicki, Ionia 43 Brenden Sersaw, Clare 6 The top-three finish sent Greenville “Our two juniors are real strong Michael Lynn III, Lansing Catholic, 8 Amber Gall, Shepherd 18:22 Bowen Lake. candidates to lead the team next year,” Drew Stout, Carson City-Crystal 8 Britten Stanley, Carson City-Crystal 41 Jasmine Harper, Clare 18:28 on to the Division 2 state finals at The Charles Garrett, Bridgeport 7 Brendon Kuch, Midland Dow 39 Interceptions Jaden Theis, Lansing Catholic 18:32 Johnson said. “At the junior-varsity Kyle Tackett, Waverly 39 Darian Holbrook, East Lansing 7 Greenville finished with a team total Meadows Golf Course on the campus Jimmy Pierce, St. Louis 7 Girls D4 Ben Vansummeren, Essexville-Garber 39 Mason Schneider, Pewamo-Westphalia 6 of 380 at the regional, just one stroke level we have some enthusiastic golfers Kenny Schmidt, Lansing Everett 7 Alexis McConnell, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 18:02 of Grand Valley State University. Landon Kemp and Sydney Zayler compete during Jackson Wilcox, Lansing Catholic 39 Jason Beckner, Coleman 5 that want to work over the summer. We Bailley McConnell, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 18:38 behind second place St. Johns at the Wierda led the way for Greenville at the Division 2 golf championships held at the Tanner Koth, Bay City Central 36 Khari Gray, Holt 5 Cammie McConnell, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 18:45 regional that was won by eventual state also have the luxury of practicing at the Nick Baker, Lansing Catholic 32 Nate Mentus, Laingsburg 5 the state meet while Zayler turned in Meadows. (Butch Harmon, High School Sports Stats Are Through Oct. 24, 2016 Aubrey George, Pewamo-Westphalia 18:59 Golf Emporium the year round.” Kentre Patterson, East Lansing 28 Casey Williams, Mich. Lutheran Sem. 5 champion Midland Dow. Scene Photos) Lauren MacDonald, Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart 19:18 Guaranteed Financing! TINNEY 9.99% APR! 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Coach Fleck came on board while and he has earned All-Academic ing back out, for the support they are linebacker. Taylor was a redshirt freshman. As MAC honors for three years in a row. giving us,” Curtis said. “Coach was energetic and young, such, Taylor started playing on the He is the youngest of three children He is focusing on the team’s suc- and he talked to you honestly,” Alex offensive line (6-foot-5, 290) during of Delbert Husband and Sonya Gun- cess, and happy for the playing time said. “I really liked how he coached. Mid-Michgan Trio Knows What the new coach’s one-win debut nings-Moton. he gains during the lopsided vic- As an athlete, he told me what the season. CURTIS DOYLE tories, such as 49-10 over archrival odds were, and therefore to play Central Michigan. linebacker, I knew it was something I “Coach Fleck stood out,” said had to learn.” ROW THE BOAT Curtis (6-foot-5, 310). “First of all, “I just want to help the team in It Means To “Row The Boat” I felt his commitment to helping any way that I can,” he said. “What- Alex has been entering games in me to become a better person, and ever, even if it’s in a short-yardage fourth-quarter defensive duty, while there was a family atmosphere. There blocking package.” playing regular on special teams. They believed in Fleck, Western Michigan, wasn’t even a doubt in my mind. Curtis is majoring in business and With the Broncos scoring touch- All the guys who committed in my finance with a 3.5 GPA. He is the downs by the bushel, this has meant (freshman) class, we just wanted to middle of three sons to Chad Doyle plenty of kickoff-team duty. And he And Now They Reap Their Rewards get in here and help to change the and Jayne Droste. has three seasons ahead to contend for more time, even hopefully a Alex Grace is a redshirt fresh- c u ltu re .” Scott Keyes ALEX GRACE starting berth, at linebacker. the process than what is on the man who is making a transition What about that 1-11 season? Sports Scene At Swan Valley High School, Alex He has learned that playing line- scoreboard.” from record-setting high school “It’s not altogether about a win (6-foot-2, 215) earned top MHSAA backer often requires more thought Still, when the scoreboard reflects Taylor Moton (Okemos, 2012), running back to collegiate line- or a loss. Everything is about the rankings in single-season rushing -- seeing offense schemes, being in another victory, there is joy in Bron- Curtis Doyle (Alma, ‘14) and Alex backer on defense. process of doing things right,” Curtis yards (2,962, first), career yards the right place -- than simply run- coland. Grace (Saginaw Swan Valley High, Each owns his own personal ca- explained. “We can’t get ahead of (7,551, third) and career touchdowns ning with the ball. He also believes ‘15) are former mid-Michigan prep reer story, but all three are engaged ourselves. We have to remain “It’s cool because it wasn’t hap- (102, second). his experience as a star high school football stars -- all two-time all- in their once-in-a-lifetime special “I never was discouraged,” Taylor humble. Every game is a one-game pening here,” Alex said. “It’s like, we Other schools recruited him to runner helps him “read” the moves state athletes -- who are enjoying fall 2016 seasons. recalled. “I knew we had to get bet- season.” made is happen.” the fruits of Western Michigan continue as a speedy and powerful of opposing halfbacks and fullbacks. ter, and I focused on getting better Alex is majoring in business, University’s resurgence on the In our interviews with the trio, During past seasons, there were running back, but he found faith But mainly, in his freshman year, he myself. A lot of people who came in sales and marketing with a minor in gridiron. we discovered that each is treasur- empty seats at Western Michigan’s to choose Western Michigan, even is rooting for the team. with me aren’t around anymore, but I biology. He has a 3.5 GPA. He is the ing a high school-style status as a Waldo Stadium. Now they’re full. when Coach Fleck shared that his The Broncos started in Septem- knew that we had some great players Alex echoes his teammates when younger of two sons of Brent and Big Man on Campus. “We’re grateful for the fans com- best college future would be as a ber with upset wins over the Big and that under Coach Fleck, we he says: “We are more worried about Mary Ellen. Ten’s Northwestern and Illinois. They were recruited by other would come back.” schools, but they have been drawn They are a stunning 8-0, with sev- The comeback took root with a eral blowout to youthful Coach P.J. Fleck pair of 8-5 seasons, 2014 and 2015, victories, while Taylor was a sophomore and a when our -- age 32 when he accepted his junior. Still, he didn’t dream of what current would transpire this fall. late-October first-ever head edition of coaching job in “I thought it was a possibility, but Sports Scene December 2012 the main thing is, I want to leave went to the -- even though with an MAC championship,” he printer. West- the Broncos said. ern Michigan were a dismal That goal most likely will be was grabbing 1-11 during his determined late in November against national first season. perennial powerhouse Toledo, but attention And, sur- before then, there are more games on with ESPN feature stories and a prise-surprise (check out their the schedule. No. 16 national ranking, rare for a stories that follow), their loyalty “Our focus is always on the next mid-major school. would remain, even if they some- game,” Taylor said. “If the next game Taylor Moton is the elder among how were 0-8 this fall instead of is Ball State, then that week it’s ‘Ball our trio of young men, a fourth- 8-0. State season’. We concentrate on the year senior starter at offensive TAYLOR MOTON process, not about the end of the right guard who earned third-team journey. How do we do week in and With a choice among most of Former mid-Michigan standouts Taylor Mid-American Conference honors week out?” the MAC schools -- and beyond Moton (Okemos), Curtis Doyle (Alma) as a junior. and Alex Grace (Swan Valley) are that, the Big Ten’s Indiana Uni- Regarding the Broncos’ newfound seeing up close and personal what Curtis Doyle is a redshirt soph- versity -- Taylor picked Western stardom in the spotlight, he said, the concept of “Row the Boat” means omore understudy on the offensive Michigan because he was attracted “People keep telling me where we as they are reaping its rewards during line, with Moton among his men- to the campus, the all-important can go as a team. That’s a great inspi- Western Michigan University’s magical tors, who aims to achieve starting academics, and the City of Kalam- ration, but I answer that we just need run thus far in 2016. (Photos Courtesy status during his upcoming final to go on to the next game.” of Western Michigan University) azoo as a whole. two seasons. Taylor is majoring in accounting

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10.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks a contest, shot .550 from the floor, registered 15 double-doubles and also had a career-best 31 points in an outing against Okemos. The post player was All-CAAC Red Division, All-Re- gion, All-Lansing Area Dream Team and Associated Mason Old-School, 3-Sport Star Press Class A All-State First Team amongst numerous postseason accolades. Through three seasons, she has totaled 806 points, 549 rebounds and 141 blocks and ranks amongst the all-time leaders in school history in multiple categories with one Autumn Kissman Excited To Be season to play. On the softball diamond, she hit .350 her freshman year, but a torn meniscus her sophomore year left her in the dugout recording stats. The versatile pitcher/first baseman/second baseman Heading To Oakland came back as a junior in major way, hitting .560 with four home runs, 50 RBI and no errors defensively held her in ninth or 10th grade, but I had an injury Dan Stickradt earn All-CAAC Red Division, All-Lansing Area Division my sophomore year and I came out for vol- 2 First Team and All-Region. Sports Scene leyball my junior year as kind of a recovery Everything about Autumn Kissman is old sport. They needed some (size) and I felt I Like many relatives before her, the youngest Kissman school. could help out and get in shape, too.” will play college basketball — her first love. She plays basketball; she plays volleyball; In an era where student-athletes are sadly Her grandfather, Jerry Kissman, is a hall of fame and she plays softball. being forced into the specialization route, honoree at Division II University of Wisconsin-Stout. Oh, by the way, she is very good, too. the Mason star has defied the odds in mul- Her father, Tim Kissman, starred at Eaton Rapids and is the career second-leading scorer at Hillsdale College. All of this while maintaining a stellar 3.8 tiple ways. She has excelled on the playing surface as the Class A Bulldogs’ best athlete Kissman’s uncle, Mike Kissman, also was a basketball grade-point average and gaining some schol- standout at Michigan Tech. arship offers over the past couple of years in in all three sports. both softball and basketball. “It just feels right to be playing, staying Autumn Kissman had previously gained interest in basketball from Butler, Princeton and several Division II Kissman, a mobile 6-foot-2 athlete from competitive,” said Kissman. “When I’m not playing, I work out a lot to try to improve and Division III schools. Davenport and a host of others Mason High School, will play basketball in have scouted her in softball as well. college at Division I Oakland University my game.” — she committed during her sophomore In volleyball, Mason finished second in “I just knew when I visited (Oakland) the first time year and will sign her the CAAC Red Division that I loved the place,” said Kissman. “I loved the coach- national letter-of-intent this fall and hopes to win ing staff, loved the campus. I just had that feeling that in November — and is its first district in several this was where I wanted to play in college. I don’t have to the midst of her senior years in November. worry about it (as a senior). year, where she has big In basketball, Kissman “It’s really cool because I’ve had others in my family plans for her and the and the Bulldogs have that played college basketball,” said Kissman. “My dad, Bulldogs. plans to compete for my grandpa, my uncle — they all played hoops in col- “I think about it a lot,” league and district titles lege. I just love the sport and I’m glad to be carrying on said Kissman of leading — and perhaps more the family tradition.” her teams deep into the this winter. Mason has With the scholarship in tow and multiple school postseason. not won a district in 17 records etched in Mason’s record books, the old-school Playing three sports years on the hardcourt. three-sport athlete hopes to add some thrilling chapters presents plenty of On the softball as her high school athletics career ventures through her challenges, but she noted diamond, Kissman also senior campaign. than learned time man- hopes to lead Mason to “I want to help my team win — go far in the state tour- agement all while going plenty of championship nament. In every sport, we really want to go as far as we through the recruiting success next spring. can,” she said. “We’ve had good teams, but haven’t gone process and remain in Kissman, who will really far. We hope to do that this year.” the top 25 of her gradu- graduate with 10 varsity ating class. letters (four each in “I don’t have a lot of basketball and softball free time,” she said. “When I’m not playing and two in volleyball) has put up the stats to (sports), I’m usually doing homework or just garner plenty of attention hanging out with friends.” She leads her volleyball team in kills, That’s okay with Kissman, who also plays blocks and kill percentage and will likely softball part-time with the Lansing Patriots gain plenty of postseason honors when those Mason’s Autumn Kissman is a three- in the summer months. She is often busy are released in November and December. sport standout for the Bulldogs with working out with private trainers instead of On the basketball court, she averaged basketball being her favorite, as she is traveling around the AAU circuit. set to sign her National Letter of Intent to 17.7 points as a junior in league games and Oakland University next month. Kissman “I love playing sports,” she said. “I’ve 19.6 points overall to lead the mid-Michigan averaged 19.6 points as a junior for always loved softball and basketball, but bas- area in scoring. She set a single-game school Mason a year ago. (Alan Holben, High ketball is my favorite. I didn’t play volleyball record for blocks (5) last season, averaged School Sports Scene Photos)

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GOLF ROUNDUP DIVISION 3 GOLF ROUNDUP DIVISION 4 Flint Powers Comes Frankenmuth’s Meg Watkins Solid; Finishes Second In D4 Jarred Robert Up Short In D3 Sports Scene state meet Jarred Robert Macomb Lutheran North took the top honor in Division 4 with a two-day total of 666 with Livonia Sports Scene Goodrich’s Sydni Harding placed eighth Ladywood coming in second with a 702 total. Frankenmuth placed fourth with a total of 742. Lansing overall for individuals with a score of 168. Catholic finished eight with a 790 score. Freeland finished ninth with a 795 score. Shepard finished in Spring Lake took Division 3 with a team th score of 662. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep Elizabeth Gibbs scored a 183, Morgan Swett 15 with a score of 854. a 186 and Bailey Bryant added a 189 for the placed second with a score of 697. Flint Frankenmuth’s Megan Watkins takes second among D4 Individuals Powers Catholic placed third with a 718 Martians. Frankenmuth’s Megan Watkins placed second among individuals with a score of 154, four points score while Goodrich placed sixth with a Big Rapids places 10th at state tournament 726 score and Big Rapids finished in 10th behind the number one individual Nichole Cox from Maple City Glen Lake. Watkins shot a 78 in the Rebecca Herzog led Big Rapids with a 200 with a score of 801 first round and came back with a 76 on Saturday. Frankenmuth placed fourth as a team with Grace score. Smith scored a 191 and Shelby Schneider scoring a 192 for Frankenmuth. Flint Powers places in top three at state Area individuals compete at D3 state tournament Lansing Catholic girls earn top ten finish at state tournament Maggie Knight and Madison Zloto led Lansing Catholic’s Abagail Meder finished fifth overall with a score of 162 to help lead the Cougars to Individual qualifiers at the Division 3 state Flint Powers with scores of 171 and 173 an eighth-place finish at the state meet with a 790 team score. Meder was also the regional medalist meet included Charlotte’s Lizzy Fisher who respectively. Amelia Gavulic scored a 185 this season. Grace Castle added a 190 for Lansing Catholic, which finished second at the regional to scored a 191, Howard City Tri-County’s Julia and Gina Canavesio scored a 192. qualify for the state meet. Bice who totaled a 209 and Williamston’s Freeland golfers finish in top ten at state meet Goodrich golfers earn top ten finish at McKenzie Lewis who scored a 216. The Freeland golf team placed ninth as a team at the state meet with a 795 total. Olivia Pumford led the way for Freeland as she totaled a 173 for the tourney. R AIL Area individuals take part in state meet Individual qualifiers for the Division 4 state meet included Saginaw Nouvel’s Lorissa Butko (197), TR AIL Chesaning’s Megan Ashley (206), Byron’s Madison Montgomery (211), St. Louis’ Olivia Anderson (217), Durand’s Paige Deisler (107, one day total) and Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart’s Ayesha Mohan and MOTOR CO. Hadyn Terwillager who scored 223 and 245 respectively. Saginaw County’s Newest Dealer On M-46 In Shields! 8235 Gratiot Rd. | Saginaw, MI 48609 | 989-401-9191

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Doug Bradford. “The girls on the tennis While the Midland Dow girls golf Szabo, who finished fifth as an indi- team also have a shot at winning a team was able to celebrate breaking vidual at the regional golf tournament, golf and a tennis state title in the same through and winning the Division 2 carded rounds of 89 and 92 to finish school year. It’s a little unique. For any- state golf championship at The Mead- with a two-day total of 181 at the state body, winning a state championship is ows golf course, a few of the Charger meet. incredible. Just imagine winning one in golfers had actually experienced the two different sports.” Being a part of a state golf champi- thrill of winning a state championship Balancing the two sports is somewhat this past June. onship is a unique feeling for the senior who is leaning toward playing tennis in tricky, but the dual-sport athletes for Dow golfers Caroline Szabo, Mina college. Dow handled the challenge. Fabiano and Tatum Matthews were all “We practice tennis the year round,” part of Dow’s Division 1 state tennis “It’s definitely a very different feeling,” said Szabo. “Winning the golf title is just Szabo said. “When tennis season ends team last spring. Fabiano and Matthews in the spring I go on and play USTA. I also teamed up to reach the finals at No. as special as the tennis title, maybe even m ore .” also start playing golf in the summer. 3 doubles. Sometimes it’s hard trying to balance For Szabo, the tennis finals were even Excellence in golf and tennis is noth- the two.” ing new for Dow. Midland Dow’s Caroline Szabo won her second state championship in as many months as she helped lead the Midland Dow blew by the field in the Chargers to a tennis championship in the spring. (Butch Division 2 finals scoring a 645 to Harmon, High School Sports Scene Photo) win the championship by 48 strokes. (Butch Harmon, High School Sports Scene Photos) Carras Sisters Take Top Two Spots rounds this season but this one was special. I think they did a great job of finishing and I’m really proud At Division 2 State Golf Finals Midland Dow Girls Turn In Breakthrough of them.” David Cook course on the campus of Grand Valley with a 145. Dow turned in dominating per- Sports Scene State University, the roles were reversed While the sisters competed against each formances throughout the season as Stephanie claimed the medalist honors. other for the title, they also push each The question at the Division 2 state golf on its march to the state tourna- Carras turned in a dominating weekend other to excel. Performance To Win Division 2 State Golf Title ment. At the regional tournament championship at The Meadows golf course as she took the lead on day one of the “It’s a healthy rivalry between us,” ond-place Birmingham Seaholm at the state finals. Two years ago her golf career next season, carded the previous week at the Links was not if a Carras was going to win the tournament with a 69 and then came back David Cook Stephanie said. “We support each other by 48 strokes. Dow placed fifth and last year the rounds of 69 and 70 to win medal- of Bowen Lake in Greenville the individual state title, it was which Carras the next day to shoot a 70, finishing the Sports Scene and it helps both of us.” Consistency was the name of the Chargers came up just shy of the ist honors with a 139 total. Chargers turned in a 320 team to- sister would take home the title. two-day event with a 139. After coming close the last game for Dow during the tourna- title finishing in second place. Stephanie’s younger sister Alexis tal to outlast second-place St. Johns At the regional tournament the prior Not only are the sisters close, but the three years, the Midland Dow girls “It’s an incredible feeling,” said Stepha- ment. The Chargers teamed up to “This is finally the year that we finished close behind in second by 59 strokes. week, junior Alexis Carras brought home entire team has a closeness that was key in golf team was determined to bust nie, who will be continuing her golf career fire a 324 team total on the first day brought home the team trophy,” place. Alexis, a junior, fired rounds Alexis Carras paced Dow at the the regional medalist honors at The Links Dow winning the Division 2 team champi- the door down to the Division 2 at the University of Georgia next season. of the tournament, and then came Bradford said. “This was our goal of 76 and 69 to finish with a 145, regional as she claimed the indi- onship as well. throne room this season. of Bowen Lake with a round of 70 while “It’s surreal. It hasn’t really hit me.” back the next day and shaved three from the beginning of the season. six strokes behind her older sister. vidual medalist honors with a 70. older sister Stephanie Carras fired a 71 to “This is something that we’ve been Alexis was close behind in second place. That was exactly what the strokes of their score to finish with With three seniors this was our “It’s definitely a friendly rivalry Older sister Stephanie finished just take second. trying to do for four years,” Stephanie said. Chargers did as the Dow golfers After shooting a 76 on the first day, Alexis a 321. goal. We knew how close we were between those two,” said Bradford. one stroke behind with a 71 while “This is such a great group of girls and it dominated on their way to winning At the state finals at The Meadows golf came back with a 69 on Saturday to finish “Obviously, I couldn’t ask for last year and the girls talked before “It pushes them and helped us to Szabo placed fifth with an 86. means a lot to win the state title.” the Michigan High School Ath- any better results,” said Midland the season about what they needed accomplish as a team what we did.” The leadership of the three letic Association Division 2 state Dow coach Doug Bradford. “We to do to achieve this goal.” seniors also had a great deal of championship at The Meadows golf Dow junior Giacomina Fabiano had two great rounds. I couldn’t A total team effort proved key to impact on the season and at the course on the campus of Grand turned in a two-day total of 180 for Midland Dow junior Alexis Carras tees off during ask more from the girls.” achieving the elusive goal. Dow se- state tournament. Valley State University. the Chargers followed by senior the second round of the Division 2 finals held at The performance also washed nior Stephanie Carras led the way Caroline Szabo with a 181 and “Stephanie, Caroline and Mor- the Meadows in Allendale. (Butch Harmon, High Dow not only won the state away three years of coming close for the Chargers as she captured senior Morgan Deiters with a 186. gan are three great team leaders,” School Sports Scene Photos) title, but accomplished the goal in but falling just short. Three years individual medalist honors. Carras, Bradford said. “All three of them grand fashion. Dow finished with a “That was a great total,” Bradford ago, Dow finished in third place who will be heading on to the did a great job.” two-day total of 645 to outlast sec- University of Georgia to continue said. “We’ve had some outstanding When Buying or Selling Over 100 Available Cars to COMMERCIAL Come Shop At Our New Choose From PRECISION Your Choice... Location! MACHINE & MFG., INC. 108 E. Center St. Suite A, Ithaca Marci Browne Sherri Hessbrook Amber Weburg BANK Broker - Owner Realtor Realtor W. M57 Greenville, MI 989-875-5148 • www.homesandland.com Your Home... 989-620-1027 989-875-4649 989-620-7918 www.Blakehollenbeckinc.com LINK Alma • Ithaca • St. Louis • Greenville 203 Industrial Pkwy. 1102 Industrial Pkwy. YOUR GATEWAY TO THE NORTH SUPERSTORE! CheCk Out Our InventOry TO Mt. Pleasant • Middleton • Hastings • Lake Odessa Ave B – Ithaca Ave. A – Ithaca 866-554-4217 Hours: motorsports & trailers US-27 Monday and Wednesday 9 to 8 Ph. 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Sophomore Morgan Colby turned in a big finals perfor- DeWitt Girls Golf Team Comes Through mance with rounds of 93 and 90 for a 183 total. Junior Mackenzie Smith turned in rounds of 96 and Shiawassee County With Top-Five Finish At State Finals 91 (187), junior Lexie Brya fired 96 and 100 (196) and junior Erin David Cook with a 366 team score on the first hoping we would qualify for Chapko turned in scores of 96 Sports Scene day of the tournament and then state. We golf in a really good and 104 (200). came back with a 370 on Satur- conference. Three teams in our Sports Update The DeWitt girls golf team fin- day to cement the top-five finish. conference qualified for state this “All of our girls played pretty well Presents The ished in third place in the Capital year. We finished third in our under some tough conditions,” “I’m real happy about the finish,” Koenigsknecht. “It’s also a tough Area Activities Conference Red said DeWitt coach Dave Koenig- conference and then go on to Division, but come the state place fifth at state.” course but they played pretty sknecht. “I couldn’t have asked consistent all weekend.” tournament, the Panthers saved for a better weekend. We were Leading the way for DeWitt was Bath Volleyball Team Ranked their best for last. hoping to get in the top 10, to junior Elaina DeRose. DeRose Plenty of hard work put in by the Firing a pair of consistent scores get in the top five exceeded our turned in rounds of 81 and 89 for team in the offseason paid off over the two-day Division 2 expectations.” a 170 total. with the top-five finish. Seventh In Class C And Climbing state finals at The Meadows golf “The girls worked hard,” Koenig- Just making it to state was an “Elaina’s worked real hard at it,” Butch Harmon course on the campus of Grand achievement DeWitt was not Koenigsknecht said. “She hits sknecht said. “Several of them Byron football team headed to state playoffs Valley State University, DeWitt played a lot of summer golf. Sports Scene quite expecting heading into the the ball long. She finished tied DeWitt’s Elaina DeRose strikes a ended up placing fifth in the state season. for first in the league and second With all of them coming back The Bath volleyball team continues its outstanding After finishing the season with a 7-2 record, the as a team. pose during the second round of the at the regional. She also shot a next year the future looks pretty Division 2 finals held at the Meadows season as they build momentum for the upcoming Byron Eagles are playoff bound. Led by senior “We are a pretty young team,” good.” DeWitt opened the tournament Koenigsknecht said. “I was just couple of 75s this year.” in Allendale. (Butch Harmon, High state tournament. quarterback Payne Staton and junior running School Sports Scene Photos) Ranked seventh in the state in Class C, Bath entered backs Connor Raymond and Austin Smithingell, the final week of October with a 45-4-2 overall the Eagles featured a potent offense this season. record and 7-0 league record. The Bees have posted Byron also boasted a solid defense led by seniors a number of impressive wins this season, especially Keiffer Kennedy, Brendan Glennie and Connor St. Louis Golfer Launches Career at tournaments. Bath won its own invitational along Scribner, juniors Orville Nixon and Jacob Green Anderson’s growth in her game can be with winning the Beal City, Shepherd, Leslie and St. and sophomore Jerry Hall. Scott Keyes Louis invitationals. Sports Scene acknowledged by her stepping up and taking responsbility of not playing her Bath has a solid all-around team. Offensively, Owosso girls swimming team turning in solid The future can only get brighter for the best. However that has only made her seniors Emily Angell and Tessa Hosford have led season top player on the St. Louis High girls golf hungerier for improvement and making it the team in kills with support from Jessica Stoskopf. team, Olivia Anderson. back to state next season. Senior Brittany Matsumoto has been an all-around The Owosso girls swimming and diving team catalyst as she leads the team in assists and is one of improved to 6-1 record in the league after holding Olivia, who also plays softball, qualified “We only missed making it to state by the top servers. Maddi Gutzki and Stoskopf lead the off Lansing Waverly 95-88 in a match that broke a for the Division 4 state meet with a 105 nine strokes,” Anderson said. “I think if I team in digs while Angell leads the squad in blocks. deadlock for second place. Mallory Irelan led the regional score at Brookside Golf Course played with my team rather than being an way for the Trojans as she won both the butterfly in Gowen near Grand Rapids. individual player I would have probably Durand football team posts first winning record and the 100 breaststroke. Allie Pumford won Under the guidance of Coach Andrea played more loose. Now I really know since 2009 the 200 freestyle and Faith Gates won the diving Biehl, Olivia advanced to pressure-packed what to expect heading into next season. competition. Sydney Voss, Madison Livingston, state competition at Forest Akers West I think that is key for making it back to Although it just missed qualifying for the playoffs, Pumford and Irelan teamed up to win the 200 free Golf Course on the Michigan State Uni- states a year from now.” the Durand football team still enjoyed a winning relay while Madison Chmiko, Pumford, Livingston versity campus in East Lansing. She shot A top score for Olivia this season was season. Durand finished the season with a 5-4 and Irelan were part of the 400 free-relay team that 105 and 112 in the 36-hole marathon to a 47 for nine holes in a Tri-Valley West overall record, the best record by the Railroaders placed first. place 12th among individuals. Division Jamboree meet at The Fields Golf since the 2009 team finished 7-4. All four of “I have to admit I didn’t play very well Course in Ithaca. She showed improve- Durand’s losses this season also came against at state,” she said. “I think the first day was ment over her freshman season, when she playoff teams, including a 28-21 overtime loss to more nerves than anything and on the made the varsity squad as a ninth-grader. St. Louis’ Olivia Anderson gets set Laingsburg in the season finale. second day the cold weather played a role (Tom Pearson and Mike Schutt, to hit her approach shot during High School Sports Scene Photos) in my game. But the weather is a factor second round action of the Division Right Here Right forNow everyone. If I have the opportunity to 4 finals held at Forest Akers on make it back to state next season I will the campus of Michigan State in St. Johns know what to expect.” University. 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SPORTS SCENE’S EYE ON vOllEYball Ruggles Family Continues To Make Impact On Sacred Heart Sports Scene John Raffel the end of her freshman year and, task of playing state power Muskegon Laingsburg Setter Having Huge Season Sports Scene since then, has been at that position, Catholic Central in the first round. as a middle hitter. She was honorable There have been some fun high- To be successful as a setter, “you have nament,” Franks said. “We lost to Dow in John Raffel The Ruggles family at Mount Pleas- mention all-state as a sophomore lights for Ian. to not listen and let all the hitters get into the finals. They’re a very good team.” ant Sacred Heart has been having a and also in basketball. She played Sports Scene “That includes breaking the school your heads when they yell at you,” Franks The final weeks of the volleyball ball busy fall with sports. varsity basketball as a freshman. She’s Kenedy Franks, of Laingsburg, has record for (passing) yardage in a said. “You just keep trying to keep focus- season are coming up but Franks is con- Ian, a senior this fall, has been involved in AAU basketball during established herself, as one of the area’s best single game,” he said. ing and keep playing.” vinced her team can keep doing very well. starting quarterback for Sacred Heart the spring. setters, and for good reason. Passing is his strength as a quar- Franks takes pride in the technique “We can accomplish anything we want while his sister, Sophie, a junior, has “She’s been more focused on bas- terback. Franks is in her senior season with the aspect of her hitting. our minds too,” Franks said. “We just take been a standout volleyball player. ketball over the last few years,” John Laingsburg volleyball team. She’s had two “I think I do pretty well at it,” Franks each game one at a time. We’ll do very Their dad, John Ruggles, was an said. “But she’s had good success at “I find my receivers,” he said. “I full seasons with the team as a setter. Since said. “The hitters are all different.” good this season, I feel.” active Sacred Heart athlete (football, b ot h .” throw the ball in.” sixth grade, Franks has been a setter. She basketball and track) in his high Football is his best sport and Ian got encouragement and assistance from Franks enjoys the challenges of being a Franks also plays basketball. Between John is also the line coach for school days. He also played football and his teammates have worked with her coach to perform in that position. setter. the two sports, Franks indicated that vol- Sacred Heart’s football team. at Alma College. He later coached a new coach after veteran skipper “I’m kind of like the leader as a setter leyball might be her best. “Back in my day, if you were a big She indicated she’s having her best year at such places as Ithaca and Sacred Rick Roberts retired. as a setter. and you get the ball a lot,” she said. Looking ahead, Franks hasn’t made a guy, they said ‘go play line,’’’ he said. Heart Academy. “He’s been an assistant coach,” Ian Franks has played no small role in help- decision yet on pursuing a college career. “I think big guys today have a better “I didn’t set as much last year because It’s Ian’s first year as starting quar- said. “I don’t think there was much of ing her Laingsburg team have a successful “I haven’t decided on that, but probably chance to play at the skill positions.” we had our other setter,” Franks said. “But terback. a transition. We all knew what we’re Kenedy Franks has turned in a solid senior I think I’ve improved a lot from last year season so far. not,” she said. John has two younger sons in the “He started at wide receiver the last doing.” season for Laingsburg. (Randy Miniard, to this year.” “We took second at the Birch Run tour- seventh and ninth grades. High School Sports Scene Photo) two years,” John said. “But he’s always “My dad played college football Hitting and blocking have been been a quarterback. Since he was in and my wife’s dad was an All-Amer- major strengths for Sophie but she’s (in camp) was showing the Saints the sixth grade, he’s been a quarter- ican wrestler at Central,” he said. also been playing the back row this that I have a huge motor,” Lampman back and wanted to be one even at “There’s a lot of sports in our family.” season. Haslett Grad Makes Impact In NFL said. “I would do anything I could to the college level. The last few years Sacred Heart has had strong earn my way on the team. That was he was waiting his time being a wide Sacred Heart was 5-4 during the regular season and qualified for the volleyball teams in past seasons and what I did at Ferris State. Whatever receiver.” Sophie wants to keep it that way. my role is with the team I’m going to playoffs, but drew the unenviable Debut For New Orleans Saints Sophie was moved up to the varsity “Our goal is to get back to the do it giving 100 percent. My number “Especially playing the defending league quarters,” she said. “We’ll most likely Butch Harmon one objective in camp was to win every champions and Super Bowl runners-up would see (state power) Leeland Sports Scene sprint I could, to finish first in every and to go up against one of the greatest again. From the minute they first throw the drill. To be the guy that sticks out in a quarterbacks (Cam Newton) in my time. Both Ian and Sophie enjoy being in pigskin in the backyard, any young kid good way.” It was one of those things you never a sports oriented family. dreams about someday playing in the forget. Getting the win was probably the That attitude got the job done, as National Football League. For Haslett best part. Just being a part of a win in my Lampman stuck with the team and con- “We’re all competitive and enjoy High School graduate Jake Lampman, first NFL game is something I will never tinued to practice with the Saints until the sport we play,” Ian said. that dream recently became a reality. forget.” being activated for the game against the “It’s such a competitive atmo- A rookie with the New Orleans Saints, A four-year lettermen in college at Panthers. Earlier this season, Lampman sphere,” Sophie agreed. “We help each Lampman was put on the active roster Ferris State University, who ended his was named the scout team player of the other. We work out together. Having for the Saints’ game against the defend- career sixth in school history in receiving week. three brothers, they push me to ing NFC champion Carolina Panthers on yardage, Lampman earned a shot with “I am extremely appreciative of the Haslett’s Jake Lampman was recently become a better athlete.” Oct. 13. Lampman stepped into the role the Saints after his performance in a opportunity the Saints are giving me,” put on the active roster of the New of the gunner on the Saints’ special teams three-day rookie mini-camp in May. Lampman said. “No matter where it Orleans Saints. (Courtesy Photo) and finished the game with three tackles After signing a free-agent contract, leads, I am putting a lot of good stuff on to move him into second place on the Lampman set out to open the eyes of the film. I love the Saints organization and team in special teams’ tackles. Saints’ coaches in training camp. I would be very fortunate to be able to “It was one of those things that you “My biggest concern the whole time spend my career with the Saints.” will never forget,” Lampman said. Ian and Sophie Ruggles have carried on the family name and both are making a name for themselves at Mt. Pleasant Sacred Pizzas Steaks Heart. (Skip Traynor and Randy Miniard, High School Sports Scene Jason Saunders Your Family Fun & Entertainment Center Burgers Ribs Photos) Open/League/Cosmic Bowling, Parties, Arcade, Proshop Sales Professional Val’s - Dine In, Carryout Delivery 801 N. Cedar St. . Mason CB’s Hot Spot - Sports Viewing, Pool, Weekend Bands/DJs

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Huebner, a middle hitter with a top count in the number of kills and also TENNIS ROUNDUP - DIVISION 1 Heading into the day, Bloomfield Hemmrich repeated at No. 3 Volleyball Tradition Takes in the successfully hitting percentage. Hills was seeded third or higher at singles, winning this time 6-3, 6-2, She was honorable mention all-state all but one flight, led by top seeds over Owen Kelley of Huron. last season and also won Tri-Valley and just kind of got a little tight and Andrew Zhang at No. 2 singles and Other winners on the day includ- all-region honors. thought a little ahead, maybe. I had Constantine Hemmrich at No. 3. ed Novi’s Aakash Ray and Nayan Root At Swan Valley Another junior regular is Emily Buska, to refocus for the third set. It’s always Zhang cruised to the No. 2 title Makim, who defeated Troy’s Vedaant Scott Keyes of at least a co-title if not an outright a conference leader in sets for assists, D1 Champs Finish been winning the big points, which I after defeating freshman Luke Baylis Garg and Spencer Liu, 7-5,1-6, 6-2 was able to do today.” Sports Scene crown. They also were honorable men- Annabelle Midcalf (second behind of Clarkston, 6-1, 6-0. at No 3 doubles. At No. 4, the team tion in the Class B state rankings, only a Huebner in kills) is as major contribu- Mukherjee won a heated semifinal Freshman Sahil Deenadayalu, the of Gabe Kleer and Josh Lee of Ann Swan Valley High School’s 2016 pair of slots outside of the top 10. tor in the front row, and outside hitter over two-time singles champion top seed at No. 4 singles, defeated Arbor Pioneer defeated Troy’s Vishal volleyball team has faced big challenges. Bring on the tournaments, and the Emma Bierlein adds extra punch up Tough Title Roads Alex Wen of Novi, 6-3, 2-6, 6-2. senior Brad Silverman, 6-3, 6-3, Bethamcherla and Ricky Young, 6-2, Last year’s squad set school records for Swan Valley squad will aim to prove they front. Scott Keyes the Midland Tennis Center. (Wen won No. 2 in 2015 and No. 3 in to keep Huron in the title hunt. 7-6 (0). success, and six girls graduated. have been underrated when they begin Rounding out the squad are junior Sports Scene The junior left-hander captured 2014.) The match lasted nearly two “That team set the standard,” Coach by competing for their fourth district Riley McIntyre, sophomore Hallie McIn- his first No. 1 singles title, winning and a half hours. Kristin Palmer explained. crown in succession. Redemption is bittersweet for the first three games against Bloom- Meanwhile, Ann Arbor Huron tyre and freshman Natalie Kuhn. Troy High School’s Steve Forman. And this year’s Lady Vikings for sure A top returning senior is Lauren Addy “We try to be as aggressive as possible, field Hills’ Josh Mukherjee to set the also found redemption on the day, have measured up. When Sports Scene at libero, one of the conference’s leaders A year ago as a sophomore, tone in his 6-2, 2-6, 6-1 victory. capturing its first Division 1 boys both in our serving and at the net,” said Forman advanced to the Lower went to the printer, they were undefeated in digs, who was second team all-TVC Coach Palmer, in her fourth season as “Josh and I played numerous title since 2013. in the Tri-Valley Conference, and head- last season. Her lone senior teammate is Peninsula Division 1 semifinals at times in the past and we’ve gone into Coach Stefan Welch, who has led varsity coach after a pair with the jay- No. 1 singles as a four seed – losing ing into their final league match, they Madison McLeod, an outside hitter and vees. “On defense, we are a scrappy team. tiebreakers. But to come in here this the program the past 15 seasons, were in line for their third TVC Central defensive specialist. Lauren and Madison to eventual flight champion Connor weekend and play as well as I did, I watched his team battle to finally We want to be the ones taking charge Johnston of Northville. Division championship in a row, assured are the heart of Swan Valley’s defense. instead of the ones who are reacting.” couldn’t be prouder of the way that I capture the championship with the So heading into this season, played,” Forman said. No. 1 doubles victory of Chris Cho Forman had high expectations. Swan Valley’s Lauren Addy gets set to serve during a “After having to sit out most of the and Brenden Chen over Birming- recent match this season for the Vikings. (Scott Keyes, However, Forman suffered an ankle season, this victory is bittersweet. It ham Brother Rice’s Josh Anschuetz High School Sports Scene Photos) injury in mid-August that forced was a long road back, but to win a and Travis Tucker, 7-5, 6-4. him to miss the majority of this fall. state championship is pretty cool.” Huron finished with 30 points, But that didn’t stop him from Forman credits jumping out to a and Bloomfield Hills was second at making his mark on the season quick start as the key to his success. 28. nonetheless. “I played so well in the first set “Our kids really battled,” Welch Forman stormed through his Re- said. “This was a very hard-fought Hemlock Volleyballers and was able to hit my spots,” he said. Ann Arbor Huron won the recent Division 1 championship held at the gional and was the top seed entering “I got up, 2-1, (in the second set) and win. We got off to a slow start this Midland Tennis Center. (Russ Pierce, High School Sports Scene Photo) Overcome Rough Start the Oct. 14-15 Division 1 Finals at was on serve and felt really good. I morning, but I am proud of the way Scott Keyes get us down. The girls finally started to Ryleigh Beyersdorf, Sydney Chamberlin Sports Scene believe in themselves,” Coach Muter and Hanna Peterson, along with junior said. Courtney Wardlow and sophomore TENNIS ROUNDUP - DIVISION 2 Hemlock High School won a Class C The result, entering the final week Katy Synder. The main setter is senior district volleyball championship a year of the regular season, has been five Samantha Krauss. ago, but Coach Maggie Muter believed consecutive TVC victories and an Junior Jessica Bauer helps to lead the her girls were lacking confidence early overall 24-11-7 record, among the best defense as the libero with support from this season. in school history. The Huskies went on senior Heather Pitt, a defensive spe- This was especially true when the Midland Dow Back On Top In Division 2 a midseason 16-0-2 run and captured a cialist. Freshman outside hitter Syndey Huskies suffered a straight-set defeat pair of tournaments, at Unionville-Se- Peake already sees regular varsity action Jarred Robert action for Dow JJ Kirkman and Aditya Middha the No. 4 singles final. Zal Chinoy and Karthik at the hands of Valley Lutheran, which bewaing and at Ithaca. with great potential for the future. Sports Scene took the No. 1 doubles final, Sagar Kamaraju Kolisetty reached the semifinals at No. 1 would go on to edge Hemlock for the and Noah Nichols finished as the runners up doubles for the Chieftains. “We had high hopes at the start of the “The girls’ favorite part is being able Midland Dow dominated Division 2 by totaling at No. 2 doubles and Daniel Zhang and Gopal Tri-Valley Conference West Division season, and now (entering the tourna- to play together as a team,” she said. East Lansing tennis team earns top-ten finish crown. 35 points, a full 10 points above second-place Parthasarathy won the No. 3 doubles final. ment) they are even higher,” Muter said. “They are high intensity. They enjoy Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central, which at D2 state finals “We decided, let’s not allow that to Okemos tennis team places in top three at Regular players are senior hitters when they can shut down other teams.” finished with 25. Midland Dow’s Varun Shanker East Lansing finished in 10th with eight points. state meet took the No. 1 singles final, Anish Middha was Caleb Hoekstra and Peyton Brogan reached Midland Dow won its sixth Division Hemlock defeated Ithaca recently in the runner up at No. 2 singles, Tyler Conrad Okemos rounded out the top three with 18 the semifinals of the No. 2 doubles while Casey 2 championship in eight seasons won the No. 3 singles title and Saketh Kamaraju five sets. (Randy Miniard, High School scoring 35 points to win the title. points. Daniel Gorelik finished runner up in Ring and Connor Foley reached the semifinals Sports Scene Photos) (Butch Harmon, High School finished runner-up at No. 4 singles. In doubles the No. 3 singles final while Denis Khalfa won at No. 3 doubles for the Trojans. Sports Scene Photos)

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Radecki and Murali also doubles, Will Frappier and Grosse Pointe Woods University Andrew Hayward reaching finished with 33 points. Haslett teamed up to win the No. 1 doubles Liggett won the Division the quarterfinals at No. 3 finished in 11th with seven points, title at the regional tournament 4 state title with 32 points, doubles and Joey Campbell and Dewitt finished 17th with two points this season. Haslett singles players edging second place Ann Arbor Andrew Wallace reaching the and Fowlerville finished in 21st with enjoyed a big regional tournament Greenhills which finished with quarterfinals at No. 4 doubles. 30 points. one point. the week before by sweeping all Lansing Catholic Central four singles flights with Nate Choi Williamston tennis team earns tennis finishes strong at state winning at No. 1 singles, Jake top-five finish at state meet meet Michaud at No. 2, Alex Stanulis at Williamston finished in fifth Lansing Catholic finished in No. 3 and Henry Zayko at No. 4. place at the Division 4 state ninth place at the Division 4 meet with 15 points. Oliver state finals with seven points. Weaver won the No. 1 singles Vince Orlando led the way for title to lead the Hornets while the Cougars as he reached the Daniel O’Toole reached the semifinals at No. 1 singles. Ahmeir Kyl of St. Joesph High School, who quarterfinals at No. 3 singles Carter Moore and Adam Grand is female who the Division 3 No. 2 single and Zach Vandeuren reached the reached the quarterfinals at No. boys title recently during the finals held in quarterfinals at No. 4 singles. 2 doubles while Ethan O’Farrell Kalamazoo College. (Bob Campbell, High In doubles action, Colton Grant and Sam Zemke reached the School Sports Scene Photo) and Matthew Baker reached the quarterfinals at No. 4 doubles. quarterfinals at No. 2 doubles and Nick Basore and Will Davis Essexville-Garber, Chesaning reached the quarterfinals at No. compete at D4 state tennis 3 doubles. finals Essexville-Garber finished in Flint Powers places in top ten th at D4 boys tennis tourney 11 place at the D4 state tennis finals with five points. Jacob Become a School Coach Flint Powers Catholic finished Mannikko and Trevor Tulin led in seventh place at the the way for the Dukes as they Division 4 state tennis finals reached the quarterfinals at No. with 10 points. In singles 4 doubles. action, TJ Abraham reached th Williamston’s Cole Weaver crusied to the quarterfinals at No. 4 Chesaning finished in 13 place with four points. Nick Karlik the Division 4 No. 1 singles title. The singles. The Chargers turned Hornets finished fourth as a team with in some big efforts in doubles reached the quarterfinals of the 15 points. (Skip Traynor, High School or Game Official No. 1 singles to lead the way for action with Kyle Carson and Sports Scene Photo) Contact your local high school athletic administrator the Indians. or the Michigan High School Athletic Association Mid-Michigan 306 North State Street Alma, MI 48801 Dental Excellence (989) 463 - 4036 www.midmichigandental excellence.com • Find us on Facebook! 1661 Ramblewood Dr. 7625 N. 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Dow put up 35 team points as it had players state title. Conrad was on a mission to win the tion. That came at No. 3 doubles as Dow’s second-seeded competing in the finals at all eight flights. title as he took second at No. 3 singles last year. team of Daniel Zhang and Gopal Parthasarathy defeated The performance was similar to the efforts Anish Middha took second for Dow at No. 2 the top seeds from Forest Hills Central’s 6-2, 6-3. the Chargers produced when winning five singles while Saketh Kamaraju placed second at At No. 2 doubles, Dow’s Sagar Kamaraju and Noah Dow Dynasty Returns straight state titles from 2009 through 2013. No. 4 singles. Nichols placed second while at No. 4 doubles Ryan Kill- “Sometimes you forget how this moment “What I will remember about this group is master and Jereen Uesback also placed second. feels,” said Midland Dow coach Terry Schwartz- the unity,” Schwartzkopf said. “It’s been a while Playing dominant tennis was something the Chargers Chargers Win Sixth D2 kopf. “Everything has to go just right. This feels since we’ve had it, but this group really cared had plenty of experience at this season. Dow won its 11th really good.” for each other. My captains and the parents also straight Saginaw Valley League title this season with a Both Dow’s singles and doubles lineups played a key role. They were the ones who paid perfect score of 32 as it swept all eight flights. proved key to the win. Two of Dow’s singles attention to the little details; from stretching to Dow was also dominant at the regional tournament as Tennis Title In Eight Years players captured state championships while two nutrition. It made a difference this season.” it won three of the four singles titles and all four of the Butch Harmon team regained the Division 2 tennis state cham- of Dow’s doubles team also won title. In doubles action, Dow’s top-seeded duo of doubles flights as it came within one match of sweeping Sports Scene pionship. At No. 1 singles, Dow senior Varun Shanker JJ Kirkman and Aditya Middha won the No. the regional tournament. After coming up just short the last two years, defeated Kalamazoo Loy-Norrix freshman 1 doubles title by defeating the Grosse Pointe “I really wanted it for the boys,” Schwartzkopf said. One of the premier tennis programs in the Dow won its sixth state championship in the Reed Crocker 7-6 (6), 3-6, 7-6 (8). At No. 3 sin- South team of Jack Williams and Ben Zacharia “They focused all year. I wanted to see them win it all.” state of Michigan returned to the throne room past eight years with a dominating performance gles, Midland Dow’s Tyler Conrad turned back in three-sets 7-5, 3-6, 6-4. this season as the Midland Dow boys tennis at the finals held at Hope College in Holland. Daniel Gorelik of Okemos 6-4, 6-2 to win the Dow also pulled off an upset in doubles ac-

the state title at No. 1 singles. the team trophy and championship with this Shanker won the individual title by group of guys,” Shanker said. “It’s a differ- Driven to Succeed outlasting Kalamazoo Loy-Norrix standout ent feeling to know you can share this with freshman Reed Crocker in three grueling bunch of people you care about and love as Dow’s Shanker Was Determined sets. brothers.” To End Career With State Title “I am really speechless at this time,” Shaker also ended his career as a rare three-year team captain. Butch Harmon Shanker said. “I felt pretty balanced coming into the match today. It’s a storybook ending. “Varun is without a doubt the strongest Sports Scene Our team had its share of ups and downs this captain I have ever had,” said Dow coach Ter- Midland Dow senior Varun Shanker was season, but we pulled through at the end.” ry Schwartzkopf. “There was never a single on a mission this year. An individual state The performance capped a big senior time in four years where I questioned his loy- champion as a freshman on Dow’s last state season for Shanker, who finished the year alty to the program, his drive to succeed, or championship team, Shanker was determined with a 32-1 record. In the process, Shanker his willingness to give all he had to help his to end his high school career with at state became Dow’s first No. 1 singles champion team succeed. I have never wanted a player to title. since 1999. win a championship more than him because that was never his focus.” That mission was completed in its entirety Winning the team state championship was as Shanker not only helped Dow win its first the icing on the cake for Shanker. Shanker finished his four-year varsity team state title since 2013, but also captured career with a 115-19 record. “It means a lot to me to be able to share

Midland Dow scored 35 points en route to its sixth Division 2 tennis championship in eight seasons with a convincing victory at Hope College. The Chargers won the title by 10 points over Forest Hills Central. (Butch Harmon, High School Sports Scene Photos)

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EYE ON CROSS COUNTRY Jack Pine Conference Call League Champ “He’s a two-year starter and he’s been a very solid leader for us,” Seiser said. “His job requires a lot of reading and he does a fine job deciding what Clare Leads Five Teams Into Grid Playoffs to do with the football.” Scott Salowich Beaverton finished 4-3 in the league and Senior David Jenkins has been the top threat clinched its first playoff berth since 2000 with a Todd Leading The Way For Championship Sports Scene from the slot, but Seiser said any number of landmark 41-6 stomping of Gladwin in the regular players might pick up big yardage at any time Another hard-hitting, competitive season of season finale. The win was the first for the Beavers Jack Pine Conference football resulted in five behind an offensive line that has turned itself into over their main rival since 1986 and left them with an excellent unit. of the league’s eight teams qualifying for the an overall record of 6-3. Warriors Cross Country Team postseason playoffs. The defense has also been huge. “I like to think that our program has been John Raffel team places at Portage is another highlight, with regionals coming up that I’ll hit a 19:30. Clare won the Jack Pine championship with a moving in the right direction the past five years,” “Our entire defense has been the unsung Sports Scene Dezi (Shaw) and I. Another highlight was I’m striving for it right now.” perfect 7-0 record and went 8-1 overall with the said Beaverton coach Aaron Seiser, who has been hero this season,” Seiser said. “They are fast and placing at Michigan State.” Todd has been the Warriors’ No. 1 runner Hannah Todd has been a standout in only loss to Ithaca in the season opener. the head coach for five years. “Along the way, aggressive and they play well together and that’s Her sophomore season was a strong one. all season. track for perennial power Chippewa Hills there were a few things that had to be done about a major, major improvement over the past few She had a 19:40 at Portage and that’s been her The Pioneers will visit another 8-1 squad in and paves the way to a strong junior season “The best part of my race has been ending some recent unfortunate streaks. y e ar s .” personal record so far. Remus Chippewa Hills in the first round of the to help the Warriors win the Central State knowing my teammates are behind me and Division 5 playoffs with the winner facing either “We needed to stop the playoff drought and win The winner of the Beaverton-Stanwood game Activities Association Gold Division title. She was 12th in the regionals and finished pushing it as hard as they can, just as much Pinconning or undefeated Reed City in the second might just run into Harrison. 71st at the Division 2 state finals in 19:45. as I can, knowing that we need teamwork the Gladwin game and so we were very happy to She was second at the late season Warriors round. and we don’t give up on our team. If we feel accomplish both on the same night.” The Hornets finished tied with the Beavers and This season, Todd is hoping for a personal Invitational in 20:06.7 at home on Oct. 22. bad about the race, we always talk positive Roscommon was also 8-1 overall and finished Houghton Lake for third in the Jack Pine at 4-3 best, perhaps at regionals. Seiser teaches at Gladwin and has coached there Earlier in the week, she had a 20:10.3 in the and always do it for our team.” second in the standings at 6-1. The Bucks will in the past, so he was well aware of all aspects of and got in with an overall record of 5-4 to keep CSAA jamboree where the Warriors finished “I’m hoping to hit a 19:30,” she said. “It’s host Houghton Lake (4-3, 5-4) in the first round the 30-year albatross hanging over his program. their playoff streak alive. second. But combined with first places in going to take a really nice strong first mile. Todd hopes to qualify for the state finals of the Division 6 tournament. The game will be again, both individually and as a team. Harrison will visit Leroy Pine River (6-3) in the their other jamborees, Chippewa Hills took My last mile has to be stronger than it has a rematch of a wild 36-34 Roscommon victory “I’ve been on both sides of the rivalry and first round. first overall. been lately in order to get my goal and my Todd also runs track and indicated she’s during the regular season. I’ve been around our league and I know how teammates need to push me like they’re better at that event than cross country. “But important these games are to the kids and the Todd’s a season best was 19:48.0 at the Clare boys and girls sweep cross country Portage Invitational on Oct. 8. behind me.” cross country gets me in shape for the sea- communities,” he said. crowns Clare is back into the playoffs after son,” she said. “I do indoor track before the “It’s obviously a big win This was Todd’s third varsity season. Todd isn’t quite sure yet if this is her best Clare continued to dominate the Jack Pine finishing the regular season 8-1. season. winter. It helps me get stronger and carries and now we need to (Butch Harmon, High School “Conference championship would be a Chippewa Hills Hannah Todd has had a cross country scene as both the boys’ and girls’ me on through track. So I’m in shape, which solid season for the Warriors in 2016. build on the confidence Sports Scene Photos) highlight,” she said. “Having a few individual “This year my times started off faster than is really nice.” and continue to move teams completed sweeps of all three of the league’s last year’s times,” she said. “So I feel confident (Courtesy Photo) forward.” jamborees on Oct. 19 at Roscommon. On the boys’ side, the Pioneers were first with Beaverton will visit The girls put five runners into the top seven to 40 points. Ben Haupt won the race in 16:54. David Morley Stanwood (6-3) win with just 19 points. Good was third and Jayce Miller sixth. in the first round of the Lainey Veenkant was first with a time of 19:00. Beaverton was second with 49, led by Parker Division 6 playoffs. Jasmine Harper was second, Olivia Haring fourth, Hayes, who was the runner-up to Haupt in 17:06. Area Runners Hitting High “We know nothing Kameron Haag fifth and Holly Pummell seventh. Graham Govitz was eighth. about them,” said Seiser. Meridian ran second with 54 points, led by Meridian was just one point behind the Beavers “It was a total surprise to Hannah Ordiway, who was third. Alexis North in third place with 50. Aaron Rice was fifth and be sent in that direction, was eighth and Madisyn Wirth 10th. Zach Grubaugh seventh to lead the Mustangs. Gear As State Finals Loom but we’re thankful to be Butch Harmon time of 19:23. fourth overall. in and we’re ready for the Gladwin was third with 67. Grace Volmering Farwell finished fourth with 99, led by Daylen • The Shepherd girls took first place in the • Okemos junior Saano Murembya took first next challenge.” led the Flying G’s by placing sixth. Garver, who ran fourth. Sports Scene large school division at the Alma College place at the CAAC Blue league meet with a The St. Johns cross country teams were in Scottie Classic. Sophomore Amber Gall took time of 15:36 to help lead the Chieftains to Beaverton qualified for the playoffs after finishing the regular high gear as they swept both the boys and first place overall with a time of 18:28 while the title. Juniors Paul McKinley and Evan season 6-3. (Don Goostrey, High School Sports Scene Photo) girls titles at the Fowler Apples to Apples senior Katelyn Hutchinson placed fourth and Mitchell also placed in the top ten individ- Cross Country Invitational that took place at sophomore Haley Hegenauer placed fifth. ually. Uncle John’s Cider Mill. • The Corunna boys cross country team • The Chippewa Hills girls claimed first Junior standout Dillan Haviland led the way turned in a dominant performance enroute place at the Late Season Warrior Invitational. for the St. Johns boys, taking first place with SCHUMACHER to winning the Greater Lansing Cross Coun- Junior Hannah Todd took second overall to TRUSTWORTHYTRUSTWTRUSTWORTHYORTHY a time of 16:46. Juniors Joey Fox and Trevor try Championship. Senior standout Noah lead the way while freshman Natalie New- F O R 100 0 YEE A R S F O R 10F O R010000 YEE AYER S E A R S INSURANCE AGENCY MEADOWLANES Luznak also finished in the top ten. 215 Ross Street Jacobs led the way as he won the race with a combe placed fourth and sophomore Deziree • • • • • • trust wor thyadj. trust trwoust worrthyadj.thyadj. Beaverton, MI 48612 B WLING & BANQUET Serving Gladwin Area Since 1981 • The St. Johns girls team also claimed first time of 15:23. 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M-8522 Sports Scene Ad (9.5” x 2.25”) Page 40 - October/November 2016 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscence.com

atop the record book with a time of 11:38.62. More than just establishing school records, Seeley was a trailblazer within the Alma’s Tracy Seeley Inducted track and field program. She was the first Falcon to qualify for the NCAA Division I Indoor Track and Field National Champion- ships, placing eighth in the country in 1988 Into BGSU Hall Of Fame with a time of 2:12.75. In fact, her school re- Scott Keyes am thrilled to be selected as a BGSU Athletic cord time in the event came in the semifinals Sports Scene Hall Of Fame inductee,” Seeley said in the at those national championships. schools recent press release annoucing the For her accomplishments on the track, Alma’s own Tracy Seeley was part of the Hall of Fame. Gaerke was named the Most Outstanding 50th class to be enshrined into the Bowling “There are many people along my ‘run- Green University Athletics Hall of Fame. Athlete at the 1989 MAC Outdoor Track and ning route’ who deserve a thank you. First Field Championships after winning the 1500, Seeley, a native of Rockford, Ohio and a of all, my siblings played an important role placing second in the 800, third in the high 1991 BGSU graduate in elementary educa- in my desire to run track in the first place. jump and competing on the 1600 relay team. tion, is the school record holder in the 800 Then, of course, my high school coaches, “Athletics at BGSU opened many doors and 1500 in outdoor track and field, as well and finally my college coaches: Lee Labadie, for me including numerous friendships and as the indoor track and field 800. She is also Nancy Shafer and Steve Price. They had faith meeting the man whom I would eventually a member of the distance medley relay team in my abilities and used their talents to get marry,” Seeley said. “Moreover, now I am school record holder for outdoor track and the very best out of me.” field. looking forward to participating in the fes- Seeley’s four school records have all stood tivities surrounding this prestigious event.” “With humility, honor and excitement, I for at least 25 years. Her 800 time of 2:08.41 The 1990 BGSU Homecoming Queen is during outdoor sea- married to Paul Seeley, a BGSU alumnus son was set in 1988 in both football and track and field, and is and she set the same beginning her 26th year as a teacher. She has record for indoor three children – Madison, Mackenzie and with a time of 2:08.37 Pauly. Alma resident Tracey Seeley was recently in the same year. She inducted in the Bowling Green University holds three of the five Equestrian Solid Hall of Fame. (Submitted Photo) all-time fastest races The Alma equestrian team finished with in the 1500, posting a 94 points in the recent Michigan Intercolle- Cornejo Picks Up Another Offer school record 4:24.03 giate Horsemanship Association’s state meet Northwood University announced it has that has lasted since held Oct. 13 at the Midland Fair grounds. offered senior Ryan Cornejo a scholarship 1989. As part of the Bridgeman won the Class C finals with 228 beginning next fall. Cornejo already has 1991 distance medley points offers from Saginaw Valley State University relay team, she sits and Davenport.

The Alma equestrain team scored 94 points during the recent state meet. (Submitted Photo)

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