Page 2 - November/December - 2018 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscene.com www.highschoolsportsscene.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News November/December 2018 - Page 3 Vol. 10, Issue 107 - November/December - 2018 Publisher’S NOTE Hello sports fans! CONTENTS It’s another great day at High School Sports Scene. What a fall to remember!.....New Lothrop and Morrice Swan Valley Caps Memorable Season 4 win MHSAA football titles while Portland and Brecken- 888-799-3896 Alma Closes Outstanding Season ridge fall just short in their title games. Midland, DeWitt, TAX & PLATES INCLUDED IN ALL PRICES! 5 Williamston, Swan Valley and Montrose all win regional opeN WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE® title. Way to represent the Sports Scene coverage area! suNdays 555 E Downie St New Lothrop D7 Champs NooN - 5pm! EXIT 99 Off US-127 ST. JOhnS fOr SavIngS Open All Holidays 12pm to 5pm 6 Boys cross country was well represented as well as Alma, MI 48801 Breckenridge Seniors Cap Pewamo-Westphalia and Shepherd placing second and (517) 202-1808 Incredible High School Career 2018 gmc SiErrA douBLE cAB 2018 Buick EncorE 2019 gmc TErrAin FWd 7 third respectively in Division 3 and Mt. Pleasant Sacred $215/dn.* SAVE $185/dn.* SAVE $229/dn.* SAVE $ $ $ www.highschoolsportsscene.com Heart finishing runner up while Breckenridge finishes $ 8,290! $ 8,335! $ 5,590! Portland's Memorable Playoff Run 215/mo.* 185/mo.* 229/mo.* 8 fourth in Division 4. $4,000/dn.* $99/mo.* $4,000/dn.* $75/mo.* $4,000/dn.* $119/mo.* Publisher DeWitt Wins Regional Title On the girls side, Bay City Western finishes fifth in 9 SALE SALE SALE Division 1. DeWitt finishes runner up while St. Johns $ MSRP $34,790 $ MSRP $25,535 $ MSRP $29,390 PricE TRADE ALLOWANCE, GM FINANCIAL, GMS PricE TRADE ALLOWANCE, GM FINANCIAL, GMS PricE WITH TRADE GM FINANCIAL GMS Randy Miniard Williamston Wraps Up Season 26,500 36 MO 10K LEASE, FLEX PURCHASE, 17,200 36 MO 10K LEASE, FLEX PURCHASE, 23,800 36 MO 10K LEASE, FLEX PURCHASE 10 finishes sixth in Division 2. A pack of teams finish in the FLEX CASH, LEASE LOYALTY, PLUS TAX, COSTCO FLEX CASH, LEASE LOYALTY, PLUS TAX, COSTCO FLEX CASH, LEASE LOYALTY, PLUS TAX [email protected] top ten in Division 3 with Pewamo-Westphalia third, Morrice Celebrates 8-Player State Title Come Take a Test drive and Receive a Free Ride at The stables - sundanceridingstables.com Clare fourth, Shepherd sixth and St. Louis 10th. Round- 517-202-1808 11 Ithaca Football Playoff Season Cut Short ing out the girls cross country was Mt. Pleasant Sacred 13 Heart girls winning another MHSAA title while Fowler OVER 1200 UsEd CaRs and TRUCks High School Liaison 14 Eye On Cross Country finished seventh. 2012 ToYoTA YAriS 2008 Buick LucErnE cX 2014 Buick LAcroSSE cX 2006 cHEVY AVALAncHE LT 2007 cHEVY monTE cArLo LT Paul Hornak In girls golf, Okemos freshman Allison Cui shoots 4x4 SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE All-State Cross Country Runners 78-73 to find herself tied atop of the field before coming [email protected] 20 PricE PricE PricE PricE PricE up just short in the playoff to finish runner up in Division $ $ $ $ $ 989-331-1168 Sacred Heart Volleyball 7,800 6,500 14,900 10,500 4,500 21 2. Flint Powers rolls the competition in Division 3 to win $155/doWn $155/monTH $135/doWn $135/monTH $255/doWn $255/monTH $206/doWn $206/monTH $119/doWn $119/monTH Rockford Volleyball another MHSAA championship while Freeland placed 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 Editorial 22 State Final Runner-Ups third and Big Rapids seventh to round out the top ten. Division 3 individual standouts included runner up Jolie 2002 JEEP grAnd cHErokEE LT d 2014 HYundAi AccEnT SE 2006 cAdiLLAc cTS iSA 2007 Ford FuSion SEL 2001 VoLkSWAgEn gLS John Raffel, David Cook, Okemos Boys Water Polo LAREDO WAGON LOADED LOADED Brochu of Flint Powers, Maggie Knight of Flint Powers 4x4 23 Take State Title SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE Butch Harmon, Scott Salowich fourth, Olivia Pumford of Freeland seventh, and Hope Owosso's Clevenger Earns PricE PricE PricE PricE PricE All-State Diving Honors Thebo of Big Rapids tenth. Division 4 golf had a runner $3,900 $9,900 $4,900 $3,900 $2,900 Photographers 24 up with Shepherd followed by Frankenmuth in sixth and $99/doWn $99/monTH $189/doWn $189/monTH $119/doWn $119/monTH $99/doWn $99/monTH $89/doWn $89/monTH Scene Stealers St. Louis eighth. Morgan Yates of Shepherd finished her 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 Chuck Prikasky, Zip Widman, 25 career placing seventh. Area Athlete College Signings Russ Pierce, Skip Traynor, 26 In girls volleyball Rockford finished runner up. Lake- 2010 cHrYSLEr PT cruiSEr 2011 Buick rEgAL cXL 2013 cHEVY SPArk LT 2011 cHEVY coLorAdo crEW 2014 cHEVY mALiBu LS 5 SPEED TOPPER wood Lake Odessa and Corunna both reached the state Dana McCann, Bob Campbell, SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE semifinals to cap off brilliant seasons. PricE PricE PricE PricE PricE Gary Williams, Don Goostrey, Congrats to all the schools and student athletes that $6,900 $9,500 $6,900 $8,500 $11,900 Vol. 10, Issue 107 November/December 2018 worked so hard fulfilling goals and dreams that will last $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Kim Larner, Eric Sawatzki, Find Us On 129/doWn 129/monTH 185/doWn 185/monTH 129/doWn 129/monTH 169/doWn 169/monTH 229/doWn 229/monTH Morrice Football Corunna Volleyball a lifetime. 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

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SPORTS SCENE’S Midland Football Team Closes The Season EYE ON FOOTBALL Strong With Trip To State Semifinals David Cook with a 38-19 win in a rematch with semifinals with a 49- Sports Scene Dow. 28 loss to Muskegon With a district title in hand, Mona Shores. With a 3-3 record after week six Midland added a regional The Chemics went of the regular season, a trip to the Swan Valley Football Team Reaches Division 5 championship with a 43-0 win down battling as they state playoffs was in jeopardy for against Walled Lake Western. took an early 14-7 the Midland football team. Not Midland running back Christian lead against Mona only did the Chemics finish the State Semifinals To Cap Memorable Season Gordon led the way for the Shores on a 15-yard regular season strong to qualify Swan Valley’s senior class Senior Rorey Garner and junior the ringleaders in the secondary. seniors,” said Swan Valley coach Chemics as he ran for 217 yards touchdown pass from David Cook for the playoff, but they won three came up big the entire season. Carson Berenyi anchored the Champney intercepted six passes Kevin Gavenda. “It was a heck of and scored two touchdowns. Money to Gordon and Sports Scene playoff games and reached the Senior quarterback Alex Fries defensive line. Garner totaled 48 this season including a key a year and they earned every bit Sophomore quarterback Al Money a one-yard touchdown Division 2 state semifinals for Ranked No. 1 in the state in directed a Viking offense that tackles and 8.5 tackles for loss with interception late in the fourth of what they got. They were great passed for 67 yards and two run by Gordan. the first time since reaching the Division 5 for much of the season, averaged 39.5 points per game Berenyi adding 43 tackles and nine quarter of the regional title game. all year. It’s kind of the way we touchdowns while also running for Midland tied the Division 2 state championship it took the eventual state champion this season. Fries threw for 2,062 tackles for loss. Liddell added five interceptions. expected the season to go but not 67 yards. game midway through to put an end to a memorable the way we expected to finish.” game in 2007. yards and 28 touchdowns and Champney and Liddell were “This was a great group of The Midland defense also came the third quarter on a season for the Swan Valley football added 487 rushing yards and eight Midland wrapped up the regular two-yard touchdown team. up big with the first shutout of the touchdowns. season with three straight wins, season. The Chemic defense scored pass from Money to Swan Valley turned in a perfect including a 14-8 win against rival Carter Grove before Mendoza and fellow senior the first points of the game with “You can look at the special our kids fought. They fought and 9-0 regular season and reeled off Dow in week nine to secure a berth Mona Shores put the game away Deondric Sanders led a potent a safety and then held Western’s plays we’ve had, but when I think battled and really got after it. They wins in the first three rounds of in the playoffs. with 28 straight points. ground game. Mendoza finished offense in check the remainder of about the playoffs, I’ll think of the don’t have anything to hang their the playoffs before dropping a the season with 929 yards rushing Midland opened the playoff with the game. Money finished the game with players resiliency. It’s been exciting heads about.” heart-breaking 14-7 decision to (8.8 avg.) and 14 touchdowns while a 50-28 win against Swartz Creek. 103 yards passing for Midland for our team and for our players. eventual Division 5 state champion Midland’s playoff run came Midland wrapped up the season Sanders added 560 yards (.3 avg.) The Chemics then won their first to an end in the Division 2 state while Gordon rushed for 64 yards. I couldn’t be more proud of how Hudsonville Unity Christian in the and nine touchdowns. district championship since 2013 with a 9-4 overall record. state semifinals. Senior wide receiver Terryon Swan Valley won the Tri-Valley Liddell and junior receiver Ethan with a perfect record for the Champney provided Fries a pair of second-consecutive season and reliable targets. Liddell caught 46 Alma Closes Outstanding finished the season with 12 wins. passes for 997 yards (21.7 avg.) and Win number 12 is one that Swan 12 touchdowns while Champney Valley fans will remember for a hauled in 45 passes for 769 yards Football Season long time. Facing Reed City in a (17.1 avg.) and 11 scores. for us,” Falor said, noting his senior feel good about our line coming battle of unbeatens in the regional Defense was also a strong suit John Raffel running back ran for 2,165 yards in back. We lose some linebackers championship game, Swan Valley for the Vikings. Swan Valley’s Sports Scene 11 games. He had all but 307 of his and DBs.” needed a fourth-quarter rally defense allowed an average of A banner season for Alma came to pull out the win. Swan Valley team’s rushing yards. Alma is still looking for a week 10.8 points per game. Senior to a heartbreaking close in a 14-13 trailed 22-7 at halftime before a one nonleague game next season. linebackers Mitchell Boehler and loss to Escanaba in the Division 4 “We graduated our whole pair of fourth-quarter touchdowns Matt Pike led the team in tackles. district title game on Nov. 3. offensive line last year,” Falor said. “Teams left over in the central by senior running back Chase Boehler recorded 95 total tackles “They obviously led the charge for and east are combining into one Mendoza gave the Vikings the final along with 12.5 tackles for loss “We had a pretty good season, B re c .” league,” Falor said. “We’ll bring lead with just over four minutes while Pike notched 88 tackles and I can’t complain too badly,” Alma teams like Frankenmuth, Essexville remaining in the game. 19 tackles for loss. coach Dan Falor said. “We had to Next year, Alma will be without Garber, Birch Run. It will be a be pretty pleased, considering we Alward, and also minus three-year different look for us. Anytime you lost a lot of guys from last year’s starting quarterback Drew Humm. bring in Frankenmuth, Garber and t e am .” “We lose a lot but bring back Birch Run. It will be a tough go. “ “Brec Alward was unbelievable some players too,” Falor said. “I Staff Photo Edward Greg Starry Brec Alward rushed for more than 2,000 GI-TEC Students Financial Advisor Pat’s Auto, Inc. yards this season. (Staff Photo) Bring this coupon to “Quality Of Our Work Guaranteed” ICCU’s Student-Run Complete Collision Repair • Serving GratiotSpraybake County Since Booths 1982 Credit Union for a Phone (989) 681-5334 free prize! FAX # (989) 681-3855 1425 S Mission Road Unit 1, 1501 West Monroe Rd. (M-46) Mt Pleasant, MI 48858 Saint Louis, MI 48880 Bus. 989-77-4578 TF. 888-772-5608 www.patsautoinc.com Fax 888-233-5887 Hm. 989-772-2916 ICCUonline.com *One prize per person www.edwardjones.com

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Krebs Mike Krebs Carson City, MI 48811 www.luxfuneralhomes.com Chris Krebs Phone: 989-584-3504 www.premier-com.com Page 6 - November/December - 2018 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscene.com www.highschoolsportsscene.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News November/December 2018 - Page 7 Team Unity A Key Element In New Lothrop’s Senior Class Caps Incredible Drive To Division 7 State Championship High School Career By Leading Butch Harmon Going up against a high- "I could not have got this done points this season think that was actually a big thing Sports Scene powered Madison Heights offense, without the guys up front,” Moore (44.2 avg.), the second-most points for us. Since then we’ve kind of New Lothrop used its ground said. “They really controlled the scored in school history. hit another gear. That we could do Breckenridge To State Title Game State champions in 2006, game to pile up yardage and g am e .” New Lothrop’s lowest point this. That might have been a big Butch Harmon 13 games. The Huskies also set As juniors, they won 10 games the New Lothrop Hornets have points. Junior quarterback Avery New Lothrop’s offensive line of total of the season came in week turning point for us, that loss, I Sports Scene school records for points scored and a district championship before reached the state semifinals three Moore paced the New Lothrop junior center Colby Hemesberg, nine when the Hornets traveled to wouldn’t change it any other way.” (444), shutout nine opponents and winning 13 games this year along times since but have been unable to offense. Moore ran the ball 27 senior guards Allan Jamick and Traverse City to face a St. Francis That experience was especially It may not have ended as allowed just 88 points in 14 games with a third consecutive Mid- return to Ford Field. That drought times for 132 yards (4.9 avg.) and Chandler Saunders and senior team that would eventually reach valuable in the regional final game. planned, but the 2018 football (6.3 avg.). State Conference title, district and came to an end this season as New four touchdowns. Moore added tackles Jayson Tunstall and Garrett the Division 6 state semifinals. Playing two-time, defending state season is one for the ages in Providing the backbone of this regional titles and reaching the Lothrop not only made it back to 99 yards passing as he completed Birchmeier paved the way for the New Lothrop dropped that game champion Pewamo-Westphalia, the Breckenridge. year’s team was an 11-player senior state finals. Ford Field, but it capped the return 7-of-13 passes for 99 yards. ground game that amassed 280 35-14, but the Hornets learned Hornets came away with a 26-14 The greatest season ever in class. Those seniors were part of Seniors like quarterback with a 50-44 win against Madison New Lothrop featured a trio of yards rushing. from the experience and ran the win. Breckenridge history was capped three of the greatest seasons in Carter Staley and running back Heights Madison. productive runners in the game. table in the state playoffs. “We met them in the regional off in Ford Field with the Huskies school history. Along with seeing Hunter Collins were part of the Senior Aidan Harrison ran for 93 Harrison, who has committed “It’s been a long climb up this “Playing a tougher regular- and that was one of the best games playing Reading for the 2018 the best of times, the seniors know progression and leaders on this yards (8.5 avg.) and scored one to the University of Missouri, mountain all year long,” said 10th also added a key 96-yard kickoff season definitely made us more I’ve ever been a part of,” Galvas Division 8 state championship. what it's like being on the other year’s squad. year New Lothrop head coach touchdown with sophomore Will return for a touchdown that put battle tested,” Galvas said. “Going said. “Pewamo is a powerhouse While Breckenridge came out on end of the ledger as many of those “We got a plan and we stuck Clint Galvas. “This group is as tight Muron adding 57 yards (6.3 avg.) the Hornets up 30-16 in the second up to Traverse City and playing and well coached team and we the short end of a 39-20 decision, seniors were part of the 2015 to it,” said Breckenridge coach a knit group that I’ve been a part and one touchdown. quarter. that team, that was a heck of a have a lot respect for them. That what the Huskies accomplished Breckenridge team that went 0-9. Kris Robinson. “When you have of. We talk about brotherhood and As well as the New Lothrop team. Coming off that loss week game could’ve went either way. It during the entire season will be Since their freshmen seasons, Collins and Carter that were here family and these guys truly play Scoring points in bunches is backs ran the ball, the offensive nine, it kind of forced us all to was the fourth quarter and we were remembered for generations. the current group of freshmen and experienced that 09 season, for the guys next to them. You hear nothing new for New Lothrop as line paved the way punching holes take a step back, maybe have a bit down. After we won that game it Along with reaching a state went a combined 32-4. As having them as leaders, taking that a lot, but it couldn’t be more the offense was in overdrive all in the Madison Heights line. of humble pie because we were was like let’s keep this thing going.” championship game for the sophomores, the current group charge of stuff and handling things true with this team.” season. New Lothrop scored 619 feeling good about ourselves. I first time in school history, of seniors helped Breckenridge like the weight room, making sure Breckenridge won a school-record break a 22-year playoff drought. everyone is there doing what they are supposed to do, you can’t say enough about these two.” Along with Carter and Collins, the Breckenridge senior class included running back Lukas Breckenridge running back Cameren Vallier (1) looks for Ebright, wide receiver Brennan running room as the Reading defense closes in. Waslusky, linebacker Grant Gillis, defensive back Tyler Story, one another. That’s what got us more proud of the team I’m on defensive lineman Corbin Reed, h e re .” right now.” and Logan Hurst and offensive linemen Schriver Miller, Hunter Collins caught both touchdown For his coach, the pride in his Smith and Garrett St. John. passes from Staley along with team and what it accomplished was adding a rushing touchdown. more than evident. Staley completed 14-of-19 passes Since 1916, Auto-Owners and your Trusted for generations...in the title game for 177 yards and While the loss stung, the overall “Being able to go through two touchdowns. accomplishmentlocal is special. independentthis withagent these guyshave was great,” “Everyone doubted us, saying Robinson said. “I’m happy for “I’m just extremely proud of them. Disappointed we couldn’t everyone on our team,” Staley said. we couldn’tbeen get to Fordthere Field,” when it matters most. Collins said, “but look where we get a win today, but when we’re “Pushing ourselves and pushing hanging that banner in the gym it each other and not giving up on are, at Ford Field playing for a state championship game. I couldn’t be will be time to celebrate.”

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Those critics were proven the Raiders and the Portland proved to be one of the best first year in the league. touchdown on a six-yard run and wrong as the Raiders returned to community will long remember. Division 3 teams in the state this freshman placekicker Nick Flegler At the beginning of the season, A productive offense and stingy the Division 5 state finals for the It didn’t work out the way year and it took arguably one of the provided the game-winning points few people gave the Portland defense were key to DeWitt’s second time this decade. we wanted to obviously, but I best teams in the state to end the success this season. The DeWitt with a 25-yard field goal. Raiders much of a chance to be Panthers’ season. While the Raiders dropped a wouldn’t change it for anything,” offense averaged 37.8 points per DeWitt won a regional playing for the Division 5 state 42-7 decision to Hudsonville Unity said Portland senior running back Conference, district, and game while the Panther defense championship for the first time Jacob Veale. “This is more than I regional champions this season, allowed 10 points per game. In since 2013 with a 42-7 win against DeWitt’s season came to an end could ever ask for. I wouldn’t trade going 5-0 in conference play Farmington. Ty Warren opened in the Division 3 state semifinals this season, the DeWitt defense the game in a big way by returning it for anything.” when it dropped a 34-21 decision recorded three shutouts of league a kickoff for a touchdown and Veale provided the Portland to eventual state champion Detroit opponents. linebacker Jace Preston returned fans with the biggest thrill of the Martin Luther King. After a 9-0 regular season, an interception 25 yards for a game as he scored the Raiders’ lone Led by its 25 seniors, DeWitt DeWitt opened the playoffs with touchdown to spark the Panthers. touchdown on a 91-yard kickoff turned in a memorable season. a 34-7 win against St. Johns. DeWitt’s season came to an end return. with a 34-21 loss to Detroit King Line play was the key to the in the state semifinals. DeWitt quarterback Blake Gatfield passed game as Unity Christian controlled for 136 yards and a touchdown the line on both sides of the ball. while Warren added a rushing Unity finished the game with 279 touchdown. Gatfield also ran for a yards rushing while the Crusader touchdown. Derek Hamp caught defense held Portland to 95 yards eight passes for 60 yards and rushing. Mason Gilbert caught three passes “Obviously, we got beat up today for 33 yards. a little bit up front on both sides of Isaac Hungerford led DeWitt’s the ball,” said Portland coach John Portland running back Trevor Lattimer (14) cuts defense with 11 tackles and a tackle Novara. “Their (Unity Christian) through the middle of the Unity Christian defense. for loss. Brendan Melton and Hamp each added eight tackles and offensive and defensive lines just one tackle for loss. played great. We had a hard time team we played all season. We talked about some of the runs that moving them off the ball. We ran don’t get stoned too many times, Chelsea made and Clarkston made, The Panthers, who ended the season with a 12-1 overall record, the football very successfully all but they did it to us today.” I know we were 13-0 but we got a had several players earn all-CAAC The loss ended a memorable ton better in the playoffs. We beat year long, but we just couldn’t Blue honors. Senior linemen do it today. We had to resort to playoff run for Portland. After some real good football teams, but it just wasn’t in the cards today.” Carson Holley, Michael Joseph, DeWitt quarterback Blake Gatfield (3) looks for an opening as East throwing the ball around a little defeating Ovid-Elsie 33-19 in the Brandon Melton, Lucas Roy, and Lansing defenders Tyler Washington (13) and Noah Iosefa (4) close in. bit.” first round, the Raiders defeated Not many saw the Raiders Adam Stone and junior lineman league-rival Lansing Catholic making a playoff run when the Unity Christian had four scores Jacob Redinger all were named They were joined by seniors Caleb Hungerford and Jace Preston and of 25 or more yards and its overall Central 17-13 in a thrilling title season began. first-team, all-conference. Senior Aungst, Nate Flannery, Quinton juniors Noah Behovitz and Brock quarterback Blake Gatfield and athleticism created problems for game. Portland then defeated “It’s still kind of surreal that we Hall, Derek Hamp, Tyler Warren, Yabs earned honorable-mention senior running back Justin Anwar Frankenmuth 40-6 in the regional are here,” Novara said. “We had and sophomore Andrew Debri honors. Portland. also earned first-team honors. title game and Marine City 35-14 to replace a ton from last year. We on the first team. Seniors Isaac “They are a super-athletic to reach Ford Field. football team,” Novara said. “They started out really slow this season. just have athletes all over the place. “I think we went on a great We had no skill kids coming back, playoff run,” Novara said. “We but the kids just stepped up.” DeWitt defenders Collin McCrackin (10) and Mason Gilbert (88) Probably the most athletic football combine to bring down East Lansing’s Kobe Hayward (1) during the regional title game.

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Nowak Morrice made the long journey had a 4-yard run in the second from downstate to the Upper and threw a 15-yard pass to Austin Semifinal Game Peninsula from the Division 1 Edington to give Morrice a 22-8 Williamston defeated Butch Harmon 8-player football championship lead at halftime. Nowak’s 50-yard Sports Scene Flint Powers 31-7 game and came back as huge run gave his team a 30-8 lead in to win a second winners. Although it fell a game the third. Edington had scoring consecutive district The Orioles’ opponents on Nov. short of reaching the ultimate runs of 54 and 6 yards in the final championship. Stiffler 17 in Marquette’s Superior Dome quarter to seal the win. destination, the football season passed for 170 yards were the Pickford Panthers. Both was a memorable one for the “That was a really good team we and two touchdowns teams were 13-0. Williamston football team. played,” Crockett said. and ran for 108 yards But it was all Morrice in this one Morrice had a 353-253 lead in After finishing the regular and a score to lead the 44-16. total yards. Nowak had 199 yards season with a 7-2 record and offense. Running back Coach Kendall Crockett’s team rushing while Edington had 122. sharing the CAAC Red title Evan Field added 141 had two relatively close games “Hunter Nowak is very shifty. second round of the playoffs, but finals against Deckerville. We had a season.” with Haslett and St. Johns, yards rushing and one during the regular season with But what really helped him was 2018 would prove to be totally horrible game. Williamston put together a touchdown. The Williamston football team prepared for the Division 4 state semifinals wins of 44-20 over Lawrence and As for next year, “we are losing by practicing at Michigan State University’s indoor practice facility. the offensive line in front of him,” different. thrilling state tournament run. 34-14 over Deckerville. They “Going into this season, you tell 13 seniors that have played three Williamston defeated Crockett said. dominated most other games “I knew we had a special team the sense of urgency and how hard years for us, 15 total seniors,” The Hornets opened the Saint Clair 28-0 to for Williamston as it dropped a wide receiver Peter Daniels and Haney, junior defensive back Nowak also passed for 36 yards. although Pickford, from the this year,” Crockett said. “This is they worked and how diligent they Crockett said. “The core of the postseason with a 35-28 win 38-13 decision to Chelsea in the senior offensive linemen Carter Haden Burkholder and junior Beau Dietz led the defense with 10 win its first regional title since eastern U.P. proved to be a worthy the same team we brought up as were in the film room. We knew it team is leaving. We have some against Goodrich. Quarterback tackles. 2010. Stiffler paced the offense Division 4 state semifinals. Cyzmbor and IJ Strien earned linebackers Maverick Pardee opponent. sophomores. It was their third would be a special season. But you juniors ready to go.” Austin Stiffler led the offense with 252 yards passing and four all-conference honors on offense. and Connor Sparks earned all- Morrice was 9-2 last year and season together. We were close don’t know how special. Things Several Williamston players The Panthers scored first but with 157 passing yards and 130 touchdown passes. Carey Haney earned all-conference honors On defense, senior defensive conference honors. Sophomore lost 38-0 to Deckerville in the last season going into the regional went our way and we had a great rushing yards while accounting caught two touchdown passes in helping the Hornets to a end Nathan Elenbaas, junior kicker Cade Plaxton earned all- for three touchdowns. and totaled 148 receiving yards. 10-3 overall record. Senior defensive lineman Eston Miles, conference honors while Stiffler The following week The season came to an end quarterback Austin Stiffler, senior senior defensive back Carey was an all-conference punter. Montrose Football Team Captures First District, Regional Titles Since 2013 Butch Harmon state semifinals when it dropped regional championship with a 37-6 running backs in the area this year Bedford, wide receiver Adam Sports Scene a 42-20 decision to eventual state win against Flint Hamady. as he rushed for 1,718 yards (10.1 Stiverson and offensive lineman champion Jackson Lumen Christi. avg.) and scored 27 Brandon Gross made first team The Montrose football team An explosive touchdowns. while quarterback Bobby Skinner turned in its best season in five Montrose began its playoff run offense was a big was named to the second team. years this fall as it reached the with a 54-0 win against Hemlock key to success for Montrose closed On defense, defensive lineman Division 6 state semifinals. in the district semifinals. The win Montrose this the season with a was also the 200th of head coach season. Led by 10-3 overall record. Griffin Barnette, linebacker Jack After turning in a 7-2 regular- Kalakay, and defensive back Sean Dennis Reinhart’s career. senior running Several Rams season record, Montrose won its Kittle earned first-team honors. Courtesy of MHSAA Second Half Montrose claimed the district back Devante Bedford, the Rams were named to the Mid-Michigan first district and regional titles Jayden Harden was named to the title with a 29-6 win against rival averaged 34.6 points per game. Activities Conference all- since 2013. The Rams’ season second-team and linebacker Antio Millington. The Rams captured the Bedford was one of the premier conference team. On offense, came to an end in the Division 6 Harrison was honorable mention. 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Ithaca was 8-2 overall and 7-0 Ithaca was coming off a 13-1 state John Raffel Kwiecinski stepped in to a starting role Offensive linemen were Alex Kissane, in the TVC West for championship runnerup finish last season. for us as a lineman and Connor Cross Bret Weller, Jeff Davlin, and Brian Sports Scene Sports Scene honors. “Our senior class was small but they had a huge season for us stepping into the Kwiecinski. It was not quite the same for Ithaca “We have won 63 consecutive TVC were key in what we accomplished,” It was a very enjoyable season for quarterback duties.” Defensive leaders in tackles were Alex football when it came to the playoffs Patrick Russman and his Portland St. West Games dating back to week No. Hessbrook said St. Patrick beat Tekonsha 20-6 for the Kissane (163); Riley Kissane (130), Ned this season. Patrick 8-player football team. 8 of the 2009 season as our last loss, “Rexton Nowakowski, Derek Pendell, regional title. Smith (116), plus 11 sacks; Brett Weller The Yellowjackets realized going all Hessbrook said. “Expectations in Ithaca Russman has been coaching at St. Dante Williams, Hunter Beck, Ethan “The key to our regional effort was the (96) plus two sacks; Jeff Davlin (62) plus the way to a Division 6 state title might are very high every football season. Our Patrick for 23 seasons and has been the St. Schall, Jordan Johnson, and Jannis Loos renewed defensive intensity sparked by two sacks; John Schneider (60); Zach not be easy. But it wasn’t easy starting goals are set and they will not change Patrick head varsity coach for 12 seasons. were all very important.” senior Paul Cook and juniors Riley, and Spitzley (59) plus three sacks and Paul with the first playoff game. from year to year. We are very happy to Hessbrook said he especially enjoyed The Shamrocks are an independent Alex Kissane. Our team really stepped up Cook (59), who only played in five games. win our league championship for the Millington eliminated Ithaca from “our team’s attitude during a somewhat and had a regular season record of 5-4. the defense,” Russman said. “The offense “Paul was recovering from an injury 10th consecutive season.” the playoffs with a 50-33 win. This is difficult season. They came to work Their final record was 7-5 as they won continued to make plays, while special suffered in the preseason scrimmage that the earliest the Yellowjackets have been The Yellowjackets lost to perennial every day.” the regional championship but lost the teams was again very solid for us. We have kept him out of most of the regular season eliminated from the playoffs since 2007 state power Pewamo-Westphalia 38-0 to As for next season, “we lose a few of Division 2 semi-final game to Onekama. a great group of players who really enjoy and was a major factor in our defensive and the 50 points allowed by Ithaca is open the season, but bounced back for our linemen,” Hessbrook said. “ That “This team practiced and played with the game and have a gift to play it.” schemes in the playoffs,” Russman said the most they have given up since they a win over Hemlock. will be tough. But our skilled players great effort and continued to grow as a Ned Smith gained 1,474 and scored 17 “He’s a great emotional leader and is an allowed 58 to Reese in 2001. “We suffered many injuries this return with a great deal of experience.” team throughout the season,” Russman touchdowns. outstanding football player.” It was coach Terry Hessbrook’s 30th season,” Hessbrook said. “I loved how said. “We have great expectations and Connor Cross passed 53-of-134 for Russman is looking forward to 2019. season as coach and 15th as Ithaca head our team never waivered from the goal.” Ithaca’s Zach Poff (6) looks for yardage have goals to reach and win the final 1,464 yards and 22 touchdowns. Zach against Millington.(Photo by Skip Traynor) game. We had a challenging regular “The thing most enjoyable about this Spitzley caught 18 passes for 596 yards season schedule which made us grow as a team is that they are working to become and eight touchdowns. Tanner Lawson football team. better Catholic men, they care about each had 17 catches for 557 yards and 11 other and care about becoming better “Highlights for our team was getting touchdowns. football players,” Russman said. “We have big plays out of our seniors Tanner Running back John Schneider had 368 a great coaching staff with Ben Cross, P-W Football Left Out Of Lawson, Paul Cook, and Brett Price. yards in catches for two touchdowns and Todd Davlin, Aaron Thelen, Mike Coyne, Portland St. Patrick’s Ned Smith (34) runs for Ned Smith had another big season for us rushed 57 times for 182 yards and one Ross Schneider, and Colin Pline. pay dirt in the regional semifinal on the snow in as a defender and running back. Brian Onekama. (Courtesy photo) Ford Field This Year score. “We know we can build a great team.” John Raffel a state title. But it still was a championship In the loss to New Lothrop, “We just Sports Scene season for P-W. didn’t execute,” Miller said. “Watching film, our schedule, and I think losing Senior defensive end Gage “The season obviously ended a little I saw guys do things we don’t normally in the district final last year to Gardner had 77 tackles with 4.5 It was not quite the same in the Division sooner than we wanted,” Miller said. “Hey, do. We missed a lot of tackles and weren’t Cedar Springs Enjoys DeWitt, gave us playoff experience sacks and four tackles for losses. 7 title game at Ford Field this season. we had a great year, putting these kids blocking up front and had miscues that allowed us to win a district “He was an absolute anchor on For the first time since 2014, Pewamo- through a tough nonconference schedule. on special teams. We had a huge pass championship.” our defense,” Kapolka said. “He Westphalia wasn’t in the title game. We withstood the challenge, won the interference call against us, which, to me, Record-Breaking Season Cedar Springs lost to state was great vs. the run and rushing The Pirates had won the last two state league and won the district. When these put us really behind. A lack of execution as: conference champs, district contender Swan Valley, 21-12, to the passer.” titles and appeared poised to make a run guys look back at what they accomplished, got us in the second half. To New Lothrop’s John Raffel credit, that’s a good football team and good Sports Scene champs and regional champs.” open the regular season and lost to Senior defensive back Lucas again this year. They had fired through it was a very successful year and, more Muskegon, 34-18, in the regional the schedule at 11-0, winning the Central than anything, it was a great group of kids football teams are going to make you do Other high points were the first Pienton had 68 tackles with four t h at .” It was a school-record breaking district title since 2000, the first finals. interceptions. Michigan Athletic Conference title and to work with. 10-game winning streak to scoring impressive nonleague wins of 38-0 Cameron Wirth rushed for 1,536 yards ever OK White Conference title Standouts included senior “He usually matched up “We beat two very good teams in Ithaca highlight a memorable season for in the season opener over perennial power to lead the P-W offense. Jacob Pung led the and the third league crown in five fullback-linebacker Ryan Ringler with the other team’s best wide and Williamston. Williamston made it the Cedar Springs Redhawks, who Ithaca and 28-27 over a Division 4 playoff defense with 74 solo tackles. years. with 128 rushes for 920 yards, and receiver,” Kapolka said. to the Division 4 semifinals, so beating were 10-2 overall and 6-0 in the set a school record four tackles in qualifier Williamston. them was a very big deal. Those were As for next year, “we’re excited,” Miller OK White. It was the highest scoring Ben Shaw, a junior defensive a season with 142 and in a career But in the regional title game. New two highlights. You can boil down this said. “We’re already looking forward to it. offense in school history with 440. back, had 51 tackles and two “We had one of the best seasons with 387. Lothrop prevailed 26-14. season to two bad halves of football: the We have a good part of our defense coming in school history and accomplished “This group worked extremely fumble recoveries. Senior Colton Running back Sage Serbenta Ryan Ringler - Cedar Springs Coach Jeremy Miller would have first half against Saranac in week two and back. We had a good JV team this year. I’m things that had never been done hard year round to have this Pope was the team’s best offensive the second half against New Lothrop. excited to see how these guys work in the opportunity and played hard for rushed 124 times for 1,192 yards lineman and sophomore defensive “It has been an honor for me preferred to have seen his team playing for before,” Cedar Springs coach Gus and 13 touchdowns. He’s the Everything else was pretty good.” offseason to fit in for next year.” Kapolka said. “Our expectations each other,” Kapolka said. “I think tackle Landon Totten was the best to coach this team,” Kapolka said. we did a better job this year of first junior in the history of the interior lineman. “They loved playing football and were high coming into this Staff Photos beating the quality opponents on program to go over 1,000 yards. were all business all the time.” season. The players set their goals

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SPORTS SCENE’S Division 1 & 2 Boys Cross EYE ON CrOss COuNtrY Country Wrap Up John Raffel “It was good,” Pritchett said. “I know Sports Scene going into it I was ranked 19th. It was good to jump seven spots. I know the Theis, Vanderlende Win Holt had a strong race with two of course was slow so all the times weren’t its runners in the Division 1 state final that great. Cross Country Titles on Nov. 3 at Michigan International Speedway. “My race was good inbetween. That’s when I passed the most people.” John Raffel divisional races of the state second. We’ve been in third place a In the Division I Alex Penski was seventh (15:48.9) Sports Scene finals on Nov. 3 at Michigan few years. It was nice to make it on race, VanderLende and Adugna Moritz was 19th (15:58.4). Ethan Rockburn of Belding was 20th International Speedway. the podium this year. finished in 17:08, in the Division 2 boys race. Jaden Theis of Lansing “I was shocked about the place,” Theis won the Division 2 race “My season was good. I which was 50 seconds “There was a lot of fast people to Catholic and Erica VanderLende faster than her nearest Penski said. “I came in ranked (18:01.9). overcame a lot of things. It was a stick with and pull me along,” he said. of Rockford were individual competitor. Her something like 16th. I knew to make “Time wasn’t too good, place I’m good end of the season.” “So that was pretty good. (The ground) champions in the top two teammate, Emma the top 10, I’d have to come out hard. happy with,” Theis, a junior, said, “We worked really hard Everhart-Deckar So I came out hard and hung on for was quite soft. It had been muddy.” adding she was in front together,” Perez said. “We’re excited was 22nd (18:33). dear life. Everyone wants to go out Jaydon Moleski of Cedar Springs after the first turn and the to have it show up at this meet.” Rockford was seventh hard. The true key is going out hard earned all-state honors by taking 28th finish was her best part. “I thought it was a really good as a team. and being able to stick with the pace (16:28.8) But she has another race,” Hynes said. “I had Sophia to It’s VanderLende’s the whole time.” year in which to focus on help push me to the finish.” “I felt I did pretty good, even though senior season. it was muddy,” he said. “I did my best.” another title and having a Cecilia Stalzer of Mason was “I thought my race was prety good,” “I wanted to get out better time. 27th (19:13.2) and Kiera Hansen of Moritz said. “The course was a little bit It was his second appearance in the in front,” she said., “I DeWitt as a team, took Freeland was 28th (19:14). muddy.” stare finals but his first all-state effort. thought there would second place with 159, St. Johns was sixth with 260. be people with me. Moritz said he started strong. “It feels amazing,” he said “It was way behind East Grand Taryn Chapko was third overall I’m pretty happy I’ve “Toward the end, I passed a lot of more of a confidence thing. I had a Rapids with 51. (18:35.8). been able to improve people,” he said. good mindset coming into this.” DeWitt had three all- “I’m pretty happy with it,” every year.” state runners with Ashley Tyler Pritchett of Midland was 12th Will Peters, of Lansing Catholic, was Chapko said. “There’s some rough VanderLende Shipps, who was 14th (15;54.5). 24th (16:26.9). spots. But overall, it went good. has committed to (18:54.7), Sofia Perez, who The last 1,000 yards, that’s when I the University of was 23rd (19:09.5) and felt like I was stronger. Overall, I’m Michigan. Kaitlyn Hynes who was proud as a team and how we did as “I felt pretty good Nagel, who was sixth (18:06.60). 24th (19:10.8). a group. Individually, I thought I about my race,” Everhart-Decker Anastasia Tucker of Midland was “The course was a little did well.” said. “I was happy to end with 27th (18:42.40). rough, but we weren’t Megan Langworthy, of Big a good note on my high school “I think it was pretty good,” focusing how we did Rapids, was 22nd (19:07.9), career. This was my best state Tucker said. “I’m glad I got all- individually,” Shipps Cecilia Stalzer, of Mason, was 27th performance. state, my second time. I thought said. “We were so excited (19:13.2) and Kiera Hansen, of Bay City Western was fifth the finish to my race was my best finding out we took Freeland, was 28th (19:14). as a team and was led by Ashyn p ar t .”

Ericka VanderLende (Top) of Rockford won the Division I state race while Jaden Theis (Bottom) was champion in Division 2. (Photos by Gary Williams Jr.)

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Page 16 - November/December - 2018 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscene.com www.highschoolsportsscene.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News November/December 2018 - Page 17 Shepherd Senior Allen Concludes Strong Finishes Prep Career Career In Division 3 With Second Place Finals, P-W Second John Raffel who wound up in the top 30. wasn’t muddy, I think I could have John Raffel Sports Scene Hayden Germain was seventh Sports Scene gone to 18:30.’ (16:21.3), Ashton Walker 14th Also finishing all-state from Ransom Allen’s cross country (16:40.6) and Mitch Nurenberg Shepherd senior Amber Gall Shepherd was Hailey Hegenauer in career at Ithaca came to an end 20th (16:45.9).“I thought it closed her fabulous cross country 27th (19:58.3). in impressive fashion with a was pretty fast, pretty good,” career with a second-place finish fifth-place finish in the Division 3 Hart won the team race handily Germain said of his race. “It was in the Division 3 state final at state finals on Nov. 3 at Michigan 43-143 over Calvin Christian. a little muddy at the start and Michigan International Speedway, International Speedway. the ground was loose. Overall, I Nov. 3 Pewamo-Westphalia was third at 152 and was led by junior Aubrey His time of 16:14.2 on a wet thought it was pretty fast, pretty Gall’s hopes for first place were George, who was 19th (19:47.4). and sloppy course put him at fifth good. It was muddy at first and taken by Hart’s Adelyn Ackley, who in a crowded field. the ground was loose.“The season covered the course in 17:42.8. “My freshman year, P-W was Pewamo-Westphalia, led by has gone great. My team has put Division 4 and I was sixth overall. in a lot more miles than other “I think it went really well,” Gall For Division 3, this was my best,” Hayden Germain, was second said. “I executed well. Adelyn raced with 100 team points behind schools have in past years. We George said. “With the conditions, came in this race more prepared so fast. It was my fourth time under I’m happy with my state finals race.” Caro (61). Shepherd (195) took 18 minutes. That was cool. We third place. than ever.”Walker agreed with his could have all run faster if it wasn’t Clare’s team was fourth, led by teammate.“But it was a rough day Allen was happy with his so muddy.” senior Lainey Veenkant who was for me,” he said. “It was a rough ninth (19:16.9). performance despite having to course to have. It wasn’t a bad Her career “definitely had its endure wet conditions. day for the team. Caro is a good highs and lows but all the things I “Last year didn’t go as plan, Ithaca Lana Bloom finished sixth “I went for it in the beginning team. We’re definitely happy could have done through the whole but this year I was happy with my and was the highest nonsenior in and tried to hold on for the with second place.”Walker and thing, it’s been really good.” finish,” Veenkant said. “(At the state the Division 3 girls race. (Photo by meet) I got out well and held it. I’m Gary Williams Jr.) second half,” he said. Germain return next year.“We’re Pewamo-Westphalia’s Hayden The top five finishers were super happy with my career and all Looking back at his career, only losing two seniors,” Walker Germain (542) heads to the seniors. The fastest underclassman finish line. (Photo by Gary the friends I made because of it.” Borie is a freshman and admitted Allen was happy. said. “We’re hoping to come back was Ithaca’s Lani Bloom, who was stronger than this year.” “Coming Williams Jr.) St. Louis had two all-state being an all-stater was a pleasant sixth (19:04.1). “I thought it went pretty well,” into the season, every kid had runners with Libby Munderloh surprise. he said. “I was all-state my last high expectations,” P-W coach McLaughlin of Morley Stanwood Asked if she ever imagined when eighth (19:21.5) and Mikenna Borie Munderloh is also a freshman. two years.” Scott Werner said. “But anyone was ninth (16:26.8), Dana Nestle she started the season she would be 22nd (19:53.0). sixth in the state, Bloom smiled and “I have a lot of hopes of the Later in November, Allen familiar with cross country and of Shepherd 23rd (16:49.9) and replied, “definitely not. When I ran “It was hard, it was really good future,” she said. “I had a lot of placed 19th at the Mid East observes the way our team runs Trey Plichta of Sanford Meridian a 18:40.9 at the DeWitt Invite, that’s competition,” Borie said. “I didn’t confidence going into the season. Cross Country Championships. knows we have a tendency to run (16:55.0). when it started to click in my head.” like the course very much. It was Then I went into a slump. But I Team Michigan also came away in packs. I felt anyone running “I thought my race was good,” my first time here. I had to keep with the victory over Indiana, At the state meet, “I think I regained some of my confidence as at the varsity level in our top Plichta said. “The time wasn’t pushing through anything. I almost Illinois and Ohio. Ransom was definitely could have run faster. If it the season went on.” seven has been running lifetime very good. I’m pleased with all- fell a couple of times.” team Michigan’s No. 7 runnner personal bests or close to it. It’s state. I wanted to get all-state. on a sloppy course with a time not that anyone in particular Getting that was pretty good. I of 16:30. Winning time was only stands out but they all stand out. had to maintain my thing and 15:58. P-W had three all-staters For other local runners, Aiden not get passed by anybody.”

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They were (19:02.9) and Lexi Sports Scene said. “The people in the back Sacred Heart scored 52 and won the freshmen for our first state Kinnas, who was 16th stepped up, we ran as a team Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart’s it by 67 points. In 2016, the Irish championship team. Now they’re (20:07.1). Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart which wasn’t fast enough but we girls cross country team made boys were hopeful of joining were happy with second. It felt scored 34 and won by 82. In the last ones for the fourth.” “It’s basically the it four Division 4 titles in a row the girls squad as state cross good to be up front.” 2017, Sacred Heart’s score was 39 Nelson said she didn’t have her same (time) as I got by getting the job done on Nov. country champs in the Division Senior Alex Taylor of Beal and the Irish won by 99 points. best race. last year,” Volz said. 4 state finals. But Saugatuck had 3 at Michigan International City was the top local runner It was much tighter this time “It was a really muddy other plans. Speedway. “But Desi and Lauren stepped in fourth place (16:18.1) for a but the Irish put enough together up,” she said. “We really worked course out there this Saugatuck posted 62 points personal best. But it was not quite as simple to get the win. as a team today to accomplish year and I had some at Michigan International this time. “I fulfilled my expectations,” In individual scoring, the Irish this. It was tougher this year. We great competition to Speedway on Nov. 3, while he said. Sacred Heart had 69 points run against. The best Sacred Heart had 102 for had four all-staters with Desirree were a little more nervous going Right behind Taylor in fifth compared to 82 for Saugatuck, part of my race was second place. Breckenridge was McDonnell sixth (19:44.7), in. We didn’t know what the odds fourth with 147. place was sophomore Carson the closest the Irish has won Scout Nelson eighth (19;50.1), were of winning. We beat the just entering the back City-Crystal runner Coleman T.J. Moore led the attack for Lauren McDonald odds.” of the beginning. I Clark (16:22.7). felt there wasn’t a lot Sacred Heart with a 17th-place 10th (19:50.7), It was the final cross country finish (17:06.7). “I was going for top five and and Cammie of time left.” that’s what I got,” he said. “For race. Nelson will be running “Sometimes you just don’t McConnell 18th track and playing basketball at Potterville junior a wet, sloppy course, I’m happy have it,” he said. “It was really with that. Overall, I’m happy (20:13.3). The last Davenport University. Caleigh Winters was muddy and it was rough. I with my season. I started with three runners are 12th (19:51.8) Beal City’s Alex Taylor (581) “I’ll miss the people who pushed through and got all- the right people.” seniors. “It was very state. took fourth in the Division 4 have been brought into my life, Breckenridge was led by boys state race. In the team exciting and there was especially the McConnells,” “We came in and ran as freshman Mason Sumner, who a lot of adrenalin,” scoring, Desiree Nelson said. “I’ve been running t e am .” was sixth (16:23.0). weather conditions.” McConnell Winters said. “It was with them since the fourth Brock Lynch was Sacred “With the mud and Breckenridge had two was fifth, hard to get around grade.” Heart’s No. 2 runner. The Irish everything, I think it went runners at 22nd and 23rd with Nelson seventh, with the mud in the freshman was 20th (17:07.2). McDonald was also 4-for-4 in great,” Sumner said. “I’m pretty Colttion Vine (17:07.5) and MacDonald beginning. Once you “We went out hard and we racing for state titles. Mount Pleasant’s Desiree McConnell (1789) satisfied with my race. Being a Trent Carter (17:08). ninth, Cammie got around, it was thought we’d drop some time,” freshman I’m, happy with it.” “The course was super muddy led her Sacred Heart team to its fourth “It was real muddy and times McConnell 14th fast. Toward the middle straight title. (Photo by Gary Williams Jr.) Lynch said. “It was hard to pick Also happy was Potterville’s weren’t as good,” Vine said. and challenging for that matter,” and Riley Hacker I was 20th and worked up the pace in the final stretch.’’ Zach Wright, who was 16th “It was all about placing. Our 34th (21:26.5). she said. “We all did great. my way to 12th.” Lynch said Sacred Heart had season was good. Next year will (17:06.7). Everyone got their goal today.” been hoping for first place as be even better.” “It was really Beal City’s Rachal Weber was Fowler’s Morgan George was 20th “It was a hard course this It was also the fourth title for a team. good, but not 17th (20:07.1). (20:15). year, the end of the course was “It was fun,” Carter said. “The the time I Cammie McConnell. Teammate Chase Nelson was muddy,” he said. “I feel like I season was fun. It was my first “I was pretty nervous at the “I’m excited, it’s the first time wanted,” Desiree “This season was not what I 21st (17:07.3). had an off day because of the year running. We didn’t have beginning,” she said. “The two in 15 years a Fowler girl has been McConnell said, wanted, but I’m still happy,” she any varsity guys running.” mile was OK. It was the hardest all-state,” George said. “I was just adding the finish said. mile of my life, probably. I was going to enjoy my last race.” was the best part Lansing Catholic had two telling myself to keep strong Montabella’s Helena Snyder of her race. all-state runners with Madison and keep going. I was trying to keep a positive attitude. was 28th (20:30.1).

Lansing Christian’s Madison Volz (1772) was second at the Division 4 Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart was girls race. (Photo by Gary Williams Jr.) second in the boys meet for Division 4, led by TJ Moore (703) in 17th and Brock Lynch (701) in 20th. (Photo by Gary Williams Jr.)

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Comprehensive Optometry mieyedoctor.com Page 20 - November/December - 2018 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscene.com www.highschoolsportsscene.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News November/December 2018 - Page 21 All-state cross Bath Volleyball Completes Presents Unique Championship Season country runners John Raffel When I discovered we were going work. We focused on defense, a key back to Leslie I told my team we were for us was working on our serve Sports Scene winning districts this year. Little did receive and passing to targets so we Division 4 Boys It was an historic year for Bath’s I know the road we would travel. We can have a good offensive attack. We volleyball team. were down 0-2 in our first match also emphasized our defense. It’s very against Leslie and won the next 3 sets to important in keeping the ball in play 4-Alex Taylor, Beal City (16:18.1); 5-Coleman Clark, CC-Crystal The regional finals. But to get this win the match. Moving on and making and when we are out of systems, to try far was an historic achievement for the (16:22.7); 6-Mason Sumner, Breckenridge (16:23); 16-Zach Wright, it to the Regional final match has never to get back into systems.” Bees. Potterville (17:06.3); 17-TJ Moore, Sacred Heart (17:06.7); 20-Brock been accomplished by a volleyball team Bath’s setter was Lindsey Bath had a 3-2 win over Hanover- at Bath High School. It has been a year Matsumoto. Lynch, Sacred Heart, (17:07.2); 21-Chase Nelson, Sacred Heart Horton before falling 3-0 to filled with historical accomplishments.” Bath’s volleyball team went to the regional finals for Manchester in the regional finals. “She was a very key player for us this the first time in school history. (Courtesy photo) (17:07.3); 22-Colttion Vine, Breck., (17:07.5); 23-Trent Carter, Breck., Bath’s final record was 35-17-5. year,” McIntyre said. “We use a lot of Coach Kristen McIntyre Coming into the season, “I knew players on the team. Some of the girls who played a key role in digging and kills per set. (17:07.6). couldn’t have been happier with the I had a group of girls that were play back row defense and some play serving. performance of her team. “When we got to the tournament, I hardworking,” McIntyre said. “I knew front row hitter. It was a definite team Other key players included, as had some girls able to do some things Division 4 Girls “It is our first district win in 28 they were dedicated. But I did not effort.” hitters, Sydney Knitter with 2.3 kills per they hadn’t done and that made a big years,” she said. “The last district win 2-Madison Vol, Lansing Christian (19:02.9); 6-Desiree McConnell think we would make it to regional The libero was Madison Ingram set and Tait Hosford, who averaged 2.1 difference for us,” McIntyre said. was 1990 also at Leslie High School. finals. It came from a lot of hard Sacred Heart (19:44.7); 8-Scout Nelson, Sacred Heart (19:50.1); 10-Lauren MacDonald (19:50.7); 12-Caleigh Winters, Potterville of the five post-season (19:55.1); 16-Lexi Kinnas, Lansing Christian (20:07.1); 17-Rachel games, where the team Weber, Beal City (20:09.1); 18-Cammie McConnell, Sacred Heart Sacred Heart Girls continually surprised everyone, including (20:13.3); 20-Morgan George, Fowler (20:15.3); 28-Helena Snyder, me. They held strong Montabella (20:30.1). together, executing play Reach Quarterfinal Round systems consistently as to a surprising district and regional they haven’t been able Division 3 Boys John Raffel Sports Scene title, thus progressing the program to to do during regular 5-Ransom Allen, Ithaca (16:14.2); 7-Hayden Germain, P-W (16:21.3); six years in a row, reaching the state season play. The year It was a rebuilding year of sorts, but quarterfinal round.” was about gaining 9-Aiden McLaughlin, Morley Stanwood (16:28.8); 14-Ashton one of impressive accomplishments for It was an intriguing season, of sorts. experience, learning new Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart Academy systems, maximizing their Walker, P-W (16:40.6); 18-Mitchell Bjorne, Bath (16:44.4); 20-Mitch “The team exceeded expectations and coach Krista Davis. potential, and continuing Nurenberg, P-W (16:48.6); 23-Dane Nestle, Shepherd (16:49.9); 29- this year,” Davis said. “We graduated to build team culture.” The team was 6-1 in the Mid-State four starters who had a big impact Trey Plichta, Sanford Meridian(16:55). Activities Conference and 26-19-8 on the program during their tenure. The top athlete was overall. The 2018 season had one senior on senior middle hitter Division 3 Girls “This year began as a rebuilding the roster and only four of the nine Michele Hubbard. year,” Davis said. “We lost four total roster players had limited varsity At 6-2, “Hubbard 2-Amber Gall, Shepherd (17:53.6); 6-Lani Bloom, Ithaca (19:04.1); starters to graduation. Even though experience. On paper, we were a very dominated the net with our program had been to the state young team; the regular season shaped her offensive power and 8-Libby Munderloh, St. Louis (19:16.9); 9-Lainey Veenkant, Clare up reflecting our youth, with a record defensive blocks,” Davis quarterfinals five years running, this Sacred Heart’s volleyball team won district and regional titles this season. (19:21.5); 19-Aubrey George, Pewamo-Westphalia (19:47.4); team knew they were young and were of 21-18-8. We took second place in said. “She finished her (Courtesy photo) 22-Mikenna Borie, St. Louis (19:53); 27-Haley Hegenauer, Shepherd skeptical about post season. They didn’t our conference, of which we had won senior year with 451 kills feel any pressure, except maybe to keep for at least the four previous seasons I and a .348 hitting efficiency. commanded the sole setting role. I She worked hard and came along, (19:58.3). the conference title. I was only certain had coached, possibly the streak goes She had 90 total blocks and also led the anticipate she will continue to run a 5-1 peaking at the end of the season. She of three starting positions before longer. We were not expected to win team in service aces with 77. offense during her next two years.” was second on the team in kills with the season started. Each week was a districts. “Next would be sophomore setter Division 2 Boys Davis said a surprise newcomer on 174. She accumulated 41 blocks. work in progress, trying to move the “However, during post-season play Allison Hauck. Allison ran the team’s the roster was 5-11 freshman Madison 2-Ethan Rockburn, Belding (16:23.1); 24-Will Peters, Lansing Catholic program forward. the team rose up to its potential and offense and tallied 831 assists. She ‘Junior libero Lauren Rookard took Munley. “Maddie filled the middle on more of a leadership role for the “Finally the last week of regular showed the depth and grit of seasoned contributed 218 digs and 24 service (16:26.9); 28-Jaydon Moleski, Cedar Springs (16:28.8). hitter spot opposite of senior middle team. She provided consistent defense season play felt like two steps forward veterans. The team won districts and aces on the year. Allison shared setting hitter Michele Hubbard,” Davis said. and passes which were essential to run without a step back. They took that regionals, not dropping a single set.” duties with a senior in 2017. This year “Maddie struggled in the beginning the offense. She chipped in 521 digs as Division 2 Girls momentum into post season and she improved every day, working the The highlight of the season, Davis of the season adapting to the high well as 58 service aces.” played their best five games, which led hardest on the team, and successfully 1-Jaden Theis, Lansing Catholic (18:01.90); 3-Taryn Chapko, St. said, “was no doubt the incredible play pressure role and a fast paced game. Johns (18:35.8). 14-Ashley Shipps, DeWitt (18:54.7); 22-Meghan Langworthy, Big Rapids (19:07.9); 23-Sofia Perez, DeWitt (19:09.5); 24-Kaitlyn Hynes, DeWitt (19:10.8); 27-Cecilia Stalzer, Mason (19:13.2); 28-Kiera Hansen, Freeland (19:14.0).

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came together as a “Emmy Webb is our other team during the last go-to offensive player who Rockford Volleyball Team three weeks of the played her best during the Okemos Boys Water Polo season. We had a great state playoffs hitting over comeback win in five .500 during that span. She is Runner-Up At State Final sets against Grandville fast, explosive jumper who Team Takes State Title John Raffel the how our team prepared to secure a share of the rarely gets blocked. She is a John Raffel game to Rockford in overtime. Sports Scene every night during the conference title. Down 11-14 competitive player that pushes Sports Scene Okemos had a final record of conference season.” 36-10. It was a memorable in the fifth set, we battled back the players around her to be Okemos’ boys water Delacher was even more The keys in the title contest season for Rockford coach to win 24-22.” better. Emilee Karelse was polo team claimed the 2018 impressed with his team in the was “not looking to win the game Kelly Delacher and his Delacher said it was tough our setter who racked up Michigan Water Polo Association MHSAA playoffs. but winning each individual Rams volleyball team in the to compared last season’s team impressive numbers guiding state championship in early November and did it in a special possession, and trying to take semifinals at Battle Creek on “We had an awesome run to this one. this team. She is fluid setter that makes our offense run way. a microscopic approach to the Nov. 16. in the state tournament,” “Last year, we were ranked game, and that way you’re trying smoothly. She has a great The Chiefs survived in a Delacher said. “We had a No. 1 for much of the season not to win it in the first quarter,” The Rams defeated knack for setting the person quadruple overtime thriller over tough road where seven out before losing 17-19 to Grand Olesnavich said. “In the overtime, Northville by scores of 25-13, that is hot and did a great job Hudsonville 11-10 on Nov. 10 at of eight teams (were ranked). Rapids Christian in the fifth everyone was exhausted. But we 19-25, 25-23, 25-21. of putting our hitters in great East Kentwood. We were down 1-2 to top set,” he said. “We were two just kept grinding it out each The next day, in the situations throughout the “This is the first boys water individual possession, trying to No. 10 Lowell and came back different teams with different Division I title match, Lake to win in five during our y e ar.” polo state championship in school take the ball away and create a Okemos water polo team celebrates the state title. (Courtesy photo) players that stepped up in each history,” Okemos athletic director Orion prevailed over the Rams district finals. Then the next good offensive look. Our boys kept season.” It was a enjoyable season for Ira Childress said. “Under the 25-18, 25-23, 23-25, 25-16. plugging along and eventually Jeffrey Brill was the center and for the open look. He scored the Fountain. round, we battled back in the Delacher. leadership of head coach Andrew Lindsay Taylor was the came out with a win.” was the MVP for the state for game-tying goal in overtime when Delacher has been coach biggest comeback I have ever Olesnavich, the team had an Karim Seif scored the game leader of the team. “This was a fun team to be Okemos entered the season the season and also for the state we were down by one, and sent it 14 years at Rockford, and 24 witnessed. We were led by our around,” he said. “They all outstanding season, also winning a winning goal with a lob over the “She is an elite player who figuring it could contend, but tournament. into sudden death.” goalie’s fingertips. seasons overall. The Rams seniors, Lindsay Taylor and bought in to the same goal district championship and regional was awarded with an Under realized Rockford and Hudsonville “He led by example everyday in Jarran Fountain was a center- finished 11-1 in the OK Emmy Webb, who combined this season and everybody championship in route to the state were also strong contenders. “Karim was the guy who could Red Conference and shared for over 55 kills. Then had a Armour All-American Award t it l e .” practice and in games,” Olesnavich defender and was also second team get it done both sides of the pool,” accepted their roles and “We knew it would be said. “He was an absolute all-state. the conference title with great battle in our final four as well as a National player For the boys team, Olesnavich Olesnavich said. “He saw the pool performed them to the best of something really difficult,” workhorse. That young man would Hudsonville. of the week award during the has been coach two years. “He was a leader every day in very well and could move the ball match against Northville their ability. They supported Olesnavich said. “When mistakes fight through double and triple playoffs,” Delacher said. “She is practice,” Olesnavich said. where he needed to. He’s 5-foot-4, “It is our third straight OK where we got some huge each other and played for each It was a sweet bounce back for happened, they just dusted each teams, share the ball offensively. an explosive player with great Brock Monette was another and was always the smallest guy in Red Title and fifth in the last contributions from our whole other. Our program was led the Chiefs who lost in the 2018 title other off.” He was able to find his teammates understanding of the game. captain along with Brill and the pool.” nine years,” Delacher said. team. by four awesome seniors that And she has a will to win and “We have one of the toughest “Then we lost a tight match were on the floor the whole put the team on her back in conferences in the state and with No. 2 Lake Orion in season. They were passionate many situations throughout Megan Witte passes the ball for it was a battle every night of the state finals. It was a great about the game and led by Rockford against Northville in the the season. league play. I was happy with run and my players really example.” state semifinals. Lakewood Goes To Semifinal (Photo by Eric Sawatzki) Under New Volleyball Coach Tee up your 2019 golf plans today! the program,” Rowland said. 132 blocks and 42 aces. John Raffel Sports Scene When Kellie decided 2017 would be her last For a limited time, capture this great deal from Torpey is a sophomore setter season, Cameron knew he would be around Waabooz Run Golf Course! Beal City Volleyball Posts with 859 assists, 374 digs, 110 kills Lakewood frequently goes deep into the and wanted to do it. His team would return to state volleyball playoffs, and this year was no the semifinals and 78 aces. exception, even under a new coach. DATE “The most enjoyable aspect of “I knew we would have a shot,” Rowland DATE Extraordinary Season Cameron Rowland and his team advance to said. “I knew we would have the talent to do 2019 Value coaching this team is there is never John Raffel almost all of them. Last year, we the state semifinals in Division 2 before losing so but didn’t know how good we would get <0001> Sports Scene had a record of 21-20-5 and this a day where I question their work to eventual Grand Rapids Christian 25-14, in the course of the year. We got a lot better Golf Card Value year we’ve improved that to 36-8-3. ethic,” Kennedy said. “They come 25-20, 25-14. than I was expecting and really played our best It was Jade Kennedy’s third in and get right to work without They were playing at a level higher than we volleyball at the end. Redeem each punch for either Golf Card Jordyn and Lyndsey Fillenworth, season as Beal City volleyball anyone reminding them what to were,” Rowland said. “We served extremely tough and knew we Redeem each punch for either Sage Schumacher and Bailey 1 - Nine hole round 1 Nine Hole 1 Nine2019 Hole coach and a highly successful one. do. They are a great group of girls The regional semifinal win over Marshall were going to have to do that. Defensively, Cart Rental (single) or Walking Golf (single) Torpey were among the top of walking golf was dramatic. The first and third sets were we were very good. We have two sisters who Valid open of 2019 season - 10/31/19. Punch card is non-transferable & cannot be The Aggies were 12-0 in the and they have the ability to work 12replaced if lostpunches or stolen. No cash value. Redemption is subject to course availability.for989.817.4802 $99 players. 25-17, 25-14 in Lakewood’s favor. The third set have committed to Michigan State whom our PLAYER NAME Highland Conference and 36-8-3 hard and have fun at the same or Jordyn Fillenworth. a senior was a dramatic 36-34 Lakewood win. offense ran through.” overall. They also won Division 3 time. 1 - Nine hole cart rental libero, was a three-year starter who It was Cameron’s mother Kellie Rowland, She was referring to sophomore Aubrey district and regional titles before “Next year looks bright, as we Available for a limited time while supplies last! ended with 720 digs and 44 aces. who led the team to a state title in 2012 and O’Gorman who had eight kills in the semifinals Redeemable during the 2019 golf season. falling in the state semifinals. have all but four girls returning. Beal City players and coaches discuss strategy second-place finishes in 2014, 2015 and 2017. and freshman Maradith O’Gorman, who had Lyndsey Fillenworth is a junior “They have exceeded my We do lose a few key defensive during postseason action. (Photo by Randy Miniard) Cameron had assisted her mom in 2017. 10 kills. third-year outside hitter who had players and the leadership from expectations,” Kennedy said. “I We were two games away from it feels to be so close to getting to “I grew up in the program and was raised in Lakewood’s final record was 46-9-2. Visit the Soaring Eagle 270 kills, 100 aces, and 334 digs. this senior class, but I am confident knew going into this year we would playing in the state final, and the Battle Creek. They are ready to put GREAT FOR Waterpark and Hotel Schumacher is a sophomore that there will be a few girls that have a strong team. We set a lot of underclassmen got the taste of how in the work to get another shot of HOLIDAY Front Desk or call middle hitter who had 382 kills, will really step it up for the team. GIFT GIVING! high goals and we accomplished going there.” 989.817.4801 to purchase your 2019 Value Golf Card! 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Loyalty Access members can earn and redeem Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort points! Jenna Putman, D.D.S. • Brian Putman, D.D.S. 610 N. Pine River Street • Ithaca, Michigan 48847 Like (989) 875-2888 www.pineriverdentalcare.com Us On Page 24 - November/December - 2018 High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News www.highschoolsportsscene.com www.highschoolsportsscene.com High School Sports Scene - Keeping Kids In The News November/December 2018 - Page 25 HIGH SCHOOL Presents SCENE STEALERS! Area athletes To Watch SPORTS SCENE Bailee Crandall, Katelyn Feldpausch, Mason, volleyball Corunna, cross country Mason senior volleyball player Bailee Crandall Corunna senior Katelyn Feldpausch will contin- Owosso’s Katie Clevenger Uses will be continuing her academic and athletic ca- ue her academic and athletic career at Michigan reer at Trevecca University. A setter for the Mason Tech University. Feldpausch finished sixth at Gymnastics Background To Earn volleyball team, Crandall was a team captain for the Division 2 regional and placed 59th at the the Bulldogs and was a three-time, all-conference Division 2 state final. During the regular season honoree. This season Crandall helped Mason Feldpausch set a personal record of 19:19 as she All-State Diving Honors win the CAAC Red Division with a perfect 10-0 placed third at the Shiawassee County Champi- Butch Harmon With her all-around athletic skills developed league record and helped Mason win a district onships. Sports Scene in gymnastics, Clevenger has made a smooth volleyball championship. transition to the pool. Clevenger is an all- Gymnastics loss turned has proven to be the around athlete who also runs track in the Owosso swim teams gain. spring. A versatile athlete on the track team, In her second season with the Owosso Clevenger placed fourth in the 300 hurdles at swim team, junior diver Katie Clevenger not the regional meet. Madison Jordan, Cayden Petrak, Drew Stout, Carson only qualified for the state finals for a second While accomplished as a track athlete, diving Lowell, softball St. Johns, diving City-Crystal, football consecutive year, but she earned all-state is Clevenger’s focus. Lowell senior softball St. Johns senior diver A four-year varsity player, honors. Clevenger placed seventh overall at the “I love it,” Clevenger said. “This is definitely player Madison Jordan Cayden Petrak recently Stout rushed for 1,370 Division 3 state finals with a score of 353.65. my main priority. It’s super fun and I’m glad I signed her letter of intent signed his letter of intent yards this season. Stout A former gymnast, Clevenger has quickly put can correlate my gymnastics background with to continue her academic with Lake Superior State scored 18 touchdowns the skills she used in the gym to work on the the sport.” and softball career at University. Petrak, who and helped lead Carson diving board. Central Michigan Uni- was named High School City-Crystal to an 8-2 Earning all-state honors this year, Clevenger versity. A middle infielder Sports Scene’s Swimmer overall record and a state “I was a gymnast for 10 years,” Clevenger is setting her sights on an even loftier finish next and outfielder for the Red of the Year last season, playoff berth. For his ca- said. “I had to stop doing that, so I wanted to season. do something that correlated to gymnastics. I Arrows, Jordan set a state won a second straight reer, Stout rushed for over “I’m going to continue working through the decided to do diving and it’s been working out record with four triples in Division 3 state diving 4,500 yards to set a new winter and the spring,” Clevenger said. “I’m pretty well.” a game. Jordan is also sec- championship last year school career rushing hoping I will improve even more next year.” ond on the MHSAA list and will be looking for record. for total RBI in a game the three-peat this year. with 11. Allie Pumford, James Whitaker, Owosso diver Katie Clevenger placed Owosso, swimming St. Johns, wrestling seventh at the Division 3 state swimming Owosso junior Allie Pumford finished the swim St. Johns senior wrestler James Whitaker recently and diving finals. season in a big way. Pumford set a school record signed his letter of intent with the University of in the 100 freestyle with a time of 54.70 as she Virginia. A state champion at 140 pounds in Di- won the league title at the Flint Metro League vision 2 last season, Whitaker finished the season Championships. Pumford the turned in a time of with a 39-1 record. Whitaker had an eventful 54.33 in the 100 free at the Division 3 state cham- offseason as he was runner-up in his weight class Corunna Volleyball Team pionships. Pumford placed 15th overall in the 200 at the Super 32 tournament, one of the premier Falls In State Semifinals free at the state finals with a time of 1:59.22. folk style tournaments in the country. John Raffel Rapids Christian in the finals. 15-25, 25-19 over Mount Morris, and 25-21, Sports Scene Standouts for the Cavaliers included Madison 25-20, 25-19 over Flint Powers in the district Birchmeier, who had 23 defensive digs in the semifinals and 25-23, 25-23, 25-15 over Clio in Corunna’s volleyball team made an match while Hannah Hollister had 27 digs and the district title match. uck rs! impressive run in the Division 2 state Good tLhe three kills. Corunna defeated Freeland 25-14, 25-22, Pan tournament. Alexa Mort had 22 assists and nine digs, Ellie 25-21 in the regional semifinal and edged Birch But the season for the Cavaliers ended at Toney had six kills. Run 18-25, 25-11, 25-20, 28-26 in the regional 50-7-5 with a 25-9, 25-14, 25-17 semifinal loss final. The Cavs beat the regional champs from Corunna had an impressive tournament. to Pontiac Notre Dame in the state semifinal the north, Kingsley in the quarterfinals 25-22, match. Notre Dame was 64-5 but lost to Grand In the district first round, it was 25-21, 25-23, 25-14, 25-19. Specializing in MSHDA multi Family Renovations 701 South Main - Ovid, MI 48866 989-834-1500

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besides them, after I went there, Ingram said she started I didn’t consider anyone else. realizing she could be a college Ithaca Thrower Going To Michigan State player during the summer. Ingram To Play “They have a new coach John Raffel reminded me a lot like my own track weight goes up in the shot put (from this year. With the new coach, Ingram is now focusing on her team and throws group.” 12 to 16 pounds) and discus (1.6kg I hope the program will only high school season. Sports Scene Chaffin had a personal record of to 2kg) from the high school level to Basketball At Lourdes g o up.” “We’re real young this year,” she Ithaca’s Baylee Chaffin will be the collegiate level and also learn how “I went on a few other visits 7 feet 5 inches in the shot put at the John Raffel Ingram expects to be a said. “We’ll have to work hard and taking his weight throwing talents to Division 3 region last spring and was to throw the hammer, weight, and Sports Scene and when I went there, they made shooting guard at Lourdes. get everyone on the same page. It Michigan State. javelin to see if I can excel in those me feel the most at home,” Ingram fifth at the state final. In the discus, he “My greatest strength, I’d say, will be different but I think it will The Ithaca senior signed his letter three events as well.” It’s off to another state for said. “After I visited the gym had a personal record of 159-5 at the would be my shooting,” she said. be a successful year. Last year, it to become a Spartan on Tuesday. Mount Pleasant’s Logan Ingram, and saw the classes, I could see Shepherd Blue Jay Invitational and He’s anxious for the spring season. “I’ve been working on my court was the role of scoring. This year, who has signed a national letter of myself going there and having a “What made me decide to go to placed fifth at the state meet. “My goals for my senior season are vision and I hope to be a well I want to not just be a scorer but intent to play women’s basketball successful career there. I thought MSU was the wonderful campus, the “To make it to the next to throw 60 feet plus in the shot and rounded offensive and defensive help other players score and be a with Lourdes University, an NAIA it would be the best fit for me. I academic and athletic support the level I’ll have to train in the off 175 feet plus in the disc, and also earn p l ay e r.” defensive player as well.” school in Sylvania, Ohio. didn’t seriously consider anyone school provides, and the atmosphere season, get stronger, and drill,” all state for both events hoping to the team and coach showed while Baylee Chaffin signed his letter to be on the track team at Chaffin said. “I’ll have to get used to place first in Division 3,” Chaffin said. Mount Pleasant’s Laura Ingram signed I was on my visit,” Chaffin said. “It throwing heavier objects because the her national letter of intent with Lourdes Michigan State. (Courtesy photo) University, an NAIA school in Sylvania, Ohio. Academy.” “Kennedy is one of the hardest Clare Volleyball Player working athletes I’ve had the Big Rapids Golfer Signs privilege of working with,” Monica Skrabut, previous travel coach Signs With Olivet with Michigan Elite Volleyball With Michigan State John Raffel began when she would spend Academy, said in a statement. John Raffel The Big Rapids junior golfer made contact with them.” He played as much golf as Sports Scene countless hours in the gym, where “Her dedication and discipline far Sports Scene fired a 70 on day one and a 77 on Morrissey said he also he could during the fall as the her mom was a coach for Clare exceeded that of her peers, and day two to earn the individual considered schools like DePaul, weather would allow. Clare volleyball coach Shannon High School. She would attend her maturity as both a volleyball Since 1916, Auto-Owners and your He knows where he’s going to golf state championship. Oakland, Michigan, Iowa and “I want to help the team win Zinser has announced senior Trustedpractices, games, tournamentsfor generations... and player and a young woman will play college golf, and now Pierce Morrissey finished sixth overall Ohio State, plus others. the state championship,” he said. Kennedy Blackburn signed her summer camps with a volleyball continue to make her a standout, local independent agent have Morrissey can focus on leading commitment to Olivet College in last season’s state tournament. “I was looking to make a “That’s my No. 1 goal. Being Mr. in her hands whenever she had the even at the collegiate level. I am his Big Rapids team to a state title. where she will play volleyball in He decided on Michigan State commitment and am fortunate Golf is also up there. chance. With determination, hard so proud to say that I’ve had the been there when it matters most. the fall of 2019. Morrissey has signed a more than a year ago. to have made it early,” Morrissey “From tee to green is where I’m work and dedication, she is excited opportunity to coach and lead her national letter of intent to play “I’m thankful for everyone’s to continue her journey playing for for even a year in her journey, and “I liked the atmosphere along said. “Right now, I’ll be in the looking to make more progress. I golf at Michigan State University. support and everyone who has Coach Megan Merchant and the I cannot wait to see where her next the campus and the coaching weight room quite a bit and do get up and down majority of the Morrissey was the Division 3 state helped me to get to this point,” Olivet Comets. adventure at Olivet will take her.” Kennedy Blackburn signs her letter with Olivet. (Courtesy photo) staff,” Morrissey said. “I initially a lot of cardio I’ll hit a lot of golf t i m e .” individual champion last spring. balls in the free time.” Kennedy said in a statement “Kennedy is a utility player Zinser noted Blackburn’s Staff Photos release by Zinser. but being a setter is where her studies at Olivet will include Zinser added Blackburn Professional of America, Feed My “Kennedy has been playing heart is. Over the years she has social work and business, and she is involved in various service Starving Children, Mental Health volleyball since she was 9 years played for various community plans to continue giving back to organizationsTHE including; BEST TGOF/ LOCALAwareness “Be the Change” and old and in fourth grade,” Zinser programs, Clare Public Schools, the community through various That Girl on Fire, Gleaner Life/ Go Global Mission Trip 2018 to Scott Allen said. “Kennedy’s love for volleyball Championship Volleyball Club service projects. 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