Category Archives: Sports

Kelloggsville football team poised for improvement this season 

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
Kelloggsville quarterback Cameron Dunbar throws a pass during the season opener. (Courtesy, chavezphotography, Alex Chavez)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org

Improvement is the name of the game for the Kelloggsville football team this season and after the first game the Rockets are poised to blast off into the winning column.

The Rockets, who return an experienced core of players from last year’s squad, opened the season dropping a 38-22 decision at Grant. Kelloggsville looks to break into the win column this Friday when it hosts Battle Creek Pennfield.

The Rockets fell behind early in the opener at Grant, but came on strong during the second half.

“We fumbled the opening kickoff and at the half we were down 24-0,” Kelloggsville Coach Brandon Branch said. “We rallied back from there and tried to make a game out of it. The kids kept fighting and they made a game out of it in the second half.”

Kelloggsville scored three touchdowns in the second half as it cut into the Grant lead. Cameron Dunbar scored a pair of touchdowns for the Rockets on runs of three and four yards and Danyel White added a nine-yard touchdown run.


“We started out the game like a team that didn’t have a good week of practice,” Branch said. “We had an interesting week of practice with the heat and I think that set us back in the first half. We were stagnant in the first half. I was not pleased with the first half, but then we played a lot better in the second half. We definitely battled them and didn’t give up.”

Kelloggsville was led on offense by Dunbar who is the Rocket quarterback. Dunbar completed 11-of-17 passes for 186 yards with no interceptions and a long pass of 48 yards. Dunbar also rushed for 36 yards on 11 carries and two touchdowns.

White finished with 13 yards rushing and a touchdown.

Paul Shannon led the Rockets in receiving with four receptions for 84 yards, while Jaylen Phillips hauled in two passes for 57 yards.

On defense, the Rockets were led by linebackers Terrell Jones and Isaak Kowel and the defensive line rotation of Myrece Moore, Prince Baraka, Joaquin Hill, Elijah McKinney, Zane Hendricks, Alberto Estrada, Andrew Bacon and Gliore Bahome.



The Kelloggsville defensive line prepares to fire off the ball during the season opener at Grant. (Courtesy, chavezphotography, Alex Chavez)



“Our defensive line played pretty physical across the front,” Branch said. “Our linebackers Terrell and Isaak also had pretty good games.”

The Rockets are looking for the strong effort in the second half against Grant to carry over into this week’s game against Pennfield. The game is a rematch of last year’s game in week eight that saw Pennfield win.

“We played them last year and it was tied at the half,” Branch said. “They (Pennfield) pulled away in the second half. They had some big kids last year and a pretty good running back. We expect a tough game, but we are going to line up and play football and be physical.”

Kelloggsville entered the new season with a more experienced roster.

“We have a pretty even split between seniors and juniors,” Branch said. “We have a fairly experienced team and that is nice to have. We have five or six guys who have three years of varsity experience. We also have two or three juniors who have two years of varsity experience.”

Along with experience, this year’s team is more physical on both sides of the football.

“We are a more physical team than in the past,” Branch said. “I want us to be the more physical team when we play on Friday. Our depth is also going to help us out. We have 20 guys who are going to play a lot. I like our depth and physicality and we are also pretty fast across the board. We have above average team speed.”

Offensively, the Rockets look to have a balanced attack with Dunbar at quarterback and a strong group of running backs. 



The Kelloggsville offensive line prepares to snap the ball during the opener with Grant. (Courtesy, chavezphotography. Alex Chavez)


“Cameron is an athletic quarterback,” Branch said. “He can pass when he sees the opportunity and he also does a good job of making his reads and finding the open guy.”

On defense, the Rockets are led by their linebackers.

“Terrell is a tough linebacker in the middle that likes to hit and get after it,” Branch said. “Isaak does a good job of setting the edge and likes to get physical.”

Overall, Branch likes the direction the team is headed in.

“We definitely had a much better offseason,” Branch said. “We have a lot of guys who played key roles for us back this year. I like the progress we are making.”    

Lee loses quarterback, game in season opener against Sacred Heart

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Local Sports, Sports, , ,
(Courtesy, WKTV)


By Ty Marzean

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org


Lee Legends’ 2024 football season got off to a rough start Thursday, Aug. 29. They lost their quarterback, Anthony Blok, to injury and suffered a 41-18 defeat to Sacred Heart in WKTV’s Game of the Week.

Blok left the game after a hard hit on the opening drive of the third quarter.


Lee QB Anthony Blok suffered an injury in the third quarter of Aug. 29 opening game. (Courtesy, WKTV)


“Anthony is doing much better,” said third-year coach Lamar Marshall. “Resting, [but] most likely won’t have him next week for Homecoming.”

Lee defeated Sacred Heart 42-30 during the 2023 season, with Blok throwing for 253 yards and four touchdown passes.

Starting strong, losing momentum

Legends’ senior quarterback Blok threw touchdown passes of 46 and 51 yards to Jaden Potts and Aidan Merriweather, respectively, in the first quarter.

“We started off well, then lost momentum and missed a ton of tackles,” Marshall said.

Will Hyland, sophomore quarterback for Sacred Heart, was a one-man wrecking crew in the team’s first-ever varsity football victory. He scored all 41 points, including five rushing touchdowns, an 82-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, and five PATs.


Sacred Heart QB Will Hyland (#5) scores final touchdown of the first half. (Courtesy, WKTV)


Hyland finished the first drive of the season with an 18-yard touchdown run to open up the scoring in what would be a high-scoring first quarter.

Sacred Heart had a 20-12 lead at the end of the first quarter. Both teams scored an additional touchdown, and Lee senior defensive back Jayden Pena intercepted a pass in the end zone. Sacred Heart led 27-18 at the end of the second quarter.


(Courtesy, WKTV)


Finding their rhythm

Sophomore Jaden Sanchez replaced Blok after the third-quarter injury, but was unable to get the Legends’ offense in rhythm. Coach Marshall is confident they have found a strategy that will best fit Sanchez.

“I believe we’ve found a formula that will work, running the ball and getting it out quickly,” Marshall said of his squad. “Our game plan going forward is fundamentals; we have to preach doing the fundamentals correctly.

“We missed a few opportunities such as not capitalizing after half, leaving yards and touchdowns on the field.”

Lee (0-1) will look for their first win Homecoming night, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m., against Calvin Christian (1-0).

Coming soon to this space: Lots of local high school football action!

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Sports, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , , , ,




By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director

greer@wktv.org



Close your eyes and imagine the sounds of shoulder pads popping, marching bands playing, stadium announcers calling touchdowns, fans loudly cheering. 

Can you smell the hotdogs, pizza and popcorn floating through the air?

Imagine the youngsters playing catch behind the goalposts imitating their favorite player.

Sit tight. Local football games under the bright lights are just about here, which means our in-depth coverage of WKTV Truck Games of the Week, WKTV Journal web stories and our exciting Friday Night Highlights show will all be here shortly as well.

The first game of the season is Thursday, Aug. 29, and we’ll be there! Our WKTV Game of the Week is Sacred Heart at Lee at 7 p.m. Thursday. We also will get highlight clips from Hartland at East Kentwood, Mason County Central at Godwin Heights and Wyoming at Sparta on Thursday. On Friday, South Christian hosts Grand Rapids Christian at East Kentwood.

As always, WKTV plans to bring you another great season of local high school football coverage of your favorite area teams, including East Kentwood, Wyoming, Godwin Heights, Wyoming Lee, Kelloggsville and South Christian. Tri-unity Christian cancelled its season due to a lack of players.


WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week covers one matchup per week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.

You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org

Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.

WKTV Truck Game of the Week Sked

  • Thursday, Aug. 29: Sacred Heart at Lee
  • Thursday, Sept. 5: Northview at Wyoming
  • Friday, Sept. 13: Belding at Kelloggsville
  • Friday, Sept. 20: Wyoming vs. South Christian (at East Kentwood)
  • Friday, Sept. 27: Hudsonville at East Kentwood
  • Friday, Oct. 4: Zeeland East vs. South Christian (at Byron Center)
  • Friday, Oct. 11: Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville
  • Friday, Oct. 18: Jenison at East Kentwood
  • Friday, Oct 25: Catholic Central vs. South Christian (at East Grand Rapids)


WKTV Friday Night Highlights coming soon!

Just like during basketball season, every week we’ll bring you most of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.

As a bonus, we’ll occasionally have a reporter on the field at the Game of the Week to interview coaches and players for the show and have them join us in studio for a live interview.

Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Tuesday! Thanks for tuning in.


WKTV Journal Website

And don’t miss our large footprint of local high school football on the WKTV Journal website.

Continuing from last season, we’ll have a huge presence with local high school football and boys and girls basketball. Beyond our fantastic Game of the Week Truck coverage, every week our sports staff will post football game stories, features, roundups and final scores and stats on most teams in the Kentwood/Wyoming area on our Journal website. You can plan on our local football coverage! Thanks for tuning in.



Click HERE for your school’s season football schedule.

Wyoming football team will lean on seniors entering a new conference 

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,



By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



The slate is wiped clean, and optimism fills the air as a new season begins at Wyoming High School.


The Wolves, who went 1-6 in conference play, exited the OK-Green and formed the new OK-Gold with Forest Hills Central (D-3 state champion last year), Unity Christian and perennial state title contender South Christian, along with Zeeland East and West.

Wyoming finished the 2023 season with an overall record of 1-8 under fourth-year Coach Carlton Brewster. The Ferris State University product will look to get his squad on track for the 2024 campaign. 

“It will be a very competitive league with Forest Hills Central and South Christian,” Brewster said. “We have our hands full, but we are looking forward to getting better daily.”

The Wolves return quarterback Jay Johnson and bruising running back Jack Terveen to an offense that averaged 12.4 points per game. 

Terveen averaged 6.5 yards per carry and looks to build off of his junior season which was marred by an early injury. 

Terveen will be led by his offensive line anchored by senior duo CJ Anderson and Jackson Lamrouex.

Johnson only attempted 17 passes last season as he split time with Antwan Brown Jr., but also will use his legs in the run-first Wolves offense.

“These seniors are the heart of this team,” Brewster explained. “We also have others that are looking to step up.”

Junior Moses Brown looks to form a one-two punch with Terveen in the Wolves backfield. Senior receiver Julian Toscano also will be a key to the offense.

“Our goal is to focus on the everyday grind to get better each day,” Brewster said. “We need to focus on the small things. We’ve been getting better daily.”

Wyoming travels to Sparta for its season opener Thursday, Aug. 29, at 7 p.m. 

East Kentwood turns the page this season with new coach

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
East Kentwood’s new football Coach Tyrone Spencer, 2024. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



There is plenty of excitement around the East Kentwood football team as fall practice gets underway as a new chapter begins for the Falcon program.

East Kentwood has a new coach this season with the arrival of Tyrone Spencer, who coached at perennial state powerhouse Detroit Martin Luther King High School the past eight years. During that time, the Crusaders were a staple of the high school playoffs including winning back-to-back state championships in 2021 and 2022.




Spencer and his coaches and players are busy preparing for the upcoming season that begins Aug. 30 when the Falcons host Hartland.

So far, Spencer likes what he sees in this Falcon team that returns several key players.

“I’m excited about the work the guys put in,” Spencer said. “I’m excited about getting back to work and getting after it this year playing in the OK Red. I think it’s going to be fun.”

East Kentwood graduated several key players from last year’s squad that turned in a 3-6 overall record, but a number of talented veterans are back.

Running back Elijah Jones is one of the Falcons the team is happy to have returning. Jones is a 5-foot-11, 193-pound senior who rushed for 1,000 yards last season. A team leader as well as a productive running back, Jones likes the effort he is seeing from his teammates at practice and sees effort as being a strong point of this year’s team. 



East Kentwood running back Elijah Jones, 2024. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



“Effort, especially. 100 percent every play,” Jones said. “Making sure we get hard work. Everybody to the ball on defense and offense executing the plays. Just hard work and effort.”

At quarterback, the Falcons have a pair of talented passers in the mix. Senior Drew Burton (6-2, 200) is back after being injured last season, while junior Kayd Coffman (6-2, 180) is a talented transfer from South Christian.

“Quarterback is looking really good,” Spencer said. “We got two really good guys. We got Drew Burton back from injury. He was going to be the starter last year before he got hurt. We also have Kayd Coffman who transferred from South Christian. Both of those guys have been outstanding, really great leaders. We plan on playing both of them and whoever has the hot hand will keep going, but we plan on playing both of those guys.”    

Senior Caiden Holt and junior Ahman Edmonds are a pair of players that will log major minutes on both sides of the line at receiver on offense and in the secondary on defense. Holt and Edmonds are veteran receivers that will be a big part of Kentwood’s passing game.

A senior slotback, Holt likes the look of this year’s team.



East Kentwood senior slotback Caiden Holt, 2024. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



“We are definitely looking better than last year,” Holt said. “I feel like especially early, summer season, we’re way more going after it. Trying harder in practice. New offenses, we’re learning them, we’re going quick. We’re getting the defenses down and we are ready for this year.” 

Edmonds also is a slotback on offense and lines up at cornerback on defense. Edmonds likes the attitude of the team and how that meshes with their new coach.

“I feel like we are hungry,” Edmonds said. “We got a lot of young dogs coming to work. We have a great coach coming in and helping us all be great.”



East Kentwood slotback/cornerback Ahman Edmonds, 2024. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



One of the strong points of this year’s team looks to be the offensive line where four big, strong and experienced starters return. Junior center Charlie Nichols (5-9, 265) returns to the middle of the line. Senior Nouha Diaite (6-2, 260) is stationed at a tackle, while seniors Andrew Durr (6-2, 300) and Matthias Granderson (6-2, 305) will line up at either tackle or guard.

Several of the Falcons who start on offense will also log major minutes on defense. The Falcon defense also is counting on linebacker Terrence Kabanda, outside linebacker Silas Mitchell (6-2, 195) and sophomore safety Donovon Jones (5-8, 185) to be among the leaders. Kabanda is one of the few returning starters on defense. Mitchell is a talented young player who also is coming back from injury, while Jones is a young player who the Falcons considered moving up to the varsity last season as a freshman.

While the Falcons are young on defense, they have plenty of talented players who are hungry to win.



East Kentwood outside linebacker Silas Mitchell, 2024. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



“The defense is coming around,” Mitchell said. “We’re young, but we have a bunch of studs that are coming up. We’re ready to compete. We’re very hungry. We want to make up for last year.”

Like the offense, the defensive line is shaping up as a strong point for the Falcons. Along with Diaite, Granderson and Durr, the defensive front will be led by senior Syncere Hobson-Washington (6-2, 285), a transfer from Grand Rapids Union who adds more size and strength to the defensive front. 

The enthusiasm surrounding the program is evident by the turnout of players for the beginning of practice. The Falcons look to have around 60 players on the varsity team along with 30 on the JV and 45 on the freshman squad.

“We have a strong, cohesive group,” Spencer said. “These guys have been playing together since the seventh grade so I just think them being able to be unified, be together is going to be our strong suit.   

The Falcons open the new season on Friday, Aug. 29 when they host Hartland at 7 p.m. Kentwood travels to Byron Center on Sept. 6 and then opens OK Red play on Sept. 13 at Caledonia.        

   

Lee eyes conference title, returns to 11-Player football in 2025

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, ,
WKTV Contributor Ty Marzean visited the Lee football field during opening week of practice to talk with players and Coach Marshall about the upcoming season. (WKTV, Ty Marzean)


By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org


When Lamar Marshall came on as coach of the Lee football team, he had a goal to bring the Legends back to playing 11-Player football by his fourth season. Now in his third year at the helm, Marshall will accomplish just that as the Legends return to the traditional game in 2025.

“Our ultimate goal by year four for me was to get back to 11-man, and we have a great opportunity to do so,” Marshall said.


Lee football will be returning to the 11-Player game in 2025. (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)


A return to the traditional

Marshall has been working his team in 11-on-11 camps since last year in preparation for the return of the 11-man game.

“This summer has been strictly 11-man reps,” Marshall said. “We have actually been repping 11-man since last year to get ready.”

The varsity team will have close to 30 players this season, with a middle school team adding to the program numbers.

“We are starting to integrate the middle school guys on varsity football and how we do things around here.”

2024 will be the Legends’ fourth and final year playing 8-Player football.

Building from the ground up

(Image Courtesy, Wyoming Lee)

The Lee football program has been undergoing reconstruction since Marshall arrived before the 2022 season. In the first year, the Legends went winless with an 0-9 record. However, the tough lessons learned and game experience propelled Lee to their first winning record since 2006 with a 5-4 record in 2023.

This summer, Coach Marshall has emphasized the importance of building on the team’s improvements from a year ago.

“It’s like building a house,” Marshall said. “What are we going to add to the foundation we’ve built over the past two years? We have the cement foundation and exterior up, so what will we build now?”

Due to exceeding the enrollment limit, the Legends will again be ineligible for entry into the 8-Player tournament. The team’s goal for the season is to win the Southwest Michigan 8-Player Football League Blue Conference Championship.

“Our ultimate goal is a conference championship,” Marshall said.

Two Lee legends return to the field

Lee Senior QB Anthony Blok. (WKTV, Ty Marzean)

Two huge building blocks from the 2023 Legends will return to the field.

Senior quarterback Anthony Blok is set to build on last season, where he broke a school record with 29 touchdown passes while adding 2,500 yards passing.

“He’s been dedicated since the final game last year,” Marshall said of his senior signal caller. “He’s put on a lot of muscle this year with his work in the weight room.”
 

Junior wide receiver Aidan Merriweather led the Legends with 48 catches, over 900 yards and 14 touchdowns.

“Anthony and Aidan have a great relationship on and off the field,” Marshall said. “They are always on one another about practicing and getting better every day. They are two glue guys we will be counting on this year.”

The Legends: A force to be reckoned with

Blok and Merriweather will be joined on offense by a trio of juniors. Emmanuel Ramos and Jaden Potts will play wide receiver, and Issac Kibbe will slot in at tight end.

“Emmanuel was one of the most improved players this summer,” Marshall said. “He has soft hands and runs very crisp routes. He’s been a pleasant surprise.”



WKTV Contributor Ty Marzean visited the Lee football field during opening week of practice to talk with players and Coach Marshall about the upcoming season. (WKTV, Ty Marzean)



Potts will now play both ways after being a strong force playing the “Rebbie” position in defense last season.

Kibbe, a 4.2 GPA student, stands out at six feet playing tight end for the Legends.

Marshall also will have the opportunity to coach his son, freshman wide receiver Joseph Marshall.
 

Sophomore Jayden Sanchez will replace the departing Clarence Lewis as running back. Senior cornerback Jayden Pena will join Potts on the Lee defense, significantly reducing points allowed from 2022.

“Jayden was invited to Bowling Green’s prospect camp, so he’s out there making a name for himself,” Marshall said.

Legends featured in WKTV’s Game of the Week

The Legends will host Grand Rapids Sacred Heart in the first WKTV Game of the Week of the 2024 season at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29.

South Christian football team reloading after trips to Ford Field

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



The South Christian football team has been busy the past two Thanksgiving weekends. Two years ago, the Sailors traveled to Ford Field and won the Division 4 state championship and last season they returned to the state finals, but fell just short of the end zone on the final play of the game.

The Sailors and their fans would like nothing less than spending Thanksgiving weekend in Detroit once again. To return to the finals, however, will require a host of young players to step up as the Sailors were hit hard by graduation. A host of seniors are gone from last year’s team that averaged 35.9 points per game and fashioned a 10-4 overall record. Developing new starters is job one for the Sailors as they opened fall camp last week.

While a large group of veterans have moved on, the Sailors do return a pair of key returnees who provide the team with a solid nucleus to build around.

Senior Carson Vis returns as quarterback

One of those returning players happens to be at the all-important quarterback position. Senior Carson Vis (6-foot-4, 190 pounds) is back after a glittering season last fall as a first-year starting quarterback. Vis finished the season passing for 2,972 yards and 34 touchdown passes along with 939 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns on his way to earning all-state honors. Vis saved his best for last as he completed 30-of-44 passes for 441 yards and two touchdown passes in the state championship game while adding 72 yards rushing and a rushing touchdown.


South Christian QB Carson Vis. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



With a year of starting experience at quarterback under his belt and some promising young receivers stepping in, Vis is optimistic about how the offense is looking heading into the new season. 

“I feel pretty good,” said Vis, who has committed to Western Michigan University in basketball. “Our offensive line is looking good. We’re strong up front and our receivers are catching the ball. I have a lot of trust in them and they make me look good a lot. We have some junior receivers who had big seasons on the JV and came up in the playoffs, so they kind of know what that playoff run is like so they should be ready. We’ve been practicing in the offseason throwing routes so we should be pretty good.”  

Senior Tyler Brinks also is returning for the Sailors. Brinks is a 6-foot-6, 215-pound senior who has committed to Grand Valley State University to continue his career. Brinks will line up at tight end on offense and is a returning outside linebacker on defense.

The Sailors graduated four starters from the offensive line. South will count on senior Camryn Veltman (6-3, 210) to anchor the offensive line as he returns to the center position.

New offensive line, receivers and running backs

Along with finding new starters along the offensive line, the Sailors have to develop a new cast of receivers and running backs. Plenty of candidates are vying for playing time at those positions.

“Nobody that we have at running back got any reps last year,” South Christian coach Danny Brown said. “We have one guy, a senior, who had a few reps in games where he was able to get it. It’s a young group, there’s about three or four of them, and we’re still trying to figure out what’s that right mix. It’s so early to tell where it’s at, we kind of have a plan in place, but we’re going to need somebody to grab it.”



South Christian Football Coach Danny Brown. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



Among the players looking to contribute at running back are juniors Kasjen VanSolkema (5-11, 175), Brady VanNoord (5-11, 160) and Isaac Osterhaven (6-0, 185).

Wide receiver also is a work in progress with senior Bryce Kenyon (6-0, 160) and junior Owen Burgess (6-1, 180) among the receivers to watch for.

Receiver Jake Vermaas will be missed

“It’s going to be different,” Brown said. “Last year we had Vermaas (Jake) who had 98 receptions and he was the guy. This year we are going to spread it out more. We might not have as much experience as years past, but we’ve got some guys who can do some work.”     

The Sailor defense also is restocking the starting positions. The secondary will have a new cast of starters as will the defensive line. The Sailors do have some experience to lean on at the linebacking positions.

Along with Brinks, who returns at outside linebacker, the Sailors bring back sophomore Greyson Hunderman (5-11, 185) who started at inside linebacker as a freshman last season. Senior linebacker Rowan DeKam (6-0, 180) also is back at an outside linebacker position.

“Fortunately, we have three of our four backers that we play will return having played meaningful snaps for us,” Brown said. “They are going to have to be good for us. A lot of the stuff that we do requires them to be good so I think we’re hopefully sitting pretty good there.

“Up front, it’s similar to our offensive line. We don’t know who is going to play. We’re shifting guys around and trying to figure that out and hopefully by game one we have a good rotation and we’re ready to rock.”
 

A tough new league

Not only will returning to Ford Field be a tall task for the young Sailors this season, but getting back to the playoffs will be a challenge in itself as South Christian has a rugged schedule. Making the schedule even more difficult is the fact that they are playing in a new conference this season after the OK Conference realigned at the end of the past school year. South Christian is now playing in the new-look OK Gold Conference that includes defending Division 3 state champion Forest Hills Central, Zeeland West, which reached the Division 3 state semifinals last season and Zeeland East, which went 6-4 last year.



The Sailors also face a rugged non-league slate with games against East Grand Rapids, who went 7-3 last year, West Catholic, 11-1 and reached the regional final last year, and Grand Rapids Catholic Central, 13-1 and won the Division 5 state title last fall.

   

“It’s a tough league,” Brown said. “That’s not one thing we can control, so whoever they say we have to play in league that’s who we get stuck with. The biggest thing for us is we’re excited about the competition of the teams that we are going to play and I think the other thing that is pretty cool is we are excited about the communities we get to play against.



“I think we are going to have a lot of fans at our games that are passionate, whether it’s South Christian football or whoever our opponent is, and I think that creates a good experience for the high school athlete.”    

Nearly 100,000 student-athletes set to start MHSAA fall practices next week

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By MHSAA

greer@wktv.org


Nearly 100,000 Michigan high school student-athletes are anticipated to begin Fall 2024 practices on Monday, Aug. 12, across nine sports for which the Michigan High School Athletic Association sponsors postseason tournaments.

The fall season includes the most played sports for both boys and girls; 35,174 football players and 19,119 girls volleyball players competed during the Fall 2023 season. Teams in those sports will be joined by competitors in girls and boys cross country, Lower Peninsula girls golf, boys soccer, Lower Peninsula girls swimming & diving, Upper Peninsula girls tennis and Lower Peninsula boys tennis in beginning practice next week.  

Competition begins Aug. 16 for cross country, golf, soccer and tennis, Aug. 21 for swimming & diving and volleyball, and Aug. 29 for varsity football. Football teams at all levels must have 12 days of preseason practice – over a period of 16 calendar days – before their first game.

In girls volleyball this season, for the first time, the top two teams in each District bracket will be seeded based on Michigan Power Ratings (MPR) that take into account a team’s regular-season success and strength of schedule. Those two seeded teams will be determined the Sunday prior to the final week of the regular season and placed on opposite sides of their District brackets.  

Boys soccer also will see a slight change to its seeding this fall, as the entire bracket will be seeded based on MPR, not just the top two teams as in previous seasons.

The 11-Player Football Finals schedule at Ford Field also will have a slightly different lineup and earlier start times. On both Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30, the first games of the day will begin at 9:30 a.m., with the final games of both days slated to start at 7 p.m. On Nov. 29, Division 8 at 9:30 a.m. will be followed by Division 4 at 12:30 p.m., Division 6 at 4 p.m. and Division 2 at 7 p.m. to conclude the day. On Nov. 30, Division 7 kicks off at 9:30 a.m., followed by Division 3 at 12:30 p.m., Division 5 at 4 p.m. and Division 1 at 7 p.m. to finish the weekend.  

A few more game-action rule changes will be quickly noticeable to participants and spectators.  

  • In football, uniforms now must have clear contrast between the colors of the jersey body and numbers; for example, white numbers with blue outline on a white jersey are no longer allowed. The visiting teams must wear white uniforms, and home teams must wear dark jerseys that clearly contrast with white.
  • In soccer, the eight-goal differential rule remains but with the addition of a running clock during the first half if the differential reaches eight.  
  • In volleyball, line judges beginning this fall will switch sides of the court between sets.


The 2024 Fall campaign culminates with postseason tournaments beginning with the Upper Peninsula Girls Tennis Finals during the week of Sept. 30 and wrapping up with the 11-Player Football Finals on Nov. 29 and 30.

MHSAA sports participation continues upward trend for third-straight year

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,
(Image Courtesy, pixabay.com)



By MHSAA

greer@wktv.org



Participation in Michigan High School Athletic Association-sponsored sports rose for the third-straight school year in 2023-24 – this time by nearly one percent – and continued to do so despite another 2-percent decrease in school enrollment among the MHSAA’s 754 member high schools.

A total of 270,664 participants were counted across the 28 sports for which the MHSAA sponsors postseason tournaments – a 0.97-percent increase from 2022-23, despite a 1.8-percent decrease in MHSAA member school enrollment. Boys participation rose 1.1 percent to 158,260, despite a 1.8 percent decrease in boys enrollment. Girls participation rose 0.7 percent to 112,377, while girls enrollment dipped 1.9 percent from the previous school year.

Boys total highest since 2018-19 school year at 158,260 participants

MHSAA participation totals count students once for each sport in which they participate, meaning students who are multiple-sport athletes are counted more than once. The boys participation total for 2023-24 was its highest since 2018-19, predating the sharp decrease brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic during the 2020-21 school year.

Girls golf and lacrosse growing

Only 11 sports saw increases in participation during 2023-24 – compared to 18 sports that reported increases between 2021-22 and 2022-23. However, two sports set participation records this past school year. Girls golf reported 3,936 athletes, an increase of 6.2 percent from the previous year and that sport’s most since 2002-03. Girls lacrosse broke its record set in 2019-20 with 3,245 athletes, up nine-tenths of a percent from the previous year.

Large wrestling increase attributable to another jump in girls participation (39 percent)

Wrestling reported the largest increase in participation for the second-straight school year, this time by 12.8 percent with 11,814 athletes – and the rise again mostly attributable to the rapid growth in girls participation in the sport, which jumped another 39 percent with 1,216 wrestlers this past season. Girls tennis enjoyed the next largest participation jump, increasing 9.1 percent with 8,911 athletes, that sport’s most since 2018-19.





Both girls and boys track & field increased for the third-straight year, girls by 5.2 percent to 17,325 competitors and boys 2.9 percent to 23,888. Boys lacrosse (up 3.9 percent to 5,236 athletes) and boys golf (up 3.3 percent to 7,222) also joined their girls counterparts in those sports in trending upward.

Football remains most-played sport statewide at 35,174 participants

Boys soccer (up 5.1 percent to 13,953 athletes), girls competitive cheer (3.9 percent to 6,172) and football (11 and 8-player combined – 0.5 percent to 35,174) also showed increases. Football remains the most-played sport statewide with more than 11,000 more athletes than the next highest, boys track & field, and the 2023-24 football participation total was that sport’s highest since 2018-19. Boys basketball (20,199 participants), girls volleyball (19,119) and girls track & field ranked third through fifth, respectively, among the state’s most-played sports this past school year.

Although 17 sports saw lower participation in 2023-24 than the previous year, five experienced decreases smaller than the overall 1.8-percent loss in enrollment at member schools – boys ice hockey (-0.03 percent with just one fewer participant than in 2022-23), girls soccer (-0.3 percent), girls volleyball (-0.8 percent), boys tennis (-1.2 percent), boys cross country (-1.3 percent) and girls softball (-1.5 percent). Girls cross country just missed that line with only a 1.9-percent decrease from the previous year.

The participation figures are gathered annually from MHSAA member schools to submit to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) for compiling of its national participation survey. Results of Michigan surveys from the 2000-01 school year to present may be viewed on the MHSAA Website – www.mhsaa.com – by clicking on Schools > Administrators > Sports Participation Listing.

Register Now for Annual Metro Way 5K & YMCA Youth Races July 31 to support community health and wellness

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Health, Mental Health, Recreation, Sports, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, University of Michigan Health-West)




By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



University of Michigan Health-West invites you for an evening of running, walking, and philanthropy at the Metro Way 5K & YMCA Youth Races on Wednesday, July 31. This family-friendly event will be
held at 1980 Metro Court, Wyoming, starting at 6 p.m.


Funds raised through the Metro Way 5K support UM Health-West’s community health and wellness programs, which provide vital services to the community, including free and low-cost health screenings, fitness classes and educational sessions.


“This event exemplifies our commitment to West Michigan,” said Greg Meyer, UM Health-West executive vice president and chief community officer. “The Metro Way 5K reflects our legacy of making a lasting difference in the health of our communities. It’s a celebration of our past and a commitment to our future.”


Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome. The event includes a 5K run/walk and YMCA Youth Races, making it an excellent opportunity for families to engage in a healthy and fun activity together. Your participation will directly contribute to community health and wellness programs, helping patients and their families cope with chronic illness, teaching healthy habits, and promoting safety.


For more event details and registration, visit Metro Way 5K

Metro Way 5K

  •     Fee: $35
  •     Start time: 6:30 p.m.
  •     Check-in & late registration: 5 to 6:25 p.m. (Cost: $40)

YMCA Youth Races

  •     Fee: Free
  •     Start time: 6 to 6:25 p.m.
  •     Registration deadline: 6:05 p.m. July 30
  •     Open to ages 17 and younger

YMCA Youth Races

  • Fee: $35

Race Day Overview

5 to 6:25 p.m. – Race check-in & late registration at race headquarters

6 p.m. – YMCA Youth Races (warm-up at 5:45 p.m.)

5 to 8 p.m. – Photo opportunity, sponsors and food tent

6:30 p.m. – Metro Way 5K race start

7:15 p.m. – Awards Ceremony


Awards will be presented to the top male and female finishers in both open and masters categories. Age group prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each group. All registered 5K finishers receive a finisher’s medal.

Berlin ARCA 200 highlights big night of racing at Berlin Raceway

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Sports, West Michigan,

William Sawalich and his No. 18 car are back to defend their title in the Berlin ARCA 200 feature race at Berlin Raceway Saturday. (Photo Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



Another big night of racing is on tap at Berlin Raceway Saturday.

A pair of exciting races are slated to take place Saturday beginning with the Tekton Super Late Model Feature at 6:30 p.m. The race is scheduled for 75 laps. Up next, the ARCA Menards Series takes to the track for the main event of the evening, the Berlin ARCA 200.

Drivers from all across the country will be descending on Berlin for one of the highlight races of the summer as Berlin hosts the ARCA series.



Berlin Raceway ARCA Menards Series (Photo Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)



For the 34th time in ARCA Menards Series history, Berlin Raceway is playing host to stock-car racing’s brightest up-and-coming starts. The ARCA Menards Series made its debut at Berlin in 1958. The ARCA series first ran at Berlin from 1958 until 1973. After a hiatus, the series came back to Berlin in 1986 for a brief run.


In 1999, the series returned to Berlin and has been a regular part of the schedule ever since. Frank Kimmel won the 1999 race and since then talented young divers like Tim Steele, Brian Keselowski, Justin Lofton, Scott Speed, Chris Buescher, Erik Jones, Grant Enfinger, Danile Dye, Sammy Smith and William Sawalich have been among the winners at Berlin.

Sawalich recorded his inaugural ARCA Menards Series victory in last year’s Berlin ARCA 200. Sawalich is back to defend his title this year and is coming off his second ARCA Menards Series victory when he recently took the checkered flag at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Sawalich won last year’s race in exciting fashion as he came from behind to defeat eventual ARCA Menards Series champion Jesse Love. Sawalich passed Love for the lead with just two laps remaining in the 200-lap race to give Joe Gibbs Racing the win.

Last year’s winner William Sawalich a favorite

Sawalich is one of the favorites in this year’s race, but plenty of talented competitors will be looking to crash victory lane. A large group of racers from Venturini Motorsports will be leading the charge to take the checkered flag from Sawalich this year led by Sean Hingorani who will be making his first start for the team this season as he will be driving the flagship No. 20 Toyota.

Keep an eye on 16-year-old Gavin Boschele

Gavin Boschele is another member of the Venturini team to keep an eye on as he is making his debut for the team and will drive the No. 55 Toyota. Boschele is an exciting young racing prospect to keep an eye on. Just 16-years old, Boschele first started racing as a four-year old racing Outlaw go-karts at Millbridge Speedway in North Carolina.

Since then, Boschele raced in nearly every division at Millbridge Speedway and also raced Quarter Midgets and Karts on asphalt tracks across the Southeast. One of Boschele’s biggest wins came when he won a race in the Stock Non-Wing division during the 2023 Tulsa Shootout.

Boschele made his Late Model debut during 2022 as he began to focus on asphalt racing. Despite being 16-years old, Boschele is no stranger to Berlin as he competed in the Money in the Bank 150 at Berlin on June, 12. Boschele finished fourth in a loaded field that included NASCAR Cup Series drivers Erik Jones and Carson Hocevar.

Amber Balcaen, Toni Breidinger and Kris Wright also are talented drivers on the Venturini team that will be making a run for the top spot.

ARCA Menards Series leader Andres Perez

ARCA Menards Series leader Andres Perez leads the way for the Rev Racing team that also includes Lavar Scott. Christian Rose of the AM Racing team will be in the hunt as will Greg Van Alst.

Gates open at 4 p.m. Saturday … racing starts at 6:30 p.m. Kids 15 and under also are free for this Saturday’s event.

South Christian girls soccer team caps off season in Division 3 elite eight

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
Alexa Boersma led the Sailors with 25 goals and 10 assists this season. (Photo Courtesy, South Christian High School)




By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



The South Christian girls soccer team finished the season as one of the top eight teams in the state in Division 3, but a case can easily be made that the Sailors were actually one of the top two teams.

South Christian’s season came to an end when it dropped a 1-0 match to eventual state champion and long-time rival Unity Cristian in the regional title game at South. The one-goal decision was by far Unity’s closest match in the state tournament as the Crusaders won all of their other state tournament matches by at least a three-goal margin, including the Division 3 state title match where the Crusaders defeated Grosse Ile 3-0 to clinch their second straight state title.

“The regional final game was one of those moments that come about in high school sports,” said South Christian Coach Joel VandeKopple. “Two really good teams competing at the highest level in front of a great crowd. I look back on it and think it was a `coin flip’ type of game, with both teams getting chances and giving everything they had. It is obviously disappointing that we came out on the losing end, but we gave everything we had.”

South Christian reached the regional title match by defeating Three Rivers 5-0 in the regional semifinals. Alexa Boersma led the offense in the semifinals with a pair of goals while Hayden Donker, Katelyn VanderArk and Meredith Helmus added one goal apiece.


Katelyn VanderArk had 20 goals and 11 assists this season. (Photo Courtesy, South Christian High School)



The Sailors advanced to the regional after winning the district title where they claimed an 8-0 win against Delton-Kellogg and a 3-0 win against Allegan.

“I was incredibly proud of our girls for winning the district title,” VandeKopple said. “It is always one of the main outcome goals for us, and to do it against a couple of tough opponents meant a lot to us.” 

OK Gold and Division 3 District Titles

The Sailors, who finished the season with an 18-3-2 overall record, turned in an outstanding regular season as well that included winning the OK Gold championship for a third consecutive season.

“Winning the conference is another outcome goal for us,” VandeKopple said. “We went through a week in the middle of the year where we dropped some points in the league, which would have made it very easy for our girls to lose sight of the goal. Instead, they kept focusing on the process and ended up winning the conference outright.” 

South also posted some noteworthy efforts in non-league games including a 4-3 win against eventual Division 2 state champion Spring Lake in the regular-season finale.

Many highlights this season

“There were many highlights this season,” VandeKopple said. “Among the highlights were winning the OK Gold championship, winning districts, beating a couple of final four teams including a state champion (Spring Lake) in Division 2 and great games with Division 1 schools Rockford and Hudsonville.”
 

A big part of South Christian’s success this season was their ability to play outstanding team defense while having a potent offense capable of putting up multiple goals in each match. South Christian’s defense posted 15 shutouts this season. Offensively, the Sailors were led by Alexa Boersma who scored 25 goals and added 10 assists. Katelyn VanderArk added 20 goals and 11 assists, while Meredith Helmus totaled 17 goals and seven assists.

Strong senior class

South Christian also received strong contributions from its four-player senior class.

“We only had four seniors this year but they were integral to the team’s success,” VandeKopple said. “Katelyn VanderArk, Maci Burgess, Gabi Burgess and Emerald Hoekwater were our four seniors. They came to practice every day ready to work hard and set the tone for the rest of the girls. They also made sure everyone was on the same page and working in the same direction.”

That direction resulted in the Sailors becoming one of the premier Division 3 teams in the state under VandeKopple who was in his first year as head coach of South Christian.

“We had an unbelievable season this year,” VandeKopple said. “It’s always different when a new coach comes in and having a really young team, but the girls bought into everything the coaches asked of them and we ended up having a fantastic season.”

With a small senior class, the Sailors will have a large group of players returning next season and the outlook for the soccer program is promising.

“We had a fairly young team, so the majority of our players will be returning,” VandeKopple said. “Alexa Boersma and Meredith Helmus will be two returning players up front, while our entire starting backline will return and looking to build on a great defensive season. Olivia Int’hout is one of the best goalies that I’ve seen this year and she returns for her senior season next year.”     

Michigan High School Athletic Association registration underway for game officials

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,


By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Michigan High School Athletic Association is accepting registrations online or by mail for game officials for the 2024-25 school year.

The MHSAA registered approximately 8,700 officials for the 2023-24 school year, an increase of nearly five percent over 2022-23 as the ranks continue to build back toward pre-COVID totals.

All officials who register may sign up for up to two sports as part of their registration. Officials also will receive membership in the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO), which comes with a variety of educational and training resources and the NASO’s Shield liability insurance that will provide $6 million in coverage for officials while they are working both MHSAA and non-MHSAA events.

For new and returning officials, a $70 fee covers registration for up to two sports. Officials may register for additional sports at $16 per sport.

To avoid a $30 late fee, all fall sport registration applications must be received by Aug. 19, 2024. Winter sports registrations must be received by Nov. 18 to avoid the late fee, and spring sports registrations must be received by March 24, 2025.

Online registration can be accessed by clicking “Officials” on the home page of the MHSAA Website at https://www.mhsaa.com. More information about officials registration may be obtained by contacting the MHSAA by phone at 517-332-5046 or by e-mail at register@mhsaa.com

There is an officials’ registration test for first-time officials and officials who were not registered during the past school year, derived from the MHSAA Officials Guidebook. New officials and those who didn’t officiate during 2023-24 also must complete the online MHSAA Principles of Officiating course. Additional exams must be taken by those registering for football or basketball for the first time or those who were not registered for those sports during the previous school year. Links to the Officials Guidebook, Principles of Officiating presentation and the football and basketball mechanics manuals can be found by following the “New Officials” link on the Officials page of the MHSAA Website.

Officiating opportunities for students

There also are opportunities to officiate for students at least 14 years old and in grades 9-12 through the MHSAA Legacy Program. Juniors and seniors may officiate subvarsity contests, while freshmen and sophomores may officiate contests at the middle school/junior high levels. Mentor officials will work events with Legacy participants to provide guidance and support. Find information on the Legacy Program by clicking “Officials Registration” on the Officials page of the MHSAA Website and following the “Legacy Program” link.

WKTV Truck captures Pinery Park Little League celebration June 8; longtime volunteer Doug Hansen shares time with both

City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
Little leaguers are introduced in the parade of players of the Pinery Park Little League celebration Saturday, June 8. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



One of the highlights of the season for the Pinery Park Little League is the annual celebration day and this year’s event was as “wonderful” as any.

This year’s parade of players and celebration event took place Saturday, June 8, at the Pinery Park diamonds. Along with the annual parade of all the baseball and softball players from T-ball to juniors, all were introduced to family and friends who were on hand for the event with television coverage provided by WKTV. The players also were treated to free hot dogs, chips and a drink following the ceremony prior to games taking place at Pinery Park.

“It’s a wonderful event,” said Pinery Park Little League president Kevin Franke. “It’s a way to reach out to the community and reward the kids for a wonderful season and their families, and of course the weather cooperated with us as well.”

Prior to the annual parade of players, Franke spoke to them, their coaches, parents and families about the season and also thanked the many sponsors and volunteers who make Pinery Park Little League and the baseball/softball facilities at Pinery Park among the finest in the area.

“The season has gone really well,” Franke said. “We had a lot of involvement with parents and we appreciate that as we are a volunteer-run organization. And we had very little rain problems this year. Our participation numbers were above normal this year and we really appreciate that. We have seen a big increase in parent involvement within the teams, helping out those coaches, and we’re really impressed by that.”



Little league players line up in a colorful display of the teams in the Pinery Park Little League annual celebration. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



Pinery Park Vice President Mandy Peterson is one of those parents that helps out. Peterson has two children participating in the league and also is on the league board. Peterson has a daughter that plays in the coach-pitch league and a son who plays in the majors baseball.

“The season has been really great,” Peterson said. “Lots of involvement from the families and the community. All of our sponsors throughout the league, it’s been great.”


While the celebration was part of putting the finishing touches on a great regular season of little league play, tournament play is about to begin for the players and teams. A team tournament is set to begin at Pinery Park and after that the annual all-star games take place later this summer with District 9 Little League players beginning their pursuit of a national title in their respective divisions.  

50-year Little League volunteer Doug Hansen; 35 years with WKTV

One of the volunteers of the Pinery Park Little League is Doug Hansen. He began helping with the Southwest Little League program some 50 years ago before coming to the Pinery Park Little League over 35 years ago. Hansen has worn many hats during his little league career including umpire and board member. As an umpire, Hansen spent years working balls and strikes and became one of the top little league umpires in the nation, working at three national tournaments.


Doug Hansen is at home on the fields of the Pinery Park Little League or behind a camera at a high school sporting event for WKTV. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



Hansen got his start in umpiring at the Southwest Little League by chance.

“A friend of mine was coaching a team and he asked me to come watch the team,” Hansen said. “That day they didn’t have an umpire show up so he asked if I’d mind stepping in. I knew how to call balls and strikes, and out calls, so I stepped in. That’s how I started out in little league.”

From there Hansen’s umpiring career took off and eventually he worked events like a big league boys world series in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, a senior boys national final in Kissimmee, Florida, and the Taylor, Mich., junior boys world series where he still goes down and helps out each year.      

These days you can find Hansen at the fields almost daily during the season making sure the diamonds are in near pristine shape, chalking the lines and helping make the seven diamonds at Pinery Park look like the classic little league fields of yesteryear.

Another thing that Hansen notices hasn’t changed is the love of the game by the players and coaches throughout the years.

“We have some pretty good kids,” Hansen said. “The kids have been pretty much the same throughout the years. They love to play and have fun. The coaches are also great. They do a great job with the kids.” 


Doug Hansen running camera for WKTV. (WKTV)



35 years volunteering with WKTV

Along with volunteering for the Little League, Hansen has been a volunteer for 35 years with WKTV and its coverage of high school and amateur sports in the Kentwood and Wyoming area.

“I have done a little bit of about everything at the TV station,” Hansen said. “I’ve worked in the production truck, the cameras, just about anything you can think of. It’s pretty much all been with sports. Sports is what I’ve always enjoyed.”

Lee baseball coach Ty Emelander reaches 300 career wins in final season 

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
Lee baseball Coach Ty Emelander (left) with Detroit Tigers legend Denny McLain during the annual “Stubby Overmire” Sports Card Show and Silent Auction. (WKTV/Ty Marzean)



Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



Lee baseball coach Ty Emelander has been roaming the dugout at Stubby Overmire Field for the last 20 seasons. 

The 2024 season marked his final year leading the baseball program at his alma mater.

Emelander took on the head coaching role in the winter of 2004, becoming the third coach in three years.

“It was my dream job,” Emelander said. “I applied at Rogers, and the Lee coach applied as well. So when they gave him the job, I was happy about it. My first call was to Denny Groendyke, the school board president. I was excited I had a chance to go back to my old school, where I wanted to be anyway.” 



Lee Coach Ty Emelander (left) and GR Christian Coach Steve Westdorp from the 2024 District tournament. (Courtesy, Ty Emelander)



The Lee baseball program quickly changed under his leadership, as the former Rebels participated in their first spring trip down south to Georgetown, Kentucky, in his first season.

“The first trip down south was Denny Groendyke and John TerBeek wanting to jump-start the baseball program. We raised some funds, but the school board was very supportive and helped us with that first trip.”

A district title in his first season

Emelander’s first season ended with a district title, thanks to a promising young core and only two departing seniors.

“The first day we worked out in the gym, I knew we had some talent. I was told that might not be the case, but we did.”

The 2024 Legends finished the season with a 5-17 record, during which Emelander achieved his 300th career win as a head baseball coach.

“We were about there sometimes, but we just couldn’t get over the hump. I really enjoyed this team.”

Former player Harrison Yang became a standout pitcher under Emelander from 2010 to 2013.

Coach Ty Emelander and Harrison Yang, 2013. (Courtesy, Ty Emelander)



“Coach Ty was/is the most important male role model I had growing up,” Yang explained. “It was God’s grace that he was placed in my life, and it was God’s grace that I had such an incredible man to look up to, whom I saw as another father figure. Perhaps the greatest compliment I can give to Coach Ty is the simple promise that the future generations of my family has been undoubtedly changed thanks to him and his wonderful obedience to the Lord. I owe much of who I am today to that man, and now my children will also reap the great lessons I’ve learned from Coach Ty as a result.”

Emelander said that’s kind of him because he has a great father.


“Harrison is a great kid,” Emelander said. “Harrison is the perfect example of a Lee kid that I watched grow up. I loved coaching him. He was the type of kid who would say, ‘Yes, coach,’ and try as hard as he could.”

From 2008 to 2015, Lee consistently achieved a top-10 state ranking each season and placed second in the OK Silver multiple times.

“In 2008, we had a great team; we went to the regional finals and took second in the conference, but Allendale was state runner-up that year,” Emelander said. “We could just never capitalize; the conference was always strong.”

Decades before taking control of the Lee baseball program, Emelander was a catcher on the 1978-1980 teams. The Rebels picked up a district title his senior year.

“We went 16-5 my senior year, but we lost the regional finals on a walk-off home run against Lansing Catholic Central,” he explained.

All in the family

The Godfrey-Lee community runs deep in the Emelanders’ blood. Cyrus and Amanda, both of Emelander’s children, played at Lee.

“I never coached Cyrus until high school, and I always let others coach him,” Emelander said. “It wasn’t hard for me to coach him, but it was probably harder for him, not wanting to think he was being favored because he was the coach’s son.”

Daughter Amanda in the softball record books

Emelander’s daughter, Amanda, holds the top spot in Michigan with home runs in five consecutive at-bats and is second in the nation. 

“She’s all over the state record books,” Emelander said. “They won three consecutive conference titles. Amanda is arguably the best softball player in school history.

“My kids had to share their dad with a lot of other kids growing up. I know they enjoyed it, though, and we don’t have any regrets.”

Also a Lee football coach for a time

Emelander became the head coach of the Lee varsity football team in 2012 after the program had hired head coaches in each of the previous three seasons. During that time, the Lee football program also started a youth league, with as many as 50 elementary players participating in the program.

Emelander has raised over $200,000 in 18 years

Emelander’s impact on the Lee community is far-reaching as he’s raised over $200,000 in 18 years for the baseball program through the “Stubby Overmire” Sports Card Show and Silent Auction.

While coming up through the Detroit Tigers farm system, two-time Cy Young winner and 1968 World Series pitcher Denny McLain was coached by former Lee High School graduate Frank “Stubby” Overmire.


Emelander started the annual fundraiser with a couple calls to former players of Overmire and then came The Call.


“Denny McLain called me up and wanted to come and I didn’t even know it was him,” Emelander said. “I thought it was one of my friends just joking around with me on the phone. Denny was a huge part of getting this event going and keeping it rolling. One day alone in the past he signed over 400 autographs, and has often signed over 200 at our events. And he does it all for free.”


For the entire Stubby Overmire fundraising story, click here.



A photo of Tigers pitcher Denny McLain for sale at the Lee baseball fundraiser. (WKTV/Ty Marzean)



Emelander finishes his time at Lee with 227 wins over 18 varsity seasons, losing one season to COVID-19 and one in which Lee only fielded a JV team. Before coming to Lee, Emelander collected 74 wins in five seasons as head coach at Creston High School.

“So many people have helped me along the way; it’s such a long list; if I start naming them, I know I’d forget a few,” Emelander said. “I had a great time at Lee and will always pull for the Legends.

 “I was a player, coach, a parent, and now I’ll be a fan.”

Star-Studded “Money in the Bank” feature highlights busy stretch at Berlin Raceway

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,
Berlin Raceway’s Money in the Bank. (Image Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)



By Greg Chrapek, WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



The action shifts into overdrive at Berlin Raceway as the track hosts three nights of racing over an eight-day span highlighted by the “Money in the Bank” feature, one of the premier races of the summer at Berlin.

The run of racing begins this Saturday at Berlin Raceway with a full lineup of action. Headlining is the non-wing sprint cars that will be racing in the Auto Value Part Store 40, part of the sprint car tour. Also on the lineup card is a Limited Late Model race, a 4-cylinder race and a Midget car race.

Dorr’s Matt Postma a Limited Late Model driver

Matt Postma, of Dorr, is one of the drivers looking to take the checkered flag in the Limited Late Model race. An up-and-coming driver, Postma is currently in sixth place in the division, but hopes to move up the standings in a division dominated by some talented veterans.



Matt Postma (Car #6 of Dorr, Michigan) is a young and upcoming driver in the Limited Late Model division who is looking to move up the standings as he competes this Saturday and Saturday, June 15 at Berlin. (Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)



“I’ve had some up and down weeks for sure this season,” Postma said. “We’re definitely making progress this year. In this division it’s all about seat time. You have to get that experience. This division has some great drivers like Tim DeVos, Denny Anderson, Josh Frye and Billy Eppink, who have years of experience on me. I have to get that seat time and experience and try to catch up.”

Postma is in his fifth year of racing and second year competing in the Limited Late Model division. He has been making steady progress and this year with three top-five finishes to his credit in the division that is led by Frye.

Like many of the drivers at Berlin, Postma grew up going to the races as a youth and caught the racing bug at an early age.

“I grew up going to Berlin with my dad and grandpa,” Postma said. “My grandpa was a huge fan. Every Saturday we would head out to Berlin and watch the Late Models and Outlaws.”

Hudsonville’s Nate Walton in action

While the Limited Late Models are in action this Saturday and next, they will be off next Wednesday, June 12, when the Money in the Bank feature takes center stage at Berlin. Postma will still be in action at Berlin for the Money in the Bank feature as he will be helping out Hudsonville’s Nate Walton, one of the drivers going after the $15,000 first prize in one of the two biggest races of the summer at Berlin.

“Nate has helped me out a lot and any chance I get I try to help him out,” Postma said.



NASCAR Cup Series driver Erik Jones, seen celebrating last year, is back to defend his title at the Money in the Bank race on Wednesday, June 12 at Berlin Raceway. (Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)



Big-name drivers Erik Jones, Carson Hocevar and Bubba Pollard

Walton is one of several local drivers in the Super Late Model division taking on several high-profile drivers who will descend on Berlin looking to take home a big payday and the checkered flag. Among the big-name drivers competing at Berlin in the Money in the Bank race are NASCAR Cup Series drivers Erik Jones and Carson Hocevar along with Bubba Pollard.

“The Money in the Bank race is a big draw,” said Andrew Postma, Operations Manager at Berlin Raceway. “It’s a chance for the local guys to race against some of the guys on the NASCAR Cup Series. It’s also a chance for our fans to see a guy like Carson who just raced at St. Louis to practice and race at Berlin.”

FREE admission to June 11 practice

Berlin race fans also have the opportunity to watch practice for free on Tuesday, June 11. Practice is from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and is free general admission for spectators.

Berlin caps the busy week of racing with a full slate of action on Saturday, June 15. The Ohio Wheelman Super Stocks headline the card along with the Wheelman Modifieds, NA-Compacts, Vintage Racing Organization of America (VROA) and the Scrappers. The VROA is a club dedicated to preserving a form of circle track racing that was prevalent during the 1940’s to 1960’s. The June 15 card is on Father’s Day weekend and plenty of giveaways are planned for dads including a beer special.

Tickets for all three nights of racing are available online. Fans also can save some money on their tickets by getting them ahead of race day on line at the Berlin Raceway website.



Lee’s Autumn Johnson breaking records on and off the track

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,
Lee sophomore Autumn Johnson setting school records on the track. (Photo Courtesy, Lee High School)




By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



With three school records already as a sophomore at Wyoming Lee High School, Autumn Johnson just might one day reach her Team USA idol’s status down the road.

Johnson currently holds the school record in the 60-meter dash with a time of 8.08 seconds, 100-meter dash at 12.80 and the 200-meter, 26.52. 

“Watching Autumn train and compete has been an inspiration to all of us,” said Lee Girls Track and Field Coach Sekayi Bracey, “Her dedication, hard work and passion for the sport are evident in every practice and race. Autumn embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence that we strive to instill in all our athletes.”


Understandably, her idol is Team USA track star Sha’Carri Richardson.

“Despite facing setbacks in her career, she never stopped fighting, even when people doubted her,” said Johnson of Richardson. “She made a strong comeback, better than ever, and I feel a connection to her story. At the beginning of this season, I came in injured and had to work my way back up.”

As a freshman at Louisiana State University, Richardson broke the 100-meter collegiate record at the NCAA Division 1 Championships. She has won two gold medals and one bronze in the World Championships for Team USA.

Johnson wins 400-meter dash at regionals

At the Division 2 regional qualifier on May 18 in Sparta, Johnson won the 400-meter dash with a time of 59.51, giving her the second fastest time in Lee history. She also took third place in the 100-meter dash with a time of 12.80, breaking her previous school record.

Those performances led Johnson to be the only Legends qualifier at the state finals last weekend in Hamilton, where she finished 10th in the 400-meter dash.

“These victories are not just mine, the accomplishments are a reflection of the encouragement and support that I receive from my coaches, teammates, family and the Godfrey-Lee community,” said Johnson, who also has played varsity basketball as a freshman and sophomore. “I am grateful for everyone who has been a part of this journey and I am looking forward to achieving even more.

“One of my goals is to attend Michigan State University to continue my track career. Throughout high school, my aims are to make it into the top five in the state of Michigan and to place first in states within the next year or two. I also hope to attract attention from Division 1 colleges to further my track career at the collegiate level.”

Excels in the classroom as well

Lee Athletic Director Andre’ Sargent said beyond the track, Autumn excels in the classroom (3.9 GPA), in community service and is a role model for peers.


“Autumn’s achievements academically, socially and athletically are commendable, and we are proud to have her as part of our community and athletic program,” Sargent continued. “As she continues to excel, we are excited to support her in future endeavors, on and off the track. Her success is a source of pride for the entire Godfrey-Lee community and a powerful reminder of what it takes to truly ‘Be Legendary.’ That is commitment and hard work.”

Ford International Airport to host Runway 5K Saturday, June 1

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Recreation, Sports, Travel,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority is pleased to invite participants to join the annual GRR Runway 5K and one-mile fun run on Saturday, June 1.

Registration is open for this unique race, providing walkers and runners with a rare opportunity to compete on an actual airport runway. The race will commence north of the economy parking lot, onto taxiway Juliet, and runway 8L/26R—the Airport’s general aviation runway—before concluding back at the parking lot.

Race-day registration and packet pickup will begin at 7 a.m., with the 5K race starting at 9 a.m. The one-mile fun run will begin at 9:05 a.m. Awards for the top three overall males, females and individual age groups will be presented at 10:15 a.m.

Early packet pickup takes place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 31 at The Runnery located at 5361 Alpine Ave. NW in Comstock Park.

Special Olympics Michigan charity partner

The charity partner for this year’s event is Special Olympics Michigan. This nonprofit is dedicated to creating a world of inclusion and community, where everyone is accepted and welcomed, regardless of ability or disability.

Through year-round sports competitions and programs for kids and adults with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics Michigan provides access to free inclusive health services and equips schools with anti-bullying resources. With programs always free of cost to thousands of residents across Michigan, the organization relies on community support to achieve its mission.

“We look forward to welcoming participants to our runway for this family-friendly event,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “This race provides a unique experience to run or walk on a course that is typically reserved for aircraft only.

“We are delighted to support this year’s charity partner, Special Olympics Michigan, as they continue to provide programming and resources for thousands of individuals in the community.”

Registration for the 5K begins at $44, and $30 for the one-mile fun run. Participants will receive a T-shirt, finisher medals for those who complete the 5K or fun run, post-race snacks and beverages, awards for top finishers and free finisher’s photos.

“As an organization that seeks to encourage inclusion and joy through sport for athletes of all abilities, this partnership with the GRR Runway 5k is one that we are so proud of and incredibly grateful for,” said Kristie Kigar, stewardship and engagement coordinator of Special Olympics Michigan. “Since all of our programs are provided at zero cost to our nearly 22,000 athletes and their families, the support provided through this event will allow the power of connection and community to continue to thrive throughout West Michigan and beyond!”

Ford International Airport’s two commercial aviation runways will be operational during the race.

The GRR Runway 5K focuses on partnering with local nonprofits that support residents of the greater West Michigan community. In 2023, the event raised $13,000 for charity. Event sponsors play an essential role in raising funds for the charity partner, helping to make a positive impact in the community. This year’s race was made possible by presenting sponsor The Christman Company, along with Avflight Grand Rapids Corporation, Blue Triton Brands, DK Security, DLZ, Experience Grand Rapids, FastSigns, Hudson Group, Northern Jet, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pioneer Construction, and Signature Aviation.

The race is organized by Trivium Racing and the Ford International Airport Authority.

Berlin Raceway shifting into high gear as summer approaches; “The Bachelor” Arie Luyendyk Jr. races

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,
Former Indy car driver and The Bachelor contestant Arie Luyendyk Jr. will be competing in the MSR series winged sprint car event at Berlin Raceway this Saturday. (Photo Courtesy, Berlin Raceway/Arie Luyendyk Jr.)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor



It’s one of the staples of summer in West Michigan and with the weather heating up the action at Berlin Raceway in Marne also is shifting into high gear.

This summer WKTV Journal will be keeping an eye on the happenings at Berlin Raceway. Berlin has a full slate of racing action over the next few months with drivers from all over West Michigan competing including several drivers from Wyoming.

This weekend Berlin Raceway promises plenty of fun for the whole family not only on the race track, but in the stands as well. This Saturday is 80’s retro night at the track and the folks at Berlin are asking everyone to join in on the fun and wear their retro 80’s outfits, tie dye and neon.

On the track, one of the highlights of the evening is the season-opening race in the Must See Racing (MSR) Sprint Series presented by Perfect Parts.

The season opener was originally set for Sandusky Speedway, but was twice cancelled due to rain.

Blonde, Hamilton and McCune featured Saturday

The lineup of drivers entered for the race is an impressive one including defending MSR series champion Jason Blonde and multi-time MSR 2024 feature winners Davey Hamilton Jr. and Jimmy McCune.

The winner of the 30-lap feature will take home $4,000 and the race has attracted drivers from several states. Former Little 500 winners Jeff Bloom and Bobby Santos III are among the drivers entered.

Arie Luyendyk Jr. races Saturday in the Winged Pavement Sprint Car events

Another big name also is slated to compete in the race. Arie Luyendyk Jr. plans to compete in a handful of Winged Pavement Sprint Car events on the MSR series beginning with the season opener this Saturday at Berlin Raceway.



Former Indy car driver and The Bachelor contestant Arie Luyendyk Jr. will race his winged sprint car, sponsored by Jiffy Lube, Saturday at Berlin Raceway. (Courtesy, Berlin Raceway/Arie Luyendyk Jr.)



Luyendyk Jr. announced that he has obtained a partial season sponsorship with Jiffy Lube, His familiar red #25 will now carry Jiffy Lube proudly on the side of the car as well as the top wing.

The second-generation driver is the son of two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Arie Luyendyk Sr. Arie Luyendyk Jr. has had a versatile career and has driven several different cars in his career including events in the Indy Car Series, Stadium Super Trucks, IMSA and Indy Lights cars. Luyendyk Jr. also qualified for the 2006 Indianapolis 500.

Luyendyk Jr. gained additional fame by starring in the ABC television show ‘The Bachelor’ in 2018. He has a huge social media following thanks in part to his appearance on ‘The Bachelor.’



(Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)



Plenty of West Michigan drivers, including Wyoming

While Luyendyk Jr. brings a national name to Berlin Raceway this weekend, plenty of West Michigan drivers and Wyoming drivers have been making news since the racing season kicked off at the end of April. In the Sportsman Division, Ryan Holtzlander of Muskegon is at the top of the standings. Josh Frye of Coopersville is just 20 points behind in second place. Allen Davis of Wyoming is in 11th place in the Sportsman Division and has three top-10 finishes to his credit.

In the 4 Cylinder Division, David Simpson of Hopkins is in first place with two wins to his credit so far while Nathan McNabb of Coopersville is in second place. Richard Succaw of Wyoming is in 17th place.

In the Super Late Model Division, Evan Szotko of Coopersville is in first place followed by Joe Bush of Hastings in second place. Brian Campbell of Wyoming has a top-10 finish in three races this season in the Super Late Model Division and is in ninth place overall in the standings.

In the Limited Late Model Division Tim Greene of Grand Rapids is in first place, followed by Josh Frye of Coopersville, second. Allen Davis of Wyoming is in 14th place and has one top-10 finish in two races.



(Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)



Limited Late Model, Dwarf Cars and Mini Wedge races

Along with the MSR winged sprint cars, this Saturday’s action includes a Limited Late Model race, Dwarf Cars and Mini Wedge race.

The Saturday, May 25 lineup for the Memorial Day Weekend features another packed slate of races including races in the Super Late Models, Limited Late Models, Sportsman, 4 Cylinder and Scrappers Division.

Racing action will continue every week during June, July and August and then on two weekends in September, including September 7 which is Chet Championship Night, and September 21; Monster Truck Throwdown. Among the highlights during the summer are the Money in the Bank feature on June 12, the Ohio Wheelman Superstocks and Ohio Wheelman Modifieds on June 15, an ARCA race June 29, Supermodifieds on July 12 and July 13, and the Tekton 250 Battle of Berlin on August 7. 

Gates open for this Saturday’s racing action at 2 p.m. with racing starting at 4 p.m. For more information and all the summer lineups, log on to Berlin Raceway.

South Christian baseball team challenging for top spot in OK Gold

Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,
South Christian junior Davis Kemper fired a no-hitter against Cedar Springs. (Courtesy, Travis Kuhfeldt)


By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

The South Christian baseball team may not have a roster full of players who are committed to playing baseball in college, but that’s not stopping the Sailors from challenging for the title in one of the most competitive baseball conferences in West Michigan.

As the baseball season heads for the home stretch, the South Christian baseball team finds itself in first place in the rugged OK Gold Conference that includes a Forest Hills Eastern team that is ranked third in the state in Division 2. Heading into the second week of May, the Sailors have a 13-6 overall record under first-year Coach Harris Fondren.

“The season is going really well,” Fondren said. “We have some good pitching and our offense is looking good. We don’t have a lot of kids committed to playing Division 1 baseball like a lot of other teams do, but we do have a lot of kids who play together as a team and are a lot of fun to be around. They love the process and make sure the job gets done.”

The Sailors have racked up some impressive wins in the conference highlighted by a 1-0 no-hitter victory against Cedar Springs.


The South Christian baseball team is off to a 13-6 record this season and is in first place in the OK Gold. (Courtesy, Travis Kuhfeldt)


South Christian junior pitcher Davis Kemper tossed the no-hitter with plenty of help from his defense. Kemper threw a total of 87 pitches during the no hitter with 59 of the pitches being strikes. Kemper allowed just two walks while allowing no hits.

“Davis controlled the strike zone really well,” Fondren said. “Our defense also did a great job of getting outs. Our middle infielders, Ethan Vostad and Jamin VanGrouw, played out of their minds. They made sure no balls got out of the infield. It was a real team no-hitter.”

Kemper, who has a fastball clocked in the low 80s, is also starting to get looks from college baseball teams.

“The thing is Davis didn’t even have his best stuff in the no-hitter,” Fondren said. “His fastball was around 78, but he was hitting his spots and kept getting outs. He is just a great young man who is coming into his own.”

So far this season Kemper has two wins and a save. In 20 2/3 innings pitched he has allowed just five hits and six walks with one earned run and 31 strikeouts. Kemper also has a 0.34 earned run average.

The Sailors also are getting solid pitching from Logan Henry. In 18 innings of work Henry has a 1.55 earned run average with 13 strikeouts. Henry also has a pair of wins including a complete game shutout of Cedar Springs where he threw 82 pitches.

“Logan has been awesome for us,” Fondren said. “He has four different pitches in his arsenal and he has great control.”



(Courtesy, Travis Kuhfeldt)



The Sailors also have been getting the job done at the plate. Kemper has been among the batting leaders this season with a .421 batting average and a .493 on-base percentage. Noah Funk is hitting .383 with a .567 on-base percentage while VanGrouw is hitting .342 with a .527 on-base percentage.

“Noah Funk is a Calvin College football commit and he has helped us immensely,” Fondren said. “He is our No. 2-hole hitter and he has been bringing it all season. He has scored 20 runs this season and has been doing a really good job.”

Wyatt Vliestra is another hitter who has been igniting the offense this season.

“Wyatt also has a crazy on-base percentage,” Fondren said. “In the big moments Wyatt always seems to be on base. He always seems to find a way to get on base.”

The Sailors also are getting big contributions from leadoff hitter Charlie Schruer.

“Charlie is a great leadoff hitter,” Fondren said. “The way he can work pitchers and get the pitch count up has been big for us. He just eats up opposing pitchers with the way he can get the pitch count up. He is also hitting close to .300 with an on-base percentage over .350. He is also on pace to break the school record for stolen bases in a season. He has 26 so far this year and the record is 28. He has only been caught stealing once.”

South also is getting outstanding play from Caleb Herder at the catcher position.

“Caleb has just absolutely been killing it at catcher,” Fondren said. “He has a great leadership style and he comes to play every day.”

Fondren also is quick to credit his coaching staff for the success of the team this season.

“I think we have the best coaching staff in the state,” Fondren said. “Steve Ritsema, Jake Ritsema and Ted Titus have been so good for our team. They are a big part of the whole culture we are building with the team, not just as baseball players but as young men.”

Overall, Fondren is happy with how the team is performing this season and how the team and program is growing both on and off the field.

“What a great group of men of God we have,” Fondren said. “I have been so pleased with this team and the culture that we have. Some of our best players are part of the ministry groups that our school sends out on weekends. We have some great young men who play together and love being together. They are just so great to be around.”      

Wyoming senior Kalani Stowe reaches 600-strikeout record

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
Wyoming pitcher Kalani Stowe throwing her 600th strikeout in a win over Comstock Park last week. (Courtesy Marty Marzean)



By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor



Wyoming Wolves record-breaking senior Kalani Stowe caught the eye of Coach Kaitlin Failing when she was still in elementary school.

“We have been working with Kalani since the summer before her fifth-grade year,” Failing said. “She came to our camp and began pitching with us that summer in our open pitching times.”

Stowe became the first softball pitcher in Wyoming history to eclipse the 600-strikeout mark this past Thursday against Comstock Park. Stowe mowed down the Panthers with a 19-K performance, giving up four hits in a complete game as the Wolves scored a 10-2 victory.

Coach Failing admires the work ethic and determination put forth by her senior hurler. Stowe has been a work in progress since walking through the doors as a fifth grader.

“She has excelled on the softball field since we first knew her,” Failing said. 

“She didn’t start pitching during the travel ball season until the summer after her 8th grade year. We knew she was going to be good because of her ability to snap the ball and go all out. She just needed the opportunity to pitch in games.”

Stowe made an impact on the varsity roster as a freshman, collecting 156 strikeouts in 89 innings of work in her first season.

“She worked extremely hard to be ready to pitch varsity with very little experience on the mound leading up to her first high school season,” Failing said.

“She came to weekly lessons to work on controlling her movement pitches and increasing her spin rate. What sets her apart is her spin rate and her ability to spin the ball and make it move with her movement pitches. For her, it was learning to control her natural ability to spin the ball and make the ball do what she wanted it to do for each pitch.”

The Wolves took part in the Northview tournament this past weekend, and Stowe added to her impressive record by throwing a five-inning, no-hitter against Spring Lake in a 7-0 win. She also tossed another three innings against Kenowa Hills in the Wolves’ 11-0 victory over the Knights, taking her career mark to 637 strikeouts.

With 14 games remaining on the Wolves’ schedule, the 700 club is well within reach for Stowe, who has committed to play at Grand Rapids Community College.

“It was very exciting to see her surpass this record because of all the hard work she has put in for years to get to this point,” Failing said. “But we are also excited to see how high she can go this season and see if she can make it over 700 as well.”

A .600 batting average and 14 stolen bases as well

Stowe doesn’t only dominate in the pitcher’s circle; she is also Wyoming’s most productive hitter. The switch hitter carries a .600 batting average and has stolen 14 bases on the season.

“She is a great hitter as well and really a great player in any position on the field,” Failing said. “When she isn’t pitching for us, she is usually catching. She is a natural right-hand hitter, but also slaps left-handed. She is extremely fast and can outrun most balls she puts into play from the left side and hits with power from the right side.”

Stowe is not the only four-year varsity player in the Wolves’ lineup.



Wyoming center fielder Maddy Lee. (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolves)



Maddy Lee has been patrolling center field since her freshman year. Lee has a .569 on-base percentage and has worked 21 walks this season.

“She has been our varsity starting center fielder and has been solid out there all four years,” Failing said. “She covers a lot of ground and is a leader on the field for us.”

Junior catcher Kellsie Dieterle also is an important piece of the puzzle for Wyoming. Failing emphasized the need for a strong option at catcher that can allow Stowe more innings in the pitcher’s circle.



Wyoming junior catcher Kellsie Dieterle. (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolves)



“She is a girl that we taught how to catch last season because we knew we needed a catcher for Kalani,” Failing said. “She has performed beyond our expectations back there. She has only allowed three passed balls on the season and thrown out one of the five steal attempts. There are not many teams that even attempt to steal on her.”



Wyoming senior shortstop Isabelle Castro. (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolves)



Senior shortstop Isabelle Castro is another key player for Wyoming. Castro currently holds a .404 batting average and has committed to play at Muskegon Community College.

“She moved from third base to shortstop for us this season and has done a great job,” Failing said. “She is a big bat in our lineup and is always hitting the ball hard.”

Failing’s Wolves hold an 11-8 record heading into the second half of the season and will look to her seniors to lead the way against a tough upcoming schedule.

“We have a very strong core with a few young players that have stepped up for us this season,” Failing explained. “We are looking to see the growth each player makes and how our team can continue to work together against some tough competition.”

Wyoming travels to Muskegon Reeths-Puffer and Covenant Christian for two doubleheaders this week. 

South Christian girls soccer team ranked fourth in Division 3

Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,
Alexa Boersma (5) scored nine goals in the first 11 games for the Sailors. Photo from an earlier game. (Photo Courtesy, Brian Nitz)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

When it comes to Division 3 soccer in the state of Michigan, you can usually count on a team from West Michigan being highly ranked in the state.

This season, that team is the South Christian Sailors, who are currently fourth in the state in Division 3 after sitting atop the standings for the first few weeks. Long-time rival Unity Christian has taken over the top spot. South Christian and Unity are familiar names when it comes to soccer in Division 3 as the two teams have combined for two state titles in the past five years with South Christian winning the Division 3 state title in 2019 and Unity winning it last year.

South Christian, which reached the regional semifinals last year, is off to a strong start this season with a 9-2-2 record. One of the losses was a 2-0 decision against Hudsonville, the No. 1-ranked team in the state in Division 1, while the Sailors also played to a draw with anther OK Red soccer power in Rockford. The Sailors also claimed an impressive 1-0 win against East Grand Rapids, another local soccer powerhouse.

New coach Joel VandeKopple

South Christian is off to a strong start under a new coach this season in Joel VandeKopple. So far, VandeKopple likes what he is seeing from the Sailors.

“We’ve had a strong start to the season with results against East Grand Rapids and Rockford,” VandeKopple said. “It’s my first year as head coach of the girls’ team and so there’s always an adjustment to a new coach and style of play, but the girls have bought in and have had a great start.” 

So far this season the Sailors are demonstrating a good blend of offense and stingy defense. The South Christian defense has recorded six shutouts through the first 11 games of the season. South has received solid play in goal this season from goalkeeper Olivia In’thout, who has been in goal for all six of the shutouts. 

50 goals in 13 games

Offensively, South Christian has totaled 50 goals through the first 13 games. Forward Alexa Boersma has been one of the leaders on the offensive side of the field with nine goals in 11 games, while Katelyn Vander Ark (offensive center midfielder) is having a productive season with six goals.



South Christian’s Izzy DeJong (22) battles for possession during a recent game. (Photo Courtesy, Brian Nitz)



Playing with plenty of drive and having a large group of talented players has been a strong point so far this season.

“Our intensity and depth are two big strengths for this season,” VandeKopple said. “We try to play a high-intensity game. To do that we need a lot of girls who are willing to put that effort in. We have a deep bench that allows us to play with such high intensity.”

The Sailors are getting into the heart of the conference schedule in the OK Gold which is one of the most competitive leagues in West Michigan. Along with playing for a league title, the Sailors are sharpening their skills in anticipation of a deep run in the state Division 3 state tournament.

“We try to compete in our conference and in Division 3,” VandeKopple said. “We try to focus on getting better throughout the year so we play our best soccer at the end of the season while also glorifying God with how we play.”  

East Kentwood boys track and field team ranked No. 1 in the state

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
East Kentwood pole vaulter Reece Emeott. (Courtesy, Nuha Hussein)





By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor



Coming off a ninth-place finish in the Division 1 state finals, the East Kentwood boys track and field team will lean on some youngsters to top last year.


According to the Michigan Interscholastic Track Coaches Association, they are the team to beat this year ranked atop Division 1 in the state.

“We are working hard to maintain a standard of excellence,” said Track and Field Coach and Co-Athletic Director David Emeott. “We are very young, but I am confident over time we will get there.”

Pole vaulting a family affair

Pole vaulter sophomore Reece Emeott is playing a pivotal role in the youth movement in the Falcons Track and Field team. Reece is the son of Coach Emeott, and pole vaulting is a family affair in their household.

“I pole vaulted; his older brother and sister pole vault in college; he has been pole vaulting since birth,” Coach Emeott said.
 

Reece, ranked No. 1 in the state, cleared 13 feet at the finals last year as a freshman and has already cleared 14-6 this season.

“We are looking for big things from him,” Coach Emeott said. “We are hoping he will place very high in the state meet.”

Emeott also is maintaining a high level of excellence in the classroom.

“Reece is a 4.13 GPA student. He takes many AP classes, and his mom thinks he is very smart. Nice kid, needs to clean his room,” Emeott said proudly.


East Kentwood’s Malachi Mosely. (Courtesy, Nuha Hussein)



Malachi Mosely was the only underclassman on the 4×100 relay team that finished in the top 12 at the state event.

“Malachi has had to overcome some nagging injuries, but we think he is ready to go,” Emeott said. “He opened up with a 48.56 indoor 400, and this could be a big season for him.”



East Kentwood’s Evan Nikoles. (Courtesy, Nuha Hussein)



Junior Evan Nikoles has paced the competition in the 1600-meter race while shaving off 20 seconds from his best time during the 2023 season. 

“Evan has done an amazing job in the distance events. He has been able to lead in most of his races and do whatever the team needs,” Emeott said.

Sophomore Jhavon Alexander has made his mark in the long jump for East Kentwood. Alexander placed first at the Aquinas HS Indoor Challenge, clearing 21-2. Alexander holds a personal record of 22-3, set on April 17 against West Ottawa.



East Kentwood long jumper and sprinter Jhavon Alexander. (Courtesy, Nuha Hussein)



“Jhavon has led us in the long jump and, as a sophomore, has been very competitive in the sprints. He is still young, but has a mature attitude and a huge heart,” Emeott said.

Wyoming baseball uses strong pitching effort, timely hitting to defeat Union Tuesday in WKTV Truck Game

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
Wyoming pitcher Jack Terveen totaled 11 strikeouts and gave up only one hit in the Wolves’ 6-1 win over Grand Rapids Union. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

Thanks to some solid pitching by Jack Terveen and a balanced hitting attack, a young Wyoming baseball team continued to show progress this season with a 6-1 win over Grand Rapids Union in WKTV’s Tuesday Night Truck Game.

The win was the fourth of the season for the Wolves who faced a difficult schedule to start as they played some of the top teams in West Michigan like Zeeland West and Zeeland East.

Terveen gets 11 strikeouts in one-hitter

Pitching was a big key in the win for the Wolves as Terveen allowed one hit and one run over six innings. Terveen also racked up 11 strikeouts during his six innings of work as he hit his spots and changed speeds to keep the Union hitters off balance. Markis Cadreau came on in relief in the seventh inning to nail down the win for the Wolves as he retired the Red Hawks in order with one strikeout.



Wyoming players converse on the mound during the OK Green Conference win against Grand Rapids Union Tuesday. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)

A balanced hitting attack

Offensively, Wyoming enjoyed a balanced attack at the plate. The Wolves pounded out 12 hits in the game with all but one batter in the order recording at least one hit during the game.

Wyoming scored single runs in the second and third innings to take a 2-0 lead. The Wolves then doubled the lead with two runs in the fourth inning and added a pair of insurance runs in the sixth after Union scored its lone run in the top of the sixth.

Elijah Halbower led the Wyoming offense as he collected a pair of hits and drove in a run. Branson Abdella also added two hits and walked while stealing a pair of bases. Jackson Reed had two hits, scored a run, stole a base and had an RBI. Donny Petree Jr. also had a pair of hits, stole a base and drove in a run. 

The Wolves also displayed some solid defense in turning a double play and committing no errors during the game.

Wyoming won a pair of games April 20 en route to winning the championship at the King of Wyoming Tournament, defeating Lee 14-3 in the semifinals and stopping Kelloggsville 22-0 in the championship game.

“We have a really young team,” said Wyoming coach Donny Petree Sr. “We lost 13 seniors from last year’s team so we are rebuilding this year. We played really well this past weekend in the King of Wyoming Tournament. We had some good pitching and we hit the ball really well.”

Terveen was one of the Wyoming pitchers who stood out at the tournament as he tossed a three-hitter in one of the wins.

Petree Jr. leads team with a .406 batting average

The Wyoming offense was paced by Donny Petree Jr. The junior infielder collected six hits and drove in four runs during the tournament. Petree Jr. came into the Union game leading the Wolves in hitting with a .406 batting average. Sandwiched between the tournament and the Union game was a strong game against Caledonia where Petree Jr. went three-for-four with three doubles.

Terveen also has been one of Wyoming’s top hitters as he entered the Union game with a .323 batting average.

Petree Jr. and Terveen are both juniors and team leaders for the Wolves, who have been showing progress as the season heads into May. The Wolves also are getting strong contributions from senior shortstop Seth Moore, junior catcher Diego Romero and Halbower in centerfield. Petree Jr., Romero and Halbower also are team captains.

A pair of juniors, first baseman Chase Simon and Reed, left field, are also stepping up this season as is sophomore second baseman De’Avion Miller.

Even more young players contributed in the tournament win. Sophomore Isaac Johnson and freshman Josue Pagon along with Miller and Cadreau, a sophomore, helped with the tournament wins.

“Faced really good teams right out of the gate”

“We won our first game of the season then lost nine in a row,” Petree Sr. said. “We faced Zeeland East and Zeeland West early and they are state-ranked teams. We lost one of those games 5-2 and we played a good game against them. We’ve played well, we’ve just went against some really good teams right out of the gate.”

Petree Sr. is also receiving plenty of help from his coaching staff.

“Our assistant coaches, Chano Buentello, Rob Kogler and Nico Rodriguez are doing a great job,” Petree Sr. said. “We have a young team, but we are getting better all the time.”

City of Kentwood and Mary Free Bed partner to host Limb Loss Awareness 5K on Saturday, April 27

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Health, Local Business, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
Last year’s Limb Loss Awareness 5k. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The City of Kentwood and Mary Free Bed Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics are teaming up to recognize Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month with the Mary Free Bed Prosthetics Limb Loss Awareness 5K on Saturday, April 27.

The all-ages, all-abilities event will kick off with packet pickup at 9 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 355 48th St. SE, followed by a “Show Your Mettle” photo at 9:45 a.m. This annual photo is a play on words and provides participants who use prosthetics an opportunity to show off their mettle – ability to cope well with difficulties and face a demanding situation in a spirited and resilient way, as well as their prosthetics and mobility aides which may be made of metal. The race will begin at 10 a.m. and feature a route that will take participants through Veterans Memorial Park and part of the East West Trail. A 1-mile fun run for ages 12 and younger will follow at 11 a.m.



Last year’s Limb Loss Awareness 5k. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Through this race, the City and Mary Free Bed are seeking to increase awareness of limb loss and limb differences, build community and raise funds for Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs. These programs are designed to provide recreation and enrichment programs for people of all abilities and offer adapted athletic opportunities for people with disabilities to create a safe, fun experience for all. 


“This race has quickly become one of our most popular events, bringing in participants from around the state,” said Shelby Henshaw, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator. “We’re honored to have Mary Free Bed as our title sponsor for the event as we focus on community, recreation and inclusion for people of all abilities.” 


Registration is available online and costs $30 through March 29. The cost increases to $35 from March 30 to April 26 and is $40 on race day. Participants will receive a T-shirt, finisher medal and swag bag as part of their registration. To guarantee a shirt, register by April 5. The kids race costs $10 per child and includes a T-shirt and finisher medal. 


Last year’s Limb Loss Awareness 5k. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Packet pickup will be available at the event and in advance at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, on Thursday, April 25 from noon to 5 p.m. and Friday, April 26 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.


A brief award ceremony will take place following the race around 11:30 a.m. First place prizes will be awarded to the first adult men and women amputees and nonamputees who cross the finish line, as well as top finishers in each age group. The event will wrap up at 1 p.m. 


“Our team at Mary Free Bed is dedicated to helping individuals with limb loss and limb differences achieve their full potential,” said Scott Riddle, vice president, of Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics at Mary Free Bed. “We are excited to support the Limb Loss Awareness 5K alongside the City of Kentwood. This event is a powerful platform to raise awareness and celebrate the freedom and possibilities of individuals living with limb loss or a limb difference.”


The event also will include educational activities designed to help race participants learn more about limb loss and limb differences, connect with resources and build community. Several informational booths from various sponsors will also be on-site. 


The event’s diamond sponsor is Mary Free Bed Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses or organizations looking to get involved in the race. 



Last year’s Limb Loss Awareness 5k. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)




For more information about the race, sponsorships and race registration, visit kentwood.us/LimbLoss5K.


All profits from the event will go toward improving and expanding the City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs to encourage health and wellness, socialization and excellent quality of life for all. The programs – offered in collaboration with community partners like Mary Free Bed Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics – allow participants to enjoy the benefits that come with any athletic or recreational activity, such as a sense of community, improved confidence and new skills. For more info on the City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.

Area boxers punch tickets to nationals at Golden Gloves state finals Saturday

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,
Gentle Gibson won the 132-pound open state title, defeating five-time state champ Aneudy “Junior” Rios. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

The final night of the 2024 Golden Gloves produced plenty of epic matches as state titles were on the line as well as trips to the Golden Gloves National Tournament for winners in the novice divisions.



Several West Michigan boxers are among those headed to the national tournament in Detroit after coming away with state titles at the finals that took place at the 4 Mile Showplace.



All open division boxers advance to the Golden Gloves National Tournament of Champions from May 13-18 at Huntington Place in Detroit.

Twins Mike and Michael Guzman grab state titles

Two of those fighters come from the same household as twins Mike and Michael Guzman from Michigan Golden Gloves Association (MGGA) completed the `Guzman takeover’ by winning state titles.

Mike Guzman won his title by coming away with a decision against Joshua Riley of Flint Town Boxing in the 139-pound novice final. Mike’s brother Michael earlier won his title in a walkover at 125 pounds.



Mike Guzman (pictured) won a state title at 139 pounds, while his brother Michael won a title at 125 pounds. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)

“I said when the tournament started that it would be a Guzman takeover,” said Mike Guzman. “It feels great. It went exactly as I predicted it would.”

Guzman kept a constant pressure on Riley throughout the bout that included plenty of body shots.

“My plan was to go to the body,” Guzman said. “If you kill the body the head will die. I just wanted to keep hammering away at the body.”



Guillermo Mercado won a fourth state title with his win at 112 pounds. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



A pair of MGGA veterans also added to their collection of state titles as Guillermo Mercado won a fourth state title, while Ulysses Campos won a fifth state title.

Mercado won the 112-pound novice title in a big way as he defeated Joseph Swartz of Riverside Sports Academy when the referee stopped the bout in the second round.

Mercado came out applying heavy pressure in the first round and had Swartz in trouble at the end of the first round. Mercado continued the barrage in the second round before the referee stepped in and stopped the bout.

“This one was the most important one,” Mercado said. “This is my last year as an amateur and I wanted to go out with a knockout. I am going to make my pro debut after the nationals and I wanted to win this one to go out in style. This couldn’t have gone any better.”

Campos claimed his fifth state title when he claimed a decision against Jaylen Nichols of 475 Elite. The match was a slugfest throughout with the taller Nichols presenting a challenge to the veteran Campos.

“This feels pretty good,” Campos said. “No matter if it is the first one or the fifth one, it always feels great to win an open division title. He (Nichols) had some reach and he’s an experienced fighter. He knew what he was doing in the ring. I knew I had to do work on the inside and stay busy.”  

Gentle Gibson gets first win over “Junior” Rios to advance

One of the premier bouts of the evening came in the 132-pound open final. That was where five-time state champion Aneudy “Junior” Rios was looking to win a sixth state title against Gentle Gibson of Kalamazoo. Rios defeated Gibson in the West Michigan finals last week and also defeated Gibson at both the Michigan and the West Michigan state finals last year. In a bout that featured non-stop action from start to finish, Gibson came away with the decision to claim his first-ever win against Rios and earn a trip to the national tournament.

“He beat me three out of four times and every one of them were close,” Gibson said. “He has made me a better fighter. I respect him a lot. They say iron sharpens iron and that is what we’ve been for each other. This is the first time I’ve beaten him and this was the one for all the marbles. I would rather have lost to him last week than this week.”

EGR graduate Wyatt Alvarez wins first-ever state title

Another rematch from last week’s West Michigan finals came at 165 pounds where Wyatt Alvarez of PK Boxing won a decision against Michael Lynn III of Team Glass of Lansing. Like last week, the two boxers put on an entertaining show with plenty of punches thrown. Alvarez, a 2023 graduate of East Grand Rapids, however, applied more steady pressure and came away with the win.



East Grand Rapids graduate Wyatt Alvarez won his first-ever state title at 165 pounds in the open division. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



“I knew he would come out and put the pressure on,” Alvarez said. “I knew I had to respond with a lot of pressure and throw a lot of punches. I just had to keep on punching.”

After winning his first-ever West Michigan title last week, Alvarez added a state title and is headed to Detroit for nationals.

Also claiming open titles were Nicholas Young of Flint Town Boxing at 156 pounds, Solomon Jagun of Gideon Boxing at 203 pounds and Sardius Simmons of Ultimate Boxing Club at heavyweight.

A total of nine elite novice championships also took place to start the evening of boxing off.

Forest Hills Eastern grad Nasier Harris gets state title at 156-pound novice

In one of the most exciting novice matches, Nasier Harris of MGGA hooked up with Gohan Estevez Marte of PK Boxing in a rematch of the West Michigan finals at 156 pounds. In what proved to be another three-round slugfest that resembled their last bout, Harris again came away with a decision.



Forest Hills Eastern graduate Nasier Harris won the 156-pound novice state title. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



“It was a hard fight and I feel I could’ve done better,” Harris said. “He was a little more elusive this time and he put a little more pressure on me. I think that my jab made the difference for me. Winning this title feels great. I worked hard for this.”

West Michigan boxers also won novice titles at 132 and 139 pounds. At 132 pounds, Stephen Ramirez won a rematch when he claimed a decision against Davone Jones of Lansing Crown Boxing. At 139 pounds, DreAun Ellis of the Kalamazoo Boxing Club earned a decision against Vincente Jezrrel Mendoza Castro of Zuniga Boxing.

At 125 pounds, Daniel Espinoza of Bay City won a decision against Dominique Suggs of Flint Boxing Club. At 147 pounds, Joseph Gossett of Saginaw Boxing claimed a decision against Karon Cross of MGGA.

A pair of Lansing boxers also claimed novice championships. At 165 pounds, Ramadhani Haji of Team Glass won a decision against Keegan Morrissey of Gideon Boxing Club. At 203 pounds, D’Angelo Williams of Team Glass won a decision against Jaylen Milton-Cofield of Saginaw Boxing.

At 176 pounds, Kyree Wiggins of Flint Town Boxing won a decision against David Venn of Lansing Crown Boxing. In the novice heavyweight division, Devon Dear of Torque Boxing in Sault Ste. Marie made the long trip south pay off as he defeated Daonte Johnson of Riverside Sports Academy by a decision.

New venue next year

Local Golden Gloves fans also heard the news at Saturday’s finals that next year’s West Michigan and state finals will take place at Aquinas College Fieldhouse.

Local school’s youth wrestling program produces results, sends first student to wrestling State Finals!

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Sports, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
Dahmari Lee (in gray) takes on an opponent during a scrimmage at AnchorPoint Christian School (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


AnchorPoint Christian School in Wyoming is excited to announce that 4th grade student Dahmari Lee will be moving on to the MYWAY State Championships. Dahmari is AnchorPoint’s first student to move on to the championship round.

“I’m so proud of all the wrestlers this year!” said Coach Ed Harris in supplied material. “Each one has grown in a number of ways whether it is learning new moves, self-confidence, or how to handle adversity.”

Challenges and growth

Dahmari Lee with parents Andreen and John Wierenga (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

For the past two years, Dahmari has wrestled as a novice. The 2024 regional tournament at Grandville High School was his first taste of open wrestling, competing against opponents with two or more years of wrestling experience.

Dahmari enjoys wrestling with his dad at home, so when AnchorPoint’s 5-6th grade teacher Ed Harris formed a school wrestling team, he immediately signed up.

“He’s really into sports, so when they started a wrestling program here he wanted to try it,” John Wierenga, Dahmari’s father, told WKTV. “I told him we probably wouldn’t do any tournaments the first year, just practice. But after three practices, he was ready [to try] a tournament.”

Dahmari said he enjoys working hard and receiving medals (of which he has earned several) at competitions. The young wrestler is looking forward to participating at the State Championships, in part because he will wrestle open.

“Open is a little bit harder because you have to wrestle a couple years ahead of you,” said Dahmari, admitting that he likes the challenge of competing against more experienced wrestlers.

Andreen Wierenga, Dahmari’s mother, said watching her son wrestle is very emotional for her because she doesn’t want him to get hurt.

Despite her nervousness, Andreen supports Dahmari by attending his matches.

Dahmari Lee (right) prepares to scrimmage (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“When he’s winning, I like to cheer him on,” said Andreen. “But when he started to get the hang of it, he said, ‘I don’t like the excitement. You can stay home, and Dad can take me,’” said Andreen.

Andreen attended a recent match with the promise that she would sit quietly and not cheer. When Dahmari won his match, however, Andreen admitted that her emotions ran high.

“He came up and hugged me and said, ‘See? This is why I told you not to come,’” said Andreen with a laugh.

Dahmari’s willingness to accept challenges placed before him has garnered the notice of his coach.

“[Dahmari] is always willing to challenge himself in practice and in competition,” said Harris. “The fact that he placed 4th shows he belongs with those open wrestlers, and will continue to grow as an athlete and a person going forward.”

Iron sharpens iron

Launching AnchorPoint’s K-6 grade wrestling program stemmed from Harris’ own love of the sport.

Teacher and Coach Ed Harris believes in teaching more than just wrestling moves (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Harris began wrestling in high school and quickly fell in love with the sport. A Division 2 Team National Championship win at GVSU was followed by coaching positions at Godfrey Lee Middle School and then Wyoming High School.

When a donor purchased mats for AnchorPoint from Michigan State, the school’s youth wrestling team began.

“I love the sport of wrestling, and with a donor coming forward to help get the mats here, and my sons going to this school [and] with the opportunity to coach them, God’s timing was perfect,” said Harris.

Harris is also excited to incorporate faith into the wrestling program.

“I have always loved Proverbs 27:17: ‘Iron sharpens iron,’ because it is so true in wrestling,” said Harris, adding that a good partner provides refinement, but a bad partner creates stumbling blocks. “It is amazing how much faith and wrestling are connected, and we talk about that in our devotions before every practice.”

Life lessons

Dahmari (left) shows perseverance during a recent scrimmage (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Faith is only one life lesson AnchorPoint’s wrestlers learn through the program.

Strengthening their bodies as well as relationships with their peers as they work together in a competitive setting is also a focus of the program. Giving students a positive outlet for working through emotions, physical stress or anxiety, and learning the art of winning and losing gracefully are also lessons the students will take with them throughout life.

But one of the most important lessons, Harris said, is perseverance – especially through tough times.

“Wrestling is super tough, especially when you first start out,” said Harris, commenting that he was proud of the wrestlers for showing perseverance during a recent scrimmage. “No matter the score, they just kept wrestling and working to improve.

“I hope they transition that thinking to life and that, no matter what is going on in life, you can always find ways to work to make it better.”

Preparation and anticipation

As Dahmari prepares for the State Championships at Wings Event Center Arena on March 22-23, anticipation is high for both student and coach.

“I’m excited to see where wrestling can take Dahmari and all of our students in the future!” said Harris.

For more information on AnchorPoint Christian School, visit www.anchorpointchristian.org.

West Michigan Golden Gloves finals produces plenty of high-level contests

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports,
Michael Carbajal (left) and Mike Guzman staged the fight of the night at the West Michigan Golden Gloves finals at the 4 Mile Showplace. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

Championships were on the line Saturday night at the West Michigan Golden Gloves Finals and area boxers provided plenty of outstanding performances in front of a large and amped-up crowd at the 4 Mile Showplace.

The evening was highlighted by several high-octane bouts, but by far the most entertaining match of the 13-bout card was the battle for the 139-pound elite open title between Mike Guzman of Michigan Golden Gloves Association (MGGA) and Michael Carbajal of PK Boxing in Wyoming.

No strangers to each other, Guzman and Carbajal came into the bout having split their previous two meetings. With a West Michigan title on the line, the two boxers stole the show with a thrilling three rounds of boxing that saw both boxers unload big shots and flurries throughout. Time and time again the two fighters had the crowd on its feet cheering on the two pugilists who took turns delivering combinations and big right hands. In the end, Guzman had his hand raised in victory with a decision.

“He’s a brawler and I knew it was going to be a brawl,” Guzman said. “I tried to outbox him. He’s a tough fighter and I knew it was a going to be a battle of wills. It was a great fight, but I think my defense made the difference. I feel like I am built for this, but so is he.”



Mike Guzman won his second-straight West Michigan title. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



The West Michigan title was the second straight for Guzman who now sets his sights on winning a Michigan state championship next weekend.

“The job isn’t done yet,” Guzman said. “I want to win the state title.”

A fourth match between Guzman and Carbajal may be in the cards as both the winners and runner-ups from the West Michigan finals move on to the state finals where the top two placers from the East Michigan Golden Gloves make the trek west for the state semifinals and finals on Friday and Saturday. 

Another outstanding, action-filled bout took place in the 132-pound elite open final where five-time state champion Aneudy “Junior” Rios took the next step toward a sixth state title. Like Guzman, Rios faced a familiar face in the finals in Kalamazoo boxer Gentle Gibson. Rios defeated Gibson in both the West Michigan and Michigan state finals last year.



Aneudy “Junior” Rios is a five time state champ. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



Relying on his speed and quickness and in excellent condition, Rios came out pressuring Gibson the entire three rounds. Rios piled up the points with his steady barrage of punches, but Gibson kept busy himself firing off combinations and flurries that kept the crowd entertained for the entire three rounds. The pressure of Rios eventually made the difference as he won the match by decision.

“It feels great,” Rios said. “I did what I was supposed to do. I stayed mobile and I stayed busy. He’s a good fighter so I knew it would be a good challenge.”

Rios will most likely meet up with Gibson again in the state finals.

“Going into the finals this year I feel I am in way better condition and more confident,” Rios said. “I feel like my conditioning keeps getting better. I’ve always wanted to win six state titles. That’s my goal and that is what I’m going for.”

In all, a total of four open division titles were on the line. At 147 pounds, Ulysses Campos of MGGA won a decision against Malcolm Jones of PK Boxing. One of the most experienced and productive boxers in West Michigan, Campos came into the bout with a total of six West Michigan titles to his credit and four state titles on his resume.

Taking on a boxer with a mixed-martial arts background, Campos knew the match would be a challenge.


At 147 pounds, Ulysses Campos won a seventh West Michigan Golden Gloves title Saturday. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



“Word on the street was he is a MMA fighter with a different style,” Campos said. “He was a little taller and he used his reach well. I used my experience and closed the gap on him and kept throwing punches. I think it helped that I was use to three-minute rounds.”

In the final elite open match Wyatt Alvarez of PK Boxing won a decision against Michael Lynn III of Team Glass of Lansing. The title was the first West Michigan title in his career for Alvarez.

A total of nine elite novice champions were also crowned during the card. One of the most entertaining bouts among the novices was between Forest Hills Eastern graduate Nasier Harris and Gohan Estevez Marte of PK Boxing at 156 pounds. Harris won by decision in a thrilling bout packed with plenty of action. He began to take control of the match in the second round and added a big third-round knockdown to help ensure the win.



Forest Hills Eastern grad Nasier Harris won the 156-pound novice title and the outstanding novice boxer award. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



“I figured him out about the middle of the second round,” said Harris, who won the outstanding novice boxer award. “I took control after that and got the knockdown in the third round. I was really hyped after that.”

At 147 pounds, Karon Cross of MGGA won a decision against Kolbe Lewis of TCB Boxing. A first-year boxer who graduated from Grand Rapids Innovation Central High School, Cross kept up the pressure to come away with the win in another bout that featured plenty of action.

“This feels really good,” Cross said. “I’ve been boxing for seven or eight months now. My trainer said I have made a lot of progress and he’s real proud of me.”

A pair of boxers from Sturgis came away with titles in the first two bouts of the card. At 125 pounds Gabriel Munoz Hernandez won a decision against Andres Hernandez Gomez. At 132 pounds, Stephen Ramirez captured a decision against Davone Jones of Lansing Crown Boxing.

At 139 pounds, DreAun Ellis of the Kalamazoo Boxing Club defeated Tiburcio Hernandez IV of the Eli J Boxing Club via a decision.

A trio of Lansing boxers also claimed novice championships. At 165 pounds, Ramadhani Haji of Team Glass won a decision against Isaiah Clay of Crown Boxing. At 176 pounds, David Venn of Crown boxing won a decision against Caleb Balsitis of MGGA. At 203 pounds, D’Angelo Williams of Team Glass won when the referee stopped the contest in the second round of his match with Jeremiah Simmons.

In the final novice division match, Victor Napoles of Holland Eli J Boxing Club won a decision against Brendan Campbell of Crown Boxing.

Boxing resumes this week with the Michigan Golden Gloves state semifinals on Friday and the Michigan state finals on Saturday. Doors open at 6 p.m with boxing to begin at 7 p.m. at the 4 Mile Showplace.  


As usual, WKTV will be televising all five nights of this year’s tournament. Check this WKTV Journal Story to get dates and times.     

South Christian girls basketball team saves best for last with thrilling tournament run

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, ,
South Christian girls pose with their district championship trophy. (Photo Courtesy, David Kool)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor



It was a season of ups and downs for the South Christian girls basketball team, but the final couple weeks of ups made the season one to remember for the Sailors.

After finishing the regular season with a 12-10 overall record, 7-7 in the OK Gold, the Sailors went on a thrilling state tournament run that included a district championship and berth in the regional finals.

Heading into the final game of the regular season, South Christian’s record stood at 11-10, the Sailors, however, wrapped up the regular season with a big boost as they defeated a 16-6 Wyoming team 56-55.

That win propelled the Sailors into the state tournament with some momentum. Hosting the district tournament, South Christian took advantage of that momentum by defeating Wayland 48-38 in the district semifinals. The Sailors then won the district title in thrilling fashion with a 78-67 win in double overtime against Holland Christian.


Holland Christian grabbed a 14-10 lead at the end of the first quarter in the district title game and led by four at halftime. The Sailors eventually took a 37-36 lead at the end of the third quarter before the game went into double overtime. The two squads scored six points apiece in the first overtime before South Christian dominated the second one outscoring Holland Christian 14-3.    

Sailors claw back after 13-2 deficit in regional opener

South kept the momentum going at the regional opener at Hopkins with a 47-40 win against Otsego. The Sailors displayed plenty of determination in the win against Otsego as they rallied from behind. South Christian trailed 13-2 at the end of the first quarter before clamping down on defense and picking up the pace on offense.

The season came to an end for the Sailors, however, in the regional final where they dropped a 49-34 decision to Vicksburg.


South Christian Coach Erika Brown (Courtesy, South Christian)

“Winning the district title and competing in a regional final game this season was so special for this group of young ladies,” said South Christian Coach Erika Brown, in her first season as head coach.



“Their hard work, love for each other and the game, and the deep belief they could win was what carried them through, plus our strong defensive mentality. I am incredibly proud of them and what they were determined to accomplish through the many ups and downs this season gave us.”



Defense key to success

The Sailors, who finished the season with a 15-11 overall record, built their team on defense and that defense was a key to success down the stretch.

“Our defense defined us this season,” Brown said. “When we connected and got after it on defense, our offense would ignite.”



Sophia Prins. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
Lizzie Wolthuis. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)

South Christian received key contributions from every member of the team this season. South was led by a solid backcourt that featured guards Sophia Prins and Lizzie Wolthuis.

“Sophia was our starting point guard,” Brown said. “She directed the way and gave us composure and confidence on both ends of the floor.





“Lizzie was our starting shooting guard. She would ignite our offense with her ability to hit threes and drive to the hoop. She also was a strong rebounder and defensive presence.”

The backcourt also was balanced by the versatile skills of the fellow starters.


“Ashley Thomasma was our senior captain who has strong defensive and passing abilities,” Brown said. “Kami Boonstra was our strong driver and shooter and was great at getting defensive deflections. Lily Nitz was our junior captain who was our most versatile player guarding the other team’s top players.”


South Christian captain Ashley Thomasma (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
South Christian captain Lily Nitz (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)



The Sailors also received numerous contributions from players not in the starting lineup throughout the season.

“So many of our players brought such unique talent to our team this year,” Brown said. “We were blessed and fortunate to have so many pieces to the puzzle.” 

While lifting a district title trophy was special, it was the process involved that really sticks out for Brown.

“What I will remember the most about the team and the tournament run was the smiles and watching the girls’ hearts grow and the belief in their eyes widen,” Brown said. “I am so grateful for my wonderful coaching staff, supportive parents and a group of young ladies that bought in and made this such a fun journey this season.


“I will forever remember this team and my first year as head coach.”

Tri-unity boys win second state championship in three years with dominant win over Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart Saturday at MSU

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)



By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

Photos Courtesy Becky Rillema



The Breslin Center feels like home to the Tri-unity Defenders. The team has played in four consecutive state finals, this time avenging a two-point loss from last season.

“Last year, we played not to lose,” legendary Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler said. “That was one of the emphases I had. We need to play to win the game, not to play afraid that we are going to lose. It seems like it’s the same thing, but it’s not. It’s huge, and you don’t play up to your potential if you focus on the negative.


We made sure this year that we focused on the positive.”

The Defenders (24-5) reached that potential, winning their second Division 4 state title in three seasons in convincing fashion 79-59 over Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart Saturday at Michigan State University.

“It was a very emotional game,” Keeler said. “I had to say goodbye to so many young men I truly love and respect. I’m going to miss all of them. I’m going to miss their camaraderie, their unselfishness, and they truly enjoy each other. Those are fun things to have on your team.”

VanKlompenberg and Rosendall will graduate with two state titles

Senior captains Jordan VanKlompenberg and Owen Rosendall were the catalysts for the Defenders. Both play a vital role in the suffocating Tri-unity defense while being the motor for the offense. The seniors end their high school careers winning two state finals in four attempts.

“Jordan and Owen are my two captains; I can not say enough about those two,” Keeler explained. “They have to guard the two best opposing players every game. It was that way again today. They were amazing. I’m really happy with them.”



Senior captains Owen Rosendall (left) and Jodan VanKlompenberg. (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)



VanKlompenberg led with 19 points, Rosendall added 14

VanKlompenberg led the Defenders with 19 points and seven rebounds, while Rosendall added 14 points and six rebounds. 

“The state title means everything,” Rosendall said. “It’s the all-time goal for everyone’s season. This year was special because it was our last game. It was a bittersweet ending, but I couldn’t be more proud of our team. This team means everything; we treat each other like brothers. Our chemistry on the court is above average compared to other teams; it feels like we know where everyone is on the court all the time.”

Tight first quarter

Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart played strong out of the gate and controlled the early portion of the first quarter, leading 8-4 midway through it.

 Grady Pieratt led the Saints with 21 points, while Noah Zeien added 14.

“Noah is tough and a very nice player, but his size hurt him against us because we could contest his shots,” Keeler explained.

VanKlompenberg hit a three-point shot with 3:33 left in the first to put Tri-unity up 11-10, and they wouldn’t look back after that.

The NCAA three-point line can confuse the players trying to adjust to the different layout of the Breslin Center court.

“I told them to stand on the line,” said Keeler, whose team was 7-17 from the three-point line. “We did a lot better job taking better shots and knocking them down.” 

All five starters in double-digit scoring

The entire starting five for Tri-unity scored double-digit points. Akais Giplaye scored 11 points, followed by Keaton Blanker, a second-straight double-double with 11 points and 12 assists and Wes Kaman added 10 points.

“Good balance; they shared the ball,” Keeler explained. “That’s what I love about it. I don’t think my guys have a selfish bone in their bodies. All they want to do is help the team win.”

 

The 6-4 Giplaye has been a constant force in the defensive paint for the Defenders. Keeler said Giplaye is made for this defensive scheme.



Akais Giplaye goes up for a shot. (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)



“It means a lot coming from Coach Keeler,” Giplaye said. “He’s been winning for a long time. Having a coach who helps us become young men and encourages us to reflect Christ on the court, I’m honored to have him as a coach.



“It takes commitment, determination, dedication, discipline, and hard work. We’ve been through the wars, the ups and downs, but we kept moving forward, and through the end, we won a trophy. It’s a memory that will never be forgotten.”

Tri-unity uses depth and free throws to earn fourth-straight state finals appearance

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)



By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

(Photos Courtesy Becky Rillema)

The Tri-unity Christian boys basketball team used its depth and signature defense to wear down St. Ignace in a back-and-forth matchup in a Division 4 semifinal Thursday at the Breslin Center.

In a game that saw 11 lead change, including multiple ones in the fourth quarter, the Defenders hit late free throws to ice the game, advancing to a fourth-straight Division 4 state championship with a 60-53 win over St. Ignace in East Lansing.

“We are very blessed; it would be a great finish to this year”

“It’s surreal, it’s hard to believe,” said Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler, whose team has a chance to win two state championships in three years. “We are very blessed. It would be a great finish to this year. These guys have worked so hard and made sacrifices to play tough, nasty defense.”


Two Tri-unity seniors, Jordan VanKlompenberg and Owen Rosendall, will play in their fourth state final game. Both played as freshmen on the 2020-21 Division 4 state runner-up team. 

St. Ignace senior Jonny Ingalls continued his torrid pace throughout the 2024 postseason. The future Northern Michigan University Wildcat scored 14 of the Saints’ 16 first-quarter points, and the Saints held a three-point lead after one frame in the semifinal.

Ingalls averaged 30 points in the postseason and ended the final game of his high school career with 31 points, four assists, and two steals.

“He was unbelievable,” Keeler said. “He had a little bit more than what we would have liked. I figured he would have around 20-25 points. He’s a great player.” 

Tri-unity was pressing early in the game, making several unforced errors unfamiliar to the disciplined Defenders.

“I was a little disappointed in how we played early on, but sometimes you have to win games like that,” Keeler explained. “We turned the ball over and started the game off trying to hit NBA threes.”

St. Ignace led 26-25 at the half

The score was almost even at the half; St. Ignace was up 26-25 after 16 minutes of play.  

After the break, the Defenders’ depth was felt. St. Ignace would only shoot 31.8% from the field for the remainder of the game and a lowly 40% from the free-throw line in the fourth quarter.

“I thought we played good enough defense to stay in the game,” Keeler said. “I felt that we would eventually turn things around. I told the guys that if we keep pressing the ball down the court and play tough defense, we could wear them down. They didn’t have a lot of depth; they got worn out.”

Keaton Blanker led with 19 points, including 10 free throws and 10 boards

Junior guard Keaton Blanker continued his productive playoff run with a team-high 19 points and 10 rebounds. Blanker hit 10 of 11 free throws; two of which put the game out of reach with less than 30 seconds remaining.



Keaton Blanker led with 19 points, 10 rebounds. (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)


Wes Kaman grabs 14 points, 6 boards

The Defenders have a new hero every game. In the semifinal game, Wes Kaman would take his turn to showcase his offensive skills, scoring 14 points and adding six rebounds.

“That’s what helps make our team so tough; you never know who will step up. They came out the second half with more discipline and knocked down some easier wide-open threes as well,” Keeler said.


Wesley Kaman takes a jumper. (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)



Giplaye and Rillema with 13 rebounds

Akais Giplaye and Trey Rillema provided a rock-solid presence in the paint for the Defenders. Giplaye snatched eight boards, while Rillema grabbed five in limited playing time. 


“Akais is just a rock for us inside; you are not going to take the ball away from him,” Keeler said. “Trey had five rebounds but didn’t play much in the second half.”

 Ingalls cooled off significantly for the Saints in the second half, missing multiple shots from beyond the arc and the free-throw line.

“I thought he got tired,” Keeler explained. “We rotate and have guys rested. I thought we played great defense. We did everything we could to contain him, and he got tired in the second half, and we took advantage of that.


“I told the boys at halftime that a good team will beat one player no matter how good he is, and he got tired. That was the difference in the game. He can shoot; he just didn’t shoot as well in the second half.”

The Defenders play a familiar foe in the finals, Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart. The two teams met in early December, Tri-unity won that game 71-41.

“We played them in the third game of the year,” Keeler said. “They don’t have a lot of depth either, so our desire will be to push the ball on them and wear them down. They have three really good guards, and they do a solid job.”

Tri-unity (23-5) will face Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart (26-2) in the Division 4 finals at 10 a.m. on Saturday at the Breslin Center. The game will be aired live on Bally Sports Detroit. 

Check out this cool photo gallery by Becky Rillema; Defenders heading back to Division 4 state semifinals

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,

All photos courtesy of Becky Rillema

  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)
  • (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)

Another defensive gem leads Tri-unity to fifth-straight state semifinal appearance; VanKlompenberg hits seven treys

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
Senior Jordan VanKlompenberg led the Defenders with 17 points (all three-pointers ) in the win. (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)



By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

Tri-unity Christian held another defensive clinic in its run to the Breslin Center.


The Defenders allowed seven combined points in the second and third quarters as they advanced to a fifth-consecutive Division 4 state semifinal appearance with a 65-29 victory over St. Joseph Our Lady of the Lake Catholic on Tuesday night. 

The Defenders have turned up the heat defensively since the start of the playoffs, allowing just 38.4 points per game after giving up 43.2 points during the regular season. 

“It was amazing, wasn’t it,” said Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler about his team’s defense. “They are so coachable; they gave their very best. Whatever they do, they give their very best effort.”


VanKlompenberg hot from beyond the arc

Senior guard Jordan VanKlompenberg led the way offensively, connecting on a team-high seven three-point shots, which accounted for all of his team-high 21 points. He also had four assists and four rebounds. 

“Jordan also guarded their best player, and he did a phenomenal job defensively holding him to only six points,” Keeler said. 


Game closest after one quarter

The first quarter ended with Tri-unity ahead 19-12 and marked the closest the game would be. 

“They were fresh,” Keeler said. “We pushed the ball up and tried to make it a running game. They didn’t have a lot of depth, so we wanted to wear them out.”

Tri-unity tightened their defense against the Lakers’ offense, allowing only 17 points over the next three quarters.



Junior Keaton Blanker (4) filled the stat sheet. (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)


Sensational junior guard Keaton Blanker again filled the stat sheet for the Defenders, capping off the quarterfinal game with 13 points, seven steals, four assists and four rebounds. 

“That’s Keaton; it’s what he does,” Keeler said. “He does it all. He’s a great young man and a great player. I’m excited to see his growth.

“They kept playing a zone, and we tried to get it inside, but they forced it outside, so we had an opportunity to score a lot of points. We also had several offensive rebounds.”



Akais Giplaye (20) goes high for a rebound. (Photo Courtesy Becky Rillema)


Giplaye, Rillema and Mellon control the boards

Tri-unity used its trio of big men to control the boards. Akais Giplaye, Trey Rillema and Joey Mellon brought down six rebounds each.

“Akais is always amazing on the boards,” Keeler said. “He got into foul trouble early and only scored two points; he fits so well into our defense, runs the baseline, and dominates the boards. I’m pleased with the way they play defense. I think the whole team played great defense.”



Tri-unity (22-5) faces St. Ignace (21-6) in the D-4 state semifinals at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Breslin Center at MSU for the chance to play for a state championship. 

St. Ignace beat Crystal Falls Forest Park 68-51 on Tuesday night. St. Ignace lost in the quarterfinals last season to Traverse City St. Francis.

“They are a good team, and we have to come ready to play, but we are a good team too,” Keeler explained. “I’m confident how we play defense will keep us in games.

“I’m very confident in my team; six of our guys have been here before. I’m excited about the possibilities; we still need to come to play, though.”

Golden Gloves opening night highlights local talent; “large, enthusiastic” crowd Saturday at 4 Mile Showplace 

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan,

Aneudy “Junior” Rios (blue/red trunks) won by decision against Armand Bridgeforth in the 132-pound elite open division on Saturday. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

It was a new venue and a host of new boxers, but the intense action was familiar to area boxing fans as the opening night of the West Michigan Golden Gloves started with a flurry.

A total of 13 bouts took place at the 4 Mile Showplace (1025 4 Mile Rd. NW) in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd.

Three of the bouts featured elite open division boxers, including five-time state champion Aneudy “Junior” Rios. On a mission to win a national Golden Gloves title this season, Rios began his trek to nationals by winning a decision against Armand Bridgeforth of Anahuac Boxing Club in a crowded 132-pound weight class. In a bout full of action, Rios piled up the body punches and kept busy the entire three rounds while Bridgeforth countered with a steady barrage of punches of his own.

“He was a lot more active than I thought he would be,” Rios said. “I was kind of surprised. He put up a good fight and he made things difficult for me at times, but I felt like I boxed well tonight.”

Rios is putting in plenty of time training for his mission to win a national title and that was evident in his performance against Bridgeforth.

“So far so good,” Rios said. “I’m in good condition and my coach is making sure I stay on track. Now I have more time to train. I have a month off from work and I’m going to take advantage of it and get ready for nationals.”

Rios will be back in the ring Wednesday when he faces Michael Guzman in the semifinals.

“I will be facing a friend of mine in the semifinals in Michael Guzman,” Rios said. “It should be a real good fight and will be a good challenge for me.”

Michael Guzman’s twin brother Mike Guzman followed Rios on Saturday’s card and he provided the crowd with an explosive display of boxing skills. Mike Guzman defeated Jesus Lara of the Westside Boxing Club when the referee stopped the bout in the second round.



Mike Guzman won a novice division title last year and is looking to win in the open division this season. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



“I felt things went good,” Guzman said. “I listened to my coaches and stayed behind my jab and kept the pressure up.”

A West Michigan champion last year in the novice division in his first action in the Golden Gloves, Guzman is making a smooth transition into the elite open division.

“I feel like I belong in the open division,” Guzman said. “I feel like this is going to be my year. With my brother, I feel like this year is going to be a Guzman takeover.”

Marcos Saucedo Jr. of Holland Westside Boxing Club

In the third elite open division bout, Marcos Saucedo Jr. of the Holland Westside Boxing Club held off Siderio Mitchell of Michigan Golden Gloves Association (MGGA) to win a decision at 139 pounds. Both Saucedo Jr. and Guzman will be boxing in the Wednesday’s semifinals in a loaded 139-pound weight class that totaled six boxers.

Union’s Hedaytullah Amarkhail of Blues Gym gets a win in first bout of career

Saturday’s action also included six bouts in the elite novice Division. The first of those bouts saw Hedaytullah Amarkhail of Blues Gym in Grand Rapids defeat Brandon Luis of MGGA at 132 pounds in an action-filled bout.



Hedaytullah Amarkhail (blue trunks) won the first bout of his boxing career Saturday with a decision over Brandon Luis. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



A student at Grand Rapids Union High School, Amarkhail is from Afghanistan and his parents and entire family are still in Afghanistan. Amarkhail made his boxing debut a successful one as he displayed plenty of skill despite only training as a boxer since last year.

“It felt amazing,” Amarkhail said. “It was really special. It was my first fight ever. It’s my father’s wish for me to be a boxer and I’m really excited to be here.”

In another bout in the 132-pound elite novice division, Stephen Ramirez from Sturgis won a decision against Anthony Holguin of the Holland Eli J Boxing Club.

The elite novice division also had a pair of bouts at 139 pounds. In the first 139-pound bout DreAun Ellis of the Kalamazoo Boxing Club defeated Dzenan Kovacevic of Blues Gym when the referee stopped the contest in the second round. In the next match at 139 pounds, Tiburcio Hernandez IV of the Eli J Boxing Club won a decision against Dylan Goodwin of the Lansing Crown Boxing Club.

In the elite novice 156-pound division, Gohan Estevez Marte of PK Boxing won a decision against Jordan Sanders.

In the final elite novice bout of the evening at 165 pounds, Isaiah Clay of Crown Boxing won a decision against Marco Walker of Mac Gym. Walker, however, was a big winner outside the ring as he became engaged to be married earlier in the day.

The boxing action kicked off for the evening with four junior novice bouts. At 150 pounds in the junior novice division, Dekent Murray of Kalamazoo Boxing won a decision against Jerymiah Signs of Team Glass Boxing. Also at 150 pounds, John Lopez of Crown Boxing won a decision against Jesus Diaz of Boxing House International of St. Joseph. At 145 pounds, Elijah Faidley of Crown Boxing defeated Keagen Wernette-Beals of Lansing Spartans Youth Organization when the referee stopped the bout in the first round. In the final junior novice bout Teodocio Magana of Crown Boxing won by decision against Noah Bates of Blues Gym.

Boxing resumes with the West Michigan Golden Gloves semifinals on Wednesday. Doors open at 6 p.m with boxing to begin at 7 p.m. at the 4 Mile Showplace.      


As usual, WKTV will televise all five nights of this year’s tournament. Check this WKTV Journal Story to get dates and times.