The South Christian girls basketball team before a game from last season. The Sailors fell to Grand Rapids Christian 48-39 on Tuesday. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
After dropping its opener last week to Forest Hills Northern, the South Christian girls basketball team had the tall task of facing a tough Grand Rapids Christian squad on Tuesday night.
The Sailors hung around with the Eagles for four quarters, but ultimately a few defensive breakdowns and some untimely turnovers led to a 48-39 loss. Despite the loss, South Christian coach Kim Legge was pleased with the performance from her young team.
“We are making the progress that we have to make,” Legge said. “We are a young team that has freshmen and sophomores playing big minutes so we are still learning how to gel as a unit.”
One of those freshman was Lizzie Wolthuis who came off the bench to score a team-high 11 points for the Sailors. Lily Nitz and Ashley Raredon each accounted for five rebounds.
South Christian (0-2) trailed by just six at the break and fought to get within four points in the third quarter, but Katlyn LaRue’s game-high 15 points for Grand Rapids Christian (4-0) proved to be the difference.
The Sailors travel to Holland Christian on Thursday, while the Eagles have some time off before a Dec. 15 matchup with Bryon Center.
Joshua Hurt (left) at the MITCA Division 1 Meet. (Courtesy, Miles Postema)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
East Kentwood senior Joshua Hurt isn’t satisfied with staying in one place — in more ways than one.
“Josh is an excellent athlete and student (3.72 GPA), but a better person,” said David Emeott, co-athletic director at East Kentwood High School and the boys track and field coach. “He is kind and caring and always considerate of his teammates … and is willing to do what it takes to improve.”
An All-State 110-meter hurdler the past two years and three-time All-Conference, Hurt is no stranger to hard work. And he doesn’t make excuses.
“I love how there are no excuses,” Hurt told WKTV. “Either you run well, or you don’t, and that’s on you.”
Hurt claimed his outdoor personal best at hurdling and first place in the event during the Charlie Janke Track & Field Invitational in April 2022, with a time of 14.66 during the 110 hurdles. He also placed fourth in the state (14.77) at the Division 1 finals, where his team finished third overall.
Changing it up
Though Hurt excels at hurdling, Emeott said the athlete decided to change things up by joining the cross country team this fall in order to gain an edge on his competitors.
“Before school started, I wasn’t planning to run cross country at all,” Hurt said. “But after my coach invited me to a pre-season meeting with the cross country team, I was persuaded by the possible endurance and mental gains as well as the leadership I could offer the team.”
EK senior Joshua Hurt running at the OK Red Conference meet in 2022. (Courtesy, Miles Postema)
Hurt chose to focus solely on cross country this fall even though he would have liked to compete in hurdling as well.
“It was safer for me to just focus on one thing at a time,” Hurt said.
Despite pulling a personal best at the Otsego Bulldog Invitational with a time of 22:31:3 for the 5,000-meter event, Hurt admitted the highlight of his season came from practices during the season. Specifically, their Roho workouts from an online fitness coaching platform.
Roho in Swahili means “spirit“ or “heart.” Kip Keino, a Kenyan Olympic distance runner, highlighted his Roho workouts in an interview, and how they gave him the ability to push past his physical and mental fatigue during the Olympics.
“We would have our hard workouts, such as our Roho workouts, probably the hardest workout of the season. While our bodies were in pain and we were fighting through this workout, everyone came together to support each other, and helped everyone push through,” Hurt said.
Starting young
“It all started when I was in elementary school, running in the mileage club where I would go run laps around our course every day during recess,” Hurt explained.
Those laps led Hurt to join the Kentwood Track Club, where he was able to try different track and field events for fun, and without pressure.
Hurt began taking hurdling seriously after a cousin who hurdled in college suggested he try it out. Hurt said he did try hurdling, but “wasn’t the best at it.”
The summer of that year, however, he began training with his current high school coach, Stephanie Stephenson, as well as a past East Kentwood hurdler who is now a University of Michigan hurdler.
“Through this experience, I found a love in the adrenaline rush of getting over these intimidating obstacles that the majority are scared of,” Hurt said.
The East Kentwood track and field team won a Division 1 regional championship and finished tied for third in state in 2022. (Courtesy, Miles Postema)
Growing and learning
Hurt has shown that he is always striving to develop his skills and is not afraid to take on challenges and try new things by becoming a leader as well as an accomplished athlete.
A member of the East Kentwood Athletic Leadership Council, Hurt also guides the track team in pre-season conditioning as well as speed and agility training.
That leadership rolls over into marching band as section leader for the drumline. Hurt also is active in the high school Symphonic Wind Ensemble as a percussionist.
Moving forward
Hurt says he loves hanging out with friends when he’s not training in athletics or practicing for band, and also loves learning new information about, and new skills in, the automotive industry.
“It is one of my main passions,” Hurt continued. “I love learning how the different parts work. I love looking at the basic, untouched cars on the road and envisioning the potential that it has to become my personalized art.”
Hurt is looking toward the future, planning to attend college and to continue running track and field. Though he’s had a few colleges approach him, interested in his various skills, Hurt has not yet committed to one school.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and essay contest winner Clara Wells pose for photos after the Tree Lighting on Dec. 1. (Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
It was a chilly, festive and activity-filled event at Kentwood’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Light Parade last Thursday at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch.
The festivities included carriage rides, children’s crafts, food trucks, live music, a visit from Santa, a performance by the Michigan Ballet Academy, and the main events: the parade and tree lighting, of course.
One of the highlights of the night was grand marshal Clara Wells, a fifth grader at Brookwood Elementary, who was in the same float in the parade with Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and later helped him light the Christmas tree in front of the library.
Wells achieved the honor by winning a new student essay competition among Kentwood students/residents from ages 5-18. Participants were asked to write a 1,000 word essay entitled, “Why do you love living in Kentwood?”
“It really was a good essay about what makes Kentwood so special,” said Mayor Kepley of Wells’ composition. “She talked about our parks and trails, and the schools.”
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin (left), Deputy Chief Stephanie Morningstar at the Kentwood Tree Lighting, 2022. (Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
Kentwood Parks and Recreation staff pose with Santa. Bottom row, from left: Spencer McKellar and Shelby Henshaw. Top row, from left: Ann Przybysz, Laura Barbrick and Lori Gresnick. (Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
When asked what he loves about Kentwood, Kepley said he loves it “because it’s a taste of heaven … because the world has come to Kentwood.”
A city of diversity
“It has such diversity, and to be able to have such diversity and live in peace and love with one another is just a wonderful thing,” Kepley continued. “I live in a neighborhood with 13 homes, and those 13 homes represent the world. We just feel blessed because we have relationships with our neighbors. You see how it can work with different backgrounds.
“A lot of people living in Kentwood weren’t born and raised in the United States, including my lovely wife Susan, who was born and raised in Kenya.”
All in one
Kepley talked about the unity of having all the City’s events in one area, compared to having them spread around in years past.
“We have really focused on bringing everything here (around the library), centralizing things, whether it’s the tree lighting, July Fourth, all our events like the concert series, food truck rallies, the parade, the farmers market.
“We really don’t have a downtown, but we’re trying to create this place around the library and City Hall where people can create traditions and memories.”
Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry
Tree Lighting attendees also had the opportunity to donate non-perishable food items to Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry. For more info, check out this site: kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
Twins Jessica Ann Tyson and Monica Sparks. (Courtesy, Keepsake Photos)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
Despite a turbulent start in life and the odds stacked against them, local twins Monica Sparks and Jessica Ann Tyson didn’t let any roadblocks get in their way.
“People look at us and don’t realize everything we’ve been through,” said Monica Sparks, local business owner and Kent County Commissioner covering a portion of Wyoming and Kentwood. “You look at someone and think that they have it all together or have everything, but we had a very rough start.”
Born to a young heroin addict
Sparks and her twin sister, Jessica Ann Tyson, were born to a young girl addicted to heroin. At 16 years old, their mother already had two children and was in the foster care system when she gave birth to them.
Though they recall a few good memories of their birth mother, most memories involve having to care for themselves as far back as preschool.
“We pretty much had to fend for ourselves all the time,” Sparks said. “I never remember her fixing a dinner, ever, except for one time having fried shrimp from takeout.
“We couldn’t get the cereal because the cereal is on top of the refrigerator, and (their mother and guests) are passed out and we are too small to get it,” Sparks continued. “We tried many things to get that cereal down, but it never worked.”
Many, many days of hunger
At times, the sisters would resort to eating out of dumpsters, but Sparks said they remember “going to bed hungry many, many nights.”
Birth mother viewed with compassion
Despite their harsh childhood experiences, Sparks and Tyson view their mother with compassion.
“Neither of us fault her for that,” Sparks said.
Tyson agreed.
“We’re grateful, if anything else,” Tyson added. “She could have made alternative choices and she really loved us as babies. I believe she was just a product of her environment and her generation.”
Twins Jessica Ann Tyson and Monica Sparks. (Courtesy, Monica Sparks)
Misguided help, that led to a kidnapping
Upset by the lack of care she witnessed from the twins’ mother, their preschool and daycare provider kidnapped Sparks and Tyson in a misguided attempt to help.
“I remember being in the trunk (of her car),” Tyson said. “She was hiding us.”
The police found the twins at their provider’s house and returned the girls to their mother despite the provider explaining about the neglect at home. It was only a few days later, however, when a state worker came to visit them.
“I remember that day like it was today,” Sparks said.
The state worker told the girls that they would need to leave for a time while their mother got some help.
Separated, and lots of tears
“We didn’t know it was going to be forever,” Sparks continued. “They separated us. They put us in two different places.”
Sparks described being separated from her sister as “Sick. Sick. All I did was cry and call my sister’s name.”
After a short time, the twins were brought back together and placed in the foster care system. Unfortunately, it was not a good placement. Once again facing neglect and abuse, Sparks and Tyson found themselves approaching strangers on the street to get food.
“We were little kids, just three or four, on the street, on a corner, hoping that this group of men would feed us,” Sparks said.
Food and safety at school
Tyson remembers loving school because, “school was warm, school let you stay inside, you got free lunch, you could eat.”
Even through these difficulties, compassion flows from both women.
“(Our foster mom) was just a hurting person who hurt other people,” Tyson said. “She was very abusive and was in foster care for the wrong reasons.”
Advocates and angels
Through it all, Sparks and Tyson remember small acts of kindness.
“We had advocates,” Sparks said. “Little angels around that would really take care of us.”
A Muslim family down the street from the twins’ foster home would often give the girls food if they joined the family in evening prayer.
They recalled a lady down the street who left her apartment door open and placed snacks – Sparks remembers raisins and nuts, Tyson remembers Jolly Ranchers – inside the door for them to take at any time.
Finally, a loving, stable home
Sparks and Tyson were seven years old when a school teacher named Joyce Ann Richardson, recently divorced and unable to have children of her own, came to the adoption agency in the hopes of adopting a young child. She found Sparks and Tyson.
The twins’ parents, Joyce and Alonzo Sparks. (Courtesy, Monica Sparks)
Sparks and Tyson both remember Joyce traveling every weekend to come visit the girls no matter the weather. When the abuse at the twins’ foster home was discovered, Sparks and Tyson were allowed to live with Joyce full-time. For the first time, the girls had their own room and a caring provider.
Encountering difficulties with the state allowing her to adopt the twins, Joyce took them to church for prayer. The minister, also a Purple Heart Korean war veteran, fell in love with the girls — and with Joyce.
Alonzo Edward Sparks and Joyce began dating, were married four months later, and have been married for 41 years. Together, they adopted the twins at 8 years old.
Due to lack of structure and socialization in the twins’ lives, Alonzo and Joyce were intentional in their parenting. Sparks openly calls it “damage control.” Both girls were enrolled in private schools, etiquette training, modeling training, public speaking, Girl Scouts, and more.
“There wasn’t anything they wouldn’t do for us,” Tyson said. She admitted that Alonzo and Joyce were strict in their parenting, but, “What did it hurt?” Tyson said with a shrug.
Local business and political leaders
Both Sparks and Tyson are leaders in their community, both as business owners and politicians, and are dedicated to serving others.
Jessica Ann Tyson and Monica Sparks. (Courtesy, Douglas Johnson, Keepsake Photos)
“We have very big hearts and it’s because we want other people to have opportunities,” Tyson said. “We don’t rest on our laurels, and we don’t take excuses. You always continue to strive to do more, to be more, to go further – and take others with you. We are always looking to take others with us.”
“As a person, you want to do your part in society,” Sparks said. She believes that, whether or not you have a hard life, “it’s the choices you make after that” that matter.
“I can rest on my past and blame, blame, blame, but it’s not going to do anything for me. It’s not going to do anything for the area I’m in, the society I’m in, and I have to make the choice to say, ‘How do I do better?’”
Sparks and Tyson both attribute their current success to “good and solid parenting.”
“Parents who were invested and parents who actually cared,” Tyson explained.
Alonzo and Joyce raised the twins to have awareness for “understanding purpose, understanding … that we are in control of our destiny. We are in control of our own fate.”
That awareness instilled a desire to help others in their community.
“Monica and I see more for other people because we are not supposed to be here, statistically,” Tyson said.
Extremely close, but opposing political parties
Sparks and Tyson entered the political realm in an effort to extend that help, but as members of different political parties.
When first running for office, Sparks declared her political affiliation to be with the Democratic party, Tyson, the Republican Party. Both decisions were products of research and personal preferences.
Tyson grew up believing Alonzo and Joyce were Republicans. When Tyson ran for office and had to declare a party, she was surprised to find out they were not. She then asked the question of herself, “What am I?”
“I didn’t want to just check a box, to just assume that I was one thing or another,” Tyson said, “but once I started researching the platforms of the parties, then I tried to see how it aligned with my ‘everyday.’ Once I saw how the Republican party aligned with my ‘everyday,’ and then once I saw how I voted (in the past), I typically voted Republican.”
The reason for voting Republican was not a conscious choice. Tyson said she listened to the message each candidate brought to the table, not their political party affiliation.
“I wish that was something most people would do, but unfortunately we get caught in the cog of being one thing or another,” Tyson said.
Politics don’t drive a wedge between them
Sparks and Tyson believe the political parties are merged in many ways.
“We all say the same thing,” Tyson said. “We want the pursuit of happiness, life, liberty, justice … we want healthy families, healthy schools. Most of the time I find that people are talking about issues and how to solve them.”
However, Sparks and Tyson are not immune to how polarizing politics can be. In an effort to help create hope and understanding between people, Sparks said they are currently working together on publishing a book about “the polarization of America … and how to bridge that gap.”
“There are a lot of gray areas,” Sparks said. “People want you to say something is black or white, yes or no, but there are many different pockets or issues that spawn off one main issue.”
Both sisters recognize a direct correlation between their political and business lives with how they were raised. An example: “Being responsible, making sure we took care of our business financially, things of that nature,” Sparks said.
But that doesn’t mean they don’t have fun.
“We are very close,” Sparks said. “We do a lot of things together. And, we do things that we love to do, so it propels us forward. We don’t feel like we work. We know we work; we don’t feel like we work.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
As part of its preliminary investigation into a Nov. 28 house fire that claimed the lives of two people, the Kentwood Fire Department believes the cause was accidental.
KFD, in partnership with the Kentwood Police Department and Michigan State Police, continues to investigate the fire in the 400 block of 48th Street SE. Fire investigators are looking into possible electrical issues after finding a space heater near the fire’s origin.
At 3:23 a.m. on Nov. 28, the Kentwood Fire and Police departments were dispatched to the 400 block of 48th Street SE in response to a residential house fire. A KFD medic unit was the first to arrive and initiated rescue attempts, followed quickly by additional Kentwood and Cutlerville firefighters, who joined efforts to rescue individuals in the home and put out the fire.
The home was occupied by 11 individuals at the time of the fire. Nine of the residents made it out of the home safely. Medical assistance was provided to a 12-year-old female and a 19-year-old female, who were both pronounced dead at the scene.
The cause of death for both individuals was smoke inhalation. Their names are being withheld pending notification of loved ones.
Kentwood Police Department seeking info on recent homicide
The Kentwood Police Department is asking anyone with information on a homicide that occurred Friday, Nov. 25 at the 5100 block of Wichita Dr SE to call 616-656-6604.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Officers arrived on the scene and located a 30-year-old male with multiple gunshot wounds in the hallway of one of the apartment buildings. The subject was pronounced dead at the scene.
No arrests have been made at this time and the investigation is ongoing.
Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
The City of Wyoming does blow its sidewalks after two or more inches of snow. (WKTV/Maggie Carey)
It’s that time of year again, the winter weather is back! With that, the City of Wyoming would like to remind residents of street parking rules and snowplowing guidelines to help keep the roads clear of snow in the winter time.
It is important to note that according to the city’s website, Wyoming has approximately 250 miles (or 600 lane-miles) of streets. 44th and 28th streets are the major streets with the most traffic, meaning they are prioritized and plowed first, then collector streets, and finally, residential streets and cul-de-sacs.
City of Wyoming Winter Parking
The odd-even ordinance is in effect from Dec. 1 (Thursday) to March 31. Ensuring cars are on the correct side of the street means quicker plow times and safer commutes for residents. If the ordinance is not followed, first time offenders can be warned or even given a ticket.
So, how does the ordinance work? Match the day with the street address. On odd days, park on the side of the street that contains odd addresses (those ending in 1,3,5,7,9). On even days, park on the side of the street that contains even addresses (those ending in 0,2,4,6,8). For those who live in cul-de-sacs, you may park on the street on even days.
Cars must be on the correct side of the street from midnight to 7 p.m. and residents are encouraged to move their cars to the correct side of the street between 7 p.m. and midnight.
Sidewalks and fire hydrants
Residents are asked to help keep fire hydrants clear of snow by their homes/businesses. Local fire department officials say that having hydrants clear of snow and ice saves firefighters time when dealing with a fire. It is recommended to keep three feet of area on all sides of the fire hydrant clear of snow and ice.
The city plows sidewalks at night after there has been two or more inches of snow. Residents are asked to keep the sidewalks clear of obstructions and items (trash cans, cars, signs, etc.) to help the City of Wyoming when plowing the sidewalks.
Enjoy the sounds of the holiday season with the Kentwood Community Choir’s Christmas concert. The group will perform classic carols and old-time favorites at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 at Heritage Baptist Church, 1570 60th St. SE. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted during intermission. Learn more at kentwood.us/ChoirConcert
The City of Kentwood is inviting residents to get in the holiday spirit by participating in the second annual holiday light display contest.
Community members interested in participating are asked to first register online at bit.ly/HolidayLightContest. They can then submit photos of their outdoor holiday light display to eRecreation@kentwood.us or on social media using the hashtag #KentwoodLightContest from Dec. 1-14.
First Place: Kentwood’s Clark Griswold Trophy and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Entries must be located within Kentwood city limits or within the Kentwood Public School district. The photos will be posted to the City’s social media platforms, where community members can vote for their favorite display. The three displays with the most votes will earn prizes and bragging rights for a year.
“After a successful inaugural year, we’re excited to host this friendly, festive competition again,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “This is a fun opportunity for our community to get into the holiday spirit and tap into their creative side.”
Winning prizes
First place: Kentwood’s Clark Griswold Trophy, and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag.
Second place: A second place trophy and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag.
Third place: A third place trophy and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag.
The 2022 South Christian Sailors cemented their legacy Friday night at Ford Field, as they finished a perfect 14-0 season and brought home the school’s fourth state championship en route to a 28-0 victory over Goodrich.
The Sailors defense was up to the task of shutting down a Martians offense that had scored 40 or more points in four of their last five games.
The South Christian football team celebrates with the MHSAA state championship trophy Friday night at Ford Field. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
South Christian held Goodrich to just 57 total yards in the first half, as the Sailors built a 14-0 lead on two Jake DeHaan touchdown passes.
The first of which came at the 9:48 mark, as Nate Brinks capped off the scoring drive with a 3-yard TD reception.
Another South Christian touchdown came with 5:48 left in the half, as DeHaan found Carson Vis for a 23-yard strike to extend the lead.
Sailors QB Jake DeHaan tosses to Nate Brinks for a touchdown in the D-4 state final Friday night. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Despite four turnovers by the Sailors, including a fumble by South Christian on its first play, Goodrich was unable to take advantage.
Sailors coach Danny Brown was pleased to see his defense complete the shutout on the big stage after flirting with shutouts throughout the season.
“We’ve had a heck of a defensive year, probably one of the best we’ve ever had,” Brown said. “We just don’t talk about it because of the numbers being put up by the offense.”
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan evades Goodrich defenders on his way to a touchdown. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
With the game still hanging in the balance, South Christian all but put it out of reach on a DeHaan 59-yard touchdown run to push the Sailors lead to 21-0 with just 5:53 left in the fourth quarter.
The All-State signal caller finished his final game as a Sailor with 220 yards on 14 of 18 passing with three total TDs, in addition to 94 yards on the ground.
A few minutes later, South Christian’s Jake Vermaas put to rest any chance of a miracle comeback with a 23-yard Pick 6 for the game’s final score.
Vermaas also starred on offense, making big catch after big catch for the Sailors and finished with a game-high seven receptions for 143 yards.
South Christian’s Jake Vermaas intercepts a Goodrich pass and returns it for a Sailors TD late in Friday’s D-4 state final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
When the clock finally hit triple zeros, the celebration was on at Ford Field for South Christian as DeHaan reflected on a season he will not soon forget.
“You don’t even know what to feel and you don’t even know how to put it into words,” DeHaan said. “We believed it and we proved that we could do it.”
With the state championship clinched, Brown put his feelings into words on a mission accomplished.
South Christian’s Jake Vermaas had a game-high 143 receiving yards to lead the Sailors in Friday’s D-4 state final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
“Going into the season, we knew we’d be pretty good,” Brown said. “But you never anticipate 14-0 and winning a state championship.
“All you’re looking at is the game ahead of you, the day ahead of you and you just replicate that success over and over again. The fact that happened over however many games and practices is amazing.”
Sailors QB Jake DeHaan connects with Seth Ritsema for a 21-yard touchdown in Saturday’s D-4 semifinal win over Edwardsburg. (Courtesy, David Kool)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Looking to advance to its first state final since 2014, South Christian seized control on the game’s first play with a 51-yard touchdown run by senior QB Jake DeHaan.
“Jake made a great read on the play,” Sailors coach Danny Brown said. “We got some good blocks at the next level and Jake found the open field.”
The Sailors never relinquished that lead, jumping ahead 20-0 in the first half, before holding onto a 26-20 Division 4 semifinal victory over Edwardsburg Saturday afternoon at Harper Creek High School in Battle Creek.
DeHaan accounted for all four South Christian touchdowns, with two through the air and two more on the ground.
The Sailors signal caller connected with Seth Ritsema on a 21-yard scoring strike to extend their lead to 14-0 early in the second quarter. DeHaan later found Carson Vis for a 40-yard touchdown to make it a two-score game in the fourth after the Eddies got within 20-14.
In total, DeHaan amassed over 200 total yards with 118 passing yards and another 91 rushing yards.
DeHaan rushes for a score in South Christian’s D-4 semifinal win over Edwardsburg. (Courtesy, David Kool)
Despite rushing for 267 yards and possessing the ball for 34 minutes of game time, Edwardsburg’s offense was shut out for most of the first half until a 2-yard TD run by Brett Allen with no time left in the half.
Allen ran for 122 yards to lead Edwardsburg’s rushing attack. Brenden Seabolt and Brendan Madison also added rushing scores.
Ford Field bound
Next stop is Friday at Ford Field in Detroit for the D-4 State title game. Brown put into words what it felt like as the final seconds ticked off.
“It was very emotional and I just thought of all the hard work our kids put in throughout the off season and this season.
“Really put into perspective what an opportunity it is to play for a state title.”
Unbeaten South Christian (13-0) will face a Goodrich (12-1) program playing in its first-ever state championship game. The Martians defeated Riverview 51-26 in their semifinal game on Saturday.
“We cannot wait to see the South Christian community come out in full force on Friday night in Detroit,” South Christian Athletic Director David Kool said. “Playing in this game is going to be a memory that all involved will never forget.”
Every MHSAA state championship game will be aired live on Bally Sports Detroit, including the Division 4 State Final being played Friday, November 25 at 7:30 p.m. Check out MHSAA.com for the complete schedule of games.
South Christian finds itself in a Division 4 semifinal game against familiar foe Edwardsburg this weekend for a chance to play in the state championship at Ford Field.
Last year, the Eddies (11-1) beat South Christian 28-14 in a regional final. This will be three times in three years the Sailors play Edwardsburg in the playoffs, and they’re hoping the third time’s the charm.
South Christian advanced to the state semifinals for the first time since 2014, the last time the Sailors won a state title.
Right after South Christian (12-0) knocked off Whitehall 28-21 to grab a regional championship last Friday, Coach Danny Brown said Edwardsburg is “obviously good and plays hard.”
“It will be a fun game and I’m sure the kids will be jacked up for it.”
Division 4 Semifinals
1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19 at Battle Creek Harper Creek
Edwardsburg (11-1) vs. South Christian (12-0)
The third time was definitely the charm last Friday as the Sailors advanced out of the regionals after three straight years trying.
Quarterback Jake DeHaan finished the game with four total TDs (three passing) and had 148 yards through the air and 88 on the ground.
Carson Vis led with three receptions for 46 yards, while Nate Brinks had four receptions for 18 yards and two touchdowns. Seth Ritsema added a receiving TD.
DeHaan and Austin Tiesma led with seven tackles apiece.
Check out South Christian’s game-winning touchdown against Whitehall. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Our WKTV truck has been busy all season long covering exciting high school football Games of the Week in the Wyoming/Kentwood viewing area.
If you missed a GOTW, or would like to watch one for a second time, be sure to see our 22nd Annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving Day.
The 15-Hour Special, which starts at 9 a.m. Nov. 24, highlights most of our high school football Games of the Week. The Turkey Bowl is streamed live on the WKTV website at wktv.org or using this link: https://www.wktv.org/live25.html
Wyoming Athletic Director Ted Hollern summed it up best when describing No. 1 tennis player and senior Logan Bos.
“He’s not the big, glamorous state-ranked player, but for four years he’s been the leader of our tennis program and it’s fun to shine some light on him,” Hollern explained. “When you asked me to choose a student-athlete to write about, Logan was the first one that came to my mind, and we have many good athletes. I just admire his determination and the fight in him.
“He will be a big success in his future. His dedication and perseverance are going to serve him so well throughout college and his career.”
Lifelong lessons
Hollern said the most important thing in high school athletics is teaching the lifelong lessons.
“When you get knocked down, you pick yourself back up,” Hollern continued. “He had to go up against everyone’s best tennis player in the conference, and he showed a lot of grit and dedication.
“He’s been such a positive influence among the tennis players. He has quietly been one of the big leaders and has made a big impact on our tennis program.”
He has been No. 1 singles for Wyoming all four years and all-conference throughout as well, according to Hollern, who also calls Bos “an outstanding tennis player.”
Bos said his greatest trait on the tennis court is his hustle.
“I never run out of juice, even if my opponent is placing the ball with perfect precision and speed,” said Bos, who began tennis at age 6 with Smart Start Tennis at Wyoming. “I really enjoy being able to let all of my energy out when I hustle around the court. I feel like when I’m playing I have unlimited stamina and can maintain the same speed throughout all of the matches I play.”
His best tennis memory
“I was battling in a match against Sparta’s No. 1 singles last year in 99.5 degree heat index. The match lasted longer than two hours and eventually I won, beating him through two sets and a tiebreak, 5-7, 7-5, 10-4.”
Bos finished the season with a 7-10 record, and as Hollern explained, had to play every team’s No. 1 player all season long.
“As a team we didn’t win any matches, but many players were new to tennis and just seeing them grow as a group was fascinating,” said Bos, who also played baseball and soccer growing up. “One of our doubles teams got their first ever win against Ottawa Hills this season and that was an exciting experience for them.”
A brotherhood
“The Wyoming Wolves tennis team is like being part of a brotherhood. Everyone else thinks we are the underdogs when we go into a match and we just believe the motto of Wyoming versus everybody. We know we don’t have the best chance to go far, but we hustle as best as we can to keep up and maybe even sneak a few upset wins into the season.”
(Courtesy, Kelly Bos)
Favorite thing away from tennis
“My podcast on Spotify: Prairie Sports, named after the street Wyoming High school is located on and where me and my co-host Wyatt Hall discuss everything related to Detroit Sports,” said Bos, who has a 3.84 GPA. “Another thing I enjoy is partaking in Fantasy Football with my friends on Sleeper.
“I have always believed that I could create my own sports radio talk show about the Detroit Lions someday.”
Middle College Program at GRCC
Bos is in the Middle College program supported by Grand Rapids Community College.
“This program allows me to get my Associate’s degree and my high school diploma in my 13th year,” Bos said. “I am currently undecided on an exact career path, but will likely pursue my Bachelor’s degree at a local university following my 13th year.”
From Nov. 15 through March 15, parking is not allowed on any public street from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. in Kentwood. Additionally, parking is not allowed during times when street parking could make it difficult for, or prevent snow removal.
To file a complaint about a parking violation, residents can submit the complaint online, by phone 616-656-6574 or in person at the Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE.
Clear fire hydrants
Kentwood is asking residents to help keep fire hydrants near their homes or businesses clear of snow. It is recommended keeping snow and ice at least three feet away from hydrants on all sides. Keeping hydrants clear of snow and ice saves firefighters time when dealing with a fire.
Keep sidewalks clear
In Kentwood, it is the property owners responsibility to clear the sidewalk when there are two or more inches of snow.
Check out South Christian’s game-winning touchdown. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
South Christian senior quarterback Jake DeHaan found Nate Brinks on a swing pass at the goal line for the game-winning touchdown with only 54 seconds left in a 28-21 regional final victory over Whitehall.
With both teams unbeaten at 11-0 coming into the matchup, as well as being the top two ranked teams in Division 4 according to the playoff points standings, the game certainly lived up to its billing.
Both defenses dominated the first half, giving up just a touchdown each as the game was deadlocked at 7-7 at halftime.
The Sailors broke the tie at the 6:40 mark in the third quarter on a crafty shovel pass by DeHaan to Brinks from 15 yards out to seize a 14-7 lead.
However, the Vikings fought back with TD runs by Jackson Cook and Nate Bolley to jump ahead 21-14 with 9:41 remaining in the game.
Less than three minutes later, DeHaan connected with one of his favorite targets in Seth Ritsema for a 16-yard score and knotted the game at 21-all.
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan connects with Seth Ritsema for a touchdown in Friday’s regional final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Overall, DeHaan finished the game with four total TDs, 148 yards passing and 88 on the ground.
Forced to punt from inside their own territory on its next drive, Whitehall made the first major mistake of the night as a poor punt gave South Christian excellent field position to either run down the clock and attempt a game-winning field goal or score the go-ahead touchdown.
Sailors coach Danny Brown discussed the thought process on their final drive.
“Really, all we were thinking was how do we limit the time if they do get the ball and make them use up their timeouts,” Brown said. “Our kids did great and we made enough plays to make that happen.
“Once you get down there and close enough you have to score if the opportunity is there.”
All about redemption
For the Sailors, tonight’s game was about redemption after falling in the regional final each of the past two seasons. Brown described the feeling after the game as amazing.
South Christian poses with the regional championship trophy after Friday’s win. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
“This was the third year in a row for us in the regional final and we wanted to get over that hump, and we did, so it is great.”
South Christian advanced to the state semifinals for the first time since 2014, the last time the Sailors won a state title.
The opponent will be a familiar one as the Sailors face Edwardsburg (11-1) for the third-straight season in the playoffs. The Eddies knocked South Christian out in the regional final a year ago.
“I’m going to enjoy this one for the next 24 hours,” Brown said. “They’re obviously good and they play hard.
“It will be a fun game and I’m sure the kids will be jacked up for it.”
The semifinal matchup is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 19 with the game time and place to be determined.
The Sailors enter the field pumped up before the big game. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
The City of Kentwood kicks off the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony and parade on Thursday, Dec. 1.
The festivities take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at and around the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The evening includes outdoor activities for all ages, including carriage rides, take-home children’s crafts, food trucks, live music and a visit from Santa. Entrance to the event and all activities are free of charge.
Student essay competition determines Grand Marshal
New this year, a student essay competition will determine the parade’s grand marshal, who also will help light the tree. Students ages 5-18 who are Kentwood residents or attend school in Kentwood, Kelloggsville, Forest Hills or Caledonia school districts are eligible to participate.
To enter, students can submit an essay that is 1,000 words or less answering the prompt, “Why do you love living in Kentwood?” Entries are due Nov. 17 and a winner will be chosen and notified by Nov. 24. Essays may be submitted online at kentwood.us/TreeLighting or in-person at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE.
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley at a previous tree lighting. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“The annual Tree Lighting event provides a welcoming place for friends, family and neighbors to gather and usher in the celebratory season of peace and joy,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “I am especially excited to have one of our local students as the grand marshal participating in this memorable event.”
Parade at 6 p.m.
The parade will start at 6 p.m. and travel from the City’s Public Works Facility at 5068 Breton Ave. SE north to the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE. Sections of Breton and Walma will be closed from 5:50 to 6:25 p.m. for the procession.
A visit from Santa is planned at Kentwood’s holiday event on Dec. 1. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.
The tree lighting ceremony will follow at 6:30 p.m. in front of the library. After the ceremony, community members will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa, mail a letter to the North Pole, go on carriage rides, take a stroll through a luminary walk, enjoy live holiday music and a performance by the Michigan Ballet Academy, and more.
Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry
Attendees also have the opportunity to donate non-perishable food items to Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry. A list of suggested items is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
Groups interested in participating in the parade are asked to complete an entry form online. The cost to participate is $15.
The Godwin Heights boys soccer team captured the OK Silver crown this fall. (Courtesy Photo)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
To Henry Lopez-Pinedo, soccer is more than just a game, it’s a passion.
“I love soccer because it’s a unique and one-of-a-kind sport,” said Lopez-Pinedo, a junior at Godwin Heights and varsity soccer player. “There can be hard moments and good moments, but this sport is something that will stick with me forevermore, a sport I will love more than anything.”
Henry Lopez-Pinedo with club team MFA Revolution during a college showcase game in June 2022. (Courtesy Federico Villafuerte)
As a center attacking midfielder for the Wolverines, Lopez-Pinedo led his team to an OK Silver Conference title as the top scorer in the league with 25 goals. He added one more in district play to finish with 26. He also had 16 assists this season for a Godwin Heights team that finished 13-0 in the conference, 15-2 overall.
While being undefeated in conference was a great accomplishment, Lopez-Pinedo said the highlight of the season was a home game against Calvin Christian. Teammate Abou Meshake crossed the ball in the box and Lopez-Pinedo knocked in a header.
“A lot of emotions ran through my mind because we haven’t beat Calvin in several years and this season we beat them twice,” Lopez-Pinedo said.
Not always his passion
“When I first started playing soccer, I didn’t like it at all,” Lopez-Pinedo admitted. “I was just a kid who loved playing with his toys.”
Lopez-Pinedo’s father, Leónides Lopez, an experienced soccer player in both Mexico and the United States, introduced Henry to the game by taking him to practices at the Olé Futsal Club. Lopez-Pinedo admitted to feeling nervous and not wanting to play.
Leónides spent hours on the field with his son, helping him hone his skills until Lopez-Pinedo’s nervousness began to fade.
“He made me work and work and did everything for me to be better than good,” Lopez-Pinedo said.
That work paid off with Godwin Heights’ success, and with four regional and three national wins with soccer club ABK.
His coach, Federico Villafuerte, has managed the girls and boys high school soccer teams at Godwin Heights for 12 years and founded the first soccer club for the middle school.
Henry Lopez-Pinedo practicing his skills. (Courtesy, Federico Villafuerte)
During his years at Godwin Heights, Villafuerte has led the boys varsity team to four conference titles in the last 10 years, which is no small feat considering the level of competition.
“To win it, you have to be perfect,” said Villafuerte, who built the program from the ground up.
But Villafuerte views soccer as more than just a sport — it also teaches life skills.
“What you learn from high school sports is sportsmanship; you are dedicated, you have to be responsible, and you learn how to listen.”
Villafuerte said one of the biggest skills he sees from high school sports players is learning how to deal with conflicts among players and how to lead as a team instead of individually.
Not all about soccer
Coach also keeps a close eye on his players’ grades.
“Two Es, you don’t play,” Villafuerte said. “Each week we check the grades, and we make sure they are not failing two classes.”
The belief that education is important extends past high school graduation.
“We try to encourage the students to go to college,” Villafuerte continued. “One like Henry, I see he’s got the possibility there.”
Lopez-Pinedo’s future hopes include college and playing on a college soccer team, and to play at the professional level as well.
Making time for what matters
Lopez-Pinedo’s interests include more than playing soccer. He also loves to run when he isn’t training or playing soccer and enjoys watching his favorite show The Perfect Chaos.
Family time also is a priority. His favorite family activity is taking walks together, looking at nature, and “just taking time with each other.”
Following your dreams is something Lopez-Pinedo encourages everyone to do.
“I just want to say for everyone who wants to achieve their goals, to sacrifice for the best, continue to keep working. Work or sweat ‘til your last breath.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
After getting a third-straight district championship last week with a 35-20 win over Unity Christian, South Christian faces undefeated Whitehall in a regional final Friday night at East Kentwood.
Both teams enter the contest with perfect 11-0 records and will have to perform at their best levels to advance to the state semifinals. Last Friday, Whitehall beat Fruitport 51-26.
“We expect when you get to this point in the season you gotta play good teams,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown, after their win over Unity Christian. “If you’re chasing a state championship you want to beat good teams to get there.
“I know they have some athletes and are pretty big up front. It should be fun.”
Senior quarterback Jake DeHaan had five touchdowns against Unity, including 209 yards passing and 155 on the ground.
“You need your best players to shine in these moments,” Brown said. “Any big game we’ve had, he’s done it.”
Last year, the Sailors lost 28-14 to Edwardsburg in a regional final.
Look for our story after the game
Check out our story right after the Sailors’ big game, including highlight videos and pictures on late Friday night on the WKTV Journal.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan earlier this season. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan rushes for a touchdown during Friday’s district final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Led by senior do-it-all quarterback Jake DeHaan, South Christian triumphed over Hudsonville Unity Christian 35-20 to claim its third-consecutive Division 4 district title Friday night.
The Sailors wasted no time on the game’s opening drive as DeHaan connected with junior wide receiver Nate Brinks on a 15-yard scoring strike to seize a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter.
The Crusaders responded with a drive of their own as Mitch Tibbe found the end zone on a 6-yard quarterback-keeper, followed by a 2-point conversion to jump ahead 8-7 at the 2:10 mark in the opening quarter.
Both teams traded touchdowns on their next drives, knotting the game at 14-14 with 7:34 left in the half.
With halftime approaching, South Christian continued to move the ball against Unity Christian’s defense as DeHaan ran in a touchdown from 2 yards out to give the Sailors a 21-14 advantage at the half.
Following a scoreless third quarter, South Christian grabbed its first double-digit lead of the night on another DeHann TD run, one of his three rushing scores in the game.
Carson Vis makes a leaping grab in between several Unity Christian defenders. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Sailors coach Danny Brown commended his defense for the way they played in the second half.
“We knew they were going to come out swinging and it was one of those games where you have to dig deep,” Brown said. “I think our defense really stepped up in the second half and it ended up making the difference.”
The Crusaders tried to mount a comeback as Tibbe found his tight end Carl Bylsma for a 10-yard touchdown to make it 28-20 with 6:18 left.
However, a DeHann 37-yard touchdown run sealed the victory for the Sailors with 1:59 left. The senior signal-caller added five more touchdowns for an impressive 42 total touchdowns on the season.
DeHaan finished the game with 209 yards passing, as well as 155 yards on the ground.
“You need your best players to shine in these moments,” Brown said. “Any big game we’ve had he’s done it.”
South Christian celebrates with the district title trophy.(WKTV/Zach Fanko)
South Christian (11-0) returns to the D-4 regional final for the third-straight season. A year ago, the Sailors lost a battle with Edwardsburg 28-14.
This year, they will host another team with an unblemished record at 11-0. Whitehall, coming off a 51-26 win over Fruitport, stands in the way of a trip to the state semifinals.
The Sailors are seeking their first state title since 2014. The two undefeated squads battle next Friday at 7 p.m. at Falcon Stadium.
“We expect when you get to this point in the season you gotta play good teams,” Brown said. “If you’re chasing a state championship you want to beat good teams to get there.
“I haven’t watched much film on them. I know they have some athletes and are pretty big up front. It should be fun. We get another week to prepare and there’s nothing better than that.”
Locker Room by LIDS has joined the dynamic lineup of retailers at Woodland Mall, offering a large variety of both collegiate and professional sports team merchandise.
Featuring everything from custom team gear to novelty sports items, the new store is open in the Macy’s wing near center court at Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE Grand Rapids. Within its 1,874 square-foot space, shoppers will find a wide variety of professional and collegiate sports gear.
“We’re thrilled to add another business from the LIDS lineup to Woodland Mall,” said Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director. “Sports fans of all affiliations can find the perfect apparel and merchandise to rep their favorite team, with customized options available.
“The variety and quality available through Locker Room by LIDS align with our vision to provide shoppers with excellent selection and service.”
Locker Room by LIDS is owned by LIDS Sports Group, a leading North American omni-channel sports licensed retailer which is made up of more than 1,100 mall-based, airport, street level and factory outlet locations nationwide, and in Canada and Puerto Rico.
Woodland Mall features an exclusive lineup of dynamic retailers, including Apple, Dry Goods, Forever 21, H&M, The North Face, Pottery Barn, Sephora, Williams-Sonoma and Von Maur, along with several dining establishments, including The Cheesecake Factory and Black Rock Bar & Grill. The mall is also home to the newly renovated Phoenix Theatres, featuring all-new premium heated reclining seating, 4K digital projection with Dolby Atmos, first-run movies and family-friendly pricing.
South Christian hopes to stay perfect at 11-0 and grab a Division 4 district title in the process in Week 2 of the MHSAA playoffs.
The Sailors (10-0) will have to go through Hudsonville Unity Christian (6-4) to get the job done at 7 p.m. Friday in Falcon Stadium.
In their playoff opener last Friday, South Christian beat Grand Rapids Christian 42-7 at East Kentwood, while Unity Christian defeated Forest Hills Eastern 46-20.
Once again, quarterback Jake DeHaan led the way for the Sailors with four touchdowns through the air and one on the ground, completing 12 of 18 passes for 216 yards and 84 rushing.
South Christian Coach Danny Brown said it best after their win over the Eagles.
“You need your best players to play the greatest when the lights are the brightest,” said Brown, of DeHaan. “He definitely answered the bell tonight; it was another stellar performance by Jake.”
DeHaan has posted some incredible numbers this season, totaling 37 touchdowns; 26 through the air and 11 on the ground.
Seth Ritsema led with six receptions for 125 yards and three TDs against GR Christian, while Carson Vis caught the other TD. Nate Brinks had 9 carries for 74 yards and one TD.
Check out these highlights from South Christian’s 42-7 playoff win over Grand Rapids Christian last Friday. (WKTV/Bill Rinderknecht)
Designed to spark a love of science and biology in children, the new Kentwood Parks and Recreation Outdoor Explorers program offers a nature-focused curriculum.
Basic survival skills, plant identification, campfire safety and cooking are just some of the activities taught in the program.
“Our goal is to get kids outside and exploring nature,” said Cassie Wielard, Outdoor Explorers program leader.
Outdoor Explorers Leader Cassie Wielard prepares the group for their adventure in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
Designed for children ages 6-12, the Outdoor Explorers meet Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. primarily within Covenant Park. The program offers many of the same skills and experiences kids may find through a scouting program, but with much greater flexibility.
Focused on the five senses
Outdoor Explorers often focuses on the five senses, encouraging participants to investigate various textures of plants and other aspects of their surroundings through touch, exploring scent as they smell flowers and campfire smoke, and tasting s’mores and other treats.
Leader Cassie Wielard shows the Explorers goldenrod on a walk in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
The purpose, Wielard said, is to give children “experiences that maybe not every kid gets to have outside in nature.”
Along with experiencing nature, instilling a respect for the environment also is a central principal of Outdoor Explorers.
“This feels like an extension of things that I love to do, and it’s been really fun,” said Wielard, who has a background in elementary education.
Covenant Park has three color-coded trails located just outside the clubhouse, each offering approximately one mile of natural space to explore. The park also offers an optional “Hide and Seek” activity for each trail along with maps to help guide explorers.
Rain, no worries
Less than ideal weather doesn’t hinder the young explorers from trekking through the park.
If a planned activity is not possible due to weather, Wielard and her volunteers easily improvise and ensure explorers are still learning and having fun.
“Last week it was raining, so s’mores were microwaved,” Wielard said.
Outdoor Explorer Kristofer shows off a bat he made with sticks and bark. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
Simple crafts offered during each class highlight animals and other aspects of the environment. From building bird feeders, to creating owls and bats out of sticks and bark, participants are treated to a lesson about animals and the natural materials used in their creations.
Looking for winter Explorers
Even though the fall Explorers program has wrapped up, plans are already in motion for a winter session with dates and activities in development stages.
“We are hoping to explore Covenant Park in all the seasons,” Wielard said. “Signs of nature (such as animal tracks) should be obvious with snow on the ground. And, of course, snow opens up a lot of opportunities for activities.”
The winter session is seeking participants for early 2023. To find out more about the program and its benefits, contact the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
LANSING – Michigan will offer a $10,000 annual fellowship to 2,500 students as an incentive to teach in the state.
Michigan will offer a $10,000 annual fellowship to 2,500 students as an incentive to teach in the state. (pxhere.com)
The awards, included in the state’s budget that began Oct. 1, are for college students on track to become educators and will be given to students once they are admitted into the college of education at their university.
Some universities have a two-year program, while other programs run three years, beyond prerequisites. Students who participate are required to teach in the state for two years for every year that they receive the fellowship. They cannot receive more than $30,000 in total.
Another incentive to address the state’s teacher shortfall in the 2023 budget is a $9,600 stipend for every semester a student teaches.Previously, student teachers were unpaid, although they are required to carry out some of the same classroom responsibilities as teachers.
Student teachers can apply for this stipend each semester that they teach. At Michigan State University, students are required to student teach for one year, but at other institutions students are only required for one semester, said Gail Richmond, the director of the teacher preparation program at MSU.
Nearly three-quarters of the state’s schools are short of teachers, according to a survey by the Michigan Education Association (MEA), the largest union representing teachers and other school staff.
Among the reasons for the shortage is that the joy of education has been taken away, said Paula Herbart, the president of the union. But the pay is a big reason.
Nearly three-quarters of the state’s schools are short of teachers, according to a survey by the Michigan Education Association (MEA). (pxhere.com)
“The lack of financial stability as an educator has caused the educator shortage,” Herbart said. “Three out of four educators will tell their children not to go into teaching, and that’s a real problem. We’re telling kids not to go into education because they can’t make a living at it, and because of the things that impact your ability to provide for your family.”
For minority students, it can be even harder, said Doug Pratt, the MEA’s director of public affairs.
“We know from student loan data entry, as well as practice, that there’s this double jeopardy of having to pay to be a student teacher and not getting paid which is especially hard for minority aspiring educators,” he said.
All student teachers should be compensated just like in any other apprenticeship program, but people might see it take away the barrier that exists, especially for minority students, he said.
The Michigan Department of Education reports that in 2017, Black teachers made up 5.9% of the state’s teachers. Hispanic or Latino teachers accounted for 1.2 and Asian-Americans made up only 0.2%. About 91% of teachers were white.
“I know most of my (classmates) that are doing the teacher preparation program have dropped out of it,” said Trinity Belcher, a fifth-year student in the MSU College of Education . “They don’t want to do their 5th year because the cost of it.”
Students in the college of education at MSU are required to pay for their internship as a student teacher, which can be a financial burden, Belcher said.
Belcher will finish the program and become a teacher because she says it would be better to have the experience of teaching for a year with a mentor before she starts teaching by herself.
Another incentive is the $175 million Grow-Your-Own program which assists school employees who already work with children, like bus drivers, crossing guards and lunch aides to get their degree to become educators.
Richmond said, “Teachers often feel isolated and unsupported, so I think the things that have to be combined with some kind of financial system is support from the time they step into the classroom, across their entire careers.”
Janelle James is a senior at Michigan State University. She is pursing a double major in journalism and political science with a minor in Spanish. Janelle aspires to one day secure a position as an investigative journalist, White House correspondent or politician.
Check out these great highlights of the Rockford/East Kentwood Division 1 playoff opener Friday. Rockford defeated East Kentwood 50-14. (WKTV/Hunter Veltema)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
Momentum swings in football can be fickle and East Kentwood experienced that firsthand tonight as Rockford ran away from the Falcons for a 50-14 Division 1 district semifinal victory.
Things got off to a rough start for East Kentwood as a sack and fumble on the game’s first play led to a Mac VandenHout touchdown on a quarterback keeper from 2-yards out to put the Rams ahead 7-0 at the 11:02 mark.
The Falcons responded with a drive of their own as QB Ben Cash found his receiver J’Kari Couch twice, once on a nice deep ball to setup Elisee Kanda for one of his two TDs tonight to even the game at 7-7 with 6:04 left in the first quarter.
Rockford didn’t waste any time getting back into scoring position as Alex McLean returned the ensuing kickoff all the way back to the East Kentwood 13-yard-line.
Two plays later, VandenHout connected with Ethan Lyon for the 11-yard score and a 14-7 lead.
The East Kentwood offense lines up against Rockford’s defense during Friday night’s Division 1 district semifinal. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Following a Rams’ field goal, the Falcons trailed 17-7 before Couch had another big catch inside the 10-yard line.
Kanda finished off the drive with a 1-yard TD run to bring the score to 17-14 with 1:57 left in the opening stanza.
On the next drive, East Kentwood seized possession on a 4th-and-goal stop at the 1-yard-line by Kanda with 8 minutes remaining in the second quarter.
Then disaster struck as Cash had trouble with a shotgun snap and lost the ball out of the back of the end zone for a Rockford safety to make it 19-14.
The Rams took advantage of the swing in momentum as senior QB VandenHout capped off a 70-yard drive with a 1-yard keeper for the score.
VandenHout later connected with McLean, who outran the entire Falcons’ defense for a 49-yard TD and a 33-14 advantage at halftime.
McLean finished the game with seven receptions for 98 yards and three total TDs, while VandenHout scored five TDs (two on the ground) as Rockford (10-0) advances to next week’s district final against the winner of Caledonia and Grandville.
Despite the loss, East Kentwood (5-5) Coach Tony Kimbrough says his team has a lot to be proud of after qualifying for the playoffs. The Falcons finished 2-7 in 2021.
“Proud of our seniors and the way they turned it around,” Kimbrough said. “They put in the work, they led us, they did all the right things in the offseason.
“I told them not to let this define them, because we did some great things this year.”
The future is bright for East Kentwood football according to Kimbrough, who is challenging his younger players to take it to the next level in the offseason.
“Our seniors had a great message for our underclassmen,” Kimbrough said. “Hopefully, they take it to heart and work twice as hard in the weight room, speed and agility, all the things I’m going to ask of them.
“We’ve got some talented kids coming up from JV and we should be really good on the offensive and defensive line.”
Check out the highlights from South Christian’s 42-7 win over Grand Rapids South Christian in a Division 4 playoff opener Friday. (WKTV/Bill Rinderknecht)
South Christian Coach Danny Brown said it best after his team beat Grand Rapids Christian 42-7 in a Division 4 playoff opener Friday night at East Kentwood.
“You need your best players to play the greatest when the lights are the brightest,” said Brown, of his standout quarterback Jake DeHaan. “He definitely answered the bell tonight; it was another stellar performance by Jake.
“I think at this point in the season you need your best players to step it up when the pressure’s on.”
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan earlier this season. He has a total of 37 touchdowns this year; 26 through the air and 11 on the ground. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
Once again, DeHaan led the way for the Sailors with four touchdowns through the air and one on the ground, completing 12 of 18 passes for 216 yards and rushing for 84.
“You have to credit our receivers,” Brown said. “Our guys were just making moves and getting open and Jake was putting it in there. I think they were really putting a ton of focus on stopping Carson Vis, so other people were open and Seth (Ritsema) was the winner of that.”
Ritsema led with six receptions for 125 yards and three TDs, while Vis caught the other TD. Nate Brinks had 9 carries for 74 yards and one TD.
Coach Brown said his OK Gold champs have done a great job of settling into games quickly this year.
“Every game, we have played really well right from the beginning,” Brown said. “To be 10-0, you have to be talented.”
South Christian knocked off Grand Rapids Christian 42-7 in a Divison 4 district semifinal playoff game Friday. (WKTV/Mike Farage)
Grand Rapids Christian Co-Coach Rueben Riley said it came down to South Christian executing and being more physical and the score indicated that.
“We continue to build a culture of love, tenacity, pride and purpose, and hopefully it shows in the wins and losses column, but right now we’re just making sure that our culture is strong so these young men know that the things they learn in football will take them wherever they want to go and be bigger than football.”
Quarterback Alek Wickstrom led the Eagles in passing with 14 of 22 for 135 yards and one INT, while Noah Funk completed 3 of 6 passes for 92 yards and one TD to Dono Thames. Grand Rapids Christian finished the season at 3-7 overall.
South Christian (10-0) faces Hudsonville Unity Christian (6-4) in a Division 4 district final next week.
Two teams in our WKTV viewing area, South Christian and East Kentwood, are playoff bound and in action on Friday night.
East Kentwood (5-4 overall, 4-3 in the OK Red) travels to Rockford for a 7 p.m. Friday game in Division 1. Rockford is tied for second in the state in D-1 with Macomb Dakota and boasts a 9-0 overall record. The Rams finished atop the OK Red at 7-0.
EK Coach Tony Kimbrough said he’s very proud of what his team accomplished with the strength of their conference and schedule.
In a 34-21 loss to Grandville last Friday, East Kentwood quarterback Ben Cash had 141 yards in the air and 93 on the ground. Stellan Bowman led with 17 tackles.
Getting back to the playoffs was a goal for the Falcons after a 2-7 season in 2021.
South Christian the team to beat
South Christian, No.1 in the state in Division 4, hosts Grand Rapids Christian (3-6 overall) at 7 p.m. Friday at East Kentwood.
The Sailors won the OK Gold Conference this year at 7-0, finishing one game ahead of rival Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Their last undefeated regular season was in 2004.
Check out our story on South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan, who posted some incredible numbers this season, at wktvjournal.org
DeHaan has a total of 32 touchdowns this year; 22 through the air and 10 on the ground. He has completed 129 of 184 passes for 1,883 yards with six interceptions, and leads the team in rushing with 710 yards on 109 carries.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
“Statistically, he is having one of the best seasons any QB has ever had at South,” said Coach Danny Brown, in his fourth year as coach. “His leadership and drive to be great is the thing that has impressed me the most.”
As far as the playoffs go, Brown said their goal is pretty simple; “We want to win a state championship.”
WKTV is sending a cameraman and reporter to both games to get highlights and interviews with coaches and players. Look for our stories late Friday night and Saturday morning on wktvjournal.org
Other Grand Rapids Area playoff teams
Division 1
Grandville (7-2) at Caledonia (8-1, sixth in state) (at East Kentwood) 1 p.m. Saturday
Division 2
Muskegon Reeths-Puffer (6-3) at Forest Hills Central (9-0, fourth in the state) 7 p.m. Friday
Portage Northern (6-3) at Byron Center (7-2) 7 p.m. Friday
Division 3
East Grand Rapids (4-5) at St. Joseph (8-1) 7 p.m. Friday Lowell (6-3) at Zeeland West (8-1) 7 p.m. Friday
Sparta (6-3) at Muskegon (7-2) 7 p.m. Friday
Cedar Springs (5-4) at Coopersville (6-3) 7 p.m. Friday
Division 4
Forest Hills Eastern (6-3) at Hudsonville Unity Christian (5-4) 7 p.m. Friday
Division 5
Kalamazoo Hackett Catholic Prep (5-4) at Grand Rapids Catholic Central (8-1) 7 pm. Friday
Division 6
Watervliet (6-3) at Grand Rapids West Catholic (8-1) 7 p.m. Friday
Temperatures have started to drop in Michigan and winter will be here before you know it. Before the snow flies and the ground freezes, you’ll want to make sure your mailbox is winter ready.
The post can become rusted or rotten over time, and you may find the box itself is missing some screws. These issues can make your mailbox more likely to fall over or be damaged by heavy snow pushed off the road by a snow plow. Plus, fixing or replacing a mailbox in winter can be difficult.
You can avoid all of this by taking a few easy steps now to determine if your mailbox is ready for winter.
To see if your mailbox is secure, simply give it a good shake.
To be secure enough to handle a Michigan winter, your mailbox shouldn’t really move, the box should be solidly attached to the post and the post firmly stuck in the ground. Additionally, the door to the mailbox should remain tightly shut (please see video above for more details).
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Temporary solutions like bungee cords and duct tape won’t last a full season.
Time to replace it?
If tightening screws isn’t enough to make it secure, it’s time to replace it. Addressing necessary repairs now will save you the hassle of a damaged mailbox and delayed mail later.
Please give your mailbox a good shake today and make sure you’re prepared for the season ahead.
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan has posted some incredible numbers during his team’s perfect 9-0 season en route to the Division 4 playoffs that begin Friday.
DeHaan has a total of 32 touchdowns this year; 22 through the air and 10 on the ground. He has completed 129 of 184 passes for 1,883 yards with six interceptions, and leads the team in rushing with 710 yards on 109 carries.
In a 56-22 win over Forest Hills Eastern last Friday, South Christian Coach Danny Brown said he had a “career night.” DeHaan tallied eight TDs, six through the air and two on the ground, including 348 yards passing and 87 yards rushing.
“Statistically, he is having one of the best seasons any QB has ever had at South,” said Brown, in his fourth year as coach. “His leadership and drive to be great is the thing that has impressed me the most.
“The other thing that makes him special is he wants the ball in the big moment. We are very blessed to have him on our team.”
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan during a 36-34 win over Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
The Sailors won the OK Gold Conference outright this year at 7-0, finishing one game ahead of rival Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Their last undefeated regular season was in 2004.
Division 4 Playoffs
South Christian hosts Grand Rapids Christian (3-6 overall) in the first round of the D-4 playoffs at 7 p.m. Friday at East Kentwood.
Coach Brown’s playoff expectations
“Our goal is pretty simple at this point, we want to win a state championship.”
DeHaan’s playoff expectations
“To win a state championship, but more importantly getting better each day to try to do everything we can to accomplish our goal,” explained DeHaan, an all-conference football and basketball player for the Sailors.
He said his favorite game so far was South Christian’s 36-34 win over Catholic Central.
“It was my favorite game because there was a lot of emotions and resilience that we needed to show,” said DeHaan, a senior. “The first half was a defensive battle and the second was the opposite.
“It took all aspects of our team to win the game. Defense, offense and special teams all contributed.”
Last week, South Christian beat Forest Hills Eastern 56-22. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
An early love for football
He began playing football in the third grade and grew up watching the sport with his dad, Alex.
“Once I started playing I loved it,” said DeHaan, whose favorite movies are anything Marvel and “A Few Good Men.” “I love being with my friends and competing.
“I think that I have always been competitive. When I was younger I would cry after every loss no matter what. I have three younger brothers (Deacon, Clayton, Charlie) who also are competitive and when I watch them play sports my parents always tell me I was the same way.”
DeHaan said he’s still figuring out his college plans and currently has a scholarship offer from Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa.
“I am not sure about what I am doing next year,” said DeHaan, who has a 3.87 GPA. “I know I want to go to college and play either basketball or football, but not sure which one.”
Though some of the games seemed like a walk in the park, Coach Brown said winning football games is not easy.
“There is a lot of work that goes into it,” Brown said. “We feel blessed to have had the success we have had up to this point. Winning the conference is always a goal of ours and to accomplish it means a lot. The 9-0 regular season is just icing on the cake.”
“In the history books”
“This team has cemented themselves in the history books of South Christian teams,” Brown continued. “Only three teams have ever had a perfect regular season so it is special.”
Brown said other leaders to talk about are two-way starters Seth Ritsema and Cam Post.
“Seth is our leader in the secondary and has put up some really good numbers as a wide receiver,” Brown said. “His ability to play multiple positions on offense really allows us to do things we haven’t been able to do in the past.”
Ritsema has 26 receptions for 544 yards and four touchdowns, while Carson Vis has 44 receptions for 520 yards and 13 TDs.
“Cam is a staple of our offensive line as a three-year starter. His biggest impact is on defense. He shuts down one side of the offense because of how good he is.”
Nate Brinks has 78 carries for 479 yards and seven TDs.
The City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc are partnering once again for the annual Fall Fling, a disc golf tournament and food drive set for Saturday, Nov. 12.
Donations will help restock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
Community disc golfers of all skill levels are invited to bring a partner for this best-shot doubles tournament at Kentwood’s Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Drive SE. Each participant will receive a player package at check-in with opportunities for extra prizes during the event. The cost is $25 per person or $50 per team plus a canned donation item for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
“This popular event gives local disc golfers a chance to continue playing through the fall months while also helping us stock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We are very grateful to be partnering again with Great Lakes Disc for this awesome event and for the generosity and participation of the local disc golf community.”
A previous Fall Fling disc golf tournament. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
On-site registration will begin at 9 a.m. Pre-registration is encouraged online at kentwood.us/FallFlingDiscGolf. Players will meet at 9:45 a.m. and the first round of the tournament will begin at 10 a.m. El Jalapeño food truck will be on-site with authentic tacos, burritos and more for purchase.
“This event gives us the opportunity to enjoy a friendly disc golf tournament while giving back to the community,” said Shea Abbgy, owner of Great Lakes Disc. “It’s a great way to get involved and we have enjoyed partnering with the City of Kentwood to host this event each year.”
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which operates year-round, provides food to community members in need. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The Kentwood Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a community service project in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. The pantry is open to all community members year-round and addresses an immediate and local need. It offers non-perishable food and personal care items. Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry, no applications required and no questions are asked.
The demand for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry has steadily increased over the years and the current need for donations is high. The pantry has locations at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE, along with several other donation bins located throughout the City’s campus.
More information about the pantry, including hours and a suggested list of donations, is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
East Kentwood golfer Elise Fennell finished second in state in Division 1 at the MHSAA State Finals held Oct. 14 and 15 at the Bedford Valley Golf Course in Battle Creek.
Fennell finished one stroke behind state champion Kate Brody (Grand Blanc), who grabbed her second title in three years.
Brody took the top prize with a score of 73-72 (145), while Fennell placed second at 76-70 (146).
An inch short of a playoff
“I was so close to tying it up on the last hole to go into a playoff,” said Fennell, a junior who placed fourth and seventh, respectively, in the previous state finals. “I had a 12-to-15 foot putt for birdie, while Kate had a tap in for par and I left it an inch short.
“I am very happy overall to finish second. I played really well the whole event and did everything that I could. I was just trying to enjoy my last high school event of the year.”
Fennell said she will play in the Notah Begay Jr. Golf National Championship the first week of November in Louisiana and will then “take a month off to relax.”
East Kentwood golf standout Elise Fennell at the State Finals.(Courtesy, Mike Ketelaar)
East Kentwood Coach Mike Ketelaar said he couldn’t be happier for Fennell.
“I have been very blessed with memorable experiences throughout my own high school and college golf career, and these were easily my favorite days ever on a golf course watching Elise in her element,” Ketelaar said. “I have never been so proud of a student-athlete before.
“Elise is fearless on the golf course. When she made a clutch par putt on Hole 17, I had a gut feeling she was going to tap into another level and give everything she had to make a run at the current leader at that point, who she was playing with.
“She put together her A-game on the remaining four holes. It was truly special to watch her play those four concluding holes to near perfection.”
From left; Kate Brody, Grand Blanc, state champion in Division 1 (73-72 — 145); Elise Fennell, East Kentwood, second place (76-70 — 146) and Jessica Jolly, Rockford, tied for third with Grace Wang, Rochester Adams, not pictured (72-77 — 149). (Courtesy, Mike Ketelaar)
Tri-unity beat Godfrey-Lee 50-30 in the Oct. 14 WKTV Game of the Week (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
Gobles beat Tri-unity 43-22 in Friday night football to further solidify its 8-player ranking at No.9 in 8-player Division 1.
“Offensively, we had a little bit of trouble getting our run game going, but defensively we were playing really well in the first half; bending but not breaking,” said Gobles Coach Greg Eichler, whose team improved to 7-2 overall. “We have some nice athletes; kept leaning on them.
“Regardless of who we play, we’re excited for a big playoff matchup, and not worried about our opponent, but about getting better.”
(Image Courtesy, Tri-unity Christian)
Tri-unity dropped to 4-5 overall with the loss.
“The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show.” (MHSAA.)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Godwin Heights secures a 16-12 victory over Calvin Christian in the season finale. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
With several players leaving the game due to injury, including star QB Jamarion Collins, Godwin Heights found a way to hold on for a 16-12 victory over Calvin Christian on Friday night.
Collins injured his ankle in last week’s loss to Belding and he started the game despite being less than 100 percent.
“He didn’t practice really all week,” Godwin coach Brandon Kimble said. “I had him go through yesterday’s walk-through and I would say he was about 70-80 percent.”
Led by their senior leader, the Wolverines jumped out to a 16-0 first quarter lead, but the Squires fought their way back into the game with two touchdowns of their own to make it 16-12 at the half.
That’s when things took a turn for the worse for Godwin as Collins was unable to finish the game with his injury, as well as its starting tackle, tight end and halfback.
From then on, the Wolverines’ defense took over in the second half with three interceptions, including what would end up being the game-winning pick by safety Jace Reid-Anderson.
Johnny Horrell and Miguel Ocampo also secured interceptions for Godwin.
“We were really limping to the finish line tonight,” Kimble said. “Sometimes you have to win ugly, but it doesn’t make it any less sweeter.
“Proud of our guys and happy we could get the win for our seniors.”
Godwin Heights finishes the season at 4-5 overall, and 3-3 in the OK Silver, while Calvin Christian finishes 4-5 and 1-5 in the OK Silver.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Grandville topped East Kentwood in a battle of two playoff-bound teams on Friday. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
With both teams firmly in the Division 1 playoffs heading into the regular season finale, Grandville’s defense stood tall in the second half to deliver a 34-21 victory over East Kentwood at Falcon Stadium Friday night.
The Falcons jumped ahead 7-6 on an Elisee Kanda 5-yard TD run in the first quarter and later tied up the game at 14-14 with a 22-yard strike from QB Ben Cash to J’Kari Couch at the 6:56 mark in the second quarter.
The Bulldogs later seized a 20-14 lead before halftime and never relinquished it with 24 consecutive points.
Self-inflicted mistakes played a major part in the loss for East Kentwood, according to Coach Tony Kimbrough.
“We were trying to do too much offensively tonight,” Kimbrough said. “Have to be able to execute the little things and unfortunately we put ourselves into third and long quite a bit.”
Cash led the Falcons with 141 yards through the air, as well as 93 yards on the ground. Stellan Bowman led the defense with 17 tackles.
East Kentwood looks to be back in the playoffs after a 2-7 season in 2021. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Despite the loss, East Kentwood (5-4, 4-3 OK Red) looks to have all but clinched a playoff spot, according to the MHSAA playoff points standings and a rematch with Grandville (7-2, 5-2 OK Red) is a strong possibility.
“That seems to be the most likely from what I’ve heard,” Kimbrough said when asked about the possible rematch with Grandville. “We’re going to look at the film of tonight and fix those mistakes.”
Getting back to the playoffs was a goal for the Falcons after a 2-7 season in 2021.
“To win five games with the strength of our conference and schedule, I’m very proud of what this team has accomplished.”
“The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show,” according to the MHSAA.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
With a 56-22 win over host Forest Hills Eastern Friday, South Christian continued checking off the boxes of its flawless football season.
Going undefeated at 9-0 during the regular season campaign, check. The Sailors last went undefeated in the regular season in 2004.
Winning the OK Gold conference outright, check. The Sailors finished 7-0 atop the conference, one game ahead of rival Grand Rapids Catholic Central, and the first time since 2014.
Reaching the playoffs again, check. And this time as the No.1 seed in Division 4 earning three-straight home games. Last year the Sailors reached a D-4 regional final.
“Until you’re a part of something like this season it’s really hard to explain,” South Christian Coach Danny Brown said. “Before the game we knew we had a chance to accomplish something to talk about the rest of our lives.
“It was a pretty special night with a pretty special group. You want to be playing your best football at the end of the season and this was our best, but now we’re starting a whole new season at 0-0.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan earlier this season. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan had a “career night,” according to Brown. DeHaan had eight touchdowns agains Forest Hills Eastern, six through the air and two on the ground.
He completed 21 of 28 passes for 348 yards with no interceptions and rushed 12 times for 87 yards.
On DeHaan’s shoulders, the Sailors jumped out to a 21-0 lead to end the first quarter and a 42-7 halftime margin.
“The first half offensively and defensively we were just clicking on all cylinders,” said Brown, whose team had 580 yards overall. “It was crazy, unbelievable execution tonight. Hands down it was our best offensive game of the year.”
Carson Vis had 10 receptions for 169 yards and four TDs, while Seth Ritsema caught three passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns. Ritsema also led with five tackles, while Cam VanSolkema and Austin Tiesma added four apiece.
Forest Hills Eastern quarterback Brendan Thompson completed 8 of 20 passes for 230 yards and one TD to Jake Heemstra (80 yards).
Bryson Kuzdzal led the Hawks with 9 rushes for 47 yards and two TDs.
Hawks playoff bound as well
Forest Hills Eastern dropped to 6-3 overall, 4-3 in the Gold, but is most likely playoff bound in Division 4.
“The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show.” (MHSAA.)
Quarterback Jake DeHaan and the Sailors on offense against Forest Hills Eastern. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan has led the Sailors to 8-0 with one regular season game left. South Christian hopes to make a deep playoff run in Division 4, where they are currently ranked No. 2 in the state. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
By Geoff Kimmerly, MHSAA.com senior editor
Here is a list of Michigan High School Athletic Association football playing schools, displaying their win-loss records and playoff averages through the eighth week of the season.
Schools on this list are divided by division and ordered by playoff average. The top 32 teams by playoff average in each 11-player division and top 16 teams by playoff average in each 8-player division will qualify for the MHSAA Football Playoffs beginning Oct. 28. Divisions were determined prior to the start of the season, and the lists below include not only teams currently positioned to potentially qualify, but also the next eight teams in each division. (Forfeits confirmed for this week already have been added and are reflected in win-loss records and playoff points below.)
To review a list of all football playoff schools, individual school playoff point details and to report errors, visit the Football Playoff Point Summary page.
The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show.
East Kentwood defeated Jenison 16-0 during the WKTV Game of the Week on Sept. 16. The Falcons are 5-3 heading into the final regular season game and are still alive in the Division 1 playoff hunt, ranked 24th out of the 32 teams that will qualify in that division. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
1. Colon, 8-0, 36.625 2. Marion, 8-0, 34.857 3. Climax-Scotts, 7-1, 34.250 4. Powers North Central, 8-0, 33.958 5. Peck, 7-1, 32.375 6. Au Gres-Sims, 7-1, 31.625 6. Morrice, 7-1, 31.625 8. Crystal Falls Forest Park, 7-1, 30.458 9. Mendon, 6-2, 30.000 10. Posen, 7-1, 29.875 11. Gaylord St. Mary, 6-2, 28.929 12. Central Lake, 6-2, 28.500 13. Lake Linden-Hubbell, 5-3, 25.708 14. Cedarville, 5-3, 25.536 15. Camden-Frontier, 4-4, 25.250 16. Stephenson, 5-3, 24.958 17. Kinde North Huron, 5-3, 24.625 18. Bay City All Saints, 4-4, 23.000 19. Athens, 4-4, 22.625 20. Pittsford, 4-4, 22.250 21. Wyoming Tri-unity Christian, 4-4, 21.875 22. Mio, 3-5, 21.750 23. Atlanta, 3-5, 21.375 24. New Haven Merritt Academy, 4-4, 21.125
The MHSAA is a private, not-for-profit corporation of voluntary membership by more than 1,500 public and private senior high schools and junior high/middle schools which exists to develop common rules for athletic eligibility and competition. No government funds or tax dollars support the MHSAA, which was the first such association nationally to not accept membership dues or tournament entry fees from schools. Member schools which enforce these rules are permitted to participate in MHSAA tournaments, which attract more than 1.3 million spectators each year.
