Reeths-Puffer quarterback rushes into the end zone during a win over Wyoming Friday. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Muskegon Reeths-Puffer beat Wyoming 55-7 in the WKTV Game of the Week Friday.
The Rockets led 8-0 to end the first quarter and 29-7 at halftime.
Reeths-Puffer improved to 4-1 overall, while Wyoming fell to 0-5.
Reeths-Puffer beat Wyoming 55-7 Friday in the WKTV Game of the Week. (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.
The Wyoming Wolves huddle up during a 55-7 loss to Reeths-Puffer. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Quarterback Jake DeHaan threw three touchdown passes and ran one in for the Sailors. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
South Christian continued rolling this season, this time with a 43-2 victory over host Thornapple Kellogg on Friday.
The Sailors scored 23 points in the second quarter to grab a commanding 30-0 halftime lead.
“We scored a lot of points in a hurry in the second quarter to grab that lead,” said South Christian coach Danny Brown, whose Sailors improved to 5-0 overall.
Senior quarterback Jake DeHaan passed for three touchdowns and rushed for one in the win.
“He was just throwing the ball right on the money tonight,” Brown said. “He was reading the mismatches we had and just putting the ball where it needed to be.
“You could see it this week in practice; he was throwing the ball great all week. Jake has been very efficient this year.”
DeHaan completed 12 of 15 passes for 174 yards. Carson Vis had nine receptions for 117 yards and three touchdowns. Both Nate Brinks and Sam Baar had one TD apiece.
“We’re really good up front and have some strong kids and controlled the line of scrimmage,” Brown said. “Our defense set us up to have a lot of short fields and we just executed in those situations.”
Strong “D”
The Sailors held TK to 33 yards passing and 107 rushing.
“Our defense was really good,” Brown added.
Cam Post led South Christian with seven tackles, followed by Cayden Dykema, six and Sawyer TenHaaf, four.
Cam Post led South Christian with seven tackles, while Cayden Dykema chipped in six. (WKTV)
TK Coach Jeff Dock said he was expecting a tough game from the Sailors.
“They were undefeated coming in so we knew they were going be a great opponent,” said Dock, whose team fell to 2-3 overall. “Coach Brown does a great job with his team.
“They’re really big upfront and their skill kids are big and they’re super athletic. And their quarterback is very quick and accurate.”
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 defeats OK Silver foe Comstock Park 45-14 on Friday night. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After two consecutive losses, Godwin Heights got back to winning in a 45-14 triumph over Comstock Park in OK Silver action on Friday night.
The Wolverines jumped out to an 18-0 advantage in the first quarter and never looked back as senior quarterback Jamarion Collins featured his versatility with three touchdowns as well as nine tackles, three for a loss, at safety.
Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble spoke glowingly about his quarterback.
“I might be biased as his coach, but I definitely believe Jamarion is one of the best athletes on this side of the state. If not the entire state,” Kimble said. “He can do it all. He played an amazing game at safety.
Jamarion Collins scored three touchdowns and recorded nine tackles in 45-14 win over Comstock Park. (WKTV)
“Probably had the biggest hit of the night. Just laid a kid out on a crossing route.”
In addition to Collins, Elijah True also had himself a game with two long touchdowns. One of which came on an 80-yard kickoff return and a 65-yard run.
For the Wolverines, it was about getting back to playing a complete four quarters. Something Kimble felt they failed to do in their two previous losses to Grand Rapids Union and Hopkins.
“We lost a couple games from a standpoint of execution and not executing to the standard that we have the ability to do,” Kimble said. “We just want to keep stacking good practices on good practices, so that way we will get into games and be effective.”
Next on the schedule for Godwin Heights (2-2, 1-1 OK Silver) is a trip to non-league opponent Shepherd (2-2) who defeated Beaverton 34-20 on Friday night. It will be the first time both schools have met.
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.
St. Joseph Our Lady of the Lake Catholic leaned on turnovers to beat visiting Godfrey-Lee 34-6 on Thursday night.
The Legends turned over the ball six times on the first six drives in the loss.
(Image Courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
Anthony Blok had a 63-yard TD run for Godfrey-Lee and teammate Elijah Beckwith had 14 carries for 59 yards.
“We couldn’t get much going; it was just a rough game for us,” said Legends coach Lamar Marshall, whose team dropped to 0-4 overall. “Our defense is finally clicking and getting on the same page.”
Sophomore Sebastian Garcia led Lee with 12 tackles.
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.
East Kentwood’s defense delivered another shutout, its second in as many games, as the Falcons halted Jenison’s offense in a 16-0 homecoming victory.
The Falcons clung to a 3-0 lead for most of the first half before Stellan Bowman broke through for a rushing score with just 54 seconds left in the half to put East Kentwood up 10-0 at the break.
Bowman had a stellar game on both sides of the ball with 96 total yards and a rushing score, as well as 15 tackles and a sack on defense.
Quarterback Casey Joppie connected with J’Kari Couch on a touchdown late in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach, finishing with 189 yards through the air on 13 of 28 passing.
Falcons coach Tony Kimbrough praised the defense after the game.
“Our defense won us that game tonight,” Kimbrough said. “We never got clicking on offense and give Jenison credit. Their game plan was to take away our run game and make our quarterback beat them.
“I thought our quarterback played well and we didn’t help him out, but our defense made plays when we needed it.”
East Kentwood players huddle around their coaches during a break in the action. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Other contributors on defense for East Kentwood included Braylon Cox with 10 tackles and a forced fumble, as well as Elisee Kanda with 6 tackles and 2 forced fumbles (1 fumble recovery). Jamari Ross and Mekhi Copes each had an interception.
Despite the inconsistencies on offense, the Falcons improved to 3-1 (2-0 OK Red) on the season with a matchup with undefeated Rockford (3-0, 1-0 OK Red) looming.
“Big one next week, we’re going to see what we’re made of,” Kimbrough said. “Any time East Kentwood and Rockford get together it’s going to be a battle.”
With a close loss to Muskegon (3-1, 2-0 OK Green) and a win over Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice (2-2) on their resume, East Kentwood is hoping those experiences will help them in this crucial stretch of games.
“We’re battle-tested and 2-7 (last year’s record) is our motivation,” Kimbrough said. “All offseason has been about improving on that record and through four games we have already surpassed that.”
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 QB Jake DeHaan completed 8 of 15 passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns and rushed three times for 78 yards. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
One minute into the game, senior quarterback Jake DeHaan threw a 76-yard touchdown pass to sophomore brother Charlie DeHaan to give South Christian the early lead in a 28-6 win over Cedar Springs Friday.
DeHaan completed 8 of 15 passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns and had three rushes for 78 yards.
It was his brother Charlie’s first TD as a wide receiver on varsity for the Sailors. DeHaan filled in for the injured Jake Vermaas.
Despite South Christian’s big play to start the game, coach Danny Brown said his team didn’t get the explosive plays it had in the first three weeks.
“It was kind of a grind-it-out game for us,” said Brown, whose Sailors improved to 4-0 overall. “We had to execute at a high level. I’m just really proud of the kids. It was a hard fought battle.”
“Senior Nate Brinks really carried us in the run game,” continued Brown, whose running back had 15 carries for 102 yards and two TDs. “Our offense was humming along in the first half. We were converting and making plays.”
The Sailors led 21-6 at halftime.
Brown had much to say about Cedar Springs performance.
“They are probably one of the best 0-4 teams in the state,” Brown said. “They’ve played a lot of really good teams. Hands down, they have a phenomenal football program and good coaches.
“We knew it was going to be a fight. We just made enough plays and played phenomenal defense.”
Senior Cayden Dykema led South Christian with 13 tackles, followed by junior Ben Mulder, 6.5, and senior Cam Post, 6.
“Cayden is unbelievable on defense,” Brown said. “He was all over the place.”
Senior Cayden Dykema led South Christian with 13 tackles in the victory. (WKTV)
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.
Hopkins senior Zander Hitzler rushed for three touchdowns behind a strong offensive line to help the Vikings knock off visiting Kelloggsville 48-8 Friday.
Hitzler rushed 10 times for 123 yards, including a 53-yard run in the first quarter to give Hopkins an early 6-0 lead.
“I’m very proud of our offensive line,” said Hopkins coach Cody Francis, whose team improved to 3-1 overall. “Our big boys up front do their work for me every night.
“Kelloggsville made some great plays as a team, but penalties hurt them. I give coach Branch a lot of credit. They were making drives and are a very capable team.”
Big second quarter seals game for Hopkins
Hopkins scored 22 points in the second quarter to grab a 28-8 halftime lead behind the play of quarterback Miles Gibson and receivers Landon Klinge and Charles Benting.
Gibson was 4 of 5 passing for 76 yards and two TDs and two interceptions overall, including a 20-yard pass to Klinge and a 28-yard pass to Benting in the second quarter.
Hitzler led Hopkins with five tackles, followed by Caleb Bonga, four tackles, one assist and a sack, and Tristen Perry, two tackles, five assists and two sacks.
Kelloggsville QB Zach Zerfas completed 11 of 27 passes for 150 yards and one touchdown. Camron Townsend caught 11 passes for 149 yards and one touchdown.
DeMarreon Rodriquez led the Rockets with six tackles, while Jeremie Tsoumou had five tackles with one interception.
Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch pointed out his team’s stalled drives inside the 10-yard line in the second quarter.
“If we scored on those, the ballgame looks a little bit different going into the half,” said Branch, whose Rockets dropped to 0-4 overall. “Our guys played hard; I thought we improved this week.
“I want our team to stay with it — to keep buying in and keep working hard and we’ll figure it out. We have a lot of good players, and have to get them all on the same page working hard at the same time.”
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.
The Sailors beat Ottawa Hills 51-12 Friday at East Kentwood’s stadium. (WKTV/Ty Marzean)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
A solid ground game combined with sparkling special teams play kept South Christian undefeated with a 51-12 win over Ottawa Hills Friday at East Kentwood’s stadium.
“Special teams definitely played a big outcome in the game; that was what sparked our scoring,” said South Christian coach Danny Brown, whose team improved to 3-0 overall, 1-0 in the OK Gold. “The special teams made a difference.
“We started the game with a kickoff return by Charlie Schreur, so that was huge.”
A quick score
Schreur ran 70 yards to pay dirt to give the Sailors a 7-0 lead immediately. Schreur scored two TDs in the win.
Soon after, South Christian’s Cam VanSolkema blocked a punt that Ben Mulder recovered in the end zone for a TD.
(Image courtesy of South Christian)
The Sailors tallied 356 yards in total offense as senior Nate Brinks led with 62 yards rushing and two TDs.
Quarterback Jake DeHaan was 12 of 17 for 177 yards passing.
Brown was very happy with his team’s defensive performance.
“Our defense was great; flying to the ball,” he said. “They played well at the line of scrimmage, getting a lot of guys to the ball.”
Ottawa Hills coach Christian Verley said South Christian is solid and technically sound, but his special teams broke down.
“If we don’t give up 25 points on special teams it’s a different game; that is unacceptable,” said Verley, whose team fell to 0-3 overall. “If we can clean up those things it’s really a solid game.”
Ottawa Hills junior quarterback Tyreez Buchanan was 5 for 12 for 36 yards passing and one TD and rushed 12 times for 68 yards. Junior Willie Duke had 36 yards receiving.
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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.
Kelloggsville quarterback Zach Zerfas threw for 81 yards and a touchdown. (WKTV)
By: Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
Belding stayed among the ranks of the unbeaten after its 63-6 win over Kelloggsville Friday.
Injuries taking their toll on Kelloggsville
The Rockets came into Friday dealing with a rash of injuries which prompted the need for inexperienced players to step up. Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch was proud of the way his team fought despite the adversity stacked against them.
“We had some key guys out tonight and had to have some inexperienced guys step up,” Branch said. “I commend our guys for getting back up and continuing to play hard.”
The Black Knights were very physical, according to Branch.
“If there’s one thing that Belding does, they hit you right in the mouth,” Branch said. “Definitely a learning experience for our players. We have to be able to take those hits and hit right back.”
Quarterback Zach Zerfas was 9 for 15 for 81 yards and a touchdown. Wideout Cam Townsend had three receptions for 27 yards and a touchdown.
Belding (3-0) takes on Grandville Calvin Christian next Friday, while Kelloggsville (0-3) travels to Hopkins.
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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.
An explosive second quarter helps Hopkins beat Godwin Heights on Friday. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Nearly everything was decided right before the half as Hopkins outscored Godwin Heights 20-0 in the second quarter to grab a 42-20 OK Silver win on Friday.
“Scoring 20 points in the second quarter was huge for us,” said Hopkins coach Cody Francis, whose Vikings improved to 2-1 overall. “We ran the ball well and did a good job on the offensive line.
“I’m very proud of the kids. Godwin always has great athletes and are well coached. To win 42-20 was huge, and it’s always great to get your first win in conference play.”
Long pick 6 helps Hopkins in second quarter
Senior safety Zander Hitzler had a 94-yard pick 6 run in the middle of that second-quarter scoring spree, giving Hopkins a 14-6 edge.
Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble said the second quarter lost the game for the Wolverines.
“For us, we have to execute for four quarters,” said Kimble, whose team fell to 1-2 overall. “That one quarter got us. We made some mental breakdowns and that’s what opened the game up.
“We have to coach the boys up; it’s our responsibility. We’ll get better and keep fighting.”
Quarterback Jamarion Collins leads Wolverines
Senior quarterback Jamarion Collins, who had seven TDs in the first two weeks, had one TD pass against Hopkins.
“We play well when he plays well,” Kimble said. “He ran and threw the ball well for us tonight. He had another great game.”
Godwin Heights senior QB Jamarion Collins had one touchdown pass. (WKTV)
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Wide receiver Razah Townsend had 45 receiving yards and a touchdown in a 42-0 win over Grand Haven. (WKTV)
By: Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After losing a tight game with Muskegon in Week 1, East Kentwood bounced back with two consecutive wins after an impressive 42-0 victory over Grand Haven on Friday night.
Dominant defense puts clamps on Bucs offense
The Falcons put a stranglehold on Grand Haven’s offensive unit with just 55 total yards allowed. The Buccaneers had just two first downs. East Kentwood coach Tony Kimbrough explained the importance of preventing the big play opportunities.
“It starts with our defensive coordinator, coach [Houston] Glass does a great job of scheming teams,” Kimbrough said. “We watched the film and saw big play after big play. So we went into this game saying we need to eliminate some of those.”
“We were able to contain their quarterback who really is quick and electric, but you’re not going to outrun us side to side.
Bowman enjoying success at new position
Halfback Stellan Bowman saw plenty of green grass in front of him all night, running for 194 yards on just 9 carries and 4 touchdowns. Bowman, who also plays linebacker for the Falcons, made the switch to running back this off season after Kimbrough watched him play rugby last spring.
“I didn’t know he could run like that until I went to a rugby game,” Kimbrough said. “Nobody could tackle him and I went up to him after the game and said you’re playing running back next year.”
Other standouts for East Kentwood on offense included wide receiver Razah Townsend with 45 receiving yards and a touchdown, as well as quarterback Casey Joppie who had 133 yards and a touchdown on 9 of 17 passing.
Homecoming next week for East Kentwood
East Kentwood (2-1, 1-0 OK Red) welcomes Jenison (1-2, 0-1 OK Red) to Falcon Stadium for a homecoming game next Friday. Meanwhile Grand Haven (1-2, 0-1 OK Red) takes on undefeated Rockford (3-0).
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Godfrey-Lee coach Lamar Marshall said his team’s 66-6 loss to visiting New Buffalo on Friday was filled with mental mistakes and drive killers, but his athletes fought hard until the end.
(Image courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
“We had some drive killers — stalled in the red zone four times, dropped four touchdown passes, fumbled in the red zone once,” said Marshall, whose Legends dropped to 0-3 this season in 8-player football. “We beat ourselves tonight. We need to clean up the mental errors.
“Making the short tackle kind of killed us tonight. New Buffalo had a really good night rushing.”
Elijah Beckwith, who went down with a hamstring injury in the game, led with nine carries for 76 yards and one touchdown for the Legends. He had the lone score in the second quarter on a 69-yard TD run just before halftime.
No penalties
“We didn’t have one penalty today so that was a plus,” Marshall said. “My boys fought until the end. There was no letdown.
“We encouraged each other and fought hard, but we were a little overmanned today.”
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From high school coaches and former college players to those looking for exercise and recreation, the Kentwood Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues offer something for everyone.
“We have a large age demographic, from people who are college age all the way to retirees,” Kentwood Site Supervisor Christina Dessauer said.
Four competition-grade beach volleyball courts, unveiled in 2019 and located at the Department of Public Works on Breton Avenue, have allowed the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department to expand its beach volleyball program by offering both recreational and competitive beach volleyball leagues to interested community members.
The Kentwood Parks and Rec Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues have enjoyed a great summer at their competition-grade courts at 5068 Breton Ave. SE. (WKTV)
“The incentive of building the courts at our Department of Public Works was to have more courts available so that we could really expand our program,” said Shelby Henshaw, recreation program coordinator for Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “We are the only facility that I am aware of that has four courts like that.
“The senior population just wants to get outside, they want to exercise, they have participated in our 50-plus fall league before — so they come here as just another way to get exercise. In the competitive leagues, I find that there are high school coaches who are currently playing, former college players — I see it all.”
Henshaw said the beach volleyball courts have allowed Kentwood to expand its program from a maximum of six teams to 12 teams that play doubleheader games each week for a total of 16 games per season.
The Kentwood Parks and Rec Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues enjoying a night of competition at 5068 Breton Ave. SE. (WKTV)
Kentwood currently offers three categories of beach volleyball leagues, ages 18 and above: a 2’s (two players per team) recreational co-ed league, a 4’s (four players per team) recreational co-ed league, and a 4’s co-ed competitive league.
Co-ed is defined by Kentwood Parks and Rec as having one male and one female on the court at all times. Participants form their own leagues, finding the required number of players needed and coming to the first league night with their team already in place.
Each team plays doubleheader games in 45 minutes on league night and is responsible for keeping score, giving scores to the site supervisor, and calling infractions as they occur.
Teams also are responsible for starting their games.
Four competition-grade beach volleyball courts, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE near the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility, are home to the Kentwood Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues. (WKTV)
“If you don’t start within the first five minutes, you forfeit your first game,” Dessauer said. “If you don’t start within the first 10 minutes you forfeit all of your games, and the other team wins automatically.”
Scores and points do matter, as the season culminates in a tournament where points seed the tournament.
“We run the tournament like a basic volleyball tournament where it is the best two out of three games,” Dessauer added.
The first two games are played to 18 points, the final game to 15, with a stipulation that the winning team wins by two points.
Volleyball leagues run year-round, ensuring that there are always volleyball activities available for interested participants.
Indoor volleyball as well
Indoor leagues are held at Kentwood Activities Center, but they also have partnered with other facilities because Kentwood’s winter leagues are so popular that the number of players has increased beyond what the Activities Center can hold.
“It is a continually growing program,” Henshaw said. “This year especially, I saw a lot of new faces. We offer four different types of leagues, so getting new people, new faces to sign up and join is always a welcome addition.”
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
With opponents from both schools pulling out of scheduled games, Grand Rapids Union and Godwin Heights decided to take the field against each other as the Red Hawks emerged with a 48-18 victory on Thursday.
Godwin pulls ahead early, Union’s depth leads to win
The Wolverines had an early lead, and even had an opportunity to lead by multiple scores after a blocked punt. However, Godwin Heights was unable to take advantage.
Lack of depth played a factor, according to Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble.
“We knew when we took the game on short notice they had more depth than us,” Kimble said. “We just needed to be more conditioned and execute, and in the beginning we did that.”
Senior quarterback Jamarion Collins added two more touchdowns, after a five touchdown performance a week ago.
Coach Kimble explained the decision to play Union on short notice after their previous opponent dropped the game due to a shortage of players.
“For us, it was more important to make sure we had a game to play,” Kimble said. “Last season we went 5-3, and had a team on our schedule drop down to 8-man and we were unable to reschedule.
“We just didn’t want to put ourselves in that same exact situation.”
Under the old playoff system, a team that won six of nine games or five of eight was guaranteed a playoff spot, but the MHSAA has opted for a points-based playoff model.
Grand Rapids Union (2-0) will face Wyoming next Friday at 7 p.m., while Godwin Heights (1-1) travels to Hopkins for a 7 p.m. contest on Sept. 9.
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South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan had another great night, throwing four touchdowns in the first half of the Sailors win over East Grand Rapids. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Coming off a solid 42-7 opening-season win last week over Grand Rapids Christian, visiting South Christian kept it rolling with a strong 35-6 showing over East Grand Rapids Thursday.
Senior quarterback Jake DeHaan lit it up again with four touchdown passes, all in the first half, to give his team the momentum heading into halftime at 28-6.
He completed 16 of 20 passes for 314 yards and rushed 16 times for 91 yards. Last week, he threw four touchdown passes and ran for two.
Big second quarter for South Christian
South Christian coach Danny Brown said DeHaan helped the Sailors put the game out of reach in the second quarter by tallying 21 points.
“I think from a physical standpoint, we played the game the right way,” said Brown, whose Sailors improved to 2-0. “We were physical and fast. It was just one of those games where everything seemed to be clicking for us.
“The coaches were on fire with play calls and the kids were executing. That makes for a fun night.”
(Image courtesy of South Christian)
South Christian senior Brady Nitz had four catches for 108 yards and two TDs.
“Brady has taken the bull by the horns and has stepped up,” said Brown, whose receiver filled in for injured senior Tanner Buwalda. “The kid’s a hard worker and has earned everything he’s gotten.”
“If Brady’s not catching touchdowns he’s blocking like crazy.”
Brown said his defense was phenomenal.
Ben Mulder led with 5.5 tackles, while Cam Post added five.
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The Godfrey-Lee Legends at practice in 2021. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Conributing Writer
Featuring a strong rushing attack and an opportunistic defense, the Mendon Hornets jumped ahead early and never looked back in a 76-12 victory over Godfrey-Lee in 8-player action on Thursday.
Ground and pound for Mendon
Mendon ran it early and often against the Legends to the tune of 444 yards on 31 carries. Hornets running back Jack McCaw was the largest beneficiary with 210 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns.
Mendon coach Robert Kretschman said it all starts up front.
“Being able to control the line of scrimmage was key for us,” Kretschman said. “That’s our M.O., ground and pound and playing solid defense.”
The Hornets completed just one pass on three attempts, an 81-yard touchdown from quarterback Luke Schinker to tight end Gabe Haigh.
Turnovers end promising drives for Lee
Godfrey-Lee had several promising drives early. One of which ended in a touchdown pass for quarterback Anthony Block, making his first start of the season after missing last week’s game due to injury. Three other drives ended in interceptions.
(Image courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
“We sustained drives in the first half,” Lee coach Lamar Marshall said. “The drive killers got us, those interceptions ended some good looking drives.”
After a strong game last week, running back Elijah Beckwith added 88 yards on the ground including a 50-yard rushing touchdown.
Mendon (1-1) hosts Bridgman on September 9 at 7 p.m., while Godfrey-Lee (0-2) hosts New Buffalo September 9 at 7 p.m.
Send us your live game photos
We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@wktv.org.
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.
Ionia senior Ethan Bowen made the most of his first varsity start at quarterback as he threw two touchdowns and ran for two more in the Bulldogs 44-8 win over home team Kelloggsville Thursday.
Bowen, who filled in for the injured Travis Tucker, Jr., had 101 yards in the air and 82 on the ground.
“He’s one of our captains, a wide receiver and the backup quarterback,” said Ionia coach Chad Rhynard, whose team improved to 1-1. “He did a great job and the kids rallied behind him tonight. I was surprised, but not really surprised. He’s a great leader for us and does what we ask of him.
“I think he was pretty excited for the opportunity.”
Rhynard said once they took a 14-0 lead his team settled in offensively.
“I was happy with the way we ground it out,” said Ryhnard, whose Bulldogs led 28-8 at the half. “We want to possess the ball and gain first downs. Overall, not too many complaints for us.”
Receiver Mason Doty scored two touchdowns for 88 yards total.
Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch said his team came out and played hard all night long.
“Their mentality, aggressiveness and willingness was all there,” said Branch, whose Rockets fell to 0-2. “Early on, our defense held tough. We fumbled on our first possession and our defense stopped them. If we capitalized on the first two drives it could have gone a different way.
“I’m proud of their effort; they played together and they got after it.”
Cam Townsend scored the lone touchdown for Kelloggsville in the first quarter on an 80-yard pass from senior quarterback Zach Zerfas. Townsend led with 113 yards receiving on four catches.
Despite Kelloggsville’s offensive struggles, Zerfas ended up with 188 yards passing. As a junior last year, Zerfas passed for over 2,400 yards and threw 24 touchdowns.
Send us your live game photos
We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@wktv.org
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.
Ford International Airport is holding its annual Runway 5K and one-mile fun run on Saturday, Sept. 24. (Courtesy)
By WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport welcomes runners and walkers to participate in the annual Runway 5K and one-mile fun run on Saturday, Sept. 24.
Registration has already begun for this unique race, which gives walkers and runners the rare opportunity to compete on an actual airport runway. The course will begin north of the economy parking lot, looping onto taxiway Juliet and runway 8L/26R, the Airport’s general aviation runway, before ending back at the parking lot.
Race-day registration
Race-day registration and packet pickup begins at 7 a.m., with the 5K race starting at 9 a.m. The one-mile fun run will begin at 9:05 a.m. Awards for the top three overall males, females and individual age groups will be presented at 10:15 a.m.
Early packet pickup and registration will take place 4-7 p.m. Sept. 23 at The Runnery, located at 5361 Alpine Ave. NW in Comstock Park.
This year’s charity partner is Kids’ Food Basket. This West Michigan nonprofit exists to increase access to healthy food for children and families through its Sack Supper program, community-driven farming, family food provision and educational programming.
“We are delighted to host this community-favorite event,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “This race gives runners and walkers a unique experience, as the course is typically reserved for aircraft only.
“As an organization that values connections, this is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together to support Kids’ Food Basket, which fills a critical need for children across West Michigan.”
Ford International Airport is holding its annual Runway 5K and one-mile fun run on Saturday, Sept. 24. (Courtesy)
Registration for the 5K begins at $44 and $30 for the one-mile fun run. Registration includes a T-shirt, finisher medals for those who complete the 5K or fun run, post-race snacks and beverages, awards for top finishers and free finisher’s photos.
“We are so grateful to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport for hosting the Runway 5K,” said Bridget Clark Whitney, president and founding CEO of Kids’ Food Basket. “What an incredible way to gather our community together to nourish our neighbors. Your support helps to break down barriers to food equity for children and families in West Michigan.
“This school year, we are serving approximately 9,600 evening meals, or Sack Suppers, daily to children in 60 schools across four counties. Thank you for being community champions of this critical work.”
The Ford International Airport’s two commercial aviation runways will still be operational during the race.
The Runway 5K focuses on partnering with local nonprofits that support residents of the greater West Michigan community. In 2021, the event raised nearly $11,000 for charity. This year’s presenting sponsor is The Christman Company. The official nutrition sponsor is Meijer. Gold sponsors include Experience Grand Rapids, Northern Jet Management, Pioneer Construction and Ward Aviation. Silver sponsors include Ice Mountain and Macatawa Bank. Bronze sponsors include FastSigns and The Professional Group.
The race is organized by Trivium Racing and the Ford International Airport Authority.
Xia Dargo participates in the Kentwood Parks and Rec waterskiing clinic this summer at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville. Funds raised at The Vibe will go toward purchasing new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs, including waterskiing. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff
Community members are invited to The Vibe, an annual celebration and fundraiser to enhance the City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs, on Thursday, Sept. 8.
This year’s event will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Kent District Library, Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. It will include food and cocktails, live music by the Moonshot Band, a silent auction, adaptive equipment displays and yard games.
Funds raised at The Vibe will go toward purchasing new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs, including golf. Troy Almli tees off at the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center this summer during Kentwood’s Adaptive Golf League. (WKTV)
The evening also will feature guest speaker Lee “Coach” Montgomery, a longtime coach and athlete of wheelchair and adaptive sports, who will share more about his experience in both roles.
Montgomery has medaled in the Paralympics, traveled the world and played a range of different sports, including sitting volleyball, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis. He won a gold medal for wheelchair basketball in 1990 and in 1993 was recognized as one of the top 10 wheelchair tennis players in the U.S.
His coaching career began in 1988 with Kentwood Parks and Recreation, where he led the junior wheelchair basketball team for several years. He was inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame in 2006 and the National Wheelchair Basketball Association Hall of Fame in 2015.
“Coach Lee has long been a champion for adaptive sports and recreation and athletes of all abilities, and we’re excited for him to join us at this year’s event,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We welcome the community to join us to learn more about his story and the value of inclusive recreational opportunities.”
Tickets for the casual-attire event are $40 per person. They can be purchased online at KentwoodVibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270.
Fundraising for adaptive rec programs
Funds raised at this year’s event will go toward purchasing new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs. These offerings include archery, cycling club, boccia league, bowling, canoeing, downhill skiing, golf league, leisure club, kayaking, rock climbing, track and field clinics, pickleball, wake boarding and waterskiing, along with dances and other social events.
Mark your calendars for The Vibe on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Kent District Library, Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The giving wall, shown here from last year’s event, presents an opportunity for people to donate towards specific adaptive equipment needed or to sponsor a specific adaptive program/event.
“We have a wide variety of adaptive recreation programs that meet the interests of all individuals – from social opportunities like leisure club to sensational activities like waterskiing,” said Ann Przybysz, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator. “These programs give individuals an opportunity to connect and experience the benefits that come with recreational activities, including a sense of camaraderie, improved confidence and new skills.”
The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming in partnership with community partners, including Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and dozens of volunteers.
Programs are open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond. To learn about current offerings, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.
Senior quarterback Jamarion Collins led the Wolverines with five touchdowns. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer and Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Godwin Heights kicked off the 2022 campaign in style as senior QB Jamarion Collins showcased his dual-threat ability in a 44-6 win over Muskegon Heights.
Collins showcases versatility with 5 TDs
While this wasn’t the first start of his career, after filling in for an injured starter last year, this year marked Collins first as the undisputed leader of the offense. With 3 TDs on the ground, as well as 2 through the air, Collins utilized his array of weapons on offense.
Godwin Heights won its opener over Muskegon Heights Friday. (WKTV)
Wolverines coach Brandon Kimble was impressed with his signal caller.
“He led our offense well and controlled the game,” Kimble said. “He had some experience from last season, but with this being his first season coming in as the starter he played very well.”
Godwin Heights receivers Tellios Moore and Rashaad Dorsey added one touchdown each, while running back Elijah True found pay dirt on the ground.
Kimble named head coach before season
Despite having to take over for previous head coach Sydeon Harvey right before the season, the transition for Kimble wasn’t as difficult as it could have been. The former head coach, defensive coordinator and current athletic director leaned on his past experience.
“Thankfully, I’ve known all of our players since middle school,” Kimble said. “So the transition was, I don’t want to say seamless, but a little less of a headache.”
Inexperience a factor for Muskegon Heights
Missed tackles on defense hurt the Tigers as coach Robert Brown attributed the struggles in that area to a lack of experience.
“Godwin looked crisp and sharp, and they executed well,” Brown said. “We’re a young team and it showed with multiple missed tackles.
“We did the best we could and we will be okay as the year goes on.”
With no game next week for Godwin Heights, the Wolverines prepare for a Week 3 matchup with Hopkins.
For all the Wyoming/Kentwood area football scores, click here
Send us your live game photos
We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@wktv.org
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.
Thanks to strength class instructor Curt Copeland, South Christian beefed up in the offseason and started strong with a 42-7 win over Grand Rapids Christian Friday night in its opener.
“We’ve put a big emphasis in the weight room and the kids have bought in,” said South Christian coach Danny Brown, giving props to former Athletic Director Copeland, now a physical education teacher. “Football is pretty physical.
“I think our defensive front was very physical and made it hard for them to run the ball. We limited the big plays and we were able to cover well. Our pursuit was great.”
(Image courtesy of South Christian)
An interception by Junior Austin Tiesma on the first play of the game quickly set the tone for the Sailors.
South Christian led 14-0 at the end of the first quarter and 28-7 at the half to take control.
“I think we’re blessed to have a few kids in their third year of varsity,” said Brown, whose Sailors were 8-4 overall last year with a deep playoff run in Division 4. “We lean on their experience.”
Jake DeHaan throws four TDs and runs two
Senior quarterback Jake DeHaan threw four touchdown passes and ran for two to lead South Christian’s offense. He threw for 255 yards and ran for 40.
“He’s a really good quarterback and a heck of a football player,” Brown said.
Sophomore receiver Carson Vis scored three touchdowns on 95 yards, while senior Jake Cashen led with six tackles.
“It’s a fun group of kids that love to compete,” Brown said.
South Christian capitalized on Eagles’ mistakes
Grand Rapids Christian coach Rueben Riley said the Sailors capitalized on his team’s mistakes.
“We threw a pick the very first play of the game inside the 30 and it was a very short field to travel,” Riley said. “They jumped out 14-0 on us pretty fast and we just couldn’t get out of our own way. They’re a very well-coached, sound and disciplined team. Hats off to South for having one heck of a game plan.
“South definitely paid attention to the weight room. You’ll see that team make a deep run in the playoffs.”
Junior Isaiah Caviness got the lone score for the Eagles on a run.
South Christian travels to East Grand Rapids on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
“You know what you’re getting with East; they’re physical” Brown said. “We haven’t beat them in a long time, they kind of have our number.”
Farwell defeats the Godfrey-Lee Legends 66-16 in 8-Player football. (Image courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
A high-powered rushing attack was the catalyst for Farwell with over 450 yards on the ground in a 66-16 win over Godfrey-Lee in 8-Player action.
Dominant ground performance
The Eagles jumped out to a 22-0 lead early in the first quarter and never looked back as Michael Nunn led the way on the ground with 235 yards and 3 TDs. Farwell established its physical brand of football, according to coach Travis Waddell.
“Our kids were excited to play out of the gate,” Waddell said. “We like to play a physical style of play and we were able to do that on the ground early.
“That really opened things up for us.”
The Eagles nearly shut out the Legends heading into halftime, giving up just a kickoff return TD to make it a 50-8 advantage at the break. Dominic Crabill was all over the field for Farwell with 14 total tackles on the night.
Freshman thrust into starting role due to injury
J.T. Kennedy, a slot receiver, started at quarterback after an injury to starter Anthony Block during the week. Kennedy threw for 58 yards on 4-8 passing and 40 yards on the ground. The young quarterback showed poise making his first start, according to Godfrey-Lee coach Lamar Marshall.
“Not an ideal situation for our team,” Marshall said. “But I thought J.T. played very well given the circumstances.”
Beckwith shines despite loss
One of the bright spots for the Legends was the rushing performance for running back Elijah Beckwith, who gained 167 yards on 22 carries with a rushing score. Beckwith also had an 83-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
“We were really able to exploit the outside zone play,” Marshall said. “We were able to get to the outside of their defense a few times and got some big plays.”
Godfrey-Lee hopes to bounce back traveling to Mendon on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
A file photo of the Kelloggsville High School football team practicing last season. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
If there ever was a perfect way to start a season, Owosso found it.
Sophomore halfback Hoyt Patrick ran the opening kickoff to paydirt in a 42-18 victory over Kelloggsville on the Rockets home field.
Owosso had not one, but two kickoff returns for touchdowns as junior Daniel Wittum made the other house call.
Lots of “D”
Special teams wasn’t the only part of the game clicking for the Trojans, however, as their defense came up with two fumble recoveries and an interception on a 2-point try by the Rockets. Patrick led the way with 7 tackles, a sack (one of 5 sacks on the night for Owosso) and a forced fumble.
Trojans Coach Ron Tyner, in his first year leading the program after 11 years coaching college football, outlined how important it was to win the turnover battle.
“Both sides of the ball we won the touchdown to turnover battle,” Tyner said. “That’s what we hang our hat on and how we evaluate our success.”
Tyner also gave credit to senior quarterback Hugh Doyle, in the first year running a new offensive scheme. Owosso installed a pro-style offense in the offseason after running a Wing-T option offense the past few seasons.
“He is one of those kids that’s a diamond in the rough,” Tyner said. “To be honest with you, I lucked out with a really good quarterback that checks all the boxes.”
Kelloggsville’s Brendon Tuinstra scored 3 TDs for the Rockets. (Courtesy of Alex Chavez)
For Kelloggsville, it was a game of missed opportunities with some errant deep balls early, according to Coach Brandon Branch.”
“We didn’t hit on a couple big plays early,” Branch said. “If we hit on two of those we go into halftime tied at least.”
However, it would be the Trojans who seized control of the game from the start with a 16-0 lead. The Rockets had a chance later on before halftime to get within a score, but a fumble inside the redzone stalled a promising drive as Owosso carried a 22-6 advantage into the break.
Little things the difference
“Just little things,” Branch said. “If two of those go our way it’s a different story going into half, but Owosso came out and executed and did a great job.”
The Trojans return home to face Charlotte on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. Meanwhile, the Rockets host Ionia in WKTV’s Game of the Week on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
Forest Hills Northern beats Wyoming 48-7 in a season opener Thursday night. (pxhere.com)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Entering halftime with a tight 14-7 lead, Forest Hills Northern scored 34 points in the second half in a 48-7 win over visiting Wyoming in Thursday’s season opener.
Huskies coach Eddie Ostipow said his team had to hit the reset button at halftime to break the game wide open.
“Wyoming did some nice things against us in the first half and we made some adjustments,” said Ostipow, whose team was deadlocked with the Wolves 7-7 to end the first quarter. “I think in the first half we were really close to breaking it open, but turned the ball over and that hurt us. They have some nice athletes, and made some big runs, but I think our kids responded well.
“We’re a pretty young team with a lot of inexperience, and went through a lot of injuries last year. This is a group that’s kind of finding its identity.”
Ostipow spoke highly of his offensive line, particularly senior captains Trey Price, right guard, and Arman Singh, left guard.
“They led the way for us tonight.”
Drew Dabaja, Forest Hills Northern, led the game with three rushing touchdowns, while teammate Chris Arrington led with eight tackles.
The Huskies had 321 yards in total offense and the Wolves tallied 233.
Wyoming hosts Northview on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
Get ready for high school football. The season opens this week on Thursday and Friday, Aug. 25 and 26 for your home teams in Wyoming and Kentwood. (pxhere.com)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
WKTV is bringing you another great season of high school football, starting with our season-opening truck coverage of Ionia at Kelloggsville on Thursday, Sept. 1.
Our high-tech WKTV Game of the Week truck will film one game each week, which will include two play-by-play announcers, a field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for our broadcast.
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. (See schedule below) 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. Broadcasts also are available on Video on Demand at a later date.
The Wyoming Wolves travel to Forest Hills Northern on Thursday, Aug. 25. Game time is 7 p.m. For your team’s football schedule visit here
We are planning a much greater presence this year with high school football. Yes, even bigger than before if you can believe that. Every week, our sports staff will post football game stories and roundups covering each varsity high school team in our viewing area in Kentwood and Wyoming.
We plan to give you the stats and highlights of each game in our stories … explaining the details of how your team marched to victory.
Look for you school’s game story or roundup on our WKTV Journal website each week.
Support your team in every way by going to the games, cheering them on, watching the featured Game of the Week on WKTV and visiting the WKTV Journal for the exciting game stories.
WKTV Game of the Week Truck Schedule
Thursday, Sept. 1 Ionia at Kelloggsville
Friday, Sept. 9 Ottawa Hills vs. South Christian (at EK)
Friday, Sept. 16 Jenison at East Kentwood
Friday, Sept. 23 Reeths-Puffer at Wyoming
Friday, Sept. 30 TBD
Friday, Oct. 7 TBD
Friday, Oct. 14 Tri-unity at Godfrey-Lee
Friday, Oct. 21 TBD
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.
Your football team’s season schedule
For your home team’s complete football schedule click here
For more information on WKTV and what we offer, visit here
Grand Valley Christian Patriots and Blue’s Gym Professional Boxing/Kickboxing have joined forces to host a school supply giveaway Wednesday, Aug. 24.
The event will be from 5 – 7 p.m. at Blue’s Gym Professional Boxing/Kickboxing, 4248 Kalamazoo Ave. SE.
Grand Valley Christian Patriots usually does its school supply giveaway at its first home game, but since this year the game is Sept. 17, when school is in full swing, the team decided to move the giveaway up.
“Making sure our communities kids have the necessary support is one of our most important goals,” Coach Brian Shafer.
Members of the Grand Valley Christian Patriots football team will be on hand to help students with the supplies which include notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, and other items.
The Grand Valley Christians Patriots includes home-schooled students from Wyoming and Kentwood as well as from around the state. The team finished 2021 ranked 11th in the country by the National Homeschool Football Association.
Blue’s Gym, which was started by kickboxing champion Dino Newville, is a Christian-based organization with the overall mission to help the struggling youth community of Grand Rapids.
For many in West Michigan, a round of golf on a nice summer evening is the perfect recreational activity.
And for those with varying disabilities, taking part in the Kentwood Adaptive Golf League is an opportunity to continue playing the sport they love.
The Kentwood adaptive recreation program gives people with physical and developmental disabilities the chance to participate in a variety of sports and recreational activities including adaptive golf, which Ann Przybysz has been involved with for over six years.
As program coordinator for Kentwood Parks and Recreation, her role has only increased over the years.
“I started about six years ago with the golf program working golf carts, encouraging our participants and running the leagues,” said Przybysz. “It’s awesome to get people out on wonderful evenings like this and try to take advantage of the nice weather.”
SoloRider golf cart a game-changer
Partnering with the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center in Comstock Park allows the adaptive golf league participants to have access to the SoloRider adaptive golf cart, which allows those with limited or no use of their legs the ability to golf freely with little or no assistance.
The adaptive cart features hand controls and a swivel seat that raises golfers into a standing position. Scott Lake is one of few golf courses in Michigan to have access to the SoloRider carts.
Director of Golf Shane Riley said the cart is a game-changer for those that may have not had the ability to golf before.
“The golf cart itself is used weekly by a handful of participants, (and) without that golf cart (they) would never be able to play golf again,” said Riley, who’s worked at Scott Lake for 11 years. “It gives them full capability on the course and they can take it anywhere with limited exceptions.”
Weekly tradition during the summer
Ryan Luchies looking for a club during a weekly Kentwood Parks and Recreation Adaptive Golf League at the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center. (WKTV)
For Troy Almli (age 46), Ryan Luchies (38), and Krista Schulze (50), the adaptive golf league is just one of the many activities they take part in through the Kentwood adaptive program. The three of them are all survivors of traumatic brain injuries and make golf night weekly on Tuesdays at Scott Lake.
Almli, who got into a life-altering car accident when he was 10 years old, has been playing golf since he was seven and described why he enjoys the sport immensely.
“Enjoying the fresh air and seeing nice people,” Almli said. “I golf with the best people around.”
Meanwhile, Schulze says the adaptive program has been crucial to helping her enjoy the activities she likes to participate in that she otherwise wouldn’t be able to do. She enjoys bowling and snow skiing in addition to the golf program.
“I find it really helpful for anyone with a handicap out there,” Schulze said. “Helps them get back into doing whatever sport they love to do.”
Troy Almli tees off during Kentwood’s Adaptive Golf League held Tuesday nights at the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center. (WKTV)
Mary Crestwell, a rehab tech for the Hope Network long term care facility where all three participants live, helps with the transportation to and from the adaptive programs and has been involved for the last five years.
“It is a great way for them to get involved with the community,” Crestwell said. “Lets them stay active and integrates them with others socially.”
Getting involved in Kentwood adaptive programs
Those in the community that want to participate or volunteer in the Kentwood Parks and Rec adaptive programs are urged to visit their website. There you can find all the sports and activities available as well as where to volunteer or donate.
While the current golf league season is underway, registration is open for the next season that runs from Sept. 6-27. No previous golf experience is required, and clubs are provided for participants who do not have their own. Trained staff help guide participants through the game.
The South Christian boys soccer team captured the Division 3 state championship last year with a 3-1 win over Grosse Ile. (Courtesy)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
It has been a roller-coaster ride of emotions for South Christian incoming senior Sam Bos and his soccer teammates the past few years.
In 2019, the Sailors lost to Grosse Ile 2-1 in a shootout in the Division 3 state championship game and then lost 1-0 in the 2020 finals to Grosse Ile as well.
“One of the worst feelings”
“Watching my brother Reese lose in the state finals and then losing myself was one of the worst feelings,” said Bos, who was a freshman when South Christian lost 2-1 in the finals. “Getting so close to winning a state championship and then losing in a pk shootout 1-0 was heartbreaking.”
And then, “A dream come true”
All that heartbreak quickly faded after the Sailors knocked off Grosse Ile 3-1 last fall in the state final, making it four titles since 2010, and finishing undefeated at 22-0-3 for the season.
“I personally was full of joy to finally win a state championship and couldn’t stop smiling for the next couple of days,” said Bos, who calls cheeseburgers and Oreo ice cream his favorite foods. “It was definitely a top moment of my high school memories so far.
“As a team, to score three goals was huge for us. With a new coaching staff, we had a blank slate and nothing to lose which gave us the courage to finally defeat Gross Ile.”
That new coach, Joel Vande Kopple, said he knew it was a special moment for the guys that lost to Grosse Ile the previous two years.
“Having lost the previous two years the mental expectations could be heavy,” said Vande Kopple, who previously coached at Lansing Christian for 15 years. “They needed to know that this year was a different year and the result would be different. Getting them to believe in themselves and one another was vital.
South Christian incoming senior Sam Bos holds his team’s D-3 state champion soccer trophy. (Courtesy)
“Team-wise, my favorite part was that the group bought into the idea that the collective was more important than the individual. We had a lot of talented players who were very deserving of individual awards, but rather than making that their focus, they decided to put the team first.”
Vande Kopple said Bos is a great disruptive force in the middle of the field.
“He plays a holding mid position and really shields our defensive line well by breaking up attacks, winning 50/50 balls, winning air balls and distributing well to start an attack,” Vande Kopple explained. “In addition, he scored some very important goals for us, most notably in our district final win and our first round of regionals, both of which were game winners against very talented teams.”
His interest in soccer all began at a young age.
“I have played it since I was born,” said Bos, who played AYSO growing up and then moved to club soccer around third grade. “Watching my older brother play soccer helped fuel my interest. Since then, I have always wanted to be the best in my family and that grew to me wanting to be the best on the field.
“Growing up with two brothers (Jerad and Reese) made me very competitive and I wanted to always win.”
Bos said Vande Kopple was a great addition to South Christian and brought amazing energy.
South Christian graduate Alex Leenstra helping his Sailors win the D-3 state championship last year. (Courtesy)
“We couldn’t have asked for a better coach,” said Bos, who also plays varsity basketball. “His passion for coaching soccer is outstanding and you can tell he truly loves the game and wants to win.
“I am looking forward to this upcoming season as we are returning a lot of seniors, but will also have a lot of young talent to hopefully help us go back to back.”
(From left) Logan Swiney, Lezawe Osterink, Jackson Rodriquez and Ian Palacios after winning the 3,200-meter relay at last spring’s D-4 track and field finals in Hudsonville. (Courtesy)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor and Anna Johns, Contributing Writer
Only running competitively since his freshman year, incoming senior Lezawe “Moses” Osterink has racked up some big titles in high school.
Four state titles to be exact running for Wyoming Potter’s House Christian.
Lezawe “Moses” Osterink (far left) stands atop the podium after winning the 1,600-meter run at the D-4 state track and field finals last spring. (Courtesy)
Last spring, the Potter’s House runner was a state champion in the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs at the MHSAA Division 4 track and field finals in Hudsonville.
In addition, Osterink was a member of the winning 3,200-meter relay with teammates Ian Palacios, Jackson Rodriguez and Logan Swiney. The Pumas placed third at the track and field finals.
Cross country state champ in D-4
Osterink also won the D-4 boys cross country individual title last fall with a time of 15:50.60 in the 5k race, while the team finished 12th in state.
“Winning state was great,” said Osterink, who was born in Ethiopia and adopted in the United States in 2007. “The first title was definitely more special because I wasn’t able to run at state since freshman year, and to complete a good season and then cap it off with a win was really cool.
“The track titles were a lot more fun since I was able to win with my teammates and perform better the previous year, but also really go after that team title.”
Originally, he was supposed to run at the D-4 cross country finals in 2020, but a collarbone injury sidelined him. Luckily, he was able to get back at it the following season and won all 13 races in the fall of 2021 on top of the title.
Peanut butter and honey
“This (injury) definitely was kind of like a spark that motivated me to train even harder than I had previously and want to go achieve the goals I had set for myself,” said Osterink, who eats his favorite peanut butter and honey sandwich almost daily.
Not always a runner
It wasn’t until the summer before his freshmen year that he became interested in the sport. At first he played basketball, but when he learned Potter’s House was starting a cross country team he wanted to join.
The Potter’s House boys track team took first place in its D-4 regional and finished third in the state finals last spring. (Courtesy)
“It really just started out as I’m going to run to stay in shape for basketball to then quitting basketball so I can run more,” said Osterink, who enjoys watching sports and hanging out with friends.
“It’s a unique sport that intrigues me especially for being one of the purest sports, and the fact that there is so much to learn from training to racing and just the mental and competitive battles.
“One of the biggest things that has lured me is the community aspect of running. I have met so many cool people through this sport.”
Interested in running in college, Osterink is undecided on where he’ll attend, but is contemplating studying sports management or business.
Potter’s House runner Lezawe “Moses” Osterink prepares for the 1,600-meter run. (Courtesy)
Potter’s House Athletic Director Kara Haskill said Moses is a tremendous athlete with a humble personality.
“He works hard in school to maintain his 3.8 GPA,” she continued. “He’s a strong leader with a calm disposition.”
“We love having Moses as a part of our community and we’re so proud of all of his accomplishments. He has a bright future ahead of him.”
“He’s always wanted to give back to the community,” said Bobbie McLaughlin, brother of the area’s biggest basketball star who set records in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s at Creston High School and Central Michigan University.
Nothing but net
Considered the best high school basketball player in Grand Rapids history, Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin averaged 33 points a game his junior and senior seasons at Creston High School in the late 1970s and then went on to score more than 2,000 career points at Central Michigan University. He is a member of the Central Michigan Athletics Hall of Fame and in 2005 was inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame.
The camp has been shut down since 2019 because of Covid, and, with “all the crazy things going on for kids in the inner city,” organizers wanted to offer a chance to offer something at no cost.
“Everywhere he goes, the kids are asking about the camp,” said Bobbie, who attended Grand Rapids South High School back in the day. “They’re really thirsty. So we put our heads together and said, ‘Let’s give them a free camp.’ Let’s show them some love.”
Campers practice their skills at the Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin Basketball All-Star Camp at East Kentwood. (Courtesy)
A fundraising campaign is going on right now to help the McLaughlins raise money to make it happen. The goal through the social media platform Vertical Raise is $10,000. They are more than halfway there, he said, as local businesses such as Brann’s Restaurants have contributed, as well as individuals.
The three-day camp is for boys and girls grades 5-12.
Hours are 8-11:30 a.m. for grades 5-8, and from 1-4 p.m. for grades 9-12 from Aug. 2-4.
“All the area kids, inner city kids, just come out and have a good time… We’re just looking for people to help make this happen,” Bobbie McLaughlin said.
Guest speakers
Along with learning basketball skills with drills and instruction, Bobbie McLaughlin said camp organizers are arranging guest speakers to help educate and motivate the kids to learn more than just basketball.
“(Mel) said we need to show some positive love for the kids. Everything’s been a little crazy, not just in Grand Rapids, but all over. We just said, ‘What can we do to help these kids out?’”
The camp has been a staple of summers in Grand Rapids for about 25 years. It originally took place at Ottawa Hills High School, but moved to East Kentwood in 2018 when attendance swelled to more than 200 campers, said Bobbie McLaughlin, who lives in California but looks forward to returning to see old friends and relatives. (He was a pretty good baseball player back in the day.)
Some notable campers
The camp has produced some notable players over the years, including Kobe Bufkin (Michigan), Marcus Bingham (Michigan State University) and Xavier Tillman (Michigan State, Memphis Grizzlies), just to name a few.
“We know it’s working, we know these kids are learning and having fun,” McLaughlin said.
“We’re so proud of them. A lot of the parents come up to us after the last day of camp and say, ‘Where are you gonna be next week? This is such a good thing for these kids.’”
McLaughlin said he is in the middle of finalizing a gift bag each player will receive during the camp, which includes a T-shirt, wristband, hat and hopefully a book, which was written about his brother’s life.
Check out “Sweet Shot”
“Sweet Shot: The Basketball Life and Legacy of Melvin ‘Sugar’ McLaughlin,” which was released in 2021, looks at the player’s life on and off the court, from his early childhood in Ann Arbor to today.
“Sweet Shot,” a book about local basketball star Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin, was released in 2021. (Courtesy)
Author Vernon E. Wendt — a theology professor at Concordia University-Chicago, ordained pastor in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and East Grand Rapids native, is expected to be in attendance at the camp, Bobbie McLaughlin said.
“It’s a really cool book,” McLaughlin said. “We want to make an impact.”
In addition, players can compete in contests for trophies, he said. And camp organizers will present sportsmanship and MVP awards.
It’s all about spreading joy, and a message, he said.
“We teach them, sports is like life…you have to learn to play together, to work together, to be a team. Take that home. Spread it. That’s our concept.”
And don’t be surprised to see Sugar put his skills on display.
He still “balls,” his brother said. “He’s always doing something for kids.”
“Come and join us for this very beautiful and positive experience,” Sugar McLaughlin said. “This is something that is true to my heart and very special to me.”
Learn more about the camp by calling 616-222-6126.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
The courts were booming at Kentwood Parks and Recreation’s pickleball tournament held last Saturday at Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Dr. SE (Zack Fanko)
Zach Fanko WKTV Contributing Writer
If you’re out taking a stroll in one of the many parks in West Michigan, you may notice a distinct popping noise, and it’s probably not the wildlife in your area.
More than likely, it’s the sound of the pickleball craze that has hit the United States within the past few years.
That noise is a small paddle hitting a yellow, plastic ball with holes in it, similar to a wiffle ball, and the sport has taken over many recreation parks throughout the area, including Kentwood’s Old Farm Park (2350 Embro Dr.)
Founded in 1965
Pickleball, described as a mix of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, had its humble beginnings in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Wash.
Fastest-growing sport
Now with more than 4.8 million players nationwide, and a growth of nearly 40 percent the last couple years, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport for two years running, according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association.
One of the reasons for its growth is its ease to learn and play for beginners, according to Larry Keefe, who helps run Kentwood’s tournaments and also is an ambassador to the United States Pickleball Association.
“Anyone could show up to the court and even without any experience could pick it up relatively quickly,” said Keefe, Kentwood’s main pickleball instructor who helped kickstart the program. “Most players are always willing to lend a hand when it comes to rules and tips on how to play.”
Keefe said the growth in the sport locally has led to many pickleball courts being overrun with participants.
Pickleball was the nation’s fastest growing sport in America two years running, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. (Zach Fanko)
“You could go to any park during the weekend here and you will find many players waiting to use the courts,” Keefe said. “Quite frankly, there is a need for more courts. It is that popular in the area.”
Youth growth during pandemic
Coincidentally, the pickleball program saw an increase in participation among the younger demographic during the Covid-19 pandemic as these individuals were seeking recreational activities to do outside.
“When we couldn’t go to restaurants or movie theaters I think young people gravitated toward the sport,” Keefe explained. “It really is more of a social sport at its core.”
Growth was the fastest among players under 24 years of age from 2020-2021 at 21 percent.
Kentwood’s pickleball program, which includes singles and doubles, began about four years ago, according to Shelby Henshaw, a recreation program coordinator.
“We have our beginner and intermediate lessons, as well as our monthly tournaments during the summer,” said Henshaw, who’s added three more instructors because of growth. “It is mostly adults and seniors, but we have seen an uptick in youth participation as well.”
With an official pickleball court measuring 20-feet wide by 44-feet long, one-third the size of a tennis court, the sport focuses more on agility and balance. This combined with other rules makes the game very inclusive.
Fun for all ages
“It’s a very good sport for people of all ages,” Henshaw said. “It is highly competitive, but you don’t need elite athleticism necessarily to excel at pickleball.”
While others were just enjoying a nice summer day at Old Farm Park last Saturday, Julian (28) and Murali (43) were one of the teams participating in the Kentwood tournament.
“I first started playing down in Florida while staying at my grandma’s condo,” Julian said. “After that I started playing here and Belknap. It’s amazing to see how many people have started playing recently and all the new courts that have been built.”
Murali said the environment sold him on the game.
“The social aspect of meeting all kinds of different people,” he explained. “It really is like our own community.”
Beer City Open: $90,000 in prize money
For some players, the Kentwood tournament on July 16 served as a warmup for the Beer City Open, one of the largest USPA-sanctioned events in the Midwest. When registration opened for the event, more than 900 participants signed up within 10 minutes.
Hosted by the Grand Rapids Pickleball Club, the Beer City Open runs from July 20-24 at Belknap Park in Grand Rapids and features $90,000 in total prize money.
Wyoming Potter’s House Christian’s Lezawe Osterink (left) was a state champion in the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs at last spring’s Division 4 track and field finals, and was a member of the winning 3,200-meter relay with teammates Ian Palacios, Jackson Rodriguez and Logan Swiney. Osterink also won the D-4 boys cross country individual title last fall. The boys team placed third at the track and field finals and 12th in cross country. (Courtesy of MHSAA)
Participation in Michigan High School Athletic Association sports rebounded tremendously during the 2021-22 school year, despite a slight decline in enrollment among the MHSAA’s 750-member high schools.
Big decline during COVID-19
The onset of COVID-19 during the spring of 2020 was followed by a significant decline in participation in sports during 2020-21. However, participation for the most recent school year concluding last spring saw an increase of 6.6 percent from 2020-21 to a total of 260,542 participants across the 28 sports for which the MHSAA sponsors postseason tournaments – even as statewide enrollment fell nearly 1 percent to 440,728 students this past school year.
Girls participation increased 6.8 percent to 109,128 athletes, while boys participation was up 6.5 percent at 151,414. The overall MHSAA participation totals count students once for each sport in which they participate, meaning students who are multiple-sport athletes are counted more than once.
“We’re excited to see participation beginning to rebound, and in a big way in a number of sports,” said Geoff Kimmerly, MHSAA communications director. “Something reaffirmed during the months of COVID-19 shutdowns and delays was the value of sports in our school communities, and we expect those participation numbers to continue to rise as more families feel comfortable and we continue to learn more and more about best practices for living and competing while the coronavirus remains with us.
“Something else to consider is how our participation has begun to bounce back even as enrollment in our member schools has continued to decline slightly. Michigan generally ranks higher in participation nationally than for student-aged population, and while we may not be at our pre-COVID levels yet, we do anticipate our numbers to keep growing during 2022-23.”
The Forest Hills Northern girls tennis team won the Division 2 state championship last spring. (Courtesy of MHSAA)
Track and field, boys skiing lead way
A total of 23 sports saw increases in participation during 2021-22 compared to 2020-21. Ten sports saw double-digit percentage increases, led by boys track & field (27.2 percent to 22,120 participants), girls track and field (22.4 percent to 15,594 participants), and boys skiing (22.4 percent to 1,001 participants).
Wrestling (17.1 percent) and boys bowling (16.2 percent) also saw double-digit increases, along with girls tennis (11.4 tennis), girls bowling (11.2 percent), girls competitive cheer (10.6 percent), boys golf (10.5 percent) and girls lacrosse (10 percent).
Girls boost wrestling numbers
Wrestling’s major boost came in part because of a nearly 300-percent increase in girls participants with 620 taking the mat for the first season of the MHSAA offering a girls championship division at its Individual Wrestling Finals.
Also enjoying increases in participation during 2021-22 from the previous year were girls golf (8.1 percent), girls skiing (7.6 percent), boys basketball (6.4 percent), girls soccer (6.3 percent), boys swimming and diving (6.1 percent), boys lacrosse (5.8 percent), softball (3.6 percent), girls basketball (3.1 percent), baseball (3 percent), boys tennis (2.8 percent), football (2.4 percent), girls volleyball (2 percent) and girls swimming and diving (1.2 percent).
Decreased participation
Five sports saw decreased participation in 2021-22, including boys soccer (0.21 percent with 28 fewer participants), girls cross country (1.4 percent), boys ice hockey (1.2 percent), boys cross country (3.9 percent) and girls gymnastics (4.6 percent).
Football highest participation
Football, with a combined 33,284 participants over the 11- and 8-player formats, remained the most-played sport during the 2021-22 school year. Boys track and field (22,120) and boys basketball (20,017) were next for total participants, followed by girls volleyball (18,798), the most popular girls sport, baseball (16,528) and girls track and field (15,594).
Golf and skiing enjoy high participation
While the majority of sports are still building back to their pre-COVID participation totals, golf and skiing posted some of their highest totals in some time. Boys golf (6,829) had its most participants since 2012-13, and girls golf (3,875) its highest total since 2003-04. The boys skiing total (1,001) was its highest since 2002-03, and the girls skiing total this past season (837) was the highest for that sport since 1998-99.
The participation figures are gathered annually from MHSAA member schools to submit to the National Federation of State High School Associations for compiling of its national participation survey. Results of Michigan surveys from the 2000-01 school year to present may be viewed on the MHSAA Website
This Friday, the West Michigan Whitecaps compete as Las Calaveras. (Supplied)
By John D. Gonzalez WKTV Contributing Writer
It’s that time of year when everything is happening.
In fact, it might be too much.
I’ll be at the West Michigan Whitecaps game on Friday as part of LMCU Night and the Whitecaps’ Copa de la Diversion series when they compete as Las Calaveras (ticket info at milb.com/west-michigan).
But on the same night I have two other events I would love to attend, and both of them are in my Top 5 list of things to do, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Here we go!
Gonzo’s Top 5
Kaufman Golf Course will be hosting a few tournaments this summer. (Supplied)
5. Kent County Amateur Golf Championship
Who loves to golf? And to compete? The beautiful Kaufman Golf Course in Wyoming will host a few tournaments this summer, including the Kent County Amateur Golf Championships July 16-17 (a few spots may still be open) and a 3-man scramble next weekend (July 23). You can register at 616golf.com. Registration is also available for the Kent County Senior Amateur (55+) at Kaufman on July 30-31. More info on West Michigan Golf Association events at golfregistrationnetwork.com.
The Mid-Life Crisis takes their final bow this weekend. (Supplied)
4. Mid-Life Crisis Band, Brews at the Bridge
It’s hard to believe, but it seems like yesterday that this popular cover band was jamming at private parties, charity events and even headlining their own shows. They all had day jobs as professionals, but they loved to hang out and jam on the weekends. The Mid-Life Crisis band officially calls it quits after 20 years with one last show, which is at Brews at the Bridge from 6-9 p.m. Friday (July 15) at Leonard Field, 7490 Thornapple River Dr. SE, in Ada. They invite all those who have been a part of their lives to come out for one last show. I know I have enjoyed writing stories and becoming friends with them over the years. “In the end, it’s all about the music and friendship, and it all kind of makes sense,” said Steve Bloom, who will join the group on percussion. Indeed, it is. Have a great retirement. More details on the Facebook Event Page. Leonard Field is next to the Ada Covered Bridge.
The Verve Pipe performs Friday at the Listening Lawn at Studio Park Piazza. (Supplied)
And, speaking of a local favorite, The Verve Pipe returns for a show Friday (July 15) at the Listening Lawn at Studio Park Piazza in downtown Grand Rapids. More info at listeningroomgr.com.
Tim Allen is at DeVos Performance Hall Saturday, July 16. (Supplied)
2. Comedy Night
And it’s a big weekend for comedy, too!
Stand up comedian Kevin Hart is on his Reality Check Tour, which makes a stop Saturday (July 16) at Van Andel Arena. Go to vanandelarena.com for ticket availability.
And the voice of Pure Michigan, Tim Allen,performs two shows at5 and 8 p.m. Saturday (July 16) at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids. These shows were originally scheduled for 2020. Go to devosperformancehall.com for ticket availability.
Circl Theatre presents “The Music Man” for the next three weekends. (Supplied)
1. The Music Man at Circle Theatre
The six-time, Tony Award-winning musical returns for a three-week run thanks to Circle Theatre. This family-friendly comedy is a classic! Who doesn’t love watching the drama, and comedy, unfold as fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill cons the folks of River City, Iowa into organizing a local band. Just as everything is going according to plan, life happens, and Hill falls for Marian, the local librarian. It’s a great show. Performances are July 14-16, 20-24 and 27-30 at the Performing Arts Center at Aquinas College. My lovely wife Pam and I hope to see the show because our nieces, Christina and Josie Gonzalez, are in this current production. Yes, we’re so proud of them! See you at the show. Ticket info at circletheatre.org/production/the-music-man/.
A couple more events taking place this weekend:
The Upheavel Festival, (featuring Breaking Benjamin, Disturbed and many others), isJuly 15-16 at Belknap Park in Grand Rapids. More info at facebook.com/UpheavalFestival.
And the 2022 BBQ Rib Cook-Off is July 16 in downtown Wayland. More info at downtownwayland.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
As the Meijer ladies Charity Classic gets underway this week, the Mr. Sid’s Wednesday Afternoon Video Series will have LPGA Chaplain Cris Stevens as its guest this Wednesday.
Stevens has served as the chaplain for the Ladies Professional Golf Association since 1982 and will be sharing stories from her role in the LPGA and how she counsels, supports, and ministers to the world’s best professional golfers. She will present her program on Wednesday, June 15, at 2 p.m at Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW.
Tom Sibley, one of the organizers of the Mr. Sid’s programs, noted this is the second time that Stevens has visited the group. Stevens stopped by last year just before the Meijer LPGA Classic.
The daughter of Sid Lenger (who the group is named after), Lavoone Ritzema, had met Stevens while she worked with the LPGA and invited her to speak. Stevens presentation was so popular that organizers decided to invite her back.
The program begins at 2 p.m. at Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW. There is a hymn sing at 1:45 p.m. The program is free.
Coming up for the Mr. Sid’s Wednesday Afternoon Video Series will be USS Silversides Museum Executive Director Peggy Maniates on July 20. and Grand Haven Musical Fountain Engineer and Board Member Terry Stevens on Aug. 17.
After overcoming some obstacles this season, the East Kentwood varsity dance team rose to the top with many awards and honors.
Soon before their national championships in February in Orlando, the students learned their flight was overbooked and it was time for Plan B. With no other options, the team drove 18 hours to Florida to make it just in time for the semifinals and compete with the nation’s best teams in the 2022 Dance Team Union National Championship.
Both the jazz and hip hop teams reached the finals, and earned 15th and fourth place, respectively.
Coach Kat Albertson (far left) and her East Kentwood varsity dance team proudly show off their two trophies at the 2022 Dance Team Union National Championship in February in Orlando. (courtesy)
“It was a great feeling to be recognized among the best teams in the country,” said EK coach Kat Albertson, who coached the Falcons for four years and is now pursuing coaching at the collegiate level. “Luckily, this was the most hard-working and determined group of student-athletes I’ve ever had the privilege of coaching. They were all so eager to prove to themselves, and to their school, that not only is the dance team at East Kentwood one of the best in Michigan, but also that dance team is a sport.
“We had incredible success this past year due to the team’s hard work, dedication and the positive team culture we built together. We were undefeated in hip hop this year, won the grand champion award at every local competition (registered the highest scoring dance in the entire competition), and won two regional championships for the first time in program history.”
Albertson said her team captain, junior Saniya Harvey, is an “exceptional dancer and leader.”
Check out the dance team’s performance at the national championship by clicking here.
“We lost five incredible seniors in 2021 and only had five returning members for the new year,” continued Albertson, whose assistant coach was EK dance alum Brooklyn Smithers, a freshman at GVSU. “We were uncertain if we’d be able to have ample time to create a family-like bond with so many new members, get our technique where it needed to be, and to reach the level of excellence that our past teams had been able to do.
“It’s taken a really long time for us to get the recognition that we deserve, and I think that has truly been the most fulfilling thing that we’ve seen come out of this year.”
