Lee High School’s boys soccer team preps for District tournament play. (Photo Credit: WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
After a 17-1 regular season, and being crowned co-champions of the OK Conference Silver, the Lee High School Legends boys soccer team is preparing for another run at a District title next week at Hudsonville Unity Christian and — hopefully — another shot at a Unity Christian squad which knocked them out in the District finals last season.
But first things first. As his team practiced this week, Lee coach Jaime Ramirez talked to WKTV about his team having a week off after a great regular season, detailed his top players, and his belief that this year’s team has brought their own bit of pride to the school.
Oh, and ya. There is that thing about “the kids” wanting a rematch with Unity Christian.
“It is a fantastic season so far, the kids are playing so good,” Ramariez said. “They earned this (conference co-championship) because they are doing the job on the field. … There is a little (school) pride in this team this year.”
Ramirez gives some of the credit for the school pride to Lee Middle and High School’s new principal, Candy VanBuskirk, who in addition to her impressive educational background played and coached basketball at the collegiate level — “This year the new principal is doing good job announcing (game results) every morning when we play, how we did.”
There was a lot of good news announced, as far as the soccer team’s season was concerned.
The Legends outscored their regular season opponents 81-12, with their only loss being a 1-0 setback to conference co-champion Grandville Calvin Christian, which the Legends beat early in the season, 2-1.
While scoring has not been a problem for the Legends this season, Ramirez still thinks they can do better and he is using the team’s 10-day layoff to “adjust” some things.
The long layoff “is kind of bad because the kids don’t get to play,” he said. “But it is kind of good too because the kids get to rest and I am able to adjust some things, what we’ve been struggling on, like targeting or scoring goals. That is my main thing right now.”
Lee High School’s boys soccer team huddles, from an early season game. (Photo Credit: WKTV)
Senior-led but but with plenty of young stars
The Legends are deep and talented with both offensive and defensive position players, according to their coach.
Senior co-captain and midfielder Raúl Montañez has 10 goals and six assists this season, junior co-captain and midfielder Gerardo Montañez has scored 10 goals and has eight assists, sophomore midfielder Edgar Vazquez leads the team in assists with 16 while adding five goals. But the team’s scoring leader is co-captain Michael Esqueda with 19 goals and five assists this season.
Senior forward Tristan Perez has played through injuries but still contributed nine goals and 10 assists.
On what has been a smothering defense, sophomore Alexandro Ruiz “improved so much and … (is a) very solid defender”, Ramirez said, while junior Gustavo Romero has also anchored the back line. Senior goalkeeper Jorge Montes blocked two penalty kicks, has 25 saves and six shutouts.
Two younger players who have contributed to the team’s success are junior Wili Diaz and Jacob Flores, who has played both on the field and in goal. “Definably he (Flores) will be my main goalkeeper next season, but he did an outstanding job as a defender,” Ramirez said.
District tournament outlook
Coach Ramirez said he and his team are not looking past their first game of the District 35 tournament, scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 15, at a time to be determined, when they will play the winner of an opening round contest between Grand Rapids Catholic and Grand Rapids West Catholic. But, should they win, they know which team they’d like to see in the District finals.
“We have to beat anybody that is going to be in our way, regardless of who it is,” Ramirez said. “If we come out and play a bad game, and they beat us up, then we don’t have anything to say. But if we play good, it doesn’t matter who we play, if we play good, we beat them.”
And as far as that rematch with Unity Christian — “The kids are looking for that rematch because they think they can do better this year than we did last year.”
Wyoming High School’s football team will be at home this week when the visiting South Christian comes to Davies Memorial Field at Wyoming Junior High for a key game in both teams’ season goal to be a factor in the OK Conference Gold title race.
But will it matter that this week’s WKTV High School Sports Featured Game of the Week is on home turf for the Wolves with the Sailors facing a mostly opposing crowd?
Wyoming is 1-2 (0-1 in OK Gold in early-season action) while South Christian is 2-1 (1-0), with the Wolves only win coming at home, and the Sailors only loss on the road.
For all WKTV’s local high schools — including East Kentwood, Godwin Heights, Kelloggsville, Wyoming Lee and Tri-unity Christian — the football teams are 6-1 at home and 3-10 on the road.
WKTV talked to both head coaches — South Christian’s Danny Brown and Wyoming high’s Irvin Sigler — and while both agree that “they don’t call it home field advantage for nothing”, what happens on the field usually means more.
The coaches also talked about what their team has done well so far this year, and their respect for the opposing head coach and the opposing programs.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Wyoming High School’s football team practicing at their soon-to-be ex-home field this week. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
When Wyoming High School’s football team plays its last game at Davies Memorial Field this week, at the current middle school but at what was once Wyoming Park high, those in attendance will have many memories of games and players on the field.
Jack VerDuin, in a historic photo from Wyoming High School Athletic Department Facebook page.
And the Friday, Sept. 20, game pitting the Wolves against the visiting South Christian Sailors will also be filled with memories of the late Jack VerDuin, who rolled up a 243-118-6 record with the Wyoming Park Vikings before the school merged with Wyoming Rogers into Wyoming high in 2012.
The Friday game will be the first part of a two-part, two-home game special event for Wyoming high as the Wolves will honor VerDuin during their last varsity football game at Davies field before moving to the new football stadium for a Oct. 11 home game.
One person who will have special memories, especially at this week’s game, will be Ted Hollern, Wyoming High School Athletic Director, who remembers VerDuin as an opposing coach, mentor and friend.
Ted Hollern, Wyoming High School Athletic Director. (WKTV)
“I can remember, as a high school student, playing against Jack VerDuin’s teams and how good they were,” Hollern said this week to WKTV. “They were well coached. What a machine they had operating.
“And then (later) … I was at Wyoming Rogers, when he was at Park … to be able to rub shoulders with him. At the time, I was a young football coach … you know, I could pick up on some of his ideas. I was the head football coach at Rogers and he was still coaching here. We shared a lot of time together.”
There will also be many memories by VerDuin’s family and many friends who will be in attendance at the game, set to start at 7 p.m. The Jack VerDuin family will be there as they will be announced as our Honorary Captains for the game.
VerDuin, who died in 2007, coached the Vikings for 38 seasons beginning in 1962. During the years, Wyoming Park won 19 conference championships and the Class B state championship in 1984, a 33-20 victory over Monroe Catholic Central. The Vikings were state runner-up in 1985, falling to Dearborn Divine Child 21-0.
VerDuin is a member of the Wyoming Hall of Fame, Grand Rapids Hall of Fame, Michigan High School Hall of Fame and the Michigan Football Hall of Fame.
Clearly Coach VerDuin and his “Mighty Vikings” built a tradition of excellence — a tradition which Hollern hopes can carry over from the “the house that Jack built” at Davies field to the new football stadium.
“I think of all the players and coaches who have played here, at what was Wyoming Park. How many championships they won. The tradition they had,” Hollern said. “I just think it will be great to remember some of their past, and some of their accomplishments, and then hope that tradition, those accomplishments, kind of springboard into the new place.”
For a story on the new football stadium, and how students and staff at Wyoming high are anticipating its opening, see a School News Network story here.
The South Christian vs. Wyoming Community Night Football Game at Wyoming Junior High will be the WKTV High School Sports Featured Game of the Week, with on-demand video replay available at WKTVLive.org.
The game will have a 7 p.m. kick-off, but, among many special events, will have a Jack VerDuin Family Night pregame with a hospitality tent opening at 5:15 p.m. in the north end zone, with all family and friends welcome.
The end zone and howling wolf at the 50-yard line pop with purple in the renovated Wyoming Wolves football stadium.
Construction is nearly complete on about $3 million in work to the outdoor athletic complex at Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. Improvements include artificial turf, a new track, a new softball field and dugouts, baseball field updates, a new stadium entry plaza, an updated concession stand, sidewalks and batting cages.
Fans will arrive Oct. 11 for the Homecoming game against Wayland, the first matchup in the new digs. (Until the field is finished, home games will be held at Wyoming Junior High, 2125 Wrenwood St. SW.)
The complex will serve all students in sports and beyond, said Athletic Director Ted Hollern, who has worked in the district for 23 years.
“I see it being the anchor of the entire community, when our kids have the opportunity to go out there and show everybody their talents and their skills and what they are all about on a first-class prestigious football field,” Hollern said. “It is the point of pride for everyone. We now have a facility that matches the prestige and expertise of our athletes.”
Over the decades
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way
The Wyoming Wolves’ new outdoor athletic complex is near completion
The new end zone
Over the decades
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way. (School News Network)
Much More to Come
Renovations are just part of $40 million in planned work at the high school. A 30-classroom addition is under construction and should be ready to move into next August, said Principal Josh Baumbach. Renovations school-wide will include new collaborative spaces outfitted to meet technology needs. Hallways will be widened and windows and high ceilings will allow for more natural light. Eventually, ninth graders, who are currently housed at Wyoming Junior High, will be moved to the high school.
“Essentially we are going to have a new high school when this is said and done. Our students deserve the best and our community has stepped up,” Baumbach said.
The work is all part of $79.5 million school improvement bond, to fund facility improvements districtwide, which passed in 2017. It is being split into two phases: $23.5 million for a first phase of improvements and the remaining $56 million in 2022.
For cheerleaders Andraeya Wells, Taylor Boukma and Brionni Strodtbeck, the excitement goes beyond athletics.
“I can’t wait for the freshmen to come up here and have their own wing,” said Andraeya.
Taylor said she’s happy for future Wolves. “They will be brought up with stuff we never had — newer buildings, nicer facilities and everything. They are going to have more opportunities.”
Added Brionni, “It’s fresh and clean. Everything will be new.”
The Sept. 13 East Kentwood vs. Caledonia football game is available on-demand at WKTVlive.org. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
At East Kentwood High School Friday, the Falcons rallied for 13 points in the fourth quarter — on a 30-yard touchdown pass from Christian Tanner to Josh Ledesma and a 4-yard run by Ledesma — to overcome a 14-10 Caledonia advantage and gain a 23-14 win.
The East Kentwood win Sept. 13 pushed the Falcons to 2-1 on the season and began their OK Conference Red slate with a home win over the Fighting Scots (1-2). East Kentwood had posted a 10-0 first half lead on 25-yard field goal by Tanner and a 51-yard pass from Tanner to Colton Emeott. Tanner was 13-of-23 passing for 198 yards while Drapher Cribbs led the team in rushing with 56 yards on 15 carries.
The Caledonia at East Kentwood game was the WKTV High School Sports Featured Game, with on-demand replays of the game available at WKTVlive.org. This week’s featured game will be South Christian at Wyoming high.
South Christian also pushed their record to 2-1 with a 42-0 win at home over Wayland to open the Sailors’ OK Gold schedule. In the game, short runs by Daniel Possett and Chase Bradman, with extra point kicks by Jeff Heerema, staked South Christian to a 14-0 first half lead. Two more rushing touchdowns by Possett, the second a 29-yard scamper, and a short run by Eli Smith pushed the score to 35-0 to enter the fourth quarter.
Also on Sept. 13, Wyoming high (1-2) lost at Grand Rapids Christian (1-2), 54-14.
In other local football action, Godwin Heights (1-2) and Wyoming Lee (1-2) both gained their first wins of the season. The Wolverines defeated Wyoming Kelloggsville (0-3) 36-14 in the OK Sliver opener for both teams. (Due to three teams in the conference playing non-conference football schedules, the two teams will meet later in the season at Kelloggsville.) For more information on the Lee Legends win, see a story here.
Tri-unity Christian won a 8-Man Midwest Central conference game at Lawrence, 40-28.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Lee High School’s football team celebrating a win over Galesburg-Augusta, 18-12, at home Sept. 13. (Supplied)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Lee High School — after opening its non-conference season with two competitive losses when the offense scored but the defense struggled — defeated Galesburg-Augusta, 18-12, at home Friday as the Legends rode a big-play offense and a bend-but-not-break defense to the team’s first win while playing an independent schedule.
The visiting Rams actually out-gained the Legends in total yards, 258-230, and ran 81 offensive plays compared to Lee’s 39. But the Lee defense limited the Rams to just two scores and came up big in the fourth quarter.
“It was a huge test on the defensive side if you look at time of possession and number of snaps we played,” Lee defensive coordinator William Hollstein said to WKTV. “Over the first two games, we gave up big plays which put us in a tough spot. Going into Friday night, we really stressed limiting those big plays through a simplified scheme and getting pressure on passing downs.”
Lee High School freshman Elijah Beckwith had 97 yards and a touchdown in the win over Galesburg-Augusta on Sept. 13. (Supplied)
In the Legends’ win, freshman running back Elijah Beckwith scored on a 36-yard run and Ke’ontae Taylor caught a 45-yard scoring pass from Niko Mena in the first half. Beckwith totaled 97 yards on 12 carries to lead the Legends ground game.
After Galesburg-Augusta tied the score, 12-12, at the half, Taylor and Mena again hooked up, this time for a 47-yard pass in the third quarter, and the Lee defense made that score hold up for the win.
Senior Gumer Rodas was one of the stars on the Legends defense. (Supplied)
“During Galesburg’s final offensive possession, I was able to speak with the defense during a timeout,” Hollstein said. “It was all smiles in the huddle and I told the kids that this is why we play the games, for moments like this. They were fired up to play on 4th down and you could feel their confidence. As a team, our theme has been to ‘win the next down.’ As a coach, it’s rewarding when you see the kids come together and play for each other like that.”
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
While the Lee High School teams are still wearing old uniforms this season, they are already Legends. (Note: This football team t-shirt, worn here by head coach Tom Degennaro, is not the new official logo for Godfrey-Lee school district or its sporting teams). (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Godfrey-Lee Public Schools announced this week two major donations for the rebranding of the district and high school’s mascot to become the Legends — including $98,000 from the Native American Heritage Foundation to “rebrand the current mascot from ‘Rebels’ to a new mascot and nickname that is culturally responsive.”
“Godfrey-Lee Public Schools is proud to share the announcement of $120,000 in donations to support the district with the change of our mascot to the Godfrey-Lee Legends,” Kevin Polston, Superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, said Sept. 17 in supplied material. “The support of our community through the transition has been critical to the success of the project.
“Financial contributions will ensure that operating expenses will be spent in the classroom to support our students. The donations will offset costs for a new logo design, athletic and performing arts uniforms, signage, murals, the electronic footprint of the district, and more.”
The grant from the Native American Heritage Foundation (NAHF) adds to a grant made by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, as well as other smaller donations.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation was established in 1922 and is Kent County’s philanthropic leader, according to a statement by the Godfrey-Lee district. “The Community Foundation creates partnerships to overcome inequities in West Michigan, supporting racial, social and economic justice for all.”
“We are committed to providing opportunity, prosperity and belonging for everyone who calls West Michigan home,” said Diana Sieger, president of the Community Foundation, said in supplied material. “A new Godfrey-Lee mascot will unify the school community and help students shift their focus to using their talents and creativity to fuel our shared future.”
The official receipt of the grant from the Native American Heritage Fund will take place at a check ceremony on Monday, Sept. 30, at the FireKeepers Casino-Hotel in Battle Creek.
The Native American Heritage Fund, established in 2016 as part of the Second Amendment to the Tribal-State Gaming Compact between the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) and the State of Michigan, allows for a portion of NHBP’s annual state revenue sharing payment to be distributed by the NAHF.
According to the NAHF, the fund “serves to promote positive relationships between public and private K-12 schools, colleges, universities, local units of government and Michigan’s federally recognized Native American Tribes. The NAHF provides resources to help improve curricula and educational resources related to Michigan Indian history, as well as to replace or revise mascots and imagery that may be deemed as offensive to or inaccurately conveying the culture and values of Native Americans.”
The district is still soliciting donations and individuals or organizations that want to contribute toward the district reaching its’ goal of $200,000, Polston said in supplied material.
Those interested can make a tax deductible contribution online via the District’s PayPal account (the link is found at the bottom of the district’s homepage (godfrey-lee.org) or by sending a check to the district’s administration building, 1324 Burton St. SW, Wyoming, MI, 49509.
Ready, set, glow! Area runners and walkers are invited to come together and “illuminate the night with glow wear and lights” during the City of Kentwood’s first-ever Glow in the Park 5K on Saturday, Oct. 12.
The lighthearted run will begin just before dusk with check-in, on-site registration and packet pick-up slated to take place between 6 and 7 p.m. at Pinewood Park, located at 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE.
Participants and supporters are encouraged to wear brightly colored and glow-in-the dark clothes and accessories for the race, which runs through Pinewood Park trails and nearby neighborhood roads.
Volunteers in glow wear will help light the way, while neighborhoods along the route are welcomed to decorate their homes with colorful splashes of light for the occasion.
“We’d love to see area neighbors get involved in our first Glow in the Park 5K, which is our only organized after-dark running event to date,” said Spencer McKellar, race organizer. “Whether you’re an avid runner, casual jogger or walker, this 5K is intended to be a fun opportunity to dress up, get out and do something active this fall with family members, neighbors and friends.”
As the participants near the finish line, the path will be lit with glow-in-the-dark sticks and other colorful lights. An awards ceremony and party at Pinewood Park including music, games and refreshments will immediately follow the race. The route is fully paved and accessible.
Individuals interested in racing can register online. Those who register by Oct. 1 will receive a t-shirt and race pack with glow supplies.
Registration costs $30 until Sept. 30, after which the price will increase by $5 increments leading up to $40 for race-day sign-ups. Proceeds will go to support the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department’s Youth Scholarship Fund, which allows recipients to receive up to 50 percent off of one program per season.
The Parks and Recreation Department is seeking volunteers for the Glow in the Park 5K. Those who are interested may sign up online.
East Kentwood High School’s football team at practice this week. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
There was no shame in East Kentwood High School’s season opening game loss at Muskegon Mona Shores — a team that went 12-2 last year, losing only to state power Muskegon high during the regular season and then in the Division 2 state playoff finals.
There were some lessons to be learned in the loss, however. And those lessons were evident last week when the Falcons rolled to a 39-6 road win at Grand Ledge Sept. 6.
East Kentwood football coach Anthony Kimbrough working with the team at practice. (WKTV)
“I always say you learn more from a loss than you do from a win. We did some things uncharacteristic of ourselves (against Mona Shores), but we got back to basics and tightened up some things, and it showed against Grand Ledge,” Falcon head coach Anthony Kimbrough said to WKTV. “We had a better overall execution on offense and defense. Just doing the little things.”
But coach also knows his team will face another challenge this week against OK Red Conference foe Caledonia — the Fighting Scots.
“It is right in their name, the Fighting Scots,” Kimbrough said. “They fight you, man. They play hard, they play physical, they run around. They do some good things and they are well coached. … We really have got to come to play.”
In last week’s win, the Falcons (1-1) jumped out to a 25-0 first half lead on a 40-yard run by Josh Ledesma and a 13-yard pass from Christian Tanner to Colton Emeott in the first quarter, and then a 39-yard run by Willie Berris and a 22-yard run by Tanner. They did not let up much in the second as they ran the score to 39-0, on an 82-yard touchdown pass from Tanner to Jamoni Jones, and a short run by Carter Selby.
The Fighting Scots (1-1), last week, also had an impressive win, defeating Cedar Springs (10-2 last year) at Caledonia by the score of 19-12, after falling on opening night at Holt, 35-17. Caledonia was 2-7 last year, 1-5 in conference play.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
At Northview High School Friday, Wyoming high got a great effort from running back Cameron (Cam) Simon, who rushed for rushed for 192 yards and one touchdown, and quarterback Matthew Berg threw scoring strikes to Mahki Mathews and Diamonte Parks.
But the Wolves could not match the Wildcats’ big-play power in a 49-21 non-conference loss Sept. 6.
After a finishing the first half with a 21-21 tie, Northview (2-0) scored 28 unanswered points to hand Wyoming (1-1) its first loss of the season.
Last season, Northview was 7-3 including an opening round playoff loss to Grand Rapids Christian, which ended a six-game winning streak. They were 5-1 in OK White and finished second to Cedar Springs, their only conference loss.
Against Wyoming, Wildcat running back Jakaurie Kirkland rushed for 270 yards and four touchdowns, including runs of 60, 37, 82 and 57 yards.
The Wyoming at Northview was scheduled to be televised as a WKTV Featured Games, but technical issues forced plans to be cancelled. This week’s featured game will be at East Kentwood.
In other local football action, East Kentwood (1-1) bounced back from an opening season loss at Muskegon Mona Shores with a 39-6 road win at Grand Ledge Friday. In the win, the Falcons jumped out to a 25-0 first half lead on a 40-yard run by Josh Ledesma and a 13-yard pass from Christian Tanner to Colton Emeott in the first quarter, and then a 39-yard run by Willie Berris and a 22-yard run by Tanner.
Also on Friday, South Christian (1-1) lost at Muskegon Reeths-Puffer, 35-21; Godwin Heights (0-2) lost at Hudsonville Unity Christian, 36-0; Kelloggsville (0-2) lost at Williamstown, 27-0,Wyoming Lee (0-2) lost at Gobles, 37-20; and Tri-unity Christian lost at Martin, 20-0, in 8-Man football.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
As his team “went to work” at practice this week in preparation for a high school football Week 2 game at Northview High School, Wyoming high head football coach Irv Sigler Jr. sounded like an X’s and O’s football coach as he talked to WKTV.
He praised his offensive line play in the team’s dominating 59-25 win over Holland opening week. He praised his opponent this week and said his team would need to be better to beat the Wildcats on their home field — a game which WKTV’s Featured Game sports coverage crew will be covering. UPDATE: Due to technical issues, WKTV was unable to video record the game.
But Coach Sigler also went a bit beyond the X’s and O’s by talking about the “culture” of his program, which has a modest 5-13 record in his first two years but may be about to turn the competitive corner.
Coach Sigler. (WKTV)
“We’ve grown a great deal in our ability to practice with purpose, with having a sense of urgency about getting better every day when we come out … the little things are the difference between being good and great,” Coach Sigler said in a WKTV interview. (See the entire interview on YouTube here.) “I describe our kids as lunchbox kids. They come here every day. They got a lunch box and they go to work.”
In their opening night games, Northview defeated Comstock Park 28-7 while Wyoming defeated Holland 59-25 in a game which was began on Thursday night but finished on Friday night due to storms moving through the area.
Wyoming High School football practice. (WKTV)
For the Wolves, junior running back (and linebacker) Cameron (Cam) Simon rushed for just shy of 200 yards and scored four touchdowns, while junior quarterback Matthew Berg passed for three TDs.
Northview, out of OK White, had 10 new starters on defense against Comstock Park but still held the Panthers to a single touchdown. Running back Jakaurie Kirkland had 220 yards on 23 carries. Senior quarterback Dan Frey went 7-of-11 for 72 yards, with two touchdown passes to sophomore Kyler VanderJact.
Northview, last season, was 7-3 including an opening round playoff loss to Grand Rapids Christian, which ended a six-game winning streak. They were 5-1 in OK White and finished second to Cedar Springs, their only conference loss.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
South Christian head football coach Danny Brown, at left, at a practice last week. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, one of the interviews is a special high school sports segment with South Christian High School’s new head football coach Danny Brown, of whom it would not be an understatement to say he bleeds Sailor Blue.
Coach Brown is no stranger to the Sailors’ program having served as an assistant coach since 2011 and as defensive coordinator for the past five seasons under Mark Tamminga, who retired after last season. Being a Sailor runs deep for Brown, having played varsity football at South Christian in the early 2000s. Brown attended Hope College and now is a small business owner in Byron Center.
During the discussion, Coach Brown talks about working with Coach Tamminga, playing for the late Bob Blacquiere, who was head coach when Brown played for the Sailors and was a big influence on his becoming a coach, and Brown’s transition from running the South Christian defense to being the man in charge of the entire program.
WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times). All individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.
Late game action from the Lee at Godwin Heights boys soccer game Aug. 29. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
The Lee High School boys soccer broke open a tight, defensive struggle with two goals near the end of the first half, and then ran their early-season record to 7-0 overall and 3-0 in OK Conference Silver with a 5-1 win over cross-town rival Godwin Heights on Thursday, Aug. 29.
Jesus “Chucho” Cruz.
The game was televised by WKTV Community Media’s high school sports coverage team with special Spanish-language announcing by local soccer instructor and radio host Jesus “Chucho” Cruz. The Spanish language audio game telecast will be replayed Saturday, Aug. 31, at 11 a.m., and then again Wednesday, Sept. 4, at 6:30 p.m. on WKTV cable channels. It will also be available both with Spanish and English announcers on-demand at WKTVlive.org. (See note below for details.)
Cruz is a goalie trainer for GRAS Academy of Grand Rapids and hosts the local La Mejor GR radio program.
In the actual game between Lee and Godwin Heights, Legends junior Gerardo Montañez broke the scoreless tie with about 4 minutes remaining in the first half, then about two minutes later sophomore Edgar Vasquez scored to push the score to 2-0. Lee and Vasquez wasted little time getting on the board in the second as he scored again with only about seven minutes played in the second half.
Lee pushed the score to 5-0 with goals by junior Willi Diaz and senior Michael Esqueda before Godwin sophomore Mario Aguilar tallied late for the final 5-1 score. Senior Godwin goalkeeper senior Eric Truong had several good saves despite the one-sided score. Lee sophomore Jacob Flores faced relatively few threats on goal as the Legends defense played very well.
With the loss, Godwin Heights’ record is now 1-1-1 overall and 0-1-1 in conference play.
In the lead-up to the contest, WKTV interviewed Lee coach Jamie Ramirez on the state of this current team and the school’s soccer program. For a story visit here. For a video, visit here.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org .
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
The Lee High School boys soccer team is off to a 6-0 start this season, and coach Jaime Ramirez has plenty of reasons to smile about their goals of a conference title. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Lee High School boys soccer coach Jaime Ramirez likes the state of his program, top to bottom, from the nearly 40 kids in the middle school program to the deep, talented varsity roster that has posted a 6-0 early-season record heading into a cross-town rivalry with Godwin Heights on Thursday, Aug. 29.
But Ramirez and his newly-named Legends expect more after last season’s 18-7 record including two playoff wins with an 8-3 record in OK Conference Silver standings, and this season’s fast start including a 2-1 comeback road win over Grandville Calvin Christian in conference play.
“The kids are working really hard. They have ambitions to make history on their own this year. The last conference championship we had was in 2010,” Rameriez said to WKTV early this week. “They are anxious to put another conference championship on their shoulders.”
The Lee boys soccer game at Godwin Heights will be this week’s WKTV High School Sports Featured Game of the Week.
Lee lost only two players from last year’s squad and feature not only five seniors and five juniors on the varsity roster, but also several young players who are too good to keep off the varsity roster.
“That is what is making the team pretty strong,” Ramirez said. “This is my dream team. I can substitute like four of them and not notice a big difference on the team, which is what I believe all the coaches dream for.”
Coach (reluctantly) pointed out several players who are the “players to watch” on the offensive side of the squad, starting with senior Raul Antonio Montañez — “He is one ofr the best leaders I have. He works hard every single game and, right now, he is the number one we are looking for. … but like I said, we have a lot of good players coming back.”
Among those “good players coming back” is senior goalkeeper Jorge Andres Montes — “He is another straight-up leader.” As is junior Gerardo Montañez and senior Tristan Perez.
“I’ve got quite a few of them,” Ramirez said. “On defense I’ve got (sophomore) Alexander Ruiz, he is really good. And I’ve got a couple others coming back … (but) my midfielders are new this year. Wili Diaz has been playing really good. And Leonardo Maldonado, I put him up (on varsity), he was playing JV last year. … We have a lot of good players, it is hard for me to name just a few.”
The depth, on the varsity team and in the program, is not something the Legends have had in past years.
The Lee High School varsity team before a recent game. (WKTV)
“We have, if I’m not mistaken, something like 38 kids in the middle school program, and we are shooting to have two teams,” Ramirez said. “Back in 2007, when I started as a coach, I had 13 players on varsity. That’s it. That says something right there.
“The program is getting better and better. We’ve got more kids joining and we got a girls (program building the numbers) too. … The kids they really want to do things.”
And what the varsity “kids” want to do is win a conference title for a school which has struggled in many varsity sports in recent years.
“I talked to the guys and I keep telling them ‘We’ve got a lot of chances, a lot of potential to become OK champs this year.’ I’m not going to say we will, because I don’t like to say that. I’m going to say we’re going to try really hard.”
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
The high school soccer season has already started with football close behind.
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
WKTV’s high school sports coverage truck will all over our local Wyoming and Kentwood football teams this season, but with a change of schedule for Wyoming Lee High School’s football team, we have switched our coverage to the other “football” — we will be at Godwin Heights as the Wolverines host the Lee Legends for a boys soccer game Thursday, Aug. 29.
As far as the Lee football game is concerned, after the originally scheduled home game against White Cloud was cancelled by the visiting school, Lee added a second game against Grandville Calvin Christian, which will be at Lee on Thursday, Aug. 29, at 7 p.m.
And, there is no shortage of high school sports action all over the Wyoming and Kentwood area, so check out something live if you can.
Where and when to see featured games
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org .
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this weeks’s schedule:
Saturday, Aug. 24 Girls Volleyball Tri-Unity Christian vs TBA – WMVOA Invitational @ MSA Fieldhouse Godwin Heights vs TBA – Officials for Kids Tourney @ MSA Fieldhouse Potter’s House vs TBA – Official for Kids Tourney @ MSA Fieldhouse Zion Christian vs TBA – WMVOA Invitational @ MSA Fieldhouse South Christian @ Grand Haven Boys Tennis South Christian @ East Kentwood – EK Invite TBA @ Wyoming – David Bentley Tournament Boys / Girls Cross Country South Christian @ East Kentwood Wyoming Lee @ Muskegon Catholic Central Boys Soccer TBA @ Zion Christian – Zion Soccer Invite Boys Water Polo East Kentwood @ Ann Arbor Pioneer – Pioneer Invite Girls Volleyball East Kentwood @ Grand Haven – Lakeshore Classic
Monday, Aug. 26 Boys Soccer Tri-Unity Christian @ NorthPointe Christian South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Wyoming @ FH Eastern Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Girls Golf South Christian @ Muskegon Mona Shores Boys Tennis Holland Christian @ South Christian Girls Volleyball Wyoming Lee @ Algoma Christian
Tuesday, Aug. 27 Boys / Girls Cross Country South Christian @ St. Joseph Girls Swimming South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Central @ East Kentwood Boys Soccer NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee Ottawa Hills @ Wyoming Zion Christian @ Saugatuck Boys Tennis Wyoming @ Zeeland East TBA @ East Kentwood – EK Quad Girls Volleyball Ottawa Hills @ Wyoming Zion Christian @ Martin – Quad TBA @ East Kentwood – EK Early Bird Tournament
Wednesday, Aug. 28 Girls Golf South Christian @ Kent Country Club – OK Jamboree Boys Tennis Unity Christian @ South Christian Girls Volleyball Caledonia @ South Christian – Sailor Invite Boys Soccer East Grand Rapids @ South Christian Wyoming @ Wayland Rockford @ East Kentwood Boys / Girls Cross Country Godwin Heights @ Saranac Wyoming Lee @ Saranac Wyoming @ Wayland
Thursday, Aug. 29 Girls Swimming South Christian @ East Kentwood Boys Football Greenville vs South Christian @ Byron Center Godwin Heights @ Hamilton Grandville Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee Holland @ Wyoming Boys Soccer Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights – WKTV Featured Event Potter’s House vs West Michigan Heat – @ Hudsonville Christian Zion Christian @ Kalamazoo Christian Plainwell @ East Kentwood Girls Volleyball TBA @ East Kentwood – Lady Falcon Invite Boys / Girls Cross Country East Kentwood @ Milford – Invite
Friday, Aug. 30 Boys Football Tri-unity Christian @ Climax-Scotts East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
By Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@wktv.org
Here comes the start of another academic school year opening this month, which also means the local high school sports schedules are doing the same.
Beginning on Aug. 16, fall seasons for girls golf and volleyball, along with boys and girls cross country, and boys soccer, tennis, swimming, water polo and — of course — football all get under way throughout the last two weeks of the month leading to Labor Day weekend.
WKTV will once again be featuring a weekly football game starting with the Thursday, Aug. 29, matchup between White Cloud and Wyoming Lee.
There are some changes not only to Wyoming Lee this year, but to the O-K Silver conference, where the former nicknamed Rebels and now called Legends have played.
For a variety of reasons, Lee, along with NorthPointe Christian and Calvin Christian have all made the change to play independently this season.
As a result, the four remaining Silver teams — Godwin Heights, Kelloggsville, Belding and Hopkins — will each play a home and home conference schedule to determine the league champion.
Want to be a television sports announcer?
If anyone has ever thought about trying to announce a sporting event, WKTV has a great chance for you to do exactly that! The tentative schedule for May follows and we are always looking for additional announcers, especially for the spring games. If you would like to try it or have any questions, please email Mike at sportswktv@gmail.com.
Where and when to see featured games
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this month’s schedule, starting Friday, Aug. 16:
Friday, Aug. 16 Boys Soccer Wyoming @ Wyoming Lee East Kentwood @ FH Central Girls Golf East Kentwood vs Jenison – Jenison Invite @ The Meadows Boys Tennis East Kentwood @ Ludington – Ludington Invite
Saturday, Aug. 17 Boys Soccer Whitehall @ South Christian – Mark Hasper Invite TBA @ Wyoming Lee – Copa Leyendas
Monday, Aug. 19 Girls Golf South Christian @ Traverse City Invite – Spruce Run Boys Soccer Holland Christian @ South Christian Holland @ East Kentwood Boys Tennis Wyoming @ Holland
Tuesday, Aug. 20 Girls Golf South Christian @ Traverse City Invite – Wolverine Boys Soccer Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian Union @ Wyoming Boys / Girls Cross Country Godwin Heights @ Kent City
Wednesday, Aug. 21 Boys Tennis TBA @ South Christian – Sailor Quad TBA @ Wyoming – Quad Boys Soccer Caledonia @ South Christian Wyoming @ Zeeland West Portage Northern @ East Kentwood Boys / Girls Cross Country Wyoming Lee @ Hesperia – Baker Woods Invitational Potter’s House @ Holland Calvary
Thursday, Aug. 22 Boys Tennis TBA @ South Christian – Sailor Quad Wyoming @ Lowell Boys Soccer Belding @ Godwin Heights Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee Ravenna @ Zion Christian
Friday, Aug. 23 Boys Soccer Tri-Unity Christian @ Barry County Christian Potter’s House @ Wyoming East Kentwood @ West Ottawa Girls Golf South Christian vs Middleville T-K – TK Invite @ Yankee Springs Girls Volleyball Wyoming Lee @ WMAES Wyoming vs TBA – WMVOA Meet @ MSA Fieldhouse Boys Water Polo East Kentwood @ Ann Arbor Pioneer – Pioneer Invite
Saturday, Aug. 24 Girls Volleyball Tri-Unity Christian vs TBA – WMVOA Invitational @ MSA Fieldhouse Godwin Heights vs TBA – Officials for Kids Tourney @ MSA Fieldhouse Potter’s House vs TBA – Official for Kids Tourney @ MSA Fieldhouse Zion Christian vs TBA – WMVOA Invitational @ MSA Fieldhouse South Christian @ Grand Haven Boys Tennis South Christian @ East Kentwood – EK Invite TBA @ Wyoming – David Bentley Tournament Boys / Girls Cross Country South Christian @ East Kentwood Wyoming Lee @ Muskegon Catholic Central Boys Soccer TBA @ Zion Christian – Zion Soccer Invite Boys Water Polo East Kentwood @ Ann Arbor Pioneer – Pioneer Invite Girls Volleyball East Kentwood @ Grand Haven – Lakeshore Classic
Monday, Aug. 26 Boys Soccer Tri-Unity Christian @ NorthPointe Christian South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Wyoming @ FH Eastern Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Girls Golf South Christian @ Muskegon Mona Shores Boys Tennis Holland Christian @ South Christian Girls Volleyball Wyoming Lee @ Algoma Christian
Tuesday, Aug. 27 Boys / Girls Cross Country South Christian @ St. Joseph Girls Swimming South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Central @ East Kentwood Boys Soccer NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee Ottawa Hills @ Wyoming Zion Christian @ Saugatuck Boys Tennis Wyoming @ Zeeland East TBA @ East Kentwood – EK Quad Girls Volleyball Ottawa Hills @ Wyoming Zion Christian @ Martin – Quad TBA @ East Kentwood – EK Early Bird Tournament
Wednesday, Aug. 28 Girls Golf South Christian @ Kent Country Club – OK Jamboree Boys Tennis Unity Christian @ South Christian Girls Volleyball Caledonia @ South Christian – Sailor Invite Boys Soccer East Grand Rapids @ South Christian Wyoming @ Wayland Rockford @ East Kentwood Boys / Girls Cross Country Godwin Heights @ Saranac Wyoming Lee @ Saranac Wyoming @ Wayland
Thursday, Aug. 29 Girls Swimming South Christian @ East Kentwood Boys Football Greenville vs South Christian – @ Byron Center Godwin Heights @ Hamilton White Cloud @ Wyoming Lee – WKTV Featured Event Holland @ Wyoming Boys Soccer Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Potter’s House vs West Michigan Heat – @ Hudsonville Christian Zion Christian @ Kalamazoo Christian Plainwell @ East Kentwood Girls Volleyball TBA @ East Kentwood – Lady Falcon Invite Boys / Girls Cross Country East Kentwood @ Milford – Invite
Friday, Aug. 30 Boys Football Tri-unity Christian @ Climax-Scotts East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Wyoming Lee’s football team will be playing an independent schedule for the next two seasons. (2018 photo/WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Wyoming’s Lee High School has historic rivalries in the OK Conference Silver, especially with local Godwin Heights and Kelloggsville high schools. But, in football, it has also had a history of struggling mightily against its conference rivals.
Ultimately, though, it was “doing what is best for the kids” that drove the Rebels — soon to be Legends — to take at least a two-year hiatus from conference play and play an independent schedule this season starting with a home game against White Cloud Thursday, Aug. 29.
While Lee athletic director Jason Faasse said he and others are excited about the possible impact of two years playing an independent schedule, head coach Tom DeGennaro also hopes for a little excitement but wonders if, after decades, Lee football and the OK Conference should part ways for good.
“We’re excited about it,” Faasse said to WKTV. “Our coaching staff is excited about it. Our kids are excited about it. I think it is going to help build our program. It is going to get more kids out. … We are excited to see what this is going to bring.”
The decision to go independent was actually made last season, in the midst of a 1-8 season, and a streak of winning only five games against 22 losses in three years.
“We put together a proposal to do that back in October of last fall, the decision really came because of the state our program has been in the past several years,” Faasse, said. “Just the amount of players we have coming out seems to ebb and flow but we have seen a decrease (and) a lot of that is based on success.”
Faasse said there was some talk about making the jump to independent schedule in 2017, “but we thought we’d be rushing it.”
“We went out to our (varsity) coaches, our other coaches in the program, our parents, our (school governing) board,” Faasse said. “And we just asked for their input on if you think this is a good idea. We got overwhelming support of it.”
Also, there was no serious consideration of playing 8-man football. “We are above the (student count) threshold … we could play, however we would not qualify for the playoffs because of student count,” Faasse said.
Faasse said they would look at resuming conference play again in two years.
DeGennaro, however, says “what is best for our kids” may be no longer playing football in the OK Conference.
Lee head coach Tom DeGennaro. (WKTV)
“We’ve struggled, and it hasn’t just been a short term thing,” DeGennaro said to WKTV, who, like all coaches, had the stats to back up his actions.
The team has had a 61-year history with the OK Conference, it was one of the founding members, he said. And during those 61 years, the team has had 4 winning seasons. The last time they won the conference championship was 1965. They have had 357 total games in conference and 284 losses.
Lee has football players, many of them hitting the weight room this summer. But maybe not enough to compete at there OK Conference level. (WKTV)
“We preach we should do what is best for our kids … last year we had the score run up on us, a team putting their first string back in so they could break 60 points on us. We were not physically able to stay in a game with anybody,” DeGennaro said.
The decision on what will happen in the future is yet to be decided, Faasse said.
“After two seasons of playing an independent schedule, we (will) conduct a review of the status of the program to determine if rejoining the OK Conference schedule is in the best interest of our students,” Faasse said in a previous memorandum to the district governing board detailing the plan to play an independent schedule.
“The goal of this decision is first and foremost putting our athletes in a safe situation,” Faasse also said in the memorandum. “… Under the direction of our coaching staff, this move will help jump-start the development of the program and provide for a culture of success at Lee High School.”
Lee also has history of success when it has gone with an independent schedule — something both coach and athletic director can attest to.
“We pulled out when I was the coach here for my first tenure, we pulled out in ’05 and ‘’06, and we won 13 games (over those two years) and we lost six,” DeGennaro said. “We made the playoffs when we played schools we could compete with.”
Faasse was, coincidentally, a player at Lee when they went independent in 2005.
“Hopefully this gives out kids something to be excited about,” DeGennaro said. “I think they are excited to play teams that they are more on an even par with.”
Lee’s complete football schedule is available at leelegends.org .
Where and when to see Lee football on WKTV
Lee’s Aug. 29 game and all WKTV Featured Games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Godfrey-Lee wrestling team after winning its first district championship, coming from behind to beat Kelloggsville in the Division 3 final at Godwin Heights. (School News Network)
Now that the gold dust has settled on the Godfrey-Lee wrestling season, coach James Maxim has some time to think about the team’s record-breaking accomplishments.
Though the season ended a couple months back for the Rebels, Maxim is just as animated about their success, using words like “astonishing,” “unbelievable” and yet “much deserved.”
With adversity staring them straight in the face the past couple years, the Rebels came through to break many records this season — including winning the first district wrestling title in school history.
“They won this year working under the most adverse conditions that any team could have done,” said Maxim, in his fourth season with Godfrey-Lee. “That’s why it was so cool.
“It was one record after another we were breaking with kids that had no experience.”
After decades of losing, the team this season began celebrating big victories, like this one by senior Nicolas Espinoza (courtesy photo)
Records in a Nutshell
Here’s a quick rundown of the team’s accomplishments:
The Rebels won their first-ever district wrestling title with a 39-36 win over Kelloggsville, in a Division 3 final in February at Godwin Heights. That big win came after trailing 36-12.
They won their first team trophy at the Reed City Invitational.
Senior co-captain Enrique Moreno-Martinez was the first Lee wrestler to win a conference medal all four years. He also finished with a school-record 109 career wins and earned four varsity letters.
But wait, there’s more:
They were named the Most Improved Team at the Kent County Championship, and compiled an 11-2 record this season.
All 11 wrestlers who competed at the conference championships medaled (fourth place or higher).Senior co-captain Nicolas Espinoza finished with 102 career wins and four varsity letters.
Carlos Savala earned the most team points.
Mike Beasley was an individual regional qualifier.
Amber Fenton was the first Lee female wrestler to earn a third-place conference varsity medal.
Regan Mockerman earned a fourth-place medal in the first MHSAA female tournament.
Lee Athletic Director Jason Faasse and wrestling coach James Maxim show off the team’s first district championship trophy
Down to the Wire
In the district final at Godwin, after trailing 36-12 and losing seven of the first nine matches, the Rebels landed five consecutive wins to pull out the title. They got early victories from Mike Beasley and Amber Fenton, and the final five from Carlos Savala, Yunior Mejia, Nicolas Espinoza, Alan Maya and Enrique Moreno-Martinez.
“It was a lot of heart; and something they deserved,” Maxim said. “We asked them to give it their best and they ended up doing it.”
With the match tied at 36-36, Enrique “did it for the team,” Maxim said. “He was a freshman when I came in, so it was really cool to see a kid like that do it for the team.
“They are the most unselfish kids you could ever imagine. They appreciate everything, plain and simple.”
Enrique said he definitely felt extra pressure to win.
“Because this was the first time our school had a solid chance in winning the team district, it was either ‘I cement this team as the best Lee has ever had by coming back with the team district title, or go and live in the shame,’” he said. “Honestly, with the wonderful group of people who contributed to the win, it was an honor to wrestle by their side that night.”
His close relationship with coach Maxim contributed to his success as well, Enrique said.
Senior captain Enrique Moreno-Martinez was the first Lee wrestler to win a conference medal all four years; he set a school record with 109 career wins and collected four varsity letters in wrestling
“Coach took me in like I was one of his own kids; he would hype me up during practices, coaches meetings and even outside of the sport with friends. There were times where a few of them came up to me and said, ‘Congratulations on the big win’ or ‘You have the heart of a true Rebel.’”
Maxim’s wife, Karen, also encouraged him, and his son, Justin, spent hours helping out the team.
Through Rain, Sleet or Snow
All of these record-breaking accomplishments came through practicing in the basement of a church — not exactly the perfect spot for a wrestling team.
After practicing on Lee’s band stage and sharing the gym with many other sports programs, the grapplers eventually hooked up with Wyoming’s Eighth Reformed Church, which provided basement space.
“It wasn’t ideal, but at least we had someplace to work out,” Maxim said. “These kids left school, whether it was snowing or raining or a blizzard, and they walked about three-quarters of a mile to get to the church. It would take a while to thaw them out.”
Enrique said the walks to the church were “brutal and difficult.” By making the trek, the team showed ”nothing is going to stop them from practicing,” he said.
Senior Alan Jiminez takes on an Ottawa Hills foe during Godfrey-Lee’s Cinderella-story wrestling season (courtesy photo)
Recruitment by Pizza
When Maxim accepted the coaching job in the fall of 2015, after coaching for 25 years at Caledonia, there was only one returning wrestler. Fortunately for him, there was also an exchange student who loved wrestling.
“It wasn’t building a program, it was planting seeds,” said Maxim, a Realtor by day. “And this was only a couple weeks away from the season’s start. So I said I needed to meet this kid right away, ‘like tomorrow.’”
“This kid” was Alexis Slagter, introduced to Maxim by Athletic Director Jason Faasse. Maxim told Alexis they needed to get some students out for the team and start conditioning. The coach provided pizzas and had them play flag football instead, every Tuesday and Thursday. Within a few weeks the group grew from three to six, to nine, to 12.
After a few practices Maxim asked how the pizza was. Enrique said, “Coach, the pizzas are good, but how about tacos?”
“We just hit it off and built a great relationship with these kids and my family as well,” Maxim said.
During Maxim’s first competition, where his team beat both opponents, he said the wrestlers went up in the stands to hug their parents because they hadn’t had anyone cheer like that before.
“That was the coolest thing, and I had state teams and state champions at Caledonia,” Maxim said. “Whether they (Lee) won anything big or not it didn’t matter; it was what they were getting out of it.”
Maxim said one key to his team’s early success was bringing ex-Caledonia wrestler and U.S. Marine Scott Gnass on as the conditioning coach. “This is how we got through a lot of our matches. They had the conditioning to survive.”
Other assistant coaches were brothers Flavio and Isandro Gomez, who wrestled for Maxim at Caledonia, and Michael Henderson, Godfrey-Lee’s middle school coach. Maxin and the team also greatly appreciated a spirit committee of supportive parents.
This poster designed by Stefanie Hylarides celebrates the Godfrey-Lee wrestling team’s records and accomplishments
A Long, Long Time Coming
Those first two wins in the opening match were the first Rebel wrestlers had achieved in a very long time.
“The following day I came in for practice early and walked by the band practicing, and they were waving and saying, ‘Hi coach,’” Maxim recalled. “Half of the kids I recruited were in the band. And as I’m walking through, an announcement comes on over the P.A. and they’re ranting and raving about the win, saying the wrestling team won its first varsity match in over 30 years.”
Turns out that wasn’t quite true, he found out in the office — the last win was actually in 1977, almost 40 years prior, Faasse confirmed.
Success bred enthusiasm. The team has since had as many as 28 wrestlers, the same as some Division 1 and 2 schools, Maxim said. In a school of 458 students, “We were told that was impressive. I think it is cool.”
One of them was Yunior Mejia, who had never wrestled before. He ended up having a phenomenal season this year, winning every one of his district and regional matches.
‘IT WAS ONE RECORD AFTER ANOTHER WE WERE BREAKING WITH KIDS THAT HAD NO EXPERIENCE.’ — GODFREY-LEE WRESTLING COACH JAMES MAXIM
As for team leader Enrique, he will never forget the adversity and experiences he had with Lee wrestling, even as he moves on to study culinary arts at Grand Rapids Community College next fall.
“I just fell in love with the sport; the bonds you make with rivals, the team and just the sport of wrestling,” he said. “This is honestly one of the hardest sports in high school and a great way of showing how durable you are, because with this sport there is hardly ever an easy day of practice and there is never an easy match.
“You must wrestle every match as if it was your last.”
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
Grand Valley State University’s recently completed renovations and expansion of the Jamie Hosford Football Center. (Supplies GVSU/ Rex Larson)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
Grand Valley State University’s head football coach Matt Mitchell called the recently renovations and expansion of the Jamie Hosford Football Center “a big home win” — and considering the Lakers’ NCAA Division 2 all-time home record is 171–38–1, Mitchell, his players and local fans know a home win when they see one.
More than 400 people — including ex-GVSU and current Notre Dame head football coach Brian Kelly — celebrated the dedication of improvements football center on June 19, improvements which, according to supplied material, “will help recruit prospective student athletes while providing the university’s current 575 student athletes access to an updated athletic and rehabilitation training room.”
“We talk a lot about doing things at a championship level,” Mitchell said in supplied material. “Our student athletes are champions on and off the field. They deserve the best facilities to support their hard work. Jamie’s spirit will live in this building. He had an infectious energy.”
The facility is named for Laker football alumnus Jamie Hosford, who died in 2014 after a battle with cancer, but in his GVSU career earned 12 varsity letters and All-American honors in football and wrestling. He was inducted into the GVSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. After graduating in 1977, Hosford worked for Rockford Public Schools for 25 years.
Renovations to the two-story, 22,000-square-foot building include an expanded locker room, larger athletic training/rehabilitation room, all-team meeting room, and spaces for equipment maintenance, storage and laundry.
Keri Becker, GVSU director of athletics, said the facility honors the tradition of past football champions while setting the atmosphere for more achievements.
“It will serve as a daily challenge to coaches and student athletes on how to live like a champion,” she said. “Relationships will be cultivated inside this building. This facility will help make the players a team and a family.”
The donor-funded expansion campaign was led by honorary chairs President Emeritus Arend D. Lubbers and Kelly, who coached the Lakers from 1991-2003.
“This facility supports students athletes,” Kelly said. “Grand Valley has always been about finding the best resources for students, and student athletes.”
Gloria Hosford, Jamie’s wife, said her family was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for this project. “Words cannot express how proud we are and what an honor this is for Jamie,” she said. “Laker pride is definitely deep, deep, deep in our family.”
GVSU, with the winningest NCAA Division II football program, finished the 2018 season with a 10-2 record and an appearance in the playoffs for the 19th time in program history.
WKTV Community Media has a proud history with the recently retired Rev. Mark J. Bergsma — he’s been a volunteer high school sports announcer for years. But his being one of “the voices” in local sports scene falls pretty far down on his impressive resume of career accomplishments.
Rev. Bergsma served as pastor at Kentwood’s Unity Reformed Church for more than 40 years before he retired in May — and even by church leader standards, 40 years at at the same church is special. But he makes clear that the Unity Reformed community was just as special and that he was been rewarded in so many ways for his longevity.
Rev. Bergsma — Mark, as everybody knows him at WKTV — sat down outside the station recently to talk about his years at Unity and other parts of his past, present and future.
Rev. Mark and Judy Bergsma, at Unity Reformed Church. (Supplied/Unity Reformed Church)
“I really believe that God led me to that church when I was in my mid-20s, graduating from seminary,” Rev. Bergsma said. “I had already spent 14 months there as an intern. I went back to school not intending to return. But the church called me back, asked me to come as their full-time pastor. In the process, they showed great patience with me, as a young man. And it was a tremendously supportive family atmosphere there, and that never changed over the years.”
However impressive was his work at Unity, much of his work and his story takes place outside the walls of his beloved church.
Mark’s years as a pastor also had him serving as overnight Chaplin at local hospitals and with the Kentwood police and fire departments, as well as worship leader at Holland Home Raybrook senior community — experiences which, he says, came with trials and rewards, but he knew it was his calling to also be out of the church and into the community.
Yet another aspect of Mark’s career is his work on the tennis courts at Kelloggsville High School. Yes, he became involved to coach his daughters, but he went on to proudly coach successful teams and mentor great young ladies. And his future plans include supporting the school district’s young tennis talent.
Mark Bergsma, right, with fellow WKTV high school sports volunteer Ron Schultz. (WKTV)
And his work at WKTV? Before and now after his retirement, WKTV’s high school sports coverage team is better thanks to Mark’s work. But how he got started at WKTV? That’s a funny story (see the video).
Finally, what’s next for Mark, at a pulpit, on a tennis court and with his family? Mark will certainly not be slowing down … OK, maybe there’s a little more fishing in his plans.
Football bowling will be available in Kentwood after a grand opening this week.
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The City of Kentwood will unveil four competition-grade beach volleyball courts and outdoor football bowling lanes with a special ribbon cutting and community event Friday, June 21, at 6 p.m., with with music, a food truck and Mayor Stephen Kepley marking the official opening.
The courts are located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, near the Kentwood Department of Public Works.
“We have experienced a growing need for additional beach volleyball courts within the community and are excited to grow our recreational offerings,” Val Romeo, director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation, previously said in supplied material. “We are proud to offer new high-quality sand courts right here in Kentwood. We are also excited to include football bowling — an activity that’s growing in popularity.”
Football blowing is a hybrid game that combines the equipment of American football and bowling into one sport with a similar layout as horseshoes and cornhole. The object is for teams to be the first to knock down all opponent’s pins by throwing a full-size, regulation football at 10 bowling pins positioned in a traditional bowling layout.
Following the new facility’s ribbon-cutting, volleyball teams of four will compete in a co-ed volleyball tournament. A variety of competitive and recreational beach volleyball leagues is set to begin July 15, and residents can sign up at kentwoodvolleyball or by calling 616-656-5270.
The city’s parks department plans to have the football bowling lanes available for open play during volleyball league games on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights.
For more information on the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department and its many programs, visit kentwood.us .
The Meijer State Games of Michigan kicks off the 2019 summer games with an Opening Ceremony on Friday, June 21, at Fifth Third Ballpark. (Supplied file photo/Meijer State Games)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The Meijer State Games of Michigan kicks off the 2019 summer games with an Opening Ceremony on Friday, June 21, at Fifth Third Ballpark. The games, to be held at various West Michigan locations focused on the Grand Rapids area, will run June 20-22.
The Opening Ceremony will be held at Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 W. River Dr. NE Comstock Park. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. The ceremony will run 7:30-9 p.m.
1968 Olympic Gold Medalist Dick Fosbury will be the guest speaker at the opening ceremony. Fosbury is known to be the first to jump over the high bar backwards, creating the “Fosbury Flop.” Fosbury will also be lighting the cauldron to officially kick off the summer games.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan is an Olympic-style, multi-sport event, according to supplied material, “that welcomes athletes regardless of age or ability level. The games embody the values of participation, sportsmanship, and healthy living among the residents of Michigan.” Since 2010, Meijer State Games of Michigan has hosted more than 65,000 athletes, and has also contributed more than $25 million in estimated economic impact to cities throughout Michigan.
While the opening ceremony is in the evening, there will be events and entertainment starting in the morning hours beginning at 10 a.m., and will include a race-walking tutorial by Olympian Gary Morgan, ballpark games and an opportunity to run the bases on Fifth Third Ballpark. The Visser Family YMCA children’s camp will be participating in this year’s Olympic day events.
(Supplied file photo/Meijer State Games)
Throughout the ceremony a series of three ballpark games will be played on the field. Hoop helmet, human sandwich and bungee battle will be played. Teams for each game will be comprised of athletes participating in the summer games in a sport-versus-sport style competition.
A stunt trampoline show will utilize professional athletes, upbeat soundtracks and comedy in an elite performance of flips and trampoline tricks. The show will end with world-famous sky-high belly drops.
The athlete parade will begin at 7:30 p.m., as athletes represent their sports by parading into the stadium. Athletes will be led by Grand Marshall Dakota McLaren. McLaren is one of Michigan’s two athletes, sponsored by the Secchia family, chosen to participate in the 2019 State Games of America in Lynchburg, Va.
In addition to Fosbury, other Olympians in attendance at the opening ceremony will include race walker Gary Morgan, swimmer Pam Kruse and judo competitor Maje Omagbaluwaje.
Morgan competed in every US Olympic trial from 1984-2004 as a walker. He competed in the World Championships, World Cup, Pan American Games, and Goodwill Games. Morgan also competed in the men’s 20 kilometer walk for the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea.
Kruse is a native of Miami, Florida and now resides here in Grand Rapids. At 18 she competed at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, where she received a silver medal for her performance in the women’s 800-meter freestyle.
Omagbaluwaje is a Nigerian judoka with a 6th degree black belt. He is a 3-time African Champion, 3-time USA National Champion, and has competed in 3 Olympic Games. Omagbaluwaje placed 7th at the 1987 World Championships and received a gold medal at the World Masters Championships in 2009.
Admission to the Opening Ceremony is $5 for those age nine and over. Parking will be $5. (All registered athletes get free admission to the opening ceremony.” To purchase a ticket to opening ceremony, please visit here.
For more information on the game’s sports and venues please visit here.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan is celebrating its 10-year anniversary during this year’s Summer Games. To celebrate the milestone, WMSC president Mike Guswiler, will be participating in 10 sports during the Summer Games.
“It’s a cool idea for 10 years, it’s a fun way to celebrate,” said Guswiler. “We’ve never seen someone take on 10 sports, that will be pretty exciting.”
During the first weekend of events Guswiler will be participating in men’s pickleball on Friday, June 14, and coed softball on Saturday, June 15.
Guswiler will participate in 8 sports during the main event weekend. Thursday, June 20, Guswiler will participate in bocce ball. On Friday, June 21, Guswiler will participate in golf and archery. Saturday, June 22,Guswiler will participate in long jump as a part of the Meijer State Games track and field events, skeet shooting and freestyle swimming. On the final day of the State Games main event weekend, Sunday, June 23, Guswiler will participate in bowling and small-bore rifle.
In the last 10 years, more than $28 million was generated in direct visitor spending due to the State Games events.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan main weekend is June 20-23. (WMSC)
Follow Guswiler’s Schedule:
Friday, June 14
Sport: Pickleball Time: 9:30 a.m. Location: Belknap Park, 30 Coldbrook St. NE, Grand Rapids
Saturday, June 15
Sport: Coed Softball Time: 8 a.m. Location: Huff Park, 2399 Ball Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
Thursday, June 20
Sport: Bocce Ball Time: 2 p.m. Location: Noto’s Old World Italian Dining, 6600 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids
Friday, June 21
Sport: Golf Time: 9 a.m. Location: Cedar Chase Golf Club, 7551 17 Mile Rd NE, Cedar Springs
Sport: 3D Archery Time: 3 p.m. Location: Sparta Hunting and Fishing Club, 13218 Long Lake Dr. Sparta
Saturday, June 22
Sport: Track and Field Time: 10 a.m. Location: Comstock Park High School, 150 6 Mile Rd. NE, Comstock Park
Registration is now open for all sports. There is an estimated 8,000+ athletes participating in over 45 sporting events in this year’s Summer Games. For more information about registration, please visit www.stategamesofmichigan.com/summer-games-sports-lineup/. Registration is located on each sports page.
For more information on sponsoring the Meijer State Games of Michigan, visit www.stategamesofmichigan.com/summer-games-sponsors. The Meijer State Games of Michigan sponsors include: Lake Michigan Credit Union, Metro Health, Fox Motors, Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Care Network of Michigan, Subway, Fifth Wheel Freight, Peppino’s, Lacks Enterprises Inc., SIBSCO, LIFE EMS Ambulance, The GR Shop, Heglund-Sova Realty, Inc.
There are still volunteer opportunities available for the Summer Games. For more information on volunteering, please visit www.stategamesofmichigan.com/summer-games-volunteer/. The Meijer State Games of Michigan is a nonprofit organization that relies heavily on the help of willing volunteers and trusted partnerships. Lake Michigan Credit Union is proud supporter of Meijer State Games of Michigan volunteers.
East Kentwood senior Kyle Dent has not only excelled in football and baseball for the Falcons; he also has succeeded in the classroom.
As a quarterback, he passed for 1,800-plus yards with 17 touchdowns. This spring in baseball, he sported a .300 batting average with 13 runs and nine stolen bases.
East Kentwood standout Kyle Dent looking to score from third base during a Falcon baseball game (courtesy photo)
In the classroom he carried a 3.88 GPA, and earned all-academic honors throughout high school. He’s also involved in coaching EK football camps for students in grades 2-5.
“He demonstrates leadership on and off the field and embodies what a Falcon should be,” baseball coach Marty Jackimowicz said of his two-year captain. “He has a great work ethic in practicing and tries to help others around him to also elevate their play.
“Beyond baseball, Kyle is a really great person,” Jackimowicz added. “He is always there for his teammates and classmates and wouldn’t hesitate to help anyone who needed it. He has a great personality and people are naturally drawn to him because of it.”
A four-year letter winner in baseball, Kyle played shortstop and pitched for the Falcons, and also was the team’s leadoff hitter.
East Kentwood senior Kyle Dent had a .300 batting average with 13 runs scored and nine stolen bases this spring (courtesy photo)
Gridiron Standout too
Football coach Tony Kimbrough said Kyle also was a captain on his team last fall because of his strong work ethic and overall leadership abilities.
“He led our team to a record of 9-2 and (we) went undefeated in the OK Red Conference,” said Kimbrough, who played football at Western Michigan University, in the Canadian Football League and Arena Football League. “Great teammate and one of the most positive players I have ever coached. He is the model for the term student-athlete.”
Kyle, who completed 60 percent of his passes and was named First Team All-Conference last fall, will continue his football career at Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He plans to major in athletic training with hopes of attending physical therapy school thereafter.
“As for football and baseball, I’ve been playing them ever since I was able to,” said Kyle, who also wrestled for a couple years in high school. “I picked up the sport of wrestling in about third grade, really only to better my agility and conditioning for my other main sports.”
He said he doesn’t stray far from sports no matter what time of year it is.
“Whenever I am not in practice or in a season, I find myself doing a lot of training for them, intense training and more relaxed and fundamental training,” he said. “I love to just go out and throw, whether it’s a baseball or a football. I find this to be a great way to relieve stress for me as well as keep me occupied.”
For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
Fowling is a hybrid game that combines the equipment of American football and bowling into one sport with a similar layout as horseshoes and cornhole. (Wikipedia Commons)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
Reacting to increased public demand as well as the latest community recreation trends, the City of Kentwood will unveil four competition-grade beach volleyball courts and outdoor fowling lanes at a community event later this month.
Located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, near the Kentwood Department of Public Works, the new facility will officially open with a grand opening on Friday, June 21, at 6 p.m., with with music, a food truck and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“We have experienced a growing need for additional beach volleyball courts within the community and are excited to grow our recreational offerings,” Val Romeo, director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation, said in supplied material. “We are proud to offer new high-quality sand courts right here in Kentwood. We are also excited to include fowling — an activity that’s growing in popularity.”
Fowling is a hybrid game that combines the equipment of American football and bowling into one sport with a similar layout as horseshoes and cornhole. It is maybe best known as a pastime at football and concert tailgate parties. According to Wikipedia, fowling was founded in 2001 in Detroit. The object of fowling is for teams to be the first to knock down all opponent’s pins by throwing a full-size, regulation football at 10 bowling pins positioned in a traditional bowling layout.
Following the new facility’s ribbon-cutting, volleyball teams of four will compete in a co-ed volleyball tournament. Those interested in signing up for the tournament, or a variety of competitive and recreational beach volleyball leagues set to begin July 15, can sign up at kentwoodvolleyball or by calling 616-656-5270.
For the opening day tournament at the volleyball courts, participating teams can pre-register online for $25. Day-of-event registration will cost $35. All teams are also encouraged to bring a donation of canned goods to benefit Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
The city’s parks department plans to have the fowling lanes available for open play during volleyball league games on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights.
For more information on the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department and its many programs, visit kentwood.us .
Dr. Matthew Axtman, Spectrum Health Medical Group Orthopedics, is the medical lead for the annual River Bank Run, the largest 25K in the country (Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat)
Springtime usually heralds the beginning of another full season of 5Ks and roadside runners.
Whether you’re training for your first race, want to be more active, or seek to cut minutes off your run times, here are 10 tips from doctors in the know:
1. Set a goal
Setting a goal, along with a timeline to accomplish that goal, is key, said Matt Axtman, DO, a sports medicine specialist with Spectrum Health Medical Group.
Your goal may be running for 30 minutes straight without any walking by May 15, running a 5K in 25 minutes by July 1, or completing a marathon in five hours by September.
A specific goal is the first step toward a runner making strides.
2. Select a program
Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat
After setting a goal, selecting a program and schedule is the next major step.
“The Internet is a wealth of information,” Dr. Axtman said.
On days when you’re not running, continue to do athletic activities, whether it’s lifting weights, hiking or other sports.
The most fit athletes are multi-sport athletes, Dr. Axtman said, citing Bo Jackson, a former professional football and baseball player, and Cal Ripken Jr., a baseball Hall-of-Famer known as “The Ironman” because he has the longest consecutive-games-played streak. Ripken was both a soccer and baseball player growing up.
“If you want to be an elite runner, it’s more than just running: It’s weight-lifting, it’s cross-training,” Dr. Axtman said. “We don’t like to see single-sport athletes, they tend to get overuse injuries and fatigue injuries.”
4. Listen to your body
“You’re going to have a normal soreness and
achiness (after you run),” Dr. Axtman said. “That muscle fatigue is
going to be there.”
Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat
But with rest and stretching, that should go away in no more than a few days, he said. If you have pain, apply ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation. If the pain lingers for more than a week, don’t push it.
And if rest doesn’t cure the pain, see a professional.
“Something that might not be a big deal initially, it could become a big deal and cause major problems if you don’t listen to your body and push it too hard,” Dr. Axtman said.
5. Proper shoes
Footwear is important, Dr. Axtman said. Having the wrong shoe can alter your gait, which can lead to more stress on the ankles, knees and lower back, and ultimately lead to injuries.
His advice? Get your foot and stride evaluated at a store that sells athletic footwear. They’ll help you select the proper shoe.“Also, pay attention to the mileage,” Dr. Axtman said. “Shoes typically last from 300-500 miles. After that, the soles start to wear out, the cushioning starts to wear out, which can alter your mechanics and lead to injury.”
6. Outdoors vs. Treadmill
All running is helpful, Dr. Axtman said.
When coming back from injury, treadmills are recommended because they have more cushioning and bounce, which leads to less impact on the body. But running on the road tends to be more difficult because there are hills and the surface material is less forgiving.
If you choose to run on a treadmill, change the incline to 2 percent, which will approximate the difficulties of running outdoors and keep you on track with your training schedule, he said.
7. Weight lifting
“You don’t need to do intense weight-lifting—you don’t need to be buff and Arnold Schwarzenegger-like,” Dr. Axtman said. “But you want to be strong, and that’ll help you run better times and run longer distances.”
Weight-lifting allows the body to perform at optimum levels.“It’s like driving in your car,” he said. “If alignment is off, your car is going to shake. And that’ll affect gas mileage (and) it’ll burn gasoline more quickly. If there’s one thing with your car, it affects all the other systems. Same with your body.
“When you’re running, you’re using core muscles to provide stability, along with your spine, and you use your shoulders and upper muscles to provide torque. It’s all important. It’ll all help you.”
8. Running partners
Unless you’re incredibly self-motivated, keeping to a training program can be difficult. Studies have shown, however, that running partners not only motivate you to show up to training sessions, but push you to run longer distances.
All running is helpful, Dr. Axtman said. When coming back from injury, treadmills are recommended because they have more cushioning and bounce, which leads to less impact on the body. (Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat)
“They make you accountable, so you’re more likely to show up and give 100 percent during your workout because you know that someone else is counting on you,” said Andrew Allden, who coaches women’s cross-country at the University of South Carolina, in an interview with Runner’s World.
And as another Runner’s World article once declared, “Partners make the best alarm clocks.”
9. Hydration
Knowing your “sweat rate” is important: Weigh yourself before and after a run, and calculate the difference and that’s your rate, Dr. Axtman said.
“And that’s typically how much water you can consume,” he said. “You don’t need to equal it, but get close.”
Water shouldn’t be chugged before running because that can cause sloshing, cramping and nausea while you run. It should be sipped in the hours before a run.
And for long-distance runners—say, more than two hours on the road, “we also recommend rehydrating with a sport drink or sport gel because you’re also losing sodium and minerals and want to replenish those,” Dr. Axtman said. “That’ll keep your body working optimally.”
10. Lifestyle changes
Training is wonderful, but significant barriers to serious improvement are diet and sleep habits.
“Altering your eating habits can take your weight down, which is going to put a lot less stress on joints,” says Dr. Axtman. Doctors recommend the Mediterranean diet, which is flexible and sustainable. The important thing is to eat whole foods instead of processed foods.
“If you buy it in a box, bag or can, it’s probably processed,” says Thomas Boyden, MD, a cardiologist with Spectrum Health Medical Group. “If you’re eating vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, beans and still a little bit of animal, the evidence is strong (your health will improve quickly).”
By Eric Engelbarts, Meijer State Games of Michigan
The Meijer State Games of Michigan has added spikeball to its more than 45-sport lineup, and that’s not all — after last summer’s successful debut, ninja and paintball will be back.
Spikeball will take place during the main weekend of the Summer Games, on Saturday, June 22, at Douglas Walker Park (1195 84th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315); paintball on Sunday, June 23, at TC Paintball (2070 Waldorf St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49544); and Ninja on Saturday, June 29 at RockFit Ninjas (8830 Belding Road NE, Rockford, MI 49341).
Registration for these games is currently open. For spikeball, players can register in beginner or advanced divisions. Go here for rules, entry fees, schedule, and to register.
Ninja will have four age divisions: 7-9 years, 10-13 years, 14-17 years, and 18 years and older. Go here for rules, entry fees, schedule, and to register.
There are three divisions in paintball: rental only, novice and advanced. The rental-only division will include free equipment rental; the other two divisions will not include equipment. Each team will comprise 3 players. Go here for rules, entry fees, schedule, and to register.
About 8,000+ athletes will participate in over 45 sporting events at this year’s Summer Games. For more information about registration, please go here. Registration links are located on each sports page.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
WKTV’s spring baseball and softball schedule is nearing its end but this week as our coverage crew will be on the road twice this week, with baseball games featuring Wyoming high and Kelloggsville.
But there is high school sports action all over the Wyoming and Kentwood area, so check out something live if you can.
The tentative schedule of WKTV featured game’s remaining this month are as follows:
Wednesday, May 22, boys baseball, South Christian at Wyoming, at Lamar Park Friday, May 24, boys baseball, Zion Christian at Kelloggsville, at Kellogg Woods Park
Want to be a television sports announcer?
If anyone has ever thought about trying to announce a sporting event, WKTV has a great chance for you to do exactly that! The tentative schedule for May follows and we are always looking for additional announcers, especially for the spring games. If you would like to try it or have any questions, please email Mike at sportswktv@gmail.com.
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s schedule:
Monday, May 20 Boys Golf South Christian @ Middleville T-K Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian – Maple Hill Wyoming @ Christian – Thornapple Pointe Boys Baseball Wyoming @ South Christian – DH East Kentwood @ West Ottawa – DH Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian Kelloggsville @ Belding – DH Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee Girls Softball Wyoming @ South Christian – DH East Kentwood @ West Ottawa – DH Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian – DH Kelloggsville @ Belding – DH Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee – DH Girls Soccer FH Eastern @ South Christian Hudsonville@ East Kentwood Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Zion Christian @ Calhoun Christian West Michigan Aviation @ Heritage Christian
Tuesday, May 21 Boys Golf East Kentwood – OK Red Post Season Tournament @ Thornapple Pointe Girls Softball Belding @ Kelloggsville Boys Baseball Zion Christian @ Ottawa Hills – DH Holland Black River vs West Michigan Aviation – DH @ Zion Christian Girls Soccer West Michigan Aviation @ Calvin Christian
Wednesday, May 22 Boys Baseball South Christian @ Wyoming – Lamar Park – WKTV Featured Event West Ottawa @ East Kentwood NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian Girls Softball South Christian @ Covenant Christian – DH East Kentwood @ Byron Center – DH NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian Boys Golf Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep – The Mines Girls Soccer Wyoming – MHSAA Districts @ Hamilton
Thursday May 23, 2019 Girls Soccer Godwin Heights – MHSAA Districts @ Godwin Heights Wyoming Lee – MHSAA Districts @ Wellsprings Prep Boys Baseball Grand Rapids Crusaders @ Wyoming Lee Potter’s House @ Holland Black River – DH
Friday, May 24 Boys Baseball Godwin Heights vs Saugatuck – @ Hope College Zion Christian @ Kelloggsville – DH Wyoming @ Zeeland East West Michigan Aviation @ Belding – DH Girls Soccer TBA – @ Godwin Heights – MHSAA Districts West Michigan Aviation @ Grand River Prep – MHSAA Districts Girls Softball Wyoming @ Zeeland East – DH
Saturday, May 25 Boys /Girls Track MITCA State Meet Boys Baseball Wyoming @ West Ottawa – DH
Monday, May 27 Memorial Day
Tuesday, May 28 Boys Baseball @ East Kentwood – MHSAA Districts Godwin Heights @ Christian – MHSAA Districts Kelloggsville @ Holland Christian – MHSAA Districts Wyoming Lee @ Christian – MHSAA Districts Zion Christian @ Holton Girls Softball @ East Kentwood – MHSAA Districts Kelloggsville @ Christian – MHSAA Districts Wyoming Lee @ Christian – MHSAA Districts Wyoming @ Ottawa Hills – MHSAA Districts Girls Soccer Tri-Unity Christian vs Zion Christian – MHSAA Districts @ NorthPointe Christian
Wednesday, May 29 Boys Golf East Kentwood — MHSAA Regionals Kelloggsville — MHSAA Regionals @ Diamond Springs Wyoming – MHSAA Regionals Girls Soccer TBA @ South Christian — MHSAA Districts
Thursday, May 30 Girls Soccer East Kentwood @ TBA — MHSAA Districts Boys Golf East Kentwood @ TBA — MHSAA Regionals
Action Wake Park, in partnership with Liquid Force, will host the third annual Liquid Force Field Day Saturday, June 1. This event will provide an opportunity for the public to try Action Wake Park completely free of cost.
“Last years Liquid Force Field day was an absolute success,” said Action Wake Park Owner Jerry Brouwer. “The day provides the water sports experience without the barrier of a boat for free and we couldn’t be more excited for the community to enjoy it.”
Liquid Force Field Day is from 12-8pm. The day will consist of:
● Free day passes ● Free rentals ● Free 2019 wakeboard demo gear provided by Liquid Force ● Professional world champion athletes Harley Clifford Meagan Ethell ● Free energy drinks provided by Red Bull ● Wakeboard big air contest from 5-6pm
Action Wake Park is Michigan’s first and only full-size cable wakeboard facility. Entering into its four season, the park aims to help the community learn water sports in a controlled environment without the barrier of a boat. The park features a fully stocked water sports proshop, concessions, and a large patio for viewing.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
WKTV’s spring baseball and softball schedule continues this week as our coverage crew will be on the road for softball at Kelloggsville.
But there is high school sports action all over the Wyoming and Kentwood area, so check out something live if you can.
The tentative schedule of WKTV featured game’s remaining this month are as follows:
Wednesday, May 15, girls softball, Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville Wednesday, May 22, boys baseball, South Christian at Wyoming Friday, May 24, boys baseball, Zion Christian at Kelloggsville
Want to be a television sports announcer?
If anyone has ever thought about trying to announce a sporting event, WKTV has a great chance for you to do exactly that! The tentative schedule for May follows and we are always looking for additional announcers, especially for the spring games. If you would like to try it or have any questions, please email Mike at sportswktv@gmail.com .
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s (original) schedule; due to rainouts and other factors, please check the school’s websites for latest changes:
Tuesday, May 14 Girls Softball South Christian @ FH Eastern – DH Grandville @ East Kentwood – DH Wyoming Lee @ East Grand Rapids Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – DH Boys Baseball South Christian @ FH Eastern – DH Grandville @ East Kentwood – DH — WKTV Featured Game Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – DH Potter’s House @ Kalamazoo Heritage Christian Girls Soccer FH Central @ South Christian Kenowa Hills @ East Kentwood Kelloggsville @ Wyoming West Michigan Aviation @ Grand River Prep Boys Lacrosse East Kentwood @ Jenison Girls Tennis Kelloggsville @ Muskegon Catholic Central Boys Golf Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
Wednesday, May 15 Boys Golf South Christian @ FH Eastern – Egypt Valley East Kentwood @ Caledonia – Broadmoor Country Club Kelloggsville – OK Silver Conference @ The Meadows Wyoming @ FH Eastern – Egypt Valley Boys Lacrosse South Christian @ East Kentwood Girls Softball Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville — WKTV Featured Game Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee FH Central @ Wyoming Boys Baseball Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee West Michigan Aviation @ Kalamazoo Cougars – DH Girls Soccer Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River Wyoming @ Christian
Thursday, May 16 Boys Baseball FH Eastern @ South Christian East Kentwood @ Grandville Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River – DH Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Zion Christian @ Heritage Christian Academy – DH Girls Tennis East Kentwood @ TBA – MHSAA Regionals Kelloggsville @ TBA – MHSAA Regionals Wyoming – MHSAA Districts @ FH Northern Girls Softball East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Godwin Heights @ Ottawa Hills Girls Soccer East Kentwood @ West Ottawa Tri-Unity Christian @ Grand River Prep Boys Golf Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian – Maple Hill
Friday, May 17 Boys / Girls Track South Christian – MHSAA Regionals @ Houseman Field West Michigan Aviation – MHSAA Regionals @ Houseman Field East Kentwood – MHSAA Regionals @ Grand Haven Wyoming – MHSAA Regionals @ Grand Haven Godwin Heights – MHSAA Regionals @ FH Eastern Wyoming Lee – MHSAA Regionals @ Saugatuck Girls Tennis @ South Christian – MHSAA Regionals Girls Soccer South Christian @ Wyoming East Kentwood @ Kalamazoo Central Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville Girls Water Polo @ East Kentwood – Regionals Girls Softball East Kentwood @ Caledonia Holland @ Wyoming – DH Boys Baseball South Christian @ Wyoming – Lamar Park Potter’s House @ Kelloggsville – DH West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian – DH
Saturday, May 18 Boys Baseball Hamilton @ South Christian – Sailor Invite East Kentwood @ Lakeview – DH Wyoming Lee @ Saranac – Saranac Invite Zion Christian @ North Muskegon West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian – DH Girls Water Polo @ East Kentwood – Regionals Girls Softball Christian @ East Kentwood – DH Wyoming Lee @ Saranac – Saranac Invite
Monday, May 20 Boys Golf South Christian @ Middleville T-K Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian – Maple Hill Wyoming @ Christian – Thornapple Pointe Boys Baseball Wyoming @ South Christian – DH East Kentwood @ West Ottawa – DH Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian Kelloggsville @ Belding – DH Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee Girls Softball Wyoming @ South Christian – DH East Kentwood @ West Ottawa – DH Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian – DH Kelloggsville @ Belding – DH Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee – DH Girls Soccer FH Eastern @ South Christian Hudsonville@ East Kentwood Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Zion Christian @ Calhoun Christian West Michigan Aviation @ Heritage Christian
A banner donated by Grandville High School for the 2016 event. (Supplied)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The weather is supposed to be nice this weekend, and if you are into high school sports there will be two special Wyoming events — Wolves softball and baseball, and Rebel girls soccer — that will be both be great for viewers but also great for the community.
Wyoming High School will host Grandville High School in the Annual Christy Paganelli baseball/softball game Friday, May 10, at Pinery Park. The annual benefit games between teams from the neighboring high schools “celebrate life while bringing awareness to the importance of fighting cancer.”
The Christy Paganelli Softball Player Introduction Ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m., with baseball introduction at 5:45 p.m.
The annual Christy’s Cause Scholarship Baseball and Softball Games honors “the person and the spirit” of Christy Paganelli, who lost a courageous 18-month battle with melanoma.
The event recognizes all cancer awareness and prevention, and is committed to making sure everyone is aware that melanoma skin cancer can happen to anyone and how to prevent it.
All funds will be directed towards cancer research and the Christy Paganelli Scholarship Fund, which funds one or two scholarships each year at Aquinas College, where Christy played softball after playing and graduating from Wyoming’s Rogers High School.
The events will begin with a junior varsity baseball game at 3:15 p.m., followed by twin varsity softball and baseball games at 6 p.m.
Pinery Park is located at 2301 De Hoop Ave, Wyoming.
Cope Rebelde soccer tournament at Lee
The Lee Rebel “Copa Rebelde Soccer Invite” will be held Saturday, May 11, at the Lee Athletic Fields.
The girls soccer tournament is a three-match event starting with West Michigan Aeronautics Academy vs. Lee at 9:30 a.m.; Wyoming Potter’s House vs. WMAA at 11 a.m. (or 15 minutes after end of game 1); Lee vs Potter’s House at 12:30 p.m. (or 15 minutes after end of game #2). Each game will be 60 minutes in length, with 30 minute halves, 10 minute halftimes, and 15 minutes between games.
There will be no overtime so tie games decided by penalty shoot-outs —which are always exciting — and the champion will be determined by record then point differential.
And while the event should feature some great tournament soccer action, it will also be a Latino community celebration of sorts.
“We are lucky to have a team and community that can embrace their cultural heritage as much as they do,” the Lee soccer coach said to WKTV last year. “Copa is ultimately just a word but that word represents more than a tournament cup. It represents our small community’s strong ties with Latin America.”
The Lee Athletic Fields are located at 1824 Godfrey Ave. SW, Wyoming.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
WKTV’s spring baseball and softball schedule is in high gear; now Mother Nature just has to cooperate. Our coverage crew will be on the road twice this week starting with Wednesday, May 8, as Godwin Heights plays at Wyoming Lee in a conference baseball game.
But there is high school sports action all over the Wyoming and Kentwood area, so check out something live if you can.
The tentative schedule of WKTV featured game’s remaining this month are as follows:
Wednesday, May 8, boys baseball, Godwin Heights at Wyoming Lee Thursday, May 9, boys baseball, West Michigan Aviation vs Tri-Unity Christian at Pinery Park #3 Tuesday, May 14, boys baseball, Grandville at East Kentwood Wednesday, May 15, girls softball, Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville Wednesday, May 22, boys baseball, South Christian at Wyoming Friday, May 24, boys baseball, Zion Christian at Kelloggsville
Want to be a television sports announcer?
If anyone has ever thought about trying to announce a sporting event, WKTV has a great chance for you to do exactly that! The tentative schedule for May follows and we are always looking for additional announcers, especially for the spring games. If you would like to try it or have any questions, please email Mike at sportswktv@gmail.com .
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s schedule:
Monday, May 6 Boys Golf South Christian @ East Grand Rapids – Kent Country Club East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep – The Mines Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids – Kent Country Club Girls Softball Unity Christian @ South Christian – DH Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights – DH Hopkins @ Kelloggsville – DH Wyoming @ Covenant Christian – DH Boys Baseball Unity Christian @ South Christian – DH Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Hopkins @ Kelloggsville Grattan Academic @ Zion Christian – DH Boys Lacrosse South Christian @ Jenison Girls Soccer South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Grand Haven @ East Kentwood Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian Wyoming @ FH Eastern Zion Christian @ Wellsprings Prep Boys / Girls Track Rockford @ East Kentwood Girls Tennis West Ottawa @ East Kentwood Kelloggsville @ Catholic Central Middleville T-K @ Wyoming
Tuesday, May 7 Girls Tennis Grant @ South Christian East Kentwood @ Grandville Holland @ Wyoming Boys Lacrosse East Kentwood @ Lowell Girls Soccer Tri-Unity Christian vs West Michigan Aviation – @ East Kentwood Freshman Campus Potter’s House @ Zion Christian Boys Baseball Zion Christian vs Tri-Unity Christian – DH @ Zion Christian Wyoming @ Christian – DH West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House – DH Boys Golf Zeeland West @ Wyoming – Gleneagle Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ Wayland West Michigan Aviation – Alliance League Invitational Girls Softball Wyoming @ Christian – DH
Wednesday, May 8 Boys Golf Wyoming @ South Christian – Railside Golf Course Tri-Unity Christian @ Grand River Prep Boys / Girls Track South Christian @ Wayland Boys Baseball South Christian @ Catholic Central Loy Norrix @ East Kentwood – DH Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee – WKTV Featured Event Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Girls Soccer East Grand Rapids @ South Christian Caledonia @ East Kentwood Godwin Heights @ Belding Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian Wyoming Lee @ Hope Academy of WM Wyoming @ Wayland Girls Softball Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Wyoming @ West Catholic Girls Tennis Kelloggsville @ Coopersville
Thursday, May 9 Girls Tennis South Christian @ NorthPointe Christian Sparta @ Kelloggsville Wyoming @ Lowell Girls Softball Zeeland West @ South Christian – DH East Kentwood @ Rockford – DH Boys Lacrosse Lowell @ South Christian Jenison @ East Kentwood Boys Baseball West Michigan Aviation vs Tri-Unity Christian – @ Pinery Park #3 – DH – WKTV Featured Event Christian @ Wyoming Potter’s House @ Muskegon Western Michigan Christian – DH Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ FH Eastern West Michigan Aviation @ Ravenna Girls Soccer Wellsprings Prep @ Grand River Prep
Friday, May 10 Boys / Girls Track South Christian – OK Gold Conference Meet @ Houseman Field Wyoming – OK Gold Conference Meet @ Houseman Field @ East Kentwood – OK Red Conference Meet Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet Wyoming Lee @ Belding Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ TBA – Districts Girls Softball East Kentwood @ Catholic Central – DH Godwin Heights vs Western Michigan Christian – @ Muskegon Catholic Central – DH Grandville @ Wyoming Girls Soccer Rockford @ East Kentwood NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights Kelloggsville @ Grand River Prep Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian West Michigan Aviation @ West Catholic Boys Golf Kelloggsville – OK Silver Jamboree @ Broadmoor Country Club Boys Baseball Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian Grandville @ Wyoming
Saturday, May 11 Girls Tennis Wyoming @ South Christian – OK Gold Conference Meet @ East Kentwood – OK Red Conference Meet Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet Boys Baseball South Christian @ Zeeland East – Zeeland East Invite East Kentwood @ Grand Ledge – DH Kelloggsville – @ Kellogg Woods – Liz Jensen Memorial Tournament Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee – Rebel Invite West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian – DH Girls Softball South Christian @ Hudsonville – Milan Invite Kelloggsville – @ Kellogg Woods – Liz Jensen Memorial Tournament Catholic Central @ Wyoming Lee – Rebel Invite Girls Soccer South Christian @ Catholic Central Hopkins @ Kelloggsville Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee – Copa Rebelde West Michigan Aviation @ Wyoming Lee – Copa Rebelde Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ TBA – Districts Boys / Girls Track Godwin Heights – @ Lamar Park – Team 21 Fun Run Boys Golf Kelloggsville @ Hamilton – Diamond Springs
Monday, May 13 Boys Golf Holland Christian @ South Christian – Railside Golf Course Caledonia @ East Kentwood – Stonewater Golf Course Hopkins @ Wyoming – Gleneagle Girls Tennis North Muskegon @ South Christian Girls Softball FH Central @ South Christian – DH Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights – DH Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins – DH Girls Soccer South Christian @ Middleville T-K Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Hopkins @ Kelloggsville Hudsonville Hornets @ Tri-Unity Christian Boys Lacrosse South Christian @ Byron Center Boys Baseball Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Calvary – DH Covenant Christian @ Wyoming Holland Black River @ Zion Christian
Tuesday, May 14 Girls Softball South Christian @ FH Eastern – DH Grandville @ East Kentwood – DH Wyoming Lee @ East Grand Rapids Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – DH Boys Baseball South Christian @ FH Eastern – DH Grandville @ East Kentwood – DH Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – DH Potter’s House @ Kalamazoo Heritage Christian Girls Soccer FH Central @ South Christian Kenowa Hills @ East Kentwood Kelloggsville @ Wyoming West Michigan Aviation @ Grand River Prep Boys Lacrosse East Kentwood @ Jenison Girls Tennis Kelloggsville @ Muskegon Catholic Central Boys Golf Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@wktv.org
May is the last full month of high school sports schedules as the spring seasons along with the academic year are quickly ending.
Many high school graduations will be this month and we wish all students the very best as they take that next step in life, and for the student athletes that we have had the opportunity to cover and watch over the course of your high school careers, thank you.
There are many state tournaments beginning near the end of the month including state championships in girls tennis on the final day.
Take advantage of these last opportunities to watch in person, but then also catch the games that WKTV will be rebroadcasting on cable television as well as on-demand. The tentative schedule of WKTV featured game are as follows:
Wednesday, May 8, boys baseball, Godwin Heights at Wyoming Lee Thursday, May 9, boys baseball, West Michigan Aviation vs Tri-Unity Christian at Pinery Park #3 Tuesday, May 14, boys baseball, Grandville at East Kentwood Wednesday, May 15, girls softball, Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville Wednesday, May 22, boys baseball, South Christian at Wyoming Friday, May 24, boys baseball, Zion Christian at Kelloggsville
Want to be a television sports announcer?
If anyone has ever thought about trying to announce a sporting event, WKTV has a great chance for you to do exactly that! The tentative schedule for May follows and we are always looking for additional announcers, especially for the spring games. If you would like to try it or have any questions, please email Mike at sportswktv@gmail.com.
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s schedule:
Thursday, May 2 Boys / Girls Track South Christian vs FH Eastern @ West Catholic Girls Tennis South Christian @ Holland Christian West Catholic @ Kelloggsville Sparta @ Wyoming Girls Softball South Christian @ Zeeland East – DH East Kentwood @ Grandville East Grand Rapids @ Godwin Heights – DH Wyoming @ Kelloggsville Union @ Wyoming Lee – DH Boys Baseball South Christian @ Middleville T-K Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Tri-Unity Christian @ Barry County Christian West Michigan Aviation @ Covenant Christian – DH Boys Lacrosse Kenowa Hills @ South Christian East Kentwood @ Northview Boys Golf East Kentwood @ FH Central – Ranger Invite – The Meadows Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills – Graewil Girls Soccer East Kentwood @ Grandville Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep West Michigan Aviation @ Holland Black River
Friday, May 3 Boys / Girls Track East Kentwood @ Traverse City – Ken Bell Meet Godwin Heights @ Kalamazoo Central Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Rockford Girls Softball West Ottawa @ East Kentwood Boys Lacrosse Comstock Park @ East Kentwood Girls Tennis Kelloggsville @ Cedar Springs Girls Soccer Belding @ Wyoming Lee Wayland @ Wyoming West Michigan Aviation @ Fruitport Calvary
Saturday, May 4 Boys / Girls Track South Christian @ East Grand Rapids – EGR Classic Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids – EGR Classic Kelloggsville @ Hopkins – Vikings Invitational Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins – Vikings Invitational West Michigan Aviation @ Hopkins – Vikings Invitational Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Rockford Girls Softball East Kentwood @ Northview – Northview Invite Kelloggsville @ East Grand Rapids Girls Tennis East Kentwood @ Jenison Boys Baseball Kelloggsvillle @ Wayland Grand Rapids Crusaders @ Wyoming Lee – DH Wyoming @ Union – DH Heritage Christian Academy @ Zion Christian Girls Soccer Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park – Kristen Stowie Memorial Invite Tri-Unity Christian @ Comstock Park – Kristen Sowie Memorial Invite Zion Christian @ Barry County Christian Boys Golf Tri-Unity Christian – Christian Schools Invitational @ Chase Hammond Country Club
Monday, May 6 Boys Golf South Christian @ East Grand Rapids – Kent Country Club East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep – The Mines Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids – Kent Country Club Girls Softball Unity Christian @ South Christian – DH Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights – DH Hopkins @ Kelloggsville – DH Wyoming @ Covenant Christian – DH Boys Baseball Unity Christian @ South Christian – DH Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Hopkins @ Kelloggsville Grattan Academic @ Zion Christian – DH Boys Lacrosse South Christian @ Jenison Girls Soccer South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Grand Haven @ East Kentwood Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian Wyoming @ FH Eastern Zion Christian @ Wellsprings Prep Boys / Girls Track Rockford @ East Kentwood Girls Tennis West Ottawa @ East Kentwood Kelloggsville @ Catholic Central Middleville T-K @ Wyoming
City of Kentwood Veterans Park, at 331 48th St. SE, will be the location of improvements this year. (WKTV)
By City of Kentwood
Exciting changes are coming to Kentwood parks this fall with several construction projects now underway.
Major improvements will bring a new splash pad and playground to Veterans Memorial Park, a covered entry to the Kentwood Activities Center and a new multi-use facility at Old Farm Park.
“As construction gets underway, we ask the community to please pardon our dust and anticipate that some park amenities will be unavailable this summer,” said Val Romeo, Parks and Recreation director. “We are looking forward to opening the new and improved facilities in the fall and appreciate your patience as we make our facilities more accessible, functional and fun.”
The City received a grant to grow community engagement at Veterans Memorial Park, located at 335 48th St. Pending Kent County approval, construction is tentatively set to begin in June and is slated for completion in November. Proposed improvements include a new splash pad with a hexagonal shelter and a new restroom/changing area that will include room for programming, storage and concessions. An additional large shelter, decorative lighting, picnic tables, trash receptacles and bike racks will also be provided.
During construction, the north end of the park, which includes the north playground and swings, north soccer field, tennis, futsal and basketball courts will all remain available for use, as well as the walking path along the creek, the Kentwood Activities Center and the majority of the parking lot. The shelter, splash pad, south playground, sand volleyball courts and south soccer field will be unavailable during construction.
Improvements to the Kentwood Activities Center, also located at 355 48th St., will include a new entrance portico, digital entrance sign and new windows on the front of the existing building.
“Many seniors visit the Kentwood Activities Center to participate in our programs,” Romeo said. “The addition of an entrance portico is an accessibility improvement with that population in mind. By protecting the entrance from rain and snow, patrons will be able to come and go without the worry of navigating slippery pavement.”
The new digital entrance sign will improve public awareness of events and allow the staff to change messages quickly. Replacing the original windows on the building will improve energy efficiency leading to positive environmental impacts.
Construction began the week of April 8 and is slated for completion in late June. The Kentwood Activities Center will remain open throughout the project. On May 3, the Parks and Recreation Department’s power will be turned off for electrical work, which will interrupt phone service. During the week of May 6, the front entry will be closed, but alternate entrances will be made available to the public.
Construction of the new multi-use building at Old Farm Park, located at 2350 Embro Drive SE, is set to begin May 2 and be completed in September. The building will have four family-style restrooms, along with room for programming and storage space. Other improvements include an enhanced central gathering space, new water main to serve the building, infrastructure for a potential future splash pad, trail replacement, landscaping and installation of irrigation.
During construction at Old Farm Park, the disc golf course, all four pickleball courts, basketball courts and small play structure will be available, as well as the walking path through the field around the park. However, the walking path along the parking lot, and the swings will be unavailable during the project.
“While some park amenities will be unavailable throughout this summer during construction, this is a great opportunity for the community to explore some of Kentwood’s other parks and trails,” Romeo said. “We have lots to offer at our community-wide system of parks and trails.”
Other Kentwood parks and trails include:
Bowen Station Park – 4499 Bowen Blvd. SE Burgis Park – 4554 Burgis Ave. East Paris Nature Park – East Paris Ave. East West Trail – 4998 Kalamazoo Ave. SE Home Acres Park – 145 Farnham St. Jaycee Park – 1088 Gentian Drive SE Kellogg Woods Park – 275 Kellogg Woods Park Drive SE Northeast Park – 1900 Middleground Drive SE Paris Park – 3213 60th St. SE Paul Henry Trail – Runs through 44th Street SE and Kalamazoo Avenue south to 60th Street and Wing Avenue Pinewood Park – 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE Rondo Street Station Park – 1950 Gerda Ave. SE Stanaback Park – 3717 Whitebud Drive Stauffer Station Park – 2360 52nd St. SE Summerwood Park – 4689 Summer Creek Lane SE Wing Station – 5931 Wing Ave. SE
More information about Kentwood’s 14 parks and 6.5 miles of trails is available online at kentwood.us/parks.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
April is winding down but local high school spring sports seasons are just getting started, and WKTV will once again bring baseball and softball to the viewers with the scheduled game this week being the Wednesday, April 24, girls softball game at Wyoming Lee, with Belding coming to town.
WKTV’s coverage crew will be taking a week for other community event coverage next week, with planned return on Wednesday, May 8, as Godwin Heights plays at Wyoming Lee in a conference baseball game.
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s schedule:
Monday, April 22 Boys Golf South Christian vs Middleville T-K – @ Yankee Springs Wyoming vs Middleville T-K – @ Yankee Springs Kelloggsville vs NorthPointe Christian – @ Egypt Valley East Kentwood @ Rockford Girls Tennis Middleville T-K @ South Christian Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park East Kentwood @ Caledonia Girls Softball South Christian @ Holland Christian Wyoming @ Hamilton – DH Wyoming Lee @ Belding – DH Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville – DH Girls Soccer South Christian @ East Kentwood Christian @ Wyoming Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee Kelloggsville @ Belding Heritage Christian Academy @ Zion Christian South Haven @ West Michigan Aviation Boys Baseball Wyoming Lee @ Belding Calvin Christian @Kelloggsville West Michigan Aviation @ Martin – DH Holland Black River @ Potter’s House – DH Boys / Girls Track East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
Tuesday, April 23 Boys Baseball South Christian @ East Grand Rapids – DH Wayland @ Wyoming – DH West Michigan Aviation @ Godwin Heights – DH Barry County Christian vs Tri-Unity Christian – @ Fifth Third Park Zion Christian @ Fennville Caledonia @ East Kentwood – DH Girls Softball South Christian @ East Grand Rapids – DH Wayland @ Wyoming – DH Hamilton @ Godwin Heights – DH Caledonia @ East Kentwood – DH Boys Lacrosse Northview @ South Christian East Kentwood @ Comstock Park Girls Tennis Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills Boys / Girls Track Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Belding Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian Girls Soccer West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian Grand River Prep @ Lakewood Lake Odessa West Ottawa @ East Kentwood Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Portage Central
Wednesday, April 24 Boys Golf South Christian vs Wayland – @ Orchard Hills Wyoming vs Wayland — @ Orchard Hills Kelloggsville vs NorthPointe Christian — @ Pigeon Creek East Kentwood @ West Ottawa Girls Track South Christian @ Christian Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Girls Soccer South Christian @ Forest Hills Eastern Middleville T-K @ Wyoming Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Girls Tennis Wyoming @ Christian NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville Grand Haven @ East Kentwood Boys Baseball Belding @ Wyoming Lee Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian Girls Softball Belding @ Wyoming Lee Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian East Kentwood @ Jenison
Thursday, April 25 Girls Softball South Christian @ Wayland – DH Wyoming @ West Ottawa Godwin Heights @ Union Kelloggsville @ East Grand Rapids – DH Boys Baseball East Grand Rapids @ South Christian Wyoming @ Wayland Tri-Unity Christian @ Potter’s House – DH East Kentwood @ Caledonia Boys Lacrosse Muskegon Mona Shores @ South Christian Kenowa Hills @ East Kentwood Girls Soccer Wyoming @ Sparta Potter’s House @ Tri-Unity Christian Fruitport Calvary vs West Michigan Aviation – @ East Kentwood East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Boys / Girls Track Wyoming Lee @ Belding Hopkins @ Godwin Heights Boys Golf Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian Girls Water Polo East Grand Rapids @ East Kentwood
Friday, April 26 Boys Golf South Christian vs Traverse City – @ Mountain Ridge Girls Soccer South Christian @ Holland Christian Tri-Unity Christian @ Hope Academy of West Michigan Belding @ Kelloggsville Ravenna @ Zion Christian Girls Tennis Wyoming @ East Kentwood Western Michigan Christian @ Kelloggsville Boys Baseball Wyoming @ Hopkins Potter’s House @ Godwin Heights Holland @ Kelloggsville – DH Holland Black River @ Zion Christian – DH Girls Softball Wyoming @ Hopkins Rockford@ East Kentwood Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Boys / Girls Track East Kentwood @ Jackson
Saturday, April 27 Girls Softball South Christian @ Otsego – Otsego Invite Wyoming @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer Godwin Heights @ Otsego Boys Golf South Christian vs Traverse City – @ Mountain Ridge Boys Baseball South Christian @ Hudsonville – Hudsonville Invite East Kentwood @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer – DH Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ Lowell Godwin Heights @ West Catholic – Bob Misner Invitational Kelloggsville @ West Catholic – Bob Misner Invitational West Michigan Aviation @ West Catholic – Bob Misner Invitational Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Girls Tennis East Kentwood @ Holland
Monday, April 29 Girls Tennis South Christian @ FH Eastern Middleville T-K @ Wyoming Sparta @ Kelloggsville East Kentwood @ Grandville Boys Baseball Holland Christian @ South Christian NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian Zion Christian @ Muskegon Catholic Central Holland Black River @ West Michigan Aviation Girls Soccer Wyoming @ South Christian NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian Zion Christian @ Hope Academy of West Michigan Boys Golf Zeeland West vs Wyoming – @ Gleneagle Girls Softball NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee – DH Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian Catholic Central @ Kelloggsville – DH Boys / Girls Track Rockford @ East Kentwood
Tuesday, April 30 Boys Baseball Middleville T-K @ South Christian – DH Wyoming @ Calvin Christian – DH Kalamazoo Heritage @ Tri-Unity Christian – DH Zion Christian @ Potter’s House – DH West Michigan Aviation @ Holland Calvary – DH East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – DH Girls Softball Middleville T-K @ South Christian – DH Wyoming @ Calvin Christian East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – DH Boys Lacrosse South Christian @ Comstock Park Muskegon Mona Shores @ East Kentwood Boys Golf Coopersville vs Wyoming – @ Gleneagle Tri-Unity Christian vs Fruitport Calvary – @ Oakridge Boys / Girls Track NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Girls Soccer Kalamazoo Heritage Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian Grand River Prep @ Zion Christian Union vs West Michigan Aviation – @ East Kentwood East Kentwood @ Rockford Girls Water Polo Rockford @ East Kentwood
