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
Foot golf is one of the new sports at the Meijer State Games. (Supplied/CKGolf)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The Meijer State Games of Michigan 2019 Summer Games will include sport competition at various dates and locations this summer but is focused on the weekend of June 20-23 and the 2019 Opening Ceremony at Fifth Third Ballpark. Registration for most sports has opened.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan is an Olympic-style, multi-sport event that welcomes athletes regardless of age or ability level. According to supplied information, “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 contributed over $25 million in estimated economic impact to cities throughout Michigan.
Registration rates vary between sports and can be found on each sports’ page. For more information about registration, please visit the following link .
Registered athletes for all sports will receive free admission to the Opening Ceremony and have the opportunity to walk in the athlete parade. Some sports may charge an entry fee for spectators.
Hockey tryouts are first up
Tryouts for the 2019 hockey tournament will take place in May and the tournament will take place June 20-23. This tournament will have six divisions: high school boys, high school girls, 14U boys, 14U girls, 12U, and 10U.
The fee for tryouts is $40. An additional fee of $160 will be charged to players who make the teams. This fee includes a team jersey, socks, a gift for the player and three games minimum, and admission to the Opening Ceremony.
“It’s cool – it’s an Olympic-style event, which is great,” David Moss, honorary chairman of the State Games hockey tournament, said in supplied material. “They do a lot of cool things for the kids, and the hockey side, we’re doing some neat things this year with ACHA coaches being involved and giving the kids the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of good coaches.”
For more information on this year’s hockey tournament details and registration, visit the following link .
45 sports in all will be offered
There will an estimated 8,000 plus athletes participating in more than 45 sporting events in this year’s Summer Games. The sports offered for the 2019 Summer Games include: a 5k fun, archery (3D and FITA), archery tag, badminton, baseball, basketball, BMX (freestyle and Olympic), bocce ball, bowling, boxing, cricket, cycling, disc golf, field hockey, figure skating, foot golf, golf, hockey, judo, lacrosse (girls), mountain bike, ninja warrior competition, paintball, pickleball, pinball, rowing, rugby, shooting sports, skateboarding, softball, soccer, swimming, tae-kwon-do, tennis, track & field, volleyball, waterskiing, weightlifting, and wrestling.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan is a nonprofit organization that relies heavily on the help of willing volunteers and trusted partnerships. There are also volunteer opportunities available for the Summer Games. For more information on volunteering, visit the following link .
For more information on sponsoring the Meijer State Games of Michigan, visit the following link .
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 has a full month of schedules for the local high school sports but needs Mother Nature to cooperate with so many being outdoors. This includes not just baseball and softball, but also golf, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and both boys and girls track. The indoor seasons are still happening though with water polo in progress as well.
WKTV will once again bring baseball and softball to the viewers with the tentative game this week being the Thursday, April 18, girls softball game of Byron Center at South Christian.
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 15 Boys Golf South Christian vs FH Northern – Forest Hills Invite @ Egypt Valley Tri-Unity Christian vs Muskegon Catholic Central @ Muskegon Country Club Girls Tennis Christian @ South Christian Wyoming @ FH Eastern Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian East Kentwood @ Rockford Boys Lacrosse Comstock Park @ South Christian East Kentwood @ Jenison Girls Soccer South Christian @ East Grand Rapids Wayland @ Wyoming Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville Comstock Park @ Tri-Unity Christian WMAES @ Zion Christian Boys Baseball Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Girls Softball Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee – DH Godwin Heights @ Hopkins — DH Boys / Girls Track Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Tuesday, April 16 Boys Baseball Christian @ South Christian – DH Wyoming @ FH Eastern – DH Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian Holland Calvary @ Zion Christian – DH West Michigan Aviation @ Heritage Christian – DH Grand Haven @ East Kentwood – DH Girls Softball Christian @ South Christian – DH Wyoming @ FH Eastern – DH Grand Haven @ East Kentwood – DH Boys Lacrosse South Christian @ Lowell Girls Soccer Wyoming @ Hudsonville Hornets Calhoun Christian @ Zion Christian Heritage Christian @ West Michigan Aviation Potter’s House @ Fruitport Calvary Christian East Kentwood @ Caledonia Boys / Girls Track West Michigan Aviation @ Wyoming Lee – Small School Meet Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights Girls Tennis East Kentwood @ FH Northern Boys Golf East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Girls Water Polo Jenison @ East Kentwood
Wednesday, April 17 Boys Golf South Christian vs Christian – @ Quail Ridge Wyoming vs Christian – @ Quail Ridge Kelloggsville vs Tri-Unity Christian – @ Maple Hill Girls Tennis South Christian @ East Grand Rapids Wyoming @ Wayland West Catholic @ Kelloggsville Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Girls Track South Christian @ Middleville T-K Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ FH Eastern East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Girls Soccer Middleville T-K @ South Christian Hope Academy of WM @ Wyoming Lee Belding @ Godwin Heights NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville Girls Softball Allendale @ Wyoming – DH Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville Hopkins @ Godwin Heights Boys Baseball Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
Thursday, April 18 Boys Golf Unity Christian vs South Christian – @ Railside Wyoming vs Holland – @ Clearbrook East Kentwood @ Caledonia Boys Baseball South Christian @ Christian FH Eastern vs Wyoming – @ Lamar Park Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights Algoma Christian @ Zion Christian – DH East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Girls Softball Byron Center @ South Christian – DH Wyoming @ Hudsonville – DH West Ottawa @ East Kentwood Boys Lacrosse East Kentwood @ South Christian Girls Soccer East Kentwood @ Wyoming Tri-Unity Christian @ Grand River Prep Holland Black River @ Zion Christian Boys / Girls Track Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ FH Central
Friday, April 19 Boys Golf Lowell vs Wyoming – @ Gleneagle Kelloggsville vs Hopkins – @ Orchard Hills Girls Soccer Wyoming @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Potter’s House Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation Boys Baseball Hastings @ Kelloggsville Girls Water Polo @ East Kentwood – EK Invite
Saturday, April 20 Girls Tennis South Christian @ Ann Arbor Greenhills @ Kelloggsville – Rocket Tournament East Kentwood @ Holt Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ Wyoming Lee – Solis Invitational Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee – Solis Invitational West Michigan Aviation @Wyoming Lee – Solis Invitational Godwin Heights @ Ottawa Hills – GR Elite Challenge at Houseman Field Boys Golf Tri-Unity Christian vs Kent City – Eagles Invitational @ The Falls at Barber Creek Kelloggsville vs Kent City – Eagle Invite Girls Water Polo @ East Kentwood – EK Invite Boys Baseball East Kentwood @ Kenowa Hills Girls Softball East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores – DH Boys Lacrosse East Kentwood @ East Lansing
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
South Christian High School won a district championship this past season in no small part but to senior guard Sydney Cleary. (WKTV)
By Drew Dargavell, WKTV Sports Intern ken@wktv.org
After dedicating three seasons to the South Christian High School Lady Sailors varsity basketball team, senior guard Sydney Cleary was recently recognized as an AP All-State honorable mention athlete.
Cleary has helped lead her team to back-to-back district titles by being a steady ball handler and floor leader, while also being a playmaker that’s not afraid to take the shots. Cleary led the team in assists all three years she was on varsity, averaging five per-game her junior year, and setting the school record with 13 in one game.
“I like to pass the ball a lot and get my teammates the opportunity to score as much as I can” Cleary told WKTV after their 2019 district title win. “But I also work on my own game when I need to and when my team needs it from me.”
This is not the first time Cleary has been recognized for her on-court skills, as she was named one of the top 100 girls basketball players in Michigan by the Detroit Free Press. Cleary was also named to the second team Advance All-Area her junior year, and has earned All-Conference honors.
“Sydney is a good decision-maker and smart player,” South Christian head coach Kim Legge previously said about her star point guard. “Sydney is a true point guard, she is a solid ball-handler and sees the court extremely well.”
Two other local girls earned AP All-State honors, both from East Kentwood.
Senior guard Alona Blackwell made the Division 1, Second Team All-State. Blackwell is a strong perimeter shooter, who was a four-year starter with the Falcons. As a freshman she was named the Freshman Player of the Year in Grand Rapids. Blackwell led the team in assists back-to-back seasons and finished her junior and senior seasons as the Falcons’ leading scorer. She averaged 16.9 points and six assists per game her junior year, which earned her All-State Honorable Mention. During the summer of 2018, Blackwell was named Grand Rapids All-City Female Basketball Player of the Year. She will be continuing her basketball career at Oakland University next year, after receiving offers from Penn State, Minnesota, Akron, Marquette and Eastern Michigan.
The other player from East Kentwood is Mauriya Barnes, who was named to the Division 1 All-State honorable mentions. Her sophomore year she helped East Kentwood make a run to the Breslin Center, where they fell just short in the championship game to Flushing High School. During her junior year, she helped lead her team to their first undefeated regular season. Barnes averaged 11 points, 4 assists, and 4 steals per game as a junior. She has committed to play basketball at South Carolina State next year.
Six local players honored on boys AP teams
There are six boys from local teams to earn AP All-State honors, coming from East Kentwood, Wyoming High, Godwin Heights, South Christian, Potters house, and Tri-unity Christian.
The lone player to make First Team All-State from their respective division is Bennett Sinner of Division 4 Tri-unity Christian. Sinner is a 6-foot-1 guard, who averaged 13 points and 6.5 rebounds a game for the Defenders. Sinner led the charge for the Defenders, who made a run to the state semifinals this season.
In Division 1, East Kentwood’s Ja’Moni Jones was named to the Second Team All-State. Jones is a 6-foot-1 junior point guard who was ranked as the number 36 high school player in the state of Michigan by the Detroit Free press. Jones is ranked as the fifth best high school basketball prospect in Michigan, in the 2020 class by PrepHoops.
The other four players remaining earned All-State honorable mentions.
Menalito McGee out of Wyoming High School earned an honorable mention in Division 1. McGee is a 5-foot-7 junior point guard, who set a school record for single-game points, scoring 37 against Northview. McGee also holds the school record for most three-pointer’s made in a single game, with seven on Nov 30, 2018 against Grandville, surpassing his previous record of six. McGee is also second in single-season three’s made with 67 in the 2017-2018 season.
Two honorable mentions come out of Division 2. Those players are Jamaal Bailey of Godwin Heights, and Luke Schrotenboer of South Christian.
Bailey landed First Team All-Conference honors this season, after helping lead Godwin Heights to an OK-Silver conference championship, going 12-0 in conference play.
Schrotenboer is a 6-foot-4 small forward and senior leader for South Christian, helping lead them to a second straight district title, and this year, a regional title. Schrotenboer has received an offer to play basketball at Cornerstone University.
The final honorable mention is Ben Clark from Division 3’s Potter’s House. Clark was the Puma’s senior captain, who averaged 12 points per-game his junior year and was First Team All-Conference two year in a row. Clark led the team to a 19-2 record this season and an appearance in the District 75 championship game.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
By Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@wktv.org
April has a full month of schedules for the local high school sports but needs Mother Nature to cooperate with so many being outdoors. This includes not just baseball and softball, but also golf, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and both boys and girls track. The indoor seasons are still happening though with water polo in progress as well.
WKTV will once again bring water polo, baseball, and softball to the viewers with a trio of programs over the course of the month.
The tentative schedule is:
Thursday, April 11, girls water polo, West Ottawa at East Kentwood Thursday, April 18, girls softball, Byron Center at South Christian Wednesday, April 24, girls softball, Belding at Wyoming Lee
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:
Tuesday, Nov. 27 Boys Basketball South Christian @ East Kentwood Wyoming Lee @ Saugatuck Creative Tech @ West Michigan Aviation
Monday, April 8 Girls Softball Belding @ Godwin Heights – DH NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian Boys Baseball Belding @ Godwin Heights NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville Girls Soccer West Michigan Aviation @ NorthPointe Christian
Tuesday, April 9 Girls Tennis East Kentwood @ South Christian — Cookie Invite Wyoming @ Jenison Boys Baseball South Christian @ Wayland – DH Wyoming Lee @ Barry County Christian – DH Grand Rapids Crusaders @ Tri-Unity Christian Potter’s House @ Zion Christian East Kentwood @ Rockford – DH Boys Lacrosse South Christian @ Kenowa Hills Girls Soccer South Christian @ Wayland Covenant Christian @ Godwin Heights Tri-unity Christian @ Kelloggsville Zion Christian @ Potter’s House Ottawa Hills @ West Michigan Aviation Grandville @ East Kentwood Boys/ Girls Track Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Boys Golf Kelloggsville vs Calvin Christian @ Pines East Kentwood @ Grandville Girls Softball East Kentwood @ Cedar Springs — DH Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Zeeland West
Wednesday, April 10 Boys Golf South Christian – Kent County Classic @ Kent Country Club Wellsprings Prep vs Tri-Unity Christian @ Maple Hill East Kentwood – Kent County Classic @ Thornapple Pointe Girls Track South Christian @ East Grand Rapids Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ Christian Caledonia @ East Kentwood Girls Tennis Wayland @ South Christian East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming Boys Baseball East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming – DH Godwin Heights @ Belding Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian Girls Soccer East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming Wyoming Lee @ Belding Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian Girls Softball Godwin Heights @ Belding Kelloggsville @ NorhtPointe Christian Unity Christian @ East Kentwood Boys Lacrosse Northview @ East Kentwood
Thursday, April 11 Boys Baseball Wayland @ South Christian Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Zion Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian – DH West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House @ Pinery Park – DH Rockford @ East Kentwood Boys Lacrosse Jenison @ South Christian Lowell @ East Kentwood Girls Soccer Christian @ South Christian FH Eastern @ Wyoming Tri-unity Christian @ Hudsonville Hornets Zion Christian @ Fruitport Calvary Christian West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Girls Softball East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming – DH Godwin Heights @ Plainwell – DH Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Boys / Girls Track Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee West Michigan Aviation @ Godwin Heights Kelloggsville @ Belding Girls Tennis @ East Kentwood Girls Water Polo West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
Friday, April 12 Girls Softball Wyoming @ Byron Center Boys Baseball Wyoming Lee @ Zion Christian – DH Barry County Christian @ Potter’s House — DH Girls Soccer Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins Union @ Godwin Heights Saugatuck @ Kelloggsville Girls Tennis Kelloggsville @ Holland Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Saline
Saturday, April 13 Girls Tennis South Christian @ East Kentwood – EK Invite Kelloggsville @ Wyoming – Wyoming Invitational @ East Kentwood – EK Invitational Boys Golf South Christian vs Christian – GRCHS Invite @ Quail Ridge Kelloggsville vs Kenowa Hills – Wilson Classic East Kentwood @ Rockford Girls Track South Christian @ Unity Christian – Houseward Invite Boys / Girls Track Wyoming @ Comstock Park West Michigan Aviation @ Lakewood East Kentwood @ Mansfield – Mehock Relays Boys Baseball South Christian @ East Kentwood – Bosma Invite Godwin Heights @ Wyoming – Wyoming Invite Kelloggsville @ Wyoming – Wyoming Invite Union @ Wyoming Lee — DH Girls Softball South Christian @ East Kentwood – Bosma Invite Girls Soccer South Christian @ Caledonia Zion Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian Girls Water Polo East Kentwood @ Saline
Monday, April 15 Boys Golf South Christian vs FH Northern – Forest Hills Invite @ Egypt Valley Tri-Unity Christian vs Muskegon Catholic Central @ Muskegon Country Club Girls Tennis Christian @ South Christian Wyoming @ FH Eastern Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian East Kentwood @ Rockford Boys Lacrosse Comstock Park @ South Christian East Kentwood @ Jenison Girls Soccer South Christian @ East Grand Rapids Wayland @ Wyoming Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville Comstock Park @ Tri-Unity Christian WMAES @ Zion Christian Boys Baseball Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Girls Softball Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee – DH Godwin Heights @ Hopkins — DH Boys / Girls Track Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
In conjunction with Limb Loss Awareness Month, the City of Kentwood is again partnering with Hanger Clinic — a local prosthetic and orthotic patient care provider — to offer the second annual Limb Loss Awareness 5K race on Saturday, April 27.
Open to people of all abilities, the family friendly event will continue to raise funds for Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs, which exist to provide people of all abilities a chance to recreate in a positive and safe environment.
The race route will include sections of the East-West and Paul Henry-Thornapple Trails. Packet pick-up is at 9 a.m. followed by the start of the clock-timed race at 10 a.m.
Jessica Curtis, whose right leg was amputated below the knee five years ago, will share her story before the race kicks off. Curtis was born with one leg shorter than the other and went through numerous leg-lengthening procedures before electing to have her leg amputated. Now fitted with a custom-designed prosthetic leg, Jessica is able to be more active and will be walking the 5K with her family. As a certified peer visitor through Hanger Clinic’s nationwide AMPOWER program, Curtis is a supportive listening ear and confidant for others who are on an amputation journey.
“We are honored Jessica will share her story with the community at the Limb Loss Awareness 5K, and hope it inspires others to do the same,” said Katelyn Bush, Kentwood recreation program coordinator. “The addition of a speaker is one of several new features planned this year to really set the tone for the event as inclusive, educational and fun for everyone involved.”
This year’s event will include a one-mile fun run just for kids beginning and ending at Bowen Station Park, 4499 Bowen Boulevard SE. Kids who participate will receive a t-shirt and ribbon. Top finishers will be awarded medals. The kids’ race will start at 11 a.m. and costs $5 per child. Also new this year will be a bounce house, face painting, games and food trucks.
At 9:45 a.m., individuals who have experienced limb loss will be encouraged to participate in taking photos for #ShowYourMettle, a social media campaign organized by the Amputee Coalition that will take place the same day of the race. The Amputee Coalition’s “Show Your Mettle Day” emboldens amputees to proudly wear and show their prosthetic and/or assistive devices.
Hanger Clinic Community Care Coordinator Nikki Stoner says the event is a great way for individuals who have experienced limb loss to connect with others in the amputee community.
As an amputee herself, Stoner knows just how important it is to have a strong support network when experiencing limb loss. Since having her leg amputated after experiencing a gunshot wound on the opening day of deer hunting season almost 25 years ago, limb loss awareness and support of fellow amputees has been a passion for Stoner.
“Whenever I meet a new amputee, I always say, ‘welcome to the family!’,” Stoner said. “Being able to truly empathize, to say I understand because I’ve been through it, makes a big difference in helping someone through their amputation journey. It is incredibly impactful when the limb loss community gathers together for an event like this.”
The day will feature several educational components. Signs with facts about limb loss and amputation will be placed throughout the race course. When participants are not racing, they can learn about amputation at community booths.
Hanger Clinic will have one of Winter the dolphin’s prosthetic tails for kids to look at and touch as an interactive learning experience. Winter is the dolphin that lost her tail after it became entangled in a crab trap in 2005. In 2006, Kevin Carroll, an expert prosthetist and vice president of prosthetics at Hanger Clinic heard her story and offered to fit her with a prosthetic tail that would allow Winter to swim again. Her movie debut in “Dolphin Tale” premiered on Sept. 23, 2011.
In addition, Hanger Clinic will have other prosthetics, as well as orthotics, on hand to show people how they are made and answer questions. Spectrum Health, Advanced Cardiac & Vascular Amputation Prevention Centers and College Park Industries will also have booths on-site.
Race results will be put on display at Bowen Station Park and posted online shortly after the race. Four first place awards will be given to the first adult men and women amputees and non-amputees who cross the finish line. The event is set to conclude at 1 p.m.
Registration for the 5K is $30 in advance at runsignup.com or $35 on race day. Registrants will receive a t-shirt and goodie bag.
Race organizers are also seeking volunteers for the event. Those interested may sign up online.
The City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department is taking registrations for its spring/summer softball leagues. (WKTV)
By Drew Dargavell, WKTV Sports Intern ken@wktv.org
As the weather begins to heat up, The City of Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department’s outdoor adult sports leagues and fitness programs are beginning. And the city has plenty of sports leagues to offer adults, ages 18 and up, whether you want to play for fun, be active and social, or to play competitively there is a variety of leagues and competition levels to offer.
“Our sports and fitness programs help promote healthy lifestyles and encourage adults to stay active, not to mention they are a great way to meet new people,” Spencer McKellar, Kentwood recreation program coordinator, said to WKTV.
Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department’s spring leagues start in April and May, while the summer leagues begin in June and July. They offer both recreational and competitive women-only leagues, men-only leagues, and Co-Ed leagues, depending on the sport.
“We’re always thinking of exciting ways to broaden our community offerings with new classes catered to a variety of ability levels and interests,” McKellar said. “We encourage those interested in participating in sports and fitness programs to register early, as we do offer early bird rates for select classes.”
Some of the popular sports Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department (KPRD) has to offer are:
Recreational and competitive 11-v-11 co-ed, and 9-v-9 women’s soccer, taking place at Veteran’s, Pinewood, and Kellogg Woods parks. Registration closes April 29 for the spring leagues.
Co-ed 4-on-4 sand volleyball at Veteran’s Park sand volleyball court, which ends with a post-season tournament and a big cookout. Spring registration closes April 26.
Co-ed and mens softball at Kellogg Woods Park. The 10 game season ends with a post-season tournament. Spring leagues start the week of April 15, and summer on the week of July 29.
And new this year, KPRD is offering double-header softball leagues at Kellogg Woods Park. This league is 10 weeks and 20 total games, and ends with a post-season tournament. Spring leagues begin April 15 and summer leagues on July 29.
There are also many more leagues, clubs, programs and classes you can get involved in with KPRD.
To register now, you can visit Kentwood Parks and Recreations website at kentwood.us/parks or you can reach them at 616-656-5270.
By Drew Dargavell, WKTV Sports Intern ken@wktv.org
For 30 years the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) has honored the best student-athletes in the state. Each year they award 32 students with $1,000 scholarships based on achievement and leadership in athletics and extracurriculars.
This year, the student-athletes were honored at halftime of the boys high school basketball championships at the Breslin Center at Michigan State University. And among those students awarded was Wyoming High School’s Avery Robinson III.
“It was a great experience, not only being surrounded by all those fans, but also meeting other scholar athletes. It was incredible.” Avery said to WKTV after being honored at the Breslin Center.
“It’s great to be recognized for all the hard work I’ve put in for the past four years,” Robinson said. “But I also feel like it’s a representation of how great the Wyoming community is and all the hard work they put in to their students and their athletes.”
To be eligible for this award, the student must have a 3.50 GPA or better and have earned a varsity letter in an MHSAA-sponsored sport — and Robinson is gifted both athletically and academically.
He lettered in three sports including track and field, tennis and golf. He was varsity in track all four years and was the school’s only pole vaulter. In tennis, he played No. 1 singles, and finished in first place at two invitationals this past season and was named all-conference in the OK-Gold division. Avery was even named the West Michigan Fox Motors Athlete of the Week in October 2018.
Robinson tries to go above and beyond in all of his sports, activities and academics, according to track coach Brent VanEnk.
Avery Robinson has excelled at tennis for Wyoming high. (WKTV)
“Every time we’re at the meet he says ‘What do you need me for coach?’ and especially as a high school coach, that’s great to have,” VanEnk said about his lone pole vaulter. “I couldn’t think of anyone better, especially in this school, to get that award.”
Not only does he work hard in athletics but Robinson excels in his studies as well, accumulating a 4.15 GPA, while taking a total of nine AP classes during his junior and senior years.
He is also very involved in extracurricular groups and community service. He is the President of the school’s National Honors Society, an officer of the Key Club, a drum major for the marching band, a participant in the science olympiads, and he qualified for state in Business Professionals of America.
“Time management is very important,” Robinson said on juggling his academics and extracurriculars. “Keeping priorities, I usually try to do one thing at a time and strike a balance by scheduling and organizing.”
The next step for the soon-to-be Wyoming grad is choosing a four-year university. He has several offers on the table, but is still in the decision-making process. He hopes to pursue social sciences and possibly go the pre-law route.
Alternatives in Motion’s Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser from a previous year. (Supplied/Alternatives in Motion)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The local non-profit Alternatives in Motion — whose mission state is to “enhance independence through access to mobility equipment — invites the public to run, walk or hand cycle your way through Grand Valley State University’s campus in Allendale this Saturday, April 6, for its Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser.
All proceeds go directly to support the organization, which aids in donating and refurbishing wheelchairs to individuals and families in need.
For a late 2017 WKTV In Focus video interview with the group, see this YouTube link.
“Nothing is more powerful than the gift of independence and mobility, so come out to support a wonderful cause put on by students in the physical therapy program at GVSU,” states a supplied press release.
The event will take place at 1110 Kirkhof Center, 1 Campus Drive, on GVSU’s Allendale campus. In addition to the run, there will be raffles, prizes, music, snacks, drinks, and more. The cost is $25 per person with events starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m. Online registration ends April 5.
The West Michigan Whitecaps will soon begin play at Fifth Third Ballpark. (Supplied/West Michigan Whitecaps)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The Detroit Tigers have already throw out the first pitch of the 2019 season, with the local West Michigan Whitecaps ready to do so Thursday, with their first pitch at home on Saturday, April 6. But the Whitecaps have a little something special planned for their Saturday, May 11, home game — a little lanzamiento descontrolado (wild pitch, in the Spanish).
The West Michigan Whitecaps will become “Las Calaveras de West Michigan” —The Skulls of West Michigan — for three games during the 2019 season, all on Saturdays: May 11, July 13, and Aug. 17.
These games will be centered on “celebrating the Hispanic/Latino culture and the influence it has had on America’s pastime,” according to supplied material.
“Our desire is to reflect the community, whether it’s our game-day employees, our front office or our fans,” Whitecaps President Steve McCarthy said in supplied material. “The core values of this community reflect the core values of Minor League Baseball – family, community, entertainment and tradition. This is an opportunity for us to grow.”
At the games, fans will enjoy sugar skull decorating, face painting, authentic food and music, games and more when Las Calaveras de West Michigan take the field in alternative uniforms focused on the Calaveras.
Calaveras, or skulls, are an important part of Hispanic culture. Skulls made out of sugar are decorated and used during Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a festive and colorful Latin holiday that originated in Mexico thousands of years ago, during which families celebrate the lives and legacies of deceased relatives. The uplifting holiday recognizes death as something to celebrate as part of the cycle of life.
The Calaveras logo is a unique take on a sugar skull, viewed at an angle to suggest motion and competitiveness as the team swings for the fences. Inside the decorative skull logo are subtle references to the Whitecaps and West Michigan. The eyes are baseballs inside the 616 West Michigan area code; also look for baseball bats, home plate, a W and M, the team’s original logo from the 1990s, and seagulls and waves representing the Lake Michigan shoreline.
With its Las Calaveras de West Michigan nights, the Whitecaps will be one of 72 minor league teams participating in the 2019 “Copa de la Diversion,” or “Fun Cup,” an Hispanic/Latino fan engagement initiative.
“This program is aimed at connecting the teams to their communities,” McCarthy said. “For the Whitecaps, it’s allowing us to both demonstrate our commitment to diversity and provide a wide selection of fan engagement offerings.”
The Copa de la Diversion initiative seeks to connect MiLB teams with their diverse communities, embracing the culture and values that resonate most with Hispanics and Latinos. The initiative launched with 33 participating teams in 2018 to great success and overwhelmingly positive feedback, and the program is more than doubling in size to 72 teams for its second season.
For more information about Calaveras de West Michigan, or to buy tickets or merchandise, please visit this link.
The Whitecaps open their 26th season on Thursday, April 4 at 7:05 p.m. at the South Bend Cubs. The home opener is set for Saturday, April 6 at 4 p.m. also against the Cubs. Complete ticket information, including season and group ticket prices and perks, is available at this link.
WKTV Community Media’s cable channels began this week the airing of a new program called Breathe In The Grand, which will run Mondays at 10 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. The program is hosted by Pamela Keim, and the latest episode of the show features local celebrity Mike Knuble, a professional hockey player from Kentwood.
National Hockey League player Mike Knuble, a 16-year veteran of the NHL who started his NHL journey here in West Michigan, shares his local connection with Pamela Keim, of Grand Tap Media.
Mike Knuble
According to supplied information, Knuble talks about East Kentwood High School, playing Canada, death of his dad at the age of 15, University of Michigan, being traded by the Detroit Red Wings, playing in the Big Apple (New York City) and playing with legendary Wayne Gretzky, social media and today’s coverage of sports, coaching, and being in the NHL Hall of Fame.
Part 2 of the interview will air the following week, Monday, April 8 and Tuesday, April 9.
The Detroit Tigers regular season baseball schedule starts this week on the road at Toronto, and the West Michigan Whitecaps will throw out their home first pitch on April 6, but it will take a while for the local baseball frenzy to be in full swing — say about mid-May.
While the 2019 Tigers will likely still be in their rebuilding mode, West Michigan fans can relive a World Series winning season when Alan Trammell, Baseball Hall of Famer and 1984 World Series MVP, along with fellow series veteran Kirk Gibson, will be the featured guests at the 13th Annual West Michigan Sports Commission Luncheon on Tuesday, May 21.
This season’s annual sports must-attend event will be held in downtown Gran Rapids, in the International Ballroom of the JW Marriott Hotel, 235 Louis Campau Promenade NW, starting at noon.
While it has been 35 years since the 1984 Detroit Tigers World Championship season, and six seasons since Michigan’s home team last played in the World Series — alas, a 4-0 sweep by San Francisco Giants in 2012 — the WMSC luncheon will bring the two ’84 championship teammates and close friends back together to share their storied championship season with local fans.
Kirk Gibson (Supplied)
According to supplied information, Gibson has several stories from when he first met Trammel, from Gibson’s draft year in 1978, “through the early ‘80’s as beloved Tigers Coach Sparky Anderson recognized the nucleus of a work-hard, ‘play-hard’ group of all-stars.”
Gibson, who was the commission luncheon’s featured speaker at its 10th annual luncheon, will introduce this year’s featured speaker Trammel.
As with past years, this luncheon serves as a fundraiser as well as a progress report for the West Michigan Sports Commission non-profit organization, which promotes and hosts youth and amateur sporting events in the region “for economic enhancement, healthy living and creating a vibrant community through sport,” according to supplied material.
Reservations can be made by contacting Angie Cena at 616-608-1842 or acena@westmisports.com. A table of eight is $750, and single tickets are $100 per person. Luncheon information is also available online by visiting this link.
WKTV will begin broadcast coverage of Michigan Golden Gloves this weekend. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The Wyoming and Kentwood area still has basketball teams playing in the state tournament this week, but due to MHSAA rules our Featured Game Coverage team’s high school sports winter season has ended. (Check WKTVjournal.org/sports for online/print updates, however.)
But our coverage truck and crew will not be idle — It’s Golden Gloves Boxing time!
WKTV has been covering the Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament for more than 25 years. Again this year, we will be at the Grand Rapids DeltaPlex Saturday, March 16, for the West Michigan Preliminaries, with replays of the bouts on our cable channels on Sunday, March 17, at noon, and Wednesday, March 20, at 5 p.m. We will continue coverage through the State Finals in April.
The Deltaplex Arena is located at 2500 Turner Ave NW, Grand Rapids.
The tentative coverage days/times and replay plan includes:
West Michigan Preliminaries, Saturday, March 16; airing Sunday, March 17, at noon, and Wednesday, March 20, at 5 p.m.
West Michigan Semi-Finals, Thursday, March 21; airing Saturday, March 23, at 11 a.m., and Wednesday, March 27, at 5 p.m.
West Michigan Finals, Saturday, March 30; airing Sunday, March 31, at noon, and Wednesday, April 3, at 5 p.m.
State Semi-Finals, Friday, April 12; airing Saturday, April 13 at 11 a.m., and Wednesday, April 17, at 5 p.m.
State Finals, Saturday, April 13; airing Sunday, April 14, at noon, and Wednesday, April 24, at 5 p.m.
Catch all the action on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse 99 with a tape delayed airing of each evening’s bouts on the following day. For future broadcast schedule, check out our on-air schedule.
All bouts will also be available on-demand at WKTVondemand.com , but not immediately after the event.
Senior Sailor Sydney Cleary will be on the court tonight as South Christian seeks a Regional title. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
Girls basketball regional tournament update
South Christian in regional action at Coopersville
South Christian High School (now 15-9), after won its opening-round game Regional 11 tournament at Coopersville on Monday by defeating the host Coopersville, 52-50, finished their Regional title with an 48-42 win over Muskegon Oakridge (21-4 to end the season) on Wednesday, March 13.
The Sailors will now move on to a Division 2 quarterfinal game, a neutral site game scheduled for Portage Northern High School on Tuesday, March 19, at 7 p.m. Waiting of them will be undefeated, 24-0, Hamilton. The winner will then move on the MHSAA state girls basketball Division 3 semifinals, to be held at Van Noord Arena, Calvin College, on Friday, March 22.
South Christian High School (now 14-9) won its opening-round game Regional 11 tournament at Coopersville on Monday, March 11, when the Sailors defeated the host Coopersville (16-8 after loss) by the score of 52-50. The finals of the regional is set for Wednesday, March 13, at 6 p.m., when the Sailors will battle Muskegon Oakridge (21-3), with the winner moving on to a Division 2 quarterfinal game.
Tri-unity Christian wins Division 4 state quarterfinal game, advances
Tri-unity Christian (now 22-3), on Tuesday, March 12, defeated Bellevue (24-2 after the loss), 62-31, in the MHSAA state Division 4 quarterfinals, a neutral-site game played at Charlotte High School.
In the game, the Defenders were led by 18 points from senior forward Bennett Sinner, including four 3-pointers, while senior guard Brayden Ophoff scored 12, freshman guard Brady Titus had 11, and senior center Elijah Badgero added nine. A key stat of the game was that Tri-unity had 13 steals in the game, including four by Titus.
“We got after them with our defense right away,” Tri-unity head coach Mark Keeler said to WKTV. “We were just too quick for them and caused a lot of turnovers … We didn’t allow them to get into the game.”
Tri-unity Christian now moves on to the Breslin Center at Michigan State University for the state semifinals on Thursday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m., and, possibly, the finals on Saturday, March 16 at 10 a.m.
East Kentwood High School’s 2018-19 team. (Supplied/East Kentwood Falcons)
By Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@wktv.org
The East Kentwood Falcons and record-setting coach Jeff Anama’s basketball season came to an end Tuesday night at Caledonia High School, losing to Okemos, 50-45. And while their march toward MSU and the state championship game Saturday may have hit a road block, this team accomplished something that hadn’t been done by a boys basketball team from East Kentwood since 1998 — advancing to the quarterfinals.
The Falcons’ tournament run didn’t come easy as they survived three district games by a total of 11 points to advance to regionals.
The difference between winning and losing was just as small in the regional round when the Falcons won two games by a total of seven points. Three of their post season wins were against teams the Falcons had lost to on four occasions during the regular season.
“The guys never lost faith in each other and were better prepared for the rematch,” coach Anama said to WKTV. “When a team wins a couple of tough games, things can start rolling.”
Anama passed former East Kentwood coach Mickey Phelps in all-time coaching wins at the school with the regional championship win, which was his 220th.
Their final game of the season was a continuation of tight games as the largest lead by either team was seven points.
Okemos led 20-13 early in the second quarter, but East Kentwood came back with 14 straight to take a 27-20 lead early in the third quarter. Okemos, though, came back with 14 straight points of their own at the end of that quarter and to start the fourth to take a 44-37 lead.
The first quarter had both teams trading baskets as neither team had more than a two-point lead until just before the buzzer when Okemos leading scorer Evan Thomas hit a 3-pointer and was fouled by East Kentwood’s Josh Mayhue. After he converted the 4-point play, Okemos led 17-13 to close the quarter. Evans led all scorers with 10 points.
The second quarter was a very quiet stanza where the Falcons were able to take the lead at the half 22-20. Thomas had the only Okemos’ points as he connected on a 3-pointer in the first 20 seconds, but soon after picked up his second personal foul and had to sit for over half of the quarter. The Falcons were able to take advantage as they went on their run which included triples from Christopher Brown and Ryel Daye. Daye led the way with 10 points at the break.
It seemed like the Falcons were ready to take control early in the second half after five consecutive points from Daye, but the Chiefs were quick to respond with a pair of buckets, and a made foul shot in between, all by Grant Holtzer, and another triple by Evans. But East Kentwood held a 37-34 lead heading into the decisive fourth quarter.
However, the Falcons then hurt their cause by committing six of their unofficial 12 turnovers in that final quarter alone.
“The difference tonight was they won the fourth quarter as we didn’t finish strong, and they made free throws,” Anama said.
The Falcons totaled eight points in the fourth, but gave up 16 to close out the game and their season. Okemos guard Fabian Leone came alive with eight points, including a pair of 3-pointers, and Evans hit four key free throws late to put the final score out of reach.
The Falcons finish 16-10 on the season and were led by senior Daye with 19, junior Ja’moni Jones with nine, senior Brown with seven, and junior Jordan Jackson with six.
Okemos, now with a 23-2 record, was led by Evans with a game high 22 points, Leone with 10, and Holtzer with nine. The Chiefs will now face 24-2 Detroit U-D Jesuit in the Division 1 semifinals at MSU Friday, March 15.
