Tuesday, June 10, Kentwood’s State Champion Boy’s Track Team visited the Michigan Capital and Legislators at the request of Representative Ken Yonker. They won the MHSAA State Championship for the 5th time in 6 years!! Special thanks go out to Coach Emeott, his staff, and Ketntwood’s fantastic student athletes for representing KPS in such a positive manner. In the words of many administrators and students: “Another Great Day To Be A Falcon!”
“Hit that ball out of here,” cried Tom from the dugout. “Get a move on,” shouted Bruce to his softball team. Familiar dialogue in the ball park, Right? What’s not so familiar is the ages of the players in the game. Kentwood Parks and Recreation has numerous sports leagues. The one I had the opportunity to witness was a coed senior citizen softball league featuring people aged 50-85. Last year’s 92-year-old Bob Gleason took the season off. 80-year-old first baseman and manager Bruce Beimers of the Athletics team has played for a very long, long, time. “I love getting the exercise, and I play the best I can at my age,” he explained. 69-year-old pitcher/manager Tom Buchanan of Red Sox fame loves the game and what it holds. “I like having bad knees, sore elbows and losing 18-7 today,” he said laughingly. Four teams play every Thursday in the summer and they are looking for more people to play both Summer and Fall Softball. And what is happening after the game? 
“We go home and take a nap!” Tom Buchanan explained. For more information, and to sign up to play, please call: 616-656-5270 and ask for Lorraine. 
Don’t miss out on Boys and Girls spring sporting events kicking off in April. The students appreciate people coming to cheer them on. Here are a list of sporting events:
Tuesday April 1, 2014
Girls Tennis – East Kentwood @ South Christian Cookie Invite
Boys Baseball – Tri-County @ East Kentwood
– Holland Christian @ South Christian (DH)
– Holland Calvary @ Zion Christian
Girls Softball – Holland Christian @ South Christian (DH)
Wednesday April 2, 2014
Girls Soccer – East Kentwood @ Forest Hills Eastern
Girls Water Polo – Rockford @ East Kentwood
Boys Baseball – Godwin Heights @ Holland (DH)
Girls Softball – Godwin Heights @ Holland (DH)
Girls Tennis – Middleville T-K @ Kelloggsville
Thursday April 3, 2014
Boys Baseball – Holland Calvary @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Algoma Christian @ Zion Christian
Girls Soccer – Algoma Christian @ Zion Christian
Saturday April 5, 2014
Girls Softball – Godwin Heights @ Comstock
Monday April 14, 2014
Girls Tennis – Jenison @ East Kentwood
– Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Girls Softball – Jenison @ East Kentwood (DH)
– Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Boys Baseball – Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
– Algoma Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
Girls Soccer – Comstock Park @ Godwin Heights
– Wellsprings Prep @ Wyoming Lee
– Potter’s House @ Zion Christian
Boys Golf – Wyoming @ Comstock Park
Tuesday April 15, 2014
Boys Golf – East Kentwood @ Kent County Classic
– South Christian @ NorthPointe Christian
Boys/Girls Track – West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Hudsonville Unity Tri-Meet
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– Holland @ Wyoming
Girls Soccer – FH Central @ East Kentwood
– Unity Christian @ South Christian
– Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Calvary Christian @ Zion Christian
– Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills
Girls Tennis – South Christian @ Holland Christian
Boys Baseball – South Christian @ Wayland (DH)
– Potter’s House @ Zion Christian (DH)
– Allendale @ Wyoming
Girls Softball – South Christian @ Wayland (DH)
– Allendale @ Wyoming
Boys Lacrosse – South Christian @ Holland
Wednesday April 16, 2014
Girls Tennis – Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming
Boys Baseball – Wyoming @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming Lee @ Kent City
Girls Softball – South Christian @ East Kentwood (DH)
– Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming Lee @ Kent City
Girls Soccer – Muskegon Mona Shores @ East Kentwood
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
– Coopersville @ Wyoming
Boys Golf – Wyoming @ Zeeland West
Thursday April 17, 2014
Boys Golf – West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– Unity Christian @ South Christian
Girls Tennis – @East Kentwood Quad
Boys/Girls Track – East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
– @ Godwin Heights Tri-Meet
– Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Kent City
– Allendale @ Wyoming
Girls Water Polo – Jenison @ East Kentwood
Boys Baseball – Wayland @ South Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ @ Whitehall (DH)
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Potter’s House
– Freedom Baptist @ Zion Christian
– Wyoming @ Allendale
Girls Softball – Cedar Springs @ South Christian (DH)
– Wyoming Lee @ Whitehall (DH)
– Wyoming @ Allendale
Boys Lacrosse – Hudsonville @ South Christian
Girls Soccer – Kalamazoo Christian @ South Christian
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
– Freedom Baptist @ Zion Christian
– Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
– Muskegon Catholic @ Grand River Prep
Friday April 18, 2014
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Jenison Tournament
Boys Baseball – East Kentwood @ Cedar Springs
– Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Girls Soccer – Caledonia @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
– Wyoming Lee @ Kent City
– Middleville T-K @ Wyoming
Girls Softball – Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
Saturday April 19, 2014
Boys/Girls Track – East Kentwood @ Dexter Invite
– South Christian @ Unity Christian
– Tri-Unity Christian /Godwin Heights @ Hastings Invite
– Wyoming Lee @ Catholic Central Cougar Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Sparta
– Kelloggsville @ Coopersville
– Grand River Prep @ Lakewood
– Wyoming @ Comstock Park
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Jenison Tournament
Boys Baseball – East Kentwood @ Kenowa Hills Tournament
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Invite
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Freedom Christian
Girls Softball – EK Bosma Invite
– Godwin Heights @ Portland
– Wyoming Lee @ Otsego Bulldog Classic
– Wyoming @ Rockford
Girls Tennis – South Christian @ EK Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming
Girls Soccer – Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights
Boys Golf – Kelloggsville @ Otsego
Monday April 21, 2014
Boys Golf – South Christian @ East Kentwood
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Girls Tennis – East Kentwood @ Rockford
– South Christian @ Wayland
– Kelloggsville @ Sparta
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Portage Northern
Boys/Girls Track – South Christian @ Wayland
Girls Soccer – South Christian @ Wayland
– Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights
– Zion Christian @ Potter’s House
– Union @ Kelloggsville
– Comstock Park @ Wyoming
Boys Baseball – Kent City @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River
– Zion Christian @ Potter’s House
Girls Softball – Kent City @ Godwin Heights
Tuesday April 22, 2014
Boys Golf – Grandville/Rockford @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Catholic Central
– Kelloggsville @ Kent City
– Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills
Boys Baseball – Hudsonville @ East Kentwood (DH)
– Catholic Central @ South Christian (DH)
– Zion Christian @ Algoma Christian (DH)
– Wyoming @ Sparta
Girls Softball – Hudsonville @ East Kentwood (DH)
– Catholic Central @ South Christian (DH)
– Wyoming @ Sparta
Boys/Girls Track – Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
– NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
– Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Girls Soccer – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
– Zion Christian @ Algoma Christian
– Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep
Girls Tennis – Wayland @ Wyoming
Wednesday April 23, 2014
Girls Tennis – East Kentwood @ Grandville
– Catholic Central @ South Christian
– Comstock Park @ Kelloggsville
– NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming
Boys Baseball – Muskegon Mona Shores @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Wyoming (DH)
– Godwin Heights @ Unity Christian
– Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
– NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
Girls Softball – South Christian @ Wyoming
– Cedar Springs @ Godwin He
– Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
Girls Soccer – Catholic Central @ South Christian
– Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
– Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee
– Kelloggsville @ Kent City
– Wyoming @ Belding
Boys/Girls Track – Tri-Unity Christian/Potter’s House @ Eau Claire
Boys Golf – Wyoming @ Lowell
Thursday April 24, 2014
Boys Golf – Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
– Caledonia @ South Christian
– Grand River Prep @ Western Michigan Christian
Boys Baseball – East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
– South Christian @ Catholic Central
– Heritage Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Sparta @ Wyoming
Girls Softball – Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Caledonia @ South Christian (DH)
– Kenowa Hills @ Wyoming Lee (DH)
– Sparta @ Wyoming
Girls Soccer – Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Muskegon Catholic Central
– Western Michigan Christian @ Grand River Prep
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Grandville
Girls Tennis – Northview @ South Christian
Boys Lacrosse – South Christian @ Comstock Park
Boys/Girls Track – Godwin Heights @ Kent City
– Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
– Tri-Meet @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming @ Sparta
Friday April 25, 2014
Boys/Girls Track – East Kentwood @ Jackson Invite
Girls Water Polo – @ EK Falcon Invite
Girls Soccer – Caledonia @ South Christian
– Hudsonville Hornets Homeschool @ Godwin Heights
– Zion Christian @ Wyoming Lee
– NorthPointe Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Comstock Park @ Kelloggsville
– Byron Center @ Wyoming
Girls Softball – Godwin Heights @ East Grand Rapids (DH)
Boys Baseball – Zion Christian @ Saugatuck
– Ottawa Hills @ Kelloggsville (DH)
Boys Golf – OK Silver Jamboree @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Invite
Girls Tennis – Wyoming @ Byron Center
Saturday April 26, 2014
Girls Water Polo – @EK Falcon Invite
Girls Tennis – East Kentwood @ GR Christian Invite
– @Kelloggsville Rocket Tournament
– Wyoming @ Hamilton Invite
Memorial Invitational
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Wyoming Lee Fred Solis
Memorial Invitational
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Fred Solis
Memorial Invitational
– Frank Grimm Invite @ Wyoming
Monday April 28, 2014
Boys Golf – East Kentwood @ Musk. Mona Shores Showcase
– South Christian @ NorthPointe Christian Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Union
– Wyoming @ Sparta
Girls Tennis – South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
– Kelloggsville @ Coopersville
– Comstock Park @ Wyoming
Girls Soccer – South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
– Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
– NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
– Zion Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
– Hopkins @ Kelloggsville
– Covenant Christian @ Grand River Prep
– Wyoming @ Allendale
Boys Baseball – Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Sparta (DH)
– Zeeland East @ Wyoming
Girls Softball – Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
– Zeeland East @ Wyoming
Tuesday April 29, 2014
Boys Golf – East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
– South Christian @ Hastings
– Wyoming @ Calvin Christian – SCRIMMAGE
Boys Baseball – East Kentwood @ Grand Haven (DH)
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills (DH)
– Potter’s House @ Muskegon Catholic Central
– Zion Christian @ Heritage Christian Academy
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Girls Softball – East Kentwood @ Grand Haven (DH)
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills (DH)
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Boys/Girls Track – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills/Hastings
– South Christian @ Hastings
– Wyoming @ Calvin Christian – SCRIMMAGE
Boys Baseball – East Kentwood @ Grand Haven (DH)
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills (DH)
– Potter’s House @ Muskegon Catholic Central
– Zion Christian @ Heritage Christian Academy
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Girls Softball – East Kentwood @ Grand Haven (DH)
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills (DH)
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Boys/Girls Track – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills/Hastings
– Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Kent City Double Dual
– Comstock Park @ Wyoming
Girls Soccer – West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– Western MI Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Zion Christian @ Heritage Christian Academy
Girls Water Polo – Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Boys Lacrosse – South Christian @ Muskegon Reeths Puffer
Wednesday April 30, 2014
Girls Tennis – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Hastings
– Wyoming @ Calvin Christian
Boys Baseball – South Christian @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– Kelloggsville @ Kent City
Girls Soccer – South Christian @ Hastings
– Godwin Heights @ Kent City
– Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
– Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
Girls Softball – Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Baseball – East Kentwood @ Hamilton (DH)
– Godwin Heights @ Lakewood
– Potter’s House @ Holland Calvary
– Zion Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
– West Michigan Lutheran @ Zion Christian (DH)
– Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Girls Softball – East Kentwood @ Muskegon Reeths Puffer Invite
– Wyoming Lee @ Gull Lake Invite
– Wyoming @ Muskegon Reeths Puffer Invite
Boys/Girls Track – Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee Fred Solis
by Mike Moll
The spring sports schedules open up as baseball, softball, boys and girls track, water polo, girls soccer, boys lacrosse, and girls tennis have their first events of the year in March. Girls basketball continues its State tournament leading to the championship at Michigan State University, March 15. Also at Michigan State, the boys begin their championship quest on Monday, March 3 and concluding on March 22. Boys swimming and girls gymnastics conclude their season with State Finals at multiple sites on March 7 and 8 for swimming and at Plymouth on March 8 for gymnastics.
Support your local high school athletes by attending an event, but also check the listings for WKTV as they broadcast local teams and games each week at various days and times.
Boys Basketball Districts
– East Grand Rapids @ East Kentwood
– Wyoming Lee @ Covenant Christian
– Godwin Heights vs Kelloggsville @ Kelloggsville
– Zion Christian vs Tri-Unity @ Holland Calvary
– Wyoming vs Grandville @ Grandville
Boys Swimming Diving Regionals – @East Kentwood
Girls Basketball Regionals
– South Christian vs Holland Christian @ South Christian
– Wyoming vs GR Christian @ Grand Haven
– Potter’s House vs Martin @ Bloomingdale
Boys Basketball Districts
– EGR/EK Winner vs Middleville T-K/Ottawa Hills winner @ Middleville T-K
– South Christian vs Godwin Heights/Kellogsville winner @ Kelloggsville
– Grand River Prep vs West Michigan Aviation @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming Lee/Covenant Christian winner vs NorthPointe Christian @ Covenant Christian
– Zion Christian/Tri-Unity winner vs West Michigan Lutheran @ Holland Calvary
– Wyoming/Grandville winner vs Hudsonville @ Holland
Girls Basketball Regionals
– South Christian/Holland Christian winner vs Muskegon
– Orchard View/Catholic Central winner @ South Christian
– Wyoming/GR Christian winner vs Muskegon/Greenville winner @ Grand Haven
– Potter’s House/Martin winner vs Athens/St Joe Lake Mich. Catholic
winner @ Bloomingdale
Boys Basketball Districts
– Championship @ Middleville T-K
– Championship @ Covenant Christian
– Championship @ Kelloggsville
– Championship @ Holland Calvary
– Championship @ Holland
Boys Swimming – State Finals
Division 1 @ Saginaw Valley
Division 2 @ Eastern Michigan
Division 3 @ Holland Aquatics
Boys Swimming – State Finals
Division 1 @ Saginaw Valley
Division 2 @ Eastern Michigan
Division 3 @ Holland Aquatics
Girls Gymnastics – State Finals @ Plymouth
Boys Basketball Regionals
– Kelloggsville Champ @ Godwin Heights
– Middleville T-K Champ vs Holland Champ @ Zeeland East
– Covenant Christian Champ @ Blanchard-Montabella
– Holland Calvary Champ @ Portage Northern
Girls Basketball Quarterfinals
Class A @ DeWitt
Class B @ Wayland
Class D @ BC Harper Creek
Boys Basketball Regionals Championship
– @ Zeeland East
– @ Godwin Heights
– @ Blanchard-Montabella
– @ Portage Northern
Girls Basketball
– Class C Semifinals @ MSU
– Class D Semifinals @ MSU
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ EGR Early Bird Tournament
Girls Basketball
Class A Semifinals @ MSU
Class B Semifinals @ MSU
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ EGR Early Bird Tournament
Girls Soccer – Scrimmage – @ East Kentwood
Girls Basketball – Class A, B, C, D Finals @ MSU
Boys Basketball Quarter Finals
Class A @ Lansing Eastern
Class B @ Middleville T-K
Class C @ Sandusky
Class D @ Battle Creek Central
Boys Track
– East Kentwood @ GVSU Invite
– South Christian @ GVSU Invite
Girls Track
– East Kentwood @ GVSU Invite
– South Christian @ GVSU Invite
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Boys Lacrosse – GR Christian @ South Christian
Boys Baseball
– South Christian @ Wyoming
– Wyoming Lee @ Holland Calvary
Girls Softball – South Christian @ Wyoming
Boys Basketball Semifinals
– Class C @ MSU
– Class D @ MSU
Girls Soccer – Saugatuck @ Godwin Heights
Girls Tennis – Zeeland West @ Wyoming
Girls Tennis – Scrimmage – East Kentwood @ Riverview
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Ann Arbor Pioneer Tourney
Boys Basketball Semifinals
– Class A @ MSU
– Class B @ MSU
Boys Baseball
– West Michigan Lutheran @ Godwin Heights
– Tri-Unity @ Godwin Heights
Girls Soccer – Wellsprings Prep @ Godwin Heights
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Ann Arbor Pioneer Tourney
Girls Soccer – Scrimmage – @ East Kentwood
Girls Tennis – South Christian Sailor Invite
Boys Basketball – Class A, B, C, D Finals @ MSU
Girls Soccer
– FH Central @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ GR Christian
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
Boys Baseball
– Byron Center @ South Christian
– Cedar Springs @ Godwin Heights
Girls Softball
– Byron Center @ South Christian
– Cedar Springs @ Godwin Heights
Girls Tennis – East Kentwood @ Caledonia
Boys Lacrosse – South Christian @ Caledonia
Girls Soccer
– Wyoming Lee @ Lakewood
– Tri-Unity @ Potter’s House
– Mona Shores @ Wyoming
Boys Baseball
– Wyoming Lee @ Potter’s House
– Tri-Unity @ Holland Calvary
– Zion Christian @ Covenant Christian
Boys Track
– East Kentwood @ Saline Spring Preview at U of M
– Tri-Unity @ Marcellus Invitational
– Wyoming @ Wayland
Girls Track
– East Kentwood @ Saline Spring Preview at U of M
– Tri-Unity @ Marcellus Invitational
– Wyoming @ Wayland
Girls Soccer
– South Christian @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Covenant Christian
Girls Water Polo– East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids
Boys Baseball
– Grandville @ South Christian
– Godwin Heights @ Coopersville
– Caledonia @ Wyoming
Girls Softball – Grandville @ South Christian
– Caledonia @ Wyoming
Boys Golf – Calvin Christian @ Wyoming
Girls Water Polo – Portage Central @ East Kentwood
Boys Lacrosse – Holland @ South Christian
Boys Baseball
– Zion Christian @ Wyoming Lee
– Tri-Unity @ Algoma Christian
Girls Soccer
– Wyoming Lee @ Potter’s House
– Tri-Unity @ Saugatuck
– Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Girls Tennis – Wayland @ Wyoming
Girls Softball – Lowell @ Wyoming
Girls Track – Wyoming @ Kelloggsville
Boys Track – Wyoming @ Kelloggsville
Boys Baseball – Godwin Heights @ Zion Christian
Boys Golf – Fremont @ Wyoming
Girls Tennis
– East Kentwood @ Wayland Invite
– Wyoming @ Wayland Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Wayland Invite
Girls Soccer – East Kentwood @ Portage Northern Invite
Boys Track
– Wyoming Lee @ Sturgis
– Kelloggsville @ Allegan
Girls Track
– Wyoming Lee @ Sturgis
– Kelloggsville @ Allegan
Girls Softball
– East Kentwood vs GR Christian @ Davenport
– Tri-County @ Godwin Heights
Girls Soccer
– GR Christian @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Hudsonville
– Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
– Allendale @ Wyoming
– Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
– Zion Christian @ Potter’s House
Boys Baseball
– East Kentwood vs GR Christian @ Davenport
– South Christian @ Jenison
– Wyoming Lee @ Union
– Tri-County @ Godwin Heights
– Holland Black River @ Tri-Unity
Girls Water Polo – East Kentwood @ FH Central
Girls Tennis – Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
by Mike Moll
Friday night at Wyoming High School was “a night that could not have been scripted any better” according to Wyoming Athletic Director Ted Hollern.
He was referring to the evening’s events which started off with the Wyoming Wolves girls basketball team capping their perfect 10 win OK Blue season, to go along with 18 regular season victories against just 2 losses. They defeated Comstock Park (2-8, 4-16), by a final score of 63 to 18. That game sends the Lady Wolves into their district opener, Monday, February 24 against Zeeland East in a game that will be played at Zeeland East.
It was a chance for the big crowd Friday to show their appreciation to the senior girls basketball players as they were introduced at the conclusion of the game.
Immediately following is what many had come to see. The first Hall of Fame induction ceremonies since Wyoming High was formed last year, as it is a product of the merger between Wyoming Park and Wyoming Rogers. The inductees were each a star player from those schools.
Tonya (Yonkers) Coates was named Michigan’s Miss Softball for 2001 when she helped lead Wyoming Rogers to the Class B State title. That win culminated Rogers three consecutive state championship game appearances, having also won the title in 1999. Coates has the 19th most wins as a pitcher in the state’s history with 106, against 11 losses. She was an All State selection in each of her last three seasons during which she had a combined record of 100 wins and just 6 losses. Her teams won their Conference title and the District titles in each of her 4 years. They were Regional champs in 3 of those seasons. Some of her personal career statistics were giving up only 2.26 hits per game, an earned run average of 0.87, striking out 247 hitters, and giving up a measly 0.37 earned runs a game in her Senior year. Tonya today is a surgical technician in the state of Michigan.
Drew Neitzel was named Michigan’s Mr. Basketball for 2004 when he helped lead the Wyoming Park team to the state semi finals and a 23-4 record. That season Neitzel, in 27 games, not only scored 893 points (33.1 avg.) which is the 7th highest mark in Michigan history, but also had 240 assists (8.9 avg.) which is the 3rd highest season total in the state’s history and the school record. Drew was an All State Honorable Mention selection in 2001, an All State selection in each of his last 3 years at Park, the 2004 Class B Player of the Year, and a Parade All American in 2004. His teams won two Conference, District, and Regional championships. Neitzel still holds the school records of 57 points in a game, 2,462 career points, 692 career assists, which is also the 2nd highest state total, and the single game record of 15 assists. The 227 three-point baskets made in his career place him 10th in the state and his 467 made free throws are the 9th most in state history. Neitzel went on to play at Michigan State where he was the starting point guard for the 2005 Final Four team, and had more than 1,500 points and 500 assists during his tenure as a Spartan. Today, Drew is a Financial Advisor for Wells Fargo.
The last portion of the evening came as the Wolves boys basketball team avenged an earlier season loss to Comstock Park with an exciting 71 to 61 win. This was the first OK Blue loss of the season for Comstock Park (9-1, 16-2). It sends the Wolves into their Tuesday game where they host OK Red leader Hudsonville (7-2, 11-7) with a 2nd place conference finish at 8-2 league and an overall mark of 12-6.
If you’re starting to get a little stir crazy staying warm indoors, check out one of the local sports events this month. There are plenty of games to chose from and it might just
be the ticket to getting your mind off the cold. Fire up your competitive spirit and chase the chills away!
Boys Ice Hockey
-East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Girls Basketball
– South Christian @ Calvin Christian
– Kelloggsville vs Grand River Prep @ Potter’s House Tournament
– Wellspring Prep vs Potter’s House@ Potter’s House Tournament
– Wyoming Lee @ Holland Christian Christmas Tourney
– Kenowa Hills @ Wyoming
Boys Basketball
– South Christian @ Calvin Christian
– Bridgman @ Godwin Heights
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Cornerstone Invitational
– Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills
– Grand River Prep @ Covenant Christian
Boys Ice Hockey
– East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Boys / Girls Bowling
– East Kentwood @ Grandville
– Kelloggsville @ Fruitport Invitational
– Potter’s House @ Fruitport Invitational
Girls Gymnastics
– East Kentwood @ Rockford
Girls Competitive Cheer
– East Kentwood @ Grandville
– Godwin Heights @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Boys Wrestling
– East Kentwood @ Lakeland
– Godwin Heights @ Pine River
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Invitational
– Wyoming Lee @ Orchard View
– Wyoming vs TBD @ Wyoming Invitational
Boys Swimming
– East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids Pioneer Invite
– South Christian @ East Grand Rapids Pioneer Invite
Girls Basketball
– Western MI Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Kelloggsville vs TBD @ Potter’s House Tournament
– Potter’s House vs TBD @Potter’s House Tournament
– Grand River Prep vs TBD @ Potter’s House Tournament
– Wyoming Lee @ Holland Christian Christmas Tourney
Boys Basketball
– Western MI Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian
– Kent City @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
Girls Gymnastics
– East Kentwood @ Rockford
Girls Basketball
– Tri-Unity @ Holland Calvary
Girls Basketball
– East Kentwood @ Union
– South Christian @ Zeeland West
– Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
– Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
– Kent City @ Wyoming Lee
– Zion Christian @ Potter’s House
– Wyoming @ Calvin Christian
Boys Basketball
– Byron Center @ East Kentwood
– Zeeland West @ South Christian
– Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
– Zeeland East @ Tri-Unity Christian
– NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
– Zion Christian @ Potter’s House
– Calvin Christian @ Wyoming
Boys Swimming
– Northview @ South Christian
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Middleville T-K @ South Christian
Boys / Girls Bowling
– East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
– Godwin Heights @ Potter’s House
– Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
Girls Competitive Cheer
– East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
– Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
– OK Silver Jamboree @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
Boys Hockey
– East Kentwood @ Rockford
Boys Wrestling
– Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
– Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Tri
– Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Boys Swimming
– Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Unity Christian @ South Christian
Girls Basketball
– Grand River Prep @ Western Michigan Christian
Girls Gymnastics
– East Kentwood @ Forest Hills Central
Boys Basketball
– TC Central @ East Kentwood
– Holland Christian @ South Christian
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
– Zion Christian @ Heritage Christian Academy
– Potter’s House @ Freedom Christian
– Belding @ Wyoming
– Grand River Prep @ West Michigan Lutheran
Girls Basketball
– East Kentwood @ TC Central
– Holland Christian @ South Christian
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
– Potter’s House @ Freedom Christian
– Zion Christian @ Heritage Christian Academy
– Belding @ Wyoming
Boys Swimming
– East Kentwwod @ Rockford
Boys Wrestling
– East Kentwood @ West Catholic – Dunneback Invite
– Godwin Heights Tourney
– Kelloggsville @ Fruitport Tournament
– Wyoming Lee @ Flushing Invite
– Wyoming @ Brandywine
Girls Competitive Cheer
– East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
– Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park
– Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park Invitational
– Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park Invitational
Boys Hockey
– East Kentwood @ FH Central
Boys Basketball
– Cedar Springs @ Kelloggsville
– Holland Black River @ Zion Christian
Girls Basketball
– Holland Black River @ Zion Christian
Girls Gymnastics
– Lowell @ East Kentwood
Boys / Girls Bowling
– NorhtPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Girls Basketball
– Godwin Heights @ Fruitport
Girls Comp Cheer
– East Kentwood Falcon Invite
Boys Basketball
– East Kentwood @ Grandville
– South Christian @ Wayland
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Grant
– Covenant Christian @ Kelloggsville
– Potter’s House @ Kalamazoo Heritage Christian
– Wyoming @ Coopersville
Girls Basketball
– Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Wayland @ South Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights
– Grant @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Covenant Christian
– Kalamazoo Heritage Christian @ Potter’s House
– Coopersville @ Wyoming
Boys Swimming
– Holland @ South Christian
Boys / Girls Bowling
– South Christian @ Wayland
Boys / Girls Bowling
– East Kentwood @ Grandville
– Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights
– Kent City @ Kelloggsville
Girls Gymnastics
– FH Central @ East Kentwood
Boys Wrestling
– West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Kent City
– Kelloggsville Tri @ Kelloggsville
– Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
– Wyoming @ Sparta
Girls Competitive Cheer
– OK Silver Conference Meet @ Godwin Heights
Boys Swimming
– East Kentwood @ Rockford
Boys / Girls Bowling
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
Girls Basketball
– Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
Boys Basketball
– Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– Catholic Central @ South Christian
– NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Kellooggsville @ Kent City
– Zion Christian @ Freedom Baptist
– West Michigan Lutheran @ Potter’s House
– Allendale @ Wyoming
Girls Basketball
– Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– Catholic Central @ South Christian
– NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Kelloggsville @ Kent City
– Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
– Zion Christian @ Freedom Baptist
– West Michigan Lutheran @ Potter’s House
– Allendale @ Wyoming
– Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
Boys Hockey
– Clarkston @ East Kentwood
Girls Competitive Cheer
– East Kentwood @ Rochester Royal Rumble
– Godwin Heights @ Catholic Central
– Kelloggsville @ Allendale Invitational
– Wyoming Lee @ Allendale Invitational
Boys / Girls Bowling
– East Kentwood @ GR Union Red Hawk Invitational
– South Christian @ GR Union Red Hawk Invitational
– Kelloggsville @ GR Union Red Hawk Invitational
– Wyoming Lee @ G Union Red Hawk Invitational
Boys Wrestling
– East Kentwood @ East Kennedy
– Godwin Heights @ Lakeview
– Kelloggsville @ Unity Christian Invitational
– Wyoming Lee @ Unity Christian Invitational
– Wyoming @ West Ottawa
Girls Gymnastics
– East Kentwood @ Lowell Invite
Boys Hockey
– Marysville @ East Kentwood
Girls Basketball
– Zeeland East @ East Kentwood
– Grace Christian @ Zion Christian
Boys Basketball
– Grace Christian @ Zion Christian
Boys Swimming
– South Christian @ East Grand Rapids Invite
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Rockford @ East Kentwood
– Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
– Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
– NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Girls Gymnastics
– East Kentwood @ Kenowa Hills
Girls Basketball
– Tri-Unity Christian @ NorthPointe Christian
Girls Competitive Cheer
– Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park Invitational
Girls Basketball
– East Kentwood @ Lowell
– Forest Hills Central @ South Christian
– Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
– Hopkins @ Kelloggsville
– Algoma Christian @ Potter’s House
– Wyoming @ GR Union
Boys Basketball
– Holland @ East Kentwood
– Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
– West Michigan Lutheran @ Zion Christian
– Algoma Christian @ Potter’s House
– GR Union @ Wyoming
Boys Swimming
– South Christian @ Hamilton
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Byron Center @ South Christian
Girls Competitive Cheer
– East Kentwood @ Grandville
Boys / Girls Bowling
– East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
– Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
– Kent City @ Wyoming Lee
Girls Gymnastics
– Rockford @ East Kentwood
Boys Wrestling
– East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– Kelloggsville @ Kent City
– Allendale @ Wyoming
Boys Swimming
– West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Wyoming @ Potter’s House
Girls Basketball
– West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
– Kent City @ Godwin Heights
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
– Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
– Calvary Schools Of Holland @ Zion Christian
– Potter’s House @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
– Wyoming @ Comstock Park
– Grand River Prep @ Muskegon Catholic
Boys Basketball
– West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
– Kent City @ Godwin Heights
– Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
– Potter’s House @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
– Wyoming @ Comstock Park
– Grand River Prep @ Muskegon Catholic
Boys Hockey
– Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Girls Competitive Cheer
– LMCCOA Invite @ East Kentwood
– Kelloggsville @ LMCCOA @ East Kentwood
Boys Wrestling
– East Kentwood @ Lakewood Viking Team Duals
– Godwin Heights @ Okemos
– Kelloggsville @ Grand Rapids Christian Tournament
– Wyoming Lee @ Kalamazoo Central Maroon Giant Invitational
– Wyoming @ Montague
Boys / Girls Bowling
– East Kentwood Invitational
– South Christian @ East Kentwood Bowling Invite
– Godwin Heights @ East Kentwood Bowling Invite
– Kelloggsville @ East Kentwood Bowling Invite
– Wyoming Lee @ East Kentwood Bowling Invite
Girls Gymnastics
– East Kentwood @ Kenowa Hills Invite
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Hopkins @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming Lee @ Potter’s House
Girls Basketball
– Grand River Prep @ NorthPointe Christian
Girls Competitive Cheer
– East Kentwood Falcon Invite
Boys Basketball
– East Kentwood @ Rockford
– South Christian @ Hastings
– Comstock Park @ Godwin Heights
– Kelloggsville @ Allendale
– Calvary Christian @ Zion Christian
– Holland Black River @ Potter’s House
– Wyoming @ Cedar Springs
Girls Basketball
– Rockford @ East Kentwood
– Hastings @ South Christian
– Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park
– Allendale @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
– Calvary Christian @ Zion Christian
– Holland Black River @ Potter’s House
– Cedar Springs @ Wyoming
Boys Swimming
– South Christian @ Byron Center
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Catholic Central @ South Christian
Girls Gymnastics
– East Kentwood @ Lowell
Boys Wrestling
– East Kentwood @ Rockford
– Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
– Wyoming @ Belding
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Godwin Heights @ Kent City
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Girls Competitive Cheer
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Swimming
– East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
Boys / Girls Bowling
– Wayland @ South Christian
Girls Basketball
– Muskegon Catholic Central @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Potter’s House @ Holland Calvary
Boys Wrestling
– East Kentwood @ West Ottawa – OK Red Conference Meet
– Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet
– Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet
– Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet
Girls Basketball
– Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
– Middleville T-K @ South Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Godwin HeightsKelloggsville
– Zion Christian @ Holland Black River
– Potter’s House @ Holland Calvary
– Sparta @ Wyoming
Girls Competitive Cheer
– East Kentwood @ Rockford
Boys Hockey
– Grandville @ East Kentwood
Boys Basketball
– Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
– Middleville T-K @ South Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
– Muskegon Catholic Central @ Tri-Unity Christian
– Zion Christian @ Holland Black River
– Potter’s House @ Holland Calvary
– Sparta @ Wyoming
The smell of Roses was oh so sweet! It was an experience of a lifetime for our family to attend the 2014 Rose Bowl. Our son Robert is a senior at Michigan State University majoring in Finance. It was a dream of his to be there. Our financial advisor said it would be too expensive to go. I am glad we ignored him. The memories will last a lifetime.
The MSU football team has waited over 26 years to bring home the title. We decided that we had to be there to witness the team’s efforts.
“It was the best day of my life,” Robert Pierson said after the MSU football team win. 
The experience was a costly one, but well worth it. We drove to Chicago, flew to Las Vegas, and drove to Pasadena. Finding lodging was a difficult task. I finally found a small apartment within walking distance of the parade and game. It was very expensive, but convenient.
We were able to take in Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and attend the Pep Rally of 27,000 people. In addition, we savored every moment at the Rose Bowl Parade and Game. The weather was a perfect 75 degrees on a daily basis and the sun was always out.
There were times that I couldn’t even watch the game as I was so stressed out with the fiercely competitive nature of the game. I could breathe again after Kyler Elsworth flew over the pile to make the final hit of the season. To be part of the cheering crowd was an adrenaline high.
It was a storybook ending. The 100th Rose Bowl game and all of its memories will be permanently etched in our minds and for the first time in 26 years—Spartans are Rose Bowl Champions.
Wednesday December 11, 2013 Boys/Girls Bowling – South Christian @ Kelloggsville – Godwin Heights @ Rockford Boys Wrestling – Kelloggsville @ GR Christian – Wyoming @ Plainwell Quad Girls Competetive Cheer – Scrimmage – @East Kentwood Girls Basketball – Potter’s House @ Western Michigan Christian
Boys/Girls Bowling – South Christian @ Byron Center – Unity Christian @ Wyoming Girls Basketball – Wyoming @ Hudsonville – Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian Boys Swimming – FH Northern @ East Kentwood
Girls Basketball – Western Michigan Christian @ Kelloggsville – GR Christian @ South Christian – East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids – Sparta @ Godwin Heights – Calvary Schools of Holland @ Wyoming Lee – Muskegon Catholic @ Grand River Prep – Holt Lutheran @ Zion Christian Boys Basketball – GR Christian @ South Christian – Jenison @ Wyoming – East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids – Sparta @ Godwin Heights – Calvary Schools of Holland @ Wyoming Lee – Tri-Unity @ Potter’s House – Grand River Prep @ Zion Christian
Boys Wrestling – Kelloggsville @ Delton-Kellogg – Wyoming @ Allendale Invitational – East Kentwood @ Holland – Tim Horn Invite – Godwin Heights @ South Haven – Wyoming Lee Tri Invite Girls Competetive Cheer – Rocket Invitational @ Kelloggsville – Wyoming @ Rocket Invitational (Kelloggsville) – Godwin Heights @ Rocket Invitational (Kelloggsville) – Wyoming Lee @ Rocket Invitational (Kelloggsville) – East Kentwood @ Comstock Park – CCCAM Invite Boys/Girls Bowling – South Christian @ Lowell Invite – Godwin Heights @ Lowell Girls Basketball – Grandville @ Wyoming Boys Hockey – Rochester Stony Creek @ East Kentwood
Boys/Girls Bowling – Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville – Wyoming Lee @ Kent City Girls Basketball – West Ottawa @ Wyoming – Tri-Unity @ Potter’s House
Boys Basketball – Kelloggsville @ West Catholic – South Christian @ Zeeland East – Wyoming @ Byron Center – Godwin Heights @ Covenant Christian – Wyoming Lee @ Zion Christian – Cedar Springs @ Tri-Unity – Grand River Prep @ Calvary Schools of Holland Boys/Girls Bowling – Hastings @ South Christian Girls Basketball – Byron Center @ East Kentwood – Covenant Christian @ Godwin Heights – Wyoming Lee @ Zion Christian – Grand River Prep @ Calvary Schools of Holland
Boys/Girls Bowling – Kelloggsville @ Hopkins – South Christian @ Catholic Central – Wyoming @ Wayland – Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian Boys Wrestling – Kelloggsville @ Fruitport Quad – Comstock Park @ Wyoming – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood – Godwin Heights @ East Grand Rapids Girls Competetive Cheer – Wyoming @ GR Christian – Christmas Invite – East Kentwood @ GR Christian – Christmas Invite – Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee – Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Swimming – South Christian @ East Kentwood Quad Girls Basketball – Zion Christian @ Grand River Prep
Girls Basketball – Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville – South Christian @ Unity Christian – Wyoming @ Sparta – East Kentwood @ Caledonia – Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville – Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee – Tri-Unity @ Muskegon Catholic Central – Grand River Prep @ Hudsonville Freedom Christian – Wellsprings Prep @ Zion Christian Boys Basketball – Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville – South Christian @ Unity Christian – Wyoming @ Sparta – East Kentwood @ Caledonia – Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville – Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee – Tri-Unity @ Muskegon Catholic Central – Grand River Prep @ Hudsonville Freedom Christian – Wellsprings Prep @ Zion Christian Boys Swimming – South Christian @ Rockord West MI Relays & Diving – East Kentwood @ Rockford West MI Relays & Diving Boys Hockey – East Kentwood @ Catholic Central
Boys Wrestling – Kelloggsville @ Ravenna Tournament – Wyoming @ Chippewa Hills Initational – Godwin Heights @ Colon – Wyoming Lee @ Ravenna Boys Swimming – South Christian @ Rockord West MI Relays & Diving – East Kentwood @ Rockford West MI Relays & Diving Girls Competetive Cheer – Wyoming @ Musegon Reeths-Puffer Invite Boys Hockey – East Kentwood @ Northville
Boys Basketball – Kelloggsville @ Coopersville – FH Central @ Wyoming – East Kentwood vs John Glenn @ Musk Hall of Fame Tourney Boys/Girls Bowling @ Lee – Baker Tournament Girls Basketball – East Kentwood vs DeWitt @ Davenport University – Godwin Heights @ Hastings
Boys Basketball – East Kentwood vs Muskegon @ Muskegon Hall of Fame Tourney Boys Wrestling – Godwin Heights @ Grandville
Boys Basketball – Tri-Unity @ Cornerstone College Invitational
Area children and youth are reaching for the sky, aspiring to improve athletic and social skills through a Christian based sports program called Upward Basketball. Local churches have joined forces to offer this heart -healthy and heartwarming experience to our communities.
The local Upward Basketball League provides a safe, family-friendly environment in which K5-8 th grade children and youth are encouraged to learn and grow. Participation in the program helps each team member to further develop a sense of self-esteem and spiritual awareness. Through personalized coaching, even teaming and a system which allows each child to play a variety of positions, every child is given an equal opportunity to reach his or her full potential.
Cheerleading is also an important aspect of the program. Tryouts are not required, insuring the inclusion of all who wish to participate. No cuts are made, hence increasing self-esteem even more. 
The Upward program is based upon biblical principles and Christian values. All Upward games begin and end in prayer with a devotional segment during half-time. “The goal is to make a significant, positive impact upon our children while stressing the fact that the final score is really measured in fun. Every child is a winner!,” said Jeff Beyer, four-year Upward coach.
All games are played locally and are scheduled for one hour. Practices are only once a week and are for one hour. This convenient arrangement allows a family to participate with limited interruption to their busy lifestyle.
Following each season, an award ceremony takes place. Every participant receives a prize or trophy.
Enrollment in the program involves a nominal fee. However, financial aid is available. “We want to make Upward Basketball accessible to all our families,” Pastor Mike Caley from the Banner of Christ Church explained.
Upward Sports encourages the participation of adults as well. Many volunteer opportunities exist for parents and others who are interested in contributing toward the continued success of the program.
Jim Bos, a seasoned Upward coach, is one such person. Bos, together with his family, have been involved with Upward since the first year the program was implemented in their church.
“It’s hard for my wife and I to believe that it has been over six years since our family started participating in the Upward program. It’s just amazing how big the program is today,” he said with obvious excitement. “Our Upward experience has been totally positive since the first day my wife registered our oldest son.”
Bos went on to explain how the program enabled his children to grow as Christians while enhancing their skills on the court. “The Bible lessons, helpful coaching and super half-time messages have all played an important role in our children’s Christian development,” he added.
His wife then recalled a time when Jerad, their eldest, was ten-years-old and the family had attended the year-end celebration. The teacher, while spinning basketballs with his hands and feet, had discussed the importance of taking it to the ‘next level’ for Christ. The next day, while she and Jerad were out walking, her son turned to her and announced, “Mom, I think that man was right! I do need to take it to the next level in my walk with God and in my life and here is what I’m going to do!”
“This is just one example of the impact that Upward has had on our children,” Bos pointed out.
Recently, Bos was sharing his experience and love for the program with another Upward coach: “We agreed that Upward is the perfect program because it prepares kids for future competitive basketball programs and provides long-term opportunities for the recreational player, all while calling them to a relationship with Jesus Christ, our Savior. No one could ask for more than that!”
In addition to creating a fun and nurturing learning experience, the staff and volunteers associated with the Upward program also strive to help motivate young people to engage in physical activity. According to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, only one in three children are physically active every day. Children now spend more than seven and a half hours a day in front of a screen. (e.g., TV , videogames, computer). Only about one in five homes have parks within half mile, and about the same number have a fitness center within that distance.
“It’s very important that our children and youth have safe access to a place where they can play and learn by interacting with others who share their love of sports and their love of God!” said Thad Abel, a local Upward director and church elder. “My thanks go out to all our area churches for helping to make this happen.”
Upward Sports is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, based in Spartanburg, South Carolina. It is a Christian sports league, designed for kids in grades K5-8 offering four sports programs: basketball, flag football, soccer and cheerleading.
Upward Sports leagues are conducted by 2600 churches in 46 states and Canada. Upward equips local churches with everything necessary to operate their own leagues. Included are playbooks, sports apparel and online tools. Training for staff and coaches is also provided.*
For more information concerning the Upward Basketball League and/or Upward Sports please visit www.upward.org or to register online please visit: http://registration.upward.org/UPW51262.
