Category Archives: Sports

Girls District Semi-Finals set to square off with Eight Wyoming-Kentwood teams in action

March 2, 2016Sports, Upcoming Eventsdistrict, District semi-finals, Girls Districts, High School Basketball, March Madness, Mike DeWittJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt
Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

The girls play their District Semi-Final games tonight, and the Wyoming-Kentwood area has a number of teams looking to be one step closer to a district championship.

Class A

East Kentwood (13-8) vs. East Grand Rapids (16-5) – District 5

The last time these two teams met, East Kentwood found themselves down 11 at half, but they wouldn’t fold that easily. An 18-point third quarter gave the Falcons a one-point lead entering the final stanza. However, the furious comeback was too little too late as East Grand Rapids came out with a hard-fought 49-45 victory. Round 2 between these two squads looks to be just as exciting.

East Kentwood is coming off of a 19-point victory over Middleville Thornapple Kellogg. As winners of 11 of their last 14, the Falcons are looking to keep the positive vibes going for at least another couple of days.

East Grand Rapids defeated a very strong Byron Center team in the first round and is currently riding a 5-game winning streak.

Winner plays Caledonia or Grand Rapids Christian in the District Finals this Friday.

Wyoming (6-14) vs Jenison (5-16) – District 6

Wyoming came into this season ready for big things after having an extremely successful 2015 campaign that saw the season end in the District Finals. Behind junior star player – and Michigan State commit – Claire Hendrickson, the Wolves were primed for a special season.

Early on, everything was going according to plan. The Wolves were 5-1 and playing very well when they traveled to Calvin Christian on January 5. It was then that adversity struck, Hendrickson went down with a torn ACL and meniscus and a sprained MCL. After the injury, the Wolves slogged to a 1-13 finish. They enter the postseason on a 12 game losing streak.

Jenison hasn’t fared much better than Wyoming. The Wildcats handled Holland in the first round of districts to break a five game losing streak. Jenison hasn’t struggled scoring points this season, it’s on the defensive end where they’ve lost games. In their 16 losses, the Wildcats have surrendered over 54 points a game.

Winner plays Grandville or Hudsonville in the District Finals this Friday.

Class B

South Christian (19-2) vs. Kelloggsville (2-12) – District 48

After suffering only their second loss of the year in the season finale, South Christian got things back on track in a big way in the first round of Districts. The Sailors were able to quickly get the wind back in their sails and Godwin never stood a chance. South Christian won their 19th game of the season handily, 60-38.

Things haven’t been easy for the Rockets this season. Kelloggsville currently sits at 2-12 and has lost nine straight. They’ll have their hands full against the Sailors.

Winner plays Wayland Union or Kentwood Grand River Prep in the District Finals this Friday

Grand River Prep (5-13) vs. Wayland Union (8-11) – District 48

Grand River Prep and Wayland Union each look to end a long string of losing to reach the district finals. Grand River enters the postseason having lost 10 of their last 11, while Wayland Union has lost 5 of their last 6.

No matter how you look at it, Grand River Prep is facing an uphill battle. Wayland Union may be under .500 on the season, but the Wildcats have nabbed a few impressive pelts this season. The Wildcats have wins over Wyoming – before the Claire Hendrickson injury – and Hudsonville.

Winner plays South Christian or Kelloggsville in the District Finals this Friday.

Class D

Potter’s House (6-14) vs. West Michigan Lutheran (17-3) – District 110

Although Potter’s House comes in with a much less impressive record than West Michigan Lutheran, the Pumas hold the all important ‘W’ in the only head-to-head meeting between the two squads. The first time these two teams met, things were very close. Potter’s House had a strong second quarter and was able to hold on to the lead until the end, resulting in a 5-point victory.

West Michigan Lutheran has rebounded quite nicely from that last game. Since the loss, the Mustangs have rallied off 9 wins in their last 11 games. Expect another back and forth battle between the two squads.

Winner plays Tri-Unity Christian or Holland Calvary in the District Finals this Friday.

Tri-Unity Christian (17-4) vs. Holland Calvary (8-7) – District 110

Tri-Unity Christian made it all the way to the Regional Finals last season before falling to St. Joseph Michigan Lutheran. This season, they have their eyes set even further, they just need to make sure they don’t stumble looking ahead.

The Crusaders have already played, and defeated, Holland Calvary twice this season by a combined 62 points. Holland Calvary is hoping third times a charm!

Winner plays Potter’s House or West Michigan Luther in the District Finals this Friday.

Wyoming-Kentwood Area Teams and Results

Girls

Class A

East Kentwood – District 5
February 29
District First Round – W (58-39) Middleville Thornapple Kellogg
March 2
District Semi-Final – East Grand Rapids

Wyoming – District 6
March 2
District Semi-Final – Jenison

Class B

Godwin Heights – District 48
February 29
District First Round – L (60-38) South Christian

Grand River Prep – District 48
March 2
District Semi-Final – Wayland Union

Kelloggsville – District 48
March 2
District Semi-Final – South Christian

South Christian – District 48
February 29
District First Round – W (60-38) Godwin Heights
March 2
District Semi-Final – Kelloggsville

Class D

Potter’s House – District 110
March 2
District Semi-Final – West Michigan Lutheran

Tri-Unity Christian – District 110
February 29
District First Round – W (50-40) Zion Christian
March 2
District Semi-Final – Holland Calvary

West Michigan Lutheran – District 110
March 2
District Semi-Final – Potter’s House

Boys

Class A

East Kentwood – District 5
March 7
District First Round – Ottawa Hills

Wyoming – District 6
March 7
District First Round – West Ottawa

Class B

Godwin Heights – District 48
March 7
District First Round – Wayland Union

Grand River Prep – District 48
March 7
District First Round – West Michigan Aviation Academy

Kelloggsville – District 48
March 9
District Semi-Final – Grand River Prep/West Michigan Aviation Academy

South Christian – District 48
March 9
District Semi-Final – Godwin Heights/Wayland Union

West Michigan Aviation Academy – District 48
March 7
District First Round – Grand River Prep

Wyoming Lee – District 51
March 9
District Semi-Final – Grand Rapids Catholic Central

Class D

Potter’s House – District 110
March 7
District First Round – West Michigan Lutheran

Tri-Unity Christian – District 110
March 9
District Semi-Final – Potter’s House/West Michigan Lutheran

West Michigan Lutheran – District 110
March 7
District First Round – Potter’s House

Three Area Teams Advance to District Semi-Finals

March 1, 2016Sports, Upcoming EventsGirls Districts, High School Basketball, March Madness, Mike DeWittJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt
Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

Girls basketball tipped off the post-season last night with the first round of districts. Three Wyoming-Kentwood area teams advanced to the semi-final round while one had their season come to an end. District semi-finals will be played on Wednesday.

Class A

East Kentwood – 58
Thornapple Kellogg – 39

East Kentwood extended their winning streak to four games and 11 of their last 15. The Falcons look to get revenge against East Grand Rapids in the District Semi-Finals on Wednesday. When they met in the regular season, the Pioneers took home a close four-point, 49-45 win.

Class B

The Sailors will face Kelloggsville on Wednesday

South Christian – 60
Godwin Heights – 38

South Christian kept a stellar season rolling right along with a big win over Godwin Heights in the opening round of districts. The Sailors’ experience, depth, and height was too much for the young senior-less Wolverine squad to handle.

Jennifer Deboer led all scorers with 17 points and also chipped in seven rebounds, seven assists, and five steals. Isabella Scott helped South Christian with her first ever double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Ravinear Koppenhofer led the Wolverines in scoring with 11 of her own.

South Christian looks to keep the ship sailing against Kelloggsville in the district semifinals on Wednesday night at Godwin Heights.

Class D

Tri-Unity Christian – 50
Byron Center Zion Christian – 40

Tri-Unity Christian kept the season moving forward on Monday night. Led by Sarah Buffum and her 20 points, the Crusaders extended their winning streak to nine with a ten-point victory over Byron Center Zion Christian.

Tri-Unity Christian will take on Holland Calvary, a team they’ve already beat twice this season by a combined 62 points, in the district semi-final on Wednesday night.

Wyoming-Kentwood Area Teams and Results

Girls

Class A

East Kentwood – District 5
February 29
District First Round – W (58-39) Middleville Thornapple Kellogg
March 2
District Semi-Final – East Grand Rapids

Wyoming – District 6
March 2
District Semi-Final – Holland/Jenison

Class B

Godwin Heights – District 48
February 29
District First Round – L (60-38) South Christian

Grand River Prep – District 48
March 2
District Semi-Final – Wayland Union

Kelloggsville – District 48
March 2
District Semi-Final – Godwin Heights/South Christian

South Christian – District 48
February 29
District First Round – W (60-38) Godwin Heights
March 2
District Semi-Final – Kelloggsville

Class D

Potter’s House – District 110
March 2
District Semi-Final – West Michigan Lutheran

Tri-Unity Christian – District 110
February 29
District First Round – W (50-40) Zion Christian
March 2
District Semi-Final – Holland Calvary

West Michigan Lutheran – District 110
March 2
District Semi-Final – Potter’s House

Boys

Class A

East Kentwood – District 5
March 7
District First Round – Ottawa Hills

Wyoming – District 6
March 7
District First Round – West Ottawa

Class B

Godwin Heights – District 48
March 7
District First Round – Wayland Union

Grand River Prep – District 48
March 7
District First Round – West Michigan Aviation Academy

Kelloggsville – District 48
March 9
District Semi-Final – Grand River Prep/West Michigan Aviation Academy

South Christian – District 48
March 9
District Semi-Final – Godwin Heights/Wayland Union

West Michigan Aviation Academy – District 48
March 7
District First Round – Grand River Prep

Wyoming Lee – District 51
March 9
District Semi-Final – Grand Rapids Catholic Central

Class D

Potter’s House – District 110
March 7
District First Round – West Michigan Lutheran

Tri-Unity Christian – District 110
March 9
District Semi-Final – Potter’s House/West Michigan Lutheran

West Michigan Lutheran – District 110
March 7
District First Round – Potter’s House

With the regular season over, Girl’s Basketball is readying for Districts

February 29, 2016Sports, Upcoming EventsGirls Districts, High School Basketball, March Madness, Mike DeWittJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt

While Leap Day may be able to push March back 24 hours, it can’t stop playoff basketball from starting. March Madness is here, and the girls are getting ready to kick off Districts in a big way. Below are all the District First Round games for Wyoming-Kentwood Area teams:

Class A

East Kentwood (12-8) vs. Middleville Thornapple Kellogg (5-14) – District 5

East Kentwood stumbled into the season, losing 4 of their first 6 games. However, after the New Year, the Falcons went on a terror. East Kentwood finished the season strong by winning 10 of their last 14 games. The team’s four losses during that stretch came by a combined 10 points.

Thornapple Kellogg started the season slow, losing 7 of their first 8, and never seemed to find a grove. The Trojans have struggled to score the ball, only topping 40 points in 5 of their games.

Winner plays on Wednesday, March 2 against the winner of East Grand Rapids and Byron Center.

Class B

Godwin Heights (12-7) vs. South Christian (18-2) – District 48

South Christian has been on a rampage all season. How far will they go?

Godwin Heights is hosting District 48 and finds themselves in a tough draw in the opening round. The Wolverines have been extremely resilient when coming off a loss. Their longest losing streak only lasted two games back at the very beginning of December. Something to watch, Godwin Heights is coming off of a loss in their last game.

South Christian is firing on all cylinders in 2016. The Sailors started the season on a 14 game winning streak before losing their first game of the season to Caledonia by 2 points. South Christian then proceeded to win their next four before falling in the season finale against Catholic Central.

With both teams coming off of a loss, which one will get off the mat? This game will be televised on WKTV. Winner plays Kelloggsville on Wednesday, March 2.

Class D

Byron Center Zion Christian (12-8) vs. Tri-Unity Christian (16-4) – District 110

After hitting a dry spell and dropping their first three games at the beginning of February, Byron Center Zion Christian brushed things off and proceeded to win their next four straight. Having only broken 40-points six times this season, the Mountaineers win with defense while doing just enough on the offensive end.

Tri-Unity Christian currently sits at 16-4 but could easily be 18-2. Early in the season, the Crusaders dropped two one-point games by the same margin, 42-43. Last season, Tri-Unity made it to the Regional Finals before falling to St Joseph Michigan Lutheran. The Crusaders are looking to take it one step further this year.

Winner faces Holland Calvary on Wednesday, March 2.

Wyoming-Kentwood Area Teams and Results

Girls

Class A

East Kentwood – District 5
February 29
District First Round – Middleville Thornapple Kellogg

Wyoming – District 6
March 2
District Semi-Final – Holland/Jenison

Class B

Godwin Heights – District 48
February 29
District First Round – South Christian

Grand River Prep – District 48
March 2
District Semi-Final – Wayland Union

Kelloggsville – District 48
March 2
District Semi-Final – Godwin Heights/South Christian

South Christian – District 48
February 29
District First Round – Godwin Heights

Class D

Potter’s House – District 110
March 2
District Semi-Final – West Michigan Lutheran

Tri-Unity Christian – District 110
February 29
District First Round – Zion Christian

West Michigan Lutheran – District 110
March 2
District Semi-Final – Potter’s House

Boys

Class A

East Kentwood – District 5
March 7
District First Round – Ottawa Hills

Wyoming – District 6
March 7
District First Round – West Ottawa

Class B

Godwin Heights – District 48
March 7
District First Round – Wayland Union

Grand River Prep – District 48
March 7
District First Round – West Michigan Aviation Academy

Kelloggsville – District 48
March 9
District Semi-Final – Grand River Prep/West Michigan Aviation Academy

South Christian – District 48
March 9
District Semi-Final – Godwin Heights/Wayland Union

West Michigan Aviation Academy – District 48
March 7
District First Round – Grand River Prep

Wyoming Lee – District 51
March 9
District Semi-Final – Grand Rapids Catholic Central

Class D

Potter’s House – District 110
March 7
District First Round – West Michigan Lutheran

Tri-Unity Christian – District 110
March 9
District Semi-Final – Potter’s House/West Michigan Lutheran

West Michigan Lutheran – District 110
March 7
District First Round – Potter’s House

Muskegon Luge Track: Designed by an Olympian… Open to Mere Mortals

February 3, 2016Local Entertainment, Recreation, Sports, Weatherhockey, luge, muskegon, Muskegon State Park, Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, skating, skiing, snowshoeing\Joanne

By Victoria Mullen

Full disclosure: I did not come up with that cool title. You can thank the folks at Muskegon Winter Sports Complex & Luge for that wonderful burst of creativity.

If you’re like me, winter is not your favorite season. Believe it or not, though, there are millions of people out there who actually enjoy cold weather activities.

If you’re one of those people, you’re in luck: Muskegon Winter Sports Complex in Muskegon State Park offers skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing–and luge. If you’re not familiar with the sport, go here for an interesting read on its history.

One of only four luge tracks in the United States, the 850-foot Muskegon L uge Track is shorter in overall length than the Olympic tracks located in New York and Salt Lake City (3740+ feet) but provides an Olympic thrill with the safety of the participant in mind. (There is also a naturbahn style track in Marquette, Michigan, by the way.)

What To Expect & What is Provided

Whom do we have to thank for the availability of this activity right here in west Michigan–and in Muskegon, to boot? None other than three-time Olympian Frank Masley .

The track consists of six curves and two starting areas. Public participants slide from the 3/4 mark at speeds up to 30 mph. The track is designed specifically for general public use and those who never have slid before.

Although Olympians do not generally train here, the sports complex serves as a public and youth development seeding program to the USA Luge program. Five-time Olympian and two-time Olympic medalist Mark Grimmette got his start here. While here sliding, participants may receive some instruction and tips from one of the youth program athletes, some of whom are team members on the USA National Teams.

The facility provides all the equipment needed, including the use of a finely tuned Austrian or Latvian luge sled. Participants are provided with sanitized helmets and forearm pads. Heads up: Participants are expected to carry their own sleds to the top, and those puppies weigh around 30-40 pounds each.

For the initiate, there are coaches on hand to teach steering and safety techniques. After that, participants are set free to slide as many times as they can during the session. Runs are timed at the end of the session and awards are given out at the podium to the top finishers.

Of course, what’s an activity opportunity without the fine print? Before you can participate in luge, you must show proof of health insurance.

Cost

$45.00 per person on Saturdays and Sundays
All Luge Tickets must be purchased in advance through an online reservation system. Due to limited space and increased demand, tickets cannot be reserved nor can tentative reservations be made. Group discounts are not available on Saturday or Sundays.

$40.00 per person for Friday Night Under The Lights
Special night rate for individuals and groups 6-8:30pm. Get your tickets here.

South Christian Golf Coach Posthumously Elected To MIGCA Hall of Fame

January 19, 2016Citizen Journalism, Local Faces, Sports, Upcoming EventsBoys Golf, Coach Dyke, Girls Golf, Hall of Fame, Mike Moll, Rod VanDyke, South Christian GolfJoanne

Just over fifteen months ago, South Christian girls golf coach, Rod VanDyke was killed while riding his bicycle to work as he so often did.

This year, even though Coach VanDyke was two years short of the usual criteria to be elected, the Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association has announced that the South Christian coach will be posthumously inducted on Friday, May 20, 2016. The induction will take place at Tullymore Golf Resort as part of the MIGCA Hall of Fame and Coach of the Year banquet.

This year’s newly elected members will also include Jack Baumgartner from Perry, Tim Bradley from Lapeer West, and Doug McKay from De La Salle Collegiate, bringing the total membership to just one hundred.

“Coach Rod was truly a man of God that enjoyed what he did everyday,” said Curt Copeland, South Christian Athletic Director. “He was very dedicated to his family, the school, his students, and his teams, but at the same time was never afraid to enjoy it and laugh at himself. He never took himself too seriously.”

In addition to his coaching duties, VanDyke was a teacher at South Christian for twenty-two years.

The statistics seem to lend themselves that Coach Dyke, as he was often called by both his own players and opponents alike, was more than qualified to enter into the elite Hall of Fame. The only thing holding him back was the minimum requirement of twenty years, or thirty combined seasons, of coaching boys and girls. He coached the girls teams for eighteen years and also led the boys team for seven seasons.

South Christian girls golf team is headed to their 16th straight State Finals — South Christian’s 2014 Regional Championship Team

His teams combined for a match and tournament record of 672 – 119. They secured thirteen conference and fifteen MHSAA Regional Championships. He had either an individual or a team qualify for twenty-four MHSAA State Championship tournaments, including his last team that had to play their Regional tournament the day following his death.

“South Christian has a different basis for things than some other places might have,” explained Copeland as he looks back on 2014 and that fateful October day. “We felt we put the people in place to help handle the circumstances with that basis as the emphasis.”

The result of South Christian’s foundation, and the people in the program, played a part into the decision to have the girls play the following day. The team ended up winning Regionals and qualified South Christian for their sixteenth consecutive State Finals berth. Coach Dyke’s tradition of excellence has only continued as the team extended the streak to seventeen this last October under the guidance of new coach Ben Cook.

VanDyke’s teams finished State Runners-up five times, once with the boys and four times with the girls. The girls won two Division III State Championships in 2007 and 2009.

In 2007, on top of a State Championship, VanDyke also brought home honors as Michigan Coach of the Year. He repeated the feat with the boys in 2011. In 2009, Coach Dyke become one of only three coaches to be named as both the girls and boys Coach of the Year in the same year.

When asked how Coach Dyke would react to the honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame, Copeland said, “I think that he would probably be a little embarrassed by it all. It wasn’t initially his goal to be in the Hall of Fame. At the same time, he would say that he was honored, but would quickly add that he was blessed with good athletes to work with and that he was fortunate not to mess them up too badly.”

Coach VanDyke coached the girl's team for 18 seasons. — Coach VanDyke coached the girl’s team for 18 seasons.

Each of the young men and women that were fortunate enough to play for Coach Dyke over the years have a very special memory or token that they will carry with them not only on the golf course, but through life itself. Rod is survived by wife Julie and their three daughters Kelsey, Kenzie, and Maddie.

The Hall of Fame is something that only the best in that particular area are allowed to be a member of, and the rest of us can only look at, read about, and remember. In Coach Dyke’s case, when his membership is reflected upon, and since this is for golf, say a quiet “Thank you for the job well done and congratulations Rod.”

Meijer State Games of Michigan Award Winners Announced

January 14, 2016Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, SportsAthlete of the Year, Aubrey Cohoon, Isaac Washburn, Maddy Frank, Meijer State Games of Michigan, Michael Edward Droste Jr., Volunteer of the YearJoanne

Since its inception in 2010, the Meijer State Games of Michigan has given athletes the opportunity to compete against each other in summer and winter games emulating the Olympics. Following the completion of the Summer Games, and after receiving nominations from coaches, parents, spectators, and peers, officials with the Meijer State games of Michigan choose participants from the games as Athlete of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

Three athletes – youth, female, and male – are chosen every year and one volunteer is also awarded and recognized. The 2015 winners were recognized at the Grand Rapids Griffins game this past Saturday and are as follows:

•   Aubrey Cohoon (Youth – Figure Skating – Spring Lake, MI)
•   Maddy Frank (Female – Mountain Biking – Walker, MI)
•   Michael Edward Droste Jr. (Male – Tae Kwon Do – Saranac, MI)
•   Issac Washburn (Volunteer – Grand Rapids, MI)

Aubrey Cohoon (Youth AOY), 11, competed in Figure Skating during the 2015 Meijer State Games of Michigan taking first place in the pre-preliminary freestyle program and fourth place in the preliminary compulsory moves event. Her first place standing at the State Games of Michigan qualified her for the 2017 State Games of America. In May 2015, she had the opportunity to skate at the Make-A-Wish Michigan Wish Ball alongside her idols, Charlie Wait and Meryl Davis. She has raised over $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Michigan and has been awarded the title of the Fox 17 Pay-It-Forward person of the Week and Month. Aubrey is currently a student at Spring Lake Intermediate School.

Maddy Frank (Female AOY), 15, competed in Mountain Biking during the 2015 Meijer State Games of Michigan, winning the Women’s A Division in the Short Track Event. Maddy competes in biking events year-round and recently took first in her age group in the Iceman Cometh Challenge in Traverse City, MI. She is also a track & field athlete at Grandville schools and enjoys volunteering for local running and biking race events including the East Grand Rapids Trailblazer Run, the Grand Rapids Triathlon, and the Skirts in the Dirt all-female bike race. In 2014, she was awarded the “Ryan Fisher be an Eleven Award.” She is a member of the Freewheeler Racing Team and is an ambassador for Lapierre bikes. Maddy is currently a student at Grandville High School.

Michael Edward Droste Jr. (Male AOY), 32, competed in Tae Kwon Do during the 2015 Mejier State Games of Michigan, winning the yellow belt division of the Tae Kwon Do forms division. Being born with cerebral palsy and ligament issues, he has overcome adversity as an athlete. Michael is a resident of Saranac, MI and enjoys participating in martial arts for the friendships he has made and the lessons of respect, self-control, and discipline he has learned. Michael is an inspiration to all athletes and is an outstanding example of overcoming adversity.

Isaac Washburn (VOY), 27, has been involved in the Meijer State Games of Michigan for five years. He is crucial to the organization and success of the high school hockey tournament. He takes pride in ensuring this event is well-run and properly executed, aiding in set-up, teardown, and problem resolution for all 18 hockey games during the tournament. Isaac is a 2012 graduate of the sports leadership and management division at Grand Valley State University (GVSU). He is currently the Video Coach for the Kalamazoo Wings, Head Coach for both the Division 1 and Division 3 Roller Hockey club teams at GVSU, and the Director of Team Development for the Midwest Collegiate Roller Hockey League.

Previous Athlete of the Year award winners include:

•   2014: Alex Garcia (Male – Wrestling), Cory Bush (Female – Speedskating), Jade Walleman (Youth – Track & Field)
•   2013: Joe Skrycki (Male – Track & Field), Joan Berman (Female – Track & Field), Liam Smith (Youth – Archery)
•   2012: Russell Williams (Male – Tae Kwon Do), Lauren Hooker (Female – Lacrosse), Derek Nicks (Youth – Wrestling)
•   2011: Bob Miller (Male – Swimming), Jessica LeMire (Female – Racquetball), Chandler Simmering (Youth – Judo)
•   2010: Jimmy O’Hearn (Male – Track & Field), Emily Wee (Female – Track & Field), William Vosejpka (Youth – Hockey)

Our Most Read Stories From 2015

December 31, 2015Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Hard News, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Pets/Animals, SportsBold Socks, Ex-Cons, Founders Brewing, Grand Rapids Comic Con, Jesse Flores, Kidney Donation, Lingenfelter, Local Soccer Star, Paczki Palooza, Pinery Park, Rick and Marci, Top ten stories, Trash Bag TabbyJoanne

WKTV Community Media Center, Wyoming MI — WKTV is home to Wyoming-Kentwood NOW. Sharing the stories in your community!

Every year stories are written and consumed by the masses, but here at Wyoming-Kentwood NOW we focus on the hyperlocal. More specifically, we focus on YOU and YOUR community.

As we say goodbye to 2015 and get ready to say hello to 2016, let’s take a quick look back at our ten most popular stories from the past year:

1. Local Soccer Stands Lands a ‘Homegrown’ Dream Tryout
2. Time is Running Out on Pinery Park Little League
3. Trash Bag Tabby
4. A Man’s Passion Becomes a World Famous Collection
5. Kidney Donation Saves Local Man’s Life: Rick and Marci’s Story
6. Socks That Really Sock it to You (In a Very Good Way)
7. Grand Rapids Comic-Con
8. From Rags to Riches: The Founders Brewing Co. Success Story
9. New Michigan Law Helps Ex-Cons Return to Work
10. It’s a Paczki Palooza at Marge’s Donut Den

Don’t forget to make now.wktv.org a part of your daily routine, and if your interested in writing about the stories that surround you, we know just the people to talk to! Email us at news@wktv.org.

Happy New Year!

Local Soccer Star Lands a ‘Homegrown’ Dream Tryout

December 29, 2015Local Faces, Recreation, SportsAtlas, family, Guadalajara, Jesse Flores, Mexico, Mike DeWitt, Romer Carrasco, Soccer, Wyoming High SchoolJoanne

Life can have this fascinating way of coming full circle. A way of bringing us back to our roots on pathways that don’t become clear until a glance is taken in the rear-view mirror – which only happens once we’re at a place to truly call home. It is that sense of settlement that makes us feel secure enough to take a look back, and while the vision isn’t completely clear, it’s no longer a muddled mess; it’s an exciting and enthralling chance to see the events of the past lead to an optimistic future.

It’s a journey towards a new position in life to call home.

For Jesse Flores, 18, life is shaping a path to venture back to a home he’s never visited, it’s a dream scenario with love and passion at the core, and soccer as the catalyst.

“I started playing soccer when I was 4, but I didn’t start to take it seriously until freshman year of high school,” describes Jesse with the tone and tenor of someone fondly remembering the moment they first fell in love.

For Jesse, soccer has always had that relationship. Sports are a bond that can bring generations, especially a father and son, together in ways that transcend the playing field.

“I remember growing up and watching Atlas games on TV with my dad. They’ve always been my favorite team.”

While Jesse is from Wyoming, MI, his parents Jose and Icela both hail from Guadalajara, Mexico, where Jose played soccer for the youth team Atlas Fútbol Club. That bond to Atlas, and Mexican soccer, was passed down to Jesse.

With a new focus on the game as a freshman at Wyoming High School, Jesse’s game started to flourish. As a three-year varsity goalie, Jesse became a leader on the team and utilized his 6’3″ frame and long wingspan to defend the cage. His size and leadership allowed Jesse to lead the state in saves his senior season and earned him post-season honors.

Even with all the success, it was hard to imagine playing soccer at the next level.

“I didn’t consider it a real possibility until my high school coach, Romer Carrasco, told me that he thought I could play at the next level. Once I realized an opportunity after high school was possible, more doors opened up.”

Jesse and high school coach Romer Carrasco

Jesse wound up earning a scholarship to play soccer at the University of Saint Francis in Indiana. While the team struggled this past season, Jesse played well and compiled a highlight film to send out to professional teams in Mexico.

A professional opportunity was still nothing more than a dream.

“I connected with an agent in California who works with young players. He gets your info and film in front of Mexican teams,” recounts Jesse as he racks his brain, still marveling at the details of his incredible journey and opportunities awaiting on the path before him. “I’ve always dreamed of playing professionally, but I didn’t know if I’d have a chance.”

Since that time, two teams have reached out to Jesse to schedule tryouts: Chiapas Fútbol Club and hometown favorite Atlas Fútbol Club of Guadalajara. The tryout with Chiapas is already in the books, and the Atlas tryout will happen this summer. Chiapas didn’t offer a contract, but Jesse took some positives from the experience to build on before the tryout with Atlas.

“I didn’t end up getting the contract with Chiapas, but I was able to get a feel for how a professional tryout works. I was nervous and didn’t play loose. That won’t happen next time.” The club also gave Jesse some feedback on his play. “They told me to work on my conditioning, but also that they saw my potential. That was great to hear because it gives me more confidence knowing that I have the tools and the skill. I can always work on my conditioning!”

In the meantime, before the tryout with Atlas, Jesse will continue his education and playing career at Davenport University after transferring from Saint Francis to be closer to home. The newfound possibilities of becoming a professional soccer player mean more to Jesse than just personal achievement; he sees it as an opportunity to inspire.

“I want to inspire others as I go along. I was once that young kid who wanted to be professional, and now I have that opportunity. I want to do my best and achieve what I can so I can give back to the community of Wyoming and my high school. They’ve been so supportive of me up until this point. I want to give it back.”

This summer, Jesse will travel down to Guadalajara for an opportunity of a lifetime. Not only will he be trying out for his childhood team, but Jesse will visit his parents’ birthplace and meet family for the first time. He will see the city that his favorite soccer team calls home and immerse himself with the Club he hopes to call his own.

Jesse’s story is more than just an inspirational tale; it is a journey of family and sport coming full circle because of the bond created by a father, a son, their team, and a ball.

West Catholic Makes it a Three-Peat

December 18, 2015Citizen Journalism, Local Faces, SportsCarl Myers, Connor Nemmers, Katelyn Kohane, River Rogue, State Championship, West CatholicJoanne

By: Katelyn Kohane

Each of the last four years, West Catholic High School has earned the right to play in the Division 5 Championship Game at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. This season, the Falcons were looking for their third straight title.

Making it to Ford Field is a statement of a long season of hard work paying off and it culminates into the biggest game of the season as a battle for the best team in the division. Division 5 consists of teams with an enrollment of around 400 – 500 students.

The day of the championship, the team met at West Catholic High School to have breakfast together before loading on the bus. After breakfast, the team, along with many of its fans, attended Mass together at Saint Adalbert’s Church, which is a nice way to start the day before the Big Game. After Mass, the team loaded back on the bus to head to Detroit.

I am a graduate of West Catholic. My family and my cousins have all gone through West Catholic for many years. My father taught math, coached track and football, and ultimately retired from the school after 40 years. We always go to the football games. West Catholic as a program travels very well. Many people past and present make an effort to go to the games.

This year, there were five big Grey Hound buses that made the trip to Ford Field. Hundreds of cars ended up making the trek to support the team in the Championship as well.

The bus ride was a blast. Of course, everyone on the bus knows each other because they are all from West, which makes the trip even more fun. After arriving in Detroit, the whole bus went to Hockeytown Café for lunch and to talk about the game with fellow friends and fans.

This past season, I was very proud watching the team play. One of the players, Carl Myers, happens to be my cousin! Carl is one of the captains and is an all-star lineman who earned All-State Honors. Carl has chosen to continue his education next year at the University of Michigan as a “preferred walk-on” for football. Carl also excels in track and field events such as the shot put and discus throw.

After lunch, it was time to head over to Ford Field to cheer on our team as they prepared for another State Championship against River Rouge. It was an exciting game that was consistently back and forth, especially during a 20-point 4th quarter when River Rouge threatened West Catholic down the stretch.

In the end West won 40 to 34! As the clock worked its way down to zero, you could feel the excitement brewing on the sidelines and in the stands. After the clock hit zero, the team ran onto the field to celebrate with their teammates and coaches. They received their third straight championship trophy and will also receive rings.

With the season in the books, I had the opportunity to talk with two important pieces to the Falcon’s success in 2015, my cousin Carl Myers and his good friend, and fellow captain, Connor Nemmers.

What do you remember from the game?

Carl: “The guys were very big, very fast, and came down very hard. It was super hot in the stadium after playing in the snow the week before. They [River Rogue] were very disciplined. I knew that since it was my senior year and that it was going to be my last game, I had better go out on top! It was a lot of fun.”

Connor: “I remember everything from the game. Every snap and whistle. It was such a great way to leave our legacy at West.”

Connor, can you give me a few details describing the game? Also, what was the toughest part of the game from your standpoint?

Connor: “It was the greatest time of my life. The atmosphere inside was unbelievable when I looked around seeing all of the fans. In the game, the toughest part for me was, the last quarter as a whole. They started scoring very fast, and I thought we were going to lose at one point. We ended up coming up with the win though.”

Carl, you were voted to be a part of the “Dream Team”, could you tell me a little about that?

Carl: “I was the only one from the west side to be on the Dream Team, there were tons from the east. I got to meet and talk to some of the top guys in the state, but it’s cool knowing that I am also in the top. Mark Dantanio gave a good speech to the guys on the team about dreams.”

Connor, last question, looking back on the season, which game was the most rewarding?

Connor: “My favorite game of the season was probably when we played Lansing Catholic. They were expected to win the state championship, but we ended up with the win. It just felt like a great game.”

It certainly sounds like the boys really worked hard to pull off the win at the championship game and it definitely shows they pulled together to get the final win. Good luck to the team next year and to Carl and Connor as they finish up the school year. Go Green! Go White!

Katie works in the film industry as a camera operator and has worked on films like ‘All You Can Dream’, ‘Set Up’ and a TV show called ‘American Fallen Soldier.’ She loves helping WKTV with the Citizen Journalism team and working as a tech at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Katie loves working in the film industry and loves watching movies just as much!

High School Basketball and Hockey on WKTV

December 4, 2015Sports, WKTV ProjectsHigh School Sports, sports, WKTV, WKTV Mobile TruckJoanne

WKTV is bringing you another exciting season of Boys and Girls High School Basketball, along with the action packed thrill of High School Hockey! Each Tuesday game will be broadcast that night on Live Wire Comcast Channel 24 @ 10:30pm throughout the Grand Rapids Metro Area & repeat on Wednesday @ 5:00pm on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 in Wyoming & Kentwood. Every Friday game will be aired that night on Live Wire 24 @ 10:30pm and repeat Saturday @ 11:00am on WKTV 25 and AT&T U-verse 99. WKTV has got you covered! Check out the December schedule below:

Friday, December 4        Hockey: EGR @ East Kentwood
Tuesday, December 8    Boys Basketball: Wyoming @ South Christian
Friday, December 11    Hockey:   Kenowa Hills @ East Kentood
Tuesday, December 15   Girls Basketball:   Byron Center @ Wyoming
Friday, December 18    Boys/Girls Basketball:   Potter’s House @ Lee
Tuesday, December 22    Boys Basketball:   Lowell @ Godwin Heights
Tuesday, December 29    Boys Basketball:   Rockford vs Godwin Heights

Pinery Park Little League on the Right Track

October 7, 2015Hard News, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, SportsMayor Jack Poll, Mike DeWitt, Pinery Park Little League, Wyoming City CouncilJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt

Following weeks of speculation about whether the Pinery Park Little League (PPLL) would exist after 60 years of operation, the PPLL and the City of Wyoming agreed on a new contract to keep the league in charge of youth baseball.

Pinery Park Little League was in jeopardy of losing its contract with the City of Wyoming and Pinery Park due to a lack of transparent bookkeeping and the loss of nonprofit 501(c)(3) status.

The League made tremendous progress ironing out those issues over the past two weeks.

“I guess it took some major deadlines in order to have this contract happen,” exclaimed Mayor Jack Poll at the October 5 City Council Meeting. “I think it’s a good agreement. It protects both the park and those involved with the PPLL.”

There is new leadership within the League as almost an entirely new board was voted in during the elections on September 30. Mayor Poll was in attendance and cast his vote for the League leaders.

It is clear the new board wants the new contract and agreement to work. The members are shouldering a large responsibility to meet the requirements of the contract. The new board will have to prepare and show financial statements to the fiduciary handling the league’s financials. The PPLL board will meet on a regular, scheduled basis to stay on top of happenings throughout the league.

One of the main hiccups was the loss of 501(c)(3) status for the League back in 2011. The IRS has received and is reviewing the PPLL’s application to reinstate that status. The League must now wait 60-120 days for an answer from the IRS.

“The Pinery Park Little League knows how to run a league, they’ve been doing it a long time,” said Mayor Poll.

Now the league, the City, the parents, and the players can focus on the most important aspect… PLAY BALL!

Wyoming Pushes Until the End, but Falls to 0-2

September 4, 2015Local Entertainment, SportsComstock Park Panthers, High School football, Michael Williams, Pat Naughton, Wyoming WolvesJoanne

After raining all morning – and most of the afternoon – the sun finally broke a few hours before game time and made for a beautiful night to usher in Comstock Park’s home opener against Wyoming.

The Panthers notched a win in week one after beating Cedar Springs in an offensive shootout 48-38 at the Gridiron Classic hosted at Grand Valley State University. Quarterback Pat Naughton finished that game with 330 yards and 3 touchdowns.

First year Wyoming Head Coach Sam Becker had his home opener spoiled by Byron Center in week one 44-26, but the Wolves showed flashes in their first game, especially from Michael Williams. Williams ran for over 100 yards and a touchdown and also scored on a 90-yard kickoff return.

When these two met on Thursday night at Comstock Park High School, Williams showed his spark while Naughton – and the Panther passing game – stayed relatively quiet.

On Comstock Park’s opening possession, Naughton orchestrated a brilliant drive into the red zone. Led by a handful of jet sweeps from Kiemon Cater, the Panther’s caught the Wyoming defense off-guard. Deep in Wyoming territory, Naughton was popped on a designated quarterback plunge and fumbled the ball. The fumble was recovered by the Wolves.

After a quick Wyoming 3-and-out, Comstock Park quickly took the ball down the field and scored on a 1-yard jet sweep from Keiman Carter to go up 7-0 with 3:49 left in the first quarter.

Michael Williams returns a kickoff in Week 1 against Byron Center

Not even a minute and a half later, Michael Williams took a hand-off off the left tackle 69-yards to the house. A play action pass to Edwin Martinez Diaz on the 2-point conversion gave Wyoming the 8-7 lead.

Early in the second quarter, after a Panther three-and-out and with Wyoming moving the ball consistently, Comstock Park linebacker Brett Taylor made momentum swinging play. He stood up the ball carrier during a routine 5-yard dive behind the right guard and ripped the ball away. 55 yards later, Taylor was in the end zone and gave the Panthers a 14-8 lead.

Comstock Park would tack on a 24-yard Nik Nava field goal with 20 seconds left in the half to extend the lead to nine.

With only 20 second left before half, the Wyoming offense went to work from their own 38-yard line. After a 12-yard Justin Seitz run, quarterback Brendan Berg eyed Michael Williams screaming down the right sideline. The ball was pushed a little far, but Williams extended his full body and pulled it in at the Panther 12-yard line. With 5 second left, and no timeouts, the Wolves handed it to Williams off the left tackle once again, Williams made two defenders miss and dove towards the pylon for a touchdown with no time remaining. The ensuing 2-point conversation brought the score to 17-16 going into halftime.

The third quarter finally saw Monterio Smith – 265 total yards and 4 TDs in week one – get some touches for the Panthers. On a third-and-goal from the 4-yard line, Coach Chapman called a timeout and drew up a drag route to get Smith open in the left corner of the end zone. The play worked to perfection as Naughton hit Smith on the 4-yard pass to give Comstock Park a 23-16 lead with 3:41 remaining in the third quarter.

Comstock Park would fail to convert the PAT as the Wolves attacked relentlessly and were able to block the attempt.

Quarterback Brenden Berg and Coach Sam Becker

Wyoming would answer right back with a touchdown of their own behind the running of Justin Seitz. The senior running back picked up chunks of 7-yards at a time and finished off the drive with a 9-yard touchdown run with 11:53 left in the game.

The Wolves decided to try for two to take the lead, but would come up short to find themselves down 23-22 early in the fourth quarter.

Senior quarterback Pat Naughton took over in the fourth quarter with consistent yardage on designated runs. Late in the fourth quarter, Naughton punched in a touchdown run from 4-yards out to give the Panthers a 30-22 lead

With one final opportunity to tie things up, the Wolves sputtered on fourth down and gave the ball back to the Panthers. Comstock Park would finish off the game in the victory formation and win their home opener by a final of 30-22.

After 33 Years, Scoreboard Show Still Honoring Little League Success

July 2, 2015Local Faces, Recreation, Sports, WKTV ProjectsDistrict 9, Little League, Scoreboard Show, WKTVJoanne

The year was 1982 and Little League’s District 9 needed an effective and convenient way to release its tournament schedule and results to the rest of the public. The internet didn’t exist, phone calls left much to be desired, and snail mail slowed the spread of information to a crawl.

Scoreboard Show Kids — Players giving shout outs to their parents

The solution ended up being more successful than anticipated, the District 9 Scoreboard Show, a television show three decades in the making.

Little League is a massive organization that manages youth baseball and softball throughout the country. In 1982, officials reached out to WKTV with an idea, create a show geared towards the Little League playoffs. The show would air the game schedule and results, interview players and teams, and keep the league updated during the hectic playoff schedule!

While the main purpose of the show was to disseminate information regarding the league, the Scoreboard Show allowed the Little League participants their shining moment, and shine they did.

Teams, complete with full roster and coaching staff, are given the opportunity to introduce themselves to the community on WKTV. The players and coaches are interviewed and give insight into their team and season. Players talk about themselves and take time for shout outs to family and friends!

With the prevalence of the internet, and technology as a whole, the Scoreboard Show’s initial responsibility has lost its muster. League schedules and results can now be found online.

It’s quick and easy, just like everything in the internet age.

The Scoreboard Show has had to adapt with the changes in technology. While the scores and schedules are still reported, it’s the focus on the players, the kids, that keep the show alive.

“As a community media station, we’re here to serve the community,” explains WKTV General Manager Tom Norton, “The Scoreboard Show is a perfect example of what we’re here for. People now go to the internet for the scores, but the internet doesn’t build the community. The internet can’t showcase the players and their coaches. The Scoreboard Show can.”

When a show’s been on the air for over three decades, some evolution is necessary, but it’s important to keep the soul of the broadcast. That soul is what people come back for. The Scoreboard Show has kept its soul – every Little Leaguer in District 9 who has stepped onto the diamond.

Anglers Encouraged to Monitor Bait to Spot Juvenile Asian Carp

June 6, 2015Recreation, SportsJoanne

by The Michigan Department of Natural Resources

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers to monitor their live bait purchases to look for juvenile Asian carp during the entirety of the fishing season.

The DNR is taking many steps to prevent adult Asian carp (bighead and silver) from entering the Great Lakes, but many people don’t realize that juvenile Asian carp pose a threat to the state’s waters, too.

Juvenile Asian carp can be confused with common baitfish – such as gizzard shad, emerald shiner, spottail shiner or golden shiner. Because bait often is transported across state lines, including from areas with breeding populations of Asian carp, it would be possible for juvenile Asian carp to make their way into the bait supply without anyone realizing it.

A video is available online to assist anglers and the public in identifying juvenile Asian carp. It showcases five characteristics that viewers can use to distinguish between juvenile Asian carp (bighead and silver) and common baitfish, including:

*Body color.
*Scale pattern, shape and size.
*Eye size and location on the head.
*Mouth shape and location.
*Presence or absence of keels on the bottom side of the fish.

The video can be viewed on the DNR’s Asian carp website at michigan.gov/asiancarp.

The video also describes what an angler should do if he or she thinks there is a juvenile Asian carp – or any odd-looking fish – in the bait bucket. Anglers are encouraged to keep the questionable fish alive or freeze the fish and contact the DNR to correctly identify the fish in question. The DNR does not want questionable fish to be used as bait. Once anglers are done fishing, remaining baitfish should be disposed of in the trash.

This video is one of several items the DNR has developed to increase public awareness about Asian carp. For more information, visit michigan.gov/asiancarp.

Competitive Cheerleading a Life-Changer, Team Members Say

May 13, 2015Area Education, Local Faces, Our Cities, SportsJoanne

It’s a sport that builds strength, stamina

by Paul R. Kopenkoskey

competitive cheer1 — Competitive cheerleading has been an eye-opening experience for April Martinez.

There’s more to competitive cheerleading than performing heart-stopping extended split stunts and the toe touch basket toss. Godwin Height High School team members say the sport literally changes lives.

Just ask eleventh-grader Joy Parker.

“I was failing all my classes before coach gave me a place to relieve stress,” she said.

Joy said she was considering dropping out of school, but the friendships she has forged with her teammates has enabled her to tunnel through her troubles.

“I didn’t think I could graduate,” Joy said. “Cheering saved my life. This team is my life, my family. It has given me hope.”

This stunt is called the “toe touch basket toss to a cradle catch.”

Tenth-grader April Martinez joined the team in November because she’s outgoing and cheerful, which convinced her that competitive cheerleading would be a good fit. Her hunch didn’t disappoint.

But competitive cheerleading also has been an eye-opener. Before she joined, April assumed cheerleading would be a cakewalk. Far from it. But it’s that inherent challenge competitive cheerleading requires that ensures April shows up for each practice and competition.

It Takes Strength, Stamina

“You have to have strength and stamina,” April said. “It’s a lot of work, commitment and time. If you try your best, you can do it. Coach has taught us if you can dream it, you can do it.”

“Coach” is Amanda Cook, one of the 25-member varsity cheerleading team (grades 9-12) and 30 sideline cheerleaders seen at football games. Godwin’s team competes against Lee, Kelloggsville, Hopkins, Calvin Christian and NorthPointe Christian.

It’s competitive cheerleading that gets the heart pumping, Cook said.

Competitive cheerleading is judged for cheer creativity; emotion and voice strength; skills in executing splits, tumbles and jumps; and “stunting,” which ranges from the two-legged variety to one-legged extended stunts and high-flying basket tosses.

Like Any Other Sport

Make no mistake, Godwin’s cheerleaders consider competitive cheerleading a sport just as much as shooting hoops or running on the gridiron.”We run like other athletes,” said tenth-grader Najha Lofton, who’s been cheering for four years. “We have to lift bodies in the air. You get tired. You still have to work as hard as other athletes.”Najha likes that challenge. She also appreciates how it helped her overcome her fear of flying – in an airplane.”I’m very determined to get things done,” Najha said. “I used to have a fear of flying in a plane or roller coaster. Not anymore. I love tumbling. It’s my favorite part. I’m really flexible, so that helps.”Coach Cook said being involved in cheerleading often surprises those on the team.

“A lot of the girls don’t consider themselves athletes and after one season, they really see themselves as athletes,” she said. “We really do lift weights and run laps. I’ve had seven girls play soccer for first time this year because they were too afraid to join until they joined the cheerleader team.”

Volunteer Month: Mike Moll and a Love for Sports

April 29, 2015Local Faces, SportsMike Moll, sports, Volunteer, Volunteer Month, WKTVJoanne

April is National Volunteer Month and along with Michele Smith-Aversa and Kathy Gray, we would like to take the time to honor Mike Moll with his contributions to the sports department on-air and on the web at WKTV.

Mike is a man who loves sports and put that love to work by volunteering at the station. He started his volunteering stint six years ago when he was asked by Paul Kabelman – one of the Sports Directors at WKTV – to announce a high school football game. Mike was thrown into the fire as part of a three-man crew and he had a blast!

“My first game I did color with two other guys in the booth,” describes Mike, “I didn’t do a whole lot of talking, I wanted to soak it in and figure out what I was doing, but I did it once and loved it!”

As a part of the sports department, Mike does a lot more than just show up and announce at kickoff. On top of commentating, he writes stories for now.wktv.org, puts the full sports schedules together for the station, and works with athletic directors to get stats and set up communications with players and coaches.

Mike Moll has found a passion in announcing for WKTV

Mike, a self proclaimed stat nut, doesn’t mind doing the work necessary to get the information he needs, “It’s hard because there’s not a lot of info and stats available for high school sports. You have to do your own digging by making phone calls to coaches and athletic directors.”

The inside of WKTV's Mobile Unit — The inside of WKTV’s Mobile Unit

Being a volunteer for the past six years, Mike has seen changes within the sports department and the technology offered by the station. He mentioned the truck and it’s massive changes. It’s now all digital and allows for beautiful broadcasts, and it’s all run by volunteers! He’s also very impressed with the new graphics and the focus they have on individual players and coaches.

“Kids and coaches have commented on the individual focus and how it helps get their stories out there. The players like to share information about themselves,” explains Mike.

Producing a game takes a lot of volunteers and their time. Not only do you need the announcers, but you also need camera operators, a director, people to run cables, and graphics and replay operators. They’re all needed for only one game!

It takes a whole team and a lot of hard work, but Mike sees the bigger picture for his volunteer work, “There are an awful lot of amazing student-athletes to cover and we get to give them attention. It’s an opportunity to give back. Could you imagine if no one volunteered?”

No, Mike, I couldn’t! Volunteering is important and also extremely rewarding. Plus, Mike sees another outlet for his volunteering, “It gives me the opportunity to put my work life away for a little while. If I could do my career all over again, I would be an announcer. I’m going to do this for as long as they’ll let me!”

Craft Beer Clubhouse a Grand Slam in Early Season

April 27, 2015Local Business, Local Food, SportsCraft Beer Clubhouse, Fifth Third Ballpark, WhiteCapsJoanne

Opening day at Fifth Third Ballpark not only marked the start of a new baseball season for the West Michigan Whitecaps, but also a grand opening for the ballpark’s Craft Beer Clubhouse.

The new Beer Clubhouse is located along the third base concourse and offers a unique experience from the rest of the ballpark. While the stadium is built to “play ball,” and escaping the weather is near impossible, the Craft Beer Clubhouse offers a different atmosphere completely.

Inside the bar is an atmosphere set up much like Founder’s Brewery, a rustic feel with dim lighting to enhance a raw, relaxed environment. The bar is heated and air conditioned so it is always open for business, no matter the weather! That’s a huge bonus in Michigan where it can snow at a moments notice, even in April.

The Craft Beer Clubhouse is located along the third base line — The Craft Beer Clubhouse is located along the third base concourse

Now, the most important question, what does the Craft Beer Clubhouse have on tap? The bar currently has 16 local beers on tap from Perrin’s, Bell’s, Founders, Brewery Vivant, The Mitten Brewing Co., and Arcadia.

“The response has been extremely positive, it’s super busy all the time,” explained Katie Johnson, Food and Beverage Manager for the WhiteCaps, “The Craft Clubhouse has been busier than all the other beer stands in the stadium combined.”

Craft beer isn’t the only thing new inside the stadium. The ballpark has added a couple new dishes to the menu. The Hot-to-Tot! is a dish with buffalo chicken and bleu cheese dish covered in tater tots. There was also a new desert item added, the Beer-a-Misu, a desert with a craft beer and ice cream.

The early part of the season has seen the creation of another menu item with some inspiration from current WhiteCap Joey Pancake. The Joey Pancake is a sandwich with pulled pork and bacon drizzled with maple syrup and placed between two pancakes. Talk about a treat!

Be sure to catch a WhiteCaps game this season, try the new eats, and a craft beer… or two!

WKTV Takes a New Approach to Live Sports

April 13, 2015SportsWKTV Graphics, WKTV SportsJoanne

It’s a dream scenario for every young athlete, something that’s thought about during every live telecast. What would they say about me? How would the announcers introduce me, and most importantly, what story would the stats tell?

I always envisioned myself looking into the camera, “Mike DeWitt, six-foot-one, point guard (or wide receiver depending on the sports season).” Then the graphics would flash the stats. Something impressive to show the fans what a monster I was on the playing field.

“Averages a triple-double… by halftime!”

“6 receptions, 305 yards, and 6 touchdowns in last years championship game.”

The stats serve to paint a picture of who the athlete is on the field, nothing more, nothing less. But what if the graphics shown let the audience know what an athlete was like off the field, as a person? Someone bigger than the term “athlete.”

These were questions posed during a WKTV Sports Department meeting back in November towards the tail-end of the the high school football season. Since high school sports teach more than winning and losing, and all of these athletes have futures off the playing field, why isn’t the focus on their lives outside of sports?

WKTV broadcasts at least one live high school athletic event a week throughout the fall, winter and spring seasons. The upcoming winter season was the perfect testing ground for the new idea. A meeting with the local athletic directors from the Wyoming-Kentwood area garnered more support for the shift in WKTV’s coverage of high school sports. Instead of a player’s sport stats on the introduction graphics, the broadcast would use a player’s “life stats” like their GPA, hobbies, college, and career interest.

The change in the graphics went into effect during the winter season and it took off in a big way! Players were excited to share their interests off the court and it added to the overall broadcast of high school sports.

“When we ask the players about their life interests, they’re always a caught off-guard a little. It’s not something they’re expecting as the first question,” explains Kyle Panek, the graphics technician at WKTV, “Once one athlete shares a little about themselves, the others jump in too. It fun to watch the guys interact, open up, and joke around with each other as we’re getting the information we need.”

WKTV sees high school sports as a way for kids to learn life lessons such as teamwork, perseverance, hard work, camaraderie, and discipline. It’s about so much more than just winning!

After the success throughout the winter season, the new graphics program is here to stay! It will again be used during spring, and the program will be out of experimental mode and into full gear by fall.

Godwin Heights Completes First State Championship Run

March 31, 2015SportsGodwin Heights Basketball, Godwin Hights State Championship, MHSAA Class B finalsJoanne

With the clock at all zeros, the celebration into the night could officially begin for first-year Coach Tyler Whittemore and his team as Godwin Heights topped Detroit Henry Ford 85-68 in the Class B State Championship.

For those in attendance, the celebration started a little earlier with the Wolverines already leading by 21-points heading into halftime. The way Godwin was shooting the ball, and with their ability to lock-down any team defensively, 21 points may as well have been 50. Detroit Henry Ford didn’t stand a chance.

About that shooting, the Wolverines shot over 48 percent from the field, including 10-15 from downtown. In the first half alone, 8 of their 11 shots from behind the arc found the bottom of the net.

That lock-down defense? It lead to 17 Detroit Henry Ford turnovers and a 16-2 advantage in points off of turnovers.

The Wolverines were locked in and it didn’t matter who the opponent was. With all the adversity the team had faced in the off-season, they weren’t leaving the Breslin Center without the team’s first ever State Championship title.

godwin rally 5 — Coach Tyler Whittemore cuts down the net at Monday’s pep rally.

Before the season started, long-time coach Chad Conklin stepped down from his position to deal with a family crisis. Coach Conklin had been the cornerstone to building Godwin Heights into a power program. He led the Wolverines to the Semi-Finals in 2013 and the Quarterfinals last season.

Then, on August 4th, former Godwin basketball player Ta’Carhi Richardson was shot and killed at the age of 17. He had previously played under Coach Whittemore at the JV level.

High School principle, and former coach, Chad Conklin spoke to the students and community at a pep rally on Monday, “On the very first day of school I gave a speech to challenge the student body here at Godwin Heights. To make the most of the opportunities that you have and that have been presented in front of you. Today marks the second time that this school has completed a State Championship this year!”

It all came together in East Lansing. The outside shooting, the relentless defense, the ultimate will to win. Five Godwin players finished with double-digits in scoring. Delaney Blaylock finished with 19, Lamar Norton had 17, Michael Williams and Leon Redd each added 13, and Richard Major logged 12.

Everyone stepped up, Lamar Norton, a freshman, finished 7-9 from the field and a perfect 3-3 from downtown.

It was the type of game every coach dreams of. Not winning a State Championship – although that never hurts – but a team playing to their full potential and playing for one another. It culminated on Saturday night for the Wolverines and resulted in a State Championship.

Godwin Heights and Tri-Unity Christian Onto the Quarterfinals

March 19, 2015SportsGodwin Heights, MHSAA Playoffs, Regional Championship, Tri-Unity ChristianJoanne

Regional Champions have been decided on the court and the field is set for the State Quarterfinals! Two Wyoming-Kentwood area teams are still breathing after winning their Region. Godwin Heights is alive in Class B and Tri-Unity Christian is coming together and making a strong push in Class D.

Godwin Heights won their third straight Regional Championship on Wednesday night and is hoping third time’s a charm after coming up short of the State Finals each of the past two seasons.

The Wolverines put a thumping on Charlotte in the final Regional game by a score of 81-37. Godwin ended the first half on a 29-0 run and 12 Wolverines scored a point in the contest. In the Regional, the Fighting Wolverines looked their best and destroyed the competition by a combined score of 157-76.

Godwin Heights and Tri-Unity Christian are one game away from the Breslin Center

Two years ago the Wolverines beat Unity Christian in the State Quarterfinals before losing to Detroit Community in the Semi-Finals. Last season, they entered the Quarterfinals undefeated and lost to Benton Harbor. First year coach Tyler Whittemore is looking to get the Wolverines over the hump and into the State Finals in 2015.

Godwin Heights will face Spring Lake in the Class B State Quarterfinals on March 24. The game will be held at Rockford High School.

For the third time in five years, the Tri-Unity Christian boys basketball team is onto the State Quarterfinals after beating Mendon 60-42 in the Regional Final behind 23 points from Willie O’Toole.

While the Defenders 14-10 record may not look daunting, they’re a team on a hot streak! After starting the season 4-9, Coach Keeler’s team has ripped off 10 of their last 11, and they’re winning when it counts!

Tri-Unity Christian will play Morenci in the Class D Quarterfinals at Kalamazoo Loy Norrix High School on March 24.

Good luck to our Wyoming-Kentwood teams!

Wyoming-Kentwood Area Teams and Playoff Results

East Kentwood Boys
District Semi-Final – W Middleville Thornapple Kellogg (52-47)
District Final – L Ottawa Hills (56-59)

East Kentwood Girls
District First Round – L Byron Center (36-41)

Godwin Heights Boys
District Semi-Final – W Kelloggsville (86-47)
District Final – W Wayland Union (63-56)
Regional Semi-Final – W Alma (76-39)
Regional Final – W Charlotte (81-37)
State Quarterfinals – 3/24 Spring Lake

Godwin Heights Girls
District Semi-Final – W Kelloggsville (50-39)
District Final – L Wayland Union (32-75)

Grand River Prep Boys
District Semi-Final – L Wayland Union (34-80)

Grand River Prep Girls
District Semi-Final – L Wayland Union (46-76)

Kelloggsville Boys
District First Round – W Aviation Academy (85-34)
District Semi-Final – L Godwin Heights (86-47)

Kelloggsville Girls
District Semi-Final – L Godwin Heights (39-50)

Potter’s House Boys
District First Round – W Holland Calvary (44-55)

Potter’s House Girls
District First Round – W Holland Calvary (50-42)
District Semi-Finals – L Wyoming Tri-Unity Christian (45-64)

South Christian Boys
District First Round – L Wayland Union (62-72)

South Christian Girls
District First Round – L Wayland Union (39-59)

Tri-Unity Boys
District Semi-Final – W Holland Calvary (60-43)
District Final – W Zion Christian (57-28)
Regional Semi-Final – W Kalamazoo Heritage Christian (72-44)
Regional Final – W Mendon (60-42)
State Quarterfinal – 3/24 Morenci

Tri-Unity Girls
District First Round – W West Michigan Lutheran (64-37)
District Semi-Final – W Zion Christian (51-43)
District Final – W Potter’s House Christian (64-45)
Regional Semi-Final – W Martin (48-38)
Regional Final – L St Joseph Michigan Lutheran (43-62)

West Michigan Aviation Academy Boys
District First Round – L Kelloggsville (34-85)

West Michigan Lutheran Boys
District Semi-Final – L Byron Center Zion Christian (27-55)

West Michigan Lutheran Girls
District First Round – L Tri-Unity Christian (37-64)

Wyoming Boys
District First Round – W Zeeland East (71-59)
District Semi-Final – L Hudsonville (64-77)

Wyoming Girls
District First Round – W Zeeland East (66-40)
District Semi-Final – W West Ottawa (57-53)
District Final – L Hudsonville (49-64)

Wyoming Lee Boys
District First Round – L Comstock Park (29-56)

Wyoming Lee Girls
District Semi-Final – L Catholic Central (6-76)

Survive and Advance: Two Wyoming-Kentwood Area Teams Still Left

March 17, 2015SportsDistrict Championship, East Kentwood, Godwin Heights, March Madness, MHSAA Basketball, Regional Championship, Wyoming Tri-Unity ChristianJoanne

Going into the weekend, four Wyoming-Kentwood area basketball teams still envisioned playing in the MHSAA State Championship game at the Breslin Center. After the dust settled, two teams faltered while the other two were able to keep the dream alive.

The Godwin Heights boys basketball team took on Wayland Union in the District final on Friday night and came out victorious, 63-56, thanks to some poor free throw shooting (46 percent) by the Wildcats. The District Championship was a first for new head coach Tyler Whittemore.

After winning Districts, the Wolverines faced off against Alma on Monday night in the Regional Semi-Final. Their patented suffocating ball pressure did its job and allowed the Wolverines to jump out to a 47-16 halftime lead! Godwin ended up coasting to a 76-39 victory. The team plays Charlotte on Wednesday for the Regional Championship.

The Tri-Unity Christian boys team dominated Zion Christian on Friday night to get back on track with a District Championship. Last season, for the first time since 1999, the Defenders didn’t get out of Districts! That changed with a 57-28 win over Byron Center Zion Christian.

Then, in the Regional Semi-Final, Chris Osantowski led Tri-Unity Christian to a victory with an impressive stat-line of 18 points, eight rebounds, six blocks and three steals! That great individual effort was more than enough to hound Kalamazoo Heritage Christian and give the Defenders a 72-44 victory. Mendon awaits in the Regional Championship

Godwin Heights Basketball — Godwin Heights wants a high-five, they’re playing for a Regional Championship!

In the girls Regional Championship on Thursday night, the Defenders of Tri-Unity Christian squared off against St. Joseph Michigan Lutheran. The Titans jumped out to an early 7-0 lead and didn’t look back. Ball pressure and early three-point shooting become too much for Tri-Unity to handle as they fell 62-43. The Defenders finish their 2015 campaign with a District Championship and an 18-7 record.

East Kentwood played with fire all season, winning nine games by six points or less, but still stood undefeated entering the District Championship on Friday night against Ottawa Hills. This game was no different as Ottawa Hills held a 15-point lead entering the fourth quarter. The Falcons ended up storming back held a one-point lead with less than a minute to play.

Unfortunately, when you play with fire it’s eventually going to burn you, and East Kentwood finally felt the burn. Lance Windom hit a jump-shot with 12 seconds left to give the Bengals a 59-56 victory and a District Championship over the Falcons! It was a great season for East Kentwood as they finished with a 21-1 record.

This piece was edited on 3/19 to include the Tri-Unity Christian Boys Basketball team!

Wyoming-Kentwood Area Teams and Playoff Results

East Kentwood Boys
District Semi-Final – W Middleville Thornapple Kellogg (52-47)
District Final – L Ottawa Hills (56-59)

East Kentwood Girls
District First Round – L Byron Center (36-41)

Godwin Heights Boys
District Semi-Final – W Kelloggsville (86-47)
District Final – W Wayland Union (63-56)
Regional Semi-Final – W Alma (76-39)
Regional Final – 3/18 Charlotte