Wyoming City Council will be interviewing four candidates Monday night to fill a vacant council seat. (WKTV)
The Wyoming City Council will be interviewing four candidates for the open council seat vacated by John Fitzgerald.
In November, Fitzgerald was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, serving primarily the City of Wyoming.
When taking his seat in December, Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood said one of the first jobs the council had was to fill the vacant seat. The person selected to fill the council member-at-large seat would serve out the remainder of the term which ends in 2024.
Starting at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, the council will be interviewing the four candidates. Interviews will last 30 minutes with a 10 minute break/transition period. WKTV will be airing the interviews starting at 3:30 p.m. on Channel 26 with the regular council meeting to follow at 7 p.m.
According to City Clerk Kelli Vandenberg, the city received 19 applicants to fill the vacancy. The Council narrowed those applicants to four candidates. All the candidates have served the city in various capacities.
The candidates are (They are listed in order of interviews.):
3:30 p.m. Andrea Boot was the city’s treasurer. She retired from that position this past summer. She also has served as a city election worker.
4:10 p.m. Gabriella De La Vega is the president of the Mexican Heritage Association of West Michigan . She is a language coordinator for Trinity Health. She has served the city on its Parks and Recreation Commission and the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance.
4:40 p.m. Tommy Brann is a longtime business owner of Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 4157 Division Ave. S. Brann recently completed serving eight years in the Michigan House of Representatives, he was termed out, and in November, ran for a Michigan senate seat that was won by Senator Winnie Brinks.
5:20 p.m. Robert Kilgo is the assistant to the president of Grace Christian University and serves as a mentor to at-risk students in Wyoming. In November, Kilgo along with Rob Arnoys and Renee Hill ran for two council seats. Arnoys and Hill were elected to the seats.
According to the Council agenda, once the interviews are complete, the council will discuss and then appoint a candidate to the position who will take oath of office that night.
The last time the council had to fill a vacant seat was in 2018 when Bill Ver Hulst resigned from his First Ward seat. Sheldon DeKyrger was appointed to fill the term and then elected to the seat in the fall of 2018. He ran unopposed this past fall for the same seat.
The Wyoming City Council meets the first and third Mondays of the month at 7 p.m. in the council chambers located at Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW. For more on the City of Wyoming, visit the city’s website, wyomingmi.gov.
After a four-game winning streak, including a “Battle of Wyoming” championship over the holidays, the Wyoming girls basketball team was cooled off by Mona Shores 58-49 Tuesday.
Coach Jesse Vasquez said every time his Wolves cut into the lead, Mona Shores would build it up again.
“In the fourth quarter, Mona had us by 14 points and we cut it down to seven, but couldn’t get over the hump,” said Vasquez, whose team fell to 6-4 overall. “They would make a big 3 to put it back at 10 points.
“We just couldn’t get in a rhythm. They did a real good job defensively against us, and we couldn’t find a bucket when we needed one.”
Last year, Mona Shores finished atop the OK Green at 12-2 and were 19-4 overall.
Wyoming freshman Myah Nabors led in scoring with eight points.
Vasquez said La’Anna Griffin, Shakya Anderson and Meneliza McGee are “some big pieces for us this year.”
Turning things around
Vasquez said recently winning the Potter’s House holiday tournament, the “Battle of Wyoming,” was a cool experience.
“It was a great atmosphere; really loud and great that our girls found a way at the end to win,” said Vasquez, whose Wolves were 4-17 overall last year and have won two more games at this early point in the season.
“I didn’t come in to a bare cupboard; the cupboards are very full,” continued Vasquez, in his first season. “We’re getting them to rely on their teammates, trust one another and they definitely put the work in every practice.
Wyoming cruised past Godwin Heights in the first ‘Battle of Wyoming’ girls basketball tourney opener on Wednesday.(WKTV)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Wyoming used its size and physicality to overpower Godwin Heights in the opening game of the first ‘Battle of Wyoming’ girls basketball tournament on Wednesday night at Potter’s House High School.
The Wolves secured a 65-45 victory as forward LaAnna Griffin recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Aaliyah Ratliff added 12 points.
Wyoming sophomore Shakya Anderson goes in for a basket. (WKTV)
The frontcourt duo of Griffin and Shakya Anderson were able to establish their presence in the post and provided key baskets according to Wyoming coach Jesse Vasquez.
“Everytime Godwin would make a run we threw the ball into them and they made some good shots,” Vasquez said. “Which allowed us to get into our defensive sets after a make.
“I thought our defensive pressure causing problems and the way we rebounded really turned the game for us.”
Godwin tries to defend against Wyoming’s fast moving LaAnna Griffin (15). (WKTV)
The importance of this win could not be understated for the Wolves (4-3), who have already matched last year’s win total and have the look of a much improved team.
“To come out against Godwin, a school right down the road from us. A lot of the girls know each other.
“And to win a basketball game because of our effort and energy it’s huge for us.”
Battle of Wyoming championship Thursday
Wyoming faces host Potter’s House in the ‘Battle of Wyoming’ championship on Thursday at 7 p.m. The Pumas beat Kelloggsville in the other semifinal game, 58-31.
As we approach holiday travel, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting a busy week and is reminding guests to pack their patience.
The Ford Airport is expecting travel levels similar to 2019. While they are ready for guests, they are reminding travelers of the importance of patience and planning ahead.
“We are eager and ready to help guests connect with their family and friends over the holidays as West Michigan’s gateway to the world,” said COO Alex Peric. “We encourage guests to pack their patience while fellow community members work diligently to ensure a smooth travel experience for everyone.”
Travel Stats
Expected Holiday Travel: 165,000-plus passengers from December 19 through January 2. This includes both departing and arriving passengers.
Traffic: Guest traffic is currently at 98 percent of 2019, which was a record-breaking year for the Airport. Ford Airport expects to be at or near 2019 levels by end of 2022. Currently, they are seeing an average of a 22 percent increase in guest numbers from 2021.
Peak Holiday Travel Dates: December 19 through January 2. The busiest departure day is expected to be December 22.
Top Destinations: Atlanta, Denver, Chicago, Charlotte, Dallas, Punta Gorda and Orlando.
Airline Contacts
For questions about specific flights, baggage handling, and more, reach out directly to the airline.
Allegiant (702-505-8888)
Delta Air Lines (800-221-1212)
Southwest Airlines (800-435-9792)
American Airlines (800-433-7300)
Frontier Airlines (801-401-9000)
United Airlines (800-241-6522)
TSA Inquiries: TSA.gov
Weather and Staffing
As a reminder, the Ford International Airport never closes. Inclement weather can cause delays and cancellations. The Airport manages clearing runways and other infrastructure while individual airlines are responsible for plane de-icing. Individual airlines also are responsible for check-ins and all matters related to gates, including departures and deplanings.
(WMAA: Ethan Dyksterhouse, 23 points, 13 rebounds, 4 blocks; Luke Riebel, 13 points, 3 rebounds; Joseph May, 12 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, 6 turnovers)
Lee at Grand River Prep
Grand Haven at East Kentwood
Godwin Heights at Belding
Hopkins at Kelloggsville
Tuesday, Jan. 17 Girls Basketball
Wyoming 48, Holland 33
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 18 points; Michaela Moore, 10 points off the bench)
Kenowa Hills 54, South Christian 47
(SC: Ashley Raredon, 22. KH: M. Holman, 26 points)
Grand River Prep 50, Lee 27
(Kennedie Crawford, 19 points)
Belding at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Hopkins
Potter’s House Christian 49, Muskegon Oakridge 35
Tuesday, Jan. 10 Girls Basketball
South Christian 61, Ottawa Hills 20
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 16 points, Ashley Thomasma, 15; Ottawa Hills: Semaj Robertson, 8; South Christian Coach Kim Legge, “It was good to have my whole team back and healthy.”)
Mona Shores 58, Wyoming 49 (see story)
Rockford 40, East Kentwood 28
NorthPointe Christian 60, Godwin Heights 48
Comstock Park 77, Kelloggsville 31
Potter’s House Christian 48, Saugatuck 37
Morley Stanwood at West Michigan Aviation
Zion Christian 50, Wyoming Homeschoolers 21
Tuesday, Jan. 10 Boys Basketball
West Michigan Aviation 69, Morley Stanwood 30
(WMAA: Luke Riebel, 14 points, 4 rebounds, 6 steals; Joseph May, 13 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists; Ian Brown, 11 points; Braeden Mowry, 8 points)
In a tight battle right down to the wire, Grandville Calvin Christian pulled it out at the end, beating Potter’s House Christian 55-51 in girls basketball Tuesday night.
“It was a super fun game, back and forth, and came down to free throws at the end,” said Potter’s House Christian Coach Jake Hoogstrate, whose team fell to 1-4 overall. “We had our looks and had our chances. We’re definitely not putting our heads down after this one.”
A see-saw battle throughout, the Pumas led 51-49 down the stretch, until Calvin Christian (5-0) scored the last six points to close it out.
“It was a really competitive game,” said Hoogstrate, in his eighth year as coach. “I though both teams played really well. I think the best players on both teams stood out and did what they needed to do.”
Junior captain Anyieth Nhial led Potter’s House with 23 points.
Potter’s House junior captain Anyieth Nhial. (Courtesy, Jake Szetela)
“She played really well tonight,” said Hoogstrate, of his three-year varsity player.
Senior captain Isabelle Baez added 11 points, including 8 for 10 from the free throw line.
“Only one senior graduated last year and we feel really good about this season,” Hoogstrate said. “Starting Friday, everyone will be back at full strength. We have a tough road until the first of the year and we’ll see where we’re at after that.
“We look forward to defending the Alliance League championship.”
The Pumas were 7-0 in the league and finished 16-6 overall last year.
Though the Godfrey-Lee boys basketball team finished 5-16 overall last year, Coach Dominic Shannon said they were viewed by fans as one of the best as far as their will to fight.
“They were a very feisty 5-16 last year,” said Shannon, in his second year at Lee. “From fans and people that follow the school, I’ve heard last year was one of the best we’ve seen as far as their fight every single night.
“And we’re looking to move this program forward this year.”
Kelloggsville transfer Marc Whitfield, a junior, led the Legends with 21 points, five boards, four steals and three assists, while Joe Russau added 14 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
“Whitfield is very passionate and intense,” Shannon said. “The team feeds off his energy and they definitely follow his lead.
“Russau can score from the inside and out and is one of the leaders on the team as well.”
Shannon said junior Clarence Lewis is a very aggressive defender and led in steals against Martin.
After winning a state championship last season, Tri-unity tipped off 2022-23 with a 55-22 win over Muskegon Orchard View. (pxhere.com)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Despite a sluggish start offensively, Tri-unity Christian found its rhythm in the second half to pull away from Muskegon Orchard View 52-22 in its season opener Tuesday.
Without two returning key starters from a 2021-22 D-4 state championship, as well as last season’s leading scorer and Division 4 player of the year Brady Titus, the Defenders spread the scoring load out as Owen Rosendall led the way with 11 points.
“I really liked how we shared the ball tonight,” Tri-unity coach Mark Keeler said. “We have some really good players, but no dominant scorers yet like we had in Brady.”
Returning guard Jordan Vanklompenberg missed tonight’s game with a hamstring injury, as well as returning center Hanif James. The 6-foot-5 big man could miss up to six weeks with an injury sustained during football season.
Tri-unity (1-0) leaned on its defense in a low-scoring first half and led the Cardinals (0-1) 17-11 at the half.
With some adjustments made in the second half, the offense began to flow according to Keeler.
“We kind of forgot what we were doing on offense in that first half,” Keeler said. “We came out a bit more patient offensively in the second and I think once our kids settled in we were able to run our sets.”
Filling in for James, Trey Rillema added 10 rebounds and three blocks, one of which came on a chased-down rejection that Keeler described as “amazing effort.”
Sophomore guard Katon Blanker had an efficient night as well with nine points.
“Our trademark is defense and I think we were able to get them pressing a bit which led to some easy buckets,” Keeler said. “It’s always an adjustment when you have guys out and guys playing in new roles.”
WKTV Game of the Week on Friday
The Defenders host Northpointe Christian on Friday at 7 p.m. in WKTV’s Game of the Week presentation.
Coming off a 4-17 season, the Wyoming girls basketball team is ready to turn the page, jumping out to a 2-1 record with a 45-28 road win over Comstock Park Tuesday.
First-year coach Jesse Vasquez said though they’re taking it one game at a time, the team has its sights set on competing for an OK Green championship.
“You have to have high goals and high standards to achieve big things,” said Vasquez, whose Wolves finished 1-13 in the conference last year. “I believe they’re buying into the things our coaching staff is preaching every day. The more success you have along the way the more you keep buying in and wanting to work.
“Last year was a rough year. This year, we’re getting there every day.”
Sophomore Shakya Anderson led Wyoming with 20 point and nine rebounds, including 16 points in the first half alone.
“She’s been pretty good the last two games,” Vasquez said. “She had 15 boards the second game of the year. She’s big in the post.”
Senior leader Aaliyah Ratliff, high scorer the first two games, added eight points against Comstock Park.
Sophomore Meneliza McGee led with four steals against CP and five against Coopersville earlier.
“McGee is a defensive catalyst,” Vasquez said. “She sets the tone for our defense.”
Freshman Myah Nabors added nine points and five assists.
“We have a lot of skill and it’s now just getting them to play together,” Vesquez said. “If we can believe in each other all the time, we’re going to be dangerous.”
Our WKTV truck has been busy all season long covering exciting high school football Games of the Week in the Wyoming/Kentwood viewing area.
If you missed a GOTW, or would like to watch one for a second time, be sure to see our 22nd Annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving Day.
The 15-Hour Special, which starts at 9 a.m. Nov. 24, highlights most of our high school football Games of the Week. The Turkey Bowl is streamed live on the WKTV website at wktv.org or using this link: https://www.wktv.org/live25.html
Wyoming Athletic Director Ted Hollern summed it up best when describing No. 1 tennis player and senior Logan Bos.
“He’s not the big, glamorous state-ranked player, but for four years he’s been the leader of our tennis program and it’s fun to shine some light on him,” Hollern explained. “When you asked me to choose a student-athlete to write about, Logan was the first one that came to my mind, and we have many good athletes. I just admire his determination and the fight in him.
“He will be a big success in his future. His dedication and perseverance are going to serve him so well throughout college and his career.”
Lifelong lessons
Hollern said the most important thing in high school athletics is teaching the lifelong lessons.
“When you get knocked down, you pick yourself back up,” Hollern continued. “He had to go up against everyone’s best tennis player in the conference, and he showed a lot of grit and dedication.
“He’s been such a positive influence among the tennis players. He has quietly been one of the big leaders and has made a big impact on our tennis program.”
He has been No. 1 singles for Wyoming all four years and all-conference throughout as well, according to Hollern, who also calls Bos “an outstanding tennis player.”
Bos said his greatest trait on the tennis court is his hustle.
“I never run out of juice, even if my opponent is placing the ball with perfect precision and speed,” said Bos, who began tennis at age 6 with Smart Start Tennis at Wyoming. “I really enjoy being able to let all of my energy out when I hustle around the court. I feel like when I’m playing I have unlimited stamina and can maintain the same speed throughout all of the matches I play.”
His best tennis memory
“I was battling in a match against Sparta’s No. 1 singles last year in 99.5 degree heat index. The match lasted longer than two hours and eventually I won, beating him through two sets and a tiebreak, 5-7, 7-5, 10-4.”
Bos finished the season with a 7-10 record, and as Hollern explained, had to play every team’s No. 1 player all season long.
“As a team we didn’t win any matches, but many players were new to tennis and just seeing them grow as a group was fascinating,” said Bos, who also played baseball and soccer growing up. “One of our doubles teams got their first ever win against Ottawa Hills this season and that was an exciting experience for them.”
A brotherhood
“The Wyoming Wolves tennis team is like being part of a brotherhood. Everyone else thinks we are the underdogs when we go into a match and we just believe the motto of Wyoming versus everybody. We know we don’t have the best chance to go far, but we hustle as best as we can to keep up and maybe even sneak a few upset wins into the season.”
(Courtesy, Kelly Bos)
Favorite thing away from tennis
“My podcast on Spotify: Prairie Sports, named after the street Wyoming High school is located on and where me and my co-host Wyatt Hall discuss everything related to Detroit Sports,” said Bos, who has a 3.84 GPA. “Another thing I enjoy is partaking in Fantasy Football with my friends on Sleeper.
“I have always believed that I could create my own sports radio talk show about the Detroit Lions someday.”
Middle College Program at GRCC
Bos is in the Middle College program supported by Grand Rapids Community College.
“This program allows me to get my Associate’s degree and my high school diploma in my 13th year,” Bos said. “I am currently undecided on an exact career path, but will likely pursue my Bachelor’s degree at a local university following my 13th year.”
The Godwin Heights boys soccer team captured the OK Silver crown this fall. (Courtesy Photo)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
To Henry Lopez-Pinedo, soccer is more than just a game, it’s a passion.
“I love soccer because it’s a unique and one-of-a-kind sport,” said Lopez-Pinedo, a junior at Godwin Heights and varsity soccer player. “There can be hard moments and good moments, but this sport is something that will stick with me forevermore, a sport I will love more than anything.”
Henry Lopez-Pinedo with club team MFA Revolution during a college showcase game in June 2022. (Courtesy Federico Villafuerte)
As a center attacking midfielder for the Wolverines, Lopez-Pinedo led his team to an OK Silver Conference title as the top scorer in the league with 25 goals. He added one more in district play to finish with 26. He also had 16 assists this season for a Godwin Heights team that finished 13-0 in the conference, 15-2 overall.
While being undefeated in conference was a great accomplishment, Lopez-Pinedo said the highlight of the season was a home game against Calvin Christian. Teammate Abou Meshake crossed the ball in the box and Lopez-Pinedo knocked in a header.
“A lot of emotions ran through my mind because we haven’t beat Calvin in several years and this season we beat them twice,” Lopez-Pinedo said.
Not always his passion
“When I first started playing soccer, I didn’t like it at all,” Lopez-Pinedo admitted. “I was just a kid who loved playing with his toys.”
Lopez-Pinedo’s father, Leónides Lopez, an experienced soccer player in both Mexico and the United States, introduced Henry to the game by taking him to practices at the Olé Futsal Club. Lopez-Pinedo admitted to feeling nervous and not wanting to play.
Leónides spent hours on the field with his son, helping him hone his skills until Lopez-Pinedo’s nervousness began to fade.
“He made me work and work and did everything for me to be better than good,” Lopez-Pinedo said.
That work paid off with Godwin Heights’ success, and with four regional and three national wins with soccer club ABK.
His coach, Federico Villafuerte, has managed the girls and boys high school soccer teams at Godwin Heights for 12 years and founded the first soccer club for the middle school.
Henry Lopez-Pinedo practicing his skills. (Courtesy, Federico Villafuerte)
During his years at Godwin Heights, Villafuerte has led the boys varsity team to four conference titles in the last 10 years, which is no small feat considering the level of competition.
“To win it, you have to be perfect,” said Villafuerte, who built the program from the ground up.
But Villafuerte views soccer as more than just a sport — it also teaches life skills.
“What you learn from high school sports is sportsmanship; you are dedicated, you have to be responsible, and you learn how to listen.”
Villafuerte said one of the biggest skills he sees from high school sports players is learning how to deal with conflicts among players and how to lead as a team instead of individually.
Not all about soccer
Coach also keeps a close eye on his players’ grades.
“Two Es, you don’t play,” Villafuerte said. “Each week we check the grades, and we make sure they are not failing two classes.”
The belief that education is important extends past high school graduation.
“We try to encourage the students to go to college,” Villafuerte continued. “One like Henry, I see he’s got the possibility there.”
Lopez-Pinedo’s future hopes include college and playing on a college soccer team, and to play at the professional level as well.
Making time for what matters
Lopez-Pinedo’s interests include more than playing soccer. He also loves to run when he isn’t training or playing soccer and enjoys watching his favorite show The Perfect Chaos.
Family time also is a priority. His favorite family activity is taking walks together, looking at nature, and “just taking time with each other.”
Following your dreams is something Lopez-Pinedo encourages everyone to do.
“I just want to say for everyone who wants to achieve their goals, to sacrifice for the best, continue to keep working. Work or sweat ‘til your last breath.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
Tri-unity beat Godfrey-Lee 50-30 in the Oct. 14 WKTV Game of the Week (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
Gobles beat Tri-unity 43-22 in Friday night football to further solidify its 8-player ranking at No.9 in 8-player Division 1.
“Offensively, we had a little bit of trouble getting our run game going, but defensively we were playing really well in the first half; bending but not breaking,” said Gobles Coach Greg Eichler, whose team improved to 7-2 overall. “We have some nice athletes; kept leaning on them.
“Regardless of who we play, we’re excited for a big playoff matchup, and not worried about our opponent, but about getting better.”
(Image Courtesy, Tri-unity Christian)
Tri-unity dropped to 4-5 overall with the loss.
“The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show.” (MHSAA.)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Godwin Heights secures a 16-12 victory over Calvin Christian in the season finale. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
With several players leaving the game due to injury, including star QB Jamarion Collins, Godwin Heights found a way to hold on for a 16-12 victory over Calvin Christian on Friday night.
Collins injured his ankle in last week’s loss to Belding and he started the game despite being less than 100 percent.
“He didn’t practice really all week,” Godwin coach Brandon Kimble said. “I had him go through yesterday’s walk-through and I would say he was about 70-80 percent.”
Led by their senior leader, the Wolverines jumped out to a 16-0 first quarter lead, but the Squires fought their way back into the game with two touchdowns of their own to make it 16-12 at the half.
That’s when things took a turn for the worse for Godwin as Collins was unable to finish the game with his injury, as well as its starting tackle, tight end and halfback.
From then on, the Wolverines’ defense took over in the second half with three interceptions, including what would end up being the game-winning pick by safety Jace Reid-Anderson.
Johnny Horrell and Miguel Ocampo also secured interceptions for Godwin.
“We were really limping to the finish line tonight,” Kimble said. “Sometimes you have to win ugly, but it doesn’t make it any less sweeter.
“Proud of our guys and happy we could get the win for our seniors.”
Godwin Heights finishes the season at 4-5 overall, and 3-3 in the OK Silver, while Calvin Christian finishes 4-5 and 1-5 in the OK Silver.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan has led the Sailors to 8-0 with one regular season game left. South Christian hopes to make a deep playoff run in Division 4, where they are currently ranked No. 2 in the state. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
By Geoff Kimmerly, MHSAA.com senior editor
Here is a list of Michigan High School Athletic Association football playing schools, displaying their win-loss records and playoff averages through the eighth week of the season.
Schools on this list are divided by division and ordered by playoff average. The top 32 teams by playoff average in each 11-player division and top 16 teams by playoff average in each 8-player division will qualify for the MHSAA Football Playoffs beginning Oct. 28. Divisions were determined prior to the start of the season, and the lists below include not only teams currently positioned to potentially qualify, but also the next eight teams in each division. (Forfeits confirmed for this week already have been added and are reflected in win-loss records and playoff points below.)
To review a list of all football playoff schools, individual school playoff point details and to report errors, visit the Football Playoff Point Summary page.
The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show.
East Kentwood defeated Jenison 16-0 during the WKTV Game of the Week on Sept. 16. The Falcons are 5-3 heading into the final regular season game and are still alive in the Division 1 playoff hunt, ranked 24th out of the 32 teams that will qualify in that division. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
1. Colon, 8-0, 36.625 2. Marion, 8-0, 34.857 3. Climax-Scotts, 7-1, 34.250 4. Powers North Central, 8-0, 33.958 5. Peck, 7-1, 32.375 6. Au Gres-Sims, 7-1, 31.625 6. Morrice, 7-1, 31.625 8. Crystal Falls Forest Park, 7-1, 30.458 9. Mendon, 6-2, 30.000 10. Posen, 7-1, 29.875 11. Gaylord St. Mary, 6-2, 28.929 12. Central Lake, 6-2, 28.500 13. Lake Linden-Hubbell, 5-3, 25.708 14. Cedarville, 5-3, 25.536 15. Camden-Frontier, 4-4, 25.250 16. Stephenson, 5-3, 24.958 17. Kinde North Huron, 5-3, 24.625 18. Bay City All Saints, 4-4, 23.000 19. Athens, 4-4, 22.625 20. Pittsford, 4-4, 22.250 21. Wyoming Tri-unity Christian, 4-4, 21.875 22. Mio, 3-5, 21.750 23. Atlanta, 3-5, 21.375 24. New Haven Merritt Academy, 4-4, 21.125
The MHSAA is a private, not-for-profit corporation of voluntary membership by more than 1,500 public and private senior high schools and junior high/middle schools which exists to develop common rules for athletic eligibility and competition. No government funds or tax dollars support the MHSAA, which was the first such association nationally to not accept membership dues or tournament entry fees from schools. Member schools which enforce these rules are permitted to participate in MHSAA tournaments, which attract more than 1.3 million spectators each year.
Tri-unity and Godfrey-Lee lit up the scoreboard on Friday night, as the Defenders scored 22 unanswered points in the second half to pull away for a 50-30 win.
The Legends, seeking their first win of the season, trailed 24-16 at the half and later found themselves down 38-30 before a kickoff return touchdown pushed the Tri-unity lead to double digits for good.
“Had a chance to go up in the first half,” Lee coach Lamar Marshall said. “Ended up throwing an interception into the end zone.
“A couple of drive killers were really the difference in the game.”
Braiden Luurtsema scores one of his three rushing touchdowns. (WKTV)
Braiden Luurtsema and Vergel Heath combined for five rushing touchdowns for the Defenders.
Lee celebrated senior night for its lone senior Elijah Beckwith, who gave the Legends a stirring speech before the game.
“We decided to do something different and let Elijah give the pre-game speech,” Marshall said. “He really lit a fire under our team and they played hard the entire game.”
Beckwith also scored a 65-yard receiving touchdown where he proceeded to break multiple tackles on the way to the end zone.
Anthony Blok added two passing touchdowns and a rushing one to lead Lee.
Tri-unity (4-4) closes the season at home against Gobles.
Lee (0-8) hosts Fennville in its season finale.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Belding defeated host Godwin Heights 34-14 on Friday to improve to 7-1 overall, while Godwin Heights fell to 3-5.
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The Wolverines huddle up during a 34-14 loss to Belding Friday. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
(WKTV/Nathan Piers)
(WKTV/Nathan Piers)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
After losing in heartbreaking fashion in back-to-back weeks, Godwin Heights pulled away in the second half of its 35-6 rivalry win over Kelloggsville.
“We ran the ball really well last week and if not for a fumble at the goal line may have won that game,” Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble said. “We wanted to show our running backs that we trusted them to carry us.
“Wanted to establish that ground game and really light a fire under our offensive line.”
Both defenses dominated the first stanza and the game remained scoreless after 12 minutes of play. The Wolverines broke the scoreless tie with a 6-yard touchdown run by senior quarterback Jamarion Collins, a drive set up by the first of two Jeff Zalaya interceptions.
Godwin Heights QB Jamarion Collins scans downfield against Kelloggsville. The Wolverines defeated the Rockets 35-6. (WKTV)
Clinging to an 8-0 lead at the half, Godwin broke the game open on an 8-yard touchdown run by David Gill and later a 10-yard touchdown pass by Collins to Johnny Horrel for a 22-0 advantage heading into the final quarter.
Collins scored another touchdown in the fourth quarter, this time a 10-yard strike to Jace Reid-Anderson after a forced fumble by Gill set up the Wolverines within scoring distance. Gill once again found the end zone, his second rushing score, on a 10-yard run to push the lead to 35-0.
The Rockets staved off the shutout in the final minute of play on a 54-yard touchdown pass from Jeremie Collins to Brendan Tuinstra.
“Their defensive front was stout,” Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch said. “Our offensive line played tough, but unfortunately just couldn’t get that push up front we needed.
“Been a tough season with a lot of injuries. Had 15 seniors to start the season and we had four play tonight. Had a lot of underclassmen step up tonight which was good to see.”
With the win, Godwin Heights improves to 3-4 (2-2 OK Silver) and is hoping to carry the momentum from this game into the final two weeks of the season.
“They’re all big games this time of the year,” Kimble said. “And when you play another Wyoming school that just makes it that much bigger.”
The Wolverines host Belding (6-1) next week on Senior night and if history serves right should be a tight contest after Godwin’s tight win a year ago.
Kelloggsville (1-6, 1-3 OK Silver) hosts Comstock Park next Friday night.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Eau Claire defeated visiting Godfrey-Lee 64-18 in 8-player football Friday night.
Eau Claire’s Damarrion Travis had two rushing touchdowns and an interception for a TD, while Landon Baskin had two TDs in the air and one on the ground and Ryder Williams added two TD receptions.
“They’re a young football team and play hard,” said Eau Claire Coach Earl Koch of the Legends. “And we just ran the ball and rammed it down the middle.”
Anthony Blok had one TD pass and one on the ground for Godfrey-Lee (0-7 overall), while running back Elijah Beckwith added one TD reception and one on the ground.
“We’ve got a lot of first-year guys and are building from the ground up,” said Godfrey-Lee Coach Lamar Marshall. “No one is quitting because of the losses.
“Every player has a great attitude about the season.”
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Sparta (3-3) defeated Godwin Heights (2-4) 25-16 in OK Silver action on Friday night.
Sparta defeated Godwin Heights 25-16 in the WKTV Game of the Week. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
(WKTV/Nathan Piers)
(WKTV/Nathan Piers)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Bridgman defeated Godfrey-Lee 56-0 on Friday night. (WKTV)
By: Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
Bridgman quarterback Reid Haskins spent plenty of time in the end zone Friday night as the No. 6 team in 8-player Division 1 football ran away from Godfrey-Lee 56-0.
The Bees’ signal-caller found success both through the air and on the ground with 142 passing yards and 3 touchdowns, as well as 223 yards rushing and 4 touchdowns.
“You know Reid really doesn’t get as much credit for his passing,” Bridgman coach Aaron Locke said. “Very shifty runner, but he was efficient throwing the football tonight.”
Adding to the rushing total was Clark Smith with 76 yards and a touchdown on just four carries, while Wade Haskins made some big catches with three receptions for 109 yards and a touchdown.
Despite being ranked as a top-10 team in the Associated Press high school rankings, Bridgman (6-0) is ineligible for the 8-player state playoffs as their enrollment is deemed too high for MHSAA 8-player guidelines.
With that said, the Bees are aiming to finish the regular season before playing another 8-player school Northpointe Christian who finds themselves ineligible for the playoffs. The two schools have scheduled a “bowl game” of sorts to showcase their student athletes.
“We can only control what we can control unfortunately,” Locke said. “We are enjoying the success our student athletes have earned so far this season.”
The Bees face Lawrence for their homecoming game next week. Meanwhile Godfrey-Lee (0-6) travels to Eau Claire.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Sturgis running back Jacob Thompson scored six touchdowns to lead Sturgis to a 56-0 win over visiting Kelloggsville Friday.
Thompson had 11 carries for 317 yards, a 29-yard average per carry, and also returned the opening kickoff 77 yards for the first score of the game.
“He carried us the whole way,” said Sturgis Coach Chance Stewart, whose team improved to 4-2 overall. “We only threw the ball six times.
“The guys did a great job; our offensive line paved the way for us. And a big credit to our defense.”
Kelloggsville Coach Brandon Branch said Thompson is “just that good.”
“He had a night,” said Branch, whose Rockets fell to 1-5 overall. “We had a lot of missed tackles because he was just that tough to tackle; he was very elusive.
“We knew what we were getting into.”
Sophomore Brock Fergison led Sturgis with 10 tackles.
Brendon Tuinstra led Kelloggsville with 105 yards on 13 carries.
“Brendon had a good night,” Branch said.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Home field makes all the difference for Kelloggsville in 36-21 win over Calvin Christian. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
Friday night’s 36-21 win over Calvin Christian was more than just Kelloggsville’s first win of the season.
It was the first time the Rockets had celebrated a victory on their new home turf installed in 2019.
Both teams came out firing offensively as each team scored on each of its three drives in the first half. Kelloggsville carried a slim 22-21 lead into the locker room.
And then the Rockets’ defense took over in the second half.
“Our defense just got after it in the second half,” Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch said. “We really shut down what Calvin was trying to do in bend, but don’t break fashion.
“They got some yards, but we kept them off the scoreboard.”
Brendan Tuinstra came up with a key interception in the second half and had 60 rushing yards and two touchdowns. While quarterback Jeremy Tsoumou, filling in for injured starter Zach Zerfas, completed 8 of 9 passes for 208 yards and three TDs.
Wide receiver Cam Townsend was the beneficiary of Tsoumou’s efficient night with six receptions for 190 yards and two TDs.
Despite not being available to play, Zerfas contributed with a couple of his own play calls in the win.
“We needed a first down in the third quarter and Zach said if we run a quick hitch it will be open,” Branch said. “Sure enough, it was open. Great call by our quarterback.”
Later on, Branch described the Rockets first win at home in nearly four years and on that new turf as “cathartic.”
“I actually took the guys after out on the field and took a picture in front of the scoreboard,” Branch said. “Definitely going to hang this one up in the office.”
Kelloggsville (1-4) will travel to Sturgis next Friday night.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
The Lee Legends team at practice prior to a Sept. 1, 2021 game. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
Despite a solid day on offense, Godfrey-Lee fell short against host Lawrence, 66-40 on Friday.
(Image courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
Elijah Beckwith had five touchdowns, including three on the ground, a kickoff return and a 76-yard TD reception. He had 17 carries for 205 yards.
Quarterback Anthony Blok passed for 194 yards and two TDs.
“Blok is coming around in his first year as the starter,” said Godfrey-Lee Coach Lamar Marshall, whose team dropped to 0-5 overall. “He’s getting his IQ of the offense.”
Marshall said the game was a big improvement, noting that the Legends had zero turnovers.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Godwin Heights falls to 2-3 after Friday night’s loss to Shepherd. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After falling behind by two touchdowns at the half, Godwin Heights comeback attempt fell short by the narrowest of margins in a 21-20 defeat at the hands of Shepherd.
The Bluejays soared to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter behind the support of their homecoming crowd. Shepherd later led 21-7 at the break.
Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble explained the importance of playing a full four quarters.
“I think we came out a bit sluggish in the first half,” Kimble said. “Unfortunately, we have struggled to put together a complete game this season.”
Once again it was senior quarterback Jamarion Collins who led the Wolverines as he found pay dirt twice on the ground. Trailing 21-14 in the fourth quarter, Godwin Heights Jeff Zalaya punched in a rushing score of his own to bring the Wolverines within a single point. However, a missed extra point proved to be the difference.
Godwin Heights’ defense rose to the challenge with a fourth and inches stop to turn the Bluejays over on downs, but a holding call on the Wolverines final drive stalled any chance at completing the comeback.
Jamarion Collins scored two rushing touchdowns in Godwin Heights loss to Shepherd. (WKTV)
It was a valiant effort by Godwin’s defense as it kept Shepherd off the scoreboard in the final 30 minutes.
“Execution made all the difference between the first and second half,” Kimble said. “Started reading our keys and following our assignments. Played really aggressive in that second half.
“If we play the entire game how we played in the second half, I have no doubt we win this game.”
Godwin Heights (2-3, 1-1 OK Silver) hosts OK Silver foe Sparta (2-3, 1-1 OK Silver) for homecoming next Friday.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Reeths-Puffer quarterback rushes into the end zone during a win over Wyoming Friday. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Muskegon Reeths-Puffer beat Wyoming 55-7 in the WKTV Game of the Week Friday.
The Rockets led 8-0 to end the first quarter and 29-7 at halftime.
Reeths-Puffer improved to 4-1 overall, while Wyoming fell to 0-5.
Reeths-Puffer beat Wyoming 55-7 Friday in the WKTV Game of the Week. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
The Wyoming Wolves huddle up during a 55-7 loss to Reeths-Puffer. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Pictured from the left, Sgt. Robert Robinson, Kato and Officer Logan Wieber, Tommy Brann, Mayor Pro Tem Sam Bolt, Amanda Clark from K911 Foundation, Lt. Brian Look, and Chief Kim Koster (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Through the help of a local business owner, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety was able to introduce its newest K9 member, Kato, at Monday’s Wyoming City Council meeting.
State Rep. Tommy Brann, who owns Brann’s Steakhouse in Wyoming, and the K911 Foundation, each contributed 50 percent of the total cost to purchase Kato. The City of Wyoming purchased Kato from the Shallow Creek Kennels in Pennsylvania for $4,450.
“For several decades now, Wyoming police K9 team has been an important part of our organization,” said Chief Kim Koster at the meeting. “These canines are part of our entire police family and they are speciality trained in enforcement activities such as clearing buildings, tracking suspects and searching for narcotics. They also assist officers enforcement actives such as searching for lost of missing persons.”
Koster noted one of the greatest benefits from the K9 program is the impact it has had on police and community relationships.
“Most kids love dogs and they ask their parents if they can come over and touch the dog,” she said. “They say ‘hi’ to the dog and from there, there have been many good conservations that we have had that have helped start and build upon on our relationships with our community.”
The new additions
The Wyoming police’s K9 unit is overseen by Lt. Brian Look and Sgt. Robert Robinson and consists of four handlers who live, work and train with the four K9 officers. In August, Officer Ryan Paterson received a promotion which lead to him moving on from his position as a handler. His partner, Chase, also retired from the unit after seven years of service.
Through a selection process, Officer Logan Wieber was chosen to fill the vacancy on the K9 unit. He is partnered with Kato, a 14-month old German Shepherd who was imported from Poland to the United States.
The newest member of the K9 team, Kato. (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
“Although he is a green dog in the world of canines, as you can probably tell,” Koster said as Kato took in his new surroundings. “He will be trained by the staff.”
The importance of community support
Koster expressed her appreciation to Brann for his continued support of the Wyoming police department.
“Tommy has made serving people his biggest priority and the investment he made with our K9 team is another extension for that heart for service,” she said.
Brann said he his appreciative of all the support he has received in the past 51 years as a restaurant owner.
“I own a bar, and so when you have bar fights, who comes? The police,” Brann said, adding that he supports the police and the work they do and plans to continue doing so in the future.
Godwin Heights defeats OK Silver foe Comstock Park 45-14 on Friday night. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After two consecutive losses, Godwin Heights got back to winning in a 45-14 triumph over Comstock Park in OK Silver action on Friday night.
The Wolverines jumped out to an 18-0 advantage in the first quarter and never looked back as senior quarterback Jamarion Collins featured his versatility with three touchdowns as well as nine tackles, three for a loss, at safety.
Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble spoke glowingly about his quarterback.
“I might be biased as his coach, but I definitely believe Jamarion is one of the best athletes on this side of the state. If not the entire state,” Kimble said. “He can do it all. He played an amazing game at safety.
Jamarion Collins scored three touchdowns and recorded nine tackles in 45-14 win over Comstock Park. (WKTV)
“Probably had the biggest hit of the night. Just laid a kid out on a crossing route.”
In addition to Collins, Elijah True also had himself a game with two long touchdowns. One of which came on an 80-yard kickoff return and a 65-yard run.
For the Wolverines, it was about getting back to playing a complete four quarters. Something Kimble felt they failed to do in their two previous losses to Grand Rapids Union and Hopkins.
“We lost a couple games from a standpoint of execution and not executing to the standard that we have the ability to do,” Kimble said. “We just want to keep stacking good practices on good practices, so that way we will get into games and be effective.”
Next on the schedule for Godwin Heights (2-2, 1-1 OK Silver) is a trip to non-league opponent Shepherd (2-2) who defeated Beaverton 34-20 on Friday night. It will be the first time both schools have met.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
St. Joseph Our Lady of the Lake Catholic leaned on turnovers to beat visiting Godfrey-Lee 34-6 on Thursday night.
The Legends turned over the ball six times on the first six drives in the loss.
(Image Courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
Anthony Blok had a 63-yard TD run for Godfrey-Lee and teammate Elijah Beckwith had 14 carries for 59 yards.
“We couldn’t get much going; it was just a rough game for us,” said Legends coach Lamar Marshall, whose team dropped to 0-4 overall. “Our defense is finally clicking and getting on the same page.”
Sophomore Sebastian Garcia led Lee with 12 tackles.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Hopkins senior Zander Hitzler rushed for three touchdowns behind a strong offensive line to help the Vikings knock off visiting Kelloggsville 48-8 Friday.
Hitzler rushed 10 times for 123 yards, including a 53-yard run in the first quarter to give Hopkins an early 6-0 lead.
“I’m very proud of our offensive line,” said Hopkins coach Cody Francis, whose team improved to 3-1 overall. “Our big boys up front do their work for me every night.
“Kelloggsville made some great plays as a team, but penalties hurt them. I give coach Branch a lot of credit. They were making drives and are a very capable team.”
Big second quarter seals game for Hopkins
Hopkins scored 22 points in the second quarter to grab a 28-8 halftime lead behind the play of quarterback Miles Gibson and receivers Landon Klinge and Charles Benting.
Gibson was 4 of 5 passing for 76 yards and two TDs and two interceptions overall, including a 20-yard pass to Klinge and a 28-yard pass to Benting in the second quarter.
Hitzler led Hopkins with five tackles, followed by Caleb Bonga, four tackles, one assist and a sack, and Tristen Perry, two tackles, five assists and two sacks.
Kelloggsville QB Zach Zerfas completed 11 of 27 passes for 150 yards and one touchdown. Camron Townsend caught 11 passes for 149 yards and one touchdown.
DeMarreon Rodriquez led the Rockets with six tackles, while Jeremie Tsoumou had five tackles with one interception.
Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch pointed out his team’s stalled drives inside the 10-yard line in the second quarter.
“If we scored on those, the ballgame looks a little bit different going into the half,” said Branch, whose Rockets dropped to 0-4 overall. “Our guys played hard; I thought we improved this week.
“I want our team to stay with it — to keep buying in and keep working hard and we’ll figure it out. We have a lot of good players, and have to get them all on the same page working hard at the same time.”
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Kelloggsville quarterback Zach Zerfas threw for 81 yards and a touchdown. (WKTV)
By: Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
Belding stayed among the ranks of the unbeaten after its 63-6 win over Kelloggsville Friday.
Injuries taking their toll on Kelloggsville
The Rockets came into Friday dealing with a rash of injuries which prompted the need for inexperienced players to step up. Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch was proud of the way his team fought despite the adversity stacked against them.
“We had some key guys out tonight and had to have some inexperienced guys step up,” Branch said. “I commend our guys for getting back up and continuing to play hard.”
The Black Knights were very physical, according to Branch.
“If there’s one thing that Belding does, they hit you right in the mouth,” Branch said. “Definitely a learning experience for our players. We have to be able to take those hits and hit right back.”
Quarterback Zach Zerfas was 9 for 15 for 81 yards and a touchdown. Wideout Cam Townsend had three receptions for 27 yards and a touchdown.
Belding (3-0) takes on Grandville Calvin Christian next Friday, while Kelloggsville (0-3) travels to Hopkins.
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WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
An explosive second quarter helps Hopkins beat Godwin Heights on Friday. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Nearly everything was decided right before the half as Hopkins outscored Godwin Heights 20-0 in the second quarter to grab a 42-20 OK Silver win on Friday.
“Scoring 20 points in the second quarter was huge for us,” said Hopkins coach Cody Francis, whose Vikings improved to 2-1 overall. “We ran the ball well and did a good job on the offensive line.
“I’m very proud of the kids. Godwin always has great athletes and are well coached. To win 42-20 was huge, and it’s always great to get your first win in conference play.”
Long pick 6 helps Hopkins in second quarter
Senior safety Zander Hitzler had a 94-yard pick 6 run in the middle of that second-quarter scoring spree, giving Hopkins a 14-6 edge.
Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble said the second quarter lost the game for the Wolverines.
“For us, we have to execute for four quarters,” said Kimble, whose team fell to 1-2 overall. “That one quarter got us. We made some mental breakdowns and that’s what opened the game up.
“We have to coach the boys up; it’s our responsibility. We’ll get better and keep fighting.”
Quarterback Jamarion Collins leads Wolverines
Senior quarterback Jamarion Collins, who had seven TDs in the first two weeks, had one TD pass against Hopkins.
“We play well when he plays well,” Kimble said. “He ran and threw the ball well for us tonight. He had another great game.”
Godwin Heights senior QB Jamarion Collins had one touchdown pass. (WKTV)
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Godfrey-Lee coach Lamar Marshall said his team’s 66-6 loss to visiting New Buffalo on Friday was filled with mental mistakes and drive killers, but his athletes fought hard until the end.
(Image courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
“We had some drive killers — stalled in the red zone four times, dropped four touchdown passes, fumbled in the red zone once,” said Marshall, whose Legends dropped to 0-3 this season in 8-player football. “We beat ourselves tonight. We need to clean up the mental errors.
“Making the short tackle kind of killed us tonight. New Buffalo had a really good night rushing.”
Elijah Beckwith, who went down with a hamstring injury in the game, led with nine carries for 76 yards and one touchdown for the Legends. He had the lone score in the second quarter on a 69-yard TD run just before halftime.
No penalties
“We didn’t have one penalty today so that was a plus,” Marshall said. “My boys fought until the end. There was no letdown.
“We encouraged each other and fought hard, but we were a little overmanned today.”
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With opponents from both schools pulling out of scheduled games, Grand Rapids Union and Godwin Heights decided to take the field against each other as the Red Hawks emerged with a 48-18 victory on Thursday.
Godwin pulls ahead early, Union’s depth leads to win
The Wolverines had an early lead, and even had an opportunity to lead by multiple scores after a blocked punt. However, Godwin Heights was unable to take advantage.
Lack of depth played a factor, according to Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble.
“We knew when we took the game on short notice they had more depth than us,” Kimble said. “We just needed to be more conditioned and execute, and in the beginning we did that.”
Senior quarterback Jamarion Collins added two more touchdowns, after a five touchdown performance a week ago.
Coach Kimble explained the decision to play Union on short notice after their previous opponent dropped the game due to a shortage of players.
“For us, it was more important to make sure we had a game to play,” Kimble said. “Last season we went 5-3, and had a team on our schedule drop down to 8-man and we were unable to reschedule.
“We just didn’t want to put ourselves in that same exact situation.”
Under the old playoff system, a team that won six of nine games or five of eight was guaranteed a playoff spot, but the MHSAA has opted for a points-based playoff model.
Grand Rapids Union (2-0) will face Wyoming next Friday at 7 p.m., while Godwin Heights (1-1) travels to Hopkins for a 7 p.m. contest on Sept. 9.
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South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan had another great night, throwing four touchdowns in the first half of the Sailors win over East Grand Rapids. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Coming off a solid 42-7 opening-season win last week over Grand Rapids Christian, visiting South Christian kept it rolling with a strong 35-6 showing over East Grand Rapids Thursday.
Senior quarterback Jake DeHaan lit it up again with four touchdown passes, all in the first half, to give his team the momentum heading into halftime at 28-6.
He completed 16 of 20 passes for 314 yards and rushed 16 times for 91 yards. Last week, he threw four touchdown passes and ran for two.
Big second quarter for South Christian
South Christian coach Danny Brown said DeHaan helped the Sailors put the game out of reach in the second quarter by tallying 21 points.
“I think from a physical standpoint, we played the game the right way,” said Brown, whose Sailors improved to 2-0. “We were physical and fast. It was just one of those games where everything seemed to be clicking for us.
“The coaches were on fire with play calls and the kids were executing. That makes for a fun night.”
(Image courtesy of South Christian)
South Christian senior Brady Nitz had four catches for 108 yards and two TDs.
“Brady has taken the bull by the horns and has stepped up,” said Brown, whose receiver filled in for injured senior Tanner Buwalda. “The kid’s a hard worker and has earned everything he’s gotten.”
“If Brady’s not catching touchdowns he’s blocking like crazy.”
Brown said his defense was phenomenal.
Ben Mulder led with 5.5 tackles, while Cam Post added five.
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WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
