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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WKTV Game of the Week
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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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The Godfrey-Lee Legends at practice in 2021. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Conributing Writer
Featuring a strong rushing attack and an opportunistic defense, the Mendon Hornets jumped ahead early and never looked back in a 76-12 victory over Godfrey-Lee in 8-player action on Thursday.
Ground and pound for Mendon
Mendon ran it early and often against the Legends to the tune of 444 yards on 31 carries. Hornets running back Jack McCaw was the largest beneficiary with 210 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns.
Mendon coach Robert Kretschman said it all starts up front.
“Being able to control the line of scrimmage was key for us,” Kretschman said. “That’s our M.O., ground and pound and playing solid defense.”
The Hornets completed just one pass on three attempts, an 81-yard touchdown from quarterback Luke Schinker to tight end Gabe Haigh.
Turnovers end promising drives for Lee
Godfrey-Lee had several promising drives early. One of which ended in a touchdown pass for quarterback Anthony Block, making his first start of the season after missing last week’s game due to injury. Three other drives ended in interceptions.
(Image courtesy of Godfrey-Lee)
“We sustained drives in the first half,” Lee coach Lamar Marshall said. “The drive killers got us, those interceptions ended some good looking drives.”
After a strong game last week, running back Elijah Beckwith added 88 yards on the ground including a 50-yard rushing touchdown.
Mendon (1-1) hosts Bridgman on September 9 at 7 p.m., while Godfrey-Lee (0-2) hosts New Buffalo September 9 at 7 p.m.
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Ionia senior Ethan Bowen made the most of his first varsity start at quarterback as he threw two touchdowns and ran for two more in the Bulldogs 44-8 win over home team Kelloggsville Thursday.
Bowen, who filled in for the injured Travis Tucker, Jr., had 101 yards in the air and 82 on the ground.
“He’s one of our captains, a wide receiver and the backup quarterback,” said Ionia coach Chad Rhynard, whose team improved to 1-1. “He did a great job and the kids rallied behind him tonight. I was surprised, but not really surprised. He’s a great leader for us and does what we ask of him.
“I think he was pretty excited for the opportunity.”
Rhynard said once they took a 14-0 lead his team settled in offensively.
“I was happy with the way we ground it out,” said Ryhnard, whose Bulldogs led 28-8 at the half. “We want to possess the ball and gain first downs. Overall, not too many complaints for us.”
Receiver Mason Doty scored two touchdowns for 88 yards total.
Kelloggsville coach Brandon Branch said his team came out and played hard all night long.
“Their mentality, aggressiveness and willingness was all there,” said Branch, whose Rockets fell to 0-2. “Early on, our defense held tough. We fumbled on our first possession and our defense stopped them. If we capitalized on the first two drives it could have gone a different way.
“I’m proud of their effort; they played together and they got after it.”
Cam Townsend scored the lone touchdown for Kelloggsville in the first quarter on an 80-yard pass from senior quarterback Zach Zerfas. Townsend led with 113 yards receiving on four catches.
Despite Kelloggsville’s offensive struggles, Zerfas ended up with 188 yards passing. As a junior last year, Zerfas passed for over 2,400 yards and threw 24 touchdowns.
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WKTV Game of the Week
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Senior quarterback Jamarion Collins led the Wolverines with five touchdowns. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer and Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Godwin Heights kicked off the 2022 campaign in style as senior QB Jamarion Collins showcased his dual-threat ability in a 44-6 win over Muskegon Heights.
Collins showcases versatility with 5 TDs
While this wasn’t the first start of his career, after filling in for an injured starter last year, this year marked Collins first as the undisputed leader of the offense. With 3 TDs on the ground, as well as 2 through the air, Collins utilized his array of weapons on offense.
Godwin Heights won its opener over Muskegon Heights Friday. (WKTV)
Wolverines coach Brandon Kimble was impressed with his signal caller.
“He led our offense well and controlled the game,” Kimble said. “He had some experience from last season, but with this being his first season coming in as the starter he played very well.”
Godwin Heights receivers Tellios Moore and Rashaad Dorsey added one touchdown each, while running back Elijah True found pay dirt on the ground.
Kimble named head coach before season
Despite having to take over for previous head coach Sydeon Harvey right before the season, the transition for Kimble wasn’t as difficult as it could have been. The former head coach, defensive coordinator and current athletic director leaned on his past experience.
“Thankfully, I’ve known all of our players since middle school,” Kimble said. “So the transition was, I don’t want to say seamless, but a little less of a headache.”
Inexperience a factor for Muskegon Heights
Missed tackles on defense hurt the Tigers as coach Robert Brown attributed the struggles in that area to a lack of experience.
“Godwin looked crisp and sharp, and they executed well,” Brown said. “We’re a young team and it showed with multiple missed tackles.
“We did the best we could and we will be okay as the year goes on.”
With no game next week for Godwin Heights, the Wolverines prepare for a Week 3 matchup with Hopkins.
For all the Wyoming/Kentwood area football scores, click here
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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The 17th annual Metro Cruise gets underway today with participants able to visit two locations that bookend the 28th Street experience.
The main stage remains at Rogers Plaza, which will be a buzz of activity for both days. This year, Woodland Mall in Kentwood will be the second location, which will be packed with activities and classic cars.
Of course, the best way to check out the action, is to snag a 28th Street Metro Cruise Official Program, which is available online or purchase a hardcopy at the event. Activities at both locations start on Friday and run through 9 p.m. and then
To help you make plans, here are some highlights you won’t want to miss.
At the Rogers Plaza Main Event, there will be free shuttle service provided by The Rapid. Attendees can park at the Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW, or the KDL Wyoming Branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW, to catch a ride to the main stage.
On Friday, the Wyoming High School marching band will perform at 5:30 p.m. Of course, classic car corridor official opens as well.
On Saturday, there will be several events taking place. The final 10 contests for the Miss Metro Cruise will compete for the 2022 title at 3 p.m.
The popular DreamWheels production, produced by WKTV, will be filming at 7 p.m. at the east end of the Rogers Plaza parking lot.
Also, while in the area, make sure to head down to the GM Components Holding, LLC, 2100 Burlingame Ave. SW, where there will be a car show featuring the Futurliner, children’s activities, plant tours and a job fair.
At the Woodland Mall stage, the largest West Michigan Antique Fire Truck Display will be taking place most of Friday along with music, children’s activities and classic car corridor.
Saturday, the music and fun continues at the Woodland Mall with the official cruise time set for 4 p.m.
Near Woodland Mall, Berger Chevrolet will be hosting an all GM show from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A file photo of the Kelloggsville High School football team practicing last season. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
If there ever was a perfect way to start a season, Owosso found it.
Sophomore halfback Hoyt Patrick ran the opening kickoff to paydirt in a 42-18 victory over Kelloggsville on the Rockets home field.
Owosso had not one, but two kickoff returns for touchdowns as junior Daniel Wittum made the other house call.
Lots of “D”
Special teams wasn’t the only part of the game clicking for the Trojans, however, as their defense came up with two fumble recoveries and an interception on a 2-point try by the Rockets. Patrick led the way with 7 tackles, a sack (one of 5 sacks on the night for Owosso) and a forced fumble.
Trojans Coach Ron Tyner, in his first year leading the program after 11 years coaching college football, outlined how important it was to win the turnover battle.
“Both sides of the ball we won the touchdown to turnover battle,” Tyner said. “That’s what we hang our hat on and how we evaluate our success.”
Tyner also gave credit to senior quarterback Hugh Doyle, in the first year running a new offensive scheme. Owosso installed a pro-style offense in the offseason after running a Wing-T option offense the past few seasons.
“He is one of those kids that’s a diamond in the rough,” Tyner said. “To be honest with you, I lucked out with a really good quarterback that checks all the boxes.”
Kelloggsville’s Brendon Tuinstra scored 3 TDs for the Rockets. (Courtesy of Alex Chavez)
For Kelloggsville, it was a game of missed opportunities with some errant deep balls early, according to Coach Brandon Branch.”
“We didn’t hit on a couple big plays early,” Branch said. “If we hit on two of those we go into halftime tied at least.”
However, it would be the Trojans who seized control of the game from the start with a 16-0 lead. The Rockets had a chance later on before halftime to get within a score, but a fumble inside the redzone stalled a promising drive as Owosso carried a 22-6 advantage into the break.
Little things the difference
“Just little things,” Branch said. “If two of those go our way it’s a different story going into half, but Owosso came out and executed and did a great job.”
The Trojans return home to face Charlotte on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. Meanwhile, the Rockets host Ionia in WKTV’s Game of the Week on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
Forest Hills Northern beats Wyoming 48-7 in a season opener Thursday night. (pxhere.com)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
Entering halftime with a tight 14-7 lead, Forest Hills Northern scored 34 points in the second half in a 48-7 win over visiting Wyoming in Thursday’s season opener.
Huskies coach Eddie Ostipow said his team had to hit the reset button at halftime to break the game wide open.
“Wyoming did some nice things against us in the first half and we made some adjustments,” said Ostipow, whose team was deadlocked with the Wolves 7-7 to end the first quarter. “I think in the first half we were really close to breaking it open, but turned the ball over and that hurt us. They have some nice athletes, and made some big runs, but I think our kids responded well.
“We’re a pretty young team with a lot of inexperience, and went through a lot of injuries last year. This is a group that’s kind of finding its identity.”
Ostipow spoke highly of his offensive line, particularly senior captains Trey Price, right guard, and Arman Singh, left guard.
“They led the way for us tonight.”
Drew Dabaja, Forest Hills Northern, led the game with three rushing touchdowns, while teammate Chris Arrington led with eight tackles.
The Huskies had 321 yards in total offense and the Wolves tallied 233.
Wyoming hosts Northview on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The giant orange spider on Gezon Park’s new splash pad. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The all most 13-foot orange spider towers over its domain at Gezon Park. But this spider isn’t looking to weave a web of terror, but rather create some fun play with its water spouts.
The spider is the signature element to the park’s new splash pad which will be officially opened at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 27. The splash pad and spider are part of the phase three development of Gezon Park which also included new restrooms, a new shelter, and walking and biking paths as well as the city’s first bike fix-it station. Saturday’s event will feature free frisbee and beachball giveaways, as supplies last, and ice cream.
“We always want each park to have a brand new feature,” said Community Services Director Rebecca Rynbrandt, who noted that for Gezon Park it is the splash pad with its friendly spider.
“The splash pad is designed to be universally accessible so people of all abilities will be able to enjoy the pad,” Rynbrandt said. This is the city’s fifth universally accessible splash pad with the other four located at Jackson Park, Lamar Park, Southlawn Park, and Oriole Park.
Being responsive to the community
The 94-acre park has remained largely undeveloped. To the north is a playground and basketball court and in the southwest area are athletic fields. Because the park already has a playground, and Frog Hollow, which is city’s most used park, is less than a quarter of a mile awhile, the new construction area does not include a playground.
This decision also played into the overall ideas and vision of the residents who helped to develop a master plan for the park that was approved in 2018.
“Our residents were very forthright that they wanted to maintain that very natural feel within Gezon Park,” Rynbrandt said. “This area is very big with our dog walkers. It is a natural respite to get away from the stress of their jobs.
The fix-it station is located along the bike/walking trail located near Gezon Park’s parking lot. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
“They enjoy the forested area. They enjoy the walking in nature. So prioritizing and retaining the prairie area was very, very important.”
The park also is the regional stormwater catch basin and has wetlands which all had to be taken into consideration when it came to design. It also serves as the emergency release area for the pumping station which is located west of the splash pad.
“It you come here, you are going to be impressed,” Rynbrandt said. “I am confident you are going to be impressed with the splash pad, the shade structures, our new shelter and our new restroom.”
Meeting the needs of a growing community
The construction cost for the project was $2.6 million, which does not include the design phase. Funding was made possible through the dedicated Library and Parks Maintenance millage and the dedicated Parks and Recreation Operational milage.
The panhandle, which is the southern portion of the city and where Gezon Park is located, is one of the fastest growing areas in the city. The city now has more than 76,000 residents, many of the newer residents are now living in the panhandle region, according to Rynbrandt. Considering the growth, the need for a splash pad in the area was identified by residents through the planning phase.
As for when residents will be able to rent the shelter at Gezon Park as well as shelters at the city’s other parks, Rynbrandt said the Parks and Recreation Department will start taking reservations on Dec. 1.
For those attending Saturday’s event, it is recommended that you arrive early as attendance is expected to be high.
For more information on the city’s parks and Parks and Recreation programs, visit www.wyomingmi.gov.
Get ready for high school football. The season opens this week on Thursday and Friday, Aug. 25 and 26 for your home teams in Wyoming and Kentwood. (pxhere.com)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
WKTV is bringing you another great season of high school football, starting with our season-opening truck coverage of Ionia at Kelloggsville on Thursday, Sept. 1.
Our high-tech WKTV Game of the Week truck will film one game each week, which will include two play-by-play announcers, a field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for our broadcast.
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. (See schedule below) 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. Broadcasts also are available on Video on Demand at a later date.
The Wyoming Wolves travel to Forest Hills Northern on Thursday, Aug. 25. Game time is 7 p.m. For your team’s football schedule visit here
We are planning a much greater presence this year with high school football. Yes, even bigger than before if you can believe that. Every week, our sports staff will post football game stories and roundups covering each varsity high school team in our viewing area in Kentwood and Wyoming.
We plan to give you the stats and highlights of each game in our stories … explaining the details of how your team marched to victory.
Look for you school’s game story or roundup on our WKTV Journal website each week.
Support your team in every way by going to the games, cheering them on, watching the featured Game of the Week on WKTV and visiting the WKTV Journal for the exciting game stories.
WKTV Game of the Week Truck Schedule
Thursday, Sept. 1 Ionia at Kelloggsville
Friday, Sept. 9 Ottawa Hills vs. South Christian (at EK)
Friday, Sept. 16 Jenison at East Kentwood
Friday, Sept. 23 Reeths-Puffer at Wyoming
Friday, Sept. 30 TBD
Friday, Oct. 7 TBD
Friday, Oct. 14 Tri-unity at Godfrey-Lee
Friday, Oct. 21 TBD
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.
Your football team’s season schedule
For your home team’s complete football schedule click here
For more information on WKTV and what we offer, visit here
Crosswalk at 34th Street and Buchanan Avenue in the Godwin Public Schools district. (Supplied)
Crosswalk at Lee Street and Cleveland Avenue in Godfrey-Lee Public Schools district. (Supplied)
Crosswalk at Mangolia Avenue and Farnham Street in Kelloggsville Public Schools district. (Supplied)
Crosswalk located near the Wyoming High School. (WKTV)
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Last week the City of Wyoming wrapped up a project designed to help improve public safety while promoting local school pride.
On Jun 7, 2022 the Wyoming City Council awarded a contract to Gallagher Asphalt Corporation for $100,500 to install four art-based crosswalks that were placed in the Kelloggsville, Godwin Heights, Godfrey-Lee and Wyoming Public School districts. The total project was $110,550 which included a 10 percent construction contingency of $10,050.
The project was funded by $90,000 in grants from the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and a $10,000 grant from the General Motors Corporation.
Creating a safer community
“Using art to transform our city into a safer, more desirable community is part of what we do here in Wyoming,” said Major Jack Poll. “We hope this project will be another opportunity to enhance recognition that residents are part of one community, one City of Wyoming, regardless of where they live and which school district they attend.”
In her recommendation of the project, city’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt said “innovative painting of crosswalks is shown to be effective in increasing public awareness of the crosswalk for drivers and encourages increased use by pedestrians with an impact of reducing car and pedestrian accidents.
“This project is designed to increase community awareness of the number of school districts located in the city, increase school district pride, and to enhance resident recognition of being a part of one community, one Wyoming.”
Identifying the locations
The city has seven school districts within its city boundaries. Originally, five school districts, the four mentioned plus Grandville, where selected.
The COVID pandemic delayed the project and then it was delayed again when new estimate exceeded $100,000 and additional funding had to be secured. Grandville was removed from the list as funding came through the CDBG program, which restricts investment to low and moderate income areas of the city.
Wyoming’s Community Services Department staff worked with Public Safety to discuss emergency response needs and identify a location within each school district that would benefit from a new crosswalk. Information also was gathered from the city’s traffic engineers.
The designs were created by staff in consultation with each school district. The design features a white and turquoise stripped pattern with the school’s logo.
The final locations of the sidewalks are:
Godfrey-Lee Public Schools: Lee Street and Cleveland Avenue
Wyoming Public Schools: Near the Wyoming High School on Prairie Parkway between Michael and Burlingame avenues
Godwin Heights Public Schools: 34th Street and Buchanan Avenue
Kelloggsville Public School: Magnolia Avenue and Farnham Street
The Grandville Public Schools location, which is to be 52nd and Wilson Avenue, is scheduled to be constructed in 2023 when additional funds become available. The Grandville school district services most of the city’s panhandle population.
Father and daughter, Gene Billings and Cathe DeLaney, pose in front of dad’s prized possession, a souped up 2011 Chevy Silverado. (WKTV)
By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer
“Just hold on.”
That was the directive 92-year-old Kentwood resident, Gene Billings, gave this WKTV writer as his daughter, Cathe DeLaney, led the way to his 2011 Silverado truck, keys dangling from her fingertips.
It proved to be sound advice as the speedometer of the Silverado climbed rapidly under DeLaney’s guidance.
An attendee of almost every 28th Street Metro Cruise, and with the t-shirts to prove it, Billings is no stranger to speed and high-performance vehicles. His love of Metro Cruise shows in his dedication to attending the popular event each year.
Though Billings’ Silverado isn’t a “Classic Car” like most featured in the Cruise, it can outrun many of those acclaimed classics.
“It dynoed at 498 at the wheels, faster than most Corvettes,” Delaney said. “He’s (Billings) about to run out of things he can do to up its performance.”
Where the cars are the stars
The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts its 17th Annual 28th Street Metro Cruise event on August 26 and 27 at Rogers Plaza and Woodland Mall.
It’s a family-friendly, two-day event featuring over 25 food trucks and concessionaires, five bands on the Metro Main Stage, free shuttle service, Miss Metro Cruise Finale, kids’ events and activities, a Dyno car testing platform, Community Awards Ceremony, Donut Competition, 35 sponsor booths with giveaways and games, the famous Collector Car Row consisting of over 400 collector cars, and much more. All free to the public.
Official cruise time
Spanning 13 miles of 28th Street, the official Cruise time is set for 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26. For one hour, Metro Cruise encourages all classic, muscle, antique, modified and sports car owners to cruise 28th Street – starting and ending where they choose.
Billings has shared his love of speed and performance vehicles with his daughter Cathe DeLaney, who attends the Metro Cruise with her father each year. DeLaney deems the Cruise the highlight of their year, saying, “That’s pretty much our Christmas. We look forward to that so much.
Kentwood resident and Metro Cruise fan Gene Billing’s Chevy Silverado. (WKTV)
“The Metro Cruise is kind of neat, it’s a big mix.
“They have classic cars, they have muscle cars, they have old Model T’s.
“Rogers Plaza is just crazy, there are so many people there.
“Where the cars are the stars.”
An estimated 275,000 attendees
Metro Cruise annually attracts more than 15,000 Collector/Sports/Antique cars to the Grand Rapids area, and an estimated 275,000 people to its related events from across North America.
But it gained its popularity from car lovers in West Michigan, such as Billings and DeLaney.
Born in Flint, Billings is a native to the Grand Rapids area.
“His Dad worked for GM Fisher Body over here on 36th and Buchanan,” DeLaney said. “He grew up in the car industry, but didn’t want to work at the factory.”
Billings agreed, his interest leaning toward sprucing up his personal vehicles and racing for his own enjoyment.
“I’ve had all sorts of cars,” Billings said. “Dad was always trading his in every year and I’d get his leftovers.”
Billings lamented that his father never bought anything good enough to race.
“I tried to talk him into it, but he wasn’t interested,” he explained. “Dad had no comprehension on what a performance car was. The first car I got from him was a ’55 Chevy 6-cylinder station wagon. I said, ‘Oh boy, that’s a thrill,’” Billings said with a chuckle.
That was not the case with Billings, however, who would “tweak” his cars with “this and that” since he was a teen, finally settling on his beloved 2011 Chevy Silverado.
Metro Cruise fan Gene Billings with his vast collection of t-shirts. (Cathe DeLaney)
DeLaney said Billings can’t add many more “bells and whistles,” having already increased the truck’s performance and custom features to its maximum capacity.
“Whenever it’s convenient, I go down and run the track,” Billings said of the US 131 Motorsports Park in Martin.
The Motorsports Park is a noted drag-racing strip founded in 1962 that now features a renovated track for modern events.
The Silverado’s best speed was 102 mph in the ¼ mile at the Motorsports Park’s straight track. But DeLaney confessed that she has seen the Silverado reach 150 mph.
Always looking for a race
“He is always looking for someone to race on the highway (mostly Camaros and Mustangs),” DeLaney said. “You don’t expect that much horsepower out of a truck. He’s like a shark.”
In fact, sharks are displayed prominently on Billings’ Silverado. When asked why he chose a shark, Billings replied, “Because it bites.”
“Mustangs are a great target,” Billings said with a grin. “I like to surprise them.”
DeLaney said he loves to come up to the line and be No. 1.
“Most (other drivers) back down at a certain speed, but they have longer to live than he does,” she added with a laugh.
The father-daughter duo still takes a weekly cruise together in the Silverado, alternating driving duties. When asked if they have ever received a ticket for their speed, Billings admitted, “I got pulled over once just outside of Sparta, and the cop was more interested in the truck than in giving a ticket.”
Billings and DeLaney plan to attend the Metro Cruise this year just as they have in years past.
Brena, a local favorite known for lively shows and Top 40 rock, performs on July 28 at Cutler Park and August 11 behind Kentwood City Hall. (Courtesy)
By John D. Gonzalez, WKTV Contributing Writer
I love late July. It’s like the sweet spot of summer.
You still have plenty of time to visit your favorite vacation spot. Maybe take in a West Michigan Whitecaps game. Go to the zoo. Or discover something new.
Fall and back-to-school shopping can wait.
Here are a few things to consider this week and early August.
Let’s support local, community events this summer as a couple of popular music series in the area are starting to wind down.
Wyoming Concerts in the Park
On Tuesday, July 26, the Wyoming series at Lamar Park continues with country singer Bernadette Kathryn, followed by Grupo Latin (Aug. 2). All shows begin at 7 p.m. Admission is free. More info: Wyoming Concerts in the Park Facebook page.
Kathryn, the self-proclaimed Detroit Country Rebel, is ready to light up the stage at Lamar Park.
“This is going to be a high-octane, full-throttle, audience engaging show that will leave them wanting more,” said Kathryn, who will perform with her Lonely Days Band. “We play new and old country, classic rock, and you might even find a few pop songs disguised as country. We call our genre ‘Hot Rock’n Country’ because we can ‘chicken fry’ anything.”
Kathryn said they’ll play Reba, Miranda Lambert, Gretchen Wilson, Luke Combs, “some of my originals, and many other songs that you can hear on the radio.”
Diana Ladio and Alison Lynn hold Bachelor of Music degrees in music performance and music education, which have given each the technical foundation to explore the limits of her instrument and helped the group build a reputation for musical excellence. Their new album, “Live & Plugged In,” just reached No. 1 on the Billboard Classical Crossover Charts.
Lynn said the band’s polished, high-energy show continues to redefine strings’ role in contemporary music, and offers audience members a diverse, fun, musical experience.
“We use a variety of audio effects pedals. The Moxie Strings compose the majority of their pieces and arrange melodies from many countries, resulting in a genre-blurring blend of ear-catching, mainstream melodies and foot-stomping, rock-influenced rhythms.”
Brena Band is a one-stop-shop when it comes to wedding entertainment. Their six member band, featuring guitars, drums, horns, violin, keyboards and tight vocal harmonies, will keep your guests dancing all night long. Their wide variety of songs offer a little something for everyone; ranging from oldies, to current top 40 hits, classic rock to smooth R&B, country to high energy dance music, and everything in between.
All Kentwood concerts take place from 7-8:30 p.m. on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Admission is free. A variety of food trucks also will be on hand.
The 86th annual Byron Days Festival returns with an arts and craft show, 5k run, pancake breakfast, live music, kids zone activities, food trucks and more. (Courtesy)
Byron Days Festival (July 28-31)
Looking ahead to next weekend, the 86th annual Byron Days Festival returns with an arts and craft show, 5k run, pancake breakfast, live music, kids zone activities, food trucks, classic car show, fireworks and more. The festival runs July 28-31 in downtown Byron Center. More info at byrondaysfestival.org. Or check out the Facebook Event Page.
If you have something for me to consider for a Top 5 column, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com
Self-proclaimed Detroit Country Rebel, Bernadette Kathryn, takes the stage at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 26 at Lamar Park. (Courtesy)
By John D. Gonzalez, WKTV Contributing Writer
Funk, blues, rock and even a cello have been featured this summer at the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series this summer.
Now, it’s time for some kicking C-O-U-N-T-R-Y!
The self-proclaimed Detroit Country Rebel – a.k.a Bernadette Kathryn – is ready to light up the stage at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 26 at Lamar Park. Admission is free, as always.
“This is going to be a high-octane, full-throttle, audience engaging show that will leave them wanting more,” said Kathryn, who will perform with her Lonely Days Band.
“We play new and old country, classic rock, and you might even find a few pop songs disguised as country. We call our genre ‘Hot Rock’n Country’ because we can ‘chicken fry’ anything.”
The Tuesday night series continues through Aug. 2. All shows will be recorded and aired on WKTV.
In an interview with WKTV Journal, Kathryn said they’ll play Reba, Miranda Lambert, Gretchen Wilson, Luke Combs, “some of my originals, and many other songs that you can hear on the radio.”
County music is at the heart of everything she does. It goes back to when she was a child.
“I’ve been performing on stage since I was five and just get this incredible rush that just can’t be replicated with anything other than performing for a live audience,” Kathryn said in an email.
She channeled her passion when she was 14-years-old and started a band.
As a fan of Patsy Cline, “I knew that I wanted to name the band after one of her songs: Seven Lonely Days,” she said.
“I hired veterans of the music industry to back me up, and my lead guitar player has been in the band since the beginning,” she said of the band she formed in 2014.
Bernadette Kathryn, the Detroit Country Rebel, will appear at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 26 at Lamar Park. Free admission as always. (Courtesy)
Her current lineup includes Erik Blundell on lead guitar, Brendan Derey on bass and Jim Theide on drums. Kathryn plays rhythm guitar and sings. Derey and Theide are in their fifth year with the band, she said.
“Our band has a great chemistry and we bring something to the crowd that they don’t get anywhere else,” she added.
They’re all excited to perform at Lamar Park.
“The audience can relax in their lawn chairs or on a blanket and enjoy the show without having to worry about anything else,” she said.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com
