Tag Archives: Kelloggsville football

East Kentwood opens playoffs with 49-point outburst in win over Grand Ledge; Falcons total 555 yards

Citizen Journalism, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , ,
East Kentwood quarterback Kayd Coffman completed 14-of-21 passes for 209 yards and four touchdowns, and also had 69 yards on the ground in 11 attempts. (Photo Courtesy, Falcon News Network)


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org

East Kentwood was firing on all cylinders Friday in its Division 1 playoff opener against Grand Ledge. The Falcons produced a whopping 555 yards of total offense as it defeated the visiting Comets 49-15. With the win, they advanced to the district finals against host Howell to face the 9-1 Highlanders at 1 p.m. Saturday afternoon.

Offense has been a strong point for East Kentwood all season and the outburst against Grand Ledge was one of the most productive efforts. The 49 points equaled the Falcons effort in a Week 9 win over Grand Haven and was just five points off the season-high 54 points they scored against Jenison in Week 3. The effort was even more impressive considering Grand Ledge entered the game with a 7-2 record.

“We played a lot cleaner game that we did the week before which I was hoping for,” said East Kentwood Coach Tyrone Spencer. “I thought we ran the ball really well. We had over 345 yards rushing and defensively we had four takeaways. I thought we played pretty good complementary football.”



East Kentwood helmet. (Photo Courtesy, Eli Reed)


East Kentwood led 28-0 at the half

The Falcons wasted little time taking control of the game as they put up 21 unanswered points in the first quarter and led 28-0 at halftime.

East Kentwood set the tone for the game on the first drive. Starting on their own 22-yard line, the Falcons marched 78 yards down the field in 12 plays. The drive was capped with an 11-yard touchdown pass from Kayd Coffman to Stephan Jones. Jayden Garcia tacked on the extra point giving them a 7-0 lead.

The first takeaway of the game by the Falcon defense came on Grand Ledge’s ensuing possession. The Comets managed to drive down to the Falcon 18-yard line, but a fumble recovery by East Kentwood’s Benedi Kanda stopped the drive.

The Falcons then turned it into points as they went on an 11-play, 80-yard touchdown march. They again capped the drive with a touchdown pass, this time as Coffman hit Kendrick Mayhue on a six-yard scoring strike.

The East Kentwood passing attack produced the third score later in the first quarter. This time Coffman connected with Owen van der Veen on a 25-yard TD pass. Garcia added the point after putting the Falcons up 21-0 while still in the first quarter.

East Kentwood extended the lead to 28-0 in the second quarter. The Falcons scored their fourth touchdown via the ground as Jesse Phillips Jr. ran in for a score from a yard out giving Kentwood a 28-0 lead after Garcia’s extra point kick.

Grand Ledge gets on board in the third

Grand Ledge scored its first points of the game in the third quarter with a touchdown that cut the deficit to 28-7. The Falcons, however, answered with a pair of third-quarter touchdowns to put the game out of reach. Kentwood’s first touchdown of the third quarter came on a six-yard touchdown run by Phillips. The Falcons then struck through the air for the fourth time as Coffman fired a 49-yard touchdown pass to Stephan Jones that put the Falcons up 42-7 after Garcia’s point after.

The two teams closed the game out by trading touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Jacarvion Johnson scored the Kentwood touchdown on a 35-yard scoring run.

For the game, the Falcons finished with 346 rushing yards and 209 passing for a total of 555 yards. Coffman completed 14-of-21 passes for 209 yards and four touchdowns. He also rushed the ball 11 times for 69 yards.

“Bam” Nettleman led with 116 rushing yards

Davien “Bam” Nettleman led the ground game with 116 yards rushing on 11 carries. Phillips added 89 yards on 12 carries with a pair of touchdowns, while Johnson ran for 54 yards on three carries with a touchdown.

“Our offensive line played lights out all day,” Spencer said. “They did a great job for us.”

Jones led the way in the receiving department with three catches for 77 yards and two scores. Ahman Edmonds hauled in a team-high six passes for 42 yards, while Mayhue caught two passes for 21 yards and a score.

The East Kentwood defense was paced by junior linebacker Christopher Thompson II who totaled three tackles, an assist and a tackle for loss, followed by Dallas Thomas-Moody, two tackles, two assists and a tackle for loss, Major Barnes, two tackles and two assists, Alijah Bondon, two tackles, an assist, one sack and two tackles for loss and Donovan Jones and Jonathan Flores each added an interception.

Jayden Garcia logs seven touchbacks on kickoffs

“The guys were flying around and making plays on defense when we had to,” Spencer said. “It was just a pretty good day for us defensively. Our kicking game was also really good. Jayden Garcia had seven touchbacks on kickoffs. That was really important because it gave them (Grand Ledge) a long field to drive each time.”

With the win, East Kentwood improved to 8-2 for the season.


(Image Courtesy of South Christian)


South Christian gets knocked out in overtime

The football season came to an end for South Christian, but not without a fight. The Sailors fell 42-41 in overtime in a Division 4 opener at undefeated Portland.

The game began as a defensive struggle with neither team able to put points on the board in the opening quarter.

Portland scored the game’s first touchdown in the second quarter and South Christian quickly answered with a two-yard scoring run by Brody Shilts that tied the game at 7-7 after the extra point by Hudson Kerstetter.

Portland regained the lead with a touchdown midway through the second quarter. The Sailors, however, closed out the first half strong with a pair of touchdowns to take a 21-14 lead into halftime. South tied the game on an 80-yard touchdown pass from Austin Burgess to Owen Burgess. South Christian then took a 21-14 lead with 43 seconds remaining in the first half on a 10-yard touchdown pass from Burgess to Jesse Van DeGriend. Kerstetter added both extra points.

Sailors led 28-14 early in the third

South extended the lead to 28-14 early in the third quarter when Austin Burgess scored on a three-yard touchdown run. 

Portland responded with a touchdown to trim the margin to 28-20.

The Sailors closed out the third quarter with a touchdown to go up 35-20. Burgess connected with Easton Raak on a 34-yard scoring pass that gave the Sailors a 15-point lead heading into the final quarter.

Portland tied the game for overtime

Portland, however, tied the game up in the final quarter to send the game into overtime. Brad Meyers scored for Portland with nine minutes remaining and then in the final minute of the game Nolan Zbytowski scored on a one-yard run and the Raiders tied the game with a two-point conversion.

In overtime, Portland scored on its first possession and added the point after. South Christian then matched that score as Austin Burgess ran in from a yard out, but Portland won the game when it blocked the extra point attempt.

Burgess passed for three TDs and ran two in

Austin Burgess completed 14-of-20 passes for 277 yards and three touchdowns. Burgess also added 38 yards rushing and a pair of rushing touchdowns. Jesse Van De Griend ran for 42 yards and caught three passes for 60 yards and a touchdown. Owen Burgess led the Sailors in receiving with six catches for 128 yards and a touchdown, while Shilts added three receptions for 44 yards. 

VanSolkema led with nine solo tackles and two assists

The South Christian defense was paced by Kasjen VanSolkema who totaled nine solo and two assists for 11 total tackles. Benjamin Buiter and Dax Blackport added eight total tackles apiece, while Jack Weiss added five.

South Christian ended the season with a 4-6 overall record, while Portland improved to 10-0.        

Godwin Heights, Kelloggsville fall in playoff openers

OK Silver squads Godwin Heights and Kelloggsville both fell in their district semifinal games.

(Courtesy, Godwin Heights)


Godwin Heights dropped a 42-35 decision to Spring Lake in a Division 4 district semifinal game. The Wolverines wrapped up the season with a 7-3 overall record.




Kelloggsville dropped a 45-16 decision to undefeated host Grand Rapids Catholic Central in a Division 5 district semifinal game. The Rockets ended their season at 6-4. 

Kelloggsville turns back Holland to secure spot in state football playoffs; Keyontae Gibson gets 416 yards and five TDs

Citizen Journalism, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
(WKTV)

By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


With talented senior running back Keyontae Gibson leading the charge on offense, Kelloggsville held off Holland 40-34 to cap a winning regular season and secure a spot in the state playoffs.

Gibson turned in a game to remember as he carried the ball 41 times for 416 yards and scored five touchdowns as the Rockets turned back a late Holland comeback to earn the win and finish the regular season with a 6-3 record. That record is the best one the Rockets have posted since 2017 and is the first time they have qualified for the playoffs since 2017 other than the covid year of 2020 when every team qualified.

The 2017 team finished the regular season with a perfect 9-0 record and reached the second round of the playoffs where it dropped a 45-34 decision to Grand Rapids Catholic Central, who went on to win the Division 4 state championship. Ironically, Kelloggsville faces Catholic Central in the first round of the playoffs this week.

The rushing exploits of Gibson went a long way in helping the Rockets secure the playoff spot this year. For the year, Gibson has rushed for over 1,400 yards and scored 17 touchdowns.

“Keyontae had quite the game Friday,” said Kelloggsville Coach Justin Dennett. “We are trying to find out if it was a school record. There is a chance it is, but we are not sure. We ran the ball exclusively Friday as we didn’t complete a pass. Isaak Kowal and Cameron Dunbar also helped out running the ball to give Keyontae a break.”

Offensive line paved the way for Gibson

“Our offensive line really did a good job,” Dennett said. “Zane Hendricks is a senior lineman and he did a great job of leading our line on both offense and defense. Davion Whitfield is a junior who starts on both the offensive and defensive line and he also did a great job. The guys up front did a great job Friday night and have been getting the job done all season too.”

Dunbar, who has been battling through injury, also has been a big part of the Kelloggsville ground game this year totaling 505 yards rushing with 10 touchdowns.

The Kelloggsville defense also stepped up with some impact plays to preserve the win.

Defense big as well

“Our defense really came up with some big plays,” Dennett said. “We had three interceptions and a fumble recovery on defense. Nasyre Walker had an interception and a fumble recovery. Isaak Kowal also had a great game on the defensive side of the ball. We moved our freshman Sincere Allen to inside linebacker. He had never played there before and he had a lot of tackles all over the place. He made a lot of plays for us.”

The win capped a big turnaround season for the Rockets who went 1-8 last season. Paving the way for the turnaround has been the Rockets’ senior class.

“We have a really good core group of seniors,” Dennett said. “They have stepped up and have been leading us all year. They do a great job of setting the tone in practice. They have set a new standard in how to do things. This is my first year as head coach here and that group of seniors bought right into what the new coaching staff was putting in.”

The Rockets started the season strong with wins against Grant and Perry before falling to Fruitport in Week 3 and eventual league champion Belding in Week 4. In Week 5 the Rockets came up with a pivotal 30-22 win against Hopkins.

Hopkins win was telling

“The Hopkins game was when our kids realized that we have a chance to make the playoffs and can be a pretty good football team,” Dennett said. “Hopkins has been a good team for a long time and we took a 22-0 lead on them. They came back to tie it, but we came back with a scoring drive to seal it. To come back and beat them was a big win for us. We also won a close one with Comstock Park.”

Kelloggsville defeated Comstock Park 22-18 in Week 7 to improve to 5-2.

“Winning the close ones”

“We had to learn how to win the close ones,” Dennett said. “We found a way to win in those close games this year. Winning the close games has shown the growth in this team and how much they have improved since the start of the year.”

The Rockets now face a 9-0 Grand Rapids Catholic Central team in the first round of the playoffs. The game is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, at Catholic Central’s Cougar Stadium.   

CONGRATS to local football teams: East Kentwood, Godwin Heights, Kelloggsville and South Christian for making the state playoffs

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Kentwood Public Schools, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, WKTV Featured sports, , , , ,
Michigan High School Athletic Association. (Logo Courtesy, MHSAA)





By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director
greer@wktv.org


(Image Courtesy, East Kentwood)


DIVISION 1

DISTRICT SEMIFINAL:
Grand Ledge (7-2) vs. East Kentwood (7-2)
7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at East Kentwood High School



(Image Courtesy, Godwin Heights)

DIVISION 4

DISTRICT SEMIFINAL:
Spring Lake (6-3) vs. Godwin Heights (7-2)
7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at Wyoming High School



(Image Courtesy, South Christian)



DIVISION 4

DISTRICT SEMIFINAL:

South Christian (4-5) vs. Portland (9-0)
7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at Portland High School




(WKTV)

DIVISION 5

DISTRICT SEMIFINAL:
Kelloggsville (6-3) at Grand Rapids Catholic Central (9-0)
7 p.m. Oct. 31 at Catholic Central

Godwin Heights outlasts rival Kelloggsville 41-22, sets up title showdown with Belding Friday

City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , , , , ,


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org

Godwin Heights continued their winning ways with a 41-22 victory over rival Kelloggsville Friday and in the process set up a winner-take-all scenario for the OK Silver championship at Belding.

The win kept Godwin Heights perfect in the OK Silver with a 5-0 record and sets up next Friday’s showdown in Belding against the Black Knights who are also 5-0 in the league. The two teams also have 7-1 overall records.

“It was a real battle with them last year,” said Godwin Heights Coach Brandon Kimble. “It was 14-7 at halftime and it was close in the third quarter before they ran away in the fourth quarter. The conference championship is going to be on the line and our boys are going to be ready to play. We have a real strong senior class that is used to going on the road and we’ve played in some really tough games already.”

The win against Kelloggsville was another one of those tough games. Godwin Heights fell behind the Rockets 16-7 in the first quarter before scoring the next five touchdowns to secure the win in the annual rivalry between the Division Avenue neighbors.

“It’s a big rivalry game for us,” Kimble said. “You can throw out the records when we play. Kelloggsville has been playing good as well this year and we knew they were going to give it their all. We battled back and forth early and it was a good game. They played hard, but our boys came to play.”

Wolverines averaging 33 points per game

Godwin Heights has been especially strong on offense this season as the Wolverines are averaging 33.6 points per game. Junior running back Julius Hoskins was among the offensive leaders for as he ran for four touchdowns against Kelloggsville. Hoskins finished the game with 202 rushing yards.

“Julius is really going to be something special,” Kimble said. “We actually have two stud running backs. Ka’Res Harris splits carries with Julius and he actually leads us in touchdowns.”

Godwin Heights sophomore quarterback Martellis Forest also was a big part of the offensive outburst. Forest passed for 171 yards.

“We are blessed with the athletes that we have at all of our skill positions,” Kimble said. “Martellis is one of the best quarterbacks in the area. He can really spin it. He can put the ball anywhere and can throw the deep ball. He puts a lot of pressure on opposing defenses.”

Forest also is blessed with a wide variety of receivers.

“We have some really good receivers on the outside,” Kimble said. “We have four receivers who are capable to taking it to the house at any time. Isziah Walker, Martise Raphael, Aidan Jackson and Taisjon Allen have all been doing a great job for us.”

Walker led Wolverine receivers with nine catches, 98 yards and a TD

Walker led the way against Kelloggsville as he caught nine passes for 98 yards and a touchdown.

Paving the way for the backs and providing pass protection is an offensive line anchored by Jeremiah Lee and Jayden Ingram.


“Jeremiah is our right tackle and he had over 10 pancake blocks,” Kimble said. “Jayden is our left tackle and he is just as good. Our entire offensive line has been doing a great job and we have had over 200 yards rushing in the last three games.”

While the offense has been putting up plenty of points this season, the Godwin Heights defense has been stingy when it comes to allowing points.

“Our defensive line is very strong,” Kimble said. “We are led up front by Louis Wilson who is a three-year starter. Lonnie Sanders and Josiah Cox flank Louis. Our defensive line is really strong.”

The Wolverines also are solid in the defensive backfield.

“Taisjon Allen is a team captain and he leads us in the back end,” Kimble said. “He had a pick on Friday.

Mikyius Witherspoon plays a rover position for us and he has led us in tackles in three out of the last four games. He is a big part of our defense. He had four tackles for loss on Friday. He has really been playing great for us.”

With a 7-1 overall record, Godwin Heights is heading to the playoffs regardless of the outcome of Friday’s game with Belding. The Wolverines are 13th in the state in Division 4 in playoff points.

Kelloggsville also is looking to punch its ticket for the playoffs next Friday when it hosts Holland. The Rockets are 5-3 for the season and a win against 2-6 Holland would secure a playoff spot for the Rockets.

Cameron Dunbar led Kelloggsville with a pair of touchdowns and Keyontae Gibson added one as well.      

Kelloggsville football team begins season 2-0 under new coaching staff; beats Perry 48-28 Friday

City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports,
(WKTV)


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


A new era is dawning for Kelloggsville football and the Rockets have made it a successful launch in the first two weeks.

The new look starts with Justin Dennett, who stepped in as the new Coach. The early results are proving positive as the Rockets defeated Grant 43-14 to open the season, and beat Perry 48-28 Friday.

“We started out pretty good,” Dennett said of the opening day win. “We received the opening kickoff and went down and scored. Then on Grant’s first possession they fumbled. We were up 22-6 at halftime and then scored a few more times early in the second half. We got off to a good start and were able to maintain it.”

Quarterback Cameron Dunbar posts three TDs against Grant

Offensively, the Rockets were led by senior quarterback Cameron Dunbar (5-11, 185 pounds) who completed 7-of-10 passes for 82 yards and rushed the ball 12 times for 176 yards and three touchdowns.

Running back Keyontae Gibson logs 157 yards and three TDs in opener

Running back Keyontae Gibson added 157 yards on 14 carries and scored three touchdowns. Gibson also caught a pair of passes for 27 yards. Danyel White (5-11, 165) added two receptions for 25 yards.

A core of seniors led the way for Kelloggsville on the offensive side of the ball starting with Dunbar at the quarterback position.

“Cameron is a tremendous athlete,” Dennett said. “He is our fastest and strongest athlete. He really fits the offense that we want to run. He is a dynamic kid and a good leader for us.”

Gibson, White and senior Isaak Kowal (5-11, 180) provide plenty of options in the running and passing game.

“Keyontae had a breakout game for us,” Dennett said. “He is a really dynamic kid. He is fast and strong and broke a few long runs. Danyel is one of our fastest kids and has good hands. He is also a good blocker which is good for our offense. Isaak is a senior running back who is a good, tough runner and a good blocker.”

Up front, senior Zane Hendricks (5-10, 200) and Prince Bakara (5-6, 210) anchor the offensive line where they provide plenty of senior leadership for a young group of linemen.

The Rockets also turned in a productive game on the defensive side of the football in their opener.

“Defensively, I wasn’t sure how it would go in Week One,” Dennett said. “The defense played really well and forced four turnovers. They (Grant) only scored once on our first-team defense. I was pleasantly surprised with our defense. We have a lot of good athletes on defense. We still have to fine-tune some things and clean some things up, but for Week One it was a really good effort.”

With a small roster, the Rockets rely on several players to log minutes on both the defensive and offensive side of the ball.

Dunbar and White head up the defensive secondary. Kowal and Gibson lead the way at inside linebacker. Bakara and Hendricks anchor the defensive front.

The defense also is receiving contributions from senior Nasyre Walker (5-9, 170), who plays a hybrid outside linebacker/safety position, senior Jaquardre Montes (5-10, 160), inside linebacker, and Qubec Griffin, defensive back and receiver on offense.

Dennett brings plenty of head coaching experience to Kelloggsville. A native of Byron Center, Dennett was the Coach at Montague the past four seasons.

“We have a good group of seniors,” Dennett said. “They were all pretty committed over the summer. We have a lot of potential, but we need to focus on the little things.”

“We definitely had a good start,” Dennett said. “Our main focus right now is to grow our numbers. Hopefully we can grow them and have a junior varsity team. I was really happy with Week One and hope to build on it.”

Check out our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show from Week 7

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Kentwood Public Schools, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , , ,




By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director

greer@wktv.org


Check out the exciting clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season featuring many of the local high school football teams in Kentwood and Wyoming.


Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you most of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.


Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Tuesday! Thanks for tuning in.


WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week covers one matchup per week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.

You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org


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. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.

WKTV Truck Game of the Week Sked

Friday, Oct. 18: Jenison at East Kentwood

Friday, Oct 25: Catholic Central vs. South Christian (at East Grand Rapids)

Check out our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show from Week 6

1-featured, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, WKTV Featured sports, , , , ,




By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director

greer@wktv.org


Check out the exciting clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season featuring many of the local high school football teams in Kentwood and Wyoming.


Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you most of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.


Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Tuesday! Thanks for tuning in.


WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week covers one matchup per week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.

You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org


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. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.

WKTV Truck Game of the Week Sked

Friday, Oct. 11: Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville

Friday, Oct. 18: Jenison at East Kentwood

Friday, Oct 25: Catholic Central vs. South Christian (at East Grand Rapids)

Kelloggsville gets first win with 24-8 defeat of Benton Harbor

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, WKTV Featured sports, , , ,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director

greer@wktv.org



The Rockets got their first win of the season with a 24-8 defeat of visiting Benton Harbor Friday.


Kelloggsville hosts Godwin Heights next Friday for a big rivalry game.

Check out our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show from Week 5

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, WKTV Featured sports, , , , , , , ,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director

greer@wktv.org


Check out the exciting clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season featuring many of the local high school football teams in Kentwood and Wyoming.


Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you most of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.


Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Tuesday! Thanks for tuning in.


WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week covers one matchup per week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.

You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org


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. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.

WKTV Truck Game of the Week Sked

Friday, Oct. 4: Zeeland East vs. South Christian (at Byron Center)

Friday, Oct. 11: Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville

Friday, Oct. 18: Jenison at East Kentwood

Friday, Oct 25: Catholic Central vs. South Christian (at East Grand Rapids)

Kelloggsville football coach leaning on “excellent” summer workouts and linemen depth for growth

City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, ,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org


Counting on results from a great summer session plus depth at the linemen position, Kelloggsville Coach Brandon Branch is planning on moving the program forward this season.

“I expect our program to take some steps forward this season,” said Branch, whose Rockets finished 1-5 in the OK Silver and 1-8 overall last year. “We have had excellent summer participation and will see the results of that effort.


Kelloggsville Coach Brandon Branch. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)



“We have a large group of linemen, the largest by number we have ever had. Depth at a position creates competition which will lead to a tough O-Line and D-Line.”


Kelloggsville Season Opener: At home against Grant on Thursday, Aug. 24 (7 p.m.)

“I am expecting a hard-fought game against Grant,” Branch said. “We have been preparing for them all summer so I don’t think our guys will be surprised by anything Grant will throw at us.

“My guys will be tough and fight to the end. It’s going to be a great start to our season.”

Some key players Branch expects to lead the team

  • Jeremie Tsoumou (QB/Wing/Corner)
  • Terrell Jones (RB/LB)
  • Jovany Reynolds (RB/LB)
  • Marquis McKinney (WR/CB)
  • Reggie McCaleb (WR/S)
  • Isaak Kowel (RB/LB)
  • Cameron Dunbar (QB/S)
  • John Mubake (LB/G)
  • Zac Domingo (G/DT)
  • Jeremie Tsoumou (QB/Wing/Corner). (WKTV/Hayden Passig)
  • Zac Domingo (G/DT). (WKTV/Hayden Passig)
  • Terrell Jones (RB/LB). (WKTV/Hayden Passig)
  • Jovany Reynolds (RB/LB). (WKTV/Hayden Passig)




WKTV Friday Night Highlights show is back next week!

Just like we did during basketball season, every Friday we’ll bring you many great high school football clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood area teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute program.

As a bonus, we’ll have a reporter on the field at the Game of the Week to interview coaches and players for the show and occasionally have them come into our studio for a live interview as well. 

You won’t want to miss all our great local coverage. Thanks for tuning in!



Several Kentwood-Wyoming area football players named to MHSFCA All-Region teams

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Sports, , , , ,
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan highlights the MHSFCA All-Region selections in the Kentwood-Wyoming area. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)

By Zach Fanko

WKTV Contributor


The Michigan High School Football Coaches Association released their All-Region teams for the 2022 season as voted on by members of the MHSFCA.

Here are the following selections for players in the Kentwood-Wyoming area:

Division 1, Region 1

Stellan Bowman, JR, LB, East Kentwood


Division 4, Region 1

Camerson VanSolkema, JR, OL, South Christian

Carson Vis, SO, WR, South Christian

Seth Ritsema, SR, WR/TE, South Christian

Jake DeHaan, SR, QB, South Christian

Cam Post, SR, LB, South Christian

Nate Brinks, SR, Specialist, South Christian

Division 5, Region 2

Will Howard II, SR, DL, Wyoming-Kelloggsville


As you can see, South Christian was well represented in Division 4 with six total selections. The undefeated Sailors are preparing for their state semifinal matchup with Edwardsburg on Saturday.

East Kentwood’s Stellan Bowman, who played both halfback and linebacker this season, represented the Falcons on the All-Region team. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)



Stellan Bowman had a standout season at linebacker for the Falcons as East Kentwood made a return to the playoffs. Coach Tony Kimbrough mentioned Bowman as one of the returning players that the Falcons will rely on in 2023.




In Division 5, Kelloggsville senior Will Howard II was named to the All-Region team as a defensive lineman.

Hopkins uses 22 points in second quarter to beat Kelloggsville 48-8

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Sports, West Michigan, , ,

By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor

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.

Belding defeats Kelloggsville 63-6 on Friday

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Sports, , ,

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.

Send us your live game photos

We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@wktv.org 

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.

Ionia quarterback gets four TDs to help the bulldogs beat Kelloggsville 44-8 Thursday

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Sports, West Michigan, , ,

By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor

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.

Kelloggsville senior quarterback Zach Zerfas. (WKTV)

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.

Send us your live game photos

We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@wktv.org 

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 Rockets offense on full thrusters as traditional rivalry game at Godwin awaits

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, ,
Kelloggsville head football coach Brandon Branch talked to WKTV this week about his team’s impressive offensive production and what the keys have been … hint, hint … getting his two best athletes the ball. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Two things are just about locks when it comes to this week’s OK Conference Silver football contest when Kelloggsville High School visits Godwin Heights in their annual cross-town clash.

The first is the two team’s records don’t really matter in rivalries like this one, and the second is the Rockets’ dynamic duo of senior Jabari Campbell and junior Camron Townsend will get their touches.

Both teams come into the contest with up and down seasons: The Rockets are 2-4 overall and 1-2 in conference, the Wolverines are 2-3 and 0-3. But Kelloggsville has won two in a row after last week’s 34-24 non-conference road win at Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard, while Godwin has played tough teams really tough, including last week’s 29-14 loss at Sparta, in a game what was tight until the fourth quarter.

Both could also still could get to five wins and have a shot at the playoffs.

The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

So, of course, the Friday, Oct. 8, contest — which will also be Godwin’s Homecoming Game — will be this week’s WKTV Feature Game. With local cable television and later on-demand replays available.

“Records don’t matter,” Kelloggsville head football coach Brandon Branch said to WKTV at a practice this week. “It’s like playing your brother in pick-up basketball. You always want to win, regardless of the score, regardless of the age difference, regardless of everything that has happened before. This game is the most important one. It’s doesn’t matter what the records are coming into this one.”

For Branch, who has brought stability and now emerging success to the Rockets program in, this, his second season leading the program, the key factor this week as it has been all season — keeping his high-scoring offense in high gear to keep them in games.

Led by Campbell and Townsend, who each have 500+ yards and at least 8 touchdowns receiving, and junior quarterback Zachary Zerfas, who has thrown for 1,500+ yards, Kelloggsville’s offense has scored 26+ points in five of six games.

“Jabari and Cam are our best athletes, by far,” Branch said. “Those are the guys we are trying to get the ball to. We try to find as many unique ways to get the ball to them as we can. Zach does a great job finding them, but he’s not just staring those guys down. He’s spreading the ball round pretty good. … but I’d be lying if I said we were not trying to get Jabari and Cam the ball.”

And sometimes Townsend just takes the ball himself — he has three touchdowns on interceptions while playing defense this season.

A combined effort of players, coaches

There is a lot more happening on the Rockets offense than simply pitch-and-catch between the three leaders, however.

The scoring success is “really just taking advantages of the strengths that we have. We use our strengths to expose the other team’s weaknesses as well,” Branch said. “I’m the offensive coordinator, but really it is coaching by committee,” pointing out assistants James Gentile, quarterback coach, and Justice Wright, receivers coach. “They get those players in the right place to make plays.”

Assistant coach Will Gooch, center, works a drill with the Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

And the offensive line coaches, including Rob Fron and Will Gooch, are seeing their work paying off as the season has progressed — “Our offensive line has really grown in the last couple weeks.”

Branch pointed out junior tailback Brendon Tuinstra and junior center William Howard II as also being key to the offense.

And other players are playing well but don’t have the stats to show it, Branch said, including sophomore Jeremie Tsoumou and junior DeMarreon Rodriguez.

“Those guys play positions on offense that because they are running their routes tough, the safeties have to make a decision. So if the safeties have to make a decision that makes it an easier decision for Zach,” Branch said. “Because those guys, the nine other guys besides Jabari and Cam, are working their butts off each week, those two have the opportunity to do what they do.”

  • The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Team is young but not too young

As the Rockets have started to see success, so has the entire program started to see success.

The current varsity has nine seniors, 13 juniors suited up, a sign that the program is growing but young players are not being rushed to play varsity too soon.

“I definitely think we are headed in the right direction,” Branch said. “ Our numbers are growing. We have the biggest JV team we’ve had in a long time this year. 26-27 kids coming out every week. And our kids are doing the job in the classroom, making sure they are staying eligible and able to play.
 

“Having those nine senior and 13 juniors just make it easier (for the coaches) because we can just pick the one or two sophomores that are ready. … We are able to let those (other underclassman) continue maturing.”

Can’t be there live? Catch it on WKTV

WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

South Christian, Kelloggsville score wins in WKTV’s Week 6 update of local teams’ prep football seasons

Area Education, Education, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, ,

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

As the 2021 high school football season winds down, results of Week 6 had Grand Rapids South Christian High School (4-2 overall) still in-line for a state playoff berth at the end of the month — and the Sailors’ 49-12 win over Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills was WKTV’s Featured Game of the week with Wyoming and Kentwood cable television and on-demand replays available.

But the does not mean there are not games of importance coming up for local teams down the stretch.

First, Kelloggsville has won two in a row after last week’s 34-24 non-conference road win at Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard, and records won’t really matter as Kelloggsville and Godwin Heights play their traditional crosstown rivalry this week — and WKTV will be there. (And both still could get to five wins and have a shot at the playoffs.)

Then, Wyoming high will be at home next week as the school hosts Grand Rapids Union and also a special celebration for the school’s new stadium being named in honor of Jack VerDuin, who rolled up a 243-118-6 record with the Wyoming Park Vikings before the school merged with Wyoming Rogers to become Wyoming high in 2012.

This week’s WKTV Feature Game will be the Friday, Oct. 8, Kelloggsville at Godwin Heights clash, and on Friday, Oct. 15, WKTV will be at Wyoming high for the game and the ceremony.

The final week of the regular season, on Friday, Oct. 22, WKTV will select a game of most importance to local fans and local team in pursuit of the playoffs the week after.

Past WKTV Featured Games from this season available on-demand include the Aug. 26 Forest HIlls Northern at Wyoming High game, the Sept. 1 NorthPointe at Lee 8-man game, the Sept. 10 Middleville T-K at South Christian game (played at East Kentwood), and East Kentwood’s home win over West Otttawa on Sept. 24 — and now last week’s South Christian win over Kenowa Hills.

WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

Team-by-team update

East Kentwood

The East Kentwood Falcons —1-5, 1-3 in OK Conference Red action after last week’s 6-42 road loss at Hudsonville (3-3, 3-1) — will again be on the road this week, playing at Grandville (3-3, 2-2).

After last week’s action, Caledonia (6-0 overall) and Rockford (6-0) are both 4-0 in OK Red standings.

Remaining on the Falcon’s schedule after Grandville on Oct. 8, East Kentwood will be at home hosting Grand Haven (currently 3-3, 2-2) on Oct. 15, then closing out the regular season at Jension (currently 0-4, 1-5) on Oct. 22.

Wyoming high

The Wyoming Wolves (0-6) last week traveled to OK Conference Green foe Zeeland West (3-2, 2-2 in conference) and lost 6-72. Wyoming will be on the road again this week at Zeeland East (4-2, 3-1) on Oct. 8.

After last week’s action, Muskegon (5-1) and Muskegon Mona Shores (5-1) are each 4-0 in OK Green action. The Wolves are 0-4 in conference.

After this week’s game, The Wolves will be at home for the final time this season facing Grand Rapids Union (currently 3-3, 1-3) on Oct. 15, and then close out the season at Mona Shores on Oct. 22.

Grand Rapids South Christian

The South Christian Sailors (4-2, 3-1 in OK Conference Gold) will be at home (at East Kentwood) in Week 7 hosting Ada Forest Hills Eastern (3-2, 2-2) in OK Gold action.

After last week’s action, Grand Rapids Central Catholic (6-0) and Cedar Springs (5-1) are both 4-0 in OK Gold action, with the Sailors one game behind. South Christian played and lost to Catholic Central on Sept. 17, but still have a home game against Cedar Springs to be played to close the regular season Oct. 22.

After this week’s game against Ada Forest Hills Eastern on Oct. 8, the Sailors travel to Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills (2-3, 1-2) on Oct. 15, then finish the regular season against Cedar Springs.

Godwin Heights

The Godwin Heights Wolverines (2-3), after a week off from action, returned to the field and OK Conference Silver acton last week but lost a road game at Sparta (4-2, 2-1 in conference), 14-29, on Oct. 1.

After last week’s action, OK Silver standings have Comstock Park (6-0) as the only undefeated in OK Silver action at 4-0, with Hopkins (3-3) at 3-1 in conference. Godwin is 0-3 in conference.

The week, the Wolverines will host cross-town and conference rival Kelloggsville, then travel to Belding (currently 4-2, 2-2 in conference) on Oct.15, before finishing the season at home against Grandville Calvin Christian (1-5, 0-3) on Oct. 22.

Kelloggsville

The Kelloggsville Rockets (2-4) have now seen their offense in high gear for three straight weeks, the last two being wins, as they followed up a 70-22 road win at Calvin Christian in OK Conference Silver action with the road win at Father Gabriel Richard.

After last week’s action, OK Silver standings have Comstock Park (6-0) as the only undefeated in OK Silver action at 4-0, with Hopkins (3-3) at 3-1 in conference. Kelloggsville is 1-2 in conference.

Kelloggsville after this week’s game at Godwin Heights (2-3, 0-3), will be at Comstock Park on Oct. 15, and then at home to face Sparta (3-2, 1-1) on Oct. 22.

Lee (8-man football)

The Lee Legends are playing a non-conference 8-man schedule which includes both 8-man varsity and junior varsity games.

Kelloggsville in playoff mode as Rockets face critical Friday night game

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Faces, Sports, WKTV Featured sports

 

By Micah Cho, WKTV Sports Intern

ken@wktv.org

 

It’s now or never for the Kelloggsville football team.

 

Rockets Head Coach Don Galster. (WKTV)

Veteran head coach Don Galster knows his Rockets need a win Friday night against NorthPointe Christian keep alive realistic hopes of his team getting to the playoffs for the third year in a row. But a disappointing loss to Godwin Heights last week isn’t going to stop these Rockets from taking off.

 

Kelloggsville is now 3-3 overall and 2-1 in the OK Silver conference. Last season, the Rockets defeated NorthPointe, 36-21, as part of a 9-0 regular season.

 

Galster told the WKTV Journal how important these next few weeks leading up to the playoffs are.

 

“Our destiny is in our hands and we just have to rise to the occasion,” Galster said prior to the Godwin Heights game.

 

That point is also clear to a couple of key senior players for Kelloggsville as well.

 

Desmond Simmons, Kelloggsville football player. (WKTV)

For Desmond Simmons, a senior middle linebacker for the Rockets, these next few weeks will be the last time he plays football at the high school level. Hoping for the post-season, Simmons takes pride in how he and the rest of the defense has been playing.

 

“I think we’re looking pretty solid,” Simmons said. “We always try to go hard at practice even if it’s hot, cold, or we’re tired. We always try to go hard and hit somebody.”

 

This will be senior wingback Jaevion Willis’ last year as a high school football player as well.

 

Jaevion Willis, Kelloggsville player. (WKTV)

“We’re taking this week one step at a time,” said Willis. “We’re trying to get better and better every day. We’re looking forward to trying to step up and make the run and make back-to-back conference champs”.

 

Because this is their last season with the Rockets, both Simmons and Willis reflected on their time with coach Galster.

 

“It means a lot,” Simmons said. “It feels real good to be coached by him and have somebody that knows what their doing.”

 

“It’s very exciting, playing for coach Galster,” Willis said. “Or ‘The Goat’ as we call him.”

 

This week’s WKTV Featured Game and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.

 

WKTV’s featured football games are rebroadcast on the night of the game (Thursday or Friday) at 11 p.m. and Saturday starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports for complete schedules.

 

Godwin tries to keep post-season dreams alive in game against rival Kelloggsville

City of Wyoming, Education, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, ,

 

By Micah Cho, WKTV Sports Intern

ken@wktv.org

 

Two teams are fighting for playoff spots this week as the Kelloggsville Rockets host the Godwin Heights Wolverines. Godwin Heights needs four more games in their win category to automatically qualify for playoffs; a feat rookie head coach Brandon Kimble says isn’t out of reach.

 

“Getting in the post-season was one of our goals, so it’s now or never for us now,” Coach Kimble told the WKTV Journal.

 

Godwin Heights coach Brandon Kimble, talking at practice this week. (WKTV)

The WKTV Journal caught up with Coach Kimble earlier this year to talk about his new job as head coach of the Wolverines. During the discussion, Kimble said “defense wins championships, but offense fills the stands.”  And both sides of the ball have been performing up to Kimble’s standards.

 

“Our defense has been playing stellar all year. Every game we’ve been in, we’ve been in because of the defense,” Coach Kimble said this week. “And our offense has actually been playing really good, we’ve just been turning the ball over.”

 

This will be Kimble’s first game against Kelloggsville. His counterpart, coach Don Galster of Kelloggsville, has been with his team for 29 seasons. However, Galster says don’t be fooled by his younger opponent.

 

“It’ll be a tough game,” Galster said. “It doesn’t matter what the records are when we play Godwin. This will be my 29th Godwin game. They’ll be ready to go, but we’ll also be ready to go.”

 

Kimble gave mutual respect to Galster regarding the coaches tenureship at Kelloggsville.

 

“With Kellogsville, the coach has been there a long time. He know’s the conference and other teams very well,” Kimble said. “We expect to see a team that’s aggressive, a team that’s going to fly around, a team that’s going to be competitive.”

 

This week’s WKTV Featured Game and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.

 

WKTV’s featured football games are rebroadcast on the night of the game (Thursday or Friday) at 11 p.m. and Saturday starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports for complete schedules.

 

WKTV’s coverage of high school sports and select community events are also available on-demand within a week of the event at wktvondemand.com.