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Fall Sports

2021 Bear Lake High School Volleyball..................................... 3 Cross Country.............................. 4 Football....................................... 5 Onekama High School Football....................................... 7 Volleyball..................................... 8 Brethren High School Volleyball................................... 10 Cross Country............................ 11 Football..................................... 12 Manistee Catholic Central Volleyball................................... 13 Football..................................... 14 Manistee High School Cross Country............................ Golf.......................................... Swimming.................................. Football..................................... Volleyball................................... Soccer......................................

15 16 17 18 19 20

ARTICLES WRITTEN BY MCLAIN MOBERG & ROBERT MYERS

Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

Bear Lake Volleyball

COACH’S CORNER: “We should have building blocks for this season from last season, so we will see how it goes,” said Bear Lake coach Hannah Harrington. “They are all working hard ... They don’t want to let me down, and I don’t want to let them down, so we are all working hard.” “There is a lot of talent on this team. I think they just need to believe in themselves, which is key,” Harrington said. “But I believe in them, so I’m just going to keep pushing them and show them what I see.” KEY RETURNERS Conzuelo Magaña García Taylor Merrill KEY LOSSES Lilly Riesenberg (second team all-conference)

It has been a time of rebuilding for Bear Lake with its girls sports teams, but after a

winless volleyball season in 2020, the Lakers are looking to take advantage of an abundance of

LAST YEAR: Despite going to five sets in several of their matches, the Lakers were unable to pick up a WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: One of the strengths of this team, which only lost one player from a

returning players and take the next step

forward by pick up a

few victories in 2021.

win in 2020. Bear Lake’s season ended with a loss to eventual district champion Onekama in the first round of districts.

season ago, appears to be a strong team culture cultivated under Coach Hannah Harrington. Players are very fond of playing for

Taylor Merrill returns this season to give Bear Lake a steady presence at setter.

Harrington and say they feel very supported by their coach and, by her example, their teammates.

their belt, the Lakers seemed destined to improve. Still, there There is no question the is a lot of talent in the conference Lakers will turn things around and the district, so competing and pick up a few wins this for conference and district titles season. They came close on a seems like it will have to wait at few occasions last year, so with another year of experience under least another year. PREDICTION:

MaKayla Omar figures to be one of Bear Lake's top hitters at the net this year.

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Bear Lake Cross Country Bear Lake holds a rich history in the sport of cross country, however, declining numbers have taken a toll on the team in recent

years. Just last year, the Lakers received a boost that allowed them to field a full girls team for the first time in several

LAST YEAR:

Kaden Forward is the Lakers’ only returning boys runner from a season ago.

Bear Lake entered the 2020 season with full teams on both the boys and the girls side and enjoyed a competitive season, with the girls winning multiple conference meets and both teams

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Of the seven total (male and female) runners out for cross country this year, only four ran for the Lakers last year, and only one, Victoria Hall, has

years, however, this year might be the Lakers’ smallest team yet setting up something of a rebuilding year for the team.

entering regionals in contention for a trip to state finals. Both teams missed qualifying, with the boys finishing fourth and the girls finishing fifth in the region, however, Hunter Bentley and Kaden Forward each qualified individually to race at state finals.

more than one year of varsity experience, making this a very inexperienced team. Still, Lakers coach Tony Shrum expressed high hopes for a pair of newcomers in Mason Sinke, a freshman

transferring from Mattawan, and Lillian Mauntler, a senior who has not run since middle school. Should they run to their potential, he believes they can both qualify for state finals.

COACH’S CORNER: “I think we are going to have some fun, but I think we will surprise some people,” said Bear Lake coach Tony Shrum. “We are not training for the first meet at Benzie, but we are training for the last meet at Benzie, so we still have a lot of time ... We’ll use these first three, four weeks to build some base, and then we will see where we can go from there.” “I am optimistic for the future of the program,” Shrum said. “We are in a rebuild, a total rebuild, but we have a lot of young people interested.” KEY RETURNERS Boys: Kaden Forward (17:35) Girls: Victoria Hall (24:58) Jocelyn Teter (24:15) KEY LOSSES

PREDICTION:

Only Victoria Hall has multiple years of varsity racing experience for Bear Lake.

With only two boys runners and the bare minimum of five girls out for cross country, the Lakers face long odds at this point of sending a team to state, however,

Kaden Forward looks poised to qualify individually, and it is likely that Mason Sinke and/or Lillian Mauntler will also qualify due to rules changes that guarantee at least seven individual qualifiers out of each region.

Boys: Hunter Bentley (17:10) Jared Cook (19:22) Girls: Bella Leffew (22:06) Alex Rineer (21:37)

Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

Bear Lake Football COACH’S CORNER “Ain’t nobody coming to save us,” Bear Lake coach John Prokes said on Aug. 17. “That’s the motto for our program because it’s so true. We were brand new in football five years ago; we are still going strong, but we gotta do it on our own. Nobody is going to bail us out when times get rough. We just gotta get out there and get the job done.” THE NUMBERS 2020 Record: 2-5 (0-1 Home, 0-1 Away, 2-2 Neutral) Best Win: vs. Ashley, W 26-6 Worst Loss: vs. Suttons Bay, L 0-46 2020 Playoffs: Lost to Brethren in firstround (25-74). KEY RETURNERS QB/DB/K Bryce Harless (senior) TE/DL Jake Griffis (senior) KEY LOSSES OL/DL Quentin Ruiz (former team captain, graduated) RB/S Jackson Cook (All-State honorable mention, graduated)

Bear Lake quarterback Bryce Harless sprints upfield in an attempt to score a touchdown against Mesick

Last season, Bear Lake posted a 2-5 record, including a 25-74 postseason loss to the Brethren Bobcats. Since the program’s inception in 2017, points have been hard to come by and last year was no different as

The Bear Lake Lakers took on Mesick last season, losing 26-74

the Lakers were outscored 96-272 in seven contests. The Lakers coach John Prokes is entering his fifth year and had to replace multiple assistants alongside a couple of key players.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: offensive/defensive lineman Cole Merrill (started all seven Prokes returns several guys, games as a freshman). including senior starting Yet, Prokes needed to find a quarterback Bryce Harless way to replace two assistant who also plays defensive back/ coaches and filled both spots kicker; Jake Griffis, a two-way with his former team captain in player who earned secondQuentin Ruiz alongside Isaac team All-Conference honors in Blake. Even so, Bear Lake is on 2020; Gabe Aguilar, a quick, track to improve in 2021. agile, and athletic running back/ “Like previous years, we have linebacker; and sophomore PREDICTION: The Bear Lake Lakers are rostering 20 individuals this fall, the most in four years. While

a pretty good mix of kids that have played for a couple of years, and then the other half of the roster is kind of inexperienced and brand new,” said Prokes. “From a coaching standpoint, that’s always a challenge, but it gives the kids an opportunity to play, so I always like to see the good turnout.”

they have yet to find consistency on the offensive end, Prokes is determined to turn things around. Overall record prediction: 3-6 (2-3 WMFL)

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big moment captures the School graduate her diploma on Saturday. school receiving A Brethren High came to the photo after their with a family pandemic graduates family to receive Due to the COVID-19 with their immediate one at a time Grabowski/News Advocate) diplomas. (Ken

is presented Jenna Bialik Central graduate at Saturday’s Jeremie Solak Manistee Catholic by principal (Ken Grabowski/ News her diploma exercises. commencement

2 Column graduationx 2” at top of front page Brethren holds virtual on Saturday of time and are available on a first come basis for 34ahead These must be reserved Catholic graduates Manistee ceremony 10 in non-virtual so reserve your weeks now! Advocate)

200 fire ing of roughly trucks trucks, police,end loaders, BY KEN GRABOWSKI pulling front alumni Associate Editor family, friends,of the — Amidst members MANISTEE and and sounding hat tossing fireworks, horns to several community off sirens and All plenty of emotion, gathered honor the graduates. hundred people and their Catholic the graduates outside the at Manistee Stadium parents stood school and Central’s Saber the evening to entrance to with good on Saturday to the were honored cards and give a big sendoff wishes, flowers, as the class of 2020. gifts was a variety of This year there (plus by them. students parade passed only eight exchange Plenty of picturesand two foreign during were taken before students) receiving comafter the parade to Saber diplomas during ceremonies, everyone moved mencement COVID-19 the ceremony. Stadium for were led but after the disrupted the Graduates pandemic by church school year to their seats end of their officials, and wanted to and school the community sendoff. a big 7A give them began See MCC GRADS, The big night consistwith a parade

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as the and Circumstance” into graduates marched BY KEN GRABOWSKI in pairs the gymnasium the trellis of Associate Editor stepping under balloons to — The blue and white BRETHREN pandemic took flashing cameras. was COVID-19 end of year However, there and many special from the 34 — Bobcat pride moments away 2020 grad- pride it as the graduates the lots of presented members of Brethren at individually uating class but one thing were by school their diplomasthe course of High School, close to officials over video that will it couldn’t come a their Bobcat be the day for touching was a time yet to be shown at pride. virtual gradannounced. “small school, Saturday’s at the The phrase the sign uation ceremonyhave had not family” adorns School, school may with big in front of Brethren instilled bleachers overflowing grandparand those wordsin the proud parents,and friends, to a sense of pride ents, relativessounds of the as they arrived tra- graduates nor were the diplomas. That playing its receive their obvious school band rendition was more than ditional stirring Hymn of the 2A of the “Battle See BRETHREN, There wasn’t Republic.” of “Pomp even the sounds

tions.” has been developed The proposal city staff and weekly of to the at the request according merchant meetings, agenda. Develcity council Downtown The Manistee (DDA) gave its board opment Authority its May 13 support during

meeting. DDA is actively “The Manisteethrough weekly Committee communicating Business Development merchant meetings meetings and on the best of collecting feedback the reopening ways to supportduring this time,” our businessesto city council from reads a letter former executive the DDA and Berard. in director Caitlyn are interested “Merchants and expanded ‘open air markets’The first step to supporting outdoor seating. concerns is Reinvigthe address these proposed in the efforts Street for Business and orated River Visitors proposal.” Manistee Area Marc Miller, See COUNCIL, 2A

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BY ARIELLE BREEN Assistant Editor MANISTEE — Laborfest is scheduled for Sept. 5 at First Street Beach and is hosted by Salt City Rock and Blues. However, the access to city services and streets is listed as an action item on Tuesday’s agenda for consideration by Manistee City Council. The event was discussed at length during the last council work session and highlighted the need for measures to ensure safety during the COVID-19 pandemic and whether it would be possible to have those measures in place during the popular event. Salt City Rock and Blues identifies as a nonprofit organization that presents annual concerts to raise funds for community projects. According to the council meeting agenda, the event would include a parade, live music, possibly kids’ games and a hot air balloon. The performance portion of the event would be held at the Lions Pavilion at Douglas Park.

(From left) Doris Gaffey and Daniel Sutton discuss the various vehicles on display at the Kaleva Car Show Saturday. Sutton’s vehicle pictured in the front features a sign that reads “So many pedestrians, so little time.” (Arielle Breen/ News Advocate)

Rat rods and dragsters

Kaleva Car Show highlights a deep appreciation of vehicles BY ARIELLE BREEN Assistant Editor

See COUNCIL, 7A

Partnership leads to new programs for library patrons with memory loss BY SCOTT FRALEY Staff Writer

Car show participant Doris Gaffey stands with her 1938 street rat rod-style Chevy named Punk a Doodle. The vehicle reflects her GM seamstress ties as well as her love of water skiing as it features a repurposed ski as the base for her vehicle’s shifter, her old work scissors as the door handle and repurposed treadle sewing machine beams among other details. (Arielle Breen/News Advocate)

MANISTEE COUNTY — The Manistee County Library is offering new resources for patrons who suffer from memory loss. The library partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan chapter to present a series of free educational programs online. The first aims to help individuals recognize common signs of Alzheimer’s, including what to watch for in themselves and others. The webinar is titled the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s and includes tips on how to approach someone about memory concerns and it explains the importance of early detection. The free event will begin at 6 p.m. on Wednesday. The Michigan chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association also plans to offer a free online version of it’s program called Healthy Living for your Brain and Body at 6 p.m. on July 29. This program See MeMORY, 7A

Onekama man awarded quilt in honor of 27 years of service of gratitude for their service, sacrifice and valor in serving the nation in combat. Wemlinger was nominated by Patrick Murphy. “He’s just a humble, spectacular guy. ... He’s just a guy who has done a ton of stuff for America,” Murphy said. “He’s just a smart guy — that’s what I was impressed with. My brother (Bert Murphy) got a Quilt of Valor. Bert was in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive. ... Bert was really touched by the Quilt of Valor, so I figured it might be useful for John for all the service

John Wemlinger (left) receives a Quilt of Valor from Bert Murphy (right) during a small See QUILT, 7A ceremony at the Yellow Dog Cafe in Onekama on Friday. (Kyle Kotecki/News Advocate)

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KALEVA — It was all for the love of cars. Ask most of the Kaleva Car Show participants why they show up, and that is the answer. “It’s really about showing our love of cars,” car show participant Doris Gaffey said. Gaffey is better known by some as Punk a Doodle, and she adds that for her, it’s also about creativity. Gaffey, of Mesik, brought her 1938 street rat rod-style Chevy that others at the show referred to as the “scissors” vehicle. “I used to work for General Motors selling car seats, so I’m a commercial seamstress and (the truck’s theme is) all about sewing and boating,” Gaffey said, hinting at her love of water skiing that factored into the repurposed ski as the base for her vehicle’s shifter.

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is presented Jenna Bialik Central graduate at Saturday’s Jeremie Solak Manistee Catholic by principal (Ken Grabowski/ News her diploma exercises. commencement

Area — The Manistee MANISTEE is leading Commerce Chamber of to “reinvigorate River an initiative and visitors.” meeting Street for businesses 7 p.m. remote Council During its Manistee City on Tuesday, adopting that plan that will considerfor partial closures to to would allow on River Streetopervehicular traffic expanding precausupport businesses COVID-19 ations “during tions.” has been developed The proposal city staff and weekly of to the at the request according merchant meetings, agenda. Develcity council Downtown The Manistee (DDA) gave its board opment Authority its May 13 support during

as the and Circumstance” into graduates marched BY KEN GRABOWSKI in pairs the gymnasium the trellis of 200 fire Associate Editor ing of roughly trucks stepping under balloons to — The trucks, police,end loaders, blue and white BY KEN GRABOWSKI BRETHREN pulling front alumni pandemic took flashing cameras. was Associate Editor COVID-19 end of year family, friends,of the However, there and many special from the 34 — Amidst members — Bobcat pride MANISTEE and and sounding moments away 2020 grad- pride it as the graduates hat tossing the lots of fireworks, horns to presented several community members of Brethren at individually off sirens and All plenty of emotion, uating class but one thing were by school gathered honor the graduates. their diplomasthe course of hundred people and their High School, Catholic close to the graduates outside the officials over video that will at Manistee it couldn’t come Stadium a their Bobcat parents stood school and be the day for Central’s Saber the touching was a time yet to evening to entrance to with good be shown at on Saturday pride. to the virtual gradwere honored cards and announced. “small school, give a big sendoff Saturday’s at the wishes, flowers, as the The phrase class of 2020. the sign uation ceremonyhave had gifts was not a variety of family” adorns School, This year there (plus by them. school may with big students parade passed in front of Brethren only eight instilled bleachers overflowing exchange grandparPlenty of picturesand and those wordsin the two foreign proud parents,and friends, during were taken to a sense of pride before students) receiving ents, relativessounds of the comas they arrived after the parade to Saber the graduates diplomas during were tranor diplomas. That ceremonies, playing its everyone moved receive their obvious mencement COVID-19 the ceremony. school band rendition Stadium for were led was more than but after the ditional stirring disrupted the Graduates Hymn of the pandemic 2A by church of the “Battle school year See BRETHREN, to their seats There wasn’t end of their Republic.” officials, and wanted to of “Pomp and school the sounds the community sendoff. even big 7A give them a began See MCC GRADS, The big night consistwith a parade

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MANISTEE — Laborfest is scheduled for Sept. 5 at First Street Beach and is hosted by Salt City Rock and Blues. However, the access to city services and streets is listed as an action item on Tuesday’s agenda for consideration by Manistee City Council. The event was discussed at length during the last council work session and highlighted the need for measures to ensure safety during the COVID-19 pandemic and whether it would be possible to have those measures in place during the popular event. Salt City Rock and Blues identifies as a nonprofit organization that presents annual concerts to raise funds for community projects. According to the council meeting agenda, the event would include a parade, live music, possibly kids’ games and a hot air balloon. The performance portion of the event would be held at the Lions Pavilion at Douglas Park. See COUNCIL, 7A

Partnership leads to new programs for library patrons with memory loss BY SCOTT FRALEY Staff Writer

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Manisteenews.com/access Car show participant Doris Gaffey stands with her 1938 street rat rod-style Chevy named Punk a Doodle. The vehicle reflects her GM seamstress ties as well as her love of water skiing as it features a repurposed ski as the base for her vehicle’s shifter, her old work scissors as the door handle and repurposed treadle sewing machine beams among other details. (Arielle Breen/News Advocate)

Questions? Customer service is here to answer Onekama manthem: awarded quilt in honor of 27 years of service circ@pioneergroup.com See DRAGSTeRS, 2A

BY KYLE KOTECKI Staff Writer

ONEKAMA — John Wemlinger, a Vietnam veteran who served in the Army for 27 years, loves his country. Wemlinger got a little love in return recently when he received a Quilt of Valor in a small ceremony at the Yellow Dog Cafe in Onekama.

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Wemlinger’s quilt was made by a group of quilters in Clinton County. ONEKAMA — John “This is a humbling Wemlinger, a Vietnam veteran who served in the honor. You see this all the time on television, Army for 27 years, loves or I do, and every time his country. I see something like Wemlinger got a little this, it brings a lump to love in return recently my throat, and many when he received a times, a tear to my eye,” Quilt of Valor in a small he said. “Now, because ceremony at the Yellow of this wonderful group Dog Cafe in Onekama. of quilters in Bath, Michigan, I’ve been so honored. ... This is a deep, deep honor for me to get this quilt.” The Quilts of Valor program awards quality, handcrafted quilts to service members and veterans as a symbol

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The News been a community other patrons pandemic? a light on seniors and at coronavirus to shine FRALEY who are sheltering Advocate wants doing great things the state of everyday people home during crisis. the look for during this it to fill out emergency. delivering someone, and click on If you know — Over the “Instead of manisteenews.com Graves at mgraves@pioneer MANISTEE this logo at to the food Manistee editor Michelle passengers form or email information. past 45 years, delivering the have with group.com bank, we’re County residents should passenger so Dial-A-Ride “If the state food to the counted on June 12, then them where they don’t ride the bus,” reopen after drivers to take Now, driver who may unwittingly back more of go. said Dial-A-Ride I will bring they need to spread the virus. said. “As “Typically is one Larry Budde. drivers,” Peters in a standwe “All it takes during the coronavirus the public Larry Budde, person, and several before the pandemic right now, we’re pandemic, a lot of provider … were left) Curtis Gauthier, would deliverfood banks. still.” has transportation more drivers (from of our drivers along with operations Dial-A-Ride Though ridership people to the provide public more concerned about has never beenrisky. Richard Morehouse to those Dial-A-Ride older continued to not or Joe Fisk and Now we’re going Peters, have plummeted, families and essential — and their green Dial- places and loading up to have stopped manager Deniseservices during the pandemic. Those said Budde. employees it Mark Bezjian The familiar (relatives),” from Dial-Ahave become our buses and taking transportation maintenance managerHarrison and Paul collecting fares delivers Traditionally A-Ride buses at food now Struble, Dan pictured include could expect sight them.” patrons and prescriptions Chick, Ryan a common Ride drivers drivers Advocate) stores drivers Linda around 800 Dial-A-Ride Fraley/News groceries and shepherd pantries, grocerythrough530 (Scott to Nicholson. each day, but part delivered roughly for free. and pharmacies passengers dropped “For the mostappreciathe pandemic groceries and Peters said packages of to residents Manistee out the county. drivers ridership has the usual on many people are very said employed by of prescriptions has been difficult Increasingly, to deliver to to only 10% with young tive and respectful,” County Transportation said. Due to Gauthier. in April, according the of her drivers elderly family are being asked rate, Peters number operations driver Curtis homebound — which operates thing (riders) Denise Peters, children and essentials to program — the declining Manistee a “The biggest wear Dial-A-Ride is manager. members. several right now of passengers, of May made sacrihave instituted risk can do “The month “They’ve all of County Transportation mitigate the and we’ve to support mask.” changes to the number isn’t even done those fices to be here said. disease. has reduced While the precautions she thus 25 to five at of transmitting already exceeded our public,” drivers from Peters said. These include mandatory have been successful 530 packages,”essential worry about stricter sanitathe lowest point. far, drivers masking, a and restrictpatrons Deemed an with Gov. interacting tion regimen service under travel. ing nonessential ergroup.com Gretchen Whitmer’s those • dsavela@pione stay-home order, (231) 398-3112

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Wemlinger’s quilt was made by a group of quilters in Clinton County. “This is a humbling honor. You see this all the time on television, or I do, and every time I see something like this, it brings a lump to my throat, and many times, a tear to my eye,” he said. “Now, because of this wonderful group of quilters in Bath, Michigan, I’ve been so honored. ... This is a deep, deep honor for me to get this quilt.” The Quilts of Valor program awards quality, handcrafted quilts to service members and veterans as a symbol

of gratitude for their service, sacrifice and valor in serving the nation in combat. Wemlinger was nominated by Patrick Murphy. “He’s just a humble, spectacular guy. ... He’s just a guy who has done a ton of stuff for America,” Murphy said. “He’s just a smart guy — that’s what I was impressed with. My brother (Bert Murphy) got a Quilt of Valor. Bert was in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive. ... Bert was really touched by the Quilt of Valor, so I figured it might be useful for John for all the service

See MeMORY, 7A

John Wemlinger (left) receives a Quilt of Valor from Bert Murphy (right) during a small See QUILT, 7A ceremony at the Yellow Dog Cafe in Onekama on Friday. (Kyle Kotecki/News Advocate)

Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

Onekama Football COACH’S CORNER “It’s such a great opportunity for us to have this football season! I’m looking forward to seeing how much we can take advantage of this opportunity,” Portagers coach John Neph said. “We have invested a lot of time and effort into this season. I’m hoping our commitments are rewarded with great experiences for our entire football team.” KEY RETURNERS WR/LB Alec Tabaczka (senior) QB/DB Laketon Cordes (junior) KEY LOSSES OL/DL Ben Falk (starter in 2020, graduated) QB/DB Johnny Neph (All-State defensive back, graduated)

Onekama takes on Bear Lake in a scrimmage before the 2021 season.

In 2020, head coach John Neph and Onekama football faced numerous challenges as a young team navigating through a global pandemic.

Onekama football huddles up in a loss to Brethren in 2020

As a result, the Portagers missed several opportunities to gain experience, including the summer passing league and scrimmages against other

teams. Overall, Onekama finished its season 1-4 but persevered thanks to strong senior leadership and morale.

junior halfback; and two offensive linemen in Dante Gray and Jayden Johnson. Entering his This season, the Portagers are without Ben fifth season as head coach, Neph is eager to Falk, a dominant lineman on both sides of the see his team’s progress day after day. ball; Johnny Neph, Onekama’s quarterback “We are very excited for the 2021 season! Our and talented defensive back; Jonah Gilbert, goal is to improve each week of the season and who played linebacker and tight end; and Collin make the most of this opportunity in front of us,” Guzikowski, another two-way player (WR/DB). said Neph. “At the end of the season, we expect However, they return Alec Tabaczka, Onekama’s our players to have such a great experience that lone senior; Laketon Cordes; a skilled athlete they will remember for the rest of their lives.” taking over under center; Landon Weaver, a WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

PREDICTION: Neph is one of three football coaches in Onekama program history alongside Jim Taylor (1964-1987) and Jim Hunter

(1988-2016). Since taking over for Hunter in 2017, the Portagers boast a combined record of 27-13 with five playoff victories. Last year was a down year for Onekama, but

progress is bound to be made

with Neph leading the way and multiple guys back for another season.

Overall record prediction: 3-5.

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2021 | Manistee Fall Sports Preview

Onekama Volleyball The move to the Northwest Conference ahead of the 2016 season seems to have brought out the best in the Onekama volleyball team. It may have taken a year or two for the Madison Gutowski returns as a junior after a strong season as Onekama’s libero.

Portagers to hit their stride, but with district championships in 2018 and 2020, Onekama is enjoying its greatest run of success in the history of its girls volleyball program. The Portagers

LAST YEAR: Onekama fielded a strong serving attack and a dominant presence at the net to pile up the wins on its way to a third place finish in the Northwest

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: While Onekama lost four seniors — Kristin Bonecutter, Jenna

Senior Kaylin Sam has her eyes on making her last season count.

Onekama has one of the most talented and experienced Division 4 volleyball teams in northern Michigan, and expectations should be high for this group. A conference title will be

COACH’S CORNER: “I love the excitement that we have on the court this year,” said coach Linda Elo. “It’s just a group of girls that really take care of each other and pick each other up. When they do something that doesn’t work, they get together and say: Let’s make this better ... There are always pieces to put together, but we have really strong pieces coming back. ‘”

Conference and a trip to the regional championship game, after a strong postseason run that did not see them lose a set through their first four postseason matches.

Bromley, Sara Bromley and Ajah Fink — to graduation from last year’s team, the Portagers had enough depth on that team that

PREDICTION:

enter the 2021 season with three straight topthree finishes in the Northwest Conference and once again seemed poised to contend in the ever-tough league.

they still bring back an abundance of size and talent. Particularly noteworthy is Onekama’s large senior class with features six seniors:

difficult with Leland and Kingsley annually fielding great teams, however, Onekama should finish top three in the conference, and those battles will likely prepare the Portagers to defend their district title and take the next step in winning a regional championship.

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KEY RETURNERS Mairin McCarthy (honorable mention all-conference) Sophie Wisniski (second team all-conference, all-region) KEY LOSSES

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Kristin Bonecutter (second team all-conference, all-region) Sara Bromley (second team allconference)

Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

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2021 | Manistee Fall Sports Preview

Brethren Volleyball For much of the 2020 season, Brethren volleyball was not much to write home about. The Bobcats were an average

Division 4 team, however, Brethren came together in a sudden surge late in the season to finish the year playing great

LAST YEAR:

Dawn Bradley makes a serve in districts last fall.

The Bobcats struggled to reach their potential during the regular season, during which they went 5-4 in West Michigan D League matches, however, Brethren turned things around in the final week of the season and played WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Brethren brings back a very experienced team with eight of nine varsity players from last year back on this year’s team. Overall,

Sophia Fischer makes a play at the net during a home match against Evart.

its best volleyball in districts. The Bobcats rallied from two sets down to win their district opener against Mason County Eastern and then defeated Manistee Catholic Central in the district semifinals to reach the championship match against Onekama.

the Bobcats are in great shape from a numbers perspective, with 11 players set to start the season on varsity. Brethren coach Moriah Miltgen said that some players may bounce back and forth

PREDICTION: The pieces appear there for Brethren to surge ahead in the conference standings and contend with pre-season favorite Mesick for a West Michigan D League

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conference championship. That might be their best shot a championship trophy, though, as Brethren’s district features defending district champion Onekama, a team that had Brethren’s number in 2020.

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volleyball as a team. Now, with most of that team returning in 2021, the Bobcats will look to add some hardware to their collection.

COACH’S CORNER: “I can still see that strong bond that they had last year,” said Brethren coach Moriah Miltgen. “It helps that with such a small community at school, they play most of their sports together, so they have been teammates throughout the year. They kept that strong connection over the summer through open gyms and other things, so we shouldn’t have to rebuild at all.” “We are hoping to finish higher in the conference than we did last year and make it back to district finals, but we do not want to get ahead of ourselves, because we don’t want to get it in our head that everything is going to be easy,” Miltgen said. “We know we still have to work hard ... We just have to take it one game at a time and play our game.” KEY RETURNERS Halle Richardson (second team allconference) Sophia Fischer (second team allconference) KEY LOSSES Kaia Richardson (honorable mention all-conference)

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Brethren Cross Country COACH’S CORNER: “This year is going to be about building the kids who have been running for a while up for some individual stuff and trying to get some medals and working toward next year when we should have a pretty big team, by Brethren standards,” said Brethren coach Kyle Griffin of his girls team. “I think the whole focus team-wise this year is knowing that the next two years are going to be when they want to try to make some moves and keeping their eyes on that.” “After some of the 800 performances he put in this past year, I am pretty excited to see (Gavin Rudlaff),” Griffin said of his lone boys runner. “I have my fingers crossed that he surprises himself a little bit ... I really wouldn’t be surprised if he breaks out.”

Abby Kissling enters the 2021 season as Brethren's clear No. 1 runner.

The Brethren Bobcats are stepping into a new era in their cross country program. Graduated now is Alexis Tracy,

As a junior, Ashlynn Wardie will take on a big leadership role this season for the Bobcats.

the greatest runner in school history, and the Bobcats will now look for new leaders to step up and younger runners

LAST YEAR: Brethren may not have qualified for state finals as a team, but that girls were sniffing contention for the third and final qualifying spot for state finals heading into the regional meet. Brethren finished sixth in the region, but did qualify Alexis Tracy

to develop as they look to build toward future team success and developing new all-state caliber runners.

and Abby Kissling for state finals, where Tracy claimed her second all-state finish in as many years. On the boys side, with the exception of a few meets, Connor Wojciechowski was the only runner in most meets, and he came up short of qualifying for state finals at the regional meet.

KEY RETURNERS Boys: None Girls: Abby Kissling (21:22) Ashlynn Wardie (26:07)

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Brethren enters the year with limited varsity experience and no seniors on the roster. Only three members of the projected

varsity girls team have a full year, or more, of varsity running experience, and the one or two members of the boys team will also be largely new to the team. Bobcats coach Kyle

Griffin referred to this year as

something of a bridge year as the Bobcats wait for a large

eighth grade girls class to boost the high school team.

KEY LOSSES Boys: Connor Wojciechowski (18:48) Girls: Alexis Tracy (19:43)

PREDICTION: It’s hard to not see Brethren taking a step back from a results standpoint with the loss of a runner of Alexis Tracy’s caliber, meaning they should not be in serious contention for a conference title or qualifying for state as a team. Still Abby Kissling seems a near-lock to qualify for state finals as

a sophomore, having already accomplished that feat her freshman year. Gavin Rudlaff seems to have a decent shot to pick up medals on the boys side, but with the senior dual-sporting with football and lacking in cross country experience, he seems a long shot to join Kissling at state finals.

2021 | Manistee Fall Sports Preview

Brethren Football COACH’S CORNER:

Brethren varsity football huddles up prior to taking the field against Manistee Catholic Central.

The Brethren Bobcats 2020 season ended with a tough playoff loss to Hale (8-44); however, the team still had a successful year. Overall, coach

JJ Randall led Brethren High School to a 5-3 record featuring a dominant postseason victory against Bear Lake. Skylar Wojciechowski, the Bobcats’

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Randall is without Wojciechowski and Anthony Beccaria, a 6-foot-9 offensive lineman, who made it easier to take control up front. Even so, the Bobcats welcome back their leading rusher and tackler in Jacob Schuch, alongside Lucas Stapley, another quick and athletic halfback/ PREDICTION: Entering his fourth year leading the program, Randall expects Brethren to play with intensity while being prepared, organized, and mentally and

The Brethren defense lines up against the Manistee Catholic Central offense in 2020.

two-year starting quarterback, has since graduated, but Randall returns multiple key players and is confident in his new man under center.

linebacker. To top it off, Hunter Harris is once again along the defensive line, whereas junior signal-caller Clayton Mobley will be commanding the offense this fall, and according to his coach, he’s coming along nicely. “Now, he’s running the show, and he’s been doing a great job these past couple of weeks,” said Randall.

physically tough. Through a pandemic, which Randall said was the most challenging season of his career, the Bobcats showed they could battle through adversity and remain successful. Even

without two of their former stars, Brethren will make another push toward the playoffs in 2021. Overall record prediction: 5-4 (3-2 WMFL)

“This is a great group of guys; they bring energy every day,” Brethren coach JJ Randall said. “This is an interesting group because some have played some skill positions in the past, and now they are playing offensive line … they have been busting their tail every day, and they show up pretty positive. Our leaders are actually being leaders, so it’s really nice to have this group mesh together.” THE NUMBERS 2020 Record: 5-3 (3-0 Home, 0-2 Away, 2-1 Neutral) Best Win: vs. Bear Lake, W 30-9 Worst Loss: vs. Suttons Bay, L 0-35 2020 Playoffs: Took down Bear Lake (74-25) before losing to Hale in the second-round. KEY RETURNERS RB/LB Jacob Schuch (senior) RB/LB Lucas Stapley (junior) KEY LOSSES QB Skylar Wojciechowski (two-year starter, graduated) OL Anthony Beccaria (three-year starter, graduated)

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Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

COACH’S CORNER: “My goals are for the girls to play together as a team,” said Manistee Catholic Central coach Kaytlin Heck. “We kind of need all of them. Volleyball is a big teamwork sport. I just want to see a lot of good communication as far as calling the ball and talking to each other.” “Right now we are focusing on going game by game,” Heck said. “They have played together for a while, but we have changed a couple things that they didn’t do last year, so we are kind of getting used to new things, even though we all have been together. My hope is that they play together and we can get to a good place in the conference.” KEY RETURNERS Josie Ziehm (second team allconference) Ana Watkins (honorable mention allconference) KEY LOSSES Kaya Watkins (first team allconference)

Manistee Catholic Central Volleyball It has been a long postseason drought on the volleyball court for the Manistee Catholic Sabers, who have not

won a postseason volleyball match since 2013, however, the Sabers are hoping to make strides forward this

LAST YEAR: The Sabers picked up a few wins in the West Michigan D League, but in the end, they found themselves in the bottom WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Kaytlin Heck will be taking over the varsity program this year, but she is no stranger

Josie Ziehm finished second team all-conference for Manistee Catholic a season ago.

half of the league. In districts, they received a first round bye and advanced to the semifinals, where they fell to the Brethren Bobcats.

to its players, having coached the JV program in 2019 and the middle school program in 2020. She will roll out nearly

PREDICTION: Baby steps are the more likely reality than giant leaps for the Sabers this season, but with most of the roster back for another run at it, there’s

fall after bringing back most of their team from a season ago under a new coach in Kaytlin Heck.

the same unit as last year, as Heck looks for the Sabers to mature and improve in all aspects of the game.

no reason not to expect a few more wins this year to climb into the top half of the league and then maybe winning a match in districts, depending on how the draws play out.

The Sabers bring back a strong hitting presence in Ana Watkins.

Good Luck This Fall!

2021 | Manistee Fall Sports Preview

Manistee Catholic Central Football Manistee Catholic Central huddles up with its cheerleaders, coaches, and players in 2020.

Manistee Catholic Central got off to a rough start in 2020 after multiple players opted out due to the pandemic. Then the Sabers lost their starting center to a knee

injury in week one, which left the offense in flux for most of the year. Overall, MCC ended with a 1-6 record and a postseason appearance. Fast forward to

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: According to Szymanski, the Sabers have worked hard since last season ended, taking advantage of the weight room, but with just 11 guys on the roster, conditioning will be the focal point. Manistee Catholic returns some significant talent in Scott Hauswirth (OL/DL), Kyle PREDICTION: Entering his sixth season leading Manistee Catholic, Szymanski intends to head in the right direction. He doesn’t believe last year’s record indicates what his

Manistee Catholic Central works through a grueling day of practice.

this fall, and head coach Jake

Szymanski is fielding 11 players while hoping to add a couple more as classes begin.

McLinden (QB), David Kosla (OL), and Eddie Dutkavich (OL/DL). Dutkavich is set to anchor the defense while Hauswirth returns and is a formidable individual along both lines. Kosla, the Sabers starting center, is recovering from an injury, and McLinden is giving it another shot following numerous injuries throughout his career.

program wants to accomplish, nor does it reflect the level of talent they have. Instead, the longtime coach intends to improve day after day to find the right guys who will mesh on and off the field. Football

is the ultimate team sport, but the Sabers might be in trouble longterm without a deep bench. Either way, progress is on the horizon. Overall record prediction: 3-6 (2-5 WMFL-8)

COACH’S CORNER: “We’re leaving last year in the rearview mirror,” Catholic Central coach Jake Szymanski said. “I told these guys earlier; 1-6 isn’t where we want to be as a program. We understand everything that happened last year and everything we had to deal with … we’re going to earn everything this year. We want to earn our spot in the playoffs and earn some respect in the conference. We want to show people that Manistee Catholic still plays with that pride and heart.” THE NUMBERS 2020 Record: 1-6 (1-1 Home, 0-4 Away, 0-1 Neutral) Best Win: vs. Baldwin, W 22-8 Worst Loss: @ Marion, L 6-38 2020 Playoffs: Lost to Suttons Bay, 6-49 KEY RETURNERS OL/DL Scott Hauswirth (senior) QB Kyle McLinden (senior) KEY LOSSES RB/DB Mateo Barnett (starter in 2020, graduated) TE/DB Adam Pierce (starter in 2020, graduated)

Morton Salt

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Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

Manistee Cross Country COACH’S CORNER: “I fully expect the boys to challenge for the conference title, and I’ll be disappointed if they can’t take it this year,” said Manistee coach Eric Thuemmel. “I said that last year, but we had a bunch of crazy things happen in the season. Our boys have the talent to win it this year, and I think our boys are going to have an outside shot, just as they did two years ago, of making it back to the state meet. We have the majority of those boys that made it to state back on the team this year. They were all young then, but now they are veterans, and it will be exciting to see how this team develops ... I’m hoping to surprise a few people. We are going to be tougher than what people think.” “As far as girls go in the conference, we have our work cut out for us,” Thuemmel said. “Western Michigan Christian has all of their runners back, and Ludington has a slew of freshmen girls out for their team. Between those two teams and Manistee, I think it will be a tough battle for the conference title.”

Cecelia Postma sprints to the finish during a county meet at Bear Lake in 2020.

Manistee’s cross country teams have enjoyed some excitement in recent years, with the boys team qualifying for state finals two years ago, and the girls team locking up a

LAST YEAR: Manistee enjoyed its largest team in memory last year, and those numbers led to

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Boys:

Manistee’s team may be smaller this year, but it is still a large team, particularly on the boys side, where coach Eric Thuemmel boasted about a very deep roster filled with guys who should be running anywhere between high-

Girls: Cecelia Postma (21:04) Allie Thomas (21:45) KEY LOSSES Boys: Luke Herberger (19:22) Griffen Antal (20:07) Girls: Olivia Holtgren (20:55) Brynn O’Donnell (22:23)

PREDICTION: So long as they stay healthy, Manistee’s boys team seems trending toward winning a conference championship and also qualifying for state finals, perhaps even pushing Benzie Central

conference championship in 2020. With a large roster filled with returning talent, the Chips will look to once again make some noise in 2021.

success on the cross country course. The girls team won the Lakes 8 Conference, while boys team finished second in the conference,

KEY RETURNERS Caiden Cudney (17:19) Abdul Ghennewa (18:08)

Abdul Ghennewa emerged as Manistee's top runner last year as a freshman.

winning their first ever conference jamboree in the process. The Chips did not, however, qualify any runners for state finals.

17s and low-19s on the 5K course this fall. The girls roster is a bit of question mark with only six of 16 girls returning from last year’s team, but the roster does add a talented transfer in Anna Huizinga and will go 13 girls deep, and he expects plenty of competition for the final varsity spots.

for the No. 2 spot in the region. Manistee’s girls meanwhile find themselves in a tough position, needing newcomers to step up in a big way if they want to compete against teams with much more coming back for a conference championship

and a trip to state finals. Even if they do fall short of those goals, expect the Chips to send multiple girls to state finals, with their top runners locking up spots with the expanded qualifying marks that guarantee at least seven individual qualifiers.

2021 | Manistee Fall Sports Preview

Manistee Golf COACH’S CORNER: “I’m looking forward to the seniors being the leaders and a lot of them have helped the other girls with certain things,” Chippewas coach Bridget Warnke said. “They aren’t afraid to help them.” KEY RETURNERS

The Manistee Chippewas senior Sara Danison attempts to sink a putt in 2020.

Manistee sophomore Kendal Waligorski chips in during last season.

This season, three seniors return to Manistee High School to help lead the girls' varsity golf team, which fields six underclassmen (two sophomores, four freshmen). Head coach Bridget Warnke entered last season, realizing 2020 would be a rebuild more than

anything else, considering six individuals graduated the year prior. However, she’s intrigued because the trio of seniors in Sara Danison, Emalyn Nelson, and Mackenzie King are not afraid to take the younger players under their wing.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Warnke didn’t have a single senior on last year’s team, meaning the Chippewas don’t feature any key losses. Instead, two leaders are back in Danison, who represented Manistee at the State Finals and earned All-conference honors, and Kendal Waligorski, a sophomore with tons of potential. In addition,

Nelson and King are two four-year players Warnke is excited about and expects to provide experience. But, in many ways, the Chips are young as Warnke welcomes four freshmen to the team; though she doesn't consider their lack of course time a hindrance at all. With Danison, Nelson, and King all graduating this year, Warnke is excited to reload the program.

PREDICTION: Warnke fields a solid mix of experience, skill, leadership, and youth in her sixth season. The blending of those characteristics makes her want to

“I’m happy about the numbers I have; I’m going to have at least 10 girls,” said Warnke. “Last year, I had six. So, I’m really excited about the fact that girls are getting more interested in golf. I’ve got some complete beginners this year and in a week, I’ve seen dramatic improvement. I’m looking forward to seeing where we will be at the end of the season.”

see how far the 2021 squad can go. She’s teaching, and many girls are learning, but Danison, Nelson, and King will compete for another trip to the State Finals this fall.

Sara Danison (senior) Emalyn Nelson (senior) Mackenzie King (senior) Olivia Vasquez (junior) Kendal Waligorski (sophomore)

Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

Manistee Swimming COACH’S CORNER “We’re going to take this group of girls; we’re going to swim as fast as we can and enjoy our dual meet season and enjoy our conference championships,” Chippewas coach Corey Van Fleet said. KEY RETURNERS Lauren Mezeske (junior) Maddie Fox (senior) Solana Postma (senior) KEY LOSSES Lauren Mendians (graduated) Flaminia Coitti (graduated)

The Manistee girls swim team faces off against Fremont last year.

Manistee head coach Corey Van Fleet is back to lead the girls swimming program in 2021 and is fielding a young team since two talented seniors in Lauren Mendians and Flaminia Coitti, graduated. The duo qualified and competed WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Last season, Mendians, Mezeske, Coitti, and Brooklyn Blair took 19th place in the 400yard freestyle relay at the state finals. Two out of three of those

Manistee’s Brooklyn Blair competes at a swim meet in 2020.

in individual events at the 2020 Division III state finals, capping their last season as high schoolers. However, youth isn’t stopping Van Fleet from believing in his team.

girls are back, and Van Fleet expects Blair, Mezeske, Solana Postma, and Maddie Fox (his two team captains) to lead them this year. “Well, they are all good students … they work hard, and are they dedicated,” said Van Fleet. “They get

PREDICTION: Even with some high turnover from last year, Van Fleet is excited to see what his team has to offer this fall. He's ready to witness a group of hard workers who are going to give 100%

results; we just need more of them.” Van Fleet hopes more students join the program to increase the roster, but overall, he’s more concerned with practicing and getting into shape.

effort. But, due to small numbers and his team's inexperience, he expects Ludington and Traverse City to lead the conference. Although, his wide range of experience as a coach should balance the scales for the Chippewas.

Good Luck This Fall!

2021 | Manistee Fall Sports Preview

Manistee Football COACH’S CORNER “This will by far be the strongest and biggest team that I’ve had in Manistee … so the size is there,” Chippewas coach Troy Bytwork said. “If we can be as quick off the ball up front as we were in 2018, we have the tools in the backfield to be pretty successful … the tools are there. They’ve done the necessary things since December of 2020 to put themselves in a position to play some good football. Now it’s just time to do it.” The Manistee football team runs drills on the first day Manistee coach Troy Bytwork addresses the of practice after the Michigan High School Athletic Chippewas following a win against Kalkaska in 2020. Association reinstated the sport for a fall season.

In 2018, Manistee varsity football went 9-0 during the regular season and lost in the first round of the playoffs against Clare (28-42). The Chippewas finished 3-6 and 5-3 the following two years with a

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The Chippewas lose Nick Weaver, an All-State honorable mention left tackle, running back Landen Powers, and a physical wideout in Eric Smith. Even so, Bytwork has plenty of talent to work with, considering Jeff Huber (QB),

postseason victory over Kalkaska. However, head coach Troy Bytwork believes the pieces are there to eclipse the undefeated team this fall.

Carter Fredricks (G/DE), Caden VanSickle (T/DE), Connor Rischel (WR), Luke Kooy (S/OLB), and Connor Beaudrie (RB/LB) are ready to run it back in 2021. Entering his fifth season as head coach, Bytwork is confident in Manistee’s ability to perform on

PREDICTION: The Manistee Chippewas are incredibly talented and will pose a threat to its own record books alongside the entire conference. After ending its season

the field and is curious if they can best his impressive 2018 squad. “It’s a want standpoint; how good do they want to be? They can be pretty dang good,” said Bytwork. “But they will determine that with their play … we’ll see that very soon.”

with the first playoff win in school history last year, Bytwork’s Chips intend on making a deep run and look to have the players for such a milestone. Overall record prediction: 7-2 (2-2 L8C)

THE NUMBERS 2020 Record: 5-3 (3-3 Home, 2-0 Away) Best Win: @ Ludington, W 21-20 Worst Loss: vs. Muskegon Catholic Central, L 0-40 2020 Playoffs: Manistee defeated Kalkaska, 62-6 before losing to Grayling (14-49). KEY RETURNERS QB/FS Jeff Huber (junior) WR Connor Rischel (junior) KEY LOSSES RB Landen Powers (starter in 2020, graduated) WR Eric Smith (starter in 2020, graduated)

Manistee Fall Sports Preview | 2021

Manistee Volleyball Manistee has never won a conference or a district title to boast about, but the Chippewas are hoping that could change in the near future

with new coach Brooke Richards bringing a fiery edge to the program that looks to put forth a talented roster in 2021.

COACH’S CORNER: “It’s a lot more competitive than they’ve seen in the past, but they are doing really well with everything,” said Manistee coach Brooke Richards. “They are really competitive. They really want to win. They have the drive. Winning as much as we can and having fun with it is our big goal.” “Once we can get into the flow of it, we have a really nice hitting team,” Richards said. “Right now, we’ve been kind of struggling with defense and serve receive, so we’ve been working on that, but I think offensively we are going to be pretty strong.”

the Chips were able The wins came few in to reach the district championship game, number last year for amid a wild end Manistee, however, to the season that LAST YEAR:

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Manistee’s players have indicated that their hope is to win the Lakes 8 Conference. Coach Brooke Richards also has her eyes on picking up a

saw multiple teams missing players or forfeiting games due to COVID-19 quarantines.

Reagan Codden is making the move from libero to setter this year for Mansitee.

couple wins in Manistee’s district. In pursuit of their goals, the Chips bring back plenty of experience, with eight returners from last year’s team, including Raegan Codden, who has made the switch from libero to setter.

KEY RETURNERS Raegen Codden Emma Bevans KEY LOSSES

there is a lot of ground to make up between The Chippewas will be where the team was a much-improved team at a season ago and in 2021 with the athletes where they need to be they will put on the court to win championships. under Brooke Richards’ Manistee still should move up on the coaching. That said, PREDICTION:

Logan Wayward (second team allconference) Madelyn Schmutzler

conference rankings though, possibly finishing second, and a district win or two should also be on the table depending on the team’s draw.

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Allison Kelley is one of several returners who should give Manistee a strong presence at the net this fall.

2021 | Manistee Fall Sports Preview

Manistee Soccer COACH’S CORNER: “We’ve got a great sophomore group … with the sophomores we have that are going to kind of be immediately thrown in; it’s a developing process,” Chippewas coach Brandon Prince said. “Growing pains, we’ll call them – totally patience on my end with them, but kind of enthusiasm on theirs … they are going to grow every day as players for the bigger picture of watching them develop.”

Manistee coach Brandon Prince instructs the Chippewas during a practice.

Last year Manistee soccer ended its season less than ideally, losing to Shelby (1-3) in the first round of districts. However, head coach Brandon Prince led the Chippewas to multiple quality victories throughout the regular season, including

The Manistee Chippewas prepare for numerous drills at practice.

Muskegon Catholic Central, Suttons Bay, and Benzie Central. Manistee returns five varsity players from 2020 and inherits its fair share of youth, which will require time for development.

THE NUMBERS 2020 Record: 6-9 (3-3 Home, 3-6 Away) Best Win: vs. Suttons Bay, W 6-1 Worst Loss: @ Traverse City Central, L 0-8 2020 Playoffs: Lost to Shelby, 1-3 KEY RETURNERS Evan Dalhke (senior) Ben Schlaff (junior)

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The Chippewas welcome back five players from the year prior, featuring Evan Dalhke, Ben Schlaff, Caleb Cameron, Gerry Peterson, and Gavin Weaver. Yet, the theme of this season’s

team centers around youth, development, and growing pains. Manistee will heavily rely upon Peterson, Cameron, and Schlaff on the back line while the younger guys become accustomed to varsity level soccer.

Prince understands the process; in fact, he welcomes it and can’t wait to watch his new players blossom into veterans one day. “That comes with the territory of high school sports, I can’t keep them forever,” said Prince. “I can’t redshirt any of them.”

KEY LOSSES Grant Schlaff (four-year starter, graduated) Drew Schlaff (three-year starter, graduated)

PREDICTION: Heading into Prince’s 12th year with the

program, eighth as head man, Manistee

soccer is a great mix of veteran leadership and inexperience. After a year of battling through the pandemic, the Chips are ready to get back to work. Overall Prediction: 9-11 (4-6 L8C)