What Could Have Been - A Salute to the Area's Spring Sports Athletes by Hearst Midwest

A SALUTE TO THE AREA'S SPRING SPORTS ATHLETES

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What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

PAGES 9 & 10: CROSSROADS CHARTER ACADEMY

PAGES 14-18: CHIPPEWA HILLS WARRIORS

PAGES 21-23: EVART WILDCATS

PAGE 25&26: BALDWIN PANTHERS

PAGES 4-8: BIG RAPIDS CARDINALS

PAGES 11-14: REED CITY COYOTES

PAGES 19&20: MORLEY STANWOOD MOHAWKS

PAGE 24: FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY

PAGES 28-31: MARION EAGLES

PAGE 27: PINE RIVER

PAGE 33: EVART & FERRIS STATE

PAGES 32: MONTABELLA MUSTANGS

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

What Could Have Been By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

The entire spring sports season for 2020 was canceled by the NCAA and MHSAA because of COVID 19. Many athletes spent an incredible amount of time getting ready for the spring of 2020 but weren’t able to show their skills in the playing arena. This special issue is meant to provide our

readers with a look at What Might Have Been. The stories and photos highlight the area team and top athletes to take a look at what their expectations, hopes and dreams could have been in 2020. Here’s a salute to the 2020 spring sports athletes and...What Might Have Been.

Pitching, defense would have been strengths in new Big Rapids softball season By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — The 2020 season was supposed to be a campaign in which the Big Rapids softball team could start a new chapter and send its seniors off with a bang. With the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s decision last month to cancel all spring athletic activity, the countless hours of preparation during the offseason to accomplish this goal have now seemingly gone for naught. One year removed from a successful second half that propelled the Cardinal ladies to a 14-14 overall record, this year’s edition of the Cardinal softball team was expected to be a productive one.

Prior to the season’s postponement and eventual cancellation, BR coach Dawn Thompson said she expected her team to compete with the best that the Central State Athletic Association has to offer. “Our goal is to be in the hunt for a league championship,” Thompson said. “We are excited about the challenges of a new season.” Thompson said she thought her team had the potential to possibly dethrone conference-champion Central Montcalm, even though most of the varsity roster was to-be-determined at the time of the season’s cancellation. Both pitching and defense would have been the way the Cardinals could

Big Rapids' Josie Prince was in her senior softball season. (Pioneer file photo)

have racked up the wins this spring. “Defense will be key as we determine where players fit and can best help the team be successful,” Thompson said. “We are also confident in the ability of our three pitchers, who have had a lot of experience in the past.” BR’s pitching staff was to consist of freshman Rylie Haist, senior Kelby Strpko, and junior Alissa Ruggles, who led the Cardinals in strikeouts (85) and innings pitched (88) last season. Ruggles suffered a late-season injury and was at full strength for a new season. Strpko (.290 Batting Average in

19’) and Ruggles would have been among those returning from last year’s team on the 2020 roster, along with Emma Hauger, Josie Prince, Emma Dunn, Olivia Techno, and Jaylynn Gray. Last season, Prince was FirstTeam All-Conference, All-District, and All-Region — she recently signed a Letter of Intent to continue her softball journey at Ferris State University in spring 2021. Haist was among fellow freshmen Hannah Smith and Josie Cornell who would have made their varsity debut this year.

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Talented Cardinals were expected to compete with CSAA baseball foes’ best By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — For perhaps the very first time in recent memory, there will be no high-school baseball season in 2020. This means the Cardinals of Big Rapids will not have a chance to battle for their third Central State Activities Association Gold Conference title in four seasons after taking the crown in 17’ and 18’. Coming off of an 18-14 record last year, BR coach Sam Daugherty and his team had high expectations for the new year, even though he said that he anticipated this year’s schedule to be “...by far the toughest schedule we’ve ever played.” Traverse City West, Whitehall, Forest Hills Eastern, Sparta, Cedar Springs, and Petoskey were all on the ledger for the Cardinals had there been a season. Both Central Montcalm and Fremont were expected to be toward the top of the CSAA Gold standings, based on the success both programs experienced in 2019.

Big Rapids, along with Reed City, Grant, Newaygo and Tri-County were all expected to be in the mix for the top four spots in the standings by the end of the regular season — should a season had taken place. “The CSAA Gold is a very strong baseball conference,” Daugherty said. “This year’s BR baseball team is a ‘great unknown.’” Daugherty said he felt that his team’s work ethic, attention to detail, execution and pitching would have been its biggest strengths down the stretch. The Cardinal coach had good things to say about his relatively young roster up and down, after it lost a total of four seniors from last year’s Cardinal squad. “We will be young, but every one of our players is a grinder and at the very least we should be very competitive,” Daugherty said. This year’s edition of Big Rapids baseball was expected to be considerably younger than in previous seasons, with the likes of Maurice Camphor, Xavier

Big Rapids coach Sam Daugherty talks to his baseball team prior to a game last season. (Pioneer file photo)

Prince, Sawyer Meeuwes and Austin Vennix taking the step from JV to varsity. “There are several returning pitchers, including staff ace Keaton Ballard, but almost every other position is wide open,” Daugherty said. Keaton Ballard (Pitcher/First Base), Craven Bird (Left Field/First Base), LJ

Graves (Pitcher/Third Base), Ben Decker (Catcher/Third Base), Eric Standen (Catcher/Pitcher), and Cam Clark (Shortstop/Pitcher) were all expected to make big contributions to the team, but will either have to wait until next year, or have to grapple with their senior season being ripped away from them.

BR track boys were ready to make another run at the title By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — Track and field season was supposed to be fruitful once again for the Big Rapids boys’ team in 2020. But then on April 3, the Michigan High School Athletic Association chose to officially put an end to the remainder of the winter sports season and cancel the spring athletic calendar in its entirety, leaving the Cardinals without a chance to improve upon last season. In 2019, the BR boys were co-champions of the Central State Activities Association’s Gold Conference and were ready to strive for the top of the league once again. Prior to the announcement

that there would not be a season, Big Rapids coach Mike Selzer said the expectations for his team were high for 2020. Selzer said the Cardinal boys would have had a solid handful of returners from last season, combined with “a strong younger class coming in.” “Our strengths include a well-balanced team with strong leadership and the ability to move around the lineup,” Selzer said. With the Fremont Packers picked as favorites to be frontrunners in the Gold conference of the CSAA, Selzer said he could see his squad going for the top three spots in the standings once again this year. “We will need to improve in the sprints and field events for the team to compete for a league

Kaden Torres (left) was slated to be a very valuable point producer for Big Rapids. (Pioneer file photo)

championship,” Selzer said. Senior mid-distance runner Kaden Torres was expected to replicate his performance from the 2019 season where he qualified for the state meet in both the 4x800 and 4x400-meter relays. Fellow-senior and hurdlersprinter Zach Roach had the potential to compete in a different competition this year, according

to Selzer. “(He’s) a strong hurdler with the ability to move on to the 4x400-meter relay team,” Selzer said. Junior sprinter and longjumper Sam Alley qualified for the state meet in the 4x400-meter relay race last season and Thrower and junior DJ GreenBay was looking to continue and replicate the strides he made

during his sophomore season. “(He made) big improvements toward the end of the season last year, and has gotten much stronger in the offseason,” Selzer said. The Cardinals’ season would have begun on April 17 with the Wayland Invitational and concluded on May 20 with the Metro Health Invitational at Comstock Park.

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

BR girls track team would have returned a strong core in new season By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — One year removed from a third-place finish in the Central State Activities Association’s Gold conference, the Big Rapids girls’ track and field team was projected to be in the mix of contenders again this time around as well. Now, a year after each girl on the BR team hit their personal record, there will no season to speak of, and the Cardinal ladies will have to wait until 2021 for their next chance to get out and compete once again. “Our conference continues to remain very strong,” Big

Rapids girls’ coach Shelly Selzer said. “There is a lot of tough competition.” Even with the likes of Central Montcalm and Chippewa Hills toward the top of the conference, Big Rapids’ girls coach Shelly Selzer said she felt her squad could be in the top half of the league by the end of the season. Selzer said going into the new season she had a wellbalanced team, with a “good mix of field events, distance and sprinters.” She also said the expectations for her studentathletes would be to improve

upon their personal bests and grow as a team. After losing the likes of Celia Beistle, Madison Hammer and Meghan Langworthy to graduation from last season’s squad, the Cardinal athletes still had a strong core of returners. Seniors Hannah Brock, Caitlyn Hector, Valerie Vandertol, junior Erika Beistle in addition to sophomores Makenna Rautio, Kate Langworthy and Laney Jorgensen were all expected to be top-performers in their respective events.

Hanna Brock, also a cross country performer, was expected to be among Big Rapids' top distance runners for girls track. (Pioneer file photo)

Cardinals must wait another year to defend their CSAA Gold golf crown By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — One year removed from continued success and victories, the Big Rapids boys’ golf team must now play the waiting game until it can hit the links. Coached by Mark Posey, the Cardinal boys earned their 19th consecutive Central State Activities Association Gold Conference championship and took second at the D3 state finals for the third year in-arow. The 2020 season looked like it would provide Big Rapids a chance to increase its CSAA dominance and finally take over as D3 state

champions. Posey said he felt his team was capable in accomplishing this goal had there been a season. “Our boys expect that they will be right there at the end of the season competing for a state championship again,” Posey said.They have the talent, and will need to work hard to develop so they are prepared at the end of the season.” The Cardinals were once-again favorites within the CSAA Gold this season, although Posey said he did expect a challenge from

Big Rapids' golf team last season was presented with the state runner-up trophy: (from left) coach Mark Posey, Brett Lilienthal, Luke Welch, Pierce Morrissey, Owen Seay, Trevor Woodard and Dawson Currie. (Pioneer photo file)

Fremont down the stretch. BR’s coach went on to say that he felt the team’s biggest strength was its accountability, but insisted his players must play more to their strengths as the season goes on. “We have a lot of talent and will have to lean on each

other and hold each other accountable if we are going to be successful,” Posey said. Seniors Trevor Woodard and Colin Morrissey were expected to rise to the occasion and put an exclamation mark on their respective Cardinal careers.

Juniors Dawson Currie and Brett Lilienthal and sophomore Luke Welch were also projected to contribute to the Cardinal boys’ success in 2020. “I would expect that we will be one of the better teams in the conference,” Posey said.

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Eden Short would have led the way for Big Rapids tennis By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — Prior to the COVID-19 hysteria canceling the spring sports season, Big Rapids girls tennis coach Austin Brinker said he felt his team could contend for the conference title. “One of the team goals the girls talked about is making the state tournament for the first time since 2015,” Brinker said. “We have to be peaking at the end of the season, but it’s

within reach.” Eden Short was expected to be in top form once again and was in position to win her third-consecutive conference and regional titles, as well as compete in the state tournament. In addition to Short’s continued dominance, Big Rapids was looking to match up sisters Chloe and Emily Matthewson in doubles for the very first time. Brinker said he expected the sisters to “compete hard,

provide our team with depth in the doubles lineup, and gain the much-needed points to make our team successful.” It’s the level of depth possessed by the Cardinal girls in doubles that Brinker said was going to be one of his team’s biggest strengths going into this season. Assuming there would be a season, the BR coach added that he felt there would be success on the court just as there was a year ago. “We have girls that

Big Rapids' Eden Short was ready to defend her league and regional titles. (Pioneer file photo)

made the necessary strides to improve in the offseason, and it will translate on the court,” Brinker said.

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Cardinal soccer team was ready for banner season By John Raffel

john.raffel@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — It could have been quite a season for the Big Rapids girls soccer team as far as coach Curt Ray was concerned. “It has the makings of a great season,” he said. “Led by four seniors, Val Seay, Caitlyn Maas, Maddie Martin and Chloe Miller, the Cardinals looked to head back to a district championship game with offensive talent from Katie Williams and freshman sister Jenna; the duo was ready to help the team offensively. “Ariana Costie, a threesport athlete at Big Rapids High School, is always a threat on either side of the ball. Emily Morrone, a junior, has been lucky to play to some of the best defenders in program history and has made a name for herself and Maddie Pincumbe, a midfielder, that was off during the fall season due to an ACL injury, was in line to make an impact offensively for the Cardinals.” Ray said he has two “outstanding young keepers”

in Emma Balahoski and Geralynn McAdams, who both have improved mentally and physically the past two seasons. “The greatest team strength for the Cardinals this season would have been the freshman class,” Ray said. “Grace Currie a young talented defender with great speed was sure to have a starting spot on the back line. Kyra Couch, a veteran club player, also with great speed, had a starting spot on the offensive line. “Llaylie Llaner would be attacking on the offensive line from the left side. Llailee Lotarski came to Big Rapids to help the program succeed with her technical abilities and field smarts. Jenna Williams gives us more speed and talent.” The CSAA soccer conference continues to be competitive, Ray pointed out. “Tri County always has our number,” he said. “Reed City, Grant and Fremont have all had their chance at the conference title. The past five years, I believe it has been Big

Rapids and Tri County battling for the title.” Big Rapids had a tough schedule last year and wound up with a 10-8-1 record. Big Rapids had eight seniors on this team including Selena Wright, who led with assists and goals and received conference, district and regional and state honors. The 2020 season had low numbers but was full of talent, Ray said. “Senior captains Val Seay and Caitlyn Maas were ready to lead the Lady Cardinals to another successful season. Both varsity players have helped the program to where it is today. Val has been a huge impact both on the offensive and defensive side. Caitlyn is one of the Cardinals’ all-time greatest defenders in program history. Her speed and talent helped the Cardinals reach a shot at a regional championship against Freeland where the Cardinals lost 1-0. Senior Maddie Martin was on track to have her best season on offense. The fastest player on the team always

Caitlyn Maas was expected to be among the key players for Big Rapids. (Courtesy photo)

makes her a threat around the ball.” But 2020 turned into a season that never was. “My heart goes out to our seniors,” Ray said. “They and the rest of the team have worked so hard during the

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What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Crossroads softball team would have been young, hopeful By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — Crossroads softball coach Kevin Brigham knew he was gong to have some work to do with his young Crossroads softball teem this season. “2019 was the beginning of rebuilding with mainly underclass players,” he said. “We struggled early with lots of inexperience but got much better as the season progressed.” Brigham said he did not have any key athletes from last season. “Maddie Alber would have been our only returning senior,” Brigham said. “She has been on the Pioneer dream team the last two seasons. Our leading hitter and starting catcher, she brings a lot to the table and is the leader of our team. “Gretchen Purcell is a junior who has made huge strides the last two seasons. Gretchen bats in the middle of the lineup and plays first

base and second base. Riley Brigham, a freshman has the most experience coming in, having played travel ball since the age of 7. She knows the game very well. She can play any position and would have most likely been the leadoff hitter.” Brigham had clearcut expectations of the team. “Expectations were to be better than last year,” Brigham said. “Young again, I would have wanted us to get the younger kids plenty of game experience and get them ready for the future. Our strength would have been hitting. The top four girls in the lineup would have been a tough out every time, with Riley Brigham, Maddie Alber, Gretchen Purcell and Grace Turner.” The team needed to focus on pitching, Brigham indicated. “Pitching would have been our biggest need,” he said. “We would have had a junior and two freshmen do our pitching. “Marion would have been

Maddie Alber was poised to have another strong season for Crossroads' softball team. (Pioneer file photo)

the league favorites. They are the defending champions with most the girls back and a great incoming freshmen class. They will be the team to beat for the foreseeable future. I would have expected to finish mid of the pack with us making the big jump toward the top of the league the following season.”

CCA soccer coach was a looking forward to season By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — Girls soccer teams aren’t going to have a season, but as Crossroads Charter Academy coach Josh Yurick surmises what might have been, it’s apparent the Cougars would have had a very talented team. “A major highlight from the 2019 season was winning the Cougar Invite early in the season with challenging teams, Grant, Newaygo and Reed City,” Yurick said. “The team was also able to dramatically decrease the number of goals scored against them compared to prior years and performed very well. The season was hectic with scheduling; we had several weeks with only one training session. This unfortunately did not allow us to make the necessary adjustments that are essential to the game. “The team did well considering we were often limited to quick bus or classroom discussions regarding tactical changes. The group this year was

eager to learn the game; to learn new tactics, new terms, new strategies, new-to-them positions, and new skills.” Four seniors graduated from last year’s squad with Alayna DuBreuil, Samantha Taylor, Mary Wendlowsky and Bryanna Cowles. “They played key roles on and off the pitch,” Yuick said. “Some of the traditions that the girls have carried for several seasons may slip away. Two key anchor defenders with practice and knowledge, a spirited adaptive play anywhere athlete, and a pintsized powerhouse that never gave in will leave a legacy to those positions for seasons to come. “We have a fantastic roster this year with high expectations for each of them. We look forward to seeing how they play together and finding out who our key players will be. Some of the returning players may be faced with new positions and challenges. Continued on Pg. 10

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

CCA track and field team has new coach By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

Josh Yurick was set to return for another year as Crossroads' girls soccer coach. (Pioneer file photo)

Continued From Pg. 9 Leadership roles will be fostered and adjustments will be made. I expect them to learn about the game and themselves. I expect them to learn to work together regardless of adversities they may face. I expect them to enjoy the process.” “Teamwork (will be critical), if each player approaches the season to be the best for the team rather than on the team, we will be strong. Many of the players

have a solid understanding of key concepts to build on. (We will need an) increase in communication on the field; breaking in the new team keeper.” Yurick had other thoughts about what this team might have been: “We have a team that has some experience that we can build off of. It will be a matter of getting the right girls in the right positions on the field. Once that happens, I think we are going to play some competitive soccer.”

BIG RAPIDS — If and when the spring sports season gets underway, the Crossroads Charter Academy track and field team will be doing so with a new head coach. Assuming there will be a season at all, Chelsea Bullock is the one who will take the reigns for the Cougar boys and girls when the time comes. It’s Bullock’s first-ever coaching opportunity in any sport at any level, and she said she will use this chance to help her students push forward to accomplish their goals as soon as they get the green light from the powers that be. Bullock, a native and lifetime resident of

Stanwood, didn’t even have to apply to get the job. As an avid runner herself, Bullock was noticed by a CCA parent while competing in a local event. “It turned out that Crossroads needed a coach, and this parent that I had met previously reached out to me and asked if I would be interested,” Bullock said. “It kind of just snowballed from there.” For Bullock, it was a particularly exciting life event, as she considered getting into coaching within the past few years. Normally, preparation for the season would have already started and Bullock would have had plenty of face-to-face time with her student-athletes to fully prepare and condition for the season.

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This has not been a normal spring by any means. As of now, there is not much Bullock is able to accomplish in regards to preparing for the new season, because she — along with everybody else — doesn’t know if there will even be a season in 2020. “At this point, I have contact with some of the students and parents online,” Bullock said. “I am trying to send them different things that they can do during this break — things they can do at home. Anything to keep them moving and active, in case we do get the ability to compete this year.” Among her top girls track standouts would have been Jaylen Shroeder and Jada Meeuwes.

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Kostecki was back for a second baseball coaching season at Crossroads By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

BIG RAPIDS — Crossroads baseball coach Jason Kostecki is in his second season and had high hopes for the Cougars. Last season, “Ryan Haner was our ace, he was a fouryear player and will be missed not only for his pitching but for his leadership,” Kostecki said. Key players were expected to be Tyler Hund, senior first baseman; Dawson Soller, senior shortstop, and Hunter Walsh, senior catcher. “Each of these guys were also in line to be pitchers for us; they were going to be four-year senior leaders,” Kostecki said. “I expected us to compete for league and district titles. We made great progress last season and returned a ton of talent on both sides of the ball. Our defense was going to be our strength. We were solid defensively last season and we expected that to continue.”

CCA baseball coach Jason Kostecki was looking for a solid season from his team. (Pioneer file photo)

Crossroads needed to improve on “pitching and putting the ball in play,” Kostecki said. “Too many times last season, we tried to play long ball instead of just putting the ball in play. We were going to work hard in the cage to play contact baseball.”

Morgan was set to lead Reed City softball squad By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

REED CITY — The challenging task for Reed City’s girls softball team this season would have been to replace some extraordinary talent from the 2019 campaign “Kamryn Myers set four new school records and hit her first out of the park home run and Lily Andres set a new school record for putouts in a season,” veteran coach Roger Steig said. “Kamryn Myers batted left-handed and was leadoff hitter and on defense, she would shut down the opposition’s running game when she was behind the plate.” Steig was counting on some key seniors to get the job done for the Coyotes. “Maddie Morgan, a senior, will be on the mound for the fourth consecutive year,” Steig said. “This year, she will have to lead the charge. Our success will hinge around how mentally tough she can stay on the mound and the number of innings we can get from her. She is a very talented pitcher. “Rylie Shafer is a sophomore catcher in her second varsity season. She will be our field general behind the plate. Rylie is a seasoned catcher and plays with a lot of confidence. We will be looking for her leadership this year. Mia Peterson and Lily Andres, both juniors, will be at the corners. Mia at third base and Lily at first base both are returning from last year’s varsity at the same positions and will do a solid job for us.” Cassie Enos is a senior center fielder for the Coyotes. “She will quarterback our outfield,” Steig said going into the season. “She is a good

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Reed City's Cassie Enos warms up at a practice prior to the cancellation of the season. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel)

leader and will play a big role in the success of our outfield. She always brings her A game. Makayla Mondrella, a junior, and Abby Helsel, a senior, will be all making their varsity debut and will all play key roles in our success. “The team has a good chemistry that I believe will develop in a championship mode. Our strength will be in our pitching and on offense, we have great speed. We will be working on putting everyone in position to maintain a solid defense.”

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Eric Grannis was making his debut as Reed City baseball coach By John Raffel jraffel@pioneergroup.com REED CITY — Former Reed City baseball player Eric Grannis was all set to make his coaching debut for the Coyotes this spring. Then came the Coronavirus attack. Grannis was hoping to lead a turnaround for the Coyotes who were 12-20-1 a year ago. “This year we will miss some key players such as Brandon Wirth who was our number one pitcher last year,” Grannis said prior to the season cancellation. “Also, we lost our centerfielder and pitcher Steven Shewan and our No 2 pitcher and utility player Hunter Diehl. “Brandon was not only our ace pitcher last year, but also our leadoff hitter and a short stop. He was a

leader by example for our team as well as a catalyst for team. When Brandon was rolling, the team would tend to follow. Steven was key part to our run to the regional final as a sophomore in 2017 and a regional semi-final in 2018. As a senior Steven became a vocal leader and solid middle of the lineup hitter. Hunter Diehl was a key factor in our team’s success last year. He could play multiple positions on the field, and he was key cog in our lineup, hitting between the 2-to-4 spots.” Grannis was impressed with other talent he had. “We have several players on our roster that I believe are going to have a strong season for us this spring with Payton Hansen, Jeffrey Samuels, Clayton Wayne, Treyvor Conklin and Xavier Allen,” he said.

“Payton Hansen is a junior this season and plays catcher, pitcher and third base. I anticipate Payton to step up in a leadership role for our team. “Defensively he plays positions that require a large amount of leadership and has played these positions for his freshman and sophomore year. I also expect him to carry a large load in our line up this year. He is a great hitter from the right side, and with some mechanical and mental changes that we have made this offseason, he will use the short left field that we have to his advantage.” Jeffrey Samuels was set to be a senior pitcher and infielder for the Coyotes. “He has had some struggles at the plate and the field last season, but with the changes that we

Eric Grannis was making his debut as Reed City baseball coach.

are making on the mental side of the game with Jeffrey, he has shown some strong advancements in games,” Grannis said. “I expect Jeffrey to be another vocal leader on the field. He has a great IQ for any sport that he plays and is very cerebral. At the plate, I expect that he will have a breakout year and be a very successful hitter for our program. “Clayton Wayne is senior pitcher and utility player. He has been working very hard this offseason on his pitching mechanics and the mental approach on the mound. He has a side arm delivery which allows his pitches to move in a way that isn’t really seen at the high school level. As of right

now Clayton is expected to be slotted at the top of our rotation.” Treyvor Conklin would have been a sophomore first baseman. “Treyvor is going to be a large contributor to our lineup, hitting in the middle of lineup like he did last year as a freshman.” Grannis said. “Xavier Allen is a freshman and we are not sure of where he is going to play yet. I expect Xavier to contribute to our team in large way wherever we decide to put him.” Grannis said players like seniors Justin Collis, Taylor Hall, Austin Whitehead and Jayson Thomas were all on the team last year. Newcomers were Teddy Cross, Isaac Williams and Trent Howell.

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

New Reed City track coach had prospects for successful team By John Raffel

have been top in the throws this season. Noah Jones would likely have been a leader in the REED CITY — Reed sprints. He was part of state City track coach Brad Smith qualifying relay teams last year will have to wait until 2021 and would have led our sprint before making his debut as the relays this year. Demi Lodholtz Coyotes’ new skipper. would have been tops in high The virus pandemic put a jump. I would hope that she halt to the season, and Smith would be able to take the can only imagine the success school record this year.” his team would have had. Paige Williams would Calvin Rohde was set to be have been a top contender in in the 400 and 800 meters. the sprints, Smith said, adding “I had expected Calvin “Faith Woods would have been to lead the middle distance our senior leader in sprint crew this season and expected relays and returning as our him to challenge Joe Oehrli’s top long jumper. I was hoping 800-meter record,” Smith said, the addition of some young adding Abi Kiaunis, would athletes and some athletes that have been a top performer in had not competed in the past the distance races. “I know would help fill some holes we that she would have beaten her had from graduating seniors records from previous years from last season.” The strength of his team and likely gained the last of the “would have been in the distance record. returning athletes,” Smith “Austin Fowler would jraffel@pioneergroup.com

said. “Many of these have been top performers in our area and would have been great leaders for our team: Calvin Rohde, Jordan Sabo, and Austin Fowler for the guys, Paige Williams, Abi Kiaunis and Faith Woods for the girls.” But Smith is looking forward to 2021. “We will have some young athletes, so things to work on will be the basics of form and strength,” he said. “As we rebuild our team to fill some of the holes left from last year’s graduates, we will be weak in places that we had top athletes in the past. However, I was hopeful to see some of our young athletes step up. I don’t have names of those because I have not seen them compete and really only had four days of practice to look at them. Still, I was hopeful.”

Abbigail Kiaunis (left) was set to be major point producer for Reed City. (Pioneer file photo)

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Reed City soccer girls expected to be contenders By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

New coach for Reed City golf By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

REED CITY — If there had been a Reed City boys golf team this season, Chris Hanson was set to take over as coach. He was replacing Katrina Wray, who took over at the end of last season. Mason Bush was among the top players for Reed City

last year but graduated. “The teams have been great, and I am hopeful that RCHS finds someone who will care about them and develop their talents,” Wray said. The home course for the Coyotes would have been Spring Valley and they would have played in the CSAA Gold.

REED CITY — Andrea Pollaski was set to return for her third season as Reed City cross country coach and it appeared it was going to be a good one. The Coyotes were 13-3-3 overall last year and won the Charter Crossroads tournament. They had the most goals scored in a season for the team as a whole. The season was canceled because of the coronavirus episode, but what a season it could have been. Returning would have been three top all-conference senior midfielders Karlie Kearns, Mackenzie Wein and Taylor Harrison. “These three work hard to keep the ball and pass well together,” Pollaski said prior to the cancellation of the season. “We look to improve in our skills from last season. We have

Karlie Kearns (2) was slated to be among Reed City's top players.

a slightly harder schedule lined up this year compared to last, so that should help us get stronger against better teams. “We've always had a well rounded team in terms of age and skill. This year should be the same. With our team getting slightly better in talent each year, we try to get closer and closer to becoming a team that can possess

the ball.” Looking at the CSAA prior to the season cancellation, “the top three teams should be Big Rapids, Tri County and Fremont. They have more players that play travel and year round soccer. Grant has talent too. We should finish right in there with Grant and Fremont.”

Warriors were looking for a competitive baseball season By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

REMUS — Last season was one of growth and improvement for the Chippewa Hills baseball team. Coached by Ben Wright, the Warriors made strides throughout the course of the season during the 2019 campaign, and they were expected to do some more of the same for the new year. With the Michigan High School Athletic Association having no choice but to officially cancel the spring sports schedule last month, a reality neither CH baseball or any other team could have ever imagined has set in. Chippewa Hills would have been

without the likes of ‘19 seniors Ty Jose and Issac Bissell, but Wright still felt he had a solid core going into the new year. “The 2020 season was going to be an exciting one,” Wright said. “We were looking to build on the 2019 season and really show what kind of team we could be.” Wright said his team’s strengths this season would have been its experience and work ethic. While everyone was robbed of their baseball season, Wright said he feels especially sorry for the seniors who have had their final athletic semester taken away from them.

Chippewa Hills baseball coach Ben Wright was hopeful of a competitive team this season. (Pioneer file photo)

“I feel for our seniors as their season was taken away,” Wright said. “I really want to thank them for all their hard work over the years.” Nate Snider, Dylan Sharp, Taylor Gibson, and Bryce Spaugh all are seniors and made up the core of

Wright’s squad with their collective talent and experience. “We were bringing back a large number of players with varsity experience,” Wright said. One season ago, the Warriors completed a 6-18 campaign.

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Warrior girls were striving for a fourth-consecutive district title By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

REMUS — Expectations were high once again going into a new season for the Chippewa Hills softball team. One year after three-peating as district champions and finishing near the top of the Central State Activities Association Gold Conference with a 2510 record, Warrior coach DJ Newman had every reason to think 2020 would be more of the same. Now with no season and no district title to defend, CH softball will have to wait another year and will have to wonder what the 2020 season might have looked like. Prior to the season’s cancelation, Newman and his team and their eyes fixated upon making another deep postseason run. “We expect to be at the top of the CSAA Gold, and continue our postseason success,” Newman said. “I feel that we will be solid all around the diamond.” There were a total of 11 girls from

last year’s team ready to suit up for CH once again. Seniors Erin Spaugh, Sydni Nelson, Mya Koepf, Morgan Perkins, along with junior Megan Perkins were all athletes who Newman said were going to make significant contributions to the continued prosperity of Warrior softball. Even with the initial delay to the start of the season and the uncertainty it caused, Newman thought his team could potentially have a slight edge on the competition. “Given the dedication our girls have toward the sport, I feel confident if we start playing that we might be ahead of everyone else,” Newman said. “They are most likely doing the little things on their own.” With Tri County and Big Rapids expected to close the gap behind Chippewa Hills and Central Montcalm in the CSAA Gold standings, 2020 had the potential to be a close title race throughout the season.

Mya Koepf was set to be among the top pitchers for Chippewa Hills this season. (Pioneer file photo)

Chippewa Hills boys track team had some unique talent By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

REMUS — Chippewa Hills coach Casey Russell was looking forward to some of the promising talent he would have had with the Chippewa Hills boys track and field team this season. Seniors included Max Bryant, who was a leader in the middle distance and long sprinters; Logan Redlawski, who was a senior leader in the throws and Alex Lawens, who was a leader for the team in pole vault and a big part of sprint relays. Junior Logan Hansen “was a big part of multiple events,” Russell said. “He is a strong pole vaulter, hurdler and longer sprints.” Junior Parker Thompson would

have been a lead sprinter and a big part of sprint relays. Russell said, adding sophomore Shawn Biller “was a distance runner who had a great cross season and was looking forward to seeing what he could do in the 800 and mile. Junior Aiden Holandsworth “was a leader in the distance, had a great cross country season and was looking forward to seeing what he could do in all distance events,” Russell said, adding freshman Jake O’Neil “had a great cross country season and we were really looking forward to seeing what he could do on the track. There were also multiple freshman sprinters that came out that looked to Continued on Pg. 16

Max Bryant was expected to be a strong point producer for Chippewa Hills. (Courtesy photo)

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

16 Continued From Pg. 15 have a lot of potential in the four days of practice that we had. “This was going to be a different type of season for me because I had some big returners that were ready to go, but also had a lot of new boys with lots of potential to fill in the blanks. I felt like it was going to be a strong season with a group of athletes that would have made it a fun season.” There were reasons for Russell to be optimistic. “Our distance team had a great cross country season and they all worked hard over the winter and were ready to run,” he said. “We also had some strong 200 and 400 runners that put the work in this winter and were ready to compete.

Our throwers were also ready to continue with the success they were having last year. Overall I think our strengths would have been in the running events from the 400 and up and in the field events our throwers and pole vaulters would have been big for us. “Experience is the big thing we need to work on and I feel it is coming. This year I had three seniors that were with me for all four years and two that were with me for three years and it makes a difference. I also have five Juniors that have been with me for three years and I can guarantee I will see them all next year. I also have freshmen and sophomores that seemed dedicated and will be back. So it's a weakness that we are working on.”

Warrior soccer coach was upbeat over his team's prospects By John Raffel

Paige Caryl a midfielder “never gives up and plays through pain,” Gandy REMUS — Brad Gandy said. “She is willing to do had reason to look forward whatever it takes to help to this season as Chippewa her team and shut down the Hills girls soccer coach. center of the field.” “2019 marked our Avery Claybaugh, a left second year in the side midfielder “has the conference as our first best attitude I have ever season was exhibition as we coached,” Gandy said. “She brought girls soccer back to battles hard and has a gift on Chippewa Hills,” Gandy said. how to steal the ball.” “Highlights include making Lauryn Doyle, a it to the district finals for defenseman, “is one of those the first time in Chippewa players you underestimate Hills history, two players her due to her size. But she received all-conference and is fast, tough and ready to one honorable mention, two challenge for the ball to set players received all district up her offense.” and the team accomplished Emily Gandy is a All Team Academics for the midfielder and team captain. second consecutive year.” “Emily is an unselfish player The Warriors had nine in her role,” Brad Gandy seniors. said. “She is always looking Goalie Isabel Bitler “is to set up her forwards, do rock solid,” Gandy said. “She amazing throw-ins to get us is courageous and always an advantage and has a leg willing to try new things to that can shoot and/or place improve and challenge the Continued on Pg 17. opposing team each game.” jraffel@pioneergroup.com

Sara Storey was expected to be among Chippewa Hills' top runners this season. (Pioneer file photo)

Chippewa Hills girls track team was bidding for 18th straight title By John Raffel jraffel@pioneergroup.com

influence on the team,” Hatfield said. “They leave with contributions as being REMUS — Chippewa Hills’ All-State, Academic All State, bid for an 18th consecutive Regional Champions, fourconference championship will team conference champions, have to wait until next season. and never losing a dual meet. Veteran coach Sally They also contributed to the Schafer resigned at the end athletes younger than them of last season when her team so that their impact will last was undefeated in dual meets, longer than the four years they Morley Stanwood Mohawk spent as Chippewa Hills track Invite champions, Warrior and field athletes. Invitational runner-up and “We have several key Gaylord Blue Devil Invite returners Madelynn Webster, champions. Emily Fredrick, Madison Coach Zach Hatfield was Barnes, and Katelynn Webster an assistant last year. in the sprints. They all worked “We had a strong senior very hard in the off season. In class that included Dezi the field events we expected Shaw, Madison Grover, Alicia Kyla Thorne, Kendra Ray, Robertson, Jorja Ray and Haley Mercer who are all great Lindsey Gibson, and Melinda student-athletes. We will miss Burgess to contribute. In their leadership and positive the distance events, Natalie

Newcombe, Sarah Storey, Madison Biller and Kaitress Degroft also put work in to score points.” Prior to the cancellation of the season, Hatfield liked his team’s depth. “We had key contributors to fill events across the board and newcomers looking to help be a better team,” he said. “We wanted to continue to improve each day.” The Warriors seemed to have the talent to contend for title No. 18. But it would not necessarily had been easy. “The CSAA has been much improved over the past 3-to-4 years,” Hatfield said. “Central Montcalm has a phenomenal team as well many other teams providing competition in key areas.”

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Continued From Pg. 16

team for her last year in high school,” Gandy said, adding the ball.” defenseman Raychel Nielsen Jessalyn Justice, a “is so fun to watch. She has team captain, and Cassidy a big foot to clear the ball, Lalonde, were both tracks players down and is defensemen. “Jessalyn is a able to mix it up anytime she rock,” Gandy said. “She can needs to in order to get the play anywhere if we need her ball.” but has really become a great The Warriors were defensive back. She is tough hoping to “beat any team and methodical on how to that we have not in the past get the ball out and back to two years, make it to the offense. district finals and get into “Cassidy is extremely the regionals,” Gandy said, fast, tough and has a great adding the team needed attitude. She continues to to work on “ball control, grow in her position and is spreading the field and not afraid to mix it up to get possessing the ball for longer the ball.” periods of time. I believe Sydni Nelson was set to this is the year where we can be offense and defense. challenge all teams at a very high level.” Isabel Bitler was set for another season as Chippewa Hills' goalkeeper. (Pioneer file photo) “Sydni was joining our

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Fiegel was set to lead Warrior golfers By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

REMUS — Hard work would have characterized this season’s Chippewa Hills boys golf team coached by Lenny Starck. Last year’s team was led by two all-conference players. Kaden Doyle was a four-year letterwinner and Mitch Kuzma played his junior and senior years. Starck had several outstanding prospects including senior Noah Fiegel. “I thought he was set up to have an outstanding year,” Starck said. “He played a lot of golf last summer and worked hard on his game this winter. He was going to surprise some (people).” Sophomore Justin Birch was also showing promise. “He had a really good freshman campaign,” Starck said. “He really improved as the season went on. I thought he would have been fighting for an all-conference spot.”

Junior Zach Wernette “really improved as the season went on last year. He was going to be counted on heavily," Starck said. Other golfers were senior Michael Powers; junior Dezmond Haywood and Alex Ehnis; sophomore Ashton Vogel and David Remus and freshman William Munroe. “We would have been extremely young,” Starck said. “I think we could have been in the top half of the league. My kids are not afraid to work hard. Their short game has really improved since last season. “The CSAA is a very good conference. Big Rapids would have been a heavy favorite. I believe we would have been in the top half.”

Youthful Mohawk boys had potential to succeed in new track season By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

MORLEY — Had there been a season for the Morley Stanwood boys’ track and field team this year, the Mohawks would have put forth an eclectic mix of talent. With their blend of strength from the new coming freshmen to the soon-tobe graduating seniors, the Mohawk boys were talented. Coached by Michele Young, the 2020 campaign was going to be her third at the helm for the MS boys, but now she must wait until her fourth season before any of her student-athletes hit the track. For Young, coaching a team composed of primarily freshmen and sophomores with some upperclassmen leadership this year would have been an opportunity to compete while preparing for the future. “I am looking to them to grow and gain experience so they can lead the team in upcoming years,” Young said. Freshmen newcomers Braydon Ross and Jacquorri VerMaas, along with sophomore sprinters Levi Schuberg and Kodee Engstrom are examples of some student-

McLaughlin

athletes Young would like to see carry the program torch into the next couple of years. Led by top-scorer Aiden McLaughlin, the 2020 Mohawk senior class was poised to go toe-to-toe with the best the Central State Activities Association Silver Conference has to offer. Fellow seniors Riley Pritchard, Tom Gunn, Jon Carey, Aiden Puit, Austin Bennett, Canon Meyers, Gabe Schmitt, and David Cave would be leaned on by Young to help set an example for the younger students during their final season of track. Young also said junior Braden Peacock was going

to be the team’s “strongest thrower,” going into the new season, as well as the leading MS scorer in field events. “We are a very young team but have great senior leadership and a great deal of potential,” Young said. “They are a very hard-working group.” A primary team goal for Young’s team this season was to be competitive within the conference. Others that would have returned to the boys’ Morley Stanwood track and field team were sophomores Logan Eckert, Jon May, John Karol, Christian Pieri, and junior Nathan Heberbrant.

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What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Mohawk girls would have seen fair amount of turnover in new season By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

MORLEY — The spring athletic season for 2020 has been canceled, but the Morley Stanwood girls’ track and field team began to prepare for such an occasion before an official announcement was made. With no school for the remainder of the semester and no spring sports until next year, the main thing Mohawk coach Ruth Gullekson has been working on during such unprecedented times is keeping open communication with her team. Gullekson has even tossed around the idea of potentially having a virtual track and field season, although she admits doing so is easier said than done. “We want to connect with them during this spring time that we are off of school to make sure they are doing well, staying healthy and excited to get back at it next year,” Gullekson said. Whether it is a virtual workout or some kind of a virtual meet during the summer via athletic.net, the game plan for the Mohawk girls is one consisting of togetherness and moving forward as a family. In fact, it is the family aspect of the sport that

Mohawk baseball team must wait to compete for a fourth CSAA Silver title By Joe Judd

joe.judd@pioneergroup.com

Devereaux

Gullekson said is one of her squad’s biggest strengths. “All kids from all different events, boys and girls, are part of the Mohawk Track family,” Gullekson said. “We support each other and are there for everyone on the team.” After losing only two seniors from last season’s roster to graduation, this year’s team would have featured a number of familiar faces with another season of experience under their belt. Breanna Berry (Sr), Braelyn

Berry (So), Aivery Devereaux (Jr), Rebecca Allers (So), and Abby Gilliam (Jr) were members of last year’s team that would have been able to make even more of an impact had there been a season. If a virtual season were to occur, Gullekson said she still has the utmost confidence in her girls when stacked up against schools from the rest of the CSAA Silver. “I think our kids can take on anyone,” Gullekson said. “I see us as the league favorites.”

MORLEY — This season was going to be one in which the Morley Stanwood baseball team could have continued its recent streak of success. Coached by Bob Raven, the 2020 Mohawk baseball season presented an opportunity for his club to four-peat as Central State Activities Association Silver champions. But now, more than a month removed from the cancellation of the remainder of the school year as well as the spring athletic calendar, the reality of the situation has set in and those involved with MS baseball can only think of what might have been. Prior to the indefinite suspension of spring sports, Raven said his team was “... hoping to contend and win the conference again.” Raven said he initially expected a shortened season consisting of only conference games to eventually take place. Morley Stanwood was thought to have been near the top of the CSAA Silver standings, despite having to replace five seniors (Kyle Ososki, Drew Jensen, Xavier

Morley Stanwood baseball coach Bob Raven (left) and Pine River's Shawn Ruppert have a friendly chat during a game last season. (Pioneer file photo)

Raven, Landon Elenbaas and Trevor Underhill) “(We) need to replace a lot of productive seniors in all areas,” Raven said. “It should be a competitive year of baseball in the silver.” Juniors Ryland Nelson, Nate Allan, Noah Sanford, and Caden Ososki, along with seniors Tucker Cook, Kameron Knapp and sophomore Aaron Moore were all pegged to fill the void left by last year's departing seniors. During their 2019 campaign, the Mohawks turned in an overall record of 23-10-1. They would have began their season on April 7 on the road against Big Rapids.

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Mohawk softball team had vast potential By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

MORLEY — Ashleigh Martin had high hopes as Morley Stanwood softball coach. But she’ll have to save those hopes for 2021. The Mohawks lost their season when the MHSAA canceled it because of the coronavirus attack. “2019 started off a little slow for the Mohawks,” Martin said. “With our final record of 7-20, it didn’t feel like we had lost. We had won so much more than just seven games. We had friendships and team bonding that couldn’t be broken. These girls taught (the coaches) so much our first year that we cannot thank them enough. Highlights were

having girls bombing the ball over the fence and watching the girls all celebrate at home plate; making unforgettable catches in the outfield or knocking a grounder down and throwing the girl out at first. “We had three seniors who all had vital roles that they played on our team. McKenna Bennett, who was our main pitcher for most of the season, was great at placing the ball where it needed to go and depending on her defense. Unfortunately she was hit in her hand and injured part way through our season. Anya Whiting was our center fielder and was always such a positive and overall

great person to be around. She never complained and always gave 110 percent the whole season.” Aubrey Sergent “was always willing to go where I put her as a utility player and worked hard wherever I placed her,” Martin said. “This year I feel like there were more than just a few key players for us. While we had a week to practice it was amazing to see how hard all of these girls had been working in the off season. So many had improved tremendously and (the coaches) felt like this really could’ve been the year we really broke out. “Kalee Ramsey, who got injured halfway through the season, had been working so hard to come back stronger and better this year), Brooke Brauher, Brooke Edgerly, Madison Garbow, Kylie Schuller and that’s just to name a few. We have so many other great and talented athletes who are great contributers to the team.” Martin expected the CSAA Silver to be a very competitive conference. “I think this year we

Morley Stanwood anticipated having a strong defense on the infield this season. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel)

would’ve shocked some of these teams where as last year we seemed more intimidated and didn’t have the confidence like I was seeing so much of this season,” Martin said. “It is very unfortunate that none of these athletes are able to play or run this spring season. I especially feel for the seniors who had been looking forward to their senior season and it was cut short. I hope some of them are able to continue their love of sports in college or rec league when this is over. “Thank you to my seniors especially. I loved being your

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coach even if it was only for a year. You guys made coming to practice easy and fun all while working hard. This is why I love the game so much and started coaching. I love seeing these girls so passionate about the game that I also share the passion for. So thank you Kalee Ramsey, Taylor Lintemuth, Erica Cornell, Emma Doyle and Malorie Bialek for being so amazing to work with. I know you all will do great things and I’m sorry that we couldn’t spend the last season of softball together.”

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What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Evart track team was ready to roll with different coaching lineup By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

EVART — Todd Scott for the boys and Tara Batdorf for the girls were ready to lead Evart’s track and field team into a banner season. But like with other schools, the coronavirus attack squelched those prospects. Scott had coached the girls last season and moved to the boys. Tara Batdorf is the girls coach. Assistant coaches are Macey Wallace, Missy Morgan, Kyle Stokes and Brooke Scott. Scott indicated coaches would focus on working with coaching athletes in certain events on both boys and girls teams. Last year, the Evart boys won multiple invites and contended in the conference, narrowly losing to McBain. Evart sent five boys to the state finals. The girls finished fifth in the conference, and sent one girl to the state finals. “The boys graduated a lot of high impact seniors, including Nathan Woods, Austin Hamilton and Kyle Stokes,” Scott said. “Austin and Kyle were multiple

all state athletes. Also missing are Zolan Long and Richard Foster, who were top around in the pole vault. Mitchell VanScoyoc was key in throwing. For the girls, Kylie Stokes graduated and she was in multiple relays.” The unfortunate aspect of the cancellations is with seniors not having a chance to finish their final year. “Seniors who will be missed without getting to compete include Cameron Brasington, who was a returning senior and was one of the top hurdlers in the area,” Scott said. “He would have had a good chance to get through to state finals. He made it last year in a relay and was a huge contributor in all of the sprints and mid sprints. Gavin Schooley and Trevor Stanley were seniors and would have helped fill in nicely in their events. “For girls, Rose Clark was consistent in our distance events and will be missed as she goes on to college. Also contributing is Kincade Dubreuil who was our leader in distance after the boys who graduated. He made state finals in cross country and continued to improve every single

Evart's Kara Henry (middle) heads to the finish line in a 2019 race at Chippewa Hills. (Pioneer file photo)

meet. Haidyn Simmer made states as a freshman in the relay and will be a huge asset.” The future of the program is a bright one. “We had several boy freshman coming up that would have contributed in a huge way,” Scott said. “As far as girls, Makenzi VanBuren and Kara Henry were two of our returning all state athletes that helped set a school record two years ago, and should have probably returned to state finals again. Sophia Scott and Laina Payne were our distance

leaders and contributed huge points in the past distance events. Again, like the boys, we had a lot of freshman girls that would have contributed lots of points. “The boys, with the upcoming freshman, would have possibly contended for the conference title again. As far as girls with the returning athletes and the upcoming freshmen, I was sure they could move up their standing in the conference.” The boys team, Scott said, “was probably going to be pretty balanced, maybe a little lacking

in throwing events. But we had hoped a couple of boys could have stepped up and filled that role. We would probably have been pretty good at sprint relays and hurdles. Girls for the first time in a while had a big group of distance runners that could have contributed. Long jump and high jump would have been a positive area. Throws and pole vault would have been an area we needed to work on. But we had some girls that might have filled that position.”

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Evart's 2020 baseball season promised to be memorable

Witbeck was anxious to have quality season on mound

By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

EVART — The 2019 season was a memorable one for the Evart Wildcats. The 2020 campaign was canceled, but it could have been a very special one. Coach Josh Johnson’s Wildcats were 30-7 overall, plus conference and district champions. The Wildcats were going to miss all five of their seniors. The 2020 varsity roster included seniors Justin O'Dell and Parker Henry at pitcher and outfielder, Ty Sochocki at pitcher and shortstop, Donavin Reagan at first base, Nolen Rohen at outfield and pitcher, Justin Buckner at infielder and outfielder, Sebastian Calderon at infielder and pitcher, and juniors Danny Witbeck at infielder-outfielder-pitcher, Pierce Johnson at second base and pitcher, Nate Sochocki at outfielder, Reese Ransom at catcher and first base and Brayden Cass at infielder and outfielder and freshman Cole Hopkins at catcher outfielder “Justin O'Dell is among the hardest working kids I've ever coached,” Josh Johnson said. “He's in the top three. He is one of our leaders. Justin has worked this offseason to improve his pitching-namely the velocity on his fastball. He throws low to mid 80's with his fastball. On the mound he's a bull. His physical appearance in itself is intimidating for would-be hitters. “Parker Henry is a quiet leader. His outfield play and pitching will be relied upon greatly this season. He will be our top returning outfielder and our No. 3 pitcher. On most teams. he would be their No.

Danny Witbeck was set to be among the area's top pitchers. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel) Evart baseball coach Josh Johnson appeared to have plenty of talent for a huge season. (Pioneer file photo)

1 pitcher. He is a master of junk. He throws five pitches with command. He has so much fun when he's on the mound and his teammates love his funky enthusiasm for the game." Ty Sochocki would have been another senior leader on this year's team. “Ty plays with a chip on his shoulder,” Johnson said. “He plays with reckless abandonment and is diving everywhere with no regard for his body. He always practices and plays the game as hard as he can. He is as smooth of a shortstop as I've ever coached. As a hitter, I expect him to be a real force at the top of our lineup. “Donavin Reagan, a more vocal senior leader, has had a fantastic senior year on the playing field. He is an outstanding football and basketball player, but an even better baseball player. ‘Donny Baseball’ will hit in the middle of a potent line-up and play first for us. Donny hits for power. He is strong, yet disciplined hitter. He is an outstanding defensive player as well.” Rohen was a key returning senior.

“Nolen's biggest asset is his speed,” Johnson said. “He is super fast. If he's on first base, he will soon be on second base. Nolen is also a pretty good outfielder. He will be competing for a starting spot in the outfield. I like what Nolen gives us at the plate. A left-handed batter with speed gives you a lot of options." Johnson has a special nickname for Calderon. "Seabass" is a great kid,” Johnson said. “His teammates and coaches root for him. He is sneaky quick at fielding batted balls at third base. He will be competing for a starting spot at the hot corner. Last season, Seabass hit his way into the starting lineup for last season's regional final versus Beaverton. “Justin Buckner is a senior in his first season on varsity and brings a lot of power to the lineup. ‘Butters’ is a big, strong man. The thought of him batting in the middle of our lineup gives this coach goosebumps. He will need to earn his stripes though. There are guys ahead of him on the depth chart and he knows it. Justin is a fun kid and I look forward to working with him this season."

By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

EVART — If there would have been an Evart baseball season, junior Danny Witbeck would have anchored its pitching staff. “Danny is a gifted player that doesn't get caught up in the hype,” coach Josh Johnson said. “He just works his tail off to get better every day. He and (Justin) O'Dell worked all winter to perfect their pitching. Danny is also throwing his fastball in the low to mid 80's with regularity. As good a pitcher as Danny is, I'm really excited to see what he does at the plate this season. He has adjusted his swing to create more power. “Pierce Johnson brings experience on the infield. Outside of the question mark at third base, Pierce rounds out a pretty good infield Pierce has a great glove, quick hands, and good instincts at second base. Pierce is also a good hitter and looks to prove that this season.” Johnson noted Nate Sochocki, a returning junior outfielder was “as excited for the coming season as anyone. Nate was injured much of our season last year and rarely had the opportunity to contribute. He has been working on his

hitting all winter and looks really good in the cage. His swing looks much more relaxed. I anticipate Nate having a great year for us.” Johnson had been looking at Reese Ransom to be his catcher. “Reese spent much of last summer catching for Danny and Pierce in summer ball and that work will undoubtedly pay off for him this season,” Johnson said, prior to the season cancellation. “Reese is a top wrestler and an extremely strong young man making him an impressive hitter as well. “Brayden Cass, a returning junior, will be a utility player for our team. He is versatile enough to play both infield and outfield. I just love his fire as well. He is a kid that will do the dirty work for the team. He runs the bases exceptionally well and I just love his enthusiasm.” Cole Hopkins, a freshman, was slated to be a backup catcher. Cole is a good-looking young athlete who so far has really impressed the coaches with his skills behind the plate. He will also play some outfield and potentially third base for his team.”

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Evart softball anticipated success in new season By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

EVART — Second-year Evart softball coach Amanda Brown was happy with her first season and was looking forward to her second, which didn’t happen because of the coronavirus issue. “We finished the season just over .500,” Brown recalled. “We learned how to work together as a team. We finished higher in the conference standing than we have in years past. So the girls were really happy with the improvements. We had girls in new positions and taking on new leaders roles and I was very proud of all the girls and their hard work. “ Evart graduated some topnotch players from the 2019 squad. “Carlie Gostlin was the

staple on the pitcher's mound last season,” Brown said. “She pitched almost every game and played through injuries almost all season. She helped keep her team in many games throughout the season. She learned to be a voice of reason on the field and the girls would rally behind her. She will be very missed. “Makenzie Kimball was one of the leaders on the team that took on a new role last year. She went from a three-year starter in center field to becoming a very good and confident first baseman. She received all-conference recognition for this position. She became more confident and determined in the batter's box with the third highest batting average on the team.

23 Felisha Nelson was an anchor in left field who will be missed. She could read a ball coming off the bat like crazy and would always get a break on the ball.” Brown was excited with various promising players she had for 2020. Abby Apsy is a senior third-baseman and pitcher. “She was in the gym all winter working on her pitching and hitting, and she improved all winter long due to her hard work and dedication,” Brown said. “She will be missed. “ Deanna Conklin is a shortstop and leadoff batter. “She was the teammate that leads by example,” Brown said. “She was also in the gym all winter long. She is very fun to watch play because she plays with a love of the game and knows the game very well. I am looking forward to her play next season.” Livia Hopkins is a senior four-year starter. “She would have been behind the plate a lot more this season,” Brown said. “She had the highest batting average last season and played shortstop and was behind the plate for us. She worked hard and she will be missed.”

Ferris softball ends quick season at 8-10

Skylor Baumgardner was a sophomore center fielder. “She became the anchor in center field last season,” Brown said. “I was happy with the way she came along well last season; she also plays with a love of the game no matter what she is doing.” Addison Gray was a freshman pitcher with a lot of promise. “It would have been her first year on varsity but she has been my manager for a couple of years now and she also plays

a lot of travel ball at a very competitive level,” Brown said. “She also is a good all-around player. “ Lillie Gallanger is a freshman utility player. “To be honest I know I could put her anywhere on the field,” Brown said. “She also plays competitive travel ball. She was in the gym all winter long working on batting and learning about catching. She can also hit the ball a ton so that is also very exciting.”

Two Ferris track standouts shine during regular season By Ferris State Athletics

By Ferris State Athletics

Tournament in school history and won 24 games or more 11 times in the past 16 years. BIG RAPIDS — The The Bulldogs return 12 Ferris State University softball squad members from last squad ended its season at 8-10 season's team that reached the because of the coronavirus GLIAC Tournament for the pandemic. fourth consecutive year and Ferris State embarked have added 10 newcomers for on its third campaign under a total roster of 22 entering coach Kristin Janes' direction the campaign. The group of this spring and was picked newcomers includes seven eighth in this year's GLIAC freshmen. Preseason Coaches Poll. Last The list of FSU returnees is year, the Bulldogs went 20-34 headlined by junior outfielder overall and reached the Great Paige Kortz, who was an AllLakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament for the GLIAC First Team honoree a year ago as one of the fourth consecutive year. Overall, the Bulldogs have conference's top outfielders. made eight trips to the NCAA The Bulldogs also return junior

Livia Hopkins was expected to be among Evart's top softball players. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel)

Janes

second baseman Kodi Ramirez after she picked up All-GLIAC Second Team accolades in 2019. Senior pitcher Abby Highway was an All-GLIAC pick two seasons ago for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs were set to play a hefty 56-game regular season schedule.

BIG RAPIDS — Ferris State seniors Katie Etelamaki and Stanley Williams each earned NCAA Provisional National Qualifications with their performances at the Great Lake Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships in early March at Grand Valley State University. Etelamaki, a GLIAC Champion in the outdoor women's 10,000 meter run last season, picked up her qualification in the women's 3,000 meter run, blasting by her personal best by 14 seconds with a final time of 9:44.83 and a fourth place finish. Etelamaki was one

Etelamaki

of just four runners to eclipse the 10-minute mark in the outing. The Ishpeming native and Continued on Pg. 24

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Bulldog golfers earn GLIAC honors

Continued From Pg. 23 All-American had a hand in 13 points over the weekend at the championship meet for the Bulldog women's squad. Williams, a two-sport athlete for the Bulldogs (Football & Track and Field) won the men's long jump on his final attempt at 7.20 meters to earn his provisional qualification. Williams factored into every point the men's side scored at the indoor track and field championships. The season ended for Ferris because of the conoravirus attack.

By Ferris State Athletics

Williams

Ferris teams end seasons in Florida By Ferris State Athletics BIG RAPIDS — The Ferris State University women's tennis squad earned a split on March 11 and 12 in nonconference action in Florida. The Bulldogs topped regional foe Rockhurst (Mo.) by a 5-2 score late Wednesday night before falling to nationally sixth-ranked Saint Leo (Fla.) on Thursday. Wednesday night's match was played at the USTA National Campus. With the split, the Bulldogs ended the year at 11-9. The men's tennis team picked up a win and split a pair of outings in Wednesday and Thursday (March 11-12) competition in Florida. The Bulldogs topped regional foe Rockhurst (Mo.) by a 5-2 score in men's action late Wednesday night before falling to nationally fifthranked Saint Leo (Fla.) 6-1 on Thursday. In the win over Rockhurst at the USTA National Campus, the Bulldogs claimed all three doubles flights and then

BIG RAPIDS — Senior standout Destiny Lawson (Ocala, Fla.) of the Ferris State University women's golf squad was named to the 2020 All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference first team. Lawson was one of six individuals named to the allconference first team squad compiled by the league office and member head coaches. The awards were determined based off results from the 2019 fall season and the beginning of the spring campaign. The Bulldog senior concluded the 2019-20 season with four top-three individual finishes in tournament competition, including earning medalist honors at the seasonopening Saginaw Valley State Invitational. She also earned runner-up honors twice and set a new school record with a 142 score over 36 holes of action at the Cumberland

Classic. Lawson was also second in FSU's own Bulldog Classic and finished third in the Saddlebrook Spring Invitational, which was the Bulldogs' only competition of the spring in early March before the cancellation of the campaign. Overall, behind the play of Lawson, the Bulldog women's golf program finished the year with two team championships to go along with a pair of runner-up finishes and five top-five event showings in tournament competition this season. A pair of Ferris State University men's golf standouts were recognized as 2020 All-GLIAC honorees as announced by the conference office. Bulldog sophomore Thomas Hursey (Suttons Bay) was chosen to the All-GLIAC Second Team with freshman Nathan Kraynyk (Buffalo Point, Manitoba) tabbed to

Lawson

the GLIAC Honorable Menton squad. This year, Hursey placed among the top 10 golfers individually in five tournaments, including each of his final four outings of the year. He earned medalist honors at the Saddlebrook Spring Invitational held in Florida in early March in FSU's only competition of the spring prior to the cancellation of the rest of the season.

Baldwin eyed improvement in Braidwood's second year Doren

managed to take the top three singles positions along with the sixth spot in the lineup to garner the triumph. In the setback to Saint Leo, the Bulldogs claimed the number one doubles flight as the pairing of Yannic Alexander Mader and Mathis Guerre were 6-4 winners. The Bulldogs also got a singles win from Pablo Munoz Baroja at the number three singles flight. The seasons ended prematurely because of the coronavirus attack. Mark Doren coached both teams.

By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

BALDWIN —This was to have been Abbey Braidwood's second season as softball coach for Baldwin. But because of the coronavirus outbreak, the season was canceled. "The 2019 season was my first year as varsity coach," Braidwood said. "We had some great improvements over the year. We had six seniors on the team last year, and only a few players who had ever played before. Jazlyn Johnson was a key senior for us last year as our catcher. I could ask Jaz to do anything and she would step up and do it. She was a great leader to all of our players. "Ariana Saunders also stepped up in a time of need for us and became a pitcher."

Baldwin softball coach Abbey Braidwood tosses a pitch during a practice last season. (Pioneer file photo)

Sophomore Cierra Pieske would have been a sophomore pitcher/shortstop. "My expectations of Cierra this year is to continue to work on her pitching and to

gain confidence in herself and her ability to be a pitcher," Braidwood said. Monique Rowland was a Continued on Pg. 25

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020 Continued From Pg. 24 junior pitcher and infielder. "My expectations of Monique this year is to be another key pitcher for us this year," Braidwood said. "We missed having her on our team last year. I also expect that she will be a great leader for all of our underclassmen and step up to the plate as our co-captain." Jenna Johnson was set to be a senior second baseman. "My expectations of Jenna is to be our second baseman, and to hear her loudly cheering from the dugout and as my other co-captain on the team," Braidwood said. Kendra Washington was a junior. "My expectations out of Kendra this year is that she

continues to work on her slap hitting, and she continues to be a positive voice on our team in any situation," Braidwood said. "My expectations out of this team is that it is going to be another learning year for us as we have a handful of young new players who have never played before." Baldwin is in the West Michigan D League "I can see our team fitting in near the bottom again this year with a lot of new players and a couple players who took the year of last year. I think we need time to grow as a team and to get some good practices in," Braidwood said prior to the cancellation of the season." For now, Braidwood will have to look ahead to 2021.

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New Baldwin baseball coach was optimistic BALDWIN — Zach Englehart was scheduled to make his debut this spring as Baldwin’s new baseball coach. But the season was recently cancelled, along with all other spring sports, because of the coronavirus issue. Englehart realized cancellation was a strong possibility but was still disappointed with the news. “It wasn’t too surprising but it really bummed me out,” he said. “I was really looking forward to the season.” Because basketball was being played before the spring season was canceled, Englehart had not yet began practice with his team. He

figured Logan Theisen, Dexter Hossler and Darrion Hayter would have been among the top players, along with Ian Lemieux. Anthony Austin and Carmelo Lindsey had also considered baseball. One the restrictions are lifted, Englehart would like to have some individual summer instructional baseball workouts with his team. He was junior varsity boys basketball coach and hopes to be involved in that, along with varsity coach JJ Eads, if it takes place during the summer. “A lot of my guys are doing Ian Lemieux gets set to deliver a instructional things at home pitch in Baldwin baseball action last season. (Pioneer file photo) yet,” he said.

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Baldwin's Jenna Johnson was looking at being state contender By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

BALDWIN — Baldwin coaches and athletes got the news, as did the rest of the state on April 3, from the MHSAA announcing spring sports would not be played this year because of the coronavirus episode. This announcement followed a suspension of three weeks for spring sports, starting on March 13, until a final decision could be made. Baldwin track coach Bob Watkins wasn’t entirely surprised by the final decision. “I’m disappointed because I thought I had something special for this year. “It’s Jenna (Johnson’s) senior year and some of the guys coming up. I truly understand why and would rather be cautious on the safe side rather than have something happen.” Some athletic officials fear having no spring sports in 2020 could hurt interest for 2021. “From what I’m hearing and the chatter from kids, they are really disappointed not being in school and not having that chance to

Pine River baseball team expected successful season in 2020

Lane Ruppert was ready to be among Pine River's top players. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel)

By John Raffel

Baldwin track athletes who enjoyed competing last season included (from left) Darrion Hayter, Jenna Johnson, Mariah Sowle (who graduated in 2019) and Dexter Hossler. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel)

socialize,” Watkins said. “Hopefully things will be cleared up, we’ll have a decent summer and we can start preparing for football and roll back into basketball and have spring sports again.” Johnson had finished eighth in the state in the 100-meter dash in 2017 as a freshman and coaches liked her potential for state honors. Ditto for Darrion Hayter, who medaled in the regional shot put event. “He surprised himself, but he

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looked to be a lot stronger this year,” Watkins said. “It makes a difference for seniors. It seems like they’re more mature. You could see the seniors have the desire in their eyes to go out with a bang.” Dexter Hossler is another key senior. Watkins said Johnson has received a college offer for track. “She’s a good athlete and can be successful at anything she tries,” Watkins said.

key contributions from players such as Jordan Koetje, Kris Green, Trevor Root, Cole Hill, LEROY — Pine River’s Lane Ruppert, Garrett Sumter, strong tradition in baseball Hunter Kanouse, Zack Lennon came to fruition again this and Elijah Carper. season and coach Shawn “We should be decent,” Ruppert was hoping to Ruppert said, while citing field another competitive “unity, speed and defense” as squad before the season was team strengths. cancelled. Pitching was going to be Pine River was 24-8 last an emphasis by Ruppert for season and won three Saturday improvement. tournaments. The Bucks were expecting Key players who have to be in another strong graduated from this team were Highland Conference. Luke Hill, Hunter Poe, Tanner “Beal City and Evart Shimel and Jacob Johnson. should be at the top,” Ruppert Had there been a 2020 said, referring to the defending conference champions. season, Ruppert anticipated jraffel@pioneergroup.com

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What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Pine River softball was expected to field new and improved team By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

LEROY — Pine River coach Mike Nelson was hoping to have a Pine River softball squad, which could improve from a 17-15 record last season when the Bucks lost 4-3 in the district finals. “Some of the key graduates from last year’s team are Logan Powell, Emily Treiber, Taylor Hill and Megan Lockhart,” Nelson said. “These By John Raffel four girls by the end of the jraffel@pioneergroup.com season not only were great kids LEROY — Rene Stieg was Robertson and Rogan Nelson on and off the field but also great leaders." looking forward to coaching for sprints. For distance, we Junior Cayla Trowbridge Pine River’s boys track team have standouts Isiah Dennis would have been a senior this season before it was and Jayce Methner.” canceled because of the virus. Stieg was disappointed at catcher/infielder. “I’m expecting great “We had some amazing not having a season. things from Cayla behind the school records get broken last “This is trying for all plate,” Nelson said. “I am year.” Stieg said. “We had us, but especially for my also thinking she will have a Elijah Lewis break his own seniors Tyler Lindquist. breakout senior year with the record in the long jump and Kaden Darrow, Hunter ball.” 200. He also qualified for the Ashcroft, Ethan Underhill, Daria Lindquist will be a meet in the long jump, 400 Tyler VanDusen and Garrett senior second baseman and and the 200.” third baseman. Stieg was excited looking Dykhouse. They have been working hard in the offseason “Daria Lindquist will be at the prospects for 2020 one of the captains this year,” “We have what looks like and are incredibly talented. I hope they get the chance to Nelson said. “She was the most a great team this year,” she show off their work ethic and improved player last year. I am said “We have newcomer skills on the track just one looking forward to watching Gavin Curnett for sprints more time.” her develop into a greater and also we have returning Trevor Holmes was the player this year.” athletes Garret Dykhouse, Andrew Stevens, Ian girls track coach. Junior Emma Whitley

Pine River track had strong prospects for new season

Pine River coach Nelson (left) supervises a preseason softball practice prior to the cancellation of the season. (Pioneer file photo)

would have been a pitcherinfielder. “I’m expecting Emma to have another great year,” Nelson said. “She was allconference and all-district first team as a pitcher last year. Her batting average was 500. This will be Emma’s third year on varsity softball. She’s one of the smartest and hardest working players I have ever coached.” Nelson expected Kim Hill to be a part of the pitching staff

and play outfield. “Last year showed how determined she is to win,” he said. “The coaching staff was impressed with the performance of freshmen Madi Sparks, Alivia Martin and Amanda Hill. “We expected our team to place higher in the conference than last year,” Nelson said. “We placed fourth last year. We are expecting the younger players to improve as the year goes on.”

PINE RIVER BUCKS

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Marion girls track team wanted another title By John Raffel jraffel@pioneergroup.com MARION — Marion was the 2019 West Michigan D League track and field champions and had been hoping to get another title before the season was canceled. “We had two seniors last year, both four-year track team members,” coach Greg Mikulich said. “Kathrynn Nowland was a middle distance and distance runner, while Tashawa Switalski ran the hurdles. Both Kathrynn and Tashawa were members of the first-place 3,200 relay team. “We have four seniors who would have been major contributors and team leaders. The great thing about them is that they not only are competitive athletes, but more importantly they are wonderful young ladies. I feel very badly for them not being able to compete this season and will definitely miss them next year. They were fun to coach.” Mikulich said Mia Geer is primarily a thrower and long jumper who ran on various

relay teams when needed. “Alyssa Thompson would have been shooting for a record in the high jump (PR of 5-0) and pole vault,” Mikulich said. “She is also an excellent pole vaulter. Isabell Bontekoe was league champion in the 100 hurdles and qualified for state in that event in 2019. She was also competitive in the throws. Alexis Salisbury is primarily a middle distance and distance runner, who also is competitive in the high jump and long jump. “Other returners include sophomore Emily England (high jump and middle distance), sophomore Stella Henderson (sprints and long jump), junior Nicollete Maddox (throws and long jump; state qualifier (in the discus in 2019), and junior Marlaina Nehmer (throws).” Newcomers to the team were exchange student Ana Batinovic, juniors Oghosasse Osadiaye and McKenzie Nicewander, sophomore Paige Bobonmand freshmen Lisah Buchanan, Elizabeth Fouch, Natalie Fredell, Nolah Grundy

Marion baseball squad was pursuing a winning season By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

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and Selena Quintero. “Our goals are always to do well in the conference and regional meets,” Mikulich said, adding a strength for the Eagles was “team depth. We would have been competitive in all events. The field events were very strong.” Mikulich said team needed to work on “improving our aerobic capacity and continued focus on technique in the field events. Last year was our first in the West Michigan D League. Based on that experience, “it appeared that Mason County Eastern and Pentwater has the strongest girls teams. We believe that we would have also been competitive. “These are great kids and I certainly miss coaching them. This is the first time since 1986 that I have not coached track in the spring. I feel very badly for our four seniors.”

MARION — Marion baseball coach Chad Grundy was eager to have a team coming off a 15-16 season last year. “We were playing our best baseball at the end of the year, and made a trip to Notre Dame in May to play Niles Brandywine,” Grundy said. “We lost to Brethren in the district finals. Billy Jenema was our first baseman and was quite the power hitter with four home runs and 15 doubles. “Ryder Hall played center field and was the fastest guy on our team. He hit a line drive home against Mesick. Jon Stahl was our third baseman and pitcher. Jon was a steady pitcher, always was ready to go and won both games against Baldwin last year. Senior Brandon Stewart (shortstop/pitcher) hit over .500 last season and was one of our top pitchers.” Grundy said senior Garrett Bell (outfielder/ pitcher) would have been Marion’s No. 1 hurler. “He’s very talented and

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played a great center field ,” Grundy said. “Senior Alex Sutten came out last year and gave us lots of innings pitching and played third base and was expected to be third base this year and a top pitcher for us. (Junior) Riley Moggo was our catcher as a sophomore and had a great season. We were expecting even more this season. “Junior Chase Seeley Continued on Pg. 29

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What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020 Continued From Pg. 28 played second base last year and pitched, and had worked hard all winter to become one of our top pitchers and infielders. Junior Colton Hammer played outfield for us last year and was expected to be our leftfielder this season. Junior Blaine Faulman played second base

last season and was expected to play second and outfield this season.” Sophomore Thomas Jenema last season pitched and played outfield. “We were expecting good things with him pitching this year and he had already showed great improvement,” Grundy said. “Freshman Mason Sailsbury was our

29 manager last season and we couldn’t wait to get him on the field as he was going to play shortstop and be one of our pitchers. “We thought we would be near the top of the league and had a chance to win our district. We had 6-to-7 guys that could throw. We needed to get out and work on our fielding. I thought it

was OK but just something that did need some work. I just feel bad that the season got cancelled on our seniors because they have meant so much to me and the program and I wanted them to go out having a great senior season.” Marion softball The Eagles would have been coached by Ryan Raymond, and would have

competed in the Highland Conference. “Marion would have been the league favorites,” Crossroads Charter Academy coach Kevin Brigham said. “They are the defending champions with most the girls back and a great incoming freshmen class. They will be the team to beat for the foreseeable future.”

Marion track coach lauds Alex Sutten By John Raffel

for football in 2019 and basketball in 2018-2019. Alex has been a member MARION — Marion of MPACT (Marion Peer track coach Jason Keeler Advisory Council of Teens) is definitely going to miss throughout high school and Alex Sutten, who would is on the executive board. have been a senior on the He has also been a National track and field team had the Honor Society member season not been cancelled. from 2018 to the present. “Alex is one of our Alex has volunteered at valedictorians of the Class the Country View Adult of 2020 with a 4.0 GPA and Foster Care Home, at is a dual enrollment student NHS Blood Drives, Pop at Mid Michigan College,” Warner Football Games Keeler said. “Alex was a and countless other athletic finalist for the MHSAA events in Marion.” scholar athlete award this "I'm disappointed to year and has been a WMD not have spring sports," League all-conference Sutten said. "I run track athlete in track and football. and play baseball, so it is Alex has participated in a big adjustment to not varsity football for 3 years, have practices and either a varsity basketball for three meet or a game. It's weird years, varsity track for four to know that high school years, and varsity baseball sports are over. for two years. "In track, my goal “He was team captain would have been to make jraffel@pioneergroup.com

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the state meet again. In baseball, my goal would have been to help my team win the conference." He’s been an athlete Keeler won’t soon forget. “As his track coach, Alex has represented himself to me as an example of what it means to be a ‘workhorse,’” Keeler said. “Alex is not afraid of big workouts, nor does he complain. While many athletes try to get out of these challenging workouts, Alex embraces them and does a good job of encouraging others to see the benefits of accepting a challenge. “Alex also has a pretty ‘playful’ personality and very much enjoys joking around with his teammates which helps balance the work/fun aspect of school and life in general.”

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Marion boys track team excited with prospects By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

MARION – Jason Keeler was coaching a Marion boys track team, which could have been very competitive had there been a season. Last season, Marion was fifth in the West Michigan D League championship meet, seventh in the Regional as a team and qualified the 4x400 team of Treigh Switalski, Brandon Stewart, Alex Sutten and Ryder Hall, and Hall in the long jump to the D4 state

meet. “We were expecting big things from all our athletes and each is a key to our success as a group,” Keeler said. “Those returners, who were in position in 2019 to have a strong shot at individual conference honors or qualify for the state meet were: Alex Sutten in middle distance; Thomas Jenema in high jump and Jeff Nealy in shot/discus. “Our goal, as always, is to develop as an individual, set goals, work hard to develop

your skills and abilities. As a team we wanted to win the conference and qualify as many individuals as possible for state. We had a lot of throwers this year. Many who were young but nonetheless.... I think they would have been a big contributor to our team. My seniors were good leaders. I think they would have helped bring everyone up a notch.” The dashes would have been a question mark for Marion. “We lost a lot of good

sprinters, so I was looking for individuals to step up in that area,” Keeler said. “Pentwater, Walkerville, Brethren, Manistee Catholic all finished close together near the top last year. All graduated some top talent so it would have been a dog fight again this year. “I am bummed for our

seniors. I am thankful that I got to work with them and wish them the best for the next stage in their life. I am looking forward to next year. I have some talented and hardworking younger athletes who I think really want to prove themselves in the conference and regional.”

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What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Marion softball team was aiming for another title  By John Raffel

the offseason to improve on her offensive and defensive skill set. I predicted Ali to MARION — Ryan be an over .400 (batting Raymond coached a Marion average) this year,” softball team, which won its Raymond said. second consecutive district Aspen Lagrow is a third championship, along with baseman. the WMD Conference title “She only had three and went 26-6 last season. errors last year,” Raymond But the COVID-19 crisis said. “When you say that forced the MHSAA to shut about a third baseman, that down the season. is an incredible statistic. “I couldn’t be more sad She hit .505 last year and for these young ladies,” led our team in RBIs. This Raymond said. “They have is a team that averaged over worked so hard to get to 20 runs per game.” this point. We only had Right fielder Riley one graduate from last Kischnick “would be in year, Hayle Miller. Hayle a utility role this year played mostly second splitting time at right field,” base and pitched. Hayle is Raymond said. “Through one of the most versatile the last few years, she was softball players I have never really looked at to ever come across. She be on the pitchers mound. could literally play all nine But she ignored the ‘noise’ positions on the field, and and worked hard behind do really good at them, even the scenes and would in the pitcher/catcher role. have definitely gotten the A lot of the time, if another opportunity to display her player was hurt or sick, you skills that she has worked would just fill that hole with so hard for.” Hayle, and you were always Shortstop-pitcher Rylie pleasantly surprised, with Richards “is one of the best results she gave you.” natural athletes to come Marion has five key out of Marion,” Raymond seniors. Leftfielder Ali Bell said. “Rylie has been a “has worked very hard in jraffel@pioneergroup.com

starting force on the team since she was a freshman. She unofficially holds every major offensive record in Marion, without playing her senior year. Her first three years she had batting average of .650-.700, with tons of power. She would only get about one at bat per game, that the pitchers would even pitch to her.” Center fielder Teagan Cox “has been the anchor of the outfield since her sophomore year,” Cox said. “She hit over .500 last year, with power. She has worked tremendously hard in the offseason. Also on the team are juniors Nicolette Maddox and Payton Raymond, sophomore Jersey Scott and freshmen Georgia Meyer and Harley Bear. “We have been waiting and working for this season for probably 7-to-8 years,” Raymond said. “Getting these freshmen together with the rest of the group, who was already very good, I’ll put the spotlight on myself for a minute. I thought we would have a 30-plus win season.”

Teagan Cox

Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

Montabella track teams expected to be competitive By John Raffel jraffel@pioneergroup.com BLANCHARD — Montabella track and field coach Dan Gibson would have loved to have seen his boy and girls teams perform this season. He had loads of talent. For the girls, Laura Keilholtz threw the shot and discus for Montabella last year. “She broke the school record in the discus,” Gibson said. “She finished second at the state finals in the discus. She was a fouryear state qualifier and a three-time all-state athlete. She currently competes for Rochester University. Helena Snyder was a sophomore last year and one of the top high jumpers in Division 4. “Last year she had a personal best of 5-2, and was regional and conference champion,” Gibson said. “She also competed in the 100 hurdles, long jump and sprints.”

“Mya Scott was a sophomore last season,” Gibson said. “Mya was conference champion in the pole vault. She finished all-state in the pole vault breaking the school record by 18 inches. Mya also competed in the 100 hurdles, the 300 hurdles, long jump and sprints. She was conference champion in both the 300 hurdles and the 100. “The girls finished second in the (Mid-State Athletic Conference) last season and were working toward another top two finish.” For the Montabella boys track, “Conner Byrne was a junior this year. He was the top returning sprinter for the Mustangs this year,” Gibson said, adding Chad Vestergaard was a senior this season. He was the Mustangs top returning mid-distance runner. He competed in the 400, 800 and relays. Riley Daily was a Mustang sophomore. “He was a state qualifier in cross country,”

Gibson said. “In track he competed in mid-distance events and relays.” James Wilson was a freshman this year. “As an eighth grader, he was one of the top track athletes in the area,” Gibson said. “He was a state qualifier in cross country. In track, he competes in mid-distance events and relays.” Dakota Dykhuis was another key freshman this year. “As a middle schooler he was one of the top athletes in the area,” Gibson said. “He competes in mid-distance events and relays. “The boys’ team expected to be very competitive in the middistance events and relays. The MSAC conference is very competitive in boys track with Breckenridge, Carson City and Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart all having very competitive teams. The team goal was to qualify relay teams for the state finals.”

Montabella softball coaches were excited with potential By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

BLANCHARD — Montabella head softball coach Whisper Dawson and her assistant Brian Courser were excited with the potential of the 2020 squad. “This year, the Mustangs looked forward to a more experienced group of varsity players than we did in past years,” Dawson said. “We would have been led by four seniors (Paige Courser, Kenzie Dalrymple, Morgan Christensen, and Jacee Moore). I coached these girls when they were in middle school with my mom so this group of seniors was special to me. I eagerly awaited games to start to see how far we had all come.

“Last year, we only had two varsity experienced players and struggled our way through some games especially in our tough MSAC league. Last year we did take second at the Potterville tournament and looked to return to hopefully bring home first.” Dawson will always look back on 2020 for what might have been. “At the end of the day we all will just continue to think of the outs we would have made, home runs we would have hit, double plays turned, and more importantly, the growth made in life,” she said. The Montabella baseball team was coached by Joe Dalrymple.

What Could Have Been : Pioneer Spring Sports 2020

Evart's former track coach misses the sport By John Raffel

jraffel@pioneergroup.com

EVART — Dennis Peacock figured now was as good of time as any to give up boys track and field coaching for the spring season. But he sure misses it. Peacock, the former Evart principal, who coached the Wildcats to a MITCA team state championship his first season, retired last spring. He had plans for being a spectator but had to put that on hold after the MHSAA canceled the spring season because of the coronavirus crisis. He coached for seven seasons, including the first year when he was high school principal. “It was kind of a funny situation when I first came in,” Peacock said. “A lot of districts won’t allow their administrators to coach. When I came to Evart, they knew I had coached in the past. Jim Crawford had left and they didn’t have anybody. They asked if I would be interested

in coaching track. “When I took the principal’s job, they mentioned it and as spring rolled around, they still didn’t have anybody. I told them I have to be principal, first obviously, and have to do a good job there.” But he decided to start coaching. “It turned out to be seven good years,” Peacock said. “It was fun.” Evart had won the MITCA title the previous year and in Peacock’s rookie season, the Wildcats made it two straight state titles. “We were third the following year and a couple of years we were fourth,” he said. “We had a pretty good run.” Evart also won five regional and Highland Conference titles during Peacock’s tenure. “We had a lot of really talented kids,” Peacock said. “That had a lot to do with it. We were talented and pretty deep. We had a nice run with talented kids ready to work

Dennis Peacock was track coach for seven years. (Pioneer file photo)

hard. We had a lot of kids we can do different things with.” Evart was second and third in MHSAA state meets. Peacock was Evart principal four years before retiring after 32 total years in education, and stayed on as track coach three additional seasons. “I just loved it,” he said of track coaching. “I just really enjoyed it. It’s something I liked doing. It was a tough decision this year to give it up.

I maybe wanted to do a little more fishing, and I do some entertaining up north. I play the guitar and sing, and I was going to be able to do more music earlier. We lived in the U.P. for seven years. “A year and a half ago, we bought a little bitty house north of Newberry, a little cabin. We would now have more time to go up there a little more. I never had the opening day of walleye season off. Now I can’t go anyway.”

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Peacock said he decided in January to leave the job. He realizes the disappointment for athletes when the MHSAA canceled spring sports because of the conoravirus issue. “I feel for the kids, but sometimes you have to keep it in proper perspective,” Peacock said. “If you can keep people safe, that’s important.” Peacock and his wife, Kristi, still live in Evart. “We enjoy it here,” he said. “We like to do a lot of things.”

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Pioneer Spring Sports 2020: What Could Have Been

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