SPORTS
2020 PIONEER
2
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Proudly suPPorting area high school and college athletics
Winner Top Shop 2018, 2019 Ask About Our
FSU DiScoUnt
FSU AlUmni Owned & OperAted
When you need an auto repair facility you can
Count on Us!
Import & Domestic
Night Drop Box • State-of-the-Art Facility Most Extended Warranties Honored 2yr/24,000 Mile Warranty Clean, Comfortable Waiting Area • Wi-Fi
14905 220th Ave. • Just west of US 131
231-796-8320
Mon - Fri: 8am -5:30pm www.qualitycarandtruckrepair.com
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
3
INDEX Chippewa Hills................................................................................ 4 Evart.................................................................................................... 6 Big Rapids......................................................................................... 8 Crossroads Charter Academy....................................................10 Morley Stanwood.........................................................................12 Reed City.........................................................................................14 Marion..............................................................................................16 Baldwin............................................................................................18 Montabella......................................................................................20 Pine River........................................................................................22 Ferris State University..................................................................24
A fall sports season of hope By John Raffel
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
It’s somewhat of an unusual football-volleyball preview issue this fall, but for obvious reasons. To get this issue in time for the original football season
starting date of Aug. 27, it had to be written and prepared a few weeks ahead of time. We realized decisions regarding Ferris and high school sports may have already been made after this process and prior to the public release of this issue. In fact, on Aug. 12, the Great
Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference announced all league sports would be postponed to at least Jan. 1, 2021. Two days later, the Michigan High School Athletic Association said it would move football to a spring schedule. A decision was expected on
volleyball a few days later. Still, this issue is to honor our 2020 football-volleyball athletes and wish them well whether they are playing this fall or later in the school year, depending on decisions made by the respective governing body.
4
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
AJ Webley is in his second season as Chippewa Hills football coach. (Pioneer file photo)
Webley's Warriors hungry for a CSAA Gold crown By Joe Judd
joe.judd@pioneergroup.com
REMUS — Chippewa Hills head coach A.J. Webley has high hopes for his Warriors when they kick off the 2020 football season. The Warriors won four games last season, all of which came within the CSAA Gold Conference (4-5, 4-3), but Webley said he thinks that will
improve this year. Webley said he thinks the CSAA Gold is always a tough conference, but sees his team as having potential to soon reach the top. “There are many teams that threaten to win the conference title,” Webley said. “We are one of those teams. I expect the team to fight harder than any other team and earn the title of champion.”
Chippewa Hills girls eye winning season
Seniors Carl Whipple, Paris Alston, Parker Thompson and Colby Roosa are all student-athletes that Webley said he thinks will have a big impact on the Warriors this year.
ground, or light it up through the air,” Webley said. “We need to work on not being our own worst enemy.”
With the spread of COVID-19 and subsequent hysteria it has brought the As a collective unit, the War- sports community, the Chipperior signal caller said he felt his wa Hills football program has team’s biggest strengths this been able to follow the guideseason will be its speed and the lines and still have a successful balanced nature of its offence. offseason. “We can grind it out on the
By John Raffel jraffel@pioneergroup.com REMUS – Hali Williams is in her third year as Chippewa Hills varsity volleyball coach, and is confident of having a strong Warrior team Key players for the Warriors include Megan Perkins, Macy Blanzy, Addison Fate, Brynn McArthur and Audrey Hoff-
Whether it’s been online
meetings or social-distanced team workouts, the Warriors have been doing their best to persevere. “We’ve stayed focused and remained vigilant despite all the talk of canceling the season,” Webley said. Should the season begin as planned, CH will play its first game against Gladwin at home on Aug. 27.
mann. The Warriors were hoping to start their season on Aug 25 at home with Crossroads depending on MHSAA guidelines regarding the COVID pandemic. Chippewa Hills plays in the Central State Activities Association Gold Division.
Haili WIlliams, is Chippewa Hills' volleyball coach
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
5
Riverside Station
• Fresh Pizza Now Offering • Fast Friendly Service Hard Liquor
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Rich Sheldon, Agent
Corner of M-66 & Chippewa Lake Rd., Barryton
Office (231) 832-5801
Mon. - Fri. 5am - 11pm Lottery Available! Sat & Sun. 5:30am - 11pm
989-382-7392
Hometown Grocery Fresh Meat & Produce
(989) 382-7392
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City Fax (231) 832-5471
Routley Chiropractic Care Center
New Patients Welcome!
Massage Therapists On Staff - Dr. David B. Routley, III, D.C.
Lawn Mower, Rototillers, Tune-Ups
231-972-4141 6604 9 Mile Rd. Mecosta
(989) 967-3624
2509 9 Mile Rd. (M-20) Remus, MI 49340
Gingrich Tire Center
TIRES, CUSTOM WHEELS, AUTO SERVICE M-66 @ M-20 REMUS, MI 49340
989-967-3541
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
www.gingrichtire.com
231.796.4419
J&J Auto Inc. SMITH’S AUTO BODY Kelly Wheeler - Owner smithsautobody@yahoo.com
5786 70th Ave • Mecosta, MI
231-972-7933 | 231-972-7787
Complete Collision & Mechanical Repair
Monday - Saturday 8am-8pm Sunday 8am-5pm
2566 9 Mile Road •Remus MI
989-967-3450
• State Certified • Loaner Cars Available • Warranty on All Work
• Auto Glass Work • Towing • All Insurance Companies
5365 W. Weidman Rd | Weidman, MI
989-644-8908
6
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Evart football team eyes winning season By John Raffel
every day,” Craven said. “We strive to exhibit outstanding character, discipline, energy and integrity in all we do. Our team’s strengths will center around our overall toughness, tenacity and team speed. We will look to play hard and fast for as long as we can.
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
EVART – Evart football coach Pat Craven likes the gridiron talent he’ll be having for his 2020 Wildcats. The Wildcats are coming off a 4-5 season from a year ago. “We experienced a lot of growth throughout last season,” veteran Evart coach Pat Craven said. “We were one fourth down stop away from being a playoff team. Our passing game really came into its own late in the season after we made some minor adjustments with our kids.” Donavin Reagan, Dom Malicki-Lancaster, Cameron Brasington and Justin O’Dell were among the key graduates from a year ago. “There are several key play-
Danny Witbeck returns for his senior season at quarterback for Evart. (Pioneer file photo/John Raffel)
ers, but our most important additions will come on the offensive line,” Craven added. “We will be working to add depth and athleticism to our group that we call our ‘Buffalo.’” Key players include seniors Kamrin Grein on both sides of the line and linebacker Reese
Ransom at offensive line and linebacker; Brayden Cass and Pierce Johnson at wide receiver and defensive back, Danny Witbeck at quarterback and defensive back Kylie Dorn on the offensive and defensive line. There’s also juniors Sam Bailey on both lines, Bryant
Calderon at running back and defensive back; Donovan Balowski at tight end-offensive line-linebacker; Alex Cornell at offensive line; and Cole Hopkins at running back-linebacker. “We expect to compete for the Highland Conference championship and improve
“In order to play hard and fast and do it successfully, we will need to be very technical and discipline in all we do. We need to limit our mistakes while taking full advantage of our opponents’ mistakes.” Evart hopes to be a factor in the Highland Conference. “The Highland Conference continues to be a high performing league within the ranks of Division 7 and 8 in the entire state,” Craven said. “We expect to compete for the league title.”
Evart volleyball coach excited with team's potential By John Raffel
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
EVART – Amanda Brown returns as Evart volleyball coach and has the talent to be a force in the Highland Conference this season. “It was a season of firsts for the girls my first year as varsity coach in Evart,” Brown said. “The girls beat teams they have never beaten before that made them feel accomplished at the end of night. They also won more conference games this last season and competed with teams they had doubts about. We took teams to four and five matches that weren’t expecting it. It was very rewarding for the girls.” The team will be led by senior setter Deanna Conklin. “I have the privilege to coach her all four years of her high sports,” Brown said. “She is a leader, competitor and is a hard worker.” Senior middle hitter Kara Henry “is a hard working and very compet-
itive player that is fun to watch. She is a strong hitter and good blocker,” Brown said, adding on senior utility player, Ryann Baumgardner “I have had her play a little bit of everything. I have also had the privilege to coach her since she was a freshmen. She is a lead-by-example type of player and a hard worker.” Junior Katie Ruffer “is an outside hitter, hard working and her excitement is electric,” Brown said. “She is very fun to watch.” Skylor Baumgardner is a junior setter/hitter “who is fast and energetic. She has a great serve and is very quick. I am very excited to see her play this year,” Brown said, adding sophomore utility player Addy Gray “was brought here up towards the end of the season last year. She is hard working and is up for what ever is thrown her way.” Adrianna Lowery is a senior outside hitter, “hard working and is a good passer. It will be fun to watch her this season.”
Kara Henry serves during the 2019 Evart volleyball season. (Pioneer flle photo)
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
7
Jack Schooley Owner
Complete Collision & Mechanical Repair
7126 30th Avenue • Evart 231.734.6705 • Fax 231.734.6706
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
“The Best Choice Pizza”
Evart, MI
231.796.4419 231-734-3922
Holihan’s Drug Store
Rich Sheldon, Agent
More Than Just a Drug Store
Office (231) 832-5801
231-734-2551
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City Fax (231) 832-5471
128 N. Main • Evart
8
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Cardinal football team aims to get back on the right track in 2020 By Joe Judd
“We had an excellent summer conditioning program and the players that attended are in excellent shape going into the season,” Selzer said. “Since we could not utilize the weight room, we did a lot of core exercises, sprints, and tire work.”
joe.judd@pioneergroup.com
BIG RAPIDS — Last season left much to be desired for the Cardinal football team, but head coach Mike Selzer believes his squad can turn it around this season.
Looking ahead to the competition that will come the Cardinals’ way, Selzer said he thinks Central Montcalm and Reed City will be two of the biggest obstacles on his team’s schedule.
Big Rapids finished its 2019 campaign with a 1-8 (1-6) record and was only one spot removed from last place in the CSAA Gold Conference. Selzer said that the main focus this season will be to do a better job of finishing out games. “We played good first halves of football but did not finish games very well,” Seltzer said. “Defense created several turnovers each week.” The Cardinals will return a dozen starters that were on last year’s team, which the BR coach said he feels will aid them in the long run. “This season experience will be a strength — physi-
Big Rapids football coach Mike Selzer confers with his quarterback Sam Alley last season. (Pioneer file photo)
cal toughness will also be a strength,” Selzer said. Entering the upcoming season, the Big Rapids team has been utilizing any and every opportunity that has come its way, even with the added limitations imposed on the sport by COVID-19.
“We will need to work on finishing games and playing a strong second half,” Selzer said. “We will also have to do a better job of being strong mentally and not letting the negative events snowball into bigger issues.” The summer has also been
a successful one for the BR football program, even with the added Coronavirus-related restrictions. Areas that have received extra special attention within the Cardinals’ camp has been the cardio, agility and mental toughness of the players.
A season ago, CM took home the top spot in the CSAA Gold, with RC reaching a three-way tie for second place in the conference. “(The) CSAA will be strong again this season,” Selzer said. “Look for Reed City and Central Montcalm to be at the top. We will be in the hunt as well.” Big Rapids is scheduled to kick off its 2020 season with a game on the road against Coopersville on Aug. 27.
Big Rapids volleyball players eager to serve, set, spike By Joe Judd joe.judd@pioneergroup.com BIG RAPIDS — They have spent a majority of the summer not allowed to enter the gymnasium at Big Rapids High School, but that will soon change.
relationship with one another,” Nelson said. “No matter what the fall looks like we will be tough- mentally and physically.”
The Big Rapids ladies turned in a 22-24-1 record during the ‘19 campaign, and Nelson said the team as a whole faced On Aug. 12, the BR volleyball many challenges and endured team will hold its first official a few hardships along the way. practice since last season due Nelson added her playto restrictions from COVID-19. ers will need to spend a fair Seniors Megan Mackall and amount of time practicing their Olivia Owens, along with inoffense. coming freshman Grace Fath, are all individuals that coach “Having a new setter will Chelsea Nelson said expects to require a lot of one on one time be key components for 2020. with hitters,” Nelson said. “I'm looking forward to seeing how “These first few weeks we these girls step up and adapt to will be talking a lot about mental health and building a having a new setter.”
Nelson said she thinks her squad has the potential to make a postseason run and perhaps even solidify itself near the top of the CSAA Gold standings when it matters most. She also said that in order to do that, the Cardinals will need to improve their game when the likes of Reed City, Grant, or Central Montcalm comes to town. “Our conference has been pretty strong the past few years,” Nelson said. “Overall, I feel that we should be a top contender for conference this year.” With the season fast-approaching, Nelson said her girls have adjusted well to not
Megan Mackall will be among the top volleyball players for Big Rapids. (Pioneer file photo)
being inside of the gym, but “We are all hopeful for phase remains hopeful that things five so we can get in the gym,” will soon get back to normal on the court. Nelson said.
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
Chuck & Meredy’s
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
Auto Service 18620 16 Mile Rd. Big Rapids
(231) 796-0550
9
Rich Sheldon, Agent
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419
304 N. State Big Rapids, MI
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
231.796.3020 • 1015 Maple Street • Big Rapids, MI
Fax (231) 832-5471
Your Local Auto Body Shop
Office (231) 832-5801
231.796.6405
Open Mon-Sat 11am-8pm Closed on Sundays Hours temporarily restricted due to statewide order
Come enjoy our daily specials along with our full menu!
10
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Former player is now Crossroads volleyball coach By John Raffel
be a senior this year, and I look forward to putting her on the court in as many ways as possible. I believe BIG RAPIDS — Former she set last year. I am Crossroads Charter Academy volleyball player Brook- hopeful for her to step into a big leadership role for us lyn Routley has taken over this year. Jessica Cole will as the new Cougar volleybe a junior this year and has ball coach. been on the varsity since “Though I did not coach her freshman year. I see her last year’s team, two seniors filling some of the roles of we lost would be our fourthe seniors who graduated year setter Mackenzie Cole,” last year.” Routley said. “Jada MeeuRoutley is eager to get the wes was a hitter, Jada was season started. great on the net and her presence will be missed. “I am hopeful first to even have a season, but I “Natalie Chapman will hope to be competitive in jraffel@pioneergroup.com
the WMD,” Routley said. “I never imagined my first season would look anything like this, but I think we all just want to be able to play.” Crossroads will be competing in the West Michigan D League. “Pentwater has been at the top of the conference for the past few years,” Routley said. “I’m hopeful to be at the top half of the conference and compete with everyone we face. I am eager and excited to start our season.”
Brooklyn Routley will be coaching Crossroads this year in volleyball.
NO FOOTBALL Crossroads will not be having football this fall after dropping the program at the end of last season.
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
Routley
Chuck & Meredy’s Auto Service 18620 16 Mile Rd. Big Rapids
(231) 796-0550
11
Chiropractic Care Center
New Patients Welcome!
Massage Therapists On Staff
Ron Fuller
10585 Northland Drive • Big Rapids
231.796.1880
Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
- Dr. David B. Routley, III, D.C.
231-972-4141
6604 9 Mile Rd. • Mecosta
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
Rich Sheldon, Agent
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
12
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
First-year Mohawk football coach looks to continue winning legacy into new decade By Joe Judd
inevitable fairly well and has stayed motivated in the meantime.
joe.judd@pioneergroup.com
“While this summer has had its own unique set of circumstances, our team has handled them very well, and I look forward to watching their hard work pay off this season,” Campione said. “Many of our kids studied film on their own.”
MORLEY — A brand new era of Mohawk football is just a few short weeks away from officially kicking off. Last season marked the end of the Clark Huntey-era as head coach of the Mohawks. In Huntey’s place steps Art Campione, who most recently was the defensive coordinator for Central Montcalm, where he currently teaches physical education and social studies. “At Morley Stanwood, the expectations do not change; we expect to make the playoffs and win the league title each year,” Campione said. “The pieces are in place, the work has been put in, and we will go as far as our senior class takes us.” In 2019, Morley Stanwood’s boys went 6-4 overall and finished with a 4-0 record inside of the Central State Activities Association Silver Confer-
Art Campione talks with his Morley Stanwood players during a summer practice. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel)
ence, earning them the top spot.
Even with the added difficulty and constant presence of COVID-19 lurking Campione said the CSAA Silver is in the back of everyone’s minds all balanced and said he thinks anyone can summer, Campione said he’s been take the top spot. happy with the turnout he’s seen at “Our team has put a lot of work into summer practices and workouts so far. this offseason and that work will allow The first-year MS coach said he us to challenge for a league title,” Campione said. thought his team has dealt with the
Morley Stanwood’s senior class this year will consist of offensive linemen Aaron Garrow, Isaiah Duran and Saige Irwin, whose duties will be to protect quarterback Ryland Nelson and facilitate the running game. Senior tight end Carter Veldkamp is expected to play a big role for the Mohawks this season as well, along with senior defenders Keagan Riggs, Andrew VanLangen, Connor Tronsen and Logan Eckert. As it stands, the 2020 edition of the Mohawk football team will welcome Central Montcalm to town to begin the regular season on Aug. 27.
Mohawk volleyball squad has confidence entering new season By Joe Judd
joe.judd@pioneergroup.com
MORLEY — After a season of continued success in 2019, Morley Stanwood’s volleyball team is looking to replicate it once again in 2020, even though it will be no ordinary campaign. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic during the spring that closed schools, preemptively ended the winter sports postseason and canceled the spring season before it could even begin, the Mohawks, like everyone else, will be heading into untreaded waters.
figure out the best way to hold tryouts outdoors,” Kozuch said. “We have been doing some beach workouts and drills over the past two months or so, but beach play and hard court are two very different animals.” MS took home both a conference and a district title last season, and have since graduated Jaidyn Schmitt, Breanna Berry, and Ryleigh Newton — all of which played a key role in the many Mohawk triumphs in ‘19. Berry was a four-year starter on varsity and Schmitt spent three years on the Morley Stanwood varsity squad.
Still, head coach Robin Kozuch and her players are optimistic and ready to finally get back into the gym, after months of relative uncertainty.
“They were selfless and truly wanted what was best for the team,” Kozuch said. “They were such great leaders and so very positive.”
“We are working very hard at the moment on trying to
Looking ahead to the task at hand, Kozuch’s team will
also return a fair amount of talent from last year’s team, such as: Braelyn Berry, Brooke Brauher, Landrie LaPreze, Madison Garbow, Emilee Cornell, Grace Timmers, and Isabel Devereaux. Berry and Brauher have both recently earned All-State honors. Kozuch said she expects all of the above to be essential to the Mohawk effort on the court this season, especially when considering the overall strength of the opponents they will soon be facing. Both Hesperia and White Cloud are expected to give MS a run for its money down the stretch. “We will have to play our best game against them to defend our title another year,” Kozuch said. As far as the season goes,
Brooke Brauher serves for Morley Stanwood during the 2019 season. (Pioneer file photo)
Kozuch said she expects it to be a long year for her team if the regular season ends up not coming to fruition.
“I am excited to get this thing going,” Kozuch said. “I truly hope we get to play this year.”
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
Big L Lumber 19051 8 Mile Rd. STANWOOD
231.823.2088 www.Big-L-Lumber.com
13
Routley
Morley Depot
Chiropractic Care Center
Free Estimates All Over Paint & Spot Repair Tintable Stone Guard Glass Installed 505 N. Cass St. • Morley
New Patients Welcome! Massage Therapists On Staff
- Dr. David B. Routley, III, D.C.
231-972-4141
6604 9 Mile Rd. • Mecosta
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419
Rich Sheldon, Agent
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
14
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Reed City football hopes to be title contenders By John Raffel
for a conference championship and make a run in the playoffs,” Shankel said. “I want the team's effort to be top notch and to never quit on and off the field.”
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
REED CITY – Scott Shankel coached Reed City in his debut season last year and hopes to help the Coyotes have winning success.
The team needs to work on learning the systems “with the shortened summer due to COVID,” Shankel said. “We had a great summer with all the restrictions, but still had to trim back a ton of stuff from a normal summer. The good thing is most of the players are familiar with the both sides of the ball and they will be back to speed in no time. Playing fast at a high level will be another point of emphasis this season.
“We finished with a 6-4 record in 2019, making it into the playoffs for the 10th straight year, before losing to Kingsley in the first round,” Shankel said. “We finished second in the CSAA Gold Division. We had a good season with lots of newcomers stepping into some big roles. Overall the team played really hard and gave tons of effort on the field. “Some key athletes that we lost to graduation are: Austin Fowler, Jeffery Samuels, Auston Major-Kailing, Austin Whitehead, and Darrin Halladay. Each one of them had a role on the team and preferred to their best day in and day out.” There’s three third-year players with seniors Payton Hansen at running back-linebacker and second-year
Payton Hansen hopes to have another huge season for Reed City football. (Pioneer file photo)
seniors with Noah Jones and Landon Tomaski (running back/defensive back), Alex Wirgau at running back and linebacker; Teddy Cross on the lineup and Chaz Davis at offensive line/outside linebacker.
“All of the seniors have a ton of experience of playing and I am looking forward to them making big contributions to the team's efforts this season,” Shankel said. Key juniors in their second
varsity year are Isaac Williams (QB/DB), Dylan Schebil (OL/ DL), and Blake Vanalstine (OL/DL), plus sophomore Seth Jackson (WR/DB). “My expectations for the team this season is to compete
“We have had a busy summer following all of the MHSAA guidelines for COVID. It was a challenge at first but the players got used to the screenings and the social distancing as the summer went on. We will continue to follow the guidelines our best, to help assure that we can start and finish the season without any interruptions.”
Reed City volleyball team will eye improvement By John Raffel jraffel@pioneergroup.com REED CITY – Veteran Reed City volleyball coach Don Patterson returns and will need to replace several standouts from last year. Alison Duddles, Mckenzie Wein, Madelynn Morgan and Madalynn Brown graduated from last year. “Alison and Madalyn Brown were four-year varsity players and provided a steady influence on our program that will be missed,” Patterson said.
“Madelynn Morgan was a fearless defender and had worked very hard to become an outstanding libero. Mckenzie was a two-year varsity player who improved each year and was named to the first team all conference team her senior year. “Returning varsity players are KateLynn Holmes, Demi Lodholtz, Makena Hill, and Rylie Olds. We will rely on KateLynn, Demi and Makena to provide the bulk of our experience and offense, while Rylie will provide the steady leadership from her setter po-
sition. This team has a chance to develop into a very good team, and we should have a very good mix of offense and defense.” Patterson indicated it will be a very deep team. “We will need to develop our strengths on the defensive side of the ball as the season progresses,” Patterson said, adding the CSAA Gold “could be very tight this year. Many schools graduated some very talented athletes and it will be interesting to see which underclassmen step up.”
Demi Lodholtz is a key returning player for Reed City volleyball.
Because of COVID “we have not been able to do our normal
summer work and it will definitely put us behind.”
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
15
Dr. Julie Hanson, Optometrist
140 North Pine St. • Evart, MI 231-734-6218 142 West Upton Ave • Reed City, MI 231-832-3218
gary b. bailey, sr.
• broker/owner
780 S Chestnut St, Reed City, MI Reed City • 231-832-8322 230 W. Shaw Suite B Howard City • 231-937-2182
www.crrmi.com • gary@crrmi.com
2991 210 St. • Reed City, MI
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419
231-832-0092 800-777-6117 a1glassrc.com
“For all your service, supply, and installation needs”
office@skipspools.com (231) 832-4000 411 Dailey Dr., Reed City
534 S Chestnut St Reed City, MI 49677 Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Rich Sheldon, Agent
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
16
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Marion football hopes to return to playoffs By John Raffel
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
MARION – Marion football coach Chad Grundy wouldn’t mind seeing his Eagles enjoy as much success in 8-man football in 2020 as they did a year ago. The team started out 1-2 but won five of six games to make the playoffs. Key players graduated from the squad. “We will miss Brandon Stewart,” Grundy said. “He was a 1,000-yard rusher for us last season and we will miss three-year starting quarterback Alex Sutten. We lost 10 seniors last season. Others were Chase Ryan a two-year starting lineman. Jeff Nealy and Garrett Bell will also be missed,”
line last season but will move to the backfield this season. Riley Moggo, a senior, is a two-year starter at linebacker, and will be in the backfield. Cameron Carey, a senior tight end and defensive end, brings a physical presence to the defense. Thomas Jenema is a junior and two-year starter at tight end and “will help on defense with his versatility to play multiple positions,” Grundy said. “Blaine Faulman, a senior, will be a wide receiver-defensive back that has worked really hard this off season.
“Colton Hammer will play running back and defensive back. He is versatile and has some speed. Ty Baker, a junior, played linebacker, last season and will be a tight end also this year. He Grandy said McCoy Wilis really an athletic player. liams, a senior lineman, was Newcomers Keegan Baldwin all-conference last season (junior) will play center. He and should lead the line is a defensive lineman, is this season. Senior James a smart player and does a Alberts was all -conference really good job.”
Mason Salisbury, “is a sophomore quarterback and defensive back and is a really good athlete that runs and throws really well,” Grundy said. As for team goals, “we want to compete in the conference and make the playoffs and at least win a playoff game or two,” Grundy said. “Our balance on offense and defense and our physical play should be our strength. We have been working on footwork/speed and our passing game. Marion plays in the West Michigan D League. “I think it’s going to be a three-team race, Mesick, Brethren and us, and whoever gets some breaks and stays healthy will win it,” Grundy said, adding that in spite of COVID, “I just hope we have a season for our seniors and all the kids that have worked hard since last season.”
Riley Moggo, a senior, is a two-year starter at linebacker, and will be in the backfield for Marion.
Marion Volleyball starts in August By John Raffel
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
MARION -- Steffanie Mer-
rifield is the new coach for Marion volleyball this season. The Eagles compete in the
West Michigan D League. The season is scheduled to begin on Aug. 28 at Mount
Pleasant Sacred Heart in a tournament. Marion will also be at Cadillac Heritage Christian on Sept. 1.
The Eagles are home against Baldwin on Sept. 10. They are at Walkerville on Sept. 17 and Sept. 19.
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
Independent Insurance Agency 1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
Agency 231.796.4419Independent 301 S. MillInsurance St. • Marion • 231.743.6481
17
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
Rich Sheldon, Agent
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
Good Luck Eagles Athletes
HORSESHOE 301 S. Mill Street • Marion
(231) 743-6481 Check out our Friday Fish Fry! 142 E. Main St. • Marion MI
FOOD & SPIRITS
231-743-9814
18
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Returning players has Baldwin volleyball team optimistic By John Raffel
“Kendra Washington will be returning as well. She’ll be attacking from the outside and a little bit from the opposite. I’m planning on her serving, and she’s a lefty. I‘m going to have Arianna Burrell. She was a freshman player but she’s returning and I’m counting on her playing as well.”
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
BALDWIN – Baldwin’s volleyball squad graduated a dream team player in Jenna Johnson last year but coach Duane Roberts has a good supply of returning players to help make the Panthers very competitive in the West Michigan D League.
Johnson was a four-year varsity player and starter.
Savannah Bloom is slated to be an all-around player for the Panthers. Monique Rowland is a senior middle hitter for the Panthers, and a strong back-row player. “Replacing Jenna as my setter is Abigail Oisten,” Roberts said. “She’ll be attacking when she is not setting.
Baldwin's volleyball team was strong in 2019 and is hoping for more wins in 2020.
Ciera Pieske will be returning as one of the setters and will be an all-
around player.
“But I’m excited on what these varsity girls will bring to the table and how they’ll step up,” Roberts said. “I’m working on a few girls coming up for their freshmen year if all goes well, maybe a quarter or halfway through the season.”
Baldwin football expects to be very competitive By John Raffel
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
BALDWIN – This could be a very talented Baldwin 8-man football team, which is especially why veteran coach Bob Watkins would like to see the team take the field in 2020, despite the ongoing COVID pandemic. The Panthers have struggled for numbers and wins in past years. They were 0-9 in 2018 and were outscored 354-6. Last year was better with a 2-7 mark and 132 points scored. The defense still struggled, however, allowing 367 points. Carmelo Lindsey was a do everything quarterback and returns for his sophomore season. He will also play some running back. Ian Lemieux is a huge twoway lineman, who will give the Panthers solid leadership on the line of scrimmage.
Clure is a center. “You want to get them prepared, but will you have the opportunity to play?” Watkins said. Crossroads has dropped its football program and has been replaced on the schedule by Merrill. Vestaburg is the season opening opponent at home on Aug. 28 and is a new addition to the schedule. If the Panthers wind up playing, they have the potential to be a solid ball team, Watkins indicated. “A majority of the starters will be upperclassmen,” Watkins said. “A majority last year were underclassmen. We have some skill people coming back, including our quarterback. It is what it is. After three to four years of having injuries and playing with underclassmen, now you’re on an even playing field, but you might not have a chance to play.”
Aveon Hobbs, receiver Derek Other key players include Mock and other key returners Dylan Hibma, a receiver. Caleb should help the Panthers be Nagel is another lineman. very competitive. Adam Mc-
Carmelo Lindsey will be a sophomore for Baldwin's football team. (Pioneer photo/John Raffel)
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
AA Collision
Baldwin Housing Commission
231-745-7771
231-745-7441
3 miles South of Baldwin on M-37
19
Baldwin
105 Fournier Dr. • Baldwin
1325 Michigan Ave. Baldwin
231-745-2003
Gleason Sales & Service 11581 N. Woodbridge • Bitely
231-745-3053
Baldwin
Cadillac
Grant
Open 9-5 Mon. - Fri., Sat. 9-3 CLOSED TUESDAY & SUnDAY
(231) 745-4624 (231) 775-6521 (231) 834-0444
McBain
White Cloud Big Rapids
(231) 825-2643 (231) 689-5943 (231) 527-7150
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419
Most insurances accepted. Discount available to those who qualify.
New & Used
Dealer
Outboard Motors • Golf Carts Service on Outboard Motors, Boats & ATV’s
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
Rich Sheldon, Agent
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
20
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Hoyt new volleyball coach for Montabella By John Raffel
gotten a good groove on our serving and working on placing the ball strategically, which is a big part in getting the game BLANCHARD — Stephanie going. We really need to make Hoyt moves from JV coach at sure that we are ending the Montabella to varsity JV volmatches and season with as leyball skipper this season. “I expect us to improve in some way every single day. The much hype and energy as the “I know that the season was girls are here because they love beginning. There were times not as successful as we had the game, they enjoy the game, last year that I would look out hoped, but I did see a lot of there and they would just look and they want to win. I expect personal improvement from so defeated, but really they them to come to the gym each girls,” Hoyt said. “For examwere not all that far behind.” day wanting to improve and ple, there was confidence and Montabella competes in the leadership when we had many wanting to help each other improve and do great things Mid-State Activities Conferinjuries and players needed because at the end of the day ence. to be moved around. We had younger girls come up and take they have to work together in “Breckenridge, I believe, order to get to those final goals is a strong contender within charge when needed. It was that they have.” interesting to see girls shine our league along with Sacred and work together in those Hoyt indicated the team Heart,” Hoyt said. “I believe moments. aspect is going to be Montabel- they both not only have good la’s strength. numbers when it comes to get“Lauren Jordan was a great ting girls to play, but also they player to have on the court. “A lot of the younger girls have had quite a bit of consisShe helped the team with her have been playing sports passing when in the back row together for many years, which tency with their coaching and and did her best to dominate at helps with the dynamic of both their programs. the net in the front row as well. excitement and picking each “I have a younger team this Jordan Rose was both a strong other up,” Hoyt said. “It also year, with 3 girls who have hitter and great setter that brings out effective commuhad an entire year of varsity graduated last year as well.” nication throughout the game experience. I believe that hard as well, where they are talking work and perseverance is what Makenna Jensen will be a to one another about what is is going to help us compete senior returner this year. going on in the moment. with those teams within our “She is a well-rounded playleague.” Stephanie Hoyt makes her debut as Montabella volleyball coach this sea“I also believe that we have er who will be helpful at the jraffel@pioneergroup.com
net with blocking and hitting,” Hoyt said. “I expect to see her grow not only on the court, but also as a leader to the team with being the one and only senior.
son. (Courtesy photo)
Montabella football team hopes to return to playoffs By John Raffel jraffel@pioneergroup.com BLANCHARD – Montabella’s football team is coming off
a 5-5 playoff season, in which the Mustangs started off 2-4 and then won three straight to end the regular season and qualify for the playoffs.
They won their last regular season game 74-36 over Farwell to get into the playoffs,
burg Lewiston 48-0 in the playoffs.
Montabela competes in the Mid-State Activities ConferThe season opens on Aug. 28 ence. Montabella lost to Johannse- against St. Louis.
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
21
TGs Party Store Blanchard
989-561-2357
Food, Gas, Groceries, Etc.
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419
Rich Sheldon, Agent
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
Dedication. Integrity. Honesty
Customer Service is our number one priority. It is extremely important to us that our customers are satisfied with not only our products, but our services.
We Provide
All your heating and cooling needs for multiple fuel types; such as natural gas, fuel oil and propane. We install and repair boilers, hot water heaters, furnaces and air conditioners, for both residential and small commercial businesses. 24 hour emergency service is available!
22
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
Pine River football team locked and loaded for new year By Joe Judd
been permitted to engage in this summer.
joe.judd@pioneergroup.com
“It is a part of the season we all have to deal with,” Martin said. “Our kids have had very little access to any resistance training and to football equipment, which makes me nervous for injury.”
LEROY — It is almost football season in Buck country, and Pine River’s team is in search of a few more wins to add to the ledger this time around. Coached by Terry Martin, Pine River is ready to get back out on the field, after quite an unorthodox offseason. “We are going to be young overall, but I really like our team energy and think we are going to be competitive in the Highland race this season,” Martin said. Martin added the Highland Conference will be strong once again in 2020, with the likes of McBain and Beal City. He said he didn't see that much of a spread between the teams and at the top and bottom of the conference.
Coach Terry Martin hopes to have a strong football season at Pine River. (Pioneer file photo)
A season ago, the Bucks finished up their campaign at 3-6 (2-5) overall, and wound up in the bottom third of the Highland Conference standings. Martin said his team started the 2019 season strong, but a few key injuries led to some struggles down the stretch. This time around, Martin
and his Bucks have their sights set on postseason football. “Our commitment level has been great this offseason and we have a good group of kids that love playing the game of football together,” Martin said. Even with all of the COVID-19-related questions, guidelines, frustration and
uncertainty, Martin said his players will remain focused on working on what they can control. At the same time, he acknowledged that player safety this season is at an all-time high, not just because of the pandemic, but because of the lack of training his team has
Returning to the Bucks this season and expected to make a key impact on the field will be seniors Taylor Helmboldt, Elijah Carper, Parker DeBoard and Zach Lemmon. Juniors Noah Ruppert, Ben Lockhart, Jaiden Podbilski, Cody Rives, Hunter Varney, Kyle Hayden, and Cameron Helmboldt are also expected to see plenty of time on the gridiron this fall. Pine River is scheduled to kick off its regular season at home against Shelby on Aug. 28.
Bucks volleyball team focusing on what it can control going into new year By Joe Judd
joe.judd@pioneergroup.com
LEROY — Last season, the Pine River volleyball team created a bond and overall team chemistry that coach Jana Dennis said “...was such a blessing.” This time around, the Buck ladies are hoping to continue what they started a season ago. With the offseason graduating departures of Sophie Johnson, Cayla Trowbridge, and Parker Moores, Dennis said there will be a few holes that will soon need to be filled. “We expect our team to pick up where we left off last year,” Dennis said. “We have numerous returners from last year’s team, so that will be helpful.” Emma Whitley, Lorean
Yeomans, Lillian Johnson, and Avery Sumpter all were key components to last year’s team that Dennis believes will each be an asset in 2020. On top of that, there will be a few new faces in the gym this time around. “There are also quite a few newcomers to varsity who we feel will produce nicely this year and help us achieve our expectations,” Dennis said. “The nice thing is we have a very versatile team.” Dennis said she felt her team has more useful weapons on the offensive side of the ball, while the PR defense continues to come into its own as well. The biggest obstacle moving forward before a ball is officially served is figuring out who will take over the primary
setting duties for the Bucks, in addition to building up a strong setter-hitter chemistry. PR has had to do this in some unorthodox ways thus far — outside of the gymnasium. “Even though grass is definitely not the same as a real volleyball court, we are getting a lot of good work done,” Dennis said. As far as COVID-19 and the problems it has caused prep sports across the state and nation are concerned, Dennis said there are only so many things she and her staff can do. Like all coaches in all sports, Dennis has been made to improvise her team’s pre-season training and workout schedule. “So much of our time has
Emma Withey will be a key player for Pine River's volleyball team in 2020. (Pioneer file photo)
been spent conditioning,” Dennis said. “We have become more drill-focused the last couple of weeks. At first, everyone was upset, because we weren’t allowed in our gym, but now
we look at it as a challenge for us to overcome and an opportunity to become more resilient.” Pine River is currently set to open its season on Sept. 8.
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
23
ASHTON GENERAL STORE 10989 210th Ave • Reed City, MI
231-832-3310
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
Rich Sheldon, Agent
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419
Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
24
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
O'Connell key returning player for Ferris volleyball By John Raffel
Senior outside hitters Courtney Brewer, and Allyson Cappel have graduated. Over the course of Ferris State's six-year GLIAC Tournament winning streak, the Bulldogs have played in 18 matches. None of those matches have gone to more than four sets.
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
BIG RAPIDS -- Junior outside hitter Katie O’Connell is a key returning player for Ferris State’s volleyball team. Sophomore middle hitter, junior middle hitter Samantha Hermann and senior libero Nina Gorgijevska, are also key returnees. O'Connell had 316 kills with 407 digs and 52 total blocks in 29 matches. "Katie was a player who made an impact really early in her career," Ferris coach Tia Brandel-Wilhelm said. "As a freshman, she was in the mix and one of the first kids off the bench and ended up playing (defensive specialist) for a lot of the season. As a sophomore, she really worked hard and moved into a starting role as a rightside attacker. "Katie is a fantastic leader on and off the court. She is someone who focuses
Katie O'Connell (7) goes for the ball in GLIAC action last season. (Pioneer file photo)
on the people around her and making sure everyone is doing well and focuses and is feeling strong about their play. She's a very strong worker too. She works every day to be better." Last fall, the Bulldogs compiled a
25-6 overall record and FSU also won both sixth consecutive GLIAC regular-season and Tournament Championships. Ferris State made its ninth consecutive and 24th all-time NCAA Division II tournament appearance.
Cappel standout Allyson Cappel (Tinley Park, Ill.) has been chosen as a consensus first team All-American as she was named to the 2019 Division II Conference Commissioner's Association (D2CCA) squad. Cappel was also chosen as an American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) first team pick as well, becoming the Bulldogs' first four-time All-America choice on the court. For the ninth consecutive season, Ferris also went to the NCAA tournament, upon receiving the automatic qualifier via the conference tournament championship.
Bulldog football hungry for another GLIAC title By John Raffel
jraffel@pioneergroup.com
BIG RAPIDS – Ferris State’s football team is looking at an eight-game schedule, with all contests being in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference for the 2020 season.
Preseason All-America list. “He started as a great run blocker,” Annese said. “Pass protection is something he has to work on over time. He’s improved his game from the pass protection perspective and had a great year last year protecting the quarterback.”
Ferris State reached the national semifinals for the third time in four years in 2019. Last fall, along with reaching the national semifinals, FSU also claimed a second-straight GLIAC Championship with an The Bulldogs were recently tabbed fourth in the country by unblemished league record. two national polls and sixth in Last year marked the Bulldogs' fourth-straight trip to the naanother. tional quarterfinals or beyond, College Football Ameriwhich is the longest streak in ca also selected FSU senior the country. Over the past two offensive tackle Dylan Pasquali seasons, the Bulldogs have (Trenton) as a member of its' compiled a 27-2 mark. Starting Lineup Preseason Jayru Campbell and Travis First-Team All-America squad. Russell have graduated from He was the only player from the GLIAC on the publication's the quarterback spot but reBut as is the case with every other fall sports team, this will happen provided there is a season despite the pandemic situation.
turning junior Evan Cummins and junior college transfer quarterback David McCullum will vie for the position. Sy Barnet is back as a talented wide receiver. Prior to his injury in his sophomore season, “he had been incredible” Annese said. “He’s a very multi-dimensional athlete, one of the best in the nation. He can punt, he can kick, he can catch, he can run, he can do it all.” Marvin Campbell leads a talented corps of running backs. “Marvin has been a guy who has been around a long time for us,” Annese said. “This will be his fourth year as a starter. He’s just a versatile running back. He can make people miss and he gets a lot yards after contact. He’s elusive. He’s also a good receiver out of the backfield.”
Marvin Campbell (6) is expected to be among Ferris' top offensive weapons this season. (Pioneer file photo)
GLIAC player of the year and defensive tackle Jordan Jones defensive end Austin Edwards (Redford/Divine Child) won has graduated. All-GLIAC honors last season and are returning. Junior defensive tackle Austin Simpson (Livonia/ Churchill), and sophomore
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
25
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
Rich Sheldon, Agent
217 E. Todd Avenue • Reed City
Office (231) 832-5801 Fax (231) 832-5471
Chuck & Meredy’s Auto Service 18620 16 Mile Rd. Big Rapids
(231) 796-0550
1268 Perry Ave. • Big Rapids, MI
231.796.4419 “Helping Buyers & Sellers for over 50 years”
SILVERNAIL REALTY 17810 205th Ave., Suite #1 - Big Rapids, MI 49307
Call Today!
231-796-6329
Sue Glatz
www.silvernailrealty.com Sue Glatz, GRI, CRB, ABR, Broker/Owner Salespersons: Terry Weaver, Katy VanCuren Property Management • Land Contracts
Katy VanCuren
26
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
ASHTON GENERAL STORE 10989 210th Ave • Reed City, MI
231-832-3310
Your summer grilling Headquarters
August 2020
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
We Provide
All your heating and cooling needs for multiple fuel types; such as natural gas, fuel oil and propane. We install and repair boilers, hot water heaters, furnaces and air conditioners, for both residential and small commercial businesses. 24 hour emergency service is available!
Dedication. Integrity. Honesty
Customer Service is our number one priority. It is extremely important to us that our customers are satisfied with not only our products, but our services.
27
28
Season of Hope | 2020 Football Volleyball Preview
August 2020
888-533-5015 10964 90th Avenue • Mecosta, MI 49332 www.LakesideMotorsports.net
