The Leadoff 2016

Leadoff The

LEADER PUBLICATIONS

A rebuilding

YEAR

Vikings need younger players to step up

BASEBALL • SOFTBALL • SOCCER • TENNIS • GOLF • TRACK & FIELD

4 • THE LEADOFF

BASEBALL • MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BASKETBALL MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SOCCER • SOFTBALL • VOLLEYBALL

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Covers On the

1

Leadoff Leadoff Leadoff The

The

LEADER PUBLICATIONS

LEADER PUBLICATIONS

Taking the

Focused on

Bobcats are armed and dangerous

Bucks aiming for state championships

FIELD BASEBALL • SOFTBALL • SOCCER • TENNIS • GOLF • TRACK & FIELD

1 • THE LEADOFF

The

TITLES BASEBALL • SOFTBALL • SOCCER • TENNIS • GOLF • TRACK & FIELD

3 • THE LEADOFF

LEADER PUBLICATIONS

A year of

GROWTH

Rangers looking to take next step BASEBALL • SOFTBALL • SOCCER • TENNIS • GOLF • TRACK & FIELD

2 • THE LEADOFF

Leadoff Leadoff Leadoff The

The

LEADER PUBLICATIONS

The

LEADER PUBLICATIONS

LEADER PUBLICATIONS

A rebuilding

YEAR

Vikings need younger players to step up

The warriors of

SPRING

Chieftains ready to hit the diamonds BASEBALL • SOFTBALL • SOCCER • TENNIS • GOLF • TRACK & FIELD

5 • THE LEADOFF

Seeking continued

SUCCESS Eddies determined to defend titles

BASEBALL • SOFTBALL • SOCCER • TENNIS • GOLF • TRACK & FIELD

6 • THE LEADOFF

BASEBALL • SOFTBALL • SOCCER • TENNIS • GOLF • TRACK & FIELD

4 • THE LEADOFF

For the inaugural edition of The Leadoff, Leader Publications featured two players from each of the schools in our coverage area. Standout athletes from the Brandywine, Buchanan, Cassopolis, Dowagiac, Edwardsburg and Niles baseball and softball teams were featured on individual covers. Newspaper subscribers and single-copy vendors received the cover based on the school district where they are located. If you would like a different version, you can trade it in or purchase others by visiting Leader Publications’ office, located at 217 N. Fourth St., in Niles.

Photos by Michael Caldwell THE LEADOFF • 3

Youth Programs Basketball Baseball taekwondo swim t-Ball/softball gymnastics Volleyball

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Table of Contents

BRANDYWINE

BUCHANAN

CASSOPOLIS

8 9 10 12 13 14

18 19 20 22 23 24

28 29 30 32 35

Baseball Softball Soccer Track Tennis Golf

Baseball Softball Soccer Track Tennis Golf

Baseball Softball Soccer Track Golf

DOWAGIAC

EDWARDSBURG

NILES

38 39 40 42 43 44

48 49 50 52 53 54

60 61 62 64 65 66

Baseball Softball Soccer Track Tennis Golf

Baseball Softball Soccer Track Tennis Golf

Baseball Softball Soccer Track Tennis Golf

BRAND 6 • THE LEADOFF

DYWINE Bobcats

THE LEADOFF • 7

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

12 @ Watervliet, 4:30 p.m.

14 @ Cassopolis, 4:15 p.m.

16 Edwardsburg @ Four Winds Field, Noon 19 @ Buchanan, 4:15 pm.

21 @ Dowagiac, 4 p.m.

25 @ Bridgman, 4:15 p.m.

29 @ Schoolcraft, 4:15 p.m.

30 Marcellus @ Bethel College, 11 a.m.

Baseball

MAY

In front from left to right: Zach Grishaber, Toby Fox, Brett Jacobs, Joe Covyeou, Jerod Glenn, Kaci Lintz, Scott Miller; back row: Brady Duval, Austin Balos, Vinny Peel, Hunter Janowiak, Cole Searles, Jeshua Wiese, Chandler Plew, Mark Conrad.

COACH REPORTS Coach/record: David Sidenbender — 305-199 Last year’s record/place in conference: 23-7, tied for first place in BCS Years coaching sport/at current school: 16th year at Brandywine/22nd year overall Key starters lost: Matt Vaughn, Tanner Bourdon, Jordan Hunt, Seth Brown, Ashton Kwieran Key returning lettermen: Cole Searles, Hunter Janowiak, Zach Grishaber, Toby Box, Joe Covyeou, Jeshua Wiese Top newcomers: Vinny Peel, Scott Miller Strengths: Experience Weaknesses: Pitching depth

Berrien Springs, 4:15 p.m.

Lake Mich. Catholic, 4:15 p.m.

Parchment, 4 p.m. @ Decatur, 7:15 p.m. @ Homer, 7 p.m.

Comstock, 4:15 p.m. @ Kalamazoo Hackett tournament, Noon 24 New Buffalo, 4:15 p.m.

26 @ Sturgis, TBA 31 @ MHSAA Districts, TBA 3 6 10 13 14 17 21

What do you think about your conference? The conference has changed for the third straight year and this time for the better. It is strong and should really get each team ready for the state tournament.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Buy into a team or sacrifice mentality. Play for each other.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We have tried to focus on more than the final score and more on the aspects of the game that will make us successful in the long run.

Hunter Janowiak 8 • THE LEADOFF

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

12 @ Watervliet, 4:15 p.m.

19 @ Buchanan, 4:15 p.m.

25 @ Bridgman, 4:15 p.m.

MAY 3 6 7 10 14 17 20 21 24 25 31

Berrien Springs, 4:15 p.m.

Lake Mich. Catholic, 4:15 p.m. @ Marcellus, 10 a.m.

Parchment, 4:15 p.m. @ South Bend Clay Tournament Comstock, 4:15 p.m.

Grace Christian, 4:15 p.m. @ Kalamazoo Hackett Tournament, TBA New Buffalo, 4:15 p.m. @ Dowagiac, 4 p.m.

MHSAA Districts, TBA

Softball In front from left: manager Emily Ingle, Michaela Hartline, Sydney Carlson, Makenna Hartline, Kiya Lintz; back row: Audrey Longley, Destiny Bennett, Nicole Sachman, Chelsie Luczkowski, Grace Polomcak, Morgan Crocker, Lexi Kwieran, Madison Bailey.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Ronald Hartline Years coaching: Second year Last year’s record: Second place in conference Key starters lost: Kelly Harper, Hannah Hadden, Justine Sater, Ayralynn Lasane Key returning lettermen: Makenna Hartline, Michaela Hartline Top newcomers: Audrey Longley, Nichole Sachman, Kia Lintz Strengths: Hitting, defense Weaknesses: We’re going to have some young ones.

What do you think about your conference?

It’s very tough from top to bottom.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? It’s too soon to tell but I am very excited. We had 14 freshmen sign up this season!

What goals have you set? To have as much fun as possible and to help with the life lessons that come with playing sports.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We are a pretty adverse team. Winning is a bonus.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? My pitchers really need to step up this year after losing Hannah Hadden, who was our go-to pitcher.

Makayla Hartline THE LEADOFF • 9

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 11 13 18 20 25 27 29

Soccer

MAY 6 11 14 16

In front from left to right: Beth Blank, Brianna Gleason, Grace Rydwelski, Cassie Luczkowski, Taylor Bass, Jaida Wilbert, Allissa Sallee; second row: Tori Blank, Maggie Rydwelski, Alexis Garcia, Mia Stella, Alexia Martinez, Rachel Laurita, Taylor Derscha; back row: coach Evan Winkler, Taylor Kangas, Rebecca Collins, Nichole Butler, Amber Boocher, Sloan Kangas, Amber Johnson, Kyra Moore, Jaleesa Garner.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Evan Winkler — ­ 85-86-17 Years coaching sport/at current school: 10 years Last year’s record/place in conference: 13-8 (4-3) Key starters lost: Brooke Smith Key returning lettermen: Jaleesa Garner, Mia Stella, Sloan Kangas, Cassie Luczkowski, Amber Johnson, Alexis Garcia Strengths: Some experience at some key positions. Return our defense and four-year starting goalie. Also returning a forward who is a three-year honorable mention allstate player.

Weaknesses: Midfield; losing Brooke Smith will be hard to replace. We need some people to step up.

What do you think about your conference?

10 • THE LEADOFF

@ Bridgman, 5 p.m.

Berrien Springs, 5 p.m.

South Haven, 5 p.m. @ Comstock, 5 p.m.

Michigan Lutheran, 5 p.m.

Parchment @ Granger Christian, 4:30 p.m.

18 19 24 26 31

Coloma, 5 p.m. @ Buchanan, 5 p.m.

VanDenBerg Inv., 10 a.m.

BCS Conference Tournament, TBA BCA Conference Tournament, BA Bangor, 5 p.m. @ Lake Mich. Catholic, 5 p.m.

New Buffalo, 5 p.m. @ MHSAA Districts, TBA

The conference is changing once again.

Comstock and Parchment are new to the league. I know Parchment is a very good team and they are the favorites in the league. We expect to challenge anyone and to be in contention.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? It’s too early to tell. I haven’t had my whole team yet.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Take one day at a time and continue to get better.

Compete with each other and be the hardest working team.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We talk about mental toughness quite a bit.

If you can’t handle adversity it is harder to achieve success.

Jaleesa Garner

Good Luck Good Luck Athletes! this season!

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2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 13 14 16 20

Track & Field In front from left to right: Kaitlyn Vanlaecke, Mia Frasier, Alexis Modlin, Melanie Martinez, Makena Bowen, Sicilia Mclerken; second row: Grant Lerner, Ryan Clingaman, Tyler Vanlaecke, Jordan Stockdale, Wyatt Eager, Garrick Thompson, Garrett Lerner; third row: coach Becky Shafer, James Harrell, MJ Gojra, Jake Swanson, Dylan Tates, Joshua Youngs, Austin Carter, Marquelle Peterson, Michael Okayama; back row: Austin Antisdel, Dayan Schau, Brycen Duffield, Marquise Davis, Caleb Horst, Joe Swanson, Coach Jay Crouch, Coach Terry Borr.

Not pictured: Jamie Yike, Breanna Gleason and Sage Nemeth.

@ Berrien Springs, 4 p.m. @ White Pigeon Inv. 4:30 p.m. @ Hartford, 10 a.m.

Buchanan/LaLumiere/ Mishawaka Marian, 4:15 p.m.

22 @ Watervliet Relays, 4 p.m.

27 Parchment/New Buffalo/ Countryside/Lake Mich.

Catholic, 4:15 p.m.

MAY 4 6 7 11 13 20 25

@ Comstock, 4:15 p.m. @ Rotary Meet, 3 p.m. @ Centreville Inv. 10 a.m. @ Bridgman, 4:15 p.m. @ Gobles Inv., 2:30 p.m.

MHSAA Regionals, 1 p.m.

BCS Conference Meet, 1 p.m.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Terry Borr Years coaching sport at current school: 26 Last year’s record/place in conference: Tied for first in conference with Bridgman BOYS Key starters lost: Andrew Duckett, Andrew Boocher, Matt Kline, Blake Lerner, Zach Schmidt, Marty Ward Key returning lettermen: James Harrell, Wyatt Eager, Caleb Horst, Austin Knapp, Michael Okyama, Dayan Schau, Tyler Vanlaecke, Josh Youngs, Marquise Davis, Garrick Thompson, Marquell Peterson, Corbin Eckenberger, Jordan Stockdale Top newcomers: Dustin Ward, Grant Lerner, Garrett Lerner, Brycen Duffield, Dylan Tates, Austin Carter, Ryan Clingaman 12 • THE LEADOFF

GIRLS Key starters lost: Emily Pedzinski Key returning lettermen: Makena Bowen, Jamie Yike, Brianna Gleason Top newcomers: Kaitlyn Vanlaecke, Melanie Martinez, Sage Nemeth, Mia Frazier, Siscilia Mcclurken Strengths: We have some good athletes out who should improve throughout the year.

Weaknesses: We could always use more athletes to provide us more depth.

What do you think about your conference? In our division, Berrien Springs and Bridgman will be tough. In the overall conference, you can add Cassopolis to this mix.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? I am pleased with the work the guys and girls are putting in and

their enthusiasm.

What team goals do you set? Like always, we want to have fun throughout the year and hopefully have many individual successes, which isn’t always to finish first but to continue setting what we call PRs (personal records). We hope that with this attitude we will have athletes who will work hard enough to qualify for the state meet and place high in our conference meet.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We are always striving to get better and we try to be as realistic about what we can accomplish as possible. So the highs and lows are expected.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? The more athletes we can continue to recruit the better we will be this year and in the future.

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 14 14 16 18 19 21 23 26 29

Buchanan, 4 p.m.

Eau Claire, 5:45 p.m.

Brandywine Inv., 10 a.m. @ Niles, 4 p.m.

Bridgman, 4 p.m. @ Berrien Springs, 4 p.m.

Bobcat Classic, 10 a.m. @ Lake Mich. Catholic, 4 p.m. @ Comstock, 4:30 p.m.

MAY 3 4 5 7 10 14

New Buffalo, 4 p.m. @ Schoolcraft, 4:30 p.m.

Bronson, 4 p.m.

Bobcat Invitational, 10 a.m. @ Dowagiac, 4 p.m.

BCS Conference Tournament, TBA 16 @ Kalamazoo Hackett, 4:30 p.m.

19 @ MHSAA Regionals, TBA

Tennis In front from left to right: Rachael Szilagyi, Shaylee Smith, Alyssa Bolen; second row: Rachel Riffel, Olivia Whitney, Elizabeth Hartz, Ava Moody, Destiny Patrolia; back row: coach Joe Marazita, Emily Erwin, Libby Moody, Shelby Fortune, Hanna Martin, Olivia Thomas, Madison Lucero, Lauren Srmek, coach Richard Robbins.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Joe Marazita — 227-24-11. Richard Robbins will again be the assistant coach.

Years coaching sport/at current school: 25th year coaching tennis at Brandywine (20th as head coach for girls) Last year’s record/place in conference: 16-0 (47-0 the last three years). Conference champions and regional champions.

Eleventh place at state finals Key starters lost: Abbey Cole, Eishaa Rehman, Katie Rose, Krystal Bunch and Hallie Carnes

Alyssa Bolen

Strengths: Overall athleticism, as most of our players participated in basketball and volleyball Weaknesses: Inexperience What do you think about your conference? It is more competitive with the expansion.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Hardworking and willingness to accept challenges

Key returning lettermen: Shaylee Smith, Emily Erwin, Alyssa Bolen, Rachael Szilagyi, Hanna Martin and Shelby Fortune

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Always give 100 percent, support your teammates and earn All-State Academic Honors

Top newcomers: Libby Moody, Elizabeth Hartz, Rachel Riffel, Lauren Srmek, Olivia Whitney, Madison Lucero and Olivia Thomas

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? I only stress always giving 100 percent.

THE LEADOFF • 13

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

12 @ BCS Central jamboree (Diamond Lake), 4 p.m.

21 BCS Central jamboree (Pineview Country Club), 4 p.m.

28 @ BCS Central jamboree (Orchard Hills Country Club), 4 p.m.

MAY

Golf In front from left: Misheal Jarmela, Jacob Burge, Mackenzie Gonzalez, Matt Probst; back row: Toby Latislaw, Sam Burge, Jordan Michiewicz, William Davis, coach Joshua Dickeson.

2 @ BCS Central jamboree (Klinger Lake Golf Club) 4 p.m.

7 The Leader Cup, (Orchard Hills), TBA 12 BCS Central jamboree (Signal Point) 4 p.m.

16 @ BCS Conference Tournament, 9 a.m.

19 Diamond Lake/Lake Mich.

Catholic, Cassopolis, 4 p.m.

23 @ Lake Mich. Catholic, 4 p.m.

25 @ MHSAA District, TBA

COACH REPORTS Coach: Joshua Dickeson Years coaching sport/at current school: Sixth year Key starters lost: Alec DeJonge, Chance Smith Key returning lettermen: Jordan Mickiewicz, Sam Burge Top newcomers: Matt Probst, Mackenzie Gonzalez, Toby Latislaw, William Davis, Jacob Burge, Misheal Jarmela Strengths: The new golfers are very inexperienced but very willing to learn as much about the sport as they can.

My two returning starters are very willing to help bring the young golfers along as they understand the benefits of having a good golf team.

What do you think about your conference? The conference has grown and become a lot more competitive in the last couple years with the continued creation of the BCS 14 • THE LEADOFF

Conference. Some of the teams that have been introduced in the last few years are historically very strong in golf.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The players have come to practice every day ready to learn as much as they can about golf. This has been highly beneficial due to the fact I have multiple golfers that have never played a round or swung a golf club before.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? To improve every day, to grow as young adults using golf as a catalyst to do so. Learn lifelong goals in and outside of the realm of golf.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Willingness and eagerness to improve their golf games. Right now more than half of my team has never played a round of golf on an actual golf course.

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16 • THE LEADOFF

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THE LEADOFF • 17

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 9 12 14 16 19 21 23 26

Baseball

MAY

In front from left: Josiah Smith, Kyle Leazenby, Gavin Morris, Chad Adkerson, Bryce Vineyard, Jarrett Thomas; back row: Darren Shearer, Brandon Rogers, Dyson Phillips, Dalton Riddle, Wes Grounds, Christian Hall, Alex Lindamood, coach Lonnie Hoover.

COACH REPORTS Years coaching sport/at current school: Fourth year coaching varsity. Coached JV baseball four years.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Their intensity

Last year’s record/place in conference: 248; first in conference

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Improving every day

Top newcomers: Brandon Rogers Strengths: Only lost starting first baseman from last year’s team. All pitchers are returning.

Weaknesses: Throwing consistent strikes What do you think about your conference?

There are several good teams in our division 18 • THE LEADOFF

@ Bridgman, 4:30 p.m. @ Vicksburg, 4:30 p.m.

Buck Classic, 10 a.m. @ Berrien Springs, 4:30 p.m.

New Buffalo, 4:30 p.m.

Parchment, 4:30 p.m.

Edwardsburg, 4:30 p.m.

Dearborn Devine Child (Notre Dame), 10 a.m.

31 @ St. Joseph, 4:30 p.m.

3 MHSAA Districts, TBA

and should be some good games.

Key returning lettermen: Jarrett Thomas, Bryce Vineyard, Gavin Morris, Josiah Smith, Alex Lindamood

3 4 7 10 12 17 24 27

JUNE

Coach: Lonnie Hoover — 55-32

Key starters lost: Austin Hall

So. Bend St. Joseph, 11 a.m. @ Coloma, 4:30 p.m. @ Niles, 4:30 p.m. @ Grand Haven Inv., TBA Brandywine, 4:30 p.m. @ Cassopolis, 4:30 p.m. @ Portage Northern, 9 a.m. @ Comstock, 4:30 p.m.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We work very hard on staying level. We play at a high level but take the roller coaster rides out of the baseball game.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Playing through adversity

Bryce Vineyard

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 12 12 14 14 16 16 19 19 21 21 26 26 28 28

@ Coloma, 4:30 p.m. @ Niles, 4 p.m. @ Otsego Inv., TBA Brandywine, 4:30 p.m. @ Cassopolis, 4:30 p.m. @ Comstock, 4:30 p.m.

Dowagiac, 4:30 p.m.

MAY 73 107 11 10 12 11 14 12 17 14 21 17 24 21 25 24 28 25 28

Bridgman, 4:30 p.m. @ Zeeland East Inv., TBA @ Berrien Springs, 4:30 p.m.

Elkhart Central, 4:30 p.m.

New Buffalo, 4:30 p.m. @ Calvin Christian Inv., TBA Parchment, 4:30 p.m.

Buck Classic, TBA Edwardsburg, 4:30 p.m.

South Haven, 4:30 p.m.

Bronson, TBA

JUNE 4 MHSAA Districts, TBA

Softball In front from left: Sammi Luzadre, Alyssa Florey, Megan Ankrapp, Taylor Reed, Emma Schmidt; back row: coach Mike Welsh, Ali Kyles, Ericka Donathen, Jade Mosier, Morgan Lenox, Jayla Bibbs, Nikki Mucha, coach Linsey Ross. Missing from photo: Maddie Hemphill.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Mike Welsh — 643-321

Weaknesses: Too early to tell.

Years coaching sport/at current school: This is my 27th year.

What do you think about your conference? It is a new conference with a lot of good teams.

Last year’s record/place in conference: 27-9; first in conference; won districts, lost in regional final

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? How bad they really want to go a long ways.

Key starters lost: Chelsey Bennett, Morgan Richer

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? To get better every day.

Key returning lettermen: Emma Schmidt-All State, Ali Kyles-All State, Sammi Luzadre, Nikki Mucha, Jade Mosier, Maddie Hemphill, Jayla Bibbs, Morgan Lenox Top newcomers: Erica Donathen, Taylor Reed Strengths: Experience, with seven returning starters. Our schedule prepares us for tournament time.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We have a great program with great coaches. We stay consistent in our ways. They know what is expected. We expect big things and our kids expect big results. Our schedule is as tough as anyone’s.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Team chemistry is a key. Consistent hitting throughout the lineup.

THE LEADOFF • 19

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 11 13 18 21 25 27 28

New Prairie, 5 p.m.

Comstock, 5 p.m. @ Cassopolis, 5 p.m.

Granger Christian, 5 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 4 p.m @ Berrien Springs, 5 p.m. @ Dowagiac, 5 p.m.

MAY 2 5 9 11 14 16

Soccer In front from left: Jenny Lewis, Bridgett Palmisano; second row: Taylor Strauss, Kassidy Koenigshof, Cora Schau, Jessica Lee, Madison Schau, Haley Maust, Jasmine Daugherty, Savannah Elhert, Olivia Riddle; back row: coach Kate Coules, Candyce Peppers, Erica Mitchell, Hannah Ferris, Ally Stephenson, Sami Malstrom, Kristen Clark, Zoe Mittan, Emily Waggoner, assistant coach Russ Philip.

New Buffalo, 5 p.m. @ Parchment, 6 p.m. @ Michigan Lutheran, 5 p.m.

Brandywine, 5 p.m. @ VanDenBerg Inv., 10 a.m.

BCS Conference Crossover, TBA 18 BCS Conference Crossover, TBA 23 Watervliet, 5:30 p.m.

26 Coloma, 5 p.m.

JUNE 4 MHSAA Districts, TBA

COACH REPORTS Coach: Kate Coules — 10-4-3 Years coaching sport/at current school: Second year as head coach for girls soccer, third year coaching at this school for the girls soccer program.

Last year’s record/place in conference: 10-4-3 and third overall in the conference Key starters lost: We lost 14 seniors last season, but don’t count us out this year.

We have great new talent that teams won’t be expecting.

Key returning lettermen: Jenny Lewis (senior), Jasmine Daugherty (senior) and Erica Mitchell (sophomore) Top newcomers: Madison Schau 20 • THE LEADOFF

Strengths: A new, young, dedicated team that is eager to learn.

Weaknesses: Inexperience to this level of competition.

What do you think about your conference? The BCS is becoming great competition that motivates my athletes to get better.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Leadership and dedication from a lot of new girls.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Our team goal is to keep the VanDenBerg Trophy we won

last year. It is a traveling trophy between Niles, Cass, Brandywine and Buchanan.

Whoever wins gets the honor of taking it home to their school for the year. In the last nine years, Buchanan has never held the trophy two years in a row.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? I coach my team to see losses as a moment to learn and grow from. I coach wins as confidence builders. I believe my players follow my lead and react similar to me and the attitude I display.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Being a team, on and off the field, is key to a successful season.

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2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 13 15 20 27

Bridgman, 4:30 p.m. @ White Pigeon, TBA @ Brandywine, 4:30 p.m. @ Bridgman, 4:30 p.m.

MAY

Track & Field

4 @ Parchment, 4:30 p.m.

11 Comstock, 4:30 p.m.

20 @ MHSAA Regionals, TBA

In front from left: Payton Morgan, Meikelle Andrews, Hailey Childers, Kinsley Worke, Brenna Ropp, Kalie Schram, Garret Lollar; back row: Jacob DeVlaminck, Jason Furst, David Gloster, Matt Dehring, Devin Brown, Russell Colter, Martin Pensado, Louis Batmalle, coach Tom Brinks. Not pictured: Samantha Swartz, Alexandra Tobler, Collin Struess and Kyle Scantlen.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Ryan Mohney (sprint coach), Tom Brinks (distance coach) Years coaching sport/at current school: Mohney: 13th year; Brinks: fifth year Last year’s record/place in conference: With so many changes that occurred in the conference over the past few years, it is hard to keep track. Our track team struggles due to the success of the other programs that are going on during this season. Our baseball and softball programs are extremely good and kids want to be a part of those programs. We took last or close to last in our conference last year in male and female teams.

Key starters lost: Frankie Strefling and Brooke Wesner had potential to do some damage in field and running events this year but did not come out for their senior years.

Key returning lettermen: Samantha Swartz, Alexandra Tobler, Collin Struess, Jason Furst, Kyle Scantlen 22 • THE LEADOFF

Top newcomers: Meikelle Andrews, Kinsley Worke (freshman) — has potential to do very will in high jump; Brenna Ropp (freshman) — was a powerhouse for middle school sprints last year. She is very speedy and will be competitive in field events.

David Gloster (sophomore) — top sprinter and hard worker. Gives 100 percent daily; Garret Lollar (freshman) — hardest worker on the team; Louis Batmalle and Martin Pensado — (foreign exchange seniors) — work extremely hard and will be competitive in sprints/middle distance.

Strengths: The athletes have the will to push themselves and work hard.

Weaknesses: Our numbers and our experience.

What do you think about your conference?

We are looking forward to competing this year, but have a huge disadvantage. Since track is a numbers game, our biggest rival is numbers.

With so many female sports competing to

recruit a limited amount of female athletes — (softball, soccer, and tennis have always been powerful programs in Buchanan) track usually suffers. We have a handful of girls but numbers are improving.

As for the boys team, even though we are young and our numbers are not what they have been in the past, what we lack in experience and numbers we will make up with hard work and dedication. The ability and athleticism is growing exponentially.

Both teams are very young. Our freshman and sophomore group make up two-thirds of our team so it is exciting to see what potential we will have if these athletes stick with it.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Again, we are so young, but what we lack in experience we are gaining in leadership. Our first- and secondyear kids, as well as freshmen and sophomores, are stepping up into the leadership role. They are taking control of the atmosphere, have a great and positive attitude, and are trying to help recruit daily!

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 14 16 19 21 32 26 28

@ Brandywine, 4:30 p.m. @ Hamilton Inv., 8:30 a.m. @ Bronson, 4:30 p.m. @ Comstock, 4:30 p.m. @ Kellogsville Inv., TBA New Buffalo, 4:30 p.m.

Berrien Springs, 4:30 p.m.

MAY Bridgman, 4:30 p.m.

Lake Mich. Catholic, 4:30 p.m.

Dowagiac, 4:30 p.m.

BCS Conference Tournament (Bridgman), TBA 16 @ Vicksburg, 4:30 pm.

19 @ MHSAA Regionals, TBA 3 5 12 14

Tennis In front from left to right: Maya Schuhknect, Tessa Durocher; second row: Cloe Forray-Molica, Keiran Baginske, Brittany Gardiner, Karyn Haung, Kyla Schlutt, Madison Phillips, Ana Vega; back row: Rachel English, Abbigail Cowles, Peyton Ritchie, Kaylee George, Allison Voit, Chanele Cooper, Cheyanne Cowan, Taylor Anthony, Sydney Hildebrandt, coach Erin Kratky.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Erin Kratky Years coaching sport/at current school: This season marks my sixth year coaching tennis at Buchanan High School (fifth year as varsity coach).

Last year’s record/place in conference: Last year the team had four wins, four losses and one tie.

Key starters lost: Sarah Bianchi Key returning lettermen: Taylor Anthony, Keiran Baginske, Chanele Cooper, Brittany Gardiner Top newcomers: Maya Schuhknect Strengths: This year we have a ton of girls joining the tennis team. The new girls have a lot of potential. I am excited to see what they will do this year. In addition, we have a strong senior class to lead

these new players. They provide a strong foundation for this team before they graduate.

Weaknesses: I am very excited for this year and currently cannot pinpoint any weaknesses.

What do you think about your conference? I think we will compete well in our conference. I am interested to see what the other teams are looking like this year.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The dedication of many of my players is much stronger this year. They are finding time to hit on their own time and using the local racquet clubs for additional time. It is exciting to see their growth so early in the season.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships

and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? My goal this year is to build a strong freshman/JV team to prepare them to take over for the varsity spots that will be left open by the huge number of seniors I have this year.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that?

We discuss a lot about dealing with the pressure of matches and at the end of the match discuss what went well and what they need to work on. I have found that requiring them to find both the positives and negatives of each match gives them something tangible to work toward and focus on, rather than purely the win or loss.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? The girls’ attitudes and dedication will play a huge part in their success this year.

THE LEADOFF • 23

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

@ Cassopolis jamboree, 4 p.m. @ Niles Quad, 4 p.m. @ Howardsville Christ., 4 p.m. @ Berrien Springs Invitational, 9 a.m.

27 @ New Buffalo, 8:30 a.m.

28 Buchanan jamboree, 4 p.m.

12 14 21 23

Golf In front from left to right: Gannon Kutemeier, Lane Herman, Jake Aalfs, Bryce Leazenby, Jacob Graham, Andrea Bair, Benny Brown, Brixton Adkerson; back row: coach Amelio Rodriguez, Tristen McCarty, Mitchell Townsend, Devin Skwiercz, Ty Lorance, River Fox, Jarick Starnes, Ryan Ferguson, Dylan Catalano and assistant coach Mark Calay. Missing from photo: Parker Saladin and Nick Stepanek.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Amelio Rodriguez Years coaching sport/at current school: Third year Last year’s record/place in conference: Sixth in BCS Conference Tournament/fifth in division Key starters lost: Derek Wismer — graduation; Lucas Bonek, who is focusing on school Key returning lettermen: Ty Lorance (2015 regional qualifier), Jacob Graham, Devin Skwiercz, Tristen McCarty Top newcomers: Parker Saladin Strengths: Our strength is the number of returning players from last season and total players in general.

Weaknesses: Our weakness is the number of new players who are new to the game of golf.

What do you think about your conference? This is the first year for the 15-team BCS so it’s hard to say right now. Our division will be pretty competitive with Brandywine, Cassopolis and 24 • THE LEADOFF

MAY 2 @ White Pigeon (Klinger Lake Country Club), 4 pm.

5 Bridgman, 4 p.m.

7 The Leader Cup, 1 p.m.

10 @ Constantine (Island Hills) 4 p.m.

12 @ Brandywine, 4 p.m. @ BCS Conference 16 Tournament, 9 a.m.

23 @ Granger Christian, 4:30 p.m.

25 @ MHSAA Districts, TBA

Howardsville Christian, but we will all probably be chasing White Pigeon again this year.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The number of new players who have come out for the team.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? We set team and individual goals on the first day of practice. We are trying to hold each other accountable to help us all to hit both our team and individual goals.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We coach that, while we are playing against other teams, every time we take the course we are playing against the course. If we can go out, give our best and compete competitively against the course, the outcome of the match will take care of itself.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Consistency and improvement. The returning lettermen will need to step up and be leaders, be consistent with their scoring and improve each match.

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26 • THE LEADOFF

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THE LEADOFF • 27

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

14 Brandywine, 4:30 p.m.

16 @ Jackie Robinson Classic, 10 a.m.

18 River Valley, 4:15 p.m.

19 @ New Buffalo, 4:30 p.m.

21 Buchanan, 4:15 p.m.

23 Lake Mich. Catholic, 10 a.m.

25 Michigan Lutheran, 4:15 p.m.

26 @ Centreville, 4:30 p.m.

29 @ Decatur, 7 p.m.

Baseball

MAY

In front from left: Hunter Parsons, Skyler McKee, Parker Karnes, Daniel Deubner, Dylan Armstrong, Dylan Green, Randy Kirk, Caleb Steensma, Xander Smith; back row: coach Andrew Brawley, Danny Young, Trevor Bruens, Austin Voss, Nick Baker, Dillon Richey, Austin Green, Aiden Dahlgren, Luke Baker.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Andrew Brawley; 20-15 Years coaching sport/at current school: Second year Last year’s record/place in conference: 2015; third in conference, regional runner-up Key starters lost: Lance Sheteron Key returning lettermen: Austin Green, Nick Baker, Matt Locke, Xander Smith Top newcomers: Dylan Green Strengths: Infield depth, speed Weaknesses: Pitching, hitting and defense What do you think about your conference?

It’s very good. We haven’t won a conference championship in 50 years.

What have you seen from your team so 28 • THE LEADOFF

3 5 10 12 14 17 19 23 27

White Pigeon, 4:30 p.m. @ White Pigeon, 4:30 p.m.

Mendon, 4:30 p.m. @ Mendon, 4:30 p.m. @ Niles, 10 a.m.

Bronson, 4:30 p.m. @ Bridgman, 4:30 p.m. @ Mich. Lutheran, 4:15 p.m. @ Lake Mich. Catholic, 4:30 p.m.

far that has surprised you? The underclassmen are pushing the seniors at a lot of positions.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Out work everyone.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose and sometimes it rains. We understand that pretty well.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? If we can get healthy and stay healthy, we will be a tough team to beat.

Xander S mith

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 14 16 18 19 21 23 25 26

Brandywine, 4:30 p.m. @ Benton Harbor, 10 a.m.

River Valley, 4:15 p.m. @ New Buffalo, 4:30 p.m. @ Grace Christian, 4:15 p.m. @ Lake Mich. Catholic, 10 a.m.

Michigan Lutheran, 4:15 p.m. @ Centreville, 4:30 p.m.

MAY 2 3 5 7 10 14 17 19 23 27

@ Decatur, 4:30 p.m.

White Pigeon, 4:30 p.m. @ White Pigeon, 4:30 p.m. @ Burr Oak, 10 a.m.

Mendon, 4:15 p.m. @ Lawrence, 10 a.m.

Bronson, 4:30 p.m. @ Bridgman, 4:30 p.m. @ Mich. Lutheran, 4:15 p.m.

Lake Mich. Catholic, 4:30 p.m.

Softball In front from left: Maile Barber, Madison Brooks, Jayna Locke, Kayla Rowan, Erica Williams; back row: Kaitlyn Hartsel, Kaylyn Forrest, Katie Purlee, Lynzee Armstrong, Nikki Keefe. Not pictured: Jaelin Jones, Olivia Purlee,

COACH REPORTS Coach: Demi Schrader

team chemistry

Years coaching sport/at current school: First season coaching softball at Cassopolis.

What do you think about your conference?

Being a first-year coach I don’t know much about the other teams in the conference, but I will learn soon enough.

Last year’s record/place in conference: 14-17 Key starters lost: Rachelle Williams and Michelle Green Key returning lettermen: Erica Williams, Katie Purlee, Alley Anderson, Kayla Rowan, Kaylyn Forrest, Jayna Locke, Nikki Keefe, Jaelin Jones Top newcomers: Olivia Purlee, Maile Barber, Lynzee Armstrong, Kaitlyn Hartsel

Jayna Locke

Strengths: Speed and power Weaknesses: Game knowledge and

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Hard work and positive attitudes Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Our goal is for our girls to learn the game of softball and to play it the right way.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Winning is always fun and is the ultimate goal. However, if we do lose, I hope my girls can say they left everything on the field. We have talked a lot about winning with humility and losing with dignity.

THE LEADOFF • 29

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 11 14 16 18 25 30

@ River Valley, 5 p.m. @ Parchment, 6 p.m. @ Chieftain Inv., 10 a.m.

Buchanan, 5 p.m. @ Comstock, 6 p.m.

New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

MAY

Soccer

2 5 12 14 23

Berrien Springs, 5 p.m Michigan Lutheran, 5 p.m. @ Bridgman, 5 p.m. @ Niles, TBA @ Michigan Lutheran, 5 p.m.

In front from left to right: Grace Locke, Madison Cutting, Melody Cutting, Karly Kelly, Kierra Smith, Amanda Butler, Claudia Arvizu; back row: coach Emily Quinn, Amy Adams, Cassandra Pflug, Madison Suseland, Chayla Gould, Eryn Forrest, Chewasha Hill, assistant coach Jessica Waldschmidt.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Emily Quinn Years coaching sport/at current school: This is my first year head coaching at Ross Beatty, but I have been an assistant coach for soccer three times.

Key returning lettermen: Melody Cutting, Madison Cutting, Cassy Pflug, Grace Locke, Amy Adams, Eryn Forrest.

Top newcomers: Madison Suseland is a freshman that we have been working with as a backup goalie. For having never played the sport, she has shown great promise, not only as a goalie, but as a field player. She plays softball as her primary sport so she will be missing eight games, but I am looking forward to seeing her in action.

Strengths: Our biggest strength this season will be our defense. To start, we are going to put our most experienced players on defense until we can get our new players more comfortable with the game. Our other 30 • THE LEADOFF

strength will be to play with heart and to the best of our ability.

Weaknesses: We are a very new and young team. We have about seven girls who have never played before, which will make the start of our season rough.

What do you think about your conference?

I really do not know much about our conference besides hearsay but, regardless, it is going to be a tough season for our very new team.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We have yet to have a full practice, so I haven’t been able to see our team as a complete unit. What I have seen from the girls I’ve been working with is a very positive attitude and a will to work hard and improve on their individual soccer skills.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do

you set? My main goal is to just see major improvement in my players’ individual skills and skills as a team. And to end the season with the 14 girls we are starting with.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? What I have tried to emphasize with my team since we have started is that we cannot be discouraged by the score of the game. We are a very new team, and what I am looking for is A) Making it through an 80-minute game with new players and few subs and B) How we improve as a team.

I have also talked to the returning players about how this is an opportunity for them to step up as leaders and players to help out our girls who have never played before.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? What I really need is for our returning players to step up, work hard, stay positive and to act as mentors to our younger and new players.

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2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 13 16 20 22 27

Track & Field In front from left to right: Deion Gatson, Kyle McGrew, Takuma Hamano, Zachery McKee, Hilbert Evans, Ky’juan Lanier, Brandon Anderson; back row: Marquise Curtis, Xavier Bowe, Micha Welch, Bryce Saxton, Davonte Goins, Reece West, Fernando Cortizo, coach Stephen Green.

@ River Valley, 4 p.m. @ Hartford, 9 a.m. @ Mendon, 4:30 p.m. @ Comstock, TBA @ Bronson, 4:30 p.m.

MAY 4 6 7 11 13 16 25

@ Centreville, 4:30 p.m. @ Rotary Meet, 2 p.m. @ New Buffalo, 9 a.m. @ White Pigeon, 4:30 p.m. @ Mendon, 3:30 p.m. @ Comstock, 2 p.m. @ Brandywine, 1 p.m.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Stephen Green — 7-5

Bryce Saxton, Brandon Anderson

Years coaching sport/at current school: Second year.

Top newcomers: Time will tell.

Last year’s record/place in conference: 7-5; third in BCS Athletic Conference Key starters lost: John Hampton, Brandon Glover Key returning lettermen: Deion Gatson,

Strengths: Sprint, sprint relay and field events.

Weaknesses: Middle to long distance.

Numbers are small.

What do you think about your conference?

Second year in conference.

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What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Potential in a few freshmen.

What team goals do you set? To improve daily as individuals. That will take care of team goals.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? They hate to lose, which as a coach, I do not mind.

Good Luck Athletes!

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 13 16 20 22 27

@ River Valley, 4 p.m. @ Hartford, 9 a.m. @ Mendon, 4:30 p.m. @ Comstock, TBA @ Bronson, 4:30 p.m.

MAY 4 6 7 11 13 16 25

@ Centreville, 4:30 p.m. @ Rotary Meet, 2 p.m. @ New Buffalo, 9 a.m. @ White Pigeon, 4:30 p.m. @ Mendon, 3:30 p.m. @ Comstock, 2 p.m. @ Brandywine, 1 p.m.

Track & Field In front from left to right: Madison Cutting, Sydnie Wellman, Melody Cutting, Kierstyn Hartsell, Kierra Smith, Terryn Williams, Jasmine Kadlec, Amelia Ayers, Sydney Brooks; back row: coach Janice Gatson, Amy Adams, Santaja Gibson, Kaylyn Forrest, Arianna Williams, Imani Brown, JackieSue Biggs, Kyrah Taylor, Madison Brooks, Sophia Fiala.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Janice Gatson Years coaching sport/at current school: 10 years at Ross Beatty Last year’s record/place in conference: 153; first in conference Key starters lost: KayAnna Williams, Kortenei Suggs, Jayne Butts, Nakiela Sinclair Key returning lettermen: Kaylyn Forrest (Senior) Top newcomers: Sophia Fiala (freshman) and Santaja Gibson (sophomore)

KayAnna Williams

Strengths: The team will always work hard. They are in it to become better and will do what it takes.

Weaknesses: This is a rebuilding year.

What do you think about your conference?

Our conference is challenging and competitive.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Nothing has surprised me.

The girls work hard and give me 100 percent.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? This is a rebuilding year for the team, so the goal is to go out and do their best each day and every meet and keep building on that.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? No one likes to lose, but the girls know that we are striving to become better and that sometimes involves losing.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Just have to go out each day, give effort and work hard.

THE LEADOFF • 33

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2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

Bronson, 4 p.m. @ Niles, 4 p.m. @ Bridgman, 4 p.m. @ Howardsville Christian, 4 p.m.

23 @ Berrien Springs, 9 a.m.

28 @ Buchanan, 4 p.m.

12 14 19 21

MAY @ White Pigeon, 4 p.m.

The Leader Cup, 1 p.m. @ Dowagiac, 4 p.m. @ Brandywine, 4 p.m. @ Lawton, 4 p.m.

BCS Conference Tournament, 9 a.m.

18 @ White Pigeon, TBA 19 Dowagiac, 4 p.m.

2 7 10 12 14 16

Golf In front from left: Zach Wilkins, Lane Francis, Khan Ratsamy, Trent Gless; back row: Ryan Sutton, Colin Kelley, Garrett Green, Hunter Tietsort.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Jeff Wernette Years coaching sport/at current school: Nine Last year’s record/place in conference: Third place in conference, regional team qualifier, one individual state qualifier Key starters lost: Collin Carlisle (state qualifier) Key returning lettermen: Colin Kelley, Garrett Green, Hunter Tietsort Top newcomers: Lane Francis, Ryan Sutton Strengths: Key returning seniors Weaknesses: The team lacks experience

as a whole. Only three members have ever been to a match.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Team chemistry. The guys have been working hard to get better and that includes the upperclassmen helping out the new guys.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that?

Golf is a little different than many other sports. It is you against you. There is not a direct competition with someone else or another team. I think it can be difficult to coach the mental aspect of golf.

Teenagers can get so occupied with a bad shot they made, it affects their next shot. I think the upperclassmen have a much better hold on this than they did when they were younger.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Everyone wants to set their personal best in terms of season average.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? I think weather can have an effect on the team.

A lot of that is the mental aspect of the game, but nice weather usually means better scores.

What do you think about your conference? I think it will be an interesting season for golf. The divisions will mean less time driving and more time on familiar golf courses.

THE LEADOFF • 35

DOW 36 • THE LEADOFF

Chieftains

THE LEADOFF • 37

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 12 14 21 22 23 26 29

Baseball

MAY

In front from left: Chance Wernlund, Nick Foote, Collin Hassle, Ellijah Williams, Taylor Dodd, Erik Walker, Rane Reeves; back row: coach Dan Schuchardt, Brandon Felthouse, Zech Huston, Mack Charles, Adrien Bucha-Moore, Ethan Helmuth, Brenden Dudley, Austin Jones, assistant coach Jim Dudley.

COACH REPORTS Years coaching sport/at current school: This will be season three for me as head coach.

Weaknesses: Ability to put up runs on more of a consistent basis and having timely hits to stay in games or stay ahead.

Last year’s record/place in conference: 0-10

What do you think about your conference? Now that we are going to a 10-team conference with no divisions there are going to be tough matchups possibly twice a week that decide the standings for conference champion. The conference schedule became deep.

Top newcomers: Ellijah Williams, Ethan Helmuth, Taylor Dodd, Zech Huston, Chance Wernlund, Rane Reeves, Brandon Felthouse Strengths: Work ethic in training for baseball. Speed on the base paths and in 38 • THE LEADOFF

17 20 24 27

@ Watervliet, 4 p.m.

Plainwall, 4 p.m.

Bryan Frazier Memorial, 10 a.m.

Three Rivers, 4 p.m. @ Allegan, 4 p.m. @ New Buffalo Bison Bash, 10 a.m. @ Vicksburg, 4 p.m.

Paw Paw, 4 p.m. @ Bangor, 4:30 p.m. @ Benton Harbor, 4 p.m.

6 MHSAA Districts, TBA the outfield.

Key returning lettermen: Collin Hassle, Mack Charles, Adrien Bucha-Moore, Brenden Dudley, Austin Jones, Erik Walker, Nick Foote

3 5 7 10 13 14

JUNE

Coach: Dan Schuchardt — 16-45-1

Key starters lost: Matt Smith, Daquan Brooks, Mason Hojara, Aubry Huston

Decatur, 4 p.m.

Sturgis, 4 p.m.

Brandywine, 4 p.m.

South Haven, 4 p.m.

St. Joseph, 10 a.m. @ Edwardsburg, 4 p.m. @ Otsego, 4 p.m.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We now have a large group of players in Dowagiac who love baseball and have worked extremely hard training this offseason.

What team goals do you set? I hope to see growth in a large, experienced group of six juniors and one sophomore who all played varsity baseball as underclassmen

for at least a year, if not two years, already. We need to develop our mental toughness during practice and produce quality at bats during games.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Our players need to learn what it takes to bounce back from the simple mistakes, such as fielding errors and poor at bats.

We talk a lot about getting the next one and having a positive mindset where players can reset and go one pitch at a time. We have worked on being more disciplined in practice starting from how your carry yourself while throwing in warm ups to the way you show up dressed for practice, on time and ready to get better every day.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Never giving up on the fight.

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 12 14 16 22 26 28 29

Decatur, 4 p.m.

Sturgis, 4 p.m.

Chieftain Invitational, 10 a.m.

South Haven, 4 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 4 p.m. @ Buchanan, 4 p.m. @ Otsego, 4 p.m.

MAY 3 5 7 10 13 17 20 21 25 26

@ Watervliet, 4 p.m.

Plainwall, 4 p.m. @ Lakeshore Inv., 10 a.m.

Three Rivers, 4 p.m. @ Allegan, 4 p.m. @ Vicksburg, 4 p.m.

Paw Paw, 4 p.m.

St. Joseph, 10 a.m.

Brandywine, 4 p.m. @ Berrien Springs, 4:15 p.m.

Softball In front from left to right: Megan Huey, Hannah Whitaker, Taylor Pye, Shelby Jackson, Marissa Dodd; back row: coach Mark Dzakowic, Alyssa Allen, Taylor Hulett, Amiyah Smith, Megan Soderbloom, Mickie Kiggins, head coach Mike Behnke.

JUNE 6 MHSAA Districts, TBA

COACH REPORTS Coach: Mike Behnke — 240-140 Years coaching sport/at current school: 12 Last year’s record/place in conference: 25-15, 5th place in West Key starters lost: Riley Daly, McKenzie Herter Key returning lettermen: Mickie Kiggins, Taylor Hulett, Alyssa Allen, Marissa Dodd, Megan Huey, Megan Soderbloom, Hannah Whitaker Top newcomers: Amiyah Smith, Shelby Jackson, Taylor Pye

Taylor Hulett

Strengths: Returning seven starters from last year including both pitchers

Weaknesses: Need to find a third baseman, depth What do you think about your conference? The Wolverine is tough.

Edwardsburg won our conference and district last year and has to be the favorite to repeat. Vicksburg is always good.

South Haven has a good young pitcher.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We had a good core of players who have hit the weight room this past summer and winter, so I am excited to see what the added strength does for the girls.

What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We will need to work hard every day at practice on the little things to make us a better team and we will need to play better defense this year. We will need to stay healthy because we lack depth as a team.

THE LEADOFF • 39

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 15 16 20 22 25 27 29

Soccer

Bangor, 5 p.m.

Chieftain Invitational, 10 a.m. @ Vicksburg, 6:45 p.m.

Brandywine, 5 p.m.

Berrien Springs, 5 p.m. @ South Haven, 6 p.m.

Buchanan, 5 p.m.

MAY

In front from left to right: Anayda Lucio, Cali Rank, Grace Younger, Mara Nelson, Magali Cruz; second row: Anna Medina, Dustie Green, Kellyn Daly, Logan McMeeken, Katlyn Briney, Hessen Ayers; back row: head coach Ryan Haines, McKenzie Hassle, Katie Hurrle, Daniela Morales, Alexia Morales, Savannah Price. Missing from photo: Anne Zebell.

2 4 9 11 13 16 18 20 23 31

Three Rivers, 5 p.m.

Allegan, 5 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 5 p.m. @ Plainwell, 6:45 p.m. @ Bridgman, 5 p.m.

Sturgis, 5 p.m. @ Otsego, 6:45 p.m.

Coloma, 5 p.m.

Paw Paw, 5 p.m. @ MHSAA Districts, TBA

COACH REPORTS Coach Ryan Haines — 7-48 Years coaching sport/at current school: Six years coaching soccer, third year at Dowagiac Last year’s record/place in conference: 2-17; 11th place overall in Wolverine Conference; 5th place in Wolverine Conference West Key starters lost: Ana Manzano, Drew Andrade Key returning lettermen: Mara Nelson, Cali Rank, Anne Zebell, Grace Younger Top newcomers: Kellyn Daly, Lexi Morales Strengths: Seniors Cali Rank and Mara Nelson will anchor a defense that has been working together in the offseason.

Our central midfield will also be strong as we have two different rotations that 40 • THE LEADOFF

we can use between six girls. Lastly our leadership from the 11 upperclassmen we have undoubtedly has made this the most cohesive team we have had in four years.

started. We had a solid open gym before the season started. Since I have started coaching at Dowagiac this has been the most focused team yet.

Weaknesses: Our biggest weakness will be to continue to compete in each game we play, especially conference games. In the past we have lost focus too quickly in games, causing us to be on the losing end of games. We have a lot of adversity to overcome this year.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? We feel that given how our schedule is laid out, the returning players we have and the strength in leadership, we have an excellent opportunity to win double digit games this year. We are also setting goals off the field, such as GPAs. First and foremost, we are students, then athletes.

What do you think about your conference? I think the Wolverine Conference is one of the best in the area.

The Kalamazoo area teams we play have solid Division 1 and 2 players each year.

A tough Edwardsburg team adds to the excitement.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? These girls have been ready to play since the new year

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Over the past three years we have not had much success here at Dowagiac. I tell the team to keep fighting. We replace excuses with effort, and laziness with determination.

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COACH REPORTS Coaches: Cory Hill (Girls track) Dan VandenHeede (Boys) Years coaching sport/at current school: Cory Hill: four, Dan VandenHeede: one In front from left: Kris Wigent-Kinyon, Carey Payne, Leroy Lewis, Qwintrayl Scott, Xander Keller, Josh Follett; second row: coach Danum Hunt, Kaleb Detwiler, Roy Payne, Donald Brooks, Lazaro Piedra, Dylan Hill, coach Andy Crawley; third row: coach Dan VandenHeede, Michael Nuyen, Milton Marshall, Michael Sarabyn, DeYonte Sullivan, Donovan Sullivan, Reid Adams, coach Corey Hill; back row: Kevin Whitaker, Jeffrey Holloman, Greg Hubbard, Gabriel Aranda, Kristian Horton.

Last year’s record/place in conference: Boys 0-5 West Division, ninth place overall; Girls 2-3, 10th place overall

BOYS

Key starters lost: Caleb Zimmerman Key returning lettermen: Leroy Lewis, Shawn Sirk Jr. Kevin Whittaker, Deyonte Sullivan.

Caleb Detwiler, Jeff Holoman Top newcomers: Dylan Hill, Donovan Sullivan, Reid Adams

GIRLS

Key starters lost: Rosadio Murray, Ciera Smith Key returning lettermen: Nijah Russel, Katie Murphy.

In front from left to right are: Marrisa Castaneda, Kemery Richards, Genesis Avila, Makaela Casteneda, Samantha Payne, Almeisha Sevell, Keyana Reyna; second row: Keairra Barksdale, Shakala Tucker, Tania Wilson, Lexi Martin, Tamia Wilson, Chrishonna Thompson; third row: coach Danum Hunt (boys assistant coach), coach Rosario Murray (boys and girls assistant) coach Dan VandenHeede (boys varsity head coach), Jaydlen Zimmerman, Lea Omachen, Emily Demeter, Olga Dickson-French, Isabel Thorne, Katie Murphy, coach Corey Hill (girls varsity head coach), coach Andy Crawley (girls assistant coach); back row: Hope Rogers, Emily Dodd, Sophia Stockwell, Kazmere Williams, Nijah Russ

2016 SEASON SCHEDULE APRIL

MAY

12 16 19 26

3 6 10 13

@ Sturgis, 4:5 p.m.

9 a.m. @ Paw Paw Lions Inv. South Haven, 4:15 p.m.

Wolverine Conference jamboree, 4:15 p.m.

42 • THE LEADOFF

@ Otsego, 4:15 p.m. @ Rotary Meet, 4 p.m.

Edwardsburg, 4:15 p.m. @ Wolverine Conference Meet, 2 p.m.

20 @ MHSAA Regionals, TBA

Top newcomers: Tamia Wilson, Tania Wilson, Emily Dodd.

What do you think about your conference?

Conference is looking good again this year. I expect several teams to represent at state.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The overall effort and mindset early on. Usually there is a hangover effect from winter sports, but that hasn’t been the case this year.

What team goals do you set? For our seniors to lead and leave a legacy that our younger athletes can build upon

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 12 15 18 19 22 25 27 29

Tennis

MAY

In front from left to right: Kylar Kinyon, Manager Cosi Mueller, Kaley Brogan, Ally Hale, Jamie O’Brien, MacKenzie Brooks, Arissa Geegan, Josh Dzakowicz; back row: manager Colin Rafferty, Alex Dietze, Micaela Ruff, Luda Dickson-French, Lexi Chorba, Hailee Green, Mary Bonomo, coach Andi Smallbone. Missing from photo: Kelly Rafferty and Brittany Malin.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Andi Smallbone Years coaching sport/at current school: Four years coaching. Second year in Dowagiac boys and girls varsity.

Key starters lost: Abigail Brizendine, Olga Dickson-French Key returning lettermen: Kelly Rafferty, Kaley Brogan, Luda DicksonFrench, Mary Bonomo, Micaela Ruff, Mackenzie Brooks, Lexi Chorba, Hailee Green, Jamie O’Brien, Ally Hale Top newcomers: Brittany Malin, Cosi Muller, Alex Dietze, Arissa Geegan Strengths: Strong returning top singles and doubles players. Mary Bonomo and Luda Dickson-French will have a great time playing each other for the top singles spot. Kelly Rafferty and Kaley Brogan are bringing their third-

Paw Paw, 4 p.m. @ Bridgman, 4 p.m.

Sturgis, 4 p.m.

Coloma, 4 p.m.

Eau Claire, 4 p.m.

Three Rivers, 4 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 4 p.m.

Berrien Springs, 4 p.m.

and fourth-year experience back to the first doubles flight.

What do you think about your conference? Our fellow conference teams are fantastic. I have been provided mentors and close relationships with my fellow coaches.

However, the Wolverine Conference is a tough conference for tennis.

Competing school enrollments make it difficult to have equally matched games. Many of our competitors have JV teams which Dowagiac hasn’t been able to sustain in the last few years. Our new players start right out in Varsity competition and that can be nerve racking and considered a weakness.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Nothing surprises me with this group of ladies.

They started contacting me right after Christmas break to ask when we

@ Vicksburg, 4 p.m.

Plainwell, 4 p.m. @ Brandywine Inv., 10 a.m.

Brandywine, 4 p.m. @ Buchanan, 4 p.m. @ Wolverine Conference Tournament, 8:30 a.m.

16 Lake Michigan Catholic, 4 p.m.

19 @ MHSAA Regionals, TBA 2 4 7 10 12 14

could start practicing, conditioning and meeting. Their enthusiasm is no surprise… but is extremely comforting as a coach.

What team goals do you set? I let each and every player know that their goals are their own. I gave a lengthy speech recently about their wants and goals in tennis. For example, if they want to pursue tennis in college, let me know ASAP so that I can start putting recruiting into place. Or if they just want to have a great high school athletic experience with a lifetime sport then that is OK as well. We will be a tight, strong team win or lose.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that?

Coaching “winning” comes in many forms. I believe if you went out and played your heart out and did the best you could….That is a win in our eyes.

THE LEADOFF • 43

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

11 @ Vicksburg jamboree, 4 p.m.

13 @ Paw Paw jamboree, 4 p.m.

14 @ Niles Orchard Hills Invitational, 4 p.m.

18 @ Edwardsburg jamboree, 4 p.m.

20 @ Otsego jamboree, Noon 20 @ Plainwell jamboree, 3 p.m.

25 @ Allegan jamboree, 4 p.m.

27 @ South Haven jamboree, 4 p.m.

Golf

MAY In front from left to right: David Brogan, Drew Phillips, Jonathon Stockwell; second row: Nick Saltzman, Drew Davis, Jared Stillwell, Connor Carlisle, Shane Strom, Zach Davis; back row: coach Bob Turner, Mikey Symonds, Justin Yakim, Lewis Hartsig, Josh Lamphere, Mitch Warsko, Nico Linares.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Bob Turner Years coaching sport/at current school: Third year as golf coach, third place in Wolverine Conference West Division, fifth place overall Key starters lost: Jordan Hagemann and Jeremiah Guernsey Key returning lettermen: David Brogan, Zach Davis, Josh Lamphere, Mitch Warsko, Justin Yakim. All are seniors.

Top newcomers: Freshmen Drew Davis and Drew Phillips Strengths: Large team. We lost two seniors and gained nine freshman.

44 • THE LEADOFF

2 @ Point O’ Woods Invitational, 10 a.m.

5 @ Three Rivers jamboree, 4 p.m.

7 The Leader Cup, 1 p.m.

10 Cassopolis, 3:30 p.m.

12 @ Sturgis jamboree, 4 p.m.

13 Wolverine Conference jamboree, 4 p.m.

19 Wolverine Conference Tournament, 9 a.m.

25 MHSAA Districts, TBA

Weaknesses: Very inexperienced when you get past the five seniors, some of the freshmen are just taking up golf this year.

Top teams (in your conference/division): Edwardsburg, Otsego, and Plainwell What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Like always, mental toughness, being able to think our way around the golf course and forget the bad shot — think positive about the next one.

David Brogan

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46 • THE LEADOFF

Eddies THE LEADOFF • 47

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

12 @ Berrien Springs, 4 p.m.

15 Paw Paw, 4 p.m.

16 Brandywine @ Four Winds Field, TBA 18 @ St. Joseph, 4 p.m.

22 @ Three Rivers, 4 p.m.

23 @ Huskie Invitational, 9 a.m.

26 Dowagiac, 4 p.m.

28 Niles, 4 p.m.

29 @ South Haven, 4 p.m.

Baseball

MAY

In front from left: Joe Hess, Nick Bradley, Jacob Kanaby; middle row: Middle row: Matt Hepler, Jake Robinson, Devin Pulling, Damion Pompey, Chris Griffin, Austin Cline, and Ben Robertson; back row: coach A.J. Gaideski, Zach Priebe, Mason Mitchell, Joe Raab, Brendon Handy, Chase Tarwacki, Zach Plummer, assistant coach Craig Pulling.

COACH REPORTS Coach: A.J. Gaideski — 318-198 Years coaching sport/at current school: 18th year Last year’s record/place in conference: 22-9; West Division Champs and overall Conference Champs Key starters lost: Jackson Gaideski, Derek Pierce, Dalton Raymond, Jesse Rienbold

year will be pitching and hitting. We have 12 players on the roster who can pitch and hopefully get people out. We also have hitters on this team who can move the ball.

They have been putting a lot of time and effort in the offseason getting ready for baseball on their own.

Weaknesses: Our team speed is down from years past.

Key returning lettermen: Jacob Kanaby P/ OF, Joe Hess OF, Mason Mitchell P/1B, Zach Plummer C, Damion Pompey P/SS, Joe Rabb P/1B, and Ben Robertson OF,

What do you think about your conference?

Our conference is very tough. Each team can beat any other on a given night. We play nine conference double-headers this year, so the champ will be battle tested.

Top newcomers: Brendon Handy P/IF, Austin Cline P/OF, Jake Robinson P/3B, Chase Tarwacki P/IF, Chris Griffen P/3B, Matt Hepler P/OF, Zach Priebe P/IF, and Devon Pulling P/C

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The way we swing the bat, but that is in the cage. We don’t know until we get into games how we will react to live pitching.

Strengths: The strengths of our team this

What team goals do you set? Those are

48 • THE LEADOFF

5 10 13 14 17 18 20 24 28

Otsego, 4 p.m.

Vicksburg, 4 p.m. @ Plainwell, 4 p.m. @ Huskie Invitational, 9 a.m. @ Sturgis, 4 p.m. @ Elkhart Memorial Allegan, 4 p.m. @ Buchanan, @ Lakeshore, 10:30 a.m.

our team goals: Win our conference and win districts.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We talk about how baseball is a game of failures and how you handle the lows will have a great impact on how well you do. People get paid millions of dollars to get a hit seven out of 10 times so they are failing seven-10.

Our players must recognize it is how you react to lows in baseball, and in life, that will help determine what kind of player or man they will become.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? We must jell as a team with everybody pulling in one direction to be successful on the field. We can’t have people worried about their own stats, just the final score on the board. Then we will have a successful season.

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

12 @ Lakeshore, 4 p.m.

15 Paw Paw, 4 p.m.

16 @ West Ottawa Invitational, 10 a.m.

18 @ St. Joseph, 4 p.m.

21 Elkhart Memorial, 5 p.m.

22 @ Three Rivers, 4 p.m.

26 Dowagiac, 4 p.m.

28 Niles, 4 p.m.

29 @ South Haven, 4 p.m.

30 Lakeshore Invitational, TBA

MAY 3 5 10 13 14 17 20 21 24

Elkhart Central, 4 p.m.

Otsego, 4 p.m.

Vicksburg, 4 p.m. @ Plainwell, 4 p.m. @ South Bend Clay Invitational, 10 a.m. @ Sturgis, 4 p.m.

Allegan, 4 p.m. @ Blissfield Inv. 10 a.m. @ Buchanan

Softball In front from left: Ashley Pion, Hannah Shoupe, Kailee Claire, Savannah Dixon, Kaylee Ryker, Michaela Ritschard, McKenna Brandt; back row: Rileigh Disher, Lexi Clark, Courtney Ryker, Ali Styrycker, Jordan Tighe, Layne Stinnett, Hannah Mitchell, Emma Nelson.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Randy Brooks — 674-299 Years coaching sport/at current school: Seventh year at Edwardsburg; 28th year overall Last year’s record/place in conference: 28-8, first place Wolverine Conference; district champions Key starters lost: MacKenzie Creed 1B (Alma), Rachel Borden CF (Calvin), Dee Peters P. Key returning lettermen: P Ali Strycker (Jr.), P Hannah Shoupe Jr, (3B) Kaylee Ryker (Sr.), SS Michaela Ritschard (Jr.), 2B Savannah Dixon (Jr.), C Layne Stinnett Jr. OF Rileigh Disher (Sr.), OF Kailee Claire (So.)

Top newcomers: 1B Courtney Ryker (So.), 3B Hannah Mitchell, P McKenna Brandt (Jr.) Strengths: Hitting and pitching Weaknesses: Team speed What do you think about your conference?

There are a lot of tough teams in the Wolverine Conference. You have to play solid softball every game to have a chance.

I expect Vicksburg, Paw Paw, Dowagiac and South Haven to be the top teams.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? We try not to get too fired up for any one game. Our philosophy is to play good, fundamental softball everyday. With 38 games and a challenging schedule we look forward to competing every day.

THE LEADOFF • 49

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 11 14 18 20 25 27 29

Soccer

@ Coloma, 5 p.m.

Niles, 5:30 p.m. @ Coldwater, 6:45 p.m. @ Allegan, 6:45 p.m.

Buchanan, 5:30 p.m.

Vicksburg, 5:30 p.m.

Berrien Springs, 4 p.m.

MAY

In front from left: Makayla Metcalf, Autumn Axline, Megan Evans, Emily Lopez, McKenna Tinkham, Makayla Long, Emilee Ludwick; back row: Olivia Freshour, Joelly Baldwin, Noelle Kraus, Payton Szlanfucht, Coach Harring, Gabi Fonseca, Hailee Hebard, Makayla Shaw, Grace Gilmore, Alyssa Madison. Missing: Abigail Smith, Raegan Blue.

2 4 9 11 16 18 23 25

Otsego, 5:30 p.m. @ Paw Paw, 6 p.m.

Dowagiac, 5:30 p.m. @ South Haven, 6 p.m.

Plainwell, 5:30 p.m. @ Three Rivers, 6:45 p.m.

Sturgis, 5:30 p.m.

St. Joseph, 5:30 p.m.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Brett Harring Years coaching sport/at current school: This is my sixth season at Edwardsburg, ninth coaching varsity soccer Last year’s record/place in conference: 11-5-1 2nd in the West Key starters lost: We lost two four-year starters in Rachel Boyles and Brittany Udell. Sarah Ward, a three-year varsity player, is gone.

Jamie Roths, after one year, went back home to Tennessee and won a state title.

Key returning lettermen: Payton Szlanfucht, Makayla Shaw, and Gabi Fonseca (seniors) all return after injuries during their high school careers. Noelle Kraus returns after leading the team in goals last year. The rest of the junior class is coming off a strong sophomore campaign.

Top newcomers: Grace Gilmore (11th Grade) 50 • THE LEADOFF

is new to the school and could provide some help on the outside. Alyssa Madison is a freshman coming in who will play some minutes in the middle of the field for us.

Strengths: The middle of the field should be strong. We return four of our top five players in terms of minutes in the center of our midfield.

Weaknesses: The outsides will be all new. We lost the starters from the past two seasons due to graduation. So we will be a little raw out there.

What do you think about your conference?

Paw Paw is the team to beat. We helped them a lot last year with bad touches in and around our box and led to us leaving early in a game we could have been competitive in. But other teams should return quite a large part of their rosters as well.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? They are pretty locked in

right now. But it is still early. The spring season is the most difficult in my opinion for athletes.

You have unpredictable weather, spring break, prom and graduation weighing on the minds of the girls.

What team goals do you set? Bringing the same intensity to every minute of every game.

Also, just enjoy being around one another.

It can be a very tight-knit group and like a second family, so we want to make it that way.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? I think we get a little too excited when we win and a little too upset when we lose. I will take the upset with a loss but getting excited to win a game is tough, because it is something I expected every time I stepped on a field as a player and expect every time I put a team on the field as a coach. My job is to keep the team pretty even after results.

I think the better expectations we set as leaders the easier this is.

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2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

Vicksburg, 4:15 p.m. @ Gull Lake Inv., 4:30 p.m.

Three Rivers, 4:15 p.m.

Eddies Invitational, 4 p.m. @ Wolverine jamboree, 4:15 p.m.

29 @ Allegan Invitational, 3 p.m.

12 15 19 22 26

Track & Field In front from left: Cion Young, Joey Pickrell, Chris Jones, Isaac Toms, Nic Colon, Quintin Davis; second row: Jacob McCulllough, Brandon Meyers, Chase Sager, Jon Albrecht, Austin Hengy, Thor Fifer, Caleb Detweiler; back row: coach Jon Pryor, Michael Clark, Adam Treadway, Luke Smous, Nathan Brown, Kyle Shrider, Jack Knoll, Quinlin Callicott. Not pictured: Luke Smous, Brock Eaves, Bryce Williams

MAY 3 Paw Paw, 4:15 p.m.

10 Dowagiac, 4:15 p.m.

13 @ Wolverine Conference Meet, TBA 20 MHSAA Regionals, TBA

COACH REPORTS Coach: Jon Pryor Years coaching sport/at current school: Eighth year Key starters lost: Robbie Cline Key returning lettermen: Nathan Brown (12) Hurdles; Kyle Shrider (10) sprints, long jump; Bryce Williams (11) pole vault; Clay Sidenbender (11) Top newcomers: Jack Knoll (10) hurdles; Luke Smous (10) hurdles; Brock Eaves (9) distance; Chase Sager (9) distance Strengths: Not sure. We are young.

What do you think about your conference? This year the Wolverine will be a very competitive conference.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Their work ethic and positive attitude.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Improve in every aspect of track and field.

Bryce Williams 52 • THE LEADOFF

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

Vicksburg, 4:15 p.m. @ Gull Lake Inv., 4:30 p.m.

Three Rivers, 4:15 p.m.

Eddies Invitational, 4 p.m. @ Wolverine jamboree, 4:15 p.m.

29 @ Allegan Invitational, 3 p.m.

12 15 19 22 26

MAY 3 Paw Paw, 4:15 p.m.

10 Dowagiac, 4:15 p.m.

13 @ Wolverine Conference Meet, TBA 20 MHSAA Regionals, TBA

Track & Field In front from left: Aliyah Farhan, Zoe Pegura, Britanea Carmean, Abbi Nugent, Lyndi Hurt, Kara Shrider, Addison Carroll; second row: Megan Belcher, Carly Cockrum, Elise Karamen, Natalie Longo, Brittany Bowman, Kylie Freeman, Ivie Winings, Dejuan Clark, Carlee Burger; third Kristina Bellaire, Cameron Cleveland, Aurelia Hudak, Cindy Kosseda, Olivia Brunner, Elizabeth Brown, Amelia Montgomery, Brynn Ritchey; back: Coach Kevin Bartz, Gracie Hull, Chloe Bartz, Cloey Noles, Jade Jewell, Margaret Brown, Britni Rose

COACH REPORTS Coach: Kevin Bartz Years coaching sport/at current school: Second year Last year’s record/place in conference: 6-0 dual meets; 7th place Wolverine Conference Key starters lost: Aubrey Ritchey, Gabby Golba Key returning lettermen: Brittany Bowman, Britanea Carmean, Carly Cockrum, Amelia Montgomery, Natalie Longo, Cameron Cleveland Abbi Nugent, Alexa Markel Top newcomers: Kara Shrider, Chloe Bartz Strengths: Depth in middle

distances, 400, 800, 1,600. Quality individuals in 3,200, 100, 200.

Weaknesses: Field events: shot, discus, high jump What do you think about your conference?

Vicksburg, Otsego, Three Rivers and Plainwell have very strong teams. Paw Paw and Allegan have some very good individuals.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? There is a core group of eight to 10 girls who have put in a lot of preparation this preseason. Everyone has a great attitude.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? We need to stay healthy and have some girls step out of their comfort zone and try events they may not have done in the past.

Abbi Nugent THE LEADOFF • 53

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

Tennis In front from left: Morgan Rockhill, Zoe Laubach, Malary VanOverberghe, Breanna Webb; back row: Lexy Deak, Sarah Scheretie, Frankie Badur, Natalie Kessler, Olivia Wagner, Jena Holst.

Not pictured: Shania Ahmed and Hannah Ahmed

14 16 18 20 23 26 27 30

@ Otsego, 4 p.m. @ Marshall Inv., 9:30 a.m. @ Vicksburg, 4 p.m.

Sturgis, 4 p.m. @ Vicksburg Inv., 9 a.m. @ Niles, 4 p.m.

Dowagiac, 4 p.m. @ Niles Doubles Tournament, 9 a.m.

MAY @ Three Rivers, 4 p.m.

Paw Paw, 4 p.m. @ Lakeshore, 4 p.m.

Coldwater, 4:30 p.m. @ Wolverine Conference Tourn. (Plainwell) 8:30 a.m.

20 MHSAA Regionals, 8:30 a.m.

2 3 9 11 14

COACH REPORTS Coach: Kim Bartz Years coaching sport/at current school: 20 years at Edwardsburg High School Last year’s record/place in conference: Season record: 9-4; West Division Conference 5-0, first place; Overall conference: Third place; Regionals: Second place; State: 12th place Key starters lost: No. 1 doubles Katelynn Rogers and Katherine Nunan, No. 3 Singles Bailey Williams; No. 4 Single Brianna Kinzel Key returning lettermen: Shania Ahmed, Hannah Ahmed, Zoe Laubach, Malory VanOverberghe, Lexy Deak, Morgan Rockhill, Frankie Badur Top newcomers: Olivia Wagner Strengths: Leadership of senior class, depth of team and the team’s commitment to continue play in the offseason.

54 • THE LEADOFF

What do you think about your conference? Our conference is competitive and has several talented tennis players/teams.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Due to their commitment in the offseason their tennis skills have improved and some players have made great strides.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Each player improves her consistency and be able to strategize the game.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We talk about state of mind every day as the game of tennis is as much mental as physical. We encourage girls to stay positive and not to let one mistake spiral into three or four.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Positive team chemistry and respect of each individual player will lead to a successful season.

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2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 11 18 20 20 25 27

@ Vicksburg jamboree, 4 p.m.

Wolverine Conf., 4 p.m. @ Otsego jamboree, Noon @ Plainwell jamboree, 3 p.m. @ Allegan jamboree, 4 p.m. @ South Haven jamboree, 4 p.m.

MAY

Golf From left: Ryan Rogers, Carter Goodson, Adam Kozinski, Dante Razzano.

2 @ Point O’ Woods Inv., 10 a.m.

5 @ Three Rivers jamboree, 12 4 p.m. @ Sturgis jamboree, 4 p.m.

13 @ Dowagiac jamboree, 4 p.m.

19 Wolverine Conference Tournament, 9 a.m.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Jeff Kozinski Years coaching sport/at current school: 18th year at Edwardsburg Last year’s record/place in conference: 29-1; Wolverine Conference champions for the 11th time in last 16 years.

Key starters lost: Adam Gnott, Keith Boeker, Terek Curtis Key returning lettermen: Carter Goodson, Ryan Rogers, Adam Kozinski, Dante Razzano Top newcomers: None yet.

Strengths: Kids worked hard in the off-season.

Weaknesses: Four and five positions need to be filled.

What do you think about your conference? It is pretty even.

56 • THE LEADOFF

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? No real surprises.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? We want to average 42s as a team.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? School sports are huge in building character.

We will handle the highs and lows together, working as a team.

To coach highs and lows, it’s important to put school sports into perspective. School sports give kids opportunities to be involved with others and to build teamwork and character.

Carter Goodson

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THE LEADOFF • 57

58 • THE LEADOFF

NILES Vikings THE LEADOFF • 59

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 14 19 21 26 28 30

Baseball

MAY

In front from left are: Jake Lalone, Drew Huffman, Cody Glick, Jared Hainey, Bryce Lake, Tayton Stevens, Austin Platz, manager Javi Dobarco; back row: manager Johnny Morrison, Jakob Huffman, Trey Scott, Dustin Anders, Austin Curran, Jake Hamm, Keegan Neumann, Chad Barton, Dawson Clemens.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Mike Vota — 329-214-3 Years coaching sport/at current school: Entering 18th season.

Last year’s record/place in conference: 24-12 Key starters lost: Jordon Ham, Cody Thornton, Alex Hardy, Wyatt Thornton, Jason Hoida Key returning lettermen: Drew Huffman, Jakob Huffman, Bryce Lake, Jake Hamm, Cody Glick, Dawson Clemens Top newcomers: Dustin Anders, Keegan Neumann, Tayton Stevens, Jake Lalone, Austin Curran, Chad Barton, Jared Hainey Strengths: We have team speed and overall diversity of the players. We also 60 • THE LEADOFF

Buchanan, 4 p.m. @ Kzoo Loy Norrix, 4 p.m. @ Benton Harbor, 4 p.m.

Portage Northern, 4 p.m. @ Edwardsburg @ South Bend Clay, 6 p.m.

5 7 9 10 12 14 17 19 24 27

Portage Central, 4 p.m.

Mattawan, 4 p.m. @ Penn, 6:30 p.m. @ St. Joseph, 4 p.m.

Kalamazoo Central, 4 p.m.

Cassopolis, 10 a.m. @ Lakeshore, 4 p.m. @ SB St. Joseph, 5 p.m. @ Gull Lake, 4 p.m.

Dearborn Divine Child @ Notre Dame, 10 a.m.

JUNE 4 @ MHSAA Districts, TBA have some quality proven arms in the front of the rotation.

Weaknesses: Overall batting needs to improve from last season. Also need to develop the back end of the pitching rotation.

What do you think about your conference? It is very tough. Portage Northern, Portage Central, Mattawan, Gull Lake, St. Joe and Lakeshore are all top caliber teams year in and year out.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you?

Development and strength built up since last year. The team is a year bigger and faster. This should improve the product that we are able to put on the field and raise the caliber of play that we able to produce day in and day out.

Other than winning all your games,

division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Compete every day against every opponent. Take care of the business directly in front of our team.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We have many players coming back from last year’s team. They understand the varsity level and the ups and downs of the season. Focus needs to be on development through the year so that by the end, we are at our peak. The season is a marathon and where you finish needs to be the primary focus.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season?

Team chemistry and work ethic need to become priority on a daily basis. This team must become resilient.

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 14 16 19 20 21 26 28 30

Buchanan, 4 p.m. @ Chieftain Inv., 10 a.m.

Kzoo Loy Norrix, 4 p.m.

Bridgman, 4 p.m. @ Benton Harbor, 4 p.m.

Portage Northern, 4 p.m. @ Edwardsburg SB St. Joseph, 10 a.m.

MAY 5 7 12 14 17 19 24

Portage Central, 4 p.m.

Mattawan, 4 p.m. @ Kalamazoo Central, 4 p.m. @ Brandywine Inv., 10 a.m. @ Lakeshore, 4 p.m.

Mishawaka Marian, 5 p.m. @ Gull Lake, 4 p.m.

Softball In front from left to right: Xena Jones, Hannah Albright, Holly Walker, Tegan Bays, Michelle Crouch, Taylor Altergott, Sadie Fountain, Kyleigh Deming, Madison Schneider; back row: assistant coach Carlie Elliott, assistant coach Erin Glavin, Taylor Gibson, Aynslee Myer, Caitlin Daly, Morgan Altergott, Addison Davies, Brooke Timm, assistant coach Jenna Ignowski, head coach Rick McKeel,

JUNE 4 @ MHSAA Districts, TBA

COACH REPORTS Coach: Rick McKeel — 10-20 Years coaching sport/at current school: Second year as head coach, seventh overall Last year’s record/place in conference: 3-7 in West Division, 4th in West; 7-11 in conference, not sure where we finished Key starters lost: Megan McKeel, Kylee Myer Key returning lettermen: Tegan Bays, Holly Walker, Morgan Altergott, Michelle Crouch, Madison Schneider, Addison Davies,Taylor Gibson, Sadie Fountain, Kyleigh Deming

Morgan Altergott

Top newcomers: Hannah Albright, Taylor Altergott, Caitlin Daly, Aynslee Myer, Brooke Timm Strengths: This team is a young and

resilient group so far. Expect to be better defensively and stronger hitting.

Weaknesses: Lots of unknowns. We have some good talent but just need to see how it translates on the field.

What do you think about your conference?

Tough. We have top state contenders every year in our conference, especially in the West Division.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? It’s a little early to tell, but we had a great turnout for winter workouts. That was a pleasant surprise.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Get better every day, our motto this year is simple: Win the day. We want our kids to win in the classroom, win in our community with how they carry themselves on and off the field, and win on the field.

THE LEADOFF • 61

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

Track & Field In front from left are: Jermond Barnes, Jose Magana, Bryant Echeverria, Caden Hullinger, Mauricio Aguirre, Sheldon Mudd, Joseph Avance, Joshua Buckingham, Abijah Goodson; second row: Larry Lamb, Braulio Sosa, Da’Quan McClean, Hunter Greenman, Christopher Thompson, Brandon Wogoman, Chris Alstott; third row: Benjamin Evans, Devonte Gaskill, Devin Tomlinson, Jordon Brown, Olen Simmons, Jose Velez, Tysen Custard, Weston Eager, coach Tedd Potts; back row: Drew Mikel, Jason Echeverria, Noah Frantz, Robert Anderson, Connor Amberg, coach Tony Todd, coach Rikki Jones.

12 @ St. Joseph, 4 p.m.

14 @ Marshall Sports Festival, TBA 20 Lakeshore, 4 p.m.

26 @ Portage Northern, 4 p.m.

30 @ New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

MAY 4 Benton Harbor/Portage Central, 4 p.m.

6 Rotary Meet, 4:30 p.m.

14 SMAC Meet at Lakeshore, TBA 20 MHSAA Regionals, TBA

COACH REPORTS Coach: Joseph (Tony) Todd Years coaching sport/at current school: 16th year Last year’s record/place in conference: West Division champions, sixth place SMAC overall Key starters lost: Jalen Alexander, Elijah Thompson Key returning lettermen: Larry Lamb, Joe Avance, Conner Amberg, Devonte Gaskill, Devin Tomlinson, Josh Buckingham, Braulio Sosa, Sheldon Mudd, Abijah Goodson.

Top newcomers: Jordan Brown, Austin Brookins, Mauricio Aguirre, Olen Simmons Strengths: Sprints Weaknesses: Distances, but much improved.

62 • THE LEADOFF

What do you think about your conference?

Always tough, looking for top-five finish.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The depth we have.

A lot of solid 9th- and 10th-grade runners.

They are not quite top guns, but have lots of potential.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? I always have goals to see a big improvement in all my athletes from the start to end of the season.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? It is no secret I always say, “Do not get too high on the high days and too low on the low days.”

That is until after the state meet then you can get as happy as you like.

Larry Lamb

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL

12 @ St. Joseph, 4 p.m.

14 @ Marshall Sports Festival, TBA 20 Lakeshore, 4 p.m.

26 @ Portage Northern, 4 p.m.

30 @ New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

MAY 4 Benton Harbor/Portage Central, 4 p.m.

6 Rotary Meet, 4:30 p.m.

14 SMAC Meet at Lakeshore, TBA 20 MHSAA Regionals, TBA

Track & Field In front from left to right: Vanya Ruppart, Madeline Stanton, Kailey Skarbek, Cassie Klingerman, Maya Brookins, Sha’wanna Wofford, Kayla West, Kristen West, Amber Franklin; second row: coach Rikki Jones, Chynna Brann, Stephanie Ramos, Quionna Nickens, Deshanay Alexander, Alexa Vota, Jazmin Brann, Antonia Palmer, coach Ted Potts; back row: Hannah Jackowiak, Paige Heath, Tytiana Johnson, Jida Roldan, Leslie Shorter, Tam’mea McNeal, Sarena Hummel, Kaitlan Rotzien coach Tony Todd.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Rikki Jones Years coaching sport/at current school: Second year as head coach; 15th year coaching in Niles Key starters lost: Asiah Brookins Key returning lettermen: Maya Brookins, Alexis Preston, Jazmin Brann Top newcomers: Antonia Palmer Strengths: We are looking to be strong in our sprints with Maya and Alexis being our returning leaders. We have the potential to really improve this year.

Maya Brookins

Weaknesses: Our weaknesses

will be our field events. We just don’t have the number of participants to compete with bigger squads.

What do you think about your conference? Our conference is tough.

We are a Division 2 team running and competing against a lot of Division 1 teams.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? In track, it is different. You truly have to be mentally tough not only because you are competing against others but you are essentially competing against yourself also. You really have to have self-confidence and self-esteem. This is something you cannot coach but you can be a support and guide athletes into being mentally tough.

THE LEADOFF • 63

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 12 14 15 19 20 21 25 29

Soccer

Three Rivers, 5:30 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 5:30 p.m. @ Mattawan, 6:45 p.m.

Kzoo Loy Norrix, 5:30 p.m. @ Gull Lake, 6:45 p.m.

Portage Central, 5:45 p.m.

Kalamazoo Central, 5:30 p.m.

Sturgis, 5:30 p.m.

MAY

In front from left to right: Marisa Kerr, Hannah Beckwith, Emily Gaines, Mackenzie Hall, Ivy Sowers, Bailee Kessler, Desiree Love, Jasmine Love, Taylor Haboush, Dayleigh Miller, Meg Wise; back row: assistant coach Rory Iwaniuk, Kyra Grosse, Kiya Grosse, Jaycee Myer, Hailee Rager,, Mackenzie Bishop, Delayne Mudd, Chelsea Best, Miya Steele, assistant coach Kamber Hadley, head coach Katie Czirr. Missing from photo: Avyion James and assistant coach Bill McAllister.

Portage Northern, 5:30 p.m. @ Lakeshore, 6:30 p.m. @ St. Joseph, 6:30 p.m.

Battle Creek Central, 5:30 p.m. @ Battle Creek Lakeview, 5:30 p.m.

14 Vandenberg Inv., 10 a.m.

16 SMAC Conference Tournament, TBA 24 MHSAA Districts, TBA 2 4 6 9 11

COACH REPORTS Coach: Katie Czirr Years coaching sport/at current school: First year coaching at Niles High School Last year’s record/place in conference: Last Year’s Record: 5-14-0; Conference Record: 0-4-0 Key returning lettermen: Jaycee Myer, Chelsea Best, Dayleigh Miller, Mackenzie Hall, Delayne Mudd, Bailee Kessler Top newcomers: Avyion Jones, Taylor Haboush, Miya Steele, Hannah Beckwith Strengths: We have the necessary fundamental skills. Now, we need to integrate our fundamentals with strategy and game-savvy techniques.

Weaknesses: Overall, we are a young team, in which our inexperience hurts us; especially our transitions from defense to offense, as well as making key runs to space.

64 • THE LEADOFF

What do you think about your conference?

We are in the SMAC, which is probably one of the, if not the toughest, conference in the state for Women Soccer. We compete against teams who are traditionally ranked Top 10 in the state and teams consisting of athletes, who have played together for several year.

My team believes it is an honor to play in such a conference and understand, in order to compete, we have to rise to our opponents’ talents.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? A change in drive and attitude. My team consistently challenges one another and pushes each other towards improvement. We want more for ourselves and are taking the necessary steps of action to get there.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? As a team of student-athletes we are working hard to qualify for Academic

All-State, as a team. We are also working to win 1 v. 1 tactics 80 percent of the time.

This way we can train towards obtaining and keeping possession.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? As I said before, we are in a challenging conference and we are a young team. By being realistic and developing a growth mindset, my players understand what we need to improve.

My team interprets potential criticism, as being constructive and a tool for success, after all, mistakes and errors are inevitable in the game of soccer.

As a coach, I am constantly reminding my team that “We (the team) create the culture.”

This includes creating a safe and comforting environment, one that encourages and allows members of the team to make mistakes safely. I want my players to learn from errors with the mindset of “my teammate made a mistake. Ok, it’s done and over with.

Now, I need to step up and have her back.”

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28 30

@ Portage Central, 4 p.m.

Gull Lake, 4 p.m.

Brandywine, 4 p.m. @ Battle Creek Lakeview, 4 p.m. @ St. Joseph, 4 p.m.

Mishawaka, 4:30 p.m.

Edwardsburg, 4 p.m.

Kzoo Loy Norrix, 4 p.m.

Niles Doubles Tournament, 9 a.m.

Tennis

MAY 4 5 14 16 19

@ Lakeshore, 4 p.m.

Three Rivers, 4 p.m. @ SMAC Tournament, 9 a.m. @ Sturgis, 4 p.m. @MHSAA Regionals, TBA

In front from left: Julia Kosten, Sarah Shepherd, Karla Espinoza; second row: Amanda Chaffin, Hannah Hill; back row: Matt Lee, coach Jill Weber, Payton Morris, Jessica Akey, Hannah Davis, Taylor Hibberd, Natalie Swailes, Brooke Sinner, Claire Prillwitz, JV coach Shanna Liverett.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Jill Weber, Shanna Liverett (JV) Years coaching sport/at current school: 13 years Last year’s record/place in conference: 4-10 Key starters lost: Maggie Feifer Key returning lettermen: Natelie Swailes, Hanna Hill, Amanda Chaffin, Taylor Hibberd, Hannah Davis, Brooke Sinner, Jessica Akey, Karla Espinoza, Claire Prillwitz Top newcomers: Julie Kosten Strengths: Great team connection.

They believe in each other.

Jessica Akey

What do you think about your

conference? Always tough.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Connection and they got off to a good start.

Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and making the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? Come out each and every practice and match pushing themselves to do their best.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that?

Being there for each other to encourage and uplift and move forward.

What intangibles will be needed for you to have a successful season? Stay positive and continue to finish the big points.

2016

SEASON SCHEDULE

APRIL 14 18 20 23 25 27 28

Golf

Niles Quad, 4 p.m.

SMAC West jamboree, 4 p.m. @ SMAC West jamboree, 4 p.m. @ Berrien Springs, 9 a.m. @ SMAC Conference, 9 a.m. @ New Buffalo, 8:30 a.m. @ Sturgis Invitational, 9 a.m.

MAY

In front from left to right: coach George Brawley, Sam Kennedy, Ross Lawrence, Davin Simpson, Alex Krueger, Cade Zavitz, Drew Rudlaff, Riley Delinski, Jared Ham, coach Dan Brawley.

COACH REPORTS Coach: Dan Brawley

2 Point O’ Wood Inv., 10 a.m.

4 @SMAC West jamboree, 4 p.m.

6 @ Battle Creek Lakeview Invitational, 9 a.m.

11 @ SMAC West Jamboree, 4 p.m.

19 @ SMAC Conference Meet, 9 a.m.

26 MHSAA Districts, 9 a.m.

Top newcomers: Sam Kennedy, Davin Simpson, Drew Rudlaff, Alex Krueger, and Cade Zavitz

What do you think about your conference? There are a ton of solid golfers in our conference.

Last year’s record/place in conference: Fifth in conference

Strengths: Districts are at our home course of Orchard Hills. Jared and Riley have had two years of varsity experience.

Key returning lettermen: Riley Delinski and Jared Ham

Weaknesses: Our depth, only two golfers with varsity experience.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Although we only have two golfers with varsity experience, the other varsity hopefuls are athletic and could contribute significantly this year.

Years coaching sport/at current school: Five years

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