2014
WINTER
SPORTS
GUIDE A supplement to Leader Publications
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at classes and student life
Page 2
Winter Sports • December 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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We’ve Got Your Back Orthopedic or Sports Injury? Shoulder, knee or back pain? Lakeland is committed to bringing the best possible care to those with sports-related injuries and working with you to prevent those injuries. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, athletic trainers, and physical therapists works together to ensure you get back on the field, out on the course, or returned to normal as quickly as possible.
Ask your physician if sports medicine services are right for you.
www.lakelandhealth.org/sportsmedicine
Athletic Trainers and Physical Therapists
Page 3
Winter Sports • December 2014
BRANDYWINE Bobcats
Boys Basketball COACH REPORT
Leader photo/AMELIO RODRIGUEZ
Pictured here are the members of the Brandywine boys basketball team. In front from left are Kudzai Nyasvisvo, Timmy Batchelor, Hunter Slaughter, Chandler Plew, Zac Grishaber and coach Jason Young. In back are coach Nathan Knapp, Marquis Davis, Matt Vaughn, Vinny Peel, Andrew Boocher, Austin Knapp, Drew Krueger, Cole Searles and coach Scott Smith. Missing from photo are Zachary Schmidt and Andrew Duckett.
Coach’s name: Nathan Knapp Years coaching sport/at current school: 10th season Last year’s record/place in conference: 6-14 Key starters lost: Isaac Davis Top newcomers: Hunter Slaughter, Marquise Davis, Chandler Plew, Vinny Peel, Cole Searles, Zach Grishaber Strengths: We shoot the ball well from the outside. We have great leadership and we have depth and decent size. Weaknesses: We need to rebound and communicate better. What do you think about your conference? New Buffalo and Mendon will be pretty tough. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We hustle and play well as a team. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We need to be successful early. We need to rely on each other, building trust in each other.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Zach Schmidt
Andrew Duckett
720 S. 11th Street Niles, MI 49120
(269) 684-2722 Martins-Supermarkets.com
Matt Vaughn
Andrew Boocher
Austin Knapp
Drew Krueger
Page 4
Winter Sports • December 2014
BRANDYWINE Bobcats
Wrestling COACH REPORT
Leader photo/AMELIO RODRIGUEZ
Pictured here are the members Brandywine wrestling team. In front from left are: Tony Collins, Cordell Davis, Kaci Lintz, Ryan Gruchowski, Michael Kachur and Nick Starr; second row: Jacob Kimbrough, Ryan Buchar, Corbin Eckenberger, Jesse Lochmondy, Sam Burge and Connor Earles; back row: Alex Shell, Charlie Rodriquez, Nathan Hechtl, Aaron Casto, Christian Hertsel and coach Rex Pomranka.
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Now that we are going to be keeping score and honoring ‘all-conference’ wrestlers this year brings a lot of meaning and excitement to the end the season before tournament time.
”
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
119: 112: Michael Kachur Kaci Lintz
130: Jesse Lochmondy
152: Sam Burge
215: Charlie Rodriguez
The Leader • Niles Daily Star • Dowagiac Daily News Cassopolis Vigilant • Edwardsburg Argus • Off The Water
217 North 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120 • (269) 683-2100
www.leaderpub.com
Coach’s name: Rex Pomranka (275-126) Years coaching sport/at current school: 15th year Last year’s record/place in conference: 12-16, Lakeland Conference champions Key starters lost: Paul Lochmondy (3-time regional 2-time state qualifier), Vincent Sallee (Lakeland Conference champion), Cory Katterheinrich (fourth place at state) Top newcomers: 140: Marquell Peterson, freshman, 145: Corbin Eckenberger, freshman, 171: Ryan Gluchowski, junior (transfer from Penn) Strengths: We return a decent group of young starters with only two seniors in the line up. The kids practice hard everyday and it’s a nice group of athletic kids. Weaknesses: Filling a full line up. Although young, we are thin on numbers and too many of our wrestlers are in the same weight class. As logical as this may sound, staying healthy and making weight is essential if we’re going to be competitive, especially this season. What do you think about your conference? Essentially the BCS Athletic Conference was born in this very sport. Three years ago, the idea of combining the teams that were left in the old Lakeland Conference, St. Joseph Valley and some teams from the Red Arrow to hold a non-scoring conference tournament instead of a traditional round robin type of tournament with only four teams proved to be a success. Now that we are going to actually be keeping score and honoring “all-conference” wrestlers this year brings a lot of meaning and excitement to end the regular season before tournament time. Overall, I think the conference is pretty competitive with the arrivals of Bronson (Ranked ninth in Division 4), Mendon and White Pigeon as teams I think are ahead of us coming into the season. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Our captains this season are lower classmen instead of the traditional upperclassmen just because they possess a type of work ethic, character, and love of the sport that we’re looking for to build the program. Otherwise, nothing really out of the ordinary. We’re just trying to get into competitive shape so we can begin battling on the mat. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Finding our identity and just believing in ourselves. This sport is so demanding physically and mentally. Right now I’d describe us as a young team trying to figure out how to wrestle as varsity wrestlers. With a lot of our guys that haven’t wrestled a lot of varsity matches coming into this season they have to be able to handle the adversity of taking their beatings early because it’s going to start rough for a lot of them. It’s always how we finish though and we always seem to find a way year after year to finish at our peak. Realistically, I’m aiming to finish in the top four in the BCS Conference and win our 10th straight district title (18 of the last 19 years). If we’re good enough to get to regionals we’ll see how we compete with a couple of top 10 teams in the state but until then we’ll take things one dual at a time.
Page 5
Winter Sports • December 2014
BRANDYWINE Bobcats
COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Josh Hood (115-8 at Brandywine, 240-67 overall) Years coaching sport/at current school: Sixth season Last year’s record/place in conference: 20-1, First place Lakeland Conference Key starters lost: Tammy Lee (first team all-state and all-conference) Strengths: Eight girls return with varsity experience, including Brooke Smith, who led us in scoring and rebounding as a sophomore, but missed last season with a torn ACL. We led the state last year for the third straight season in 3-pointers attempted (657) and made (187) and have several good shooters back. We also have good size for a change with 5-11 Brooke Smith and 5-10 twins Makenna and Michaela Hartline, who both averaged over six offensive rebounds per game last season. Depth should also be a strength with eight letter winners back from last season. Weaknesses: We are working extremely hard at getting better post play this season to go along with our ability to shoot the three. We also have to find a way to replace first team all-state point guard Tammy Lee who’s now playing at Lake Michigan College. What do you think about your conference? Our conference/division should be very balanced from top to bottom with addition of two very good basketball programs — LMC and New Buffalo. We are going to have to play well every night to get a “W.” What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? They are coming to practice every day ready to work. With so many returners it would be easy for them to be complacent and expect to win but that hasn’t been the case. It’s apparent the ending to last season has left a sour taste in all of their mouths and they are hungry. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We have upgraded the schedule considerably to help prepare us for the postseason including games at Class A Kalamazoo Loy Norrix, Class A Kalamazoo Central, Benton Harbor Holiday tournament vs. Class A Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills, Class A St. Joe, Class 4A South Bend Riley and Class B Edwardsburg.
Girls Basketball
Leader photo/AMELIO RODRIGUEZ
Pictured here are the members of the Brandywine girls basketball team. In front from left are Emily Erwin, Mia Stella, Jaleesa Garner, Alyssa Bolen and coach Nicole Newman. In back are coach Pat Touhey, Makena Bowen, Makenna Hartline, Brooke Smith, Michaela Hartline, Rachael Szilagyi and coach Josh Hood.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Brooke Smith
Makenna Hartline
Michaela Hartline
Emily Erwin
Jaleesa Garner
Alyssa Bowlen
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Winter Sports • December 2014
BUCHANAN Bucks
Boys Basketball
Leader photo/AMELIO RODRIGUEZ
Pictured here are the members of the Buchanan boys basketball team. In front from left are Jarrett Thomas, Dustin Gray, Tyler Flynn, Christian Catalano and Josiah Smith. In back are Tim McCaffrey, Dalton Riddle, Elijah Lewis, Isaiah Moore, Antjuan Scott, Phillips and Bryce Vineyard. Missing from photo is Jacoby Cashier.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Tyler Flynn
Christian Catalano
Dustin Gray
Tim McCaffery
Eli Lewis
COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Reid McBeth (197-92) Years coaching sport at current school: 13 years Last year’s record/place in conference: 14-6 overall, Second in Lakeland Conference Key starters lost: Doug Freeman, Kevin Dey, Alex Leiter Top newcomers: Josiah Smith, Jarrett Thomas, Dalton Riddle Strengths: We have the pieces to be a very good basketball team but we must learn to sacrifice personal goals for the betterment of the team. If we are able to except roles, trust the system and the coaches we have the opportunity to be a good basketball team. Weaknesses: We lost a ton of scoring from last seasons team and we will need to make up for that playing better team basketball. We are still working to make that happen. What do you think about your conference? Bridgman has several key pieces back and will always put a great team on the floor. New Buffalo will be also be very tough this season as they too return most parts from a very successful team. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Strong work ethic and good team leadership has been a plus and these attributes are leading us in a positive direction. They will help us become the cohesive “team” that we need to become to be successful. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We must come together as a unit to be successful. I think we can do
Winter Sports • December 2014
BUCHANAN Bucks
Page 7
Wrestling
Leader photo/AMELIO RODRIGUEZ
Pictured here are the members of the Buchanan wrestling team. In front from left are: Trevor Klein, Caleb Klein, Brenden Swem, Randy Draper, Adam Eger, Jarick Starnes and Matt Strozewski; second row: Dakota Cowan, River Fox, Jacob Graham, Jordan Brown, Colin Wheetley, Hunter Kirk, Cameron Griffen and Jacob Fuller; back row: Matt Dehring, Eddie Washington, Wes Grounds, Alex Becvar, Cody Montgomery, Austin Hartz and Jason Furst. Missing from photo are Max Carrigan and Jay Strozewski.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
COACH REPORT
103: Brendon Swem
119/125: 135/140: Matt Strozewski Colin Wheetly
140/145: Jacob Graham
145/152: Jordan Brown
152/160: River Fox
285: Max Carrigan
720 S. 11th Street Niles, MI 49120
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171: Austin Hartz
Coach’s name: Frank Mucha Years coaching sport/at current school: 35th year Last year’s record/place in conference: 24-10, Runner-up Lakeland Conference, District champion Key starters lost: Dylan Williamson, Jack Ruggless, Alex Brown Top newcomers: Caleb Kline (freshman), Trevor Kline (freshman), Buddy Eger (freshman), Wes Springer-Grounds (junior), Eddie Washington (senior) Strengths: Solid kids. Should fill the line up. Weaknesses: Youth at the bottom and inexperience at the top What do you think about your conference? With the new conference, I don’t know what to think. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We haven’t been together long enough for me to answer this question. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Our goal is to be wrestling our best in February. In the past, we have done so. We expect no less.
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Winter Sports • December 2014
BUCHANAN Bucks
Girls Basketball
Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK
Pictured here are the members of the Buchanan girls basketball team. In front from left are Sammi Luzadre, Brooke Wesner, Selica Jones, Nikki Mucha and Antoinette Moore. In back are Jayla Bibbs, Chelsey Bennett, Jade Mosier, Myeshia Mayo and Ali Kyles.
“
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Jade Mosier
Brooke Wesner
Selica Jones
Chelsey Bennett
COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Gabe Miller (12-8) Years coaching sport/at current school: Second year Last year’s record/place in conference: 4-2 in Lakeland Conference, second place Key starters lost: Madison Prillwitz, Brianna King, Maddy Vorrath Top newcomers: Jayla Bibbs (freshman), Myeshia Mayo (sophomore), Ali Kyles (junior), Antoinette Moore (junior) Strengths: Our goal is to win with our defense. We will have to communicate effectively and maintain our responsibilities to prevent easy baskets. Although with no player over 5-10, we expect to win the nightly rebound battle as well. Additionally, we have some skilled players returning that I feel will be tough matchups for our opposition. Weaknesses: Size/height and experience What do you think about your conference? I am unfamiliar with some of the teams new to the conference, but from my experiences last
year I would expect Lake Michigan Catholic to be a formidable opponent on our side of the conference. They should have some quality athletic and skilled players returning, with what I would assume some help coming from a very good junior varsity team last year. Bridgman has a lot of size that can cause team lacking size issues, and although we did not play them, New Buffalo is the reigning Class C district champ. However, again I would assume everyone is chasing Brandywine. With a healthy Brooke Smith returning at a skill/shooting position and athletes like the Hartlines (Makenna and Michaela), (Alyssa) Bowen, (Jaleesa) Garner; and Emily Erwin on the wing shooting threes, they have many options both offensively and defensively to make for a difficult night for many teams. Take in to account coach Josh Hood’s attention to detail and experience I would peg them as the clear favorites. What have you seen from your team so far
The leadership of our returning athletes has been very encouraging ashas the potential of some of our newcomers to the program.
”
that has surprised you? The leadership of our returning athletes has been very encouraging as has the potential of some of our newcomers to the program. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? 1. Focus: When we are dialed in we miss less layups, have less bad passes, make more free throws and do a much better job with our communication and responsibilities on defense. When we find a way to maintain that focus night in and night out, we should be challenge for everyone on our schedule. 2. Depth/bench: Our newcomers are going to have to provide energy from the bench on the defensive end; and play with confidence and avoid mistakes on the offensive end in order for us to be successful. 3. Health: We are nursing a couple of injuries, so just like anyone we are going to have to stay healthy to have the kind of year we are capable of.
e
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Winter Sports • December 2014
Girls Basketball
Cassopolis Rangers
Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Pictured here are the members of the Cassopolis girls basketball team. In front from left are Nastasia Roddy, Kaylyn Forrest, Janye Butts, Aiden Traynor, Kortenei Suggs and Erica Williams. In back are coach Henry Pittman, Kayla Rowan, Madeline Ruff, Victoria Matamoros, Brittney Prestly and Ky’ana Buck. Missing from photo is Nakelia Sinclair.
COACH REPORT
Kaylynn Forrest
Brittney Presley
Janye Butts
Ky’ana Buck
Madeline Ruff
NOT PICTURED
Nakiela Sinclair
Kortenei Suggs
Coach’s name: Henry Pittman Years coaching sport/at current school: Fourth year Last year’s record/place in conference: 6-12 Key starters lost: Logan Lawson, Rachelle Williams Top newcomers: Erica Williams, Kayla Rowan, Aidan Traynor Strengths: Defense Weaknesses: Shooting What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? It is not really a surprise, but our teamwork, togetherness. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We need to hit our free throws and a majority of our lay-ins. We need to be consistent on defense
Get your sports scores in the paper!
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Scott Novak 269-687-7702
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(269) 684-2722 Martins-Supermarkets.com
Scott.Novak@leaderpub.com
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Page 10
Winter Sports • December 2014
Boys Basketball
Cassopolis Rangers COACH REPORT Years coaching sport/at current school: Third year Last year’s record/place in conference: 11-9, Third place in Lakeland Conference Key starter lost: Lynell Ballard Top newcomers: Bryce Saxton, Deon Gatson Strengths: Quickness Weaknesses: Very small What do you think about your conference? The new BCS Athletic conference is going to be very competitive and should be fun. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised? We are picking up things so quickly.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK
Brandon Glover
Noah Woods
Pictured here are the members of the Cassopolis boys basketball team. In front from left are Isaiah Crider, Nick Murphy, John Hampton, Malik Ballard, Deion Gatson and Brandon Glover. In back are coach Ricky Evans, Matthew Pittman, Alex Emerson, Kiante Brown, Noah Woods, Shane Los and Bryce Saxton.
Wrestling
Cassopolis Rangers
COACH REPORT
Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK
Pictured here are the members of the Cassopolis wrestling team. In front from left are Dillion Richey, Nick Baker, Cross Borsa and Collin Kelley. In back are Zach Wilson, Peter Fiala, Tymari Brown, Daniel Deubner and Austin Green. Missing from photo are Alijah Watson and Reece West.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Colin Kelley
Tymari Brown
Zach Wilson
Coach’s name: Josh Rinehart (45-30) Years coaching sport/at current school: Fourth year Last year’s record/place in conference: Third place in Lakeland Conference Key starter lost: Khalil Brown Strengths: Solid group of upper weight wrestlers Weaknesses: Not filling out all weight classes What do you think about your conference? It will be a tough season. It will be interesting to see how the season unfolds with the addition of the new teams. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? I have been pleased with the early season conditioning of the team. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We need to stay healthy. We are too thin to have injuries. Guys just need to push each other in the room.
Page 11
Winter Sports • December 2014
THE
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Studies show that students who live on campus: Beckwith Hall is home to nearly 200 students from a diverse array of cultures and backgrounds. Just minutes away from the shores of Lake Michigan, LMC’s campus is nestled among 260 wooded acres featuring a lake, jogging and cross country ski trails, athletic fields, and a wildlife sanctuary.
Are more likely to succeed in college and complete their degree Are more likely to maintain a higher grade point average Participate in more extracurricular activities, campus leadership, organizations, and activities
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Page 12
Winter Sports • December 2014
I N K G I V S O ! G
Best Wishes for a Great Season! from your
Niles Community Schools Building a Foundation for Our Future
Edwardsburg Public Schools Every Child Future Ready
Edwardsburg Athletic Boosters
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www.edwardsburgpublicschools.org • 269-663-3055
PRIDE • PASSION • PURPOSE
Page 13
Winter Sports • December 2014
Wrestling
dowagiac Chieftains COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Matt Alward Years coaching sport/at current school: Fifth year Last year’s record/place in conference: 1213, Eighth place Wolverine Confrence Key starter lost: Tyler Wessendorf Top newcomers: Kody Walker, Gage Williams, Jared Hatch, Justin Lyle, Nate Ward Strengths: We have a good senior and junior class this year as well as good senior leadership. Weaknesses: We have a few spots in the lineup that will have some underclassmen. Our season will depend on how well these young men develop. What do you think about your conference? I think we have a very good wrestling conference and if we stay healthy and continue to improve we will be competitive. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We have very good numbers and have been pushing them very hard, and most if not all have stayed and been up to the challenge. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Again, our season will depend on how well our young wrestlers develop.
Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK
Pictured here are the members of the Dowagiac wrestling team. In front from left are: Bryce Saylor, Diego Paredes, William Phillips, Diamond Collett, Ben Herter, Brandon Collett and Westly Beaver; kneeling: Aubrey Huston, Tom Smith, Kyle Ortegel, Nate Tackett, Justin Lyle, Troy Ring, Kaleb Detwiler, Jerod Hatch and Caleb Sands; third row: Kody Walker, Shawn Sirk, Drew Rank, Mason Hiler, Kris Kenyon, Josh Jessup, Gage Williams and Miguel Contreras; back row: coach Mike Williams Derrek Collett, Spondon Biswas, Tristan Howard, Scott Hassle, Connor Howard, Nate Ward, Daniel Rosales and coach Matt Alward.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Scott Hassle
Aubrey Huston
Caleb Sands
Tom Smith
Troy Ring
Tristan Howard
RESIDENCE LIFE AT IU SOUTH BEND
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Page 14
Winter Sports • December 2014
Arm Your Car Against Winter
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Page 15
Winter Sports • December 2014
Boys Basketball
dowagiac Chieftains
Pictured here are the members of the Dowagiac boys basketball team. In front from left are Leroy Lewis, Brandon Winchester-Jones, Harry Reed, Bryce Dodd and Daquan Brooks. In back are coach Danum Hunt, Josh Lamphere, Tevin Fowlkes, Keonante Blackamore, DeYonte Sullivan, Dameon Snead and Tyler Collins.
“
We’ve always played up-tempo, fast-paced basketball during my tenure as the head coach. We plan to play even faster this season.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
”
Brandon Winchester-Jones
Bryce Dodd
Keonte Blackamore Leroy Lewis
Dawuan Brooks
Tevin Fowlkes
Harry Reed
Tyler Collins
COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Danum Hunt (77-36) Years coaching sport/at current school: Sixth season as head coach, 13th at Dowagiac Last year’s record/place in conference: 11-10, Fourth place Wolverine West Division Key starters lost: Kyle Solloway, Davion Highsmith Top newcomers: Deyonte’ Sullivan (leading scorer on JV 21 points per game, 9 rebounds) Strengths: Athleticism, speed, quickness Weaknesses: Size (height) What do you think about your conference? The West Division of the Wolverine Conference is competitive every year. Our league possesses teams that have the ability to upset anybody on any given night. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We were very young last year and lacked a lot of experience. Over the course of the off-season we’ve matured, we’ve gotten stronger and our bond as a team has grown a lot stronger. I’ve noticed that we have a few leaders emerging from this group. Last season, leadership was one of the biggest components that we were lacking. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? This year we will need to be a lot smarter and more efficient on the defensive end of the floor. We’ve always played up-tempo, fast-paced basketball during my tenure as the head coach. We plan to play even faster this season. We will also need to do a better job on the boards. We lack size but we possess enough quickness and athleticism to get that done. I believe this will be an exciting season for Dowagiac basketball. The guys are hyped up and excited about the possibilities and opportunities to make this a great season. They were very committed and dedicated during the off-season. I believe they are ready to continue what has been built and established here in our program.
Page 16
Winter Sports • December 2014
Girls Basketball
dowagiac Chieftains COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Floyd Foston Years coaching sport/at current school: Third year Last year’s record/place in conference: 3-18, Sixth place Wolverine Conference West Division Key starters lost: Crieona Rodgers, Ciera Smith (knee injury) Top newcomers: Asyria Geegan Strengths: We have six returning players with experience. Hopefully that will help. Weaknesses: Size, defense, shooting What do you think about your conference? Our conference is tough and competitive. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? They are working very hard. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We need to play better defense and cut down on our turnovers. Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK
Pictured are the members of the Dowagiac girls basketball team. In front from left are Jensis Green, Angel Parker, Vivi Lucio, Mara Nelson and Riley Daly. In back are coach Floyd Foston, Olga Dickson-French, Asyria Geegan, Alyssa Allen and Taylor Hulett.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Rayven Brown
Taylor Hulett
Jenesis Green
Riley Daly
Mara Nelson
Alyssa Allen
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Page 17
Winter Sports • December 2014
Boys Basketball
EdwardsbUrg Eddies
COACH REPORT
Leader photo/KELLY SWEENEY
Pictured here are the members of the Edwardsburg boys basketball team. In front from left are Adam Kozinski, Shane Streb, Jonathan Albrecht, Ben Robertson and Derek Pierce. In back are Isaac Vite, Nathan Brown, Jackson Gaideski, Joseph Queener, Dante Razzano and Dalton Raymond.
Coach’s name: Steve Wright (17-7) Years coaching sport/at current school: 10th year coaching at Edwardsburg, Second year as varsity coach Last year’s record/place in conference: First place Wolverine Conference West Division Key starters lost: Dylan Hulett, Grant Szalewski Top newcomers: Jon Albrecht, Shane Streb, Ben Robertson, Adam Kozinski, Nathan Brown, Zach Plummer, Shaun Elliot What do you think about your conference? It is strong from top to bottom. West Division has a lot of talented teams returning. Eastern Division has Otsego returning nearly everyone. Sturgis will be a great addition as well. Should be very competitive.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Dante Razzano
Jackson Gaideski
Joseph Queener
Isaac Vite
Derek Pierce
Dalton Raymond
Page 18
Winter Sports • December 2014
Wrestling
EdwardsbUrg Eddies
COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Mike Higley Years coaching sport/at current school: Fourth year Last year’s record/place in conference: 10-1, West Division champion, second place Wolverine Conference Key starters lost: Dylan Dixon (112), Jacob Herman (171), Brandon Cooper (285) Top newcomers: Nick Bradley (freshman), Ellis Miller (freshman), Blane Condon (freshman), Thor Fifer (junior) Strengths: Building on last year’s experience. Weaknesses: Depth is thin in a few weights. What do you think about your conference? Allegan is still the team to beat. Three Rivers and Sturgis will be very tough. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Upper weights will need some leaders to emerge and wrestle well in order to have positive results as a team.
Leader photo/KELLY SWEENEY
Pictured here are the members of the Edwardsburg wrestling team. In front from left are: Dustin Vires, Michael Higley, Nick Bradley, Hunter Vargo, Ian Johnson and Keathley Marks; second row: Jay Fitzpatrick, Cole Walters, Quintin Davis, Jacob Bittner, Jacob Andrina, Edward Mozader, Lucas Marks, Austin Cline and Ben Anson; Back row: John Willard, Joey Hess, Jarrett Wood, Michael Svatos, Devon McGrath, Josh Harris, Steven Harris and Bo Thomas.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Michael Higley
Hunter Vargo
Dustin Vires
Keathley Marks
Lucas Marks
NOT PICTURED
Joey Hess
Jarrett Wood
Devon McGrath
Bo Thomas
Lake Walters
Austin Cline
Page 19
Winter Sports • December 2014
Girls Basketball
EdwardsbUrg Eddies
COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Nicole Cartwright (66-62) Years coaching sport/at current school: Sixth year Last year’s record/place in conference: 13-8 overall, 8-2 Wolverine Conference, Second place West Division Key starters lost: Alexis Blake, Olivia Hack Top newcomers: Lila Blough, Noelle Kraus, Michaela Richard Strengths: We will utilize our speed and really apply pressure defensively. What do you think about your conference? The conference is always strong and it will be again this year. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Our season will be driven by this quote: “Defense wins games and offence just tell you how many points you win by.” This year we will be utilizing our speed and focus on causing havoc on our opponents with our defensive tenacity.
Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK
Pictured are the members of the Edwardsburg girls basketball team. In front from left are Alaina Gaideski, Alise Markel, Savannah Dixon and Maria Esquivel. In back are coach Nicole Cartwright, Erzsebet Widman, Lila Blough, Katelynn Rogers, Breanna Baushke, Michaela Ritschard and Noelle Kraus.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Alise Markel
Katelynn Rogers
Breanna Baushke
720 S. 11th Street Niles, MI 49120
(269) 684-2722 Martins-Supermarkets.com
Savannah Dixon
Page 20
Winter Sports • December 2014
Boys Basketball
Niles Vikings
Leader photo/ALYSE HOYT
Pictured here are the members of the Niles boys basketball team. In front from left are manager Hoang Vo Long, Devin Keumin, Adam Langmeyer, Derek Brown, Gabe Stokes, Ra’Quon Glenn, Dontae Murphy and manager Teng Chou Li. In back are Johnny Morrison, Jayden Anderson, Jalen Alexander, Tyler Phillips, Gavin Rasler Jacob Hamm, Alex Harpenau and Todd Pawielski. Missing from photo are Sammy Rodts, assistant coach Adams Hastings and scorekeeper Doc MaCready.
“
COACH REPORT
So far we have shown a nice passion, willingness to listen and a great desire to win.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Gabe Stokes
”
Ra’Quann Glenn
Sam Rodts
Jalen Alexander
Dontae Murphy
Adam Langmeyer
Gavin Rasler
Coach’s name: Todd Pawielski Years coaching sport/at current school: 13th Year/ninth at Niles Last year’s record/place in conference: 11-12, Sixth in SMAC West Division Key starters lost: Tate Brawley (20 points per game, seven rebounds, first team All-West, first team BCAM All-State), Jeremy Wortham, Connor Glick, Matthew Miller Top newcomers: Derek Brown (junior), Devin Kuemin (junior), Tyler Phillips (junior), Jayden Anderson (junior), Alex Harpenau (sophomore) Jacob Hamm (sophomore) Strengths: We have excellent senior guards in Gabe, Ray and Adam. We have athleticism, depth and good size in the frontcourt. So far we have shown a nice passion, willingness to listen and great desire to win. Weaknesses: Poor shot selection and too much individualism at times. What do you think about your conference? Lakeshore is one of the top 15 teams in Class A. Portage Northern is much improved and Benton Harbor returns some top players from a state runner-up team. On the other side of the league Kalamazoo Central will be top 10 team in Class A. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? No surprises is kind of a motto around here. Don’t really have an answer for that one. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We need to stay healthy for games by avoiding injuries and illness.
Page 21
Winter Sports • December 2014
Wrestling
Niles Vikings COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Todd Hesson (16367) Years coaching sport/at current school: Eighth year Last year’s record/place in conference: 22-5; First place SMAC West Division, SMAC champion Key starters lost: Darek BullockMills, Brendon Meek, Andrew Flick Top newcomers: Cameron Haines, Davin Simpson, Robert Glover, Dayton Smith Strengths: We have a lot of balance. We have seniors in the line up with a lot of experience. We are flexible through the middle of the line up and at the heavier weight classes. Weaknesses: We are thin at the lower weights. We need to develop a 103-pounder. What do you think about your conference? Our conference will be solid with Lakeshore, Battle Creek Central. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Bringing back so many experienced kids has allowed us to move along much faster in practices. We are ahead of schedule with technique in practice. Be much improved. Outside of our conference, Edwardsburg will be tough. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We have a solid schedule again. December is exceptionally tough as we see Grand Rapids Catholic Central (No. 3 Division 3) and Grandville (No. 5 Division 1) our first night, Allegan and then the Penn tournaments (No. 2 in Indiana). We finish Jan. 3 at the Detroit Catholic Central tournament. Hopefully the tough schedule prepares us for the post season.
Leader photo/ALYSE HOYT
Pictured here are the members of the Niles wrestling team. In front from left are: Dayton Smith, Davin Simpson, Courtland Lamberton, Mitch Findeisen, Cade Stephenson, Brendan Hall, Josh Dayhuff, Joe Pena, Garrett Gruszynski, Dillion Batchelor, Zack Horner and Robert Glover; second row: Chris Welsh, Braulio Sosa, Cameron Haines, Quintin Smith, Noah Hall, Fred Kemp, Adam Cole, Warren Smith, Kevin Walker, Tyrese Willis, Gabe Broome, Marcel Cuttler and Jordan Turnbow; third row: manager Amber Celie, Elias Aguirre, DeAnthony Wade, Blake McKean, Alex Bata, Wyatt Thornton, Alec Franciscotty, Cody Thornton, Cody Glick, Ted Jackowiak, Sam Soto, Devonte Gaskill, Darrien Tomlinson, Simon Constable, Billy Webster and coach Todd Hesson; back row: coach Donte Stevens, coach Tom Desenberg, Jason Echavarria, Jake Payeur, Chris Ahlgrim, Carter Rauch, Sean Craig and coach Kenyon Ellison.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
112: Cade Stepheson
119: Josh Dayhuff
125: Brendan Hall
130: 135: Courtland 140: Noah Hall Mitch Findeisen Lamberton
152: Quintin Smith
160: Fred Kemp
171: Sean Craig
189: 215: Wyatt Thornton Ted Jacowiak
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Page 22
Winter Sports • December 2014
Girls Basketball
Niles Vikings
Leader photo/ALYSE HOYT
Pictured here are the members of the Niles girls basketball team. In front from left are Antonia Palmer, Tegan Bays, Jayriel Palmer-Kirtdol, Elyse Zimmerman, Emily Gaines and Maya Brookins. In back are coach Phil D’Amico, Ashli Bryant, Jaiden Rolan, Jazmin Brann, Kylee Myer, Libby Moody, coach Jessica Johnson and coach Matt Hunsberger.
COACH REPORT Coach’s name: Phil D’Amico Years coaching sport/at current school: First year Last year’s record/place in conference: 14-9 Key starters lost: Tatyanna Goodson Strengths: Team speed Weaknesses: Team height What do you think about your conference? It is very strong with well-coached teams. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? How fast they have picked up and adapted to a new system. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Team chemistry, cohesiveness and continuing to learn the new system.
KEY RETURNING LETTERMEN
Elyse Zimmerman
Jazmin Brann
Maya Brookins
Kylee Myer
Libby Moody
Emilly Gaines
720 S. 11th Street Niles, MI 49120
(269) 684-2722 Martins-Supermarkets.com Antonia Palmer
Page 23
Winter Sports • December 2014
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Page 24
Winter Sports • December 2014
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