INSIDE:
friday, april 13, 2018 INSIDE: LUDINGTON AND MANISTEE
LUDINGTON AND MANISTEE
Spring
SPORTS
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| FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
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Ludington boys track
Middle distance strength for LHS BY EDWARD PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
er Austin Ernst. “Yes, middle distance will be our forte’ again,” said Once again, coach Mark Willis, who starts his fifth Willis and his Ludington Ori- season as the Orioles head oles’ boys track and field coach. “We have a good numteam will look to build a ber of athletes who are socsuccessful team on the oval cer players and swimmers. around a strong core of mid- They are in good shape endle-distance runners. durance-wise. And they Last season, the Orioles know how to work hard.” won the Lakes 8 Conference Currently, the Orioles have title and finished fifth at the a large turnout of 43 boys. MHSAA Division 2 regional That includes 15 seniors, six meet. juniors, eight sophomores From that squad, Luding- and 14 freshmen. ton graduated 14 athletes. Pacing the Orioles’ efforts Most notably, the Orioles this spring should be six relost sprinter Luke Synder, turning seniors. That list inthrower Andrew Althouse, cludes hurdler/mid-distance mid-distance runner Camer- runner Jared Garten, midon Bandstra and high jump- distance runner Ben Knoer,
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mid-distance runner Joseph Hatch, distance runner John Seigert, pole vaulter Caleb Schoon and long sprinter Zac Peterson. Garten placed fourth at the regional meet last spring in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles (41.12). Knoer was seventh at the same meet in the 400 (51.8). Hatch took seventh in the 800 (2:06.42) at the regional meet. Seigert ran to a seventh-place finish in the 1,600 (4:45.18) at the regional. Schoon was seventh in the pole vault (12-04). “These seniors have been with me since they were freshmen,” said Willis. “They are very dedicated.” “One of our goals this year
is to put together a strong (3,200-meter) team,” added Willis, who was previously the head track coach at Hart for eight seasons and in Napierville, Illinois for two years. “One that can qualify for the state meet and really contend there.” Willis has seven seniors on the squad who are coming out for track for the first time. One athlete who should help out is Josiah Bandstra, a former soccer and basketball player. “He looks like he could really help us in the middle distance events and relays,” noted Willis. Another senior newcomer, mid-distance runner David
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SENIORS: Jacob Anderson, Josiah Bandstra, Jared Garten, Brian Hansburger, David Hatch, Joseph Hatch, Benjamin Knoer, Jason Mulherin, Zac Peterson, Diego Ruiz, Caleb Schoon and John Siegert. JUNIORS: Gage Burden, Will Flewelling, Myles Fritts, Patrick Gwiazdowski, Shemar Jennings, Jared Ruba and David Scott. SOPHOMORES: John Biggs, Samuel Cutler, Max Kline, Zinaw Pastoor, Ian Ransom and Evan Shay, FRESHMEN: Colin Anders, Charles Austin, Kyle Barnett, Craig Fuller, Max Hockanson, Jesseri Lehan, Caden Lynch, SEE BOYS, PAGE 5
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Hatch, could also be helpful. Juniors that should contribute include Shemar Jennings, the teams’ top sprinter and long jumper; Will Flewelling, a mid-distance runner; Jared Ruba, a pole vaulter/sprinter; and Myles Fritts, a pole vaulter. Promising underclassmen include sophomore distance runner Max Kline, sophomore sprinter Evan Shay, sophomore sprinter John Biggs, freshman thrower Chazz Rohrer and freshman mid-distance runner Andrew Talsma. The 2018 Ludington Orioles boys track and field team roster:
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
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Ludington girls track
Stone returns to guide Orioles BY EDWARD PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER Veteran track and field coach Scott Stone returns this spring to take the reins of the Ludington Orioles girls track and field team. Stone, who served for many years as the boys coach at Ludington, is back after a few years off to take over for Tim Keith, who served the Orioles for two seasons. “It has been a little tough getting back,” said Stone. “A lot of these girls I don’t know very well. That will take some time.” “And we certainly lost a lot from last year’s team,” added Stone. “This will be a rebuilding season.” In fact, the Orioles lost 15 athletes to graduation from a team that won the Lakes 8 Conference crown, placed third at the MHSAA Division 2 regional and then took ninth at the state meet. The Orioles lost two big contributors in middle-distance runners, Lauren Biggs and Jody Fuller. Both girls medaled at the state meet last spring. Biggs is currently competing for the U.S. Naval Academy, while Fuller is running for Grand Valley State University. “We got hit hard by graduation and by some girls who could have come out, but didn’t,” said Stone. Right now, Stone has about 30 girls out for the team. Leading the way this season should be junior Emma Fountain, who placed second at the regional meet in the 400-meter dash (1:00.22) and ran a leg of the Orioles 3,200 relay that finished fifth at the state meet. “Emma will be our top sprinter up to the 400,” added Stone. “She has already run under one minute for the 400 in an indoor meet.” Also playing major roles will be senior thrower Julia Reynolds, sophomore mid-distance and distance runner Ruby Strahan, sophomore pole vaulter/sprinter Alexandria Kovar, junior high jumper Allison Kettler, sophomore hur-
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Ludington boys track team are, front row, from left, Will Flewelling, Josiah Bandstra, Noah Peterson, Jacob Anderson, Ben Knoer, Jared Garten and Caleb Schoon; middle row, Charles Austin, Patrick Gwiazdowski, Joe Hatch, John Siegert, Max Hockanson, Craig Fuller, Gage Burden; back row, Max Kline, Diego Ruiz, Owen Storm, David Hatch, Chass Rohrer, Andrew Talsma and Jasseri Lehan; Colby Peplinski, Bruce Thompson, Zinaw Pastoor, John Biggs, Max Knoer, Ian Ransom, Jason Mulherin, Kyler Garrow and Zachary McMaster.
BOYS: Large number of freshmen out :Marcus Mendez, Colby Peplinski, Chazz Rohrer, Mark Rozek, Owen Storm, Andrew Talsma and Bruce Thompson.
Assisting Willis this spring will be Shelby Thalen, Craig Fuller, Maurie Holbrook and Cathy Laman.
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Ludington girls track team, front row, from left, Asia Farci, Alexandra Marineau, Randi Stone, Lindy Murphy and Amelia VanWyck; second row, Allison Kettler, Kathryn Filter, Emma Fountain, Emma Klein, Audra Shoop and Erin Reilly; Ellie Schoon, Kassidy Clark, Gwen Shamel, Allison Morse, Grace Hilyard and Kaylie Wells; back row, Alex Kovar, Natalie Allen, Ruby Strahan, Charlotte Glanville, Emma Althouse, Julia Reynolds and Gabi Gonzalez. dler/high jumper Natalie Allen, sophomore pole vaulter/sprinter Ellie Schoon and sophomore distance runner Kassidy Clark. Reynolds took fifth in the discus (109-10) and sixth in the shot (3509.5) at the regional meet. Strahan, meanwhile, was ninth in the 3,200
(12:35.18) at the region. Kovar was fifth in the pole vault at the same meet. Also showing the ability to contribute this spring are newcomers Charlotte Glanville, a sophomore mid-distance and distance runner, and junior mid-distance runner
Alex Marineau as well as freshmen Erin Reilly, a high jumper/sprinter, and Lindy Murphy, a sprinter/pole vaulter. “We have a lot of areas of concern,” said Stone. “But we should be solid in the shot put, pole vault, high jump and in the sprints with
Emma (Fountain) and in the distance races with Ruby (Strahan).” “We really need some of our girls to step up and make points for us and get stronger so that we can put together some good relays,” added Stone. SEE GIRLS, PAGE 5
“We will be in a tough regional again this year,” said Willis. “But we will be looking to make state-qualifying times there.” In the Lakes 8 Conference, the Orioles have hopes of repeating. “It is one of our goals to repeat,” added Willis. “We
are humbly working to achieve that.” Willis sees Manistee as the team the Orioles will have to contend with but also sees darkhorses in Muskegon Catholic Central, Muskegon Orchard View and Muskegon Heights.
GO ORIOLES!
GIRLS: Stone back coaching track team JUNIORS: Emma Althouse, Emma Fountain, Allison Kettler, AlexanThe 2018 Ludington Ori- dria Martineau, Marian Prentice, oles girls track and field team Randi Stone and Kaylie Wells. roster. SOPHOMORES: Natalie Allen, Kassidy Clark, Charlotte GlanSENIORS: Asia Farci, Kathryn ville, Alexandria Kovar, Allison Filter, Ainhoa Lopez Fernandez, Morse, Ellie Schoon, Audra Carolina Nowak, Julia Reynolds Shoop and Ruby Strahan. and Anna Marie Thompson. FRESHMEN: Hannah Allen, Grace FROM PAGE 4
Hilyard, Emma Klein, Lillian Leavitt, Lindy Murphy, Erin Reilly, Gwen Shamel and Amelia VanWyck. Assisting Stone this season will by Shelby Thalen, Jim Keilor and Theresa Shoop. “I feel we should be able to compete well in the Lakes 8,” said Stone.
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
www.ludingtondailynews.com
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Ludington boys golf
Young Orioles ready to hit links
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Ludington girls soccer
Ludington’s defense strong again
BY EDWARD PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
BY EDWARD PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
“We will be very young this year with no seniors and one (returning) junior,” said Ludington boys golf coach Todd Schipper as he begins his second straight season as the Orioles mentor. Last spring, Ludington won the Lakes 8 Conference title in a close finish by three strokes. The Orioles then took fourth at the MHSAA Division 2 regional meet which they hosted. By placing fourth, Ludington missed the state meet by one place. But the Orioles have graduated three of their top golfers — Cooper Wojcicki, Quinn Phelps and Ryan Foley. “I have just three golfers returning from our nine-man squad of last season,” said Schipper. Those returnees are sophomore Evan McKinley, junior Trent Meeker and sophomore Matthew Sarto. Sophomore Ben Laman, who performed well on the junior varsity last spring, should also be a mainstay. Three freshman — Carson Holmes, Blake Benson and Kyle Snyder — will give the Orioles room to grow during the season. “We have another group of eight or nine players who are just learning the game,” added Schipper. “We want to create a JV schedule for them so they can play and improve.” This season, the Orioles will
“Our defense is where we be the strongest this season,” said Ludington girls soccer coach Kris Anderson as he starts his 14th season as the Orioles leader on the pitch. “The defense will have to keep us in games early in the season until the offense comes together.” Last season, the Orioles went 117, finishing second in the Lakes 8 Conference behind the Muskegon Western Michigan Christian Warriors. Ludington was knocked out of the MHSAA division 2 district in their opening game. The Orioles lost 5-0 to the Muskegon ReethsPuffer Rockets. “That was the first year in quite awhile that we were in division 2,” said Anderson. “We will be back in division 3 this season.” The Orioles have graduated eight players from the 2017 squad. Most notably, they have lost all-conference first team selections, Bethany Shay and Courtney Edwards along with second-team picks Jenna Keson and Olivia Sekenske. However, eight seniors return this spring to lead the Orioles efforts. On defense, the Orioles will lean on seniors Halieigh Huber and Kennedy Kirby as well as senior goalkeeper Allison Janowiak, who is in DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS her third season on the varsity. Members of the Ludington girls soccer team are, front row, from left, Adelaide Ward, Claire Leikert, Faith Burnett, Katrina Lesinski, Eleah Billings, Olivia Flewel-
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Ludington boys golf team are, front row, from left, Riley Habermehl, Ethan Koss, Quinn Sargent, Gavin Mitchell, Bryan Clarke, Torin Saxton, Thomas Ryan and Hunter Brown; back row, coach Todd Schipper, Evan McKinley, Trent Meeker, Matthew Sarto, Brendan Ryan, Kyle Snyder, Garrett Bennett, Myles Fritts, David Scott and Blake Benson. Not pictured: Carson Holmes, Ben Laman and Craig Maconochie. move from Division 2 down to Division three. “Overall, that is good for us,” said Schipper. “But we will be playing teams that we usually don’t see during the season. And we will play on a course in Kalkaska we have not been on before.” Also, Schipper hopes to play as many 18-hole tournaments as pos-
sible. “In the state tournament, we play 18 holes,” said Schippper. “But in the league meets, we play just nine holes.” The 2018 Ludington Orioles boys golf team roster. JUNIORS: Garrett Bennett, Hunter Brown, Bryan Clarke, Myles Fritts,
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Craig Maconochie, Trent Meeker, Thomas Ryan, Quinn Sargent, Torin Saxton, David Scott. SOPHOMORES: Riley Habermehl, Ben Laman, Evan McKinley, Matthew Sarto and Kyle Snyder. FRESHMEN: Blake Benson, Aden Butcher, Carson Holmes, Ethan Koss, Gavin Mitchell, Brendan Ryan.
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Assisting Schipper this spring on the links will be his father Max Schipper as well as Denny Tabor. “We have a legitimate shot at winning the league title again,” said Schipper. “We have lost a lot, but most of the other top teams have also. It is hard to know always who is replacing whom at these schools.”
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
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Ludington softball
Ludington ‘eager to get going’ BY EDWARD PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORT WRITER
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Ludington baseball team are, front row, from left, Nate Patterson, Calvin Irelan, Noah Petzak, Kyle Fisher, Garrett Meeker and Luke Fountain; back row, Luke Middlebrook, Sam Bandstra, Nathan Lange, Trevor Latimer, Christian Manier, Jordan Morris, Ashton Cohoon and James Peterson.
Ludington baseball
Killips: ‘Solid all-around team’
BY EDWARD PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
mond, has 12 juniors on his 14-man roster. “We really should have To say the Ludington Ori- a solid all-around team oles baseball team will be ju- this year,” said Killips. “We nior-dominated this spring should be really good on deis almost an understate- fense and I will be very surment. prised if we do not hit the Coach Rob Killips, now be- ball well.” ginning his 10th season as Last season, the Orioles the Orioles leader on the dia- posted a 19-11 record, fin-
ishing second to Muskegon Catholic Central in the Lakes 8 Conference before losing out in the opening round of play in the MHSAA Division 2 district tournament to Remus Chippewa Hills. Ludington graduated five players from that squad, including Jared Collins, a pitcher and an all-confer-
ence selection at shortstop who is now playing football at Albion College. Also graduated is third baseman Austin McCarthy, who was a second-team all-conference pick. McCarthy skated juniors hockey this winter for the Topeka Roadrunners of the North American Hockey League.
Pacing the Orioles this spring in the grand old game should be junior shortstop Nathan Lange, who also was named to the Lakes 8 allconference team last spring. This is Lange’s third season on the varsity. Other returnees who will play big roles include senior outfielder James Peterson
along with juniors Calvin Irelan, second baseman; Luke Fountain, first baseman; Garrett Meeker, pitcher/centerfielder; Luke Middlebrook, catcher; and Nathan Patterson, pitcher/third baseman. Right now, Killips sees Meeker and Patterson along SEE BASEBALL, PAGE 11
“I really want to see these girls be competitive in the Lakes 8 Conference this spring,” said Ludington softball coach Sierra Holmes. “These girls have put in a lot of extra time in the summer to improve their skills.” The Orioles, who posted a 5-27 record last season, lost five starters from that team. Most significantly, the Orioles lost their primary pitcher Ryan Makowicki and all-conference shortstop Breanna Lange, but also gone are Carissa Bush, Riley Rittenhouse and Mikayla Collins. “We have a lot of spots to fill,” said Holmes “But we have a lot of girls who can play a lot of different positions. I think after one or two main positions get filled, the others will fall into place.” The Orioles will be a young team with just one senior returning with four other returnees. Of the Orioles’ 12girl roster, seven are juniors. The Orioles have four girls looking to pitch innings this season. Juniors Mackenzie Howe and Megan Mulherin did get some experience in the circle last year. Sophomore Olivia VerStrat, who was the starter in centerfield last spring, along with freshman Taylor Makowicki, are other candidates to take up the ball for the Orioles. Sharing the important catching duties should be senior Katlyn Knudsen and junior Alexis Bray. Both are varsity returnees. Juniors Tiffany LaFrance, Hannah Roose along with Howe and Mulherin all played travel softball this summer. “They have improved significantly, but then all 12 of our players had made
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Ludington softball team are, front row, from left, Taylor Makowicki, Megan Muhlerin, Tiffany LaFrance, Bailee Wysong and Hannah Roose; second row, Sophia Powers, Alexis Bray, Karlee Plamondon, Mackenzie Howe, Cova De Barutell, Elaina Duncil and Katlyn Knudsen. Not pictured: Olivia VerStrat and Ainhoa Lopez Fernandez good strides,” said Holmes. “This is a great group of kids,” added Holmes. “They are eager to get going. And I am excited to see how well they do this season.” Other juniors on the team this spring will be Bailee Wysong and Elaina Duncil,
both players have infield and outfield experience at the junior varsity level. Sophomore Karlee Plamondon also has played in both the infield and outfield. Also on the team are Covadonga DeBarutell and Ainhoa Lopez Fernandez, foreign ex-
change students from Spain. The Orioles’ top hitters this season should include Howe, VerStrat. LaFrance and Plamondon. The 2018 Ludington Orioles softball roster: SENIORS: Covadonga De Ba-
rutell, Katlyn Knudsen, Ainhoa Lopez Fernandez. JUNIORS: Alexis Bray, Elaine Duncil, Mackenzie Howe, Tiffany LaFrance, Megan Mulherin, Hannah Roose and Bailee Wysong. SOPHOMORES: Karlee Plamondon and Olivia VerStrat.
FRESHMAN: Taylor Makowicki. Assisting Holmes this season will be her father, Joe Holmes, along with Hallie Utter. The Ludington junior varsity team, coached by Maggie Bates, has 13 members.
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
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SOCCER: Ludington will be tough defensively
Ludington girls tennis
Seniors ready to take charge BY EDWARD PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER Last year, new Ludington Orioles girls tennis head coach Kelley Chapman had a young team with just one senior and a load of juniors. Now Chapman’s second year is here and she has an experienced, senior-laden squad. “This year, we are want to go all out. We have a lot of senior and they have been chomping at the bit,” Chapman said. They want to finish their careers here with a strong season.” The Orioles lone loss to graduation was Kennedi Killips. But eight players return with that all-important varsity experience. Leading the way for the Orioles on the courts this year should be senior Lillie Cunic and junior Lindsey Holmes. “They are battling for the No. 1 singles spot right now,” said Chapman. “One of them will be No. 1 singles and the other will be No. 2 singles.” Sophomore Alanna Patterson looks to be the top candidate for the No. 3 singles slot. The No. 4 singles spot seems to be up for grabs with foreign exchange student Gaia Rossi and junior Paighton Bentz in the running as of late. In the doubles flights, the Orioles will be paced by the No. 1 team of seniors Alaina Janish and Kamryn Wallace. Seniors Anika Korendyke and Erin Maltbie along with returning sophomore Hailee Ward are candidates for the No. 2 duo. Senior newcomers Karsyn Alexander and Madison Strbich will be part of the remaining two flights of doubles.
DAILY NEWS FILE PHOTO
Ludington’s Courtney Gerovac makes a play on the ball during last season’s district tournament game against Reeths-Puffer. Gerovac returns to play in her senior season.
BASEBALL: Killips looking forward to this season FROM PAGE 8
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Ludington junior varsity and varsity girls tennis teams are, front row, from left, Gaia Rossi, Madison Strbich, Anika Korendyke, Jade Gustafson, Alaina Janish, Kamryn Wallace, Lille Cunic, Lindsey Holmes and Julia Maltbie; second row, Grace Toranko, Paighton Bentz, Alanna Patterson, Hailee Ward, Carmen Rose Wardle, Lorynn Hackert, Tara Mosher and Jessica Westhouse; back row, Isabella VandenHeuvel, Megan Sparling, Lesleigh Hiltz, Rachel Sarto and Payton Shoup. “All of these girls have been working hard,” said Chapman. “But Lille (Cunic) and Alaina (Janish) have put in a lot of extra time in the off-season. They are playing the best tennis ever.”
The Orioles will have a junior varsity squad that includes 14 athletes. Mary Ceferatti will coach the young Orioles. “We have a very good feeder program for the young
players in our school,” add- SENIORS: Karsyn Anderson, ed Chapman. “They come Lille Cunic, Alaina Janish, Anika into high school with an ex- Korendyke, Erin Maltbie, Gaia tra spark.” Rossi, Madison Strbich, Kamryn The 2018 Ludington Ori- Wallace. oles girls tennis team roster. JUNIORS: Paighton Bentz, Lindsey Holmes.
SOPHOMORE: Alanna Patterson, Grace Taranko, Isabella VandenHeuvel, Hailee Ward. Assisting Chapman this spring will be Rob Killips Sr. and J.T. Walunas.
give the ball to and have her take it all the way in.” The offense should be “But I think the offense led by senior forward will come along.” Mackenzie Luce, who is The 2018 Ludington Orithe top returning scorer. oles girls soccer team rosBut help should come in ter: the form of senior outsidemids Caroline Cooney and SENIORS: Caroline Cooney, Courtney Gerovac as well Courtney Gerovac, Haileigh as senior forward Allison Huber, Allison Janowiak, May. Kennedy Kirby, Claire Leik“We will do something a ert, Mackenzie Luce, Allison little different on defense May. this year,” added Ander- JUNIORS: Faith Burnett, Kason. “We plan on playing trina Lesinski, Lindsey Lovato, five back on defense.” Abby Millspaugh, Adelaide Anderson noted that Ward. the development of three SOPHOMORES: Eleah Billings, defensive players, senior Olivia Flewelling, Breanna Claire Leikert with juniors Mesyar. Abby Millspaugh and Adie FRESHMAN: Hailey Stowe. Ward, will be the key to how well the defense perAssisting Anderson this forms this season. season will be Chris EdThe Orioles also ex- wards and Andy Hamilton. pect help on defense from The junior varsity will be sophomore Hailey Stowe. mentored by Trish ForfinOther offensive contri- ski. butions should come from “I think the league will junior forward Katrina Les- be a three-team race,” said inski and sophomore Oliv- Anderson. “It should be ia Flewelling. Muskegon Western Michi“Our forwards and mids gan Christian, Muskegon will have to learn to play Catholic and ourselves. But together to create scor- I have to give Christian and ing opportunities,” added Catholic a bit of an edge Anderson. “It isn’t like we because they have a bit have one player we can more experience than us.” FROM PAGE 7
with juniors Christian Manier and Sam Bandstra as the leaders of the Orioles’ pitching staff. “All of those guys have a good deal of experience on the mound,” added Killips. Other team members expected to help out include senior outfielder Jordan Morris with juniors Trevor Latimer, a catcher-third baseman; Ashton Cohoon, a first baseman-pitcher; Noah Petzak, a second baseman-outfielder and
Kyle Fisher, an outfielder. Meeker, Luke Middlebrook, Nathan “We have a lot of kids who can Patterson and Noah Petzak. hit the ball,” said Killips, “Most of our players play travel baseball in Assisting Killips this spring will the summer.” be Tyronne Collins, Todd Hansen, The 2018 Ludington Orioles Evan Kroeze and Scott Latimer. J.P. baseball team roster: Deines returns to lead the junior varsity with help from Mike Miller. SENIORS: Jordan Morris and James “I believe Muskegon Catholic will Peterson. be the strongest team in the conJUNIORS: Samuel Bandstra, Ashton ference this year,” said Killips. “But Cohoon, Kyle Fisher, Luke Fountain, then again, all the teams in the conCalvin Irelan, Nathan Lange, Trevor ference return a lot of players this Latimer, Christian Manier, Garrett season.”
Ludington Luke Fountain receives a pickoff throw in a game against Mason County Central last season. Fountain returns for the Orioles. DAILY NEWS FILE PHOTO
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
www.ludingtondailynews.com
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
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Manistee softball
Manistee girls tennis
Chippewas seek improvement over last season
Vander Weele takes command of softball program
BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
MANISTEE — Although the majority of the team returns for Manistee’s girls tennis team this spring, none of the players enjoyed much individual success on the courts last year. With a new set of coaches, the Chippewas are starting from scratch. In fact, co-head coaches Vicki and Greg Sheffield didn’t speak with the girls about their individual statistics when they held their first team meeting, and they don’t have any intention of touching on the subject. The Chippewas have 12 girls on the roster, and better than half of them are back from last year but that also means five of the girls are new to the squad and will need time to blend into the mix. Early April snow made preparations for the new season difficult, since almost all of the Chippewas work so far has been done indoors. Manistee has benefited from being able to practice in the former Manistee Armory building and its spacious gym twice a week. “I think what we’re seeing is, we’re seeing dedication,” Vicki Sheffield said. “We’re seeing girls that definitely have some technique. They have some nice strokes. We’re seeing some hustle, and willingness to want to improve. “We’re seeing some good things. I think there’s potential out there this year. I do. We were hoping to be outdoors, and start with our challenge matches. All teams do. What you’re trying to determine is who your top player is and then go from there. “But I think in our case we’re just kind of seeing who has that agility to move
MANISTEE — He’s always been involved in coaching softball to some degree for a number of years, and wanted to take on a bigger role. Ross Vander Weele got his wish, as Manistee hired him to replace varsity coach Paul Maksym this season. Vander Weele understands the challenge he has taken on in trying to keep the Chippewas express rolling. In seven years guiding the Chippewas fortunes on the softball diamond, Maksym led them to six district championships — including last year — and two regional titles, and left a lasting legacy that will be difficult to match. “Coached travel, coached Little League, and was board president for Little League here in Manistee County for a couple years,” Vander Weele said. “It was just a natural progression. “But I have big shoes to fill. We have been changing a few things, implementing some different thought processes, helping the girls to think more athletically.” Vander Weele kept only 11 players on the varsity roster, with 13 on the junior varsity, and will have a very short bench. But the future looks promising. Manistee’s roster:
GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Manistee girls tennis team are, front row, from left; Ava Bladzik, Emily Krolczyk, Camilla Rannisi, Harley Harland, Trinity Herbert and Kellie Raczkowski; back row, from left, co-coach Greg Sheffield, co-coach Vicki Sheffield, Katie Huber, Lauren Mikolajczak, Breanna Alexander, Jaelyn Thomas, Maddy Tabaczka and Alice Fink-Jensen. around on the court, to be a singles player. When you’re looking at a doubles player, you’re looking at someone who really has that communication skill and the ability to work with somebody.” Manistee’s roster:
what the girls show in practice. The weather has been a hindrance to that process, though, forcing the Chippewas to do what work they can indoors, but that makes seeing the big picture a futile effort. SENIORS: Harley Harland, Trinity Putting together the sinHerbert, Kellie Raczkowski and gles flights is the biggest Alice Fink-Jensen. challenge, says Sheffield, JUNIORS: Katie Huber, Lauren and not being able to get Mikolajczak, Jaelyn Thomas, the team outside and have Maddy Tabaczka and Camilla them actually simulating Rannisi. match situations has been FRESHMAN: Emily Krolczyk. a problem in their development. Sheffield isn’t interested “As a singles player, in knowing what positions there’s a greater demand on each of the girls played, and you,” Sheffield said. “Cerwill determine singles and tainly, as a No. 1 singles doubles flights based on player, because you’re going
up against the best on every other team, because that’s how the Michigan High School Athletic Association has it set up.” The doubles flights presents a different and unique challenge of its own. Compatibility is the biggest requisite. “If we don’t see that connection (in practice), then it’s probably not going to happen on the court,” Sheffield said. “They need to encourage and not blame each other if there is an error. “That’s easy to do in doubles. You have to be able as a doubles player to talk to your teammate, build them up and come back if an error is made and go after points.”
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During a parents’ meeting, Sheffield discussed the lack of a feeder program for girls tennis. “We have the summer camps, run through the Manistee Recreation Association, and the USTA team camps,” Sheffield said. “We have those, but we’re hoping to do is get into some of the schools. “I’d hope that some of these girls could be role models to some of the other students. Just bring girls in for an assembly, have some of the girls play, and get some interest. “The thing is we want to start doing some programs at lower levels, and build it, so that when the girls get
to high school they’re not starting from scratch. That we don’t have kids coming to the varsity program who have never played before.” Manistee’s experience is largely among a solid group of juniors, with only four seniors on the squad. One of them, Harley Harland, hasn’t played tennis before. The other three are Trinity Herbert, Camillar Rannisi and Kellie Raczkowski. Sheffield said she and her husband have only recently started to put some girls together to see if they could be good fits for the doubles flights, while pitting individuals against one another to determine who would be right for the singles.
SENIORS: Cami Edmondson and Sara Schaefer. JUNIORS: Micaela Briske, Erin Dorn, Erin Vander Weele, Ashley Walle, Emma Witkowski, Kari Zimmerman SOPHOMORES: Lyndsey Kelley and Sara Thompson. FRESHMAN: Melissa Miller. Numbers are solid in the middle school program, with eight or nine girls expected to join the junior varsity ranks as freshmen next year.
GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Manistee girls softball team are, front row, from left, Sara Thompson, Madison Miller, Sara Schaefer, Cami Edmondson and Lyndsey Kelley; back row, from left, Erin Vander Weele, Erin Dorn, Kari Zimmerman, Emma Witkowski and Ashley Walle. Not pictured: Michaela Briske. Vander Weele is confident the program is going to blossom in the years ahead. “Earlier I told someone that I’m trying to mimic (girls basketball coach) Kenn Kott did, where he went out and talked to the little kids and got them involved,” Vander Weele added. “In our case, we’re going to get them swinging a bat and accustomed to the verbiage.” Vander Weele said he’s in it for the long haul, and doesn’t intend for it to be a two-and-out situation and quitting once his daughter, junior Erin Vander Weele,
graduates. Obviously, there could be an unexpected change in his job situation where he is relocated, or the administration becomes disenchanted with how he’s handling the team. Time will tell. “We’re laying the groundwork for a long run,” said Vander Weele. “One of my assistant coaches who has a senior on the team says he’s not a one-and-done. My intent is to do this for quite a while.” Although he’s keeping an usually small number on the varsity this season, Vander Weele added that there’ll be
some fluidity with his ability to occasionally call players up from the junior varsity. Vander Weele says there are a couple of junior varsity players who are on the fringe of being varsity ready, and he won’t be afraid to call them up when the need arises to get them experience. “We have a huge amount of team speed,” Vander Weele said. “So, what we lack in power and depth, I’m hopeful we can outscore the opponent using our speed on the bases to our advantage. “I have access to several
college coaches and downstate high school programs through my travel coaching affiliation. Many have been more than willing to help making sure I have all the information I need.” Manistee has three seniors this year who played as juniors, including two who were starters in Sara Schaefer and Madison Miller. Cami Edmondson is the other who was used in a different role. Also returning is Emma Witkowski, who’ll be the Chippewas No. 1 pitcher in the rotation, with Lakes 8 Activities All-Conference
shortstop Erin Vander Weele solidifying Manistee’s defense up the middle. Back in the outfield are juniors Ashley Walle and third-year starter Erin Dorn. Another junior, Kari Zimmerman, split time between the junior varsity and varsity last year. Sophomore junior varsity call-up Sara Thompson will most likely be the No. 2 pitcher, while sophomore Lyndsey Kelley’s role has yet to be determined but has experience playing in the outfield. “We lost a great deal with our top two pitchers graduating last year. So, we have some pitching shoes to fill. Our infield is basically intact, except for third base,” Vander Weele said. “If need be, Dorn can swing over there. Outfieldwise, we’re intact, so we have a lot of experience. The girls have really adapted our though processes in how we’re going to play. “I would expect that we would at least contend for a district title, and that we would be competitive. Last year I think we lost seven games. Sydney Arent was a heck of a pitcher. But Emma is developing quickly.” Schaefer is expected to be the Chippewas starting first baseman, with Thompson at second with third still open, although Edmondson could open the season there. Walle will likely be in left field, but also possibly moving to the infield. Vander Weele has penciled in Dorn for center field and Kelley in right, with Zimmerman filling in at first base when she’s not catching. The batting order is still in flux. Vander Weele says he’s still looking at the possible options, noting that he’s already made some changes in that regard.
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Manistee girls soccer
Trahan takes charge of Chippewas program BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER MANISTEE — A new coach, with an experienced but young team is the situation in which first-year Manistee girls varsity soccer coach Jaclyn Trahan finds herself this spring after two seasons coaching the junior varsity squad. Assuming the controls is both exciting, and a bit intimidating for Trahan, who takes over from long-time coach Rudy Guillen who stepped down at the end of last season. Looking around her when she held her first practice with the Chippewas, on the football field by the old high school that is now Kennedy Elementary — before the
snow returned in force — Trahan recognized the vacancies left with the departure of some key seniors. Goalkeeper is the biggest priority for Trahan. Finding someone to step up to fill the shoes vacated by three-year starting netminder Briana Larsen is no easy matter, and midfield veteran Georgia Hiipakka also departed. Right now, it appears sophomore Lily Sandstedt will assume Larsen’s old spot in net, but there’s also the need to have someone standing by in the wings as a reserve to spell Sandstedt from time to time, and in GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS case she’s sidelined because Member of the Manistee girls soccer team are, from left, kneeling, Makayla Alcayde-Wiltse, Hayley Anderson, Amanda Deisch, Bilof illness or injury. lie Gajewski, Nevaeh Mannon, Tiffany Elo and Alora Sundbeck; back row, from left, standing, Tatum Liston, Heidi Feliczak, Nicole SEE CHIPPEWAS, PAGE 19
Weaver, Maggie Blevins, Amanda Peddie, Lily Sandstedt, Heather Antal, Amber Miller, Kiera Raymond, Olivia Smith, manager Irene Jara Gutierrez and coach Jaclyn Trahan.
GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Manistee baseball team are, front row, from left, team manager Calvin Edmondson, Jeffrey Schwass, Evan Bauman, Logan Buren, Austin Guenther, Mayan Liston, Trent Beaudrie, Joey Kott and Garrett Nemitz; back row, from left; team manager Jaret Edmondson, team manager Jeffrey Huber, Josh Fitzgerald, Raymond Schwass, Andrew Jackoviak, Jayden O’Hagan, Stephen Loredo, Brady Mikula, Titus Lind, Abdiel Nunez, Trevor Johns, Caden Schmutzler, and team manager Ethan Edmondson.
Manistee baseball
Edmondson emphasizing making small plays BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
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there are several players coming back who saw significant playing time last year. MANISTEE — Coach Dave The Chippewas are still relEdmondson felt the Manist- atively young and still need to ee baseball team was play- become comfortable playing ing its best ball at the end of on a more consistent basis. the season, but still couldn’t Manistee’s roster: overcome the small mistakes, and it brought the cur- SENIORS: Mayan Liston, Stetain down in the districts. phen Loredo and Raymond Despite their struggles, Schwass it was still evident to any- JUNIORS: Evan Bauman, Austin one who watched the Chip- Guenther, Logan Buren, Abdiel pewas on the diamond that Nunez, Trevor Johns, Jayden they improved with every O’Hagan, Caden Schmutlzer game and showed the kind and Josh Fitzgerald. of growth that can lead to SOPHOMORE: Andrew Jackobetter production. viak Now in his second year FRESHMEN: Brady Mikula, Joey as coach Edmondson is em- Kott, Garrett Nemitz, Trent phasizing cleaning up those Beaudrie, Titus Lind and Jeffrey problems as the Chippewas Schwass. prepare for the 2018 season that is being delayed by the “Hopefully, they learned early spring weather. some lessons in the moUnfortunately, the Chip- ments they were on the field pewas have several holes to and can build on that,” Edfill in the starting lineup be- mondson said. “You hope, cause of graduation depar- as a coach, that they’ve retures. But, on the plus side, tained what they experi-
enced and can translate that as they begin another year. “We talk about not giving away extra 90s, which is 90 feet between the bases. We talk about putting the ball in play when we’re at the plate, and that a ground ball to second will score a guy from third. Bunting the ball to use our speed. “If a guy hits the ball, we might give him first, but let’s not throw the ball around and give him second or third. We need to minimize the damage, and keep the runs down.” Little things are also being emphasized on defense, especially fielding a bunt and making a good throw to first. Edmondson is also working his outfielders on getting in front of the ball and hitting the right cutoff man. The Chippewas have six juniors who played a year ago as sophomores. Edmondson, as usual, would not divulge any starters but
Evan Bauman was one of the team’s best pitchers last year as a freshman. Edmondson would not confirm he was considering Bauman for one of the top three spots in the rotation, and that everyone would be taking a turn on the mound, especially with the new MHSAA 100-pitch rule. Manistee has an 18-man varsity roster, but did not have enough come out to field a junior varsity this year, which is naturally a big disappointment because Edmondson would like to see the young kids get the chance to play. As it is, the younger guys will practice but spend game time sitting the bench, watching the older guys in the field and picking up what they can from their observations. Edmondson isn’t saying they couldn’t work their way onto the field, though. He’s not going to sit someone
who has shown he can handle the pressure of playing on the varsity. “We’re young, but we’re greedy,” Edmondson says. “Just because we’re young, doesn’t mean we have to take more lumps. We want to start giving lumps. “Last year, I think we had nine wins. Well, we want to double that. That’s our goal. Some of our key contributors last year were sophomores on varsity. We’re returning guys returning who have experience playing shortstop, second and catcher. That’s going to be big for us.” Edmondson would not mention who will be starting at each position, but returning starters include Mayan Liston, Austin Guenther, Bauman, Abdiel Nunez, Jayden O’Hagen and Logan Buren. One reason Edmondson refuses to name any starters before the first game
is because he doesn’t want anyone feeling a sense of entitlement, and to keep the players competing intently for a job. He wants them to work for it. He would say, though, that the outfield looks to be loaded with speed this spring. “We have kids who came up from the junior varsity who can really run,” Edmondson said. “That’s one of the things that’s going to be an asset for us. Speed. “It’s there. We can move in the outfield, we can move in the infield. We’ve talked about how to use that to our advantage, how we can use that to hurt other teams and help us as far as on the base paths. “Positioning on defense, positioning of the other team’s defense when we’re on the base paths. Looking for things like that. Knowing situations. We talk a lot about speed, and making it work for us.”
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Manistee boys golf
Foreign exchange students bolster team’s roster BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER MANISTEE — A couple of the key pieces to the Manistee golf team’s successful season last year, when the Chippewas ended up finishing sixth at the MHSAA Division 3 regional tournament, are missing as the 2018 season approaches. That means coach Mike Swanson is looking for a couple of younger people to step up and take their place in the “next man up” mentality, while admitting it will be a tough challenge to fill their shoes. One of those graduates was a foreign exchange student from Denmark. This year, Manistee will have three exchange students joining the roster, and Swanson says he hasn’t seen them play a round yet and isn’t sure what to expect. Practice has been limited to what the Chippewas can accomplish inside with the early spring weather typically unpredictable, so Swanson is anxious for the team’s first swings outside when he’ll get a better feel on what those newcomers bring to the table. But, there is experience returning in the persons of senior Keagan Thomas and juniors Rocco Staszczak, Jayden O’Hagan and Ethan Anderson. They’ll be counted on to form the top three in the scoring rotation. Manistee’s roster: SENIORS: Keagan Thomas, Oscar Hammarstrom, Mathias Erikkson and Hugo Skarin.
all depends on how much golf they’ve been able to play since the end of last season. “We won’t know until we get out on the course, but I know some of them put some effort into it,” said Swanson. “It’s an individual sport. If one person puts a lot of time into it, they get a lot better. “If you don’t practice at all, you usually end up your senior at the same place you were your freshman year. I do know we have a good younger class this year with four freshmen and a sophomore out. “Last year, we only had one freshman. You never know if a surprise is going to come out of the young crowd, too. With those young guys, I know that there is a future. “The younger they come in, the more we can develop over four years. That’s the plan.” Until they can get outside, the Chippewas don’t practice every day. They do a lot of team building, watch instructional videos and go over the rules. It’s difficult preparing for the season GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS in this fashion, but SwanMembers of the Manistee boys golf team are, front row, from left, Christian Long, Michael DeRosia, son has no control over the Caleb Adamski and Neven Johnson; back row, from left, Jayden O’Hagan, Ethan Anderson, Mathias weather. Eriksson, Oscar Hammarstroem and Hugo Skarin. In looking over the Lakes 8 Conference competition, JUNIORS: Ethan Anderson, The three foreign ex- quickly the veterans can Swanson expects MuskeJayden O’Hagan, Christian change students are seniors make an impact, noting it gon Catholic to be tough Long and Rocco Staszczak. Mathias Erikkson, Oscar The Parts SOPHOMORE: Neven Johnson. Hammarstrom and Hugo You Want, FRESHMEN: Mason Adamski, Skarin who played for the The Value You Expect Caleb Adamski, Tyler Wilhoit, Chippewas co-op ice hockDomestic & Import Michael DeRosia and Donovan ey team. Staszczak was the Parts Stores Auto Parts Watson. team’s goalkeeper. 3909 W. US 10, Ludington Swanson isn’t sure how
again despite losing a few key contributors, and Ludington has tradition on its side. Manistee finished behind the Orioles last year and would like to hope that it could catch them. “But that’s the excitement,” Swanson said. “You don’t know until you get out there, and then you just have to do your best. We’ll see where we are at the first conference match.” Swanson added that the post-season has been a mixed bag the last few years. “It’s anybody’s game,” the coach said. “With a four-man team, one guy deciding to go out for golf and one guy deciding not to go out for the golf team can swing a whole team one way or the other. “We won’t know anything until we tee them up, and see what they do. Mostly, we just try to do our best, and let it fall where it may. You can’t all of a sudden get better. You want to perform at your peak level, and hope it’s good enough. “Our schedule has just the right amount of tournaments. We set that up intentionally. You can overdo it and play too often, and you get tired of it. You can schedule too few and not be able to spread them out enough, and not get enough experience for the team.”
GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Manistee boys track and field team are, front row, from left, Anderson Johns, Anthony Zambrano, Craig Popkowski, Stephen Moore, Noah Owens, Trac Allen, Anselmo Sarabia, Ransom Hoeflinger, Jesus Reyna-Cruz and Trevor Johns; second row, Christian Huer-Sparks, Torin Sheptock, Ryan Rochman, Nick Weaver, Keean Eskridge, Keith Barke, Garrett Brown, Campbell Kolk, Alvaro Sarabia, Anthony Vaughn, Will Elbers and Landon Powers; back row, assistant Andy Anderson, assistant Dana Wayward, Dylan Ide, Dylan Johnson, Keaton Ensley, Carter Kissell, Anthony Lind, Elliot Kamaloski, Jacob Gustad, Roger Lind, York Wangenheim, Bradlee Popkowski, coach Eric Thuemmel and coach Hilary Edmondson.
Manistee boys track
Chippewas aiming to overtake rivals in Lakes 8 BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
hind the Orioles with some solid athletes and strong performances, and ThuemMANISTEE — With a little mel believes they can make stronger showing in the field another run the title this seaevents, it’s Manistee boys son. track coach Eric Thuemmel’s The Chippewas return opinion felt the Chippewas the majority of their squad would have had a chance to from last year, which is the challenge Ludington for the main reason for Thuemmel’s title in last year’s Lakes 8 Ac- encouraging outlook. But, tivities Conference champi- there are some noticeable onship meet. absences. As it was, the Chippewas Obviously the biggest loss finished a strong second be- for the Chippewas is that of
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ter dash at conference and regionals, while Peck was a solid 400-meter and 800-meter runner. But the Chippewas have a number of returning people, including junior Jack Sandstedt who placed eighth in the state as a sophomore last year in the 400-meter dash. Also back is sophomore Blake Mikula, who runs in the 200 and 400, where he is within a step of Sandstedt. In addition, the Chippewas
return junior distance runner Anselmo Sarabia. “He is, I think, going to be one of the top 800 runners in Division 3,” Thuemmel said. “We kind of moved him around last year, but he’s going to be focusing more on the 800. We’re expecting big things out of him. The kid’s just a natural runner. “One of the exciting things this year is we have a track, finally, to practice on regularly. We’re excited about
all the opportunities it will present for us. Running on our own track has the kids all pumped.” Manistee’s roster: SENIORS: Garrett Brown, Jacob Gustad, Elliott Kamaloski, Campbell Kolk, Anthony Lind, Stephen Moore, Craig Popkowski, Alavaro Sarabia, York Wangenheim and Anthony Zambrano
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Tai Allen, who finished second in the long jump at the MHSAA Division 3 state finals in a feat made more remarkable because he never practiced the event during the season. Graduation also took Logan Guenthardt and Tyler Peck, who contributed to the relay events for Manistee and were solid senior athletes who could score points in many of the events. Guenthardt placed in the 100-me-
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ROLES: Chippewas spent much of pre-season figuring out who’s competing in what FROM PAGE 18
DAILY NEWS FILE PHOTO
Manistee’s Tegan Wayward throws the shot put last season in Ludington.
GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Manistee girls track team are, front row, from left, Kiwi Kanjanajarean, McKenna Connell, Sara Thompson, Erin Dorn, Noelle Fink, Taylor Murray, Paris Reeser and Kendahl Wright; coach Eric Thuemmel, coach Hilary Edmondson, Kaya Long, Ava Thuemmel, Lily Lester, Teagan Wayward, Ciara Anderson, Logan Wayward, Morgan Ju, Gege Ghennewa, Olivia Holtgren, assistant Dana Wayward and assistant Andy Anderson.
Manistee girls track
BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
season for Manistee’s girls track team. The 800-meter relay team MANISTEE — Smashing a of Audrey Padilla, Natalee school record that had stood Kott, Taylor Williams and for 27 years at the MHSAA Erin Dorn combined for a Division 3 state champion- time of 1:49.30, breaking the ship meet was the by far and school record set in 1991. away highlight of the 2017 Earlier in the day, the
same foursome had broken the school record in the 1600-meter relay with a time of 4:04.95. But half of that team is gone with the graduation of Padilla and Kott. It leaves
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SENIORS: Tegan Wayward, Sydney Williams and Taylor Williams JUNIORS: Ciara Anderson, Erin Dorn, Gege Ghennewa and Isabella Riley SOPHOMORES: Jessey Abrom, Noelle Fink, Morgan Ju, Kiwi Kanjanajarean, Kaya Long, Sara
Thompson, Ava Thuemmel and Kendahl Wright FRESHMEN: McKenna Connell, Olivia Holtgren, Lily Lester, Taylor Murray, Paris Reeser, Logan Wayward. Edmondson said that freshman Kendahl Wright has expressed an interest in trying out in the pole vault, and the coach added that she would be a welcome addition. Because the team hasn’t been able to do much work outside, Edmondson is still in the process of determining in what events some of the girls will be competing. Everyone is eager to get outside for another rea-
son. Manistee finally has a new, state-of-the-art track to practice on and both Edmondson and boys coach Eric Thummel believes the team will reap the benefits. “It’s going to be nice to actually have a track where we can practice long jump, practice pole vault and run on the track,” Edmondson said. “In previous years, we basically got our practice in when we went to a meet. “We couldn’t practice long jump or pole vault before. There weren’t the facilities to do it. The track was difficult to run on as well, so it’ll be nice to be able to work on things we never have before.”
FROM PAGE 17
FRESHMEN: Keith Barke, Keaton Ensley, Keelan Eskridge, Ransom Hoeflinger, Anderson Johns, Dylan Johnson, Declan McCann, Landen Powers, Ryan Rochman, Torin Sheptock and Nick Weaver. Although he wasn’t around last spring, after competing on the team previous years, senior Campbell
Kolk is back and has grown physically as well as in maturity. Thuemmel expects Kolk to score some points for the Chippewas in the pole vault and high jump. He’s also a good sprinter, and Thuemmel is confident he’ll be a major contributor. Manistee also has two solid senior distance runners in
Jacob Gustad and Elliott Kamaloski that should be solid for the Chippewas as well. Since they won the league last year, Thuemmel taps the Orioles as the favorites in the Lakes 8 again. “They had quite a few seniors in the bunch last year, but they have a few good underclassmen coming in,” Thuemmel said. “They never
seem to be hurting for talent. “You never what the other schools have coming up. I know Muskegon Catholic last year had some really good underclassmen, so I know they’re going to be pretty solid in the sprints and sprint relays. “Right now, I’m liking our chances. We will stack
up well. I think we could be stronger in the throws (shot put and discus). That is going to be the weakest point again this year. We’ll hopefully have someone step up in those events.” Hart looks to be a force to be reckoned with in the Division 3 regional this year, with Manton also on Manistee’s radar.
CHIPPEWAS: New coach Trahan believes team has speed, needs endurance though
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year.” Her younger sister, freshman Logan Wayward, broke the middle school throwing record last year and the two of them are expected to be major point producers for the Chippewas. In fact, Edmondson believes the pair could wind up competing at the state finals. Manistee’s roster:
NEW: Manistee looking forward to practicing, competing on own new track facility JUNIORS: Trac Allen, Cameron Fink, Bryson Jensen, Trevor Johns, Bruce Mercer, Noah Owens, Bradlee Popkowski, Jack Sandstedt, Anselmo Sarabia, Christian Sparks, Anthon Vaughn and Thomas Veine. SOPHOMORES: Bishop Davis, William Elbers, Dylan Ide, Carter Kissell, Roger Lind, Blake Mikula and Jesus Reyna-Cruz
Chippewas learning roles
girls coach Hilary Edmondson with the task is finding their replacements as she prepares the Chippewas for the 2018 campaign. “It’s been hard figuring that out since we haven’t been able to get out on the track,” Edmondson said. “The girls have been running in the hallways, or upstairs above the gym. “Dorn and Williams ... I expect them to improve on what they did last year, but, we also have some new girls and some freshmen who are hoping to contend for those spots.” Manistee also has anoth-
er state qualifier returning in sophomore Noelle Fink, who is the team’s leading distance runner coming into this season. Edmondson says she’s a tireless worker, unceasingly getting her running in every day. Another key returner is senior Tegan Wayward, who qualified for state for the third consecutive year last spring and seems primed to make it four in a row. “She’s been working hard all year in the weight room, doing power lifting and making sure she’s staying in shape,” Edmondson said. “Her goals are to make it back to states, and place high in both events this
gie Blevins, Hayley Anderson, Billie Gajeski and Tatum Liston, Manistee endured a diffi- Heidi Feliczak cult season last year, when JUNIORS: Heather Antal, Tiffany the Chippewas went 3-14-1 Elo, Nicole Weaver, Amanda overall. Peddie and Kiera Raymond But they’re hoping their SOPHOMORES: Makayla Aldramatic 4-3 overtime vic- cayde, Amber Miller, Lily Sandtory on penalty kicks in the stedt and Nevaeh Mannon. opening round of the Divi- FRESHMEN: Olivia Smith and sion 3 district tournament Alora Sundbeck. in Manistee can carry over to this season. Coming back from that Manistee’s roster: team are seniors Maggie Blevins, Amanda Deisch, SENIORS: Amanda Deisch, Mag- Heidi Feliczak and Hayley FROM PAGE 14
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Anderson, as well as sophomore Makayla Alcayde. Deisch and Blevins both started in the back on defense last year, and are expected to anchor Manistee’s defense. Trahan is not a big believer in heavy substitution, and won’t be doing a lot of player rotation, preferring to keep the starting 11 on the pitch for the majority of the minutes. If not all 80. “What we want to achieve is a smooth flow for the entire
time, as each player becomes familiar with one another,” Trahan said. “That obviously points to the need to be in good game shape, and then maintaining that standard for the entire season. “As long as the girls that start the game are not showing any signs of fatigue, and are maintaining their full effort, they’re going to be out there. If they’re playing well, working hard ... then I want to leave them in there.” Conditioning is also para-
mount for the Chippewas since Trahan wants them to be a high pressure offense, moving the ball quickly, and getting to the open spaces ahead of the competition. The midfielders will not only be expected to only stop opponents drives, but to move the ball quickly in transition, and with Trahan’s plan to keep the same 11 on the field all the time, no one can expect to be given a quick breather. So they need to be ready
to handle all of the running that comes with the type of game Trahan wants to employ. “We have a lot of speed on defense,” Trahan said. “We’re just looking to build endurance. We have some players that are really good with touches on the ball. “Then, we’re working to build skills off of the ball as well. Liston has been up top, and speed is our strength there. We’re looking to work on some foot skills as well.”
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Good Luck On A Great Season! From Our Team to Your Team
| FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018