Ludington Daily News • Friday, April 11, 2014
Your guide to MCC’s and Hart’s upcoming sports seasons, featuring stories, team photos and schedules
g n i Spr 1 s t r o p S
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the 2014 Mason County Central boys track team are, from left, sitting, Jacob Shoop, Eric Quick, Johnny Trivisonno, Dalton Shoemate, Victor Lafata, Zachary Kortge, Cody Cooper, Marques Childs and Zachary Benham; middle row, Evan Boes, Cesareo Puente, Matt Quinn, James Goodrich, Douglas Wyman, Jarred Webster, Eldon McCabe, Austin Persoon, Wynn Petersen, Ethan Hill and Trever Skinner; back row, assistant Tom Johnson, Drew Griffis, Alex VanNoller, Ethan Rybicki, Chase Barnett, Nate Strejcek, Jonathan Zoscsak, Ryan Mount, Jesse Wens, Evan Stinnett and coach Scott Briggs. Not pictured: Kaine Linstrom.
Mason County Central boys track
Spartans in line for great season BY ED PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER SCOTTVILLE — The Mason County Central boys track and field team was outstanding in 2013. The Spartans took runner-up at the MHSAA Division 3 state meet, won their regional meet and finished second in the West Michigan Conference behind Whitehall. Leading the way last spring was their distance running standout Chase Barnett, who has committed to run for the University of Michigan next year, and a corps of fine middle distance and distance runners. Barnett is back, nearly fully recovered from a stress fracture in his foot. So are sophomore Zac Benham, ju-
nior Drew Griffis and senior Austin Persoon. Those four will form the new nucleus of runners who will look to lead Central to another stellar campaign. “We did lose a lot from last year, especially some guys that were key in our two long relays,” said Central head coach Scott Briggs, who starts his seventh season as the Spartans leader. “We will be looking for a couple other guys to step up and be ready to run in those relays.” Gone by way of graduation are middle distance runners Alex Myers, Jordan Johnson and Riley Jolly. Also gone is middle distance runner Travess Smith, who moved to Hart. Others lost to graduation include hurdler Dain Petipren and shotputter
Beto Ramirez. “We do have a lot of optimism about what we might be able to do this season,” said Briggs. “But I’d rather not focus on the goal of a state championship. Rather, I would like to see us work hard and see where that takes us. There are a lot of factors we cannot control in the outcome of a state meet.” Barnett, now a senior, won the 800-, 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs at the conference meet last May. He went on to place first in the 800 and 1,600 as well as run on the winning 3,200 relay at the Division 3 state meet at Comstock Park. Benham, meanwhile, was second in the 3,200 at the conference meet and placed
eighth in the event at the state meet. In addition, Griffis ran second in the 800 at the WMC final. Central also expects help this year from senior throwers James Goodrich and Doug Wyman. Senior long jumper Dalton Shoemate and senior pole vaulter Trever Skinner should also help in the conference dual meets. Juniors Nate Strejcek, a hurdler-high jumper, and John Trivisonno, a long sprinter, will be another pair of contributors. “John (Trivisonno) is one of the guys we’d like to see move up and run a 400 in the relays for us,” said Briggs. Junior long sprinters Evan Stinnett and Jesse Weier also could be asked to move up.
In a group of 10 freshmen, Central will look to get the most help from Ryan Mount, a hurdler-high jumper. Other freshmen who could contribute include distance runner Jacob Shoop, middle distance runner Ethan Rybicki, thrower Cesareo Puente and thrower Matt Quinn. “We also have a senior transfer from Ludington, Kaine Linstrom, who could help us in the pole vault,” added Briggs. The 2014 Mason County Central boys track and field roster: SENIORS: Chase Barnett, James Goodrich, Kaine Linstrom, Austin Persoon, Wynn Petersen, Dalton Shoemate, Trever Skinner, Alex VanNoller, Doug
Wyman. JUNIORS: Drew Griffis, Evan Stinnett, Nathan Strejcek, John Trivisonno, Jarred Webster, Jesse Weier. SOPHOMORES: Zac Benham, Cody Cooper, Victor Lafata, Eric Quick. FRESHMEN: Evan Boes, Ethan Hill, Zach Kortge, Eldon McCabe, Ryan Mount, Cesareo Puente, Matt Quinn, Ethan Rybicki, Jacob Shoop, Jon Zoscsak. Central’s main assistant coach again this spring will be Tom Johnson. But coaching help will also come from Randy Wyman, Patrick Wiese, Maria Holbrook, Maurie Holbrook, Cathy Laman and Jeff Mount. SEE TRACK, 4
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
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| LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
Mason County Central girls soccer
Spartans expect improvement BY ED PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER SCOTTVILLE — After her Spartans went 5-8 in her first year as the Mason County Central head soccer coach, Cheri Stibitz expects improvement this spring. “I think we will be a little bit better,” said Stibitz, who also coaches the Spartans competitive cheer team. “We should have a stronger offensive line. And I like the determination and hustle of this group.” The Spartans have lost four players to graduation. They are defenseman Kelsey Persoon, defenseman Ariel White, center-mid Lindsay Scheffler and Katelynn Cox. Spearheading the Spartans’ efforts on the pitch this spring should be four returning seniors: forward Jessica Allen, defenseman Payton Bladzik, forward Ashley Pyke and center-mid Rosa Rendon. “We have moved Jessica to offense and she should form a good attacking line with Ashley,” said Stibitz. Other important cogs will be junior goalkeeper Makila Hodges, sophomore midfielder Dria Striker, sophomore defenseman Amanda Watkins and sophomore midfielder Kendal Wietecha.
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Mason County Central girls soccer team are, kneeling, from left, Ashley Ingison, Abbie Berringer, Rosa Rendon, Payton Bladzik, Jessica Allen, Ashley Pyke, Makila Hodges and Miranda Beebe; standing, Stephanie Schultz, Isabel Raines, Cheyenne Mayse, Amanda Watkins, Morgan Cook, Kendal Wietecha, Dria Striker and coach Cheri Stibitz. Stibitz also has hopes that junior newcomer Abbie Berringer can help out at another midfielder position. Other Spartan team members who could contribute this season include junior
midfielder Ashley Ingison and sophomore defenseman Miranda Beebe. Newcomers include sophomores Cheyenne Mayes, Izzie Rains, Stephanie Schultz and freshman Morgan
Cook. “I like our starting 11,” added Stibitz. “I am pretty well pleased with our turnout of 15 girls, although two of three more would be nice.” With very little outside
practice, Stibitz is anxious to SENIORS: Jessica Allen, Payton see what kind of endurance Bladzik, Ashley Pyke, Rosa her team will have at the Rendon. start of the season. JUNIORS: Abbie Berringer, The Mason County Central Makila Hodges, Ashley Ingison. girls soccer team roster: SEE SOCCER, 5
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
Mason County Central girls track
Quintet forms good nucleus BY ED PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER SCOTTVILLE — Last season, the Mason County Central girls track and field team placed second in the West Michigan Conference and took fifth at the MHSAA Division 3 regional meet. From that squad, the Spartans have lost 10 members to graduation. Central will most notably miss pole vaulter-high jumper Kassidy Jensen and distance runner Andrea LaVigne as well as pole vaulter Angelyn Kutchinski and distance runner Morgan Lange. As usual, the Spartans will build their team around their strong middle distance and distance running. This spring, veteran coach Ben Nelson will look to a nucleus of five returnees: senior distance runner Lindsay Larsen, who was the Spartans’ leading runner before missing the final weeks of the last season with a foot injury; sophomore hurdlerhigh jumper Kylie Mount; sophomore distance runner Leta Larsen; sophomore middle distance runner Chloe Kimes and sophomore distance runner Jordyn Sanders; as well as junior newcomer Riley Barnett, a long sprinter-long jumper to lead the way. Larsen is signed to run for Siena Heights, an NAIA school, after she graduates. At the conference final meet last May, Mount placed in both the high and low hurdle events as well as the high jump. Leta Larsen took second in the 3,200-meter run at that meet and also placed in the 1,600. Kimes was fourth in the 400. Sanders finished fifth in the 3,200. “We should be strong in
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Mason County Central girls track team are, from left, sitting, Katie Schiebner and Lindsay Larsen; kneeling, Katie Huggard, Jordyn Sanders, Serena Kuhn, Leta Larsen, Riley Barnett, Jacy Larson and Tirzah Wood; standing, Hunter Wiese, Faith Vidak, Kelsey Decker, Katlyn Weber, coach Ben Nelson, Chloe Kimes, Kylie Mount, Sarah Fricke, Savannah Keefer and Marissa Lopez. Not pictured: assistant Maria Holbrook. everything from the 200 meters on up,” said Nelson, who enters his 20th season as the head Spartan. “We will be weak in some of the field events. I think, however, that both Kylie (Mount) and Riley (Barnett) can help us in the jumps this year. They both are very versatile athletes.” The Spartans have just 18 girls on the roster this spring. “Our top middle distance and distance runners will probably have to run four events this season,” added Nelson. “But, you know, most of the teams in the league have also gotten
smaller over the last few years.” Nelson also sees help coming from senior middle distance runner Katie Schiebner, who returns after one season away from track and junior shotputter Katelyn Weber. Freshman Hunter Wiese shows a good deal of promise as a thrower and sprinter. Sophomore newcomers Jacy Larson, a sprinter, and Kelsey Decker, another sprinter, could also contribute. “Tirzah Wood, a sophomore sprinter, has said she will try the pole vault for us,” added Nelson. “And she
could do quite well there,” The 2014 Mason County Central girls track and field roster: SENIORS: Lindsay Larsen, Katie Schiebner. JUNIORS: Riley Barnett, Katie Huggard, Marissa Lopez, Katelyn Weber. SOPHOMORES: Kelsey Decker, Sarah Fricke, Savannah Keefer, Chloe Kimes, Serena Kuhn, Leta Larsen, Jacy Larson, Kylie Mount, Jordyn Sanders, Faith Vidak, Tirzah Wood. FRESHMAN: Hunter Wiese. The Spartans main assistant coach will be veteran
Maria Holbrook. Also helping out again this season will be Tom Johnson, Randy Wyman, Patrick Wiese, Maurie Holbrook and Cathy Laman. Jeff Mount will assist with the high jumpers in spring. “We are fortunate this year in that we will not have to be in the same regional meet with Manistee and Hart, both of whom have strong middle distance runners,” noted Nelson. “We will be going to Clare this spring for the regional.”
TRACK FROM PAGE 2
In the league title chase, Briggs sees Whitehall as the team to beat. “They always have such great numbers on the team,” said Briggs. “Muskegon Oakridge will also be good. We should be right up in there. Big for us will be how much some of the other league teams can do in breaking up Whitehall’s points in events that we do not usually score in.”
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
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| LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
Mason County Central baseball
Experienced MCC will be strong BY ED PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER SCOTTVILLE — Experience is usually the key to success in high school sports. And coach Don Thomas and his Mason County Central Spartans baseball team will have plenty of it this season. “I have younger players as well as older players that have a good deal of varsity experience,” said Thomas, who has nine members off last season’s 20-17 team back. Most importantly, Central has seven pitchers who have worked at the varsity level. “This is definitely one of our stronger points,” noted Thomas, who starts his eighth season as the leader of the Spartans. Last season, the Spartans started the season at 4-10, but then won 16 of their last 23 games. In the West Michigan Conference, Central went 5-9. Graduated from that team are outfielder Nathan Stinnett, third baseman Allen Barnhardt, pitcher Payton Tyndall, first baseman David Andersen and rightfielder Robert Allen. Pacing the Spartans this season should be senior second baseman-pitcher Anders Asiala (.356 batting average, 29 runs scored, 38 innings pitched, 2.76 earned run average, 5-1 win-loss record), senior pitcher-first baseman Brian Erndteman (70 IP, 1.80 ERA, 6-6 W-L), senior first baseman-pitcher-leftfielder Jacob Graczyk (.317 BA, 27 IP, 4.41 ERA,3-2 W-L), and senior third baseman-outfielder-pitcher Murphy O’Brien (13 IP, 7.00 ERA, 2-0 W-L). Two sophomores who started all of last season at key positions are back.
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the 2014 Mason County Central Members are, kneeling, from left, Spencer Knizacky, Tristan Gerbers, Cale Cookenmaster, Murphy O’Brien, Jacob Graczyk and Jonathan Wittlieff; standing, coach Don Thomas, Brian Erndteman, Mitchell Lange, Sean Wells, Blake Bladzik, Anders Asiala, Austin Krusinski and assistant Seth Bush. They are catcher Spencer Knizacky (.380 BA 41 hits) and shortstop Mitchell Lange (.293 BA, 19 RBI). Junior pitcher Sean Wells and sophomore centerfielder Blake Bladzik will also play big roles for the Spartans. Others who should help out are senior catcher-outfielder Cale Cookenmaster, senior rightfielder Tristan Gerbers, junior third-baseman-pitcher Jon Wittlieff and junior utility player Aus-
tin Krusinski. “I like all 12 players we have,” added Thomas. “All of them will contribute during the season. We will not have to rely on one or two players to carry us.” At this point the top four pitchers appear to be Erndteman, Wells, Asiala and Graczyk. “We should be solid in all three facets of the game, pitching, fielding and hitting,” said Thomas. “Where we are mentally will decide a
lot. We have a chance to be pretty good.” The Mason County Central baseball team roster: SENIORS: Anders Asiala, Cale Cookenmaster, Brian Erndteman, Tristan Gerbers, Jacob Graczyk, Murphy O’Brien. JUNIORS: Austin Krusinski, Sean Wells, Jon Wittieff. SOPHOMORES: Blake Bladzik, Spencer Knizacky, Mitchell Lange. Assisting Thomas again
this spring will be Seth Bush. Karl Shafer with help from Chris Carr will lead the junior varsity squad. In the league title race, Thomas envisions a real dog fight. “Every team will be better this year,” said Thomas. “Every game in the conference will be tough. You know, there are a lot of good coaches in our league who have been at their schools for a long time.”
SOCCER FROM PAGE 3
SOPHOMORES: Miranda Beebe, Cheyenne Mayes, Izzie Rains, Stephanie Schultz, Dria Striker, Amanda Watkins, Kendal Wietecha. FRESHMAN: Morgan Cook. Stibitz’s father Jack, a former Central soccer coach, will help out with the team as time permits.
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
DAVID BOSSICK | DAILY NEWS
Members of the Mason County Central golf team are, sitting, Hannah Pettis; kneeling, from left, Joel Spotts, Jared Knizacky and Jay Glover; standing, Kody Berkel, coach Michael Baerwolf, Austin Tyndall, Noah Genson, Hunter Vanderwall, Quinton Nelson, Nick Nielsen, Tristan Scribner, Garrett Stearns, coach Tim Genson and Clayton Malkowski.
Mason County Central boys golf
MCC set to move up WMC ladder
BY ED PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
improvement from those five.” Central lost three memSCOTTVILLE — The Mason bers of last year’s team to County Central boys golf graduation. Those are Jorteam finished sixth in the dan Johnson, Tighe LeRay West Michigan Conference and Carson Cooper. last season, but they look Pacing the Spartans play forward to moving up the on the links this season league ladder this spring. should be coach Genson’s “We have all five of our top son, junior Noah Genson, golfers back,” said co-head who earned an all-confercoach Tim Genson, who is ence spot in 2013. in the fourth season of his “Noah finished as the fifthsecond stint as the Spartans best golfer in the league,” head man. “We really expect said his father/coach. what you might call natural Senior Kody Berkel, who
held down the Spartans’ No. 2 spot last year is also back. Also returning are junior Jared Knizacky, senior Hunter VanderWall and junior Clayton Malkowski. Freshmen Austin Tyndall and Joel Spotts look to be a couple of players who could crack the top five. “With the weather, we have not been able to do much in practice,” said Genson. “Mike Payment at Sportsman’s Bar has been more than generous with letting us use his virtual facility up-
stairs.” This season, Central has three new sophomores and four freshmen out for golf. “We have more kids out. And younger kids in kids. That is nice to see,” said Genson. “That bodes well for the future of our golf program.” The Mason County Central boys goal team roster: SENIORS: Kody Berkel, Hunter VanderWall. JUNIORS: Noah Genson, Jared Knizacky, Clayton Malkowski, NIc Nielsen.
SOPHOMORES: Jay Glover, Quinton Nelson, Tristan Schreibner. FRESHMEN: Hannah Pettis, Austin Tyndall, Joel Spotts, Garrett Stearns.
Mike Baerwolf will again assume co-head coaching duties with Genson. In the conference, Genson sees many of the top teams losing their best golfers. “Last season, in the top 15 golfers all but two were seniors,” noted Genson.
‘We have all five of our top golfers back. We really expect improvement from those five.’ Tim Genson Mason County Central golf co-coach
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| LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
Mason County Central softball
Lundberg back to coach Spartans BY ED PAPES DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER SCOTTVILLE — Mason County Central softball coach Pete Lundberg returns this spring to retake the reins of the Spartans’ program. Last year, Lundberg missed most of the season due to hip replacement surgery. In his absence, Greg Melchert stepped in as interim coach to lead the Spartans. Under Melchert, Central posted a 7-26 overall record and went 2-12 in the West Michigan Conference. But the Spartans did finish the season strongly. “Yes, they really did play better in the final few games,” said Lundberg. Gone via graduation from that team are pitcher Holly Olenchak, who threw about 60 percent of the innings last spring; outfielder Kayleen Moffitt, who hit .315; and, outfielder Erin Jabrocki. Leading the Spartans this year on the diamond will be a group of nine seniors. Shortstop Madison Geers, who batted .375 and was an all-conference selection, along with pitcher Kalee Stankowski, who worked the other 40 percent of innings last year, will be counted on most heavily. “Madison does a great job at shortstop,” said Lundberg, who enter his second full season as the Spartans mentor. “And we will be putting a lot of faith in Kalee this year. For her, the biggest thing is throwing strikes. She needs to throw strikes about 70 percent of the time. Kalee also is a good hitter. She hit around .300 last year.” Other seniors being relied
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Members of the 2014 Mason County Central softball team are, from left, kneeling, Suzy Mireles, Megan Moffitt, Courtney Krause, Carly Davis, Katelyn Graczyk and Ashleigh McCabe; standing, Kalee Stankowski, Masyn Berkel, Inken Diederzen, Madison Geers, Amber Parrish, Brooke Thurow and Jessica Johnson. on include a pair of catcher-second basemen Katelyn Graczyk and Amber Parrish. “Both of those girls are solid catchers,” said Lundberg. “I plan to flip-flop them between catching and playing second.” Help is also expected from senior centerfielder Ashleigh McCabe and senior outfielder-pitcher Jesse Johnson. “Ashleigh plays a good
centerfield,” noted Lundberg. “And Jesse has been looking very good hitting the ball in practice so far.” Sophomore Brooke Thurow will take over at first base. “She is the best defensive first baseman we have had in the last couple of years,” said Lundberg. “She can scoop it.” Third base will be held down by freshman Courtney
Krause. “Courtney and Brooke along with Jesse Johnson and Madison Geers will vie for pitching time behind Kalee Stankowksi,” said Lundberg. Junior Carly Davis and senior Megan Moffitt will share time in the third outfield spot. “The thing I like best about this team is our defense,” said Lundberg. “I hope our
pitching and hitting will come along with most of these girls being seniors.” The 2014 Mason County Central softball team roster: SENIORS: Inken Diederzen, Madison Geers, Katelyn Graczyk, Jesse Johnson, Ashleigh McCabe, Suzette Mireles, Megan Moffitt, Amber Parrish, Kalee Stankowski. JUNIOR: Carly Davis. SOPHOMORE: Brooke Thurow.
FRESHMAN: Courtney Krause. Assisting Lundberg as a hitting coach will be Jim Jackoviak Jr. Julie Berndt will coach the junior varsity, which has 13 members. Lundberg points to North Muskegon and Whitehall as the two front runners for the league title. “Ravenna should also be good,” added Lundberg.
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
Mason County Central schedules GIRLS SOCCER Tuesday, April 8, at Hart, 5 p.m. Thursday, April 10, Ludington, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, Ravenna, 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, at Pentwater, 4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24, Benzie Central, 5 p.m. Friday, April 25, Bear Lake/ Brethren, 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at North Muskegon, 5 p.m. Thursday, May 1, at Whitehall, 5 p.m. Friday, May 2, Northport, 5 p.m. Monday, May 5, Manistee, 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, Oakridge, 5 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at Freeland tournament, 10 a.m. Monday, May 12, Shelby, 5 p.m. Thursday, May 15, WMC tournament, 5 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Mason County Eastern, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, WMC tournament, 5 p.m. Thursday, May 22, WMC tournament, 5 p.m.
BASEBALL Friday, April 11, Hart, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, at Montague, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 17, Mason County Eastern, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, Whitehall, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 24, Frankfort, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, North Muskegon, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 1, Manistee, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3, Briggs True Value Invitational, 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, at Shelby, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at Frankfort, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at Lakeview tournament, 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, at Oakridge, 4 p.m.
Friday, May 16, Ludington, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at Manistee tournament Tuesday, May 20, Ravenna, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at Traverse City Christian, 4:30 p.m.
SOFTBALL Friday, April 11, Hart 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, at Montague, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 17, Mason County Eastern, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, Whitehall, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 24, Frankfort, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, North Muskegon, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 1, Manistee, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3, Briggs True Value Invitational, 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, at Shelby, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at Lakeview tournament, 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, at Oakridge, 4 p.m. Friday, May 16, Ludington, 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, Ravenna, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at Traverse City Christian, 4:30 p.m.
2:30 p.m.
BOYS GOLF Monday, April 14, Onekama, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, WMC jamboree at Ravenna, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at Ludington Invitational, 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, WMC jamboree at North Muskegon, 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24, at Manistee with Onekama, 4 p.m. Monday, April 28, at Shelby Invitational, 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, WMC jamboree at Whitehall, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, May 1, WMC jamboree at Shelby, 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, WMC jamboree at Montague, 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 9, Easy Living Flooring Invitational, 9 a.m. Monday, May 12, at Benzie Invitational, 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, WMC jamboree at Hart, 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Montague Invitational, 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, WMC jamboree
CO-ED TRACK AND FIELD Friday, April 11, at Cadillac Invite, 4 p.m. Monday, April 14, Hart, 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, at Ravenna with North Muskegon, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at Benzie Invite, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, Shelby, Oakridge, 4 p.m. Friday, April 25, Scottville Optimist Invitational, 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at Whitehall with Montague, 4 p.m. Friday, May 2, at Traverse City Central Invitational, noon Friday, May 9, at Manton Invitational, 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, WMC championship meet at Shelby,
Hart schedules SOFTBALL Friday, April 11, at Mason County Central, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, Oakridge, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 17, Holton 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, at North Muskegon, 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, at Manistee, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at Shelby, 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, at Hesperia, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at Briggs True Value Tournament at Mason County Central, 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, Whitehall, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 8, Big Rapids Crossroads, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, at Ravenna, 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 15, White Cloud, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 17, Oceana County Tournament, 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, Montague, 4 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER Tuesday, April 8, Mason County Central, 5 p.m. Thursday, April 10, Benzie Central, 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, North Muskegon, 5 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at Reed City, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, at Ravenna, 6:15 p.m. Thursday, April 25, Mason County Eastern, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, Whitehall, 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 1, Montague, 5 p.m.
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Friday, May 2, Pentwater, 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 6, at Shelby, 5 p.m. Saturday, May 8, at Manistee, 5 p.m. Wedneday, May 12, at Oakridge, 5 p.m. May 14-21, WMC Tournament, TBA
BASEBALL Friday, April 11, at Mason County Central, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, Oakridge, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 17, Holton, 4 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at Marsh Field Tournament, Muskegon, 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, at North Muskegon, 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, at Manistee, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at Shelby, 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, at Hesperia, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at Briggs True Value Tournament at Mason County Central, 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, Whitehall, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 8, Pentwater, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, at Ravenna, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 15, White Cloud, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 17, Oceana County Tournament, 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, Montague, 4 p.m.
BOYS GOLF Tuesday, April 15, at Ravenna, 3:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 17, at Ludington Invitational, 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, at North Muskegon, 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at Whitehall, 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, Oceana County Tournament, 3 p.m. Thursday, May 1, at Shelby, 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, at Montague, 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 9, at Shelby Invite, 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, Shelby, 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Montague Invite, 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, at Easy Flooring Invite, Mason County Central, 1:30 p.m.
CO-ED TRACK Saturday, April 12, at Kingsley Invitational, 9 a.m. Monday, April 14, WMC meet at Mason County Central, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 17, WMC meet at Montague, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, Whitehall, 4 p.m. Friday, April 25, at Scottville Optimist Club Invitational at Mason County Central, 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, WMC meet at Holton, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at LeRoy Pine River Invitational, 9 a.m. Monday, May 5, White Cloud, 4 p.m. Friday, May 9, Oceana County Invitational, 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, at WMC championship meet, Shelby, 3 p.m.
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
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| LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
Hart track
Pirates aim high BY ANDY ROBERTS SHORELINE MEDIA
top half of the conference,” Hart coach Mindy Whitney said. “MCC and Whitehall HART — The Hart track will be big challenges.” team returns a large crop of talented athletes and welTOP: Members of the 2014 comes a nice group of new- Hart girls track team are, from comers, setting the Pirates left, sitting, Kassidy Baum, Saup for success in 2014. brina Smith, Maddie Hodges, For the Pirates’ boys, a Sierra Albus, Kalie Elder and strong group of runners reMarianne Tate; kneeling, Jenturns, led by Lenin Castillo nie Gottardo, Jenny Herrygers, and Jon Vanderstelt. Jonah Kayleigh Gordon, Edna Lopez, Gale, Devin Whitney and Hannah Mead and Sabrina Ryan Scott will also be key Chandler; standing, assistant contributors. Sam HernanTerry Peters, assistant Mike dez, Esteven Escamilla, Der- Hoffman, Breanna Ponce, Britrek Broaddus and Luis Debtany Wise, Yolanda Gonzalez, las should be factors as well. Brenna McCann, Mirella Barco, Jennie Gottardo is back coach Mindy Whitney and asagain after qualifying for the sistant Rachel Hoffman. state finals the previous two years, and should again be a BOTTOM: Members of the 2014 force. Sabrina Smith, Maddie Hart boys track team are, from Hodges and Kassidy Baum left, sitting, Garrett Eisenlohr, will also be assets in the runLuis Deblas, Brady Tate, Blake ning events. Brittany Wise, Kaat, Joghan Ramirez and Mark Jenny Herrygers and Kay- Wilett; kneeling, Travess Smith, leigh Gordon are other re- Devin Whitney, Jacob Hoebeke, turning starters. Michael Sosnowski, Derrek New to the Pirates this year Broaddus, Lenin Castillo and are several talented freshman. Emilio Ortiz; standing, assistant Sierra Albus was a strong runTerry Peters, assistant Mike ner during cross-country and Hoffman, Art Brandel, Jonah should continue to be a factor Gale, Juan Ortiz Carrera, Jon in track. Brady Tate, Garrett Vanderstelt, Christian Wilett, Eisenlohr and Blake Kaat lead Rek Luedtke, coach Mindy the Pirates’ freshman boys. Whitney and assistant Rachel Non-freshman newcomers inHoffman. Not pictured: Jessie clude seniors Travess Smith, Adkins, Willard Dold, Esteven Carl Morgan and Nick RomEscamilla, Jackson Forner, bach, as well as sophomores Samuel Hernandez, Logan Arthur Brandel and Rek LuHutchinson, Fher Mendez, Carl edtke. Morgan, Nick Rombach, Ryan “We hope to finish in the Scott, and Austin Dunford.
JOHN CAVANAGH | SHORELINE MEDIA PHOTOS
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
Hart baseball
Pirates hope for turnaround in ’14
BY ANDY ROBERTS SHORELINE MEDIA
HART — Hart’s first season under coach Michael Giddings was a rough one at times, as the team struggled defensively on its way to a 5-24 record. However, with plenty of experience back, the Pirates hope those lumps serve to make them better this season. Hart loses catcher Aaron Hepworth and third baseman Logan Rasmussen from last season’s team, but a boatload of seasoned players return for the Pirates. Captains Brandon Amstutz, Connor Boundy and Tyler Lenon will be the leaders of this Hart squad. Boundy was probably Hart’s top performer a year ago, hitting .352 and serving as the Pirates’ top starting pitcher on his way to an all-West Michigan Conference honorable mention. Amstutz will
join Boundy as the other half of the doubleheader pitching rotation and will play shortstop and catcher as well as Giddings looks to deploy his senior’s athleticism in a variety of ways. Lenon is the Pirates’ rightfielder and will look to get his bat back into early-2013 form after hitting .275 overall last season. Several other seniors will play key roles for Hart. Dakotah Cutter will be a key bat in the Pirates’ lineup as well as a corner infielder. James Freeman will do some pitching and play catcher and the outfield. Giddings called Freeman “a key to our success this year.” Jaykob Gallop will play second base and spend some time on the mound as well. He hit .306 in 2013. Thomas Stoneman will play center field and is JOHN CAVANAGH | SHORELINE MEDIA PHOTOS the team’s fastest player. Members of the 2014 Hart baseball team are, from left, kneeling, James Freeman, Brett Bonstell, Thomas Stoneman, Rusty Gleason,
Reuben Jaramillo and Tyler Lenon; standing, coach Mike Giddings, Jaykob Gallop, Brandon Amstutz, Orlando Guzman, Connor
SEE BASEBALL, 12 Boundy, Dakotah Cutter, Jordan Self, Jaxon Riley and assistant Paul Cutter. Not pictured: Ty Davis.
Hart softball Some experience back for Hart BY ANDY ROBERTS SHORELINE MEDIA HART — It was a struggle at times for the Hart softball team a year ago, with the team posting a 2-25 overall
Members of the 2014 Hart softball team are, from left, kneeling, Kari Merten, Adrianna Sawdy, Raven Smith-Wilson, McKenna Miller and Alison Altland; standing, coach Meghan Scott, Lauryn Tanner, Baylee Draper, Haley Mast, Brooke Loudermilk and Breanna Escamilla.
record, but the Pirates bring back some key experience and hope to take a step forward in the West Michigan Conference this year. Theresa Tate and Alexis Tiles both graduated after strong senior campaigns, but second-year coach Meghan Scott looks at the departures as opportunities for her remaining players rather than negatives. “Their departure provides the opportunity for other players to step up in to those positions in the infield,” Scott said.
Some key senior leadership on this year’s team should come from returnees Breanna Escamilla and McKenna Miller, who will be expected to spearhead the Pirates’ efforts. Sophomores Haley Mast and Baylee Draper will also be key players, and they’ll join the pair of seniors as the projected statistical leaders of the team. Every team on Hart’s schedule will pose a different set of challenges, but the SEE SOFTBALL, 12
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Hart girls soccer
Gaarde to lead Hart after Sequin’s retirement BY ANDY ROBERTS SHORELINE MEDIA HART — It’s a new era for Hart girls soccer this season, as the retirement of longtime coach Brenda Seguin, the team’s only coach since the program began in 1999, following last year’s district championship led to the hire of a new leader — former college player Rebecca Gaarde. Gaarde is less than a year out of Olivet College, where she played during her college days, giving the Pirates a fresh face and an infusion of energy in the program. “I think being brand new to the area as well as the program will be to my advantage,” Gaarde said. “Not knowing much about the teams on our schedule is going to help me to bring 100 percent effort and dedica-
tion out of the girls at each practice and game. We plan to play each game as if it is for the championship.” The fresh faces aren’t limited to the coaching staff, as the Pirates will have to replace all-West Michigan Conference fixtures Macayla Greiner and Landyn Lorenz, who combined for much of the Pirates’ scoring a year ago. Greiner now plays at Alma College. There will be some experienced talent to lead the way, though, and captains Nichole Jorissen and Natalie Switaj will be expected to be the pace-setters. “They are both returning players that I have a great amount of confidence in JOHN CAVANAGH | SHORELINE MEDIA as far as leadership as and Members of the 2014 Hart girls soccer team are, from left, kneeling, Mariah Foster, Stacie Shellhouse, Faith Ramirez, Natalie Switaj, skill,” Gaarde said. SEE SOCCER, 12
McKenna Kaat, Brooke Hodges and Aubrey Hertzler; standing, manager McKenna Littiebrant, Terri Carlson, Anna Drenth, Sydney Scarbrough, Nichole Jorissen, Olivia Smith, Malaina Monroe and coach Becca Gaarde. Not pictured: Jessica Cook.
Hart golf
DeRuiter, Griffin take over Pirates golf program BY ANDY ROBERTS SHORELINE MEDIA HART — Hart golf will have a pair of new coaches this year, as Chris Griffin and Michael DeRuiter will co-coach the Pirates. DeRuiter’s name is familiar to area golf fans, as he is the coach of Pentwater. He will now be coaching half of the county golf teams. Hart will lack depth this season, with just four players. With four scores used to tabulate each team’s total score in each meet, this will put the pressure on the Pirates to perform well in each JOHN CAVANAGH | SHORELINE MEDIA and every round to be comMembers of the 2014 Hart golf team are, from left, coach Mike DeRuiter, Matt Vanderwall, Matt petitive. Wilson, Joe Fillips, Joey Mclatchy, and coach Chris Griffin. “I think they’re up for the
challenge and I’m looking forward to the season,” Griffin said. “I think we have a good group of kids this year. I’m not that familiar with the other teams in the conference and how they compare to Hart. As far as goals, we’re just looking to improve daily as the season progresses and be competitive within the conference.” Joe Fillips will, according to the coaches, be the leader of the Pirates. While Hart has only four golfers, all are returning starters, which should help the team get off to a decent start against their younger rivals. The other returning starters for Hart are Matt Wilson, Matt Vanderwall and Joey
McClatchy, each of whom logged considerable time on the links a year ago. “In the few weeks we have had to work with the players, they are making big improvements in their swings and techniques,” DeRuiter said. “It will be exciting to see what they do this year.” The Pirates were last among West Michigan Conference golf teams last year, but hope to make a move up this year. North Muskegon is always the prohibitive favorite in the WMC, but Whitehall and Shelby will also be teams to watch as the league race unfolds. SEE GOLF, 12
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LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS/SPRING SPORTS
| FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
Cadillac-area schools thawing, too BY THE CADILLAC NEWS They’re tired of running, jumping and throwing indoors. They’re tired of taking grounders on gym floors. They’re tired of the soccer “pitch” having lines but no grass —; and being a wooden floor. There is, however, light at the end of this bleak, winterweary tunnel. A couple days of warmer temperatures have finally graced the region, the massive mounds of snow and ice are melting and there is ac-
BASEBALL FROM PAGE 10
“He is a speedster who we need to get on base and manufacture runs for us,” Giddings said. “We are looking for him to be a leader this season as well.” Sophomore Brett Bonstell also returns for the Pirates, and he will play catcher and be an important hitter at the top of the order for Hart. Junior Orlando Guzman got more playing time as 2013 went along and will be Hart’s primary first baseman. A talented crop of juniors will play reserve roles for the Pirates, including first baseman Jaxon Riley, infielder Jordan Self, utilityman Ty Davis and outfielders Rusty
tually grass under that white menace. A couple of weeks ago, no one thought being out after returning from spring break would be possible but it is happening. Local prep spring sports teams spent time outside for the first time Monday since practices officially began on March 10. “I would bet we’re about a week off right now,” Cadillac athletic director Rich Giddens said. “We’d like to have the frost out but we can play on some of the fields.” In Cadillac, Mills Field is
Gleason and Reuben Jaramillo. Giddings said he has high expectations for his team as they look to bounce back from 2013. “I expect Hart to be more competitive than last season,” Giddings said. “If we can pick the ball up on defense and get outs, we can be in a lot of games. We have some team speed to where if those guys get on, we can be aggressive on the basepaths.” Hart will play some highlevel non-conference foes, including Holton and Hesperia, as well as participating in the Marsh Field Extra Innings tournament. The Pirates will shoot to play up to the competition when they face defending WMC champion Montague and archrival Shelby.
open for baseball and players were clearing snow piles from in front of the home dugouts Monday during practice. Lincoln Field needs time before holding softball practices or games, as do the CASA soccer fields on Thirteenth Street. The track in Veterans Memorial Stadium is clear after Voelker Implement Sales in Lake City donated the use of a John Deere tractor with a snow blower attached in mid-March. CAPS maintenance spent a couple of days clearing what was three feet of snow at that time.
SOCCER
DAILY NEWS FILE PHOTO
FROM PAGE 11
“We’ve got a fairly young team with a few freshmen who I know will help contribute to our success this season. I have confidence in each of the players that I have right now in that they will always give it their all wherever they are playing.” Hart has been among the ruling class of WMC girls soccer of late, finishing second to Oakridge a year ago. Up-and-coming teams like Whitehall and Shelby will be expected to provide tests for the Pirates, as well as non-conference games against the likes of Benzie Central, Reed City and Manistee.
GOLF
SOFTBALL
A fresh face might be just what the Pirates need to be competitive. Combined with the veteran golfers on the Pirates’ team, it should make for an interesting mix as Hart aims to improve its standing in the WMC.
Pirates should face especially tough games against Manistee, Hesperia and Holton out of conference, as well as from Montague, Shelby, North Muskegon and Whitehall in league play. “The expectations are to work hard and improve overall play,” Scott said.
FROM PAGE 11
Hart’s Jennie Gottardo runs a portion of a relay during the Scottville Optimist Invitational last April for the Pirates. Gottardo will shoot for another trip to the MHSAA state track meet this spring.
FROM PAGE 10
Playoff assignments BASEBALL/SOFTBALL DIVISION 3 AT MASON COUNTY CENTRAL: Hart, Manistee, Montague, Mason County Central, Shelby. Winner advances to Morley-Stanwood regional with the district winners from LeRoy Pine River, Lakeview and Hesperia.
BOYS GOLF DIVISION 3 AT MASON COUNTY CENTRAL: Hart, Kent City, Lakeview, Ludington, Montague, Ravenna, Reed City, Remus Chippewa Hills, Mason County Central, Shelby, Stanton Central Montcalm, Whitehall. Regional qualifiers advance to Farwell regional with the qualifiers from Manistee.
GIRLS SOCCER DIVISION 3 AT LUDINGTON: Benzie Central, Big Rapids, Kingsley, Ludington, Manistee, Reed City, Mason County Central. Regional qualifiers advance to Reeths-Puffer regional with the qualifiers from Grand Rapids South Christian, Grand Rapids Catholic and a district host yet to be determined. DIVISION 4 AT MUSKEGON CATHOLIC: Fruitport Calvary Christian, Hart, Mason County Eastern, Montague, Muskegon Catholic, Western Michigan Christian, North Muskegon, Pentwater. Regional qualifiers advance to Traverse City St. Francis regional with the
qualifiers from Maple City Glen Lake, Charlevoix and Big Rapids Crossroads.
TRACK DIVISION 3 AT CLARE: Clare, Beaverton, Farwell, Gladwin, Harrison, LeRoy Pine River, Oscoda, Pinconning, Reed City, Sanford Meridian, Mason County Central, StandishSterling, Tawas, WhittemorePrescott. DIVISION 3 AT SHEPHERD: Bridgeport, Carrollton, Hart, Hemlock, Hesperia, Lakeview, Montague, Morley-Stanwood, Newaygo, Saginaw Nouvel, Saginaw Valley Lutheran, Shelby, Shepherd, St Louis, Stanton Central Montcalm.