Stepping Up Spring 2022

STEPPING UP An in depth look at Manistee County’s 2022-23 Spring Prep Teams

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Table of Contents Bear Lake Golf........................................ 3 Baseball................................. 4 Softball.................................. 5 Brethren Baseball................................. 6 Softball.................................. 7 Soccer................................... 8 Track and Field........................ 9 Manistee High School Golf...................................... 10 Baseball............................... 11 Softball................................ 12 Soccer................................. 13 Track and Field...................... 14 Tennis.................................. 15 Manistee Catholic Central Softball................................ 16 Baseball............................... 17 Track and Field...................... 18 Golf...................................... 19 Onekama Golf...................................... 20 Softball................................ 21 Trackand Field....................... 22 2

Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Bear Lake golf excited for another season

By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Last season, Bear Lake golf featured a small team of three, including

two returning golfers in Alexia Rineer and Dafne Yanez Chavez.

This season, the Lakers also welcome multiple additions alongside

Cecilia Girland, Kylie Blattner, Lanessa Ware, and Caleb Forward. To top it off, head coach Roark Pargeon is ecstatic to be back on the green.

helping the team improve.

“He’s been a great asset for me,” said Entering his tenth season leading the Pargeon. “He can look at a swing and program, Pargeon hopes to gain additional change it dramatically or just make interest in golf, saying it’s a sport with ups little switches to it so that the player is and downs in terms of popularity. successful. He’s very good at that. He’s “As far as golf goes, we’ve been struggling opened up Crystal Mountain to us on the here for four or five years,” he said. “As practice range; once we are able to get out, far as the COVID-19 situation ‚ that didn’t we’ll go up there a couple of times. It just help.” gives you a different perspective ‚ he’s got However, Greg Babinec, the golf pro at a bunch of different drills the kids will go Crystal Mountain and father of former Lakers standout Tai Babinec, will be around through.”

Coach’s Corner

What you need to know

Prediction Bear Lake enters this spring, continuing to build the program, and Pargeon remains confident that his team will grow in the right direction.

Alexia Rineer lines up a shot during practice on Tuesday afternoon.

(McLain Moberg/News Advocate)

Key Returners Bear Lake's Dafne Yanez Chavez consults with coach Roark Pargeon during practice on March 22. (McLain Moberg/News Advocate)

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“It’s always fun getting out there with the players and helping them navigate the course,” Bear Lake coach Roark Pargeon said. “Obviously, as a coach, you can’t do anything once they are on the green, but sitting there talking shots, strategy, and letting them get to know the game is exciting ‚ it’s just the camaraderie of hanging out together as a team.”

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Bear Lake baseball to work hard, push the program forward this spring Coach’s Corner “Our expectations for this year are the same for any year, play our best baseball on every pitch for the entire game,” Bear Lake coach John Prokes said. “We will never take a game for granted because anything can happen. All we can control is how we prepare and play, both mentally and physically.

You may have talent on your roster, but you’re going to make mistakes. The difference is how you respond to those mistakes, both as an individual and as a team. We’re always going to have high expectations, but mostly on improving, not just winning.”

Key Returners Jake Griffis (senior) Bryce Harless (senior) Nate Sanderson (senior) Key Losses Jackson Cook (graduated) Jared Cook (graduated) Quentin Ruiz (graduated) Tate Aultman (graduated)

Jake Griffis led Lakers pitchers in strikeouts last spring.

(File photo)

By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Bear Lake baseball is heading in the right direction after ending the 2020-21 season

Nate Sanderson looks to flip to first on a grounder to second base in a game against Mason County Eastern during the 2020-21 season. (File photo)

with only two conference losses and a district finals appearance. The Lakers lost four senior starters, including Jackson Cook, Jared Cook, Tate Aultman, and

What you need to know From 2008 to 2017, Bear Lake High School didn’t have a baseball program, but with the help of Prokes and many others, it’s been back for three seasons and entering a fourth.

Since then, the Lakers have gained significant interest from its student body.

“We’ve actually got enough for a JV squad,” said Prokes. “For a place like us with less than 100 kids, that’s pretty impressive. I’m happy with the turnout; there are a lot of kids that are interested in playing. If we can keep those numbers, we’ll be able to consistently have a baseball team, so that’s exciting.”

Quentin Ruiz, each of whom contributed on the field. However, Jake Griffis, Bryce Harless, and Nate Sanderson return this spring to help push the program forward.

Moving ahead, Jackson, Jared, Ruiz, and Aultman will be missed, but Prokes remains confident in his group as the Lakers approach opening day.

Prokes continues, saying Bear Lake features plenty of individuals with the ability to step up.

“Hopefully, some other players can take their game to a higher level. Cole Merrill, Ethaniel Ruiz, and Gabe Aguilar will be counted on to contribute significantly, both defensively and offensively. Then there’s Zach Griffis; he was one of our best contact hitters last season but is coming off ACL surgery, so he may not be ready right away.”

Prediction The Lakers may have graduated four starters from last year’s squad, but the return of Merrill, Ruiz, Aguilar, Zach Griffis, Jake Griffis, Nate Sanderson, and Bryce Harless means another successful season is on the horizon.

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Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Bear Lake softball building for the future By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Last season was an up and down year for the Bear Lake softball program, with Isaac

Blake hired as the new head coach just weeks before opening day. The Lakers also struggled to field a team, occasionally playing nine

What you need to know The Lakers didn’t have any seniors graduate from last year’s team, meaning a plethora of talent returns, including Kalissa Swanson, who played multiple positions and received honorable mention all-conference for pitching; Taylor Merrill, who finished with a .500 batting average and earned secondteam all-conference honors, and Alex Rineer who continues to improve.

“The girl (Swanson) can do it all, she’s the leader of this team, and it’s her last year playing. I expect big things from her,” said Blake. “Next is Merrill ‚ She has all the tools to be a big time softball player. Passion, ambition, energy, toughness; you

individuals or less.

The results weren’t always in their favor, winning three out of 16 contests, but Bear Lake is building in the right direction.

name it, the kid has it, and just like Kalissa, she’s a big leader of this team. And then Rineer took a huge leap forward. She works hard, and she’s a great teammate. I don’t think I’ve met a person with a more positive and uplifting attitude.”

However, more than anything, Blake expects each individual to impact Bear Lake in some capacity.

“Going into my second year as the varsity head coach, I’m still building,” Blake said. “I have a really good foundation of players now and coming up. These kids want to get better, and they want to win. That’s what I want. Kids willing to give me their all when asked upon; to show up every day ready to get better than the day before.”

Coach’s Corner

Nate Sanderson looks to flip to first on a grounder to second base in a game against Mason County Eastern during the 2020-21 season. (File photo)

“I’m excited to get this season started,” Bear Lake coach Isaac Blake said. “I’ve had a full year of off-season workouts, recruiting some girls around the school to play. And it’s shown.

We have a lot of girls coming out to play this year. So much that I’m hoping to have some JV games and a middle school program ‚ I’m expecting all of the girls returning from last year to be a big part in the team’s success.”

Key Returners Kalissa Swanson (senior) Taylor Merrill (junior)

Prediction Bear Lake and Blake have a solid foundation in place, expect big things from numerous players, and have leaders in all the right spots. With Blake leading the way, the Lakers are undoubtedly going to improve.

Alex Rineer (junior) Taylor Merrill waits on a pitch during a game against Manistee Catholic Central last year. (File photo)

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Brethren baseball excited for season to start, welcomes new coach By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Coach’s Corner “It’s been more about fundamentals,” first-year Brethren coach Tim Wing said. “Because we have such a young team, I’m starting from scratch and relying on some of the upperclassmen to help me out. We’ve been doing a lot of drills and some batting practice ‚ I’m trying to see what I’ve got with the younger kids; this is going to be a year for them to develop.”

The Brethren baseball team ended the year with a 6-15 regularseason record and lost to Manistee Catholic Central in round one of

What you need to know Brethren catcher Adam Dull tags out MCC's Adam Pierce at home plate during a Division 4 district quarterfinal in Mesick last season. (File photo)

Key Losses Skylar Wojciechowski Key Returners Adam Dull (senior) Hunter Harris (senior) Ethan Dean (senior)

The Bobcats return eight varsity players, seven of whom had significant playing time, including Adam Dull, Connor Wojciechowski, who hit .283 and earned an allconference honorable mention as a freshman, and Robert Clark, a transfer student that hit .404 and played several positions.

“I really don’t have any expectations,” said Wing. “I just told the guys I want them to work

Adam Dull, who hit .433 last season and received secondteam all-conference.

In addition, Connor Wojciechowski and Robert Clark, two key contributors, are also returning.

hard, have good attitudes, show a lot of hustle, and each day we just get a little bit better.”

Although, Brethren’s new leader plans to work with his youth and develop them for the future.

“I want to get their fundamentals down,” Wing said. “Then I want to try to coach the older guys because it is varsity baseball, so I’m going to try and play the best nine guys I have. But I also want to get these younger guys going.”

Prediction

Lucas Stapley (junior) Robert Clark (junior)

the district tournament, 6-4. In doing so, Skylar Wojciechowski, who earned first-team allconference, all-district, and all-region honors, graduated.

However, the Bobcats welcome back catcher

Brethren's Ethan Dean delivers a pitch during the Bobcats' home finale last season. (File photo)

Wing’s first order of business is to build the Bobcats from the ground up, meaning some individuals may move to different positions before opening day. Yet, with a solid mix of experience and youth, Brethren is in line to improve.

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Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Brethren softball boasts returning talent, intent on improving By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Last season, the Bobcats fell short in round one of the MHSAA Division 4 district softball

tournament to Frankfort, 7-4.

Overall, Brethren was young and featured a single senior in Kia Richardson, who has since graduated.

What you need to know Brethren is returning Halle Richardson, who signed with Lansing Community College in the fall, Elly Sexton, Maddy Biller, and Dawn Bradley. Each player is set to make a big impact this spring.

“We’re just focusing on the little things,” said Kemler.

“If we can cut down on our throwing mistakes and fielding mistakes, that will be a key.

Also, we are getting some work in the batting cage. So, right

It quickly became a year of learning and growing as a team, especially after COVID-19 wiped out the previous season.

now, the girls are getting a lot of hitting in, which is good.”

Kemler added a theme of this season will be taking steps in the right direction and building on the positives.

“It’s going to be a building year, and we need to work on many areas of the game,” Kemler said. “We are going to need to keep improving while establishing a solid pitching staff ‚ we want to be aggressive on the offensive side of the ball.”

Coach’s Corner “There are lots of things that we have to work on, but I think overall the girls are excited, and it’s going to be a good year,” Bobcats coach Jason Kemler said. “I think we are a little further ahead this year than we were last year. But we still haven’t been outside due to the weather and field conditions, so that will be a big change once that happens.”

Brethren's Halle Richardson knocks a three-run double during the Bobcats' opener against Manistee last season at the Chippewa 350 Club Invite. (File photo)

Key Losses Kia Richardson (graduated) Key Returners Halle Richardson (senior)

Prediction Kemler believes in the Bobcats and is expected to watch his team’s progress with anticipation throughout the year. His vision for the program, alongside Brethren’s talent, will create avenues of success for the softball program.

Elly Sexton (sophomore) Maddy Biller swings at a pitch during districts last spring. (File photo)

Maddy Biller (sophomore)

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Brethren soccer to improve upon last year Coach’s Corner “We are so excited for this season,” Bobcats coach Krystal Magee said. “This group of girls is so much fun, and their eagerness to learn and play astounds me.

They work so hard to improve upon their skills at practice and at home. They support and encourage each other, and their enthusiasm is contagious.”

Key Returners Paige Gutowski (sophomore) Meridee Gutowski (junior) Theresa Young (senior) Hannah Casto (senior) Morgan Smith

Paige Gutowski was named Brethren's team MVP as well as being an all-district player last season. (File Photo)

By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

In 2018-19, Brethren finished 5-9-2 overall, earning sixth place in the Northern Michigan Soccer

League.

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the following year was canceled.

Last season, the Bobcats went

What you need to know With an abundance of skill and leadership returning, Brethren hopes to take a step forward during the 2022 season.

“Paige and Meridee have been with our team for the last six years,” said Magee. “Prior to high school, they were our team managers/water girls. They have grown with the team and know my expectations and how our team is ran. They have grown to be really great team leaders. Then, we have Theresa and Hannah, who are my returning seniors ‚ Their experience & knowledge of

0-12, losing to Hart in round one of the district tournament, 8-2. However, despite Brethren’s record, the team showed exceptional growth.

the sport are very helpful. They are able to help guide players on the field and fill in any holes.

“There’s also Smith, my lone student from Bear Lake ‚ she’s going to play a vital role as our goalie and communicator.”

According to Magee, the Bobcats are eager to see the field this spring.

“We are excited to get back out onto the field! We have many newcomers but have many returning players,” she said. “With so many coming back, we will be able to enhance upon their skills and help our newcomers.”

Prediction There’s nothing more vital to a team’s success than having passionate players, and the Bobcats succeed in that area. Magee, who enters her sixth year leading the program, hopes to improve upon last year and then some.

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Brethren hosts Big Rapids Crossroads in girls soccer last season. (File photo)

OUR AREA A GREAT SEASON! Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Brethren track prepared to 'prove' people wrong By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Last season, the Brethren boys track team found numerous silver linings even though they struggled to field more than five individuals.

However, of those

five, the Bobcats had a state qualifier in the 110 hurdles courtesy of Lucas Stapley.

On the girls' side, Alexis Tracy, who graduated, turned in an all-state performance in the 2-mile, while

Abby Kissling fell one spot short of becoming a state qualifier in the 200-meter and 300-meter hurdles.

In addition, coach Kyle Griffin continues to be excited about the group's youth.

Coach's Corner "We're going to get to experiment a lot this year, and that's exciting," Brethren head coach Kyle Griffin said. "We've got a chunk of kids who are either freshmen/

What you need to know On one of the first days of practice, Griffin had the Bobcats fill out goal sheets, asking them what they wanted to accomplish. Then, when talking about expectations, he continued saying, 'I keep telling them that I would like them to prove me wrong.'

In response, numerous members of the Brethren track team claimed they would.

"I think numbers-wise, we still aren't necessarily going to be there in terms of winning conference titles and trying to win the region," said Griffin.

"That's just purely out of the virtue of it's tough to do so when we are entering the season with smaller numbers and guys and gals that haven't run track all that many years.

"You look at MCC when they won it a few years ago with a pretty darn small team, but that was with a lot of juniors and seasons."

Moving forward, Griffin expects the team to use his words as motivation.

"It wasn't by design," he said. "But on the boys' side, especially … that is a little bit of the attitude of those guys is you tell me I can't do this, and we'll see. I heard it today a couple of times with them saying, 'We are going to go win a meet, get ourselves involved, and get ourselves in some relays.' So, if those guys start stepping up a little bit, I won't be surprised if I'm hearing, 'Hey, remember when you said this?'

"As I always say to them, I would love to be wrong."

sophomores or haven't run track in the past, and we are pretty stoked to be able to throw the kids Brethren's Lucas Stapley competes in the 110-meter hurdles at the Division 4 state finals in Hudsonville last year. (File photo)

in some events and see what they have fun doing."

Key Losses Alexis Tracy (earned all-state honors) Key Returners Girls: Abby Kissling (sophomore) Ally Osga (junior) Sam Hiller (sophomore) Boys:

Prediction The Bobcats will experiment throughout the year, boasting tons of young talent, but Griffin plans to push them and already has.

He's laid out his expectations in hopes of motivating them for the future. And it just might work.

Spring Sports Preview 2022 • Manistee News Advocate

Abigail Kissling runs the anchor leg of Brethren's winning 4x800-meter relay last season. (File photo)

Lucas Stapley (junior)

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Manistee boys golf primed for big run

Coach’s Corner

By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

“We will all have fun and play by the rules,”

After a poor first outing in 2021, Manistee boys golf broke through, finding consistency

said coach Mike Swanson. “We will improve, get better, play with sportsmanship and integrity. I

for a secondplace finish in the Lakes 8 Coastal Conference, beat out by Ludington for first place. With the departure of four seniors from

last year's team, the Chippewas will look to fill the holes left behind and end their last season in the conference with a championship.

believe this group will compete for a conference championship. They

What you need to know

could also qualify as one of the top 15 schools in division 3 golf.”

Key Losses

Manistee freshman Jacob Scharp paced the Chippewas in their Division 3 regional on Wednesday. (File photo)

Mason Adamski (graduated) Caleb Adamski (graduated) Drew Schloff (graduated)

Scharp, the reigning No. 2 golfer in the conference, returns for his sophomore season with Johnson and Sorenson. While the trio appear to be the cream of the crop, the season will hinge on who else rises in 2022.

“We lost quite a few seniors

from last year including two sets of twins,” Swanson said.

“Fortunately, we have students who are ready to step up and take their place.”

Who those golfers will be are up in the air. With a roster of just around a dozen golfers, nine players will ultimately vie for three open spots.

Grant Schloff (graduated) Prediction

Key Returners Jacob Scharp (sophomore) Brady Johnson (senior) Braydon Sorenson (sophomore)

Manistee senior Brady Johnson follows through on a shot. (Courtesy photo/Brady Johnson)

The top half of the Chippewas roster seems set. Golfers 4-6 are still a toss up and there appears to be no rush in having the back half of the meet roster concrete, as it should be. Look for the Chippewas to be conference leaders if everything comes together, but will still contend if the stars don’t quite align.

Regardless, look for the Chippewas last run in the Lakes 8 to be a memorable one.

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Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Chippewa baseball returns entire 2021 roster By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

After a 2021 campaign filled with growing pains,

Manistee baseball began to find a particular level of success in the back half of the season.

The Chippewas

enter 2022 with everybody back and a few new freshmen in the teams farewell season in the Lakes 8 Coastal Conference.

the team chemistry is on a dynamic level.

The Chippewas rode with one “They’re what I call baseball junior, six sophomores and a pair junkies,” Edmondson said. of freshmen in last year's starting “Anything that has to do with the lineup. In 2022 everyone is back game of baseball they want to do with a year of experience under it. They want to play, they want to their belt. watch, they talk about it.

The message for this season has “Most teams get on a bus and become clear for Manistee: have they put their headphones on fun. and you never hear a peep out of “In four years of high school you get to play any sport they give you them. This team gets on the bus and they’re playing cards, talking a jersey for, and when they take them away they’re not nice. Have about baseball, talking about fun,” Edmondson said. “It’s a fun guys getting traded to this team game. We’re pretty loose, we like or playing for that team. They to have fun but we’re serious and love the game of baseball, and that’s what makes this group fun can play ball too.” to be around.”

As for the group of young men,

Coach’s Corner “Wins and losses come and go,” said coach Dave Edmondson. “We get better everyday. We grow as baseball players and as young men.

That’s a successful season for us.”

What you need to know

Key Returners

Manistee competes at baseball districts on June 5. (File Photo)

Caine Weed (senior) Donavyn Kirchinger (junior) Adam Workman (junior)

Prediction Turnover is a team's worst enemy. Manistee has none of it.

While it’s too soon to call how the season will finish, it’s clear that the Chippewas will be a fun team to watch that has the potential to make a big push. Whether that’s in conference play or postseason action is up for debate, but there’s no doubt that Manistee baseball will be a team to watch in 2022.

Manistee competes at baseball districts on June 5. (File Photo)

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Manistee softball looks to wash 2021 taste out of its mouth By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

Coach’s Corner “We have several returning seniors and one sophomore who are strong players and will make great contributions to the game,” said coach Terri Arendt.

“We have some new players who aren’t new to the game but haven’t played in recent years.

We look forward to seeing their skills be a great addition to the team. This team has the ability to do very well and we are very excited to watch them work hard and grow in their sport.”

With COVID-19 and eligibility issues running rampant, 2021 was a season of trials

and tribulations for Manistee softball, ultimately costing the team a shot at a deep playoff run. For 2022, however, the

What you need to know

Manistee's Addy Witkowski delivers a pitch during the Chippewa 350 Club Invite on Saturday in Manistee. (File photo)

Key Losses Brianna Shivley (graduated) Cheyenne Renner (graduated)

The Chippewas will be a team that still doesn’t realize their full potential entering opening day.

“I’m excited to see where they go,” Arendt said. “They don’t realize how good they can be.

They need that confidence in themselves. We’re absolutely excited and blessed to be on this journey with the girls.”

Regardless of the season's finish, Arendt’s ultimate

Chippewas hope the distraction become minimal for a season filled with growth behind a big senior class.

goal is for the girls to learn something about themselves to take for the rest of their lives.

“I want them to get in the game and experience it for truly the wonderful game it is,” Arendt said. “But also grow as individuals and test their limits.

Knowing that one play will be great and the next one might not be, you’re still going to brush it off and go to the next thing.”

Taylor Murray (graduated) Key Returners

Prediction

Annika Arendt (sophomore) Faith Dahlke (senior) Addy Witkowski (senior)

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Manistee's Addy Witkowski makes a play at the plate during the Chippewas' split with rival Ludington in their home finale on Tuesday. (File photo)

It’s boom or bust for the Chippewas in 2022. They’ll need to create pitching depth and discover their mojo, two things that can be accomplished before districts.

If everything goes smooth there’s no reason Manistee can’t find success in 2022.

Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Plethora of opportunity available for Manistee girls soccer By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

After a 5-10 finish in 2021, Manistee girls soccer aims for an improved

2022 campaign.

Even with a slow start, quarantines and an inseason pause, the Chippewas deep roster looks

to build off a successful second half of their 2021 season with less distractions and a variety of strategy options.

not all about wins and losses for Smith and the team. It’s Even with the departure of about having fun, building reeight seniors, Smith believes lationships, learning and get her roster is still built for better throughout the season. success.

“That’s how we approach “We have a good mix of practice and our overall experience and youth on the arching theme,” Smith said. team,” Smith said. “We are “We’re trying to instill in kids going to have more depth on ‘hey, we can be fierce comour roster this year and are petitors, too’ and play hard. hoping to channel that into higher intensity on the field.” Ten years after you graduate high school and are finished Thanks to their depth, the Chippewas will be able to give playing high school sports you remember the fun times multiple looks to opponents. on the bus and feeling good It will allow Manistee to try after you’ve worked hard different things and find a versus what was the score of system that best fits its roster. At the end of the day, it's that one game.”

Coach’s Corner "We are super excited for this upcoming season,” said coach Kathy Smith. “The team is already showing a lot of energy and enthusiasm for the season. This attitude has been contagious and every day we see improvement."

What you need to know

Manistee's Mariah Bialik gathers the ball at Chippewa Field. (File photo)

Key Losses Rachael Owens (graduated) Lauren Mendians (graduated) Olivia Smith (graduated) Key Returners Emma Bevans (senior) Raegan Codden (senior) Amanda Kelley (senior)

Prediction It will be intriguing to see what the Chippewas can do without starting and stopping their season like they were forced to do in 2021. If the team can stay healthy and continue to grow from their prior second-half success there’s no reason the Chippewas can’t finish in the top half of the Lakes 8 Coastal Conference and contend for a district championship.

Spring Sports Preview 2022 • Manistee News Advocate

Manistee's Allie Thomas chases down a ball during the Chippewas' district quarterfinal against Big Rapids.

(File photo)

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Chippewa track and field poised to repeat 2021 success By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

The 2021 track and field season was a memorable one for Manistee

Coach’s Corner “We can say for the first time in school history that we're the defending conference champions, and we intend to do everything we can to defend our title,” said coach Eric Thuemmel. “ We are blessed with good numbers. We've got over 60 kids total. up to about 25 Girls, close to 40 Boys, and we've got some holes to fill from last year's team.”

What you need to know

Manistee competes at track and field regionals on May 21, 2021 at Benzie Central. (File photo)

Key Losses Anderson Johns - top sprinter Landon Powers - throwing events Nick Weaver - throwing events Dylan Johnson - distance runner Key Returners Luke Kooy - pole vault, sprinter Trevor Mikula - mid-distance relay Conner Rischel - long jump, sprinter Evan Scarlata - high jump, hurdles

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high school. On the girls side, the Chippewas claimed their first conference title, while the

The goals are simple for Manistee: defend its Lakes 8 Coastal title, finish top 3 at regionals and qualify as a team for the MITCA state meet.

“Very encouraging to see some of the kids coming out, I’m so excited about the prospects of this season,” Thuemmel said.

“We've only lost a couple of girls off of last year's team and gained some good new ones. We think we got a

boys earned their first conference title since 1968.

Can 2022 end the same way as 2021?

shot of getting some relays and individuals into the state meet.”

Even with the departure of key talent, Thuemmel is ecstatic for the team's depth in 2022.

“We've got a deep team,” Thuemmel said. We don't have a lot of superstars that will win at state, but I think our third fastest runner can beat (another schools) third fastest runner. I think our depth is going to be our strength.”

Prediction

Manistee competes at track and field regionals on May 21, 2021 at Benzie Central. (File photo)

The 2021 season proved to be historic for Manistee, and with a roster of 60 kids there’s no reason why both the boys and girls team can’t repeat as conference champions. There’s a lot that can go wrong, but hypotheticals shouldn’t distract from the talent and depth that the Chippewas possess.

Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Chippewas girls tennis aims to build off 2021 season By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

After an up and down 2021 season that saw Manistee

girls tennis finally host home matches after a multiseason pause, the Chippewas are set to return

in 2022. This year's challenge: introduce 10 girls to the game of tennis for the first time in their lives.

Coach’s Corner “We concentrate on teaching them technique, teaching them skills with a hope that they’re going to grow,

What you need to know watching the girls who start Unlike sports like soccer, basketball and baseball, there are no feeder programs for Manistee girls tennis. There are no junior high, junior varsity or youth programs to teach the skills and rules of tennis at a young age. This will be the first time that a majority of the roster will play a competitive tennis match.

“We’re hopeful we can build upon what we did last season as far as the success and the number of matches we win, and how far we advance in conference and regional (play)” Sheffield said. “It’s

the season learning how to hold the racket to the end of the season they’ve made it through several rounds at conference or regional (tournaments)."

The team returns four members of last year's squad in Bell, Bond, Miles and sophomore Megan Vazquez. Outside of the quartet and one foreign exchange student, it’s forged by fire.

“We have to work with what we get,” Sheffield said. “It was exciting last year to see girls brand new to the sport play at the conference level.

We weren’t dead last.”

develop, be able to go out, play a game and ultimately, because it’s a lifelong sport, they’re going to love it and continue to play it,” said Head coach Vicki Sheffield coaches her team at practice on Tuesday, March 22nd at Manistee High School

coach Vicki Sheffield. “Obviously we want some success during our season or we wouldn’t be doing this at the high school level.”

Key Losses Ava Bladick (graduation) Emily Krolczyk (graduation) Emily Steinberg (graduation) Key Returners

Prediction With 10 fresh faces to the sport, the Chippewas may not find success early in the season. However, experience is any athlete's best friend. As the season goes on so will the success of the Chippewas’ season. This will be a team that gets better with time.

Spring Sports Preview 2022 • Manistee News Advocate

Lauren Bell (senior) Peyton Bond (sophomore) Sophomore Marina Reid works with assistant coach Greg Sheffield at practice on Tuesday, March 22nd at Manistee High School.

Kennedy Miles (sophomore)

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MCC softball will have fresh start in 2022

Coach’s Corner

Central softball.

Samantha Skocelas, a 2004 MCC graduate, replaces Kaitlin Heck as head coach.

By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

“We all have a lot of learning

It’s a new era for Manistee Catholic

to do,” head coach Samantha

Skocelas will be tasked to spend the 2022 season laying the foundation for the Sabers future.

Skocelas said. We’re going to be a versatile team. They're

What you need to know

not going to just know one

With Heck out and Skocelas in at skipper, philosophies and cultures will shift. How fast the team buys in will be crucial. The primary focus is to build the softball program back up while searching for success in 2022 with plenty of new faces.

“I have quite a few new players that have never played or haven't played in years,” Skocelas said. “ I just want to show that even though we are a small school we still can pull off a team. I want to get the younger ones involved

position, they're gonna know multiple. With the small

The Manistee Catholic Central softball team was swept by Marion on Monday at Rietz Park. (File photo)

numbers that we have we got to move people around.”

Key Losses Kaya Watkins (graduation) Key Returners

more so that we can build our team for the next couple years.”

Even with a general lack of experience from the majority of its roster, MCC remains optimistic early in the season.

“I never heard any negative (words) from any of the players they were coaching each other, encouragement is the big thing,” Skocelas said.

“A lot of them haven't held the bat, they didn't know how to bat. Even when they hit off the tee the older ones who are like you can do it, it's fine, you'll get it.”

Macy Taylor (senior)

Prediction

Elena Pizana (senior)

It’s year one of a sports program hitting the reset switch. When you start from scratch like MCC softball is, expectations record wise should be kept somewhat low.

With that said there’s no doubt that the Sabers will progress throughout 2022. What that translates to at the end of the year is uncertain. Be patient with MCC softball.

Kaylyn Johnson (junior) Emily Miller waits on a pitch during a game at Bear Lake. (News Advocate file photo)

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Sabers baseball youthful, determined in 2022 Coach’s Corner By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

Experience can be a high school team’s best

friend. For Manistee Catholic Central baseball, that friendship will be made during the 2022 campaign. The

What you need to know

Manistee Catholic Central's Lee Pizana connects for a hit during the Sabers' sweep of Walkerville last season. (File photo)

With the departure of key pitchers in Johnson and Pierce due to graduation, 2022 may shape out to be a rough stretch early.

“It's gonna be a growing year, but I'm excited,” Rankin said. “I demand a lot from these guys.

I expect them to play at a high level. They listen and work hard, which is great. But we'll see what happens.”

Sabers roster currently lists two seniors, one junior, four sophomores, one freshman and sixth eighth graders.

Despite the lack of experience from six players, the work ethic and drive is not an issue, absorbing information like sponges.

“They're just soaking everything up, and sometimes I gotta check myself,” Rankin said. “I throw a lot at them. Maybe too much at once sometimes. But it's exciting in the sense that they're young and they're gonna have many years ahead.”

Prediction

Manistee Catholic's goal this season is to compete, and they will do just that, even with a young team. (File photo)

If the Sabers could be described in one word, it would be ‘youthful.’ The goal is to compete, and MCC will do just that. There will be growing pains with a young team, but the team will be better in June than April, creating a potential sleeper come districts.

“Trust the process and eventually the process will love you back,” said coach Dilon Rankin. “My goal as a coach is to get these guys to believe and to understand that if you put the time in, if you put in the work and you work hard, eventually, I promise you, you're going to see results. The process is going to love you back.

“I want these guys to play baseball at a high level, at a level that perhaps they didn't think they could play. It's just a matter of building their confidence and getting them to understand that they can do that.”

Key Losses Blake Johnson (graduated) Adam Pierce (graduated) Austin Taylor (graduated) Key Returners Catcher Kyle McLinden (senior) Nathan Oleniczak (sophomore)

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Sabers track and field look to rediscover 2021 success Coach’s Corner “I love track and field, I love Manistee Catholic Central and I love the kids,” said coach Gabe Wise. “I approach it like I do with life; with great enthusiasm, with passion and I attack it each day. I try to instill in the kids to be grinders, to know that things aren’t always going to be perfect, but we still have to finish strong in everything that we do.”

By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

For both the boys and girls side of the team, Manistee Catholic Central track and field

Manistee Catholic's Lee Pizana competes in a hurdle event during the 2021 season. (File photo)

Mateo Barnett - sprinter Henry Hybza - distance runner Dean Sturgeon - thrower Key Returners

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sixth-place finish at state. For the girls, it’s about building off a successful 2021 season despite carrying only four members on its respective roster.

members, a challenge that Wise is ready for.

The Sabers will have to replace “I’m so excited to work with premiere West Michigan D them, see what they can do,” League talent in Barnett, Hybza, Wise said. “I know there’s a Stickney and Sturgeon. However, lot of talent there, there’s a lot the energy level and expectation of speed. It’s just a puzzle of for 2022 is still high with talent finding out where they’re going on both squads. to find the most success and “It’s a tough group, and they where they can help the team fight like Sabers, as I like to say,” event wise. I think both the boys Wise said. “They build off each and girls teams will challenge for other very well.” the (West Michigan) D League With the departure of talent title. They’re both ready, and enters a new wave of team we’re going to have a great year.”

What you need to know

Key Losses

Keeton Capling (senior) sprinter Ryker Capling (sophomore) pole vault, hurdles Josie Ziehm (senior) - pole vault, high jump

will look to build off 2021. For the boys, it’s looking to replicate a West Michigan D League championship, a second-place finish at regionals and a

Prediction The Manistee Catholic Central boys track and field team pose by their victory bell after winning the 2021 West Michigan D League championship.

(File photo)

While the Sabers will have to replenish incredible talent, the energy level for 2022 is on par for teams hungry for success. A fair portion of last year's core is still intact, but the youth will determine if the Sabers find success on a team or individual level. Regardless of the finish, this will be a fun pair of teams to watch in 2022.

Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Sabers golf ready for 2022 campaign By: Mitch Vosburg Sports Reporter

With COVID-19 restrictions practically removed,

Manistee Catholic Central golf will look to dominate its 2022 season. The Sabers return four upperclassmen to

Coach’s Corner

their lineup. Who fills in to round off the lineup is still up in the air, and may make or break the team's success.

but the remaining meet squad will come down to who develops Despite losing a pair of seniors, best of the remaining 5 to 6 the Sabers return Shriber, a state members of the roster. qualifier in 2021.

“We have four people that have “He's pretty consistent,” Meikle played and I know can do pretty said of Shriber. “He stays within good, it's just getting the five and this game. I know he's been six, getting those back up guys working out over the winter and because those are pretty key he's been doing some indoor spots,” Meikle said. “If I could practicing. I think he'll have a develop four or five, six player, good year.” then I think we could be pretty He will be paired with McComb consistent. We got some people and Mallory Meikle in the top to pick from. I'm not sure how it portion of the roster. Junior Matthew Gunia is currently slated all shake out, but at least we have at the No. 4 option in the lineup, some options."

“I want the kids to have fun and I want them to enjoy it because they enjoy it, they'll keep doing

it,” said coach Denis Meikle. “If you make it pure competition

What you need to know

and not always fun you're

going to lose people at some

point. So I'm trying to promote Manistee Catholic Central's Mallory Meikle was one of several Sabers looking to make strides on the golf course this spring. (File photo)

the enjoyment of the game and hope they have fun. I think if they do and they learn stuff,

then the competitive aspect will be there.”

Key Losses Blake Johnson (graduated) Henry Hybza (graduated) Key Returners

Prediction The Sabers have a top-heavy roster, for now. The team success will hinge on creating depth by the time the conference and district tournaments roll around.

If the roster becomes concrete there’s do doubt that the Sabers can make a good run. If not, look for individual success from the red, white and blue.

Spring Sports Preview 2022 • Manistee News Advocate

Alex Shriber (senior)

Brendan McComb (senior) Brendan McComb and the Manistee Catholic Central golf team won the West Michigan D League championship at Crystal Lake Golf Club. (File photo)

Mallory Meikle (senior)

19

Portagers focused on the basics, ready to compete By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Last season, the Portagers were young and inexperienced; a fact the canceled

Coach's Corner "Like any coach, your expectations for any of your athletes is to get better," Onekama head coach Tom Bromley said. "To get them to go out and enjoy the game, not just for our golf season, but to play it all summer long. Those are all high expectations … if we could finish fourth or fifth this year in the conference – that would be tremendous."

Clouse, Sawyer Christensen, and Ethan Walker. The Portagers coach Tom Bromley believes they are poised to improve.

plenty of newcomers as well.

"There's going to be all of these The Portagers lost one senior spots up in the air," he said. in Ben Falk but are bringing "We'll see how they do on the back Peyton Clouse, who course when we start getting earned honorable mention into the golf season. I always all-conference honors as a freshman, Sawyer Christensen, take my best five, and we'll play them that week. Because they and Ethan Walker, the team's are young, the biggest focus lone senior. point is keeping your head "Peyton is the kind of kid you down on the ball. can tell has played most of his life," said Bromley. "I'm sure he "Don't pull your head as you are swinging the club; we want had a golf club in his hand at to work on grip, stance, just a very young age – he hits the the basics to start out with. ball nice and long … I thought We'll worry about distance and he did an outstanding job last things like that when we get on year."

Bromley adds Onekama has the course."

What you need to know

Sawyer Christensen tees off for Onekama last season at Bear Lake Highlands. (File photo)

Key Losses Ben Falk (graduated) Key Returners Peyton Clouse (sophomore) Sawyer Christensen (junior) Ethan Walker (senior)

season due to the pandemic didn't help. However, the Onekama golf program shows promise with multiple returners, including Peyton

Prediction Onekama's Peyton Clouse teeing off in the final Northwest Conference match of last season. (File photo)

The Portagers are a young and talented group with some experience mixed in. Bromley is focusing on the fundamentals and expects the team to take another step forward.

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Manistee News Advocate • Spring Sports Preview 2022

Onekama softball ready 'to make a statement By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Onekama softball won the MHSAA Division 4 district title three years ago and reached

the regional final, losing to Holton, 10-2. From there, the pandemic canceled the 2019-20 season.

Then, last spring, the Portagers ended 8-11 overall while

What you need to know Onekama and Johnson are back for another year of softball and continue to head in the right direction. The Portagers have high aspirations, and the longtime coach is confident in his group, considering a litany of returning talent, including Sophie Wisniski, Kaylin Sam, Ashley McGrady, Carly Bennett, and Ellie McIsaac.

"Kaylin will be behind the plate doing her thing; then we have McGrady, who is an all-around really good softball player. She can play any position," said Johnson. "We have Bennett;

falling short in the district semifinal against Frankfort, 7-5. Now, more than anything, Onekama wants to regroup and make another deep postseason run.

Coach's Corner

she's a multi-position player and has solid knowledge of the game.

"Then we have McIsaac coming back too."

However, he's also excited about Onekama pitcher Sophie Wisniski works on her fielding Onekama's young players.

"We are going to be blessed with during practice earlier last spring. (File photo) an eighth-grader in Hailey Hart; she'll be playing some varsity with us," Johnson said. "We have Julia Lapp, Karmen Warden – they are all returners and have been in the program for two to three years, so it's time to shake the rust off our cleats and shine up the bats a little bit.

"What we are looking to do is make a statement."

"We have a pretty good nucleus coming back," Portagers coach Rob Johnson said. "We've got a couple of new players to the program that will bring some speed.

And then obviously, I think everybody is kind of whispering about the pitching we should have with (Sophie) Wisniski putting in tremendous amounts of hard work in the offseason."

Key Losses Ajah Fink (graduated) Coriena Maxey (graduated) Cayley Nelson (graduated) Katie Magnan (graduated) Key Returners

Prediction The Portagers boast a plethora of talent, both young and experienced at all levels of the game. But, equally as importantly, with Johnson leading the program, Onekama is motivated and poised to have a breakout year.

Onekama coach Rob Johnson praised Carly Bennett for coming in and picking up innings after errors ran up the pitch count of his game one starter Sophie Wisniski during last season. (File photo)

Sophie Wisniski (senior) Kaylin Sam (senior) Ellie McIsaac (senior) Carly Bennett (junior)

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Coach's Corner "We are starting with a lot of new faces," Onekama coach Nathan Bradford said. "We have some exciting freshmen who are pretty good athletes, I know Mason Sinke is coming out, and he had a solid cross country season. We're going to have to figure things out as the year goes on, try to tap into things, and find out what the kids' interests are."

Key Losses Girls:

Onekama track ushers in newcomers, excited to learn and grow By: McLain Moberg Sports Editor

Last year, the Onekama track program featured smaller teams for

boys and girls, which might have been a product of the canceled 2020 season due to the pandemic.

Portagers head coach

What you need to know

Mairin McCarthy competes in the long jump for Onekama last season. (File photo)

Sara Bromley (graduated) Jenna Bromley (graduated) Blanca Andres (graduated) Boys: Hunter Bentley (graduated) Key Returners

The Portagers are ecstatic to have Mairin McCarthy, Madison Gutowski, and Dante Gray competing alongside the track team again this year. However, Bradford has experienced some turnover roster-wise and is interested to see where his group ends up.

"We lost a few kids … but the main thing I told them is to have a good attitude and to come every day and work hard," said Bradford. "I said, hopefully, that

Nathan Bradford was disappointed, primarily for his students. Now, he's looking forward to another successful year.

leads to success. Our goal is to find something for each kid to enjoy, and if they do, we usually see some success there."

Bradford continued, saying, this season will be about ushering some new talent in and recognizing where their skills and interests lay.

"As the season goes on, you have to start somewhere," he said. "And hopefully, we get some good kids competing and have a chance at regionals while hopefully getting a few qualifiers for the state meet."

Girls: Mairin McCarthy (senior) Madison Gutowski (junior) Boys: Dante Gray (junior)

22

Prediction

Madison Gutowski competes at Buckley on April 16 last season. (File photo)

Onekama is heading in a different direction this spring, with tons of new faces surrounding the program. Bradford is intrigued by the prospect of experimenting with numerous students in hopes of finding events they genuinely enjoy.

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