The Kickoff - Fall 2015 - Cass County, MI by Leader Publications

Kickoff THE

FALL 2015

A SUPPLEMENT OF LEADER PUBLICATIONS

GAME

TIME Eddies, Chieftains, Rangers shooting for gridiron success

Also Inside: Fall high school sports spotlights ND, U of M, MSU, WMU previews Week-by-week NFL schedule

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Kickoff THE

FALL 2015

A SUPPLEMENT

BRANDYWINE 6 8 9 10 11

Football Soccer Volleyball Tennis Cross Country

BUCHANAN 12 15 17 18 19

Football Soccer Volleyball Tennis Cross Country

CASSOPOLIS 20 23 24 25

Football Soccer Volleyball Cross Country

DOWAGIAC 26 29 31 32 33 35

Football Soccer Volleyball Tennis Cross Country Golf

ATIONS

OF LEADER PUBLIC

EDWARDSBURG 36 39 40 41 43

Football Volleyball Soccer Tennis Cross Country

NILES 44 46 47 48 51 53

Football Soccer Volleyball Cross Country Tennis Golf

COLLEGE 55 57 59 60 61

Key Football Schedules University of Michigan Michigan State University Notre Dame University Western Michigan University

NFL 62 NFL Schedules 64 Chicago Bears 66 Detroit Lions

GAME

TIME

Rangers Eddies, Chieftains, n success shooting for gridiro

Kickoff THE

A SUPPLEMENT

OF LEADER PUBLI

CATIONS

FALL 2015

Also Inside:

spotlights Fall high school sports previews ND, U of M, MSU, WMU schedule Week-by-week NFL

GAME

TIME

Brandywine, Niles, Buchanan set to take gridir on by storm

Also Inside:

Fall high school sports spotlights ND, U of M, MSU , WMU previews Week-by-week NFL schedule

ON THE COVER Area high school coaches selected one player from each team to participate in a photo shoot and be featured on the cover of The Kickoff publication, which included a Cass and Berrien County version. Pictured are Brandywine’s Hunter Janowiak, Buchanan’s Daniel Backus; Cassopolis’ A.J. Green, Dowagiac’s Josh Lamphere, Edwardsburg’s Dante Razzano and Niles’ Braulio Sosa. Photos by Wes Jerdon/Westley Leon Studios

FROm the sports editor

s summer turns into fall, hope springs eternal for our area sports teams. For the past decade or so, I have had the pleasure of helping create a fall sports special section. What began as just a football section more than 20 years ago has evolved into so much more. We added all the sports about 10 years ago and this year, to quote chef Emeril Lagasse, “We are kicking it up a notch — BAM!” About the middle of July we begin the planning for the section and we decided to switch from the normal newsprint version to a full-color magazine. There are several advantages to going with the magazine format. Among them are the fact that every team can now be showcased with colors photo and it allows us to add some college and professional football stories to the section. We even decided to shoot two covers for the section in a studio instead of just

using photographs from the previous season. I can tell you it is was quite interesting watching players from Brandywine, Buchanan, Cassopolis, Dowagiac, Edwardsburg and Niles posing for a variety of photos almost like it was a shoot for Sports Illustrated. We decided on two covers so that we could feature our Cass County schools — Cassopolis, Dowagiac and Edwardsburg — on one, and our Berrien County schools — Brandywine, Buchanan and Niles — on the other. I would like to thank the players for showing up and doing a great job as they were asked to do something that was probably out of their comfort zone. We have been working hard over the past couple of weeks gathering previews and team photographs for the section. I would like to thank all the athletic directors and coaches for their cooperation and we hope everyone will enjoys The Kickoff! Scott Novak is the sports editor at Leader Publications. He can be reached by phone at (269) 687-7702, or by email at scott.novak@leaderpub.com THE KICKOFF • 5

Brandywine

BOBCATS

THE BASICS COACH Mike Nate: 36-21 Years coaching sport at current school Seventh year Last year’s record/ place in conference: 8-2, Second in BCS Athletic Conference, qualified for playoffs Key starters lost Andrew Duckett, Marty Ward, Charlie Rodriguez, Jake Syzlagy, Matt Kline Key returning lettermen Hunter Janowiak, Austin Knapp, Vinny Peel, Jeshua Weise, Zack Grishaber, Toby Fox, Sam Burge, Nathan Kemp Top newcomers Conner Earles, Brandon Hatch 6 • THE KICKOFF

Strengths Numbers close to 30 on varsity, two-platoon football system and team speed. Weaknesses Experience at the skill positions. What do you think about your conference? It’s hard to tell with the new teams and the re-shuffling. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? Team speed. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? You roll with the punches. The better you handle adversity, the

better you are. It’s easy to be in control when you are winning. WHAT INTANGIBLES WILL BE NEEDED TO PUSH YOUR TEAM OVER THE TOP? Stay healthy. Get better everyday. The key is teamwork.

SCHEDULE &AND KEY PLAYERS AUG. 28 SEPT. 3 11 18 25 OCT. 2 9 16 23

@ Cassopolis, 7 p.m. LaLumiere, 7 p.m. @ Lake Michigan Catholic, 7 p.m. Parchment, 7 p.m. Comstock, 7 p.m. @ New Buffalo, 7 p.m. @ River Valley, 7 p.m. Bridgman, 7 p.m. Buchanan, 7 p.m.

Zack Grishaber

Vinny Peel

Jeshua Wiese

Toby Fox

Nathan Hechtl

Austin Knapp THE KICKOFF â&#x20AC;˘ 7

BRANDYWINE BOBCATS THE BASICS COACH’s Name Evan Winkler Years coaching sport at current school Sixth year Last year’s record/ place in conference 17-4 overall; 8-0 BCS conference — first place

Athletic

Key starters lost Zach Schmidt, Dominic Stella, Blake Lerner, Steve Mugenzi, Andrew Boucher, Sean Danner, Kay Nygsyvivso

BOYS Soccer FRONT ROW: Garrett Lerner, Wyatt Eager, Bret Jacobs, Grant Lerner, Lucas Bucha. BACK ROW: Josh Youngs, Ian Lenox, Alek Horvath, Brady Duval, Michael Okayama and Justin Williamson. MISSING: Max Lemere, Ed Mugenzi and Hunter Slaughter-Briggs

SCHEDULE AUG. 22 VanDenBerg Invitational, 10:30 a.m. 25 @ South Bend Trinity, 5 p.m. 27 @ New Buffalo, 6 p.m. SEPT. 3 9 10 16 17 19 21 23 30

Bangor, 5 p.m. Berrien Springs, 5 p.m. @ Dowagiac, 5 p.m. @ Comstock, 5 p.m. Hartford, 5 p.m. Brandywine Round Robin, 11:30 a.m. @ Lake Michigan Catholic, TBA Parchment, 5 p.m @ Bridgman, 5 p.m

OCT. 5 7 12 14 19

Cassopolis, 5 p.m. @ Buchanan, 5 p.m. BCS Athletic Conf. Tournament, 5 p.m. BCS Athletic Conf. Tournament, 5 p.m. @ MHSAA District, TBA

8 • THE KICKOFF

Strengths Returning three of our four defenders, so defense. Weaknesses Ninety of our 96 goals were scored by last year’s seniors. We need to find new people who can score. And only having 14 people will hurt us if people start to get hurt. What do you think about your conference? A lot of unknowns. We have two divisions of six and don’t know anything about Comstock and Parchment. Bridgman has a lot of players back. Cass has a lot of players back. Buchanan is a lot like us and lost some key people, so some unknowns there. I think Bridgman might be the team to beat this year. But who knows. We will see what happens. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? Our offense is coming along at a good pace — faster then I thought it would.

Key returning lettermen Wyatt Eager, Justin Williamson, Michael Okayama, Eddy Mugenzi, Brady Duval, Bret Jacobs, Josh Youngs Top newcomers Grant Lerner, Garrett Lerner, Hunter Slaughter-Briggs Other than winning all your games AND MAKING playoffs, what team goals do you set? Be the hardest working team, play together as a family and be mentally tough. Everything else will take care of itself. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We talk a lot about handling adversity, whether it is good or bad, and being mentally tough. It is important you play the same whether you are winning, losing or if it is tied. The good teams can handle this the best. You need to have a short-term memory. I think it is important to talk about it and give examples throughout the season. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Working hard, being mentally tough, creating our own identity after losing seven senior starters. Bring it everyday in practice. This team has the potential. We will see if we can bring it their best.

BRANDYWINE BOBCATS

SCHEDULE AUG. 22 @ Kzoo Hackett Invitational, 9 a.m. 29 @ Kzoo Loy Norrix Invitational, 8 a.m.

VOLLEYBALL FRONT ROW: Olivia Whitney, Emily Erwin, Mia Stella and Makena Bowen. BACK ROW: Olivia DePriest, Sydney Carlson, coach Carrie Bidwell, Morgan Crocker, Grace Polomcak and Olivia Thomas

Strengths This team as a whole is extremely athletic and very competitive. They have a strong desire to win and they are willing to put in the time and effort to prepare and be successful in every competition. Weaknesses Many of the players on this volleyball team are multisport athletes. For most, they do not participate in volleyball games or training activities from the end of the last season to the beginning of next season. Lack of contact with volleyball and minimal exposure to additional game scenarios can present a disadvantage at the beginning of the season when we are trying to get everyone “caught up.” On the other hand, these same multisport athletes have been exposed to

other teammates, coaches and physical expectations and often bring fresh and new ideas to the gym. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? I knew my team had a very competitive spirit, however, I have been surprised by how much they channel their competitiveness in the practice setting. A lot of athletes display a more competitive mentality in game situations only. This team brings game-day mentality to practice everyday and really embraces the idea that one should practice how they want to play in a game. Other than winning all your games AND MAKING playoffs, what team goals do you set?

THE BASICS COACH (career record) Carrie Bidwell: 19-17 Years coaching sport/ at current school Second year as varsity coach; fourth year at Brandywine Last year’s record/ place in conference 19-17, district champions

Key starters lost Abbey Cole, fourth-year starter Key returning lettermen Emily Erwin; Olivia DePriest; Sydney Carlson Top newcomers Makena Bowen

SEPT. 9 12 16 21 30 OCT. 7 13 17 20 21 27 29

@ Buchanan, 6:30 p.m @ Watervliet Invitational, 8 a.m. @ Bridgman, 6:30 p.m. @ Cassopolis, 6:30 p.m. Parchment, 6:30 p.m. Comstock, 6:30 p.m. @ Bridgman Quad, 5 p.m. @ Coloma Invitational, TBA @ Dowagiac, 6 p.m. LMC/River Valley, 6:30 p.m. @ Vicksburg Mini, 4 p.m. Eau Claire, 6:30 p.m.

NOV. 2 @ MHSAA District, TBA

We know where our season ended last year and we know where we would like the season to end this year. This season, we are going to approach each game as a separate entity with the idea that the players will play their absolute best game possible each time. The goal is continuous improvement. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Our schedule this year contains quite a variety of opponents. The conference has changed, so that has altered who we play in conference. We have also added a few different tournaments and games to better prepare us for playoffs. The team understands that different opponents will present different challenges. The expectation for this team is every game is a learning opportunity, whether the result is a win or a loss. The challenges will prepare us mentally and physically for the playoffs, as well as strengthen our character and team cohesiveness. THE KICKOFF • 9

BRANDYWINE BOBCATS

BOYS TENNIS THE BASICS COACH (CAREER RECORD) David Sidenbender: 46-32-3 Years coaching sport at current school Eighth year Last year’s record/ place in conference 10-0-3, first place BCS Athletic Conference Second at MHSAA Regional; 13th at state finals

Strengths Experience at singles Weaknesses Experience at doubles What do you think about your conference? With Berrien coming back it makes the conference tough and should be competitive. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and 10 • THE KICKOFF

Key starters lost Chance Smith, Tanner Bourdon, Matt Vaughn, Jordan Hunt, Alec DeJonge Key returning lettermen Austin Balos, Mark Conrad, Cole Searles, Caleb Cole, Tyler Mott Top newcomers Matt Stewart (freshman), Kevin Conrad (freshman), Taylor Casey (junior), Derek Miller (freshman), Austin Carter (freshman)

losing, and how do you coach that? That’s the tough part about coaching in general. I’d like us to stay “even keeled,” not too much of either. We do this by not looking too far ahead and playing each point as hard as we can. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We need the seniors to be the leaders and keep everyone focused on the goals at hand.

FRONT ROW: Matt Stewart, Austin Carter, Derrick Miller, Kevin Conrad and Caleb Cole. BACK ROW: Nathan Sachman, Tyler Mott, Mark Conrad, Austin Balos, Cole Searles, Adam Irons, Taylor Casey and coach David Sidenbender.

SCHEDULE AUG. 22 24 25 26 28 29 SEPT. 2 9 10 14 15 16 23

East Kentwood Tournament, TBA Galesburg-Augusta, 4 p.m. @ Paw Paw Tournament, TBA Berrien Springs, 4 p.m. @ Niles Invitational, 9 a.m. @ South Bend St. Joe Tournament, 8:30 a.m. @ Buchanan, 4 p.m. @ New Buffalo, 4 p.m. Edwardsburg, 4 p.m. Coloma, 4 p.m. @Kalamazoo Hackett, 4 p.m. Bronson, 4 p.m. @ Bridgman, 4 p.m.

OCT. 3 @ BCS Athletic Conference Tournament, TBA 5 South Haven, 4 p.m.

BRANDYWINE BOBCATS

SCHEDULE SEPT. 12 15 19 29

@ Centreville Invitational, 8:30 a.m. @ Bridgman BCS jamboree, 5:30 p.m. @ RedBud Invitational, 10 a.m. @ Comstock BCS jamboree, 5:30 p.m.

OCT. 13 @ Berrien Springs BCS jamboree, 5:30 p.m. 24 Brandywine Invitational, 10 a.m. 30 @ MHSAA Regional, TBA

CROSS COUNTRY THE BASICS

Strengths A couple of four-year runners in James Harrell and Josh Youngs. Harrell was all-conference last year and just missed qualifying for the MHSAA Finals. Weaknesses Numbers

COACH Jim Murray Years coaching sport at current school 46th year Last year’s record/place in conference Eighth place in BCS Athletic Conference Key returning lettermen James Harrell, senior; Joshua Youngs, senior; Matt Probst, sophomore

What do you think about your conference? Somewhat a new conference for the third year in a row. Comstock and Parchment join this year (our division) and the conference is split into two divisions with more schools joining the other division. Parchment has had a history of top individuals, but not much depth. Comstock has been decent. So it is hard to say much about the conference this year before the season starts. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you?

Pictured are seniors James Harrell, left, and Joshua Youngs, right. Several team members were unavailable for the photograph.

Has been about as expected. There aren’t usually too many surprises from veteran runners. Other than winning all your games AND MAKING playoffs, what team goals do you set? Earn honors at the end of season — all-conference, state qualifier(s). How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Too wide open to say much about. Depends on the individual, which may vary significantly between individuals on the same team, no “cookbook” way, have to adjust to the individuals and situations. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Hard work and gain numbers. THE KICKOFF • 11

BUCHANAN BUCKS

SCHEDULE AND KEY PLAYERS

Josiah Smith 12 • THE KICKOFF

Darren Shearer

Jarrett Thomas

Justin Ruth

Kyle Leazenby

Jacob Graham

Buchanan

FRONT ROW: Kyle Leazanby, Josiah Smith, Chad Adkerson, Justin Ruth, Max Carrigan, Brice Vineyard, Tim McCaffrey, Cody Roberts, Darren Shearer, Jacob Graham and Gavin Morris. SECOND ROW: coach Jim Dvlamick, coach Reid McBeth, Ryan Cronin, Jarious Ballard, Daniel Backus, Robert Becvar, Al Ferguson, River Fox, Dante Phillips, Jarrett Thomas, Dylan Catalano and coach Tom Brinks. BACK ROW: coach Bill Carson, Rae Griffin, Brandon Jerue, Christian Hall, Dyson Phillips, Darren Ferris, Matt Dehring, Ty Lorance, Wes Grounds, Dalton Riddle and coach Jim Worke.

BUCKS

Strengths Last year we were extremely young and on many nights we were simply overmatched. That should not be the case this year as we return a plethora of talent. We hope to turn our experience into Buck victories. Weaknesses Very tough league and we will certainly need some leaders to emerge as we look stay mentally

AUG. 27 SEPT. 3 11 18 25 OCT. 2 9 16 23

Wyoming Godwin Heights, 7 p.m. @ Comstock, 7 p.m. @ Kelloggsville, 7 p.m. Mendon Cassopolis @ Parchment Comstock @ Berrien Springs @ Brandwine

focused throughout the long season! What do you think about your conference? For us, the league is constantly changing and we know we are in a tough division. Our main goal is to improve each and every day and with some luck we will finish near the top. Regardless, we are looking to get back to the MHSAA Playoffs. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? Work ethic and team chemistry has been a plus. I have enjoyed how this group pushes each other and I am excited at their desire to compete! Other than winning all your games and championships, what other team goals do you set? Get better daily and we have a 12 percent rule that we really focus on.

THE BASICS COACH (CAREER RECORD) Reid McBeth: 4-5 Years coaching sport at current school Second year as head coach, 18th coaching football at Buchanan Last year’s record/place in conference 2-2 BCS Athletic Conference — third place Key starters lost Eddie Washington, Christian Catalano, Dustin Grey, Austin Hall Key returning lettermen Defense: Daniel Backus, linebacker; Justin Ruth, linebacker; Wes Springer-Grounds, defensive end; Chad Adkerson, defensive back. Offense: Jarrett Thomas, quarterback; Darren Shearer, quarterback; Jacob Graham, running back; Ryan Cronin, offensive line; Max Carrigan, offensive line; Rae Griffin, offensive line; Ty Lorance, offensive line; Dalton Riddle, wide receiver; Kyle Leazanby, wide receiver; Tim McCaffrey, wide receiver. Top newcomers Brandon Jerue, senior; Christian Hall, junior Bryce Vineyard, senior; Josiah Smith, senior; River Fox, senior; Dante Phillips, senior; Dyson Phillips, senior THE KICKOFF • 13

Good Luck this season!

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14 • THE KICKOFF

BUCHANAN BUCKS

BOYS Soccer FRONT ROW: Jacob Smith. Second row: Brixton Adkerson, Dawson Lake, Lane Harrison, Bryce Lezenby, Jake Aalfs, Triston Lee Jr. and James Miller. BACK ROW: coach Ryan Catalano, Tevin Tyler, Neza Ruhinyura, Cameron Griffen, Jordan Brown, Lincoln Grwinski, Benji Ganus, James Norris, Jared Valentine, Kevin Mitchell and Tyler Williamson.

Strengths Our biggest strength is that our team is very young for the most part. Which means they’re very excited to learn the way to play Bucks soccer. Another huge strength is that, as a coach, I am not alone trying to teach the younger kids. I have a very good group of senior leadership on the team, which I felt we lacked a little last year. Weaknesses One of our weaknesses is again we have a very young team, which means not a lot of varsity experience on the team. Losing seven core seniors last year was a huge hit and having freshmen coming up straight to varsity is tough, but they’re good kids and are learning fast.

What do you think about your conference? Our conference is going to be pretty tough this year. Brandywine is always a team that we play and they play us tough, and Bridgman is also a very experienced team who will be a very tough battle. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? We had a slow start this year compared to last year’s start where we came out strong, and instead of my team hanging their heads and getting on one another, they shake it off and come prepared next practice or game to work harder and improve more.

SCHEDULE AUG. 22 24 26 29 SEPT. 2 9 14 16 23 28 30 OCT. 5 7 12 14

@ VandDenBerg Invitational @ Edwardsburg, 5:30 p.m. Dowagiac, 5 p.m. @ Coloma Invitational, TBA @ South Haven, 6:45 p.m. Comstock, 5 p.m. Three Rivers, 6 p.m. Bridgman, 5 p.m. @ Berrien Springs, 5 p.m. @ New Buffalo, 6 p.m. @ Parchment, 5 p.m. South Bend Trinity, 5 p.m. Brandywine 5 p.m. BCS Athletic Conf. Tournament, 5 p.m. BCS Athletic Conf. Tournament, 5 p.m.

THE BASICS COACH Ryan Catalano Years coaching sport/ at current school Second year Last year’s record/ place in conference Tied for second place in the BCS Athletic Conference

Key starters lost Cade Vargo, Alex Swem, Jacobi Cashier Key returning lettermen Jordan Brown, Benji Ganus, Lincoln Grwinski Top newcomers Brixton Adkerson, Lane Herrman, Tevin Tyler

Jordan Brown

Benji Ganus

Lincoln Grwinski

THE KICKOFF • 15

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BUCHANAN BUCKS SCHEDULE AUG. 22 24 29 31 SEPT. 1 9 12 16 19 23 26 OCT. 1 3 7 14 21 24

VOLLEYBALL

@ St. Philip Invitational, 8 a.m. Edwardsburg, 6:45 p.m. @ Kzoo Loy Norrix Invitational, 8:30 a.m. @ Coloma Quad, 5 p.m. @ Lakeshore, 6:30 p.m. Brandywine, 6:45 p.m. @ Battle Creek Lakeview Inv., 8:30 a.m. @ Comstock, 7 p.m. @ Portage Northern Invitational, 8 a.m. @ Bridgman, 7 p.m. @ Zeeland East Invitational, 8:30 a.m. @ Berrien Springs, 6:30 p.m. @ Kankakee Valley Invitational, TBA Parchment, 6:45 p.m. @ Parchment Quad, 5:30 p.m. Buchanan Quad, 5:30 p.m. @ St. Joseph Invitational, 9 a.m.

NOV. 2 @ MHSAA District, TBA

Front row: Britta Mollberg, Taylor Strauss, Taylor Reed and Andrea Bair. Back row: Alex Tobler, Jade Mosier, Madison Schau, Liz Kuntz, Megan Adkerson and Franki Strefling.

THE BASICS COACHES (CAREER REcORD) Lisa Holok: 327-105 Shelly Bender, assistant coach Years coaching sport at current school 10th year Last year’s record/ place in conference 48-5-1. Broke Buchanan school win record, district champions Key starters lost Alexis and Jada Meahl, Clara Cornwell, Chelsey Bennett Key returning lettermen Franki Strefling, Britta Mollberg, Taylor Strauss, Alex Tobler, Taylor Reed Top newcomers Megan Adkerson, freshman; Andrea Bair, junior

Strengths This team is very tough defensively and, overall, controls the ball very well. We have experienced people returning in all positions who know the game and what it takes to win. Weaknesses With only one senior this season and losing four strong leaders the returning girls are going to have to step up as individual leaders and work to bring the best out of the people around them. What do you think about your conference? Excited to play some new schools in the area and continue to improve our level of play. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Every player set a different team goal. Things like become a true team, refuse to lose, work

hard through the little things, hold one another accountable and our team motto C. C. C., which stands for — Commit, Compete, Communicate. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We are extremely competitive, so losing in any avenue is tough on us but volleyball is a game of momentum from point to point, and game to game. We always push to the next thing and focus on how to do it better next time. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? When everyone on the team can 100 percent look in the eyes of all the team members and know without a doubt this girl will go to battle for me and trust that we could be unstoppable. THE KICKOFF • 17

BUCHANAN BUCKS

SCHEDULE AUG. 26 28 29 SEPT. 2 9 16 23 28 OCT. 3

@ New Buffalo, 4 p.m. @ Niles Invitational, 9 a.m. @ Otsego Invitational, TBA Brandywine, 4 p.m. @ Bridgman, 4:30 p.m. @ Berrien Springs, 4 p.m. Bronson, 4:30 p.m. @ South Haven, 4:30 p.m. @ BCS Athletic Conference Tournament, 9 a.m.

Strengths We have a strong singles line up for the year and look forward to what they will do. Weaknesses We do not have a full team. Hoping to recruit a few more players so we do not have to forfeit those spots. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? All the returning players have made excellent progress since ending last season. They are dedicated and love the sport. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Our first goal is to get a full team and then build on their strengths on work on their weaknesses. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Most of my players are very level headed. They handle their wins and losses with grace. I also work a lot with them and their mental game. There are a few players that still struggle when they lose. I keep working with them on how to handle their losses and work towards improving their game to increase their wins. 18 â&#x20AC;˘ THE KICKOFF

BOYS TENNIS FRONT ROW: Chris Wentworth, Payton Morgan, Robbie Fay and Jaxon Rehmel. BACK ROW: coach Erin Kratky, Ethan Forray-Molica, Kaleb Pritchard and Alex Lindamood. Missing from photo: Christian Orphanidis and Mark Mcclaran.

THE BASICS COACH Erin Kratky Years coaching sport/ at current school Second year coaching boys, fifth year at Buchanan Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record/ place in conference 3-4-4, fourth place BCS Athletic Conference

Chris Wentworth

Alex Lindamood

Jaxon Rehmel

Kaleb Pritchard

Key starters lost Michal Cesak, Ian Tyler, Josiah Smith, Lucas Bonek Key returning lettermen Alex Lindamood, Christian Orphanidis, Chris Wentworth, Robert Fay, Kaleb Pritchard, Mark Mcclaran, Jaxon Rehmel Top newcomers Payton Morgan

BUCHANAN BUCKS

CROSS COUNTRY Front row: Kinsley Worke, Sam Swartz, Tatum Spencer and Emily Riley. BACK ROW: Sydney Bauer, Brendon Seem, Garret Lollar, Matt Mitchell, Carly Grieves, Brooke Wesner and coach Kristin Baker. Missing from photo: Ben Poole and Kevin Frost.

COACH Kristin Baker

19 26 29

Key returning lettermen Boys: Matt Mitchell, Brendon Swem; Girls: Brooke Wesner, Sam Swartz

OCT. 3 8 13 24

Top newcomers Girl: Emily Riley; Boy: Garret Lollar

Jordan Brown

AUG. 26 @ Bridgman Invitational, 5 p.m. SEPT. 15

Years coaching sport at current school Fourth year

Strengths Brook Wesner is returning injury free and ready to compete as she was unable to complete the end of the season last year. The competition at practice has been taken to the next level with incoming freshman Emily Riley’s ability to push the pace in practice. On the boys side, Matt Mitchell has taken his summer training more serious this year

SCHEDULE

and is coming into his senior year looking his strongest and able to run more mileage than in the past. He is pushing the pace on the boys side and taking Garret Lollar with him.

@ Bridgman BCS jamboree, 5:30 p.m. Buchanan RedBud Invitational, TBA @ Bangor Invitational, 10:30 a.m. @ Comstock BCS jamboree, 5:30 p.m. @ Berrien County Meet, 4:30 p.m. @ Dowagiac Rock ‘n’ Run, 5 p.m. @ Berrien Springs BCS jamboree, 5:30 p.m. @ Gobles Invitational, 10:30 a.m. MHSAA Regional at RedBud, 10 a.m.

Weaknesses Our team’s biggest weakness is numbers. We need more kids that want to be a part of cross ountry. THE KICKOFF • 19

Cassopolis rangers

Cassopolis

FRONT ROW: Reece West, Phillip Harter, Kyjuan Lanier, Nick Baker, A.J. Green, Zach McKee and Aaron Majewski. BACK ROW: coach Dan Purlee, George Purlee, A.J. Watson, Marquise Curtis, Shane Los, Brandon Anderson, Micha Welch, Daniel Deubner, Bryce Saxton, Cross Borsa, Ricky Jackson, Matt Locke, Tony Santana, Kwesi Huffman and Alex Emerson.

Rangers Strengths

THE BASICS

Team speed and athleticism

COACH (career record) Dan Purlee: 18-13

Weaknesses Inexperienced on the line of scrimmage

Years coaching sport at current school Fourth year

What do you think about your conference? The conference expanded and got a little tougher, adding Berrien Springs, Parchment, and Comstock. Our schedule is very competitive. We will have to come to play every Friday.

Last year’s record/ place in conference 7-4, Qualified for state playoffs Key starters lost Isiaih Crider, Noah Woods, Jacob Roth, Tymari Brown Key returning lettermen AJ Green, AJ Watson, Shane Los, Kwesi Huffman, Marquise Curtis, Reece West, Nick Baker, Daniel Deubner Top newcomers Bryce Saxton, Micha Welch, Brandon Anderson 20 • THE KICKOFF

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? Surprises so far would include the addition of a few players who haven’t played since junior high. They have picked things up quickly and should be major contributors to our team. Other than winning all your games AND MAKING playoffs, what team goals do you set? As a coach, I think you’re always instilling in your players the importance of hardwork, discipline and pushing forward through adversity.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? In the previous two seasons, our team has overcome the adversity of a few tough one-point losses and I’ve admired their perseverance. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? If we can get consistent line play and stay healthy, I have high expectations for this program.

SCHEDULE AUG. 28 SEPT. 3 11 18 25 OCT. 2 9 16 23

Brandywine, 7 p.m. Mendon, 7 p.m. New Buffalo, 7 p.m. @ Berrien Springs, 7 p.m. @ Buchanan, 7 p.m. @ White Pigeon, 7 p.m. Centreville (Homecoming), 7 p.m. Bronson, 7 p.m. @ Comstock, 7 p.m.

Cassopolis rangers

A.J. Watson

Daniel Deubner

Marquise Curtis

Nick Baker

Kwesi Huffman

Matt Locke THE KICKOFF â&#x20AC;˘ 21

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Cassopolis rangers SCHEDULE AUG. 22 24 25 29 SEPT. 10 11 14 16 17 21 23 28 30

BOYS SOCCER FIRST ROW: Joshua Canterbury, Kiambu Gary, Keyshawn Works, Lane Francis, Jeremy King and Eian Forrest. BACK ROW: Coach Austin Francis, Trenton Gless Jr., Garrett Green, Dylan Armstrong, Matt Locke, Colin Kelley and Dillon Richey.

Top newcomers Lane Francis is possibly our lone freshman. From what I can tell, he will be a well-rounded additional asset that can play just about any position. Works very hard and gives his best on a continuous basis. Strengths Almost all of our players have a year of varsity soccer under their belts, so experience is more on our side this year. They have also played together more now, and some of the team-building activities we do have translated into how we work and play as a unit. Weaknesses Our numbers are very low, so we can’t afford to have our players get hurt or not be ready to play a full game. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised? Despite losing a few players and being low on numbers, I am impressed by the guys who have consistently showed up to our 6 a.m. practices. We also look a lot better with moving the ball this year

OCT. 5 7 8 12 14

@ VanDenBerg Invitational, 10 a.m. Bridgman, 5 p.m. Grace Christian, 5 p.m. @ Dowagiac Chieftain Invitational, 10 a.m. @ Gobles, 5 p.m. @ Grace Christian, 5 p.m. @ Michigan Lutheran, 5 p.m. Howardsville Christian, 5 p.m. Berrien Springs, 5 p.m. @ Parchment, 6 p.m. Lake Michigan Catholic, 5 p.m. @ Comstock, 6 p.m. @ New Buffalo, 6 p.m. @ Brandywine, 5 p.m. Michigan Lutheran, 5 p.m. Marcellus, 5 p.m. @ BCS Athletic Conference Tournament, TBA @ BCS Athletic Conference Tournament, TBA

THE BASICS COACH (career record) Austin J. Francis: 3-15-1 Years coaching sport at current school Second year Last year’s record/place in conference 3-15-1 overall; 1-7 BCS Athletic Conference — eighth place Key starters lost Only lost one senior (Collin Carlisle) and it was his first year playing. Our biggest loss was our leading scorer, Brandon and in our possession drills. Other than winning all your games, what goals do you set? As coaches, we want our players to be students first who are taking values away from our program that are more than just winning and losing. I would love to see every player in our program carry a 3.0 GPA or higher. I believe that shows responsibility and creates more choices for them in the future whether they continue to play soccer beyond high school or not. Our goal is to create a culture of players

Anderson, who played soccer and football at the same time last year, but has chosen to focus on football this year and not play soccer. Key returning lettermen We have some great seniors coming back. Dylan Armstrong is talking with college coaches about playing at that level. Colin Kelley, our goalkeeper, was awesome stepping into that role last year and should be an all-conference keeper this year. Matt Locke is very aggressive in the back. Garrett Green is our other returning senior that has decent footwork and is a leader. who will become great assets to whatever organizations they are a part of, and great leaders in our school, community, families and their future endeavors. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Our players are going to have to be well conditioned and hopefully we will pick up a few additional players as the season and school starts. We have to find the “will to win” despite what opposition we face and we are going to need more exemplary leadership from our seniors. THE KICKOFF • 23

Cassopolis rangers SCHEDULE AUG. 22 Cassopolis Classic, 9 a.m. SEPT. 9 16 17 21 23 26 30 OCT. 3 8 14 20 22 24 26 27 28 29

@ New Buffalo, 7 p.m. @ Centreville, 7 p.m. Decatur, 6 p.m. Brandywine, 7 p.m. White Pigeon, 7 p.m. @ Decatur Invitational, 9 a.m. Mendon, 7 p.m. @ River Valley Inv., 9 a.m. Bronson, 7 p.m. @ Bridgman, 6:15 p.m. Goshen, 7:30 p.m. @ Howardsville Christian, TBA @ Bangor Invitational, 9 a.m. Dowagiac, 7 p.m. @ Eau Claire, 6:30 p.m. Lake Michigan Catholic, 7 p.m. @ Michigan Lutheran, 7 p.m.

NOV. 2 @ MHSAA District, TBA

VOLLEYBALL

FRONT ROW: Kaylyn Forrest, Lynnzee Armstrong, Aleighah Ivens and Erica Williams. BACK ROW: head coach Demi Schrader, Maile Barber, Madison Brooks, Jamie Suseland, Madison Suseland, Alley Anderson, assistant coach Chris Schrader, Kayla Rowand and assistant coach Olivia Stewart

Strengths I think one of our strengths this year will be blocking. This is something we have been and will be working hard on. Another one of our strengths is that we have a great setter who is smart and will mix up the sets to keep the defense on their toes. We also have strong hitters who know how to mix up shots and find the holes. Lastly, our team works very hard and I am positive they will leave everything they have on the court. Weaknesses A weakness for us is that we are a brand new team with many new players. We are going to have to get used to playing with one another. What do you think about your conference? I don’t know much about the conference, but I do think there are some tough teams to beat. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? 24 • THE KICKOFF

One thing that has surprised me so far about my team is how competitive they are, how hard they work, and how much chemistry they already have. Even though we are a brand new team, I don’t think you would ever guess it. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? My girls are very competitive and I know that they do not like to lose. However, I try my very best to teach my girls to win with humility and to lose with dignity. In practice, we try not to make the girls feel scared to make a mistake. Volleyball is a game of errors. We teach them to learn from their mistakes and move on. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We are going to have to work extremely hard and learn from our mistakes. We are also going to need to communicate better with each other.

THE BASICS COACH Demi Schrader Years coaching sport/at current school First year Last year’s record/place in conference 16-19-6 Key starters lost Rachelle Williams, Michelle Green, Marissa Waldschmidt, Janye Butts, Kortenei Suggs, and Tori Baker Key returning lettermen Our setter, Kaylyn Forrest (senior), is going to be a leader on our team this year. She is a great athlete and is very competitive. We expect big things from her this year. Jami Suseland (junior) is also a returning player for us this year. Jami is a very smart, but powerful hitter. She is great at reading the block and hitting around it. Top newcomers Our team is brand new this year for the most part. With only two players returning, we have many top newcomers. I would say that each girl chosen to be on the varsity team is a top newcomer.

Cassopolis rangers

CROSS COUNTRY Aliyah Baldwin, Daisey Baldwin, Jacqueline Kelley-Cogdell, Amelia Ayers and Amy Adams

Weakness Lack of numbers, experience What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? So far, what has surprised me is the willingness of the runners to push themselves in practice. Other than winning all your games AND CHAMPIONSHIPS, what goals do you set? My goal is to have each runner run personal bests each race. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? With a small team, I hope to know my runners as individuals and help them through the highs and lows of the season.

SCHEDULE SEPT. 2 12 15 29 OCT. 8 13 24

@ New Buffalo, 5 p.m. @ Decatur, TBA @ New Buffalo, 5 p.m. @ White Pigeon, 5 p.m. @ Dowagiac Rock N’ Run, 5 p.m. @ Centreville, 5 p.m. @ Brandywine, 10 a.m.

THE BASICS COACH Steve Mammel Years coaching sport at current school First year Key returning lettermen Amy Adams, sophomore

THE KICKOFF • 25

Dowagiac BUCHANAN chieftains BUCKS

SCHEDULE AND KEY PLAYERS

Anthony Neubauer

26 â&#x20AC;˘ THE KICKOFF

Austin Taggart

Collin Dussel

Lazaro Piedra

Ronnie Payne

Scott Hassle

Dowagiac chieftains

DOWAGIAC

FRONT ROW: Anthony Neubauer, Dononvan Schoff, Lazaro Piedra, Chucky Nolke, Brandon Felthouse, Kevin Whitaker, Marcus Winchester-Jones and Jared Hatch. SECOND ROW: Jeffery Holloman, Austin Jones, Greg Hubbrd, Brett Schultz, Collin Dussel, Reid Adams, Justin Grady-McCambfidge, Hunter Ayers and Nathaniel Ward. Front row: Rane Reeves, Erik Walker, Ronnie Payne, Hector Vazquez, Collin Hassle, Isaiah Clark, Kyle Thies and Shawn Sirk. THIRD ROW: Austin Price, Logan Eby, Justin Taggart, Austin Taggart, Cole Canniff, Scotty Hassle and Nick Deihl. BACK ROW: Josh Lamphere, Karsten Keller (manager) coach Andy Crawley, coach Mike Behnke, coach Pat Lyle, head coach Mike Stanger, Matt Horvath (manager) and Derek Williamson.

CHIEFTAINS

Strengths Good team speed, good work ethic and play physical. Weaknesses Not the biggest. What do you think about your conference? I believe the 2015 Wolverine Conference is pretty talented. We need to prepared each week.

AUG. 27 SEPT. 3 11 18 25 OCT. 2 9 16 23

@ Vicksburg, 7 p.m. @ South Haven, 7 p.m. Three Rivers, 7 p.m. Allegan, 7 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 7 p.m. @ Plainwell, 7 p.m. Sturgis (Homecoming) 7 p.m. @ Otsego, 7 p.m. Paw Paw, 7 p.m.

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? I have not been surprised by this team thus far. They have a good work ethnic. Other than winning all your gameS AND CHAMPIONSHIPS what team goals do you set? A goal we have is to get better every week. We want to show improvement each week. Pay attention to the details. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We want to avoid reaching highs and lows. We talk about being a consistent team. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? I believe we need to avoid turnovers and penalties on offense. On defense, we can’t allow the big play.

THE BASICS COACH (career record) Mike Stanger: (77-46) Years coaching sport/at current school 13th year Last year’s record/place in conference 3-6 Wolverine West, fifth place Key starters lost Tristan Howard, Bryce Dodd, Caleb Sands, Rolly Lucio, Chase Camp Key returning lettermen Reid Adams, Jared Hatch, Josh Lamphere, Collin Dussel, Erik Walker, Nate Ward, Ronnie Payne, Logan Eby, Anthony Newbauer, Scotty Hassle, Justin Grady McCambridge, Greg Hubbard, Lazaro Piedra, Austin Taggart,Cole Canniff, Rane Reeves, Chuck Nolke Top newcomers Austin Jones, Collin Hassle, Hunter Ayers, Marcus Winchester Jones, Kevin Whitaker, Kyle Thies, Hector Vazquez, Jeffery Hollomen, Shaun Sirk, Matt Briney, Isiah Clark, Justin Taggart, Brandon Felthouse, Nick Dieihl, Brett Schultz, Austin Price THE KICKOFF • 27

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Dowagiac chieftains

BOYS SOCCER FRONT ROW: Johnny Ruiz, Miguel Contreous, Jesse Garcia, Gage Williams, Mariano Brito, AJ Lara and Ricky Lucio. BACK ROW: coach Joe Pasternak, Chance Werlund, Nicholas Foote, Gavin Green, Nickoles Labadie, Nathan Tackitt, Edger Bravo, Antonio Brito and coach Michael Williams.

Strengths Knowledge of the game, work ethic and positive attitudes. Weaknesses Size What do you think about your conference? Playing all of the conference has its pros and cons. The pro is that you get tough competition on a regular basis. The con is that there is little time to rest between games. Everyone must stay healthy. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? Throughout the summer the team has gotten a lot better at possessing and moving the ball.

Other than winning all your games AND championships, what other team goals do you set? We want to get better every day. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Winning and losing is part of athletics. Players handle it in different ways. We teach them to use losing as a motivator to get better. Competing against more experienced teams gives you something to work for. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We need to show heart and grit throughout the season. There will be several games that come down to that.

SCHEDULE AUG. 24 26 29 SEPT. 2 10 14 16 21 23 28 30 OCT. 5 7 12 14 19

@ Bangor, 6 p.m. @ Buchanan, 5 p.m. Chieftain Invitational, 10 a.m. Berrien Springs, 5 p.m. Brandywine, 5 p.m. @ Bridgman, 5 p.m. @ South Haven, 6:45 p.m. @ Vicksburg, 6:45 p.m. Three Rivers, 5 p.m. Allegan, 5 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 5 p.m. @ Plainwell, 6:45 p.m. Sturgis, 5 p.m. @ Otsego, 6:45 p.m. Paw Paw, 5 p.m. MHSAA District, TBA

THE BASICS COACH Michael Williams Years coaching sport at current school 14th year

Key returning lettermen Gage Williams, Antonio Brito, Mariano Brito, Nick and Colin Carpenter, Jesse Garcia, Ricky Lucio, Chance Wernlund, Nick Foote, Nick Labadie, AJ Lara

Key starters lost Jose Lopez, Aubrey Huston, Jerimiah Guernsey, Harpeet Singh

Top newcomers We have a solid freshman group leading our JV team.

THE KICKOFF â&#x20AC;˘ 29

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Dowagiac chieftains SCHEDULE AUG. 22 25 26 SEPT. 2 10 12 17 19 24 29

@ Cassopolis Inv., 9 a.m. @ Vicksburg, 6 p.m. Dowagiac Quad, 10 a.m. South Haven, 6 p.m. Three Rivers, 6 p.m. @ Eau Claire Invitational, 9 a.m. Allegan, 6 p.m. @ Portage Northern Inv., 8 a.m. @ Edwardsburg, 6 p.m. Goshen Home School, 6 p.m. @ Plainwell, 6 p.m.

OCT.

VOLLEYBALL FRONT ROW: Hannah Whitaker, Kesley Crocker, Heather Olson, Kassidy Binns and Natalie Davis. BACK ROW: Coach Rachel Zeider, McKinzie Kiggins, Taylor Hulett, Annie Ennesser, Emily Demeter, Brittany Malin and McKenzie Cross (manager).

THE BASICS COACH (CAREER RECORD) Rachel Zeider: 14-28-6 Years coaching sport at current school First year at Dowagiac Last year’s record/place in conference 20-13 overall; 2-3 Wolverine West — fourth place Key starters lost Amanda Badner, Mary Magin Key returning lettermen Annie Ennesser, Kassidy Binns, Taylor Hulett, Natalie Davis, Natalie Davis, Hannah Whitaker, Brittany Malin, Emily Demeter, McKinzie Kiggins Top newcomers Kelsey Crocker, freshman

1 3 8 15 20 22 26 31 NOV. 2

@ River Valley Invitational, 9 a.m. Sturgis, 6 p.m. @ Otsego, 6 p.m. Brandywine, 6 p.m. Paw Paw, 6 p.m. @ Cassopolis, 6 p.m. @ Wolverine Tournament at Sturgis, 9 a.m. @ MHSAA District, TBA

Strengths A strong and fast defense and players who can get anything. Weaknesses Small up front except for one. So we’ll have a short, but smart, block. What do you think about your conference? We have a great conference. I think every team is great competition for us. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The amount of dedication each girl shows to improving and working as a team. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? We hope to have higher than a 3.5 team GPA and to surpass our record from previous years. How do you think your

players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Keep them humble and positive. Sportsmanship is a big deal and I teach that in practices. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? A strong work ethic, which the girls show will give them a stronger drive.

THE KICKOFF • 31

Dowagiac chieftains

BOYS TENNIS FRONT ROW: David Brogan, Dakota Schoff, Ethan Wagner and Ben Herter. BACK ROW: Kaley Brogan (manager), Colin Rafferty, Mitch Warsko, Zach Davis, Kelly Raferty (manager) and coach Andi Smallbone.

Strengths Individual competitiveness Weaknesses Small team. Program needs to be strengthened and built up. What do you think about your conference? Tough competition in tennis. Many indoor fieldhouses, larger student

populations and larger programs make it hard for smaller schools like Dowagiac to compete. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and make the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set?

THE BASICS COACH Andi Smallbone

Tied for third West Division; 10 place Wolverine Conference

Years coaching sport/ at current school First year at Dowagiac; third year coaching

Key starters lost Jordan Hagemann, Ben Herter, Colin Rafferty, Justin Yakim, Vaughn Herter

Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record/place in conference

32 â&#x20AC;˘ THE KICKOFF

Key returning lettermen Zach Davis, Ethan Wagner, David Brogan, Mitch Warsko

SCHEDULE AUG. 24 31 31 SEPT. 1 3 9 16 21 23 28 29 OCT. 3 6 8

@ South Bend St. Joseph, 4 p.m. Otsego, 10 a.m. Plainwell, 4 p.m. Berrien Springs, 4 p.m. Bridgman, 9 a.m. Surgis, 4 p.m. Three Rivers, 4 p.m. @ Edwardsburg, 4 p.m. @ Vicksburg, 4 p.m. @ Coloma, 4 p.m. @ Niles, 4 p.m. @ Wolverine Conf. Tournament at Otsego, TBA Brandywine, 4 p.m. @ MHSAA Regional, TBA

Dowagiac chieftains

SCHEDULE AUG. 21

CROSS COUNTRY FRONT ROW: Laura Lynn-Lee, Keegan Craft, Kris Wigent, Kaleb Detwiler and Samantha Payne. SECOND ROW: Katie Hurrle, Katie Murphy, William Phillips, Isabel Thorne, Jessica Robison and Alison Henry. BACK ROW: coach Doug Pearson, Matthew Bryant, Jacob Peters, DeYonte Sullivan, Olga Dickson-French, Seth Fear and coach Dan Vandenheede.

COACH Dan Vandenheede

Strengths Getting most of our runners back, so we have experience. Some interesting newcomers have me hopeful.

Years coaching sport/ at current school Second year

Weaknesses Not a lot of depth, hoping to recruit some more to help with numbers.

Last year’s record/place in conference Guys were 11-12 in Wolverine Conference, girls 12-12

What do you think about your conference? Always well run, good competition to keep us on our toes.

Key starters lost None

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised? Kaleb Detwiler, a newcomer, running with top pack.

THE BASICS

Key returning lettermen Deyonte Sullivan, Jacob Peters, William Phillips, Katie Murphy, Isabelle Thorne Top newcomers Kaleb Detwiler, junior, first year running cross county; Brandon Winchester Jones, senior, first year running cross country.

Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Individual improvement from last season and from one meet to the next. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you

SEPT. 1 8 15 19 22 29 OCT. 6 8 13 20 31

@ Niles Stampede, 5 p.m. @ Paw Paw Harvest Inv., 5 p.m. Allegan, 5 p.m. @ Sturgis, 5 p.m. @ Buchanan RedBud Inv., TBA South Haven, 5 p.m. @ Otsego, 5 p.m. Edwardsburg. 5 p.m. Dowagiac Rock N’ Run, 5 p.m. Wolverine Conf. jamboree, 5 p.m. @ Wolverine Champ. at Otsego, 5 p.m. @ MHSAA Regional, TBA

coach that? We are very realistic about it. We know where we stand and strive to improve. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? They have to realize that in any sport, you get out of it what you put in to it. With running it is much more obvious; there are times every meet to look at. THE KICKOFF • 33

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Dowagiac chieftains

SCHEDULE AUG. 24 24 26 SEPT. 3 9 16 23 OCT. 1 6 8

GIRLS GOLF THE BASICS COACH Bob Turner Years coaching sport at current school Second year

Kelsey Smith

Allysa Allen

Last year’s record/ place in conference 7-57, eighth in Wolverine Conference Key starters lost Ally Wild

McKenzie Hassle

Ally Hale

Key returning lettermen Kelsey Smith, senior — fourth year — all-conference 2014; Allysa Allen, senior; McKenzie Hassle, junior; Ally Hale, sophomore Top newcomers Freshmen: Peytin Lee, Kailey Fear; Juniors: Micaela Ruff, Luda Dickson-French; Senior: Becca Fletcher

@ South Haven jamboree, 8:30 a.m. @ Allegan jamboree, 1 p.m. @ Otsego jamboree, 11 a.m. @ Plainwell jamboree, 9 a.m. Wolverine Conf. jamboree at Indian Lake Hills, 4 p.m. @ Sturgis, 4 p.m. @ Vicksburg, 4 p.m. Wolverine Tourn. at Sauganash Country Club, 9 a.m. Lake Michigan Catholic, 4 p.m. @ MHSAA Regional, TBA

FRONT ROW: Kailey Fear, Alyssa Allen, Ally Hale, Becca Fletcher and McKenzie Hassle. BACK ROW: coach Bob Turner, Kelsey Smith, Luda Dickson-French, Peytin Lee and Micaela Ruff.

Strengths We have good numbers and a good leader in Kelsey Smith and we have a lot of positive attitudes that are learning the game and getting better every day.

games and championships, what team goals do you set? We want to do better than we did in conference last year and be a better team at the end of the year than we are right now.

Weaknesses We are inexperienced, very inexperienced. Kelsey Smith is about the only player that has played golf for more than a year.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? I don’t think we have a lot of high expectations so it is easier to work on the positives. Golf is a game that has highs and lows throughout the competition, quite often even on the same hole. We are still learning. I try to stay positive about everything. Bad shots do not bother me, but I try to get them to try and understand why it happened and work on improving.

What do you think about your conference? As of right now Plainwell does not have enough players and they were the favorite coming in. I think Sturgis is next best, so they could be the team to beat. After them, it could be wide open. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? We have some first-time golfers who are picking the game up quickly. Other than winning all your

Comments: (What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top?) Mental toughness and improving our ability to think our way around the course will be needed for us to be successful. THE KICKOFF • 35

EDWARDSBURG

FRONT ROW: Damion Pompey, Isaiah Miller and Ben Robertson. SECOND ROW: Jayquan Fitzpatrick, Lucas Wiese, John Willard, Joey Hess, Isaac Needham, Chris Griffin, Edward Mozader, Anthony Antao, Josh Steinhoff and Spencer Plummer. THIRD ROW: assistant coach Andy Jordan, Kye Knight, Austin Cline, Thor Fifer, Chase Tarwacki, Austin Steil, Bo Thomas, Sloan Moore, Ryan Jacobson, Tyler Baldwin, Quintin Calicott and assistant coach Randy Brooks. BACK ROW: assistant coach A.J. Gaideski, Joe Raab, Will Sherer, Terek Curtis, Dante Razzano, Zach Plummer, Matt Sheline, Teddy Sheldon, Lake Walters, Cameron Ekanayake, William Dahmen and head coach Kevin Bartz.

EDDIES

THE BASICS COACH Kevin Bartz: 125-70 Years coaching sport/at current school: 21st year Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record/place in conference 11-2, Wolverine, district, regional champions Key starters lost Mason Tinch, Devon McGrath, Dillon Cline, Jackson Gaideski, Dustin Vires, Robbie Cline Key returning lettermen Dante Razzano: quarterback/defensive back; Isaiah Miller: running back; Zach Plummer: guard/defensive tackle; Ben Robertson: tight end/outside linebacker; Terek Curtis: guard/defensive tackle; Ryan Jacobson: center; Damion Pompey: fullback; Austin Cline: linebacker Top newcomers Sloan Moore: running back/linebacker; Cameron Ekenayake: quarterback/defensive back; Chase Tarwacki: fullback, safety; Thor Fifer: running back/ defensive line 36 â&#x20AC;˘ THE KICKOFF

Strengths Team speed and depth at the skill positions; Excellent leadership; Quick, strong defensive line Weaknesses Depth and experience of offensive line What do you think about your conference? I think it will be a tough, competitive conference. Keep and eye on South Haven. The are vastly improved. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised? We have some new athletes in the program. When they become acclimated to our system we could have several different types of weapons, offensive and defensively. Other than winning all your games and

championships, what team goals do you set? Most of our goals are game goals. Have zero turnovers, rush for 300-plus yards, score every drive, make all two-point conversions, create two or more turnovers, give up less than 200 yards a game and shut out the opponent. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? I think we have a mentally strong group returning from last year. We faced many games throughout the year where we had to come from behind to win and we did. They have the will to win. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Creating a sense of loyalty to the team and being unselfish.

Edwardsburg eddies

SCHEDULE AND KEY PLAYERS AUG. 27 SEPT. 3 11 18 25 OCT. 2 9 16 23

@ Allegan, 7 p.m. Vicksburg, 7 p.m. Otsego, 7 p.m. @ Paw Paw, 7 p.m. Dowagiac, 7 p.m. @ South Haven, 7 p.m. Plainwell, 7 p.m. @ Three Rivers, 7 p.m. Sturgis, 7 p.m.

Isaiah Miller

Ben Robertson

Damion Pompey

Thor Fifer THE KICKOFF Joe Raab â&#x20AC;˘ 37

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Edwardsburg eddies

SCHEDULE

BOYS SOCCER FRONT ROW: Lucas Piece, Tyler Treat, Teige Brandt, Merick Evans, Isaac Toms, Jonathan Albrecht and Shane Streb. BACK ROW: Mitcheal Evans, Ben Kraus, Jacob Desmet Brown, Adam Kozinski, Caleb Hansel, Blake Parsons, Brandt Claire, Jeremiah Wilson and Caleb Detweiler.

Strengths Five returning starters, strong midfield, incoming freshmen competing for spots Weaknesses Depth and athleticism. We will have to straight up outwork people on the field. This team is willing and able to do it. What do you think about your conference? Soccer in the Wolverine will not be divisional this year. It is a tough conference. Several teams always compete well in the state tournament, often making it to the regional level. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised?: Though not quite at the varsity level, the freshmen and sophomores worked hard all summer and have pushed the upperclassmen to be better this first week of the season. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Make academic all-state, conference championship, district championship, play a full, complete game, give up, on average, less than one goal per game. How do you think your players

THE BASICS COACH (career record) Sean Jesse: 30-30 Years coaching sport at current school Fourth year Last year’s record/ place in conference Second place West Division; Fourth place Wolverine Conference Key starters lost Ben Chambers, Ryan Mahaney, Isaac Vite, Zac Griffith Key returning lettermen Tyler Treat, Blake Parsons, Shane Streb, Jacob Brown Top newcomers Lucas Pierce, Merick Evans

handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Every player handles winning and losing differently. I teach the kids to think that losses are learning tools. What could “you the individual” have done differently

AUG. 22 24 31

Edwardsburg Invitational, 9 a.m. Buchanan, 5:30 p.m. St. Joseph, 5:30 p.m.

SEPT. 9 12 16 19 21 23 28 30

@ Allegan, 6:45 p.m. @ South Haven Invitational, 9 a.m. Vicksburg, 5:30 p.m. @ Niles, 11:30 a.m. @ Berrien Springs, 5 p.m. Otsego, 5:30 p.m. @ Paw Paw, 6:45 p.m. Dowagiac, 5:30 p.m.

OCT. 5 7 12 14

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

or better that would have improved the opportunity for the team to win. What will “you the individual” do in preparation for future games to offer the team the best opportunity to win. In response to wins, I try to coach a bit of calm. I want the kids to be excited about wins, but also have a bit of an attitude of expecting to win. I don’t want the kids to feel like they need to celebrate every win like they won the World Cup. Instead, I want them to have confidence and belief that if they come to every game and play to the best of their abilities every game, that they will have a good opportunity to win the games. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Good senior leadership. Good team chemistry. Staying focused for 80 minutes. We have several players that can make an impact on a game. At least one will have to step up on any given day. THE KICKOFF • 39

Edwardsburg eddies

VOLLEYBALL

SCHEDULE AUG. 22 24 26

FRONT ROW: Emma Nelson, Courtney Ryker, Kaylee Ryker, Payton Szlanfucht, Kylie Meek and Natalie Longo. BACK ROW: Skyler Leach, Brayden Curtis, Kaylee Moore, Abbey Newberry, Audrey Bellina, Hailee Hebard and Olivia Wagner.

Strengths Determined, great team, accountable — a lot of returners with 8 of 13 who played for me last year. Weaknesses We don’t have a lot of height. What do you think about your conference? We are in a big conference. With the reorganization this year we will have the opportunity to see all nine teams in the regular season and I’m excited about that. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you?

They play together as a team really well. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? My team will be intense in the gym during the entire practice time. My team will strive to improve each practice. My team will have tough defense.

SEPT. 2 10 14 17 24

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Play each point one at a time. And focus on the first touch — if you can’t pass — it doesn’t matter how good you are at hitting.

OCT. 1 3 8 10 15 17 22 24 31 NOV. 2

@ Kzoo Hackett Inv., 8:30 a.m. @ Buchanan, 6:30 p.m. @ Allegan, 6 p.m. Vicksburg, 6 p.m. Otsego, 6 p.m. @ Coldwater, 6 p.m. @ Paw Paw, 6 p.m. Dowagiac, 6 p.m. @ South Haven, 6 p.m. @ Bronson Inv., 8:30 a.m. Plainwell, 6 p.m. @ Sturgis Invitational, 9 a.m. @ Three Rivers, 6 p.m. @ Coloma Invitational, 8:30 a.m. Sturgis, 6 p.m. @ St. Joseph Invitational, 8:30 a.m. @ Wolverine Conf. Tourn. at Sturgis, 8:30 a.m. @ MHSAA District, TBA

THE BASICS COACH Chrissy Breisch Years coaching sport at current school Fourth year Last year’s record/ place in conference Second place Wolverine West Division.

40 • THE KICKOFF

Key starters lost Katie Crothers, Taylor Hepler, Kenzie Meyers Key returning lettermen Payton Szlanfucht, senior setter; Kaylee Ryker, senior libero; Brayden Curtis, middle hitter; Abbey Newberry, senior right side; Emma Nelson, junior defensive specialist; Audrey

Bellina, sophomore hitter; Kaylee Moore, sophomore all-around player; Kylie Meek, sophomore defensive specialist Top newcomers Sky Leach, freshman; Olivia Wagner, junior; Natalie Longo, junior; Hailee Hebard, sophomore; Courtney Ryker, sophomore

Edwardsburg eddies

SCHEDULE AUG. 20 24 26 28 31

BOYS TENNIS FRONT ROW: Layne Tinkham, Chris Jones, Austin Hurt, Jacob Kanaby, Ke’von Taylor and Dylan Layher. BACK ROW: coach Mark Zarycki, Alex Shellhamer, Ryan Pabreza, Deven Dosmann, Tom Mackling, Brendon Handy and Ryan Rogers.

THE BASICS COACH Mark Zarycki: 39-50-13 Years coaching sport/ at current school Ninth year Last year’s record/place in conference 5-6-2 overall; 4-3 Wolverine Conference; 4-1 West Division/second place

Strengths Our first three singles have a lot of experience at the varsity level. Weaknesses Our doubles teams are all new. We need time to develop chemistry. What do you think about your conference? Our conference is really strong with Sturgis, Otsego, Allegan and Paw Paw. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? Our work ethic has been real strong in

Key starters lost Carson Collins, Joe Queener, Jacob Layher, Tevin Alexander, David Bronicki

SEPT. 2 9 10 14 15 17 21 23 30 OCT. 3

Elkhart Memorial, 4:30 p.m. @ Three Rivers/Marshall, 4 p.m. Coldwater, 4 p.m. @ Niles Invitational, 9 a.m. Paw Paw, 4 p.m. Elkhart Central, 4:30 p.m. @ Vicksburg, 4 p.m. @ Brandywine, 4 p.m. Sturgis, 4 p.m. @ Berrien Springs, 4 p.m. Lakeshore, 4 p.m. Dowagiac, 4 p.m. @ Three Rivers, 4 p.m. @ Niles, 4 p.m. @ Wolverine Conference Tournament, 8:30 a.m.

Key returning lettermen Brendan Handy, Jacob Kanaby, Ryan Rogers Top newcomers Austin Hurt, Dylan Layher, Ke’von Taylor

the early going. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? To improve on their game each and every day. I told them to leave everything they have on the court. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Never get too high on a victory or too low on a loss. I try to show them how calm I can be either way.

What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? We will be successful this year if everyone buys into working hard each and every day. THE KICKOFF • 41

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Edwardsburg eddies

CROSS COUNTRY FRONT ROW: Ceclia Smith, Abigail Smith, Amelia Montgomery, Kara Shrider, Maria Martinez, Emily Jacobs, McKinna Tinkham, Clay Sidenbender and Brock Eaves. BACK ROW: Brynn Ritchey, Noelle Kraus, Cameron Cleveland, Chloe Bartz, Megan Belcher, Britni Rose, Bryce Williams, Cian Young and Adam Tredway.

COACH (career record) Beth Gunn Joe Piane (retired after 39 years at Notre Dame)

Strengths Girls have good depth and a great nucleus of some talented freshmen and some veteran runners to build a great team around. The boys team will be led by a freshman with huge potential, Brock Eaves.

Years coaching sport at current school 17th year

Weaknesses Staying free of injuries and adding more depth to the boys team.

Last year’s record/ place in conference Girls fourth place Wolverine Conference; Boys 12th place

What do you think about your conference? Otsego, Vicksburg and Plainwell will be tough for the girls. Sturgis, Otsego and Vicksburg will be tough for the boys.

THE BASICS

Key starters lost Gianna Haller, Katy Thomas, Brittany Udell, Kristen Miller, DJ Bosse Key returning lettermen Cameron Cleveland, Abigail Smith, Noelle Kraus, Allison Lewis, Amelia Montgomery, Brynn Ritchey, Clay Sidenbender, Gavin McNaughton Top newcomers Kara Shrider, Chloe Bartz, Brock Eaves, Bryce Williams

What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? There has been a small group of dedicated athletes who have trained all summer. That was nice to see. I always stress to the team that what they do during the offseason determines how far they will go during the actual season. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? It would be great if everyone ran during the summer so that they came to the first practice already in shape and we could train at a higher level from the very beginning of the season. It’s such a

SCHEDULE AUG. 22 @ Lawton Invitational, 9 a.m. 25 @ St. Joe Invitational, 4:30 p.m. SEPT. 8 15 19 22 26 29

@ Plainwell, 5 p.m. Vicksburg, 5 p.m. @ Buchanan Inv. at RedBud, TBA @ Three Rivers, 5 p.m. @ Bangor Invitational, 10:30 a.m. Paw Paw, 5 p.m.

OCT. 6 @ Dowagiac, 5 p.m. 10 @ Portage Invitational, TBA 20 @ Wolverine Conference Meet at Otsego, 5 p.m.

short season, and a lot of athletes use at least half the season to get in shape or they end up getting injured because they didn’t do any running over the summer and haven’t developed a strong base. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? We try to get them in a mix of different meets, some where they can win some hardware and experience success and build confidence as a team, and also some highly competitive and elite meets with some of the top ranked teams in the state so they can see that there is always more they can do and strive for. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Being mentally tough and just having that competitive nature to begin with makes a huge difference. THE KICKOFF • 43

NILES VIKINGS

Niles

FRONT ROW: Gabe Broome, Jason Echeverria, Chris Prenkert, Braulio Sosa, Ben Evans, Sam Soto, Joe Avance, Larry Lamb, Adam Cole, Jared Purucker, Devonte Gaskill, Josh Buckingham and Tyler Mahar. SECOND ROW: Kaiden Cates, Noah Frantz, Jacob Harrison, Trevon Williams, Trey Gray, Cameron Haines, DeAndre Williams, Robert Glover, Aaron Manigold, Drew Mikel and Clayton Nelson. THIRD ROW: Austin Curran, Brody Heighway, Issac Arriaga, Abijah Goodson, Alex Harpenau, Doug Gourley, Josh Norris and Noah Tunstill. FOURTH ROW: Reese Gardner, Dayton Smith, Mitch Findeisen, Austin Wilcox, Dustin Anders, Camron Caniff, Joe Leonard and Jordan Turnbow. BACK ROW: Mike Andres, Dave Landon, Bob Byers, Ryan Frontzak, Weston Lambert, head coach Antwon Jones, Paul DePoy, Chad Gardner and Erik West.

VIKINGS THE BASICS COACH (CAREER RECORD) Antwon Jones: 37-37 (26-21 at South Bend Washington/11-16 at Niles) Years coaching sport/at current school Fourth year at Niles Last year’s record/place in conference 5-4 Key starters lost Ra’Quan Glenn, Sean Craig, Ted Jackowiak, David Kennedy, Chris Frantz, Ada, Langmeyer, Warren Smith, Josh Dayhuff, Fred Kemp. Wyatt Thornton, Cody Thornton, Jordan Ham, Alex Bata and Jalen Alexander

Strengths Offense. Tre Grey brings a special dimension. The return of Alex Harpenau at quarterback gives us a ton of experience. People will be really surprised at Josh Buckingham at running back because he has breakaway speed. Joe (Avance) and Cameron (Haines) are explosive. We really have a lot of threats in the skilled positions. Weaknesses Inexeperienced young players on our defensive side.

What do you think about your conference? Our schedule can be a meat grinder. There are three new coaches that we Key returning lettermen face in our first three games. Loy Norrix Alex Harpenau, Joe Avance, Braulio Sosa, Josh is going to be a very tough team this Buckingham year. They are very confident and very athletic. I am anxious to see if Mattawan Top newcomers is going to keep the same style. We go Tre Gray Cameron Haines, Camron Canniff, to Benton Harbor with Elliot (Uzelac) up Mitchell Findeisen, Adam Cole, Larry Lamb, there. He might be just what they needed. Jacob Harrison, Trevon Williams, Noah Frantz, Drew Mikel, Austin Curran, Sam Soto What have you seen from your 44 • THE KICKOFF

team so far that has surprised YOU? This whole group, from freshmen level up, they are working their butts off. They are really committed and trying to be as coachable as they can. They have been a real enjoyable group to be around. Other than winning all your games AND CHAMPIONSHIPS, what team goals do you set? Just continue to improve. This is going to be a year that we are going to have to scrap against every team we play. If the kids keep working hard and remain coachable, it will work out the way it is supposed to. They are hungry and they want to do it. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? I think they will handle it all right. We all know the situation that we are in. They know that they are inexperienced and we know it as a coaching staff. We tell them whatever comes our way, the ultimate goal is to build this program the right way.

Edwardsburg NILES VIKINGS eddies

SCHEDULE AND KEY PLAYERS AUG. 28 SEPT. 3 11 18 25 OCT. 2 9 16 23

Kzoo Loy Norrix, 7 p.m. Mattawan, 7 p.m. @ Benton Harbor, 7 p.m. Portage Northern, 7 p.m. @ Kzoo Central, 7 p.m. Portage Central, 7 p.m. @ St. Joseph, 7 p.m. @ Richland Gull Lake, 7 p.m. @ Lakeshore, 7 p.m.

Adam Cole

Jason Echevierra

Chrisopher Prenkert

Joe Avance THE KICKOFF Joshâ&#x20AC;˘ 45 Buckingham

NILES VIKINGS

SCHEDULE

BOYS SOCCER FRONT ROW: Connor Mckiernan, Bryant Echeverriva, Mauircio Aguirre, Ian Daly, Jose Magana, Oscar Garcia, Ben Vanlue, Caden Hullinger, Jared Hainey. BACK ROW: Mika Farinella, Marcus Hurt, Ben Florkowski, Alex Jasper, Noah Ashford Johnson, Keegan Neumann, Dylan Fillwock, Sheldon Mudd, Kendall Whitelow and Mitchel Park. NOT PICTURED: Connor Amberg and Eric Fritz.

THE BASICS COACH Danny Rodts: 9-9-1 Years coaching sport at current school Second year Last year’s record/ place in conference 9-9-1; eighth place in SMAC Key starters lost Sammy Rodts

Key returning lettermen Dylan Fillwock, Oscar Garcia, Sheldon Mudd, Jared Hainey, Alex Jasper, Caden Hullinger, Ben Florkowski, Jose Magana, Mitchel Park, Eric Fritz, Mika Farinella, Ben Vanlue, Connor Amberg Top newcomers Markus Hurt, Connor McKiernan, Mauricio Aguirre, Kendall Whitelow, Keegan Neumann, Bryant Echerrrevia

AUG. 22 26 29

VanDenBerg Invitational, 9 a.m. @ Mattawan, 6:45 p.m. @ Sturgis, 11:45 a.m.

SEPT. 1 2 8 10 12 17 19 22 24 29

@ Bridgman, 5:30 p.m. Kalamazoo Loy Norrix, 5:30 p.m. @ Gull Lake, 6:45 p.m. Portage Central, 5:30 p.m. Kalamazoo Central, 11:30 a.m. Portage Northern, 5:30 p.m. Edwardsburg, 11:30 a.m. @ Lakeshore, 6:45 p.m. @ St. Joseph, 6:45 p.m. Battle Creek Central, 5:30 p.m.

OCT. 1 3 6 8 10 19

@ Battle Creek Central, 6:30 p.m. Three Rivers, 11:30 a.m. SMAC Tournament, TBA SMAC Tournament, TBA @ Otsego, 12:30 p.m. @ MHSAA District, TBA

Strengths Experience and the desire for goals Weaknesses None What do you think about your conference? Always competitive as usual. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised? The desire to succeed and motivation is strong. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Obtain life skills

46 • THE KICKOFF

NILES VIKINGS

SCHEDULE

VOLLEYBALL FRONT ROW: Desiree Love (manager), Bre Love, Jasmine Brann, Kelsey Barton, Holly Walker, Carly Barton and Jasmine Love (manager). BACK ROW: Kylie Morris, Peyton Cavanaugh, Bella Rasler, Alex Bailey, Megan Kohler, Nola Wallace, Madison Cavanaugh, Lexi Smith and head coach Jenny Nate.

Strengths I am fortunate to have my entire starting lineup returning, so we have team experience, trust and strength. I have three starters (Bella Rasler, Kelsey Barton, and Bre Love) who earned SMAC All-Conference honors last year, and they have all worked hard during the offseason to take their game to an even higher level. The majority of my team has already built a solid level of trust with one another based on an extensive time on the court last year, and I am extremely excited to watch them continue to work hard to increase their mental and physical toughness as a team. Weaknesses Megan Kohler, one of our starting

middles, is dealing with a shoulder injury right now and is out for the first couple weeks of the season, so we are having to shift some players around to fill that spot until we can get her back on the court. Consistent mental toughness is definitely a team goal we need to continue to work on. We have a lot of great talent, but a lot of the close matches we are going to face in the SMAC will come down to the mental aspects of the game, as much as physical, so we are working hard to capitalize on both facets and I’m looking to my players to really step up in that area. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised? I was surprised and excited to see

THE BASICS COACH Jenny Nate: 81-44-14 Years coaching sport at current school Fourth year Last year’s record/ place in conference 30-15-3; third in SMAC Key starters lost Courtney Nixon, defensive specialist

Key returning lettermen Kelsey Barton setter, right side hitter; Bella Rasler, outside hitter; Lexi Smith, outside hitter; Megan Kohler, middle hitter; Jazmin Brann, middle hitter; Bre Love, libero; Holly Walker, defensive specialist; Kylie Morris, right side hitter Top newcomers Nola Wallace middle hitter, right side hitter; Carly Barton setter, right side hitter; Madison Cavanaugh, right side hitter; Peyton Cavanaugh, outside hitter

AUG. 21 22 26 SEPT. 2 5 16 19 23 30

@ Gull Lake Invitiational, 8:30 a.m. @ Bronson Invitational, TBA @ SMAC Six Pack at Portage Central, 4 p.m. South Bend St. Joseph, 6:30 p.m. @ Loy Norrix Tournament, 9 a.m. SMAC, 4 p.m. @ Portage Northern Invitational, 8 a.m. @ Benton Harbor, 6:30 p.m. Portage Northern, 6:30 p.m.

OCT. 5 7 10 13 14 24 27 31 NOV. 3

@ Brandywine, 6:30 p.m. Portage Central, 6:30 p.m. @ Comstock Tournament, TBA @ Gull Lake Mini, 4 p.m. @ St. Joseph, 6:30 p.m. @ St. Joseph Invitational, 8:30 a.m. @ Best of the West, 4 p.m. @ SMAC Tournament in St. Joseph, 8 a.m. Host MHSAA District, TBA

the immediate chemistry between all of my players the second we stepped on the court this summer at preseason scrimmages. They respect each others’ roles and trust that each player is going to do their job; a lot of the work they did in the previous season has allowed us to pick right back up where we left off to prepare faster for this season. Plus, like I said previously, we are working just as hard on strategy and their mental games, so having that chemistry is exciting to see. We have a lot of work to do, but it’s a great way to start. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? We have a goal to win one set at a time. I want my players to have a strategy in mind every time they touch the ball as to how they are going to score a point. THE KICKOFF • 47

NILES VIKINGS

BOYS cross country SCHEDULE AUG. 21 Viking Stampede, 5 p.m. 25 @ Three Rivers Hill Climb, 5 p.m. SEPT. 1 10 12 19 23 29

@ Paw Paw XC Invitational, 5 p.m. @ Shamrock Invitational, 5:30 p.m. @ Fennville Open, 9 a.m. @ Buchanan RedBud Invitational, 1 p.m. @ SMAC West St. Joseph jamboree, 5 p.m. @ Berrien County meet in St. Joseph, 9 a.m.

OCT. 7 8 17 24

SMAC West jamboree at Dowagiac, 5 p.m. @ Dowagiac Rock and Run, 5 p.m. @ Sturgis Kiwanis Invitational, 9 a.m. @ SMAC Meet @ Battle Creek Lakeview, 11 a.m. 31 @ MHSAA Regionals at RedBud, 12:20 p.m.

Assistant coach Dan Sierra, Keegan Murphy, Jacob Gains, Hunter Greenman, Christopher Thompson, Sam Burke, Andrew Flick, Kendall Jeremiah, Brenden Hall, Darien Tomlinson, Cade Stevenson, Devin Tomlinson, head coach Joseph “Tony” Todd.

Strengths Good leadership

What do you think about your conference? It is always tough. Hope to do better than last year.

How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? They are very level headed for a young team. I always stress not to get too high on the highs and not too low on the lows. It seems to work.

Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Just would like to see all my runners show improvement.

What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? They would have to exceed their own expectations.

Weaknesses Very young

THE BASICS COACH Joseph “Tony” Todd

Key starters lost Charlie Leonard, Noah Hall

Years coaching sport at current school Fifth year

Key returning lettermen Devin Tomlinson, Cade Stevenson, Brenden Hall, Sam Burke, Keegan Murphy, Hunter Greenman

Last year’s record/ place in conference 10th in SMAC; third in West Division

48 • THE KICKOFF

Top newcomers Jeremiah Kendall

NILES VIKINGS SCHEDULE AUG. 21 Viking Stampede, 5 p.m. 25 @ Three Rivers Hill Climb, 5 p.m. SEPT. 1 10 12 19 23 29

GIRLS cross country

OCT. 7 8 17 24

SMAC West jamboree at Dowagiac, 5 p.m. @ Dowagiac Rock and Run, 5 p.m. @ Sturgis Kiwanis Invitational, 9 a.m. @ SMAC Meet @ Battle Creek Lakeview, 11 a.m. 31 @ MHSAA Regionals at RedBud, 12:20 p.m.

FRONT ROW: Taylor Hobouch, Taylor Altergott, Kailey Skarbek, Madeline Stanton, Haley Rudlaff, Abigail Stein and Leah Whetmore. BACK ROW: Coach Danae Rossman, April Anderson, Hannah Jackowiak, Ashley Shortman, Chelsea Best, Jessica Akey and coach Jami Foster.

THE BASICS

Strengths As a whole, we have more natural runners than the past and they have a great attitude and work ethic. Weaknesses We have small numbers but our top five times at this point in the season are faster than last year’s team.

COACH Jami Foster Years coaching sport at current school Fourth year Last year’s record/ place in conference Fourth in SMAC West Division Key starters lost Kylee Myer, Hannah Walker Key returning lettermen Chelsea Best, Kailey Skarbek Top newcomers Taylor Altergott

What do you think about your conference? We have a tough conference to compete in. St. Joe and Lakeshore have two of the fastest runners returning. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised YOU? Their work ethic and how they seem to have more of a drive to get better. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? At the beginning of the season we have a “goal setting” breakfast as a team. We decide our top three team

goals and then each girl writes down their top three individual season goals. Each runner is reminded of our team and individual goals as we step on the bus and celebrate the next day at practice if reached. Once goals have been reached, they continue to set new ones. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? I’d like to see our team become more competitive. Cross country is like track, you can win as an individual and as a team. Our girls have to run harder for the team and not focus on their personal times more. If they run for the team, they will see their personal goals being reached. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Mental toughness, intra-squad rivalry, commitment to put in more work than they are usually willing to do and they have to develop the hate for complacency. THE KICKOFF • 49

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NILES VIKINGS

BOYS TENNIS FRONT ROW: Ben Lovett, Jacob Ganus, Derek Brown, Riley Delinski and Blaine Clark. BACK ROW: coach Jill Weber, Matt Lee, Jacob Ruelle, Chad Barton, Gavin Rasler, Devin Keumin, Zayne Neumann, Blake Saratore and coach Nic Hawley.

Strengths Athleticism, aggressive and coachable with a great desire to compete. Weaknesses Quite a few are new to the game. What do you think about your conference? Tough, but strength makes you better players quickly. Other than winning all your games and championships, what team goals do you set? Good sportsmanship and to work through difficult matches with growth

instead of defeat. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? Stay positive as a coach yourself and find strengths in your players and build on those qualities and skills. A defeated and negative player will find it very difficult to excel and grow to their fullest potential. What intangibles will be needed to push your team over the top? Meet every opponent boldly. Win or lose, gain from every match.

SCHEDULE AUG. 21 24 24 26 26 28 31 SEPT. 2 8 10 14 16 19 24 29 30

@ Vicksburg Invitational, 9 a.m. @ Battle Creek Central, 1 p.m. @ Battle Creek Lakeview, 4 p.m. Kalamazoo Central, 1 p.m. Kalamazoo Loy Norrix, 4 p.m. Niles Invitational, 9 a.m. Portage Northern, 4 p.m. Mattawan, 4 p.m. @ Portage Central, 4 p.m. Gull Lake, 4 p.m. @ Mishawaka, 4:30 p.m. @ St. Joseph, 4 p.m. B.C. Harper Creek Invitational, 9 a.m. @ Bridgman, 4 p.m. Dowagiac, 4 p.m. Edwardsburg, 4 p.m.

OCT. 3 SMAC Tournament at Portage, 9 a.m. 9 @ MHSAA Regionals, TBA

THE BASICS COACH Jill Weber, varsity; Nic Hawley, assistant

Key starters lost Rob Lundberg graduated and Micah Weigel moved.

Years coaching sport at current school 15th year

Key returning lettermen Derek Brown, Matt Lee, Jacob Ruelle, Jacob Ganus, Chad Barton, Ben Lovett, Zayne Neumann, Riley Delinski

Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record/place in conference 6-6-2, fifth at regionals

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THE KICKOFF â&#x20AC;˘ 51

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SCHEDULE AUG. 21 24 26 SEPT. 1 9 16 21 24 30 OCT. 8

GIRLS GOLF Strengths Elizabeth Clark has been playing in summer tournaments and playing most of the summer. She has a good chance of making the All-SMAC West Division team this year, after being honorable mention last year as a freshman. Weaknesses The team is very young. Four of the six starters are sophomores or freshmen. What do you think about your conference? It is going to be laid out very similar to last year. St. Joe, the Portage schools and Lakeshore are going to be difficult to beat with such a young team. What have you seen from your team so far that has surprised you? The freshmen are playing ahead

of schedule and the others are more mentally tough from last year. Other than winning all your games, division or conference championships and make the state playoffs, what other team goals do you set? To have the girls continue to grow and make strides toward achieving their goals. How do you think your players handle the highs and lows of winning and losing, and how do you coach that? The girls do a great job when they achieve their goals and have a good day on the golf course. As they are beginners, we have more lows so helping them find the positive from their round. They understand the game is tough and as long as they are getting better each week then they are being successful.

Battle Creek Lakeview, 9 a.m. SMAC West jamboree at Orchard Hills, 3:30 p.m. @ SMAC League Meet at Gull Lake View, 10 a.m. @ Sturgis Invitational at Klinger Lake, 9 a.m. @ SMAC West jamboree at Berrien Hills, 3:30 p.m. @ SMAC West jamboree at The Moors, 3:30 p.m. @ SMAC West jamboree at Harbor Shores. 3:30 p.m. @ Comstock Invitational at Eastern Hills, 10 a.m. @ SMAC League Tournament at Gull Lake View, 10 a.m. @ MHSAA Regional, TBA

FRONT ROW: Emma Durm, Elizabeth Clark, Jessica Tompos and Katie Bruckner. BACK ROW: assistant coachCollin Korb, Michelle Crouch, Aynslee Myer, Chloe File and coach Dan Palmer.

THE BASICS COACH Dan Palmer, head coach Collin Korb, assistant Years coaching sport/at current school Fourth season Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record/place in conference Tied for third in SMAC Key starters lost Allison Grant, Kourtney Custard, Chloe Lamb Key returning lettermen Elizabeth Clark, Jessica Tompos Top newcomers Emma Durm, Katie Bruckner, Aynslee Myer, Michelle Crouch THE KICKOFF â&#x20AC;˘ 53

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key COLLEGE FOOTBALL SCHEDULES BIG 10 Illinois Sept. 4 Kent St., 9 p.m. Sept. 12 W. Illinois, Noon Sept. 19 at North Carolina, Noon Sept. 26 Middle Tennessee, TBA Oct. 3 Nebraska, TBA Oct. 10 at Iowa, Noon Oct. 24 Wisconsin, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at Penn St., TBA Nov. 7 at Purdue, Noon Nov. 14 Ohio St., TBA Nov. 21 at Minnesota, TBA Nov. 28 Northwestern, TBA Indiana Sept. 5 S. Illinois, 4 p.m. Sept. 12 FIU, 8 p.m. Sept. 19 W. Kentucky, 4 p.m. Sept. 26 at Wake Forest, TBA Oct. 3 Ohio St., TBA Oct. 10 at Penn St., Noon Oct. 17 Rutgers, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at Michigan St., TBA Nov. 7 Iowa, TBA Nov. 14 Michigan, TBA Nov. 21 at Maryland, TBA Nov. 28 at Purdue, TBA Iowa Sept. 5 Illinois St., Noon Sept. 12 at Iowa St., 4:30 p.m. Sept. 19 Pittsburgh, 8 p.m. Sept. 26 North Texas, TBA Oct. 3 at Wisconsin, TBA Oct. 10 Illinois, Noon Oct. 17 at Northwestern, Noon Oct. 31 Maryland, TBA Nov. 7 at Indiana, TBA Nov. 14 Minnesota, 8 p.m. Nov. 21 Purdue, TBA Nov. 27 at Nebraska, TBA Maryland Sept. 5 Richmond, Noon Sept. 12 Bowling Green, Noon Sept. 19 South Florida, Noon Sept. 26 at West Virginia, TBA Oct. 3 Michigan, 8 p.m. Oct. 10 at Ohio St., Noon Oct. 24 Penn St., TBA Oct. 31 at Iowa, TBA Nov. 7 Wisconsin, 3:30 p.m. Nov. 14 at Michigan St., TBA Nov. 21 Indiana, TBA Nov. 28 at Rutgers, TBA Michigan Sept. 3 at Utah, 8:30 p.m. Sept. 12 Oregon St., Noon Sept. 19 UNLV, Noon Sept. 26 BYU, TBA Oct. 3 at Maryland, 8 p.m. Oct. 10 Northwestern, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 17 Michigan St., TBA Oct. 31 at Minnesota, 8 p.m. Nov. 7 Rutgers, TBA Nov. 14 at Indiana, TBA Nov. 21 at Penn St., TBA Nov. 28 Ohio St., TBA Michigan State Sept. 4 at W. Michigan, 7 p.m. Sept. 12 Oregon, 8 p.m. Sept. 19 Air Force, Noon Sept. 26 Cent. Michigan, TBA Oct. 3 Purdue, Noon Oct. 10 at Rutgers, 8 p.m. Oct. 17 at Michigan, TBA Oct. 24 Indiana, TBA Nov. 7 at Nebraska, 8 p.m.

Nov. 14 Maryland, TBA Nov. 21 at Ohio St., TBA Nov. 28 Penn St., TBA Minnesota Sept. 3 TCU, 9 p.m. Sept. 12 at Colorado St., 3:30 p.m. Sept. 19 Kent St., Noon Sept. 26 Ohio, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at Northwestern, TBA Oct. 10 at Purdue, TBA Oct. 17 Nebraska, TBA Oct. 31 Michigan, 8 p.m. Nov. 7 at Ohio St., TBA Nov. 14 at Iowa, 8 p.m. Nov. 21 Illinois, TBA Nov. 28 Wisconsin, TBA Nebraska Sept. 5 BYU, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 12 South Alabama, 8 p.m. Sept. 19 at Miami, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 Southern Miss., Noon Oct. 3 at Illinois, TBA Oct. 10 Wisconsin, TBA Oct. 17 at Minnesota, TBA Oct. 24 Northwestern, TBA Oct. 31 at Purdue, TBA Nov. 7 Michigan St., 8 p.m. Nov. 14 at Rutgers, TBA Nov. 27 Iowa, TBA Northwestern Sept. 5 Stanford, Noon Sept. 12 E. Illinois, 4 p.m. Sept. 19 at Duke, 12:30 p.m. Sept. 26 Ball St., 8 p.m. Oct. 3 Minnesota, TBA Oct. 10 at Michigan, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 17 Iowa, Noon Oct. 24 at Nebraska, TBA Nov. 7 Penn St., TBA Nov. 14 Purdue, TBA Nov. 21 at Wisconsin, TBA Nov. 28 at Illinois, TBA Ohio State Sept. 7 at Virginia Tech, 8 p.m. Sept. 12 Hawaii, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 19 N. Illinois, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 W. Michigan, TBA Oct. 3 at Indiana, TBA Oct. 10 Maryland, Noon Oct. 17 Penn St., 8 p.m. Oct. 24 at Rutgers, 8 p.m. Nov. 7 Minnesota, TBA Nov. 14 at Illinois, TBA Nov. 21 Michigan St., TBA Nov. 28 at Michigan, TBA Penn State Sept. 5 at Temple, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 12 Buffalo, Noon Sept. 19 Rutgers, 8 p.m. Sept. 26 San Diego St., TBA Oct. 3 Army, TBA Oct. 10 Indiana, Noon Oct. 17 at Ohio St., 8 p.m. Oct. 24 at Maryland, TBA Oct. 31 Illinois, TBA Nov. 7 at Northwestern, TBA Nov. 21 Michigan, TBA Nov. 28 at Michigan St., TBA Purdue Sept. 6 at Marshall, 3 p.m. Sept. 12 Indiana St., Noon Sept. 19 Virginia Tech, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 Bowling Green, TBA Oct. 3 at Michigan St., Noon

Oct. 10 Minnesota, TBA Oct. 17 at Wisconsin, Noon Oct. 31 Nebraska, TBA Nov. 7 Illinois, Noon Nov. 14 at Northwestern, TBA Nov. 21 at Iowa, TBA Nov. 28 Indiana, TBA Rutgers Sept. 5 Norfolk St., Noon Sept. 12 Washington St., 3:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Penn St., 8 p.m. Sept. 26 Kansas, Noon Oct. 10 Michigan St., 8 p.m. Oct. 17 at Indiana, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 24 Ohio St., 8 p.m. Oct. 31 at Wisconsin, TBA Nov. 7 at Michigan, TBA Nov. 14 Nebraska, TBA Nov. 21 at Army, Noon Nov. 28 Maryland, TBA Wisconsin Sept. 5 at Alabama, 8 p.m. Sept. 12 Miami (Ohio), Noon Sept. 19 Troy, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 Hawaii, 8 p.m. Oct. 3 Iowa, TBA Oct. 10 at Nebraska, TBA Oct. 17 Purdue, Noon Oct. 24 at Illinois, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 31 Rutgers, TBA Nov. 7 at Maryland, 3:30 p.m. Nov. 21 Northwestern, TBA Nov. 28 at Minnesota, TBA Mid-AmericaN Conference Akron Sept. 5 at Oklahoma, 7 p.m. Sept. 12 Pittsburgh, 6 p.m. Sept. 19 Savannah St., TBA Sept. 26 at Louisiana-Lafayette, TBA Oct. 3 Ohio, 2 p.m. Oct. 10 at E. Michigan, 3 p.m. Oct. 17 at Bowling Green, 3 p.m. Oct. 31 Cent. Michigan, TBA Nov. 7 at UMass, TBA Nov. 14 at Miami (Ohio), TBA Nov. 21 Buffalo, TBA Nov. 27 Kent St., TBA Ball State Sept. 3 VMI, 7 p.m. Sept. 12 at Texas A&M, 7 p.m. Sept. 19 at E. Michigan, 3 p.m. Sept. 26 at Northwestern, 8 p.m. Oct. 3 Toledo, 3 p.m. Oct. 10 at N. Illinois, TBA Oct. 17 Georgia St., TBA Oct. 24 Cent. Michigan, TBA Oct. 31 UMass, TBA Nov. 5 at W. Michigan, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at Ohio, TBA Nov. 24 Bowling Green, 7:30 p.m. Bowling Green Sept. 5 at Tennessee, 4 p.m. Sept. 12 at Maryland, Noon Sept. 19 Memphis, 3 p.m. Sept. 26 at Purdue, TBA Oct. 3 at Buffalo, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 10 UMass, TBA Oct. 17 Akron, 3 p.m. Oct. 24 at Kent St., TBA Nov. 4 Ohio, 8 p.m. Nov. 11 at W. Michigan, 8 p.m. Nov. 17 Toledo, TBA Nov. 24 at Ball St., 7:30 p.m.

Buffalo Sept. 5 Albany (NY), 3:30 p.m. Sept. 12 at Penn St., Noon Sept. 19 at FAU, Noon Sept. 26 Nevada, TBA Oct. 3 Bowling Green, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 17 at Cent. Michigan, TBA Oct. 24 Ohio, TBA Oct. 29 at Miami (Ohio), 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5 at Kent St., 7:30 p.m. Nov. 11 N. Illinois, 8 p.m. Nov. 21 at Akron, TBA Nov. 27 UMass, TBA Central Michigan Sept. 3 Oklahoma St., 7 p.m. Sept. 12 Monmouth (NJ), 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at Syracuse, 12:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at Michigan St., TBA Oct. 3 N. Illinois, 3 p.m. Oct. 10 at W. Michigan, TBA Oct. 17 Buffalo, TBA Oct. 24 at Ball St., TBA Oct. 31 at Akron, TBA Nov. 10 Toledo, 8 p.m. Nov. 18 at Kent St., 8 p.m. Nov. 27 E. Michigan, TBA Eastern Sept. 5 Old Dominion, 3 p.m. Sept. 12 at Wyoming, 4 p.m. Sept. 19 Ball St., 3 p.m. Sept. 26 Army, TBA Oct. 3 at LSU, TBA Oct. 10 Akron, 3 p.m. Oct. 17 at Toledo, TBA Oct. 24 at N. Illinois, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 29 W. Michigan, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at Miami (Ohio), TBA Nov. 14 UMass, TBA Nov. 27 at Cent. Michigan, TBA Kent State Sept. 4 at Illinois, 9 p.m. Sept. 12 Delaware St., 6 p.m. Sept. 19 at Minnesota, Noon Sept. 26 Marshall, TBA Oct. 3 Miami (Ohio), 3:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at Toledo, 3 p.m. Oct. 17 at UMass, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 24 Bowling Green, TBA Nov. 5 Buffalo, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10 at Ohio, 8 p.m. Nov. 18 Cent. Michigan, 8 p.m. Nov. 27 at Akron, TBA Miami (Ohio) Sept. 5 Presbyterian, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 12 at Wisconsin, Noon Sept. 19 Cincinnati, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at W. Kentucky, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at Kent St., 3:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at Ohio, 2 p.m. Oct. 17 N. Illinois, 2:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at W. Michigan, 2 p.m. Oct. 29 Buffalo, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 E. Michigan, TBA Nov. 14 Akron, TBA Nov. 21 at UMass, TBA Northern Illinois Sept. 5 UNLV, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 Murray State, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Ohio State, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at Boston College, TBA Oct. 3 at Central Michigan, 3 p.m. Oct. 10 Ball State, TBA Oct. 17 at Miami (Ohio) 2:30 p.m. Oct. 24 East. Michigan, 3:30 p.m.

Nov. 3 at Toledo, 8 p.m. Nov. 11 at Buffalo, 8 p.m. Nov. 18 Western Michigan, 8 p.m. Nov. 24 Ohio, 7:30 p.m. Ohio Sept. 3 at Idaho, 9 p.m. Sept. 12 Marshall, 7 p.m. Sept. 19 SE Louisiana, 2 p.m. Sept. 26 at Minnesota, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at Akron, 2 p.m. Oct. 10 Miami (Ohio), 2 p.m. Oct. 17 W. Michigan, TBA Oct. 24 at Buffalo, TBA Nov. 4 at Bowling Green, 8 p.m. Nov. 10 Kent St., 8 p.m. Nov. 17 Ball St., TBA Nov. 24 at N. Illinois, 7:30 p.m. Toledo Sept. 3 Stony Brook, 7 p.m. Sept. 12 at Arkansas, 4 p.m. Sept. 19 Iowa St., 8 p.m. Sept. 26 Arkansas St., TBA Oct. 3 at Ball St., 3 p.m. Oct. 10 Kent St., 3 p.m. Oct. 17 E. Michigan, TBA Oct. 24 at UMass, TBA Nov. 3 N. Illinois, 8 p.m. Nov. 10 at Cent. Michigan, 8 p.m. Nov. 17 at Bowling Green, TBA Nov. 27 W. Michigan, TBA UMass Sept. 12 at Colorado, 2 p.m. Sept. 19 Temple, 3 p.m. Sept. 26 at Notre Dame, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 3 FIU, TBA Oct. 10 at Bowling Green, TBA Oct. 17 Kent St., 3:30 p.m. Oct. 24 Toledo, TBA Oct. 31 at Ball St., TBA Nov. 7 Akron, TBA Nov. 14 at E. Michigan, TBA Nov. 21 Miami (Ohio), TBA Nov. 27 at Buffalo, TBA Western Michigan Sept. 4 Michigan St., 7 p.m. Sept. 12 at Georgia Southern, 6 p.m. Sept. 19 Murray St., 7 p.m. Sept. 26 at Ohio St., TBA Oct. 10 Cent. Michigan, TBA Oct. 17 at Ohio, TBA Oct. 24 Miami (Ohio), 2 p.m. Oct. 29 at E. Michigan, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5 Ball St., 7:30 p.m. Nov. 11 Bowling Green, 8 p.m. Nov. 18 at N. Illinois, 8 p.m. Nov. 27 at Toledo, TBA INDEPENDENT Notre Dame Sept. 5 Texas, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 at Virginia, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 19 Georgia Tech, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 UMass, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at Clemson, TBA Oct. 10 Navy, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 17 Southern Cal, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at Temple, TBA Nov. 7 at Pittsburgh, TBA Nov. 14 Wake Forest, 3:30 p.m. Nov. 21 at Boston College, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28 at Stanford, TBA

THE KICKOFF â&#x20AC;˘ 55

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UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

Coming

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By SCOTT NOVAK scott.novak@leaderpub.com

he Michigan Wolverines are trying to dig their way out of a hole that was created with the hiring of Rich Rodriquez and Brady Hoke. Rodriquez and Hoke coached Michigan to a 46-42 record from 2008 to 2014. The unpopular coaches were replaced with former University of Michigan All-American quarterback Jim Harbaugh, who went on to star in the NFL for the Chicago Bears before turning to coaching. Harbaugh coached at San Diego and Stanford before becoming the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2011 through 2014. Harbaugh was hired as the Wolverines’ head coach Dec. 30, 2014. He is being counted on to turn around

a Michigan program that went 5-7 in 2014. “Well, I don’t know how many things you can really do,” Harbaugh said at the Big Ten Media Days in Chicago in July. “If people don’t want to come to a game, you can’t make them come. But it doesn’t seem like we’ve had that problem at the University of Michigan as far as I can tell. So the spirit, the energy has been tremendous. I think everybody involved in Michigan and Michigan football is hungry for the 2015 season including the fan base.” Michigan struggled in many areas the past few seasons, especially at quarterback. With the graduation of Devin Gardner, Harbaugh and his staff have worked hard at trying to solidify that position. Front runners for the starting job are junior Shane Morris, who has limited experience, and Iowa transfer Jake Rudock.

Wolverines prepare to rebuild with Harbaugh leading energized team Michigan returns nine starters on the offensive side of the football including receivers Amara Darboh and Jehu Chesson, tight end Jake Butt, and running backs Derrick Green and De’Veon Smith. “This is the beginning, the training camp,” Harbaugh said. “And the rebirth of football, the rebirth of the season. And then you watch and you watch and you observe. And you can learn. You can observe a lot by just watching. And I feel like I’ve been doing that. And I feel like our team is getting better every day. I really do.” On the defensive side of the football, the Wolverines return eight starters including Willie Henry, Joe Bolden, Desmond Morgan and standout defensive back Jabrill Pepper. The Wolverines kick off the 2015 season and Harbaugh era at Utah before coming home to face Oregon State, UNLV and Brigham Young University. THE KICKOFF • 57

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MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

KEEPING UP THE

MOMENTUM Spartans strive to build on success of past seasons By SCOTT NOVAK scott.novak@leaderpub.com

ark Dantonio and the Michigan State Spartans are hoping to continue their run of success in 2015. The past two seasons the Spartans are 24-3 with Big Ten, Rose Bowl and Cotton Bowl championships to their credit. Michigan State, ranked as high as fifth in some national polls, return a wealth of talent on both sides of the football, including Heisman Trophy candidate Connor Cook and one of the nation’s best defensive linemen in Shilique Calhoun. The Spartans have talent and depth at wide receiver with Aaron Burbridge, MacGarrett Kings and R.J. Shelton, but need to find replacements for running backs Jeremy Langford and Nick Hill. “This past season, he did an outstanding job,” Dantonio said of Cook. “Very few times was he sacked, not a lot of interceptions. But there’s always room for improvement. I think he’s come back with the idea that there are things left to prove. And he’s going to continue to take his game to a higher level. And that’s exciting because I think that the makeup of our football team, I think, in general is, you know, keep trying to strive forward, keep trying to move the process forward, and be as good as you can possibly be. “So high expectations from our staff and from the general public. Very high expectations. Very high expectations from he himself.” Michigan State also has what many consider the best offensive line in the country. That line is coached by former Dowagiac and Miami of Ohio standout Mark Staten. Dantonio had high praise for him at the Big Ten Media Days in July. “Coach Staten, our offensive line coach, has done an outstanding job with those guys. We have built this from the ground up as we’ve moved forward. Guys like Jack Allen, Jack Conklin, Donavon Clark, they’re there now for third year starters. Some of them are maybe a fourth year coming in the future. Brian Allen, Kodi Kieler; those are the five guys. We’ve got other guys that are making their move. “I anticipate us playing eight guys again much like we have. We’ve got depth in the offensive line position, which is huge in college football. And I believe that you win up front. Jim Bollman has done an outstanding job as our tight end coach, and he’s an offensive line coach in training for a long-time standing. So he gives coach Staten, you know, bounce back things, you know?

Ideas to bounce off of him. So he’s involved in that as well. “But I think Mark Staten has done a remarkable job with our guys. They believe in him. They believe in the structure there. It’s built on toughness. And if you know football, winning and losing, it all starts up front and it’s going to start with our offensive line.” Besides Calhoun, the Spartans return nose tackle Malik McDowell, linebacker Chris Frey, who will replace Ed Davis, who was lost for the season due to injury. In the secondary, Darian Hicks, Vayant Copeland and R.J. Williamson will try to fill the shoes of departed Kurtis Drummond and Trae Waynes. Williams is transitioning to free safety. “R.J. will be going into his fourth year as a player back there,” Dantonio said. “So he knows things as well as our coaches really. I mean, we have him out there in summer camp coaching our high school kids and things of that nature that are in our camps, and he does an outstanding job. “Kurtis Drummond was our leader last year in the secondary. That changed. That’s a free flowing thing at every position. And I think his opportunities to lead are going to be really what set him apart this year. Goes about 210 pounds, hopefully. I think he’s 216 right now. Got great ball skills, a lot of experience; I think we’re talented at the safety position and our corner position as well.”

THE KICKOFF • 59

NOTRE DAME UNIVERSITY

LEADERS STEP UP Fighting Irish bounce back with new players in the spotlight

By SCOTT NOVAK scott.novak@leaderpub.com

he suspense is building at the University of Notre Dame as Brian Kelly enters his sixth season at the helm of the Fighting Irish. Despite the losses of Everett Golson (transferred to Florida State) and Ishaq Williams (ruled ineligible by the NCAA), many think this might be Kelly’s best team. Malik Zaire takes over at quarterback for the Fighting Irish and has been impressive in camp. Zaire has a host of talented wide receives to throw the ball to, including Torii Hunter Jr., Amir Carlisle, Corey Robinson and C.J. Prosise. Zaire was 21-of-35 last year for 266 yards and a touchdown in his limited action. Kelly is expecting much more from his quarterback this season. “Well, I think you’re going to see a lot of him this year,” Kelly said of Hunter at a recent media event. “He’ll play a lot. He’s very versatile. He could play, if he had to, he could play all the positions. He could play X, Z and W. He’s probably our most versatile receiver in that he has the size and the speed, and the ability to work inside out at the slot position because of his elusiveness. We probably don’t have another player that has that ability on the roster. “So a unique talent from that standpoint, so you’ll hear a lot about him this year. He’ll get a lot of playing time. He’s had a very good camp, and I think consistency he’s been as good as anybody we’ve had in preseason camp.” And what about Robinson? “Corey Robinson, just continues to learn more about the game every day,” Kelly said. “We had a red zone period yesterday where we’re really trying to get him. Look, he’s not going to get a lot of one on one coverage. He’s going to get a lot of bracket coverage, a lot of seven, eight across, zone coverage, and he’s going to have to work the back end line. That’s where he’s going to have to live this year.” While the loss of Williams hurts the Notre Dame defense, getting KeiVarae Russell back (reinstated by the NCAA) helps. Notre Dame will also look to the likes of Jaylon Smith, who led the team with 111 tackles, including nine for loss, and tied for the lead in sacks with 3.5 in 2014. “Well, it’s a faster team,” Kelly said. “It’s a more athletic team. We are deeper at virtually all positions across the board, both on the offensive line and the defensive line. Maybe we don’t have singularly one superstar here or there, but the depth of the group is a whole different football team than that group. That was a 60 • THE KICKOFF

unique group in that they knew how to win, had great leadership. Look, winning teams have a special group of guys that find ways to win, and that group did. But this is, from an athletic standpoint and from a physical prowess standpoint, a deeper football team. “Jaylon desperately wants to be called upon at any time to be that guy out front. We have no problem doing that. I will take him side by side with me anywhere I go. I think for Jaylon, more than anything else, I think our players emulate his work ethic, they emulate the way he plays and practices every day, and they know that he’s not afraid to tell them how to do it. So where does his leadership show more than anything else? I think that they’re quite afraid of him getting in their face if they don’t do it the right way. I think that’s where his singular leadership comes out.” Notre Dame opened its season against traditional powerhouse Texas before hitting the road against ACC foe Virginia Sept. 12. The Fighting Irish’s next home game is Sept. 19 against Georgia Tech.

WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

Keep on

Broncos have eyes on MAC championship following impressive comeback season

‘ROWINg’ By SCOTT NOVAK scott.novak@leaderpub.com

espite the success of the 2014 Western Michigan football team, the Broncos still have plenty to prove coming into this season. Western Michigan, which went 8-5 last year and lost to Air Force in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, were picked to finish second this year in the Mid-American Conference’s West Division behind Toledo. But before the Broncos can worry about taking on their conference schedule, Western must survive its non-league opponents. The Broncos opened their season Sept. 4 against No. 5-ranked Michigan State and will face defending National Champion Ohio State. Western Michigan will be looking for its first MAC championship since 1988. “Every day presents its own challenges, even today,” Western coach P.J. Fleck said during the Broncos’ annual media day. “But the challenges are way different in Year 3 with this group of young men than it was Day 1 when we walked in here. Every day there are new ones, but we just keep doing our best, finding ways to push through that and knock down the walls and just keep rowing the boat.” Western Michigan rebounded from a 1-11 season in 2013. That quick turnaround to 8-5 earned Fleck MAC Coach of the Year honors in 2014 and earned him a contract extension that made him the highest paid coach in the conference. The youngest head coach in college football knows that expectations are high. “The outside world gives us expectations,” Fleck said. “Let’s all remember that, one year ago, we had the worst team in college football. I was the worst coach in America. “We just continue to row the boat, keep our oar in the water and just continue to

move this program in the right direction. It’s being built for sustainability. This is not just a one-hit-wonder type deal. We want to build this for the long haul.” The Broncos offensively have some weapons, including running back Jarvion Franklin, who became the first player in MAC history to earn both Freshman of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year honors in the same season. He rushed for a MAC freshman record 1,525 yards and a WMU single-season record 25 touchdowns. In all, the Broncos return nine starters on offense. Also back is junior quarterback Zach Terrell, who completed 68 percent of his passes for 3,443 yards with 26 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Backing him up is Tom Flacco, brother of Baltimore Ravens’ quarterback Joe Flacco. Terrell’s favorite target was Corey Davis, a junior, who caught 78 passes for 1,408 yards and 15 touchdowns. Junior Daniel Bravearman added 86 catches for 997 yards and six touchdowns. Backing up Franklin are Dareyon Chance (321 yards) and two freshmen — Jamauri

Bogan and Davon Tucker. The offensive line returns guard Taylor Morton and Ray Kristoff, along with left tackle Willie Beavers. On defense, Western returns seven starters. That unit allowed 371 yards per game (154 rushing and 218 passing). Sophomore Darius Phillips will play both cornerback and receiver this season. The defensive line will be anchored by defensive ends Jarrell McKinney and Nathan Braster, as well as tackle Cleveland Smith. Smith had 5.5 sacks last year. Linebacker Grant DePalma has 12 tackles, while cornerback Ronald Zamort had 17 pass break-ups and four interceptions. Andre Haldeman will handle field goals (30-of-37 in 2014), while J. Schroeder will continue to do the punting (42.8 yards per punt). Former Dowagiac standout Brett Scanlon handled the majority of the kickoffs for the Broncos as a freshman and a sophomore, but transferred to Michigan State University where he will have to sit out the 2015 season. THE KICKOFF • 61

WEEK-BY-Week NFL SCHEDULES

Week One Thursday, Sept. 10 Pittsburgh at New England, 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 Indianapolis at Buffalo, 1 p.m. Green Bay at Chicago, 1 p.m. Kansas City at Houston, 1 p.m. Carolina at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. Cleveland at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. Seattle at St. Louis, 1 p.m. Miami at Washington, 1 p.m. New Orleans at Arizona, 4:05 p.m. Detroit at San Diego, 4:05 p.m. Baltimore at Denver, 4:25 p.m. Cincinnati at Oakland, 4:25 p.m. Tennessee at Tampa Bay, 4:25 p.m. N.Y. Giants at Dallas, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14 Philadelphia at Atlanta, 7:10 p.m. Minnesota at San Francisco, 10:20 p.m. Week Two Thursday, Sept. 17 Denver at Kansas City, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 New England at Buffalo, 1 p.m. Houston at Carolina, 1 p.m. Arizona at Chicago, 1 p.m. San Diego at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. Tennessee at Cleveland, 1 p.m. Detroit at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Tampa Bay at New Orleans, 1 p.m. Atlanta at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. San Francisco at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. St. Louis at Washington, 1 p.m. Miami at Jacksonville, 4:05 p.m. Baltimore at Oakland, 4:05 p.m. Dallas at Philadelphia, 4:25 p.m. Seattle at Green Bay, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21 N.Y. Jets at Indianapolis, 8:30 p.m. Week Three Thursday, Sept. 24 Washington at N.Y. Giants, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27 Cincinnati at Baltimore, 1 p.m. New Orleans at Carolina, 1 p.m. Oakland at Cleveland, 1 p.m. Atlanta at Dallas, 1 p.m. Tampa Bay at Houston, 1 p.m. San Diego at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Jacksonville at New England, 1 p.m. Philadelphia at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. Pittsburgh at St. Louis, 1 p.m. Indianapolis at Tennessee, 1 p.m. San Francisco at Arizona, 4:05 p.m. Buffalo at Miami, 4:25 p.m. Chicago at Seattle, 4:25 p.m. Denver at Detroit, 8:30 p.m.

62 â&#x20AC;˘ THE KICKOFF

Monday, Sept. 28 Kansas City at Green Bay, 8:30 p.m.

Baltimore San Francisco, 4:25 p.m. New England at Indianapolis-x, 8:30 p.m.

Week Four (Byes: Tennessee, New England)

Monday, Oct. 19 N.Y. Giants at Philadelphia, 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 1 Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 8:25 p.m.

Week Seven (Byes: Chicago, Cincinnati, Denver, Green Bay)

Sunday, Oct. 4 N.Y. Jets vs. Miami at London, 9:30 a.m. Houston at Atlanta, 1 p.m. N.Y. Giants at Buffalo, 1 p.m. Oakland at Chicago, 1 p.m. Kansas City at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. Jacksonville at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. Carolina at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. Philadelphia at Washington, 1 p.m. Cleveland at San Diego, 4:05 p.m. St. Louis at Arizona, 4:25 p.m. Minnesota at Denver, 4:25 p.m. Green Bay at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m. Dallas at New Orleans, 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 22 Seattle at San Francisco , 8:25 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 5 Detroit at Seattle, 8:30 p.m. Week Five (Byes: Carolina, Miami, Minnesota, N.Y. Jets) Thursday, Oct. 8 Indianapolis at Houston, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11 Washington at Atlanta, 1 p.m. Cleveland at Baltimore, 1 p.m. Seattle at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. St. Louis at Green Bay, 1 p.m. Chicago at Kansas City, 1 p.m. New Orleans at Philadelphia, 1 p.m. Jacksonville at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. Buffalo at Tennessee, 1 p.m. Arizona at Detroit, 4:05 p.m. New England at Dallas, 4:25 p.m. Denver at Oakland, 4:25 p.m. San Francisco at N.Y. Giants-x, 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 25 Buffalo vs. Jacksonville at London, 9:30 a.m. Minnesota at Detroit, 1 p.m. New Orleans at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. Pittsburgh at Kansas City, 1 p.m. Houston at Miami, 1 p.m. N.Y. Jets at New England, 1 p.m. Cleveland at St. Louis, 1 p.m. Atlanta at Tennessee, 1 p.m. Tampa Bay at Washington, 1 p.m. Oakland at San Diego, 4:05 p.m. Dallas at N.Y. Giants, 4:25 p.m. Philadelphia at Carolina-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26 Baltimore at Arizona , 8:30 p.m. Week Eight (Byes: Buffalo, Jacksonville, Philadelphia, Washington) Thursday, Oct. 29 Miami at New England , 8:25 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 12 Pittsburgh at San Diego , 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 1 Detroit vs Kansas City at London, 9:30 a.m. Tampa Bay at Atlanta, 1 p.m. San Diego at Baltimore, 1 p.m. Minnesota at Chicago, 1 p.m. Arizona at Cleveland, 1 p.m. Tennessee at Houston, 1 p.m. N.Y. Giants at New Orleans, 1 p.m. Cincinnati at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. San Francisco at St. Louis, 1 p.m. N.Y. Jets at Oakland, 4:05 p.m. Seattle at Dallas, 4:25 p.m. Green Bay at Denver-x, 8:30 p.m.

Week Six (Byes: Dallas, Oakland, St. Louis, Tampa Bay)

Monday, Nov. 2 Indianapolis at Carolina, 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 15 Atlanta at New Orleans , 8:25 p.m.

Week Nine (Byes: Arizona, Baltimore, Detroit, Houston, Kansas City, Seattle)

Sunday, Oct. 18 Cincinnati at Buffalo, 1 p.m. Denver at Cleveland, 1 p.m. Chicago at Detroit, 1 p.m. Houston at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. Kansas City at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Washington at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. Arizona at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. Miami at Tennessee, 1 p.m. Carolina at Seattle, 4:05 p.m. San Diego at Green Bay, 4:25 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 5 Cleveland at Cincinnati, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8 Miami at Buffalo, 1 p.m. Green Bay at Carolina, 1 p.m. St. Louis at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Washington at New England, 1 p.m. Tennessee at New Orleans, 1 p.m. Jacksonville at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.

Oakland at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. Atlanta at San Francisco, 4:05 p.m. N.Y. Giants at Tampa Bay, 4:05 p.m. Denver at Indianapolis, 4:25 p.m. Philadelphia at Dallas-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9 Chicago at San Diego, 8:30 p.m. Week TEN (Byes: Atlanta, Indianapolis, San Diego, San Francisco) Thursday, Nov. 12 Buffalo at N.Y. Jets, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15 Jacksonville at Baltimore, 1 p.m. Detroit at Green Bay, 1 p.m. Miami at Philadelphia, 1 p.m. Cleveland at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. Chicago at St. Louis, 1 p.m. Dallas at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. Carolina at Tennessee, 1 p.m. New Orleans at Washington, 1 p.m. Minnesota at Oakland, 4:05 p.m. Kansas City at Denver, 4:25 p.m. New England at N.Y. Giants, 4:25 p.m. Arizona at Seattle-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16 Houston at Cincinnati, 8:30 p.m. Week ELEVEN (Byes: Cleveland, New Orleans, NY Giants, Pittsburgh) Thursday, Nov. 19 Tennessee at Jacksonville, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22 Indianapolis at Atlanta, 1 p.m. St. Louis at Baltimore, 1 p.m. Washington at Carolina, 1 p.m. Denver at Chicago, 1 p.m. Oakland at Detroit, 1 p.m. N.Y. Jets at Houston, 1 p.m. Dallas at Miami, 1 p.m. Green Bay at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Tampa Bay at Philadelphia, 1 p.m. Cincinnati at Arizona, 4:05 p.m. San Francisco at Seattle, 4:25 p.m. Kansas City at San Diego-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 23 Buffalo at New England, 8:30 p.m. Week TWELVE (Byes: Carolina, Pittsburgh) Thursday, Nov. 26 Philadelphia at Detroit, 12:30 p.m. Carolina at Dallas, 4:30 p.m. Chicago at Green Bay , 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23 Minnesota at Atlanta, 1 p.m. St. Louis at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. New Orleans at Houston, 1 p.m.

Tampa Bay at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. San Diego at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. Buffalo at Kansas City, 1 p.m. Miami at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. Oakland at Tennessee, 1 p.m. N.Y. Giants at Washington, 1 p.m. Arizona at San Francisco, 4:05 p.m. Pittsburgh at Seattle, 4:25 p.m. New England at Denver-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24 Baltimore at New Orleans, 8:30 p.m. Week THIRTEEN Thursday, Dec. 3 Green Bay at Detroit, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 Houston at Buffalo, 1 p.m. San Francisco at Chicago, 1 p.m. Cincinnati at Cleveland, 1 p.m. Baltimore at Miami, 1 p.m. Seattle at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Carolina at New Orleans, 1 p.m. N.Y. Jets at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. Arizona at St. Louis, 1 p.m. Atlanta at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. Jacksonville at Tennessee, 1 p.m. Kansas City at Oakland, 4:05 p.m. Denver at San Diego, 4:05 p.m. Philadelphia at New England, 4:25 p.m. Indianapolis at Pittsburgh-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 7 Dallas at Washington, 8:30 p.m. Week FOURTEEN Thursday, Dec. 10 Minnesota at Arizona, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 Atlanta at Carolina, 1 p.m. Washington at Chicago, 1 p.m. Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. San Francisco at Cleveland, 1 p.m. New England at Houston, 1 p.m. Indianapolis at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. San Diego at Kansas City, 1 p.m. Tennessee at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. Buffalo at Philadelphia, 1 p.m. Detroit at St. Louis, 1 p.m. New Orleans at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. Oakland at Denver, 4:05 p.m. Dallas at Green Bay, 4:25 p.m. Seattle at Baltimore-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14 N.Y. Giants at Miami, 8:30 p.m. Week FIFTEEN Thursday, Dec. 17 Tampa Bay at St. Louis, 8:25 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 N.Y. Jets at Dallas, 8:25 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 20 Kansas City at Baltimore, 1 p.m. Houston at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. Atlanta at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. Chicago at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Tennessee at New England, 1 p.m. Carolina at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. Arizona at Philadelphia, 1 p.m. Buffalo at Washington, 1 p.m. Green Bay at Oakland, 4:05 p.m. Cleveland at Seattle, 4:05 p.m. Denver at Pittsburgh, 4:25 p.m. Miami at San Diego, 4:25 p.m. Cincinnati at San Francisco-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21 Detroit at New Orleans, 8:30 p.m. Week SIXTEEN Thursday, Dec. 24 San Diego at Oakland, 8:25 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 26 Washington at Philadelphia, 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27 Carolina at Atlanta, 1 p.m. Dallas at Buffalo, 1 p.m. San Francisco at Detroit, 1 p.m. Cleveland at Kansas City, 1 p.m. Indianapolis at Miami, 1 p.m. N.Y. Giants at Minnesota, 1 p.m. Jacksonville at New Orleans, 1 p.m. New England at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. Chicago at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. Houston at Tennessee, 1 p.m. Green Bay at Arizona, 4:25 p.m. St. Louis at Seattle, 4:25 p.m. Pittsburgh at Baltimore-x, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 28 Cincinnati at Denver, 8:30 p.m. Week SEVENTEEN Sunday, Jan. 3 New Orleans at Atlanta, 1 p.m. N.Y. Jets at Buffalo, 1 p.m. Tampa Bay at Carolina, 1 p.m. Detroit at Chicago, 1 p.m. Baltimore at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. Pittsburgh at Cleveland, 1 p.m. Washington at Dallas, 1 p.m. Minnesota at Green Bay, 1 p.m. Jacksonville at Houston, 1 p.m. Tennessee at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. Oakland at Kansas City, 1 p.m. New England at Miami, 1 p.m. Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. Seattle at Arizona, 4:25 p.m. San Diego at Denver, 4:25 p.m. St. Louis at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m. Note: Night game TBD

THE KICKOFF â&#x20AC;˘ 63

CHICAGO BEARS

A New

START Bears look to John Fox to turn around fortunes By RICH CAMPBELL Chicago Tribune (TNS) Smiles and laughter brightened the Bears locker room after their pre-season opener, the Bears’ exhibition victory over the Colts in Indianapolis. It was a gratifying finish to a four-day road trip that challenged players in the new schemes. In the end, both sides of the ball showed glimpses of the identity the Bears want to embody. As they continue to prepare for the season, we break down the key takeaways from Indy in our three-phase review. Offense Reason for optimism: In the absence of a regular-season game plan, play-caller Adam Gase stuck to the Bears’ formula for success. He balanced the offense with the running attack despite the offensive line’s early struggles. Matt Forte and Jacquizz Rodgers combined for 53 yards on 15 carries on four drives behind the first-string offensive line against the Colts’ starters. That 3.5-yard average reflected some missed blocks up front, but the commitment to the run helped salvage three field goals and limit possible mistakes by quarterback Jay Cutler. Rodgers’ shiftiness and vision in the backfield created some yards other backs wouldn’t have gained. Fourthround rookie Jeremy Langford broke several tackles. Both could contribute behind Forte. Reason for concern: The Bears are approaching Saturday’s regular-season tuneup with uncertainty at right tackle. Charles Leno’s debut with the starters was unconvincing. On the first play from scrimmage, he didn’t finish a combination block against defensive tackle Arthur Jones, and Jones made the tackle. Two plays later, Leno set too shallow against linebacker Erik Walden’s wide rush, which resulted in a penalty for illegal hands to the face. After that, however, Leno’s depth on pass sets improved. Consistency is his ticket to winning the job. Jordan Mills was too erratic in pass protection to lock it down. Playing with the second string, Mills’ backside block opened the running lane for Langford’s 46-yard run. His pass blocking was helped by quick throws. 64 • THE KICKOFF

Worth discussing Injuries to multiple players at the same position can be crippling. After Marquess Wilson strained his right hamstring, the Bears ran a three-receiver set comprised of Eddie Royal, Josh Bellamy and Marc Mariani — not exactly the weaponry the Bears once boasted on paper. Already without Alshon Jeffery (strained left calf) and Kevin White (left shin fracture), the Bears can’t afford to lose any more receivers. Wilson said his hamstring is fine, but his practice status Monday will be telling. More pressing is whether Jeffery resumes practicing. He missed the first two exhibition games, and if he doesn’t practice Monday, it’s difficult to envision him suiting up in Cincinnati — the last exhibition in which the starters will play. Defense Reason for optimism: The starters knocked quarterback Andrew Luck around on the first two drives. Even more impressive was that several players got into the act. Outside linebackers Pernell McPhee, Jared Allen and Jarvis Jenkins hit Luck, and McPhee sacked him. As Allen noted afterward, such surges of pressure usually occur in the fourth quarter when the defense is playing with the lead. So for the Bears to get off to such a fast start was a good indication of players’ ability to win one-on-one matchups. McPhee, for example, got his sack with superior hand placement in a block against right tackle Jack Mewhort. Jenkins got home by bulling through guard Todd Herremans. Reason for concern When Luck did have time in the pocket on the third drive, he victimized a first-string secondary that has yet to demonstrate a play-making edge. Overall, they don’t appear to possess the speed typical of a swarming, ball-hawking defensive backfield. Safety Antrel Rolle isn’t known for his speed at age 32, and neither is cornerback Tim Jennings (31).

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Lions hopeful despite critics’ predictions

By STEVE SCHRADER Detroit Free Press (TNS) — It has been 20 years since the Detroit Lions made the playoffs in consecutive seasons. They actually went to the playoffs three years in a row, in 1993-95, the only times they’ve had consecutive appearances in the past three decades. (They’re 0-7 in that span, too.) So history is on Sean WagnerMcGough’s side when he predicts at cbssports.com that the Lions are one of four 2014 NFL playoff teams that won’t be returning to the playoffs this season, along with the Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers and Cincinnati Bengals. Wagner-McGough bases much of his prediction on the loss of Ndamukong Suh — not to mention Nick Fairley, C.J. Mosley and George Johnson — from the defensive line. “Don’t underestimate how much the loss of Ndamukong Suh will impact the Lions’ fortunes in 2015,” WagnerMcGough writes. “Last season, with Suh leading the way, the Lions surrendered an NFL-low 69 rushing yards per game. They finished second in total defense, eighth in sacks, tied for third in interceptions, and third in points per game. ... “To replace Suh, the Lions brought in Haloti Ngata, formerly with the Ravens for nine seasons. Ngata has 25.5 sacks in his career and, more important, he’s a force in the run game. But he’s not the force that Suh is, not at this stage in his career. “Furthermore, Ngata can’t replace all of the bodies that the Lions lost on the defensive line. ... According to Robert Mays of Grantland, the Lions are tasked with replacing nearly 1,500 snaps 66 • THE KICKOFF

on their defensive line. And that’s not including Suh’s 909 snaps. Ngata can’t do that by himself.” Not to mention he’s nursing a hamstring injury. And on the other side of the ball? “As for the offense, Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate form one of the more impressive wide receiver duos in the league, Matthew Stafford is an aboveaverage quarterback who the Lions don’t need to worry about, and there’s some rumblings that rookie running back Ameer Abdullah is going to break out,” Wagner-McGough says. But? “Here’s why I’m concerned about

the Lions offense: Last season, they weren’t forced to score points at a high clip because of their stout defense,” Wagner-McGough says. “But if the defense takes a step back, which it probably will, that’ll force the offense to produce more efficiently than it did last season. In 2014, Detroit finished 19th in yards per game and 22nd in points per game. Those rankings will need to jump in 2015.” He also expects the Green Bay Packers to be the same, and the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears to be better in the NFC North. Wagner-McGough’s bottom line for the Lions: “Alarm bells should be ringing.”

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