Spring sports ludington & manistee #3

INSIDE: LUDINGTON AND MANISTEE

Ludington

Daily News monday, April 13, 2015

SPORTS

2 |

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

Ludington girls track

Keith takes charge of girls team

By DAVID BOSSICK Daily News Sports Editor Tim Keith could not have asked for a better situation.

The Mason County Central alum is the head coach of the girls track program at Ludington now, taking over for Brian Dotson after Dotson moved into the athletic director’s seat.

And Keith gets some amazing athletes, including Brandy Thomas, who’s on her way to Illinois State after this season in the throws. Thomas was the state runner-up in the shot put and set the record in both shot put and discus for the school.

The trio of throw stars — Kayla Gottwald, Annah Prys and Thomas — help to lead the Orioles, but they’re not the only standouts back for this season. Lauren Biggs is extremely good at the long jump while Madalyn Flewelling, Naomi Billings and Katie Biggs have contributed greatly in a handful of events and in relays.

“The one thing that having those girls gives you is a tremendous amount of leadership,” Keith said. “To have girls like Brandy and Annah, Lauren and Katie, they can lead those younger girls through the season and through a meet and through a practice.”

Ludington lost a handful of solid runners — Emily Edel, Mallory Wietrzykowski and AmyGrace Shoop — among those.

Ludington’s roster: Seniors: Ashley Bates, Katherine Biggs, Alexandria Butts, Laura Caimari, Madalyn Flewelling, Kayla Gottwald, Putthicha Kanthamanon, Anna Pedersen, Annah Prys, Martina Reinegger, Andrea Scarfone, Brandy

jeff kiessel | daily news

Members of the Ludington girls track team are, front row, from left, Anna Pedersen, Katie Biggs and Brandy Thomas; second row: Laura Caimari, Emelie Wenz, Putthicha Kanthamanon, Martina Reinegger, Ashley Bates, Annah Prys, Andrea Scarfone and Kayla Gottwald; third row, manager Andrea Shoup, Naomi Billings, Lauren Biggs, Heather Gentry, Amya Sikon, Emma Taranko, Kimberly Taylor, Bridgette Barnett, Darrah Hull and Mikala Jewett; back row, coach Tim Keith, Sophie Dickson, Brooke Nash, Ele Ezell, Jasmin Martinez, Carson Middlebrook, Mackenzie Brown, Hannah Brown, Anlin Larson and Erica Winters. Not pictured: Brandi Turnbull, Karsyn Alexander, Maddie Flewelling, Marissa Stickney, Allie Butts, Anika Korendyke, Kelsey Koss, Samantha White and Mallory Wietrzykowski.

Thomas, Brandi Turnbull and Emelie Wenz.

Juniors: Bridgette Barnett, Mackenzie Brown, Darrah Hull, Kelsey Koss, Carson Middlebrook and Erica Winters.

Sophomores: Lauren Biggs, Naomi Billings, Heather Gentry, Mikala Jewett, Moira O’Brien, Amya Sikon, Marissa Stickney, Emma Taranko, Kimberly Taylor and Samantha White.

Freshmen: Karsyn Alexander, Hannah Brown, Sophie Dickson, Eleonda Ezell, Anika Korendyke, Anlin Larson, Jasmin Martinez and Brooke Nash.

There are several new athletes and Keith is looking forward to seeing their impact.

“We’ve got of new youngsters, and maybe they

‘They can lead those younger girls through the season and through a meet.’

Tim Keith Ludington girls track coach aren’t freshmen, but they’re younger athletes. We’ve got a good group of jumpers in Emma Taranko and Kim Taylor, and I’m exciting to see them going.

“You want to see their effort rewarded.”

Keith goes from coaching at Norway High School, situated near the MichiganWisconsin state line in the Upper Peninsula, to coaching the Orioles. It’s a drastic change from his years coaching the Knights.

“I was the boys varsity coach for seven years. I had a lot of experience and I was kind of on my own. I joked I was an expert in 17 events,” Keith said. “That was anything but the truth. Up there, I had people to help out, but it was spotty... Last year, when the boys job opened up ... it just wasn’t prudent to do that.”

Keith helped out at times with the program last season and knows that Spring Lake will be tough again in

the Lakes 8 Activities Conference.

“Seeing the support system that’s in place and the assistant coaches, and the breadth of specialties that made up the coaching staff, I was really eager to do it.

Everyone has their thing,” Keith said.

Keith will spend a lot of time with the hurdlers, sprinters and long jumpers, he said.

Ludington began the season with an indoor meet at Grand Valley State University. The Orioles’ first outdoor meet is scheduled for April 14 at Oriole Field.

Keith wasn’t sure exactly how Ludington fits into the league championship picture, but he knew that Spring

Lake is the school the Orioles need to target in trying to capture a league title.

“Spring Lake is undoubtedly right there at the top,” he said. “That’s the team we’re looking out for.”

The MHSAA Division 2 regional is in Allendale, again pairing Ludington with schools from the Grand Rapids and Muskegon areas.

“We’re always going to be looking, as the season progresses, we’ll be seeing what competitors will be bringing to those kinds of meets,” Keith said. “We will be aligning our roster accordingly.

We want to make sure we give ourselves the greatest opportunity to send as many of our kids through (to state) as we can.”

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

|3

| Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS www.ludingtondailynews.com

jeff kiessel | daily news

Members of the Ludington boys track team are, first row, from left, Luciano Maniaci, Jarod Cobb, Nick Richert, Eric Janowiak, Andreas Tietz, Angelo Marano, Samuel Tucker and Aure Nigil; second row, Austin Ernst, Zac Schoon, Zac Peterson, Ben Knoer, Jarred Garten, Randy Johnson, Joeseph Hatch, David Ritter and John Siegert; third row, Kyle Gracia, Fabian Geistert, Troy Althaus, Duran Navarro, Devin Mendez, Anthony Tenney, Griffin Ray and Tony Pianto; back row, coach Mark Willis, Martin Torres, Caleb Schoon, Joshua Torres, Benjamin Jensen, Allen Keffer and Noah Dobrzelewski.

Not pictured: Lucas Schwass, Caleb Shillinger, Taylor Follrath, Nolan Stark, Chase Ray, Kevin Brinkman, Tony Gomez, Orlando Garcia and Tony Ramirez.

Ludington boys track

Boys team swells to 50 members

By DAVID BOSSICK Daily News Sports Editor

this about. It’s about relationships. Building all of those qualities that comes Ludington’s boys track with life, whether it’s stayteam roster swelled to more ing in shape or hanging out than 50 athletes for this with friends,” he said. “It’s that team-bonding experispring.

Second-year Orioles track ence they get. Once it’s all coach Mark Willis could not said and done, they may not remember the races they run be more thrilled.

“It’s awesome. That’s what or how far they threw, but

5135 W. Rasmussen Rd. Ludington

(231) 843-1750

LUDINGTON AVE.

1 Block West of Jebavy Dr.

845-5178

Auto Value Parts Stores

they’ll remember the friends that they made.”

The Orioles do return several outstanding runners to the team. Allen Keffer returns to lead the throws while Taylor Follrath and Duran Navarro are returning sprinters. Nolan Stark is back for the pole vault.

“Nolan is geeked this year

to get the school record for pole vault. That will be exciting,” Willis said.

Stark and Follrath both play baseball, and each competed at the West Michigan All-Star meet last season at Reeths-Puffer. Also at that meet are returners David Ritter and Lucas Schwass.

Schwass ran at the MHSAA

state cross country meet individually last season. He will help to anchor the distance events along with Ben Jensen. Jensen is also running his senior season, and Jensen is headed to Davenport University following this season.

“Distance-wise, we’re looking really good. Lucas Sch-

wass is back for his senior season. And Ben Jensen.

Both are stoked to run the mile and two mile for us,” Willis said.

Ludington’s roster: Seniors: Jarod Cobb, Noah Dobrzelewski, Taylor Follrath, see boys track, 9

The Parts You Want, The Value You Expect Domestic & Import Auto Parts

3909 W. US 10, Ludington

845-9045

414 W. US-10 • Scottville 757-3356

Wayne E. Brown LUTCF 609 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington

231-843-4037

GREAT TIRES • GREAT SERVICE • GREAT PEOPLE FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1977

231-757-4761

On U.S. 10 & 31, between Ludington & Scottville

316 Parkdale Ave., Manistee

231-723-5696 www.luckylizardawards.com

4 |

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

Ludington baseball

Orioles fielding young team in ’15

By DAVID BOSSICK Daily News Sports Editor Ludington’s baseball team is going through a bit of a youth movement for this spring as only a handful of players are back from last season.

Those handful of players could pitch — from returning juniors Eric Friese and Nolan Stark as well as senior Connor Timinski — but Ludington graduated the bulk of its offensive production from last year.

Ludington returns Ryan Bowen, Taylor Follrath, Dylan Karlsen and Sam Ramirez to help lead the way and carry some of the load for this season.

“The nice thing is Ryan, Taylor and Dylan is that they will be in their third year because they were up as sophomores,” Ludington coach Rob Killips said. “Eric Friese has been with us for a year and half. He’s been up since halfway through his freshman year.”

Most of the victories on the mound were recorded by sophomores, Killips noted, and that’s something he’s glad to see return. jeff kiessel | daily news photos “Our pitching is back. Our Members of the Ludington baseball team are, sitting, from left, Jordan Bottrell, Austin McCarthy and Jared Collins; kneeling, Hunter Haberman, Samuel Ramirez, offense, not so much,” he Connor Timinski, Nolan Meeker, Lucas Catron and Ben Lamm; standing, Dylan Karlsen, Nick Gurizzian, Ryan Bowen, Andrew Gentry, Eric Freese, Zach Gerovac, Jacob said.

Lesinski and Taylor Follrath. Not pictured: Nolan Stark.

Ludington’s roster: “It’s hard to say, with so “We’ve got the two games players are up from the junior varsity from last sea- with Manistee and Mason many new faces, who will Seniors: Ryan Bowen, Taylor son. They’ll be called upon County Eastern the week do well. We have to see how Follrath, Nick Gurizzian, Dylan Karlsen, Sam Ramirez and Con- to help get the offense going we get back (from spring it plays out,” Killips said. break),” Killips said before “Especially, with having during the season. nor Timinski. not been outside, it’s hard “We’re going to need the the week off.

Juniors: Jordan Bottrell, The Orioles begin Lakes 8 to say. But the conference whole crew to contribute,” Lucas Catron, Eric Friese, Killips said. “So little is Activities Conference play should be fairly competiAndrew Gentry, Zachariah against Muskegon Catholic tive. known right now.”

Gerovac, Hunter Habermehl, “Mount Pleasant moved Right after spring break, in Muskegon April 14. The Ben Lamm, Jacob Lesinski, the Orioles were scheduled Crusaders, new this sea- into the district, and that’s Nolan Meeker, Nolan Stark to play Manistee and Mason son to the Lakes 8, are a Di- an added challenge. It’s hard and Ben Strbich.

County Eastern with just a vision 4 powerhouse and to predict.”

Sophomores: Jared Collins handful of days available were ranked No. 2 in the and Austin McCarthy. for the entire team to prac- coaches association’s preLudington’s Ben Lamm looks to throw out a Manistee baserunner season poll.

A large number of the tice. during the Orioles’ season opener last Wednesday.

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

|5

| Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS www.ludingtondailynews.com

Ludington girls soccer

Soccer team serious about big year

By DAVID BOSSICK Daily News Sports Editor Ludington’s girls soccer team has built quite the machine over the past four seasons.

The Orioles have been consistent winners and own district titles for that time. Ludington also has come fairly close to punching through the regional round and on to the state semifinals.

All of that remains for Ludington this spring.

The Orioles have several players back from last year’s team, including Jacquelyn Lynch, a several time All-State selection and the team’s leading scorer.

“She’s excited about the possibilities this year,” Anderson said.

Amanda Payne, the Orioles’ keeper who was honorable mention All-State, also returns for Ludington.

“She’s actually going to school in Boston to play next year,” he said.

Ludington also returns Kaylynn Battice, Kaitlin Bunce and Ashley Smith for their senior seasons while Kristen and Katie Reibenbach return for their junior years.

There’s another returning player, though, that might be a bit of a surprise. That’s Madisyn Brockelbank.

Yes, Brockelbank.

She moved to Oxford, Ohio, with her family and played all-conference volleyball last fall at Talawanda High School, and is now back to Ludington. She will graduate with her friends as well as play soccer with her teammates.

“The plan was for her to come back,” Anderson said. “She wanted to graduate with her classmates. She

jeff kiessel | daily news

Members of the Ludington girls soccer team are, front row, from left, Ashley Smith, Jordan Alberts, Jacquelyn Lynch, Bethany Shay, Maddie Brockelbank and Amanda Payne; middle row, Olivia Sekenske, Courtney Edwards, Jenna Keson, Katie Reidenbach, Temple Thompson, Kaitlin Bunce; back row, assistant Chris Edwards, Shelby Kraft, Rhianna Lynn, Cecilla Ruiz, Kristen Reidenbach, Makenzie Condit and coach Kris Anderson. Not pictured: Kaylynn Battice, Hannah Peterson, Lexy Sadler and Ali Plamondon. came back for this last trimester. It’s good to have her back.”

The pipeline from the youth levels to the high school continues to yield good results. And that’s where the deep post-season runs to the regional tournament have really aided Ludington’s girls soccer program.

“It’s good. When you talk about the districts, and those (junior varsity) players, bringing those girls up at the end of the season and having them practice with us and get the feel to play in the districts and move on to regionals, the

‘When (the junior varsity team steps) in at the varsity level with us, they have that experience of how hard we work and what we’re after.’

Kris Anderson Ludington girls soccer coach whole post-season atmosphere, you can’t get that at the JV level,” Anderson said. “When they step in at the varsity level with us, they have that experience of how hard we work and what we’re after.”

One of those key players up from the junior varsity

team is Bethany Shay.

“She’s one we’re going to lean on a lot,” Anderson said. “She’s going to be up top with Jacquelyn. She’s in shape. She can run. She’s got speed. And, she’s probably going to have to take over for Jacquelyn when we lose Jacquelyn up top.

“It’s nice the two of them are there together. We’ve seen good things in practice from the two of them.”

Ludington still plays in a very tough conference that contains the likes of Spring Lake and Fruitport.

“Every year when you talk about our conference, you have to say Spring Lake right at top. Fruitport is second, but they graduated some seniors, and we were really close to them,” Anderson said. “We’re right there with them. We might be able to step into second.

“The girls are really committed to competing with Spring Lake.”

The Orioles will get a chance to see some of their fellow schools assigned to the district in Big Rapids including the host Cardinals.

And, the nonconference schedule also includes playing at Clare, where the regional tournament will be played.

“As far as the region, Cheboygan will be tough. Traverse City St. Francis, they flunctuate between Division 3 and Division 4. I think they’re back in Division 3.

They will be tough,” Anderson said. “Freeland could possibly make our region.

That’s someone we have to look for.”

6 |

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

Ludington softball

Sweeping changes for softball

By DAVID BOSSICK Daily News Sports Editor

erything is completely determined.

“Until we settle in, and deLudington’s softball pro- termine who’s going to be gram is undergoing sweep- where, I want them to learn ing changes for the spring as much as they can,” she as there’s a new coach and said. “They’ve been really a handful of new players for good about that.”

Ludington’s roster: the Orioles.

The change at the top is Sierra Holmes. She takes Seniors: Anna Bush, Annah over for Jim Klug as the Prys and Audra Sides. head coach and she’s being Juniors: Zoe Lange, Stephanie helped out by her dad, Joe. Sniegowski, Lauren Totten, “I’m excited and they are Alexandra Wright and Alana a pretty young group,” Sier- Young. ra Holmes said. “But I know Sophomores: Ruby Henrickthese girls and I teach them. son, Breanna Lange and Ryan It’s fun to spend some time Mackowicki. with them in a different environment and see what they Holmes once played for can do.”

Ludington and she’s looking The Orioles return just six forward to making her mark players from last year’s team from the dugout guiding tothat only had two seniors. day’s Orioles.

Audra Sides, who pitched “I approach it the same much of last season, is the as I would anywhere. These sole returning senior from kids deserve the best that I last season. This will be have,” she said. “Some days Sides’ fourth season on the will be better than others. I varsity softball team. want to do the best I can for Stephanie Sniegowski, Ala- them because I’m with them na Young and Zoe Lange are everyday and I see them evback for their junior years eryday.” while Ryan Mackowicki and Ludington started the Breanna Lange played as season April 8 with games freshmen last season and re- against Manistee. The Oriturn. oles begin Lakes 8 Activities “I expect all of our kids to Conference play Tuesday lead in whatever way that with a doubleheader at Musmakes sense for them,” Hol- kegon Catholic. mes said. “I think we have a Holmes did watch some lot of kids with that personality on this team. We have a lot of kids that can influence teammates. They all bring something different.

“I’m going to expect that Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender out of all of them, whether they are upperclassmen or underclassmen.”

Holmes is instructing the Orioles to learn as much as they can about each of the positions there are in softball. There is some thoughts as to who will fill in some positions, she said, but not ev-

‘Until we settle in, and determine who’s going to be where, I want them to learn as much as they can.

They’ve been really good about that.’

Sierra Holmes Ludington softball coach

of the Orioles games last spring, but said she didn’t know enough of the league to offer a prediction.

“We have to beat the teams we should beat. We want to beat the teams we are able to beat. If a team is head-andjeff kiessel | daily news shoulders above you, that’s Members of the Ludington softball team are, kneeling, from left, Ruby Henrickson, Audra Sides, one thing,” Holmes said. Annah Prys and Anna Bush; standing, Alana Young, Stephanie Sniegowski, Zoe Lange, Alexandra “But, we have to beat the Wright and Breanna Lange. Not pictured: Ryan Makowicki and Lauren Totten. teams we should beat. If we do that, we’re going to have good results.”

"WE MAKE FLOORING EASY"

5405 W. Wallace Ludington • 843-1826

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

|7

| Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS www.ludingtondailynews.com

Ludington girls tennis

Reaching state tourney not enough

By DAVID BOSSICK Daily News Sports Editor Ludington’s girls tennis program has adjusted to the bright lights of the MHSAA state tournament.

Now, Ludington coach Tom Kudwa and the Orioles are aiming for much more than being satisfied with a berth in the state tennis tournament.

“I think they have a greater vision this year than last year. I don’t think they saw the potential that was there,” Kudwa said. “As it unfolded, we were like, ‘Oh my God, we belong here.’ Maybe, too, for the coaching. You start to look around and this is really a stronger group than in the past.”

Where exactly is that confidence coming from? It’s the showing Ludington had at last season’s state tournament in Fenton last year in Division 4. The Orioles return the defending state champions at No. 2 doubles — Olivia Laman and Brooke Schneider — and one half of the state semifinalist No. 1 doubles player, Stephanie Kelly.

All three were named AllState last season.

Also back are the state runners-up at No. 3 doubles of Julia Maltbie and Claire Flewelling.

That’s plenty of room for confidence, then.

“We’ve got a good core back. We’ve got a good core back at both singles and doubles,” Kudwa said. “Right now, there’s a good amount of competition among the three top singles players. I think they’ve narrowed the gap between what there was between them last year. We’ll see how that plays out.”

Ludington’s roster:

Jeff Kiessel | Daily News

Members of the Ludington girls tennis team are, kneeling, from left, Skylar Korendyke, Emily Markham, Kamryn Wallace, Megan Scott and Claire Flewelling; standing, coach Tom Kudwa, Erin Maltbie, Olivia Laman, Lauren Markham, Brooke Schneider, Kelsey Wallace, Stephanie Kelly, Julia Maltbie, Kennedi Killips, Julia Harms and assistant Wayne Kelly.

Seniors: Stephanie Kelly, Olivia Laman, Lauren Markham and Brooke Schneider.

Juniors: Claire Flewelling, Juleah Harms, Skylar Korendyke, Julia Maltbie, Megan Scott and Kelsey Wallace.

Sophomore: Kennedi Killips.

Freshmen: Erin Maltbie, Emily Markham and Kamryn Wallace.

‘We’re looking for May 30. Everything is about May 30.’

The Orioles also return Lauren Markham, Megan Scott, Kelsey Wallace and Kennedi Killips. Markham played at No. 2 singles last season and Wallace was No. 3 singles. Scott was paired with Kayela Wallace last season at No. 4 doubles. Killips played at No. 4 singles.

Should Ludington reach

the state tournament, it will be the third consecutive year for each of the returnees except for Killips, who will be at her second tournament.

“Right now three freshmen are holding down these positions. We’ve got some youth down there, but we’ve got some kids who none of

Tom Kudwa Ludington girls tennis coach

which are (U.S. Tennis Association) players, but who are pretty good athletes,” Kudwa said. “I think they have great role models in front of them.

“All three are younger sisters of other players,” he continued. “Not only does it help to watch their sisters, but they have a greater sense of what it takes and what it means to be on a tennis team. Their parents have a greater sense.”

The Orioles did lose a handful of players, including Sam MacDonnell at No. 1 singles and Gabe Kelly at No. 1 doubles. Ludington has adjusted for those losses with Markham, Wallace and Kil-

lips each moving up a slot and freshman Kamryn Wallace playing at No. 4 singles.

Laman and Schneider are up to No. 1 doubles while Stephanie Kelly is paired with Flewelling at No. 2 doubles. Maltbie is now paired with Emily Markham, an incoming freshman, at No. 3 doubles. Newcomer Erin Maltbie and veteran Megan Scott are together at No. 4 doubles.

That leaves the lofty expectations the program has for itself. The Orioles enter the Coastal Conference season as the defending league champions as well as one of the top Division 4 schools in this region of the state.

Ludington expects that, and more.

Kudwa expects Spring Lake, North Muskegon and Whitehall to be the challengers for the league championship this spring.

“I like having those extra teams in the league, and having an eight-team league,” he said. “It’s going to help us because that’s not our greatest goal. It used to be our greatest goal, but I think we’re looking for more.

“We’re looking for May 30,” he continued, referring to the final day of the twoday MHSAA state tournament this year in Holland.

“Everything is about May 30.”

8 |

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

Ludington boys golf

2015 could be best season yet

By DAVID BOSSICK Daily News Sports Editor How exactly can a team that finished fourth in the state and returns nearly every player be even better?

It happened for Ludington’s boys golf team.

Each of the six golfers that participated in the MHSAA Division 3 state finals last year at The Meadows at Grand Valley State University returns for Ludington — Chase Lakari, Race Andersen, Ethan Leavitt, Jacob Harrie, Jacobb Juska and Ryan Foley — are back.

And Ludington added Spencer Hackert, who already is signed to play golf at Division II Cedarville University in Ohio.

“Last year, we weren’t sure how good we were,” Ludington coach Andrew Wood said. “We knew we could play and compete. I don’t know if we even knew at that level, though, with taking fourth in the state.

“It creates some drive, it creates some confidence, but it also creates pressure.

We’ll see how they respond to that. Hopefully, they want that and will thrive on that.”

Certainly, Ludington has a wealth of experience from playing at the state tournament last season. Should the Orioles reach the state tournament again this spring, it would be the third time in three seasons for senior Race Andersen.

For junior Ethan Leavitt, it would be his third consecutive state appearence.

He reached the state tournament as an individual his freshman year, and he followed it up with a ninth place finish at last year’s state tournament overall.

And junior Chase Lakari has been right there in the

jeff kiessel | daily news

Members of the Ludington boys golf team are, kneeling, from left, Jacobb Juska, Quinn Phelps, Chase Lakari, Ethan Leavitt, Wyatt Collins and Kaleb Hatch; standing, Ryan Foley, Zach Genter, Connor Loney, Cooper Wojcicki, Spencer Hackert, Josh Johnson and coach Andrew Wood. Not pictured: Race Andersen and Jacob Harrie. past few seasons as one of the best golfers on the Orioles, too.

“It was big last year, and we got six guys in last year in the five-man tournament,” Wood said. “We split one of the spots one of those two days. We’ve got six guys that have played and played on a tough course.”

That leaves Hackert. Hackert played the past four years at Meade County High School in Brandenburg, Ky., where golf is played in the fall, not the spring. Last fall, before moving back to Ludington, he finished in a tie

for 10th in the regional tournament. In his junior year, Hackert reached the state tournament with his teammates in the fall of 2013.

Ludington’s roster:

quality of players for the Orioles, the competition just to represent Ludington on the course will be tough.

“We could have, once we get things going and a couple of guys improve a little Seniors: Race Andersen, Spen- bit, we could have five guys battling for the last three cer Hackert and Jacob Harrie. spots,” Wood said. “That’s Juniors: Joshua Johnson, Jacobb Juska, Chase Lakari and going to make it even better.

“Even at the top, it’s goEthan Leavitt. ing to create more competiSophomores: Ryan Foley, tion. They all feel like they’re Quinn Phelps and Cooper No. 1, and they probably are.

Wojcicki.

Freshmen: Wyatt Collins, Zach- They don’t want to play (No.) 3 or 4. They want to play ary Genter and Kaleb Hatch.

No. 1. That competition just Because of the depth and makes everyone better.”

Ludington still has to contend with Spring Lake in the conference championship race. But the Orioles are definitely aiming to have the title.

“We should win. That’s not an ego thing. We have guys that are capable of playing really well,” Wood said.

“We’ve got a couple that early on that won’t be here for a few different reasons, but we’ve got other guys that can step up.

“Spring Lake is always good, always there. But we’ve got the guys, if they play up to their potential, we should do that.”

One thing that finishing fourth in the state has done, though, is that a big target is now on Ludington. And that’s exactly what Wood is looking for.

“Hopefully, as we go to tournaments, people will say, ‘Oh, Ludington’s here,’” he said. “And that’s different than, ‘Who’s Ludington?

Where’s that school?’

“We’ve talked about it and we’ve tried to build it last year. We’ve always thought we were good and last year, we showed that we are. Now, hopefully people are starting to take notice.”

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

Ludington schedules varsity baseball

|9

| Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

JUNIOR VARSITY softball Sat., May 16, at Cardinals Invitational, Tue., April 14, at Muskegon Catholic, Wed., April 15, at Newaygo, 4 p.m.

Big Rapids, 9 a.m.

4 p.m.

Fri., April 17, at Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Mon., May 18, at Mona Shores InvitaWed., April 15, Newaygo, 4 p.m.

Sat., April 18, at Shelby Invite, 9 a.m. tional, 9 a.m.

Fri., April 17, Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Tue., April 21, Fremont, 4 p.m.

Wed., May 20, at Lakes 8 jamboree, FreTue., April 21, at Fremont, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 23, at Whitehall, 4 p.m. mont, 3:30 p.m.

Wed., April 22, Howard City Tri-County Fri., April 24, at Orchard View, 4 p.m. at Fifth Third Field, Comstock Park, 4 p.m. varsity girls soccer Tue., April 28, Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 13, at Cadillac, 7 p.m.

Thur., April 23, Whitehall, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 5, Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 15, Muskegon Catholic, 7 p.m.

Fri., April 24, Orchard View, 4 p.m.

Thur., May 7, Shelby, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 16, at Manistee, 6 p.m.

Tue., April 28, at Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 8, at Fremont, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 20, at Fruitport, 7 p.m.

Fri., May 1, Muskegon Catholic Tue., May 12, Orchard View, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 22, at Fremont, 6 p.m.

Sat., May 2, at Briggs True Value tourFri., May 15, at Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Sat., April 25, Ludington Invite, 10 a.m. nament, 9 a.m. varsity girls tennis Mon., April 27, Orchard View, 7 p.m.

Tue., May 5, at Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 13, at Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 29, Spring Lake, 7 p.m.

Thur., May 7, at Shelby, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 15, at Fremont, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 1, at Whitehall, 6 p.m.

Fri., May 8, Fremont, 4 p.m.

Sat., April 18, at Portland Classic, 9 a.m.

Mon., May 4, at Muskegon Catholic, Tue., May 12, at Orchard View, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 20, Western Michigan Chris5:30 p.m.

Fri., May 15, Spring Lake, 4 p.m. tian, 4 p.m.

Wed., May 6, Fruitport, 7 p.m.

Sat., May 16, at Orchard View tournaWed., April 22, at North Muskegon, 4 Mon., May 11, Fremont, 7 p.m. ment, 9 a.m. p.m.

Wed., May 13, at Orchard View, 6 p.m. junior varsity baseball Sat., April 25, at Tiger Invitational, AlleFri., May 15, at Oakridge, 7 p.m.

Tue., April 14, Muskegon Catholic, 4 p.m. gan, 9 a.m.

Mon., May 18, at Spring Lake, 7 p.m.

Wed., April 15, at Newaygo, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 27, Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 22, Big Rapids, 7 p.m.

Fri., April 17, at Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 29, at Whitehall, 4 p.m. junior varsity girls soccer Tue., April 21, Fremont, 4 p.m.

Sat., May 2, Ludington Invite, 9 a.m.

Mon., April 13, at Cadillac, 5 p.m.

Thur., April 23, at Whitehall, 4 p.m.

Mon., May 4, Grant, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 15, Brethren, 5 p.m.

Fri., April 24, at Orchard View, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 5, Ludington quad, 10:30 a.m.

Mon., April 20, at Fruitport, 5 p.m.

Tue., April 28, Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Sat., May 9, Coastal Conference chamWed., April 22, at Fremont, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 1, at Muskegon Catholic, 4 p.m. pionships, 9 a.m.

Mon., April 27, Orchard View, 5 p.m.

Tue., May 5, Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 12, Ludington tri., noon.

Wed., April 29, Spring Lake, 5 p.m.

Thur., May 7, Shelby, 4 p.m.

JUNIOR VARSITY girls tennis Fri., May 1, at Whitehall, 4:30 p.m.

Fri., May 8, at Fremont, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 13, Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Wed., May 6, Fruitport, 5 p.m.

Tue., May 12, Orchard View, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 15, at Traverse City Central, Mon., May 11, Fremont, 5 p.m.

Fri., May 15, at Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

Wed., May 13, at Orchard View, 4 p.m. boys golf Wed., April 22, Muskegon Catholic, 4 p.m.

Sat., May 16, Ludington JV Invite, 10 a.m.

Wed., April 15, at Lakes 8 jamboree, Sat., April 25, Ludington Invite, 9 a.m.

Mon., May 18, at Spring Lake, 5 p.m.

Muskegon Catholic, 3:30 p.m.

Mon., April 27, Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 22, Big Rapids, 5 p.m.

Wed., April 22, at Lakes 8 jamboree, OrWed., April 29, Reeths-Puffer, 4 p.m. varsity softball chard View, 3:30 p.m.

Sat., May 2, at Northwoods Invitational, Tue., April 14, at Muskegon Catholic, Fri., April 24, Ludington Invitational, Traverse City Central, 9 a.m.

4 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

Mon., May 4, Grant, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 15, Newaygo, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 27, at Shelby Invitational, track AND FIELD Fri., April 17, Fruitport, 4 p.m.

1 p.m.

Tue., April 14, Ice Breaker Tri-Meet, 3:45 Sat., April 18, Whitehall at Softball Tue., April 28, Lakes 8 jamboree, 3:30 p.m.

World, Muskegon p.m.

Thur., April 16, Fruitport, 3:45 p.m.

Tue., April 21, at Fremont, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 29, at Manistee, 4 p.m.

Fri., April 17, at Rocket Invitational, Thur., April 23, Whitehall, 4 p.m.

Sat., May 2, at Ranger Invitational, ForReeths-Puffer, 1 p.m.

Fri., April 24, Orchard View, 4 p.m. est Hills Central, 8:30 a.m.

Tue., April 21, at Orchard View, 3:45 p.m.

Tue., April 28, at Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Mon., May 4, at Trojan Invitational, TraFri., April 24, at Scottville Optimist InviFri., May 1, Muskegon Catholic, 4 p.m. verse City Central, 9 a.m.

Sat., May 2, at Briggs True Value Invita- tational, 3 p.m.

Wed., May 6, at Lakes 8 jamboree, Tue., April 28, Lakes 8 double duals, tional, 9 a.m.

Spring Lake, 3:30 p.m.

3:45 p.m.

Tue., May 5, at Fruitport, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 8, at Bulldog Birdie InvitaSat., May 2, at West Ottawa Relays, 8:30 Thur., May 7, at Shelby, 4 p.m. tional, Ferris State University, Big Rapids, a.m.

Fri., May 8, Fremont, 4 p.m.

9 a.m.

Tue., May 5, Muskegon Catholic, 3:45 Tue., May 12, at Muskegon Orchard Mon., May 11, at Tullymore Invitational, p.m.

View, 4 p.m.

Big Rapids, 8:30 a.m.

Fri., May 8, Lakes 8 meet, 2 p.m.

Fri., May 15, Spring Lake, 4 p.m.

Wed., May 13, at Lakes 8 jamboree, Mon., May 18, at Squire JV Invitational Sat., May 16, at Orchard View tournaFruitport, 1:15 p.m.

Wed., May 20, at West Michigan Meijer ment, 9 a.m.

Thur., May 14, at Mona Shores (junior Invitational, Reeths-Puffer, 3:30 p.m. varsity only)

boys track: Team has 50 from page 3

:Fabian Geistert, Eric Janowiak, Ben Jensen, Allen Keffer, Luciano Maniaci, Alexander Pohl, Chase Ray, Griffin Ray, Nicholas Richert, Luke Schwass, Caleb Shillinger, Andrea Tietz and Bennett Wojcicki.

Juniors: Kevin Brinkman, Aidan Brown, Trenton Dalm, Rolando Garcia, Jared Murphy, Duran Navarro, Antonio Ramirez, Zac Schoon and Nolan Stark.

Sophomores: Troy Althaus, Austin Ernst, Kyle Gracia, Randall Johnson, Devin Mendez, Ian Nash, David Ritter, Martin Torres, Ethan Tucker and Sam Tucker.

Freshmen: Jared Garten, Anthony Gomez, Joseph Hatch, Ben Knoer, Zach McMaster, Zach Peterson, Caleb Schoon, John Siegert, Anthony Tenney, Josh Torres and David Wingate.

‘We have the army behind us, but do we have the horses?

Right now, I’d lie to you if I haven’t looked at Fruitport. Fruitport is solid again. Of course, they have numbers.’

Mark Willis Ludington boys track coach

tivities Conference title. The Trojans remain a target for Ludington.

“We have the army behind us, but do we have the horsLudington lost its sole es? Right now, I’d lie to you state-qualifier from last if I haven’t looked at Fruitseason, Matt Ritter, who is port,” Willis said. “Fruitport now running for Oakland is solid again. Of course, University. Also gone are they have numbers. We’re a twins Chase and Remington much smaller school than Rohrer from the hurdles and Fruitport, but Fruitport is throwing events, and it’s the the frontrunner, and we’ll hurdles events where Lud- give our best shot at it.”

Ludington again heads ington, despite its size, will south for its MHSAA Divineed to shore up.

“We’re solid across the sion 2 regional. The Orioles board. If we’re weak at all, were sent to Coopersville where I’m going to have to last year and this year, with figure it out, we lost Chase much of the same field, they and Remy in last year with will head to Allendale. The hurdles,” Willis said. “Those state final is being hosted in were big points. They were Zeeland.

And it’s the host Dux and studs. We’re going to have to come up with something Chix that are drawing the attention of Willis. new there with hurdles.”

“Zeeland is the powerStill having 50-plus athhouse. I said to the kids, letes is going to help.

“We have a lot of new- ‘Why not measure yourself comers this year. We have a against your best?’The beauroster of over 50. We’ll see tiful thing about track is you after eligibility comes out measure yourself against a and who is still with us af- clock. So, if you can’t beat ter these first few weeks of somebody based on they’re better than you, you have a workouts.

Having a large number of clock that you race against. athletes to fill out a lineup If you can qualify on time, is one thing. Exactly where that works as well,” Willis Ludington will fall is another said.

“I told the kids, let’s not question. The Orioles, with fewer athletes, challenged worry about that. Let’s have Fruitport for the Lakes 8 Ac- fun.”

10 |

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS

Members of Manistee High’s track team are, sitting, from left, Tai Allen, Tyler Peck, Elliott Kamaloski, Logan Guenthardt, Bryce Cameron, Rudy Linke and Alvaro Sarabia, Jr.; kneeling, Claudia Tomm, Natalee Kott, Maggie Blevins, Roja Baumann, Sofia Quinto, Emilee Kott, Audrey Padilla and Hayleigh Codden; standing, coach Mike McGuire, Hugo Xu, Bryan Wandrych, Jacob Gustad, Johan Thomsen, Carter Eckhardt, Kyle Schaubroeck, Jessica Gustad, Anthony Lind and Ethan Engwall. Not pictured: Andrew Pierson, Blade Gates, Chase Janis, Cody Gutowski, Connor Madsen, David Bottrell, Jake Williams, Albert Ault, Annie Fuller, Ashley Lindeman, Ashley Peddie, Emma Burns, Grace Chandler, Hannah Gutowski, Jody Fuller, Jordan Jarvis, Laura Kane, Leah Christianson, Nicole Morski, Sydney Williams, Taylor Antal, Taylor Williams and Tegan Wayward.

Manistee track and field

Great season awaits for track

BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER

ing her second consecutive 1,600-meter title. It was another race that really wasn’t MANISTEE — Annie Fuller much of a challenge for the is going for a four-peat this Chippewas’ star.

Oh, she briefly trailed season in the 800-meter run after winning her third con- Clare freshman Jasmine secutive Division 3 state Harper after she had taken championship in the event the lead in the second lap.

Fuller pulled back into the a year ago when she dominated the competition in a lead in the gun lap, getting shockingly easy victory at separation from Harper over the final 400 meters and Comstock Park.

But that was only the main breaking the tape at the fincourse. Fuller also sprinkled ish line in a personal record in an appetizer by captur- time to solidify her domi-

nance of the event.

With five state championships to her credit already, Fuller is the most decorated athlete individual athlete in Manistee High history and if she can stay healthy for her senior season, she should only add to her outstanding resume.

But she wasn’t alone.

Jessica Gustad also shined for the Chippewas at the state finals, bringing home three medals. She overcame an early mistake to take fifth

place in the 300-meter hurdles which earned her AllState recognition.

Ashley Lindeman got off to a slow start last season, running a 6:05 in her first 1,600-meter race at Central Michigan University in late March which she was only too aware wouldn’t be good enough for All-State.

She improved from there, though, and finished with a seventh place at the state finals for the second consecutive year and then ran a leg

on the 1,600-meter relay that brought home a bronze medal for third.

While she also qualified for state in the 3,200 meters, Lindeman was scratched from that event to save her for the relay as all the athletes tried to keep their strength in the 86-degree heat.

The Chippewas’ third place finish as a team was the best in program history.

“We’re looking to build on the success from last year

for the girls,” coach Mike McGuire said. “We’ve got some pretty talented kids right now that are working out.

We were third last year, and we’re looking to improve upon that.

“We have some pretty lofty goals, but we think they’re realistic. Annie ran a 5:09 mile (at CMU) and a 4:59 down at Grand Valley a couple weeks ago, so she’s in great shape right now. Jess see season, 14

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

| 11

| Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS www.ludingtondailynews.com

Manistee girls tennis

Inexperience poses challenges

BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER MANISTEE — Although there are good numbers for the Manistee High girls tennis team this spring with 16 total on the roster, only seven of them saw appreciable court time last year which also presents a challenge for coach Matt Froncek.

Some of the girls attended the Manistee Recreation Association Tennis Camp in the summer, and won’t be coming in totally unfamiliar with how to properly hold and swing a racket. But there’s still a lot of work to be done.

Froncek recognizes that even with summer tennis camp experience, the newcomers are still awfully green and will need to be brought up to varsity speed.

How quickly they do will determine how successful the Chippewas will be.

With all of that inexperience Manistee caught a break with the weather as the Chippewas were able to clear off the Eighth Street courts so they could get outside for practice before spring break intervened.

In addition to that, the temperatures actually were on the milder side so when the courts were shoveled off, the snow melted and made

WATSON LUDINGTON 3632 W. US 10, Ludington

231-845-3900

GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS

Members of the Manistee High girls tennis team are, kneeling, from left, Elexis Fisk, Leah Snyder, Emily Morin, Ali Stocki, Trinity Herbert, Kellie Raczkowski and Kellie Nemitz; standing, coach Matt Froncek, Caroline Kessler, Maddy Wilson, Hope Slawinski, Mary Meshraky, Emilie Clausen, Mikaela Kolk, Sarah Sheathelm and assistant Amanda Clemens. Not pictured: Mackenzie Kaminski. for even more room.

That’s a welcome change from the last couple of seasons when the Chippewas weren’t able to get outside

until the matches started, and with eight freshmen on the team this year Froncek counted his blessings.

Other than the No. 1 dou-

bles flight, none of the start- eryone returned from va- SENIORS: Mary Meshraky, Caroing positions were chiseled cation to determine all the line Kessler, Maddy Wilson and in stone as the team headed other flights.

Mackenzie Kaminski.

Manistee’s roster: into the spring break. Playoffs were planned once evsee tennis, 14

Knizacky Insurance Agency

Vacation Trailer Sales

Manistee U.S. 31 between Manistee/Scottville (231) 398-0400 Benzonia U.S. 31 at Grace Road, (231) 882-0450

1001 Diana Street Ludington, MI 49431 • 845-5185

Margaret E. Gustafson, M.D. Jennifer L. Miller, D.O. Michelle Gentry, F.N.P-B.C. 231-845-5992 www.gusmd.com

Matt Knizacky 356 River Street Manistee, MI 49660 Phone 231.398.3000

PADNOS PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY RESTORATION ON CALL 24/7 • (877) 791-7477 www.patriotus.com Ludington/Manistee

PERE MARQUETTE

2601 W. US-10 Ludington

843-4455

12 |

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS

Members of Manistee High girls softball team are, kneeling, from left, Megan Gutowski, Frankie Jans, Rylee Eckhardt, Allie Zimmerman, Emily Thompson and Sydney Kruwell; standing, assistant Jim Thompson, assistant Dave Lijewski, Kelsey Harrigan, Nicole Zimmerman, Taylor Wilhoit, Sara Schaefer, Mackenzie Thompson, Katie Jo Jacobi, Carly Schmeling, Sinead McCann, Heather Hansen and coach Paul Makysm.

Manistee softball

Maksym looks ahead to coaching

BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER MANISTEE — Taking over a team that’s had great success doesn’t intimidate Paul Maksym any at all because he’s been a winner in the past, and he sees no reason why that shouldn’t continue in the future.

Stepping in to replace Denise Lijewski as the Manistee High girls softball coach after she guided the Chippewas to a couple of district championships might make anyone else quake, but Maksym has known success in the past in his first go-round as the Chippewas coach so he has confidence to spare.

After a brief glance at the hand he’s been dealt, Maksym

believes the Chippewas can round into shape in time for the districts. Since the Chippewas are an independent, they can go hunting for the best teams they can get on their schedule.

“We’ve got a good, competitive bunch of girls here,” Maksym said a few days prior to spring break when the bulk of his team would be leaving on vacations with their families. “I see a lot of talent.

“We have a lot of underclassmen who are decent, and we have a good bunch of girls here who are dedicated to the sport. A lot of them have spent the extra time since January working on their hitting, throwing and fielding.

“I’m hoping we’re competitive this year. That’s what we want, for them to be competitive.”

But the Chippewas lost some key pieces from last year, especially in the pitcher’s circle, and there’s no question Maksym has some holes to fill.

Maksym has some prospects to fill that position, though, in junior Mackenzie Thompson and senior Frankie Jans. Jans is the only senior on the team, so Maksym will be counting on the juniors for leadership.

The Chippewas’ roster: SENIOR: Frankie Jans.

JUNIORS: Mackenzie Thompson, Allie Zimmerman, Emily Thompson, Sydney Kruwell,

Kelsey Harrigan, Rylee Eckhardt, Sinead McCann, Taylor Wilhoit, Megan Gutowski and Katie Jacobi.

SOPHOMORE: Nicole Zimmerman.

FRESHMEN: Carly Schmeling and Sara Schaefer.

“I think we have some excellent team chemistry with these girls,” Maksym said.

“They really seem to get along, and are a good bunch of girls. Some of the juniors moved up from the (junior varsity) squad, and a couple of them are transfers from another sport.

“They are coachable and they are good kids. They seem to love the sport.

We’ve managed to get outside twice, throwing the ball,

hitting grounders and hitting fly balls to them. They haven’t seen live pitching yet.”

Maksym is looking at several girls to fill the infield spots, including juniors Allie Zimmerman, Sydney Kruwell, Kelsey Harrigan, Sinead McCann, Megan Gutowski and Rylee Eckhardt as well as sophomore Nicole Zimmerman and freshman Carly Schmeling.

Schmeling and Nicole Zimmerman will also see some time in the circle as Maksym builds pitching depth.

From what he saw in the batting cage before the team could get outside more often, Maksym thinks hitting will be a strength for the Chippewas.

“I don’t consider our defense a weakness,” he added. “It needs some fine tuning. I think we’re going to make some noise this year.

Our defense will definitely be able to keep us in the game. I want to get them outside and have the pitchers throwing to them.

“We have Allie Zimmerman and MacKenzie (Thompson) coming back and I’m looking for big things from them at the plate. We brought a ninth grader up this year, Sara Schaefer. With the proper grooming, I think she’s really going to make some noise.

She hits the ball very hard.

“All I’m telling the girls is to swing fast, and they’re doing well. They’re learning quick.”

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

|13

| Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS www.ludingtondailynews.com

GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS

Members of Manistee High’s girls soccer team are, front row, from left, Mercedes Forsyth, Erin Coe, Alexis Forsyth, Lexie Adams, Mallory Stefanski, Sophie Shriver, Billie Gajewski, Lindsie Adams, Sierra Valencia and Hannah Stuck; back row, Heidi Feliczak, Shyann Ronning, Tatum Liston, Makenzie Wittlieff, Georgia Hiipakka, Haley Harland, Olivia Vadeboncoeur, Joelle Bartynski, Haley Anderson, Chloe Pepera, Savanna Hiipakka, Briana Larsen and Gabby Applegarth.

Manistee girls soccer

10 return to pitch for Chippewas

BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER MANISTEE — Coach Rudy Guillen is enthusiastic about the prospects for the Manistee High girls soccer team this season, both because of the number of players he has on the roster as well as their potential.

Despite the cold weather during the first week or so of practice before spring break, Guillen had the Chippewas working out outside on the field behind the school and he was excited about what he saw.

“They’re all looking pretty promising, and that’s always

nice to see starting off the season,” Guillen said. “Having 10 returning from last year is a big plus. Those were 10 core positions that they played and that should make us pretty strong this season.”

Olivia Vadeboncoeur’s season was cut short by injury last season, and Guillen admits that he was concerned about her being a little hesitant when practice started.

But those fears proved to be unfounded.

“She’s right in the mix, and working hard, practicing hard,” Guillen said. “It’s nice to see that the group that is returning is ready to

go. There’s probably one or two spots that we’ll be working on throughout the season, but I think our front line is going to be strong with Olivia back, and Mallory (Stefanski) out there.”

Manistee should have depth in the midfield with Sophie Shriver, Alexis Forsyth and Georgia Hiipakka providing strong leadership up there.

The defensive back line has always been pretty strong, and returning sophomore Briana Larsen had a solid year in net for the Chippewas being named AllDistrict goalie.

“She played every game,

so she got a lot of experi- Feliczak, Tatum Liston, Haley ence there,” Guillen added. Harland, Joelle Bartynski, Haley “Savanna (Hiipakka) is in her Anderson and Chloe Pepera. fourth year and she’s played every game. I think there’s As for being tested in the going to be a lot of strength regular season, Manistee is back there.” going to be challenged right Manistee’s roster: out of the gate with games against Leland, Whitehall and Ludington to kick things off.

SENIORS: Sophie Shriver, Mal“It’s going to be interestlory Stefanski, Billie Gajewing to see where we’re at ski, Olivia Vadeboncoeur and and how we gauge ourselves Savanna Hiipakka. starting out,” Guillen said.

JUNIORS: Shyann Ronning, Gabby Applegarth, Mackenzie “Like I say, it’s a long season Wittlieff, Georgia Hiipakka and and it gives us an opportunity to look at our pluses and Briana Larsen. minuses and work on what FRESHMEN: Erin Coe, Alexis we need to fix.

Forsyth, Lexie Adams, Billie “Right now we’re looking Gajewski, Lindsie Adams, Sierra for our core group to push Valencia, Hannah Stuck, Heidi

out the momentum and see where we’re at. I have a freshman that seems eager to see if she can play goalie, but she’s young and needs to gain experience.”

Guillen has 12 freshmen on the roster who are all anxious to play, which is a good sign for the future but presents an interesting challenge right now as the Chippewas are looking to improve on their win total from a year ago.

Not competing in a conference, the Chippewas must gear up for the district tournament and have yet to enjoy much success in the postseason.

14 |

girls soccer

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS www.ludingtondailynews.com

Manistee schedules

Mon., April 13, Whitehall, 6 p.m.

Thur., April 16, Ludington, 6 p.m.

Mon., April 20, at Traverse City Bulldogs, 5 p.m.

Thur., April 23, Fremont, 6 p.m.

Fri., April 24, at Maple City Glen Lake, 5 p.m.

Thur., April 30, Brethren, 5:30 p.m.

Fri., May 1, at North Muskegon, 6 p.m.

Mon., May 4, Mason County Central, 5 p.m.

Thur., May 7, at Hart, 5 p.m.

Fri., May 8, Kingsley, 6 p.m.

Mon., May 11, Big Rapids, 6 p.m.

Sat., May 16, Suttons Bay, 11 a.m.

Tue., May 19, at Mason County Eastern, 5 p.m.

Thur., May 21, at Shelby, 4:30 p.m.

track and field Tue., April 14, at Ludington, 3;45 p.m.

Fri., April 17, at Ithaca, 4 p.m.

Fri., April 24, at Scottville Optimist Invitational Mon., April 27, at Benzie Central, 3 p.m.

Fri., May 1, at Kenn Bell at Traverse City, noon Fri., May 8, at Manton, 3 p.m.

Tue., May 19, at Comstock Park Fri., May 22, at Ferris State

boys golf Mon., April 13, Mason County Eastern and McBain Northern Michigan Christian, 4 p.m.

Tue., April 14, at Manton, 9:30 a.m.

Fri., April 17, Mason County Central, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 22, at Cadillac, 9:30 a.m.

Fri., April 24, at Ludington Invitational, 9:30 a.m.

Mon., April 27, Onekama and Bear Lake, 4 p.m.

Wed., April 29, Ludington, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 1, at Lake City, 9 a.m.

Thur., May 7, at Muskegon Catholic, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 8, at Mason County Central, 9 a.m.

Mon., May 11, at Big Rapids, 8:30 a.m.

Thur., May 14, at Mona Shores, 8:30

tennis from 11

JUNIORS: Hope Slawinski, Emily Morin, Fallon Gates and Emilie Clausen.

FRESHMEN: Trinity Herbert,

a.m.

Fri., May 15, at Remus Chippewa Hills, 9:30 a.m.

girls tennis Tue., April 14, at Traverse City West, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 16, at Traverse City Central, 3 p.m.

Tue., April 21, Big Rapids, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 23, Traverse City Christian, 4:30 p.m.

Mon., April 27, at Muskegon Catholic, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 30, at Big Rapids, 4 p.m.

Sat., May 2, at Traverse City Central (junior varsity), 9 a.m.

Tue., May 5, at Ludington, 11 a.m.

Thur., May 7, at Fremont, 4 p.m.

Mon., May 11, Muskegon Catholic, 4 p.m.

varsity baseball Wed., April 15, LeRoy Pine River, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 16, at Benzie Central, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 20, Kingsley, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 23, at Hart, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 30, Mason County Central, 4 p.m.

Sat., May 2, at Briggs True-Value Tournament at Mason County Central, 9 a.m.

Tue., May 5, at Cadillac, 4 p.m.

Thur., May 7, Mason County Eastern, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 8, at Montague, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 12, at Traverse City Central, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 15, at Frankfort, 4:30 p.m.

Sat., May 16, Benzie Central, Mason County Central and Reeths-Puffer at 350 Club Invitational, 10 a.m.

Mon., May 18, at Big Rapids, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 19, at Pentwater, 4:30 p.m.

Thur., May 21, at Traverse City West, 4 p.m.

junior varsity baseball

Wed., April 15, at LeRoy Pine River, 4:30 p.m.

Thur., April 16, Benzie Central, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 20, at Kingsley, 4:30 p.m.

Thur., April 23, Hart, 4 p.m.

Hannah Nemitz, Kellie Raczkowski, Sarah Sheathelm, Leah Snyder, Mikaela Kolkk and Elexis Fisk.

Thur., April 30, at Mason County Central, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 5, Cadillac, 4 p.m.

Thur., May 7, at Onekama, 4:30 p.m.

Fri., May 8, Montague, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 12, Traverse City Central, 4 p.m.

Mon., May 18, Big Rapids, 4 p.m.

varsity softball

Wed., April 15, LeRoy Pine River, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 16, at Benzie Central, 4 p.m.

Sat., April 18, at Morley-Stanwood, 10 a.m.

Mon., April 20, Kingsley, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 23, at Hart, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 27, Shelby, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 30, Mason County Central, 4 p.m.

Sat., May 2, at Briggs True Value Tournament at Mason County Central, 9 a.m.

Tue., May 5, at Cadillac, 4 p.m.

Thur., May 7, Mason County Eastern, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 8, at Montague, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 12, at Traverse City Central, 4 p.m.

Fri., May 15, at Frankfort, 4:30 p.m.

Sat., May 16, at North Muskegon tournament, 9 a.m.

Mon., May 18, at Big Rapids, 4 p.m.

Thur., May 21, at Traverse City West, 4 p.m.

junior varsity softball Wed., April 15, at LeRoy Pine River, 4:30 p.m.

Thur., April 16, Benzie Central, 4 p.m.

Sat., April 18, at Shelby, 9 a.m.

Mon., April 20, at Kingsley, 4:30 p.m.

Thur., April 23, Hart, 4 p.m.

Mon., April 27, at Shelby, 4 p.m.

Thur., April 30, at Mason County Central, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 5, Cadillac, 4 p.m.

Thur., May 7, at Onekama, 4:30 p.m.

Fri., May 8, Montague, 4 p.m.

Tue., May 12, Traverse City Central, 4 p.m.

Mon., May 18, Big Rapids, 4 p.m.

Thur., May 21, Traverse City West, 4 p.m.

played last year, and Froncek doesn’t see any reason to break them up at this point, as long as both stay healthy.

“We know who our top Hope Slawinski and Fal- four girls are going to be, lon Gates, both juniors, we just don’t know what powill again be paired at No. 1 sitions they’re actually godoubles. That’s where they ing to be in,” Froncek said.

“They’re going to play each other, and the best of the best goes to the top.”

Those top four are senior Maddy Wilson, senior Mackenzie Kaminski, senior Caroline Kessler and junior Emily Morin.

Manistee’s goal every year

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

season: Very deep team from page 10

‘We’re pretty up front with the girls on what we expect of them. The level of expectation is really pretty high of where we want to finish.

We’re not saying state championshp or bust, but I think improving on our third place finish is a clear statement of what our goals are.’

Gustad is going to be running the short hurdles this year.

“She ran a 9.4 (seconds) in the 60-meter hurdles, which is one of the fastest (times) in the state so far at indoor meets. We’re looking for her to do some nice things this year. We’ve got some other young kids that are looking good.”

Freshman Grace Chandler is recovering from a basketball injury and the Chippewas expect her to run some nice times. Kids who haven’t competed before, like Emma Burns and Natalee and Emilee Kott, are exciting prospects.

The Chippewas also have some girls in the throws who are showing consistent improvement.

“I think we’re going to have a little more depth, which will be nice,” McGuire said.

“We’re pretty up front with the girls on what we expect of them. The level of expectation is really pretty high of where we want to finish.

“We’re not saying state championship or bust, but I think improving on our third place finish is a clear statement of what our goals are.”

Manistee has depth on the boys’ side with about 10 or 12 more out for the sport than it had a year ago, when Carter Eckhardt was the only Chippewa to qualify for the state finals and finished 12th with a personal record time in the 400 meters.

Overall, the Chippewas were pretty young on the boys’ side last year with a lot of freshmen and sopho-

mores who scored the bulk of their points.

“We hope to build on that,” McGuire said. “I think we can place a lot higher in our region this year, and hopefully put more guys into the state meet. Eckhardt is running really strong right now.

It’s early, and we’ve only run indoor meets but we have a pretty nice group of young distance runners.

“We should see some pretty significant improvement with that group throughout the season with the boys.”

McGuire is anticipating another exciting season. He knows the Chippewas will be motivated to excel at state.

is to win a couple of matches.

“We play some tough, tough teams that usually get to play year round, get to have indoor practice at little earlier than us, or have established tennis programs,” Froncek said. “If we can take a couple games, or even a

match… that would be great.

“As always, the more they play, the more comfortable they’re going to get.

Hopefully that will make them more confident, too, and their play will improve.

Gates and Slawinski played well together last year.”

Mike McGuire Manistee track coach

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

| Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS www.ludingtondailynews.com

| 15

Manistee baseball

Chippewas shoot for improvement

BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER MANISTEE — Nolan Vander Weele’s two-out single in the bottom of the seventh inning not only knocked in a run for the Manistee High baseball team, but brought the tying run to the plate in the Division 3 district semifinal game against Hart in Scottville last year.

But the Chippewas would fail to score again as the Pirates escaped with a close 8-5 victory that brought Manistee’s season to an end.

The Chippewas have not won a district championship since 2005, and they’d like to end that drought this season. Manistee also would like to improve on last year’s 9-17 record.

Although they graduated a boat load of talent, especially on the mound, the Chippewas are fortunate to have some experience coming back at key positions.

One of the most important defensive positions where the Chippewas have experience is at catcher, where Matthew Bauman settles in behind the plate for his third season as the team’s primary backstop.

Vander Weele also enters his third season on the varsity and brings stability to the pitching staff, where his experience will be of utmost value for the Chippewas who will be trying out several arms this spring.

“Both of them so far have shown a lot of leadership,” Manistee coach Troy Nezki.

“They’re the first ones who say ‘Hey, we’ve got to get focused guys. Let’s do the drill right.’ Those sort of things.

“That’s going to do definitely help. Nolan was coming around at the plate last

ki said. None of the pitchers have overpowering stuff, but everyone asks a lot of questions after practice and want to learn more about the mechanics.

Since the Chippewas were inside most of the time before spring break, Nezki focused on the mechanics of the infield. He feels that the Chippewas have neglected the defense in the past, and it’s come back to bite them.

Oleniczak played a lot at third last year and gets the nod to start the season at the “hot corner.” Pinkerton and Brandon Wick are the initial combination between second and short. Vander Weele begins his third season at first.

Bauman will probably start about 90 percent of the games behind the plate.

Jakob Nezki will play some at first and third, especially when Vander Weele is on the mound. Smith looks like he’ll play in the outfield, with Polczyn, Murphy and Dakota Dority rotating in the outfield to start the season.

“Bauman has gotten stronger, and worked on his throwing,” Nezki said. “His technique and footwork are much better. Blocking GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS (the plate) has always been Members of the Manistee High baseball team area kneeling, from left, Andrew Oleniczak, Brandon Wick and Dakota Dority; standing, strong. Those are the big Nolan Vander Weele, Bradley Murphy, Brian Polcyn, Jakob Nezki and Matthew Bauman. Not pictured: Spencer Helminski, Cameron things. Andy understands where a pitch needs to be in Smith, Ian Pinkerton and Brad Madsen. a certain situation.

“Especially with some “Both of them were ready game. He’s good at the plate, have to play some defense.” year, and right now he’s Nezki has been pleased young guys pitching, knowlooking pretty strong on the to play varsity baseball as so he’s going to be a good admound. Andy Oleniczak is freshman last year, but they dition for us. It looks like he’ll with the team’s hitting so ing that stuff is a real plus for us. Matt struggled a bit coming back. He played a lot needed them at the junior help out in the outfield with far.

“We seem to have a lot (at the plate) last year, but of third base for us last year, varsity and you can’t just some speed.

“Ian is just a solid, all- more discipline,” Nezki said. he’s been working in the and again he’s looking a lot tear those things apart,” more mature. He spent some Nezki added. “Cameron around kid. Again, a kid who “They seem to have a lot bet- cage.”

The Chippewas need to time in the off-season hit- pitched in our district game plays a lot in the summer ter approach when they get ting with us. Those are the last year, stole a base and and knows what’s going on. up there. That’s been our shore up their defense, cut down on their errors and not three biggies that are com- had a lot of composure for a But, it’s going to come down main focus.”

Brian Polcyn and Bradley give up so many extra outs to pitching again. I’m not gofreshman up there. ing back for us.”

“He throws the ball fairly ing to have that guy that I Murphy have been throwing because Nezki doesn’t exNezki brought up two sophomores from the junior hard, and is just working on can say, ‘I’m going to throw all through the pre-season pect the pitching staff to be varsity team in Ian Pinkerton some mechanics. But, he’s got him out there and he’s go- and look like they could con- the kind that will rack up a baseball in him. He knows the ing to win.’ So, we’re going to tribute to the pitching, Nez- lot of strike outs. and Cameron Smith.

16 |

Ludington daily newS/SPRING SPORTS

| MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015

www.ludingtondailynews.com

Manistee boys golf

Chippewas return regional titlists

BY GREG GIELCZYK DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER MANISTEE — Everyone is coming back for the defending MHSAA Division 3 regional champion Manistee High boys golf team this season, which obviously makes head coach Mike Swanson a very happy man as the Chippewas prepare for the 2015 season.

There is a new freshman on the team that will need to get experience, but otherwise the Chippewas are loaded and ready to make some more noise in the post-season tournament after finishing 13th in the state.

It makes Swanson’s job easier, because the Chippewas know what’s expected and how to go about it. He doesn’t have to do any motivating. His main focus is fine tuning the skills this group possesses and seeing if the Chippewas can’t improve and have just as much success if not more than they had last year.

Despite a full cupboard, Swanson is, with a couple of exceptions, looking to the future so he does have a freshman and a sophomore on the squad who will be groomed to fill the holes that will left by graduating seniors.

But it’s a luxury to have so much experience coming back.

“Yes, this is one of those years where I’m not teaching how to hold the golf club, or how to swing the golf club,” Swanson said, “but more of the finer points in golf.

You hope you peak at the right time, but it’s how you play golf on a given day.

“Watching the professionals.

Some days they play well, and some days they don’t. So, we just want to keep heading in the right direction, doing the things we want. We’re going to do some things well, and we’re going to try to improve on the other things. This team is self motivated.”

Manistee’s roster: SENIORS: Blake Davis and Matthew Simmons.

GREG GIELCZYK | DAILY NEWS

Members of the Manistee High boys golf team are, kneeling, from left, Avery Kiefer, Will Shriver, Eric McElrath and Hunter Lindstrom; standing, Matt Simmons, Connor Mrozik, Blake Davis, Cameron McElrath, Cody Stefanski and Evan Weston. Not pictured: Keagan Thomas.

JUNIORS: Will Shriver, Connor Mrozik, Cameron McElrath, Eric McElrath, Hunter Lindstrom and Cody Stefanick.

SOPHOMORES: Avery Kiefer and Evan Weston.

FRESHMAN: Keagan Thomas.

what they averaged for the year.

“I know they wanted to play better than they did,” Swanson said.

“So the emphasis this year is to bring down the average, so when you get to districts and regionals your scores will be better because Swanson credits strong parental you’re averaging better.

“Most of the kids work at golf support for aiding him in the effort to keep the golf program moving courses, so they were out at the in the right direction, and consis- course quite a bit and they played a lot of golf. They practiced and hit tently trending upward.

Looking back at last year’s scores, balls. They beat me several times Swanson found that the Chippewas out on the course. They’re a little shot at the state meet pretty much bigger, a little stronger and they’re

good athletes.”

Blake Davis and Matthew Simmons are the two returning seniors, but there’s also Connor Mrozik, Will Shriver and Cameron and Eric McElrath. All of them played at the state tournament last year, and rotated as the Chippewas’ low man at several regular season meets.

Swanson refused to single any one of them out as his top guy coming back. They are equal in talent in his mind, and they showed that on the course last year.

“I have a bunch of other guys who were just behind them last year,” Swanson said. “Depending on how much they improved, they’ll be pushing those top four (guys) for one of those spots. I don’t think we’re going to be intimidated by anybody.

“But, also you get excited and the nerves come out. It’ll be conquering ourselves, rather than conquering our opponents or a golf course.

Our district is at Elmbrook up in Traverse City, which is a shorter course. A little bit tighter.”