8.14.17

Covert won't be fielding a football team this fall

By JASON MITCHELL

H-P Sports Editor

High school football practice officially started statewide this past week, but not in Covert.

The Bulldogs’ athletic director Tray Cursciel wasn’t sure last month whether or not he’d be able to field a team this fall. This past week, he officially confirmed that there’d be no varsity squad this season.

“We will not be having high school football this fall due to low numbers,” he told me in an email. “We are turning our focus to the middle school program to rebuild for the future.”

Indeed, the most recent list of eight-man football teams in Michigan does not include Covert. There are 61 eight-man teams listed, 59 of which are eligible for postseason play.

Covert, with a MHSAA 2017-18 enrollment of 96 students, hasn’t had a winning season since going 5-3 in 2002.

The school didn’t field a team from 2011-2014, and has managed just one on-the-field victory since.

At one point, Covert had Michigan Lutheran on the schedule twice this fall, but the Titans have a full schedule posted that doesn’t include Covert.

MHSAA releases data from 2016-17 concussion report

The Michigan High School Athletic Association has completed its second year of collecting head injury reports from member schools as it continues to build data that will assist in identifying trends and progress being made to reduce the incidence of head injuries in school sports.

The 2016-17 concussion report found an 11 percent decrease in the number of confirmed concussions from the previous year. Athletes at MHSAA member high schools encountered during 2016-17 a total of 3,958 head injuries – or 5.2 per member school, similar but lower than the 2015-16 average of 5.9.

Total participation in MHSAA sports for 2016-17 was 283,625 – with students counted once for each sport he or she played – and only 1.4 percent of participants experienced a head injury; that percentage in 2015-16 was 1.6.

However, MHSAA Executive Director John E. “Jack” Roberts said that while it’s significant to note the similarity in those statistics over the first two years of injury report collection, the lower percentages in 2016-17 don’t necessarily represent a trend – that conclusion can only be made after more data is collected in years to come.

Some differences in data from the first year to the second could be the result of schools’ increased familiarity with the reporting system, the refinement of the follow-up reporting procedure and other survey error that is expected to decrease with future surveys.

“Our first survey in 2015-16 raised some initial themes, and the data we collected this past year and will continue to collect will help us identify the trends that will guide our next steps in reducing head injuries in interscholastic athletics,” Roberts said in a news release. “However, the necessity for more data to determine these trends should not delay our efforts to experiment with more head protection and modified play and practice rules in contact sports like ice hockey, soccer, wrestling and lacrosse – which all ranked among the top 10 sports for numbers of head injuries per thousand participants.

“We will continue to look for ways to make our good games better and our healthy games safer, and the collection of this data will continue to prove key as we work toward those goals.”

Following a first mandate to do so in 2015-16, member schools again were required to report head injuries to the MHSAA identifying the sport that each student-athlete was participating in and whether the injury was sustained during practice or competition.

As with the first year of reporting, the MHSAA received data from more than 99 percent of its member high schools after the fall, winter and spring seasons and continued to track each injury report through its conclusion this summer. Member junior high and middle schools also were allowed, although not mandated, to report their potential head injuries; and those findings are not part of the published report.

Although the total number of confirmed concussions was significantly lower in 2016-17, a number of findings detailing those injuries fell in line with results of the 2015-16 survey.

Boys experienced 2,607 – or 66 percent – of those injuries, nearly the same ratio as 2015-16 and as boys participation in sports, especially contact sports, remained higher than girls. More than half of head injuries – 55 percent – were experienced by varsity athletes, which also fell within a percent difference of last year’s findings.

A total of 2,973 head injuries – or 65 percent – came in competition as opposed to practice. More than half took place during either the middle of practice or middle of competition as opposed to the start or end, and 52 percent of injuries were a result of person-to-person contact. The largest percentage of athletes – 27 percent – returned to activity after 6 to 10 days, while 23 percent of those who suffered head injuries returned after 11-15 days of rest. All of these findings were within 1-4 percent of those discovered

from the 2015-16 data.

Contact sports again revealed the most head injuries. Ranking first was football, 11 and 8-player combined, with 44 head injuries per 1,000 participants – a decrease of five head injuries per 1,000 participants from 2015-16. Ice hockey repeated with the second-most injuries per 1,000, with 36 (down two injuries per 1,000 from 2015-16), and girls soccer was again third with 28 head injuries per 1,000 participants (also down two from the previous year).

In fact, after football and hockey, the next four sports to show the highest incidences of head injuries were girls sports – girls soccer followed by girls basketball (23 per 1,000), girls competitive cheer (22) and girls lacrosse (20). Although girls basketball moved up from fifth to fourth for highest ratio, it did see a decline of six injuries per 1,000 participants from 2015-16.

Schools report possible concussions online via the MHSAA Website. Reports are then examined by members of the MHSAA staff, who follow up with school administrators as those student-athletes continue to receive care and eventually return to play. Student privacy is protected.

The reporting of possible concussions is part of a three-pronged advance by the MHSAA in concussion care begun during the 2015-16 school year. The MHSAA completed this past spring (2017) the largest-ever state high school association sideline concussion testing pilot program, with a sample of schools from across the state over the last two years using one of two screening tests designed to detect concussions. The second year of the pilot program (201617) allowed participating schools to use the sideline detection tests in all sports but mandated they be used in sports (11 total over three seasons) showing the highest prevalence of concussions.

The full report is available on the health and safety page of the MHSAA website at www.mhsaa.com.

— From the Michigan High School Athletic Association

8.7.17

Dorow chases Major League dream

Former South Haven, Adrian College shortstop drafted by Texas Rangers

By AARON CRIDER

H-P Sports Writer

Ryan Dorow’s professional baseball career has just begun.

Taken by the Texas Rangers in the 30th round of the 2017 MLB Draft, the ex-South Haven baseball player is trying to make a name for himself in the Arizona Rookie League as part of the AZL Rangers. 

“I’ve been playing a lot. Other than off days, I’ve been in the lineup every day,” said Dorow. “I’m at the ballpark just about every day. It’s nice. It keeps you in the rhythm and gets you in front of as many eyes as possible.”

Since being drafted, Dorow has started in 21 games with 66 at-bats. He’s managed 21 hits with 13 runs and holds a .333 batting average. 

After graduating from South Haven in 2013, Dorow went on to play at Adrian College, where he was a four-year starter at shortstop. He holds a career total of 267 hits—a school record—with 23 home runs and 179 runs total. 

He also played in the Northwoods League, a summer collegiate wooden bat circuit, as part of the Battle Creek Bombers. He started 56 games and held a .293 batting average before an injury forced him out.

“I think the wooden league helped out a lot,” said Dorow. “We traveled a lot and it’s gotten me used to the atmosphere and this lifestyle. You never know when you are going to get called up or it might be your last day at the ballpark.”

Even though Dorow was drafted as a shortstop, the Rangers have him bouncing around multiple positions.

“I’ve been playing mostly second and third base,” he said. “I’ve also played left field, which is new for me. It’s new, but enjoyable.”

Dorow’s draft call came after a long three-day stretch of watching and waiting. A time that he spent virtually glued to the computer screen. 

“It was stressful. I was trying to stay calm, which was hard. I got a couple calls early in the third day and then nothing happened,” he said. “We got to the 30th round and I was wondering if it was going to happen. I was checking the computer to see if my name was going to come through. I got up from the computer and my name popped up. My dad told me I was picked up.

“I was excited. I think it’s every young baseball player’s dream (to be drafted),” Dorow continued. “Whether it starts sooner or later, it’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and I’m very thankful that I have the opportunity to do it. 

“The Rangers have a great reputation of taking care of their players. I’ve been taken care of very well. I’m glad to be part of an organization that loves baseball. I’m glad to be part of a club that rewards hard-working players. The Rangers are a great fit for me. The future looks bright.”

PHOTO: Ryan Dorow is shown at bat playing for Olivet College this past spring. (Photo by Tom Renner)

7.31.17

State cross-country champs reunite

South Haven High School's 1992 cross-country team, which won the Class B state champion, got together for their 25th reunion earlier this month. The 1992 team was the first Rams cross-country team to win a state championship. The team was led by four seniors and a sophomore who, along with one junior and a freshman, worked hard to accomplish their goals. From left are Kevin Hartgerink, Chris Lewis, Brian Nordin, David Antonson, Nate Lewis, Eddy Foley and Andy Anderson. The event was hosted by the Larry Lewis family at their home.

7.17.17

State runner-up volleyball team reunites for 40th anniversary

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

A special reunion took place at the South Haven Historical Association last Sunday, which was 40 years in the making.

South Haven’s 1977 volleyball team, which finished as runner-up in the Michigan High School Athletic Association state competition, held a reunion along with their former coach Dene Hadden on Sunday, July 9.

“The athletes worked hard, and learned fast," said Hadden as he recalled his years coaching that team.  They knew the game and respected each other, and I think they had a lot of fun." said Hadden, who coached volleyball South Haven for 17 years.

The team took home the first state tournament-level trophy ever won by a women’s team in South Haven school history. Ever the adventurous group, the teammates arrived for the reunion from locations all across the country including Texas, Georgia, Minnesota, Colorado, Washington and even from the Big Apple itself, New York. 

“They were great kids and they’ve grown up to be great adults. That’s just one of the things I think athletics helps with, to grow confidence. This team has grown up to be top-notch women. They were fun to coach, and just to get to see them and share some memories was great,” said Hadden. 

The 1977 South Haven volleyball team finished their season with an impressive 25-1 record. The reception included cake, punch, the runner-up trophy, and copies of news articles, and the scorebooks of that final match. 

Diane Skuza of South Haven was a junior at the time her team won the trophy, and also attended the reunion and helped with its planning.

“Dene set it up through Facebook, and there were some names that he couldn't get but was able to contact many through brothers, sisters, and other family. Three players we couldn't get, as one had passed away and the other two were out of town," said Skuza.

"It was great to see people I haven't seen in thirty-plus years and it felt just like yesterday when I saw them. So, I really applaud Dene for making the effort. We had people come from Oregon, Maryland, Georgia, so many places,  so it was really special to have so many of us there.”

Skuza also remembers that final game vividly, recalling how Sturgis took home the title, and beat her team in the Regional finals the following year. However, the fact remains that her team will forever remain etched in school history, breaking ground for women's sports at South Haven.

Another former player in attendance was Libby Edson, who was a sophomore on the 1977 team.

"It has been quite awhile since we've all been together, but all but a few people. It was like no time has passed since we were such a close knit team," Edson said.

"We haven't changed a bit in terms of how much we love each other."

Edson credits Hadden for setting an early foundation for the success she has achieved in her life 

"What really stood out for me was what we learned that season from our coach. We had such a successful season, even though volleyball was just introduced in 1976. Dene didn't have much experience in coaching volleyball at the time, other than playing recreational. So he did that first season (1976), and we played in basketball uniforms and basketball converse shoes," said Edson with a laugh.

 Volleyball was introduced as a sport in 1976 at South Haven High School, following the implementation of Title 9.

"He then attended a camp with some of the best coaches, and threw himself into it, and brought everything he learned to us. He helped us fall in love with the game, and encouraged us — he worked us really hard, but he did it so kindly. He coached us beyond what we thought we were capable of. "

It was only the second year of Hadden's volleyball program at South Haven that his team achieved a 25-1 record.

"He expected so much from us on and off the court, which set us up for success,” Edson said. “We are all doing well, and I can't help but to think that he gave us some of that foundation."

Edson  herself went on to play volleyball at the University of Montana, and a few more women from Hadden's team played college volleyball as well.

"Now I teach yoga to college and high school athletes, and now I realize going back (to the reunion), that some of the techniques I learned from him,” Edson said. “It was so wonderful seeing all of them. I've been smiling ever since. We didn't know we were making history, and we had so much fun doing so."

The original trophy the team received previously resided at South Haven High School, but will now be housed at the Historical Association of South Haven museum.



6.19.17

Reliving a historic moment

A group of women who made history for South Haven High School's female sports programs 40 years ago, will be honored in July. The Lady Rams 1977 volleyball team was the first female sports team from South Haven to make it all the way to the state finals. They settled for runner-up honors and ended the season with a 25-1 record. The former team and their coach, Dene Hadden, will be recognized at a reception at 1 p.m., Sunday, July 9 at the Historical Association of South Haven's museum, located in historic Hartman School, 355 Hubbard St. During the ceremony the team and coach will donate news articles and scorebooks from their 1997 season. There will also be refreshments available.

6.12.17

Bangor runner captures second place in state track meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

COMSTOCK PARK — Bangor boys track team finished the season strong at the MHSAA Division 3 state track meet on Saturday, June 3.

Junior Brett Robertson placed second in the 300-meter hurdle race, with a season best time of 39.35. Robertson also was awarded All-State Honors, becoming the 48th All-State placer from Bangor to do so (since 2000).

"For a little perspective, he ran 52.4 as a freshman. Brett is a three sport athlete, who has spent every summer and season getting stronger by consistently lifting," said Bangor coach Ron Markel.

"He is one of the hardest workers I have ever coached. I hope more students take notice, that when done the right way, the results will speak for themselves."

Bangor seniors Justin Smith (12th in the mile run, 4:36.74) and Carson Finch also concluded their seasons at the state competition.

Bangor's 4 x 800 relay team  (Carson Finch, Carter Finch, Alvaro Martinez, Justin Smith) finished with a time of 8:28.69.

"I will miss them (Smith and Finch) both. Both men of great character. All participants, in the 4 events we qualified, ran and competed well. I believe all 4 events ran season or personal best times," said Markel.

In the girl's meet, Bangor's 4 x 800 meter relay  team of Karyssa Gallegos, Logan Slone, Regan Slone, and Alex Vorva ran a time of 10:40.56.

South Haven runner just misses All-state honors

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

ZEELAND — South Haven's track and field teams concluded their seasons, June 3 at the Division 2 State Meet, at Zeeland East High School.

In the girls competition, freshman Mikayla Woodard placed 17th in the long jump, with a leap of 15'01.75. Twin sisters, and sophomores, Cate and Marnie Frost also competed strong in their events. Cate Frost placed 20th in the 1600-meter run with a time of 5:38.17 while Marnie

placed 10th in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:19.55.

For the boy's competition, junior Craig Thompson finished ninth in the mile run with a time of 4:22.47 – just missing All-State honors by one place. He also competed in the 800-meter run and placed 18th with a time of 2:00.56, and ran a leg of the Rams' 4 x 800-meter relay team along with juniors Jackson Schooley and Justin Postma, and freshman Brian Thompson. They finished with a time of 8:24.83.





6.5.17

Bangor, South Haven kickers bow out of district competition

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

SAUGATUCK — After trailing for most of the contest, the Bangor girls soccer team rallied to beat Holland Calvary at 3-2 on Tuesday, in an exciting Division 4 District opener. 

Holland led by 2-0 with 12 minutes remaining and seemingly had the game wrapped up, however Bangor was the comeback kid, and scored three goals in succession to seal the win. 

Madi McGuire scored the first goal at the 12:35 mark to put Bangor back in the game.

Maritza Barajas followed up with a second goal, assisted by Laisha Ramirez, who would go on to score the final goal to seal a thrilling win for Bangor.

"I have had nail biters for sure in 24 years of coaching sports,  but nothing like this.  At halftime we talked of gaining focus. The final twelve minutes of this game was as determined a team as I have ever coached," said Bangor coach Dennis Yunke.

"My first Gatorade bath came in our first win as a team in 2010.  Last night (Tuesday) was my second in 8 long years.  It was cold and wet and it felt good."

But on Thursday, the Vikings fell out of district play after competing in the semifinal round of the tourney, losing, 4-2, to Holland Black River.

In Division 3 girl's soccer district play, South Haven won the opening game against Wyoming Kelloggsville on Tuesday, 2-1.

The Rams then advanced to play Kentwood Grand River Prep in the semi-finals on Thursday and trailed 5-0. They regrouped to earn several goals but lost, 5-3.

The Rams finished their season with a record of 7-10-3. 

5.30.17

Rams pick up two wins over K'zoo Central

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven sluggers won both sides of a doubleheader against Kalamazoo Central on Thursday in a non-conference competition.

McCauy Marr recorded the 4-2 win for South Haven in game one.

Bryce Gargus paced the Rams with a single, double and 2 RBIs, while teammate Jesse Morrison hit a home run with 2 RBIs.

Kalamazoo Central was led by Kegan Miller with a single and double, Karsen Withers with a single and a home run, and Lucas Bolton finished with two singles.

For the nightcap, South Haven edged out the Giants, 10-9.

Nick Gildea occupied the pitching mound for South Haven, and also had a single and one RBI. Griffin Rooker chipped in a single, two doubles, and 2 RBIs for South Haven, while Jordan Denbow finished with a single and one RBI. 

Kalamazoo Central's Kegan Miller led with three singles and one RBI, Derek Bradley hit two singles and 2 RBIs, Hilario DeLaPaz finished with a single and one RBI, and Brooks Hemingway rounded out the scoring with a double and one RBI.

South Haven improves to 17-17 for the season and will face Gull Lake on Tuesday in a single game to wrap up the season.

The Rams will compete against Benton Harbor in the Division 2 District tournament on Saturday at Lakeshore High School.

PHOTO: South Haven baseball player Quinn Johnson slides to home plate during a doubleheader against Kalamazoo Central this past Thursday. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Lady Rams split doubleheader against Buchanan

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven softball team went home with a win and a loss on Thursday, after facing Buchanan in a non-conference double header.

In the opening game, the Rams defeated the Buccaneers at 2-1 over eight innings.

Hayley Kreiger earned the win for the Rams, while Frances Lyons led at bat with two singles.

A.J. Jeffries added a single and one RBI and Hannah Mines finished with one RBI for the South Haven offense.

For Buchanan (19-12), Morgan Lenox had a home run and Jayla Bibbs contributed a single and double.

South Haven seemingly fell into a hitting slump in game two, as Buchanan took the 1-0 win. 

South Haven stands at 26-9 overall and begins District play on Saturday in Stevensville, against Benton Harbor.

PHOTO: South Haven Kiandra Raday slides safely to second base during a doubleheader against Buchanan this past Thursday.(Photo by Tom Renner)

Rams' Woodard heads to state track meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven track teams had many state qualifiers and great performances at last week’s Regional competition on Friday, which fully concluded on Monday with the long jump.

The long jump was postponed until Monday due to heavy rain last Friday, and South Haven’s Mikayla Woodard won first place with a leap of 15’11.5.

“It’s been over 10 years since South Haven has had a girl qualify for state in long jump,” said South Haven girls track coach Lindsay Haqq. “Coach Haga, Coach Taylor, and I are very proud of Mikayla’s accomplishments this season as regional and conference champ in the long jump.”

Woodard will join her teammates Cate Frost (second in the 1600-meter run with a time of 5:29.93) and Marnie Frost (first in the 800-meter run 2:20.79) at the state competition this saturday in Zeeland.

In the boy’s competition, Craig Thompson qualified in the mile run with a time of 4:31.09 and in the 800 meter run with a time of 2:01.53, placing second in both events last Friday.

He will also run a leg of South Haven’s 4 x 800 relay team, which placed second with a state qualifying time of 8:27.27. Brian Thompson, Justin Postma, and Jackson Schooley will run the other legs of the relay with Thompson.

Bangor finishes 8th at league track meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

CONSTANTINE - The Bangor boy’s track and field team ran hard at the Southwestern Athletic Conference meet on Tuesday, and finished in eighth place.

Saugatuck won the meet overall with 139.5 points, followed by Delton-Kellogg with 66, Coloma 63, Constantine 50, and Eau Claire had 41 points. Bangor scored 38 points overall.

Leading the Vikings was Brett Robertson with first place in the 300-meter hurdles, with a time of 40.83.

Robertson is currently ranked fourth in the Division 3 state rankings for the 300 meter hurdles.

Despite having a much smaller team than usual, Bangor has done well at competitions this season, including a third-place finish at last week’s regional competition.

“This is by far the smallest team we have fielded in a long time. There are many reasons for this, but as a team we finished third of 16 teams (at the regional meet last week) with nine guys,” said Bangor coach Ron Markel.

“I have found incredible joy working with this team. I have not had to worry about missed practices or lack of effort. Every day, they have done what we asked and worked to get better. Many of them even contributed a few weeks ago at the fundraiser dinner for my wife,” continued Markel in regards to fundraising efforts the Bangor community has undertaken to help his wife, Lauren, in combatting an inoperable brain tumor.

“This is a great group of men,” Markel went on to say.

In the girl’s meet, Saugatuck won the title with 149 points, followed by Delton-Kellogg with 79.5 points, Schoolcraft with 77, Marcellus 49, and Constantine scored 40. Bangor finished at ninth place with 27 points scored.

Wilkins sets sights on Hope College

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

One thing you can say about South Haven High School senior Joe Wilkins – he's modest.

When asked why he's spent the past several years playing guard for the Rams basketball team, Wilkins laughed and said, “I'm too short for anything else.”

But his coach, Larry Ash, whistles a different tune.

“Joe Wilkins is what all coaches call student athlete,” Ash said. “Teams couldn't press us because of the way Joe took care of the ball. He also was one of our best one-on-one defenders. We would usually put Joe on the other team's best player or their best guard.”

Hope College apparently is impressed with Wilkins' basketball skills, as well. Earlier this month, with his teammates, friends and family watching, Wilkins signed a letter of intent to play for the Division 3 Flying Dutchmen.

“My uncle James Wilkins graduated from Hope. I thought it would be a good school to attend, for both athletics and academics,” said Wilkins, who plans on majoring in electrical engineering at Hope.

An honor student at South Haven, Wilkins has excelled in the classroom and carries a 4.0 grade point average. He also played football for the Rams as a defensive back and wide receiver, and is a member of the National Honor Society.

When he's not hitting the books, Wilkins is at the court, playing basketball.

“I grew up playing at the park everyday,” Wilkins said. “I'm very passionate about basketball. It's a way to take everything off my mind and relax.”

Yet, when it comes to competing against other teams, Ash said Wilkins was all about concentration – especially at the free-throw line.

“I asked Joe this year to make some sacrifices, and that was to work more on getting shots from the free-throw line in. He would have to work more on getting to the foul line for foul shots. When we had a lead we would make sure Joe would get the ball because he is our best free throw shooter. Joe iced a few games because we would make sure they would have to foul him.”

By the end of his senior basketball season, Wilkins averaged 13.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3 steals and 2.5 assists per game. His efforts earned him first team all-conference honors.

“He is a very strong young man with the ball and with out, he is one of the great guys you just love to coach,” Ash said.

Wilkins credits his father, Joe Wilkins as well as his mother, Letitia Wilkins, for encouraging him to do well in the classroom and on the basketball court.

“Having a good support group like my family has really helped,” he said. “My biggest role model is my father. Athletically, my biggest role model is my cousin, Amere May Jr. (who was drafted last year to play on the NBA D League team, Santa Cruz Warriors).”

When asked what advice he could give to a young student, Wilkins said, “It's hard work. You've got to be dedicated and trust the process. There's always somebody trying to get better than you. You have to push your limits.”

PHOTO: Joe Wilkins (second from left) is shown signing a letter of intent to play basketball at Hope Colege. Shown with him from left are his mom, Letitia Wilkins, Megan Marthens of Hope College, and Wilkins' dad, Joe Wilkins.



5.22.17

South Haven, Bangor runners qualify for state meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven and Bangor's track and field teams will be sending several athletes to the MHSAA state meet in June.

The Rams' track and field teams ran hard against the competition at the Division 2 Regional meet on Friday in Sturgis.

In the boy’s meet, Niles won the regional title overall with 93.2 points, followed by Benton Harbor with 71.2 points, Otesgo with 68, Sturgis 62, and Lakeshore 53.2. South Haven scored 37 points, for tenth-place out of 14 teams.

South Haven’s 4x800 relay team will make the trip to the state meet after qualifying with a second-place finish at 8:27.27. Jackson Schooley, Brian Thompson, Justin Postma, and Craig Thompson each ran a leg of the Rams' qualifying two-mile relay team.

Craig Thompson was also chosen as WSJM radio’s student athlete of the week.

Otsego won the Regional title in the girl’s competition, finishing with 97 points. The runner-up was Three Rivers with 82 points, followed by Edwardsburg with 68, Benton Harbor with 52, and Vicksburg finished at 5^th place with 47.5 points.

South Haven scored 37 points overall, and placed 10^th.

Twin sisters Marnie and Cate Frost both qualified for the state meet. Marnie Frost was South Haven’s only champion after winning the 800-meter run with a time of 2:20.79. In doing so, she broke her own personal record, which was also the school record.

Cate Frost placed second in the 1600-meter run, with a time of 5:29.93.

“I’m very proud of those two (Marnie and Cate). Everyone competed very well tonight and I’m so proud of this team,” said South Haven coach Lindsay Haqq.

In the Division 3 Regional track and field action at Comstock High School in Kalamazoo, the Bangor boys track team placed third while Berrien Springs won the title.

The Shamrocks scored 122 points, followed by Coloma with 93 points. Bangor came in third with 53 points along with Gobles, while Constantine rounded out the top five teams with 51 points.

Bangor’s Justin Smith qualified in the 1600-meter run after placing second with a time of 4:38.42.

Brett Robertson placed first in the 110-meter hurdles (15.90) and 300-meter hurdle (40.86) races. Bangor’s 4 X 800-meter relay also qualified after finishing in second place (Carson Finch, Carter Finch, Alvaro Martinez, Justin Smith) with a time of 8:35.03.

In the girls competition, Berrien Springs placed first with 116.75 points, followed by Lawton with 87, Schoolcraft 86, Parchment 54.75, and Constantine finished 5^th with 53.5 points. Bangor placed 8^th overall with 37 points.

Bangor’s 4 x 800-meter relay won first place with a time of 10:47.63, thus qualifying for the state competition. Karyssa Gallegos, Logan Slone, Regan Slone, and Alex Vorva each ran a leg of the winning relay team.

“They are a great group of girls, and they worked incredibly hard this season to reach their goal. I'm very proud of them, and am really excited that they'll all be returning next year,” said Bangor girl’s coach Ciera Tomsic.

The MHSAA track and field finals competition with take place on Saturday, June 3^rd at Zeeland High School for Division 2 and Comstock Park High School for Division 3.

PHOTOS: (Top photo) The South Haven boys and girls track team members who will be headed to the Division 2 state meet are shown from left along with their coach, Lindsay Haqq: Craig Thompson, Justin Postma, Cate Frost, Marnie Frost, Haqq, Jackson Schooley and Brian Thompson.

Bangor's 4x800-meter relay team will be headed to the Division 3 state track meet after winning first place at the regional competition. From left are Karyssa Gallegos, Alex Vorva, Logan Stone and Regan Slone.

Rams send Tigers home with two losses

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven started off the week strong after putting away Allegan in both games of a double header, in Tuesday's baseball contest.

South Haven’s Casey Copper earned the 8-1 win from the pitching mound, over six innings.

At bat, Bryce Gargus had a triple and one RBI, while Jesse Morrison finished with two singles, and two RBI for South Haven. Collin Raczynski added a single and RBI, while Steven Hochstetler rounded out the Rams’ hitting with a single and RBI.

In game two, South Haven’s bats were hot as was apparent in an 18-6 victory over the Tigers.

Troy Gawel recorded the win, while South Haven scored 16 of its runs in the third second and third innings alone.

Dylan Goff hit a double with one RBI, Nick Gildea added two singles and an RBI, Raczynski finished with a single, two doubles, and 4 RBIs, and Cooper had a triple to cap off South Haven’s offensive effort.

On Wednesday, errors hindered South Haven’s play as the Rams fell to Coloma in games of 6-2 and 9-4.

The Comets (21-11) took the early lead in both contests, capitalizing on South Haven’s lack of pitching depth.

The top hitters for South Haven in game one included Gargus and Morrison with a double apiece. In game two, Cooper hit a double and RBI, Gargus had a double, and Morrison finished with a single and one RBI to wrap up South Haven's conference season.

The Rams' overall record is 14-16. They will play a non-conference game, Thursday, against Kalamazoo Central. The District tournament begins for South Haven the following week on Saturday, June 3, against Benton Harbor (at Lakeshore High School.)

PHOTO: South Haven pinch-runner Nick Gildea of South Haven successfully steals second base. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Lady Rams rack up two more victories after defeating Allegan in a doubleheader

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven softball team defeated Allegan in a double header, Tuesday, ending Wolverine Conference play.

In game one, the Rams were victorious at 13-3 with Hayley Kreiger earning the win. Torie Loikits also pitched as Allegan was held to a single hit, with four strikeouts.

At bat, South Haven’s Emily Essmyer went 4 for 4 with two singles, a double, and a home run. Kreiger finished with two doubles and a single. Hannah Mines smaked a single and homerun, Grace Lyons had two singles, and Loikits hit a double.

Frances Lyons finished with a double, and two RBI to round out the Rams offense. The game ended at the bottom of the sixth inning due to the mercy-run rule.

For the nightcap, South Haven shut out the Tigers 11-0 led by Kreiger, who allowed two hits, with five strikeouts.

Essmyer propelled the Ram offense with two doubles and another homer, while Kreiger had three hits and a double. Frances Lyons had two singles, Hannah Mines finished with a single and triple, Hayley Mines added a single and double, AJ Jeffries hit a double, Kiandra Raday had a triple, and Holli Dannenberg finished with a single.

On Wednesday, the Rams split a doubleheader with Coloma after falling in game one, 13-3, and bouncing back to claim game two, 4-2.

In the opening contest South Haven gave up seven runs in the third inning, leading to the loss. Frances Lyons led with a single and RBI, Essmyer added a double, home run and two RBIs, and Jeffries finished with a double.

After some pitching and defensive adjustments, the Rams turned the tables to claim game two and were propelled by solid hitting with Frances Lyons adding a double and triple. Kreiger had a double and RBI, and Grace Lyons chipped in a triple.

South Haven’s overall record improves to 24-8 and 14-4 in the Conference. The Rams will compete in a final home game on Thursday against Buchanan, before beginning District play.



Three Rivers defeats South Haven kickers

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Three Rivers doubled up on scoring in an 8-4 win, Monday, May 15, over South Haven in girl’s Wolverine Conference soccer action.

Sophomore Caroline Meyer scored all four of the Rams' goals.

South Haven then played Vicksburg on Wednesday, and fell 3-1.

The Rams' overall record is 4-7-3.

The Rams have a full schedule this week wrapping up conference play against Allegan on Tuesday, before facing Bridgman (makeup game from March 30) on Wednesday and Berrien Springs, Thursday.

South Haven’s final home game of the season will be against Berrien Springs, followed by the District tournament on May 30th at Kelloggsville High School in Wyoming.

PHOTO: Caroline Meyer's teammates congratulate her after she scored her fourth goal against Three Rivers. (Photo by Tom Renner)



5.15.17

Lady Rams sweep doubleheader from Otsego

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven’s bats were on fire in Tuesday’s softball contest against Otsego, racking up 33 hits during the Wolverine Conference doubleheader.

“It was a great day to be a Ram. Great weather, pitching, hitting and defense make it hard to lose,” said South Haven assistant coach Dave Gumpert. “We really came out swinging today.”

South Haven accumulated 12 hits while defeating Otsego in game one at 15-1, and 21 hits in the nightcap for a 14-2 win. Hayley Kreiger recorded both victories and led at bat with five hits, three doubles, and 7 RBIs, while freshman Torie Loikits pitched six innings total for both games.

South Haven’s Grace Ellis hit two doubles with 4 RBI while teammate Hannah Mines contributed six hits, with a double and triple. Frances Lyons and Anna Bocock finished with four hits, Hayley Mines added three singles, Grace Lyons a double, and freshman AJ Jeffries capped off the Rams' top hitters with three hits, a double, and two singles.

On Friday, South Haven put away Sturgis in games of 9-1 and 17-4.

The Rams improve to 20-5 for the season and 12-4 in the conference.

PHOTO: South Haven softball players cheer as Hannah Mines dives safely to home plate during a game against Vicksburg, May 5. Mines racked up six hits against Otsego, Tuesday. (Photo by Tom Renner)



The heat is on

Conference meeet tough on the Rams

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

VICKBURG — The South Haven boys and girls track teams faced stiff competition at Wolverine Conference meet on Friday, but still had many strong performances.

In the boys meet, Otsego won the conference title with 122 points, followed by Vicksburg in second place with 107, Sturgis in third with 80, Allegan scored 75.6, and Plainwell finished with 66 points for fifth place. South Haven placed ninth overall after scoring 31 points.

Craig Thompson led the Rams with a second-place finish in the 800-meter run, with a time of 2:00.50 just behind Otsego’s Will Finch (1:59.88), and also placed third in the 1600-meter run with a time of 4:29.86.

Thompson also ran a leg of South Haven’s 4 x 800 relay team, which placed second with a time of 8:24.26, and was accompanied by Justin Postma, Jackson Schooley, and Brian Thompson.

In the girl’s competition, Otsego also won with 147.25 points. Edwardsburg followed in second place with 89 points, Three Rivers and Plainwell tied for third place with 85.25 points, while Vicksburg placed fifth after scoring 61 points. South Haven placed eighth overall, with 46 points scored.

South Haven freshman Mi’kayla Woodard earned South Haven’s only first place of the evening, with a leap of 16’01 in the long jump, which was also her personal record.

Jazmine Hall scored more points for South in the high jump (4’09), after finishing at fourth place.

For the sprinting events, Woodard placed fifth in the 100-meter dash with a time of 13.39 and Hall placed seventh in the 200-meter dash with a time of 28.80.

South Haven sophomore Marnie Frost finished at third place in the 400 meter run, with a time of 1:01.66, and placed fourth in the 800 meter run at 2:28.26.

In the relays, South Haven’s 4 x 100 team of Phillips, Hall, Woodard and Jordan Taylor placed third with a time of 53.45.

South Haven grad earns MVP award

A South Haven graduate, who plays shortstop for the Adrian College Bulldogs baseball team, has been named Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association's Most Valuable Player.

Ryan Dorow, a senior, earned the award along with teammates Ian Mikowski and Tommy Parsons.

For the third time in four years, Dorow has collected the MIAA player of the year honor from his shortstop position after setting school career records for runs scored (168), hits (257), doubles (56), total bases (412), runs batted in (185) and home runs (25) this spring.

The sports management major currently leads the MIAA with 52 RBI, a career-best seven triples, five sacrifice flies while slugging a third-best .630 and batting a fifth-best .414.

Dorow was also named to the All-MIAA First Team, along with six other Adrian players. The Bulldogs had a great year, winning the MIAA championship.

PHOTO: Ryan Dorow is shown at bat during Adrian College's baseball game against Hope College, May 5. (Photo by Tom Renner)





5.8.17

Lady Rams hand Vicksburg its first season loss

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven softball team started the week off, Tuesday, with two non-conference victories over Zeeland West.

The Rams won the opening game, 15-4, with Hayley Kreiger earning the win, and allowing two hits.

Frances Lyons hit a triple and single for the Rams, while Hannah Mines finished with a double and single. Haley Mines added two doubles and 4 RBI, while teammate Grace Lyons chipped in a triple and single, and Kreiger finished with a single.

For the nightcap, South Haven defeated Zeeland West 6-4, with Torie Loikits earning the win from the mound and Kreiger had the save.

Frances Lyons led with 2 singles, Kreiger had two doubles and 3 RBI, Hannah Mines a single, Hayley Mines two singles, Loikits two singles, Grace Lyons a single, and MaShayla White rounded out South Haven's hitting with a single.

On Friday South Haven resumed Wolverine Conference play against Vicksburg, and won the opening contest, 5-3, to give the Bulldogs their first defeat of the season. But, Vicksburg regrouped in the nightcap and won, 7-5.

South Haven travels to Otsego on Tuesday, for the next contest, with an overall record of 16-5.

Boys results:

In baseball action, South Haven split a doubleheader with Vicksburg on Friday, in a Wolverine Conference match up.

The Bulldogs dropped game one to South Haven, 3-2, but dominated in the nightcap with a 20-5 win.

On Tuesday, South Haven fell to Zeeland West in a non-conference double header, 13-10 and 5-0.

The South Haven baseball team will be on the road this week with Otsego on Tuesday, and Sturgis, Friday.



PHOTO: South Haven pitcher Hayley Kreiger gets ready to pitch the ball in the opening game of a doubleheader, Friday, against Vicksburg. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Bangor kickers defeat Hartford and Fennville

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Megan Watkins's two goals led Bangor to a 3-1 over Hartford on a rainy Monday evening this past week in girl's soccer action.

Madi McGuire added another goal in the Viking effort.

"Olivia Moore had a solid night in goal and Laisha Ramirez kept Hartford's leading scorer in check to seal the win," said Bangor coach Dennis Yunke.

The Vikings duplicated Monday's score again on Wednesday, defeating Fennville, 3-1.

McGuire led the Vikings with two goals, while Watkins finished with a goal to help Bangor improve to 7-2-1 for the season.

Bangor will face Watervliet on Monday, and Parchment, Friday.

PHOTO: Abigail Lopez of Hartford and Bangor's Nina Ring battle for the ball Monday night at Viking Stadium.  (Photo by John Madill)



Bangor boys track team wins triangular meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Bangor boy’s track team picked up two Southwestern Athletic Conference victories on Wednesday, after defeating Gobles and Fennville.

Bangor scored 76 points, followed by Gobles with 70 and Fennville with 22 points.

Some of Bangor’s top performances included Alex Martinez at first place in the 400-meter dash (56.18), Justin Smith placed first in the 800 (2:09.74) and 1,600-meter runs (4:52.99). Brothers Carter (2:15.99) and Carson (2:19.71) Finch placed second and third in the 800-meter run to earn more points for Bangor, respectively.

Bangor’s Ben Greiner won the 3,200-meter run (11:11.58) and Brett Robertson swept the hurdle races with times of 16.22 in the 110-meter hurdles and 42.66 in the 300-meter hurdles.

The Vikings dominated in the relays, winning the 4 x 200 (1:37.01), 4 X 400 (3:45.36), and 4 X 800 (8:45.76).

In the field events, Bangor’s Devon Nunn claimed first in the discus with a throw of 105’11 and placed second in the shot put at 36’08.

Girls results

The Lady Vikings placed second in the girls meet with 75 points, behind Gobles in first with 85 points, and Fennville with seven points.

Karyssa Gallegos won the 800-meter run (2:44.81) followed by Logan Slone in second place (2:47.02) for the Bangor tally.

Regan Slone won the 1,600-meter run (6:16.07) and Bangor’s 4 x 100 (56.01) and 4 x 800 (11:09.42) claimed first places.

The Vikings were also strong in the field events with Savana Nunn placing first in the shot put (27’00), Madison Kuenv placed first in the discus (95’04) and second in the shot put (26’08), Abigail Kuenv placed second in the high jump (4’00), and Jamie Allen placed first in the long jump with a leap of 15’00.50.



5.1.17

Rams split doubleheader with Paw Paw

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven's varsity baseball team split a doubleheader with Paw Paw on Tuesday, losing game one and winning the nightcap.

In the opener, the Rams fell to Paw Paw, 2-1, after the game remained tied at 1 until the top of the sixth inning.

South Haven's Quinn Johnson led the Rams' offense with two singles. Jesse Morrison added two singles and one RBI.

For Paw Paw, Jimmy Wressel led with a double and one RBI, and Tyler Pursley and Kyle Downard had a double each. 

South Haven turned the tables and took control of game two, defeating Paw Paw, 8-2. Collin Raczynski recorded the win for the Rams. 

Casey Cooper led the Rams with a double as did Morisson. Nick Gildea contributed a single, double, and two RBIs, and Raczynski finished with a single, double, and two RBIs to round out South Haven’s top hitters.

On Friday, South Haven competed in another conference doubleheader against Edwardsburg and fell in games of 9-2 and 10-3.

South Haven travels to face Zeeland West on Tuesday, before resuming conference play against Vicksburg at home, on Friday.

PHOTO: Casey Cooper of South Haven is safe at home after scoaring the Rams' only run in the opening  game against Paw Paw, Tuesday. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Lady Rams win both games of doubleheader

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven racked up 13 hits in the opening game alone against Paw Paw on Tuesday, en route to winning a Wolverine Conference softball double header.

Hayley Kreiger took the victory for both contests, finishing with four strikeouts to propel South Haven in the 13-0 and 3-2 wins.

In game one, the Rams' Hannah Mines, Frances Lyons, Hayley Mines, Kreiger and Anna Bocock hit two single each. Emily Essmyer added a double to round out the South Haven offensive attack.

For the nightcap, South Haven finished with five hits.

“Big hits by Hannah Mines drove in all 3 runs with a two-run home run in the fourth inning,” stated South Haven coach Wilma Wilson.

“(It was) great defense by the Rams.”

Paw Paw finished with four hits in game two.

South Haven played in a second Wolverine Conference doubleheader on Friday, and ended up splitting with Edwardsburg.

In the opening game, the Rams won 6-4, however the Eddies rallied to claim game two at 9-3.

South Haven stands at 13-4 for the season, and 7-3 in the conference.

Rams golfers compete in jamboree at HawksHead

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Otsego was crowned the overall victor at the Wolverine Conference boy’s golf Jamboree on Monday after scoring 151 points, held at HawksHead course in South Haven.

Plainwell finished in second place with 163, followed be Allegan, 170; Vicksburg, 173; Edwardsburg, 177; Sturgis, 182,;Three Rivers, 186; Paw Paw, 192; South Haven in ninth place with 194; and Dowagiac ,10^th, with 195.

Edwardsburg’s Carter Goodness and Otsego’s Tyler Rayman were the competition’s top golfers after scoring, 34, each.

The South Haven boy’s golf team will competeThursday, at Sauganash Golf Club in Three Rivers.

PHOTO: South Haven golfer Sam Dubuisson tees off at the Wolverine Conference jamboree at HawksHead. (Photo by Tom Renner)

South Haven girls defeat Vicksburg, lose to Plainwell in girls track meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven girl’s track team picked up a win and a loss in a meet on Tuesday evening, in Wolverine Conference action.

Against Vicksburg, the Rams won 65-62, but fell to Plainwell at 70-67.

In the field events, South Haven’s Constance Phillips claimed first place with a throw of 34’03 in the shot put, while teammate Tuwana Dirden finished at second with a personal best throw of 33’00.

Yazmine Hall placed second in the high jump with a leap of 4’10, and Marnie Frost followed in third with a leap of 4’8.

South Haven’s Mikayla Woodard claimed second place in the long jump with a leap of 15’03, and won first place in the 100-meter dash with a 13.66 time.

Phillips clinched her second first place of meet after winning the 200 dash, with a time of 29.1, and Hall followed in second place with a personal best of 29.5.

In the 400-meter dash, Marnie Frost placed second with a time of 1:05.42 and in the 800 with a time of 2:36.8.

For the 1,600-meter run, Cate Frost placed first with a time of 5:34 and Marnie Frost followed at second with a time of 5:35, also a personal best.

Cate Frost added more points for South Haven in the 3,200-meter run, with a time of 12:52.8 for first place.

South Haven also performed well in the relays, and placed first in the 4 X 100 (Woodard, Jordan Taylor, Hall, and Phillips) with a time of 54.42 and in the 4 x 200 relay (Leah Bennett, Phillips, Woodard, Hall) with a time of 1:58.54.

“Overall the team competed well and there were many personal records and seasons bests in every event,” said South Haven coach Lindsay Haqq.

South Haven travels to Three Rivers on Tuesday, to compete against the Bulldogs and Otsego, before competing at the Bangor Invitational, Friday.

Boys results

The South Haven boy’s track team defeated Plainwell 70-66, but lost to Vicksburg, 81-56, on Tuesday, in a Wolverine Conference dual meet.

For the field events, South Haven’s Marcus Guinn threw a personal best of 36’6″ for fourth place and Avarious Farmer threw a 34’8″ for sixth place in the shot put.

Hayden Sardina placed fourth in the discus with a throw of 115’3″ and Arvarious Farmer threw a personal best of 99’03” for sixth place

South Haven’s Kendall Cunningham led with a first place finish in the 100-meter dash, with a time of 11.45, and also placed third in the 200-meter dash (personal best of 23.98), long jump (18’11.75, personal best) and in the high jump (5’8).

Craig Thompson claimed first place in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:09.49, and ran a leg of South Haven’s 4 X 400 team (Edward DeLong, Brian Thompson, Justin Postma, and Thompson) which placed second at 3:45.98.

Craig Thompson also won the 1,600-meter run with a time of 4:50.2, and was followed by teammate Jackson Schooley in second place (4:50.6) to earn more points for the Rams. Schooley won first place in the 3,200-meter run with a time of 10:30.72, which was a personal best.

In the hurdle races, South Haven’s Alex Brantley placed second in the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 18.22 (personal best) and fourth in the 300-meter hurdles (45.72).

South Haven’s 3,200-meter relay team won first place (Brian Thompson, Schooley, Postma, and Thompson) with a time of 8:40.7.

In the 400-meter dash, South Haven finished in succession beginning with Postma in fourth place (56.04) Brian Thompson in fifth (56.14), and Edward DeLong at sixth place (56.97).

4.25.17

Lady Rams split two league doubleheaders

By FARAH GREEN 

For the Tribune

The South Haven softball team split with two conference opponents this past week, picking up two wins and two losses.

On Monday, South Haven started off strong against Three Rivers and claimed the opening contest, 12-3. However, the Wildcats bounced back in the nightcap to win 7-3.

"The double header was a slugfest with South Haven collecting 19 hits and Three Rivers capturing 20 hits," stated South Haven coach Wilma Wilson.

Leading the Rams in game one was Emily Essmyer with two hits, while Hannah and Hayley Mines finished with a double and single each.

"In game two the Rams stranded 11 runners and hit the ball hard, just couldn't find the holes," Wilson said.

Hannah Mines led with a three-run home run, and claimed all RBIs for the contest, while Essmyer, Hayley Kreiger, and Anna Bocock finished with two hits apiece.

On Friday, South Haven split with Dowagiac in a doubleheader, claiming the opener, 4-0, and falling in game two, 3-2.

In earlier action, the Rams shut out all opponents at Otsego's softball tournament, Saturday, April 15, after defeating Kalamazoo Hackett,10-0, Otsego, 16-0, and St. Joseph, 4-0, in the championship bout.

Torie Loikits earned the win in game 1 while Kreiger recorded two wins. 

Hayley Mines led with four singles and a double, while Kreiger added two single and two doubles. Loikits and teammates, Essmyer,  AJ Jeffries, Grace Lyons,  Kiandra Raday and Frances Lyons finished with three hits apiece.

South Haven stands at 10-3 for the season and 4-2 in the conference and is back in action Tuesday against Paw Paw.

PHOTO: South Haven catcher A.J. Jeffries tags out a Three River player during a doubleheader, April 17. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Rams compete in first home track meet of the season

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven boys and track teams each recorded a win and a loss at home against Edwardsburg and Sturgis on Tuesday, in Wolverine Conference action.

In the boys meet, South Haven defeated Edwardsburg, 74-63, but fell to Sturgis by one point, 69-68. Sturgis also defeated Edwardsburg, 89-48. 

South Haven's Caleb Ford placed second in the 200-meter dash with a time of 25.04, reaching his personal record of the season. Kendall Cunningham also represented the Rams in the sprint races, with an 11.77 time in the 100-meter dash, finishing in second place.

For the field events, South Haven's Hayden Sardina led with a first-place throw in discus (124-01) and placed second in the shot put (38-10.). Nate Laskowski set a personal record in the long jump with a leap of 18-02, for second place.

South Haven swept the 800-meter run with Craig Thompson placing first (2:11.60), followed by Jackson Schooley (2:12.80) in second, and Brian Thompson in third (2:13.86).

Schooley also won the mile and two-mile runs with a time of 4:52.85 and 11:13.68. Craig Thompson clinched second place in the two-mile run with a time of 11:28.11.

South Haven's distance team continued to dominate as Postma, brothers Brian and Craig Thompson, and Edward DeLong won first in the mile relay with a time of 3:44.90.

In the girl's contest, South Haven defeated Sturgis 82-55 but fell to  Edwardsburg, 94-43. The Eddies also defeated Sturgis 100-37.

South Haven's Mi'kayla Woodard placed third in the 100-meter dash (personal record of 14.13), and Constance Phillips placed third in the 200-meter dash (29.71).

Marnie Frost sprinted to first place in the 400-meter dash, achieving a personal record of 1:04.49. Frost also won the 800-meter run with a time of 2:30.43 to earn more points for the Rams, while her twin sister Cate Frost secured two first places of her own in the mile (5:55.40) and two mile (12:51.15). 

In the field events, Phillips placed second in the shot put with a throw of 32-11.75 and Tuwana Dirden secured third with a personal record throw of 32-09.50.

Yazmine Hall won the high jump with a leap of 5-0 feet, and Woodard rounded out South Haven's top performances with a first place and personal record in the long jump (15-03.50).

The South Haven track teams are back in action Wednesday, competing at home against Vicksburg and Plainwell.

PHOTOS: South Haven's Hayden Sardina competes in the discus event and won first place during April 18th's track meet. In the other photo South Haven's Kendall Cunningham is edged by Jonathan Sholl in the 100-meter dash. Sholl finished in first place with a time of  11.74, while Cunningham settled for second with a 11.77 finish. (Photos by Tom Renner)

South Haven baseball takes two 1-run games from Dowagiac

By AARON CRIDER

HP Sports Writer

South Haven’s baseball team swept visiting Dowagiac in Friday’s doubleheader, winning both games 4-3. “Both games our pitchers went out and threw strikes,” said South Haven coach Dave McWhinnie. “McCauy Marr has been a workhorse for us. He’s come into quite a few games. Harrison Gargus, he’s a sophomore and this was his second time starting on the mound. He pitched a 78-pitch complete game.” South Haven (7-5) took an early 3-1 lead in game one, but gave up two runs in the fifth inning. But the Rams managed to score another run in the sixth and then hold off the Chieftains for the win.

“We’ve been talking about guys coming out and playing with heart and pride,” said McWhinnie. “We have some things to still clean up, but I think we came out and had some fun.”

Griffin Rooker hit a triple with an RBI, while Quinn Johnson hit two doubles. Dowagiac’s Brenden Dudley had a single and two RBIs.

The Rams trailed 1-0 at the bottom of the third inning in game two, when Bryce Gargus hit a threerun homer.

“We had key at bats at key times,” said McWhinnie. “Bryce had that big home run that really put us up. He’s a senior leader and one of the best hitters for us.”

Casey Cooper had two singles and gave South Haven its other run for game two.

Austin Jones had two doubles and an RBI for Dowagiac, while Zach Heston hit an RBI single. Dudley also had an RBI.

“We’ve been competing with everybody,” said Mc-Whinnie. “We’ve dropped a few games, and we’ve just been trying to figure out what this team is made of. Hopefully tonight we found that out.”

First game

SOUTH HAVEN 4, DOWAGIAC 3

Dowagiac 100 020 0 - 3 1 3 South Haven 120 001 x - 4 8 1 WP - McCauy Marr, LP - Dudley Top hitters - South Haven: Griffin Rooker 3b, RBI; Quinn Johnson 3 2b; Bryce Gargus 2 2b. Dowagiac: Brenden Dudley 1b, 2 RBIs; Collin Hassle RBI; Duan Simpson 2 1b.

Second game

SOUTH HAVEN 4, DOWAGIAC 3

Dowagiac 010 110 0 - 3 5 2 South Haven 003 100 x - 4 7 4 WP - Harrison Gargus, LP - Mack Charles Top hitters - South Haven: Bryce Gargus HR, 2 RBIs; Jesse Morrison 2b; Casey Cooper 2 1b, RBI. Dowagiac: Austin Jones 2 2b, RBI; Zach Heston 1b, RBI; Brenden Dudley 1b, RBI.

Rams kickers improve their record with 3 wins in a row

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven girls’ soccer team had a stellar week, beginning with a victory over Niles Brandywine on Monday, followed by two more victories against Sturgis and Buchanan.

On Monday, the Rams put away Niles Brandywine 5-2. Brynn Murdoch and Katherine Schooley led with two goals each, while teammate Cassidy Rieck scored once. Carolyn Myers was the game’s most unselfish player with three assists.

South Haven kept the momentum going on Wednesday and battled through overtime for a 2-1 victory against Sturgis, a game which opened the Ram’s Wolverine Conference play for the season.

In the first half, Schooley put the Rams on the board first with a score which South Haven held for majority of the contest.

However, the Trojans tied up the game in the second half, and the score remained fixed until regulation time expired, sending the game into overtime.

Neither the Rams nor Sturgis managed to snag a goal in overtime play, thus leading the game to be decided by shoot out. Allison Uckele sunk a final goal for South Haven to claim the win. 

“The star of the game was Maya Insidioso in goal making 21 saves including 5 in the shootout,” South Haven coach Steve Brzezinski said.

Murdoch’s hat-trick propelled South Haven in the team's third victory of the week, Friday, against Buchanan, 4-2.

Myers added another goal in the South Haven offensive effort, and Heidi Debest finished with two assists.

“Carolyn Myers sent a missile into the right top corner for goal four,” Brzezinski said. “All-week defenders Anna Nichols, Allison Uckele, Savannah Ward, and Taylor Vincient put in great effort and played as a cohesive unit.”

 “Strong contributions by the holding midfielders: Heidi DeBest, Claire Herrera, Mikayla Shafer, and Jolie Brower, also aided in the 3 Rams victories,” Brzezinski went on to say.

 The Rams' overall record improves to 4-0-2.

Bangor kickers lose to Hackett, defeat Bridgman

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The Bangor girls soccer team fell to an aggressive Kalamazoo Hackett squad on Monday, in an 8-0 non-conference loss.

"Just 10 minutes into the first half Bangor was down two goals. We made some adjustments and managed to hold Hackett to those two goals until halftime," Bangor coach Dennis Yunke said.

"With our game plan re-stated,  we came out and simply did not execute. The girls played hard,  but were  out-matched by Hackett."

Bangor fell to Hackett last year in the District tournament, after battling through two overtime periods until a 3-2 finish. 

"Hackett is much improved this year and the Vikings are in a rebuilding period,  especially on defense.  Both teams were congratulated for their sportsmanship by the head referee after the game," said Yunke.

On Friday, Bangor recovered with a win over Bridgman, in a 2-1 finish.

PHOTO: Megan Watkins tries to head the ball over to teammate Maritza Barajas Monday night at Bangor High School. (Photo by John Madill)









4.17.17

Bangor girls win SAC Lakeshore double dual

By BEN SANDERS

HP Sports Writer

COLOMA — Bangor’s girls track team has its sights set on a regional title this season.

The Vikings are off to a good start, as they easily defeated Coloma 10435 and Hartford 86-53 in Wednesday’s Southwestern Athletic Conference Lakeshore Division double dual meet. Hartford beat Coloma 89-46. “We’re hoping to take regionals,” Bangor coach Ciera Tomsic said. “That’s our goal. We took second to Berrien Springs last year by seven points. We have more sprinters this year, and that’s where we struggled with Berrien Springs last year.”

Coloma dominated the boys side of the event, defeating Hartford 97-36 and Bangor 87-45. Bangor topped Hartford 7356.

“They performed very well after having a week off for spring break, and then having bad weather and not being able to get outside as much as we would like to,” Coloma coach Jen Ickes said. “Overall their performance was better than I expected.”

Bangor’s girls had strong depth on the track, winning all four relays. Distance runner Regan Slone was an individual standout, winning both the 1600 and 3200. Audrey Hay won both the long jump and 100, and Marlen Barajas took first in the 300 hurdles. Epiphany Parker won the shot put.

“It was a good first race back from spring break with a lot of improvement,” Tomsic said. “We had a couple girls PR in shot and discus. We had our 100 and 200 girls (Hay 

and Victoria London) both improve from the first meet. We had a lot of improvement across the board.”

Coloma’s boys were also strong in relays, winning three of four. Individual event winners for the Comets included Jonah Jones in the shot put and discus, Kobe Hunter in the long jump, Gabe Doggett in the pole vault, Derek Plitt in the 100, and Josh Young in the 400.

Bangor’s boys were led by Brett Robertson, who won both hurdle events with personal best times — 16.88 in the 110 hurdles and 41.43 in the 300 hurdles.

“In both races, he’s got some technique things that we’ve got to iron out,” Bangor coach Ron Markel said. “For him to run a 41 right there already, and it’s not warm out, that’s really, really good. I’m excited about that.”

Justin Smith won both the 1600 and 3200 for the Vikings.

Girls Bangor 104, Coloma 35 Bangor 86, Hartford 53 Hartford 89, Coloma 46 Long jump — Audrey Hay (B) 13-9 1/2; discus — Amber Martin (H) 99-8; shot put — Epiphany Parker (B) 29-8; pole vault — Janell Babcock (H) 7-3; high jump — Amber Martin (H) no height given; 3200 relay — Bangor (Alex Vorva, Regan Slone, Karyssa Gallegos, Logan Slone) 11:28.4; 100 hurdles — Brynn Duffy (H) no time given; 100 — Audrey Hay (B) 13.74; 800 relay — Bangor 1:59.65; 1600 — Regan Slone (B) 6:19.57; 400 relay — Bangor (Marlen Barajas, Victoria London, Nikki Brunn, Jamie Allen) 56.57; 400 — Marisol Robles (H) 1:10.4; 300 hurdles — Marlen Barajas (B) 55.42; 800 — Karyssa Gallegos (B) 2:58.4; 200 — Marissa Sherburn (C) 29.19; 3200 — Regan Slone (B) 13:47.79; 1600 relay — Bangor 4:57.25.

Boys Coloma 97, Hartford 36 Coloma 87, Bangor 45 Bangor 73, Hartford 56 Long jump — Kobe Hunter (C) 16-6 1/2; discus — Jonah Jones (C) 130-9; shot put — Jonah Jones (C) 39-8; pole vault — Gabe Doggett (C) 10-6; high jump — Riley Traver (H) 5-8; 3200 relay — Coloma (Kobe Hunter, Josh Young, Caleb Ellis, Greg Olsen) 8:52; 110 hurdles — Brett Robertson (B) 16.88; 100 — Derek Plitt (C) 11:03; 800 relay — Coloma (Caleb Ellis, Sin’cere Taylor, Zane Lute, Derek Plitt) 1:38.27; 1600 — Justin Smith (B) 4:55.45; 400 relay — Hartford 49.28; 400 — Josh Young (C) 52.34; 300 hurdles — Brett Robertson (B) 41.43; 800 — Carson Finch (B) 2:17.77; 200 — Brett Robertson (B) 24.01; 3200 — Justin Smith (B) 10:43.8; 1600 relay — Coloma 3:39.77.

PHOTO: Bangor's Regan Slone anchors and wins the 3,200 meter relay during Wednesday's double dual track meet at Coloma High School. (Photo by Don Campbell of the Herald-Palladium)

Rams shut out Lawrence, 10-0

South Haven's Brynn Murdock kicks the ball during a soccer match against Lawrence Wednesday, April 12. The Rams easily defeated the Tigers 10-0, in a mercy ruling. Claire Herrera and Angela Ponce each scored two goals, while Murdock, Katherine Schooley, Heidi DeBest, Jolie Brower, Savannah Ward and Carolyn Meyer each scored a goal. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Bangor kicks notch two more victories

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Bangor girl's soccer team added two more wins to its record this past week, after facing non-conference opponents.

On Tuesday, Bangor shut out Schoolcraft 8-0  after scoring five goals in the first half, and the remaining in the second.

Madi McGuire and Megan Watkins led with a hat trick each, while Janet Ibarra followed up with two goals to make eight all together for the mercy rule win, ending the game with 15 minutes remaining.

"Schoolcraft is in a rebuilding year as they lost 9 seniors from last year.  Bangor has lost the last two years to Schoolcraft so this win was very welcome and deserved," said Bangor coach Dennis Yunke.

"Nods from the coaching staff go out to Jennifer Garcia and Summer Torres for some unexpected solid play from the freshmen defenders,” Yunke went on to say. “Our defensive mid (fielders) kept the ball over the midfield line with help from the M & M girls, Madi and Megan, so the pressure was on the Schoolcraft defense the entire contest."

On Thursday, Bangor clinched its third win of the season over Dowagiac, in a 6-0 finish.

The Vikings led at 2-0 by halftime, after two goals from Ibarra.

Martiza Barajas  then followed up with two goals of her own in the second half, and 

Watkins scored two as well, assisted by Ibarra and Gisella Lorenzo to seal the 6-0 win.

Bangor improves to 3-0-1 for the season, and will face Kalamazoo Hackett at home, Monday. 



Lady Rams shut out Plainwell Trojans

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven's softball team had no trouble at all with Plainwell on Thursday, as was apparent in their 12-0 and 17-0 victories.

The Rams put away the Trojans in five innings in both games, and were led by the pitching styling of Hayley Kreiger in game one.

Kreiger struck out 10 batters for the evening, while freshman Torie Loikits got some experience on the mound, and finished off both games.

South Haven tallied a whopping 31 hits, while Plainwell managed only six.

Hannah Mines led the Rams with seven hits, including two home runs, two doubles, and a triple. Kreiger chipped in five hits with one home run, and Hayley Mines added six hits with two doubles.

South Haven's Emily Essmyer had four hits with two doubles.

"Leadoff hitter Frances Lyons was on base every at bat with 5 walks and 3 hits," said South Haven coach Wilma Wilson. 

"Loikits came off the bench and punched 3 hits including a double."

South Haven improves to 5-1 on the season and 2-0 in the Wolverine Conference.

Trojans defeat Rams baseball team

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Plainwell coasted to a victory in the opening contest against South Haven, in boy's baseball action Friday, and also clinched the nightcap by a run.

In game one, the Trojans shut out South Haven, 15-0 over three innings. Plainwell's Hunter Nielson took the win, and also contributed a single, double, and three RBIs. 

Ben Gernaat contributed a single, triple, and three RBIs, and teammate Jeremy VanOosterum finished with a single, triple, and two RBI for the Trojan offense.

For the Rams, Bryce Gargus led with a double.

In game two South Haven fell to Plainwell, 7-6 ,over seven innings. Nielson recorded the win again for the Trojans.

South Haven's Jesse Morrison led with a single, double, and three RBIs. and Colin Raczynski smacked two singles. 

South Haven faces Three Rivers on Monday, and Dowagiac on Friday, both games at home.

4.10.17

SH baseball player gets ready to play at Lourdes University

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

A catcher for South Haven's varsity baseball team will be taking his game up a notch after graduation.

Senior Bryce Gargus recently signed a letter of intent to play baseball for Lourdes University in Sylvania Ohio.

The Gray Wolves compete in the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference, which consists of 12 universities and colleges in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, including Aquinas College, Davenport University and Cornerstone University, all in Grand Rapids, and University of Michigan-Dearborn.

“We've seen him play behind the plate, he's got a good arm,” said Phillip Dysard, assistant coach for Lourdes baseball team. “He embodies everything that we're looking for.”

Gargus has played on the Rams' varsity baseball team since his sophomore year. Last year, as a junior, he racked up a .301 batting average with 8 doubles, two triples, a homerun and 20 RBIs. On defense he threw out eight runners as a catcher. His accomplishments during his junior year earned him All-Conference honorable mention.

Gargus also has played travel ball for the past six years. Last year he played for the West Michigan Diamond Jax and plans to do so again this summer.

“Bryce has always been a hard worker with a goal to play college baseball,” said Rams varsity baseball coach Dave McWhinnie. “He has been flexible in playing wherever we needed him on the field over the last couple years. His love of the game, strong work ethic and skill set have helped him reach his goal.  We are very proud of him and look forward to seeing him do great things at Lourdes University.”

Gargus checked out several schools before settling on Lourdes.

“Out of all the schools I considered, I got the best feeling about Lourdes after talking to the coaches and players,” Gargus said.

Although he would love to be a professional baseball player someday, Gargus still remains focused on doing well academically in college..

“My main goal is to get a good education,” said Gargus, who plans to pursue a major either in business management or architectural design.

PHOTO: South Haven High School senior Bryce Gargus (center) signs a letter of intent to play baseball at Lourdes University next year. From left are Rams baseball coach Dave McWhinnie, Bryce's parents Rochelle and Tim Gargus and Lourdes University assistant baseball coch Philip Dysaard. (Tribune photo)

Bangor senior signs to play volleyball for KVCC

A Bangor High School senior will be playing for Kalamazoo Valley Community College's volleyball team in the fall.

Olivia Moore has signed a letter of intent to play for KVCC's team.

Her coach, Doug Jones, was there for the signing.

“As a team captain, Olivia earned the respect and admiration of her teammates,” Jones said. “She has a wonderful ability to speak her mind or make suggestions for improvement without the slightest trace of frustration or disrespect. She also helped organize team fund-raising events.”

Moore, who is the daughter of Shannon and Kathy Moore, has played on the Vikings varsity volleyball team for the past two years. In 2016 she led the team in kills (209) and blocks (45). During the off season she plays club volleyball, most recently for Peak Performance.

In addition to playing volleyball, Moore is also has played basketball and soccer for Bangor. She is also active in other activities at school. She is a member of the Future Farmers of America, treasurer of the student council and has been a member of the Hispanic Student Association, 4-H and band.

PHOTO: Bangor High School senior Olivia Moore is shown this past week after signing a letter of intent to play volleyball at Kalamazoo Valley Community College in the fall. Sitting from left are Jennifer Buikema, KVCC volleyball coach and Moore. Standing from left are Mary Spade, Bangor athletic director, and Doug Jones, Bangor varsity volleyball coach.

4.3.17

Lady Vikings run to victory over Panthers

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

In girl's track  competition on Wednesday, Bangor clinched its first conference win of the season in a 71-56 finish over Watervliet.

Bangor's performance was strong in the field events, which led to an early lead after throwers Epiphany Parker, Essence Shelton, and Madison Kueny took 5 out of 6 places in shot put and discus.

Audrey Hay and Jamie Allen took first and second place in the long jump to rack in more Viking points.

"On the track we had a lot of success as well,” said Bangor Coach Cierra Quinn. “Victoria London and Audrey Hay finished third and fourth in the 100 (meter dash). Abigial Kueny and Alex Vorva went 2 and 3 in the 400 (meter dash)."

The Vikings swept the 200-meter dash, with Victoria London leading the pack in first, followed by Davi Fletcher and Breanna Hecht.

Karyssa Gallegos placed second in the 800-meter run and Logan Slone finished in second place in the 3200-meter run. Bangor ended up winning all of the relays for the meet.

In the boys meet, Bangor fell to Watervliet after the Panthers accumulated 77 points in the win.

"We are a small, but talented team and as we continue to press in and learn how to sacrifice for each other, the results are only going to get better," said Bangor coach Ron Markel.

"We are not content to settle for average."

In the sprint events, the Vikings' Chris Steward finished first in the 100-meter dash with a time of 12.1, while Carson Finch won the 400-meter dash in 55 seconds.

In the mile, Justin Smith placed first with a 4:48 time, followed by Alvaro Martinez with a 5:00 finish.

Carson Finch claimed the 400-meter dash in 55 seconds while Brett Robertson won the 110 and 300 hurdles. 

"Congrats also go out to Lakyius Lawson, Colby Petranek, Melvin Jeffries and Alvaro Martinez for scoring their first varsity points," said Markel.

"Our field events overall, are a work in progress. We are going to continue to move forward and work to change our best."

PHOTOS: Bangor's Marlen Barajas competes in the 100-meter hurdles Wednesday at Watervliet High School. On the left is Emma Yazel of Watervliet. In the other photo, Bangor's Colby Petranek competes in the high jump Wednesday at Watervliet High School. (Photos by John Madill)

Bangor, South Haven soccer match ends in a 4-4 tie

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The Bangor kickers tied with South Haven, 4-4 on Monday, in non-conference girl's soccer action.

The Rams took the early lead after a goal from Carolyn Meyer. Bangor's Maggie McGuire then scored to tie the contest.

A South Haven handball then awarded Bangor a penalty kick opportunity, which allowed McGuire to score again, giving the Vikings a 2-1 lead by halftime.

"The second half belonged to the Rams despite Janet Ibarra's two goals that did give us the 4-2 lead,  but the Viking defense tired and the Rams came storming back with three goals of their own to win the half and send both teams home with a tie," said Bangor coach Dennis Yunke.

Bangor had 18 shots on goal to South Haven's 14, and Viking keeper Olivia Moore notched 14 saves.

"It was an evenly matched game and an exciting game as both teams hustled throughout," Yunke said.

PHOTO: Taylor Watkins of Bangor tries to reach the ball before South Haven's Caroline Meyer. (Photo by John Madill)

South Haven track teams off to a good start

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven softball team picked up a split with the St. Joseph Bears on Wednesday, after falling, 2-0 in the opening, but bouncing back to take the nightcap, 8-2.

In the opening contest, the Bears scored in the fourth and sixth innings en route to the 2-0, non-conference win.

For the Rams, Frances Lyons, Anna Bocock, Hannah Mines each had a single for the offensive effort.

South Haven found its rhythm and turned the tables in game two, propelled by Kiandra Raday's hitting.

"The blowing crush in game 2 was a grand slam in the second inning off the bat of senior outfielder Kiandra Raday," South Haven coach Wilma Wilson said. "Both games saw good pitching and some timely hitting. "

In the nightcap, the Rams scored four runs in the second inning, and two runs in both the third and sixth innings.

South Haven's Hayley Kreiger recorded the win from the pitching mound, striking out seven batters and also hitting a single.

Lyons and Bocock had singles each, while Mines finished with a single and double. Raday led with a grand slam home run, which produced four RBIs.

South Haven (3-1) resumes its schedule after Spring Break on April 14 against Plainwell, followed by Three Rivers on April 17.

In its opening games of the season, South Haven racked up 26 hits in its 16-0 and 12-1 victories over Hartford. 

"(We) came out swinging and playing great defense behind strong pitching. The gals put up 26 hits to Hartford's 3. Junior Hayley Kreiger picked up both wins and was perfect at the plate going 6 for 6 with 2 singles, 2 doubles, and 2 home runs," said Wilson.

"Junior Haley Mines hit two home runs as well in game 2. Freshman Torie Loikits pitched one inning in both games and gave up 1 run and 2 hits. "

In game one, South Haven shut out Hartford 16-0 and had 12 hits with no errors.

Frances. Lyons tallied two singles, Krieger a single, double, and home run, Bocock had three singles, Olivia Ellis, Loikits, G. Lyons, and Emily Essmyer all notched a single apiece.

In the 12-1 nightcap win for the Rams, Lyons and Essmyer contributed a double, Kreiger had a single, double and home run, Bocock, Hannah Mines, Grace Lyons, and Jeffries all hit singles, Haley Mines had a single and two home runs, and Ellis finished with a single and double.

South Haven (3-1) resumes its schedule after Spring Break on April 13 against Plainwell, then plays at home against Three Rivers on April 17. 

Rams' second base player Quinn Johnson tags out a St. Joseph player who was  trying to steal second base during a doubleheader last Wednesday. Also pictured is Rams' shortstop Casey Cooper providing backup. St. Joe ended up winning both games. (Photo by Tom Renner)

South Haven tennis team No. 1 singles player Allie Parmley competes in a tennis match against Dowagiac this past Tuesday. (Photo by Tom Renner).

South Haven softball team splits doubleheader with St. Joseph

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven softball team picked up a split with the St. Joseph Bears on Wednesday, after falling, 2-0 in the opening, but bouncing back to take the nightcap, 8-2.

In the opening contest, the Bears scored in the fourth and sixth innings en route to the 2-0, non-conference win.

For the Rams, Frances Lyons, Anna Bocock, Hannah Mines each had a single for the offensive effort.

South Haven found its rhythm and turned the tables in game two, propelled by Kiandra Raday's hitting.

"The blowing crush in game 2 was a grand slam in the second inning off the bat of senior outfielder Kiandra Raday," South Haven coach Wilma Wilson said. "Both games saw good pitching and some timely hitting. "

In the nightcap, the Rams scored four runs in the second inning, and two runs in both the third and sixth innings.

South Haven's Hayley Kreiger recorded the win from the pitching mound, striking out seven batters and also hitting a single.

Lyons and Bocock had singles each, while Mines finished with a single and double. Raday led with a grand slam home run, which produced four RBIs.

South Haven (3-1) resumes its schedule after Spring Break on April 14 against Plainwell, followed by Three Rivers on April 17.

In its opening games of the season, South Haven racked up 26 hits in its 16-0 and 12-1 victories over Hartford. 

"(We) came out swinging and playing great defense behind strong pitching. The gals put up 26 hits to Hartford's 3. Junior Hayley Kreiger picked up both wins and was perfect at the plate going 6 for 6 with 2 singles, 2 doubles, and 2 home runs," said Wilson.

"Junior Haley Mines hit two home runs as well in game 2. Freshman Torie Loikits pitched one inning in both games and gave up 1 run and 2 hits. "

In game one, South Haven shut out Hartford 16-0 and had 12 hits with no errors.

Frances. Lyons tallied two singles, Krieger a single, double, and home run, Bocock had three singles, Olivia Ellis, Loikits, G. Lyons, and Emily Essmyer all notched a single apiece.

In the 12-1 nightcap win for the Rams, Lyons and Essmyer contributed a double, Kreiger had a single, double and home run, Bocock, Hannah Mines, Grace Lyons, and Jeffries all hit singles, Haley Mines had a single and two home runs, and Ellis finished with a single and double.

South Haven (3-1) resumes its schedule after Spring Break on April 13 against Plainwell, then plays at home against Three Rivers on April 17. 





3.27.17

Headed for home

South Haven's softball team cheers on teammate Hayley Kreiger as she runs to home plate after hitting her second homerun in a doubleheader against Hartford, Thursday. Kreiger was also the winning pitcher in both games, which the Rams won easily, 16-0, 12-1. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Rams win both ends of doubleheader against Indians

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven varsity baseball team opened the season with a non-conference double header against Hartford on Thursday, and finished with two victories.

In the opener, the Rams scored two runs in the second inning, and added one in both the third and fourth innings en route to a 4-1 win over Hartford.

Quinn Johnson took the win for South Haven, and chipped in a single and two RBI. Nick Gildea added a single for South Haven, and Griffin Rooker finished with a double.

For the nightcap, South Haven defeated Hartford at 3-2. At the start, Hartford took the early lead after scoring two runs in the first innings, while South Haven brought in one.

However, it would be the last time Hartford would score for the duration of five innings, while South Haven added another run in the second and third innings to lock in the victory.

South Haven’s Bryce Gargus recorded the win from the pitching mound and also had one single. Gildea, Colin Raczynski, and McCauy Marr had a single each, while Harrison Gargus finished with a RBI for the Rams effort.

Hartford was led by Jake Griffith with a single and RBI.

Next, South Haven (2-0) will compete in another non-conference game against St. Joseph, Wednesday, at home.

Bangor kickers shut out Covert in season opener

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The Bangor girl’s soccer team started off the season, Wednesday, with a decisive shutout against Covert, 8-0.

“As is normal with new teams they will struggle this first season.  Covert held no surprises,” said Bangor coach Dennis Yunke.

“Despite a slow start and a discombobulated first half, the Vikings led at the break 2-0.”

Bangor extended its lead in the second half after a six-goal scoring streak, which was sparked by a 20-yard shot to the goal from Madi McGuire.

The game ended due to the mercy rule with four minutes remaining on the clock.

For the Vikings, McGuire led with two goals, while Maritza Barajas, Brenda Garcia, Jocelyn Ponce, Laisha Ramirez, Nina Ring, and Taylor Watkins scored a goal each.

“Balanced scoring, lights-out defense and a game ball worthy performance Madi McGuire was the story of the game,” Yunke said.

Bangor (1-0) plays at home again on Monday, against South Haven.

3.20.17

Rams' Larry Ash named Wolverine league's Coach of the Year

Joe Wilkins earns All-Conference honor

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

At the start of the basketball season, South Haven varsity coach Larry Ash couldn't have envisioned the season would be filled with such extreme high and low points.

After losing five players due to sexual assault allegations, South Haven went on to win the Wolverine Conference title which is a feat that hasn't been done in 20 years.

The team's accomplishment at the tournament helped win Ash Wolverine Coach of the Year honors, while senior Joe Wilkins — who played a pivotal role in the conference championship game against Three Rivers — was named an All-Conference player. Teammate Caleb Ford was also chosen Honorable Mention.

"I thought Rick Mitchell (Paw Paw's coach) did a real great job this year, so that's who my vote went towards,” Ash said. “But I was surprised, I was trying to hold in my emotions. It's a great honor, and it's the first time it's ever happened in all this time I've been coaching."

Ash said that he really wanted to give credit to Jamin Olds, South Haven's previous coach who was the catalyst in his hiring as head coach.

"Here's a guy, who I just went to lunch with. I went with him and the superintendent, who said 'Look, this is his (Jamin's) call.' You know, I'm over there in a suit, and they're chuckling, because I came over in a suit in July. So they asked me, 'what do you think about coaching?' And I said yeah, and they gave me the keys right then," Ash said.

"After I got the award, I thanked the Lord and everyone else, that's where one of my first thought's went — to Jamin because he gave me the opportunity. I think this award has a lot to do with him because he had confidence in me and one thing that I didn't want to do was let him down."

Ash began his coaching career in 1990 at Plainwell, as a varsity assistant, and then moved on to the JV program. Thereafter, Ash became the varsity girls and boys basketball coach at Plainwell before being hired as the boys coach in Covert two years ago. 

Coaching this year's Rams basketball team was tough and the conference championship came as a bitter sweet victory, Ash acknowledged.

"This was a team that needed more self-discipline more than my discipline. The shirts that I bought for them this season said on the back 'are you living above the line or below the line?' If you're above the line then your integrity and your character shine more than anything, and don't do anything to embarrass the program," Ash said

"I knew this team had the talent — we had the talent to be where Benton Harbor is right now. But, did we have the discipline to do that? We focused on being a student first, then an athlete second, and that was more of the job this season. I really think we had state championship team this year. I really did."

Ash anticipates that his team will be strong next season, and has some up and coming talent.

"I think we'll be really good next year too,” he said. “ We have a lot of kids in the program that are really positive, but what we're really working on now is that the kids keep their grades up. We had a lot of problems with eligibility this year. So that's something we're focusing on."

South Haven finished the season with a record of 8-1 in the Wolverine Conference and an overall record of 15-7.

PHOTO: South Haven varsity basketball coach Larry Ash is shown talking to his players during the 2015-16 season. (Tribune file photo)

3.13.17

Rams' basketball season comes to an end

Benton Harbor wins district championship

By BEN SANDERS

HP Sports Writer

COLOMA — Benton Harbor coach Corey Sterling described the second quarter of Friday’s Class B district final against South Haven as “a poker match”. His Tigers were holding all the cards. Benton Harbor held the ball near halfcourt for most of the second period, but dominated the other three quarters on its way to a 59-30 victory and its third district title in four seasons. The Tigers were knocked off by Dowagiac in district play last season.

“It’s a relief, especially the way we went out last year,” Sterling said. “I always tell my guys ‘If you want to be state champs, you’ve got be local champs first.’ We came out, we had a good game plan, and we executed.”

Benton Harbor (19-3) advances to the regional to play Battle Creek Harper Creek at 5:30 p.m. Monday at Allegan. South Haven finishes 15-7.

Shawn Hopkins led Benton Harbor with 15 points and five steals, Roy Anderson scored 14 and Carlos Johnson added 10 points and 12 rebounds. Anderson had eight first-quarter points as the Tigers jumped ahead 21-8.

“We knew if we didn’t come out and play, it was going to be over with,” Anderson said. “We’ve got to go to get back to state, so we knew that we just had to come out and play.”

With the score 21-9 early in the second quarter, Benton Harbor point guard Elijah Baxter stayed near halfcourt dribbling the ball. South Haven opted not to leave its zone to guard him, grinding play to a halt for most of the period.

Hopkins and Johnson each had two fouls at the time.

“Shawn Hopkins and Carlos were in foul trouble, so I wanted to at least get them to the second half,” Sterling said. “They stayed in the zone being down 12 points, so it played into our benefit.”

South Haven coach Larry Ash was OK with having a break from the Tigers’ attack.

“They’re the best team,” Ash said. “We aren’t going to be the aggressor going out there and chasing them. They’re doing what they want to do with us anyway. What we wanted to do was keep the game close, and hopefully in the fourth quarter we’re down five or six and maybe we can do something with them.”

Benton Harbor went back to running its offense near the two-minute mark, and after a missed shot, South Haven’s Jaylin Fox hit a 3-pointer at the other end to cut the score to 2112.

The Tigers then resumed their stall, playing for the last shot of the half, which turned out to be a missed 3-pointer by Baxter.

“We were thinking ‘We’re up, so why not come out and guard us?’” Anderson said. “But I guess that was their game plan. It was good for us. We knew we’d go into the half still up.

“But we’d rather get out and run. We play best when we run.”

The Tigers resumed running in the third quarter, opening the period with a 9-0 spurt to take total control of the game.

Johnson had four points, five rebounds and a blocked shot during that stretch.

Jesse Morrison led South Haven with 10 points and Caleb Ford added nine. The Rams made just seven field goals, but were able to get to the basket and draw fouls, making 14 of 23 free throws.

“We wanted to challenge the big man (Johnson),” Ash said. “You don’t have much coming if you run from their strength all the time.

“We were so impatient. We had to be patient.”

South Haven was playing in its third game since five players were dismissed from the team after being charged with statutory rape. The Rams beat Three Rivers for the Wolverine Conference championship and then topped Berrien Springs in the district semifinal.

Ash credited his three remaining seniors — Morrison, Joe Wilkins and Kendall Cunningham — for keeping the team together.

“I think it says more about the program,” Ash said. “I think it says more about being proud to be a South Haven Ram. They could’ve wilted, they could’ve sat back and said ‘We can’t do this’ but they didn’t. That’s what senior leadership is all about.”

PHOTOS: South Haven's Caleb Ford (14), top photo, is shown trying to make a layup during Friday's game. In the other photo, teammate Jesse Morrison (24) is under pressure by two Benton Harbor players. (Photos by John Madill)

Bangor's Kozel earns state wrestling championship

Villalobos named All-State wrestler

As a senior, Devon Kozel knew he had one last chance to win a state wrestling title, and he did it, March 4 at the Division 4 state wrestling tournament.

Kozel decisioned Nick Cooper of Springport to return home with the 215-pound state championship and All-State honors.

For Bangor wrestling coach Dennis Paquette, Kozel's victory was a moment to relish.

“I have known Devon since the day he was born,” Paquette said. “Devon is a four-time state qualifier, three-time state placer, two-time finalist, and now the state champion.”

Kozel's victory at the state tournament marks the third time Bangor has had a state champion wrestler under Paquette's leadership.

“Levon Mock won in 2004 and Darrick Parker won in 2006,” Paquette said.

Kozel's victory at the state level didn't surprise Paquette at all.

Devon has been ranked No. 1 in the state all season,” Paquette said. “He wrestled Nick Coope, his finals opponent, three previous times this year and won all three times.”

Kozel had to get by three other wrestlers to make it to the championship match. He faced Gabe Stern of Roscommon in the opening match and pinned him in 45 seconds. He then earned a major decision, 18-6, over Austin Popp of Clinton. During his third match, he pinned Caleb Bangerter of Blissifled in 49 seconds to advance to the championship round, where he defeated Cooper, 9-3.

This year marked the third time Kozel has made it to the state wrestling finals. As a sophomore he placed fourth and as a junior improved by earning runner-up honors in the 215 weight class.

Another Viking wrestler, Daniel Villalobos, also took home All-State honors after finishing seventh in the state wrestling tournament.

Wrestling in the 103 weight class, Villalobos started the tournament by losing to Zachary Goss of Vasser. The loss put him in the consolation bracket where he regrouped and defeated Coleton Fredrickson of Mancelona. He then decisioned Cameron Demory of Mio to come up against Drew Gebhardt of Manchester, whom he decisioned 4-2 to finish seventh.





Justin Postma of South Haven competes in the preliminary round of the 200 IM during the Class B state swim meet, Friday, in Holland. (Photo by Tom Renner)



Jackson Schooley of South Haven competes in the preliminary round of the 500-yard freestyle race during the Class B state swim meet, Friday, in Holland. (Photo by Tom Renner)

South Haven swimmers earn all-conference honors

Postma, Schooley compete at state meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven swim team had a solid season this year with several athletes receiving all-conference status. 

Following the conference meet, all-league honors went to South Haven's 200 medley relay team of Justin Postma, Jordan Lucas, Jackson Schooley and Craig Thompson.

Postma was also all-conference in the 200 IM and 100 backstroke (4th place), while Schooley was all-conference in the 5-meter diving (7th place) and 500 freestyle race (6th place), which also qualified him for the state meet. 

South Haven's Jordan Lucas placed 8th in the 100 yard breaststroke, while the 400 relay team of Postma, Lucas, Thompson, and Schooley placed 7th to receive all-conference status.

In the consolation finals, the Rams' 200 medley relay team of Joe Nelson, Brian Thompson, Vance Locker and Nick Postema finished at 14th place.

In the individual events Jordan Lucas placed 9th in the 200 freestyle, Vance Locker finished at 16th in 200 IM and 15th in the  100 butterfly. South Haven's Demetri Zobro-Taft placed 16th in the five-meter diving.

The 200 freestyle relay team of Nelson, Postema, Thompson and Locker finished at 12th to round out the South Haven's performances.

"We finished 7th overall in the meet, an improvement over last year," said South Haven coach Mike Erickson.

"Craig Thompson  (50 and 100 free), Brian Thompson (50 free and 100 breast), Joe Locker (100 back), Nick Postema (50 and 100 free), Brandon Jonatzke (200 and 100 free) and Elian Garcia all swam personal bests in their events in this meet also."

South Haven's Justin Postma (200 intermediate) and Jackson Schooley (500 freestyle) competed at the State competition this past weekend, at the Holland Aquatic Center.

Postma finished 29^th in the preliminary round, while Schooley placed 33^rd.



3.6.17

South Haven overcomes the odds

Rams win their first Wolverine Conference championship in 20 years

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Nobody thought they could do it with five of their players missing, but the South Haven varsity basketball team clinched the Wolverine Conference championship, Thursday, marking the first time a Rams team has earned the honor in two decades. The last time the Rams earned a league title was 1997.

The Rams traveled to Three Rivers to face the host Wildcats and won in a close 60-57 finish, and they did so without five of their starters who were forced to sit out the game after being charged with sexual assault allegations against a minor. The criminal charges came two days before the conference championship.

"Before the game we talked about how we have to put things behind us and focus on the job at hand,” said Rams Coach Larry Ash. “We had to get our enthusiasm back and motivation back and walk into this game on a high note because nobody was expecting us to win, nobody was expecting a good game even."

With the loss of players Caskadara Smith, Darion Gist, Cameron Watkins and DaShaan and Demari Palmer, Ash moved up several JV players to fill the void.

"We didn't have anything to lose so we could play as reckless as we wanted to play because no one was expecting us to win,” Ash said. “We were hoping that they would take us lightly because we didn't have our starters with us."

Whether the Wildcats took the Rams seriously or not, South Haven's team rose to the occasion and tipped the scales to earn the title.

Caleb Ford, a junior, led the Rams with 26 points while senior Joe Wilkins followed up with 22 points.

"Guys that didn't get to play before stepped up — it makes me wonder if I am a good coach or not because these guys really put on a show,” Ash said. “Jalen Smith and Griffin Rooker (junior forwards) played the entire game, and we couldn't have done it without them."

Ash went on to say that after the game he received a coach from Ken Dietz, who was South Haven's basketball coach in 1997 when the team won the league championship.

“He said 'you did something that hasn't been done in 20 years, and not only that but you dealt with adversity in a big way,' Ash said. “We talked about the banner, because there is a banner up there with that team because if you're going to go down in history you don't want them to remember the negative parts of us. 

“We want them to remember the positive parts of us, we overcame. No matter what happens going forward, we overcame. And it took a special group of guys to step and make everybody realize that the Rams are still alive.

With the league title in their hands, the Rams will now move into post season play this week to face Coloma Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. In the Class B District tournament. The winner of t hat contest will face the victor of the Stevensville Lakeshore-Berrien Springs matchup.

"No matter what happens going forward we overcame,” Ash said. “And it took a special group of guys to step up and go forward and make everybody realize that the Rams are still alive. This team really listened to me tonight."

Coloma holds off South Haven in district opener; Lakeshore beats Berrien Springs

By BEN SANDERS

HP Sports Writer

BERRIEN SPRINGS — Coloma’s girls basketball team let a 15-point lead slip away in Monday’s Class B girls basketball district opener, but still hung on to beat South Haven 37-35. “We gutted it out,” Coloma coach Fred Paulsen said. “It’s the first time the girls in Coloma have won a district game in I don’t know how long. I told them just before we came out, ‘Let’s have a reason to practice tomorrow.’ So now we’ve got our reason and we’ll go from there.”

Defending champion Lakeshore beat Berrien Springs 73-28 in the opening game of the doubleheader. Lakeshore advances to play Benton Harbor at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, with Coloma meeting Buchanan at 7:30.

Coloma (10-11) never trailed and led 25-10 early in the third quarter. South Haven (4-17) responded with an 8-0 run to cut the margin to sevenat the end of the third, then tied the game in the fourth on a pair of free throws by Frances Lyons.

“I think their intensity went up, and we didn’t match it,” Paulsen said. “You’ve got to give them credit for putting the pressure on us, and us not handling it very well.”

Lyons finished with 22 points and 12 rebounds, both game highs.

“She came out knowing she had to be a big contributor on both ends, offensively and defensively, and she did it tonight,” South Haven coach Joey Holland said. “I’m really proud of how she played tonight.”

Coloma took the lead back on a pair of free throws by Kayla Yore, and South Haven didn’t score again until a putback at the buzzer by Lyons. Yore finished with 10 points.

Morgan Wagner led Coloma with 20 points, including nine in the fourth quarter to help the Comets hold on.

“She’s our glue,” Paulsen said. “She’s the one that can make plays. We don’t have a lot of basketball playmakers, but she’s good enough to make them.”

Coloma led just 12-8 after one quarter, but outscored South Haven 10-0 in the second. The Comets frequently were able to turn backdoor cuts into easy layups.

“We went into this knowing what they do,” Holland said. “We know they run those backdoor cuts. We still weren’t executing the way were supposed to be. It kind of put us in that huge deficit.

“Second half, I was really proud. They stepped up. We definitely turned on the pressure defensively with our press, and started communicating on defense. We started rebounding which we didn’t do in the first half.”

Lakeshore (16-5) got off to a slow start and led Berrien Springs (7-12) just 2115 in the second quarter. The Lancers closed the half on a 10-2 run, however, and then outscored the Shamrocks 42-11 in the second half.

PHOTO: Coloma's Megan Koenigshof tries to push her way past South Haven's Cate Frost during the District opener last Monday. (Photo by Ron DeKett)

2 South Haven swimmers qualify for state meet

South Haven swimmer Justin Postma will be traveling to the Michigan High School Athletic Association's swim meet this weekend to compete in the 200-yard IM. The meet will be at the Holland Aquatic Center. (Photo by Tom Renner)

South Haven swimmer Jackson Schooley will be traveling to the Michigan High School Athletic Association's state swim meet  this weekend to compete in the 500-yard freestyle. The meet will be at the Holland Aquatic Center. (Photo by Tom Renner)

2.27.17

South Haven wins North Division title

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven narrowly lost to Benton Harbor, 53-50, this past Tuesday, but they got over their disappointment quickly to defeat Plainwell, 48-44, Friday, to clinch the Wolverine Conference North Division title.

It marks the second year in a row South Haven has won the North Division championship.

The Rams will now face South Division champs Three Rivers, Thursday, for the league title.

The Wildcats defeated South Haven earlier this season, 61-54. But the Rams have steadily improved since then. Thursday's showdown will be at 7:15 p.m. at Three Rivers.

South Haven hasn't won a Wolverine Conference title in 20 years, not since 1997's team, which was recently honored during half time at the Rams' home game a few weeks ago.

During Friday's game, the Trojans took the early lead,11-3, in the first quarter after South Haven had a shaky start due to turnovers and several starters sitting out for being tardy for practice.

However, the Rams rallied throughout the game to chop down Plainwell's lead, including a 17-7 scoring advantage by the final quarter to claim the win.

DaShaan Palmer led South Haven with 14 points and was perfect from the free throw line at 6 for 6. Caskadara Smith and Joe Wilkins followed with 10 points each for the South Haven effort. Wilkins also went 6 for 7 from the charity stripe.

The Rams's record now stands at 13-6.

PHOTO: Benton Hrbor's Eusean Jennings drives past South Haven's Caleb Ford (14) and Demari Palmer (30) during the first half of Tuesday's game. (Photo by Don Campbell of the Herald-Palladium)

Lady Rams end regular season on a good note

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven girls basketball ended the regular season on a high note after defeating Dowagiac, 45-42, this past week.

South Haven began the game flat, however, the Lady Rams picked up momentum toward the end of the contest.

"During halftime we expressed that our rebounding was great and our offense was working, but at times I think we were trying too hard to force passes into the paint for our posts," said South Haven coach Joey Holland. 

"I think we also did a good job with our shot selection and turnovers. For the first time all season we finished a half with less than 10 turnovers, so the continuity was there."

After a lack-luster first half, South Haven began the fourth quarter down at 36-28. South Haven's press was effective in the fourth quarter holding the Chieftains to six points. 

The Rams trailed Dowagiac by six points leading into the game's final minutes, until Cate Frost hit a three pointer, followed by a South Haven steal. Frost then hit another three-point bucket, tying up the score at 41 with less then a minute remaining in the contest.

Dowagiac made one free throw after a South Haven foul, then Brynn Murdock hit a three pointer to put the Rams ahead by two points. South Haven then forced a Dowagiac turnover, and Frost was put on the free throw line after being fouled. Frost hit a free throw to give the Rams a three point lead which they held until the clock expired.

"I was so proud of how the girls dug deep and played together tonight. A lot of milestones also. They didn’t quit and they never gave up. They played good team ball," said Holland.

"It's been a process and a tough season, but us coaches see their growth throughout the season. We may be a bit young this year but with the kids we have, the program is only getting better and better. That’s been our goal from day one. Get better and better each day," Holland said. 

"I’m also so proud to have had the chance in coaching our seniors. I've had them since day one as freshman at the JV level and to watch them grow over the last four years has been an honor. These ladies work hard and are some of the best kids to coach. They are definitely going to be missed.”

Cate Frost led the Rams with 14 points and one steal, while Frances Lyons finished with nine points, 12 rebounds, and three steals. Grace Lyons rounded out South Haven's performances with eight points, 14 rebounds, five steals, and two assists.

South Haven begins the Class B District tournament on Monday, at Berrien Springs.

Two Bangor wrestlers qualify for state finals

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Two Bangor wrestlers will make the coveted trip to the Division 4 wrestling state tournament this weekend after qualifying at the Division 4 Individual Regional competition last Saturday.

Bangor's Devon Kozel decisioned Springport's Nick Cooper (36-3) in the regional final Feb. 18 to win the 215-pound weight division championship. Kozel's teammate, junior Daniel Villalobos settled for fourth place in the 103-weight class after being decisioned, 11-6, by Carson City-Crystal's Nolan Datema.

Kozel's record now stands at 44-1, while Villalobos has a 41-3 record.

Three out the four years of Kozel's high school wrestling career he has qualified for the state finals, beginning in 2015 when he placed fourth. Kozel finished at second place in 2016 and now is currently ranked number one in the State in the 215-pound weight division.

"We've been focusing on working on our feet," said Kozel, in regard to preparing for the big meet.

"I've got one more chance at this (state title), and I think it's a good chance."

The state tournament will take place, March 2-4 at the Palace of Auburn Hills.





2.20.17

Rams eye conference championship after defeating Allegan

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven remains at the top of the Wolverine Conference North Division after defeating Allegan, 50-28, Friday at home.

The Rams' division record improves to 6-1 with the victory. Paw Paw remains in second place. South Haven will most likely face Three Rivers for the conference championship next week. Three Rivers leads the South Division.

Friday's score may have shown an easy victory for the Rams, but to South Haven coach Larry Ash, there are still some kinks to work out.

“Seeing how it was senior night it was hard to get them to focus, but we did what we had to do. I think I was more worried than they were,” said Ash.

“We get distracted so easily and overconfident, which is why we had such a slow start. We hadn’t played a game in 15 days, so the start was a little rusty.”

But this week, South Haven will be gearing up to play Benton Harbor in a non-conference tilt on Tuesday before competing against Plainwell on Friday.

South Haven gained its momentum after the first quarter, and built upon the lead leading into half-time.

South Haven’s DaShaan Palmer led the offensive effort against the Tigers with 13 points, followed by Joe Wilkins with 10, and Damari Palmer chipped in nine points.

During halftime, South Haven’s seniors were recognized as well as the 1996-1997 boys’ basketball team, which won a Wolverine Conference title in 1997, marking the last Rams team to do so.

“I asked the team (1996-1997 South Haven basketball team) to talk to our players, since they’ve done what we are trying to accomplish,” Ash said. “If we stay focused, we could have a title of our own.”

Next on the schedule for South Haven is Benton Harbor on Tuesday and Plainwell on Friday.

“We know we have to go through really good teams if we want to accomplish our goals—which is why we play teams like Lakeshore and Benton Harbor. We want to focus on one step and a time, one game at a time and we want to at least make this a great game and play team ball (against Benton Harbor),” Ash said.

In the girl’s contest, Allegan edged out South Haven by a single point, in a nail-biting 41-40 finish.

Bangor wrestling team bows out of regional competition; individual wrestlers advance

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Bangor's wrestling team bowed out of the Division 4 team Regional tournament on Wednesday, after falling to Climax Scotts/Martin, 44-27.

However, a few Bangor hopefuls will continue on in the state tournament’s Individual competition.

At the District Individual competition, Feb. 11, Devon Kozel retains his undefeated record of 41-0, and beat Springport’s Nick Cooper by 3-0 to claim a District title in the 215-pound weight bracket. Bangor's Daniel Villalobos (39-1) earned a District title in the 103-pound weight class by defeating Union City’s Nick Collyer in a 19-8 decision.

Individual Division 4 District results

Championship

103 — Daniel Villalobos (Bangor) md. Nick Collyer (Union City) 19-8; 130 — Jordan Tutt (Martin/Climax-Scotts) md. Brian Paquette (Bloomingdale) 12-2; 145 — Jacob Roberts (Athens) d. Thaddeus Vernon (Bloomingdale) 10-4; 152 — Franklin Ulrich (Vermontville-Maple Valley) p. Brad Yazel (Watervliet) 3:26; 215 — Devon Kozel (Bangor) d. Nick Cooper (Springport) 3-0.

Third place

103 — Bradley Russell (Union City) d. Carlos Garcia (Bloomingdale) Dec 6-2; 112 — Oracio Sustaita (Bloomingdale) p. Evan Siler (Bangor) 3:27; 125 — Kristopher Tobin (Homer) d. Klayton Marshall (Watervliet) 7-0; 130 — Sam Shank (Hartford) d. Isaiah Smith (Gobles) 5-4; 135 — Josh Zordan (Bangor) p. Lane Blowers (Union City) 0:49; 140 — Hunter Underwood (Gobles) p. Mario Garcia (Bangor) 1:58; 189 — Logan Swigart (Watervliet) d. Greg McPike (Gobles) 7-3; 285 — Trevor Hiatt (Bangor) p. Daniel Anjuiano (Lawrence) 2:48.



2.13.17

Viking grapplers named district champs

Kozel, Villalobos earn conferece championship honors in their weight divisions

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

WATERVLIET — The Bangor wrestling team easily clinched a Division 4 District title on Wednesday after defeating Watervliet 55-24 in the finals.

Watervliet bested Lawrence, 60-18, in the semi-final match while Bangor defeated Hartford in an overwhelming 66-3 finish earlier in the meet.

"The Vikings were led by Josh Rukas, Migeul Ibanez, Trevor Hiatt and Mario Garcia," stated Bangor wrestling coach Dennis Paquette.

Against the Panthers, Ibanez pinned Jessie Hite (2:49) and Hiatt pinned Watervliet's Chad Cowsert (3:19) which pushed the Vikings ahead, 30-12.

In the 103-pound weight division, Bangor's Daniel Villalobos defeated Watervliet's Trevor Pelton by a 10-3 decision, which propelled Bangor to, 33-12 lead toward the end of the meet.

At one point, the Panthers closed in on Bangor's lead (39-24) in the 119 and 125 weight divisions, after Alex Isbrecht pinned the Vikings Colby Petranek (5:48), and Klayton Marshall scored a technical fall over Marcos Franco with 56 seconds remaining in the first round.

Josh Zordan pinned the Panther's Hannah Yerington in the 140-pound division, Garcia Koby Hensley was defeated by technical fall, while Devon Kozel won by forfeit after Dominick Skidmore incurred an injury.

Skidmore could not proceed with the match after landing on his arm while countering Kozel's single-leg takedown.

Bangor's district championship came on the heels of being named the Lakeshore Division dual-meet champs in the Southwestern Athletic Conference along with Coloma and Gobles.

During the conference meet, Feb. 4, Zoel and Villalobos were named league champs in their weight divisions.

Bangor, whose record is 14-8, will now advance to the Division 4 team regional meet, Feb. 15, at Springport.

PHOTOS: Devon Kozel (top photo), Daniel Villalobos

Division 4 district results

Bangor 57, Watervliet 24

103— Daniel Villalobos (B) d. Trevor Pelton 10-3; 112— Evan Siler (B) by forfeit; 119— Alex Isbrecht (W) p. Colby Petranek 5:48; 125—Klayton Marshall (W) p. Marcos Franco 0:56; 130— Josh Rukas (B) by forfeit; 135— Josh Zordan (B) p. Hannah Yerington 0:46; 140—Mario Garcia (B) p. Koby Hensley 4:51; 

145— Robert Taylor (B) by forfeit; 152— Brad Yazel (W) p. Austin Busscher 1:33; 160— Miguel Ibanez (B) p. Jesse Hiatt 2:49; 171— Seth Fogg (B) by forfeit; 189— Logan Swighter (W) by forfeit; 215— Devon Kozel (B) by forfeit; 285— Trevor Hiatt (B) p. Chad Cowsert 3:19. 

Semifinals

Bangor 70, Hartford 4

Contested matches only

130— Josh Rukas (B) d. Sam Shank 12-11; 145— Robert Taylor (B) p. Tristen Hanners 1:41; 152— Austin Spyers (H) md. Austin Busscher 10-2; 160— Miguel Ibanez (B) p. James Terry 3:26. 

Watervliet 60, Lawrence 18

Contested matches only

103— Trevor Pelton (W) p. Veronica Cornejo 2:34; 152— Brad Yazel (W) p. Arturo Perez 3:45; 215— Logan Swigart (W) p. Justin George 1:39.

Rams '97 conference champs cheer on 2017 team

When the South Haven varsity boys basketball team competes their run for a Wolverine Conference championship bid this Friday against Allegan, they'll have a group of graduates cheering them on.

The halftime of Friday's Senior Night game will feature members of the 1996-97 conference championship basketball team.

“This team was the last boys basketball team here in South Haven to win the Wolverine Conference outright,” said Athletic Director Adam Verseput.

Ten of the 14 players from that team along with their Coach Ken Dietz are expected to be in attendance for Friday's game where they will be honored at halftime.

The '96-'97 South Haven Rams started their season as an unlikely contender for the Wolverine Conference crown. But, during the first week of February 1997 they turned their so-so 7-6 record around by going on an impressive nine-game winning streak before losing in the district finals to Mattawan, 50-47.   The Rams ended their season with a 12-2 Wolverine Conference record, and 16-7 overall.

Highlights from the season included a 97-64 victory over Plainwell (Feb 22) including a season-high 27 points from Garrett Spencer.  Spencer and David Grays led the team in scoring that year totaling 297 and 269 points, respectively.  Spencer and Grays also led the team in rebounding with 187 and 142 boards.  William Shaver Sledge and Lucas Nienhuis led the Rams in assists with 72 and 71, while Israel Preston and Nienhuis led the team in steals with 60 and 58.  As a team, the Rams knocked down 99 three-point baskets, out-rebounding their opponents 853 to 803, and outscoring their opponents 1,400 to 1,348.  The Rams also dealt out 323 assists on the season.

Members of the team follow: Seniors Jimmy Jackson, Lucas Nienhuis, Israel Preston, Garrett Spencer, David Grays, Bill Powers and Walter Maddox; juniors Brent Hadden, Brad Nienhuis, Jason Montgomery, Brendan Byford, Nick Parker and Matt Rehkopf; and sophomore William Shaver Sledge.

PHOTO: The 1996-97 South Haven Rams varsity bsketball team, who won the Wolverine Conference championship, is shown. The team and their coach, Ken Dietz, will be honored during halftime of Friday's game.

Lady Rams bowlers earn perfect score against Plainwell

The South Haven girls varsity bowling team continues on a roll with their latest victory coming at the expense of Plainwell this past week. The Ram boys team also defeated Plainwell, making coach Barry Skuza quite pleased with the teams.

“We had a great time,” he said. “The boys were down about a dozen pins in the last frame of the second game. We were down to the last bowler and Grant Frabe won the game with a double to put us up by 11 pins. The girls did real well winning all 30 points, which is hard to do.”

The Lady Rams easily won the regular matches, 726-468 and 686-489. They then continued to dominate in the baker games, winning 118-87 and 153-98.

Lacie Nash led the Rams with a two-game series of 332. She was followed by Makayla Moore with 295, Cheyanne Himel with 290 and Lindsey Niffenegger with 266.

The boys had a tougher time with the Trojans. They narrowly won the first game 701-676. The second one was a see-saw battle until Frabe rolled the last frame and led his team to a 777-766 victory.

The match remained very close during the baker games, with Plainwell winning the first one, 128-110, but the Rams held on and finished the second game, 151-124, for an overall victory of 21-9.

Caleb Heinze paced South Haven with a 341 two-game series. Frabe scored 328, while Brysten Jerch finished at 294.



2.6.17

Paw Paw avenges earlier loss to South Haven

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

PAW PAW — The South Haven boys basketball team picked up a win on Tuesday, but fell to Paw Paw on Friday, in a Wolverine Conference North Division showdown.

On Tuesday, the Rams kept their winning streak going after defeating Vicksburg, 73-66 in a non-divisional contest.  

However, on Friday Paw Paw outlasted South Haven to nab a crucial win at 53-48. Luke Toliver dropped in 27 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists to propel the Paw Paw offense.

Nate Smetena followed up with 15 points for Paw Paw while South Haven's DaShaan Palmer fronted the Rams' effort with 11 points.

South Haven falls to 5-1 in the Wolverine Conference North Division but still remains at the top of the standings. Paw Paw remains in second with a record of 4-2.

The Rams will play Coloma on Tuesday for the next contest, and after a ten-day break, face Allegan on Friday, Feb. 17th. 

In girl's basketball action, South Haven incurred two losses this past week beginning with Vicksburg on Tuesday, at 43-20.

Paw Paw also notched a win in the girl's basketball contest after outscoring the Rams 40-24 in the first half, en route to a 77-50 victory. 

For the next bout the South Haven girl's will travel to Edwardsburg on Friday.

PHOTO: South Haven's Joe Wilkins tries to maneuver around William Downard of Paw Paw during Friday's Wolverine Conference game. (Photo by Walter Cronk)

South Haven swimmers earn first victory of the season

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven boy's swim team clinched its first dual meet victory of the season on Tuesday, after defeating Sturgis, 96-72. 

"Everybody contributed to the effort," said South Haven coach Mike Erickson. 

South Haven's medley relay teams of (Justin Postma, Jordan Lucas, Jackson Schooley and Craig Thompson) (Joe Nelson, Brian Thompson, Vance Locker and Ellian Garcia) snagged first and third places.

Lucas and teammate Brandon Jonatzke took first and second in the 200 freestyle, while Postma and Locker took first and second in the 200 intermediate race.

Siblings Craig and Brian Thompson scored more points for the Rams after placing third and fifth in the 50 freestyle. Schooley, Nick Gildea and DeMetri Zobro-Taft placed first, third and fourth in diving.

South Haven's 200 freestyle relay team of Jonatzke, Thompson, Locker, and Gildea placed second, while Postma and Nelson took second and third place in the 100 backstroke, respectively. South Haven also won the 400 freestyle relay.

Lucas and Thompson rounded out the top performances for South Haven with first and third placings in the 100 breaststroke race. 

In addition to contributing heavily to South Haven's victory this week, Lucas was selected as the WSJM Student-Athlete of the week.

The Rams travel to Plainwell on Tuesday for their next competition.

Rams football player gets ready for college ball

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

When South Haven High School senior Hayden Sardina attends Indiana Wesleyan University in the fall, he will be among the first 50 athletes chosen to play for the school's brand new football team.

“It will be pretty awesome,” he said. “They'll be playing in one of the most competitive conferences in the nation, they've got a new football facility and a great coaching staff. The combination of everything led me to commit to them.”

Sardina took part in an official signing ceremony this past week, attended by his high school football coaches and parents, Jerry and Melanie Sardina.

Rams head coach Troy Ayotte said he'll miss his star offensive lineman.

“He was invaluable, a real leader on and off the field,” Ayotte said.

Line coach Mark Eddy echoed Ayotte's sentiments.

“The best part about Hayden is he would help me lead drills. He was great at motivating kids. Sometimes it's better to hear it from your peers than the coach.”

Sardina played for the Rams all four years of high school and served as captain for the past three years. His hard work on the field paid off. His junior year he earned all-conference honorable mention in the Wolverine Conference and moved up to the ranks of all-conference first team his senior year. He hasn't done too shabby in the classroom either where he holds a 4.0 grade point average.

Indiana Wesleyan University, located in Marion, Ind., announced plans in 2016 to add football to its athletic program and build a stadium.

The university's football program will be part of the Mid-States Football Association, which consists of 13 colleges and universities, including Siena Heights in Adrian, and Concordia in Ann Arbor, as well as other colleges in Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri.

Since its inception in 1993, the Mid-States Football Association's schools have won seven NAIA national championships, including four of the last five national championships.

Wesleyan's football team will begin its first season scrimmaging teams. It then will play officially as part of the Mid-States Football Association during the 2018 season, according to the university's website.

Head coach Jordan Langs, formerly a coach for Wheaton College in Illinois, has recruited 50 players for the team's 2017 season, all of whom will be red-shirted for that season. The team's roster will expand to a minimum of 80 for fall 2018. By fall 2019 the roster will be at its peak with a minimum of 105 student-athletes, according to the university's website.

“He'll (Sardina) be redshirted his first year but he'll still have four more years to play,” said Ayotte. “There were a couple of other schools that really liked him.”

But Sardina said he liked the prospect of being a part of a brand new football team as well as the academic programs Wesleyan offers.

“They just built a new pre-med and nursing facility,” said Sardina, who plans to major in pre-medicine and eventually become an anesthesiologist.

“With Hayden it's more about education than football,” Ayotte said. “College football for him is college first.”

PHOTO: South Haven High School senior Hayden Sardina (sitting, center) is flanked by his parents, Melanie and Jerry Sardina, after signing a commitment to play football at Indiana Wesleyan University. Standing from left are Rams varsity football line coach Mark Eddy and head coach Troy Ayotte.

Lady Vikings defeat Saugatuck

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Solid defense helped Bangor pick up a win against Saugatuck, Tuesday, in girl's basketball action.

"Our Vikings played the best defensive game they have played all season," said Bangor coach Shiron Williams.

"(We) brought the intensity into the third quarter and never looked back."

The Vikings defeated Saugatuck at 45-30, led by 13 points from Jai'onna McGee.

Madison McGuire chipped in nine points and five steals, while Jamie Allen added seven points and snagged seven rebounds. Keeonna McGee finished with eight points for the Bangor attack. 

On Friday, Gobles topped Bangor in a 44-37 finish.

The Vikings will travel to Brandywine on Tuesday, before hosting Schoolcraft, Friday







1.30.17

Rams take control of North Division

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Three wins, a two-game lead, and one Winterfest King summarize the stellar week the South Haven basketball team had as the team improved its standing at the top of the Wolverine Conference North Division.

On Monday, the Rams defeated non-conference opponent Buchanan 56-47, then claimed a victory the next day over Plainwell in a 46-42 battle.

In Tuesday’s contest the Rams led by 25-20 at halftime, however Plainwell made a comeback in the third quarter with a 17-8 scoring margin over South Haven.

The Rams amped up the energy in the game’s final quarter and outscored the Trojans 13-5 to clinch the conference victory.

South Haven’s leading scorer DaShaan Palmer stayed consistent with a game-high of 24 points, while Caskadara Smith finished with eight points.

Rams’ coach Larry Ash was pleased with his team’s performance, given they had to play in back-to-back contests

On Friday, the Winterfest Snowcoming celebration made for a packed house with South Haven defeating  Otsego, 59-51.

The Rams outscored the Bulldogs 27-21 in the first half to gain control of the game, and finished strong with a 32-30 scoring advantage in the second half.

“We talked about self discipline this week because we can get a little too impatient. We were trying to run the clock out, but we’re still running and gunning like we’re behind. We had an 11-point lead (against Otsego) so there was no need for us to take quick shots,” Ash said.

“These three wins were really big for us this week, and we worked a lot on self-discipline and taking care of the ball at crunch time, being a little patient, and knowing that we have the game under control. We’re really trying to fix that at this point, because we’re going to need that reserve later on down the road.”

Palmer scored a game high of 17 points with 12 rebounds, while teammate Joe Wilkins followed up with 15 points.

“I moved Joe from a guard to the three-spot and he’s really liking that a lot, he really prospered in that tonight and I was really proud of him. He’s really a good driver and he’s figured at the high post in the three spot that that’s got to open him up a bit. He was taking it to the rack really hard. He’s always been a good defensive player but tonight his offense came alive.”

South Haven’s Jesse Morrison, who was crowned Snowcoming King at halftime, also stepped up for his team after Palmer fell into foul trouble and had to sit out.

“Jesse came off the bench and really played big for us. We’d been getting on him about rebounding and at halftime he ended up being the Snowcoming King. So I don’t know if that had anything to do with it or not but he really played big for us on the boards, so I’m proud of Jesse,

“This was really a big win for us to gain the lead in the North Division,” Ash continued to say. “We had to beat Otsego because we’ve got to play Plainwell and Paw Paw. So it was really a big win for us to keep the little cushion we have before we face Plainwell or Paw Paw again.”

The game’s  Winterfest festivities also included the induction of four South Haven athletes into the Hall of Fame; Benno Trenkle, Dr. Todd McHerron, Dr. Tony McHerron and Carol Freeman.

South Haven improves to 10-4 on the season and will play Vicksburg on Tuesday. The Rams then face Paw Paw on Friday in a crucial conference bout.

PHOTO: Darion Gist of South Haven breaks free from several Otsego defenders during Friday's Wolverine Conference game. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Lady Rams struggle against opponents

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven girls basketball team fell to Plainwell on Tuesday, in a 55-37 finish.

Plainwell added to its six-game winning streak, while the Rams incurred their fourth consecutive loss.

“I really wasn’t disappointed with our play Friday night. The girls played hard for four quarters which is all we are asking. I was very pleased with our posts having to battle 6’3' Sara White," South Haven coach Joey Holland said.

"She’s a good player and I have seen a lot of growth from her since last year. She definitely played like an All-conference player, but our girls never backed down and I was proud of that. I was also pleased with the tempo we played with. Plainwell is tough this year and our girls for the most part stayed composed. We had a couple times where we got caught trying to do too much but the girls are doing a really good job of starting to recognize that and slow it back down.” 

Frances Lyons led South Haven with eight points, four assists, four steals, and two blocks. Brynn Murdock followed with six points, four rebounds, and two steals, while Marnie Frost rounded out the South Haven offense with six points.

On Friday, South Haven fell to Otsego at 64-19.

The Rams are back in action next week against Vicksburg on Tuesday and travel to Paw Paw on Friday.

South Haven bowlers win tie-breaker

South Haven's girls bowling team continued a win streak this past week by beating Paw Paw in a tie-breaker at Lakeside Lanes.

The Lady Rams were tied with Paw Paw, 15-15, at the conclusion of the two-game regular series and the two baker games, setting up the tie-breaking third baker game which South Haven won, 164-139.

The girls started the match, Monday, by narrowly losing the two-game series, 1,336-1,285. But they regrouped for the baker games, winning 132-103 and 175-161 to set up the tie-breaker.

Lacie Nash paced the Rams with a 352 two-game series. She was followed by Makayla Moore with a 281 and Ashley Price with a 242.

The South Haven boys team took the two-game series 1,632-1,602, but lost the two baker games, 168-156 and 203-147 to give the Redskins the win.

Brysten Jerch led the Rams with a 390 two-game series. Nick Martina followed with 359 and Grant Frabe with 320.

1.23.17

Bangor comes up short after third OT against Watervliet Panthers

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Bangor boys basketball team was looking for its first victory of the season, Friday, against Watervliet and came close, but not close enough.

The Vikings battled to three overtime periods, however, the Panthers held on to win the game, 70-66.

The Panthers took an early lead 16-6 in the first quarter. Although the Vikings' offense came alive in the second stanza by earning 16 points, it wasn't enough to overcome the first quarter deficit, with the score at 30-22 at the half.

Watervliet stayed ahead in the third quarter, outscoring Bangor, 8-7, to lead to the showdown in the fourth, where Bangor tied the score, 44-44.

During the first overtime, the score remained tied, 51-51, leading to the second one, which again ended in a tie at 60-60.

The final overtime favored the Panthers, who outscored the Vikings 10-6 to take home a 70-66 victory.

Bangor’s Tyrique Cunninngham led his team's offense with 25 points and 11 rebounds, while Marshall Weber finished with 15 points and 11 rebounds. Gage Gardner chipped in 10 points and six steals for the Viking offense.

On Tuesday, Bloomingdale bested the Vikings, 65-36, after dropping 38 points in the middle quarters. Bangor scored 11 points collectively in the second half, while the Cardinals scored 30 points to seal the win.

Bloomingdale’s Karl Butler scored a game high of 14 points, followed by Derek Westerhoff with 13, William Mills with 10 points, and Trejuan Smith finished with seven.

For the Vikings, Gage Gardner led with nine points.

Bangor falls to 0-5 in the Conference and 0-9 for the season.

PHOTO: Devon Nunn (20) guards Sheldon Tobar (44) of Watervliet after the inbound pass. (Photo by Walter Cronk)

Rams suffer two losses to Allegan, Watervliet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Allegan's strong defensive effort led to a Wolverine Conference win over South Haven in Friday night's girls basketball contest, 39-14.

The loss came on the heels of the Rams' loss, Tuesday, to Watervliet, which picked up a 50-41 non-conference victory.

To start, the Rams trailed Watervliet by two points at the end of the first quarter. The Panthers widened their lead with a 16-9 scoring advantage in the second quarter.

South Haven matched Watervliet point for point in the third (8 points scored) and fourth (16) quarters, however Watervliet was able ride the early lead in for the win.

Kiandra Raday and Grace Lyons led South Haven with nine points each, while teammates Frances Lyons and Brynn Murdock chipped in six points apiece.

For the Panthers (8-3), Katie Schultz led a balanced offense with 12 points, followed by Logan Mizwicki with nine.

South Haven falls to 3-9 on the season and travels to Plainwell on Tuesday and hosts Otsego, Friday.

PHOTO: Kiandra Raday (44) of South Haven attempts to shoot a basket whil being defended by Watervliet's Celina Klimkiewicz during Tuesday's non-conference game. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Lady Rams bowl their way to a victory over Allegan

South Haven's girls bowling team rolled over Allegan this past week, while the boys suffered a loss.

The Lady Rams easily won the regular matches, 1,545-1,168 and both baker games, 158-115, 136-111.

“The girls had one of their best matches ever,” said South Haven coach Barry Skuza.

Lindsey Niffenegger led the Lady Rams in scoring with a two-game series of 367. Makayla Moore also scored over 300 points with a two-game series of 332.

The South Haven boys team narrowly lost to the Tigers in the regular matches, 1,669-1,637 and split the baker matches, winning the first one 178-139, but losing the second, 153-123.

“The boys bowled good, just not good enough,” Skuza said.

Grant Frabe racked up a 403 two-game series for the Rams. He was followed by Brysten Jerch with 353, Caleb Heinze with 319 and freshman Garrett Heath with 304.

Otsego swims past South Haven boys

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Otsego defeated South Haven during this past Tuesday’s boys swim meet, finishing on top at 99-53.

South Haven’s top performances included Craig Thompson with a first-place finish in the 50 yard freestyle (26.88 seconds), while Justin Postma took first in the 100 yard backstroke (1:02.91) followed by Joe Nelson in the number two spot (1:28.68) for the Rams.

Jordan Lucas placed first with a time of 1:10.34 in the 100 yard breaststroke and swam a leg of South Haven’s winning 400 yard freestyle relay with Vance Locker, Jackson Schooley, and Postma (3:54.76).

The South Haven boys swim team competes next at Harper Creek High School on Tuesday.

PHOTO: South Haven's Jorden Lucas is shown swimming in the 200-freestyle race where he placed second. (Photo by Tom Renner)

1.16.17

Decatur wins Bangor invitational

Vikings' Devon Kozel, Daniel Villalobos earn individual championships

By AARON CRIDER

HP Sports Writer

BANGOR—Decatur wrestling coach Jack Richardson holds high expectations for his wrestlers. After they’ve put in the work to make weight and improve on the mat, they need to go out and win.

And winning is what they did on Saturday, Jan. 7 at the Bangor Invitational.

The Raiders rolled over the competition, winning with more than 50 points ahead of second-place Mattawan, and featured seven finalists in championship matches.

“We came off Christmas break wrestling a couple good tournaments, and we have a cohesion going where guys want to one-up each other and improve,” said Richardson. “With that competitive nature inside of your team, you have guys that want to push each other forward.”

The Raiders won four of their seven championship matches. Owen Flower won the 119-pound final by pinning Holland’s Brevin Grigg at 1:30 in the first period.

Coy Helmuth earned a fall over Bloomingdale’s Brian Paquette at 1:11 of the third period at 130, while Ethan May won by a 10-1 decision over Mattawan’s Jack Walter in the 145 bout.

Last year’s 285-pound state runner-up Logan Kennedy was the final Raider to earn a championship.

Kennedy pinned Paw Paw’s Cameron McLoughlin with 52.2 seconds left in the first period after catching McLoughlin with an over-under hook while he shot in for a double-leg takedown.

“Logan’s good,” said Richardson. “He put a lot of work in over the summer. He’s an athletic kid and is a heavyweight that can move. He’s put some muscle on, and if he keeps working hard, I think he’s got a good shot at achieving his goals this year.”

Host Bangor had two wrestlers compete in championship bouts. Daniel Villalobos won at 103 pounds, pinning Mattawan’s Cam Sanderson with 46 seconds left in the second period.

Devon Kozel was the other Viking to win, defeating Holland’s Mike Visscher at 215 pounds. Visscher’s tooth was knocked out during a tie-up and he could not continue wrestling due to an exposed nerve.

Kozel is the Vikings’ standout by far.

He earned his 159th career victory at Saturday’s tournament, and has qualified for the state tournament three years in a row. Last season he was the Division 4 state runner-up at 215 pounds.

“Devon’s our leader,” said Bangor coach Dennis Paquette. “He leads by example and he’s very vocal. He does a really good job at pushing the other kids, the problem is we have to bring in adults to work with him because he’s so big and nobody can really push him.

“One of our former champions, Levon Mock, is his cousin so he comes in and works out with Devon twice a week. We hope he’ll be a four-time state qualifier. It’s just hard to find somebody to push him.”

BANGOR INVITATIONAL

Team scores—1. Decatur 238, 2. Mattawan 185, 3. Mendon 156, 4. Constantine 143.5, 5. Dowagiac 139, 6. Holland 134, 7. Paw Paw 115, 8. Bangor 114.5, 9. Kalamazoo Central 108, 10. Bloomingdale 85, 11. Loy Norrix 64, 12. Battle Creek Pennfield 61.

Undefeated wrestlers 103— Daniel Villalobos (Bangor), 119— Owen Flower (Decatur), 130— Coy Helmuth (Decatur), 140—Ethan May (Decatur), 215—Devon Kozel (Bangor), 285—Logan Kennedy (Decatur).

PHOTO: Devion Kozel of Bangor is ranked No. 1 in the state in the 215-pound weight class for Division 4. (Photo by Walter Cronk)

Rams' win streak halted by Dowagiac, Edwardsburg

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

EDWARDSBURG — South Haven may have run out of gas against Edwardsburg on Friday night, but it was certainly a hard-fought battle as the two basketball teams played through an amazing four overtimes until a 71-65 finish.

South Haven held the lead several times in the contest, and according to coach Larry Ash, also had several chances to win the contest.

"We didn't execute down the stretch at all,” Ash said. “At one point, there was three seconds to go and we had the ball with a three-point lead and turned it over. So, it came down to execution. We could have won in overtime and regulation — but both teams played really hard."

In the fourth overtime, Edwardsburg was able to build a three- point lead — forcing South Haven to foul. 

"They are a really scrappy team, and it's good to play that type of team because it was physical and we're not a real physical team as we should be all the time," Ash said.

"So that physicality really helped them (Eddies) but it helped us a lot more, because we needed to run against a really tough team like that. And we knew what we were up against, because last year they kind of did the same thing."

DeShaan Palmer led South Haven with 27 points, followed by Cascadara Smith with 10 points, and Caleb Ford with eight.

"They (Eddies) are a team who's going to be patient with the ball and try to settle for best shot they can get, and we're one of those defensive pressure teams — so it was a really good match up." 

On Tuesday, South Haven fell to Dowagiac in a non-divisional Wolverine Conference, 60-51.

Next on the schedule, South Haven travels to Allegan on Friday.

PHOTO: Cameron Watkins of South Haven drives to the basket during Tuesday's game against Dowagiac. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Fennville too much for Bangor

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

HARTFORD — Hartford and Bangor squared off in Tuesday's boys basketball contest with the Vikings falling to the host team, 68-56.

Tyrique Cunningham led the Vikings with 16 points and 13 rebounds, and teammate Gage Gardner followed with 13 points. Dennivan Brunt followed up with 12 points for Bangor.

On Friday, Fennville dropped the bulk of its points in the second and third quarters to defeat the Vikings, 48-36.

Bangor led 7-6 by the end of the first quarter, however the Blackhawks scored 33 points combined in the second and third quarters to gain the lead.

For Bangor, Brunt scored a game high of 12 points, followed by Gardner with 11 points. Cunningham rounded out the Viking offense with seven points.

Bangor travels to Bloomingdale on Tuesday, and hosts Watervliet, Friday.

PHOTO: Tyrique Cunningham of Bangor drives to the basket past Fennville's Brandon McAllister and Dakota Latchaw during Friday's game.

South Haven freshman Jackson Calvert pins his Allegan opponent in the 167-weight class. (Photo by Tom Renner)

South Haven wrestlers host quad meet

South Haven's young wrestling team is struggling with finding athletes to participate on the team, but that didn't stop the Rams from hosting a quad meet this past Wednesday. South Haven hosted Paw Paw, Otsego and Allegan. Powerhouse Allegan defeated Paw Paw, 66-17 and South Haven, 78-6, with Rams freshman Jackson Calvert capturing a victory in the 167-weight class. Otsego also defeated Paw Paw in a closely contested match, 39-24, and South Haven. South Haven only has four wrestlers on its roster, and hopes it can build up its ranks.





1.9.17

Rams rack up a five-game win streak after defeating Paw Paw, Watervliet

By AARON CRIDER

HP Sports Writer

WATERVLIET— South Haven boys basketball coach Larry Ash had a clear message for his starters at halftime: play as a team or he would find five guys that would. Heading into halftime with a 17-16 lead, the Rams returned in the second half and blew out host Watervliet 45-24 on Tuesday night. The Rams notched another victory, Friday, defeating Paw Paw, 59-53 for the team's fifth straight victory in a row.

“What changed,” said Ash, referring to the game against Watervliet, “is that we went from playing ‘me ball’ to playing ‘we ball’”. DaShaan (Palmer) made a three in the first quarter and then everyone wanted to make 3s. That isn’t what we work on. We move the ball around making the defense move from side to side and then you score.”

South Haven (4-2) scored 14 points in the second quarter, and only allowed one point for Watervliet (0-4) which came from a Daniel Cluster free throw.

Things kicked off early with Palmer poking the ball away and going for a dunk. The ball bounced out of the basket, yet he got a second chance after picking the ball away and heading back down court. This time he made the dunk count.

In the fourth quarter, the Rams added another 14 points, pulling away for good. With fifty-six seconds left in the game, Ash told his players to slow down and hang on to the ball as the clock ran out.

“We have a goal to try to keep teams under 10 points every quarter,” said Ash. “We could score 55-60 points a game if we play the way we want to.”

Watervliet was competitive in the first half, outrebounding the Rams 6-2. But while defensively the Panthers played well, their offense was lacking.

“I was happy with our defense holding a team to only 17 points in a half,” said Watervliet coach Chris Prom. (South Haven) is a really good team, all the credit goes to their hustle. We turned the ball over on their press, and the ball got away from us down the stretch.

“Our offense isn’t where it needs to be. We need more post touches, we are mismatched in the post. We have four or five guys that can play there, so we need to work that out.”

Palmer led South Haven with 15 points. Caskadara Smith added eight points and three steals.

Bryant Keift led the Panthers with nine points, and Cluster had eight.

On Friday, Wolverine conference play resumed and Palmer's 22 points aided South Haven in a 59-53 win over Paw Paw at home.

Palmer's performance this past week was especially crucial, as South Haven will have to fill the void of losing teammate Andy Klavins to an ACL injury, which occurred on Dec. 29th's game against Holland.

PHOTOS: In the top photo, South Haven's DaShaan Palmer (55) is guarded closely by a Paw Paw defender during Friday's game. In the other photo, Joe Wilkins (25) of South Haven goes up for two points. (Photos by Tom Renner)





Lady Rams struggle against Paw Paw

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Consistent scoring helped Paw Paw snag a Wolverine Conference win over South Haven's varsity girls basketball team, 55-35, on Friday.

Paw Paw opened up the first quarter with a 13-3 score. They then added to that lead with a 17-8 second quarter.

"We didn’t play well at all in the first half — we didn’t move the ball well and Paw Paw just simply out-hustled us," said South Haven coach Joey Holland.

The rams came out in the third, made some good plays and created some turnovers to tie Paw Paw in scoring, 13-13. The Rams continued to play hard into the fourth but the deficit was just to much to overcome.

"We did a really good job on the boards, but ball handling and turnovers really hurt us,” Holland said. “This seems to be our trend. we come out soft but finish strong. Right now we just need to focus on 32 minutes of hustle and effort."

South Haven's Frances Lyons led the rebounding effort with 22, and also finished with nine points, two assists, and three steals.

Tuwana Dirden added 14 rebounds, eight points, three blocks and a steal for South Haven, while teammate Connie Phillips finished with 14 rebounds and six points.

PHOTO: South Haven's Frances Lyons try to make a shot during Friday's game against Paw Paw. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Eagles soar past Vikings; Cardinals defeat Eau Claire

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

SCHOOLCRAFT- Big first and third quarters  while holding Bangor to single digits helped Schoolcraft earn a dominating 72-26 win over the Vikings on Friday, in boy's basketball action.

The Eagles scored 29 points in the first quarter alone to Bangor's eight points en route to the landslide victory.

Bangor will to play Hartford on Tuesday, and hosts Fennville, Friday.

Bloomingdale 42

Eau Claire 39

Bloomingdale's varsity boys basketball team scored 18 points in the fourth quarter to hold of Eau Claire during Friday's game.

The Beavers started the game by leading 11-7 at the end of the first quarter, but the Cardinals regrouped and came out strong in the second quarter outscoring Eau Claire 13-5 to put the score at 20-16 at the end of the first half.

The see-saw battle continued in the third quarter with Eau Claire racking up 13 points compared to the Cardinals' 4. But Bloomingdale regained its stride in the fourth to notch the win.

Karl Butler led the Cardinals' offense with 19 points.

PHOTO: Gage Gardner (3) of Bangor tries to drive the lane against Jakob Huysken (40) during Friday's game. (Photo by Walter Cronk)

  Keeonna McGee (22) of Bangor goes for 2 points under the basket while being guarded by Amber Overly (22) of Schoolcraft during Friday's game. The Eagles won the contest, 42-24. (Photo by Walter Cronk)

South Haven swimmers compete against St. Joe, Allegan

South Haven's boys varsity swim team faced a tough opponent prior to the holiday break , losing to St. Joseph 121-59. However, several Rams swimmers earned top places in the meet.

“This was an early season meet against a large St Joe team,” said South Haven coach Mike Erickson.

The Rams' medley relay teams got South Haven on the scoreboard first. The team of Jackson Schooley, Jordan Lucas, Justin Postma and Vance Locker finished second, while the team of Joe Nelson, Brian Thompson, Brandon Jonatzke and Nick Postema came in fifth in their race.

First place awards went to Lucas in the 200 IM and 100-yard breaststroke and Postma in the 100 freestyle, while the 400-freestyle relay team of Jackson, Jordan, Vance and Justin capped the night for South Haven with a first-place finish.

The Rams traveled to Allegan, Wednesday, to face another tough opponent for the team's first conference meet of the season. The Tigers ended up winning 113-63, but South Haven captured several first-place finishes.

Lucas led the Rams with victories in the 200 IM and 100 breaststroke, while Postma won the 100 backstroke and came in second in the 100 butterfly race. The 400 freestyle relay team of Lucas, Postma, Schooley and Craig Thompson notched another first-place victory for the Rams and finished second in the 200 medley relay. In other races, Jackson came in second in the 500 freestyle, while Craig Thompson placed second in the 50 freestyle.

Despite the loss, Erickson was pleased with his team's progress so far this season.

“Solid performances were contributed by Vance Locker in the 100 fly and 200 free, Joe Nelson in the 50 and 100 free, Brian Thompson in the 100 breaststroke and the remainder of the team as we shuffle people around looking for experience in the different events,” Erickson said.

Lady Rams pick up a win against Otsego bowlers

South Haven girls varsity bowling team picked up its first victory of the season by defeating Otsego, 22-8 this past week.

The Rams were paced by Lindsey Niffenegger, who rolled a 368 two-game series. She was followed by Cheyanne Himel with a 350 series and Lacie Nash with a 302 series.

The Lady Rams won the regular matches 1,528-1,429, while splitting the baker games, narrowly losing the first one 141-140 and winning the second, 135-128.

The South Haven boys didn't do quite as well. They lost the regular matches 1,651-1,591, and the baker games, 147-136, 202-143, for a final score of 17-13 in favor of the Bulldogs.

Grant Frabe led the Rams with a 384 two-game series. Three other Rams racked up over 300 pins during the regular matches. Brysten Jerch had 349, Nick Martina, 315 and Caleb Heinze, 301.

South Haven coach Barry Skuza said his teams did well, despite the mixed results.

“We had some good scores,” he said. “It was a lot of fun to watch.”







1.3.17

Rams basketball team wins Holland Holiday tournament

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

HOLLAND — South Haven boy's basketball team stayed busy over winter break by winning the Holland High School Holiday tournament.

The Rams defeated Holland, 75-57, Thursday, in the championship game.

DeShaan Palmer led South Haven's offense with 22 points, while Joe Wilkins added 15 and Caleb Ford finished with 14 points.

South Haven defeated Tri-Unity Christian on Wednesday in overtime en route to competing against Holland in the final round.

The Dutch were paced by Demetrius Lake with a game-high of 29 points and Luke Buckman followed up with 12 points.

In the girls basketball tournament, South Haven fell to the host team, 41-36, Wednesday, which awarded Holland its second win of the season.

Angel Smith led Holland with nine points and teammates Sophie VanDyke finished with eight points while Cecelia Kronemeyer added seven.

The South Haven boys and girls basketball teams compete at home, Friday, against Paw Paw in a Wolverine Conference match up.

12.19.16

Bangor coach notches 500th victory

Team captures first place at Bangor Duals

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Bangor wrestling Coach Dennis Paquette's career reached an impressive milestone last Saturday at the Bangor Duels, when he earned his 500th career win.

Paquette, who also serves as Bangor's superintendent, was awarded a plaque commemorating his coaching career achievement.

In addition, his team won the tournament.

"He is the winning-est coach in school history," said Mary Spade, Bangor athletic director.

Paquette's coaching career has spanned 26 years. Most of those years were spent leading the Vikings wresting team. While coaching at Bangor he also was a teacher for 21 years. He then became assistant high school principal and has served as school chief for the past two years.

Paquette wrestled in high school himself and 2 ½ years at Northern Michigan University. 

He then moved on to serve as an assistant coach for two years at Munising in the Upper Peninsula, then was an assistant for two more years at Bangor before becoming head coach in 1991.

Under his coaching, the Vikings amassed over a dozen conference titles, 17 district titles, and three regional titles. In addition, he has coached over 25 wrestlers to 100 wins or more.  Two wrestlers have claimed state titles under Paquette, and just this March, another was a state runner up.

“He can take just about any kid, whether it’s at Bangor or any other school, and teach them anything they need to be successful, not just in wrestling but in life,” said Darrick Parker, who won a state title in 2006 in the 160-pound weight division, under the instruction of Paquette.

“He’ll give you all the tools you need, but it’ll be your choice whether to follow—but he’ll give you the map. If you do follow the map that he sets for you, you will be successful. There are so many people — Kyle Dornan, Brandon Shull, Jaime Llerena, Matt Kozel, Levon Mock (former state title holder), Dexter Green —I can’t even count how many, that would say they owe him a monumental amount of respect and love him for what he’s given us.”

Rolling Comets

Coloma sweeps South Haven Simpson Memorial Wrestling Invitational; Bloomingdale comes in third

By AARON CRIDER

HP Sports Writer

Coloma made it a sweep at Saturday’s South Haven Simpson Memorial Wrestling Invitational.

The Comets rolled to a 42-35 victory over the Niles “B” team in the championship round.

Jamane Smith scored a 17-2 technical fall over Niles’ Tysen Custard at 189 pounds.

Billy Boyd and Cole Alsup followed up by pinning Caiden Smith and Darian Sosa at 215 pounds and heavyweight to close out the Vikings.

“Niles is good, they are always tough,” said Coloma coach Ken Ashley. “We got a lot of young kids but they worked hard and put the time in. We have a lot of work to do still, but we will be alright.”

Smith, Boyd and Alsup went undefeated, as did Ian Ishmael (135), Hannison Spalding (119) and Dylnn McClain (112).

The Comets did well defending against pins, with most of their losses coming by void or decision.

“The biggest thing about team wrestling is that we cannot be on our backs,” said Ashley. “Giving up three points instead of six is a big swing for us.

“That helped us out with Niles and Bloomingdale. Our 145 (Alec Dela-Torre) fought off his back for most of the third period and that saved us, otherwise we wouldn’t have had a shot.”

Niles’ “A” team wrestled at the Penn Super Duals in Mishawaka on Saturday.

Skylar Means earned a fall for the Vikings pinning Steve Poundes at 1:13 in the 125 matchup. Means went undefeated as did Robert Buckland (160), Jared Marin (171) and Cole Simpson (145).

“Coloma is always a tough team,” said Niles assistant coach Daniel Sierra. “I liked the way we wrestled. This is the younger crowd, but it’s an opportunity to get on the mat.”

Bloomingdale took third, beating Bangor 4134.

“I think we did really well,” said Bloomingdale coach Ty Caron. “They’ve really grown within the sport and we are improving. I’m excited about what we did today, but we preach to never be satisfied.”

The Cardinals were two points shy from competing in the championship round, falling 41-39 to Coloma. The Comets forfeited the 130-pound match after Cody Reese slammed Jackson Braunz.

Braunz was scrambling out of bounds when Reese lifted him up and threw him to the mat. Trainers and coaches rushed to his side and after 10 minutes he was carried off the mat.

South Haven is struggling with numbers. Jackson Calvert was the only wrestler to compete from the Rams’ four-man roster.

Wanting to gain experience, South Haven put together a mixed team with extra wrestlers from the visiting teams.

“We had 10 kids sign up,” said South Haven coach Brad Adamson. “But only four are showing up. The other three took off on Christmas vacation this week, so we only have one. The good thing is our middle school team and MYWAY program have really good numbers.”

“We have a strong wrestling tradition,” said South Haven athletic director Adam Verseput. “It’s crazy, hanging in my office is the 2015 district championship plaque. We had 24 wrestlers then and that was just two years ago.

“Brad is forward thinking. He’s working on wrestling seven days a week. We’ll have a couple rough years but I think we will bounce back.”

South Haven Simpson Memorial Invitational results

Championship: Coloma 42, Niles 35

Consolation: Bloomingdale 41, Bangor 34

Pool: Coloma 3-0, Niles 3-0, Bangor 2-1, Bloomingdale 1-2, South Haven 1-2, Reed City 1-2

Undefeated wrestlers — Coloma: Ian Ishmael 135, Hannison Spalding 119, Cole Alsup 285, Billy Boyd 215, Dylnn McClain 112, Jamane Smith 189; Niles: Robert Buckland 160, Skylar Means 125, Jared Marin 171, Cole Simpson 145, Skiler Farmer 152; Bangor: Robert Taylor 140, Daniel Villalobos 103, Devon Kozel 215, Trevor Hiatt 285; Bloomingdale: Brandon Smith 160, Thaddeus Vernon 140; Watervliet: Trevor Pelton 103, Brad Yazel 152.

PHOTOS: Josh Rukas (top photo) of Bangor competes against his first opponent at Saturday's South Haven Wrestling Invitational. Rukas (130) pounds went on to pin his opponent. In the other photo, South Haven freshman Jackson Calvert (167 pounds) pins his Reed City opponent in the first round of Saturday's invitational. (Photos by Tom Renner).

Rams lose to Wildcats, rebound against Otsego

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Three Rivers defeated South Haven 61-54 in Tuesday's boys basketball contest, after holding on to a 10-point lead established early in the game.

The Wildcats jumped out to a 22-12 advantage in the first quarter, and battled the rest of the contest as South Haven rallied to close the scoring margin.

Three Rivers' Gavin Charvat led with 20 points and six, while his brother Carson Charvat finished with 12 points and and five rebounds. Jalen Heivilin added ten points for the Wildcat effort.

For the Rams, DaShaan Palmer led with 12 points, followed by Joe Wilkins with 11, and Caleb Ford and Darion Gist finished with nine points each.

On Friday, Palmer's game-high of 26 points and 10 rebounds helped South Haven recover and notch a 63-60 win over Otsego.

South Haven improved to 2-3 overall, and 1-2 in the Wolverine Conference.

In the girl's contest, South Haven fell to Three Rivers on Tuesday, 47-17, propelled by an 11-0 first quarter and 24-0 second quarter.

Hadley Miller and Rhyeli Krause led the Wildcats with 14 points each.

South Haven then faced Otsego on Friday, and fell in a 60-32 finish.

The South Haven boys basketball team will play Tri-County Christian High on Wednesday, Dec. 28, then resumes its season on Wednesday, Jan. 3 against Watervliet.

The Lady Rams will also compete on Wed., Dec. 28 against Holland High School before traveling to Watervliet on Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Covert drops two games to Eau Claire, Kalamazoo Lakeside Academy

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Eau Claire dropped 27 points in the first quarter, and held Covert to zero points en route to a 62-20 win, in boy's basketball action Tuesday.

The Beavers held a 45-9 lead by halftime, and outscored Covert 19-11 in the second half to seal the win. 

Eau Claire's Jomel Armstead led with a game-high of 12 points, followed by Austin Dohm with 11 points. Both Armstead and Dohm had 3 three-pointers apiece.

For the Bulldogs, Kolby Blackman led with eight points.

On Wednesday, despite having an early lead, the Bulldogs fell to Kalamazoo Lakeside, 71-39.

The Bulldogs led at 9-6 in the first quarter, however Lakeside picked up the pace thereafter, and scored 22, 21, and 22 points in the final three quarters.

Lakeside had three players reach double digits (Shawn Henderson 16, MarQuon Stafford 16, and De'Aire Day 17) in the win, while Covert's Elijah Fuller led his team with 16 points.

Covert faces River Valley next on Tuesday.

PHOTO: Asaahdi Coleman of Lakeside Academy blocks a shot by Elijah Fuller of Covert. Fuller went on to score 16 points in Wednesday's game. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Bangor struggles against Indians, Tigers

 By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

SAUGATUCK — Blake Dunn's game-high of 33 points helped keep Saugatuck in the lead on Tuesday, in a 69-59 win over Bangor.

Saugauck started the contest with an 8-0 run, which resulted in a 17-8 lead at the end of the first quarter. Bangor rallied to chip away at Saugatuck's lead in the second period, and brought the game within seven points. 

"We started the second half down, 35-28, and went back and forth throughout the third quarter and trailed heading into the fourth, 50-42," Bangor coach Larry Freislinger said.

The Vikings worked tirelessly to close the gap throughout the contest, however, the Indians were always a step ahead, and claimed the Southwestern Athletic Conference win.

"(I'm) very proud of the effort these boys gave tonight on the road in a very tough place to play. It's been a great improvement from game one to game three," Freislinger said.

Bangor's Marshall Weber finished with 19 points, five of which were treys, and Gage Gardner scored 11. Tyrique Cunningham added 10 points in the Vikings effort.

On Friday, Bangor continued Southwestern Athletic Conference action against Gobles, and was defeated at 76-54 at home.

Bangor resumes its schedule on Friday, Jan. 6 after winter break, against Schoolcraft in a non-conference contest.

PHOTO: Bangor's Gage Gardner (3) gos up for a layup during Friday's game against Gobles. (Photo by Walter Cronk)

12.12.16

Rams hold on in final seconds to beat Lakeshore

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven seized several opportunities late in a prep boys basketball contest against Stevensville Lakeshore on Tuesday en route to winning the season opener, 46-44.

The Rams took the early in the first quarter at 11-8, however Lakeshore outscored South Haven 15-7 in the second quarter to take the lead by halftime, 23-18.

South Haven bounced back after half time with a 16-11 scoring advantage, thus tying the game at 34 by the end of the third quarter.

A battle ensued in the final period, as both teams poured on the defensive pressure and the game came down to the final seconds.

With 3 seconds remaining, Lakeshore trailed by two points.

South Haven's Caskadara Smith fouled Lakeshore's Micah Seats, who then had a chance to tie the score.

However, Seats could not make good on the two free throws, allowing the Rams' DeShaan Palmer to snag the rebound and hold on for a 46-44 victory.

Palmer fronted South Haven with 15 points, and Joe Wilkins  followed up had nine points,  Smith added seven points and Caleb Ford and Faylin Goodwin had six apiece for the Rams. 

"They really played great defense," said South Haven coach Larry Ash of his team, which also had a low turnover tally. 

Luke Meyer led Lakeshore with 14 points, followed by Max Gaishin and Colin Brushwyler with nine points each.

On Friday, South Haven squared off with Sturgis in a Wolverine Conference opener, and lost in a tight 62-58 finish.

The Trojans were paced by post players/tall men Matt Polzin, who had a game high of 24 points, and Brecken Stewart, who chipped in 18 points. Brandon Wetzel finished with 10 points for Sturgis.

South Haven trailed at 30-24 by halftime, however rallied to within a point of Sturgis' lead by the fourth quarter. The free throw line was a tipping point in the contest, as the Trojans went 25-9 over South Haven, and 25 for 36 for the contest

"South Haven is a tough team. They were quick, athletic, and played unselfishly. They kept fighting until the end," said Sturgis coach Keith Kurowski.

South Haven's Wilkins and Palmer combined for 38 points for the Rams. 

South Haven (1-1) hosts Three Rivers on Tuesday, and travels to Ostego on Friday.



Frances Lyons leads Lady Rams to second win

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven's Frances Lyons racked up 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to help her team defeat Sturgis, 58-53, Friday, in girl's basketball action.

The Rams (2-1) got off to a slow start in the Wolverine Conference contest, but were able to turn the game around in the second half to earn their second victory of the season.

"Our girls struggled at the beginning but still played hard,” South Haven Coach Joey Holland said. “We were doing everything that we were supposed to do with execution except we struggled with finishing on easy baskets and we struggled with catching the ball when we needed to."

"That was a huge part of why we turned the ball over so much in the first half,” Holland continued to say. “We just could not catch the ball. I think those turnovers cost us a good 10 points alone." 

South Haven regrouped in the second half to outlast Sturgis. The Rams return two starters this season, so are on the young side, however, Holland said his team is talented in key positions, well-balanced, and understands how to play team basketball.

In addition, to 28 points and 13 rebounds, Lyons had six steals and two assists to lead South Haven, and went 8-12 from the line.

"Frances is going to continue to be a big scorer for our team,” Holland said. “Tonight (Friday), I think she started to understand that if she gets her team involved on the offensive end, that's going to create huge opportunities for her going forward."

South Haven's Kiandra Raday followed up with nine points and nine rebounds, an assist and a steal, while teammate Tawana Durden snagged 10 rebounds, a steal and an assist. Cate Frost rounded out the South Haven offense with seven points, four rebounds, two steals, and an assist.

"All in all I'm very happy with how the girls played tonight," Holland said. "They played as a team. They played very unselfish and it was a great team win."

South Haven improves to 2-1, overall, and 1-1 in the Wolverine Conference. The Rams travel to face Three Rivers on Tuesday and Otsego on Friday.

PHOTO: Frances Lyons of South Haven heads downcourt during Friday's game against Sturgis. Lyons led the Rams on offesne with 28 points and 13 rebounds. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Vikings open basketball season with loss to Marcellus

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The Bangor boy's basketball season opener on Tuesday ended in a 62-32 loss against Marcellus in a non-conference match up.

"We came out of the gates flat-footed and caught an early deficit of 11-2 in the first 5 minutes of the game,"said Bangor coach Larry Freislinger, who is in his first season as varsity coach for the Vikings.

"We continued to battle the rest of the first half, missing a decent amount of easy scoring opportunities, which could've turned the momentum in our favor."

Marcellus widened its lead in the second half, at one point up to 20 points, which the Vikings were unable to encroach on.

"(It was) a well played game by the Wildcats of Marcellus,” Freislinger said.  “Seasons are not won or lost after the first game, we've seen plenty of good things from this Vikings squad tonight."

Gage Gardner led Bangor with 11 points, and Marcellus' Brandon Clark scored a game high of 18 points.

On Friday, the Vikings fell to Kalamazoo Hackett at 73-27 in the second non-conference game of the week.

Bangor (0-2)  begins Southwestern Athletic Conference action this week by traveling to Saugatuck on Tuesday and facing Gobles at home, Friday.

Half-court shot at the buzzer gives Wildcats a win over Bangor

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

MARCELLUS — It came down to a final shot on Tuesday's girl's basketball contest between Bangor and Marcellus, and the Vikings fell 32-31.

The game tipped in a visiting Bangor's favor early on, after the Vikings established a first-quarter lead of 10-6. 

"We played strong defense that took us to the locker room with a lead of 20-12 at half time," Bangor coach Shiron Williams said.

However, the Wildcats bounced back in the third quarter, and tied up the game after putting up 12 points to Bangor's four. 

The neck-and-neck scoring trend continued in the final quarter, until Bangor had a two-point lead, with 50 seconds remaining in the contest.

"We missed a few free throws and an open lay-up and the Lady Wildcats threw up a half court shot at the buzzer to win the game 32-31,” Williams said.

Jai'onna McGee scored a team high of 10 points, while Madison McGuire followed with eight points for the Bangor effort.

On Friday Bangor competed in its second non-conference contest of the week, traveling to play Kalamazoo Hackett.

Hope Baldwin scored 14 points to lead Hackett in a 47-14 win over Bangor. 

Hackett scored in double digits in every quarter with the exception of the fourth, and held Bangor to single digits, including no points scored in the third period.

Epiphany Parker led the Vikings with four points.

Bangor competes in two Southwestern Conference games this week at home, beginning with Saugatuck on Tuesday, and Gobles, Friday.



Sturgis rolls past Ram bowlers

South Haven's varsity bowling teams got off to a slow start to the season, losing their first match to Sturgis this past week.

The Trojans' boys team won the first game 1,063-827, but the Rams regrouped in the second game, fronted by Brysten Jerch, who rolled a 260 to lead the Rams to a 865-837 finish. The two teams then split the Baker matches, with the Rams winning the first one 180-166 and Sturgis taking the second, 194-139. The total points the Trojans scored in the Baker matches and regular game series, however, gave them the overall victory.

Jerch led the Rams' scoring effort with a two-game series of 422. while Grant Frabe rolled a 404.

The Lady Rams had an even tougher time with Sturgis, dropping both regular games, 827-621 and 778-612. They did come back in the first baker match to win 171-149, but narrowly lost the second one, 148-135.

Cheyanne Himel rolled a 335 two-game series for the Rams. She was followed by Lindsey Niffenegger with a 279.



 

12.7.16

Lady Rams open season with a victory over Bridgman, but fall to Plainwell

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

A solid second half helped the South Haven girls basketball team begin the season with a 42-29 win over Bridgman.

The Bees took an early lead at 11-8 in the first quarter, which South Haven turned around by halftime to take the lead at 20-19.

"I think in the first half part of the mistakes that we were making were due to the nerves setting being that it was the first game of the season,” said South Haven coach Joey Holland. “We made some mistakes but we also did a lot of good things that I saw on the court tonight which makes me excited to see how the season goes."

The Rams revved up the defensive pressure after halftime, and outscored Bridgman 11-5 in both the third and final quarters to seal the non-conference victory.

“Even though in the second half we did have more turnovers, I wasn’t too disappointed in them because the turnovers were due to hustle," Holland said.

"I was very impressed with our underclassmen and how they performed; definitely stepped up in times of need when we were struggling and put us back into position to win the game."

South Haven's Frances Lyons led with a double double of 12 points and 14 rebounds, and also added six assists and five steals. Tuwana Dirden finished with eight points and nine rebounds, while Kiandra Rayday chipped in six points, eight rebounds, three blocks, and five steals.

On Friday, Plainwell (2-0) dropped 21 points in the first quarter to take control of the game, en route to a 50-24 win over South Haven.

South Haven outscored Plainwell 14-13 collectively in the second half, however the first half scoring lead was too much for the Rams to overcome.

The Trojans led at 37-10 at the end of the first half which allowed their non-starters to get some playing time, and pushed the lead out of reach for the Rams.

South Haven (1-1) will have some time to regroup this week before facing Sturgis, Friday, in a Wolverine Conference matchup.

PHOTO: South Haven's Grace Lyons (top photo) goes up for a shot during Friday's game against Plainwell. In the other photo, Dayviona Jones maneuvers around a two Plainwell defenders. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Bangor girls basketball team gets off to a rocky start

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Bangor's girls varsity basketball team fell in a non-conference season opener against Kalamazoo Christian on Tuesday, 41-24.

The Vikings hit a couple of buckets in the first quarter to claim the early lead at 11-10. However, the Comets turned the tables in the second quarter with a scoring spurt, aided by Bangor  turnovers, for a 22-13 lead by half time.

After the break, Kalamazoo Christian kept the offensive pressure on in the third quarter, beginning with a 9-0 scoring run within the first three minutes. 

"At the end of the half our fatigue started to show and we trailed at half time by 11 points. Our girls played hard, but we couldn't quite make up the deficit," said Bangor coach Shiron Williams.

Bangor then followed up with a 6-0 scoring run of its own to cut down the Comets lead a bit leading into the fourth quarter. The Comets finished with six points in the fourth quarter, while Bangor scored one and recorded the non-conference loss.

Kalamazoo Christian's Haley Balkema fronted her team with 11 points. 

For the Vikings, Epiphany Parker led with 12 points. 

"We have a long road ahead of us, but we saw a lot of good things last night (Tuesday). Our girls are giving the effort and show a lot of passion on the court," said Williams.

On Friday, Coloma claimed a win after edging out Bangor at its home gymnasium,  in a nail-biting 35-33 finish.

The Comets dropped a 14-5 lead in the first quarter, and widened the margin with another 8-5 scoring advantage in the second.

Bangor fouls gave the Comets several opportunities throughout the game, as the Vikings had 19 to Coloma's two.

Bangor rallied in the third quarter by outscoring Coloma 12-3, and again at 11-10 in the fourth quarter, but the Comets were able to ride the tails of their first-half lead to victory.

For the VIkings, Jai'Onna McGee led with 11 points including three three-point goals, followed by Jamie Allen and Essence Shelton with seven points each.

Kayla Yore led Coloma with 15 points, while Hannah Matis had six points.

Bangor goes on the road this week to face non-conference opponent Kalamazoo Hackett on Friday.

11.28.16

Wolverine Conference honors South Haven coaches

Four South Haven coaches were honored earlier this month by the Wolverine Conference for their service to the league. Shelly Fouts, Vince Bowman, Larry Ash and Bill Taylor all received awards for twenty years of service during a ceremony at the Fetzer Center on the campus of Western Michigan University.

Ash has served as both a girls and boys basketball coach at a variety of levels in the Wolverine Conference. Although most of his time in the Wolverine was at Plainwell, Ash most recently led the South Haven boys varsity basketball team to an 18-2 regular season record and a district championship. Ash resides in Plainwell and works as a paraprofessional for Plainwell Public Schools.

Bowman started coaching basketball at Baseline Middle School in 1996 and has been coaching for South Haven Schools ever since. After stints as a basketball and football coach at the lower levels, he went on to serve as varsity girls and freshman boys basketball coach. Aside from coaching, Bowman owns Family Video store in South Haven.

After playing sports in college herself, Fouts came to South Haven and started her coaching career at the middle school level. However, for the 22 years she has been the JV softball coach and an integral part of South Haven’s high school softball program. In addition to coaching, Fouts is a middle school math teacher and co-creator of Baseline's popular annual dodgeball competition.

Taylor first joined the Conference as a middle school athletic director and assistant principal. He served for 14 years in that position, finding time to complete his doctorate degree in educational administration. He also earned his Master Athletic Administrator Certification, served as the co-chair of the Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association's middle school committee, was a member of the Michigan High School Athletic Association's middle school committee, and in 2003 received the MIAAA’s region 14 State Middle School Athletic Director of the Year Award. Using his experience as a sprinter at Purdue University, Bill coached track at both the middle and high school levels. He is now semi-retired but still works teaching for Lake Michigan College and for the South Haven Schools, coaching track, supervising athletic events, and even working as announcer for South Haven home games.

PHOTO: Four South Haven coaches, including a former athletic director, are shown after earning awards from the Wolverine Conference. From left are Larry Ash, Vince Bowman, Bill Taylor and Shelly Fouts.

11.14.16

SH swimmers named All-Conference, Meyer qualifies for state meet

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

ALLEGAN — The South Haven girls varsity swim team finished their regular season this past week, at the Southwest and Central Michigan League Championship meet with several members earning all-Conference honors.

"The SCSC has eight teams that compete throughout the season (who then compete) together over these two days,” said South Haven Coach Amy Gruber Garber, referring to the conference meet. “All swimmers and divers compete on the first day, and the top 16 finishers go on to vie for Consolation Finalist and All-Conference."

Teams that took place at the championship meet included Allegan, Alma, Marshall, Otsego, Plainwell, South Haven and Sturgis.

South Haven's Caroline Meyer placed second in the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 25.23, which qualified for the state meet, Nov. 18-19. She also earned All-Conference honors for her finish at the league championship. The Rams' 200-yard free relay team (Kaia Hayes, Liv Ritenburgh, Meyer, and Postma) finished in seventh place with a time of 1:50.40.

Meyer also swam a leg of South Haven's 200-yard medley relay team along with Sierra Garber, Leah Bennett, and Elise Postma, who finished seventh place overall with a time of 2:02.76 to earn All-Conference honors.

The Rams also competed in the 200 medley relay (Paeton Hayes, Liz Johnson, Allison Cadwell, Jenna Dee) and took 13th place (2:13.12), Ritenburgh finished 15th ( 2:18.14) in the 200 free, while in the  200-yard intermediate Postma placed 16th  (2:36.70) and 13th in the 100-yard breast stroke (1:16.46); Leah Bennett finished 16^th in the 50-yard freestyle (28.71), Allison Cadwell came in 14^th place in the diving competition, Bennett came in 14^th place in the 100-yard butterfly with a time of 1:14.21, while teammate Liz Johnson finished 15th (1:14.82).

Garber finished at ninth place in the 100-yard free (1:00.79) and 15th  (1:15.99) in the 100-yard backstroke, and South Haven's 200-yard freestyle relay team (Courtney Kelly, Sydney Todd, Jade Hasson, Cadwell) finished 13th at 2:01.01.

Paeton Hayes placed 16th in the 100-yard breaststroke (1:16.08) while the 400-yard freestyle relay team (Ritenburgh, Johnson, Hayes, Garber) placed ninth in 4:09.00. South Haven's B team in the 400-yard  relay (Logan Servatius, Allison Uckele,  Dee, Kelly) finished in 13th place with a time of 4:32.23.

11.7.16

South Haven volleyball team bows out of District tournament during semi-final round

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

STEVENSVILLE — South Haven cruised to a victory over Benton Harbor in the Class B District volleyball opener on Monday, but ran into trouble against Coloma in Wednesday’s semi-final.

On Monday, South Haven’s Hailey Krieger amassed 20 kills to aid her team in a win over Benton Harbor in three sets of 25-8, 25-15 and 25-11. 

Teammate Kiandra Raday contributed four kills and four aces, while Frances Lyons tallied a scrappy 27 assists for the match. Samantha Martin rounded out the South Haven offensive effort with six aces.

The Rams moved on to the semi-final round against Southwestern Athletic Conference Champion Coloma on Wednesday— which was the first meeting of the two teams this season.

In game one, Coloma took the early lead, however South Haven rallied to tie the score at 20 points, and the game morphed into a roller coaster ride of the two teams trading places with the lead. Coloma outlasted the Rams in a high-scoring 32-20 finish, to claim game one.

The Comets then clinched game two at 25-22, followed by a South Haven win 19-25 in game three. Coloma won the final game at 25-18, to win the overall match and move on to the District finals, Thursday.

"We played well at times but still struggled to play consistent. All in all, we finished our season with a 27-14-1 record and feel much success with it. Our kids also carried an average of a 3.66 GPA in the classroom," Rams coach Brandi Dietz said.

"Our coaching staff is very proud of the improvement that we saw this season, both mentally and physically."

South Haven will lose seniors Kiandra Rady, Samantha Martin, and Tresa Sell to graduation, but hopes to continue building the program next season. 

"We have great kids and an amazing staff and very much look forward to next season,” Dietz said. “Expectations are high with hopes of lots of summer beach ball and recreational gym time."

Bangor's District title quest ends

Kalamazoo Hackett knocked Bangor out of the Class C District touranement after a five-set showdown in the semi-round this past Wednesday .

IIt was the fourth time Bangor faced the Irish this season.

"Our defense led the way during the match accounting for more than 225 digs and several long and spirited rallies,' Vikings coach Doug Jones said.

The match was decided in the fifth and final set.

"The Bangor netters demonstrated steady improvement throughout the season and finished with a 29-13-8 record," Jones said.

PHOTO: South Haven's Kiandra Raday tries to block a hit from Coloma's Morgan Wagner during a Class B district volleyball semifinal this past Wednesday at Lakeshore High School. (Photo by Don Campbell of the Herald-Palladium)

10.31.16

Bangor cross-country teams qualify for state finals

By TRIBUNE STAFF

Bangor's cross-country teams both finished second at the Division 3 regional meet, this past Saturday, and will now be headed to the Michigan High School Athletic Association's state meet, Saturday, Nov. 5, at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn.

Girls coach Ben Munoz and boys coach Brian Price were both pleased with their team's performances.

“The team had a great race,” Munoz said. “We placed six runners in the top 30. Regan Slone, Laisha Ramirez and Logan Slone got awards.”

Five runners from the Vikings boys' team came in the top 30, according to Price, including Justin Smith, who earned All-Region honors by placing ninth.

Bloomingdale girls' team did not have enough runners to compete as a team, however, that didn't stop Nelly Gonzalez from finishing in the top five, with a fourth-place finish, and a trip to the state finals.

Saugatuck's cross-country teams, who captured the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship earlier this month, won the regional girls and boys meet.

Fourteen teams competed in the regional meet in Buchanan. Results follow: Saugatuck, first, 22; Bangor, second, 86; Berrien Springs, third, 136; Bridgman, fourth, 138; Constantine, fifth, 151; Comstock, sixth, 155; Watervliet, seventh, 161; Schoolcraft, eighth, 176; Gobles, ninth, 227; Parchment, 10th, 228; Lawton, 11th, 256; Bloomingdale, 12th, 309; Galesburg-Augusta, 13th, 348; Hartford, 14th, 364.

Individual results follow:

Bangor: Justin Smith, ninth, 17:26.5; Brett Robertson, 17th, 18:32.4; Carter Finch, 18th, 18:32.5; Benjamin Greiner, 20th, 18:38.1; Alvaro Martinez, 22nd, 18:42.9; Carson Finch, 41st, 19:28.9.

Bloomingdale: Jaime Guzman, 42nd, 19:34.5; Zach Disbrow, 51st, 20:07.4; Ron Umbenhour, 58th, 20:57.2.

Girls results

Thirteen teams competed in the regional meet (Bloomingdale did not have enough runners to compete as a team). Results follow: Saugatuck, first, 17; Bangor, second, 57; Lawton, third, 84; Bridgman, fourth, 136; Watervliet, fifth, 138; Gobles, sixth, 181; Berrien Springs, seventh, 209; Schoolcraft, eighth, 240; Constantine, ninth, 248; Buchanan, 10th, 268; Hartford, 11th, 271; Parchment, 12th, 305; Comstock, 13th, 310.

Individual results follow:

Bangor: Regan Slone, fifth, 21:36.2; Laisha Ramirez, eighth, 21:48.3; Logan Slone, 10th, 21:51.0; Karyssa Gallegos, 17th, 22:44.3; Christine VanNuys, 25th, 23:39.0; Abigail Kueny, 27th, 23?43.7.

Bloomingdale: Nelly Gonzalez, fourth, 21:30.2; Liza Hutchins, 16th, 22:32.5; Heather Davis, 40th, 24:32.6.

PHOTOS: Bangor's Justin Smith (left) and Regan Slone (right). (Photos by John Madill)

3 South Haven runners qualify for state finals

Three South Haven runners have qualified for the Division 2 state track finals after competing in the Regional competition, this past Saturday, in Buchanan.

Craig Thompson finished sixth at the regional with a time of 16:48.30 to earn a trip to the state finals, and will be joined by teammate Jackson Schooley, who placed 10^th, with a time of 17:06.10.

For the girls, freshman Holli Dannenburg will be making her first trip to the state finals after finishing ninth with a time of 20:32.50.

The Rams weren't able to qualify as teams for the state finals, but did well at the regional. The boys team finished sixth, while the girls placed fifth.

Individual results follow:

Boys: Craig Thompson, sixth, 16:48.30; Jackson Schooley, 10^th, 17:06.10; Justin Postma, 47^th, 18:43.70; Edward DeLong, 48^th, 18:45.70; Joe Nelson, 49^th; 18:53.00.

Girls: Holli Dannenburg, ninth, 20:32.50; Marnie Frost, 16^th, 21:05.20; Cate Frost, 27^th, 21:50.50; Katie Schooley, 30^th, 21:53.00; Ana Gonzalez, 59^th, 23:29.00.

Bangor makes it to semi-finals of conference tourney

Bangor's volleyball team made it to the semi-final round of the Southwestern Athletic Conference tournament, Saturday, before falling to Kalamazoo Christian.

Coloma won the tourney and conference championship, while Kalamazoo Christian settled for second.

The Vikings started the tournament by being seeded in the middle of the 12-team SAC Gold Division.

By the end of pool play, Bangor built up a perfect 6-0 record, defeating Galesburg-Augusta, Marcellus and Watervliet.

They then were seeeded third in bracket play and faced Marcellus again in the quarter-finals.

“We struggled a little in the first set losing 29-27, but ultimately secured the win, 2-1,” Bangor coach Doug Jones said.

But, when entering the semi-finals, the Vikings lost 2-1 to Kalamazoo in sets of 17-25, 25-23, 18-25.

Despite the loss, Jones was pleased, overall, with how the Lady Vikings fared in the tournament.

“Our netters' defense and transition offense continued to lead the way to the team's outstanding performance,” he said.

For Bangor, Megan Watkins had 104 digs while Jamie Allen added 83. The team totaled 356 digs on the day. Madison McGuire contributed 74 assists to the Viking offense. Olivia Moore led the team with 27 kills. Nina Ring collected 23 kills while Jamie Allen, Jai’Onna McGee, and Epiphany Parker each had 22 kills.



Lady Rams win Bangor Volleyball Invitational; District tournament begins this week

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

BANGOR — South Haven brought home a tournament trophy this past week after defeating Bangor, Bloomingdale, Kalamazoo Hackett and Benton Harbor at the Vikings' volleyball Invitational, Saturday, Oct. 22.

South Haven's Kiandra Raday and Hayley Krieger fronted the team in kills, while Francis Lyons racked up an impressive 68 assists for the day.

"Samantha Martin and Frances Lyons were the team’s leading servers, and the South Haven defense received great support from Gracie Ellis and Mashayla White," Rams coach Brandi Dietz said.

Bangor finished in the top three at the invite, after defeating Bloomingdale and Benton Harbor, and losing to South Haven and Kalamazoo Hackett.

“The Lady Vikings’ tenacious back-row defense and transition offense showed substantial improvement with each contest,” Bangor coach Doug Jones said.

The Vikings' kill leaders included Olivia Moore, Jamie Allen, and Jai’Onna McGee. Nina Ring, Epiphany Parker, Megan Watkins, and Anissa Key had multiple kills of their own. Madison McGuire added 42 assists to her season total along with 6 kills. Watkins collected another 60 digs on the day while Elisabeth Jackson contributed 13 digs. Allen had 11 aces, while Watkins chipped in 8 aces. Ring and Moore were error-free at the service line. Moore also had 4 blocks.

On Thursday, South Haven picked up three more victories at a quad meet held at Saugatuck.  The Rams defeated Convenant Christian 25-17 and 25-20, Allegan at 25-19 and 25-7, and also the hosting team, Saugatuck at 25-15 and 26-6.

South Haven held a record of 4-6 (in the Wolverine Conference) heading into the Wolverine Conference Tournament on Saturday, Oct. 29th at Three Rivers to wrap up their regular season. Results which wraps up the regular season.

The Rams will travel to Stevensville on Monday, (tonight), for the Class B District opener against Benton Harbor at 5:30 p.m.

Bangor will travel to Bloomingdale for the Class C District opener on Wednesday. There they will face the winner of Monday's opening match between Bloomingdale and Kalamazoo Hackett.

Bangor boys cross-country team 2nd in invitational; Girls place third

Bangor boys cross-country team earned runner-up honors in the Kalamazoo Christian Comet Invitational, Saturday, while the Lady Vikings came in third.

Justin Smith of Bangor won the boys meet with a time of 16:40. Other medalists for the Vikings included Carter Finch, Ben Griener and Brett Robertson.

One hundred and forty-six runners from 13 cross-country teams took part in the boys invite. Grand Rapids Covenant Christian won the race with 44 points. Other scores follow: Bangor, second, 70; Grand Rapids South Christian, third, 82; Constantine, fourth, 110; Watervliet, fifth, 136; Schoolcraft, sixth, 160; Kalamazoo Homeschool, seventh, 174; Lawton, eighth, 189; Kalamazoo Christian, ninth, 274; Grand Rapids Union, 10th, 287; Union City, 11th, 311; White Pigeon, 12th, 317; and Berrien County Youth Track, 13th, 336.

Individual results for Bangor follow: Justin Smith, 1st, 16:41.00; Carter Finch, 11th, 17:44.83; Benjamin Greiner, 13th, 17:45.75; Brett Robertson, 17th, 18:09.00; Carson Finch, 31st, 18:38.00.

Girls results

Regan Slone led the 11-team race and ended up capturing first place with a time of 20:38.83 to pace the Vikings to their third-place finish.

Both Slone and Laisha Ramariez finished in the top 20 to earn medals.

Grand Rapids South Haven Christian won the race with 36 points. Grand Rapids Covenant Christian came in second with 48 points; Bangor, third, 92; Lawton, fourth, 123; Watervliet, fifth, 137; Grand Rapids Union, sixth, 140; Kalamazoo Homeschool, seventh, 197; Schoolcraft, eighth, 206; Constantine, ninth, 244; Decatur, 10^th, 265; and Union City, 11^th, 288.

Individual results for Bangor follow: Regan Slone, 1^st, 20:38.83; Laisha Ramirez, 13^th, 21:21.46; Karyssa Gallegos, 23^rd, 21:31.33; Logan Slone, 28^th, 21:46.84; Abigail Kueny, 45^th, 22:51.19; and Marlen Barajas, 48^th 23:09.71.



Rams swimmers fall to Marshall

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The South Haven swim team fell to Marshall, Tuesday, 97-81, in the last home meet of the season.

"It was an ugly loss but (we had) great swims,"  said South Haven coach Amy Gruber Garber.

South Haven's Caroline Meyer won the 100-yard butterfly in 1:06.73 and 100-yard breaststroke in 1:14.72.

Payton Hayes placed first in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 1:16.49 while Sierra Garber followed up in second place at 1:17.35 to earn more points for the Rams.

South Haven also won the 400-yard free style relay ( Leah Bennett, Elizabeth Johnson, Garber, Liv Ritenburgh) with a time of 4:25.33

The Rams will compete in the SCSC League Championship, Friday, Nov. 4, in Allegan, to finish off the team's regular season.



10.24.16

Vikings, Rams come up short in final football games of the season

Bangor's football season ended on a sad note, Friday, with a 60-6 loss to a powerful Watervliet team.

“(We) played an excellent Watervliet team and came up short on Senior Night,” Vikings Coach Jason Maynard said.

The Panthers lost no time getting on the scoreboard. Less than a minute into the game, quarterback Cameron Rendo threw the ball to Carlos Hernandez, who ran 14 yards for Watervliet's first touchdown. Rendo then followed up with a three-yard run into the endzone to put the score at 14-0 to end the first quarter.

The second quarter belonged to the Panthers' offense, which racked up 40 more points.

Bangor's lone touchdown occurred in the fourth quarter when Robert Taylor ran 65 yards on a kickoff return.

Rendo led Watervliet's offense with five touchdowns. Hernandez scored two touchdowns.

Allegan 22

South Haven 18

A second quarter spurt helped Allegan clinch its first win this year in Friday's 22-18 season closer over South Haven.

 After a scoreless first quarter, the Tigers' Daymon Wedge caught a 53-yard pass from Chris Hitchcock for the score. Cameron Day then followed up with a four-yard run to the end zone, to give Allegan a 16-0 lead by the end of the second quarter.

 The Rams made an appearance in the third quarter with a 17-yard run from Kendall Cunningham for the touchdown near the two-minute mark.

 The Rams kept the momentum going at the start of the fourth quarter with a 75-yard connection to Caleb Ford from Faylin Goodwin for the score.

 Allegan's (1-8)  Cameron Day responded with a 15-yard run for a touchdown, while South Haven's Jaken Avery made a final effort to close in on the Tiger's lead with a 22-yard pass from Goodwin for the score.

 South Haven concludes the season with a record of 3-6.

PHOTO: Friday night's rainfall failed to deter Bangor's Robert Taylor,  who gets past Watervliet's defense in the first half of a Southwestern Athletic Conference game. Taylor scored the Vikings' lone touchdown during the fourth quarter. (Photo by John Madill)



Bangor bows out of District soccer tournament

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Bangor's soccer season came to an end this past Wednesday at the hands of Lawton, who defeated the Vikings in the semi-final round of the District 4 tournament at Hartford.

“It leaves a sour taste because we had the lead three times during the game,” Bangor coach Antonio Robles said. “However, we could not finish on top.”

In a see-saw battle, Bangor ended up tying the Blue Devils 3-3 at the end of regulation play, but ended up losing 4-3 in a penalty shoot out.

The loss was similar to a match the Vikings played against Lawton two weeks ago, when the Blue Devils managed to win 6-3 in overtime.

Despite the loss during the District semi-final, Robles said he was pleased with his team's performance.

“I'm proud of everyone on the team,” he said. “They tried so hard.”

For the Vikings, Lisandrom Magana, Jesus Aragon, and Nieva scored a goal each, and Ibanez Castellanos chipped in an assist.

Lawton's Joey Stermer scored a hat trick to lead his team, while Izzy Reyes finished with one assist.

The Vikings made it to the semi-final round of the District tournament after defeating Saugatuck in the opener. 4-1.

The opening match was close in the first half with Bangor leading 1-0. But the Indians regrouped at the start of the second half and tied the score 1-1.

With less than six minutes remaining on the clock, Oswaldo Villaneuva scored a goal. Raul Rodriguez then followed up with two more goals to lead the Vikings to victory.

In other Division 4 boys soccer District action, Hartford (14-4-1) defeated Bloomingdale 7-1 in the District opener and Covert (6-6) 8-0 in the semifinal round.



Paw Paw defeats South Haven is soccer District final

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

DOWAGIAC — After a so-so regular season, South Haven's varsity soccer team looked forward to the post-season, and it looked promising.

The Rams put away Berrien Springs, 3-1 in the District opener this past Monday and outlasted Fennville, 2-1 in the semi-final, Wednesday.

But then, the Rams ran up against Wolverine Conference foe Paw Paw in the final, Saturday, and was defeated 4-0.

Despite the loss, South Haven Coach David Barden focused on the team's efforts against the Blackhawks.

In the semi-final round, Fennville took the early lead after scoring on a free kick, however South Haven's Diego Calderon soon tied the score with a goal. 

Quinn Johnson followed up with another goal to push South Haven to the lead.

"The South Haven defense then held on for the win, anchored by freshman goalkeeper Graham Ruppert," Barden said.

South Haven ended its regular season, 3-9. and was 2-1 in post-season play.



South Haven netters defeat Bridgman and Allegan

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

BRIDGMAN — South Haven breezed through this past week’s volleyball contests, beginning with a win over Bridgman on Monday.

The Rams defeated the Bees 25-18, 25-22, and 25-23. 

On Thursday, South Haven’s Senior Night was the setting for another victory over Allegan, following a three set battle of 25-14, 25-17 and 25-12.4

“We did a great job mixing up the offense and spreading out the attacks. Our setter, Frances Lyons, spread her 28 assists out across the net,” said South Haven coach Brandi Dietz.

“All of our girls had time on the court and contributed to a fun win at home.”

Hayley Kreiger paced the Rams with 12 kills, while Samantha Martin accumulated 16 service points and five aces. South Haven’s Grace Lyons fronted the defensive effort with 19 digs. 

South Haven improves to 17-11-1, overall, and competes on Thursday in a quad match at Saugatuck.

PHOTO: Mallory Dorow of South Haven gets ready to put the ball over the net in last week's non-conference match against the Bridgman Bees. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Rams place second in cross-country league championship

South Haven's boys cross-country team ran to a second-place finish in the Wolverine Conference championship this past week in Paw Paw, while the Lady Rams settled for third place.

“The boys and girls teams ran strong,” Rams coach Lindsay Haqq said. “Our goal was to improve from last year, and both teams did by three places, each.”

Haqq said the Rams are now turning their attention to the Division 2 Regional competition, Oct. 29.

“I'm very excited to see how the end of the season shapes up,” Haqq said. “We set goals back in June. Now it's time to achieve them. I'm very proud of each athlete, we have all been working so hard.”

In the girls race No. 1 ranked Otsego won, as did the boys, who are ranked No. 14 in Division 2.

Boys results

Alex Comerford of Otsego won the boys race with a time of 16:01.38 to help pace his team to its first-place finish.

Ten teams competed in the conference championship. Otsego scored 38 points, followed by the Rams with 96 points. Plainwell came in third with 107; Vicksburg, fourth, 113; Sturgis, fifth, 135; Allegan and Paw Paw tied for sixth with 169; Three Rivers, seventh, 171; and Edwardsburg and Dowagiac tied for eighth with 196.

Craig Thompson led South Haven with a seventh-place finish and time of 17:05.07. He was followed by Jackson Schooley, who finished 10^th with a time of 17:15.99. Other Ram results follow: Justin Postma, 21st, 18:22.62; Edward DeLong, 27^th, 18:55.77; Joe Nelson, 31^st, 19:04.88; Matthew Crandall, 33^rd, 19:08.99; Brian Thompson, 48^th, 19:56.10.

Girls results

Makenna Veen of Plainwell won the race with a time of 18:15.48.

Team results follow: Otsego, first, 24 points; Edwardsburg, second, 99; South Haven, third, 103; Sturgis, fourth, 110; Plainwell, fifth, 117; Vicksburg, sixth, 13-; Three Rivers, seventh, 149; Allegan, eighth, 236; Paw Paw, ninth, 242; Dowagiac, tenth, 318.

Freshman Holli Dannenburg led the Rams with a 10th-place finish and time of 20:21.23. She was followed by Marnie Frost, who placed 12^th with a time of 20:42.22. Katie Schooley came in 19^th with a time of 21:29.17; Cate Frost, 22^nd, 21:40.01; Katherine Hasted, 40^th, 22:52.41; Hayden Rooker, 41^st, 22:53.97; and Ana Gonzalez, 45^th, 23:17.21.

10.17.16

Rams defeat Allegan in overtime

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven's varsity soccer team concluded its regular season on a high note by defeating Allegan in a shootout.

"Our squad is young this year with just one senior and a handful of juniors — a lot of the sophomores have really stepped up to help out the varsity team,” Rams coach David Barden said. “Our JV group also improved a lot this season.

"It helped to have as many new players as we did,” Barden went on to say. “The Rams worked very hard this off-season and were able to increase their record by three wins this year due to that work. The Wolverine Conference has been strong recently but we were able to move up a couple spots from last year."

South Haven finished the regular season with a win 2-1 win over Allegan on Tuesday.

"The last few weeks have been very exciting and filled with ups and downs that have helped us improve immensely. We went 2-2 in our last four matches with a couple of big wins against conference rivals Allegan and Vicksburg."

Against Allegan on Tuesday, the Rams' early lead helped set the pace of the game.

"We got lucky with an early goal from Quinn Johnson assisted by Isaac de la Rosa. Allegan was able to come back and score not too long after an unstoppable free kick," Barden said.

South Haven kept the Tigers at bay until the end of regulation, and the game ended in overtime, the winner to be decided by shootout.

"The penalty shootout was very exciting,” Barden said. “Our goal keeper Graham Ruppert really stepped up and won us the game with a couple great saves. The team is looking forward to having a big push at the District tournament."

South Haven finishes the regular season with a record of 7-13 and will compete against Berrien Springs, Monday, in the Division 3 boys soccer District opener at Berrien Springs.

PHOTO: South Haven's Collin Raczynski dribbles the ball down the field during last week's match against Allegan. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Bangor runners take second-place in Southwestern Athletic Conference championship meet

By TRIBUNE STAFF

Bangor boys cross-country team earned runner-up honors this past week in the Southwest Athletic Conference championship meet, while the Lady Vikings settled for fourth place.

Saugatuck, which has dominated the 16-school league all season, took first place in both the boys and girls races.

The Indians ran away with the boys championship, grabbing eight of the top 10 finishes with Corey Gorgas finishing first with a time of 15:57.98, Justin Smith of Bangor and Jobe Kerr of Watervliet earned the other two top 20 placements.

Smith came in fifth with a time of 16:41.38 while Kerr followed in sixth with 16:59.44.

Two other Viking runners placed in the top 20. Carter Finch finished 16th with a time of 17:55.32 and Ben Greiner came in 20th with a time of 18:06.39. They along with Smith earned all-conference honors.

Bloomingdale also competed in the meet and came in 12th place. Jaime Guzman was the first Cardinals runner to cross the finish line. He placed 57th with a time of 19:13.68.

A total of 160 runners from the 16 SAC schools competed in the conference championship race. The top 20 runners were named all-conference.

Team results from the meet follow: 1. Saugatuck, 17; 2. Bangor, 104; 3. Delton-Kellogg, 139; 4. Watervliet, 156; 5. Constantine, 176; 6. Eau Claire, 214; 7. Gobles, 219; 8. Lawton, 220; 9. Schoolcraft, 221; 10 Kalamazoo Hackett, 223; 11. Kalamazoo Christian, 281; 12. Bloomingdale, 288; 13. Marcellus, 313; 14. Galesburg-Augusta, 355; 15. Lawrence, 356; 16. Hartford, 392.

Girls results

Bangor's Regan Slone captured all-conference honors with her 14th place finish. Slone ran the race in 20:58.75, earning a personal record.

Mary Ankenbauer of Kalamazoo Hackett won the race with a time of 19:09.04. She was followed by Thea Johnson of Saugatuck, who placed second, and Paisley Sipes of Saugatuck, who came in third.

Other Bangor runners who finished in the top 40 were Karyssa Gallegos, 27th, 21:48.83; Laisha Ramirez, 30th, 21:58.60, Christina VanNuys, 36th, 22:28.57; and Logan Slone, 38th, 22:39.54.

Bloomingdale did not have enough runners to compete as a team, however, several individuals came in the top 40 finishers.

Nelly Gonzalez finished 22nd with a time of 21:23.15 (PR) and Lisa Hutchins came in 31st with a season record of 22:00.55.

Fifteen teams competed in the race, which featured 140 runners.

Team results follow: 1. Saugatuck, 32; 2. Kalamazoo Hackett, 59; 3. Delton-Kellogg, 79; 4. Bangor, 126; 5. Lawton, 147; 6. Watervliet, 168; 7. Kalamazoo Christian, 194; 8. Marcellus, 207; 9. Gobles, 213; 10. Schoolcraft, 263; 11. Decatur, 330; 12. Constantine, 336; 13. Coloma, 345; 14. Lawrence, 346; 15. Hartford, 392.



Rams run to 2nd-place finish in league jamboree

South Haven settled for runner-up honors in the Wolverine Conference mini-jamboree this past week. Five of the league's 10 cross country teams took part in the jamboree at Edwardsburg. Otsego won the meet, while Sturgis came in third. Allegan placed fourth, and host Edwardsburg finished fifth.

The other mini-jamboree occurred at Paw Paw and involved the league's five remaining teams — Paw Paw, Vicksburg, Plainwell, Three Rivers and Dowagiac. Vicksburg ended up winning the jamboree. Plainwell was second, followed by Three Rivers, Paw Paw and Dowagiac.

The mini-jamborees took place as a precursor for the conference championship, planned for Tuesday, in Paw Paw.

The Rams boys team was 3-2 in the conference, going into the jamboree.

“The meet was scored as a dual between Otsego, Edwardsburg, Allegan and Sturgis in one race,” said Rams coach Lindsay Haqq. “The boys beat Edwardsburg, Allegan and Sturgis, missing the win against Otsego.”

Craig Thompson led the Rams, placing fourth, followed by Jackson Schooley, who came in eighth. Brian Thompson was 12^th; Edward DeLong, 13^th; Joe nelson, 18^th; and Justin Postma, 20^th.

The Lady Rams didn't do quite as well as the boys team. They were undefeated and in a four-way tie for first place in the conference heading into the jamboree, but ended up finishing third behind Otsego and Edwardsburg.

“The girls team competed in a tough race,” Haqq said. “The girls beat Allegan and Sturgis and missed the win against Edwardsburg and Otsego.”

Holli Dannenberg paced the Rams with an eighth-place finish; Marnie Frost placed 12^th; Katie Schooley 16^th; Katie Hasted, 21^st (with a PR of 22:48); Cate Frost, 26^th; and Ana Gonzalez, 27^th.

South Haven suffers loss to Vicksburg on the gridiron

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

VICKSBURG — Eight different players scored, Friday, to propel Vicksburg to a 50-26 victory over South Haven, in Friday's prep football contest.

The Rams took the early lead after Kendall Cunningham connected with Faylin Goodwin on a 20-yard pass for the score in the first quarter.

However, the Bulldogs answered with touchdowns from Brenden Lovell (two-yard run), Ryan Morgan (31-yard pass from Lovell), and Drew Hamilton (23-yard pass from Lovell) near the four-, two-, and one-minute markers in the first quarter.

Vicksburg (7-1) gave no signs of slowing down in the second period, beginning with a score from Blake Rankin on a 23-yard run. The Bulldogs' Joe Brady followed up with 22-yard field goal, and also hit five more throughout the contest, while Deondre Lovell linked with Brenden Lovell on a 39-yard pass for the score with 1:28 remaining in the first half.

South Haven began the second half with a touchdown from Cam Watkins (11-yard pass from Joe Wilkins), and Vicksburg's Cole Mallery scored on a 23-yard fumble return.

The Bulldog's capitalized on another fumble in the fourth quarter as Noah Burton hit pay dirt on a two -ard recovery.

South Haven's Angel Pena ran 20 yards to score, and Wilkins added a second touchdown on a one-yard run to conclude the scoring for the contest.

South Haven falls to 3-5 and will compete in the final game of the 2016 season on Friday, at home against Allegan.



Bangor spikes its way past Colts, loses to Coloma

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Coloma''s offensive attack rattled a steady Bangor team on Tuesday, in girl's non-conference, non-divisional volleyball action.

The Class B Comets defeated Bangor in three sets of 25-22, 25-19, 25-10. Kelly Walter propelled the Comets with 29 kills, 14 digs, six blocks, and two aces. Morgan Wagner added 11 kills and 25 kills, and Kayla Yore finished with eight kills, 35 assists, 23 digs, and two blocks for Comstock.

"Bangor played remarkably solid defense against Coloma’s powerful offense which led to several long and exciting rallies," Bangor coach Doug Jones said.

Megan Watkins led the Viking defense with 46 digs, while teammate Jamie Allen followed up with 23 digs.

Jai’Onna McGee led Bangor's offensive attack with five kills and Olivia Moore added four kills and two blocks.

Bangor settled back into its winning ways on Thursday against Comstock, taking three games of a four-set match at home.

Jamie Allen fronted the Vikings with 12 kills and 23 digs, and Watkins also had 23 digs. Moore chipped in nine kills, McGee had six, and Nina Ring and Madi McGuire finished with four kills each.

"(Our) strong serving game contributed to the win, with six players collecting at least one ace," Jones said.

Bangor hosts Fennville on Tuesday, before traveling to Bloomingdale, Thursday, in Southwestern Athletic Conference action.

PHOTO: Bangor's Olivia Moore spikes the ball past a Comstock defender Thursday night. Moore racked up nine kills in the non-conference match, which the Vikings won in four sets. (Photo by John Madill)

South Haven swimmers get by Sturgis

South Haven's varsity swim team captured a victory over Sturgis this past week, winning by the score of 100-86.

“It was a close one,” Rams coach Amy Gruber-Garber said. “We had great personal records.”

Results from the meet follow:

• 200-yard medley relay: 1. South Haven (Sierra Garber, Elise Postma, Leah Bennett, Caroline Meyer) 2:06.87 2. Sturgis, 2:07.03; 3. South Haven (Sydney Todd, Courtney Kelly, Allison Cardwell, Kaia Hayes) 2:21.38
• 200-yard freestyle: 1. Liv Ritenburgh, SH, 2:21.95; 2. Elizabeth Johnson, SH, 2:22.76; 3. Sarah Clark, S, 2:22.97
• 200-yard IM: Skylar Gottschalk, S, 2:36.51; 2. Tessa Roehrig, S, 2:40.32; 3. Elise Postma, SH, 2:42.67
• 50-yard freestyle: 1. Caroline Meyer, SH, 26.61; 2. Kylie Trail, S, 27.62; 3. Leah Bennett, SH, 28.81
• 1-meter diving: 1. Lauren Orban, S, 177.70; 2. Olivia Robertson, S, 175.25; 3. Olivia Price, SH, 157.05
• 100-yard butterfly: 1. McKenzie Cain, S, 1:08.75; 2. Leah Bennett, SH, 1:12.11; 3. Elizabeth Johnson, SH, 1:18.00
• 100-yard freestyle: 1. Kylie Trail, S, 1:02.25; 3. Sierra Garber, SH, 1:03.68; 3. Kaia Hayes, SH, 1:05.63
• 500-yard freestyle: 1. Abi Larimer, S, 5:47.01; 2. Caroline Meyer, SH, 6:07.64; 2. Allison Uckele, SH, 6:41.10
• 200-yard freestyle: 1. Sturgis, 1:56.42; 2. South Haven (Leah Bennett, Kaia Hayes, Sierra Garber, Elise Postma) 1:57.87; 3. South Haven (Liv Ritenburgh, Jenna Dee, Elizabeth Johnson, Allison Cadwell) 2:03.62
• 100-yard backstroke: 1. Tessa Roehrig, S, 1:09.23; 2. Abi Larimer, S, 1:10.68; 3. Paeton Hayes, SH, 1:18.56
• 100-yard breaststroke: 1. Skylar Gottschalk, S, 1:19.88; 2. Elise Postma, SH, 1:20.15; 3. Liv Ritenburgh, SH, 1:26.71
• 400-yard freestyle relay: 1. South Haven (Caroline Meyer, Sierra Garber, Elizabeth Johnson, Liv Ritenburgh) 4:18.28; 2. Sturgis, 4:32.41; 3. South Haven (Jenna Dee, Paeton Hayes, Sydney Todd, Courtney Kelly) 4:52.01



10.10.16

Rams' homecoming victory hopes dashed

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Three Rivers (6-1) secured a playoff spot after defeating hosting South Haven 38-6 on Friday.

It was Homecoming for the Rams, who started the game by paying tribute to former quarterback Devon Smiley, who died in a car crash a year ago.

The home football team huddled around each other and yelled “Devo Strong” prior to the start of the game, but the Wildcats proved to be a tough opponent.

On their first possession of the game, Three Rivers got on the scoreboard and earned a second one three minutes later to put the score at 14-0.

The Rams found pay dirt soon into the second quarter when sophomore quarterback Faylin Goodwin threw a 71-yard pass to Kendall Cunningham to put the home team on the scoreboard.

But it was all Three Rivers after that. With its more experienced team and larger offensive and defensive line, South Haven had a difficult time capitalizing on plays.

Tyson New led the Wildcats with 148 yards on five carries, and scored four touchdowns, while quarterback Minger went 10 of 17 for passes, for 160 yards and one touchdown.

Goodwin amassed 121 yards on eight completions to lead the Rams' offense.

While the Wildcats earned a playoff spot with their win over the Rams, South Haven could possibly be a wildcard pick but, the Rams will have to win their final two games of the season to do so. The Rams, who are now 3-4 for the season, travel to Vicksburg (6-1) on Friday, and will face Allegan at home the following week in the final game of the season, Oct. 21.

PHOTO: Tyce Covey of South Haven gets ready to tackle a Wilcat runner during Friday's Homecoming game. Photo by Becky Kark

Rams boys cross-country team suffers first conference loss of the season

South Haven's varsity boys suffered their first Wolverine Conference loss of the season this past week against Vicksburg. The Rams lost by the narrow margin of 26-29.

“They raced hard but missed the win,” said Rams coach Lindsay Haqq.

Jackson Schooley won the race for the Rams and was followed by Justin Postma, who finished fourth. Three other Rams placed in the top 10. Matt Crandall came in sixth, Edward DeLong, eighth, with a season best of 18:38, and Brian Thompson placed 10^th.

River Fitch just missed a top 10 spot, finishing 11^th for the Rams. Vance Locker placed 13th, Joe Nelson 14th, Nick Vandenberk 17th and Jordan Lucas 21st.

For the Lady Rams, it was a different story. They easily defeated Vicksburg, 19-36.

Rams freshman Holli Dannenburg was the overall winner, followed by Marnie Frost, who came in second. Katie Schooley followed closely behind in third with a personal record of 21:20, while Cate Frost came in fourth. Katie Hasted finished ninth with a season best of 22:59, while Hayden Rooker came in 14^th with a personal record of 24:13.

Two South Haven golfers earn all-conference recognition

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven's varsity golf team ended the Wolverine Conference season this past week with a seventh-place finish, while two of its players landed on the all-conference team.

Senior captain Nikki Munjoy made First Team All-conference for the second year in a row, while junior Carley Mielke was named to the Honorable Mention category.

Rams Coach Barry Shanley was proud of the two players' accomplishment.

“Last season Nikki was 11th in the conference and this year she placed seventh,” Shanley said. “Carley rose from 18th overall last year and made it to 11th this year.”

Plainwell, which has led the conference all year, finished first, followed up by Sturgis, in second and Otsego, third.

South Haven started the season strong, placing third in the conference after the first three golf jamborees. But injuries plagued the team, along with the departure of several players due to other extra-curricular activities or relocating to go to other schools.

“We lost four key incoming freshmen to other schools the last four years,” Shanley said.

But he remains hopeful for the Rams golf program in the future.

“One of the major reasons for the creation five years ago of my Lakeshore Junior Golf Association Tour was to help foster the creation of a junior golf culture in West Michigan,” he said. “Hopefully that is beginning to work, and help with the spreading of girls golf.  Eighty percent, or roughly 400 women's collegiate golf scholarships go unused because they can't find the talent they are looking for.”

Closer to home, Shanley is focusing on his younger golfers' talents.

“Our middle school team — the only one in West Michigan — eventually will pay off for us,” he predicted.  “We have three extremely promising players in the eighth grade this year, one (Jenna Ridley) of whom started a recent tournament birdie, birdie, birdie. And we have an equally promising seventh grader.  They are so dedicated they refused to let the season come to an end. So we are going to continue until the weather no longer cooperates. Wow, I love that.”

Rams come up short against Three Rivers netters

South Haven's varsity volleyball team tried to make a come-from-behind victory over Three Rivers this past Thursday, but fell short in the final set.

The Bulldogs won the Wolverine Conference match 3-2.

“The ladies started out sluggish and lost the first two sets, (25-20, 25-23)” said Rams coach Brandi Dietz. “Our goal was to play with grit for the remainder of the game and we did that.”

The Rams regrouped for the third and fourth sets and won, 25-22, 25-17, but the Wildcats took the deciding fifth set, 15-12.

Despite the loss, Dietz was glad to see her team come together for the last three sets.

“We still played with our typical volleys, but spent more time on the up side,” she said. “It was a great effort from our girls as we are definitely learning to compete as a team.”

Hayley Krieger was strong at the net, compiling 34 kills. Frances Lyons provided 48 assists. Grace Lyons led in digs with 12 and Kiandra Raday racked up 7 blocks and 7 kills.

PHOTO: South Haven junior Hayley Kreiger spikes the ball over the net during a Wolverine Conference match against Three Rivers, this past Thursday. Kreiger racked up 34 kills in the match. Photo by Tom Renner

Bangor netters serve up a loss to Saugatuck

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

SAUGATUCK — Bangor volleyball team’s strong serving paved the way to a victory over Saugatuck on Tuesday. The Vikings won in three sets — 28-26, 25-8, and 25-20.

Megan Watkins amassed 22 digs to lead the Vikings, while Jai’Onna McGee and Jamie Allen finished with several service points in succession to help push Bangor into the lead.

“Madison McGuire’s intelligent set selection allowed every front row player to add to their season kill totals and kept Saugatuck’s defense off-guard,” stated Bangor coach Doug Jones.

Olivia Moore added to the Bangor offensive effort with six kills, while teammates Epiphany Parker and Madison McGuire added four kills apiece.

“The victory (was) sparked by outstanding serving, solid defensive play, and a large, loud, and supportive student cheering section,” added Jones.

The Vikings travel to Coloma on Tuesday and host Comstock, Thursday.



Bangor comes from behind to defeat K-zoo Christian

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

The Bangor kickers defeated visiting Kalamazoo Christian 2-1, in a non-conference boy’s soccer contest on Monday.

The Vikings established the early lead, however the Comets tied up the score via penalty kick in the first half.

Bangor notched a second goal in the second half and played tough defense to hold the Comets at Bangor in the remainder of the contest.

“As our season goes on I see the team improving every game,” said Bangor coach Antonio Robles.

Jesus Aragon and Ernesto Nieva led the Vikings with a goal each, while Buddy Shafer contributed 12 saves.

Bangor faces Lawton on Monday and Schoolcraft Wednesday in the final two games of the regular season.



9.26.16

The South Haven boys and girls varsity cross-country teams are shown are winning the Bangor Invitational, Saturday. (Contributed photo)

Rams cross-country teams sweep Bangor invitational

Bangor boys finish third; Viking girls come in second

By TRIBUNE STAFF

South Haven's boys and girls varsity cross-country teams ran to a first-place finish at the Bangor Invitational on Saturday.

The Rams boys team won the eight-team meet with 65 points, followed by Plainwell with 77. The Trojans narrowly edged out Bangor,which settled for third with 79 points. The remaining team results follow: Hastings, fourth, 88; Paw Paw, fifth, 112; Allegan, sixth, 121; Parchment, seventh, 166; and Berrien Springs, eighth, 170.

Lewis Tate of Paw Paw won the race with a time of 16:15. Justin Smith of Bangor came in second with 16:59.

Jackson Schooley led the Rams' with a fourth-place finish in 17:12.

Bloomingdale competed in the Division 2 race and placed seventh out of nine teams. Constantine won the race, followed by Mendon and Watervliet.

Jamie Guzman placed in the top 20 for the Cardinals with a 16th-place finish and time of 19:02.

Individual results for the top 25 finishers from each school follow:

Bangor: Justin Smith, second, 16:50; Carter Finch, 15^th, 18:32; Benjamin Greiner, 18^th, 18:38; Brett Robertson, 19^th, 18:40; Alvaro Martinez, 25^th; 18:47.

South Haven: Jackson Schooley, fourth, 17:12; Justin Postma, ninth, 18:00; Matthew Crandall, 14^th, 18:24; River Fitch, 16^th, 18:36; Joe Nelson, 22^nd, 18:42.

Bloomingdale: Jamie Guzman, 16^th, 19:02.

In the boys junior varsity race, Edward DeLong of South Haven won with a time of 19:03. Other top 25 finishers for the Rams included Nick Vandenberk, 10^th, 20:41, and Jordan Lucas, 12^th, 21:32.

Girls results

Four South Haven runners finished in the top 10 to lead the Rams to a first-place finish in the seven-team contest. Bangor settled for runner-up honors with two of its runners grabbing top 10 honors.

Team results follow: South Haven, first, 40; Bangor, second, 53; Plainwell, third, 63; Hastings, fourth, 96; Allegan, fifth, 136; Paw Paw, sixth, 152; and Parchment, seventh, 191.

Holli Dannenburg led South Haven, finishing the race in 19:50, good enough for third place. She was followed by Cate Frost, fourth, 20:27; Marnie Frost, sixth, 21:07; and Katie Schooley, ninth, 22:03.

The Vikings were paced by Regan Slone who finished fifth, with a time of 21:04, and Logan Slone, who came in eighth, with a time of 21:54.

Bloomingdale did not place as a team in the Division 2 race, however, two of its runner did well. Liza Hutchins came in seventh with a time of 22:40, while Heather Davis finished 12^th with a time of 23:59.

Individual results for the top 25 finishers from each school follow:

Bangor: Regan Slone, fifth, 21:04; Logan Slone, eighth, 21:54; Karyssa Gallegos, 11^th, 22:18; Laisha Ramirez, 12^th, 22:25; Christine VanNuys, 17^th, 22:57.

South Haven: Holli Dannenburg, third, 19:50; Cate Frost, fourth, 20:27; Marnie Frost, sixth, 21:07; Katie Schooley, ninth, 22:03; Ana Gonzalez, 18^th, 23:01; Katherine Hasted, 19^th, 23:02.

Bloomingdale: Liza Hutchins, seventh, 22:40; Heaver Davis, 12^th, 23:59.

In the junior varsity race, Marilin Carrillo of Bangor finished in the top 25, coming in 22^nd place with a time of 27:46.

PHOTOS: In the top photo, Carter Finch and Benjamin Greiner of Bangor compete in the Division 1 varsity race. In the photo, above, Hollie Dannenburg (second from left) of South Haven competes at the start of the Division I varsity girls race. Dannenburg came in third place, overall. (Photos by John Madill)

Bangor loses lead over Hartford in final minutes of play

HARTFORD — Hartford got its first win of the season in style, coming from behind to beat Bangor, Friday.

The Indians scored 20 unanswered points, all in the final three minutes to get the victory.

“We lost a hard-fought game, but we were ultimately doomed by turnovers, penalties and a multitude of mistakes,” said Bangor coach Jason Maynard.

Gage Gardner put the Vikings on the scoreboard in the first quarter with a 49-yard pass from Shawn Cox.

Hartford responded in the second quarter with a touchdown from Randy Ramirez. Evan Parker then ran in the conversion to put the score at 8-6 in favor of the Indians.

The Vikings hit pay-dirt in the third quarter when Cox connected on a 40-yard pass to Gardner, to put the score at 12-8, and it looked like the Vikings were then going to get their first win of the season when Devon Nunn scored from 47 yards out in the fourth quarter to give his team an 18-8 lead.

But that's when the Indians got to work.

Garrod Johnson found Randy Ramirez from 2 yards out to pull the Indians to within 18-16 with 2:55 left to play.

Alberto Ibarra then put Hartford ahead for good when he ran in from 2 yards out with 2:09 left in the game. Johnson then completed another touchdown to Moses Beraza with 1:27 left to round out the scoring.

PHOTO: Noah Caldwell of Bangor takes down Hartford quarterback Evan Parker in the first half of Friday night's game at Hartford. (Photo by John Madill)

South Haven kickers shut out New Buffalo

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven boy’s soccer team had mixed results this past week, with a victory on Monday before falling to a Wolverine Conference opponent, Wednesday.

The Rams defeated non-conference opponent New Buffalo, in a 4-0 shut out, Monday.

South Haven’s Quinn Johnson, Diego Calderon, Alex Brantley, and Isaac De La Rosa scored a goal each.

“We really started to control the ball well, and found the gaps in the back. It was really a build up, and a strong team effort,” South Haven coach David Barden said.

Wednesday, Plainwell held control for the entire contest against South Haven, en route to an 8-1 victory. Diego Calderon recorded South Haven’s only goal for the contest.

“We just need to work on getting better defensively. The last few days we’ve had some injuries, so we’re trying to work through them and get better,” Barden said.

“We need to play our style of ball — to play South Haven soccer, not playing down to another team’s level.”

South Haven stands at 4-5 on the season, and plays Otsego, Monday, at home and travels to face Paw Paw, Wednesday.



Bangor kickers earn decisive victory over Saugatuck

Bangor's soccer team earned a decisive 6-1 victory over Saugatuck this past week, after suffering a heartbreaking 2-1 overtime loss to Bloomingdale.

“It is always nice to win a home game,” said Vikings coach Antonio Robles, regarding the victory over Saugatuck, Wednesday. “After losing our last game (against Bloomingdale) in overtime, we came out with a winning mentality.”

The Vikings racked up 4 goals against Saugatuck in the first half, and then picked up two more en route to the victory.

Raul Rodriguez led Bangor's offense with two goals. Ernesto Nieva, Miguel Ibanez, Oswaldo Villaneuva and Jesus Aragon, each scored a goal. Aragon and Villaneuva also notched an assist, each.

Earlier in the week, the game against rival Bloomingdale was a little different.

The match remained scoreless in the first half, however in the second half, Bangor found the net.

“Excellent ball control during the game allowed us to take the lead in the second half with a score from Ernesto (Nieva) with an assist from Jesus Aragon,” Robles said. “It looked like we were going to win the game.”

However, 10 minutes before the final buzzer, a Bangor defender knocked down a player from Bloomingdale, giving the Cardinals a penalty to tie the game at the end of regular play.

During overtime, Bangor tried to make a few goals, but missed. A thru-ball from Bloomingdale allowed them to set up a play and score a goal to win, 2-1.

“We tried really hard to tie the game but after missing a few shots and other opportunities we just ran out of time,” Robles said.”Overall, both teams worked really hard on the field.”

Viking netters earn three-match sweep

Bangor's varsity volleyball team was on a winning streak this past week with victories over Gobles, Marcellus and Lawrence.

The Vikings faced the Tigers, Tuesday, and won in three straight sets.

“The girls played with a lot of hype and energy,” said Assistant Coach Lindsay Harroff. “Gobles didn't have enough answers for the 11 kills Epiphany Parker had.”

Jamie Allen added 7 kills and Nina Ring, 5. Madison McGuire racked up 28 assists.

“If kills didn't give Gobles enough trouble, the Lady Vikings also had a great night of serving,” Harroff said.

As a team, the Vikings earned an 89-percent serving rate, which included 10 aces.

Megan Watkins was 95 percent from the serving line with 4 aces, and teammates Jai'Onna McGee and Nina Ring were perfect from the service line, each scoring one ace.

The Vikings also gave Gobles a tough time with blocked shots, racking up 18.

Bangor continued to dominate their opponents on Thursday, defeating Marcellus, 2-0, and Lawrence, 2-0, in a Southwestern Athletic Conference quad meet.

“Our defense proved to be the deciding factor in both contests,” Vikings coach Doug Jones said. “The front row collected four blocks in each game and deflected many attacks giving back row players multiple digging opportunities.”

The Lady Vikings accumulated 105 digs with only 4 errors during the evening. Offensively, Bangor mounted a balanced attack with every front-row player scored at least one kill, according to Jones.

Rams volleyball team notches two victories

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

ALLEGAN — South Haven's volleyball team played hard on the road this past week and notched two Wolverine Conference victories and one non-conference victory.

On Tuesday, the Rams had no trouble defeating Allegan in two sets of 25-10 and 25-11 in a tri-meet. South Haven also defeated Parchment, 25-21 and 25-16.

"It was a good week for South Haven Varsity Volleyball," said South Haven coach Brandi Dietz.

South Haven's opponent on Thursday didn't go down quite so easily however, as the Rams battled through five sets to defeat Paw Paw.

The Rams won the opening game, 25-19, lost game two and three at 24-26 and 13-25, and finally clinched games four and five, 25-20 and 15-8 for the overall win.

South Haven travels to Edwardsburg on Thursday to continue conference play.



9.19.16

SH netters compete against league leader Allegan Tigers

South Haven's varsity tennis team faced an uphill battle this past Tuesday against perennial Wolverine Conference leader Allegan.
The Tigers ended up winning all eight matches against the Rams.
The Rams then went on to face Otsego, Wednesday, and lost 7-1.
No. 2 doubles team of David Kluskowski and Trevor Vincent were the lone winners for South Haven, defeating their opponents, 6-0, 6-3.
In earlier Wolverine Conference action, the Rams played against Plainwell on Sept. 7, and lost 6-2.

Results follow:
Singles
1. Joel Rummel, SH d. John McBain, 6-3, 6-0.,
2. Jack Filbrandt, SH, d. Huston Burn, 6-3, 6-2.
3. Max Fitzell, P, d. Alex Rummel, 6-1, 7-6, 7-2
Doubles
1. TJ Opel and Jeremy VanOoskum, P, d. Jon Deschaine and Chandler Carey, 6-2, 6-3
2. John Debates and Zach Moore, P, d. David Kluskowski and Trevor Vincent, 6-2, 7-5
3. Justin Anderson and Pet Geniac, P., d. Austin Hunt and Wm. Hasted, 6-0, 6-2
4. Nate Hill and Alex Harrington, P, d. Brendan Diekema and Cam Callaghan, 6-3, 6-1

PHOTO: Alex Rummel of South Haven competes at No. 3 singles during the match against Allegan this past week. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Rams overcome Otsego's scoring spree

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

Despite a big second quarter for Otsego, which put 22 points on the board, South Haven was able to pull it together in the end to win the Wolverine Conference prep football contest, 30-25, on Friday.

South Haven's Kendall Cunningham set the pace for the Rams' offense all night, beginning with a 13-yard touchdown run with 3:54 remaining in the first quarter.

The Bulldogs' offense suddenly surgeed in the second quarter when the team scored three touchdowns in a row. Otsego's John Caldwell made good on a 25-yard pass from Will Eldred (11:53), followed by a 26-yard score from Hunter Keyzer near the nine-minute mark. Eldred then ran in 17 yards for the touchdown and Otsego made good on the field goal to take the lead.

However, South Haven responded with a 21-yard pass from Faylin Goodein to Jaken Avery. Otsego added more points with 8 seconds remaining in the half after Noah Eastman hit a 31-yard field goal.

The Rams tightened up the defense in the third quarter, as Cunningham scored his second touchdown of the night on a three-yard run to close in Otsego's lead.

The Bulldogs battled to reach the endzone in the fourth, but only. managed to hit a field goal at 2:08 remaining.

In an exciting finish, Cunningham scored his final game-winning touchdown of the night with 32 seconds remaining in the contest.

Goodwin led the Rams with 148 rushing yards, and was 7 of 13 as quarterback.

South Haven improves to 3-1 on the season and travels to face Paw Paw (2-2) on Friday.

In other local football action, Bangor fell to Schoolcraft at 50-0.

"Bangor played with great emotion and effort, but Schoolcraft over matched the depleted Vikings," said Bangor coach Jason Maynard.

"Costly mistakes and some special teams miscues led to a lopsided score."

The Vikings fall to 0-4 for the season and will travel to face Hartford, Friday.

South Haven runners win Fenn Valley invite

South Haven girls cross-country team ran to a first-place finish in the Fenn Valley Winery Invitational, while the boys settled for fourth.

“They all ran very well on a tough course,” said Rams coach Lindsay Haqq.

Freshman Holli Dannenburg of South Haven finished first, overall, followed by sophomore twins Cate Frost and Marnie Frost, who came in second and third. Katie Schooley placed 13^th, while Ana Gonzalez came in 31^st place in the 14-team competition that took place Sept. 10.

“Also racing hard together on the course were Hayden Rooker and Lacey Schultz,” Haqq said.

Craig Thompson paced the boys' team with a third-place finish. Jackson Schooley earned 5^th place; Justin Postma, 21^st; Matt Crandall, 24^th; and Vance Locker, 30^th with a personal best of 19:49. Other Rams who competed in the meet were Brian Thompson, Edward DeLong, River Fitch, Jordan Lucas and Nick Vandenberk.

The Rams then traveled to Paw Paw, Tuesday, and breezed through the Lake Cora Hills course to claim victories over the Redskins.

In the boy’s meet, South Haven topped Paw Paw 26-32, paced by Jackson Schooley with a second-place finish.

The Rams' Justin Postma finished strong in third place for a personal best of 18:49. Matt Crandall followed up in sixth place for the Rams effort, while teammates Edward Delong, Brian Thompson, and Joe Nelson (PR of 21:11) finished in succession at 7^th, 8^th, and 9^th places.

Jordan Lewis achieved a personal best of 23:09, as did Nick Vandenberk with a time of 23:34 to conclude South Haven’s top performances from the boy’s team.

In the girl’s competition, the Rams won by a 15-point margin after occupying six of the top 10 spots, en route to a 20-35 win.

Holli Dannenburg fronted the Rams at second place, followed by Marnie Frost in third, Cate Frost at fourth, Katie Schooley in fifth, Ana Gonzalez at sixth, and Hayden Rooker placed eighth.

The South Haven cross country teams compete at home (Warner Camp) on Tuesday for their next contest, before competing in the Bangor Invitational, Saturday.





PHOTO: Members of the South Haven girls cross-country team are shown with the championship trophy they won at the Fenn Valley Winery Invitational. From left are Coach Lindsay Haqq, Hayden Rooker, Ana Gonzalez, Katie Schooley, and Marnie and Cate Frost. 

Bangor kickers earn runner-up honors at tourney

Bangor's varsity soccer team took home runner-up honors at the Bloomingdale invitational, Sept. 10.

The Vikings started the day by taking on Covert in the first round, and picked up a 2-0 victory. Ernesto Nieva scored both of the goals, with one assist by Roberto Lopez.

Next the Vikings faced Michigan Lutheran, who had shut out Gobles in the first round, 6-0.

“Michigan Lutheran was a challenge, but we overcame them with a 3-2 win, said Bangor coach Antonio Robles.

Raul Rodriguez, Nieva and Eloy Saucedo kicked in goals for Bangor, while Jose Gallegos and Rodriguez each provided an assist.

That victory advanced the Vikings to the finals where they faced Marcellus.

“Unfortunately, ten minutes after finishing the semi-finals the Vikings, tired and exhausted, had to face a well-rested Marcellus team,” Robles said. “Marcellus had beaten the host, Bloomingdale, an hour prior to the championship round, through penalties.”

The Wildcats wasted no time getting on the scoreboard and went on to win the championship, 4-0.

In spite of the loss, Robles was proud of his team's effort.

“Overall, the boys played great and with so much heart. I was really satisfied and proud of all their hard work and effort they put in at the tournament,” he said.

This past week was tough for the Vikings. Several members of the team have been plagued with injuries, forcing Robles to put players in positions they haven't played before and it showed in two losses to Hartford and Fennville.

Bangor faced the Indians on Monday and lost 5-0.

“We knew going into the game that Hartford would be a challenge,” Robles said. “Unfortunately, a portion of our starters were still recovering from injuries. We played hard and tried to keep up with Hartford. Unfortunately, there were too many Indians and not many Vikings.”

The Vikings then traveled to Fennville, Wednesday, still missing several experienced, key players.

“(Players) had to play in positions that they were not used to. It took them at least half the game to get used to their unfamiliar positions and to work effectively together,” Robles said. “Fennville took advantage and managed to score 4 goals.”

Nieva managed to find the net for the Vikings and the first half ended, 4-1.

The second half of the game was a different story and proved to be encouraging for Robles.

“In the second half the Vikings found their places on the field and were able to keep the Blackhawks from scoring more points,” he said. “The final score stayed unmoved from 4-1. It was a great second half by the Vikings.”

Vikings run to second-place finish at Lakeview Invitational

Bangor harriers were put to the test at the Lakeview Invitational, Saturday, Sept. 10, and were apparently up for the challenge, finishing second in their division.

The Vikings were runner-up to winner Battle Creek Harper. St. Philip Catholic Central finished third; Bronson, fourth; Hastings, fifth; Battle Creek Pennfield, sixth; and Quincy, seventh.

Justin Smith led the Bangor pack with a third-place finish (17:06.5). He was followed by Benjamin Greiner, 14^th, 18:32.2; Carter Finch, 16^th, 18:33.0; Brett Robertson, 17^th, 18:35.1; and Carson Finch, 24^th, 18:58.6.

The Viking girls placed fourth in their division. Battle Creek Harper Creek won the race. Hastings came in second and Quincy, third. St. Philip Catholic Central was fifth and Battle Creek Pennfield, sixth.

Bangor was led by Regan Slone who finished fourth with a time of 21:34.7. Karyssa Gallegos came in 14^th with a time of 22:59.6. Laisha Ramirez followed in 15^th place, 23:03.4; Logan Slone, 17^th, 23:07.2; Christine VanNuys, 27^th, 24:58.0

Bangor cross-country teams place second at SAC jamboree

Bangor boys cross-country team settled for second place in last week's Southwestern Athletic Conference West Jamboree at Lake of the Woods Camp in Dowagiac.

Saugatuck won the race with 23 points, while Bangor trailed with 58 points. Watervliet finished third, 79; Eau Claire, fourth, 113; Lawrence, fifth, 140; Coloma, sixth, 168; hartford, seventh, 173; and Fennville, eighth, 184.

Jobe Kerr of Watervliet won the race in 17:11.18.

Justin Smith paced Bangor's runners with a time of 17:26.23, to come in fourth. Teammates Ben Greiner finished 15^th with a time of 18:22.77; Carter Finch, 16^th, 18:25.78; Brett Robertson, 17^th, 18:45.35 and Carson Finch, 19^th, 18:57.34.

The Viking girls also came in second place in the jamboree, which pleased Coach Ben Munoz.

“Of the nine runners that ran eight of them had a PR,” he said.

Saugatuck won the girls race with 15 points. Bangor followed with 58. Watervliet came in third; Lawrence, fourth; Hartford, fifth; Decatur, sixth; and Coloma, seventh.

Regan Slone led Bangor's runners, finishing in sixth with a time of 21:06.49. Laisha Ramirez came in 11^th with a time of 22:03.34; Karyssa Gallegos, 12^th, 22:20.68; and Logan Slone, 15^th, 22:38.84.





9.12.16

A tailormade victory for a centennial celebration

Rams cap 100th anniversary of Ratcliffe Field by defeating Plainwell

By FARAH GREEN

For the Tribune

South Haven's Ratcliffe Field's Centennial celebration provided an extremely packed stadium for a prep football contest between South Haven and Plainwell, and fittingly the home team came out on top, 28-19.

South Haven residents came out in droves to enjoy festivities such as face painting, carnival games, commemorative t-shirts sold by booster club members, food and much more in celebration of the historic Ratcliffe field's 100th birthday — all of which was highlighted by a solid Rams football performance.

To begin the festivities, South Haven's Purple Pride marching band was joined by a 30-35 member alumni band to play the school's fight song and anthem.

The Rams then went on to defeat the Trojans in front of a sea of gold, white and purple clad spectators, some of which had "100's" and "SH's" painted on their faces by the high school artists manning the face painting booths.

South Haven took the lead early in the contest after Joe Wilkins caught a 69-yard pass from Faylin Goodwin for the score just shy of the five-minute mark in the first quarter.

Plainwell's Michael Arnett followed with a touchdown with 24 seconds remaining in the first quarter, which concluded with South Haven leading at 8-6.

South Haven's Kendall Cunningham amped up the offense in the second quarter with touchdowns on 24- and 45-yard runs and Goodwin followed up with the two-point conversion for a 22-6 lead.

During halftime, several former Rams athletes received recognition including 1967 South Haven graduate and former University of Michigan quarterback Don Morehead.

Among his credentials, Morehead helped lead U of M football to a Big Ten championship in 1969 and was also named all-Big Ten quarterback.

In addition, Jerry Sherman, of the family-owned Sherman Diary ice cream parlor in South Haven, was introduced. Sherman graduated from South Haven in 1944 and led the Rams to an undefeated season the same year.

The Centennial celebration planning, began in April according to Tara Wilkinson, marketing and communications coordinator for South Haven Public Schools.

Halftime also included South Haven band's performance of the popular Game of Thrones show's Soundtrack and cheerleader routines.

In the third quarter, the teams returned but did not score - remaining transfixed in a defensive battle.

South Haven scored its final touchdown of the night on a 10-yard connection from Goodwin to Griffin Rooker to begin the fourth. Plainwell (1-2) then rallied to close in on South Haven's lead and scored twice on a four-yard run from Arnett, and Matt Root scored on a fumble recovery.

However, it was too little, too late as the clock expired in favor of a 28-19, South Haven win.

"We worked on blocking and tackling and put it together," said South Haven coach Troy Ayotte, who has faced the Trojans three times since becoming South Haven's coach. This was the first instance in which his team has defeated Plainwell.

Despite the less than perfect fourth quarter, the victory will forever be remembered for this South Haven team, and all who attended the game.

After all, 2016's team will be remembered for winning on South Haven's Ratcliffe field's 100-year anniversary — a date to forever be etched in history.

The Rams improve to 2-1 on the season and hope to claim a third victory against Otsego (0-3) on Friday at Ratcliffe Field.

PHOTOS: Angel Pena of South Haven  (top photo) makes a key tackle during the first quarter of Friday's game against Plainwell. In the next photo, South Haven's Kendall Cunningham runs for a touchdown. (Photos by Tom Renner)

Rams cross-country team finishes 1st at invitational

South Haven girls cross-country team ran to a first-place finish in the Fenn Valley Winery Invitational, Saturday, Sept. 10, while the boys settled for fourth.

“They all ran very well on a tough course,” said Rams coach Lindsay Haqq.

Freshman Holli Dannenburg of South Haven finished first, overall, followed by sophomore twins Cate Frost and Marnie Frost, who came in second and third. Katie Schooley placed 13^th, while Ana Gonzalez came in 31^st place in the 14-team competition.

“Also racing hard together on the course were Hayden Rooker and Lacey Schultz,” Haqq said.

Craig Thompson paced the boys' team with a third-place finish. Jackson Schooley earned 5^th place; Justin Postma, 21^st; Matt Crandall, 24^th; and Vance Locker, 30^th with a personal best of 19:49. Other Rams who competed in the meet were Brian Thompson, Edward DeLong, River Fitch, Jordan Lucas and Nick Vandenberk.

PHOTO: Members of the South Haven girls cross-country team are shown with the championship trophy they won at the Fenn Valley Winery Invitational. From left are Coach Lindsay Haqq, Hayden Rooker, Ana Gonzalez, Katie Schooley, and Marnie and Cate Frost.

Vikings runners settle for second place at Lakeview Invite

Bangor harriers were put to the test at the Lakeview Invitational, Saturday, Sept. 10, and were apparently up for the challenge, finishing second in their division.

The Vikings were runner-up to winner Battle Creek Harper. St. Philip Catholic Central finished third; Bronson, fourth; Hastings, fifth; Battle Creek Pennfield, sixth; and Quincy, seventh.

Justin Smith led the Bangor pack with a third-place finish (17:06.5). He was followed by Benjamin Greiner, 14^th, 18:32.2; Carter Finch, 16^th, 18:33.0; Brett Robertson, 17^th, 18:35.1; and Carson Finch, 24^th, 18:58.6.

The Viking girls placed fourth in their division. Battle Creek Harper Creek won the race. Hastings came in second and Quincy, third. St. Philip Catholic Central was fifth and Battle Creek Pennfield, sixth.

Bangor was led by Regan Slone who finished fourth with a time of 21:34.7. Karyssa Gallegos came in 14^th with a time of 22:59.6. Laisha Ramirez followed in 15^th place, 23:03.4; Logan Slone, 17^th, 23:07.2; Christine VanNuys, 27^th, 24:58.0

 

Bangor harriers earn convincing win at invitational

Bangor's boys cross-country team ran to a first-place finish this past week in the annual Teske Invitational at Van Buren County fairgrounds.

Justin Smith led the Viking pack with a second-place finish and a time of 17:40. He was followed by Carter Finch and Ben Greiner, who finished third and fourth, respectively. Carson Finch ran to a sixth-place finish; Brett Robertson, was eighth; Alvaro Martinez, 17th, and Brett Butterfield, 38th. The top 30 runners earned medals in the contest.

Bangor coach Brian Price was pleased with his team's finish.

“They outdistanced (second-place) Watervliet by 35 points,” he said. “It was a good meet, ovreall.”

Bangor scored 23 points to lead the eight-team invitational. Watervliet finished with 55 points. Lawrence came in third with 92; followed by Gobles, 103; Bloomingdale, 120; Fennville, 164; Hartford, 172 and Marcellus, 200.

Ram golfers struggle at jamboree, but remain in 5th place in league

Mattie Tran of Plainwell continues to be the golfer to beat in the Wolverine Conference.

Tran shot a 42 to lead all league competitors at the Wolverine Conference Jamboree at Sauganash Golf Club in Three Rivers.

She also helped her team to a first-place finish in the jamboree, as the Trojans narrowly beat second-place Sturgis by a stroke, 194-195. Otsego came in third with 207.

South Haven struggled somewhat in the sixth jamboree of the season, trailing with a seventh-place finish.

Carley Mielke led the Rams with 52. Nikki Munjoy shot a 54 while Makenzie Marr came in third for the Rams with 60.

Overall, South Haven is ranked in fifth place in the nine-team conference. Plainwell is in first; Sturgis, second; Otsego, third; Three Rivers, fourth; Paw Paw, sixth; Dowagiac, seventh; Allegan, eighth; and Vicksburg, ninth.

Mielke is in tenth place for the top 10 golfers.



Coaches and managers, please feel free to send us results of your games and matches to southhaventribune@yahoo.com