Written Tuesday June 30th at 11:00 PM
The Southfield Blue Jays Boys Basketball coaching search is still on going and is the last vacancy in the OAA.
However this team has talent and a strong upside. The Blue Jays finished 12-1 in the Summer League with their only loss to Detroit Allen Academy at Oakland.
I think Southfield should stay put and name one of their assistants head coach. He will only have the job for one season.
The reason why I think that is because Southfield is not a good job right now, yes they have talent but this will be the last year of the Southfield Blue Jays because next year Southfield will merge with Lathrup to become one big high school and there will be a lot of uncertainy whom will coach the new Southfield High School next season.
Also you got Mike Avery whom coaches at Lathrup and will likely want to stay in the district. I expect him to apply to become the coach of the new Southfield High School next season.
It's tough for a new coach to get his system in play and what makes it worse is they just finished the Summer League season. It takes time to put in a system in place and here your giving a coach guaranteed 21 games not knowing if there will be a game 22 and beyond. Southfield is in a tough division in the Red facing the likes of Clarkston, Adams, and North Farmington not to mention their arch rival Lathrup is in the division as well.
The Blue Jays are in a tough district in which they host with U-D Jesuit, Oak Park, Lathrup, Detroit Renaissance, and Berkley. U-D Jesuit is the favorite because they have everyone back from a team that went to the State Semifinals last season led by Mr Michigan Basketball candidate Cassius Winston and the two seven foot Nigerian big men are back as well while Detroit Renaissance has Justin Turner.
The players have a lot of respect for him and the system they run. He led them to the 12-1 record in the Summer League and has earned the right to coach this team for 21 guaranteed games.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for coverage and what Southfield will do is up to them.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Kareem Heading South.
Written Wednesday June 24th at 3:00 PM
When Farmington Hills Harrison Defensive Lineman, Khalid Kareem made his expected announcement, he had 36 schools to choose from. He has made his decision and it's an interesting one.
He is heading south to Tuscaloosa Alabama.
Kareem committed to Alabama in front of Harrison supporters, friends, family, and coaches.
He will play for Nick Saban, a former Michigan State and Louisiana State coach. Saban has won three national championships, one at LSU and the other two at Alabama.
Kareem whom transferred from West Bloomfield in 2013 to Harrison intentionally committed to Michigan State but he de-commited opening up his recruiting process again. Alabama was one of his top choices as was Michigan, Notre Dame and also Michigan State.
He will now focus on his senior season at Harrison as they are one of the favorites in the White along with Southfield, Adams, and Oak Park. The Hawks are expected to be one of the top teams in Division Two to compete for a State title. Harrison was a state semifinalist last season before losing on a controversial call to Muskegon Mona Shores in the Division Two State semifinals opens up the season on August 28th at Grand Valley State against East Kentwood, a team that made the Division One State semifinals losing to Clarkston last season.
We'll see what happens.
When Farmington Hills Harrison Defensive Lineman, Khalid Kareem made his expected announcement, he had 36 schools to choose from. He has made his decision and it's an interesting one.
He is heading south to Tuscaloosa Alabama.
Kareem committed to Alabama in front of Harrison supporters, friends, family, and coaches.
He will play for Nick Saban, a former Michigan State and Louisiana State coach. Saban has won three national championships, one at LSU and the other two at Alabama.
Kareem whom transferred from West Bloomfield in 2013 to Harrison intentionally committed to Michigan State but he de-commited opening up his recruiting process again. Alabama was one of his top choices as was Michigan, Notre Dame and also Michigan State.
He will now focus on his senior season at Harrison as they are one of the favorites in the White along with Southfield, Adams, and Oak Park. The Hawks are expected to be one of the top teams in Division Two to compete for a State title. Harrison was a state semifinalist last season before losing on a controversial call to Muskegon Mona Shores in the Division Two State semifinals opens up the season on August 28th at Grand Valley State against East Kentwood, a team that made the Division One State semifinals losing to Clarkston last season.
We'll see what happens.
Friday, June 19, 2015
Regional Thoughts.
Written Friday June 19th at 2:00 PM
Updated Monday July 13th at 8:50 PM
Well now the districts are out, lets look at the regional outlook for each team heading into the regional. OAA team in CAPS.
Class B:
Region 13
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ Livonia Ladywood
Boys Basketball @ Detroit Mumford
District 42: (Detroit Central. Detroit Northwestern, FERNDALE, HAZEL PARK, Warren Fitzgerald, Detroit Mumford) vs District 45: (Livonia Clarenceville, Detroit Communication of Media Arts, Detroit Old Redford, Detroit Henry Ford, Livonia Ladywood, Southfield Bradford, Redford Union)
District 43 (Detroit Osborn, Center Line, Detroit Denby, South Lake, Harper Woods Chandler Park, Harper Woods, Warren Lincoln) vs District 41 (Detroit University Prep Science and Math, Detroit University Prep, Detroit Henry Ford Academy, Detroit Consortium, Detroit Cesar Chavez, Detroit Advanced Technology)
Volleyball: The winner of the District 42 district could make a huge run. I like Livonia Clarenceville coming out of District 45 being at home. In District 43 I like Center Line coming out and winning that district and in District 41 I like Detroit University Prep coming out. I'm not impressed with anybody in this region even though I think the winner of District 42 will win this regional. Whomever wins this regional has a great shot at getting to the State quarterfinals.
Boys Basketball: If Ferndale and Detroit Henry Ford would to play each other, then it would be a heck of a game. I can see Detroit Mumford or Hazel Park in District 42 go far as well. Detroit Henry Ford went to the State Semifinals last season and is expected to win District 45. In District 43 I like Detroit Osborn coming out and in District 41 I will go with Detroit University Prep. I think either the District 42/45 winner will go to the State Quarterfinals.
Girls Basketball: Warren Fitzgerald or Detroit Mumford could get out of the district. I think South Lake will be the biggest threat in the regional but either one of these two teams could go far to the State Quarterfinals. In District 45, I'm going to go with Detroit Henry Ford. In District 43, I am going with St. Clair Shores South Lake. In District 41, I am going with Detroit Consortium. The winner of District 42 I think will move on to the State Quarterfinals.
Class A:
Region 4
Volleyball @ Grosse Pointe South
Girls Basketball @ Dearborn Fordson
Boys Basketball @ Detroit Cass Tech
District 19: (Garden City, Dearborn Crestwood, Redford Thurston, Livonia Stevenson, Livonia Churchill, Livonia Franklin) vs District 24: (LATHRUP, SOUTHFIELD, OAK PARK, BERKLEY, Detroit Renaissance, U-D Jesuit)
District 20: (Hamtramck, Detroit International, Detroit Cass Tech, Detroit East English Village Prep, Detroit Western, Grosse Pointe South, Detroit Martin Luther King) vs District 16: (Dearborn, Dearborn Fordson, Dearborn Edsel Ford, Detroit Cody, Lincoln Park, Allen Park)
Volleyball: This is an interesting regional, Livonia Stevenson is my pick in District 19, District 24, see my blog post. District 20 I like Grosse Pointe South and District 16 I like Allen Park. This one is wide open and anyone can win this regional.
Boys Basketball: District 20 will be tough to watch, you have the defending state champions Detroit Western here along with Detroit Cass Tech and Detroit East English Prep in there. In District 24 it will be interesting as well with four teams having a shot at winning the crown. District 19 I'll go with Redford Thurston and District 16 I'll go with Lincoln Park. At the end of the day the winners of Districts 20 and 24 will meet for the regional crown.
Girls Basketball: This regional will be fun to watch, setting the stage for a Lathrup vs Detroit Martin Luther King/Detroit Cass Tech/ or Grosse Pointe South regional final. I like Livonia Franklin to win District 19. District 24 I mentioned will be Lathrup. In District 16, I like Dearborn Edsel Ford to come out of there and in District 20 three teams could win that District but safe bet will be Detroit Martin Luther King. It will be fun between Lathrup and whoever wins District 20.
Region 5
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ Novi
Boys Basketball @ West Bloomfield
District 21: (WEST BLOOMFIELD, FARMINGTON, HARRISON, NORTH FARMINGTON, Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Mercy) vs District 27: (Howell, Hartland, Brighton, South Lyon East, South Lyon)
District 26: (Milford, Walled Lake Northern, Walled Lake Western, Walled Lake Central, Lakeland) vs District 18: (Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Canton, Salem, Novi Detroit Catholic Central.)
Volleyball: Novi should win District 18 even though Canton will have a strong say. When looking at District 26, Lakeland should have no problem getting out of that district. In District 21, see my district post, and in District 27, I like Brighton to come out. I think in this regional, you got to go with Novi. Novi went to the State Finals last season and is poised to make a run again but if Mercy is in here, it's anybody's ball game in that one.
Boys Basketball: Everything sets up to be the winner of the District 21 vs the District 18 or 26 regional final. In District 21 see my district post there, District 27 I see Hartland coming out, District 18 I like Plymouth, and District 26 I like Walled Lake Central. This could be an interesting regional and the winner would earn their path to the State Quarterfinals.
Girls Basketball: With District 21, see my district post but in District 27 I like Howell to come out of that district over South Lyon East. In District 26, I like Lakeland winning that district, and in District 18 even though they lost a lot of talent I like Salem to come out and win that district. I think whoever wins District 21 has the best shot at winning the regional.
Region 6
Volleyball @ Warren Cousino
Girls Basketball @ Roseville
Boys Basketball @ Chippewa Valley
District 23: (ROYAL OAK, TROY ATHENS, Warren Cousino, Warren Mott, Sterling Heights, Warren Regina (GBB), Warren De LaSalle) vs District 29: (Fraser, Utica Ford II, Sterling Heights Stevenson, Chippewa Valley, L'Anse Creuse)
District 25: (BLOOMFIELD HILLS, SEAHOLM, GROVES, AVONDALE, TROY, Marian, Brother Rice) vs District 22: (Lake Shore, Warren Woods Tower, East Detroit, Lakeview, Roseville, Grosse Pointe North)
Volleyball: The District 23 winner will likely meet District 29 winner, Fraser. Fraser will be good this season. The District 25 winner will likely see Grosse Pointe North, my pick to win District 29 but it will be a District 23 will meet the District 25 winner. I think the District 25 winner will move on to the State Quarterfinals.
Boys Basketball: The District 23 winner will likely clash with Chippewa Valley, whom I think will win District 29. The District 25 winner should have no problem with the District 22 winner in Grosse Pointe North. I think the District 23 winner will meet the District 25 winner will meet for the Regional title and an Oakland County school will move onto the State Quarterfinals.
Girls Basketball: Warren Cousino or Sterling Heights should win District 23 but a clash with District 29 pick Utica Ford II will be an interesting match-up. The District 25 winner will have a good match-up with Grosse Pointe North whom I think will win District 22. End of the day the District 23 winner will move on to the State Quarterfinals.
Region 7
Volleyball @ Romeo
Girls Basketball @ Grand Blanc
Boys Basketball @ Macomb Dakota
District 30: (STONEY CREEK, ADAMS, ROCHESTER, Utica, Utica Eisenhower) vs District 32: (Grand Blanc, Holly, Brandon, Linden, Fenton)
District 31: (ORION, CLARKSTON, OXFORD, PONTIAC, Waterford Kettering, Waterford Mott) vs District 28: (Anchor Bay, Macomb Dakota, Romeo, L'Anse Creuse North, Port Huron, Port Huron Northern)
Volleyball: Romeo is the defending State Champions and will likely see either Orion/Clarkston on their home court. I think Stoney Creek will win District 30 and will see Fenton whom win District 32. End of the day the winner of the Romeo/Orion/Clarkston winner will move on to the regional.
Boys Basketball: Could the stage be set for Dakota/Clarkston II??? its possible. I think Adams will win District 30 and will set the stage with Holly winning District 32. It could be a blood bath between Clarkston and Holly in the regional final if they do get there.
Girls Basketball: The Winner of District 31 has a good shot at winning this regional. I think Fenton will win District 32, Port Huron Northern will win District 28, and District 30 see the district post will be solid. I think we could be in line for an all Oakland County final here with the winner moving to the State Quarterfinals.
Updated Monday July 13th at 8:50 PM
Well now the districts are out, lets look at the regional outlook for each team heading into the regional. OAA team in CAPS.
Class B:
Region 13
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ Livonia Ladywood
Boys Basketball @ Detroit Mumford
District 42: (Detroit Central. Detroit Northwestern, FERNDALE, HAZEL PARK, Warren Fitzgerald, Detroit Mumford) vs District 45: (Livonia Clarenceville, Detroit Communication of Media Arts, Detroit Old Redford, Detroit Henry Ford, Livonia Ladywood, Southfield Bradford, Redford Union)
District 43 (Detroit Osborn, Center Line, Detroit Denby, South Lake, Harper Woods Chandler Park, Harper Woods, Warren Lincoln) vs District 41 (Detroit University Prep Science and Math, Detroit University Prep, Detroit Henry Ford Academy, Detroit Consortium, Detroit Cesar Chavez, Detroit Advanced Technology)
Volleyball: The winner of the District 42 district could make a huge run. I like Livonia Clarenceville coming out of District 45 being at home. In District 43 I like Center Line coming out and winning that district and in District 41 I like Detroit University Prep coming out. I'm not impressed with anybody in this region even though I think the winner of District 42 will win this regional. Whomever wins this regional has a great shot at getting to the State quarterfinals.
Boys Basketball: If Ferndale and Detroit Henry Ford would to play each other, then it would be a heck of a game. I can see Detroit Mumford or Hazel Park in District 42 go far as well. Detroit Henry Ford went to the State Semifinals last season and is expected to win District 45. In District 43 I like Detroit Osborn coming out and in District 41 I will go with Detroit University Prep. I think either the District 42/45 winner will go to the State Quarterfinals.
Girls Basketball: Warren Fitzgerald or Detroit Mumford could get out of the district. I think South Lake will be the biggest threat in the regional but either one of these two teams could go far to the State Quarterfinals. In District 45, I'm going to go with Detroit Henry Ford. In District 43, I am going with St. Clair Shores South Lake. In District 41, I am going with Detroit Consortium. The winner of District 42 I think will move on to the State Quarterfinals.
Class A:
Region 4
Volleyball @ Grosse Pointe South
Girls Basketball @ Dearborn Fordson
Boys Basketball @ Detroit Cass Tech
District 19: (Garden City, Dearborn Crestwood, Redford Thurston, Livonia Stevenson, Livonia Churchill, Livonia Franklin) vs District 24: (LATHRUP, SOUTHFIELD, OAK PARK, BERKLEY, Detroit Renaissance, U-D Jesuit)
District 20: (Hamtramck, Detroit International, Detroit Cass Tech, Detroit East English Village Prep, Detroit Western, Grosse Pointe South, Detroit Martin Luther King) vs District 16: (Dearborn, Dearborn Fordson, Dearborn Edsel Ford, Detroit Cody, Lincoln Park, Allen Park)
Volleyball: This is an interesting regional, Livonia Stevenson is my pick in District 19, District 24, see my blog post. District 20 I like Grosse Pointe South and District 16 I like Allen Park. This one is wide open and anyone can win this regional.
Boys Basketball: District 20 will be tough to watch, you have the defending state champions Detroit Western here along with Detroit Cass Tech and Detroit East English Prep in there. In District 24 it will be interesting as well with four teams having a shot at winning the crown. District 19 I'll go with Redford Thurston and District 16 I'll go with Lincoln Park. At the end of the day the winners of Districts 20 and 24 will meet for the regional crown.
Girls Basketball: This regional will be fun to watch, setting the stage for a Lathrup vs Detroit Martin Luther King/Detroit Cass Tech/ or Grosse Pointe South regional final. I like Livonia Franklin to win District 19. District 24 I mentioned will be Lathrup. In District 16, I like Dearborn Edsel Ford to come out of there and in District 20 three teams could win that District but safe bet will be Detroit Martin Luther King. It will be fun between Lathrup and whoever wins District 20.
Region 5
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ Novi
Boys Basketball @ West Bloomfield
District 21: (WEST BLOOMFIELD, FARMINGTON, HARRISON, NORTH FARMINGTON, Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Mercy) vs District 27: (Howell, Hartland, Brighton, South Lyon East, South Lyon)
District 26: (Milford, Walled Lake Northern, Walled Lake Western, Walled Lake Central, Lakeland) vs District 18: (Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Canton, Salem, Novi Detroit Catholic Central.)
Volleyball: Novi should win District 18 even though Canton will have a strong say. When looking at District 26, Lakeland should have no problem getting out of that district. In District 21, see my district post, and in District 27, I like Brighton to come out. I think in this regional, you got to go with Novi. Novi went to the State Finals last season and is poised to make a run again but if Mercy is in here, it's anybody's ball game in that one.
Boys Basketball: Everything sets up to be the winner of the District 21 vs the District 18 or 26 regional final. In District 21 see my district post there, District 27 I see Hartland coming out, District 18 I like Plymouth, and District 26 I like Walled Lake Central. This could be an interesting regional and the winner would earn their path to the State Quarterfinals.
Girls Basketball: With District 21, see my district post but in District 27 I like Howell to come out of that district over South Lyon East. In District 26, I like Lakeland winning that district, and in District 18 even though they lost a lot of talent I like Salem to come out and win that district. I think whoever wins District 21 has the best shot at winning the regional.
Region 6
Volleyball @ Warren Cousino
Girls Basketball @ Roseville
Boys Basketball @ Chippewa Valley
District 23: (ROYAL OAK, TROY ATHENS, Warren Cousino, Warren Mott, Sterling Heights, Warren Regina (GBB), Warren De LaSalle) vs District 29: (Fraser, Utica Ford II, Sterling Heights Stevenson, Chippewa Valley, L'Anse Creuse)
District 25: (BLOOMFIELD HILLS, SEAHOLM, GROVES, AVONDALE, TROY, Marian, Brother Rice) vs District 22: (Lake Shore, Warren Woods Tower, East Detroit, Lakeview, Roseville, Grosse Pointe North)
Volleyball: The District 23 winner will likely meet District 29 winner, Fraser. Fraser will be good this season. The District 25 winner will likely see Grosse Pointe North, my pick to win District 29 but it will be a District 23 will meet the District 25 winner. I think the District 25 winner will move on to the State Quarterfinals.
Boys Basketball: The District 23 winner will likely clash with Chippewa Valley, whom I think will win District 29. The District 25 winner should have no problem with the District 22 winner in Grosse Pointe North. I think the District 23 winner will meet the District 25 winner will meet for the Regional title and an Oakland County school will move onto the State Quarterfinals.
Girls Basketball: Warren Cousino or Sterling Heights should win District 23 but a clash with District 29 pick Utica Ford II will be an interesting match-up. The District 25 winner will have a good match-up with Grosse Pointe North whom I think will win District 22. End of the day the District 23 winner will move on to the State Quarterfinals.
Region 7
Volleyball @ Romeo
Girls Basketball @ Grand Blanc
Boys Basketball @ Macomb Dakota
District 30: (STONEY CREEK, ADAMS, ROCHESTER, Utica, Utica Eisenhower) vs District 32: (Grand Blanc, Holly, Brandon, Linden, Fenton)
District 31: (ORION, CLARKSTON, OXFORD, PONTIAC, Waterford Kettering, Waterford Mott) vs District 28: (Anchor Bay, Macomb Dakota, Romeo, L'Anse Creuse North, Port Huron, Port Huron Northern)
Volleyball: Romeo is the defending State Champions and will likely see either Orion/Clarkston on their home court. I think Stoney Creek will win District 30 and will see Fenton whom win District 32. End of the day the winner of the Romeo/Orion/Clarkston winner will move on to the regional.
Boys Basketball: Could the stage be set for Dakota/Clarkston II??? its possible. I think Adams will win District 30 and will set the stage with Holly winning District 32. It could be a blood bath between Clarkston and Holly in the regional final if they do get there.
Girls Basketball: The Winner of District 31 has a good shot at winning this regional. I think Fenton will win District 32, Port Huron Northern will win District 28, and District 30 see the district post will be solid. I think we could be in line for an all Oakland County final here with the winner moving to the State Quarterfinals.
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Volleyball and Basketball Districts are out.
Written Thursday June 18th at 10:00 PM.
Updated Wednesday October 14th at 2:45 PM.
The MHSAA released the 2015 Girls Volleyball, Girls, and Boys Basketball districts as we head into the winter so here they are which involves OAA teams. This post will likely be updated once we get future information considering the location of the basketball districts.
OAA teams are in CAPS.
Class B:
District 42
Volleyball @ Warren Fitzgerald
Boys Basketball @ Detroit Northwestern
Girls Basketball @ Detroit Mumford
FERNDALE
HAZEL PARK
Warren Fitzgerald
Detroit Northwestern
Detroit Collegiate
Detroit Mumford
When looking at this District: Hazel Park returns after spending one disastrous season in Class A last season and also Detroit Mumford enters into Class B as well after experiencing a downward trend in students. Warren Fitzgerald won in the district in girls basketball last season. This will be an interesting district when there are two OAA schools, three Wayne County schools, and one Macomb County school in here as well.
Volleyball: Ferndale looks to be the favorite because they won the district last season and does have some experience returning but keep an eye on Warren Fitzgerald. The Spartans are the hosts in this district and have a rivalry with the Vikings. Hazel Park could threaten and has had a bit of a resurgence. Detroit Mumford is the wildcard here because they did all right last season in Class A and is moving into Class B.
Boys Basketball: Detroit Mumford looks like to be the favorite but keep an eye on Ferndale and Hazel Park. The Eagles went to the district finals last year but fell to Detroit Henry Ford in the final seconds. The Vikings have a lot of young talent coming back led by Carl Bow and will threaten not only in this district but also in the Gold. There are three teams that have a great shot at winning this district, Detroit Mumford, Hazel Park, and Ferndale.
Girls Basketball: Warren Fitzgerald looks to be the favorite in this district this spring. The Spartans won the district title and went to the regional final last season but keep an eye on Detroit Mumford as they moved down from Class A to Class B. Detroit Mumford could do some damage here in this district with their athleticism and speed. Hazel Park could be a dark horse candidate as well led by Trinity Benton for coach Jessica Wiesler. Ferndale could struggle along with Detroit Northwestern.
Class A:
District 21
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ West Bloomfield
Boys Basketball @ Orchard Lake St. Marys
WEST BLOOMFIELD
HARRISON
NORTH FARMINGTON
FARMINGTON
Mercy/Orchard Lake St. Marys
When looking at this District: Farmington returns from being in a district with parts of Wayne County to a district that has their two rivals are in Harrison and North Farmington. Harrison or North Farmington won't be in a district with Birmingham Marian but Mercy will be the Catholic League team to deal with. West Bloomfield returns east from Walled Lake and White Lake areas and will host Volleyball and Girls Basketball but all these teams in this district have to look at Mercy in the girls and Orchard Lake St. Mary's in the boys side.
Volleyball: Mercy is the early favorite because of their coaching staff and recent success in the Catholic League and in the State. The Marlins went to the Final Four last season and could do some damage this season. Harrison and West Bloomfield will challenge for the district title and could give the Marlins trouble. The Lakers took home the White title for the first time since 1995 and will ride into the district with a lot of confidence.
Boys Basketball: This could be one of the toughest districts in the state because of the recent additions that North Farmington has and the teams in here that are solid. The early favorite in this district is North Farmington because of whom they got coming back in Josh Hogans, Jacob Jobert and Billy Thomas. The Raiders have brought in Armaui Hardy and Nate Brooks but keep an eye on West Bloomfield as they will have Tristian Jackson and motivation after being ousted by Walled Lake Central. Orchard Lake St. Mary's could be a factor and is the district host despite their head coach George Porritt retired from coaching basketball in August. Farmington could have a say as well with three starters back. This won't be an easy district to say the least.
Girls Basketball: This will be a competitive and tough district. Harrison returns two top notch players from injuries in Kristen Nelson and Amber Stephans. North Farmington returns four starters led by Kierra Crockett, Amber Stephan-Watts, and the Cherney sisters in Samantha and Alex. West Bloomfield returns three starters led by Charika Stubbs, Taylor Pierce, and Camara Porter and will have two very talented freshman. Mercy is young but talented. Farmington could struggle this season but they do return Mya Douse and MaKayla Martin. I think four teams have a great shot at winning the crown. Mercy is the early favorite but Harrison, North Farmington, and West Bloomfield aren't that far behind and could beat Mercy on any given night.
District 23
Volleyball @ Royal Oak
Boys and Girls Basketball @ Troy Athens
ROYAL OAK
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights
Warren Mott
Warren Cousino
Warren De LaSalle/Warren Regina (Girls Basketball only)
When looking at this District: This is an odd district considering that Troy is out while Troy Athens is in this district. Sterling Heights, Warren Mott, and Warren Cousino know each other well being in a district last season together. Warren De LaSalle and Warren Regina also enter this district as well for Girls Basketball only. Warren Cousino won the Macomb Area Red division in girls basketball but lost to Sterling Heights in both Girls Basketball and Volleyball. Royal Oak will have a tough time adjusting to dealing with the Warren schools and Troy Athens but they will be up to the challenge.
Volleyball: This district won't be an easy district at all, the early favorite is Sterling Heights with whom they got back and won a district title over Warren Cousino and wants to get back at Chippewa Valley for losing to them in the regional but you got to keep an eye on Troy Athens whom has struggled a bit this season in the White. The Red Hawks should be motivated after losing at home to Troy in the district finals last season. Warren Couisno is a dark-horse in this district because they want to get back at some of the teams proving they are better than people think. I expect this district to be a three horse race between Troy Athens, Warren Cousino, and Sterling Heights. Warren Mott is a team to keep an eye on, they could surprise people along with Royal Oak.
Boys Basketball: Warren De LaSalle is here and returns a lot of talent. It's bad news for everyone in this district. Warren Mott is the next team, they were under 500 last season at 8-13 but did score 100 points against Warren Cousino. Troy Athens is the dark horse despite losing a lot of talent last season and they will compete in the ultra tough Red. Sterling Heights will struggle again this season. Royal Oak has a new coach in Aaron Smith and they could surprise some folks, they have two very good guards in Cordell DuPree and Gavin Boswell. This district though is the Pilots to lose.
Girls Basketball: Warren Cousino is one of the top teams in Macomb County, they won the Macomb Area Red division and had big wins over Grosse Pointe South and Romeo but they have a problem with a team that three seasons ago was in Class B, in Sterling Heights. Two seasons ago the Patriots were knocked out of the playoffs by the Stallions in the regional semifinals and last season they were knocked out again but in the district final by the same team. Oddly enough Warren Cousino beat Sterling Heights in the regular season by 20. The Stallions finished 22-2 before losing to Detroit Martin Luther King last season. Royal Oak is the dark horse despite losing a lot of talent last season but because of their size and sophomore class Ravens coach Brian Sopota's team has been getting better during the summer league. Warren Mott returns three starters from a team that was middle of the pack in the Macomb Area Conference Blue division. Troy Athens will contend in the Gold and has one of the best players in this district in Maddie Crumm. Warren Regina is the wildcard because the Satellites have a lot coming back (six players returning.) Expect Warren Cousino and Sterling Heights to meet at some point in the district and if the Patriots can fix their Stallions problem then they should win this district.
District 24
Volleyball @ Lathrup
Boys and Girls Basketball @ Southfield
LATHRUP
BERKLEY
SOUTHFIELD
OAK PARK
Detroit Renaissance
University Detroit Jesuit (Boys)
When looking at this District: Lathrup, Berkley, and Oak Park are no strangers to this district but neither is Southfield, Detroit Renaissance, or University of Detroit Jesuit. Lathrup and Southfield will merge next season and become one big high school. Lathrup is a Girls Basketball powerhouse along with Detroit Renaissance. This is a close and geographic district, even though Detroit Renaissance and U-D Jesuit will have to come up to Oakland County from Wayne County. This district in basketball could have a couple of possible state champions coming out this winter.
Volleyball: This is a wide open district with no Groves or powerhouse in the picture until the regional. The early favorite is Berkley because they have been so close to the district crown and is one of the established of the teams here led by Celia Somers. Oak Park has some talent back led by Jasmine Stackhouse and could make a run. Southfield and Detroit Renaissance will also have strong says as well.
Boys Basketball: This district could be competitive or it might not be. You got four teams that have a shot at winning the district but the favorite is U-D Jesuit because of whom they got back (four starters, including two seven foot Nigerians and a possible Mr. Michigan Basketball candidate in Cassius Winston.) Southfield despite losing Amauri Hardy will have Michael Flowers and Michael Priest back for new coach Mike Avery whom many Chargers know real well. Detroit Renaissance will be solid led by Justin Turner, and Oak Park will have some talent back led by Kevon Fuller if he is back eligible for coach Jamie Thomas. The Knights and Blue Jays could have strong says and threaten the Cubs. Berkley has no shot at winning this district. U-D Jesuit is the favorite to not only win this district but this will be their best shot at winning a State title.
Girls Basketball: Come on now, is there any team that can beat the "Hoop Squad?" Lathrup returns Deja Church, Taige Bello, Kehendre Bello, and Antoinette Miller. Detroit Renaissance has the talent to compete with the Chargers but they don't have the depth to knock them off. Southfield could have a say with the experience they have back as well as Berkley. The Bears are one of the favorites in the Gold this season and returns two starters in Somers and Zoe Anderson. You also can't count out Oak Park either, the Knights have one of the best coaches in the State in Peggy Carr and will get the best of her team. The Blue Jays are the early favorite in the Blue with four starters coming back, they won the Gold last season by finishing 18-2. Looking at this district at the end of the day though nobody is going to beat Lathrup.
District 25
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ Bloomfield Hills
Boys Basketball @ Avondale
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
GROVES
SEAHOLM
AVONDALE
TROY
Marian/Brother Rice
When looking at this District: Groves returns to this district and there should be a lot of familiarity with each other. Bloomfield Hills will open up it's new renovated Andover campus with a district in volleyball and likely Girls Basketball after spending three seasons over at the Lahser campus. Marian is still here in this district and is the defending state and district champs in girls basketball. Brother Rice is in the boys for this district replacing Birmingham Marian. Seaholm, Troy, and Groves won volleyball districts from a season ago. Avondale and Troy are the new comers here to the district. I'm surprised Avondale is here in this district because it makes no sense where they are geographically located and with Troy going southwest is interesting as well and not with their arch rivals Troy Athens, it's odd.
Volleyball: Marian is still going to be good and should be motivated after losing at home to Seaholm last season. Bloomfield Hills will be looking for a bounce back season after having a tough season a season ago. Seaholm is the defending district champ and has a very big and experienced front line led by Lauren McLeod, Annie Schecter, and Paige Carey. The Maples shared the Red title with Orion and Stoney Creek. Groves lost a lot of talent from a season ago but did all right in the White. Troy has an emerging star in Jessica Robinson to go along with Claire Keating and Kristen Losey. Avondale has the size led by Alyssa Smith to compete in this district. I see Seaholm winning this district but you can't count out Marian, Groves, or Avondale. Troy is the dark-horse.
Boys Basketball: This could be wide open but the early favorite is Bloomfield Hills under first year coach Mike Maryanski because they return a lot of talent but you got to also keep an eye on Avondale. The Yellow Jackets return a lot of talent from their district championship team last season and is the district host. Groves will have experience back under coach Mark West and is one of the favorites in the Gold. Troy is always scrappy and mentally tough under coach Gary Fralick. I can see this being a three team race though between Avondale, Troy, and Bloomfield Hills for the crown.
Girls Basketball: This district is wide open, Marian doesn't have the talent after losing the Thomas sisters whom transferred to Nevada. Bloomfield Hills will be defending state champ's biggest threat because they host the district and they match up well with the Mustangs with the combination of Amanda Sape, Victorie Franklin, Sam Patterson, Immani Wright, Becca Hancock, and Katherine Prinna. Troy is a wildcard here because they are scrappy and return Megan Lenihan and Jordan Lafayette. Avondale will have the size up front in Addie Saltarrei and Smith to compete for the district but have questions with the guards. Seaholm has two very good players in Mackenzie Harbort and Dana Hoerman but the problem could be the schedule. The non conference schedule isn't as daunting as you think for Seaholm. They will have big non conference tests Waterford Mott and West Bloomfield and deal with Southfield and Oak Park in the Blue. Groves should be improved led by Madison Meredith and Shea Carter and should contend in the Gold for coach Amos Thompson. I think right now you have two solid teams that have a good chance to win the district and a few that could surprise some folks.
District 30
Volleyball @ Utica Eisenhower
Boys Basketball @ Adams
Girls Basketball @ Utica
STONEY CREEK
ADAMS
ROCHESTER
Utica Eisenhower
Utica
When looking at this District: The Rochester schools will go east into Macomb County and they have great shots at winning this district in their respective sports. Utica and Utica Eisenhower enter this district after being paired with Romeo and Utica Ford II for a few seasons. Utica Eisenhower is the defending Boys Basketball and Volleyball champs in this district. Stoney Creek is the defending Girls Basketball district champs. It's interesting that Romeo isn't in this district and were sent east to see Macomb Dakota, Anchor Bay, L'Anse Cruse North, and the Port Huron schools in District 28 or Utica Ford, whom is in District 29 with L'Anse Cruse, Fraser, Sterling Heights Stevenson, and Chippewa Valley but it's something especially that Utica or Eisenhower don't have to worry about until the regional if they get there.
Volleyball: The luxury of this district is Romeo the defending State Champions isn't in this district and neither is Orion and Clarkston. Stoney Creek shared the Red with Orion and Seaholm for the first time in school history returns some key players back to a team that almost took Clarkston out of the playoffs last season in Sammy Sattaman and Alexa Tomluck. Adams will be improved as they return a lot of talent led by Madison Tuscansky and Paige Staudacher. Utica Eisenhower won the Macomb Area Conference White division and district crown last season is the dark horse along with being the district host. Rochester will have some experience back and has had a solid season. Utica finished second in the Macomb Area Conference Blue last season but has questions with focus after losing in five sets to Sterling Heights. Stoney Creek is favored in this district but keep an eye on Adams, Utica, and Utica Eisenhower, they will be there as well.
Boys Basketball: Utica Eisenhower had a good season winning a district title last season and is expected to be one of the top teams in Macomb County despite losing a lot of talent. Oddly enough one of the Eagles wins was over Adams last season. The Highlanders has most of their team back for coach John Hall in Spencer Littleson and Joe Zinni. Adams is the early favorite with Utica Eisenhower right behind them as the Highlanders host the district. The darkhorses are Stoney Creek and Rochester. The Cougars are solid this season led by their top player John Paul Sincola and also the three point shot will keep coach Steve Norgrove's team in games. The Falcons finished 0-21 last season but returns Hunter Schlatter and Ivan Barazza-Duran and have a solid sophomore coming up for coach John Pleasant. Utica returns eight players and is expected to contend for the Macomb Area White division crown but at the end of the day it will be the Highlanders district to lose.
Girls Basketball: Stoney Creek., Rochester, and Adams move east into Macomb County and the small court of Utica High School. Utica and Utica Eisenhower are thrilled that Utica Ford II is not in the district. The Chieftains are the defending Macomb Area Conference White division champions and returns nine of ten players from a season ago. Eisenhower lost in a district final to Romeo last season return three starters. The Eagles should be motivated to get back to the district finals after winning one out of nowhere in 2013. The Cougars has won six straight district titles and is looking to gain another one but they have a new coach in Kellen James whom takes over for coach Brad Crighton. The Cougars return Ally Voss and Emily Solek. The Highlanders were solid last season and is expected to be one of the top teams in the Red led by their four returning starters in Ryian Owusu, Olivia Aregros, and Maggie Rogers. Adams did get a transfer in Taylor Smith whom came over from Linden. Rochester has experience as well and is expected to be a Blue contender led by Paola Barazza-Duran and Jenna Norgrove for coach Adam Sheldon. This will be a tough district, Utica is the early favorite because of their interior and size followed by Adams and then Stoney Creek. Rochester will play spoiler and also keep an eye on Eisenhower as well, it's anyone's ball game.
District 31
Volleyball @ Waterford Kettering
Boys Basketball @ Waterford Mott
Girls Basketball @ Orion
CLARKSTON
OXFORD
ORION
PONTIAC
Waterford Mott
Waterford Kettering
When looking at this District: The last time Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott were in a district with Orion, Oxford, and Clarkston was 2009 and now these teams are back together. Pontiac will enter this district for the first time as one school since both Pontiac Northern and Pontiac Central were here in 2004. Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott have had fierce battles with Orion and Clarkston in the past and are expected to do so again. This will be a district where there could be no love loss for one another.
Volleyball: It's looking like it will either be Orion or Clarkston that will win this district and go into Macomb County in the regional. The Wolves have won the last 11 district titles but Orion won the regular season meeting at home. The Dragons shared the Red with Seaholm and Stoney Creek for it's first district title since they were in the White in 2007 while Clarkston saw it's reign of eight Red titles come to an end but could make amends in the playoffs. The Wolves has had the Dragons number winning four of the last five playoff meetings. Oxford is the wildcard here in this district and will be a pain to either Orion or Clarkston. It will either be the Wolves or Dragons moving on.
Boys Basketball: The question will be is can anyone beat the Wolves. Clarkston will be the overwhelming favorite because of Foster Loyer, Tabin Throgmorton, Mitch Heaton, and Dylan Alderson in this district but keep an eye on Orion. The Dragons will compete and give the Wolves a run for their money with their senior experience and new coach in Jim Manzo. Pontiac is the wildcard because you don't know what your going to get from them and their coach Ben Kelso coached at Waterford Kettering for one season before leaving for Pontiac. The Phoenix have three top notch players in the program in Israel Williams, Jaylen Kelso, and Ronald McDonald. Waterford Mott is the unknown here because they have had up and down seasons. Oxford will compete and will spoil someone's season. Waterford Kettering is not that good this season and will struggle.
Girls Basketball: Waterford Kettering looks to be the favorite because of experience and talent that coach Scott Woodhull returns. Keep an eye on Waterford Mott. The Corsairs return a lot of experience and have given their arch rivals problems in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association North division play and district play in the past for coach Michelle Scarr. There is a different element however for the Waterford schools and that could be the opponents in the district as Troy, Troy Athens, and Avondale are in different districts. They are replaced by the three big OAA schools in the Dragons, Wolves, and Wildcats. Orion has the talent to face and beat both Waterford schools and they host the district. Clarkston has a new coach in Christine Rogers whom takes over for coach Tim Waslik. The Wolves should be steaming after losing by 15 to Waterford Mott last season and would like to get another crack at the Corsairs. Pontiac is an improving team for coach Christopher Wright. Five teams have a shot as this district but in all reality it could be four teams with Waterford Kettering the favorite, Waterford Mott is next up, Orion is the dark-horse, Clarkston is the wildcard, and Oxford could be a play as well because of their pressure defense for coach Steve Emmert.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for complete district coverage.
Updated Wednesday October 14th at 2:45 PM.
The MHSAA released the 2015 Girls Volleyball, Girls, and Boys Basketball districts as we head into the winter so here they are which involves OAA teams. This post will likely be updated once we get future information considering the location of the basketball districts.
OAA teams are in CAPS.
Class B:
District 42
Volleyball @ Warren Fitzgerald
Boys Basketball @ Detroit Northwestern
Girls Basketball @ Detroit Mumford
FERNDALE
HAZEL PARK
Warren Fitzgerald
Detroit Northwestern
Detroit Collegiate
Detroit Mumford
When looking at this District: Hazel Park returns after spending one disastrous season in Class A last season and also Detroit Mumford enters into Class B as well after experiencing a downward trend in students. Warren Fitzgerald won in the district in girls basketball last season. This will be an interesting district when there are two OAA schools, three Wayne County schools, and one Macomb County school in here as well.
Volleyball: Ferndale looks to be the favorite because they won the district last season and does have some experience returning but keep an eye on Warren Fitzgerald. The Spartans are the hosts in this district and have a rivalry with the Vikings. Hazel Park could threaten and has had a bit of a resurgence. Detroit Mumford is the wildcard here because they did all right last season in Class A and is moving into Class B.
Boys Basketball: Detroit Mumford looks like to be the favorite but keep an eye on Ferndale and Hazel Park. The Eagles went to the district finals last year but fell to Detroit Henry Ford in the final seconds. The Vikings have a lot of young talent coming back led by Carl Bow and will threaten not only in this district but also in the Gold. There are three teams that have a great shot at winning this district, Detroit Mumford, Hazel Park, and Ferndale.
Girls Basketball: Warren Fitzgerald looks to be the favorite in this district this spring. The Spartans won the district title and went to the regional final last season but keep an eye on Detroit Mumford as they moved down from Class A to Class B. Detroit Mumford could do some damage here in this district with their athleticism and speed. Hazel Park could be a dark horse candidate as well led by Trinity Benton for coach Jessica Wiesler. Ferndale could struggle along with Detroit Northwestern.
Class A:
District 21
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ West Bloomfield
Boys Basketball @ Orchard Lake St. Marys
WEST BLOOMFIELD
HARRISON
NORTH FARMINGTON
FARMINGTON
Mercy/Orchard Lake St. Marys
When looking at this District: Farmington returns from being in a district with parts of Wayne County to a district that has their two rivals are in Harrison and North Farmington. Harrison or North Farmington won't be in a district with Birmingham Marian but Mercy will be the Catholic League team to deal with. West Bloomfield returns east from Walled Lake and White Lake areas and will host Volleyball and Girls Basketball but all these teams in this district have to look at Mercy in the girls and Orchard Lake St. Mary's in the boys side.
Volleyball: Mercy is the early favorite because of their coaching staff and recent success in the Catholic League and in the State. The Marlins went to the Final Four last season and could do some damage this season. Harrison and West Bloomfield will challenge for the district title and could give the Marlins trouble. The Lakers took home the White title for the first time since 1995 and will ride into the district with a lot of confidence.
Boys Basketball: This could be one of the toughest districts in the state because of the recent additions that North Farmington has and the teams in here that are solid. The early favorite in this district is North Farmington because of whom they got coming back in Josh Hogans, Jacob Jobert and Billy Thomas. The Raiders have brought in Armaui Hardy and Nate Brooks but keep an eye on West Bloomfield as they will have Tristian Jackson and motivation after being ousted by Walled Lake Central. Orchard Lake St. Mary's could be a factor and is the district host despite their head coach George Porritt retired from coaching basketball in August. Farmington could have a say as well with three starters back. This won't be an easy district to say the least.
Girls Basketball: This will be a competitive and tough district. Harrison returns two top notch players from injuries in Kristen Nelson and Amber Stephans. North Farmington returns four starters led by Kierra Crockett, Amber Stephan-Watts, and the Cherney sisters in Samantha and Alex. West Bloomfield returns three starters led by Charika Stubbs, Taylor Pierce, and Camara Porter and will have two very talented freshman. Mercy is young but talented. Farmington could struggle this season but they do return Mya Douse and MaKayla Martin. I think four teams have a great shot at winning the crown. Mercy is the early favorite but Harrison, North Farmington, and West Bloomfield aren't that far behind and could beat Mercy on any given night.
District 23
Volleyball @ Royal Oak
Boys and Girls Basketball @ Troy Athens
ROYAL OAK
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights
Warren Mott
Warren Cousino
Warren De LaSalle/Warren Regina (Girls Basketball only)
When looking at this District: This is an odd district considering that Troy is out while Troy Athens is in this district. Sterling Heights, Warren Mott, and Warren Cousino know each other well being in a district last season together. Warren De LaSalle and Warren Regina also enter this district as well for Girls Basketball only. Warren Cousino won the Macomb Area Red division in girls basketball but lost to Sterling Heights in both Girls Basketball and Volleyball. Royal Oak will have a tough time adjusting to dealing with the Warren schools and Troy Athens but they will be up to the challenge.
Volleyball: This district won't be an easy district at all, the early favorite is Sterling Heights with whom they got back and won a district title over Warren Cousino and wants to get back at Chippewa Valley for losing to them in the regional but you got to keep an eye on Troy Athens whom has struggled a bit this season in the White. The Red Hawks should be motivated after losing at home to Troy in the district finals last season. Warren Couisno is a dark-horse in this district because they want to get back at some of the teams proving they are better than people think. I expect this district to be a three horse race between Troy Athens, Warren Cousino, and Sterling Heights. Warren Mott is a team to keep an eye on, they could surprise people along with Royal Oak.
Boys Basketball: Warren De LaSalle is here and returns a lot of talent. It's bad news for everyone in this district. Warren Mott is the next team, they were under 500 last season at 8-13 but did score 100 points against Warren Cousino. Troy Athens is the dark horse despite losing a lot of talent last season and they will compete in the ultra tough Red. Sterling Heights will struggle again this season. Royal Oak has a new coach in Aaron Smith and they could surprise some folks, they have two very good guards in Cordell DuPree and Gavin Boswell. This district though is the Pilots to lose.
Girls Basketball: Warren Cousino is one of the top teams in Macomb County, they won the Macomb Area Red division and had big wins over Grosse Pointe South and Romeo but they have a problem with a team that three seasons ago was in Class B, in Sterling Heights. Two seasons ago the Patriots were knocked out of the playoffs by the Stallions in the regional semifinals and last season they were knocked out again but in the district final by the same team. Oddly enough Warren Cousino beat Sterling Heights in the regular season by 20. The Stallions finished 22-2 before losing to Detroit Martin Luther King last season. Royal Oak is the dark horse despite losing a lot of talent last season but because of their size and sophomore class Ravens coach Brian Sopota's team has been getting better during the summer league. Warren Mott returns three starters from a team that was middle of the pack in the Macomb Area Conference Blue division. Troy Athens will contend in the Gold and has one of the best players in this district in Maddie Crumm. Warren Regina is the wildcard because the Satellites have a lot coming back (six players returning.) Expect Warren Cousino and Sterling Heights to meet at some point in the district and if the Patriots can fix their Stallions problem then they should win this district.
District 24
Volleyball @ Lathrup
Boys and Girls Basketball @ Southfield
LATHRUP
BERKLEY
SOUTHFIELD
OAK PARK
Detroit Renaissance
University Detroit Jesuit (Boys)
When looking at this District: Lathrup, Berkley, and Oak Park are no strangers to this district but neither is Southfield, Detroit Renaissance, or University of Detroit Jesuit. Lathrup and Southfield will merge next season and become one big high school. Lathrup is a Girls Basketball powerhouse along with Detroit Renaissance. This is a close and geographic district, even though Detroit Renaissance and U-D Jesuit will have to come up to Oakland County from Wayne County. This district in basketball could have a couple of possible state champions coming out this winter.
Volleyball: This is a wide open district with no Groves or powerhouse in the picture until the regional. The early favorite is Berkley because they have been so close to the district crown and is one of the established of the teams here led by Celia Somers. Oak Park has some talent back led by Jasmine Stackhouse and could make a run. Southfield and Detroit Renaissance will also have strong says as well.
Boys Basketball: This district could be competitive or it might not be. You got four teams that have a shot at winning the district but the favorite is U-D Jesuit because of whom they got back (four starters, including two seven foot Nigerians and a possible Mr. Michigan Basketball candidate in Cassius Winston.) Southfield despite losing Amauri Hardy will have Michael Flowers and Michael Priest back for new coach Mike Avery whom many Chargers know real well. Detroit Renaissance will be solid led by Justin Turner, and Oak Park will have some talent back led by Kevon Fuller if he is back eligible for coach Jamie Thomas. The Knights and Blue Jays could have strong says and threaten the Cubs. Berkley has no shot at winning this district. U-D Jesuit is the favorite to not only win this district but this will be their best shot at winning a State title.
Girls Basketball: Come on now, is there any team that can beat the "Hoop Squad?" Lathrup returns Deja Church, Taige Bello, Kehendre Bello, and Antoinette Miller. Detroit Renaissance has the talent to compete with the Chargers but they don't have the depth to knock them off. Southfield could have a say with the experience they have back as well as Berkley. The Bears are one of the favorites in the Gold this season and returns two starters in Somers and Zoe Anderson. You also can't count out Oak Park either, the Knights have one of the best coaches in the State in Peggy Carr and will get the best of her team. The Blue Jays are the early favorite in the Blue with four starters coming back, they won the Gold last season by finishing 18-2. Looking at this district at the end of the day though nobody is going to beat Lathrup.
District 25
Volleyball and Girls Basketball @ Bloomfield Hills
Boys Basketball @ Avondale
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
GROVES
SEAHOLM
AVONDALE
TROY
Marian/Brother Rice
When looking at this District: Groves returns to this district and there should be a lot of familiarity with each other. Bloomfield Hills will open up it's new renovated Andover campus with a district in volleyball and likely Girls Basketball after spending three seasons over at the Lahser campus. Marian is still here in this district and is the defending state and district champs in girls basketball. Brother Rice is in the boys for this district replacing Birmingham Marian. Seaholm, Troy, and Groves won volleyball districts from a season ago. Avondale and Troy are the new comers here to the district. I'm surprised Avondale is here in this district because it makes no sense where they are geographically located and with Troy going southwest is interesting as well and not with their arch rivals Troy Athens, it's odd.
Volleyball: Marian is still going to be good and should be motivated after losing at home to Seaholm last season. Bloomfield Hills will be looking for a bounce back season after having a tough season a season ago. Seaholm is the defending district champ and has a very big and experienced front line led by Lauren McLeod, Annie Schecter, and Paige Carey. The Maples shared the Red title with Orion and Stoney Creek. Groves lost a lot of talent from a season ago but did all right in the White. Troy has an emerging star in Jessica Robinson to go along with Claire Keating and Kristen Losey. Avondale has the size led by Alyssa Smith to compete in this district. I see Seaholm winning this district but you can't count out Marian, Groves, or Avondale. Troy is the dark-horse.
Boys Basketball: This could be wide open but the early favorite is Bloomfield Hills under first year coach Mike Maryanski because they return a lot of talent but you got to also keep an eye on Avondale. The Yellow Jackets return a lot of talent from their district championship team last season and is the district host. Groves will have experience back under coach Mark West and is one of the favorites in the Gold. Troy is always scrappy and mentally tough under coach Gary Fralick. I can see this being a three team race though between Avondale, Troy, and Bloomfield Hills for the crown.
Girls Basketball: This district is wide open, Marian doesn't have the talent after losing the Thomas sisters whom transferred to Nevada. Bloomfield Hills will be defending state champ's biggest threat because they host the district and they match up well with the Mustangs with the combination of Amanda Sape, Victorie Franklin, Sam Patterson, Immani Wright, Becca Hancock, and Katherine Prinna. Troy is a wildcard here because they are scrappy and return Megan Lenihan and Jordan Lafayette. Avondale will have the size up front in Addie Saltarrei and Smith to compete for the district but have questions with the guards. Seaholm has two very good players in Mackenzie Harbort and Dana Hoerman but the problem could be the schedule. The non conference schedule isn't as daunting as you think for Seaholm. They will have big non conference tests Waterford Mott and West Bloomfield and deal with Southfield and Oak Park in the Blue. Groves should be improved led by Madison Meredith and Shea Carter and should contend in the Gold for coach Amos Thompson. I think right now you have two solid teams that have a good chance to win the district and a few that could surprise some folks.
District 30
Volleyball @ Utica Eisenhower
Boys Basketball @ Adams
Girls Basketball @ Utica
STONEY CREEK
ADAMS
ROCHESTER
Utica Eisenhower
Utica
When looking at this District: The Rochester schools will go east into Macomb County and they have great shots at winning this district in their respective sports. Utica and Utica Eisenhower enter this district after being paired with Romeo and Utica Ford II for a few seasons. Utica Eisenhower is the defending Boys Basketball and Volleyball champs in this district. Stoney Creek is the defending Girls Basketball district champs. It's interesting that Romeo isn't in this district and were sent east to see Macomb Dakota, Anchor Bay, L'Anse Cruse North, and the Port Huron schools in District 28 or Utica Ford, whom is in District 29 with L'Anse Cruse, Fraser, Sterling Heights Stevenson, and Chippewa Valley but it's something especially that Utica or Eisenhower don't have to worry about until the regional if they get there.
Volleyball: The luxury of this district is Romeo the defending State Champions isn't in this district and neither is Orion and Clarkston. Stoney Creek shared the Red with Orion and Seaholm for the first time in school history returns some key players back to a team that almost took Clarkston out of the playoffs last season in Sammy Sattaman and Alexa Tomluck. Adams will be improved as they return a lot of talent led by Madison Tuscansky and Paige Staudacher. Utica Eisenhower won the Macomb Area Conference White division and district crown last season is the dark horse along with being the district host. Rochester will have some experience back and has had a solid season. Utica finished second in the Macomb Area Conference Blue last season but has questions with focus after losing in five sets to Sterling Heights. Stoney Creek is favored in this district but keep an eye on Adams, Utica, and Utica Eisenhower, they will be there as well.
Boys Basketball: Utica Eisenhower had a good season winning a district title last season and is expected to be one of the top teams in Macomb County despite losing a lot of talent. Oddly enough one of the Eagles wins was over Adams last season. The Highlanders has most of their team back for coach John Hall in Spencer Littleson and Joe Zinni. Adams is the early favorite with Utica Eisenhower right behind them as the Highlanders host the district. The darkhorses are Stoney Creek and Rochester. The Cougars are solid this season led by their top player John Paul Sincola and also the three point shot will keep coach Steve Norgrove's team in games. The Falcons finished 0-21 last season but returns Hunter Schlatter and Ivan Barazza-Duran and have a solid sophomore coming up for coach John Pleasant. Utica returns eight players and is expected to contend for the Macomb Area White division crown but at the end of the day it will be the Highlanders district to lose.
Girls Basketball: Stoney Creek., Rochester, and Adams move east into Macomb County and the small court of Utica High School. Utica and Utica Eisenhower are thrilled that Utica Ford II is not in the district. The Chieftains are the defending Macomb Area Conference White division champions and returns nine of ten players from a season ago. Eisenhower lost in a district final to Romeo last season return three starters. The Eagles should be motivated to get back to the district finals after winning one out of nowhere in 2013. The Cougars has won six straight district titles and is looking to gain another one but they have a new coach in Kellen James whom takes over for coach Brad Crighton. The Cougars return Ally Voss and Emily Solek. The Highlanders were solid last season and is expected to be one of the top teams in the Red led by their four returning starters in Ryian Owusu, Olivia Aregros, and Maggie Rogers. Adams did get a transfer in Taylor Smith whom came over from Linden. Rochester has experience as well and is expected to be a Blue contender led by Paola Barazza-Duran and Jenna Norgrove for coach Adam Sheldon. This will be a tough district, Utica is the early favorite because of their interior and size followed by Adams and then Stoney Creek. Rochester will play spoiler and also keep an eye on Eisenhower as well, it's anyone's ball game.
District 31
Volleyball @ Waterford Kettering
Boys Basketball @ Waterford Mott
Girls Basketball @ Orion
CLARKSTON
OXFORD
ORION
PONTIAC
Waterford Mott
Waterford Kettering
When looking at this District: The last time Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott were in a district with Orion, Oxford, and Clarkston was 2009 and now these teams are back together. Pontiac will enter this district for the first time as one school since both Pontiac Northern and Pontiac Central were here in 2004. Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott have had fierce battles with Orion and Clarkston in the past and are expected to do so again. This will be a district where there could be no love loss for one another.
Volleyball: It's looking like it will either be Orion or Clarkston that will win this district and go into Macomb County in the regional. The Wolves have won the last 11 district titles but Orion won the regular season meeting at home. The Dragons shared the Red with Seaholm and Stoney Creek for it's first district title since they were in the White in 2007 while Clarkston saw it's reign of eight Red titles come to an end but could make amends in the playoffs. The Wolves has had the Dragons number winning four of the last five playoff meetings. Oxford is the wildcard here in this district and will be a pain to either Orion or Clarkston. It will either be the Wolves or Dragons moving on.
Boys Basketball: The question will be is can anyone beat the Wolves. Clarkston will be the overwhelming favorite because of Foster Loyer, Tabin Throgmorton, Mitch Heaton, and Dylan Alderson in this district but keep an eye on Orion. The Dragons will compete and give the Wolves a run for their money with their senior experience and new coach in Jim Manzo. Pontiac is the wildcard because you don't know what your going to get from them and their coach Ben Kelso coached at Waterford Kettering for one season before leaving for Pontiac. The Phoenix have three top notch players in the program in Israel Williams, Jaylen Kelso, and Ronald McDonald. Waterford Mott is the unknown here because they have had up and down seasons. Oxford will compete and will spoil someone's season. Waterford Kettering is not that good this season and will struggle.
Girls Basketball: Waterford Kettering looks to be the favorite because of experience and talent that coach Scott Woodhull returns. Keep an eye on Waterford Mott. The Corsairs return a lot of experience and have given their arch rivals problems in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association North division play and district play in the past for coach Michelle Scarr. There is a different element however for the Waterford schools and that could be the opponents in the district as Troy, Troy Athens, and Avondale are in different districts. They are replaced by the three big OAA schools in the Dragons, Wolves, and Wildcats. Orion has the talent to face and beat both Waterford schools and they host the district. Clarkston has a new coach in Christine Rogers whom takes over for coach Tim Waslik. The Wolves should be steaming after losing by 15 to Waterford Mott last season and would like to get another crack at the Corsairs. Pontiac is an improving team for coach Christopher Wright. Five teams have a shot as this district but in all reality it could be four teams with Waterford Kettering the favorite, Waterford Mott is next up, Orion is the dark-horse, Clarkston is the wildcard, and Oxford could be a play as well because of their pressure defense for coach Steve Emmert.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for complete district coverage.
Jackson is staying Green.
Written Thursday June 18th at 11:40 AM
One of the Lakers best athletes has decided stay Green through college.
West Bloomfield great Trishton Jackson committed to Michigan State making him a part of that strong recruiting class the Spartans have coming in next season, which is in the top ten nationally.
Jackson will likely play wide receiver when he gets to East Lansing, he played wide receiver in 2012 but its likely will be quarterbacking this fall and playing basketball this upcoming winter.
Jackson had a monster season which included wins at Orion, at Oxford, and at Stoney Creek for West Bloomfield. He led the Lakers to their first playoff season since 2008 and beating Livonia Stevenson in the pre-district last season before losing to Walled Lake Central in the district finals. West Bloomfield will have Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, Crossover, and Stoney Creek all coming to West Bloomfield this season.
Jackson is primed to have a monster senior season this season and could lead West Bloomfield to more greater things.
One of the Lakers best athletes has decided stay Green through college.
West Bloomfield great Trishton Jackson committed to Michigan State making him a part of that strong recruiting class the Spartans have coming in next season, which is in the top ten nationally.
Jackson will likely play wide receiver when he gets to East Lansing, he played wide receiver in 2012 but its likely will be quarterbacking this fall and playing basketball this upcoming winter.
Jackson had a monster season which included wins at Orion, at Oxford, and at Stoney Creek for West Bloomfield. He led the Lakers to their first playoff season since 2008 and beating Livonia Stevenson in the pre-district last season before losing to Walled Lake Central in the district finals. West Bloomfield will have Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, Crossover, and Stoney Creek all coming to West Bloomfield this season.
Jackson is primed to have a monster senior season this season and could lead West Bloomfield to more greater things.
Thomas Returns to the OAA.
Written Thursday June 18th at 11:30 AM
It looks like Jamie Thomas will be coming back to the OAA and it will be in Knight Valley.
The Knights hired Thomas to coach their boys basketball team and will succeed coach Bryan Tipton and should make life easier for Football coach and Athletic Director Greg Carter.
Thomas was an assistant at West Bloomfield for their girls basketball, boys basketball, and was a co head coach for their football program when the Lakers made the playoffs in 2008 so he knows the OAA quite well.
He stepped away from coaching in 2009 but returned to coach the Walled Lake Central girls basketball team in 2013.
Thomas will bring stability to a program that is still recovering from the events that cost Bryan Tipton his job. Oak Park won a district title but lost their final two games of the regular season to Orion and Pontiac. The Knights fell to North Farmington in the regional finals at Southfield last season.
Oak Park will see West Bloomfield in their division this season in the White. They will also compete with Avondale, Troy, Pontiac, and Bloomfield Hills as well.
We'll see what happens.
It looks like Jamie Thomas will be coming back to the OAA and it will be in Knight Valley.
The Knights hired Thomas to coach their boys basketball team and will succeed coach Bryan Tipton and should make life easier for Football coach and Athletic Director Greg Carter.
Thomas was an assistant at West Bloomfield for their girls basketball, boys basketball, and was a co head coach for their football program when the Lakers made the playoffs in 2008 so he knows the OAA quite well.
He stepped away from coaching in 2009 but returned to coach the Walled Lake Central girls basketball team in 2013.
Thomas will bring stability to a program that is still recovering from the events that cost Bryan Tipton his job. Oak Park won a district title but lost their final two games of the regular season to Orion and Pontiac. The Knights fell to North Farmington in the regional finals at Southfield last season.
Oak Park will see West Bloomfield in their division this season in the White. They will also compete with Avondale, Troy, Pontiac, and Bloomfield Hills as well.
We'll see what happens.
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Thoughts on Camps.
Written Sunday June 14th at 11:45 AM
Well with the school year over there will be many high school athletes going out to colleges for their team camp or just what happened recently at Macomb Dakota where the had the Sound Mind Sound Body football camp this week where over 1,500 athletes showed up including several OAA players. The camp was ran by Curtis Blackwell, an Michigan State recruiting coordinator, whom is well known in Detroit.
They ran drills to get themselves better, get noticed, listened to presentations from Detroit Lions coach Jim Caldwell along with former Pittsburgh Steelers running back and Detroit great Jerome Bettis, talked to top coaches like Urban Meyer of Ohio State, James Franklin of Penn State, Mark Dantonio of Michigan State, Jerry Kill of Minnesota, P.J Fleck of Western Michigan, Brian Kelly of Notre Dame, and Jim Harbaugh of Michigan, among others.
I do have a little bit of an issue because of the publicity that some camps get, especially with how much hype this camp got. You really don't get to see the players in pads until the fall but they are getting advice from the top coaches and getting better. I don't know if you do see a difference, every team and player is different.
Well with the school year over there will be many high school athletes going out to colleges for their team camp or just what happened recently at Macomb Dakota where the had the Sound Mind Sound Body football camp this week where over 1,500 athletes showed up including several OAA players. The camp was ran by Curtis Blackwell, an Michigan State recruiting coordinator, whom is well known in Detroit.
They ran drills to get themselves better, get noticed, listened to presentations from Detroit Lions coach Jim Caldwell along with former Pittsburgh Steelers running back and Detroit great Jerome Bettis, talked to top coaches like Urban Meyer of Ohio State, James Franklin of Penn State, Mark Dantonio of Michigan State, Jerry Kill of Minnesota, P.J Fleck of Western Michigan, Brian Kelly of Notre Dame, and Jim Harbaugh of Michigan, among others.
I do have a little bit of an issue because of the publicity that some camps get, especially with how much hype this camp got. You really don't get to see the players in pads until the fall but they are getting advice from the top coaches and getting better. I don't know if you do see a difference, every team and player is different.
Saturday, June 13, 2015
What Would Happen if the OAA Dispanded???
Written Saturday June 13th at 5:15 PM
What would happen if the OAA disbanded, or separated north/south. It has been rumored but I don't think this will happen because of stability.
However there has been questions of what would happen if the OAA were to break apart and how would the schools survive if a possible breakup is imminent.
It happened in the Big Nine when they broke up in 2011. Davison and Grand Blanc tried to join the league but it was voted down. Davison is in the Saginaw Valley and Grand Blanc is in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association.
Well there will be 23 schools in the OAA, which is an uneven number after 2016-2017 when Southfield merges. There are two Class B schools (Ferndale and Hazel Park) which makes it tough for them to compete.
We don't know the financial situations of each school but it has made huge impact on merging two high schools within district for cost savings because budget cuts and lack of funding. The merger will occur in Southfield and it has already occurred in Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, and Pontiac.
The mergers have caused damage to the OAA, especially when it comes to scheduling in league. Prior to 2001 there were 32 schools in the league before Brandon left followed by Clawson, Madison, and Lamphere in 2004 and Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott left in 2008.
If the OAA were to go north/south it would create a problem especially south where Southfield would have a lot of influence while in the north you have the likes of Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, Troy, Troy Athens, Rochester, Adams, and Stoney Creek.
It is most likely the OAA will stay at 23 schools but they could expand. It's possible anything can happen.
What would happen if the OAA disbanded, or separated north/south. It has been rumored but I don't think this will happen because of stability.
However there has been questions of what would happen if the OAA were to break apart and how would the schools survive if a possible breakup is imminent.
It happened in the Big Nine when they broke up in 2011. Davison and Grand Blanc tried to join the league but it was voted down. Davison is in the Saginaw Valley and Grand Blanc is in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association.
Well there will be 23 schools in the OAA, which is an uneven number after 2016-2017 when Southfield merges. There are two Class B schools (Ferndale and Hazel Park) which makes it tough for them to compete.
We don't know the financial situations of each school but it has made huge impact on merging two high schools within district for cost savings because budget cuts and lack of funding. The merger will occur in Southfield and it has already occurred in Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, and Pontiac.
The mergers have caused damage to the OAA, especially when it comes to scheduling in league. Prior to 2001 there were 32 schools in the league before Brandon left followed by Clawson, Madison, and Lamphere in 2004 and Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott left in 2008.
If the OAA were to go north/south it would create a problem especially south where Southfield would have a lot of influence while in the north you have the likes of Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, Troy, Troy Athens, Rochester, Adams, and Stoney Creek.
It is most likely the OAA will stay at 23 schools but they could expand. It's possible anything can happen.
OAA Possible Expansion Canadates.
Written Saturday June 13th at 4:20 PM
With the OAA heading down to 23 schools in 2016-2017 with the merger of Southfield and Lathrup in the "Imagine 20-20" plan, I thought maybe if the league decided to expand 24 schools. Lets see whom might the OAA look at if they want to expand.
1. Clawson- The Trojans make sense with its location and proximity and also they maybe getting tired of having to go to Macomb County for games. They are very close to Troy and to Royal Oak, possibly making the best sense to rejoin the league after leaving in 2004 for the Macomb Area Conference. Their felicitates aren't the greatest but maybe it's time for Clawson to look at rejoining the league.
2. Brandon- Would the Blackhawks want to leave the Flint Metro League for the OAA, probably not since they have found a home in the league since leaving in 2002. With new upgrades maybe Brandon might want to take a shot staying in county and not go to places in Genesee County, never say never. If the Blackhawks were to rejoin the league, Oxford would likely be their rival.
3. Holly- The Bronchos are in the same boat as Brandon but the difference is they are a charter member of the Flint Metro League and it wouldn't make sense for them travel wise to leave for the OAA. They do have the enrollment for an OAA school and could make an interesting member if they did join.
4. Waterford Schools- Kettering and Mott might not want to make a return to the OAA but it's possible since they left in 2008. Kettering and Mott left because of the lack of success in the league. Kettering has had success in girls basketball and softball while in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association and Mott has had success in Boys Basketball, these schools can compete with the OAA Schools as they are in an OAA district most of the district playoffs.
5. Madison Schools- Could the Madison schools return to the league for the first time since 2004??? It's possible and would set up rivalries with Hazel Park and Ferndale. The problem is that Madison is close to the Macomb County line. Lamphere might make more sense to rejoin the league than Madison but if both want to come back so be it.
6. Lapeer- Lapeer would be interesting because they are not in Oakland County but I don't think the Lightning would want to go to Midland, Bay, or Saginaw counties on a consistent bases with the league they are in (Saginaw Valley League.) If Lapeer were to join the OAA, the travel would be easier for them even though trips to southern Oakland County won't be easy but would be tolerable. The Lightning's arch rivals would be Oxford if they were to join the league. When Lapeer was Lapeer East and Lapeer West they were rivals with Oxford when they were in the Flint Metro League but it would be "One Lapeer" if they were to join.
With the OAA heading down to 23 schools in 2016-2017 with the merger of Southfield and Lathrup in the "Imagine 20-20" plan, I thought maybe if the league decided to expand 24 schools. Lets see whom might the OAA look at if they want to expand.
1. Clawson- The Trojans make sense with its location and proximity and also they maybe getting tired of having to go to Macomb County for games. They are very close to Troy and to Royal Oak, possibly making the best sense to rejoin the league after leaving in 2004 for the Macomb Area Conference. Their felicitates aren't the greatest but maybe it's time for Clawson to look at rejoining the league.
2. Brandon- Would the Blackhawks want to leave the Flint Metro League for the OAA, probably not since they have found a home in the league since leaving in 2002. With new upgrades maybe Brandon might want to take a shot staying in county and not go to places in Genesee County, never say never. If the Blackhawks were to rejoin the league, Oxford would likely be their rival.
3. Holly- The Bronchos are in the same boat as Brandon but the difference is they are a charter member of the Flint Metro League and it wouldn't make sense for them travel wise to leave for the OAA. They do have the enrollment for an OAA school and could make an interesting member if they did join.
4. Waterford Schools- Kettering and Mott might not want to make a return to the OAA but it's possible since they left in 2008. Kettering and Mott left because of the lack of success in the league. Kettering has had success in girls basketball and softball while in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association and Mott has had success in Boys Basketball, these schools can compete with the OAA Schools as they are in an OAA district most of the district playoffs.
5. Madison Schools- Could the Madison schools return to the league for the first time since 2004??? It's possible and would set up rivalries with Hazel Park and Ferndale. The problem is that Madison is close to the Macomb County line. Lamphere might make more sense to rejoin the league than Madison but if both want to come back so be it.
6. Lapeer- Lapeer would be interesting because they are not in Oakland County but I don't think the Lightning would want to go to Midland, Bay, or Saginaw counties on a consistent bases with the league they are in (Saginaw Valley League.) If Lapeer were to join the OAA, the travel would be easier for them even though trips to southern Oakland County won't be easy but would be tolerable. The Lightning's arch rivals would be Oxford if they were to join the league. When Lapeer was Lapeer East and Lapeer West they were rivals with Oxford when they were in the Flint Metro League but it would be "One Lapeer" if they were to join.
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Lathrup and Southfield will merge at end of 2015-2016 school year.
Written Wednesday June 10th at 8:45 PM
The OAA in the 2016-2017 school year will be down from 24 schools to 23 schools.
Southfield and Southfield-Lathrup will now become one high school under a new identity.
With declining enrollment, less resources, and rising costs being the reason, the Southfield Board of Education approved a plan called "Imagine 2020." The vote passed by a 4-3 margin on Tuesday night at Lathrup.
Students of the merger will be at Southfield High School for the 2016-2017 school year. Lathrup meanwhile will convert into a Kindergarten through 12th grade University High School Prep Academy and at the Bussey Center in Southfield from three different academies. The move also cuts three schools in the district as well and converts some schools into K-12 schools and moves students elsewhere.
Southfield residents were not happy because of the job losses, a wage freeze, and not being allowed to hire new workers. This plan by the Southfield School Board is suppose to save $8.5 million according to Superintendent Lynda Wood. "We want all students to succeed and for families to have numerous quality choices as we manage the operations and resources of the district with sound decision making for the future of SPS" Wood mentioned to the Detroit Free Press.
Southfield schools released a statement about the new unified high school "the new unified high school will provide the best in both worlds to create a comprehensive program all under one roof."
Sports Impact:
There will be no changes in the 2015-2016 school year as this will be the final one for Lathrup.
In 2016-2017 there should not be an impact in sports as kids from Lathrup merge with Southfield with the exception of football and girls basketball.
The name of the new Southfield school is yet to be determined but its likely won't be the Blue Jays or Chargers.
In girls basketball the school district has two successful coaches, at Lathrup you have Michelle Jackson Marshall, whom has won a State Championship and has had successful stints as Chargers coach and in the Michigan Family AAU team. At Southfield you have Jamie Ginez and he has been successful as Blue Jays coach, it could be interesting who gets the job over there but both teams will be very good and senior heavy heading into the 2015-2016 school year. Lathrup is expected to be a State title favorite and win the Red while Southfield is the favorite in the Blue. I would suspect the new Southfield would be in the Red because of Lathrup's successes but if the OAA bases it on Southfield then they could be in the White.
In football, Southfield will likely have its staff in place with Tim Conley. It would be interesting who plays quarterback next season, either Reggie Harris, the Lathrup senior or Sam Johnson III, the Southfield sophomore. The new Southfield will move up to the Red based on enrollment divisions and see the likes of Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, Troy, Troy Athens, and West Bloomfield. They would be in Division One for playoffs and could be a major threat to Detroit Cass Tech in the playoffs.
OAA Impact:
The merger of the Southfield schools is a huge loss for the OAA as now the league could look at 7-7-8 or a 8-8-7 format in football and other sports.
Could the OAA look at adding a 24th member of the conference with Lathrup's departure? It's possible. A couple of candidates may include Brandon, Clawson, or the Waterford schools Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott and see if they want to comeback into the OAA. Lapeer would be another option even though not in Oakland County. Travel wise it would make sense for each of these schools if they want to come back especially Brandon or Clawson.
Merger successes and disasters:
Successes:
When merging two schools you tend to get the best kids available from both schools, at least that's the plan. Lapeer was very successful in football (Won the Saginaw Valley South), girls basketball, volleyball, and softball as one school when Lapeer East and Lapeer West merged in 2014. Bloomfield Hills boys basketball went to the State Finals for Class A with Bloomfield Hills Andover and Bloomfield Hills Lahser merging in 2013 and their football program is in the Red after being forced from the Blue where they have struggled since.
Disasters:
When you have success early, you tend to have disasters later. Pontiac schools merged Pontiac Northern and Pontiac Central in 2009. They made the playoffs in football in their first season and in 2011 but they haven't made the playoffs since and financial troubles have haunted the school district since. When Royal Oak merged Royal Oak Kimball and Royal Oak Dondero in 2007, they have struggled especially in football where they haven't the playoffs since 2007 and have a 6-56 record since that season. They have also struggled in other sports but there is always hope in the future.
Thoughts:
My thoughts are the big losers in all of this is the rivalry. When you have two schools you have a lot of people play. Also the parents and students from 12 Mile that have to travel from Lathrup Village to Southfield. Southfield is a big area because it includes Lathrup Village and for them having to travel down Lahser Road past Interstate 696 during rush hour is not an easy thing to do. Lathrup students and parents could look at going to other schools if they don't want to go to the new Southfield, especially north toward Birmingham (Groves especially) or east toward Berkley for schooling options.
Athletic wise I'm curious to see what happens in girls basketball and football knowing that Southfield will get a huge enrollment hike with Lathrup students coming in in 2016-2017 but this will continue its rivalry with Oak Park and also Harrison but jobs will be lost and it will hurt the community in the long run.
Stay tuned to OAA Now as we cover this situation and what impact this move will be for the future of Southfield.
The OAA in the 2016-2017 school year will be down from 24 schools to 23 schools.
Southfield and Southfield-Lathrup will now become one high school under a new identity.
With declining enrollment, less resources, and rising costs being the reason, the Southfield Board of Education approved a plan called "Imagine 2020." The vote passed by a 4-3 margin on Tuesday night at Lathrup.
Students of the merger will be at Southfield High School for the 2016-2017 school year. Lathrup meanwhile will convert into a Kindergarten through 12th grade University High School Prep Academy and at the Bussey Center in Southfield from three different academies. The move also cuts three schools in the district as well and converts some schools into K-12 schools and moves students elsewhere.
Southfield residents were not happy because of the job losses, a wage freeze, and not being allowed to hire new workers. This plan by the Southfield School Board is suppose to save $8.5 million according to Superintendent Lynda Wood. "We want all students to succeed and for families to have numerous quality choices as we manage the operations and resources of the district with sound decision making for the future of SPS" Wood mentioned to the Detroit Free Press.
Southfield schools released a statement about the new unified high school "the new unified high school will provide the best in both worlds to create a comprehensive program all under one roof."
Sports Impact:
There will be no changes in the 2015-2016 school year as this will be the final one for Lathrup.
In 2016-2017 there should not be an impact in sports as kids from Lathrup merge with Southfield with the exception of football and girls basketball.
The name of the new Southfield school is yet to be determined but its likely won't be the Blue Jays or Chargers.
In girls basketball the school district has two successful coaches, at Lathrup you have Michelle Jackson Marshall, whom has won a State Championship and has had successful stints as Chargers coach and in the Michigan Family AAU team. At Southfield you have Jamie Ginez and he has been successful as Blue Jays coach, it could be interesting who gets the job over there but both teams will be very good and senior heavy heading into the 2015-2016 school year. Lathrup is expected to be a State title favorite and win the Red while Southfield is the favorite in the Blue. I would suspect the new Southfield would be in the Red because of Lathrup's successes but if the OAA bases it on Southfield then they could be in the White.
In football, Southfield will likely have its staff in place with Tim Conley. It would be interesting who plays quarterback next season, either Reggie Harris, the Lathrup senior or Sam Johnson III, the Southfield sophomore. The new Southfield will move up to the Red based on enrollment divisions and see the likes of Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, Troy, Troy Athens, and West Bloomfield. They would be in Division One for playoffs and could be a major threat to Detroit Cass Tech in the playoffs.
OAA Impact:
The merger of the Southfield schools is a huge loss for the OAA as now the league could look at 7-7-8 or a 8-8-7 format in football and other sports.
Could the OAA look at adding a 24th member of the conference with Lathrup's departure? It's possible. A couple of candidates may include Brandon, Clawson, or the Waterford schools Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott and see if they want to comeback into the OAA. Lapeer would be another option even though not in Oakland County. Travel wise it would make sense for each of these schools if they want to come back especially Brandon or Clawson.
Merger successes and disasters:
Successes:
When merging two schools you tend to get the best kids available from both schools, at least that's the plan. Lapeer was very successful in football (Won the Saginaw Valley South), girls basketball, volleyball, and softball as one school when Lapeer East and Lapeer West merged in 2014. Bloomfield Hills boys basketball went to the State Finals for Class A with Bloomfield Hills Andover and Bloomfield Hills Lahser merging in 2013 and their football program is in the Red after being forced from the Blue where they have struggled since.
Disasters:
When you have success early, you tend to have disasters later. Pontiac schools merged Pontiac Northern and Pontiac Central in 2009. They made the playoffs in football in their first season and in 2011 but they haven't made the playoffs since and financial troubles have haunted the school district since. When Royal Oak merged Royal Oak Kimball and Royal Oak Dondero in 2007, they have struggled especially in football where they haven't the playoffs since 2007 and have a 6-56 record since that season. They have also struggled in other sports but there is always hope in the future.
Thoughts:
My thoughts are the big losers in all of this is the rivalry. When you have two schools you have a lot of people play. Also the parents and students from 12 Mile that have to travel from Lathrup Village to Southfield. Southfield is a big area because it includes Lathrup Village and for them having to travel down Lahser Road past Interstate 696 during rush hour is not an easy thing to do. Lathrup students and parents could look at going to other schools if they don't want to go to the new Southfield, especially north toward Birmingham (Groves especially) or east toward Berkley for schooling options.
Athletic wise I'm curious to see what happens in girls basketball and football knowing that Southfield will get a huge enrollment hike with Lathrup students coming in in 2016-2017 but this will continue its rivalry with Oak Park and also Harrison but jobs will be lost and it will hurt the community in the long run.
Stay tuned to OAA Now as we cover this situation and what impact this move will be for the future of Southfield.
Monday, June 8, 2015
Football Questions.
Written Monday June 8th at 5:15 PM
As we say goodbye to the 2014-2015 school year we will address each football team's key player heading into the fall next season.
Blue:
Avondale:
Key Player: QB Travis Janes:
What they need to address: Balance
With Josh Holloman now gone to Cincinatti the pressure will be on Travis Janes to carry the Yellow Jackets who have been up and down in recent seasons. Avondale will be one of the top contenders in the Blue. The Yellow Jackets start the season against New Boston Huron, a team that went to the Division Three state semifinals a year ago. Avondale will have their hands full to say the least.
Berkley:
Key Player: WR/SS Nolan Given
What they need to address: Depth
The Bears made the playoffs last season, now they need to retain it. Nolan Given has been hyped to be the best player at Berkley. The Bears depth will be a huge problem heading into 2015 and they do have a tough matchup with a Holly team that has a new defensive staff. Expect Berkley to be a solid team this season but depth is an issue.
Hazel Park:
Key Player: QB Jared Schultz:
What they need to address: Everything
It was a tough ride for coach Kyle Rowley's Vikings but if they need a spark then look at their best athlete in Jared Schultz. Schultz will be on the field a lot next season on both sides of the ball. Hazel Park allowed 416 points last season and only scored 20 points. That must change if the Vikings want to go on the right path.
Pontiac:
Key Player: ???
What they need to address: Stability
It has been a rough few seasons at Pontiac, their head coach passed away at the end of the season. They haven't been the same since Brad Zube left for Stoney Creek in 2011. The Phoenix need stability in the worst way and it could start early if they can beat North Farmington in the season opener. Pontiac also must address its defense where they allowed 361 points last season, that must change if they want to be competitive.
Ferndale:
Key Player: OL Kobe Falls:
What they need to address: Depth
The Eagles made a great first step and they must continue to make strides. They do have to replace a lot of skill guys but they do have the line to make a run. Why Kobe Falls is key heading into the next season?, he could play both lines and create pressure if he were to be on the defensive line. Depth is an area where Ferndale must address. If they can get the numbers up, the Eagles could be a dark-horse in the Blue and their week one match-up is a favorable one for them as they take on Garden City, a team that was 3-6 a season ago.
Groves:
Key Player: RB Cedric Boswell:
What they need to address: Quarterback
The Falcons had a strong year last season but there will be more pressure on the them to keep things going. Groves will have the weapons led by Cedric Boswell, Chase Swoopes, and Collin Heard. They did lose Zach Van Fossen to graduation. If they can find a quarterback, then there is no reason why the Falcons shouldn't win this division. They have the rivalry game with Seaholm to start the season and they could do some damage this year.
Lathrup:
Key Player: QB Reggie Harris
What they need to address: Offense
The Chargers had a lot of missed opportunities from a season ago. They went 4-5 but their offense struggled at times only scoring 165 points, that must change. Lathrup like Pontiac also lost their head coach to an unexpected death. The Chargers will play a good Detroit University Prep team whom made the playoffs a season ago in week one so the start is critical if Lathrup wants to make their move.
Royal Oak:
Key Player: LB Everett Bateman
What they need to address: Stability
The Ravens have their fourth coach in six seasons but they do move down a division where they were obliterated by every White foe and Troy. Everett Bateman becomes the new leader of the Ravens and their defense was horrible last season allowing 397 points. Royal Oak is in a new division and will be looking to get back into the playoffs for the first time since 2006 and fix a nightmarish 6-57 streak since 2007.
White:
North Farmington:
Key Player: FB/LB Jake Cohen
What they need to address: Both Offense and Defense
The Raiders need to address both sides of the ball if they want to be competive heading into the season. Jake Cohen will be the leader for a Raiders team that didn't score 200 points last season. North Farmington also needs to address it's defense where they allowed 259 points. The Raiders also need to beat somebody good like their arch rivals Farmington, Harrison, Adams, Oak Park, or Southfield if they want to be in the playoffs. This is not the Blue folks.
Seaholm:
Key Player: RB/LB Troy Hariston
What they need to address: Experience
The Maples struggled in their first season in the White and it won't get any easier with a tough schedule brewing. Troy Hariston will be counted on to do a lot for Seaholm. The Maples must fix their defense that allowed 282 points if they want to surprise people in the White. They will play their arch rival Groves week one but it won't get any easier from there with whom they got on the schedule.
Farmington:
Key Player: LB David Reese
What they need to address: Quarterback
The Falcons moved up a division after destroying the Blue last season only to lose to Oak Park. Farmington lost Desmond Kirpatrick to Waterford Mott but the Falcons could be better off without him. They do need to find a quarterback and the schedule isn't pretty after Royal Oak so they need to beat some team if they want to return to the playoffs.
Rochester:
Key Player: OL/DL Zach Hale
What they need to address: Skill Positions
The Falcons last season were young at the skill positions but they should have experience this season. The schedule is not friendly though as they have to play Lapeer week one again after they were destroyed 42-0 by the Lightning last season. Rochester must address a defense that allowed 312 points and they still haven't beaten Adams since 1996 which has been bothering every Rochester alumni. The Falcons need to address both sides of the ball in a hurry if they want to contend this season.
Adams:
Key Player: QB Kyle Wood
What they need to address: Consistency
The Highlanders have missed the playoffs two of the last three seasons but they do play in a tough division. Adams lost to Stoney Creek in week one last season which cost them a trip to the playoffs. Kyle Wood must continue to make the next step. He will have weapons to go to but the question will be at running back. If the Highlanders improve on this step, they could be a dangerous team this season.
Southfield:
Key Player: QB Sam Johnson III
What they need to address: The Hype
There has been a lot of buzz surrounding the Blue Jays football team with Matt Falcon their running back going to Michigan. The key will be their incoming quarterback Sam Johnson III. Johnson has performed well in the middle school ranks and is a YouTube sensation but must get ready to play some good defenses in the White and also Detroit Cass Tech at Wayne State in week one. Southfield always has athletes and depth and they could make a run to the State title this season, last season they were close losing to Warren De Lassale. The Blue Jays must be careful and not let the hype get to them or they are in trouble.
Oak Park:
Key Player: OT JaRayond Hall
What they need to address: Skill Positions on Offense
The Knights had a strong 2014 season but the question will be is can they repeat it? probably not but Oak Park will still have talent especially up front with JaRayond Hall and Marquan McCall. They do need to address the running back spot but they have a good defense to still be a force in the White. The schedule is brutal for the Knights go to Grand Valley State to play Zeeland West, a team that averages 50 points per game. Oak Park will be ready for that one but if they can find consistency and balance, then the Knights could be right there again.
Harrison:
Key Player: DE Khaid Kareem
What they need to address: Depth
The Hawks have had strong teams and last season was one of them. The question for Harrison will always be depth. They have the athleticism to match with any team. The match week one with East Kentwood is going to be a tough one as the Hawks have to go west to Grand Valley State but they went to Portage Central a few seasons ago. Khaid Kareem is key because he has been getting a lot of attention lately with his college choice but Harrison will have the athletes to make noise in the White this season.
Red:
Clarkston:
Key Player: RB Nolan Eriksen
What they need to address: Expectations
The Wolves fresh off their two State Championships will have a tough chore if they want to three peat. Clarkston returns Nolan Eriksen but they will have a quarterback competition with Stration Harris and Jacob Wagner. If Eriksen stays healthy, the Wolves could be dangerous again. Clarkston will be very good but they could struggle a bit as their schedule is tough early with trips to Dakota and West Bloomfield. It could be an interesting season in Clarkston.
Orion:
Key Player: WR/DB Jaylen Wiggins
What they need to address: Everything
The Dragons were just a mess last season on both sides of the ball and it resulted in the team missing the playoffs for the first time since 2000. Orion was awful on offense last season, only scoring 219 points, that's not good and allowing 246 points. The Dragons have quarterback, wide receiver, running back, and defensive issues to address. If Orion can address these then they could be back to the team Dragons fans are accustom too. The Dragons have five home games this season but they have to go to West Bloomfield and Clarkston but they start with Chippewa Valley at Wayne State and that won't be an easy thing to do.
West Bloomfield:
Key Player: QB Triston Jackson
What they need to address: Defense
The Lakers made the playoffs for the first time since 2008 last season and had wins over Orion, Oxford, and Stoney Creek all on the road last season. Gone however is Eddy Wilson, the team's best defender. West Bloomfield must address their defensive line and linebacker spots if they want to get deeper into the playoffs. The Lakers will have Triston Jackson back at quarterback along with wide receiver Navon Mosley. Those two could be the best duo in the state. The schedule is nice as well as Orion, Oxford, Clarkston, crossover, and Stoney Creek all have to come to West Bloomfield. The Lakers will be a very dangerous team come this fall.
Oxford:
Key Player: LB/FB John Patrick
What they need to address: Skill Positions
The Wildcats made the playoffs again last season but they lost a lot of talent from a season ago. Oxford has to play a tough road schedule with trips to Orion, West Bloomfield, Stoney Creek, and Romeo for week one. John Patrick will led the leader this season. The Wildcats have to replace their quarterback, running back, and receiving core and also replace some key defensive players. The schedule and players they lost could make things tough for Oxford this season.
Stoney Creek:
Key Player: WR/DB Hunter LaFave
What they need to address: Both Offensive and Defensive Lines
Stoney Creek lost a very good defender in Andrew Price last season. Now they must address their defense and offensive lines. Expect the Cougars to be very competitive this season. They do need to score more than 225 points last season with their option attack. Stoney Creek should be a solid team led by Hunter LaFave to carry them this season.
Bloomfield Hills:
Key Player: DB Josh Hussey
What they need to address: Defense
The Blackhawks to some will be better heading into 2015 but when you allow 723 points the last two seasons (315 points last season) then it could be a problem. Bloomfield Hills returns Josh Hussey to that defense. The Blackhawks offense will have a quarterback competition this season in Eli Sherman and Stone Fiertz but they have a big line returning back and they will have to rely on that line to do so. Bloomfield Hills travels to Walled Lake Northern week one in what is expected to be a battle of two good offenses but if the Blackhawks want to make the next step they must address the defense.
Troy:
Key Player: LB/RB Ramon Conty
What they need to address: Offense
The Colts were oddly one of the best defensive teams in the Red last season, only allowed 226 points. Ramon Conty will be counted on to lead the Colts defense but the question will be on the other side of the ball. Troy lost a lot of talent from a season ago but the key will be is can they score enough points to keep up with teams. The Colts will be a team that will rely on its defense again especially with Sterling Heights Stevenson, a team that Troy wants revenge for after losing 7-3 last season.
Troy Athens:
Key Player: LB/RB Bradley Robinson
What they need to address: Defense
The Red Hawks are 6-21 since they made the playoffs in 2011 (lost to Romeo) and a huge problem of that is their defense. Athens has been a gold mind to offenses allowing 629 points the last two seasons including 327 points last season. The Red Hawks were better offensively with 197 points scored but their defense led by Bradley Robinson must improve quick if Athens wants to get back to the playoffs again.
As we say goodbye to the 2014-2015 school year we will address each football team's key player heading into the fall next season.
Blue:
Avondale:
Key Player: QB Travis Janes:
What they need to address: Balance
With Josh Holloman now gone to Cincinatti the pressure will be on Travis Janes to carry the Yellow Jackets who have been up and down in recent seasons. Avondale will be one of the top contenders in the Blue. The Yellow Jackets start the season against New Boston Huron, a team that went to the Division Three state semifinals a year ago. Avondale will have their hands full to say the least.
Berkley:
Key Player: WR/SS Nolan Given
What they need to address: Depth
The Bears made the playoffs last season, now they need to retain it. Nolan Given has been hyped to be the best player at Berkley. The Bears depth will be a huge problem heading into 2015 and they do have a tough matchup with a Holly team that has a new defensive staff. Expect Berkley to be a solid team this season but depth is an issue.
Hazel Park:
Key Player: QB Jared Schultz:
What they need to address: Everything
It was a tough ride for coach Kyle Rowley's Vikings but if they need a spark then look at their best athlete in Jared Schultz. Schultz will be on the field a lot next season on both sides of the ball. Hazel Park allowed 416 points last season and only scored 20 points. That must change if the Vikings want to go on the right path.
Pontiac:
Key Player: ???
What they need to address: Stability
It has been a rough few seasons at Pontiac, their head coach passed away at the end of the season. They haven't been the same since Brad Zube left for Stoney Creek in 2011. The Phoenix need stability in the worst way and it could start early if they can beat North Farmington in the season opener. Pontiac also must address its defense where they allowed 361 points last season, that must change if they want to be competitive.
Ferndale:
Key Player: OL Kobe Falls:
What they need to address: Depth
The Eagles made a great first step and they must continue to make strides. They do have to replace a lot of skill guys but they do have the line to make a run. Why Kobe Falls is key heading into the next season?, he could play both lines and create pressure if he were to be on the defensive line. Depth is an area where Ferndale must address. If they can get the numbers up, the Eagles could be a dark-horse in the Blue and their week one match-up is a favorable one for them as they take on Garden City, a team that was 3-6 a season ago.
Groves:
Key Player: RB Cedric Boswell:
What they need to address: Quarterback
The Falcons had a strong year last season but there will be more pressure on the them to keep things going. Groves will have the weapons led by Cedric Boswell, Chase Swoopes, and Collin Heard. They did lose Zach Van Fossen to graduation. If they can find a quarterback, then there is no reason why the Falcons shouldn't win this division. They have the rivalry game with Seaholm to start the season and they could do some damage this year.
Lathrup:
Key Player: QB Reggie Harris
What they need to address: Offense
The Chargers had a lot of missed opportunities from a season ago. They went 4-5 but their offense struggled at times only scoring 165 points, that must change. Lathrup like Pontiac also lost their head coach to an unexpected death. The Chargers will play a good Detroit University Prep team whom made the playoffs a season ago in week one so the start is critical if Lathrup wants to make their move.
Royal Oak:
Key Player: LB Everett Bateman
What they need to address: Stability
The Ravens have their fourth coach in six seasons but they do move down a division where they were obliterated by every White foe and Troy. Everett Bateman becomes the new leader of the Ravens and their defense was horrible last season allowing 397 points. Royal Oak is in a new division and will be looking to get back into the playoffs for the first time since 2006 and fix a nightmarish 6-57 streak since 2007.
White:
North Farmington:
Key Player: FB/LB Jake Cohen
What they need to address: Both Offense and Defense
The Raiders need to address both sides of the ball if they want to be competive heading into the season. Jake Cohen will be the leader for a Raiders team that didn't score 200 points last season. North Farmington also needs to address it's defense where they allowed 259 points. The Raiders also need to beat somebody good like their arch rivals Farmington, Harrison, Adams, Oak Park, or Southfield if they want to be in the playoffs. This is not the Blue folks.
Seaholm:
Key Player: RB/LB Troy Hariston
What they need to address: Experience
The Maples struggled in their first season in the White and it won't get any easier with a tough schedule brewing. Troy Hariston will be counted on to do a lot for Seaholm. The Maples must fix their defense that allowed 282 points if they want to surprise people in the White. They will play their arch rival Groves week one but it won't get any easier from there with whom they got on the schedule.
Farmington:
Key Player: LB David Reese
What they need to address: Quarterback
The Falcons moved up a division after destroying the Blue last season only to lose to Oak Park. Farmington lost Desmond Kirpatrick to Waterford Mott but the Falcons could be better off without him. They do need to find a quarterback and the schedule isn't pretty after Royal Oak so they need to beat some team if they want to return to the playoffs.
Rochester:
Key Player: OL/DL Zach Hale
What they need to address: Skill Positions
The Falcons last season were young at the skill positions but they should have experience this season. The schedule is not friendly though as they have to play Lapeer week one again after they were destroyed 42-0 by the Lightning last season. Rochester must address a defense that allowed 312 points and they still haven't beaten Adams since 1996 which has been bothering every Rochester alumni. The Falcons need to address both sides of the ball in a hurry if they want to contend this season.
Adams:
Key Player: QB Kyle Wood
What they need to address: Consistency
The Highlanders have missed the playoffs two of the last three seasons but they do play in a tough division. Adams lost to Stoney Creek in week one last season which cost them a trip to the playoffs. Kyle Wood must continue to make the next step. He will have weapons to go to but the question will be at running back. If the Highlanders improve on this step, they could be a dangerous team this season.
Southfield:
Key Player: QB Sam Johnson III
What they need to address: The Hype
There has been a lot of buzz surrounding the Blue Jays football team with Matt Falcon their running back going to Michigan. The key will be their incoming quarterback Sam Johnson III. Johnson has performed well in the middle school ranks and is a YouTube sensation but must get ready to play some good defenses in the White and also Detroit Cass Tech at Wayne State in week one. Southfield always has athletes and depth and they could make a run to the State title this season, last season they were close losing to Warren De Lassale. The Blue Jays must be careful and not let the hype get to them or they are in trouble.
Oak Park:
Key Player: OT JaRayond Hall
What they need to address: Skill Positions on Offense
The Knights had a strong 2014 season but the question will be is can they repeat it? probably not but Oak Park will still have talent especially up front with JaRayond Hall and Marquan McCall. They do need to address the running back spot but they have a good defense to still be a force in the White. The schedule is brutal for the Knights go to Grand Valley State to play Zeeland West, a team that averages 50 points per game. Oak Park will be ready for that one but if they can find consistency and balance, then the Knights could be right there again.
Harrison:
Key Player: DE Khaid Kareem
What they need to address: Depth
The Hawks have had strong teams and last season was one of them. The question for Harrison will always be depth. They have the athleticism to match with any team. The match week one with East Kentwood is going to be a tough one as the Hawks have to go west to Grand Valley State but they went to Portage Central a few seasons ago. Khaid Kareem is key because he has been getting a lot of attention lately with his college choice but Harrison will have the athletes to make noise in the White this season.
Red:
Clarkston:
Key Player: RB Nolan Eriksen
What they need to address: Expectations
The Wolves fresh off their two State Championships will have a tough chore if they want to three peat. Clarkston returns Nolan Eriksen but they will have a quarterback competition with Stration Harris and Jacob Wagner. If Eriksen stays healthy, the Wolves could be dangerous again. Clarkston will be very good but they could struggle a bit as their schedule is tough early with trips to Dakota and West Bloomfield. It could be an interesting season in Clarkston.
Orion:
Key Player: WR/DB Jaylen Wiggins
What they need to address: Everything
The Dragons were just a mess last season on both sides of the ball and it resulted in the team missing the playoffs for the first time since 2000. Orion was awful on offense last season, only scoring 219 points, that's not good and allowing 246 points. The Dragons have quarterback, wide receiver, running back, and defensive issues to address. If Orion can address these then they could be back to the team Dragons fans are accustom too. The Dragons have five home games this season but they have to go to West Bloomfield and Clarkston but they start with Chippewa Valley at Wayne State and that won't be an easy thing to do.
West Bloomfield:
Key Player: QB Triston Jackson
What they need to address: Defense
The Lakers made the playoffs for the first time since 2008 last season and had wins over Orion, Oxford, and Stoney Creek all on the road last season. Gone however is Eddy Wilson, the team's best defender. West Bloomfield must address their defensive line and linebacker spots if they want to get deeper into the playoffs. The Lakers will have Triston Jackson back at quarterback along with wide receiver Navon Mosley. Those two could be the best duo in the state. The schedule is nice as well as Orion, Oxford, Clarkston, crossover, and Stoney Creek all have to come to West Bloomfield. The Lakers will be a very dangerous team come this fall.
Oxford:
Key Player: LB/FB John Patrick
What they need to address: Skill Positions
The Wildcats made the playoffs again last season but they lost a lot of talent from a season ago. Oxford has to play a tough road schedule with trips to Orion, West Bloomfield, Stoney Creek, and Romeo for week one. John Patrick will led the leader this season. The Wildcats have to replace their quarterback, running back, and receiving core and also replace some key defensive players. The schedule and players they lost could make things tough for Oxford this season.
Stoney Creek:
Key Player: WR/DB Hunter LaFave
What they need to address: Both Offensive and Defensive Lines
Stoney Creek lost a very good defender in Andrew Price last season. Now they must address their defense and offensive lines. Expect the Cougars to be very competitive this season. They do need to score more than 225 points last season with their option attack. Stoney Creek should be a solid team led by Hunter LaFave to carry them this season.
Bloomfield Hills:
Key Player: DB Josh Hussey
What they need to address: Defense
The Blackhawks to some will be better heading into 2015 but when you allow 723 points the last two seasons (315 points last season) then it could be a problem. Bloomfield Hills returns Josh Hussey to that defense. The Blackhawks offense will have a quarterback competition this season in Eli Sherman and Stone Fiertz but they have a big line returning back and they will have to rely on that line to do so. Bloomfield Hills travels to Walled Lake Northern week one in what is expected to be a battle of two good offenses but if the Blackhawks want to make the next step they must address the defense.
Troy:
Key Player: LB/RB Ramon Conty
What they need to address: Offense
The Colts were oddly one of the best defensive teams in the Red last season, only allowed 226 points. Ramon Conty will be counted on to lead the Colts defense but the question will be on the other side of the ball. Troy lost a lot of talent from a season ago but the key will be is can they score enough points to keep up with teams. The Colts will be a team that will rely on its defense again especially with Sterling Heights Stevenson, a team that Troy wants revenge for after losing 7-3 last season.
Troy Athens:
Key Player: LB/RB Bradley Robinson
What they need to address: Defense
The Red Hawks are 6-21 since they made the playoffs in 2011 (lost to Romeo) and a huge problem of that is their defense. Athens has been a gold mind to offenses allowing 629 points the last two seasons including 327 points last season. The Red Hawks were better offensively with 197 points scored but their defense led by Bradley Robinson must improve quick if Athens wants to get back to the playoffs again.
Saturday, June 6, 2015
Athens Soccer back in State Semifinals.
Written Saturday June 6th, at 10:30 AM
The ride for the Troy Athens Girls Soccer team has been epic especially going through arch rival Troy and most of Macomb County.
The Red Hawks's big wins this season included knocking off Stoney Creek during the regular season, which led to the Red crown and was badly outplayed but stunned Utica Eisenhower 2-0 in the regional finals on Friday winning their first regional crown in 15 years.
Athens is now in the State Semifinals as they will take on Grand Blanc at Rochester Wednesday at 5 PM.
Grand Blanc beat Stoney Creek in the regional final on penalty kicks in the regional final at Novi, so this match-up will be an interesting one between the Bobcats and Red Hawks.
We'll see what happens.
The ride for the Troy Athens Girls Soccer team has been epic especially going through arch rival Troy and most of Macomb County.
The Red Hawks's big wins this season included knocking off Stoney Creek during the regular season, which led to the Red crown and was badly outplayed but stunned Utica Eisenhower 2-0 in the regional finals on Friday winning their first regional crown in 15 years.
Athens is now in the State Semifinals as they will take on Grand Blanc at Rochester Wednesday at 5 PM.
Grand Blanc beat Stoney Creek in the regional final on penalty kicks in the regional final at Novi, so this match-up will be an interesting one between the Bobcats and Red Hawks.
We'll see what happens.
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
MHSAA Transparency Questioned.
Written Wednesday June 3rd, at 3:30 PM
When looking at the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), they have a history of wanting to be fair and honest.
Please tell me that when someone tells you one thing and then changes their mind the next.
That's what happened to the New Baltimore Anchor Bay softball team.
The Tars were up 6-5 in the bottom of the seventh inning on Saturday against Macomb L'Anse Cruse in the district finals only to see the rains came.
The rule according to the National Federation of State High School Athletic Association states that if the game is suspended to weather and five innings were completed then the game reverts to the original score and that the GAME IS OVER.
Anchor Bay would had won the game and moved on to the regional semifinals.
Anchor Bay, whom was the district tournament host, got an email from the MHSAA assistant director Mark Uyl said the game would finish up on Monday with the same score and same exact situation.
L'Anse Cruse would score two runs in the bottom of the inning and won the game 7-6.
Anchor Bay's Athletic Director Randy Nelson was very upset with the email and the outcome, he plans on talking about the matter to Jack Roberts who is the executive director (president of the MHSAA) and could file a protest.
This game will question the MHSAA when it comes to the rules, they have some explaining to do when it comes to this matter. It can happen to anyone even someone in the OAA.
Thoughts:
When looking at the game Anchor Bay was up 6-0 so if they scored more runs they wouldn't had been in this situation. To make matters worse this game was on their home field.
The game should had been played even in the heavy rain. The game was in the bottom of the seventh inning, they could had just let it play on out and we don't have this issue.
The MHSAA might want to look how they do the rules because somebody messed up big time and that someone needs to explain themselves to Anchor Bay and the rest of the State.
When looking at the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), they have a history of wanting to be fair and honest.
Please tell me that when someone tells you one thing and then changes their mind the next.
That's what happened to the New Baltimore Anchor Bay softball team.
The Tars were up 6-5 in the bottom of the seventh inning on Saturday against Macomb L'Anse Cruse in the district finals only to see the rains came.
The rule according to the National Federation of State High School Athletic Association states that if the game is suspended to weather and five innings were completed then the game reverts to the original score and that the GAME IS OVER.
Anchor Bay would had won the game and moved on to the regional semifinals.
Anchor Bay, whom was the district tournament host, got an email from the MHSAA assistant director Mark Uyl said the game would finish up on Monday with the same score and same exact situation.
L'Anse Cruse would score two runs in the bottom of the inning and won the game 7-6.
Anchor Bay's Athletic Director Randy Nelson was very upset with the email and the outcome, he plans on talking about the matter to Jack Roberts who is the executive director (president of the MHSAA) and could file a protest.
This game will question the MHSAA when it comes to the rules, they have some explaining to do when it comes to this matter. It can happen to anyone even someone in the OAA.
Thoughts:
When looking at the game Anchor Bay was up 6-0 so if they scored more runs they wouldn't had been in this situation. To make matters worse this game was on their home field.
The game should had been played even in the heavy rain. The game was in the bottom of the seventh inning, they could had just let it play on out and we don't have this issue.
The MHSAA might want to look how they do the rules because somebody messed up big time and that someone needs to explain themselves to Anchor Bay and the rest of the State.
Dragons Have their Man.
Written Wednesday June 3rd, at 3:00 PM
The Orion Dragons have their new boys basketball coach and it's a familiar face.
Jim Manzo was named head coach late Monday night replacing Tom Risi whom resigned in early May.
Manzo was the coach of the Dragons from 2000-2008 and was a former player from the 1988 season. He has had players like Brad Neary, Kojo Asideu, Randy Frye, Marc Thompson, John Krause, Justin Diesbourg, Joe Barnes, Ross Tonyan, and Drew Maynard, among others.
Oddly enough he was the last Orion coach to knock off Dan Fife and Clarkston in 2007.
Manzo left in 2008 for family reasons. The program has not been stable, since he left even though Risi took the Dragons to the state quarterfinals and won its first district and regional since 1925 in 2012.
Manzo will be the fourth boys basketball coach in seven seasons (Lance Davis, Mike Shafkalis, and Risi were the other three.) He has had success at Waldon Middle School in both football and basketball as the seventh grade coach and with this current freshman class coming in he led Waldon to an undefeated season in both football and basketball in 2013.
He will inherent a team that should be a serious contender this upcoming winter. Last season Orion went 4-17 and 3-7 in the White and this season moved down to the Blue and will have experience coming back. The Dragons return four starters and had a solid junior varsity team coming up that finished 14-6.
This will be an interesting ride and is a game changer for sure, so we'll see what happens.
The Orion Dragons have their new boys basketball coach and it's a familiar face.
Jim Manzo was named head coach late Monday night replacing Tom Risi whom resigned in early May.
Manzo was the coach of the Dragons from 2000-2008 and was a former player from the 1988 season. He has had players like Brad Neary, Kojo Asideu, Randy Frye, Marc Thompson, John Krause, Justin Diesbourg, Joe Barnes, Ross Tonyan, and Drew Maynard, among others.
Oddly enough he was the last Orion coach to knock off Dan Fife and Clarkston in 2007.
Manzo left in 2008 for family reasons. The program has not been stable, since he left even though Risi took the Dragons to the state quarterfinals and won its first district and regional since 1925 in 2012.
Manzo will be the fourth boys basketball coach in seven seasons (Lance Davis, Mike Shafkalis, and Risi were the other three.) He has had success at Waldon Middle School in both football and basketball as the seventh grade coach and with this current freshman class coming in he led Waldon to an undefeated season in both football and basketball in 2013.
He will inherent a team that should be a serious contender this upcoming winter. Last season Orion went 4-17 and 3-7 in the White and this season moved down to the Blue and will have experience coming back. The Dragons return four starters and had a solid junior varsity team coming up that finished 14-6.
This will be an interesting ride and is a game changer for sure, so we'll see what happens.
Baseball/Softball Recap.
Written Wednesday June 3rd, at 3:00 PM
Softball:
The Clarkston Wolves finally got that Orion problem out of their hair as they beat the Dragons 11-3 on Tuesday at Orion. Orion beaten Clarkston the last two districts but the Wolves this season won the Red and beat the Dragons twice. The Wolves will play the Troy Colts on Saturday in the regional semifinals at Rochester and that winner will play likely Romeo in the regional final.
The Avondale Yellow Jackets was a surprise pick to win their district at Seaholm on Monday. Avondale shocked Groves 10-0 in the district final after Groves beat Seaholm in an emotional semifinal matchup. The Yellow Jackets will play Romeo in the regional semifinals on Saturday at Rochester.
The Troy Colts managed to beat their arch rival the Troy Athens Red Hawks on Monday 2-0 at Troy Athens in the district finals. The Colts will now play Clarkston on Saturday in the regional semifinals at Rochester.
Regional Outlook:
The Romeo Bulldogs are in this region after destroying Rochester 13-0 on Saturday. Clarkston might have the best chance at knocking the Bulldogs out of the playoffs but Troy could give the Wolves problems. Avondale had a strong season but don't think they have a shot a knocking off a state power in Romeo.
PICK: Romeo.
Baseball:
The Adams Highlanders used their solid pitching and timing offense to oust Orion (5-2), Oxford (5-1), and Clarkston (1-0) to win the Orion district.
The Troy Athens Red Hawks beat the Troy Colts 2-0 in the district finals on their home field. Athens eliminated Royal Oak in the district semifinals before knocking out their arch rivals.
Regional Outlook:
Its looking like the winner of the Athens/Adams game at Rochester will likely see the Birmingham Brother Rice Warriors and their star hitter Nick Plummer. The Bloomfield Hills Blackhawks almost pulled off the shocker of the tournament in the district finals but Plummer is the reason why the Warriors are still in the playoffs. End of the day I don't think anyone here will beat Birmingham Brother Rice.
PICK: Birmingham Brother Rice.
The West Bloomfield used their pitching their district title but the regional but they had to survive Waterford Kettering in the district semifinals (6-5) but did beat Walled Lake Central and Walled Lake Northern by a 9-0 combined score.
Regional Outlook:
West Bloomfield has a great shot to get to the State Quarterfinals for the first time since 2007. Hartland will be a tough out but the Lakers should move on to the Quarterfinals behind a good offense and solid pitching.
PICK: West Bloomfield
Softball:
The Clarkston Wolves finally got that Orion problem out of their hair as they beat the Dragons 11-3 on Tuesday at Orion. Orion beaten Clarkston the last two districts but the Wolves this season won the Red and beat the Dragons twice. The Wolves will play the Troy Colts on Saturday in the regional semifinals at Rochester and that winner will play likely Romeo in the regional final.
The Avondale Yellow Jackets was a surprise pick to win their district at Seaholm on Monday. Avondale shocked Groves 10-0 in the district final after Groves beat Seaholm in an emotional semifinal matchup. The Yellow Jackets will play Romeo in the regional semifinals on Saturday at Rochester.
The Troy Colts managed to beat their arch rival the Troy Athens Red Hawks on Monday 2-0 at Troy Athens in the district finals. The Colts will now play Clarkston on Saturday in the regional semifinals at Rochester.
Regional Outlook:
The Romeo Bulldogs are in this region after destroying Rochester 13-0 on Saturday. Clarkston might have the best chance at knocking the Bulldogs out of the playoffs but Troy could give the Wolves problems. Avondale had a strong season but don't think they have a shot a knocking off a state power in Romeo.
PICK: Romeo.
Baseball:
The Adams Highlanders used their solid pitching and timing offense to oust Orion (5-2), Oxford (5-1), and Clarkston (1-0) to win the Orion district.
The Troy Athens Red Hawks beat the Troy Colts 2-0 in the district finals on their home field. Athens eliminated Royal Oak in the district semifinals before knocking out their arch rivals.
Regional Outlook:
Its looking like the winner of the Athens/Adams game at Rochester will likely see the Birmingham Brother Rice Warriors and their star hitter Nick Plummer. The Bloomfield Hills Blackhawks almost pulled off the shocker of the tournament in the district finals but Plummer is the reason why the Warriors are still in the playoffs. End of the day I don't think anyone here will beat Birmingham Brother Rice.
PICK: Birmingham Brother Rice.
The West Bloomfield used their pitching their district title but the regional but they had to survive Waterford Kettering in the district semifinals (6-5) but did beat Walled Lake Central and Walled Lake Northern by a 9-0 combined score.
Regional Outlook:
West Bloomfield has a great shot to get to the State Quarterfinals for the first time since 2007. Hartland will be a tough out but the Lakers should move on to the Quarterfinals behind a good offense and solid pitching.
PICK: West Bloomfield
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About Me
- Saginaw Bay
- I have highest function of autism (Asperger Syndrome.) I'm a huge Dallas Stars fan. I like to play and watch football, especially when the Dragons play on Friday nights. I am a 2006 alum and used to play football for the Dragons. I ran track, I ran the 100, 200, 400 meter dashes along with shot-put and discus. During my time in Orion I was a manager for Junior Varsity Boys Basketball team. I'm the volleyball, girls basketball, and football announcer for the team and do the book on the road for girls basketball. I do the clock for volleyball in the fall along with girls basketball in the winter and announce some boys basketball games as well. In the spring I coach shot-put at Scripps Middle School, in my fifth season coaching. I run the shot-put for high school meets. I played Special Olympics Basketball, I've won three gold medals for them. I host "Between Taorminas" which is on ONTV along with a podcast called "OAA Now". In other various things outside of Lake Orion, I love to jet ski over Saginaw Bay. Saginaw Bay is basically my life. I'm a trained weather spotter for the National Weather Service for Oakland and Huron counties.