Written Thursday June 30th at 8:30 PM
Updated Thursday July 14th at 5:15 PM
Well there will be a new coach coaching the Orion Girls Basketball team this winter.
Dragons head coach Steve Roberts was not retained as head coach of the Dragons effective immediately on Tuesday morning.
Roberts coached the Dragons for 16 years, including a trip to the State Semifinals in 2008-2009, and recently got his 200th win over Royal Oak last season. He has coached top notch players such as Dawn Maynard and Bethany Watterworth.
However what pegged Orion was the internal issues that have affected the program and it has been a problem in recent seasons.
It was a messy divorce as it wasn't Orion Athletic Director Bill Reiss that let him go it was the Orion Central Office in downtown Lake Orion that made the change.
The new coach will have a very talented team to work with this upcoming winter. Also Orion is one of the favorites in the White. The Dragons are expected to be one of the top contenders in the district which is at home with Pontiac, Oxford, Clarkston, Waterford Kettering, and Waterford Mott. Orion will have Maddie Novak returning along with Tessa Nuss, Sophie Wyborski, Delaney Bryce, and a strong junior class all back.
The Dragons were 12-9 last season losing a heartbreaking overtime district semifinal at home to Waterford Mott.
Also not to mention the sub-varsity teams went a combined 37-2 last season and 38-2 two seasons ago.
The early favorites to replace Roberts has to be Kevin Kopec and Bob Brydges, both of them are on staff and are very popular choices. Kopec, whom teaches in the school district has coached JV for the Dragons since 2007 and is currently coaching the summer league team that went 6-2 this summer. He has had two 20-0 seasons and has went 38-2 in the last two seasons. Brydges has Varsity experience, coaching at Bloomfield Hills Lahser and is currently the freshman coach at Orion. He has gone 37-2 in his two seasons back coaching in his hometown.
But you never know what will happen here.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for complete coverage on this story as it develops.
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Friday, June 17, 2016
Cougars Take Home Girls Soccer Crown.
Written Friday June 17th at 6:05 PM
The Stoney
Creek Cougars Girls Soccer program is considered to be a powerhouse program in
the State of Michigan.
Now they can
consider themselves to be State Champions.
For the
first time since Stoney Creek opened as a school in 2002, the Cougars won their
first State Title defeating Plymouth Canton 1-0 in the Division One State Finals in East Lansing on Friday
afternoon.
Stoney Creek
scored their only goal when junior and Girls Basketball player Emily Solek
scored on a penalty kick giving the Cougars the edge they needed.
The Cougars
dominated the game, possession, and play. The out-shot the Chiefs 10-2 and it showed.
Stoney Creek
did go to the State Final in 2005 but lost to Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central
in the Division Two Final.
The Cougars
made an improbable run through the tournament despite the fact they are ranked
tenth in the State. First they took out Utica Ford whom was ranked seventh in
the State in the district semifinal, then they took out second ranked and
unbeaten Utica Eisenhower in the district final, then they took out Macomb
Dakota in the regional semifinal, and the host Troy Athens in the regional
final. They would then take down fourth ranked Novi in the State
Semifinal before beating Canton in East Lansing in the State Final.
Stoney Creek
gave the OAA their first State title in the 2015-2016 school year. North
Farmington went to the State Final in Boys Basketball but lost to Detroit
University-Detroit Jesuit in the State Final.
Thoughts.
The Cougars
were rewarded with this State Title after the district and regional they were
in and went through. They earned this title, give them credit, and give them
their place in the State.
The better
team won today and they were rewarded.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Thompson Named Knights Head Coach.
Written Wednesday June 15th at 10:45 PM
The Oak Park Knights have their eighth Boys Basketball coach in nine years.
Bobby Thompson was hired Wednesday night by football coach and Athletic Director Greg Carter after an intense coaching search. He replaces Jamie Thomas after only one season on the bench.
Thompson brings a ton of experience, he coached at River Rouge and at Oak Park Academy where his squad won a Class B District title.
Oak Park last season finished 8-12 under Thomas and Carter. The Knights need stability in the worst way and they hope Thompson can give them that stability they need.
Thomas was ejected during a game last season and was suspended for the rest of the season. Carter took over the team the rest of the season including their 63-40 pre-district loss to Detroit Renaissance.
Oak Park was a powerhouse program in the 1980's have fallen on hard times lately. Just two seasons ago former coach Bryan Tipton was caught changing players grades trying to get some of them eligible to play. Carter would then coach the rest of the season that year.
Thompson will have his son Bobby Jr along with newcomer Dwan Mathis this season along with a few other solid players. Bobby Jr played at Oak Park last season. The Knights are in a tough White division going up against the likes of Avondale, Troy, Pontiac, Hazel Park, and Troy Athens. The district won't be easy for Oak Park as they go to Detroit Renaissance and have to deal with their arch rival Southfield, Detroit Renaissance, or the defending State Champions Detroit-University of Detroit Jesuit.
There is only one coaching vacancy left all over the OAA and it's in Pontiac folks.
Let the Bobby Thompson era begin in Knight Valley.
The Oak Park Knights have their eighth Boys Basketball coach in nine years.
Bobby Thompson was hired Wednesday night by football coach and Athletic Director Greg Carter after an intense coaching search. He replaces Jamie Thomas after only one season on the bench.
Thompson brings a ton of experience, he coached at River Rouge and at Oak Park Academy where his squad won a Class B District title.
Oak Park last season finished 8-12 under Thomas and Carter. The Knights need stability in the worst way and they hope Thompson can give them that stability they need.
Thomas was ejected during a game last season and was suspended for the rest of the season. Carter took over the team the rest of the season including their 63-40 pre-district loss to Detroit Renaissance.
Oak Park was a powerhouse program in the 1980's have fallen on hard times lately. Just two seasons ago former coach Bryan Tipton was caught changing players grades trying to get some of them eligible to play. Carter would then coach the rest of the season that year.
Thompson will have his son Bobby Jr along with newcomer Dwan Mathis this season along with a few other solid players. Bobby Jr played at Oak Park last season. The Knights are in a tough White division going up against the likes of Avondale, Troy, Pontiac, Hazel Park, and Troy Athens. The district won't be easy for Oak Park as they go to Detroit Renaissance and have to deal with their arch rival Southfield, Detroit Renaissance, or the defending State Champions Detroit-University of Detroit Jesuit.
There is only one coaching vacancy left all over the OAA and it's in Pontiac folks.
Let the Bobby Thompson era begin in Knight Valley.
Basketball and Volleyball Districts are Out.
Written Wednesday June 15th at 4:40 PM
Updated Thursday December 1st at 11:40 PM
The MHSAA released the 2016-2017 Districts for Girls Volleyball in the Fall and the Girls and Boys Basketball in the Winter, which the involved OAA team will be in CAPS. The article will be updated once new information comes in. Anyway enjoy the insight and information not only on the blog but also on OAA Now as well.
Updated Thursday December 1st at 11:40 PM
The MHSAA released the 2016-2017 Districts for Girls Volleyball in the Fall and the Girls and Boys Basketball in the Winter, which the involved OAA team will be in CAPS. The article will be updated once new information comes in. Anyway enjoy the insight and information not only on the blog but also on OAA Now as well.
Class B:
District
43
FERNDALE
HAZEL PARK
Ferndale
University
Detroit
Mumford
Detroit
Henry Ford Academy of Studies
Detroit
University Prep
Detroit
Frontier International (Boys Basketball)
Volleyball/Girls
Basketball @ Detroit
Mumford
Boys
Basketball @ Hazel
Park
When
looking at this District: When I look at this district, there really isn't a lot of changes with the
exception that Detroit Central Collegiate and Detroit Collegiate is out of this district
while Warren Fitzgerald moved to Class A but you bring in Ferndale University
whom is well known to Ferndale and also Detroit University Prep whom will be a Boys Basketball power. Detroit Mumford will be solid in this district in all three levels. Hazel Park is
the wildcard here as the Vikings have a solid Boys Basketball program, an improving Volleyball, and Girls Basketball program. This should be interesting to watch.
Volleyball:
FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARK-HORSE: Detroit Mumford
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Emme Redmond-Hazel Park
This could be a perfect opportunity for the Eagles to win this district for the first time since 2014 when Rachel Burnham was an interim coach but now she has been given the keys as the team's permanent coach. Detroit Mumford will present a tough task because they will be the host team for the district and have been playing very well in the Detroit Public School League. Hazel Park is in a interesting spot as they could be a possible sleeper in the district. The Vikings have a very experienced team under third year coach Lisa McClellan and are looking to take the next step up in their development as a rising program. Hazel Park is led by Emme Redmond, Raena Travis, Trinity Benton, and Emily Blajewski. The Eagles have experience back for Burnham whom played at Ferndale on the team's district championship squad and looks to build a program not only at Ferndale High School but also through the elementary and middle school levels in Ferndale. The Eagles will have Caitlin Goedert, Katie Keener, Ahlexis Cole, Catherine Tolbert-Wilson, Skylar Bartley, and Ayanna Brown back. I don’t expect much from Detroit University Prep, Detroit Henry Ford Academy of Studies, or Ferndale University giving any sort of challenge to the top three mentioned here.
FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARK-HORSE: Detroit Mumford
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Emme Redmond-Hazel Park
This could be a perfect opportunity for the Eagles to win this district for the first time since 2014 when Rachel Burnham was an interim coach but now she has been given the keys as the team's permanent coach. Detroit Mumford will present a tough task because they will be the host team for the district and have been playing very well in the Detroit Public School League. Hazel Park is in a interesting spot as they could be a possible sleeper in the district. The Vikings have a very experienced team under third year coach Lisa McClellan and are looking to take the next step up in their development as a rising program. Hazel Park is led by Emme Redmond, Raena Travis, Trinity Benton, and Emily Blajewski. The Eagles have experience back for Burnham whom played at Ferndale on the team's district championship squad and looks to build a program not only at Ferndale High School but also through the elementary and middle school levels in Ferndale. The Eagles will have Caitlin Goedert, Katie Keener, Ahlexis Cole, Catherine Tolbert-Wilson, Skylar Bartley, and Ayanna Brown back. I don’t expect much from Detroit University Prep, Detroit Henry Ford Academy of Studies, or Ferndale University giving any sort of challenge to the top three mentioned here.
Girls
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Detroit Mumford
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARK-HORSE: Ferndale
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Tiaira Earnest-Detroit Mumford
Although this district is not very strong, the favorite has to be Detroit Mumford because they host the district. The Mustangs will be very young after losing Deanna Flecther to graduation but they will have Tiaira Earnest coming back along with newcomers Jaquica Jackson, Zamaria Polk, and Adoreya Williams. Detroit Mumford crushed Ferndale and Hazel Park to get to the regional before losing to Detroit Country Day last season. Hazel Park could surprise some folks with whom they return back for new coach Chris Stroud. The Vikings are led by Liz Sternor, Trinity Benton, and Ghyanna Green. Ferndale is very young with five juniors and five sophomores back and still developing according to then coach George Gleason. The Eagles have named a new coach in Cody Feltner and he has been tasked to fix a program that has struggled the last two seasons since they had those two special seasons led by Antoinette Miller, Mikea Ellis, and Taryn Stephens but they are on the verge of a breakout and they are my dark-horse. I don’t expect much from Detroit University Prep, Detroit Henry Ford Academy, or Ferndale University from this group.
FAVORITE: Detroit Mumford
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARK-HORSE: Ferndale
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Tiaira Earnest-Detroit Mumford
Although this district is not very strong, the favorite has to be Detroit Mumford because they host the district. The Mustangs will be very young after losing Deanna Flecther to graduation but they will have Tiaira Earnest coming back along with newcomers Jaquica Jackson, Zamaria Polk, and Adoreya Williams. Detroit Mumford crushed Ferndale and Hazel Park to get to the regional before losing to Detroit Country Day last season. Hazel Park could surprise some folks with whom they return back for new coach Chris Stroud. The Vikings are led by Liz Sternor, Trinity Benton, and Ghyanna Green. Ferndale is very young with five juniors and five sophomores back and still developing according to then coach George Gleason. The Eagles have named a new coach in Cody Feltner and he has been tasked to fix a program that has struggled the last two seasons since they had those two special seasons led by Antoinette Miller, Mikea Ellis, and Taryn Stephens but they are on the verge of a breakout and they are my dark-horse. I don’t expect much from Detroit University Prep, Detroit Henry Ford Academy, or Ferndale University from this group.
Boys
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Hazel Park
NEXT: Ferndale University
DARK-HORSE: Ferndale
WILD-CARD's: Detroit Mumford and Detroit Henry Ford for the Creative Studies
KEY PLAYER: Carl Bow- Hazel Park
This district will have its fair share of good teams at Hazel Park with Ferndale University, Detroit Mumford, and Hazel Park. The early favorite are the Vikings but they better not give up 90 points like they did last season against Detroit Collegiate Prep. Ferndale University will be solid as well and could give the Vikings all they want. Detroit Mumford is the wildcard here because they are very talented themselves. Ferndale under legendary coach Tom Stanton will get the Eagles back to where they need to be heading into districts despite being very young this season as they will be led by Deondre Bonaparte and Keelen Lewis as they will rely on a their perimeter play. Detroit Henry Ford for the Creative Studies should be a sleeper as they will be led by 6.8 forward Trevon Williams. Williams has had interest from Big Ten schools as well other mid major schools. Detroit University Prep is an interesting team to keep an eye on as they are very athletic and have played against OAA teams before like Rochester last season. Hazel Park won the Gold last season is going to be very solid led by Carl Bow, Cameron Boatmen, Cesare Brooks, Dan Hearns, and Devin Pettus for coach Brandon Barrett. Also playing in the White will help the Vikings a ton as this district starts in March.
FAVORITE: Hazel Park
NEXT: Ferndale University
DARK-HORSE: Ferndale
WILD-CARD's: Detroit Mumford and Detroit Henry Ford for the Creative Studies
KEY PLAYER: Carl Bow- Hazel Park
This district will have its fair share of good teams at Hazel Park with Ferndale University, Detroit Mumford, and Hazel Park. The early favorite are the Vikings but they better not give up 90 points like they did last season against Detroit Collegiate Prep. Ferndale University will be solid as well and could give the Vikings all they want. Detroit Mumford is the wildcard here because they are very talented themselves. Ferndale under legendary coach Tom Stanton will get the Eagles back to where they need to be heading into districts despite being very young this season as they will be led by Deondre Bonaparte and Keelen Lewis as they will rely on a their perimeter play. Detroit Henry Ford for the Creative Studies should be a sleeper as they will be led by 6.8 forward Trevon Williams. Williams has had interest from Big Ten schools as well other mid major schools. Detroit University Prep is an interesting team to keep an eye on as they are very athletic and have played against OAA teams before like Rochester last season. Hazel Park won the Gold last season is going to be very solid led by Carl Bow, Cameron Boatmen, Cesare Brooks, Dan Hearns, and Devin Pettus for coach Brandon Barrett. Also playing in the White will help the Vikings a ton as this district starts in March.
Class A:
District 21
FARMINGTON
HARRISON
NORTH
FARMINGTON
WEST
BLOOMFIELD
Mercy/Orchard
Lake St Marys
Volleyball/Girls
Basketball/Boys Basketball @ Farmington
When
looking at this District: This district is virtually the same but the teams in here
are vastly different than last season. North Farmington went to the
State Finals in Boys Basketball before falling to Detroit University of Detroit-Jesuit in East Lansing. Farmington Hills Mercy took the Girls Basketball and Volleyball
districts but ended up losing in the regional. The Raiders aren’t the same team but neither are the
Marlins. You got teams everywhere that want to dethrone them in these three sports. Harrison will be vastly different in Girls Basketball as their top two players moved on to College Basketball. Farmington should improve a bit in all three sports but they are very young in both Boys and Girls Basketball. West Bloomfield is an interesting team in this district as they have gone west in the last two seasons with the Walled Lake schools in their district. The Lakers Boys and Girls Basketball teams could surprise some folks and they return some experience in Volleyball. This district will be interesting to watch on 32000 Shiawassee Street where all three districts will be at.
Volleyball:
FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
DARK-HORSE: Harrison
WILD-CARD: West Bloomfield
KEY PLAYER: Elizabeth Susitko- Farmington Hills Mercy
Farmington Hills Mercy won the district last season and should be a favorite to repeat as district champs again this season. The Marlins will return Elizabeth Susitko and Lauren Hunter for coach Loretta Vogel and is one of the top teams in the State in 2016. North Farmington should give Farmington Hills Mercy a challenge for the district crown despite winning the Blue last season and moving up to the White this season. Raiders coach Kat Hill will have a veteran team this season led by Haley Qasawa, Beth Wood, and Mikaela Ross. Harrison will have to rely a ton on their setter in Stefanie Jankiewicz for coach Michael Love while moving up to the Red which will be a tough task. West Bloomfield won their first division crown (White) since 1995 last season. The Lakers moved up to the Red but they will have six seniors back for coach Dana Gray this season. Farmington could surprise some folks as they have some experience returning. The Falcons are led by Danielle Petras and Courtney Szymouski. The Marlins coaching and talent back is the reason why they are favored to repeat as district champs.
FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
DARK-HORSE: Harrison
WILD-CARD: West Bloomfield
KEY PLAYER: Elizabeth Susitko- Farmington Hills Mercy
Farmington Hills Mercy won the district last season and should be a favorite to repeat as district champs again this season. The Marlins will return Elizabeth Susitko and Lauren Hunter for coach Loretta Vogel and is one of the top teams in the State in 2016. North Farmington should give Farmington Hills Mercy a challenge for the district crown despite winning the Blue last season and moving up to the White this season. Raiders coach Kat Hill will have a veteran team this season led by Haley Qasawa, Beth Wood, and Mikaela Ross. Harrison will have to rely a ton on their setter in Stefanie Jankiewicz for coach Michael Love while moving up to the Red which will be a tough task. West Bloomfield won their first division crown (White) since 1995 last season. The Lakers moved up to the Red but they will have six seniors back for coach Dana Gray this season. Farmington could surprise some folks as they have some experience returning. The Falcons are led by Danielle Petras and Courtney Szymouski. The Marlins coaching and talent back is the reason why they are favored to repeat as district champs.
Girls
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
DARK-HORSE: West Bloomfield
WILD-CARD: Harrison
KEY PLAYER: Isabelle Minor- Farmington Hills Mercy
Farmington Hills Mercy will have a ton of experience coming back to defend their district title under coach Gary Morris in Jenna Schulter, Jackie Bauer, Chloe Godbold, Katie Coe, Lauryn Boggs, and Claire Murray. The Marlins have Isabelle Minor coming back. Minor missed last season with a torn ACL. North Farmington whom will be Farmington Hills Mercy's toughest challenger in the district return Samantha Cherney, Samantha Randel, and Kierra Crockett. The Raiders will play in the tough Red this season. West Bloomfield will be a darkhorse to keep an eye on despite the Lakers losing Macy Kryzakoza, Taylor Pierce, and Charlika Stubbs last season. West Bloomfield will be led by Kori Maxie, Jamila Elam, Destini Cannon, Jordyn Elam, and Destiny Monroe for coach Zach Hilbers. Harrison has Tedi Pickens, Nyla Warren, and Olivia Perkins returning but they lost Kristen Nelson and Amber Stephans from last season and is now in college. The Hawks will have a new coach in Shavon Caldwell whom comes over from Detroit Cornerstone. Farmington could struggle with the teams in the district despite that coach Mary Sheltron's team are the hosts. Looking at this district it will either be the Marlins or Raiders that move on to the regional.
FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
DARK-HORSE: West Bloomfield
WILD-CARD: Harrison
KEY PLAYER: Isabelle Minor- Farmington Hills Mercy
Farmington Hills Mercy will have a ton of experience coming back to defend their district title under coach Gary Morris in Jenna Schulter, Jackie Bauer, Chloe Godbold, Katie Coe, Lauryn Boggs, and Claire Murray. The Marlins have Isabelle Minor coming back. Minor missed last season with a torn ACL. North Farmington whom will be Farmington Hills Mercy's toughest challenger in the district return Samantha Cherney, Samantha Randel, and Kierra Crockett. The Raiders will play in the tough Red this season. West Bloomfield will be a darkhorse to keep an eye on despite the Lakers losing Macy Kryzakoza, Taylor Pierce, and Charlika Stubbs last season. West Bloomfield will be led by Kori Maxie, Jamila Elam, Destini Cannon, Jordyn Elam, and Destiny Monroe for coach Zach Hilbers. Harrison has Tedi Pickens, Nyla Warren, and Olivia Perkins returning but they lost Kristen Nelson and Amber Stephans from last season and is now in college. The Hawks will have a new coach in Shavon Caldwell whom comes over from Detroit Cornerstone. Farmington could struggle with the teams in the district despite that coach Mary Sheltron's team are the hosts. Looking at this district it will either be the Marlins or Raiders that move on to the regional.
Boys
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys
NEXT: West Bloomfield
DARK-HORSE: North Farmington
WILD-CARD: Farmington
KEY PLAYER: Caiden Prieskorn- Orchard Lake St. Marys
This district could either go three ways looking at it. The first one could be Orchard Lake St Marys whom will be favored in this district. The Eaglets are very talented and want revenge after losing at home last season to North Farmington. Orchard Lake St. Marys are led by CJ Wilson and Orion transfer Caiden Preiskorn and his brother Brady Prieskorn. Another possibility would be that Armai Hardy of North Farmington leads his young pack of Raiders along with the family tradition of the Negoshian family defense. The Raiders also brought in a transfer from Southfield in Karl Patrick whom will reunite with Hardy for North Farmington. West Bloomfield is another possibility as they are led by Kevin McAdoo and Gervon Winn for coach Jeremy Dehna. I don't expect Farmington or Harrison contending in this district but they could spoil things. Farmington being the host could be a spoiler. The Falcons are led by Jack Kirby and is favored to win the Gold for coach Terrance Porter. The Hawks will have Russell Campbell, Jordan Hibbett, Alex Kriese, and Ardit Dema for coach Stefan Wilson. I can see three teams winning this district, Orchard Lake St. Marys, West Bloomfield, or North Farmington.
FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys
NEXT: West Bloomfield
DARK-HORSE: North Farmington
WILD-CARD: Farmington
KEY PLAYER: Caiden Prieskorn- Orchard Lake St. Marys
This district could either go three ways looking at it. The first one could be Orchard Lake St Marys whom will be favored in this district. The Eaglets are very talented and want revenge after losing at home last season to North Farmington. Orchard Lake St. Marys are led by CJ Wilson and Orion transfer Caiden Preiskorn and his brother Brady Prieskorn. Another possibility would be that Armai Hardy of North Farmington leads his young pack of Raiders along with the family tradition of the Negoshian family defense. The Raiders also brought in a transfer from Southfield in Karl Patrick whom will reunite with Hardy for North Farmington. West Bloomfield is another possibility as they are led by Kevin McAdoo and Gervon Winn for coach Jeremy Dehna. I don't expect Farmington or Harrison contending in this district but they could spoil things. Farmington being the host could be a spoiler. The Falcons are led by Jack Kirby and is favored to win the Gold for coach Terrance Porter. The Hawks will have Russell Campbell, Jordan Hibbett, Alex Kriese, and Ardit Dema for coach Stefan Wilson. I can see three teams winning this district, Orchard Lake St. Marys, West Bloomfield, or North Farmington.
District 23
ROYAL OAK
TROY ATHENS
Warren
Cousino
Sterling
Heights
Warren Mott
Warren
Regina/Warren De LaSalle
Volleyball/Girls
Basketball @ Warren
Cousino
Boys
Basketball @ Troy
Athens
When
looking at this District: This district is the same as last season but each team is
different and in this district it's no different as the locations changed for Volleyball and Girls Basketball. Troy Athens though I can't understand why they and Troy are not together in this district. The Red Hawks are the defending Volleyball district champ. Warren Cousino is the defending district champ and the defending
State Champs after overcoming their Sterling Heights demons. The Patriots would beat Detroit Martin Luther King in the State Finals. Royal Oak though is in this district despite the fact they are much closer to Troy and Southfield than Warren in Macomb County. The Ravens Girls Basketball team has the best shot of moving on to the regional then their Volleyball or Boys Basketball teams.
Warren De LaSalle is expected to contend in this district once again as they have the majority
of their players back. Warren Regina had a surprise basketball season last
season but the Satellites are the great unknown heading into this season. Warren Mott was solid
as well in Girls and Boys Basketball last season.
Volleyball:
FAVORITE: Troy Athens
NEXT: Warren Cousino
DARK-HORSE: Warren Mott
WILD-CARD: Warren Regina
KEY PLAYER: Alexa Van Hoef- Troy Athens
This is not a good district from a volleyball perspective. Troy Athens won the district last season and is the early favorite again will be led by Alexa Van Hoef, Elise Leverenz, Liz LaRochelle, and Nicole Borkosh for coach Christine Stainchuck. The Red Hawks won the White crown this season, going undefeated in the league. Warren Regina moves up from Class B for Volleyball and could give the Red Hawks a run for their money. The Satellites could surprise some folks despite teams not knowing much about them. Sterling Heights has been struggling so far this season. Warren Cousino will have experience back after getting to the district finals losing to Troy Athens last season in which that was the Patriots third straight district final loss. Warren Cousino will be led by Jessica Tocco, Rachel Hayes, and Kristyana Barnhill. Warren Mott will be a tough out again this season. Royal Oak has struggled in the regular season, I don't know if I see the Ravens making a run in the playoffs this season.
FAVORITE: Troy Athens
NEXT: Warren Cousino
DARK-HORSE: Warren Mott
WILD-CARD: Warren Regina
KEY PLAYER: Alexa Van Hoef- Troy Athens
This is not a good district from a volleyball perspective. Troy Athens won the district last season and is the early favorite again will be led by Alexa Van Hoef, Elise Leverenz, Liz LaRochelle, and Nicole Borkosh for coach Christine Stainchuck. The Red Hawks won the White crown this season, going undefeated in the league. Warren Regina moves up from Class B for Volleyball and could give the Red Hawks a run for their money. The Satellites could surprise some folks despite teams not knowing much about them. Sterling Heights has been struggling so far this season. Warren Cousino will have experience back after getting to the district finals losing to Troy Athens last season in which that was the Patriots third straight district final loss. Warren Cousino will be led by Jessica Tocco, Rachel Hayes, and Kristyana Barnhill. Warren Mott will be a tough out again this season. Royal Oak has struggled in the regular season, I don't know if I see the Ravens making a run in the playoffs this season.
Girls
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Warren Cousino
NEXT: Royal Oak
DARK-HORSE: Sterling Heights
WILD-CARD: Warren Regina
KEY PLAYER: Kate McArthur- Warren Cousino
Hmm the defending State Champions are here in this district. The Patriots return Kate McArthur and Kierra Flecther whom are the two best players in this district. Warren Cousino has everything going for them including the fact they are hosting the district. Royal Oak looks to be the next best here with whom the Ravens return. Royal Oak returns Samantha Potter, Claire Kochinski, June Donnellon, and MiKea Williams but they have questions at the guard spot which will have to be addressed. Troy Athens could struggle but the Red Hawks will have Maddie Crumm and Alexa Van Hoef back for coach Stacy Klump. Warren Regina is the wildcard here in this district but the question will be how much experience will the Satellites have back after having a strong regular season where they beat Birmingham Marian twice in the Catholic League regular season but lost to the Mustangs in the Catholic League semifinals. Warren Mott whom won their first district game in 15 years will have to reload a bit after losing two of their top players to graduation but they will have Mariah Taylor back. Sterling Heights is the wildcard in this district, they lost in the pre-district last season and will be led by Taylor Hartwick. In this district this is the Patriots to lose.
FAVORITE: Warren Cousino
NEXT: Royal Oak
DARK-HORSE: Sterling Heights
WILD-CARD: Warren Regina
KEY PLAYER: Kate McArthur- Warren Cousino
Hmm the defending State Champions are here in this district. The Patriots return Kate McArthur and Kierra Flecther whom are the two best players in this district. Warren Cousino has everything going for them including the fact they are hosting the district. Royal Oak looks to be the next best here with whom the Ravens return. Royal Oak returns Samantha Potter, Claire Kochinski, June Donnellon, and MiKea Williams but they have questions at the guard spot which will have to be addressed. Troy Athens could struggle but the Red Hawks will have Maddie Crumm and Alexa Van Hoef back for coach Stacy Klump. Warren Regina is the wildcard here in this district but the question will be how much experience will the Satellites have back after having a strong regular season where they beat Birmingham Marian twice in the Catholic League regular season but lost to the Mustangs in the Catholic League semifinals. Warren Mott whom won their first district game in 15 years will have to reload a bit after losing two of their top players to graduation but they will have Mariah Taylor back. Sterling Heights is the wildcard in this district, they lost in the pre-district last season and will be led by Taylor Hartwick. In this district this is the Patriots to lose.
Boys
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Warren De LaSalle
NEXT: Troy Athens
DARK-HORSE:Warren Mott
WILD-CARD: Sterling Heights
KEY PLAYER: Justin Fisher- Warren De LaSalle
Warren De LaSalle returns a ton of talent from a squad that was upset by Sterling Heights Stevenson in the regional final last season. The Pilots are expected to be one of the top teams in the Catholic League and will be favored to win this district for a second straight season. Warren De LaSalle will be led by Justin Fischer. Fischer takes over the team after Josh Ballantyne transferred out of Warren De LaSalle to Macomb Dakota. Other teams that could make a splash could be Warren Mott, Troy Athens, or Sterling Heights. The Stallions return Shawn Kama. Kama had a breakout last season and will be heavily relied upon this season. The Red Hawks has Taylor McCaskill back after they were suppose to lose him. He originally transferred out from Troy Athens to Detroit Edison but decided to come back to the school. McCaskill should be eligible once the district playoffs start. The Red Hawks also has Jacob Brantley and a ton of experience back for coach Dave Scott. Royal Oak lost a ton of experience from last season but have Bobby Green back for second year coach Aaron Smith. Warren Cousino got some bad news this offseason as AJ Crawford whom averaged 20.2 points per game and had 39 points in a game against Warren Mott last season transferred to New Haven. This could be an interesting district to watch at Troy Athens.
FAVORITE: Warren De LaSalle
NEXT: Troy Athens
DARK-HORSE:Warren Mott
WILD-CARD: Sterling Heights
KEY PLAYER: Justin Fisher- Warren De LaSalle
Warren De LaSalle returns a ton of talent from a squad that was upset by Sterling Heights Stevenson in the regional final last season. The Pilots are expected to be one of the top teams in the Catholic League and will be favored to win this district for a second straight season. Warren De LaSalle will be led by Justin Fischer. Fischer takes over the team after Josh Ballantyne transferred out of Warren De LaSalle to Macomb Dakota. Other teams that could make a splash could be Warren Mott, Troy Athens, or Sterling Heights. The Stallions return Shawn Kama. Kama had a breakout last season and will be heavily relied upon this season. The Red Hawks has Taylor McCaskill back after they were suppose to lose him. He originally transferred out from Troy Athens to Detroit Edison but decided to come back to the school. McCaskill should be eligible once the district playoffs start. The Red Hawks also has Jacob Brantley and a ton of experience back for coach Dave Scott. Royal Oak lost a ton of experience from last season but have Bobby Green back for second year coach Aaron Smith. Warren Cousino got some bad news this offseason as AJ Crawford whom averaged 20.2 points per game and had 39 points in a game against Warren Mott last season transferred to New Haven. This could be an interesting district to watch at Troy Athens.
District 24
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH.
OAK PARK
BERKLEY
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit
University-Detroit Jesuit
Hamtramck (Girls
Sports)
Warren
Fitzgerald
Volleyball/Girls
Basketball/Boys Basketball @ Detroit Renaissance
When
looking at this District: Welcome to Class A, Warren Fitzgerald. In Class B the Spartans won the
district in Volleyball but now moving up from Class B to Class A. It isn't that easy as it first thought though. It didn’t go
well for Hazel Park when they were up in Class A for one season before they went back to Class B due to declining enrollment. Hamtramck brings their girls teams into this district while their Boys Basketball team will have their district at Grosse Pointe South with Detroit Cass Tech, Detroit Western, Detroit East English Village Prep, and Detroit Martin Luther King. Detroit
Renaissance is interesting to keep an eye on as they are expected to contend in all three sports in this district, not to mention the district is on 6565 Outer Drive, which is the home of the Phoenix. Southfield merged with
Lathrup to become Southfield Arts and Tech. The new Warriors will want to make an impact as a first year school. Oak Park and Berkley have
been here before with the close proximity of the schools. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit is the defending State
Champs in Boys Basketball and look to show its dominance again this winter.
Volleyball:
FAVORITE: Warren Fitzgerald
NEXT: Berkley
DARK-HORSE: Detroit Renaissance
WILD-CARD: Southfield Arts and Tech.
KEY PLAYER: Carolyn Lee- Warren Fitzgerald
Could the Spartans bring their Volleyball magic from Class B into this district??? Well they could because Warren Fitzgerald has had a solid program and a bright future led by Carolyn Lee who will be a sophomore this season. Berkley will contend in this district despite losing Cecilia Somers to graduation but they have plenty of experience back in Dana McDowell, Madison Kendrick, Paige Allen, Grace Mulchay, Madeline Koster, Cara Hall, and Natalie Tolvarez for coach Chantelle Corson's Bears. Detroit Renaissance is the dark-horse and should be solid yet again this season in both the district and in the Detroit Public School League for coach Louis Mitchell. Oak Park could struggle here in this district as they lost a very good player in Jasmine Stackhouse. Southfield Arts and Tech will be an interesting team to keep an eye on with plenty of former Blue Jays back and a few Chargers will be there as well but the question will be is whom will be coaching the new Warriors team. I see Warren Fitzgerald as an early favorite to win this district but Berkley and the Phoenix aren't far behind.
FAVORITE: Warren Fitzgerald
NEXT: Berkley
DARK-HORSE: Detroit Renaissance
WILD-CARD: Southfield Arts and Tech.
KEY PLAYER: Carolyn Lee- Warren Fitzgerald
Could the Spartans bring their Volleyball magic from Class B into this district??? Well they could because Warren Fitzgerald has had a solid program and a bright future led by Carolyn Lee who will be a sophomore this season. Berkley will contend in this district despite losing Cecilia Somers to graduation but they have plenty of experience back in Dana McDowell, Madison Kendrick, Paige Allen, Grace Mulchay, Madeline Koster, Cara Hall, and Natalie Tolvarez for coach Chantelle Corson's Bears. Detroit Renaissance is the dark-horse and should be solid yet again this season in both the district and in the Detroit Public School League for coach Louis Mitchell. Oak Park could struggle here in this district as they lost a very good player in Jasmine Stackhouse. Southfield Arts and Tech will be an interesting team to keep an eye on with plenty of former Blue Jays back and a few Chargers will be there as well but the question will be is whom will be coaching the new Warriors team. I see Warren Fitzgerald as an early favorite to win this district but Berkley and the Phoenix aren't far behind.
Girls
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Southfield Arts and Tech.
NEXT: Detroit Renaissance
DARK-HORSE: Berkley
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Alexa Johnson-Southfield Arts and Tech.
The Warriors will be the major favorites now because of what has happened with the shocking hire of Michelle Marshall over Jamie Glinz. Southfield Arts and Tech will have Deja Church along with Alexa Johnson, D’Layna Holloman, and Rizarra Franklin all returning as well. Cheyenne McEvans will be a future player in the making at Southfield Arts and Tech for coach Michelle Marshall. Detroit Renaissance will be the toughest challenger to the Warriors even though they lost Siyeh Frazier to graduation last season. The Phoenix will be led by Victoria Wright and Nina Reynolds for coach Kiwan Ward whom went to the Detroit Public School League final last season. Berkley will be led by Olivia Dicarlo and Makoya Dehnam for coach Jordan Gruppen. I don't think the Bears are as good as the Warriors or Phoenix in this district. Oak Park will struggle under second year coach Peggy Evans-Carr in this district due to their troubles against top notch teams and could even have some trouble in the Blue if they aren't careful. Warren Fitzgerald is making the move up from Class B to Class A will led by Kela Willis and Tone Oglesby but the move up a Class could be too much for the Spartans to handle.
FAVORITE: Southfield Arts and Tech.
NEXT: Detroit Renaissance
DARK-HORSE: Berkley
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Alexa Johnson-Southfield Arts and Tech.
The Warriors will be the major favorites now because of what has happened with the shocking hire of Michelle Marshall over Jamie Glinz. Southfield Arts and Tech will have Deja Church along with Alexa Johnson, D’Layna Holloman, and Rizarra Franklin all returning as well. Cheyenne McEvans will be a future player in the making at Southfield Arts and Tech for coach Michelle Marshall. Detroit Renaissance will be the toughest challenger to the Warriors even though they lost Siyeh Frazier to graduation last season. The Phoenix will be led by Victoria Wright and Nina Reynolds for coach Kiwan Ward whom went to the Detroit Public School League final last season. Berkley will be led by Olivia Dicarlo and Makoya Dehnam for coach Jordan Gruppen. I don't think the Bears are as good as the Warriors or Phoenix in this district. Oak Park will struggle under second year coach Peggy Evans-Carr in this district due to their troubles against top notch teams and could even have some trouble in the Blue if they aren't careful. Warren Fitzgerald is making the move up from Class B to Class A will led by Kela Willis and Tone Oglesby but the move up a Class could be too much for the Spartans to handle.
Boys
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
NEXT: Detroit Renaissance
DARK-HORSE: Southfield Arts and Tech.
WILD-CARD: Oak Park
KEY PLAYER: Zachary Winston- Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
Will anyone touch the Cubs again in this district??? Detroit University-Jesuit coach Pat Donnelly will have the two seven foot Nigerians in Ike Eke and Greg Eboigbodin back for the defending State Champions. They have to replace Cassius Winston whom graduated but they will have his brother Zachary to fill his brother's shoes along with Elijah Collins. Detroit Renaissance will have to replace Justin Turner's production after he graduated but they will have a ton of athleticism and size to contend in this district. Berkley could struggle despite having a new coach in Joe Sermo. It will take time for him to put his system in place but Terrell Tucker and Earnest Payne return for the Bears. Oak Park also has a new coach in Bobby Thompson and will look to bring stability back to the Knights. Oak Park could be a sleeper and will have some talent led by Robert Zanders, Dwan Mathis, and Bobby Thompson Jr but the major problem for the Knights have been eligibility issues, something that Thompson must address. Warren Fitzgerald could have trouble moving up from Class B to Class A but the Spartans will have Carl Pettway whom had 26 points against Grosse Pointe North last season. Southfield Arts and Tech is the dark horse coming into the district because of Michael Flowers, James Faulkner, and Remi Torbert but other than that this district will be the Cubs to lose.
FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
NEXT: Detroit Renaissance
DARK-HORSE: Southfield Arts and Tech.
WILD-CARD: Oak Park
KEY PLAYER: Zachary Winston- Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
Will anyone touch the Cubs again in this district??? Detroit University-Jesuit coach Pat Donnelly will have the two seven foot Nigerians in Ike Eke and Greg Eboigbodin back for the defending State Champions. They have to replace Cassius Winston whom graduated but they will have his brother Zachary to fill his brother's shoes along with Elijah Collins. Detroit Renaissance will have to replace Justin Turner's production after he graduated but they will have a ton of athleticism and size to contend in this district. Berkley could struggle despite having a new coach in Joe Sermo. It will take time for him to put his system in place but Terrell Tucker and Earnest Payne return for the Bears. Oak Park also has a new coach in Bobby Thompson and will look to bring stability back to the Knights. Oak Park could be a sleeper and will have some talent led by Robert Zanders, Dwan Mathis, and Bobby Thompson Jr but the major problem for the Knights have been eligibility issues, something that Thompson must address. Warren Fitzgerald could have trouble moving up from Class B to Class A but the Spartans will have Carl Pettway whom had 26 points against Grosse Pointe North last season. Southfield Arts and Tech is the dark horse coming into the district because of Michael Flowers, James Faulkner, and Remi Torbert but other than that this district will be the Cubs to lose.
District 25
GROVES
SEAHOLM
BLOOMFIELD
HILLS
AVONDALE
TROY
Marian/Brother
Rice
Volleyball
@ Birmingham Marian
Girls
Basketball @ Troy
Boys
Basketball @
Bloomfield Hills
When
looking at this District: This is the same district as last year with Birmingham Marian winning the
Girls Basketball district. Bloomfield Hills came out of nowhere and won
the Volleyball district. Groves won the Boys Basketball district a season ago. I still don't understand why Troy is in this district and the fact they are split up with their arch rival Troy Athens. Troy went southeast while Troy Athens went east. Avondale though is close to Pontiac but why are they in this district when they are closer to Pontiac then Bloomfield Hills or Birmingham.
This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on in all three sports as
we head into the fall.
Volleyball:
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARK-HORSE: Seaholm
WILD-CARD: Avondale
KEY PLAYER: Kate Schafrain- Birmingham Marian
Bloomfield Hills came out of nowhere and stunned Seaholm and Birmingham Marian on route to the district crown last season. I don’t think anyone will overlook the Blackhawks and their chances but they will be a a formidable team this season for coach Bob Hurdle. Bloomfield Hills will be led by Julia Caravias, Sarah Teer, Meredith Wenson, Alexa Rousseau, and Olivia Smith. Troy will have the best player in this district in sophomore Jessica Robinson and an emerging freshman in Fran McBride and the Colts have a new coach in former assistant Tom Vigilant. Seaholm lost a ton of talent to graduation last season but the Maples will have Amelie Cekauskas and Megan Ligon for coach Heather Lippert and they shocked Bloomfield Hills on the road by sweeping them in three games. Groves is looking to get back to the thick of things after being put in this district instead of the one with Southfield, Berkley, and Royal Oak two seasons ago where they won districts easily but coach Jenny Brown will have to develop chemistry and the team game as they are led by Kayla Cornett. Avondale will have some experience back for coach Rosemary Motamedi in Brooke Blanchitte, Kierra Robinson, and Fran Aiello. The Yellow Jackets could struggle in this district because there are a ton of solid teams in this district. Birmingham Marian will have a ton experience and will be the host for the district. The Mustangs are led by Lauren Wenzel, Kate Schafran, Emma Sorey, Maggie Deporre, and Caroline Audette for coach Angela Kalczyniski. This could be the year the Mustangs come back with a vengeance.
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARK-HORSE: Seaholm
WILD-CARD: Avondale
KEY PLAYER: Kate Schafrain- Birmingham Marian
Bloomfield Hills came out of nowhere and stunned Seaholm and Birmingham Marian on route to the district crown last season. I don’t think anyone will overlook the Blackhawks and their chances but they will be a a formidable team this season for coach Bob Hurdle. Bloomfield Hills will be led by Julia Caravias, Sarah Teer, Meredith Wenson, Alexa Rousseau, and Olivia Smith. Troy will have the best player in this district in sophomore Jessica Robinson and an emerging freshman in Fran McBride and the Colts have a new coach in former assistant Tom Vigilant. Seaholm lost a ton of talent to graduation last season but the Maples will have Amelie Cekauskas and Megan Ligon for coach Heather Lippert and they shocked Bloomfield Hills on the road by sweeping them in three games. Groves is looking to get back to the thick of things after being put in this district instead of the one with Southfield, Berkley, and Royal Oak two seasons ago where they won districts easily but coach Jenny Brown will have to develop chemistry and the team game as they are led by Kayla Cornett. Avondale will have some experience back for coach Rosemary Motamedi in Brooke Blanchitte, Kierra Robinson, and Fran Aiello. The Yellow Jackets could struggle in this district because there are a ton of solid teams in this district. Birmingham Marian will have a ton experience and will be the host for the district. The Mustangs are led by Lauren Wenzel, Kate Schafran, Emma Sorey, Maggie Deporre, and Caroline Audette for coach Angela Kalczyniski. This could be the year the Mustangs come back with a vengeance.
Girls
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARK-HORSE: Groves
WILD-CARD: Seaholm
KEY PLAYER: Amanda Sape- Bloomfield Hills
The defending district champ is Birmingham Marian and they return guard/forward Olivia Moore. Moore was vital in the district and is expected to be vital for the Mustangs once again this season. Bloomfield Hills was not a healthy team last season, especially when Amanda Sape got hurt with a concussion and wasn't the same player. This could be the Blackhawks and coach Jeff Rubin's best chance to get a district title with a healthy Sape, Victorie Franklin, Becca Hancock, Desiree Duncan, Maryiam Hashim, and Katherine Prinna back. Seaholm went to the district final last season returns Mackenzie Harbort, Caroline Owens, Wendy Wilkinson, and Dana Hoerman for coach January Hlauski but the Maples had a major setback as Harbort tore her ACL this summer and is out until February, so she will likely not be 100 percent going into the district. Groves has Shea Carter, Lexi Carter, Jane Jung, and Morgan Morrison back for coach Amos Thompson. Troy is always scrappy led by Meghan Lenihan for coach Simon Bato and the Colts host the district. Avondale has a newcomer in Olivia Russell into the fold and she could make some noise this season. The Yellow Jackets also have Toya Golden and Brooke Blanchitte for new coach Phil Dawson, whom has been around the basketball world for a while. This looks to be a good district, I got to give an edge early to coach Mary Cicarone's team because of Moore but Bloomfield Hills, Groves, and Seaholm are not that far behind.
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARK-HORSE: Groves
WILD-CARD: Seaholm
KEY PLAYER: Amanda Sape- Bloomfield Hills
The defending district champ is Birmingham Marian and they return guard/forward Olivia Moore. Moore was vital in the district and is expected to be vital for the Mustangs once again this season. Bloomfield Hills was not a healthy team last season, especially when Amanda Sape got hurt with a concussion and wasn't the same player. This could be the Blackhawks and coach Jeff Rubin's best chance to get a district title with a healthy Sape, Victorie Franklin, Becca Hancock, Desiree Duncan, Maryiam Hashim, and Katherine Prinna back. Seaholm went to the district final last season returns Mackenzie Harbort, Caroline Owens, Wendy Wilkinson, and Dana Hoerman for coach January Hlauski but the Maples had a major setback as Harbort tore her ACL this summer and is out until February, so she will likely not be 100 percent going into the district. Groves has Shea Carter, Lexi Carter, Jane Jung, and Morgan Morrison back for coach Amos Thompson. Troy is always scrappy led by Meghan Lenihan for coach Simon Bato and the Colts host the district. Avondale has a newcomer in Olivia Russell into the fold and she could make some noise this season. The Yellow Jackets also have Toya Golden and Brooke Blanchitte for new coach Phil Dawson, whom has been around the basketball world for a while. This looks to be a good district, I got to give an edge early to coach Mary Cicarone's team because of Moore but Bloomfield Hills, Groves, and Seaholm are not that far behind.
Boys
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Bloomfield Hills
NEXT: Troy
DARK-HORSE: Groves
WILD-CARD: Avondale
KEY PLAYER: Isiah Smith- Troy
This district is pretty much even but with the new division changes in the league things could change. Groves is the defending district champ and moved up from the Gold to the Blue. The Falcons returns some key talent led by Drew Sheckell, Charles Jones, and Marcus Pittman for coach Mark West. Troy is solid in their own right and could very well take the district. The Colts will be led by Jason Dietz and Isiah Smith for coach Gary Fralick. Bloomfield Hills is very talented led by Kiewuan Graham, Ray Dillworth, and Josh Jones for coach Mike Maryanski. Seaholm will also contend as well led by Graham Girdler for coach Mike DeGeeter. We can’t count out Avondale as they are talented led by Dominic Kejbou, Vyshonn Munson, D're Shawn Allen, Ty Bland, and Martone Cole and the Yellow Jackets are well coach under Tim Morton. Birmingham Brother Rice whom is in the Catholic League should be better after having a tough season last year. The Warriors will have plenty of experience back led by Jack Moran, Michael Laurenceville, and Cal Ruprich. Any of these six teams could win the district, expect some fun basketball at Bloomfield Hills.
FAVORITE: Bloomfield Hills
NEXT: Troy
DARK-HORSE: Groves
WILD-CARD: Avondale
KEY PLAYER: Isiah Smith- Troy
This district is pretty much even but with the new division changes in the league things could change. Groves is the defending district champ and moved up from the Gold to the Blue. The Falcons returns some key talent led by Drew Sheckell, Charles Jones, and Marcus Pittman for coach Mark West. Troy is solid in their own right and could very well take the district. The Colts will be led by Jason Dietz and Isiah Smith for coach Gary Fralick. Bloomfield Hills is very talented led by Kiewuan Graham, Ray Dillworth, and Josh Jones for coach Mike Maryanski. Seaholm will also contend as well led by Graham Girdler for coach Mike DeGeeter. We can’t count out Avondale as they are talented led by Dominic Kejbou, Vyshonn Munson, D're Shawn Allen, Ty Bland, and Martone Cole and the Yellow Jackets are well coach under Tim Morton. Birmingham Brother Rice whom is in the Catholic League should be better after having a tough season last year. The Warriors will have plenty of experience back led by Jack Moran, Michael Laurenceville, and Cal Ruprich. Any of these six teams could win the district, expect some fun basketball at Bloomfield Hills.
District 30
STONEY CREEK
ROCHESTER
ADAMS
Utica
Eisenhower
Utica
Volleyball
@ Stoney Creek
Girls
Basketball/Boys Basketball @ Utica
When
looking at this District: This district hasn’t changed much but Utica and Utica Eisenhower will be
much different teams in the basketball and volleyball circuit next school year.
Stoney Creek looks to be solid in Volleyball and is very good in Girls
Basketball. Adams had a rough season last year in the Girls sports looks to
bounce back. Rochester was injury prone in Girls Basketball but hope to make an
impact in Boys Basketball. Utica Eisenhower is the Volleyball district champ,
Adams is for Boys Basketball, and Stoney Creek is for Girls Basketball. This will
be an interesting district to keep an eye on as we go forward.
Volleyball:
FAVORITE: Stoney Creek
NEXT: Utica Eisenhower
DARK-HORSE: Adams
WILD-CARD: Rochester
KEY PLAYER: Kate Stration- Stoney Creek
The Cougars have a new coach in Ross Talbott and looks to be the favorite heading into the district tournament but youth and inexperience could be a problem if not careful especially if they have to play Utica Eisenhower early. Stoney Creek will have Erika Ward back leading the charge but watch out for freshman standout Kate Stration, she will be a good one. Adams has some experience back in Paige Stabaucker, Paige Hedlund, Jen Harding, and Madison Tuscany for coach Bridgette Harding. The Highlanders will look to get back in the thick of things as they went down to the White this season. Rochester though in a lower division (Blue) returns some key players including Maddie Halsey for coach Lauren Duquette. Utica Eisenhower could be a series threat to Stoney Creek and they are the defending district champs. The Eagles whom won the Macomb Area Conference Red division have Peyton Kennelly, Hayley Barden, Kaitlyn Ciraulo, Meghan Dombrowski, Sam Palazzolo, and Marissa Durand return for coach Caitlin LaPratt. Utica Eisenhower also has a regular season win over Macomb Dakota and won the North Branch Tournament for coach Caitlin Maloney. Utica lost Jessica Dodge as she transferred to Macomb Dakota but the Chieftains return setter Danielle Kaschalk along with Clare Feeman, Mone Knowles, and Sam Gailey. This district might feature a rematch from last season's district final only difference would be that it is at Stoney Creek and not at Utica Eisenhower in which the Eagles won the district last season.
FAVORITE: Stoney Creek
NEXT: Utica Eisenhower
DARK-HORSE: Adams
WILD-CARD: Rochester
KEY PLAYER: Kate Stration- Stoney Creek
The Cougars have a new coach in Ross Talbott and looks to be the favorite heading into the district tournament but youth and inexperience could be a problem if not careful especially if they have to play Utica Eisenhower early. Stoney Creek will have Erika Ward back leading the charge but watch out for freshman standout Kate Stration, she will be a good one. Adams has some experience back in Paige Stabaucker, Paige Hedlund, Jen Harding, and Madison Tuscany for coach Bridgette Harding. The Highlanders will look to get back in the thick of things as they went down to the White this season. Rochester though in a lower division (Blue) returns some key players including Maddie Halsey for coach Lauren Duquette. Utica Eisenhower could be a series threat to Stoney Creek and they are the defending district champs. The Eagles whom won the Macomb Area Conference Red division have Peyton Kennelly, Hayley Barden, Kaitlyn Ciraulo, Meghan Dombrowski, Sam Palazzolo, and Marissa Durand return for coach Caitlin LaPratt. Utica Eisenhower also has a regular season win over Macomb Dakota and won the North Branch Tournament for coach Caitlin Maloney. Utica lost Jessica Dodge as she transferred to Macomb Dakota but the Chieftains return setter Danielle Kaschalk along with Clare Feeman, Mone Knowles, and Sam Gailey. This district might feature a rematch from last season's district final only difference would be that it is at Stoney Creek and not at Utica Eisenhower in which the Eagles won the district last season.
Girls
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Stoney Creek
NEXT: Adams
DARK-HORSE: Rochester
WILD-CARD: Utica Eisenhower
KEY PLAYER: Emily Eckhout- Stoney Creek
Stoney Creek coach Kellen James must have a Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman action figurine in his house that says “EAT, SLEEP, CONQUER, REPEAT.” James, I don’t think will be looking forward to having to go back to the small gym of Utica where his team won the district title last season. The Cougars will be very talented and deep in the tough Red this season. Stoney Creek is the favorite heading into the district as not only they are the defending district champs but they have won six straight district crowns. The Cougars will be led by Emily Solek, Ally Voss, Gina Cerney, Madison Rochow, and Emily Eckhout. Utica was senior heavy last season under coach Tom McDonald will feature a mix of youth and experience along with a tough defensive mindset. Utica Eisenhower lost three top seniors from last season but they will have Malynn Kosnik back for coach Michael Sawata. Kosnik was Fourth team all Macomb County last season. Adams had a rough year a season ago returns Maggie Rogers, Hannah Simard, and Ryian Owusu but they did take a hit when their former coach Shay Lewis took a new job as Director of Operations for the Women's Basketball team at Oakland. Lewis assistant Jackie Steinaker is the new head coach of the team. Rochester was injury prone last season has Tori Hawkins, Jenna Norgrove, and Paloa Barazza-Duran whom is returning from an ACL injury for coach Adam Sheldon.
FAVORITE: Stoney Creek
NEXT: Adams
DARK-HORSE: Rochester
WILD-CARD: Utica Eisenhower
KEY PLAYER: Emily Eckhout- Stoney Creek
Stoney Creek coach Kellen James must have a Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman action figurine in his house that says “EAT, SLEEP, CONQUER, REPEAT.” James, I don’t think will be looking forward to having to go back to the small gym of Utica where his team won the district title last season. The Cougars will be very talented and deep in the tough Red this season. Stoney Creek is the favorite heading into the district as not only they are the defending district champs but they have won six straight district crowns. The Cougars will be led by Emily Solek, Ally Voss, Gina Cerney, Madison Rochow, and Emily Eckhout. Utica was senior heavy last season under coach Tom McDonald will feature a mix of youth and experience along with a tough defensive mindset. Utica Eisenhower lost three top seniors from last season but they will have Malynn Kosnik back for coach Michael Sawata. Kosnik was Fourth team all Macomb County last season. Adams had a rough year a season ago returns Maggie Rogers, Hannah Simard, and Ryian Owusu but they did take a hit when their former coach Shay Lewis took a new job as Director of Operations for the Women's Basketball team at Oakland. Lewis assistant Jackie Steinaker is the new head coach of the team. Rochester was injury prone last season has Tori Hawkins, Jenna Norgrove, and Paloa Barazza-Duran whom is returning from an ACL injury for coach Adam Sheldon.
Boys
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower
NEXT: Rochester
DARK-HORSE: Stoney Creek
WILD-CARD: Adams
KEY PLAYER: Nate Davis- Stoney Creek
Adams will have a new coach in Brad Crighton whom replaced John Hall who is now at Almont. The Highlanders are the defending district champs and hope to repeat as champs under Crighton. Crighton will not have Spencer Littleson, David Rinke, and Joey Zinti as they all graduated from a team that went to the regional final last season. Many experts believe this will be a rebuilding year for the Highlanders after their special season last season but not so fast, Adams has a shot at repeating this district because of the ideology of their new coach along with incoming freshman Zach Maynard. Crighton's teams usually shoot a ton of threes while he coached the Junior Varsity Boys and Varsity Girls at Stoney Creek. Rochester is another team that likes to shoot threes very well but the Falcons have something that the Highlanders don't and that is experience. Rochester is led by Hunter Schattler, LaMaraco Guillridge, and Ivan Barraza-Duran for coach John Pleasant. Stoney Creek also likes to shoot the three point shot will be young after losing a ton of seniors like John-Paul Sincola and Ben Reiter to graduation The Cougars will reload just in time for the district under coach Steve Norgrove. Stoney Creek will be led by Michael Melgarni and have an emerging forward in Nate Davis. Utica Eisenhower had a rough season a year ago but the Eagles have a lot returning for coach Dave Schwesinger. Utica Eisenhower will led by Matt Donahue, John Cukaj, and Brandon Munn. Utica is an interesting team to watch as they improved last season after a tough season two seasons ago for coach Gerry Kraemer. It will be interesting in the small court of Utica High School especially with the three Rochester schools knowing how to shoot the three ball really well with the rims being very friendly at their gym but we'll see how things go. I see four of the five teams having great shots at winning this district.
FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower
NEXT: Rochester
DARK-HORSE: Stoney Creek
WILD-CARD: Adams
KEY PLAYER: Nate Davis- Stoney Creek
Adams will have a new coach in Brad Crighton whom replaced John Hall who is now at Almont. The Highlanders are the defending district champs and hope to repeat as champs under Crighton. Crighton will not have Spencer Littleson, David Rinke, and Joey Zinti as they all graduated from a team that went to the regional final last season. Many experts believe this will be a rebuilding year for the Highlanders after their special season last season but not so fast, Adams has a shot at repeating this district because of the ideology of their new coach along with incoming freshman Zach Maynard. Crighton's teams usually shoot a ton of threes while he coached the Junior Varsity Boys and Varsity Girls at Stoney Creek. Rochester is another team that likes to shoot threes very well but the Falcons have something that the Highlanders don't and that is experience. Rochester is led by Hunter Schattler, LaMaraco Guillridge, and Ivan Barraza-Duran for coach John Pleasant. Stoney Creek also likes to shoot the three point shot will be young after losing a ton of seniors like John-Paul Sincola and Ben Reiter to graduation The Cougars will reload just in time for the district under coach Steve Norgrove. Stoney Creek will be led by Michael Melgarni and have an emerging forward in Nate Davis. Utica Eisenhower had a rough season a year ago but the Eagles have a lot returning for coach Dave Schwesinger. Utica Eisenhower will led by Matt Donahue, John Cukaj, and Brandon Munn. Utica is an interesting team to watch as they improved last season after a tough season two seasons ago for coach Gerry Kraemer. It will be interesting in the small court of Utica High School especially with the three Rochester schools knowing how to shoot the three ball really well with the rims being very friendly at their gym but we'll see how things go. I see four of the five teams having great shots at winning this district.
District 31
ORION
CLARKSTON
OXFORD
PONTIAC
Waterford
Kettering
Waterford
Mott
Volleyball/Girls
Basketball/Boys Basketball @ Orion
When
looking at this District: This is the same district as last year with Orion hosting all three
sports for districts. The Dragons won the district in Volleyball while
Clarkston won it in Boys Basketball and Waterford Kettering won it in Girls
Basketball. This looks to be an interesting district to keep an eye on as we go
forward with each team having strong strengths and weaknesses. We’ll see what
happens.
Volleyball:
FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Oxford
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Paige Briggs- Oxford
Orion won the district last season at Waterford Kettering but the favorite is the team from Flemings Lake Road this season. Clarkston will have Abby Malinowski for her junior season along with her partner and crime in Sarah Austin on the other side of the court. The Wolves will have a ton of experience returning for coach Kelly Averall-Pinner in the form of the Basketball and Track duo of Kayla Luchenbach and Molly Nicholson. Oxford will have an experienced team but consistency has been a concern this season. The Wildcats will be led by Nicole Elzerman and Paige Briggs for coach LaToria Thomas. Orion isn't as strong as last season when they went to the regional semifinal but the Dragons are still formidable and did win the Red this season, which included a five game win on the road over Clarkston. Orion has a solid team led by Leah Kalugar, Sarah Kelly, Andrea Findley, Lindsay Wightman, Wren McCalulay, Mallorie Berriman, and Danielle Sargent for coach Tony Scvarada. Waterford Mott has been struggling under coach Mark Ott as they are in their last season in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association as they will go to a new league next season. Waterford Kettering returns Lila Schoof for coach Kimberly Jayson but like their Waterford rivals they have been struggling as well so far this season. Pontiac was very young last season and will have some experience back. It will be either the Dragons, Wolves, or Wildcats would take the district.
FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Oxford
WILD-CARD: None
KEY PLAYER: Paige Briggs- Oxford
Orion won the district last season at Waterford Kettering but the favorite is the team from Flemings Lake Road this season. Clarkston will have Abby Malinowski for her junior season along with her partner and crime in Sarah Austin on the other side of the court. The Wolves will have a ton of experience returning for coach Kelly Averall-Pinner in the form of the Basketball and Track duo of Kayla Luchenbach and Molly Nicholson. Oxford will have an experienced team but consistency has been a concern this season. The Wildcats will be led by Nicole Elzerman and Paige Briggs for coach LaToria Thomas. Orion isn't as strong as last season when they went to the regional semifinal but the Dragons are still formidable and did win the Red this season, which included a five game win on the road over Clarkston. Orion has a solid team led by Leah Kalugar, Sarah Kelly, Andrea Findley, Lindsay Wightman, Wren McCalulay, Mallorie Berriman, and Danielle Sargent for coach Tony Scvarada. Waterford Mott has been struggling under coach Mark Ott as they are in their last season in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association as they will go to a new league next season. Waterford Kettering returns Lila Schoof for coach Kimberly Jayson but like their Waterford rivals they have been struggling as well so far this season. Pontiac was very young last season and will have some experience back. It will be either the Dragons, Wolves, or Wildcats would take the district.
Girls
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Waterford Kettering
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Clarkston
WILD-CARD: Waterford Mott
KEY PLAYER: Maddie Case-Waterford Kettering
This looks like it will either be the Captains, Dragons, or Wolves winning this district back at Orion. Waterford Kettering looks to be the favorite not only in this district but also in the KLAA North as well. The Captains will return Marnee Holland, Maddie Case, Alyssa Watts, Lilla Schoff, Jayla Williams, and Marissa Brady for coach Scott Woodhall. Orion will challenge the defending district champs and battle for the White crown. The Dragons have Maddie Novak, Sophie Wyborski, Delaney Bryce, and Tessa Nuss returning for coach Kevin Kopec. Clarkston is going to be another dangerous team as well. The Wolves return Maddie Beck, Kayla Luchenbach, and Molly Nicholson for coach Christine Rogers. Oxford will be very dangerous as they return a ton of talent and have a strong Freshman class coming up for new coach in former assistant Rachel Bryer. The Wildcats are a sleeper in the White return Monae Evans, Madelyn Morris, Ashley Herschmann, and newcomer Lauren Methner. Waterford Mott will be led by Myra Williams, Emily Spencer, and Emily Huff for coach Michelle Scarr but losing Monika Reinke and Liam Hung will be huge losses for the Corsairs. Pontiac returns Zakirya Brown, Savannah Pitts, Taleah Washington, and Diamond Curill. Coach Christopher Wright's Phoenix could struggle again heading to the district but could win some games in the Gold this season.
FAVORITE: Waterford Kettering
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Clarkston
WILD-CARD: Waterford Mott
KEY PLAYER: Maddie Case-Waterford Kettering
This looks like it will either be the Captains, Dragons, or Wolves winning this district back at Orion. Waterford Kettering looks to be the favorite not only in this district but also in the KLAA North as well. The Captains will return Marnee Holland, Maddie Case, Alyssa Watts, Lilla Schoff, Jayla Williams, and Marissa Brady for coach Scott Woodhall. Orion will challenge the defending district champs and battle for the White crown. The Dragons have Maddie Novak, Sophie Wyborski, Delaney Bryce, and Tessa Nuss returning for coach Kevin Kopec. Clarkston is going to be another dangerous team as well. The Wolves return Maddie Beck, Kayla Luchenbach, and Molly Nicholson for coach Christine Rogers. Oxford will be very dangerous as they return a ton of talent and have a strong Freshman class coming up for new coach in former assistant Rachel Bryer. The Wildcats are a sleeper in the White return Monae Evans, Madelyn Morris, Ashley Herschmann, and newcomer Lauren Methner. Waterford Mott will be led by Myra Williams, Emily Spencer, and Emily Huff for coach Michelle Scarr but losing Monika Reinke and Liam Hung will be huge losses for the Corsairs. Pontiac returns Zakirya Brown, Savannah Pitts, Taleah Washington, and Diamond Curill. Coach Christopher Wright's Phoenix could struggle again heading to the district but could win some games in the Gold this season.
Boys
Basketball:
FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Oxford
WILD-CARD: Waterford Mott
KEY PLAYER: Tristan Mysen- Clarkston
Is there any team that will touch Clarkston??? Probably not. The Wolves return Foster Loyer, Dylan Alderson, Max Anderson, Matt Nicholson, Chase Wasilk, Tristan Mysen, Demond Mills-Bradley, and CJ Robinson for coach Dan Fife. Also Clarkston added Ohio standout Taylor Currie whom is 6.9 and a power forward. There are some intriguing story-lines heading into this district that doesn't involve the Wolves. The first will be Keith Fields whom is playing at Waterford Mott. He could be on a collision course with his former teammates from Orion. Fields transferred from Orion to Waterford Mott because of football related reasons. Second there are some great rivalries in this district as well. Oxford has a their former coach back in Steve Laidlaw whom spent time as Avondale's Junior Varsity coach. The Wildcats will be solid led by Jordan Jayden, Ray LaVine, and Jim Lavalis. Oxford's strength will be three point shooting coming into the season and they have some size. The Dragons will be a more balanced team heading into 2016-2017. Orion will be led by Steven Zmijewski and Jamie Lewis for coach Jim Manzo. The Phoenix have some questions with their team heading into the district because of the unstable coaching situation with Ben Kelso no longer at Pontiac. Kelso took his son Jalen out of Pontiac as he transferred to Walled Lake Northern. Waterford Kettering is rebuilding after losing everybody. Waterford Mott had an unusual rough year last season but things should be different this season with Fields and an experienced team led by Noah Fuerst and Trevion Williams. The Corsairs could be back in the thick of things. End of the day though no one is touching the Wolves.
FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Oxford
WILD-CARD: Waterford Mott
KEY PLAYER: Tristan Mysen- Clarkston
Is there any team that will touch Clarkston??? Probably not. The Wolves return Foster Loyer, Dylan Alderson, Max Anderson, Matt Nicholson, Chase Wasilk, Tristan Mysen, Demond Mills-Bradley, and CJ Robinson for coach Dan Fife. Also Clarkston added Ohio standout Taylor Currie whom is 6.9 and a power forward. There are some intriguing story-lines heading into this district that doesn't involve the Wolves. The first will be Keith Fields whom is playing at Waterford Mott. He could be on a collision course with his former teammates from Orion. Fields transferred from Orion to Waterford Mott because of football related reasons. Second there are some great rivalries in this district as well. Oxford has a their former coach back in Steve Laidlaw whom spent time as Avondale's Junior Varsity coach. The Wildcats will be solid led by Jordan Jayden, Ray LaVine, and Jim Lavalis. Oxford's strength will be three point shooting coming into the season and they have some size. The Dragons will be a more balanced team heading into 2016-2017. Orion will be led by Steven Zmijewski and Jamie Lewis for coach Jim Manzo. The Phoenix have some questions with their team heading into the district because of the unstable coaching situation with Ben Kelso no longer at Pontiac. Kelso took his son Jalen out of Pontiac as he transferred to Walled Lake Northern. Waterford Kettering is rebuilding after losing everybody. Waterford Mott had an unusual rough year last season but things should be different this season with Fields and an experienced team led by Noah Fuerst and Trevion Williams. The Corsairs could be back in the thick of things. End of the day though no one is touching the Wolves.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for complete coverage.
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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.