Written Wednesday April 25th at 1:50 PM
Updated Friday April 27th at 8:20 PM
The Blue just got tougher with the recent coaching hire at Ferndale.
The Eagles named Juan Rickman as their next Boys Basketball Coach according to State Champs Writer Scott Burnstein and confirmed by yours truly. Rickman replaces Tom Staton whom stepped down in March.
Rickman coached at Detroit East English Village Prep for three seasons and five at Detroit Crockett Tech before they merged with Detroit Finney to become Detroit East English Village Prep. He coached the Mr. Basketball State Finalist David DeJulius who is now heading to Michigan this winter along with Greg Elliot who is currently at Marquette and Karmai Newman who is now at Oakland. Rickman also led the Bulldogs to the Detroit Public School League title in 2016.
Rickman's Bulldogs gave the State Champs Clarkston their only loss of the season last year 80-71 at North Farmington.
He has been an honorable mention for MLive for the last four seasons.
Rickman does have Ferndale ties as he was in the REACH program growing up. The program was set up by Rashad Phillips father. Phillips would end up staring at the University of Detroit Mercy. Phillips also played at Ferndale during his high school years.
Rickman said to MLive's Jared Purcell that it was time for a change and go back to his roots. "It was just time. Honestly, it's just time to move on. When the Ferndale position came open, you know my father graduated from Ferndale and I grew up in Second New Hope, which is a church around the corner from Ferndale so I have Ferndale ties. I think the district is amazing. I think the principal, superintendent, and leadership are amazing there."
Ferndale whom has the smallest enrollment in the OAA (718 students) went 6-14 and 5-8 in the Blue losing to Clawson in the district semifinals last season. The Eagles took a major hit when Deondre Bonaparte transferred to Ecorse in the middle of the season to which they never truly recovered after that. Ferndale still has a boatload of talent for Rickman returning in seniors Keelan Lucas, Teonah McCethan, and Brian Polozo and a strong freshman class that will be sophomores that went 10-3 in the Blue as well.
Thoughts
This is a great hire for Ferndale. The Eagles took a bit of a hit last season and not lived up to their potential. Rickman is not only a proven winner but is a great teacher and a strong motivator.
I'm curious to see how Rickman's experience from the Detroit Public School League will carry over into the OAA especially having to go to places like Seaholm and Oxford. The OAA has some well established teams so it will be a challenge for Rickman's team to live up to expectations.
Ferndale will compete in the Blue next season with Oxford, Seaholm, Hazel Park, Berkley, Pontiac, Royal Oak, and Harrison. The Eagles will be in Division Two for the postseason as well likely dealing with Birmingham Detroit Country Day and Clawson.
Rickman said something interesting that I will address on the podcast to Purcell. It's about how different the Detroit Public School League and the OAA are and the coaching that is in the league. "It's different but it's still quality. There is still some good quality and I believe there are some good coaches in that league as well."
This move could be an indicator of where Ferndale's Athletic Director Shaun Butler wants to get his Eagles out of the Blue.
The Eagles got themselves a proven winner that is for sure.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Here is the Purcell Story from MLive.
http://highschoolsports.mlive.com/news/article/-2842335412626701319/juan-rickman-leaving-east-english-to-take-over-ferndale-boys-basketball/
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Wednesday, April 25, 2018
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
Roberts Will Retire in August.
Written Tuesday April 24th at 1:10 PM
The MHSAA will have a new leader after August.
MHSAA Executive Director Jack Roberts will retire in August confirmed by the MHSAA News Article below. He started in 1986 and was the longest rained executive director for the league.
Roberts has had some bright spots and some down spots in his 32 years in office.
It is unknown whom will replace Roberts after August.
This story is developing. Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Here is the article from the MHSAA confirming the retirement of Roberts.
https://secondhalf.mhsaa.com/All-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/7186/MHSAAs-Roberts-to-Retire-in-August
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The MHSAA will have a new leader after August.
MHSAA Executive Director Jack Roberts will retire in August confirmed by the MHSAA News Article below. He started in 1986 and was the longest rained executive director for the league.
Roberts has had some bright spots and some down spots in his 32 years in office.
It is unknown whom will replace Roberts after August.
This story is developing. Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Here is the article from the MHSAA confirming the retirement of Roberts.
https://secondhalf.mhsaa.com/All-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/7186/MHSAAs-Roberts-to-Retire-in-August
Soundcloud
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-050118
Friday, April 20, 2018
Rochester Making Moves.
Written Friday April 20th at 8:30 PM
The Rochester Falcons are making headlines this offseason in the Girls Sports.
Volleyball
The Falcons have named Kirk Gibbs the new head coach of the volleyball program taking over for coach Sarah Titran. Gibbs will be the third coach in three seasons for Rochester that needs to find some consistency in it's program. He brings over 20 years of coaching experience including 11 years as the team's Junior Varsity coach.
The Falcons had a 4-3 record in the White last season.
"There is no one that has more passion and pride in the Rochester Volleyball program than Coach Gibbs. There is no doubt in my mind that Kirk will provide our student-athletes and strive to make this program consistently competitive. I'm extremely pleased with the way Kirk conducts himself as a coach and how much time and effort he invests in our program" said Athletic Director Luke Beach in a press release.
Thoughts
This is an interesting hire to promote Gibbs to the Varsity program. He will have his challenges ahead of him not only in the White but also in the city of Rochester with Adams and Stoney Creek. The Highlanders and Cougars are both in the Red this season. Stoney Creek is expected to be the best team in the city and are well coached under Ross Talbot. Adams made gains last season under coach Bridgette Harding but they could be young this season. I'm optimistic on this hire for Rochester even though I have some concerns here despite having a young nucleus back with most of these ladies that were coached by Gibbs at some point in time. If the Falcons wants to be competitive they must take things one game at a time.
Girls Basketball
Jeff Haney is back.
The long time Falcons Girls Basketball coach is back on the sidelines at Rochester taking over for coach Al Poynter. Haney has a 132-69 record which includes three district titles and two regional titles.
Haney also coaches Girls Golf as well (won three State titles) and has had successful stints coaching the Junior Varsity and Freshman programs for both Girls and Boys.
"We are thrilled that Coach Haney has chose to return to lead our Girls Basketball program. Jeff is an outstanding coach and knows what it takes to lead a successful basketball program. He will demand the very best of his student-athletes both on the court and in the classroom and anyone that knows Jeff will tell you his teams are always prepared when they step onto the court" said Beach in a press release.
Thoughts
I liked that Rochester kept this coaching hire in house. This is a team that will have it's third coach in three years and has gone through a ton of turmoil. I think Haney will fix the mess that the Falcons are in and they should turn the corner led by a young nucleus along with Tori Hawkins. They went 2-19 last season and 2-12 in the White. Rochester will be in the Blue next season, in which they will likely be deemed as the early favorite to win the Blue. The Falcons have not fared well against their city rivals in which they were blown out in both meetings against Adams and Stoney Creek. Haney must fix this as well if Rochester wants to be the top dogs in the city of Rochester.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest developments on these two stories.
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The Rochester Falcons are making headlines this offseason in the Girls Sports.
Volleyball
The Falcons have named Kirk Gibbs the new head coach of the volleyball program taking over for coach Sarah Titran. Gibbs will be the third coach in three seasons for Rochester that needs to find some consistency in it's program. He brings over 20 years of coaching experience including 11 years as the team's Junior Varsity coach.
The Falcons had a 4-3 record in the White last season.
"There is no one that has more passion and pride in the Rochester Volleyball program than Coach Gibbs. There is no doubt in my mind that Kirk will provide our student-athletes and strive to make this program consistently competitive. I'm extremely pleased with the way Kirk conducts himself as a coach and how much time and effort he invests in our program" said Athletic Director Luke Beach in a press release.
Thoughts
This is an interesting hire to promote Gibbs to the Varsity program. He will have his challenges ahead of him not only in the White but also in the city of Rochester with Adams and Stoney Creek. The Highlanders and Cougars are both in the Red this season. Stoney Creek is expected to be the best team in the city and are well coached under Ross Talbot. Adams made gains last season under coach Bridgette Harding but they could be young this season. I'm optimistic on this hire for Rochester even though I have some concerns here despite having a young nucleus back with most of these ladies that were coached by Gibbs at some point in time. If the Falcons wants to be competitive they must take things one game at a time.
Girls Basketball
Jeff Haney is back.
The long time Falcons Girls Basketball coach is back on the sidelines at Rochester taking over for coach Al Poynter. Haney has a 132-69 record which includes three district titles and two regional titles.
Haney also coaches Girls Golf as well (won three State titles) and has had successful stints coaching the Junior Varsity and Freshman programs for both Girls and Boys.
"We are thrilled that Coach Haney has chose to return to lead our Girls Basketball program. Jeff is an outstanding coach and knows what it takes to lead a successful basketball program. He will demand the very best of his student-athletes both on the court and in the classroom and anyone that knows Jeff will tell you his teams are always prepared when they step onto the court" said Beach in a press release.
Thoughts
I liked that Rochester kept this coaching hire in house. This is a team that will have it's third coach in three years and has gone through a ton of turmoil. I think Haney will fix the mess that the Falcons are in and they should turn the corner led by a young nucleus along with Tori Hawkins. They went 2-19 last season and 2-12 in the White. Rochester will be in the Blue next season, in which they will likely be deemed as the early favorite to win the Blue. The Falcons have not fared well against their city rivals in which they were blown out in both meetings against Adams and Stoney Creek. Haney must fix this as well if Rochester wants to be the top dogs in the city of Rochester.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest developments on these two stories.
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Monday, April 16, 2018
Basketball Divisions Released.
Written Monday April 16th at 4:15 PM
The 2018-2019 season will be interesting to say the least in both Boys and Girls Basketball.
Here is a look at the new divisions.
Girls
Red:
Southfield Arts and Tech
Clarkston
North Farmington
Bloomfield Hills
Stoney Creek
Royal Oak
Groves
Thoughts
This will be an interesting division looking at the names and coaches of these teams like Jeff Rubin at Bloomfield Hills, Jeff Simpson at North Farmington, Kellen James at Stoney Creek, Christine Rogers at Clarkston, Brian Sopota at Royal Oak, Jessica Wiesler at Groves, and Michelle Marshall at Southfield Arts and Tech. Royal Oak and Groves come up from the White after both teams shared the division. Clarkston made the State Quarterfinals last season will be very young this upcoming winter. Southfield Arts and Tech, Bloomfield Hills, and Royal Oak have a ton of talent coming back. North Farmington will have to address some major concerns in the interior. Groves is a young team. If I had to pick an early favorite it would be the Warriors with the talent they have back but the Ravens aren't that far behind with a senior heavy squad. The Blackhawks are my darkhorse to watch followed by the Wolves, Raiders, Cougars, and Falcons.
White:
Lake Orion
Adams
Oxford
West Bloomfield
Troy
Troy Athens
Avondale
Farmington
Thoughts
This will be an interesting division based on competitive balance and different styles with coaches like Bert Mosley at West Bloomfield, Mike Griffin at Lake Orion, Rachel Bryer at Oxford, Shay Lewis at Adams, Simon Bato at Troy, Stacie Klump at Troy Athens, Phil Dawson at Avondale, and Laura Guzman at Farmington. Lake Orion and Adams come down from the Red while Avondale and Farmington come up from the Blue to the White after sharing the Blue title. Oxford returns the majority of their team along with Lake Orion, Avondale, Troy, and West Bloomfield (everyone is back for them.) Troy Athens will have to replace some key players along with the Highlanders but both teams have returning players coming back. Farmington will have to replace a ton of talent from last season's Blue division team. When I look at this division this will be very competitive, if I had to choose an early favorite it's Lake Orion with whom they return and when healthy could be dangerous (last season, the Dragons had a ton of injuries to key players) followed by Oxford, West Bloomfield, Adams, Avondale, Troy, Troy Athens, and then Farmington. This division in the OAA will be the one to watch for sure.
Blue:
Rochester
Seaholm
Pontiac
Oak Park
Ferndale
Hazel Park
Berkley
Thoughts
This could be a division where some teams could use as a recovery division. Rochester and Seaholm come down from the White to the Blue. Berkley should be solid next season with the majority of their team returning. The Falcons could make some noise with their future being bright but coaching will be a question mark. The Maples have the majority of their team coming back for coach January Hlaski. Pontiac should be decent with whom they have coming back for coach Christopher Wright. Oak Park has their guards coming back and could be a darkhorse candidate. Ferndale will have two key returning players and a new head coach. Hazel Park will be very young after graduating heavy. If I had to choose an early favorite in this division it's Rochester followed by the Seaholm and then the Bears. The Knights, Phoenix, Vikings, and Eagles fill out the rest of this division.
Boys
Blue:
Oxford
Seaholm
Pontiac
Hazel Park
Royal Oak
Harrison
Berkley
Ferndale
Thoughts
This could be an interesting division when you look at it. Oxford and Seaholm come from the White and Hazel Park come to the Blue from the Red. There are some well known coaches in this division like Steve Laidlaw at Oxford, Josh Schroder at Pontiac, Joe Sermo at Berkley, Greg DeGeeter at Seaholm, Aaron Smith at Royal Oak, Juan Rickman at Ferndale, and Jarrell Hogan at Harrison. Oxford, Ferndale and Pontiac return a ton of talent and could make some noise next season. Royal Oak could be a darkhorse team as they have some talent coming back. Berkley has to replace nine seniors from a team that had a tale of two seasons which started at 9-0 and then a 1-11 finish the rest of the way. Seaholm will be young but could also be a darkhorse team. Harrison in it's final season could play spoiler. Hazel Park will be very young and could be in for some dark times ahead. My early favorite right now would have to be the Wildcats with the talent they have coming back followed by the Eagles, then the Phoenix, Maples, Ravens, Bears, Hawks, and then Hazel Park.
White:
Southfield Arts and Tech
Troy Athens
Adams
Rochester
Stoney Creek
Avondale
Farmington
Groves
Thoughts
This could be an interesting division that features a co-champ and three teams with the name Falcons in Groves, Rochester, and Farmington. There are some well known coaches that are in this division as well in Brad Crighton at Adams, Mike Avery at Southfield Arts and Tech, Steve Norgrove at Stoney Creek, Tim Morton at Avondale, Vance Kirkwood at Rochester, Dave Scott at Troy Athens, and Terrance Porter at Farmington. There isn't a coach at Groves at the moment as Marc West stepped down to take an assistant coaching role at Henry Ford Community College last week. Rochester and Farmington comes from the Blue while Southfield Arts and Tech comes from the Red. The Warriors return a ton of talent that has Red ecxperience, as does the Highlanders, Yellow Jackets, Groves, and Farmington. Rochester, Cougars, and the Red Hawks will have to replace some key talent left by last season's teams. If I had to choose an early favorite it has to be Adams because of whom they have back followed by Avondale, Farmington, and Southfield Arts and Tech. Troy Athens, Stoney Creek, Groves, and then Rochester.
Red:
Clarkston
West Bloomfield
Troy
North Farmington
Bloomfield Hills
Oak Park
Lake Orion
Thoughts
This could be an interesting division as you have the back to back State Champs along with the White and co-Blue Champs here as well. Lake Orion moves up from the Blue and Oak Park from the White. There are some well known coaches in this division as well in Phil Kurjian at Bloomfield Hills, Bobby Thompson at Oak Park, Jeremy Dehna at West Bloomfield, Gary Fralick at Troy, Todd Negoshian at North Farmington, Dan Fife at Clarkston, and Jim Manzo at Lake Orion. The Wolves will be young but talented. The Knights have the most experience coming back talent wise as do the Dragons and Lakers. The Blackhawks, Colts, and Raiders will be young but very competitive. If I had to choose an early favorite, people would say Clarkston but for me it's Oak Park with the talent they have back followed by the Wolves and then West Bloomfield with their experience playing in this division helping both teams. Lake Orion is my darkhorse team to watch as they have a ton back as mentioned. Troy is another to watch that could make a move up the standings. North Farmington, and Bloomfield Hills will be rebuilding a bit.
It will be an interesting season as mentioned, so let it began.
Soundcloud from the podcast that include this story.
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The 2018-2019 season will be interesting to say the least in both Boys and Girls Basketball.
Here is a look at the new divisions.
Girls
Red:
Southfield Arts and Tech
Clarkston
North Farmington
Bloomfield Hills
Stoney Creek
Royal Oak
Groves
Thoughts
This will be an interesting division looking at the names and coaches of these teams like Jeff Rubin at Bloomfield Hills, Jeff Simpson at North Farmington, Kellen James at Stoney Creek, Christine Rogers at Clarkston, Brian Sopota at Royal Oak, Jessica Wiesler at Groves, and Michelle Marshall at Southfield Arts and Tech. Royal Oak and Groves come up from the White after both teams shared the division. Clarkston made the State Quarterfinals last season will be very young this upcoming winter. Southfield Arts and Tech, Bloomfield Hills, and Royal Oak have a ton of talent coming back. North Farmington will have to address some major concerns in the interior. Groves is a young team. If I had to pick an early favorite it would be the Warriors with the talent they have back but the Ravens aren't that far behind with a senior heavy squad. The Blackhawks are my darkhorse to watch followed by the Wolves, Raiders, Cougars, and Falcons.
White:
Lake Orion
Adams
Oxford
West Bloomfield
Troy
Troy Athens
Avondale
Farmington
Thoughts
This will be an interesting division based on competitive balance and different styles with coaches like Bert Mosley at West Bloomfield, Mike Griffin at Lake Orion, Rachel Bryer at Oxford, Shay Lewis at Adams, Simon Bato at Troy, Stacie Klump at Troy Athens, Phil Dawson at Avondale, and Laura Guzman at Farmington. Lake Orion and Adams come down from the Red while Avondale and Farmington come up from the Blue to the White after sharing the Blue title. Oxford returns the majority of their team along with Lake Orion, Avondale, Troy, and West Bloomfield (everyone is back for them.) Troy Athens will have to replace some key players along with the Highlanders but both teams have returning players coming back. Farmington will have to replace a ton of talent from last season's Blue division team. When I look at this division this will be very competitive, if I had to choose an early favorite it's Lake Orion with whom they return and when healthy could be dangerous (last season, the Dragons had a ton of injuries to key players) followed by Oxford, West Bloomfield, Adams, Avondale, Troy, Troy Athens, and then Farmington. This division in the OAA will be the one to watch for sure.
Blue:
Rochester
Seaholm
Pontiac
Oak Park
Ferndale
Hazel Park
Berkley
Thoughts
This could be a division where some teams could use as a recovery division. Rochester and Seaholm come down from the White to the Blue. Berkley should be solid next season with the majority of their team returning. The Falcons could make some noise with their future being bright but coaching will be a question mark. The Maples have the majority of their team coming back for coach January Hlaski. Pontiac should be decent with whom they have coming back for coach Christopher Wright. Oak Park has their guards coming back and could be a darkhorse candidate. Ferndale will have two key returning players and a new head coach. Hazel Park will be very young after graduating heavy. If I had to choose an early favorite in this division it's Rochester followed by the Seaholm and then the Bears. The Knights, Phoenix, Vikings, and Eagles fill out the rest of this division.
Boys
Blue:
Oxford
Seaholm
Pontiac
Hazel Park
Royal Oak
Harrison
Berkley
Ferndale
Thoughts
This could be an interesting division when you look at it. Oxford and Seaholm come from the White and Hazel Park come to the Blue from the Red. There are some well known coaches in this division like Steve Laidlaw at Oxford, Josh Schroder at Pontiac, Joe Sermo at Berkley, Greg DeGeeter at Seaholm, Aaron Smith at Royal Oak, Juan Rickman at Ferndale, and Jarrell Hogan at Harrison. Oxford, Ferndale and Pontiac return a ton of talent and could make some noise next season. Royal Oak could be a darkhorse team as they have some talent coming back. Berkley has to replace nine seniors from a team that had a tale of two seasons which started at 9-0 and then a 1-11 finish the rest of the way. Seaholm will be young but could also be a darkhorse team. Harrison in it's final season could play spoiler. Hazel Park will be very young and could be in for some dark times ahead. My early favorite right now would have to be the Wildcats with the talent they have coming back followed by the Eagles, then the Phoenix, Maples, Ravens, Bears, Hawks, and then Hazel Park.
White:
Southfield Arts and Tech
Troy Athens
Adams
Rochester
Stoney Creek
Avondale
Farmington
Groves
Thoughts
This could be an interesting division that features a co-champ and three teams with the name Falcons in Groves, Rochester, and Farmington. There are some well known coaches that are in this division as well in Brad Crighton at Adams, Mike Avery at Southfield Arts and Tech, Steve Norgrove at Stoney Creek, Tim Morton at Avondale, Vance Kirkwood at Rochester, Dave Scott at Troy Athens, and Terrance Porter at Farmington. There isn't a coach at Groves at the moment as Marc West stepped down to take an assistant coaching role at Henry Ford Community College last week. Rochester and Farmington comes from the Blue while Southfield Arts and Tech comes from the Red. The Warriors return a ton of talent that has Red ecxperience, as does the Highlanders, Yellow Jackets, Groves, and Farmington. Rochester, Cougars, and the Red Hawks will have to replace some key talent left by last season's teams. If I had to choose an early favorite it has to be Adams because of whom they have back followed by Avondale, Farmington, and Southfield Arts and Tech. Troy Athens, Stoney Creek, Groves, and then Rochester.
Red:
Clarkston
West Bloomfield
Troy
North Farmington
Bloomfield Hills
Oak Park
Lake Orion
Thoughts
This could be an interesting division as you have the back to back State Champs along with the White and co-Blue Champs here as well. Lake Orion moves up from the Blue and Oak Park from the White. There are some well known coaches in this division as well in Phil Kurjian at Bloomfield Hills, Bobby Thompson at Oak Park, Jeremy Dehna at West Bloomfield, Gary Fralick at Troy, Todd Negoshian at North Farmington, Dan Fife at Clarkston, and Jim Manzo at Lake Orion. The Wolves will be young but talented. The Knights have the most experience coming back talent wise as do the Dragons and Lakers. The Blackhawks, Colts, and Raiders will be young but very competitive. If I had to choose an early favorite, people would say Clarkston but for me it's Oak Park with the talent they have back followed by the Wolves and then West Bloomfield with their experience playing in this division helping both teams. Lake Orion is my darkhorse team to watch as they have a ton back as mentioned. Troy is another to watch that could make a move up the standings. North Farmington, and Bloomfield Hills will be rebuilding a bit.
It will be an interesting season as mentioned, so let it began.
Soundcloud from the podcast that include this story.
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Orion names their new Boys Soccer Coach.
Written Monday April 16th at 2:25 PM
The Dragons didn't have to look far to find their new Boys Varsity Soccer Coach.
Chris Corteg is now the face of Lake Orion Soccer.
Corteg whom is currently the Girls Varsity Soccer coach was named the Boys Varsity Soccer coach taking over for Matt Paukovitis.
Corteg is a well known name in the Soccer community gaining success in the High School, Collegiate, and Club levels. He was also a long time Athletic Director at Utica Eisenhower also coaching soccer as well.
"I have seen the progress Chris has made with our girls, completely reshaping and building that program. We are fortunate that Chris is in a place in his life where he has the time to dedicate the best to both programs" said Lake Orion Athletic Director Chris Bell in a press release.
Corteg will have the same staff in place with the Girls Soccer team with the Boys. Lake Orion will play in the White division this upcoming fall. "I am excited to bring both programs under the same coaching staff. Along with Chris, we have a great soccer staff and I'm excited for them to work with the boys and the girls. Coach Corteg and I have the same vision and that is to have soccer programs that do things the right way and win championships. Our kids deserve that" Bell concluded.
Thoughts
I like this hire a lot, Corteg brings a lot of experience and knowledge to the Lake Orion Boys Soccer program. He will take over a team that does need to change things up a bit but the talent will be there for this team.
It will be interesting what Corteg does now that he is the new face of Dragons soccer.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Soundcloud from this podcast for this story.
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The Dragons didn't have to look far to find their new Boys Varsity Soccer Coach.
Chris Corteg is now the face of Lake Orion Soccer.
Corteg whom is currently the Girls Varsity Soccer coach was named the Boys Varsity Soccer coach taking over for Matt Paukovitis.
Corteg is a well known name in the Soccer community gaining success in the High School, Collegiate, and Club levels. He was also a long time Athletic Director at Utica Eisenhower also coaching soccer as well.
"I have seen the progress Chris has made with our girls, completely reshaping and building that program. We are fortunate that Chris is in a place in his life where he has the time to dedicate the best to both programs" said Lake Orion Athletic Director Chris Bell in a press release.
Corteg will have the same staff in place with the Girls Soccer team with the Boys. Lake Orion will play in the White division this upcoming fall. "I am excited to bring both programs under the same coaching staff. Along with Chris, we have a great soccer staff and I'm excited for them to work with the boys and the girls. Coach Corteg and I have the same vision and that is to have soccer programs that do things the right way and win championships. Our kids deserve that" Bell concluded.
Thoughts
I like this hire a lot, Corteg brings a lot of experience and knowledge to the Lake Orion Boys Soccer program. He will take over a team that does need to change things up a bit but the talent will be there for this team.
It will be interesting what Corteg does now that he is the new face of Dragons soccer.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Soundcloud from this podcast for this story.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-041718
Saturday, April 14, 2018
West Out at Groves.
Written Saturday April 14th at 5:20 PM
The Groves Boys Basketball team will be different next season.
Marc West has stepped down as coach of the Falcons and has accepted a role as an assistant coach at Henry Ford Community College.
West came to Beverly Hills from Madison Heights Bishop Foley in 2016 after seven district titles and three Catholic League crowns with the Ventures. Some experts questioned the hire but he ended up being a great fit for the program bringing the team back after having some tough seasons. West led Groves to a second place finish in his first season in the Gold behind Hazel Park but he did bring his team a district championship in the process in 2016. West would lead the Falcons to a share the Blue title in 2017
West led the Falcons to a district championship appearance losing to Farmington where Groves finished with a 10-12 record, 5-9 in the White last season.
The Falcons will be an interesting team next season in the White. It will be interesting whom gets that job in Beverly Hills.
Thoughts
I was surprised that West would leave Groves. He had that program heading in the right direction. The Falcons should be better next season. As mentioned it will be interesting for Athletic Director Tom Flynn to see whom he gets to replace West.
I can see this move being in house. West has done a great job getting the program back. I think what should be best is to keep it in house.
West will still teach Math at Groves but will be coaching College Basketball instead of High School Basketball.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
The Groves Boys Basketball team will be different next season.
Marc West has stepped down as coach of the Falcons and has accepted a role as an assistant coach at Henry Ford Community College.
West came to Beverly Hills from Madison Heights Bishop Foley in 2016 after seven district titles and three Catholic League crowns with the Ventures. Some experts questioned the hire but he ended up being a great fit for the program bringing the team back after having some tough seasons. West led Groves to a second place finish in his first season in the Gold behind Hazel Park but he did bring his team a district championship in the process in 2016. West would lead the Falcons to a share the Blue title in 2017
West led the Falcons to a district championship appearance losing to Farmington where Groves finished with a 10-12 record, 5-9 in the White last season.
The Falcons will be an interesting team next season in the White. It will be interesting whom gets that job in Beverly Hills.
Thoughts
I was surprised that West would leave Groves. He had that program heading in the right direction. The Falcons should be better next season. As mentioned it will be interesting for Athletic Director Tom Flynn to see whom he gets to replace West.
I can see this move being in house. West has done a great job getting the program back. I think what should be best is to keep it in house.
West will still teach Math at Groves but will be coaching College Basketball instead of High School Basketball.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Friday, April 6, 2018
Ferndale Cleans House.
Written Friday April 6th at 6:00 PM
The Ferndale Eagles will be looking much different in 2018-2019 on the hardwood this fall and winter. Citing very accurate sources, Ferndale will be looking for new Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, and Volleyball coaches.
Boys Basketball.
Tom Staton has stepped down again from Ferndale. Staton returned to coach the Eagles in 2015 and spent two seasons getting Ferndale back on track. He was a 1975 graduate of the school and coached the team to district titles from 2009-2010 to 2011-2012.
The Eagles this season finished at 6-14 losing to Clawson in the district semifinals 58-45. Ferndale did take some hits though as a ton of injuries and academic issues harmed the program. The Eagles also lost Deondre Bonaparte as he transferred out to Ecorse.
Ferndale will be loaded next season behind a strong senior and sophomore class led by Teonah McClendan, Keelan Lucas, and Brian Polozo. The future sophomore class went 10-3 for the Eagles this season.
Girls Basketball.
Christina Nagle has stepped down from coaching the Eagles Girls Basketball program. Nagle was in her first season coaching at Ferndale leading her team to a 4-13 record this season. The Eagles lost in the pre-district to Madison Heights Lamphere in the postseason.
Ferndale won't have a ton of experience coming back and will be looking for their third coach in three years. The Eagles will have Jaliyah Love, Kenisha Williams, and Kyra Newman coming back next season.
Volleyball.
Rachel Burnham has stepped down as coach of the Eagles Volleyball program. Burnham took over Ferndale in 2016 and has tried to get the Eagles into the days when she was a player and an interim coach in 2014 when Ferndale won a district title.
The Eagles so have some talent coming back and could make some noise next season. Ferndale really struggled in the Blue in league play going 2-4 and losing in the pre-district to Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the postseason.
Thoughts.
I'm surprised that Ferndale went this way and cleaned house. These three programs I thought were going up. I'll be curious what direction each program will be heading at especially the boys basketball program where there is plenty of talent there. Girls Basketball and Volleyball could be challenges ahead for whomever gets the jobs there.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Here is the Soundcloud from the podcast that includes this story.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-04-10-18
The Ferndale Eagles will be looking much different in 2018-2019 on the hardwood this fall and winter. Citing very accurate sources, Ferndale will be looking for new Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, and Volleyball coaches.
Boys Basketball.
Tom Staton has stepped down again from Ferndale. Staton returned to coach the Eagles in 2015 and spent two seasons getting Ferndale back on track. He was a 1975 graduate of the school and coached the team to district titles from 2009-2010 to 2011-2012.
The Eagles this season finished at 6-14 losing to Clawson in the district semifinals 58-45. Ferndale did take some hits though as a ton of injuries and academic issues harmed the program. The Eagles also lost Deondre Bonaparte as he transferred out to Ecorse.
Ferndale will be loaded next season behind a strong senior and sophomore class led by Teonah McClendan, Keelan Lucas, and Brian Polozo. The future sophomore class went 10-3 for the Eagles this season.
Girls Basketball.
Christina Nagle has stepped down from coaching the Eagles Girls Basketball program. Nagle was in her first season coaching at Ferndale leading her team to a 4-13 record this season. The Eagles lost in the pre-district to Madison Heights Lamphere in the postseason.
Ferndale won't have a ton of experience coming back and will be looking for their third coach in three years. The Eagles will have Jaliyah Love, Kenisha Williams, and Kyra Newman coming back next season.
Volleyball.
Rachel Burnham has stepped down as coach of the Eagles Volleyball program. Burnham took over Ferndale in 2016 and has tried to get the Eagles into the days when she was a player and an interim coach in 2014 when Ferndale won a district title.
The Eagles so have some talent coming back and could make some noise next season. Ferndale really struggled in the Blue in league play going 2-4 and losing in the pre-district to Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the postseason.
Thoughts.
I'm surprised that Ferndale went this way and cleaned house. These three programs I thought were going up. I'll be curious what direction each program will be heading at especially the boys basketball program where there is plenty of talent there. Girls Basketball and Volleyball could be challenges ahead for whomever gets the jobs there.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Here is the Soundcloud from the podcast that includes this story.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-04-10-18
Inside the OAA and OAA Now Top Basketball Games of the 2017-2018 Season.
Written Friday April 6th at 11:30 AM
Updated Friday April 6th at 11:15 PM
Here is a list of the top games, even though not in particular order but changed the tone of how the season would come down.
Boys
Updated Friday April 6th at 11:15 PM
Here is a list of the top games, even though not in particular order but changed the tone of how the season would come down.
Boys
Oxford at Lake Orion: This was a game that would change the
fortunes of both teams. The Dragons came off a 4-17 season in 2016-2017 keeping
them in the Blue while the Wildcats went 16-4 and went up to the White. This
game would end up being a classic, going to overtime tied at 39-39 with both
teams refusing to lose. It was the Dragons behind a winning free throw winning
55-54. Oxford would struggle in the tough and challenging White while Lake
Orion would go 17-3 sharing the Blue with Rochester. It is always interesting
how rivalry games can change the tempo of each team’s emotions.
Hazel Park vs West Bloomfield (Both Games): This matchup
became an instant classic at both places. The Vikings had a senior heavy team
against the Lakers athleticism and talent. Hazel Park though would win both
meetings but close. The Vikings used strong defense late to give them a 69-65
win at West Bloomfield. The second time around at Hazel Park featured a tense
drama as the lead went back and forth but the Vikings won 65-63 over the Lakers
on a buzzer beater. It didn’t do each team well later in the postseason as both
teams suffered early playoff exits, West Bloomfield fell to Bloomfield Hills
while Hazel Park fell to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit.
Ferndale at Berkley: This game was weird in many ways
between Ferndale and Berkley, two arch rivals. The Bears honored legendary
coach Steve Rhodes and his words of wisdom encouraged Berkley to have a 24-1
lead to start to the game. Everything was favoring the Bears, they led 28-11 at
the half and seemed to have everything in control. The second half however everything
changed. The Eagles were without one of their main players whom transferred to
Ecorse used a 41-23 second half to stun Berkley 52-51. The Bears won the first
meeting in Ferndale 54-49. The Eagles would lose four straight to close out the
season but they have a very good junior class who will be seniors next season.
Troy at West Bloomfield: The Colts used this game as
somewhat of a season turner. After a tough loss to Hazel Park, Troy went on the
road to West Bloomfield to take on a Lakers team that had played a really tough
schedule. West Bloomfield was starting to turn things around after getting a
big win over Belleville but this 72-71 win for the Colts benefited both teams
at the time. For Troy, they would win five of seven. For West Bloomfield, they
would win six straight. The second time around wasn’t even close as the Colts
blew out the Lakers 77-62. The first time these teams met though changed a lot
for both teams.
Royal Oak vs Berkley (Both Games): The Ravens and Bears have
a rivalry and neither game didn’t disappoint. Berkley came from 11 down in the
second half to stun Royal Oak 49-46 on the road. The second game was more
dramatic at Berkley, it ended up being a tense drama but it was the Ravens in
double overtime stunning the Bears 72-70. The loss continued the downward spiral
for Berkley but the win gave Royal Oak some confidence later in the season.
Both teams should be improved heading into next season.
Bloomfield Hills vs North Farmington (Both Games): The
Blackhawks were picked to finish last in the Red. They have a new
coach in Phil Kurjian and taking on a team like North Farmington looks to be a
mismatch on paper, right??? WRONG. Not only did Bloomfield Hills beat the Raiders
but they beat them twice. The Blackhawks went into Farmington Hills in the
house of Negoshian and stunned North Farmington at the time 56-52, it was the
team’s first league win of the season. Bloomfield Hills would then win the
second meeting 52-46. Both teams were very competitive but had some weaknesses
teams could exploit. Next year will be interesting to see where the Blackhawks
and Raiders will be at.
Farmington vs Rochester (Both Games): These two sets of Blue
Falcons would split their meetings eventually creating impacts in the Blue
standings for both teams. Rochester won the first meeting at home 63-61,
needing a defensive stand to escape in that game. Farmington would get their
revenge later at home with a 63-59 victory. The Farmington victory caused a tie
with Lake Orion which led to a share of the Blue title. Farmington used the win
to get themselves ready for a playoff run which would include a district
championship.
Berkley at Harrison: I still am in shock after all of these
months looking at this score. It was 59-54 in favor of the Bears at home the
first time these two teams met but Berkley was desperate after losing two
straight games going into Farmington Hills against a Hawks team that was struggling
to find an identity. Harrison took advantage of Berkley’s terrible play that
night and stunned the Bears 59-54, the same score from their first meeting.
This game had a ton of ramifications which impacted both teams. Harrison was
more competitive after this win while Berkley would never win another game this
season.
Lake Orion at Farmington: This is a game where the Dragons
got ripped off but the Falcons came back from eight points down to force
overtime in Farmington. The game would go to overtime where the Falcons
would stun Lake Orion 84-80 in a wild affair. The Dragons hammered Farmington
70-51, the first time these two teams played at Lake Orion. The Dragons and Falcons will both be
very good next season.
Farmington at Pontiac: Perhaps this was the upset of the
Blue which kept the Falcons from winning at least a share of the division.
Farmington was upset 52-45 by Pontiac at Sy Green Gym. The Phoenix exploded in
the fourth quarter of that game giving them the win. Pontiac would be very
competitive the rest of the season. The Falcons would win five of their last
six games after that loss but they did get a district title in the process.
Adams at Oak Park: This game would be a stepping stone for
both teams. The Highlanders have played a soft schedule to that point would
challenge themselves against a Knights team that was searching for an identity.
This game would benefit both teams with Oak Park winning 49-46 giving Adams
their first loss of the season. The Knights would never lose again after that
game winning the White outright. The Highlanders knew they had a future
building up that could not only be competitive this season but for years to
come.
Flint Carman Ainsworth at Clarkston: The Wolves had to
escape this one at home and were bailed out by Foster Loyer. Loyer ended up
getting the Player of the Year in the State of Michigan. Loyer led Clarkston
whom finished fifth nationally from a double digit deficit in the fourth
quarter to give the Wolves a come from behind 72-67 win at home. This would be
a big win for Clarkston at the time even though they won the Red and had to
overcome an 80-71 loss to Detroit East English Village Prep during the season.
The Wolves would see the Cavaliers again in the State Quarterfinals at Grand
Blanc where they dominated Flint Carman Ainsworth winning 52-31 to get to the
Breslin Center and eventually winning the State title again.
Hazel Park vs Clarkston (Both Games): The Vikings were ranked second in the State heading into their big time showdown with Clarkston. Hazel Park came into the game undefeated and played a really tough schedule taking on a Wolves team that was the top team in the State and was the defending State Champs. In a sold out environment in the small gym of Hazel Park, the Vikings failed miserably losing 70-39. The 39 points was the lowest that Hazel Park scored all season until the second meeting. The second meeting at Clarkston was more interesting as Foster Loyer was out with an knee injury and the Vikings had a chance to clinch at least a share of the Red crown but they couldn't take advantage of Loyer's injury and lost 48-38 which ended up being the lowest score to date. The two losses to the Wolves hurt Hazel Park's chances in the postseason while Clarkston went on and won the State title again.
Hazel Park vs Clarkston (Both Games): The Vikings were ranked second in the State heading into their big time showdown with Clarkston. Hazel Park came into the game undefeated and played a really tough schedule taking on a Wolves team that was the top team in the State and was the defending State Champs. In a sold out environment in the small gym of Hazel Park, the Vikings failed miserably losing 70-39. The 39 points was the lowest that Hazel Park scored all season until the second meeting. The second meeting at Clarkston was more interesting as Foster Loyer was out with an knee injury and the Vikings had a chance to clinch at least a share of the Red crown but they couldn't take advantage of Loyer's injury and lost 48-38 which ended up being the lowest score to date. The two losses to the Wolves hurt Hazel Park's chances in the postseason while Clarkston went on and won the State title again.
Girls
Southfield Arts and Tech at Clarkston: The game at Clarkston
will be most remembered for what it was called “Book-Gate.” The Warriors
thought they tied the score at 44-44 in the middle of the fourth quarter but a book error caused
Southfield Arts and Tech two points on the scoreboard. The Warriors would lose that game 55-50 leaving coach Michelle Marshall furious at the time. Southfield Arts and Tech would get their revenge the second time around winning 47-36 over Clarkston. The Warriors and Wolves would each get a share of the Red title this season.
Royal Oak at Groves: This was the game that gave the Falcons
the share of the White title with the Ravens. Groves lost 54-36 at Royal Oak
the first time these two teams played but the Falcons were ready this time
around against Royal Oak in Beverly Hills. Groves won the second meeting 55-50
in an instant classic. The Ravens after that loss would win nine straight games
while the Falcons would win eight straight riding high into the postseason.
Avondale vs Farmington (Both Games): This was a matchup of
both teams showing their wills on each other. The Yellow Jackets won the first
meeting at Farmington 63-58 giving themselves the edge up in the Blue race but
the Falcons won the second meeting in Auburn Hills winning 49-42. After that
game, Avondale would win eight straight games until the postseason. Farmington
would go 5-2 in their final seven games after that point.
Lake Orion at Clarkston: The Dragons had a rough year under
first year coach Mike Griffin with injuries to half of the team but Lake Orion
took Clarkston to overtime on the road and behind a questionable call late the
Wolves escaped with a 55-54 win in that game. The 54 points the Dragons scored
where the most they have scored this season. Lake Orion should be better next
season.
Bloomfield Hills vs North Farmington (Both Games): The
Raiders and Blackhawks had different styles of attacks to which both teams benefited from. Bloomfield Hills relied on ball movement and accurate three point shooting. North Farmington had a very good big in
Samantha Cherney whom was dominating games to go along with an emerging star in Maya Kelly. The Raiders took the first meeting in Bloomfield Hills with a
55-50 victory behind Cherney. The Blackhawks would get a measure of revenge at North
Farmington when they sneaked by the Raiders with a 39-38 victory but
Cherney went off in that matchup scoring the majority of North Farmington's points on their senior night. Both games benefited both teams as it got them
ready for the postseason in their respective districts with the Raiders playing at Farmington Hills Mercy while Bloomfield Hills hosted their district.
Groves at West Bloomfield: The Lakers were a very young team
under first year coach Bert Mosley but hope for the future showed even though
West Bloomfield lost to Groves 68-63 but the 63 points was the most that the
Falcons allowed all season. The Lakers have basically all of their team back
next season, they could make some noise.
Troy at Troy Athens: The city rivalry lived up to the hype
at Troy Athens. The Colts destroyed the Red Hawks 44-25 at Troy in the first
meeting but in the second meeting Troy Athens showed its will against their
city rivals even having an 11 point lead at one point but the Colts didn’t back
down and made it a game late but the Red Hawks hung on and won 45-43. Troy and
Troy Athens will be teams to keep an eye on next season.
Birmingham Marian at Royal Oak: This was the game that sent shock waves across Southeast Michigan when they Ravens beat Birmingham Marian
31-30 in the team's annual pink-out game. To some folks it was an upset, to others not so much. It was a confidence booster for Royal Oak at the time when you beat a program with that much high profile. These two teams would met again in
the district finals at Birmingham. It was one bad quarter being the difference for the Ravens in
their 39-25 loss to the Mustangs. Royal Oak will be senior heavy next season
and could make some noise again.
Oxford at Stoney Creek: This game would change the fortunes of both teams heading into the season. The Wildcats won at Rochester 36-33 in a horrible shooting performance from Stoney Creek in this game. The Cougars played a very tough non conference schedule while Oxford had to play River Rouge early in the season. Oxford would finish 15-5 while Stoney Creek struggled throughout the season but will have the majority of their team coming back next season as does the Wildcats.
Oxford at Stoney Creek: This game would change the fortunes of both teams heading into the season. The Wildcats won at Rochester 36-33 in a horrible shooting performance from Stoney Creek in this game. The Cougars played a very tough non conference schedule while Oxford had to play River Rouge early in the season. Oxford would finish 15-5 while Stoney Creek struggled throughout the season but will have the majority of their team coming back next season as does the Wildcats.
Groves at Clarkston: The Falcons had the Wolves beat late in
the fourth quarter but Clarkston found a way and survived Groves 52-46 in a wild game.
This game would benefit both teams as the Falcons shared the White with Royal
Oak while the Wolves shared the Red with Southfield Arts and Tech.
Royal Oak at Clarkston: The Wolves
had to survive a very good Royal Oak team early winning 37-28. The win for
Clarkston would set the stage for a future playoff run for the Wolves to the State
Quarterfinals where they ran into a very good Saginaw Heritage team. The Ravens would also benefit from this game as they went onto
share the White crown.
It was a great basketball season in the OAA,
one State Champion in Boys Basketball but a lot of teams that made impacts that
impacted each of their seasons.
Now lets get ready for next year.
Here is the Soundcloud from the podcast that includes this story.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-04-10-18
Here is the Soundcloud from the podcast that includes this story.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-04-10-18
Sunday, April 1, 2018
Looking at the Berkley Football Coaching Situation.
Written Sunday April 1st at 5:45 PM
As we are into April there is one football coaching vacancy that is needing to be fulfilled in the OAA and that's at Berkley High School.
The Bears are looking for their third coach in three years after Billy Keenest left to go back to Troy Athens, where he teaches and will be tasked of getting the Red Hawks back respectability and to the playoffs for the first time since 2011.
With Kennest's departure it leaves the Bears without a Varsity Football Coach.
According to my sources, the coaching search is not going well so far.
I have given it some thought where Berkley Athletic Director Lori Stone should look at getting the school's next head coach.
I thought about the Chris Sikora family tree but it's not likely anyone if anyone would come back from that staff that led the Bears to the postseason from 2013-2016, one included a regional final appearance in 2015.
If anyone from the Sikora tree would comeback to Berkley it would be Ray Ostrowski. Ostrowski was an assistant under Sikora but according to sources it appears that he is happy where he is right now.
Another coach I thought about would be Manny Bellamy. Bellamy coached at Berkley under Sikora but last season he was the special teams coordinator and wide receivers coach at St. Clair Shores Lake Shore. I wonder if it's possible that Bellamy would come back and coach the Bears???
It is likely that Berkley would have to go outside the box like they did when they went with Keenest. I think if the Bears choose to go this route then should go within the Farmington Hills Harrison tree and start from scratch. John Herstein is a name I've been saying for about a year now. I thought he would had gotten the job at North Farmington or especially at Farmington but the Raiders went with Bob Chiesa and the Falcons went with Kory Ciroch. Herstein is an assistant coach at Farmington Hills Harrison under coach John Herrington. Herrington has said on record that he is ready to coach his own team.
Another name I've thought about is Gary Griffith. Griffith was a long time football coach at Troy but was the defensive coordinator last season at Hazel Park. His defense was one of the main reasons why the Vikings got into the playoffs last season. Griffith knows the division where Berkley will be in this season. I have heard rumors that Griffith is looking at being the defensive coordinator under first year coach Nick Merlo at Stoney Creek.
It will be interesting to see where Stone goes with this football coaching search but whomever she chooses has to be the right guy for not only this year but into the future of Berkley football.
As we are into April there is one football coaching vacancy that is needing to be fulfilled in the OAA and that's at Berkley High School.
The Bears are looking for their third coach in three years after Billy Keenest left to go back to Troy Athens, where he teaches and will be tasked of getting the Red Hawks back respectability and to the playoffs for the first time since 2011.
With Kennest's departure it leaves the Bears without a Varsity Football Coach.
According to my sources, the coaching search is not going well so far.
I have given it some thought where Berkley Athletic Director Lori Stone should look at getting the school's next head coach.
I thought about the Chris Sikora family tree but it's not likely anyone if anyone would come back from that staff that led the Bears to the postseason from 2013-2016, one included a regional final appearance in 2015.
If anyone from the Sikora tree would comeback to Berkley it would be Ray Ostrowski. Ostrowski was an assistant under Sikora but according to sources it appears that he is happy where he is right now.
Another coach I thought about would be Manny Bellamy. Bellamy coached at Berkley under Sikora but last season he was the special teams coordinator and wide receivers coach at St. Clair Shores Lake Shore. I wonder if it's possible that Bellamy would come back and coach the Bears???
It is likely that Berkley would have to go outside the box like they did when they went with Keenest. I think if the Bears choose to go this route then should go within the Farmington Hills Harrison tree and start from scratch. John Herstein is a name I've been saying for about a year now. I thought he would had gotten the job at North Farmington or especially at Farmington but the Raiders went with Bob Chiesa and the Falcons went with Kory Ciroch. Herstein is an assistant coach at Farmington Hills Harrison under coach John Herrington. Herrington has said on record that he is ready to coach his own team.
Another name I've thought about is Gary Griffith. Griffith was a long time football coach at Troy but was the defensive coordinator last season at Hazel Park. His defense was one of the main reasons why the Vikings got into the playoffs last season. Griffith knows the division where Berkley will be in this season. I have heard rumors that Griffith is looking at being the defensive coordinator under first year coach Nick Merlo at Stoney Creek.
It will be interesting to see where Stone goes with this football coaching search but whomever she chooses has to be the right guy for not only this year but into the future of Berkley football.
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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.