Is Spring Football a Good Idea???

Written Monday June 25th at 2:40 PM

There has been a debate going on for years, some states do it, some don't. Should the State of Michigan have spring football???

According to Detroit Free Press sports writer Perry Farrell some high school coaches are considering it.

Farrell talked to former Flint Powers Catholic and Notre Dame defensive back Todd Lyght. He was all in on the idea of spring football in Michigan “I definitely think there should be spring ball in Michigan. Anytime you get an opportunity to develop your team and your student-athlete then take advantage of it. Every State is a little bit different as far as how they approach spring ball. I know the Midwest with the rules the way they are. I think it’s a disadvantage for student-athletes and they fall behind the kids in the south and in the west in development. There are more seven on seven camps, seven on seven tournaments, things like that. So in the Midwest due to the weather and the way the rules are set up the development is stunted with the system. It’s better for team camaraderie also.”

College and some High School coaches like the idea of having spring football because it allows colleges to evaluate players and teach the fundamentals of the game.

Nate Hamilton whom is the assistant director of the MHSAA is against the idea of having spring football because of safety concerns. Hamilton said to Farrell addressing his concerns. “Going back to the days when I coached (in Detroit), we would’ve thought that it would be a fantastic idea. We live in different times now and I really worry about the contact aspect of additional contact outside the season involving football.”

High school coaches have said that having six or eight practices will help and that it wouldn’t affect student-athletes playing other sports.

Other coaches have said that it is time for the MHSAA to adapt to today's climate. "I have always said the MHSAA needs to adapt (currently allows ten days of camp and seven days of seven on seven with helmets only.) They need to consider allowing four practices in June (two with helmets and two with shoulder pads.) Also allow a three day camp end of July before the dead week and cut it to four or five seven on sevens" said Lake Orion football coach John Blackstock.

According to Farrell, there was a camp that took place in May which 18 schools took advantage of where 100 college coaches came to Michigan to watch a physical education class during school hours. The pros of having that camp and the others is that there is opportunities for players got Division One scholarship offers and the exposure it offers.

But there is a down side to this.

Weather here in Michigan is a big concern, it can be brutal at times. Also student-athletes play other sports as well besides football. There is baseball, lacrosse, golf, tennis, and track that are in the spring. There are athletes sure that are football only kids but there are others that are multi-sport athletes as well and Academics are important as well. "I wouldn't want to take away from the other spring sports that go on in the spring" said new Stoney Creek football and throws coach Nick Merlo.

Oak Park football coach and Athletic Director Greg Carter talked to Farrell about addressing his concerns. "Down south they have the advantage because they can get started with baseball and track as early as February. If we are allowed to continue to have just one day that kids could compete and show their athletic ability to college coaches in the spring, that's fine with me. We're trying to get our students college scholarships so they have the opportunity to further their education"

Thoughts.

I don’t like the idea of spring football for a couple of reasons. I think it’s too much on the student-athletes especially those who do spring sports. It’s also safety issue for me in case someone gets hurt and it’s a drag on trainers and everyone involved. Also there are schools who don’t have the space or the resources to have spring football. There are coaches that aren’t in the building or that there is not enough student-athletes to have spring football. Student-athletes will always find ways to get their name out (ala The D-Zone, or this blog, or my podcast) and the colleges will come.

I think it’s too much if we have spring football in Michigan. Will having spring football give more opportunities and exposure, sure but at the end of the day football doesn’t always have to be king. For some student-athletes, football is not their main sport and baseball, tennis, golf, lacrosse, and track is. There are also scholarships that can be had as well in those sports.

At the end of the day it's a debate and no one is really wrong about this topic.

Here is Perry Farrell’s article.

https://www.freep.com/story/sports/high-school/2018/06/25/michigan-high-school-spring-football/727255002/

Hurdle Out at Bloomfield Hills.

Written Wednesday June 20th at 11:00 AM

There will be a job opening posted for the Bloomfield Hills Volleyball program.

According to Drew Ellis of MIPrepZone in a tweet on Twitter Blackhawks coach Bob Hurdle has stepped down coaching the team. The search for a new coach has already started.

Hurdle was the first ever volleyball coach for Bloomfield Hills. He was at Andover before both they and Lahser merged to become Bloomfield Hills in 2014.

Bloomfield Hills will have plenty of talent coming back led by Alexa Rousseau along with Brooke Bosart, Avlia Slazinski, Annie Hoag, Noelle Siewek, Kaitlyn Keele, Lily Formanek, and Maggie Walters.

The Blackhawks compete in the very difficult Red with Lake Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, Troy, Adams, and Stoney Creek. They are in an interesting district that features West Bloomfield, Troy, Troy Athens, Avondale, and Waterford Mott but they do host.

Thoughts.

I was surprised by Hurdle stepping down from Bloomfield Hills especially late in the game. I'm going to be curious how this will work out and how quick the transition will be but whomever the new coach will be should have a very good team moving forward.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Hazel Park will leave the OAA Next Fall.

Written Tuesday June 19th at 10:00 PM

The Hazel Park Vikings will be on the way out of the OAA.

Hazel Park was accepted into the Macomb Area Conference. The Vikings will begin play in the MAC in the fall of 2019.

Hazel Park Athletic Director Dave Muylaert in a interview with the Macomb Daily explained the reasons why his school was leaving the OAA. "It's been hard for us to compete in some sports in the Oakland Activities Association due to our numbers. For instance in girls swimming we have 10 or 12 girls on the team. We regularly compete with schools that have between 30 and 50 team members, It's difficult and discouraging for our student-athletes. When you are trying to build or maintain a program being in a non competitive situation is tough. That's why some of our sports programs have suffered."

Hazel Park whom will be departing the league and Harrison will close it's doors next year thus leaving the league at 21 schools next fall. The Vikings are in Class B with the Hawks along with Ferndale and Pontiac. There are numerous Class B schools that play in the MAC that should help their cause. "The MAC has a really good realignment system to place schools where they belong" Muylaert concluded.

The main reason why for the Vikings departure from the league is competitive balance. They will be a voting member of the MAC this year.

Hazel Park will be the first team to leave the OAA since Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott left in 2007 for the Kensington Lakes Activities Association.

Thoughts.

I was not surprised and it was no secret that Hazel Park wanted out of the OAA. They have been wanting out of the league for a long time because of competitive balance and now they have that.

Hazel Park has been frustrated with the league on two fronts, the first is travel considering that they would have to travel to places like Lake Orion, Clarkston, or Oxford in northern Oakland County and the other is the multiple realignments especially when bigger schools go into their division. Muylaert feels that they can not compete with the bigger schools because of school size. Perfect example was in 2016 when Muylaert complained about the Blue alignment for football that had Troy, Bloomfield Hills, and Rochester whom were bigger schools that struggled or in 2017 when Lake Orion was in their division for girls soccer.

This was not the first time that Hazel Park wanted out of the league. In 2017, they were approved by the Athletic Directors of the MAC but were turned down by the principals.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Here is the Macomb Daily Article on Hazel Park's departure from the league.
http://www.macombdaily.com/sports/20180619/hazel-park-joins-the-mac-kicks-off-competition-in-the-2019-2020-school-year

Basketball Districts are Out.

Written Thursday June 14th at 10:00 PM
Updated Monday October 8th at 9:40 PM

Hello everybody, the moment is here here is my insight and thoughts about the Basketball districts coming out.

This blog will be updated with the current information.

Here they are.

District 6: Boys/Girls @ Lake Orion

LAKE ORION

CLARKSTON

OXFORD

ADAMS

Romeo

Waterford Kettering

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Lake Orion

WILDCARD: Adams, Oxford, Romeo

WHY: This district could be very interesting and competitive when you look at the teams that are in this district. Clarkston will be a much different team than the previous teams that won back to back State Championships in the last two years but the Loyer and Waslik names remain for whomever takes over the basketball program as the Wolves will have a new coach since Dan Fife has retired after 36 years behind the bench as they have named well known assistant Tim Waslik as the team's new head coach. Clarkston will have Flecther Loyer, Keegan and Jaiden Waslik come in to the fold and join the likes of Matt Nicholson, Jake Jenson, Desmond Mills-Bradley, Cole Donchez, Blake Kosin, Garrett Dellinger, among others. Lake Orion will be an interesting team to keep an eye on as coach Jim Manzo has a ton of talent coming back in Nate Talbot, Kyle Loken, Hunter Sites, Jack Cummings, Drew Van Heck, Jake Rydquist, among others. Adams whom should be the favorite in the White has the majority returning from winning the district last season in Ethan Emerzian, Jake Schuler, Jake Emerzian, Carter Farris, Peyton Prieskorn, and Austin Urusay for coach Brad Crighton. The Highlanders welcome in Gunner Walters to the basketball program. Walters is the son of former Detroit Pistons assistant coach Rex Walters and he is very talented. Romeo will be very competitive not only in this district but also in the Macomb Area White division after winning the crown last season. The Bulldogs will be led by Blake McRae, Ryan Heimbuch, Brock Horne, Joe Gamache, Marcus Kreuger, Chris Riley, and Brandon Owens for coach Marv Cushingberry. Oxford will have a ton of talent that will be coming back this season led by Grant Kornberger, Michael Raisch, Tre Townsend, Nolan Hiller, Zach Townsend, D’Wayney Turner, among others for coach Steve Laidlaw. The Wildcats are expected to be a tough competitor in the Blue as well this year. Waterford Kettering will bring an experienced team into this district and will look to be competitive in the tough Lakes Valley Conference as the Captains will be led by Travis Frazier and company for new coach Anthony Phifer whom brings an AAU background in Southfield. This district will be interesting and fun to watch to say the least.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Waterford Kettering

NEXT: Lake Orion

WILDCARD: Clarkston, Oxford, Romeo

WHY: This could be a very competitive district to say the least. Waterford Kettering should be the favorite heading into this district. The Captains have a ton of experience returning in Irene Schoof, Ashley Watson, Clare Broghagn, Izzy Dugal, Biana Kaiser, and Kate Frazier for new coach Corey Hightower. Hightower comes to Waterford Kettering after coaching Boys Basketball for the Flint Jaguars. He also coaches the girls basketball AAU team "The Mystics." The Captains will also be in contention as well for the Lakes Valley Conference crown with Walled Lake Western in that league. Romeo will be in a transition as coach Connie Hernaden has stepped down to be an assistant coach at Rochester College but whomever the new coach is will have some experience back led by Olivia Medaugh, Aubrey Medaugh, Karen Brown, Natalie Nowak, and Rachel Baumann. Oxford will have a ton of experience back for coach Rachel Bryer led by Ashley Hershmann, Lauren Methner, Mackenzie Methner, Hayla Cato, Emma Van Loon, Sarah Terrell, among others. Clarkston has a new coach in John Meyer whom coaches the AAU team "Pr1DE." The Wolves have one returning starter in Taylor Heaten from a team that went to the State Quarterfinals last season but has Lexi Linton, Kaitlyn Kaul, Piper Bosart, Sam Aris, Olivia Toderian, among others in the fold as well. Adams could be a factor as they have some talent back after a 4-16 season last year. The Highlanders have Lauren Petersmark, Amelia Drahnak, Maggie Dogehna, Grace Van Pelt, Nicole Clarehout, Sydney Reed, among others coming back for coach Shay Lewis. Lake Orion is in a very interesting spot, they host the district and could be a serious contender. The Dragons went 4-16 last year but they will have their fourth coach in four seasons but a familiar face in Bob Brydges whom takes over the team and could be a serious factor in the district. Lake Orion should have a boatload of experience back in Paytin Shadaia, Sophie Wyborski, Kylie Anderson, Meghan Marshall, and Kendall Robertson. This will be an interesting district to watch to say the least.

District 7 Boys @ Bloomfield Hills, Girls @ West Bloomfield # Girls

AVONDALE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

WEST BLOOMFIELD

NORTH FARMINGTON #

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Waterford Mott

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: West Bloomfield

NEXT: Avondale

WILDCARD: Orchard Lake St. Marys, Waterford Mott

WHY: This district at Bloomfield Hills has a ton of variety heading into the postseason in middle Oakland County. The favorite should be West Bloomfield because of program strength. The Lakers should be hungry after getting to the Final Four two years ago but was upset by the Blackhawks at home in the pre-district last season. West Bloomfield is loaded with talent as they were last season. They will be led by Tre Mosley, Shameer Matthews, Donovan Moore, Donovan Edwards, among others for coach Jeremy Dehna. Avondale will be senior heavy this season for coach Tim Morton and will look to contend not only in this district but also in the White as well. The Yellow Jackets are led by Ezekiel Ringstaff, Derrick Hinton, and Kobe Anthony. Bloomfield Hills will have a young team that will be led by Mason Canfield, Colin Hecker, Alec Ward, and Alex Higley for coach Phil Kurajian. Waterford Mott whom should be talented as well will have Keimonnie Fields back for coach Dave McGlown but concerns in the interior looms for them as well. The Corsairs could be in the discussion for a Lakes Valley Crown again this season. Orchard Lake St. Marys will have some talent back led by Lorne Bowman, Peter Nwoke, and Kareem Rozier for coach Todd Covert but they have some questions in the interior. This district could be interesting as mentioned, it’s anyone’s ball game whom wins this district.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Bloomfield Hills

NEXT: West Bloomfield

WILDCARD: North Farmington,Waterford Mott

WHY: This could be an interesting district to keep an eye on heading into March. Bloomfield Hills should be the favorite heading into this district at West Bloomfield because of whom they have back and if they are clicking especially from three point range then look out. The Blackhawks will be led by Jordan Banks, Grace Getz, Angelina Savaya, and Maryiam Hashim for coach Jeff Rubin. North Farmington is in an interesting spot as they will be a different team this season. Coach Jeff Simpson will have a team that won't feature a dominant post presence as in years past but the Raiders still have some very talented guards in Molly Simpson and Maya Kelly whom will have to do more for North Farmington to make some noise. Avondale has Keori Lee, Olivia Russell, Meleisha Rodriguez, Brila Benion, and Reigan Lawerence leading the Yellow Jackets for new coach Bob Lees whom comes from Troy coaching in the Boys Basketball ranks under legendary coach Gary Fralick. West Bloomfield could be a factor in this district because of home court and experience. The Lakers have everyone back for coach Bert Mosley led by Destiny Monroe, Mya Bobo, and crew. Waterford Mott will be very young once again but have added size to their core group. The Corsairs will be led by Morgan Fuerest, and Makayla Procter for coach Michelle Sklar. I see this district painted in purple and black or in brown and yellow.

District 18 Boys/Girls @ Novi # Boys

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON #

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Stevenson

Novi

Northville

Novi Detroit Catholic Central

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Novi Detroit Catholic Central

NEXT: Farmington

WILDCARD: Livonia Stevenson, North Farmington, Northville

WHY: This district has plenty of storylines. Brandon Sinawi whom took Novi to the Final Four last season was named the new Varsity Basketball coach at Novi Detroit Catholic Central. His new team has a ton of talent coming back. There is a likelihood that Sinawi he could see his former team in the district at his former gym. The Shamrocks are the early favorite because of Sinawi and the talent they have back led by Brenden Downs, Davis Lukomski, Austin Braun, and Justin Rikat. Farmington will be interesting to keep an eye on as coach Terrance Porter has Jared Atkins and Terrick Humes coming back for a team that won a district title last season. The Falcons added Detroit East English Village Prep transfer Tariq Shepperd to a team that could make some noise. Northville was senior heavy last season will have a ton of juniors coming back to fill the void. The Mustangs will be led by Zach Shoemaker, Ryan Pumper, and Steven Morrisey for coach Todd Sandler. Livonia Stevenson returns a ton of talent from a team that won 17 games last season for coach Kareem Smart led by Devin Dunn. Novi will be a team to watch in this district led by Giovanni Miles for new coach Chris Housey. North Farmington is always well coached under Todd Negoshian. The Raiders return a boatload of talent that is led by Justice Sallaam, Yusuf Jihad, Eddie Lenton (transferred from Harrison,) and Jamal Hayes. It’s anyone’s ball game whom can win this district.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Livonia Stevenson

WILDCARD: Northville

WHY: Farmington Hills Mercy should be the favorite heading into this district because of whom coach Gary Morris has coming back. The Marlins have five sophomores that were very productive last season led by Julia Bishop and Ellie Tisko. Farmington Hills Mercy expects to be in the Catholic League championship hunt this season and could make a long playoff run if they get by this district. Northville whom won a district crown last season could be a darkhorse candidate to keep an eye on with Elle Duckworth back for coach Todd Gudith. Novi will be rebuilding a bit after losing a ton of players to graduation but the Wildcats will have Anna Biberstein coming back for coach Bill Kelp and home court. Livonia Stevenson whom is one of the favorites in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association could be the team that could give Farmington Hills Mercy the most trouble because the Spartans have a boatload of talent returning for coach Jen Knoch. Farmington is very young but they will be competitive led by Iasia Rimpson, Cecelia Norris, and Hailey Walker for coach Laura Guzman. This district will be interesting but this one looks like this is the Marlins to lose.

District 28 Boys @ Groves, Girls @ Birmingham Marian

BERKLEY

GROVES

SEAHOLM

ROYAL OAK

Birmingham Marian

Birmingham Brother Rice

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice

NEXT: Groves

WILDCARD: Berkley, Royal Oak

WHY: This district is interesting because this is a basically new district and a couple of teams have new coaches. Birmingham Brother Rice has the majority of their team returning after a disappointing loss to Troy in the district semifinals last season. The Warriors have a new coach in Ricky Palmer whom is well known around the basketball world. Palmer was an assistant on Kirk Keener’s staff at Birmingham Detroit Country Day. The Warriors are big and relentless led by Jon Brantley and incoming Rochester Adams transfer Zach Maynard. Groves whom is the district host named Benny White the team's new head coach after Mark West left to be an assistant coach at Detroit Henry Ford Community College. The Falcons are very athletic and talented led by Daniel Lee, Grant Gilbert, and Rogers Motley. Seaholm is an interesting team to keep an eye on because of whom they lost last season. The Maples will have a blend of young and experience for coach Mike DeGeeter but they have some questions on several occasions. Royal Oak should be better this season for coach Aaron Smith and is a darkhorse candidate not only in the district but in the Blue as well. The Ravens will be led by Jonvan Martin, Joe Binkowski, and Toby Adensyna. Berkley is in an interesting spot as they are trying to rebound from a second half collapse to which they finished 1-11 after a 9-0 start last season. What helps the Bears and coach Joe Sermo is that they have experience led by Christian Talley and company. This district is Birmingham Brother Rice's to lose but the Falcons could give them a fight.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian

NEXT: Royal Oak

WILDCARD: Groves

WHY: This district could be a two team race like it was last season. Birmingham Marian whom is one of the Catholic League championship favorites but is also the favorite to win this district because of home court and Olivia Moore. Also they are well coached by Mary Ciercerone. Royal Oak whom is one of the favorites in the Red should be the main challenger to the Mustangs reign as champions. The Ravens return Samantha Potter and Jessica Adams for coach Brian Sopota among others. Groves is the wildcard even though they are different this season because they lost a ton to graduation last year but the Falcons still have Ellie Ruprich and Emily Felix returning for coach Jessica Wiesler and her team. Seaholm will have a ton of experience back and will be one of the favorites for the Blue crown this season for interim coach Chris Manchester after former coach January Hlaski became an assistant principal for the school. Berkley will be very competitive in the Blue and a change in scenery should help after being in a district that was in the Detroit area for years but the thing that worries me about them is their non conference schedule, I don't think it is tough enough for them to get better. The Bears have Olivia DiCarlo and Savannah Casida for coach Kirk Carolan. This district will either be painted in black or in blue and yellow.

District 25 Boys/Girls @ Detroit Mumford

OAK PARK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

Redford Union

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

NEXT: Oak Park

WILDCARD: Detroit Renaissance 

WHY: This district will feature plenty of firepower. The early favorite has to be Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit because of three guys that are expected to make some noise in Daniel Friday, J.T Moran, Southfield Christian transfer Caleb Hunter, and especially Jalen Thomas. The Cubs are the favorite in the Catholic League and the favorite heading into this district as well. Thomas transferred back from Nevada to play for coach Pat Donnelly last season. He was a difference maker especially in the postseason and will look to have an encore year this season. Detroit Renaissance has a lot of talent coming back for them led by Kylin Grant, and Chandler Turner. The Phoenix were caught off guard with the sudden departure of coach Vito Jordan. The school has named John White as the team's new coach. White comes from Detroit Old Redford and was an assistant at Southfield Christian for a while. Jordan had filed a lawsuit in Federal Court in Detroit against the school's new principal Verynda Stroughter and the Detroit Public Schools Community district but was denied an opportunity to coach the team. Detroit Renaissance's top player Carlington McCaskill has transferred out to Ohio. Oak Park is in an interesting spot with what has went on with the Phoenix situation. The Knights have the talent to not only win this district but also the Red as well. Oak Park has Maliq Carr, Dovante Edwards, among others coming back for coach Bobby Thompson. Southfield Arts and Tech is in an interesting spot as they have a ton of talent coming back led by Terrell Humes and Cameron McEvans for new coach Darryle Buchanan. Detroit Mumford whom is young led by Alan Gee and Detroit Old Redford transfer Jamar Jenkins could make some noise. Redford Union could be in line for short district run even though they will be led by Nathaniel Brown. Three teams have a great shot at winning this district.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance

NEXT: Southfield Arts and Tech

WILDCARD: Detroit Mumford

WHY: This will be a competitive district that could surprise people in Detroit. I went back and fourth thinking whom should be the favorite in this district. Detroit Renaissance should the favorite in this district because they have nearly everyone back. The Phoenix are loaded again and posed to make the next step with it’s young team (led by Kailee Davis, MiKyah Finley, Nika Dorsey, and Shannon Wheeler) not only in this district but in the Detroit Public School League as well for coach Kiwan Ward. Detroit Mumford is making the jump up from Class B (Division Two) after winning their first Detroit Public School league title since 1978 and getting to the regional last season. The Mustangs will be led by Adoreya Williams and Shanea Dinwiddle for coach Kareem Hogan. Southfield Arts and Tech under coach Michelle Marshall whom should be the favorite in the Red features the three best players in this district in Alexis Johnson, Keonia Willis, and Cheyenne McEvans. These three players also has a ton of playoff experience which will help the Warriors going forward. They did add an incoming transfer whom is committed to Toledo in Soleil Barnes. Barnes was an honorable mention for Nordonia, Ohio last season. Oak Park has some experience back led by Kyla Wilson but questions in the interior and depth concern me for coach Deidra Hines team. Redford Union really doesn't stand much of a chance especially with the teams they are dealing with. This district looks to be a Phoenix/Warriors final but Detroit Mumford is lurking.

District 29 Boys/Girls @ Utica

STONEY CREEK

ROCHESTER

TROY

Utica Eisenhower

Utica

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Stoney Creek

WILDCARD: Utica Eisenhower

WHY: This district could be wide open, there is really no clear favorite heading to the small gym of Utica. Stoney Creek has some questions heading into this season for coach Steve Norgrove. The big question for the Cougars is can they score??? Stoney Creek lost a ton of talent to graduation in Nate Davis and Mike Melgarni but they have two solid guards in Griffin Beears, Alex Reiter, and Trevor Smith coming back which should help the Cougars but the interior will be a question mark even though they have Pat Galy to fill the void there. Rochester has the same questions as Stoney Creek when it comes to scoring. The Falcons lost two very good players whom graduated last season in Hunter Schlatter and LaMarko Gulledge whom both averaged 20 points a game. The Falcons will feature Corey Gulledge, Cameron Caggins, and Drake Reid for coach Vance Kirkwood's team. Troy will be very young this season but they are always well coached and will have Brody Parker back for coach Gary Fralick. Utica will have a senior heavy team for coach David Hinkle led by Nik Gjonaj. Utica Eisenhower whom struggled in the Macomb Area Red division last season had a young nucleus but they did upset of Rochester last season in the district semifinals which should aid them heading into this season. The Eagles have a lot of talent coming back led by Anthony Cukaj along with Lorenzo Dilisio, Steve Selmani, Nik Gjonaj, Massimo D'aristotle, and JaiJavante Reed for coach Dave Schwesinger. I see three maybe four teams that have great shots at winning this district on the small gym of Utica.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Stoney Creek

NEXT: Utica Eisenhower

WILDCARD: Troy

WHY: When I look at this district, I wonder if this could be the revenge tour for “Team Finebaum?” The favorite should be Stoney Creek and when healthy coach Kellen James’s team could be as dangerous as anyone. The Cougars will have Emily Ekhout, Meghan Solek, Lily DiPani, Maria St. Louis, Devin Vowels, among others. Utica Eisenhower will be very young for coach Mike Satawa but Lauren DeBeau returns which should provide them veteran leadership. Utica comes back into this district after one year in a different district could make things interesting. Not to mention that the district is on their small home court for coach Tom McDonald and they have Cayley Ebeling and Mone Knowles returning as well for the Chieftains. Troy is a darkhorse candidate as the Colts return a boatload of talent for coach Simon Bato in Athena Sampson, Emily Olson, Nisha Bhargava, Riya Chakravity, Delaney Witz, Jessica Chen, and Elena Rinke. Rochester will have it's third coach in three seasons as Jeff Haney returns to the head coaching position taking over for Al Poynter. The Falcons will look to get its glory back will have Tori Hawkins, Sam Thessian, Payton Johnson, Maddie Perkins, and Alyssa Miller. This district with the magic of Paul Finebaum’s eye could see it paint in navy blue and gold this season.

District 30 Boys @ Utica Ford, Girls @ Troy Athens

TROY ATHENS

Chippewa Valley

Sterling Heights

Sterling Heights Stevenson

Utica Ford

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Troy Athens

NEXT: Chippewa Valley

WILDCARD: Sterling Heights, Sterling Heights Stevenson

WHY: This district could be competitive despite a ton of differences heading into this district. Utica Ford has nowhere to go but up after going 0-20 last season. Sterling Heights could have a say in this district. The Stallions went 9-12 last season but they have plenty of experience coming back for new coach Mike Griffin in Joseph Davis, Trennel Payne (honorable mention all Macomb County, Tyler Shaba (all defense Macomb County), Andrew Dalal, Ben Jarnot, among others but they will have a new coach this season as Ryan Kay has stepped down from coaching the team. Chippewa Valley returns Tommy Schuster, among others for coach Kevin Voss. Sterling Heights Stevenson returns a ton of talent for coach Mark LaCombe from a team that struggled last year. Troy Athens will be very young this season for coach Dave Scott as they will rely on Alex Sidorowicz, Andrei Tipuria, Josh Seifert, Ethan Labay, and Dylan Mantos but the Red Hawks have a strong Junior Varsity team coming up which should help them in the future and beyond. I think Troy Athens, Chippewa Valley, Sterling Heights, and Sterling Heights Stevenson have great shots to win this district.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Troy Athens

NEXT: Chippewa Valley

WILDCARD: Utica Ford

WHY: The favorite in this district has to be Troy Athens because of home court and experience. The Red Hawks have a ton of talent coming back for coach Stacie Klumpp in Isabelle Crumm, Grace Bright, and Abby Bright. Chippewa Valley has a ton of talent coming back led by Abby Wochaski for coach Jackie Maurer. The Big Reds could not only challenge Troy Athens in the district but they can also contend for the Macomb Area Conference White crown this season. Utica Ford whom had an unusual 4-16 season last year under coach Matt Joseph should be better this year led by Olivia Kubik. Sterling Heights have some talent coming back but they will have a new coach as Dan Kreps stepped down from coaching the team. Sterling Heights Stevenson was a 500 team last season but they could be mentioned this year. This district should be interesting to watch with the Red Hawks right now the early favorite but Chippewa Valley isn't that far behind.

District 61 Boys TBA, Girls @ Pontiac Notre Dame Prep # Boys

HARRISON #

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood

Clawson

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Wixom St. Catherine Sienna Academy

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Pontiac

WILDCARD: Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood

WHY: This is an interesting district to keep an eye on heading into March. The favorite in this district should be Birmingham Detroit Country Day with whom coach Mike Bray has coming back and the talent the program possesses. The Yellow Jackets will be led by Mac Manciel, Demetriess Champion, and Julian Roper. The trio will help a lot this season for the Yellow Jackets. Pontiac whom not only is a contender in the Blue but could possibly be Birmingham Detroit Country Day's top challenger in this district. The Phoenix have a ton of talent returning for coach Josh Schroeder, led by D'Quarion Cole, Daveaun Cole, Keyshawn Shelmonson-Bay, Kenyatta Green, William Avarex, Devonta Glenn, Ernesto Simpson, and Dominique Stovall. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood whom won 21 games last season could be a darkhorse candidate for coach Shane Finney along with being the favorite in the Catholic League. The Cranes have Alex Finney, Clark Doman, Terrell Williams, Jordan Benson, Kobi Russell, Jack Fairman, Jake Bousmara, and Jake Gorwicz all returning. Clawson has a ton of talent returning for new coach Alan Walker. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep has some experience coming back as well this season. Harrison in it’s final season as a school should have some talent back for coach Jareel Hogan. The Hawks depth will be a concern heading into the season. Birmingham Detroit Country Day should be the favorite in this district because of the experience but Pontiac and Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood will give the favorites the most trouble in this district.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Clawson

WILDCARD: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

WHY: This district could get ugly at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep as the defending State Champs in this district. The favorite has to be coach Frank Orlando’s team at Birmingham Detroit Country Day. The Yellow Jackets have Jasmine Powell and Maddie Novak returning for them and could be in line for a three peat. St. Catherine Sienna Academy returns a boatload of talent despite only winning ten games last season. Pontiac whom won five games last season has improved recently for coach Christopher Wright. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep despite not having a coach will have Sarah Stuart, Justiana Gaynor, and Mary Bonema coming back. If there is one team I feel for it’s Clawson. The Trojans can’t seem to catch a break but they are here in this district. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood won’t compete in this district. Until anyone upsets Birmingham Detroit Country Day this is the Yellow Jackets district to lose.

District 58: Boys @ Warren Lincoln, Girls TBA

FERNDALE

HAZEL PARK

Center Line

Madison Heights Lamphere

Warren Lincoln

Ferndale University

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Ferndale

NEXT: Warren Lincoln

WILDCARD: Center Line

WHY: This is an interesting district that might not be as strong as people think. The favorite has to be Ferndale with what they have coming back for first year coach Juan Rickman. The Eagles have Brian Polozo, Keelan Lucas, and Teonah McKeithen all returning from a team that wasn't consistent as times under then coach Tom Staten and could very well be a serious contender in the Blue as well. Rickman also brought in several transfers from Detroit East English Village Prep in Jayshawn Moore, Collin Gholson, Simon Wheeler, and DeAnthony Hamilton. They played considerable minutes last season for Detroit East English Village Prep. The question for them will be eligibility and if they are eligible or not for the season. Hazel Park is rebuilding under new coach Stefan Wilson but moving down from Division One to Division Two makes things interesting for the Vikings as they will be in their final season in the OAA. Warren Lincoln appears to be the top challenger to Ferndale in this district because of the experience they have coming back. The Abes won 15 games last season for coach Jeff McGavin, including a few games were they scored over 80 points. They will have home court heading into the district as well. Center Line is coming off a disappointing 4-18 season will be very young next season led by Jashaun Houston (scored 30 points in a district final last season), DeShawn Walton, and Nick Hastings for new and former Clawson and Bloomfield Hills coach Dwayne Graves. Coach Josh Thelen will have his hands full at Madison Heights Lamphere after the Rams won two games last season. Ferndale University will also have some struggles as well this season. I can see this being an Eagles/Abes district final with Ferndale moving on.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Madison Heights Lamphere

NEXT: Center Line

WILDCARD: Warren Lincoln, Ferndale

WHY: This district should be very competitive and wide open. There is a ton of different styles that are in this Oakland County-Macomb County district. Madison Heights Lamphere should be the early favorite by the slimmest of margins in this tough district. The Rams whom won 11 games last season are experienced enough that they could win this district and Birmingham Detroit Country Day is in a different district which helps their cause. Center Line could be a possible sleeper because of whom they have coming back even though they went 7-13 last season. The Panthers return a key amount of talent for coach Laura Miskelly in Camryn Gibbs, Emma Hastings, Janae Smith, and Brittney Barnett. Hazel Park will be very young for coach Chad Ossman after losing a ton of talent from last season. The Vikings come down from Division One to Division Two and will be in their final season in the OAA before departing for the Macomb Area Conference next season. Ferndale could surprise some folks under coach Christina Nagle as they have three girls in Jaliyah Love, Kenshia Williams, and Kyra Newman coming back. Ferndale University will have a very tough time in this district. This district as mentioned is wide open.

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Volleyball Districts are Out.

Written Wednesday June 13th at 6:30 PM
Updated Friday September 28th at 1:00 AM

Here are the Volleyball districts as released by the MHSAA as of a few hours ago. The basketball ones should be released by the MHSAA in a few days. I will have a separate blog article talking about those districts.

Here they are.

District 5 @ Waterford Kettering

LAKE ORION

CLARKSTON

OXFORD

Holly

Waterford Kettering

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Lake Orion

NEXT: Clarkston

WILDCARD: Oxford

WHY: This district looks like it could be a Clarkston/Lake Orion district final in the making but Oxford could be a serious contender as well. The Wolves return a ton of talent led by Claire Nowicki, Hailey Stewart, Skylar Jidas, Mackenzie Rotter, Kelsey Schaldenbrand, and Sierra Keresten and are also well coached for coach Kelly Averall Pinner. The Dragons are a senior heavy team led by Wren McCaullay, Sydney Smith, Paige Briggs (when healthy), Leigah Boes, Lauren Bell, Olivia Long, Riley Hunter, Sydney Gruppenhoff, and Ciara Livingway for coach Tony Scvarada. The Wildcats are also loaded for coach Brian Kim as they are led by Madelyn Weiss, Anna Peruski, Alyssa DeTone, Rachel Gubesch, Sydney Richter, Alexa Kingham, Catherine Dobies, Emma LaBarge, Anna Trbovich, and Mackenzie Miller. Holly will have some experience coming back despite starting six freshman last season for coach Denna Maher led by Lauren Lesch, Sydnie Meszler, Maddie Meszler, Jessie Hepner, Paige Weeder, Danielle Coleman, Sarah Jewell, Nicole Jewell, and Kennedy Hogan. Waterford Kettering is very young and could struggle in this district despite being the host. It’s whom adjusts to the odd angle of the Captains home court which will win this district. I see this district painted in green or in blue.

District 6 @ Stoney Creek

STONEY CREEK

ADAMS

ROCHESTER

Utica Eisenhower

Romeo

Utica

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Stoney Creek

NEXT: Utica Eisenhower

WILDCARD: Adams

WHY: Stoney Creek and Utica Eisenhower has had a nice rivalry brewing as of late. The Cougars finally got over the hump by beating the Eagles at home but Utica Eisenhower in the last two seasons has beaten Stoney Creek one at home and one on the road in the postseason. The Cougars are loaded for coach Ross Talbott led by Stephanie Smith, Kate Stration, Nina Billoto, Ava Menzo, Ashley Gadzik, Reema Gowda, Kate Yatooma, and Sara Thompson. The Eagles counter with Sydney Palazzolo, Marrissa Durand, Sam Palazzolo, Meghan Dombrowski, Abbey Biermann, Jenn Flakenhagen, and Terah Ostrander for coach Caitlyn LaPratt. Adams is the wildcard in this district as they could pose the biggest obstacle to a Stoney Creek/Utica Eisenhower rematch. The Highlanders are well coached under Bridgette Harding and feature some talent led by Bailey Pease, Amber Morris, Emanella Gjokaj, Ashley Rill, Sophie Noll, Julia Shafer, Lara Sebestian, Juhi Valera, and Kaitlyn Petoskey. Rochester has a new coach in Kirk Gibbs. Gibbs will have some experience returning in the form of Ryan Allor, Leona Falconer, Rachel Gilbert, Kaitlyn Kennedy, Pegi Laci, Helena Rowland, Sailor Mayes, and Carly Rodman. Romeo will be an interesting team to keep an eye on as coach Stacey Williams will have a ton of experience back led by Gia Milana’s sister Salina Milana along with Payton Engstrom, Ally Konarzewski, Victoria Zions, Jenny Phillips, Juillana Bollini, Shayla Munn, Chloe Holiday, Kiyah Franklin, Emily Snay, Liz Liz, and Natalie Nowak. Utica has a ton of experience coming back for coach Jeff LaPratt in Abby Rissman, Frankie Rea, Kayla Jacob, Alyssa Jacob, Sophia Gjonaj, Raeleen Sobetski, Cayley Ebeling, Mone Knowles, Veronica Walters, Jaclyn Duff, and Katie O’Connor. This will be a fun district to watch as there is a ton of experience here.

District 7 @ Bloomfield Hills

AVONDALE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

TROY

TROY ATHENS

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Waterford Mott

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Bloomfield Hills

NEXT: Troy

WILDCARD: West Bloomfield

WHY: This district could have some fireworks written all over it. The favorite has to be Bloomfield Hills because not only they are the hosts but they are also talented as well. The hosts should have a competitive team led by Alexa Rousseau along with Brooke Bosart, Noelle Siewek, Kaitlyn Keele, Lily Formanek, and Alvia Slazinski for new coach Larry Wyatt whom comes over from Royal Oak Shrine. Troy will be the Blackhawks top challenger in this district as they have a star player in Jessica Robinson for coach Tom Vigilant and that’s not mentioning Fran McBride, Athena Sampson, Faith Keating, Lauren Alberts, Rachel Turpin, Elena D’Souza, Nikola Palinca, Caroline Shabet, and Bella Zaleski either. West Bloomfield could be a surprise to keep an eye on for coach Dana Gray as they have Kendall Jones, Lyndsey Cooper, Grace Allread, Jenna Rogind, Gabrelle Zubrzycki, Lauren King, Dana Suchara, and Victoria Reading. Avondale should be better this season. Troy Athens as they have a ton of experience coming back led by Alexa Withun. Waterford Mott will have a tough time in this district. I see this district either being painted in purple or in black.

District 25 @ Farmington

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Stevenson

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Livonia Stevenson

WILDCARD: North Farmington

WHY: This is an interesting district when you look at it but there is one State ranked team that will be favored in this district. The favorite has to be Farmington Hills Mercy when you look who they have coming back. The Marlins will be led by Emily Susitko, Logan Beyer, Jessica Mruzik, and Mallory Conrad for coach Loretta Vogel. Livonia Stevenson will have a ton of experience returning for coach Julian Wargo in Abbey Cleaveland, Libby Cleaveland, and Koryn Parmenter. Farmington for coach Kate Drews returns Sydney Eggleton to a very young lineup. North Farmington for coach Kat Hall could be a dark-horse candidate returns MiKayla Hines, Delayna Jabboori, Laylah Carter, Katy Cangemi, and Alyssa Murphy. Southfield Arts and Tech should be competitive for new coach Alisha Love but it will be interesting to see what the Warriors got. I see this being a Marlins/Spartans district final.

District 26 @ Birmingham Marian

BERKLEY

GROVES

SEAHOLM

ROYAL OAK

Birmingham Marian

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian

NEXT: Seaholm

WILDCARD: Groves

WHY: Birmingham Marian fresh off making the State finals last season will have their third coach in three years as Mayssa Cook takes over for Lauren Duquette. Cook comes over from Pontiac Notre Dame Prep after coaching the Fighting Irish junior varsity program to take over the Mustangs. Her new team will have a ton of experience this season led by Maddie Dowd and Christine Audette. Birmingham Marian also has talented players in Caitlyn Marsh, Rebecca Morris, Olivia Osuch, Mallory Lynch, Cecelia Nienstedt, Sarah Cavanaugh, Jacquil Feldman, Yasmeen Sarafa, and Claire Winter. Seaholm is very young but they will always be a threat and are well coached led by the duo of Heather (Lippert) and Jason Gambone. Groves could be interesting as they are led by Ellie Ruprich for coach Jenny Brown. Royal Oak had a tough season last year could be in line for some success for coach Emily Burwinkle. Berkley will be an interesting to keep an eye on for coach Chantelle Corson this season. This district looks like it’s the Mustangs to lose.

District 27 @ Detroit Renaissance

OAK PARK

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Redford Thurston

Redford Union

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance

NEXT: Detroit Mumford

WILDCARD: Oak Park

WHY: This district is not as strong to the OAA but it would be interesting if Oak Park can shock the world but it's not likely. The favorite has to be the Phoenix from Detroit Renaissance whom should be the best team in the Detroit Public School League and Detroit Mumford whom is also solid as well. I don’t expect much from neither Redford schools here in this district as well. This district will have a name Detroit moving on to the regional.

District 56 @ Livonia Clarenceville

HARRISON

Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard

Livonia Clarenceville

Romulus

Wixom St. Catherine Sienna Academy

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Wixom St. Catherine Sienna Academy

NEXT: Harrison

WILDCARD: Livonia Clarenceville

WHY: This is an interesting district with Harrison coming into this district after being in Class A for currently Division One in their final season as a school. The favorite has to be St. Catherine Sienna Academy. St. Catherine Sienna returns a boatload of talent for coach Malia Gabel in the form of Katie Grose and Maryann Alexander whom were two of their three captains from last season. They also have Maddie Karn, Gillian Szwabowski, Bridget Wolter, Lindsay Jankowski, Emma Schlagheck, Payton Porter, Abby Rutila, Jada Nafsto, Haley Gustad, and Christina Ibrahim. The Trojans return some key talent for coach Wendy Merschman in the form of Gina Marzolo, Alex Snage, Ciera Galvin Michelle Marzolo, Krystal Jones, Audrey Owens, Shelby Smith, Madison Jaber, Skylin Shroud, and Destiny Coleman. Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard returns the balk of their team back led by Elise Brown and Emily Graham. Harrison meanwhile could threaten in this district for coach Michael Love led by Brooke Hykla, Melinda Hakaj, Kristen Hankins, and Mary Williams. Romulus for coach Stefanie Carter will struggle in this district. This district could be a Harrison/St. Catherine Sienna Academy clash.

District 58 @ Unknown Site as of yet

FERNDALE

HAZEL PARK

Detroit International Academy

Detroit Henry Ford Academy for Creative Studies

Detroit University Prep

Ferndale University

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Hazel Park

NEXT: Ferndale:

WILDCARD: No One

WHY: Could this be the perfect chance that either Ferndale or Hazel Park could make some noise and get to the regional??? The Vikings might have the best chance to win their first district since 2015 as they have Faith Aquino, Leighanna Passeno, Olivia Fortress, Madisyn Harris, and Brooke Lynch returning in their final season in the OAA. Ferndale has some players coming back and the history to back them up. No one else really threatens these two teams in this district. I see this district either painted in maroon or in brown and yellow.

District 61 @ Brandon

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Brandon

Goodrich

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

NEXT: Brandon

WILDCARD: No One

WHY: This is an interesting district for Pontiac because of the different teams and styles they will face but the big problem facing the Phoenix and the rest of the teams in this district is State Power Pontiac Notre Dame Prep whom to some teams is in this district for a second straight season or longer and is the defending Class B State Champions. The Irish are well coached under coach and Athletic Director Becky Wroubel and very talented. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is led by Natalie Risi, Olivia Kowalkowski, Elana Schwegman, Riley Cooper, Maria Famularo, Madeline Chinn, Megan Galvin, Morgan Verheyen, and Taylor Raiola. Brandon is the host has a slim shot to pull off a possible upset will feature Sydney Leslie but other than the Blackhawks I don’t see anyone here threatening in this district.

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Tuesday Sports Thoughts.

Written Tuesday June 12th at 10:00 PM

Well the OAA season for 2017-2018 is officially over so here are my thoughts to conclude the season.

Softball

Clarkston whom was ranked number one in the State all season long was upset by Hartland whom was ninth in the State 3-2 on Tuesday at Wayne State.

The Wolves were up 2-0 heading into the bottom of the seventh inning until things started to unravel after an error led to the Eagles first run but then a sac fly tied the score at 2-2. Clarkston coach Don Peters made an interesting decision taking starter Olivia Warrington out of the game and put Abbey Tolmie in to get the final two outs.

I thought the Wolves made the right decision to walk Hartland hitter Madeline Skene. Skene hit a game winning two run home run in the regional against South Lyon that got them into this game knowing that they would take their chances with Delanie Grundman with the bases loaded. Grundman would hit a base hit past second base sealing the upset.

Clarkston loses three seniors, including two starters in Paige Blevens and Hannah Chadwell. Both of them will be attending Division One Schools next season and Olivia Gilmore whom was a reserve this season.

Hartland will face Howell in the State semifinals on Friday. The Wolves end their season at 37-3 on the year but the majority of Peters's team returns next season.

Girls Soccer

I knew that Troy would have a tough matchup with Novi at Stoney Creek and it showed with the Wildcats beating the Colts 4-1 in the State semifinals.

Troy whom made the State semifinal for the first time since 2013 battled in this contest but couldn’t overcome the offensive firepower that Novi had in the game especially in the second half where they were outscored 2-0 in the frame.

The Wildcats will face Grand Blanc in the State finals on Saturday. The Bobcats beat Midland 1-0 on Tuesday.

The Colts finish the season at 9-7-6.

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Football Storylines Heading into 2018.

Written Tuesday June 12th at 1:20 AM

Hey all, of course school is out and some of my early thoughts and questions loom surrounding each team so here they are from the Blue, White, and Red.

Can Pontiac win an “ACTUAL” football game???

The Phoenix have really struggled since coach Brad Zube left in 2011 but they did get a technical forfeit win over Hamtramck after the Cosmos were forced to forfeit for having ineligible players. Pontiac is 4-49 since 2012. The Phoenix have a golden opportunity to win some games this season, the schedule looks good for them to have a successful season for coach Charles Talley.

Will Berkley become Madison Heights Bishop Foley???

The Bears have struggled as of late but they have named Sean Shields as the team’s new head coach. Berkley went 1-8 last season. Shields whom comes over from Madison Heights Bishop Foley, a program that has struggled in recent seasons is the team's third coach in four seasons. I have serious concerns about this football program moving forward.

How will Royal Oak be this season???

The Ravens fresh off making the playoffs for the first time since 2006 will have to replace a ton of talent for coach Ray McMann. It could be a struggle for Royal Oak this season especially opening up again with St. Clair Shores Lakeview a team that the Ravens beat last season but the Huskies beat Royal Oak 21-0 two years ago. The Ravens until last season was 17-73 since 2007 until the team’s playoff berth last season.

How will Hazel Park do???

The Vikings lost a ton of talent from a team that made the playoffs for the first time since 2010. Hazel Park could struggle as well heading into the season for coach Kyle Rowley. The Vikings were 10-44 since 2011 until the team’s playoff berth last season.

Can Farmington find it’s magic???

The Falcons were hit with the injury to Donovan King last season which caused a huge ripple effect for coach Kory Cicroch. Farmington is 5-15 since 2015 and will look to rebound after two subpar seasons. The positive for the Falcons is last season they scored more 247 then what they allowed (223) so there is hope for a possible bounce back season with a few key players healthy.

Will North Farmington be a playoff team in 2018??? It’s possible.

I talked to Raiders coach Bob Chiesa about his team recently and last season was rough on his team. “I did probably the hardest decision in my life starting 18 sophomores and juniors on Varsity but I truly had to in order to begin the rebuild process” said Chiesa. Chiesa admits that his team is a year away from making a serious playoff run after getting two wins last season but when I look at that schedule, six wins looks very favorable. I like this North Farmington team going forward, this is a darkhorse team to watch.

Will the magic continue for Ferndale???

The Eagles are 15-5 since merging with Ferndale University thanks to the team’s Co-OP program but coach Eric Royal will have to replace his quarterback and running back even though there are some capable players that can do so. The strength of Ferndale will be it’s line and looking at that schedule it looks manageable for the Eagles to be a playoff team for a third straight season.

How will Seaholm do in the Blue???

The Maples come down from the White to the Blue but this team should be better heading into the season. Seaholm has a lot of talent coming back for coach Jim DeWald but the Maples are 11-25 since 2014 so that has to change if they want to be a playoff team. It won’t be easy this season for Seaholm especially opening up with Troy Athens and closing the year with Groves.

Is Avondale the team to beat in the Blue???

The Yellow Jackets had a huge rebound last season and looks to get back to the playoffs for coach Ed Coutrier. Lineman remain a big question for Avondale but they have the skill players to compete with anyone. I expect a return trip back to the postseason for the Yellow Jackets this season.

Can Troy make the playoffs again???

The Colts made the playoffs last season for the first time since 2010 but coach Chris Frazier will have to address a ton of positions if Troy wants to return to the playoffs. Also the schedule is much tougher as well for the Colts with Avondale, Clarkston, Harrison, Oak Park, and Groves on the schedule. This could be a long season for Frazier and his team.

Can Rochester find defense???

The Falcons have only made the playoffs twice since 1999 (2010) but recently coach Eric Vernon’s team has had trouble with their defense. Rochester allowed 283 points last season and 1,125 points since 2013. Bottom line for the Falcons, sure the schedule is brutal with games against Adams, Southfield Arts and Tech, Harrison, Oak Park, Stoney Creek, Troy Athens, and Groves but if they don’t fix their defense then it could be the eighth straight season they miss the postseason.

Will Keenest get Athens to the postseason???

The Red Hawks went back to their roots to get their next head coach in Billy Keenest. Keenest was the team’s offensive coordinator under Josh Heppner but he will have a tough job ahead of them fixing a team that has went 12-42 since 2011 although most of Troy Athens’s games were against the Red but now the Red Hawks are in the White and they have to play against Oak Park, Harrison, and Groves not to mention that Lake Orion and Oxford are on the schedule as well. It could be an interesting season for Troy Athens but they have a very good sophomore class to lean on this season.

Will Oak Park get past the Regional???

The Knights have a ton of talent coming back. They have made the playoffs in five straight seasons under coach Greg Carter but there is that one major hurdle that they can’t get out off and that’s the regional round of the playoffs. Oak Park will be a playoff team that’s for sure but its when they get to that round. Last season, the Knights lost to Warren De LaSalle in a low scoring game 14-7 and back in 2012 they lost to Wyandotte Roosevelt 10-6. There is not a lot of flaws on Carter’s team even though linebacker could be the next Scooby Doo mystery Carter figures out but he will have someone there knowing him and his team.

Linemen will be a big concern at Harrison.

The Hawks will have a ton of talent coming back this season from a team that went to the State final a year ago. Coach John Herrington has led his team to the playoffs in 32 of the last 38 seasons, the State’s all-time wins leader should field a strong team this season. Lineman and depth will be major concerns for the Hawks. Harrison will for sure be a player in its final season as a school.

Groves is for REAL man.

If there is one football team I’m keeping an eye on it’s the Falcons. Groves has made the playoffs six of the last seven years for coach Branden Flaherty and is loaded to make a deep postseason run this season. The Falcons should have a bad taste in their mouth after losing to Birmingham Brother Rice in double overtime last season. Only concern that I see is in the secondary but knowing Flaherty he will fix that quickly. The schedule is manageable for Groves as they have West Bloomfield, Oak Park, and Harrison which could spell trouble spots but six wins looks not to be a problem. Looking at this team on paper, there is plenty to like on this Falcons football team, could a deep playoff run be in the cards???

“Armor Up” Could be in for a long season.

There is a new era for the Cougars as Nick Merlo takes over the program. Merlo whom is the third coach in four seasons introduced a theme called “Armor Up” which is a win everyday theme on and off the field. On the field, Merlo is going to have to fix a Stoney Creek football program that has fallen on hard times going 8-19 since 2015. The Cougars do not have an easy schedule as they have Utica Ford, Troy, Harrison, Oak Park, Groves, Oxford, Rochester, Adams, and Troy Athens also lineman is a big concern for Merlo and his team. There will be some lumps on the road for Stoney Creek before they can find some success.

The Rebuild Starts.

The Blackhawks have had some success under coach Dan Loria going 13-5 in the last two seasons but that has been credited to John Paddock and Jack Sape. Now Paddock and Sape have moved on but there is still some talent in Bloomfield Hills. The Blackhawks will have to address their line and especially their defense. It will be interesting to see what Bloomfield Hills does this upcoming season knowing that a tough schedule awaits them.

Defense is still a problem in Oxford.

The Wildcats have really struggled going 9-18 since 2015 but there is one problem that has been a real pain to coach Bud Rowley and that’s the defense. Oxford allowed 271 points last season and have allowed 1,715 points since entering the OAA in 2010. The Wildcats should be better this season on the offensive side of the ball despite needing to replace the quarterback. The schedule won't help things for Oxford with games against Romeo, Clarkston, West Bloomfield, Adams, Southfield, and Lake Orion on the docket. If the Wildcats want to go anywhere this season, the defense will be the key.

How will Southfield Arts and Tech look in 2018???

The Warriors have a ton of players that have gotten College offers but they have not performed to expectations. Southfield Arts and Tech did not make the playoffs last season thanks to a three game losing streak that included two blowout losses to Adams and West Bloomfield. The Warriors should be hungry heading into the season but for coach Tim Conley and his team, now is the time for them to prove it.

Does West Bloomfield have another deep playoff run in them???

The Lakers last season had a special year beating Utica Eisenhower and Detroit Cass Tech to get to the State finals for the first time in school history. There is no reason for coach Ron Bellamy and his team to get back to Ford Field again. The only question I have for West Bloomfield will be their quarterback and defensive line heading into the season. The Lakers have the talent for another deep playoff run.

Clarkston will ride their offensive lineman in 2018.

The Wolves fresh off winning their third State title in six years will be very different this season for coach Kurt Richardson. Clarkston will rely on their two Division One offensive lineman in Garrett Dellinger and Rocco Splinter this season. Both of them will be key if the Wolves want to repeat the same success they had last season. The schedule will be interesting for Clarkston as they have Grandville playing in Ann Arbor to open up and that's not mentioning Southfield, Lake Orion, Oxford, Adams, West Bloomfield, and a possible meeting with Oak Park. The Wolves will have a young team this season but anytime you have two Division One caliber offensive lineman to carry you, you’ll be in many football games.

Defense will be a question mark in Lake Orion.

The Dragons have had a struggle as of late, missing the playoffs three of the last four years, including last season under coach John Blackstock. The main problem has been the team’s defense. Lake Orion really struggled allowing 203 points last season and have allowed over 200 points four times since 2013 which is a big reason why they are 16-21 in that stretch. The schedule is not easy with games against Southfield, Clarkston, Oxford, Adams, Lapeer, Monroe, and West Bloomfield on the docket. The Dragons should be solid offensively with a ton of experience coming back but the defense will be the question if Lake Orion wants to be a playoff team this season.

How will Adams look in 2018???

The Highlanders had a successful season last season going back to Highlander football. The question for coach Tony Patrino’s team will be is can they sustain it??? Adams will have the quarterback and lineman to do well in their veer attack but the question will be the defense and whom will be the lead running back heading into the season. The Highlanders schedule is interesting with games against Oxford, Southfield, West Bloomfield, Lake Orion, Clarkston, and Harrison on the docket. It will be interesting to see what happens with Adams this season.

More High School Sports Saturday Thoughts.

Written Saturday June 9th at 4:25 PM

As we head into the final week of the 2017-2018 school year and sports season. Here are my thoughts heading into the regional for baseball, softball, and girls soccer along with a recap of the State Boys golf finals.

Softball Thoughts.

North Farmington ran into a really good pitcher against South Lyon losing 2-0 in a pitchers duel at Novi in the regional semifinal. The Raiders were shut down by Lions pitcher Alexis Bonk. She shut held the North Farmington offense to just one hit. Sam Cherney pitched well keeping the Raiders in the game but Bonk was the difference in the game for South Lyon. Bonk is the reason why North Farmington is out.

I knew that Hazel Park was going to have a tough time against Dearborn Divine Child and it showed as the Vikings fell 15-0 in four innings at Madonna University in their regional semifinal. Hazel Park had absolutely no chance in this game and ends its run in the regional semifinals.

Clarkston showed their dominance against Troy Athens by hammering the Red Hawks 11-3 in five innings in the regional semifinal at Lake Orion. Troy Athens ends its season in the regional semifinal. Stoney Creek used a 5-0 advantage to beat Seaholm 6-2 in their regional semifinal game. The Maples end its season. The Cougars and Wolves met in the regional final with Clarkston winning 5-0 over Stoney Creek whom won its first district title and regional game in school history. My thoughts here was it went exactly what I thought it would be with the Wolves showing their dominance in this regional. Clarkston will take on Hartland in the State Quarterfinals at Wayne State on Tuesday.

Baseball Thoughts.

I wasn’t surprised that Troy lost to Waterford Mott 4-1 in the regional semifinal at Lake Orion. The Colts could not overcome the Corsairs onslaught early when Waterford Mott jumped to a 3-0 lead. Troy tried to come back in the game but it wasn’t meant to be. The Colts end its season in the regional semifinal.

I wasn’t surprised that Farmington got beat by Northville in the regional semifinal 5-3 at Novi. I thought what happened prior really impacted the Falcons. Mistakes killed Farmington in the game including allowing the two winning runs for the Mustangs in the seventh inning. The Falcons could have won the game but it wasn’t meant to be. Farmington ends its season in the regional semifinal.

Girls Soccer Thoughts.

Adams could not overcome Grand Blanc in the regional final with the Bobcats winning 3-0 at Stoney Creek. I knew it was going to be tough for the Highlanders against a team like Grand Blanc with all their talent they have back. The Bobcats will play Midland in the State semifinals on Tuesday at Lansing Holt.

The Colts took home their first regional since 2013 with a 3-0 win over Grosse Pointe North in their regional final at Troy Athens. Troy was a team that I wasn’t surprised that would move onto the State semifinals to which they will play Novi on Tuesday at Stoney Creek.

Golf Thoughts.

I wasn’t surprised that Grosse Pointe South won the State crown in Boys golf but the league got some good performances from Seaholm and Lake Orion. The Maples took a third place performance in the State at 43 over par but was second in overall scoring with a 599 while the Dragons took eighth at 67 over par with a 637 overall score. I still believe that Adams and Bloomfield Hills should had been in the field but it wasn’t meant to be though.

Integrity questioned in the Boys Golf regional.

Written Friday June 8th at 10:45 AM

Sometimes there is some controversy that comes in all sports. It looms in every sport where someone comes out of nowhere and gets to the State tournament.

In High School Sports there is no replay like they have in the College and Professional game where a referee can go to a replay to get a another look.

You wouldn't think it will happen in a sport like Golf now but it has.

According to  Dan Stickradt's article he questioned the integrity of three teams that was at the MHSAA Boys Golf regional at Twin Lakes Golf course. In that regional you had one ranked team in the State (Lake Orion) and two others that were ranked (Adams and Bloomfield Hills) during the season that were there and three teams that have little or no history in Boys Golf.

The team that won the regional was New Baltimore Anchor Bay. The Tars shot a 284 which was insane, only the 2010 Novi Detroit Catholic Central team had a lower score than that one of 281 when they won the State title. New Baltimore Anchor Bay was a middle of the pack team in the Macomb Area Conference Blue Division this season, they shot a 322 in the league meet a few weeks ago and was fifth in the Macomb County meet with a 340. Last season, the Tars shot a 342 which was 11th on that same golf course.

I'm thinking there is no way how that the Tars can improve their team score by 38 strokes, that's not even possible.

Another team that has me baffled is L'Anse Creuse. They were the runner up in the regional with 296. The Lancers shot a 313 in the Macomb Area Conference White league meet and a 357 at both the Macomb County Meet and the Evan Gills Invitational. L'Anse Creuse shot a 358 last season at Twin Lakes which was a 62 stroke improvement.

Again I'm thinking how is this possible???

The third team was Fraser. The Ramblers took sixth in the regional with a 313. They were 19th in last season's regional meet with a 373.

Ironically these three teams were paired together in the regional.

Lake Orion took third with a 308 qualified to the State Finals. Adams and Bloomfield Hills both missed out on State berths finished with 310 and 312 respectably.

Twin Lakes is a tough golf course but I wonder was there stat rigging, collusion, or the fact that New Baltimore Anchor Bay, Macomb L'Anse Creuse, and Fraser had great days???

Many coaches protested but it was to no avail. There was no errors on the score sheets or any video evidence of any wrong doing but even if the MHSAA could do anything there hands are strained because even if there is any wrong doings there are no rules in place to disqualify a whole team or do the whole regional over again or have the fourth and fifth place teams go as well to the State meet.

Stickradt did speak to the MHSAA's Cody Inglis to talk about this issue. "Every rule set by the MHSAA and the MIGCA were applied and they could not find any hard evidence of any wrong doing. We have been working with the schools involved over the past several days trying to come up with something, any type of resolution. Integrity is something that is discussed every year and I'm certain it will be discussed this summer" Inglis concluded.

The OAA will be represented this weekend at the State Golf meet with Seaholm (ranked 3rd with 312) and Lake Orion (ranked 4th with 308.) Clarkston whom had a rough day and was ranked 2nd in the State had a tough regional and missed the tournament by one stroke.

Thoughts

I feel really bad for Adams and Bloomfield Hills. They did everything by the book and posted scores that could get them to the State finals but with this controversy they were the teams that missed out going to the tournament.

I think there has to be some changes next season in Golf so this never happens again.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest thoughts on this story.

Here is the Soundcloud from the podcast.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-061218

Here is the link to Dan Stickradt's story right here.
http://northoaklandsports.com/2018/06/06/publishers-viewpoint-miracle-on-twin-lakes-links-or-integrity-chipped-off-the-course-you-decide/

Hazel Park has their new Boys Basketball Coach.

Written Tuesday June 5th at 12:10 PM

A new era at "The Park" is here.

The Vikings according to a very accurate source has named Stefan Wilson as the team's new Boys Basketball coach replacing Brandon Barrett whom left to take over at Detroit University Prep.

Wilson is well known around the OAA, coaching the Boys program at Harrison from 2015-2017. He also coached the Girls Basketball program for the Hawks on an interim basis in 2016.

Wilson is known for his up-tempo game. He will bring that same style to Hazel Park but the Vikings lost a ton of players including Carl Bow, David Hearns, and Devin Pettis.

Wilson is basically starting the program from scratch.

Hazel Park is coming off two very successful seasons including last season going 18-2 but suffered a tough loss to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit in the district semifinals last season.

The Vikings have one player back from that team.

Hazel Park moved down two divisions from the Red to the Blue. The Vikings will compete with the likes of Ferndale, Pontiac, Seaholm, Oxford, Berkley, Harrison, and Royal Oak. They will be in Division Two or formally Class B once the postseason starts because of enrollment.

Thoughts

Wilson will have a tough rebuilding job at Hazel Park as mentioned building it from scratch. I wonder who in the right frame of mind would want this job after the successes of the past.

Wilson will also have to build a Junior Varsity and Freshman program, something that I know he is more than capable of doing. Currently there is no Junior Varsity or Freshman coaches as of yet for the Vikings.

If there is one positive for Wilson is that he knows the division well which will help his very young team this season.

The Blue will be much tougher than it has been in years past especially with the recent changes in the division.

I wish Wilson the best of luck at Hazel Park knowing that he has a tough job ahead of him.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Here is the Soundcloud from the podcast.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-061218

My projected Volleyball and Basketball Districts.

Written Sunday June 3rd at 3:30 PM
Updated Monday June 4th at 3:00 PM

Here is my once in a lifetime projections for the Districts for Volleyball and Basketball once they do come out later this month. Now these aren’t the accurately districts, just my projections based on the geographic locations of each school.

  

I’ll try to do my best and get an idea what they could look like. Here are my projected districts. I explain my reasons why these could be the projected districts.

Division One.

DISTRICT A

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

OXFORD

Lapeer

Brandon

Romeo

DISTRICT B

STONEY CREEK

ADAMS

ROCHESTER

Utica Eisenhower

Utica

DISTRICT C

AVONDALE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Waterford Mott

Waterford Kettering

Orchard Lake St. Marys

DISTRICT D

TROY

TROY ATHENS

SEAHOLM

ROYAL OAK

BERKLEY

Birmingham Brother Rice/Birmingham Marian

DISTRICT E

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON
Livonia Franklin

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

Redford Union

DISTRICT F

OAK PARK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

GROVES

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit/Farmington Hills Mercy

Warren Fitzgerald

Division Two.

DISTRICT G

HARRISON

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood

Macomb Lutheran North

New Haven
Birmingham Detroit Country Day

DISTRICT H

HAZEL PARK

FERNDALE

Ferndale University

Clawson

Center Line

Madison Heights Lamphere

My thoughts.

With Hazel Park, Ferndale, Harrison, and Pontiac all in Division Two. These are my best guesses where each team would head.

In District A, I have Holly going south to see Milford, Walled Lake’s, and Lakeland. Romeo is much closer to Lake Orion and Oxford than going south toward Utica Eisenhower so that's why I put Romeo in this district. Lapeer was an interesting one for me since they are close to Davison and I see the district up involving the Flint area schools splitting up a bit, I see Lapeer as an outlier and sending them back south would be very interesting and proximity favors them to go south then west into this district. I don’t see any changes with Lake Orion, Clarkston, Oxford, or Brandon although Clarkston is close enough to possibly go west but it's not likely that will happen with Holly seeing the Lakes Valley rivals.

In District B, I took Romeo out putting them in District A but brought back a familiar foe in Utica to which they are the closest north in Utica. Utica is much closer north to Utica Eisenhower and the Rochester schools. Thought about bringing Utica Ford II in but it didn’t make any sense doing so.

In District C, there are no changes.

In District D, it was a tough call between sending Groves or Berkley into that district. I thought with Berkley’s geographic location to Royal Oak despite the fact that Oak Park borders them. Groves is a bit more south and closer to Southfield and I felt that sending Berkley into that district would be the best option but it wouldn't surprise me if Groves is sent to this district and that Berkley goes south.

In District E, this will be a radical change with the two Farmington schools. The city of Farmington is in an interesting spot with Novi and Northville to it's southwest but Livonia and Redford are to it's south. Harrison is moving to Division Two or Class B for it's final season as a school. Geographically it’s much closer for Farmington to go south instead of east, they do see Livonia Stevenson a lot in baseball and softball so why not here as well.

In District F,  I thought about putting Groves with their arch rival Seaholm along with Brother Rice/Birmingham Marian and bringing in Detroit Mumford but settled on keeping Groves in this district. Detroit Mumford is moving up to Class A or Division One this upcoming fall so it was hard to figure out where to put them so I kept them in Detroit in another district. I brought Mercy into this district with them east on Middlebelt Road being my divider line where Farmington and North Farmington are west of Middlebelt Road. It wouldn't surprise me if Mercy goes with Farmington and North Farmington but to what I'm seeing with them is that they are going east.

In District G which is Division Two or Class B, with the expected surge of teams coming up and down. Pontiac, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood made perfect sense from a geographic standpoint to keep them together. I thought about bringing Birmingham Detroit Country Day into this district because of the lack of teams particularly in girls basketball. I took Algonac out and put them with their arch rivals in the Blue Water Area Conference. Also thought about Macomb Lutheran North and New Haven but with no where to put them this is where they needed to be at. New Haven needs to be in this district for all sports not just boys basketball like they were last season. Harrison coming into this district will be interesting in its final season as a school but without a Girls Basketball program it concerns me so that's why I have Birmingham Detroit Country Day coming into this district.

In District H, there aren't really a ton of changes but decided to put Birmingham Detroit Country Day back north toward Pontiac and New Haven. Hazel Park enters into this district. It also gives teams like Clawson, Ferndale, Madison Heights Lamphere, and Center Line a great chance to get a district title as well.

We shall see what the actual districts will look like for Basketball and Volleyball in a few weeks from the MHSAA. Any questions feel free to respond or listen to my podcast on it, will put it up by the end of the week.

Here is the Soundcloud.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-6518