Friday, June 14, 2019

Cross Country Regionals Are Out 2019.

Written Friday June 14th at 11:00 AM

Here is my insight and preview heading to the regional in Cross Country.

Region 6 @ Willow Metro Park

BERKLEY
OAK PARK
Ann Arbor Huron
Canton
Salem
Plymouth
Detroit Cass Tech
Novi Detroit Catholic Central
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
Detroit Martin Luther King
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit Western
Garden City
Livonia Churchill
Livonia Franklin
Livonia Stevenson
Northville
Novi
Redford Thurston
Westland John Glenn

BOYS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Plymouth, Northville, Salem.

GIRLS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Plymouth, Northville, Salem.

REASON: All three of these teams have experience which helps in both boys and girls. Also all three teams have depth to work with and are primed to get back to MIS.

Region 7 @ Springfield Oaks Park

BLOOMFIELD HILLS
CLARKSTON
FARMINGTON
NORTH FARMINGTON
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Birmingham Brother Rice
Farmington Hills Mercy
Hartland
Holly
Milford
Waterford Mott
Waterford Kettering
Walled Lake Northern
Walled Lake Central
Walled Lake Western
Lakeland

BOYS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Walled Lake Central, Clarkston, Milford.

GIRLS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Bloomfield Hills, Milford, Lakeland.

REASON: All three teams have experience here as mentioned on both sides. Although it wouldn’t surprise me if Clarkston gets left out in Girls this season. This is a tough regional in the Girls and there were four teams that went to MIS as a team last season.

Region 8 @ Chandler Park Golf Course

GROVES
SEAHOLM
ROYAL OAK
TROY
TROY ATHENS
Macomb L’Anse Creuse
Fraser
Grosse Pointe North
Grosse Pointe South
Roseville
St. Clair Shores Lake Shore
St. Clair Shores Lakeview
Sterling Heights Stevenson
Sterling Heights
Warren De LaSalle
Warren Woods Tower
Warren Mott
Warren Cousino

BOYS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Grosse Pointe North, Royal Oak, Troy.

GIRLS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Seaholm, Troy, Royal Oak.

REASON: The Maples have a ton of experience back along with the Colts. I’m high on Royal Oak making some noise. I think they will get to MIS. It shall be interesting to see what happens.

Region 9 @ Algonac

AVONDALE
LAKE ORION
OXFORD
ADAMS
ROCHESTER
STONEY CREEK
Chippewa Valley
Macomb Dakota
Macomb L’Anse Creuse North
New Baltimore Anchor Bay
Port Huron Northern
Port Huron
Romeo
Utica Eisenhower
Utica
Utica Ford II

BOYS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Stoney Creek, Romeo, Lake Orion.

GIRLS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Stoney Creek, Romeo, Lake Orion.

REASON: I think these three teams bring experience although Lake Orion wasn’t there as a team last season in the boys I think the Dragons get there this time around. I’m high on Stoney Creek, they have a ton of experience back along with Romeo. I think these three teams bring both boys and girls.

Region 16 @ Linden Middle School

FERNDALE
PONTIAC
Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood
Birmingham Marian
Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Clawson
Detroit Cody
Detroit Communication Media Arts
Detroit Fredrick Douglas
Detroit Henry Ford Creative Studies
Detroit Old Redford
Detroit Mumford
Detroit University Prep
Orchard Lake St. Marys
Goodrich
Lake Fenton
Linden
Brandon
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
Wixom St. Catherine Sienna Academy
Redford Union

BOYS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Goodrich, Linden, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep.

GIRLS: TEAMS THAT SHOULD MOVE ON: Birmingham Marian, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Linden.

REASON: All these teams have experience being at MIS last season which helps. It shall be interesting to see who moves on in this regional.

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Thursday, June 13, 2019

Boys Soccer Districts Are Out for 2019.

Written Thursday June 13th at 10:55 AM

Here is my insight and analytics heading into the Boys Soccer districts this upcoming fall.

Locations and more stuff will be updated on this blog.

District 8

OAK PARK
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
Detroit Western
Detroit Cass Tech
Grosse Pointe North
Grosse Pointe South

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Grosse Pointe North, Grosse Pointe South

INSIGHT: This should be an interesting district when you look at it. Grosse Pointe North and Grosse Pointe South should contend but watch for Detroit Cass Tech and Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit. They could surprise some folks. Oak Park and Detroit Western will have tough times in this district. I think this is a three team district when you look at it.

District 11

LAKE ORION
ROCHESTER
ADAMS
STONEY CREEK
Romeo
Utica Eisenhower
Utica

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Adams, Stoney Creek

INSIGHT: This could be the toughest district in the State when you look at the quality of teams that are in this district in Adams, Stoney Creek, Utica Eisenhower, Lake Orion, and Rochester. It is a shame that one team out of this group would advance into the next round. You got a ton of soccer powers in this district to say the least.

District 12

BERKLEY
ROYAL OAK
TROY
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights Stevenson
Warren Mott
Utica Ford II

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Utica Ford II, Troy Athens

INSIGHT: If last season proved to be as good then this season we could get a repeat performance. Utica Ford II and Berkley won district titles last season. Troy Athens has a ton of talent back but so does Utica Ford II. Troy and Berkley are both wildcards here in this district. I see four teams having a great shot at winning this district.

District 13

GROVES
SEAHOLM
FARMINGTON
NORTH FARMINGTON
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
Novi
Northville
Livonia Stevenson

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Seaholm, Novi

INSIGHT: This sets up to be an interesting district between Seaholm and Novi although Northville and Livonia Stevenson will be teams to watch for. The Maples have some experience back and should contend. The Wildcats have the talent to make a run at this thing. The Mustangs have the talent as well. Groves also could have a say as well along with Farmington who went up from Division Two to Division One. I don’t see North Farmington or Southfield Arts and Tech making much of a stand in this district. This has the makings of an interesting district.

District 15

CLARKSTON
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Walled Lake Northern
Walled Lake Central
Walled Lake Western
Waterford Kettering
Waterford Mott
Lakeland

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Clarkston, Bloomfield Hills

INSIGHT: Clarkston comes into this district with a ton of confidence and momentum after winning their district last season. Bloomfield Hills should contend in this district along with Lakeland. West Bloomfield is a darkhorse team to watch along with Walled Lake Western. I don’t think the Waterford or Walled Lake Central or Northern will contend in this district but you never know.

District 16

OXFORD
Davison
Flint Carman Ainsworth
Flushing
Grand Blanc
Lapeer
Swartz Creek

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Grand Blanc, Oxford

INSIGHT: This looks to be a two team district between Oxford and Grand Blanc. Grand Blanc is the overwhelming favorite after winning their district last season. Oxford comes north to join these teams. Lapeer is a wildcard and could spoil the party for the two top seeds but right now this district looks like it’s the Bobcats to lose.

District 24

FERNDALE
Dearborn Divine Child
Detroit Renaissance
Garden City
Hamtramck
Redford Thurston
Redford Union

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Hamtramck, Dearborn Divine Child

INSIGHT: This is not a strong district when you look at the teams. Hamtramck fresh off winning a district title last season should be the favorite along with Dearborn Divine Child and Detroit Renaissance who both are expected to challenge. Ferndale could surprise some folks. Garden City, Redford Thurston, and Redford Union could have a very tough time in this district. I think the Cosmos have a great shot to repeat.

District 26

AVONDALE
PONTIAC
Birmingham Brother Rice
Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood
Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Orchard Lake St. Marys
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Birmingham Detroit Country Day

INSIGHT: This should be a very tough district when you look at the teams. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood won this district last season over a very good Birmingham Brother Rice team but Orchard Lake St. Marys should be back again for another run. Birmingham Detroit Country Day will have a strong say along with Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. Avondale could also have a say as well. Pontiac right now has no shot. It’s anyone’s district and the winner could have a deep and long playoff run this season.

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Volleyball Districts are Out 2019.

Written Thursday June 13th at 9:50 AM

Here are my insight and analysis for the Volleyball districts that were released yesterday.

This blog article will be updated.

District 5 @ Lake Orion

LAKE ORION
CLARKSTON
OXFORD
Holly
Waterford Kettering

FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Lake Orion
WILDCARD'S: Oxford, Holly

INSIGHT: This district looks to be a Lake Orion/Clarkston rematch looming on paper but there are other teams that could deny that possible rematch that are more than capable in this district. The Dragons are the defending Division One State Champs however they lost ten seniors from last season's team. Lake Orion will be vastly different heading into this season. They should be very competitive in the Red, this district, and they have home court. The Dragons have Kendall Robertson, Reagan Goeke returning however they'll need several unproven players to step up for coach Tony Scavarda. Clarkston has the majority of their team returning in Clare Nowicki, Jordan Newblatt, Abby Tolmie, Hannah Cady, Skylar Jidas, Ali Watlington, among others for coach Kelly Pinner. Oxford should be a team to watch under third year coach Brian Kim. Holly is an interesting team to keep an eye on this season. The Bronchos are well coached and have a ton of experience back. Waterford Kettering is expected to struggle in this district. Right now this district as mentioned will either be the Dragons or Wolves to lose.

District 6 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER
ADAMS
STONEY CREEK
Romeo
Utica Eisenhower

FAVORITE: Stoney Creek
NEXT: Romeo
WILDCARD: Adams

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district when you look at these teams in Rochester. The favorite is Stoney Creek and they should be for good reason. Cougars coach Ross Talbott has made this program into a State power and they have a ton of talent returning led by Sydney Tomlak, Kate Stration, and Ainsley Guse. Adams has experience coming back in Alexis Wolas, Lara Sebestian, Kennedy Jones, Audrey Thedford, Jacoby Flynn, Emanuela Gjokaj, Maxine Koos, Amber Morris, Rea Marfatia, and Maddie Knott. returning for new coach Terry Baughman. Rochester should be improved under second year coach Kirk Gibbs and they have home court. Romeo has a lot back for coach Stacey Williams led by Salina Milana and Natalie Nowak. Utica Eisenhower lost a ton of talent last season but they are well coach under coach Caitlyn LaPratt. It should be interesting to see who comes out of this district.

District 7 @ Troy

TROY
TROY ATHENS
AVONDALE
PONTIAC
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
Waterford Mott

FAVORITE: Troy
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
WILDCARD: Troy Athens

INSIGHT: This should be an interesting district setting up especially between Bloomfield Hills and Troy. The Blackhawks moved down to the White have Alexa Rousseau along with Ava Pertuchi returning for coach Larry Wyatt. The Colts host the district have Fran McBride, Alexis Morse, and Athena Sampson back for coach Tom Vigilant. Waterford Mott and Pontiac could have long seasons. Avondale could be a team to keep an eye on not only in this district but in the White as well. Troy Athens could spoil someone’s season with the talent they have back for new coach Katherine Sagaert (Hall). This district looks to be a two team race.

District 8 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD
Lakeland
Milford
Walled Lake Northern
Walled Lake Central
Walled Lake Western

FAVORITE: West Bloomfield
NEXT: Lakeland
WILDCARD'S: Walled Lake Western, Walled Lake Northern

INSIGHT: This should be an interesting district with the Lakers being an honorary member of the Lakes Valley Conference. Walled Lake Northern won a district title last season but could be different this season. The Lakers have experience back in Laura King, Grace Allread, and Delaney Lambert back for coach Lauren DeLuyck-Forbes to go along with the district being on their home court. The Knights also have experience back but they will have a new coach as Terry Baughman left for Adams. Lakeland should be a player along with Walled Lake Central and Walled Lake Western but right now this district is either West Bloomfield’s to lose.

District 25 @ Farmington

FARMINGTON
NORTH FARMINGTON
Farmington Hills Mercy
Livonia Stevenson
Redford Thurston

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
WILDCARD: Livonia Stevenson

INSIGHT: This district could either be competitive or be a blowout. Farmington Hills Mercy has a ton of talent returning including a future Miss Volleyball candidate in Jessica Mruzik. Also Julia Bishop, Kayla Shields, Elle Tisko, Charli Atiemo, and Kaylin Collins also returns for coach Loretta Vogel. North Farmington has experience back but they made a coaching change as Michael Love takes over for Kat Hall. Love comes from Harrison and brings a ton of experience with him. Livonia Stevenson should be improved. Farmington will be in an interesting spot as they will have do some rebuilding for coach Kate Drews. Redford Thurston will struggle in this district. As mentioned this district is the Marlins to lose.

District 26 @ Birmingham Marian

GROVES
SEAHOLM
ROYAL OAK
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
Birmingham Marian

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Groves
WILDCARD’S: Seaholm, Southfield Arts and Tech

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district when you look at the teams that are here on Lahser Road between 14 and 13 Mile Roads, that's where the small gym of Birmingham Marian resides. The Mustangs are clearly built for the future when you look at players like Sarah Sylvester and Tatum Casper along with Christine Audette returning for second year coach Mayssa Cook. Groves looks to be Birmingham Marian’s toughest challenger as Ellie Ruprich returns for second year coach Jessica Prepolec. The Falcons moved to the Red which also helps things. Seaholm could be the other darkhorse team even though they moved down to the White. Seaholm should be improved for coaches Jason and Heather Gambone and has Maddy Ligon back as well. Southfield Arts and Tech should be a darkhorse for coach Alicia Love. Royal Oak has a new coach in Ciara Schultz and it will take her some time to get her program into the fold. It could be a struggle for the Ravens. This district is the Mustangs to lose.

District 27 @ Warren Fitzgerald

BERKLEY
OAK PARK
Warren Fitzgerald
Detroit Renaissance
Warren Mott

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance
NEXT: Warren Fitzgerald
WILDCARD: Berkley

INSIGHT: This should be an interesting district when looking at the teams that are here in this three county Metro Detroit district. Detroit Renaissance has been dominant not only in this district but also in their league the Detroit Public School League as well. The Phoenix won their district last season and thus is deemed as the early favorite. Warren Fitzgerald comes into this district after having a tough year last season along with something to prove. The Spartans should be improved this season. They will have home court in this district with all of these coming to the east side of Nine Mile Road. Berkley has a ton to prove after having a disappointing season last year. The Bears will look to turn things around and they have a ton of experience returning which helps. Oak Park could struggle again this upcoming season. Warren Mott is very young and could have some struggles again this year. When looking at this district as mentioned this district should be interesting.

District 57 @ ???

FERNDALE
Ferndale University
Detroit Old Redford
Detroit Communication Media Arts
Detroit Cornerstone
Detroit Henry Ford

FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT: Detroit Communication Media Arts
WILDCARD: Detroit Henry Ford

INSIGHT: This looks to be an interesting district when you look at the teams. The early favorite is Ferndale with who they have back for second year coach Stella Johnstone. The Eagles got a big boost by winning the district at Hazel Park last season which gave hope to a program that had struggled with coaching stability prior to her arrival. Johnstone should have a ton of proven talent returning led by Emily Foster among others. Detroit Communication Media Arts looks to be Ferndale’s top challenger along with Detroit Henry Ford. Detroit Communication Media Arts won their district last season but fell in the regional semifinals. Detroit Communication Media Arts beat Detroit Henry Ford in the district semifinals to win that district. This will be an interesting district as mentioned but three teams have a shot of winning this district.

My Podcast
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Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Girls Basketball Districts Are Out 2019.

Written Wednesday June 12th at 8:20 PM

Here are my insight and analysis for the Girls Basketball districts that were released.

This blog will be updated.

District 5: @ Waterford Kettering

LAKE ORION
CLARKSTON
OXFORD
ADAMS
Romeo
Waterford Kettering

GIRLS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Clarkston, 2. Adams.
FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Adams
DARKHORSE: Lake Orion
WILDCARD: Oxford
Player On the Spot: Madison Skorupski-Clarkston.

INSIGHT: This could be as wide open in years when you look deep inside with the Dragons, Wolves, Wildcats, Highlanders, Bulldogs, and Captains. This district has the same teams as last year however the venue will be different. Instead of being at Lake Orion it will be held in Waterford at Waterford Kettering. Waterford Kettering will be an interesting team to keep an eye on not only in this district but also in the Lakes Valley Conference as well. The Captains have Markayla Holland, Izzy Dugal, and Irene Schoof back and not to mention Rain Davis, Charity Jones, and Samantha Brady for new coach Darrin McAllister. Clarkston has nearly everyone back from a team that had a murderous non conference slate but improved during the second half of the season. The Wolves who is expected to be in the thick of the Red race have Madison Skorupski, Olivia Toderan, Taylor Heaten, Sam Aris, Kaitlyn Kaul, Lexi Linton, Jennifer Starnes, Morgan Hunter, Izzy Hadley and newcomer Keira Tomlie returning for second year coach John Weyer. Adams made the district finals last season while avoiding their city rivals Adams and Stoney Creek and will do so again this season. The Highlanders have a ton of talent back in the form of Maddie Dolenga, Amelia Drahnak, Abbey Drahnak, Laura Petersmark, Elizabeth Blaine, Nicole Claerhout, Anaiah Howard, Madison Kessman, and Emily Abramczyk for coach Shay Lewis. Romeo stayed in the Macomb Area Conference White this year after winning the division last season. They are going to be very young but the Bulldogs have Ava Muschong and Natalie Nowak back for coach Kathy Bosheers. Oxford will have a very strong say in this district. They are a very good shooting and hard working team that should contend in both this district and in the White. The Wildcats have Sarah Tyrrell, Emma Morris, Mackenzie Methner, Aleya Diamond, and Gabby Dinges back for coach Rachel Bryer. Lake Orion is expected to be vastly different after having a rough season last year not only in this district but in the White as well. The Dragons have Megan Marshall, Grace Vukeluch, Erin Humes, and Kierra Tierney along with a strong junior class moving up for coach Bob Brydges. This district is going to be very competitive in Waterford.

District 6 @ Bloomfield Hills

BLOOMFIELD HILLS
AVONDALE
PONTIAC
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Waterford Mott

GIRLS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. West Bloomfield, 2. Avondale.
FAVORITE: West Bloomfield
NEXT: Avondale
DARKHORSE: Bloomfield Hills
WILDCARD: Waterford Mott
Player On the Spot: Mya Bobo-West Bloomfield.

INSIGHT: This should be a very competitive district over at Bloomfield Hills with basically the same teams from last season except Pontiac moves from Division Two to Division One. Each team that is here should know the gym very well especially those who played in the Bloomfield Hills Showcase last year and in the district two years ago (West Bloomfield and Bloomfield Hills played in the showcase while Avondale and Waterford Mott were in the district two years ago.) The early favorite has to be West Bloomfield because of who they have returning along with the move to the Red as well. The Lakers have Mya Bobo, Lola Chambers, and Logan Lewis, among others for coach Bert Mosley. Avondale lost only three games last season, all of them were to West Bloomfield. The Yellow Jackets should be in contention in this district and is one of the favorites in the White. Avondale has Keori Lee, Reigan Lawerence, Taniah Jackson, Deliah Clark, Angelia Willis, Savannah Schmidt, Emily Bekas, and Pontiac transfer Braila Benion for coach Bob Lees. Bloomfield Hills could be the sleeper in this district because of home court. The Blackhawks have some talent coming back in Jordan Banks, Angelica Saavya, and Kellen Fife for coach Jeff Rubin. Pontiac should be competitive in this district for coach Christopher Wright. The Phoenix have improved each season despite being in the Blue and having to go through a ton of adversity night after night. Waterford Mott for the second straight year avoids their arch rival Waterford Kettering in the postseason (Waterford Kettering hosts their own district.) The Corsairs should be a team to watch all season long. They are talented, well coached, and play in a strong league in the Lakes Valley Conference. Waterford Mott has the majority of their team back in Abby Upleger, Makayla Fuerst, MaKayla Ford, and Mikayla Proctor returning for coach Michelle Sklar. This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on for sure at Bloomfield Hills.

District 25 @ Farmington

FARMINGTON
NORTH FARMINGTON
Farmington Hills Mercy
Livonia Stevenson
Novi

GIRLS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. Novi.
FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: Novi
DARKHORSE: North Farmington
WILDCARD: Livonia Stevenson
Player On the Spot: Ellie Tisko-Farmington Hills Mercy.

INSIGHT: This could be an interesting district at Farmington. The favorite has to be Farmington Hills Mercy with the talent they have back led by Ellie Tisko, Jill Smith, Julia Bishop, and Alexis Roberts for coach Gary Morris. The Marlins who is expected to compete for the Catholic League crown won the district title 37-23 in Novi over the host school last season. Speaking of Novi, they have to travel east into this district and away from arch rival Northville (Northville is hosting a district) with their close proximity (Novi and Northville are six miles from each other.) The Wildcats should be led by Jenna Dashke for coach C.J. Aro. Livonia Stevenson finished at 500 last season and is in the same boat as Novi with their city rivals Livonia Franklin and Livonia Churchill being in different districts. The Spartans if things go right should be in the mix for the district crown. North Farmington returns into this district after spending one season up north with Bloomfield Hills, Waterford Mott, and Avondale. The Raiders went down to the White this offseason which should help them. They have some experienced guards in Molly Simpson and Maya Kelly back for coach Jeff Simpson. If North Farmington can address their interior situation then they could be a sleeper. Farmington comes to the Blue from the White, they should be better this season. The Falcons have Val Pallett and Autumn Barlett back for coach Laura Guzman along with home court. It should be interesting but right now this district is Farmington Hills Mercy's to lose.

District 26 @ Birmingham Marian

GROVES
SEAHOLM
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
ROYAL OAK
BERKLEY
Birmingham Marian

GIRLS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Marian, 2. Southfield Arts and Tech.
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Southfield Arts and Tech
DARKHORSE: Berkley
WILDCARD: Royal Oak
Player On the Spot: Shannon Kennedy-Birmingham Marian.

INSIGHT: This is a brutal district when you look at the star power and the teams that are here at the small gym of Birmingham Marian. Southfield Arts and Tech comes into this district and the other teams are basically the same from last season. The host Mustangs should be the favorites as they have home court and are loaded for coach Mary Cicerone led by Shannon Kennedy, Sarah Sylvester, Grace Rotter, among others. Southfield Arts and Tech fresh off a Division One State final appearance last season lost two talented players in Soldell Barnes and Alexis Johnson but they have a possible Miss Michigan Basketball candidate in Cheyenne McEvans along with Kayona Willis and Jasmine Worthy are back for coach Michelle Marshall. Depth could be a big problem for the Warriors as proven by last season's 55-40 Division One State final loss to Saginaw Heritage. Royal Oak lost a great senior class from last season which included Samantha Potter, Nila Conley, and Jessica Adams but the Ravens have Sarah Sorghhan, Anna Ross, Ana Johnson, Elinor Kochanski, Sam Mullen back along with newcomer Emily Jenkins for coach Brian Sopota. Berkley should be a team to watch as last season they shared the Blue with Rochester and could very well win the Blue outright this season. The Bears have a talented nucleus that is led by Charlesa Rice and newcomer Jillian Gomes for coach Kirk Carolan. Groves had an interesting year in the Red last season has Ellie Ruprich and Mia Yarberry back for coach Jessica Wiesler. Seaholm has some experience returning for second year coach Chris Manchester in Julia Bell, Meredith Owens, Helena Beasley, Julia Crump, and Lily Morris back. Whoever comes out of this district could have a deep run in the postseason.

District 27 @ Detroit Mumford

OAK PARK
Detroit Mumford
Detroit Renaissance
Warren Fitzgerald
Warren Mott

GIRLS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Detroit Mumford.
FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance
NEXT: Detroit Mumford
DARKHORSE: Warren Mott
WILDCARD: No One
Player On the Spot: Kailee Davis-Detroit Renaissance.

INSIGHT: This district should be interesting now that Southfield Arts and Tech is no longer in this district but it features a Metro Detroit flavor with one Oakland County team, two Macomb County teams, and two Wayne County teams from three different conferences in the OAA, the Macomb Area Conference, and the Detroit Public School League. The early favorite should be Detroit Renaissance with the talent they have back led by Kailee Davis, Catherine Ndukwe, and Shannon Wheeler for coach Shane Lawal but the Phoenix have had issues with Detroit Mumford. The Mustangs who aren't that far behind when it comes to being the favorites. They host this district and have had Detroit Renaissance's number in recent years. Detroit Mumford beat the Phoenix in the Detroit Public School League finals at Detroit-Mercy last season. The Mustangs have Tiara Earnest, Sequoia Jackson and Adoreya Williams for coach Kareem Hogan. Oak Park has Kyla Wilson back for coach Peggy Carr but her team will need to address depth among other concerns. Warren Mott has some talent back and could make some noise after a rough year last season. Warren Fitzgerald really struggled last season and could very well do so again. This should be an interesting district as mentioned but the two top teams in this district reside in Detroit and should duke it out again.

District 29 @ Stoney Creek

STONEY CREEK
ROCHESTER
TROY
TROY ATHENS
Utica Eisenhower
Utica

GIRLS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Stoney Creek, 2. Troy.
FAVORITE: Troy
NEXT: Stoney Creek
DARKHORSE: Utica
WILDCARD: Utica Eisenhower
Player On the Spot: Kayla Rutledge-Troy

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district with basically two Utica teams along with both Troy schools, and two Rochester schools. Also there is no Adams or Romeo as they are in a different districts (both are at Waterford Kettering.) The district was won by Utica last season after beating Troy 55-48 in overtime on their home floor (Utica has a small gym.) The district this season is at Stoney Creek, which is has a much bigger court than Utica. The Cougars are very talented and should be very competitive for coach Kellen James. Stoney Creek has new uniforms and home court as mentioned. They are led by Devin Vowels, Sydney LaPrairie, and Lily DiPanni along with an emerging freshman coming into the program. The Cougars should have plenty to prove after last season's disappointing 37-30 loss to Utica in the pre-district. Stoney Creek's top challenger in this district is expected to be Troy. The Colts after reaching the district finals last season but they took a hit as Kendal Zeiter transferred to Madison Heights Bishop Foley this offseason. The Colts have Athena Sampson, Calen Knight, Laura Gumma, Riya Chakravity, Elena Renke, along with a strong junior varsity team from last season. Troy has Charlotte Sobotka and Kayla Rutledge waiting in the wings for coach Simon Bato. Rochester has their fourth coach in four years in Bill Thurston. Thurston takes over for Jeff Haney in which he was the junior varsity coach under Haney that season. The Falcons shared the Blue last season should have some talent returning in the form of Laura Kucera and Megan Lorenzo. Rochester should challenge for the Blue title this season. Troy Athens enters this much tougher district after a very disappointing district falling 30-29 to Utica Ford II at home in the district semifinals last season. The Red Hawks have a ton of experience returning led by Izzy (Isabelle) Crumm, Grace Bright, Abby Bright, Emma Wodwalski, Clare Shoales, and Shayna Landess for coach Stacie Klumpp. Utica has some talent returning to defend their district title led by Lina Rea for coach Tom McDonald. Utica Eisenhower has Olivia Stack returning but they will be different as they have a new coach. The Eagles should be in the mix to contend in this district. This should be an interesting district as mentioned to keep an eye on.


District 58 @ Detroit Cody

FERNDALE
Detroit Cody
Detroit Cornerstone
Detroit Communication Media Arts
Detroit Old Redford

GIRLS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Ferndale, 2. Detroit Communication Media Arts
FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT: Detroit Communication Media Arts
DARKHORSE: Detroit Old Redford
WILDCARD: No One
Player On the Spot: Kenisha Williams-Ferndale.

INSIGHT: This is not a strong district looking at it on paper. Ferndale has a new group of Detroit teams they will see after being in a district that had a little bit of familiarity last season with former league member Hazel Park. What helps the Eagles in this is district is that they play in a very strong conference (OAA.) They are in the Blue and plays bigger schools every night on a consistent basis. I'm not sure how the rest of the Detroit Public School League for these respective teams matchup to the demanding schedule Ferndale plays every night. The Eagles have Kenisha Williams and a young nucleus back for new coach Keith Paris. Stability is key for this program if they wants to make some noise not only short term but also long term. Detroit Communication Media Arts won their district last season. One of the teams they beat was Detroit Old Redford (beat them in the district semifinals.) Detroit Communication Media Arts and Detroit Old Redford should be Ferndale's toughest challengers in this district because of experience. Detroit Cornerstone had a rough year last season and could struggle again. Detroit Cody will also struggle as well. This could be Ferndale's best chance to win this district but it will be wide open.

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Boys Basketball Districts Are Out 2019.

Written Wednesday June 12th at 7:00 PM

Here are my thoughts and insight for the Boys Basketball districts that were posted earlier today.

This blog will be updated with the most updated information.

District 5: @ Clarkston

LAKE ORION
CLARKSTON
OXFORD
ADAMS
Romeo
Waterford Kettering

BOYS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Clarkston, 2. Lake Orion.
FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Lake Orion
DARKHORSE: Oxford
WILDCARD: Adams
Player On The Spot: Cameron Sutton-Lake Orion

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district at Clarkston with the same teams that were here last season. There is plenty to prove if your the Wolves and coach Tim Waslik. Clarkston lost 38-37 to Adams last season in the pre-district after winning 17 straight games at Lake Orion. The Wolves have their big three in Fletcher Loyer, Keegan Waslik, and Matt Nicholson returning along with emerging players in Blake Kosin, Luke Scheler, Mike DePillo, Isayah Harris, Connor McKouen, and Logan Forbes. Lake Orion should be an interesting team to keep an eye on as they have a new coach in Joel Schroeder. Schroeder comes to Lake Orion from Pontiac where he led the Phoenix to a 22-2 record last season. Chemistry, not having a true point guard, and lack of varsity experience is a very big concern for Schroeder along with being in the Red with a young and unproven team. The Dragons have Cameron Sutton, Cruz Moran, Mitchell Howell, Dylan Boedghemier, and Drew Van Heck returning. The junior class, Lake Orion has is strong and poised to prove people wrong. Oxford fresh off having their best season in over 50 years last season will have Zach and Trey Townsend back for coach Steve Laidlaw but they could have some trouble in the White. Adams has had a turbulent offseason with the departures of Ethan Emerzian, Jake Emerzian (both transferred to Troy), and Gunner Walters (moved to North Carolina) along with their former coach Brad Crighton and then they though they had a coach in Nate Ebola who accepted the job but resigned after one week on the job. The Highlanders have a new coach in Jaret Thomas. Thomas took over the team in May. He has gotten his new team to believe and trust the process. Adams has Peyton Prieskorn, George Gurraj, and Austin Ursay but they will need time to adjust and grow to his system. Thomas will need to address the guard situation especially with the departures of Walters and the Emerizian brothers. Waterford Kettering should be rebuilding this season even though they have Bennie Crenshaw, Dominick Phifer, Amariyon Hall, and Mark Holland back for coach Anthony Phifer. Romeo will have to reload for coach Marv Cushingberry after losing a ton of talent which included Blake McCrea but they have Blake Woodward returning along with a strong junior class which should help the Bulldogs. This has the makings to be an interesting district as mentioned.


District 6: @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD
AVONDALE
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
PONTIAC
Orchard Lake St. Marys
Waterford Mott

BOYS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. Waterford Mott.
FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys
NEXT: Waterford Mott
DARKHORSE: Bloomfield Hills
WILDCARD: West Bloomfield
Player On The Spot: DaMarion Bonds-Waterford Mott.

INSIGHT: This has the makings of a very interesting district at West Bloomfield with basically the same teams from last season that were in this district except for one team. Pontiac comes into this district after moving up from Division Two to Division One this season. Orchard Lake St. Marys has a Division One recruit in Lorne Bowman. The Eaglets are not a one man team as they have Kareem Rozier, Jason Drake, Anthony Enechuku, Harrison Ogochukwu, and Peter Nwoke for coach Todd Covert. Waterford Mott made some headlines with the addition of Spire Academy standout Isiah Jackson. Jackson is one the top players in the nation according to national recruiting rankings. He joins the two time defending Lakes Valley Champions that features DaMarion Bonds, DQ Washington, and Trayale Solomon at the guard positions along with A'Zion Price at forward for coach Dave McGlowan. This could possibly be the best team the Corsairs has had since they went to the regional finals in 2012. West Bloomfield should have some talent back along with home court for coach Jeremy Dehna in Chase Glover-Rogers, Shameer Mathews, Ryan Hurst, Semaj Morgan, Michael Williams, Jake Lanshaw, Kipras Blezeviciux and the possible return of Donovan Edwards who missed last season after a ACL injury that cost him half of his football season. Bloomfield Hills could be a player in this district especially at the guard positions with Collin Hecker and Mason Canfield returning for coach Phil Kurajian. The Blackhawks will need to address their interior situation as that could be their major concern. Avondale has a new coach in Pat Clancy who comes from Warren Cousino where he was an assistant. Clancy should have some talent coming back especially at the guards but he will have to address the interior situation for his new team. Pontiac lost a ton of talent from last season's team that went 22-3 last season and has a new coach. The Phoenix will be starting from scratch even though Tarah Hazard returns for new coach Dameon Odneal. This district as mentioned will be interesting to watch as you have two possible Mr. Michigan basketball candidates but four teams have great chances to win this district.


District 25: @ Farmington

FARMINGTON
NORTH FARMINGTON
GROVES
SEAHOLM
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
Birmingham Brother Rice

BOYS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Brother Rice, 2. Farmington.
FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice
NEXT: Farmington
DARKHORSE: North Farmington
WILDCARDS: Groves, Seaholm, Southfield Arts and Tech
Player On The Spot: Jack Donehue-Farmington

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district to keep an eye on. There are a few teams that could make some noise here. Farmington and North Farmington come back into this district to join Southfield Arts and Tech, the Birmingham schools, and Birmingham Brother Rice. Birmingham Brother Rice has a lot of talent returning after winning their first district title since 2010 last season. The Warriors have Zach Maynard, David Jabrio, Luke Newman, Mikkos Stewart, and Jon Brantley all back for coach Ricky Palmer. Farmington could be Birmingham Brother Rice's toughest challenger once the postseason comes for a number of reasons. The Falcons have home court which always help. They has some talent returning as well in the form of Jaden Atkins, Terrell Humes, and Jack Donehue returning for coach Terrance Porter. North Farmington has almost everyone back from a team that had an up and down year last season. They have Basheer Jihad, Jamal Hayes, Deon Hayes, and Eddie Lenton for coach Todd Negoshian. The Raiders are a very tall and lengthy team. They will trap a ton defensively (run the 1-2-2 full court trap.) Farmington's gym is acceptable for this type of trap with how small the gym is. Groves should be a team to keep an eye on as a possible spoiler. The Falcons have a ton of proven talent back led by Mark Watson, Adolphus Cast, and Devin White for longtime and second year (in Beverly Hills) coach Benny White. Southfield Arts and Tech might have to rebuild in coach Darrell Buchanan’s second season after losing a ton of proven talent to graduation including Cameron McEvans. What should help the Warriors is that they had a strong junior varsity team last season and they added a transfer in Amauri Bates (transferred from Southfield Bradford.) Bates should provide some experience as a point guard. Seaholm has a very scrappy bunch under coach Mike DeGeeter after having a tough year last season. The Maples should be better this season led by Henry Clark. This is will be an interesting district as mentioned to watch.


District 26: @ Detroit Mumford

OAK PARK
ROYAL OAK
BERKLEY
Detroit Mumford
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

BOYS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Oak Park.
FAVORITE:Detroit Renaissance
NEXT: Oak Park
DARKHORSE: Berkley
WILDCARD:Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
Player On The Spot: Arshad Walker-Berkley.

INSIGHT: This sets up to be an interesting district because there are four teams that have great shots to win this district. Berkley and Royal Oak come back south to Detroit to join these four teams in Wayne County. Detroit University-Jesuit lost a ton of talent from last season's team that made the Division One State Finals losing a heartbreaker to Ypsilanti Lincoln but knowing coach Pat Donnelly he will always have the Cubs reloaded. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit will have J.T Morgan to go to in tough situations. Detroit Renaissance should be adjusted into coach John White's system in his second season coaching the team after a rocky first year prior to the start of that season. Oak Park is loaded for coach Bobby Thompson but chemistry and distractions could a huge concern for this team. The Knights have a ton of experienced talent returning in Fred Garland, Soloman Johnson, Jaylin Mines, and DeVontae Edwards. The big question could be is that will Maliq Carr come back and play??? He was suspended last season after making some comments on Twitter that got into the media. If Carr comes back, Oak Park will be in the mix to contend for a district crown. Berkley should also a player not only in this district but in the Blue as well. The Bears are well coached under coach Joe Sermo and he has a ton of talent back led by Arshad Walker and Ari Belchinsky. Detroit Mumford has some talent as well and could make some noise. Royal Oak has some questions for coach Aaron Smith after a very disappointing season last year. The Mustangs were in the district finals last season and should be competitive. This should be a fun district to watch with five of the six teams having great shots to win this district.


District 29: @ Rochester

ROCHESTER
STONEY CREEK
TROY
Utica
Utica Eisenhower

BOYS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Troy, 2. Utica Eisenhower.
FAVORITE: Troy
NEXT: Utica Eisenhower
DARKHORSE: Stoney Creek
WILDCARD: Utica
Player On The Spot: Ethan Emerzian-Troy

INSIGHT: This has the makings of an interesting district with the same five teams as last season except this time the district is at Rochester and not at Utica. Rochester has a much bigger court than Utica. The Chieftains lost a ton of talent from the team that had a shocking trip to the district final last season finishing at 8-13. Utica has Nik Gjonaj, Nathan Oke, Carson Arafat, Rory Montreuil, Howard McCollum, and Aleks Cvetkovski back for coach David Hinke. Utica Eisenhower had a very disappointing season falling in the district semifinals to Troy. The Eagles will have Anthony Cukaj and Jake Mund returning for coach Tom Antishin but there is a ton of unproven talent that returns for this team. Utica Eisenhower will look to be better than their record indicated last season when they were at 500 in the tough Macomb Area Red. Rochester should very young for coach Vance Kirkwood after losing a ton of proven players to graduation. The Falcons should be better especially with the move down to the Blue. Rochester has a very talented sophomore class as they went undefeated during their freshman season. Kirkwood expects some of them to be on varsity this season. Stoney Creek will look to have a bounce back year after finishing under 500 along with a 49-48 district semifinal loss to Utica last season. They have Alex Reiter and Trevor Smith returning for coach Steve Norgrove. Norgrove will have a very talented junior class coming into to prove some people wrong. The Cougars have some questions especially in the post that needs to be addressed. Troy won the district over Utica last season before losing to Roseville in the regional semifinals but this Colts team could be better than they were last season. It's been an interesting offseason for coach Gary Fralick and his team. Troy went down from the Red to the White and they have gone through a major transformation. The Colts have Brody Parker returning but they got a major boost when the Emerzian twins (Jake and Ethan) transferred in from Adams to form what will be a very dangerous trio that can dribble drive and shoot three pointers on a consistent basis. If there is a weakness on Troy, it's the interior. The inside game is a big concern for this team as they are not big and will have to rely on Parker and the Emerzian's shooting and dribble drives to carry them. The Colts are favored in this district because of the big three and also in the White as well. This district should be Troy's to lose however Rochester's gym could be nightmarish to shooters especially with Rochester College formally playing at Rochester High School.


District 30: @ Utica Ford II

TROY ATHENS
Utica Ford II
Chippewa Valley
Sterling Heights
Sterling Heights Stevenson

BOYS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Chippewa Valley, 2. Sterling Heights.
FAVORITE: Chippewa Valley
NEXT: Sterling Heights
DARKHORSE: Troy Athens
WILDCARD: Sterling Heights Stevenson
Player On The Spot: Myren Harris-Chippewa Valley.

INSIGHT: This should be an interesting district at Utica Ford II with basically the same teams that was there last year at Chippewa Valley. Sterling Heights Stevenson had a tough 39-36 district final loss to the Big Reds last season. The Titans lost a ton of talent from that team that stunned Clarkston early in the season last year and will be very young. Chippewa Valley will look to build on their district championship run and they have some talent returning led by Myren Harris. Sterling Heights should be a team to watch as coach Mike Griffin has a very deadly 2-3 zone that will make teams work hard to find their shots. Troy Athens had a rough season last year going 3-17 however they had a young team that had some growing pains. They should have experience coming back in Davis Giovanni and Jacob Thorton for coach Dave Scott. The Red Hawks should be better this season with them moving down to the Blue. Utica Ford II won't be competitive despite them hosting this district. We shall see what happens in Macomb County.


District 58: @ Ferndale

FERNDALE
Ferndale University
Detroit Cody
Detroit Communication Media Arts
Detroit Old Redford

BOYS PROJECTED TOP TWO SEEDS: 1. Ferndale, 2. Detroit Communication Media Arts
FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT: Detroit Communication Media Arts
DARKHORSE: Detroit Cody
WILDCARD: No One
Player On the Spot: Treyvon Lewis-Ferndale

INSIGHT: This is not a strong district when you look at the teams that are here with the Ferndale schools joining a Detroit Public School League district. The Eagles should be the heavy favorite coming into this district after having a very successful State tournament run last season before falling in the regional final to Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy. Things could be different this winter as coach Juan Rickman has two transfers that come into the program. They are expected to make big impacts on this team in JayShawn Moore and Colin Ghoston. All three transferred from Detroit East English Village Prep (where Rickman was at prior to coming to Ferndale) sat out last season due to the MHSAA declaring that the transfers that came from Detroit East English Village Prep were athletically motivated. Rickman has Treyvon Lewis back for his sophomore campaign. Lewis had a big freshman year last season and is more than capable to exceed those expectations this season. Ferndale hosts this district, they have a coach familiar with these teams, and is in the Red. There isn't a team in this district that threatens the Eagles, there is no reason why this team should not win this district.

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Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Softball State Semifinal Preview.

Written Tuesday June 11th at 5:50 PM

Here is my insight and prediction heading into the Division One State Semifinal matchup between Clarkston and Howell.

CLARKSTON vs Howell @ Michigan State (APPROX 5:30 PM)

This should be an interesting Division One semifinal between the Wolves and the Highlanders at Michigan State on Thursday. Clarkston who is in the semifinal for the second time in three years used a six run sixth inning against Hartland to beat the Eagles 11-3 on Tuesday at Novi. Howell who were in the State semifinals last season had no problem with Plymouth Canton beating them 9-1 at Chelsea on Tuesday. The Highlanders had to survive against Richland Gull Lake in the regional semifinal last weekend at home in a pitchers duel 1-0. Howell features starting pitcher and Notre Dame commit Molly Carney. Carney was rated Michigan’s top softball player during the preseason and has lived up to that billing. Both teams have been here as mentioned, they both can hit, and have solid pitching staffs with Carney for the Highlanders and Olivia Warrington for the Wolves. Clarkston we know real well what they have. Weather is expected to be a big time factor in this game with the forecast calling for rain and possible 40 mph wind gusts from the northwest. The winner plays either Warren Regina or Bay City Western on Saturday in the Division One State Finals. This game should be close and there will be plenty of Division One recruits playing but I think the Wolves have just enough to pull this one out. PICK: CLARKSTON.

Saturday, June 8, 2019

Softball and Girls Soccer Preview.

Written Saturday June 8th at 5:10 PM

We are in the final week of the 2018-2019 High School sports season. Here is my insight and preview of both softball and girls soccer heading into the final week of the season. Before I do I like to recognize the State Champions of the OAA for 2018-2019.

Lake Orion Volleyball
Harrison Boys Bowling
Farmington Gymnastics
Stoney Creek Cheerleading
Oak Park Girls Track and Field
Lake Orion Boys Powerlifting
Clarkston Girls Cross Country
Bloomfield Hills Boys Tennis
Lake Orion Boys Golf

Anyway here is the previews and picks heading into the week around the OAA.

Softball

CLARKSTON vs Hartland @ Novi

This should be an interesting quarterfinal between the Wolves and the Eagles at Novi on Tuesday. It was Hartland that came back from a 2-0 deficit to beat Clarkston 3-2 in this very same round last season sending the Eagles to East Lansing. It was also Hartland that beat the Wolves 1-0 during a tournament this season. If that's not enough motivation for Clarkston and coach Don Peters then I don't know what is. If the Wolves want to get back to East Lansing, they have to get by the Eagles again. Clarkston has outscored their four opponents by a combined 44-0 thus far in the State tournament. Hartland had to survive 7-6 at home against South Lyon East in the regional final. The edge goes to the Wolves, there is too much motivation. The winner of this matchup will see Howell or Canton. I like Clarkston to get back to East Lansing because of the motivation factor. PICK: CLARKSTON.

Girls Soccer

TROY vs Plymouth @ Troy Athens

The Colts will have a de-facto home game at Troy Athens in the State Semifinals. Troy whom hasn’t even needed to leave their city boundaries in the State tournament comes in riding a ton of confidence after beating Adams 4-0 in the regional finals at home. The Colts will take on a Plymouth team who knocked off Ann Arbor Huron 3-1 in their regional final. The Wildcats are very athletic and talented. They will give Troy everything they can handle. The winner will play either Novi or Grand Rapids Forest Hills. It will be an interesting matchup but give me the Colts heading to the State Finals. PICK: TROY.