Girls Basketball Preview 2019-2020.

Written Saturday November 30th at 11:25 AM

Here is my previews heading into the 2019-2020 Girls Basketball Season.

EARLY SEASON TOP 21

1. Southfield Arts and Tech

2. West Bloomfield

3. Clarkston

4. Avondale

5. Adams

6. Oxford

7. Lake Orion

8. Stoney Creek

9. Berkley

10. Troy

11. Royal Oak

12. Bloomfield Hills

13. Rochester

14. Troy Athens

15. North Farmington

16. Groves

17. Seaholm

18. Farmington

19. Ferndale

20. Pontiac

21. Oak Park

Red

OUTLOOK: The Red looks to be wide open then in years past. Southfield Arts and Tech went to the State Finals last season but they lost two starters and their bench is a huge question mark. West Bloomfield might be the most complete team in this division. They have a ton of balance to make some noise. Clarkston has a year of experience under their belt which should help them. They have had a solid summer league and have every starter back from last season. Stoney Creek has the play makers and should be a story line all season. Bloomfield Hills will need to address some depth troubles. Groves has some questions. Royal Oak lost a ton of talent from last season and could struggle early. This division looks to be very interesting.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH WARRIORS

Strength: Athleticism.

Weakness: Other two starters and Depth.

The Warriors will be a very interesting team to watch this season. Southfield Arts and Tech went to the Division One State Finals before falling to Saginaw Heritage. Coach Michelle Marshall’s team will have three starters back in Cheyenne McEvans, Kayonia Willis, and Jasmine Worthy. They have some questions surrounding their depth along with replacing two starters from last season's team. The schedule is going to be a challenge for the Warriors which is not a surprise for Marshall's squads in the past. They'll play Avondale, Pewamo Westphaila, East Grand Rapids, Ypsilanti Arbor Prep, Flint Carman Ainsworth, and Bishop Noll Institute. Program strength is a question mark. The key for Southfield Arts and Tech will be is if they can production elsewhere besides from McEvans, Willis, and Worthy if they want to make some noise.

WEST BLOOMFIELD LAKERS

Strength: Athleticism, Experience.

Weakness: Mental Mindset especially in Non-League.

The Lakers moved up from the White to the Red after winning the division last season. They could be up for the challenge in their new division. West Bloomfield is loaded with proven experience and talent. They have Mya Bobo, Logan Lewis, Jade Goodloe, Sydney Hendrix, and Lola Chambers for Coach Bert Mosley. Mental mindset could be a question though especially with moving up to a new divison and toughen up schedule. The Lakers toughened up the non-conference slate which includes games against Detroit Renaissance, River Rouge, Flint Kearsley, Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy, and Walled Lake Western. It could be a special season for West Bloomfield.

CLARKSTON WOLVES

Experience: Experience.

Weakness: Mental Lapses.

The Wolves will be a team to be a recon with this season. Clarkston will be loaded seeing them in the summer league they will be vastly different. They have every starter back from last season’s team that started off 0-5 with a very tough schedule which includes Taylor Heaten, Madison Skourspki, Kaitlyn Kaul, Sam Aris, Jennifer Starnes, Olivia Toderan, Izzy Hadley, and Lexi Linton for Coach John Weyer. The Wolves have a very tough non-conference slate which includes games against Walled Lake Western, Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes, Ypsilanti Arbor Prep, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Lake Orion, and Waterford Kettering. Program strength is very strong as well. The Wolves will be a team to watch for sure this season.

STONEY CREEK COUGARS

Strength: Proven Guards and Wings.

Weakness: Interior.

The Cougars will be a very interesting team to watch in 2019-2020. Coach Kellen James’s group returns several key players in Lily DiPani, Devin Vowels, and Sydney LaPrairie returning for Coach Kellen James. Stoney Creek also has some newcomers that are ready to make some noise in Mia Carson even though interior looks to be a concern. They have a tough non-conference with games against Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy, Lake Orion, and Macomb Dakota. The Cougars will be an interesting team to watch this season.

ROYAL OAK RAVENS

Strength: Young Nucleus.

Weakness: Unproven Experience.

The Ravens lost a ton of talent and experience last season but Coach Brian Sopota’s team cupboard is far from bare. Royal Oak has a young nucleus led by Sarah Soraghan. Soraghan became a starter last season and made an impact. The Ravens will need others to step up as they lost a ton of experience from last season. Royal Oak has talent in Sarah Ammon, Anna Ross, Ana Johnson, Elinor Kochanski, Sam Mullen, Lexi Romesburg, and Emily Jenkins. It could be a very interesting year for Sopota and his team especially with non-conference games against Berkley, Novi, Lake Orion, and Walled Lake Northern. Expect some growing pains early but later in the year they could be dangerous.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS BLACKHAWKS

Strength: Guards and Banks.

Weakness: Depth.

The Blackhawks are in an very interesting spot this season. Coach Jeff Rubin’s squad lost Maryiam Hashim and Grace Getz to graduation but they have Jordan Banks, Angelina Saavya, and Keleen Fife returning and Banks likely moving to a guard/wing position this year. Bloomfield Hills has questions in the interior even though they will have Melisa Mecaj there. The Blackhawks also have a tough non-conference schedule which includes games against North Farmington, Oxford, and Royal Oak Shrine. Bloomfield Hills could surprise some folks this season.

GROVES FALCONS

Strength: Interior.

Weakness: Program Strength.

The Falcons had an interesting year which included upset wins over North Farmington, Bloomfield Hills, and Stoney Creek last season. Groves will have some experience back in Ellie Ruprich and Mia Yarberry. Program strength is a major concern despite fielding all three teams this year. The Falcons non-conference looks very challenging with Oxford, Seaholm, Berkley, Troy Athens, Adams, Royal Oak Shrine, and Lakeland. It could be a very long season for the Falcons this season.

White

OUTLOOK: The White will have a ton of parity this season. Any team from top to bottom can win the division with how even the teams are is heading into the season. Avondale has to be the early favorite because of talent but they have questions especially when it comes to their depth. Oxford, Lake Orion, Adams, and Troy have a ton of talent back and program strength for each squad is very strong as well. North Farmington will be an interesting team to watch as they come down from the Red. Troy Athens has all their starters back from last season but can they put it together. This could be a fun division to watch all season.

AVONDALE YELLOW JACKETS

Strength: Experience and Size.

Weakness: Depth.

The Yellow Jackets in Coach Bob Lees second year will be a team to keep an eye on as they are the preseason favorite in the White. Avondale returns Reigan Lawrence, Keori Lee, and Taniah Jackson. They will add Braila Benion who transferred in from Pontiac last season. The Yellow Jackets will need to address their depth as they could be seven deep. They also have a very tough non-league schedule with games against Waterford Kettering, Southfield Arts and Tech, Birmingham Marian, Novi, Birmingham Detroit Country Day, Carleton Airport, and Seaholm. This will be a team to watch.

ADAMS HIGHLANDERS

Strength: Experience.

Weakness: Interior.

The Highlanders should be an interesting team to keep an eye on this season. They have a ton of proven experience returning from a team that battled with Waterford Kettering in the district final last season. Adams has Maggie Doelinga, Amelia Drahnak, Abbey Drahnak, Nicole Clarehout, Laura Petersmark, Elizabeth Blaine, Anaiah Howard, and Maddie Kessman for Coach Shay Lewis. The Highlanders have questions in the interior despite having enough experience. Adams has a very interesting non-conference schedule which includes Utica, Bloomfield Hills, Walled Lake Central, and Waterford Mott. The Highlanders will be a team to watch.

OXFORD WILDCATS

Strength: Work Ethic.

Weakness: Size.

The Wildcats are a team that has a workers mentality as seen in the summer league. Oxford has a ton of experience back in Sarah Tyrell, Emma Morris, Gabby Dinges, Aleah Dymond, and Mackenzie Methner returning for Coach Rachel Bryer. Program strength is very strong from top to bottom which is a plus. The Wildcats have non-conference games against Bloomfield Hills, Walled Lake Central, Armada, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Davison, and St. Clair Shores Lakeview. They should be a team to watch this season.

LAKE ORION DRAGONS

Strength: Program Strength.

Weakness: Size.

The Dragons should look vastly different in Coach Bob Brydges second year. Lake Orion is a team on the rise led by Meghan Marshall, Kierra Tierney, Grace Vukeluch, Erin Humes, and Melissa Normand along with newcomers Kacy Lauer, Sydney Maddox, Claudia Staruch, among others. The Dragons will have the balance and program strength is very strong. Lake Orion has a very tough non-conference schedule with games against Stoney Creek, Royal Oak, Lapeer, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. There will be an early adjustment period for this team but when everyone is on the same page look out.

TROY COLTS

Strength: Experience.

Weakness: Interior besides Sampson.

The Colts has a ton of experience returning for a team that made the district finals last season. Troy has Athena Sampson returning in the front court along with Calen Knight, Riya Chakravity, Elena Renke, and Laura Gumma should provide guard depth. Charlotte Sobotka, Alyssa Matuza, and Kayla Rutledge should be impactful players this season for Coach Simon Bato. Program strength looks to be very strong for the Colts. Troy’s non-conference will be interesting with games against Chippewa Valley, Berkley, Waterford Mott, Seaholm, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. The Colts will be a team to watch.

NORTH FARMINGTON RAIDERS

Strength: Guards.

Weakness: Interior and Program Strength.

The Raiders moved down from the Red this season and should be an interesting team to watch. North Farmington has their two top players back in Molly Simpson and Maya Kelly but their are issues that still remain for Coach Jeff Simpson. There are two issues that could impact his squad this season, the interior and program strength. They will not field a freshman program this season. The Raiders have a very tough non-conference schedule with games against Groves, Walled Lake Northern, Detroit Cornerstone, Bloomfield Hills, Farmington, and Chicago Philips. They will be a team to watch closely.

TROY ATHENS RED HAWKS

Strength: Experience.

Weakness: Size.

The Red Hawks will look to rebound after a very disappointing one point home loss to Chippewa Valley last season in the district semifinal. Troy Athens will have a ton of experience returning this season in Izzy Crumm, Grace Bright, Abby Bright, Emma Wodwakski, Clare Shoales, and Shayna Landess for coach Stacie Klumpp. The non-conference slate is looks manageable with games against Berkley, Seaholm, Groves, Sterling Heights Stevenson, and an improved Lakeland team. This will be a team to watch.

Blue

OUTLOOK: When looking at the Blue it looks like it could be a repeat as last season except there could be one team that wins it outright. Berkley has a ton of young talent back but program strength will be a question. Rochester has their fourth coach in four years but they will be competitive and experienced. Seaholm has a ton of experience back. Farmington should be better. Ferndale has a new coach. Pontiac is always a mystery. Oak Park could struggle. It will be a very interesting division to watch.

BERKLEY BEARS

Strength: Experience.

Weakness: Program Strength.

The Bears will be an interesting team to watch this season. Berkley has a ton of proven experience from a team that shared the Blue with Rochester a year ago. The Bears have a ton of young talent for Coach Kirk Carolan to work with in Emma Hamilton, Ashley Loon, Charlesa Rice, Lauryn Thomas, and Tessa Voss returning for a team that won 16 games last season. They added a freshman in Jillian Gomes that should help their interior. Berkley has toughened up their non-conference schedule which has Macomb Dakota, Troy, and Madison Heights Bishop Foley. Program strength is a question mark though. The Bears should get a ton of attention this season.

ROCHESTER FALCONS

Strength: Experience.

Weakness: Mental Mindset.

The Falcons have their fourth coach in four years as Bill Thurston takes over the program. Thurston has been around the program for four different coaches and he brings his expertise into the program. Rochester will have some talent back in Laura Kucera, Anna Winkler, and Megan Lorenzo. The Falcons shared the Blue with Berkley last season which should be a motivator They should be right back in the thick of the league race this season with the experience they have returning and the team they could be. Rochester has an interesting non-conference slate which includes Waterford Mott, Madison Heights Bishop Foley, Birmingham Detroit Country Day, Adams, and Stoney Creek. They should be a team to watch this season.

SEAHOLM MAPLES

Strength: Experience.

Weakness: Program Strength.

This should be a very interesting second year for Coach Chris Manchester and his Maples. Seaholm had a tough adjustment period going from then coach turned assistant principal January Hlaski to Manchester last season and it showed early. The Maples have a ton of experience returning in Julia Bell, Meredith Owens, Helena Beasley, Julia Crump, and Lily Morris. Seaholm has a very tough non-conference schedule which includes games against Groves, Lake Orion, Avondale, Troy Athens, Milford, and Stoney Creek. Program strength is a huge concern looking at the state of the Maples. Seaholm is a team to really keep an eye on especially with how the players can adjust in Manchester’s second season.

FARMINGTON FALCONS

Strength: Interior.

Weakness: Depth.

The Falcons had a rough year last season but there is optimism for Farmington as they moved down from the White to the Blue this season. The Falcons have Val Pallett and Autumn Bartlett returning for Coach Laura Guzman. Farmington has a very interesting non-conference schedule which includes games against North Farmington, Royal Oak, Madison Heights Bishop Foley, Troy Athens, and a matchup with former coach Dave Browne and Milford. It should be an interesting season for the Falcons.

FERNDALE EAGLES

Strength: Guards.

Weakness: Program Strength.

The Eagles will be an interesting team to watch this season. Keith Paris takes over as the program’s third coach in three years. The question for Paris’s team will be program strength which has been a huge concern because of the low numbers (don't field sub-varsity teams.) Ferndale has Keneshia Williams and Kyra Newman returning which is a good starting point. It will take some time for Paris to put his program in place and when he does they can go places. The non-conference schedule looks favorable with the exception of playing Detroit Edison. I don’t know if Ferndale is ready to take that next step right now.

PONTIAC PHOENIX

Strength: Athleticism.

Weakness: Depth.

The Phoenix are in an interesting place right now. Pontiac still has athletes and will be competitive for Coach Christopher Wright. The Phoenix have been making strides despite not having a ton of depth to work with. They have some tough non-conference games looming against Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Pontiac will be a team to keep an eye on this season.

OAK PARK KNIGHTS

Strength: Guards.

Weakness: Depth.

The Knights could be in for a challenging season this year again for coach Peggy Carr. Kyla Wilson is back for Oak Park but the schedule looks very challenging. It could be a long season as mentioned for the Knights. 

My Podcast from November 26th.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MzSnkLJtxc&t=431s

My Podcast from December 2nd.

https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-12-02-19

Top Ten Girls Basketball Games.

Written Thursday November 28th at 7:45 PM

Hello all and a Happy Thanksgiving to all. I will introduce my top ten matchups for Girls and Boys Basketball throughout the season from week to week.

Games being played from Monday November 2^nd until Saturday November 7^th.

Walled Lake Western at Clarkston (Tuesday): This is a rematch of last season’s Warriors blowout of the Wolves at Walled Lake Northern. Clarkston is a much better team than last season but they will be tested against a coach Steve Emert led Walled Lake Western squad that has Jenna Galecki and Olivia Warren along with a deep bench. The game is at Clarkston which helps Coach John Weyer’s team. Expect this one to be tight.

Oxford at Bloomfield Hills (Tuesday): The Wildcats are an interesting team to keep an eye on based on their work ethic. Oxford will take on a Bloomfield Hills squad that has a talented big in Jordan Banks along with Angelica Saavya and Kellen Fife. Also both coaches know each other in Rachel Bryer and Jeff Rubin. It should be an interesting matchup.

Avondale at Waterford Kettering (Tuesday): The Captains will be an interesting test for new coach Darrin McAllister. Waterford Kettering has a ton of talent back led by Markayla Holland, Izzy Dugal, and Irene Schoof. The Yellow Jackets have their fair share of talent as well returning back. We shall see what coach Bob Lees team is made of.

Avondale at Southfield Arts and Tech (Thursday): This will be an interesting matchup of star players. The Yellow Jackets have Reigan Lawrence, Keori Lee, Brala Benion, and Taniah Jackson while the Warriors have a Miss Michigan basketball candidate in Cheyenne McEvans. This should be a very interesting game to say the least.

Berkley at Macomb Dakota (Tuesday): Are the Bears for real??? Berkley is loaded this season but there are doubters that said that the Bears aren’t contenders or have played a soft non-conference. Playing a team like the Cougars and their star player Cameron Grant will be no easy task for Coach Kirk Carolan. It’s a tough task but it should help the Bears well into the future.

Groves at North Farmington (Tuesday): This will be a very interesting matchup on paper and from a coaching standpoint between Jessica Wiesler and Jeff Simpson. The Falcons will have the size in Ellie Ruprich and Mia Yarberry. The Raiders feature Molly Simpson and Maya Kelly. The game is in a small gym which favors a team that likes to press like North Farmington. It should be interesting.

Southfield Arts and Tech vs Pewamo Wesphalia (Saturday at Ypsilanti Arbor Prep): The Warriors will be tested playing in a classic at Ypsilanti Arbor Prep against a proven powerhouse in the Pirates. It could be a classic showcase game for Cheyenne McEvans against a quality opponent.

West Bloomfield at Detroit Renaissance (Monday): The Lakers should be tested on opening night with a trip to Detroit to play the Phoenix. Detroit Renaissance is well coached under Shane Lawal and features Kailee Davis, Shannon Wheeler, and Catherine Ndukwe. West Bloomfield has a ton of experience back. It will be a challenge for the Lakers to say the least.

Stoney Creek at Lake Orion (Friday): Anytime coaches Bob Brydges and Kellen James get together expect some competitive basketball. The Dragons are loaded with young talent in Melissa Normand, Meghan Marshall, Grace Vukelich, and Erin Humes while the Cougars counter with Devin Vowels, Sydney LaPrairie, and Lily DiPanni. This should be some good basketball to keep an eye on.

Adams at Utica (Tuesday): The Highlanders have a very interesting matchup going to Utica to take on a coach Todd McDonald team. The Chieftains won the district crown last season are loaded led by Lina Rea. Adams has a boatload of experience back which helps. It will be interesting how coach Shay Lewis plays this matchup in the small gym of Utica High School.

My Podcast with Lake Orion Coach Bob Brydges and Stoney Creek Coach Kellen James.

https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-8-5-19?fbclid=IwAR0rQaEviQ5pwBemzfeoi3NkfdCClpHJ-GHVdVD_Oh-kkgFjJ4Fa_hSOTGo

Week Thirteen Recap.

Written Saturday November 23rd at 8:25 PM

Detroit Martin Luther King 60, SEAHOLM 17:

The Maples could not keep up with Detroit Martin Luther King or their high octane offense on Saturday afternoon at Novi as they gave up 60 points in a stunning 60-17 blowout in the Division Two State Semifinals. Seaholm trailed 34-3 at half and had trouble with the bigger and talented Crusaders squad. The Maples conclude their season at 9-4.

The Maples were in their first State Semifinal since 1997 could not get anything going as mentioned in that game. Seaholm had a ton of success this season, not only in the White but especially in the postseason where they had to beat Sterling Heights, Port Huron, and their biggest win at Beverly Hills when they snapped a seven game, six year losing streak when they beat Groves.

Seaholm has a ton to be proud of this season.

Maples Girls Swimming and Diving Takes Home A State Title.

The Maples brought the OAA a second straight State Championship by taking home the Division Two State Championship on Saturday evening at Oakland University.

Seaholm beat Grosse Pointe South and Groves for the crown. The Falcons finished in third place.

It's the fifth State Championship for the program with their most recent being in 2016.

Volleyball State Semifinal Preview.

Written Wednesday November 20th at 2:35 PM

LAKE ORION vs Lowell:

Who would had ever thought that the Dragons would be back in the Division One State Semifinals after last season’s State Championship run. They lost 10 seniors and had a player transfer out this offseason but here they are as Lake Orion will play Lowell on Thursday at the Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek at 4:30 PM.

Lake Orion has three seniors in Olivia Erwin, Courtney Andras, and Kylie Andras. The Dragons were an honorable mention themselves. The path hasn’t been an easy road for this young team. Lake Orion had to beat honorable mention and State ranked Clarkston (6^th), Oxford (HM), and Stoney Creek (9^th) along with Holly (Flint Metro Stripes Champs), and Mount Pleasant (Saginaw Valley League Champs) in the postseason. The Dragons are led by their State Championship returners in Kendall Robertson, Erwin, both Andras sisters, and Regan Goeke. Lake Orion has had some young and emerging players that have contributed and are becoming well known names in Nina Hoering, Lauren Staruch, and Taylor Butkewictz.

Lowell is ranked second in the State behind Farmington Hills Mercy who will be on the other side of the bracket as they will play Ann Arbor Skyline. The Red Arrows are loaded with a ton of talent led by outside hitter Jenna Reistma, middle hitter Meghan Meyer. Both players received second and third team all-state honors last season. Also second year coach Jordan Drake has really toughened up his team’s schedule. He has seen contributions as well from liberio Emma Hill and setter Sophie Powell. Reistma is the team’s top player and has broken Lowell’s single season record for kills. The Red Arrows come in with a 52-3 record with two losses to Hudsonville and one to the Marlins. They have wins against Mattawan (3^rd), Rockford, Hudsonville (4^th) and Cedar Springs in the tournament thus far.

The Dragons have met Lowell twice in tournaments with the Red Arrows winning both meetings.

PREDICTION: The Dragons will have their hands full with Lowell. The Red Arrows are loaded with talent as mentioned above. Reistma is the real deal, there is a reason why she has broken the single season kills record at Lowell. Lake Orion will have to play well and be mistake free if they want to get back to the State Finals. I was wrong about picking against the Dragons when picking Clarkston and Stoney Creek to win their district and regional. I wonder if picking against them should motivate them once again. PICK: LOWELL.

Week Thirteen Pick.

Written Wednesday November 20th at 1:30 PM

Welcome to the 2019 football playoffs. This season will be different, each win will be worth 10 points however if you get the exact score it would be an extra five points.

Most are familiar with doing picks. Here are the pickers.

Sammy Taormina-host of OAA Now, writer of Inside the OAA, and one of the hosts of Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television.

Keith Dunlap-Freelance writer at the Detroit Free Press.

Scott Burnstein-Writer at the Oakland Press and State Champs.

Dan Stickradt-Writer for North Oakland Sports.

Sean Cotter-Former Farmington Scouter.

Matt Mowery-State Champs Writer.

Tim English-Website designer.

Jeff Corrion-D-Zone blogger and recruit insider.

We’ll get Matt and Tim’s picks ASAP.

SANDY DUNES: 98-22      980

DUNLAP: 100-20               1005

BURNEY: 92-28                  920

STICK: 90-30                        900

COTTER: 96-24                   960

FULL COURT: 24-96          240

TIM: 98-22                           980

D-ZONE: 93-27                   930

SEAHOLM vs Detroit Martin Luther King @ Novi (Saturday 3 PM): The Maples are in their first State Semifinal since 1997 after beating Port Huron 44-28 last week. Seaholm will face their toughest task in Detroit Martin Luther King. The Crusaders are talented led by running back Peny Boone, quarterback Dante Moore, and wide receiver Marquise Lee. Detroit Martin Luther King started off 0-2 with losses to Novi Detroit Catholic Central and Muskegon but have pulled off 10 straight wins. This one is a mismatch on paper but I’m not sure if the Crusaders have seen a veer attack like this one. It will be interesting to say the least.

SANDY DUNES PICK: SEAHOLM 28, DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 21.

DUNLAP PICK: DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 31, SEAHOLM 14.

BURNEY PICK: DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 27, SEAHOLM 21.

STICK PICK: DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 34, SEAHOLM 21.

COTTER PICK: DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 49, SEAHOLM 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 35, SEAHOLM 14.

D-ZONE PICK: DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 41, SEAHOLM 20.

Week Twelve Recap.

Written Saturday November 16th at 4:25 PM

SEAHOLM 44, Port Huron 28:

The Maples took home their first regional title since 1997 with a 44-28 victory over Port Huron. Seaholm had over 400 yards of total offense against the Big Reds. The Maples will move onto the State Semifinals and play Detroit Martin Luther King next week.

More on Seaholm check my blog article on them.

Belleville 27, WEST BLOOMFIELD 22:

The Lakers used the no huddle offense and the team’s defense was stout early against the Tigers on Saturday afternoon. Things started with a safety by Cornell Wheeler and then the offense got going with touchdown scores from CJ Harris to Michael Williams along with a rushing score from Donovan Edwards making the score 15-0 at the time. West Bloomfield had a fumble recovery on the kickoff from Max Hairston but they couldn’t score on that drive. The Tigers answered on their next drive as they scored on a 55 yard rushing touchdown on a fourth down and one to make the score 15-7. Belleville would get another score off a 30 yard touchdown pass to make it 15-13 heading into the half. Belleville would dominate the second half eventually taking a 27-15 lead but Harris and the Lakers didn’t cave as Harris found Edwards to make it a 27-22 game late and then would get the onside kick. West Bloomfield could not get the winning score thus falling to the Tigers for the second straight year 27-22. The Lakers have a solid foundation coming back next season. They will be back.

Why Seaholm Has a Chance to Get to Ford Field.

Written Saturday November 16th at 12:30 AM

The magical journey of Seaholm football has came to life.

The Maples won their first regional championship since 1997 with a convincing 44-28 victory on their home field over Port Huron in the Division Two Regional Championship Game on Friday night.

They had 400 yards of total offense against the Big Reds who looked over matched.

A ton of credit has to go to Coach Jim DeWald and his coaching staff. DeWald has done a masterful job at Seaholm with what he has. His two sons Caleb and James play big roles on both sides of the football.

Chaz Strecker has been a machine this whole playoffs. He had 135 yards and three touchdowns in their shocking 42-7 blowout of Groves in the district finals. Strecker had a 91 yard kickoff return for a touchdown, a 37 yard rushing score, and caught a 39 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Caleb Knoer.

Knoer is also having a huge playoff run, only a junior. He has led this very complicated offense to postseason wins against Sterling Heights, Groves, and Port Huron thus far.

Seven players had carries in the game besides Strecker including Will McBride, Jacob Vance, and Jack Trinch reaching the endzone.

Seaholm has scored 141 points in three playoff games. The Maples have averaged 44 points per game thus far.

Seaholm will play Detroit Martin Luther King next week at a neutral site in the Division Two State Semifinals.

The pundits will say that the Maples have no chance against the Crusaders. Detroit Martin Luther King has a talented quarterback in Dante Moore, a talented running back in Peny Boone, and a very talented wide out in Marshawn Lee.

Hmm sounds familiar???

Seaholm has used the term why not us, they have been here before. Just ask Groves that very same question. The Maples had lost six straight years and seven straight games to the Falcons until two weeks ago.

The Maples had seen teams like Groves and Oak Park in the White that are similar to the Crusaders from a talent perspective.

The Maples veer offense will pose problems for Detroit Martin Luther King. Not many teams run the veer in the Detroit Public School League. The Crusaders have never seen a veer attack like the one they will see next weekend.

Anytime you play for each other it's a huge advantage. Seaholm is not the biggest or flashiest team. They find ways to get it done.

That's all you need to make a run.

Volleyball State Quarterfinal Preview.

Written Friday November 15th at 9:10 AM

LAKE ORION vs Mount Pleasant @ Lapeer:

You can count the Mid-Michigan media stations will be in attendance for this one.

The Oilers are in the State Quarterfinals for the first time in school history after beating Flushing in four sets on their home court. Mount Pleasant overcame their loss last season to the Raiders on their home court. They will travel southeast to Lapeer to take on a Dragons squad that had went through a transition after winning the Division One State title last season. Lake Orion has a young squad that has went through a lot. They were an honorable mention in the State this season.

The Dragons have had a much tougher road than the Oilers especially when it comes to the league and in the postseason. Mount Pleasant plays in the Saginaw Valley League with the likes of Midland, Midland Dow, Bay City Central, Bay City Western, Bay City John Glenn, Saginaw, Saginaw Arthur Hill, Flint Carman Ainsworth, Flint Powers, Davison, Grand Blanc, and Lapeer. They have had a strong postseason thus far which included sweeps against Bay City Central, Midland Dow in the districts. The Oilers had to survive Traverse City Central in five games and had a four game win as mentioned over Flushing in the regional on their home floor. Lake Orion had to go through sixth ranked and Red Champion Clarkston in four games, Flint Metro League Stripes Champion Holly in a sweep, and Honorable Mention Oxford in five games on their home floor. In the regional, they had to get by ninth ranked Stoney Creek in five games on the Cougars home floor, and Red rival West Bloomfield in a sweep to get back to this point.

Mount Pleasant comes into this matchup with a 42-7-3 record. The Oilers have a ton of weapons led by outside hitter Maleah Blake. Blake had a huge night with 12 kills against Flushing on Thursday night. She also had 25 kills and 10 digs in their five set win against Traverse City Central and eight kills and 22 digs against Midland Dow in the district finals. Mackenzie Egger is the team’s top energy producer and middle blocker. She also had 12 kills against the Raiders and six blocks. Egger had nine kills and nine blocks against Traverse City Central. She had six kills and three aces against Midland Dow. Jaycee Maxon is another talented player as an outside hitter and defensive specialist. Maxon had 10 kills, three aces, and 20 digs against Flushing. She had five kills and 14 digs against Traverse City Central and had nine kills and 14 digs against Midland Dow. Katelyn Schell is a middle blocker. She had four blocks against Flushing, four blocks against Midland Dow, and five blocks against Traverse City Central. Matilda Graham is another very talented player. She had 24 digs against the Raiders, 15 digs and three blocks against the Trojans, and four kills, three blocks, and 11 digs against the Chargers. Anna Alford is their setter. She had 34 assists, three aces, and 20 digs in their victory over Flushing. Alford had 41 assists, four blocks and 15 digs against Traverse City Central and 27 assists, three kills, and 10 digs against Midland Dow. Kolbey Boyd is another talented player as their liberio. She had 28 digs in their win over Midland Dow

The Oilers head coach Allison Smith is in her final season in Mount Pleasant as next season she will be moving to Clarkston as her husband is an assistant under Coach Greg Kampe at Oakland University for Mens Basketball. 

It is unknown if she will coach in Oakland County.

Mount Pleasant and the Dragons have not met this season.

The winner of this matchup will head to Battle Creek to play either Mattawan or Lowell on Friday in the Division One State Semifinals.

PREDICTION: This is an interesting matchup but the Oilers haven't seen a team like the Dragons. Mount Pleasant has not played the schedule or faced the State ranked powers like Lake Orion had to do.The Oilers did not play a team from the OAA this season while the Dragons played Midland Dow in a tournament and beat the Chargers in straight sets. Playing in Lapeer will favor Lake Orion because of travel. The Oilers though are in the same league (Saginaw Valley League) as Lapeer. I think the Red is much tougher and it will show in this matchup. I see the Dragons making a return trip to Battle Creek to defend their title. PICK: LAKE ORION.

Week Twelve Picks.

Written Wednesday November 13th at 3:05 PM

Welcome to the 2019 football playoffs. This season will be different, each win will be worth 10 points however if you get the exact score it would be an extra five points.

Most are familiar with doing picks. Here are the pickers.

Sammy Taormina-host of OAA Now, writer of Inside the OAA, and one of the hosts of Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television.

Keith Dunlap-Freelance writer at the Detroit Free Press.

Scott Burnstein-Writer at the Oakland Press and State Champs.

Dan Stickradt-Writer for North Oakland Sports.

Sean Cotter-Former Farmington Scouter.

Matt Mowery-State Champs Writer.

Tim English-Website designer.

Jeff Corrion-D-Zone blogger and recruit insider.

We’ll get Matt and Tim’s picks ASAP.

SANDY DUNES: 97-21      970

DUNLAP: 98-20                  985

BURNEY: 91-27                  910

STICK: 89-29                        890

COTTER: 95-23                   950

FULL COURT: 24-94          240

TIM: 97-21                           970

D-ZONE: 93-25                   930

WEST BLOOMFIELD at Belleville: (Saturday 1 PM): This is a rematch of last season’s 13-10 Tigers win over the Lakers. Belleville has been on fire lately. They put up 67 last week in a stunning 67-14 blowout of Brownstown Woodhaven. West Bloomfield shut out Plymouth 35-0 in the Swamp behind Donovan Edwards’s monster game last week. Edwards did not play in the Belleville game last year due to injury but he is back this time around. The question will be the status of CJ Harris and if he will play is yet to be determined. If he does it gives the Lakers a huge bonus against a stingy Tigers defense. It will be interesting to see what happens on Saturday afternoon.

SANDY DUNES PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, BELLEVILLE 28.

DUNLAP PICK: BELLEVILLE 35, WEST BLOOMFIELD 31.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, BELLEVILLE 27.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38, BELLEVILLE 31.

COTTER PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, BELLEVILLE 31.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: BELLEVILLE 28, WEST BLOOMFIELD 21.

D-ZONE PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 21, BELLEVILLE 14.

Port Huron at SEAHOLM: (Friday 7  PM): The Maples sent shock waves throughout the State and my podcast with their shocking 42-7 beat down in Beverly Hills over Groves last week. The Big Reds needed a miracle to beat St. Clair Shores Lakeview 36-29 last week and that was fresh off of knocking off Port Huron Northern 27-21 two weeks ago at Memorial Stadium. I’ll be curious to see how Port Huron handles the veer attack that Seaholm will bring. It will be interesting in the Maple Forest.

SANDY DUNES PICK: SEAHOLM 31, PORT HURON 17.

DUNLAP PICK: SEAHOLM 24, PORT HURON 17.

BURNEY PICK: SEAHOLM 31, PORT HURON 24.

STICK PICK: SEAHOLM 21, PORT HURON 20.

COTTER PICK: SEAHOLM 28, PORT HURON 21.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: PORT HURON 21, SEAHOLM 14.

D-ZONE PICK: PORT HURON 28, SEAHOLM 24.

My Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKOZ6UNEPDI

2019 Volleyball Regional Preview.

Written Sunday November 10th at 11:50 AM

Here is my insight and preview heading into the regional rounds.

Region 2 @ Stoney Creek

TROY vs WEST BLOOMFIELD

LAKE ORION vs STONEY CREEK

THOUGHTS/INSIGHT: This is an All Red Regional at Stoney Creek. These four teams have seen each other this season not only in league but in tournaments as well. The host Cougars are the early favorite on paper because of home court and experience. Stoney Creek is ranked ninth in the State in Division One. They beat Utica Eisenhower, survive Adams, and beat Rochester on the Falcons home floor to win their district. The defending Division One State Champion Dragons are an honorable mention in Division One and they are in this regional. Lake Orion had to go through a very tough district and earned wins over sixth ranked Clarkston, Holly, and honorable mention Oxford in their district on their home floor. The Colts are here after beating tenth ranked Bloomfield Hills in the district finals on their home floor. The Lakers are also here after winning their district on their home floor by beating Walled Lake Western and Walled Lake Central. This will be a fun district to keep an eye on.

PREDICTION: Hmm home court seems to matter in districts and three of these teams won on their home floors. Lake Orion blew a 2-0 lead at Stoney Creek in the regular season and the Cougars have wins over Troy and West Bloomfield. I always believe in experience and home court, Stoney Creek has that in this regional. PICK: STONEY CREEK.

Region 15 @ St. Clair Shores South Lake

Detroit Cesar Chavez Academy vs Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy

FERNDALE vs Warren Regina

THOUGHTS/INSIGHT: This is setting up to be a very interesting regional. The Eagles are back to back district champions after winning a classic five game set over Detroit Communication and Media Arts. Detroit Cesar Chavez Academy and Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy are very strong teams wanting to make some noise. Warren Regina plays in the always competitive Catholic League. This regional in St. Clair Shores is for sure to be an interesting one.

PREDICTION: There aren’t no State ranked teams here in Division Two in this regional. If Ferndale wants to make that next step in Coach Stella Johnstone’s second season why not win this regional. It looks manageable on paper. Warren Regina will be a tough team for the Eagles and if they win that then a clash with Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy or Detroit Cesar Chavez looms. I like the Aztecs to get to the State Quarterfinals over a very good Eagles squad. PICK: DETROIT CESAR CHAVEZ ACADEMY.

My Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKOZ6UNEPDI

Football Thoughts After Week Eleven.

Written Saturday November 9th at 12:45 AM

Seaholm: The Maples did a ton of things in their shocking 42-7 upset of their city rivals on the road in Beverly Hills. They beat them for the first time since 2013, snapped a seven game losing streak to their city rival, and won their first district title since 2001. Talk about happiness for coach Jim DeWald’s group. Seaholm will host Port Huron next week.

Groves: The Falcons defense had a hard time on Friday night against Seaholm and it showed in their shocking 42-7 loss on Friday night. Groves had allowed 90 points in their last two games, both losses however this one ended their season. The Falcons finish at 9-2 on the season. They lose a ton of talent next season so it will be interesting to see what happens next season.

Farmington: The Falcons saw their season come to an end in a disappointing 11-10 loss to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit on Friday night on their home field. Farmington’s defense was stout all night but their offense could not get it going against the Cubs defense. The Falcons lose 28 seniors next year as they finish with an 8-2 record.

Lake Orion: The Dragons saw their season end on Friday night at the hands of Utica Eisenhower 27-20 on their home field. Lake Orion’s pass defense was exposed in the game as the Eagles had three passing scores on the night. Penalties also didn’t help the Dragons cause as they had 11 penalties on the night. Lake Orion ends their season with a 9-2 record but they should be in the mix come next season.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers saw their starting quarterback CJ Harris get hurt in their game with Plymouth on Friday night in the Swamp but Donovan Edwards played quarterback and scored four touchdowns in their 35-0 rout of the Wildcats. West Bloomfield will have a rematch with Belleville on the road next week but it’s unknown if Harris will play in that game. The Tigers beat the Lakers 13-10 last season in the same round.

Week Eleven Recap.

Written Saturday November 9th at 12:10 AM

SEAHOLM 42, GROVES 7:

The Maples snapped a ton of things on Friday night in Beverly Hills in a shocking 42-7 beat down. One, they snapped an seven game losing streak to their city rivals, Two, they beat their city rivals for the first time since 2013, Three, they took home their first district title since 2001, Four, they shut down the Groves offense that was stout all season. Chaz Streaker had a huge game for Seaholm going for 192 yards and three touchdowns. The Maples are 8-3 thus far and will host Port Huron next week. The Falcons finish the season at 8-3 after making the State Semifinals two of the last three years. The Groves defense allowed 90 points and scored 35 points in their final two games which wasn’t good.

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit 11, FARMINGTON 10:

The Falcons had a ton of chances but couldn’t get the offense going in their stunning 11-10 home loss to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit on Friday night. The Cubs would get a winning field goal in the third quarter against a stout Farmington defense that was really good and solid all year. The Falcons finish the season at 8-2 and will lose 28 seniors to graduation.

Utica Eisenhower 27, LAKE ORION 20:

The Dragons took 11 penalties and saw their pass defense got exposed in a stunning 27-20 loss to Utica Eisenhower on Friday night. The first half was the difference as the Eagles behind their passing game took a 20-10 lead into the break. Blake Rastigue had three passing touchdowns along with a fumble loss and an interception for Utica Eisenhower in the game. Lake Orion finishes their season with a 9-2 record.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, Plymouth 0:

The Lakers had no problem with Plymouth behind the performance of Donovan Edwards however they lost CJ Harris to an injury in the game. Edwards rushed for four touchdowns in a convincing blowout of the Wildcats 35-0 in the Swamp. The West Bloomfield defense was also solid as well as they are now 10-1 on the season. The Lakers will have a rematch with Belleville next week on the road. The Tigers beat West Bloomfield 13-10 last season.

Week Eleven Picks.

Written Wednesday November 6th at 1:20 PM

Welcome to the 2019 football playoffs. This season will be different, each win will be worth 10 points however if you get the exact score it would be an extra five points.

Most are familiar with doing picks. Here are the pickers.

Sammy Taormina-host of OAA Now, writer of Inside the OAA, and one of the hosts of Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television.

Keith Dunlap-Freelance writer at the Detroit Free Press.

Scott Burnstein-Writer at the Oakland Press and State Champs.

Dan Stickradt-Writer for North Oakland Sports.

Sean Cotter-Former Farmington Scouter.

Matt Mowery-State Champs Writer.

Tim English-Website designer.

Jeff Corrion-D-Zone blogger and recruit insider.

We’ll get Matt, Jeff, and Tim’s picks ASAP.

SANDY DUNES: 96-18      920

DUNLAP: 96-18                  915

BURNEY: 90-24                  860

STICK: 88-26                        850

COTTER: 94-20                   910

FULL COURT: 24-90          240

TIM: 95-19                           910

D-ZONE: 92-22                   880

Plymouth at WEST BLOOMFIELD: The Lakers are no strangers to playing the Wildcats. West Bloomfield beat Plymouth 49-14 at the Swamp last season in the first round. These two teams are playing again except this time it’s in the district finals and not the first round. The winner will either get Belleville or Brownstown Woodhaven in the regionals.

SANDY DUNES PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, PLYMOUTH 14.

DUNLAP PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, PLYMOUTH 20.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, PLYMOUTH 26.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, PLYMOUTH 14.

COTTER PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 42, PLYMOUTH 14.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK:WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, PLYMOUTH 14.

D-ZONE PICK:WEST BLOOMFIELD 42, PLYMOUTH 14.

Utica Eisenhower at LAKE ORION: The Dragons and Eagles are no strangers to each other when it comes to the postseason. Lake Orion has won the last three playoff meetings over Utica Eisenhower on their home field (2008. 2010, and 2012.) The Eagles and Dragons are mirror images of each other. Both teams run the zone read offense. Both teams have great head coaches in Chris Smith and John Blackstock. Both teams have stout quarterbacks in Blake Rastigue and Blaze Lauer. Both teams have stout running backs in Mario Getaw and Kobe Manzo. Both teams have very talented wide receivers in Ethan Barker and Steve Nadolski while the other side has Mitchell Howell and Drew Van Heck. Also both teams are stout defensively. There is a lot more similarities than differences. This should be a tense drama in the Dragons Den on Friday night.

SANDY DUNES PICK: LAKE ORION 23, UTICA EISENHOWER 20.

DUNLAP PICK: LAKE ORION 28, UTICA EISENHOWER 27.

BURNEY PICK: LAKE ORION 35, UTICA EISENHOWER 25.

STICK PICK: LAKE ORION 21, UTICA EISENHOWER 14.

COTTER PICK: LAKE ORION 17, UTICA EISENHOWER 14.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: UTICA EISENHOWER 28, LAKE ORION 21.

D-ZONE PICK: LAKE ORION 24, UTICA EISENHOWER 22.

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit at FARMINGTON: The Cubs forced six turnovers which included five interceptions in their 34-21 victory over North Farmington last week. The Falcons shocked the state by beating Oak Park 12-6 in Knight Valley last week. Farmington is very good defensively but they haven’t had a home game since week four (beat Ferndale 53-14.) This will be very interesting as the winner will play either Detroit Martin Luther King or Livonia Franklin in the regionals.

SANDY DUNES PICK: FARMINGTON 21, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 7.

DUNLAP PICK: DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 28, FARMINGTON 17.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 31, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 21.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 21, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 20.

COTTER PICK: FARMINGTON 14, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: FARMINGTON 17, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 14.

D-ZONE PICK:FARMINGTON 17, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 13.

SEAHOLM at GROVES: The Battle of 13 Mile has been really one sided lately. The Falcons have won eight straight over the Maples including beating their city rivals twice last season which included the playoffs. Groves won 35-14 at Seaholm three weeks ago. The Maples have won two straight since that game including last week’s 55-34 shootout victory over Sterling Heights. The Falcons had a week off to heal their wounds after falling 49-28 to Brownstown Woodhaven two weeks ago. This one will be very interesting to say the least.

SANDY DUNES PICK: GROVES 35, SEAHOLM 21.

DUNLAP PICK: GROVES 24, SEAHOLM 21.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 24.

STICK PICK: GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 14.

COTTER PICK: GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: GROVES 35, SEAHOLM 14.

D-ZONE PICK:GROVES 35, SEAHOLM 21.

My Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ickCNAUdU10