Blog

Regional Previews

50 Tickets

Top Tens

Where: Allendale HS

Primarily flat with a few bumps in the back section. Wide open, solid footing, easy for spectators. A waterlogged mess for everyone else, last year’s regionals ran fast in comparison. Expect some personal bests as Grand Rapids area athletes are known to do as the season ends.

The moving parts, the strengths and weaknesses of teams, Region 21 has it all.

First, one must pay homage one of the elder statesmen of the West Coast, Laurens TenKate. During his 15-year coaching career, the Squires racked up 20 OK Silver titles, 18 Regional titles, and took home 7 trophies at MIS (2 of those, overall victories). He leaves behind a legacy, but also a program with the foundation for future success. Both teams may be underdogs this year, but they’ll undoubtedly be in the mix in the coming years.

Region 21’s strength speaks for itself when a top-20 outfit, Kent City, is a 20 point underdog to each of the top three squads. The Eagles are loaded with upperclassmen in their top four, and if you consider Sam Freeland and Jaren Vogel’s steps up on regional day, perhaps they can cut into that difference.

The top three squads each have varying strengths and an odd disparity in rankings between the entire state and this particular region. Central Montcalm comes in ranked 7^th in the state, but not projected to capture the regional title. Their top three is unbelievably strong that it could be a major advantage at the state level, in a smaller regional race, that advantage lessens. Saranac, a late season riser in 2021, has the opposite strength. Their 5^th runner may be one of the better 5^th runners in the state, their pack itself may be more closely wound than anyone else. And then Covenant Christian is predicted to be stronger through their 7^th man than everyone else here, and again, likely in the entire state.

When I rank within a division, I rank every single team, not just the projected qualifiers. Against all of Division 3, these three squads are separated by 18 points.

Similar circumstances are found for the girls, this instance a likely battle of three teams for two qualifying spots. West Catholic, Central Montcalm, and WMC are ranked in order, 16^th through 18^th. Against the entire state, separated by eight points. West Catholic comes with the close-knit pack, Ali Junewick and Claire Smith’s projected separation a mere 40 seconds. Central Montcalm’s girls share a strength with their boys, unreal strength through three girls. Can the Hornets find a 4^th, a 5^th girl? Western Michigan Christian has that #ChampionshipExperience. Coach Gould always has the remarkable ability of recruiting someone to round out the Warrior squad. An additional body might be the necessary ticket for advancement.

And of course I’d be remiss not to mention Kent City. The Eagles were ranked 7^th in the pre-season, then held steady in that position through much of September. Once the results from Portage and Kent Ottawa took hold, they moved up into the Top-3, Top-4, but outperformed the rankings at the Lower Peninsula Finals. Seniors such as Alyeska Linsley, Kierra Flegel, and Emily Lantzer were prominent contributors to that magical run. So were underclassmen such as Alisha Esquivel, Isabella Max, and Gracie Houtman. They’ll start 2022 in a similar position, will history repeat itself?

2021 Boys: Grandville Calvin Christian (4^th), Grand Rapids Covenant Christian (7^th), Saranac (21^st)

2021 Girls: Kent City (2^nd), Grand Rapids Covenant Christian (7^th), Grandville Calvin Christian (17^th)

Top 25 Boys Teams: Stanton Central Montcalm (7^th), Grand Rapids Covenant Christian (10^th), Saranac (11^th), Kent City (16^th)

Top 25 Girls Teams: Kent City (10^th), Grand Rapids West Catholic (16^th), Stanton Central Montcalm (17^th), Muskegon Western Michigan Christian (18^th)

Just a little rundown of those in the top-15 that haven’t been mentioned in the 50 Tickets (Lila Volkers), the Top Tens (Central Montcalm, Kent City, and aren’t freshmen. Many of these are just scouring athleticnet (note – if you have a kid you want to brag about, reach out, tell me their story), but it’s more attention paid than many publications, it helps me learn names, and most of all – GETS ATTENTION TOWARDS KIDS THAT DESERVE IT.

Nathan Jenkins, Grandville Calvin Christian: Just glancing at the times, one might look at Nate’s late season performances and think he collapsed on the big stage. Knowing the whole story, one gains a much greater appreciation for Nate’s selflessness. Battling through injury, through pain, he delivered for his team when his contributions were most needed. That good karma WILL pay off in the future and maybe even this fall. He has the maturity, the motivation, and a sprinkling of past success, having gone sub-16:30 on multiple occasions in 2021.

Samuel Martini, Kent City: If there’s one thing for certain about Sam, he relishes the opportunity to compete at State. 6^th on his home track during track, 18^th in XC.

Ben Wertz, Grandville Calvin Christian: From 2020 to 2021, Ben improved 100+ places at the State meet.

Jude Meldrum-Roy, North Muskegon: Another one in the year to year improvement department. Jude skipped right over those 17’s, bludgeoning through that wall with a 16:56 at the 3^rd WMC Jamboree.

Roger Hernandez, Holland Black River: Regional placings: 31^st to 15^th to 8^th. By that pattern, he’ll be at least 4^th here. A 4:41 to close his track season lends belief that’ll come true.

Owen Fairchild, Montague: Going into his senior year with a bit of momentum. Ran more than half his races in the 17’s, a reversion towards his freshman form.

Jaren Vogel, Kent City: Another Kent City harrier that brings it on championship days. This spring, that was a nearly 30 second PB in the 3200m, in the fall that was his second sub-18 of the cross season.

Elijah Powell, Saranac: After spending much of his junior year in the 18’s, Elijah’s late season surge coincided with Saranac’s advancement to running in November.

Grace VanderKooi, Muskegon Western Michigan Christian: Sheer willpower and patience. To sit out nearly a month and come back with an 8^th place State finish speaks volumes about Grace’s maturity as a person and athlete.

Madeleine Hill, Saranac: Sneaky candida… check that, Madeleine won’t be sneaking up on anyone this fall. Her track season ensured that, from her 2:19 in the 800m to her 11:24 in the 3200m. Almost a 30 second drop in her 1600m and 1:20 in the 3200m. Wow.

Ashley Choponis, Stanton Central Montcalm: The Hornets will be loaded at the front of many races. As a freshman, Ashley was there too, especially in her final two races where she dipped under 20:00.

Kyah Hoffman, Stanton Central Montcalm: If her peak is any indication, she’s underrated by these here numbers. At her best during last season’s close, she was an All-Stater. Throughout the year, she hung in the 21’s. I suspect we’ll see more of that peak form come fall.

Amber Koole, Grand Rapids Covenant Christian: Amber is a perfect encapsulation of Region 21’s strength. Last November, she crossed the tape in 34^th place, here she’s ranked 7^th to begin the season. But she showed last year that she’s capable of outperforming her rankings…

Jonathah Bouwman, Grandville Calvin Christian: She’s been top-15 at Regionals and top-10 in the OK Silver during each of her three years.

Carolyn Bennett, North Muskegon: Carolyn’s first two regional results: 50^th and 41^st. Her latest one? 13^th, a State qualifier, 27 second personal best, and jumpstart into a track season where she cranked out a 5:20 1600m.

Lily Laburn, Holland Black River: Although 2021 didn’t end with a State qualification, bits of success were still found. Another top-10 finish in the Alliance League and a minor PB, a 20:28 at Allendale Falcon.

Alyssa Possehn, Saranac: Saranac’s Color Run was the impetus for a late season surge. Alyssa crushed the 22:00 mark at her home course, then dropped time meet after meet, culminating in an appearance at the speedway.

Brianna Zuidema, Muskegon Western Michigan Christian: WMC’s State Title was won by a quality margin, that doesn’t discount the necessary contributions in taking home a trophy. The low sticks are a bonus, but often not the most important in a team battle. Solid races by a 4^th girl, someone such as Brianna, clinch the awards. Brianna didn’t just run solid, however, she brought home a 10 second personal best.

Ali Junewick, Grand Rapids West Catholic: 11^th grade fall was short, but had a sweet ending. 12^th place in the OK Blue was her best run in the conference meet to date.

50 Tickets

Regional Previews

Top Tens

• This past spring, Alexandra took that next step and seriously showed us some range
• You could see the traces of a breakout season early, when someone is running PB’s in cold, early season duals, you know they’re raring to hit exceptional times when the weather and competition warms
• She did that exactly, hitting a 10:54 at New Balance, then 2:19 at Oakland County, 5:02 at D1 State
• We saw a similar pattern last fall, an 18:57 at Jackson (not the greatest conditions ever), on par with her freshman season best
• And then a month later, multiple 18:1x efforts and another All-State honor
• All in all, a year where Alexandra continuously busted through barriers, and given that track season, it doesn’t look like she’s done growing in this sport

Grade	Name	Time	Rating	Meet	Course	Date
10	Alexandra Brigham	20:26.8	129.4	Milford	Possum Hollow	2-Sep
10	Alexandra Brigham	19:37.8	126.1	Ramblin’ Rock	Willow	11-Sep
10	Alexandra Brigham	19:58.9	136.4	OAA Red 1	Lake Orion HS	14-Sep
10	Alexandra Brigham	18:57.2	143.9	Jackson	Sharp Park	25-Sep
10	Alexandra Brigham	19:31.7	132.8	Hansons	Freedom Hill	2-Oct
10	Alexandra Brigham	19:47.5	137.2	Oakland County	Possum Hollow	9-Oct
10	Alexandra Brigham	18:17.3	142.6	OAA Red 3	Clintonwood Park	21-Oct
10	Alexandra Brigham	19:57.6	146.8	9 Anchor Bay	Anchor Bay HS	29-Oct
10	Alexandra Brigham	18:34.1	145.6	D1 State	MIS	6-Nov
10	Alexandra Brigham	18:19.3	151.2	MMOC	Shepherd HS	13-Nov

Grade	Name	Rating	Meet	Course	Date
9	Alexandra Brigham	134.3	Clarkston/Troy	Clintonwood Park	18-Sep
9	Alexandra Brigham	135.1	Clarkston/Seaholm	Clintonwood Park	25-Sep
9	Alexandra Brigham	132.8	Clarkston/Lake Orion	Clintonwood Park	30-Sep
9	Alexandra Brigham	133.3	Canton/Clarkston	Willow	3-Oct
9	Alexandra Brigham	134.5	Oakland County	Kensington	10-Oct
9	Alexandra Brigham	136.3	OAA Red Championship	Bloomer Park	15-Oct
9	Alexandra Brigham	134.0	PR 14	Clintonwood Park	23-Oct
9	Alexandra Brigham	136.2	D1 Reg 7	Clintonwood Park	30-Oct
9	Alexandra Brigham	141.6	D1 State	MIS	6-Nov

• Braydon entered Freeland as one of “those” freshman, the ones that are pegged for success
• Sometimes those are the most difficult, saddled with high expectations, unneeded pressure, and a chance that they grow loathing the sport
• That definitely has not been the case, as we see Braydon explore new avenues, gain trophies in all sorts of events
• Early in his career, these came on the grass, where he racked up a Saginaw County title, TVC Overall title, two Regional Championships, and two All-States         
  • Even more impressive, his 2020 season began late
• Injury hindered his cross country season as a junior, although he admirably competed through much of the latter half of the season
• But then in track, he found success in the mid-distance, breaking 4:20, grabbing an All-State in the 800m
• We know from the past that Braydon has the 5k chops, now adding greater turnover to the mix?
  • I’m ready and excited to find out where that leads

Grade	Name	Time	Rating	Meet	Course	Date
11	Braydon Honsinger	16:13.2	201.3	Under the Lights (St. Johns)	St. Johns HS	20-Aug
11	Braydon Honsinger	17:04.9	197.7	ES Warrior	Chippewa Hills HS	24-Aug
11	Braydon Honsinger	16:05.1	200.3	John Bruder	Shepherd HS	8-Sep
11	Braydon Honsinger	15:44.7	199.4	Northwood	Fisher Trails	11-Sep
11	Braydon Honsinger	16:50.6	190.1	TVC 8	Freeland	15-Sep
11	Braydon Honsinger	15:51.4	196.5	Cadillac	Veterans Serving Veterans Park	25-Sep
11	Braydon Honsinger	16:22.6	191.8	TVC 8 2	Delta College	28-Sep
11	Braydon Honsinger	15:51.6	201.8	Bluejay	Shepherd HS	2-Oct
11	Braydon Honsinger	16:23.7	194.8	Portage	Portage West MS	9-Oct
11	Braydon Honsinger	16:49.0	183.0	15 Shepherd	Shepherd HS	29-Oct
11	Braydon Honsinger	16:35.0	185.7	D2 State	MIS	6-Nov

Grade	Name	Rating	Meet	Course	Date
10	Braydon Honsinger	173.6	Heritage	White Pine MS	10-Oct
10	Braydon Honsinger	181.6	TVC 3	Taymouth Twp. Park	13-Oct
10	Braydon Honsinger	178.1	Freeland	Freeland XC Course	17-Oct
10	Braydon Honsinger	187.2	PR 30	Freeland XC Course	24-Oct
10	Braydon Honsinger	190.8	D2 Reg 15	Shepherd HS	30-Oct
10	Braydon Honsinger	194.9	D2 State	MIS	6-Nov

Grade	Name	Rating	Meet	Course
9	Braydon Honsinger	197.2	Under the Lights	St. Johns HS
9	Braydon Honsinger	198.6	ES Warrior	Chippewa Hills HS
9	Braydon Honsinger	205.0	Corunna EB	Shiawasee County Fairgrounds
9	Braydon Honsinger	196.2	Lancer	Stratford Woods
9	Braydon Honsinger	200.7	Wagener Park	Wagener County Park
9	Braydon Honsinger	196.0	Freeland	Stratford Woods
9	Braydon Honsinger	200.4	TVC	Rittmueller MS
9	Braydon Honsinger	196.2	Saginaw County	Rittmueller MS
9	Braydon Honsinger	193.2	15	Delta College
9	Braydon Honsinger	196.4	D2 State	MIS

Regional Previews

50 Tickets

Top Tens

Where: Bangor HS

No course map, hardly much history. Looking back over the past few years, there have been a couple meets a year held here. Many of them are of the SW10 variety, small jamborees that I haven’t rated. The others are the Bangor Invite, held in late September. The rating at the 2021 Bangor Invite was +11. With another month left going towards Regionals, I’ll assume this course runs fast. A look at the terrain on Google Maps shows nothing in the way of hills. I did start checking out Bangor’s downtown, which is bigger than what I had imagined. On the outskirts of downtown sits this colorful caboose:

Maybe if you win, you can take a pic with the trophy in front of the caboose.

2021 Boys: Coloma (19^th), Saugatuck (8^th), Constantine (26^th)

2021 Girls: Bridgman (18^th), Buchanan (22^nd), Schoolcraft (27^th)

This SW Michigan is a cradle of former champions. Saugatuck has captured four in the past decade, spanning both the Division 3 and 4 ranks. Bridgman’s girls captured my heart on their path to a 2019 victory, and I swore Kalamazoo Christian had won one – apparently my long-term memory is lacking, they’ve finished 2^nd the past two years. Either way, all three teams are here in Division 3, hoping to make that same magic.

Top 25 Boys Teams: Kalamazoo Christian (12^th), Bridgman (21^st)

Top 25 Girls Teams: Kalamazoo Christian (12^th), Schoolcraft (22^nd)

Just a little rundown of those in the top-15 that haven’t been mentioned in the 50 Tickets (Mr. Winter), the Top Tens, and aren’t freshmen (you’ll get your day, Alina). Many of these are just scouring athleticnet (note – if you have a kid you want to brag about, reach out, tell me their story), but it’s more attention paid than many publications, it helps me learn names, and most of all – GETS ATTENTION TOWARDS KIDS THAT DESERVE IT.

Boden Genovese, Coloma: Dropped a sub-18 in his third HS race, hasn’t looked back since. Placed 63^rd at MIS as a freshman, halved that as a sophomore, can he half that one more time en route to an All-State finish?

Jaden Barnes, Bloomingdale: Made his presence known in early October with a 16:25 at Otsego, a month later, he grabbed his first All-State. One of what I assume to be many.

Ethan Glick, Constantine: Was a 3200m workhorse this past spring, qualifying for State and hitting a 10:13 at one point.

Isaac Bogard, Kalamazoo Christian: Snuck under 17:00 in his All-State run last year. Can he repeat the feat in a higher division?

Joe Stocchiero, Bloomingdale: It’s been a career full of great gains. 19:57 as a freshman to 17:09 as a junior. 2021 contained his first individual qualifier, he took advantage of that the following week with a 40^th place finish.

John Sanderson, Bridgman: Has placed top-10 here each of the past two years and appears well-positioned to make it a third.

Charlie Stormer, Saugatuck: During the 2021 track season, he only had one 3200m race that was sub-12. A year later, four of his final six races were sub-11.

Logan Weis, Centreville: Tendency to bring it late in the season. Sub-18 at Regionals in cross, sub-5 and sub-11 late in track.

Nick Mitchell, Kalamazoo Christian: Top-5 in each of his past two races at this stage. Division 3 now compared to Division 4, but still in the running to attain that feat based on his high-17’s from 2021.

Andrew Mabry, Bridgman: Established a firm footing in the long sprints/mid-D during track. 54.4 opener in the 400m, 2:16 closer in the 800m.

Eddy Granados, Coloma: Freshman year contained it all: State appearance, quick times, and establishing himself as one of the better up and coming runners in Berrien County.

Kendra Koster, Lawton: Sickness derailed her chance at glory last fall, the correct amount of cautiousness regarding injury did the same this spring. The lack of State-level medals shouldn’t take away from the tremendous progress she made in her sophomore season. Ran in the low-19’s for much of the year, then 5:19/11:27 in track. As good a candidate as any for ANOTHER breakout.

Autumn Major, Centreville: After a year hiatus, Autumn was back at it again in 2021, still running in the 20’s, but this time qualifying for State.

Madeline Young, Buchanan: Freshman piled up BCS Conference trophies this past year. One in cross, two on the track.

Alaina Klooster, Kalamazoo Christian: By November, Alaina was the quickest girl on a Kalamazoo Christian crew that finished 2^nd at D4 State.

Camryn Brown, Coloma: No more Ava Genovese? No problem, as Camryn has showed she’s more than ready to step into Coloma’s top role. Hit a 12 second personal best in the 3200m this spring.

Lydia Kruis, Comstock: Junior year contained a massive PB and her third consecutive top-10 here in Region 22.

Angel Miller, Parchment: Track season showed signs of potential, where she reached 5:44 in the 1600m.

Caley Kerwin, Schoolcraft: First time State qualifier as a junior! Caley took advantage of that opportunity, wasn’t just happy to make it, and proved she belonged with a sub-21 in Brooklyn.

Aubrey Herder, Kalamazoo Christian: Two consecutive top-5 finishes in the SAC and at Regionals. Can she keep the streak alive?

Annika Sytsma, Kalamazoo Christian: Has made little bits of progress in each year. As a junior, ran her fastest at State, and as a result, had her best placing.

Ariana Pillot, Schoolcraft: Freshman year had some ups and downs, but Ariana ended it on a high note, with 3^rd place finishes in the 800m & 1600m at the SAC Championship.

Clara Fast, Bridgman: Steady forward progress as always from this one. Got down under 21:00 towards the end of the fall, broke 6:00 and 13:00 this spring. Signs of more improvements to come.