Boys Soccer District Preview.

Written Sunday September 28th at 12:45 PM

These are the MHSAA district matchups. Also History Now host Anthony Taormina will break down these districts and locations in future updates.

District 6 at Lapeer

8. Flint Carman Ainsworth vs 1. CLARKSTON

5. Flushing vs 4. Grand Blanc

 

6. Lapeer vs 3. OXFORD

7. Davison vs 2. LAKE ORION 

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: This district (probably my favorite one because of the teams involved) looks like Clarkston will be the overwhelming favorite having only one loss but that one loss was to Oxford (2-1) who is on the other side of the bracket. Clarkston is on pace to win the OAA Red and will be a tough out for anyone who plays them especially with the experience they have back from last year's team. Grand Blanc and Flushing tied each other but whoever wins that game will have no easy task in the second round. It looks like we are heading to an LO/Oxford second round matchup. LO won the first matchup 3-1 and if any indication of their past soccer battles have been, it will be another physical and emotional classic. Right now Clarkston is overwhelming favorite but look for either Grand Blanc or Flushing to give them a battle in the second round and either LO or Oxford to give them a battle in the district final.

 

District 7 at Hartland

5. Milford vs 4. Walled Lake Central

5. Milford/4. Walled Lake Central vs 1. Hartland

 

6. WEST BLOOMFIELD vs 3. Walled Lake Northern

7. NORTH FARMINGTON vs 2. Lakeland

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: In this district, Hartland stands out as the overwhelming favorite having only one loss also they play in the usually competitive KLAA West. West Bloomfield has been in the middle of the pack of the OAA White while North Farmington won the OAA Blue in their final year in the OAA. WB and WLN played each other in the first game of the regular season in which WLN won. North Farmington is going to have a tough task with Lakeland but at the same time the OAA has always been more competitive than the Lakes Valley so there is a potential upset. Hartland is the favorite in this district and for good reason.

 

District 8 at Novi Detroit Catholic Central

5. FARMINGTON vs 4. South Lyon

5. FARMINGTON/4. South Lyon vs 1. Livonia Stevenson

 

6. Novi vs 3. Northville

7. South Lyon East vs 2. Novi Detroit Catholic Central

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: This is a two team district with Livonia Stevenson and Novi Detroit Catholic Central. Farmington who finished last in the OAA White and is leaving for the Lakes Valley matches up fairly well against a decent South Lyon team. The winner however, will play Livonia Stevenson for in Farmington's case a future Lakes Valley rivalry game. Despite Livonia Stevenson being the number one seed, Detroit Catholic Central is the favorite here. They have played a much tougher schedule and is a traditional power in playoff soccer, not to mention it is on their home field which always helps.   

 

District 12 at Grosse Pointe South

8. Detroit Renaissance vs 1. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

5. Detroit Cass Tech vs 4. Dearborn Fordson

 

6. Grosse Pointe South vs 3. Dearborn

7. FERNDALE vs 2. Detroit Western 

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: Ferndale is in the middle of the pack of the OAA Blue having competitive games with North Farmington, Avondale, and Pontiac while crushing the other three Blue schools. Ferndale should get by Detroit Western. I'm saying that because the OAA is a more competitive league in soccer than the PSL but Detroit Western did tie Troy Athens 4-4 and is one of the best teams in the PSL which could be very interesting. The second round matchup will be much tougher with having to play either the MAC's Grosse Pointe South or the KLAA's Dearborn. Both of whom are quality teams. U-D Jesuit is the favorite in this district with their path a little bit easier.  

 

District 13 at Seaholm

8. SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs 1. TROY

5. ROYAL OAK vs 4. BERKLEY

 

6. GROVES vs 3. SEAHOLM

7. Birmingham Brother Rice vs 2. BLOOMFIELD HILLS

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: This district maybe the most challenging district in the state, potentially having five quality teams having a chance to win the district. Bloomfield Hills and Royal Oak are 1-2 respectively in the OAA White with both teams entertaining the state rankings. Seaholm has more than held their own in the OAA Red. Obviously playing the rival, Groves anything can happen. Troy and Berkley have both held their own in the OAA Red this season as well. Troy will get by Southfield A&T who had a big OAA Blue win recently over Harper Woods. Royal Oak and Berkley is a rivalry game that can go either way. Seaholm/Bloomfield Hills has a chance to be interesting should they both meet in the second round but don't count out Groves on being a spoiler. Whomever Troy gets between Berkley and Royal Oak, it will be a great game. It's hard to pick a winner in this district but when in doubt, go with the home team, in case Seaholm.  

 

District 14 at Troy Athens

5. Sterling Heights vs 4. Warren Mott

5. Sterling Heights/4. Warren Mott vs 1. TROY ATHENS

 

6. Fraser vs 3. Warren Cousino

7. Roseville vs 2. Sterling Heights Stevenson

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: The Red Hawks should be the overwhelming favorite here, they host the district. Only Sterling Heights Stevenson can really give them a game being competitive with Utica Eisenhower (only losing 3-2) and beating Dakota by forfeit. Athens does struggle at times but in this primarily Macomb County District. Athens should get by this district pretty convincingly. 

 

District 15 at Rochester

5. ADAMS vs 4. STONEY CREEK

5. ADAMS/4. STONEY CREEK vs 1. Utica Eisenhower

 

6. Utica vs 3. ROCHESTER

7. Utica Henry Ford II vs 2. Romeo

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: Traditionally this district is one of the toughest districts in the state however, with the recent struggles of the Rochester schools. This looks like it will be a Ike/Romeo district final. Rochester is more than capable of competing with anyone. Rochester has had a lot of ties lately but they do have home field and should get by Utica heading into the second round with Romeo. Adams and Stoney Creek is also an interesting matchup. The state champs lost a lot from last year and has had a tough year in the OAA Red but it is still Adams, one of the best coached teams in the state of Michigan. Stoney has also been near the top of the OAA White competing against Bloomfield Hills and Royal Oak. In their only matchup, Adams beat Stoney 2-0 but it's challenging to beat a team twice. Whoever wins that game will get to play Utica Eisenhower, a team that seemingly reloads year after year. The district is at Rochester but going with Utica Eisenhower to win the district.  

 

District 28 at Walled Lake Western

5. WATERFORD MOTT vs 4. PONTIAC

5. WATERFORD MOTT/4. PONTIAC vs 1. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

 

6. AVONDALE vs 3. Orchard Lake St. Marys

7. WATERFORD KETTERING vs 2. Walled Lake Western

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: Both OAA Blue teams have been in the middle of the pack in the division this year. Pontiac has had a great year beating several good teams, tying Avondale, and beating Ferndale. Pontiac will play Waterford Mott who will come into the OAA next year. This has the potential to become a great soccer rivalry alongside Ferndale and could preview many battles for years to come. The winner however, will play Cranbrook Kingswood in the second round who is the number one seed. Avondale has a tough first round match up just they had last year with Orchard Lake St. Mary's. OLSM competes in the dangerous Catholic League and often has to go against DeLaSalle and CC. OLSM also won the district last year as a three seed. WL Western should get by Kettering who has surprisingly struggled this season before coming into the OAA next year as well but they do own a win over Avondale and tied Ferndale which helps. OLSM is the favorite in this district despite being the three seed and it being at WL Western.

 

District 30 at Dearborn Divine Child

5. Warren Fitzgerald vs 4. Madison Heights Lamphere

5. Warren Fitzgerald/4. Madison Heights Lamphere vs 1. Hamtramck

 

6. Redford Thurston vs 3. Garden City

7. OAK PARK vs 2. Dearborn Divine Child

 

TRAIN INSIGHT: Very tough matchup for Oak Park going against a very good Dearborn Divine Child team. Will be another great learning experience for the Knights. Divine Child will be the favorite in this district despite Hamtramck being the one seed. Divine Child is at home and has played a much tougher schedule.

 

Week Five Rankings Explanation.

Written Saturday September 27th at 9:28 AM

Rankings

1. Harper Woods: Pioneers going along with their business.

2. Clarkston: Wolves defense starting to shine again.

3. West Bloomfield: Will Espy is starting to make his name known across the State.

4. Stoney Creek: Cougars bounced back after tough loss to Harper Woods.

5. Farmington: Falcons have bounced back nicely since loss to Holly.

6. Ferndale: Eagles defense has started to come alive.

7. Adams: Highlanders will be fine, don't panic.

8. North Farmington: Maybe Elijah Cobb is the answer at quarterback.

9. Seaholm: Maples have to stop turning the ball over for the veer to work.

10. Oak Park: Knights might be the most improved team this season.

 

Rankings Explanation

This week the rankings were a bit complicated from seven through ten. 

The top six teams have had strong seasons with not a lot of changes but with Adams at seven makes sense despite their tough 21-7 loss to Clarkston. I kept North Farmington at eight even though they are playing much better football but thought of putting the Highlanders at eight but decided against that. Seaholm drops to nine after getting romped 42-19 on their home field by Farmington and allowing 21 points in the second half. I thought of dropping them from the rankings but the 33-7 win against Oak Park is keeping them in the top ten at the moment. I moved Oak Park to ten because of their bounce back win over Troy. I dropped Groves out because of the loss to West Bloomfield but also thought of keeping them in the rankings as well. I don't think Oak Park and Groves play each other this season, would had been a very interesting game. I also thought of putting Oxford back into the rankings but the defensive concerns are there when talking about the Wildcats and it showed despite their 41-34 win over Lake Orion.

If Waterford Mott were in the league but they aren't as of yet, they would have easily been in the top ten in the rankings. 

Week Five Thoughts.

Written Saturday September 27th at 9:05 AM

Here are my thoughts on each team after week five. 

Waterford Kettering: It was the first game for interim coach Cullen Conway and it didn't end up well which resulted in a 63-0 loss to Lakeland on Friday night. It has been a rough week for the Captains as Coach Brian Barnes was forced out at Waterford Kettering after becoming the new athletic director at Madison Heights Bishop Foley. The Captains will look to finish strong and hopefully fix the defense going forward.

Waterford Mott: The Corsairs bounced back after allowing 87 points in the last two weeks against Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Walled Lake Western and shut down a Jeff Glynn offense that was scoring in bunches shutting them out 44-0 on Friday night. Waterford Mott controls it's destiny in the Lakes Valley Conference as they have South Lyon coming to Waterford for a big showdown looming for the league crown next week.

Pontiac: The Phoenix took another very tough loss falling 38-0 on Friday night. Pontiac struggled with Bloomfield Hills athleticism throughout the game. It is going to take some time to build for the Phoenix and Coach Wendell Jefferson to get things right but they are getting there.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets are really struggling to adjust to Coach Jim Carsile's system bottom line falling 33-0 to Ferndale on Friday night. Avondale has struggled on both sides of the football and it's really shown. It will be very interesting to see what the Yellow Jackets do going forward

Berkley: The Bears kept the Battle of Woodward trophy with a 38-10 win over Royal Oak on Friday night. Coach Casey Humes has figured something out with his program and they have started to put things together at the right time but they have a big one in Jackson in the future.

Royal Oak: The Ravens are the ultimate Scooby Doo team and it showed in their 38-10 loss to Berkley on Friday night. I can't seem to figure what Royal Oak is doing, they look good one week then the next they don't look that good, it's the ultimate mystery when describing the Ravens right now.

Ferndale: The Eagles have put the Gold on notice with their 33-0 win over Avondale on Friday night. Ferndale has figured things out which is a good sign and have a tough schedule ahead for Coach Donovan Jackson. The Eagles are in a very good spot right now.

Troy: The Colts are in a rough spot after a 33-7 loss to Oak Park on Friday night. The defense which has been the story allowing 74 points in the last two games albeit was against Clarkston and Oak Park but that's not a good thing if the defense is allowing points in bunches going forward. This is something Coach Chris Frasier and Troy needs to fix.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks defense has been a big problem which it showed in a 40-21 loss to North Farmington on Friday night. It's clear that Troy Athens has made progress offensively but the defense is where the Red Hawks need to clean up. It is likely that Coach Tom Cook has to make some changes on the defensive side of the football this offseason.

Bloomfield Hills: The Black Hawks had no issues on their homecoming with Pontiac winning 38-0 on Friday night earning their second win of the season. The rebuild will take some time for Coach Scott Merchant but it looks like they are making some progress going forward.

Farmington: The Falcons exploded for 21 points in the second half to stun Seaholm 42-19 on Friday night controlling the Blue at the moment. Farmington's athleticism showed along with the play of Vincent Peschi who also had a big game. The Falcons caused the Maples to abandoned the running game which is Seaholm's specialty. Farmington looks like a different team since falling 20-18 to Holly in week two.

North Farmington: The Raiders have seemed to turn things around in an impressive 40-21 win over Troy Athens. Elijah Cobb has been the answer at quarterback allowing Terrance James to be himself. The defense has played well despite allowing 21 points. North Farmington has turned things around since their loss to Farmington. They are in a good spot right now.

Seaholm: The Maples made some stunning turnovers and had to abandoned their vaunted veer attack in a stunning 42-19 loss to Farmington on Friday night. Seaholm had no answers defensively for the Falcons all night. The Maples don't control their destiny right now.

Oak Park: The Knights showed their athleticism in a 33-7 win over Troy on Friday night. Oak Park's skill players played well and really dominated against Troy. The Knights are quietly building something back up and gaining momentum.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors knew it was going to be a really tough game against Harper Woods and it showed in their 34-0 loss to Harper Woods on Friday night. Southfield Arts and Tech is struggling. The lower levels could bring some promise heading into the future but right now it's rough for the Warriors.

Groves: The Falcons held their own against West Bloomfield on Friday night but fell 20-7 to the Lakers on Friday night. Groves had their moments where they ended up taking a 7-0 lead at one point but West Bloomfield's defense really clamped down. The Falcons have been making progress and it's showing.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars are getting into postseason form with an impressive 34-0 win over Rochester on Friday night. Stoney Creek's defense has played well despite their tough loss to Harper Woods. So far Coach Rick Powell has done very well at Stoney Creek and with their program strength it is showing.

Rochester: The Falcons have not been the same team since upsetting Lake Orion 23-21 two weeks ago. Rochester has been outscored 76-7 in the last two weeks which included a 34-0 loss to Stoney Creek on Friday night. The Falcons used a lot of energy in their upset of the Dragons but they have not been able to figure it out which is not a good sign heading into October.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers showed their dominance against Southfield Arts and Tech winning 34-0 on Friday night. Harper Woods has been very consistent all season which has showed. It should be very interesting to see what the Pioneers do heading into October.

Adams: The Highlanders had a really tough outing for the second time in three weeks against a motivated Clarkston squad. Clarkston shut down Ryland Watters while playing time possession football themselves in a 21-7 defeat for Adams. Watters had a touchdown pass to Matt Toeppner in the second quarter which was their only offensive score on the night. The Highlanders will be fine going forward.

Clarkston: The Wolves defense was the story in a 21-7 win over Adams on Friday night. Clarkston had solid offensive outings from Lukas Boman and quarterback Alex Wasczenzko was solid all night. The Wolves are rolling with confidence likely heading into the postseason.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers defense was the story again for West Bloomfield in their 20-7 win over Groves on Friday night. Will Espy had a strong fourth quarter which helped big time. The Lakers are a completely different team from last season where injuries really derailed them despite getting into the postseason. West Bloomfield controls it's own destiny for now.

Oxford: The Wildcats system and belief in each other proved to be a difference in Oxford's 41-34 win over Lake Orion on Friday night. The Wildcats offense was the story and getting key third down plays which led to touchdowns. They were balanced all night. Coach Trevor Potts has done a great job in keeping program balance which is starting to show itself.

Lake Orion: There is no words to describe this. The defense was poor all night against an Oxford team that ran and threw all over them. The offense had their best game of the season which is a positive but the Dragons couldn't get over the hump falling 41-34 to the Wildcats on Friday night likely ending the postseason dreams. No one would had thought heading into the season that 0-9 was possible but it seems really real at the moment. It is clear the Dragons have a program problem when it comes to mental toughness program wide (includes youth levels.) There has to be changes this offseason everywhere from varsity to the youth levels that's the bottom line.

Basketball Way Too Early OAA Teams to Watch.

Written Sunday September 21st at 3:52 PM

Here are some teams to watch out for heading into the season.

Boys

Pontiac: If there is one program that is primed to be a serious contender in not only in the present but in the future this is it. The Phoenix have a new coach in former Michigan player Dion Harris. Pontiac has JJ Claudio and Jaiden Price coming back among others but the focus is program strength where the Phoenix have a strong freshman class that are very talented. The eighth grade levels will be something to watch with Pontiac. The Phoenix could be the team that makes the biggest jump heading into this season.

Bloomfield Hills: The Black Hawks have a lot of proven experience that could challenge for the Blue this season although there are some questions that Bloomfield Hills has heading into the season. The Black Hawks have Da'Ron Mason, Carter Canfield, Carter Hartfield, Brennan Bies, and Mason Hitchcock coming back for Coach Brian Canfield. Program strength will be something to watch with Bloomfield Hills. The Black Hawks could be in for a strong season with their proven guards and with what they have done this summer although the interior is a question mark heading into the season.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets could be primed to have a strong year this season. Avondale has Jakobe Louris, Noah Bonds, Anthony Burton, among others coming back and they added Rochester transfer Max Muhl this offseason. Muhl gives the Yellow Jackets another proven scoring option but they will have a new coach as Coach Jaret Thomas left the program to become an associate head coach at Oakland Community College. They have former interim coach Aaron Fox taking over the program. Avondale looks to be in the Red conversation and could be the favorite in the division. Program strength should be solid but it's something to watch for heading into the season.

Lake Orion: The Dragons have been very consistent since Coach Jose Andrades came to Lake Orion. The Dragons relied a lot on team ball which makes this team more dangerous. Lake Orion lost Zack Parks, Nick Galben, and Gabe Scott to graduation along with several other key players. They will likely lose Ryan Rocheleau who is playing football at Western Michigan. Lake Orion has a lot of proven talent in Nate Giacolone, Max Neering, Will Farmer, Joey Duggan, and Jackson Shoskey coming back for Andrades along with key players ready to make some noise. Program strength looks solid for the Dragons. Lake Orion should be a player to watch for this season. 

Stoney Creek: The Cougars might be the team that takes a big jump this season. Stoney Creek changed coaches as Marko Tomich takes over the program and former North Farmington Coach Todd Negoshian is the athletic director. The Cougars have a lot of proven talent in Anthony Arlinghaus, Quentin Rangi, Jack Fredenburg, Charlie Carson. among others coming back. Program strength looks solid but Tomich will have to bring in different coaches and learn a new system. Stoney Creek should be in the conversation to make some noise.

Clarkston: The Wolves are in a very interesting spot. They have had great summers but have struggled at times during the season. Clarkston should be much improved this season with a lot of proven experience in Cole Charter, Drew French, Ace Walters, Luke French, and Hayden Barlow, among others coming back for Coach Tim Waslik. Program strength has been solid for the Wolves and it's something they will rely on this season. Clarkston could be a team to watch for this season.

Rochester: The Falcons are going to be very interesting to watch this season. Rochester has program strength which helps and some proven experience coming back. The Falcons did well in games when they did not have Max Muhl who is now at Avondale. Rochester has Logan Pleasant, Anthony Chirio, Andrew Smith, Luke Lower, and Ben Bissett coming back for Coach Nick Evola along with a player in Nate Tandy who made noise in Junior Varsity last season. Program strength is strong as mentioned. The Falcons could be a player this season.

Oxford: What is life going to be without Jake Champagne for Coach Joe Fedorchik and the Wildcats will be something to watch. Oxford lost a lot of proven talent from last season but they have Brady Hasslebring, Brody Casper, and Brennan Elling coming back. Elling looks to be the Wildcats top player this season. Program strength is something to watch with the Wildcats. Oxford could be in for a long year early with the transition period. 

Royal Oak: The Ravens could be a team to watch with what they have done last season getting to the district finals. Royal Oak has a lot of talent coming back which includes CJ Hariston and Sam Zeller among others for Coach Aaron Smith. Program strength is a concern for Smith and will be something to watch. The Ravens could be a team to watch this season.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks are coming off  a district championship last season and will look to build off of that under second year Coach Mitchell Vercellino. It is very unlikely that Troy Athens will have Nathan Piggott coming back because of football. The Red Hawks have a proven player in Caidan Hainbury along with other proven talents in Alan Spahic, Enjr Fjolla, among others coming back. Program strength looks solid as well for Troy Athens. The Red Hawks should be one of those teams to watch for in the Blue.

Adams: The Highlanders have been very consistent especially when going from Coach Jaret Thomas to Isiah Novak. Novak has done a great job keeping Adams consistent with program strength and proven talent. The Highlanders have Cannon Flynn, Brady Lindstrom, and Zeke Wilson coming back. Program strength has been solid under Novak. Adams should be in the conversation in what should be a very competitive White.

Ferndale: The Eagles are coming into the season as one of the favorites in the Red. Ferndale has Eden Vinyard and Torriano Adams coming back among others for Coach and Athletic Director Juan Rickman. The Eagles have a tough schedule and being in the Red is no picnic either. Program strength will be something to watch with Ferndale if they can address, long term they will be in the hunt for their second Division Two State crown in five years.

Farmington: The Falcons are in a very interesting spot in their final year in the OAA. Farmington has the majority of their team coming back in Anthony Bailey, Randall Rice, and Myles Smith for Coach Byron Johnson. Program strength looks solid for Johnson. The Falcons should be a player in the Red this season and beyond.

North Farmington: The Raiders are in a transition period heading into their final year in the OAA. Coach Todd Negoshian stepped down and is the new athletic director at Stoney Creek. According to a source it looks like Pete Matayla has taken over the reigns at North Farmington. The Raiders lost some key players from last season but they have several key players in Jayden Glinz, Troy Waldron, DJ Morgan, Quran Creary, among others coming back. Program strength will be the key for the Raiders going forward. It will be very interesting to see what North Farmington does this season.

Groves: The Falcons are going through a long list of changes this season. Groves lost most of their team after a stunning district final loss to Birmingham Brother Rice last season. The Falcons have David Upshaw, David Jones, and Beau Kennard coming back for Coach Marc West. Program strength is a concern and will be something to watch. Groves could be in for some growing pains early as everyone adjusts to the transition period which has to happen during the season.

Seaholm: The Maples are in a very interesting spot heading into this season. Seaholm had a transition year under Coach Spenser Adams but this season Adams should have his program fully installed. The Maples have Patrick Hughes, Everett Wertz, Aiden Pero, and Brody Fieldmaker coming back. Program strength has been solid for Adams and it will be key for him to keep building on program strength heading into the future.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers could be a team to watch for in the Red this season. West Bloomfield lost about half of their team to graduation but they have several proven returners like Curtis Britton and Willie Edwards coming back for Coach Arnette Jordan. Program strength is a concern for the Lakers but they will find a way to address that issue. West Bloomfield should be in the mix to have a strong season this season.

Troy: How will the post Mason Parker era look like for newly crowned hall of famer in Coach Gary Fralick. The Colts also lost Leo Penoza as well. Troy will be a lot younger heading into this season returning Blake Kuiper among others coming back. Program strength is a concern for Fralick as well. It will take some time but when they do look out.

Waterford Mott: The Corsairs enter the OAA having to replace a lot of talent from last season but they have Tori Robinson, DaMari Stephens, Greg White, Geno Sheets, among others coming back for Coach Jeff Jayson and it's unknown if Max Jansenvanvuren is coming back with football. Program strength is a concern for Waterford Mott and will be something to watch. There are some concerns with the Corsairs but the talent is there.

 

Girls

Clarkston: The Wolves have a lot of potential heading into this season to make a deep postseason run. Clarkston has their two top guards in Elianna Robak and Brooklyn Covert along with a rising big in Bella Flavin coming back for Coach Aaron Goodnough. The Wolves have also several promising supporting cast players as well. Biggest question for Clarkston is staleness, almost everyone knows what Robak and Covert can do and who steps up. Clarkston has a ton of program strength and a strong eighth grade class coming up in the future. The future is bright for the Wolves.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers were fresh off making it back to the Division One State Semifinals last season lost about half of their roster but Coach Darin McAllister does have two proven players in Sheridan Beal and Londyn Hall among several others coming back. West Bloomfield added several players from Ferndale in Beal's cousin Iyanna Davis along with several incoming freshmen who were suppose to be going to Ferndale but with the program in turmoil they are at West Bloomfield. Program strength is a concern for McAllister but they should be in the conversation again this season.

Lake Orion: The Dragons lost their two top scorers in Izzy Wotlinski and Charlotte Peplowski last season so there is an expected drop off after losing two top scorers but Coach Bob Brydges has been a proven winner especially with younger talent. Players like Kara Veeder and LaLa Hill are going to be players to watch and take on bigger roles among others that could make some noise. Brydges has a strong supporting cast and has been one of the best coaches when it comes to developing multi-sport athletes. It may take some time for this team to grow but under Brydges this program has gotten the best and there is no reason why they should do that again. Also program strength is there along with a strong eighth grade class coming in the future. The future is bright for the Dragons.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars are a very interesting team coming into this season. Stoney Creek lost several key players including Merrick Schlawbach and Taylor Fulkerson to graduation but they have several key players in all three Ivezaj sisters (Calista, Abigail, and Izzy) along with Samantha Fulkerson and Jadelynn Freeman coming back for Coach Columbus Williams. Depth and program strength are major concerns to watch with the Cougars. The ceiling could be high if they stay healthy and live up to their full potential but the warning signs are there if things don't go right. Stoney Creek will be a team to watch this season.

Oxford: The Wildcats are a very interesting team to watch this season with what to expect. Oxford lost about a half of their roster to graduation but have Kaitlyn Brockway, Mia Champagne, and Tegan O'Connor among others coming back for Coach Trevor Marshall. Marshall has to rebuild program strength which is something to watch now and into the future. The numbers are a bit down in the middle school levels with the Wildcats and has to be monitoring heading into the season.

Troy: If there is huge pressure on a team with lofty expectations, this is it. The Colts have had a ton of ups and downs lately but if they want to make some noise this is their chance. Troy has a healthy Diamond Prince coming back from injury along with Maci Zeiter who has had a strong summer along with Olivia Sprangler and a solid big in Carly Higginbottom coming back for Coach Laura Guzman. The Colts have a strong sophomore class but program strength is a big concern. If Troy wants to have a season what many experts are predicting they would have, they have to stay healthy and live up to that potential.

Groves: The Falcons have been very impressive this offseason. Groves has Harlem Simpson and Jacey Roy along with several others coming back for Coach Jessica Duebla but interior and program strength are big question marks for Duebla. The Falcons should be one of those teams that could make some noise in the White this season.

Rochester: The Falcons are going to be a different team than they were in prior years. Rochester lost Alice Max and Kylie Robinson to graduation but they have players like Angela Cichowski, Stella Marlow, Arisara MacDonald, Taylor Parsons, and Emma Max among others coming back for second year Coach Andy Toppie. Program strength is a question mark in future years for the Falcons and will be something to watch. Rochester should be a player in the Red but could struggle early.

Berkley: The Bears have been a rising program and has been growing the past few years. Berkley have an impact freshman in Nicqo Shoulders coming into the program along with proven talents in Nadia Watt among others for Coach Clay Shaver. The Bears have done a wonderful job in building program strength. The key for Shaver will be matching up against teams like Detroit Renaissance who they will likely see in their district and the styles they run. If they can address this issue expect Berkley to be one of the perennial powers in Girls Basketball for years to come.

Adams: The Highlanders are a really interesting team to keep an eye on this season. Adams has a new coach in Justin Howard taking over the program and has several key players in Faith Zoldus, Jordan Jarrell, Layla Tomezak, and Nadia Heppner among others coming back from a team that was decimated by injuries last season. Program strength is a big concern for Howard and will be something to watch heading into this season.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks might be the most interesting when it comes to teams. They lost four key players including Alex Link to graduation but they have some key pieces coming back led by Katrina Tasich for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Program strength looks to be solid for the Red Hawks. They could be a sleeper to watch in the Blue.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets are in a very interesting spot heading into this season. Coach Roy Christmon lost almost three quarters of his team to graduation last season and program strength is a concern heading into this season. Avondale has their point guard in Sasha McClellan coming back. McClellan is going to have to do a lot for the Yellow Jackets with a new team around her. They also have Germani Hall as another player to watch. Avondale will be as good as McClellan takes them this season.

Royal Oak: The Ravens have been an up and down team as of late but Coach Brian Sopota has found ways to win especially when the talent hasn't been there. Royal Oak has a lot of proven talent led by Lydia Dickens and Vivian Lawrence coming back among others. Program strength is a concern for Sopota and something to watch. The Ravens will always be in the conversation because of their stability. 

Waterford: Waterford comes into the OAA with a lot of confidence and should be a really interesting team to watch in the Gold. They have Morgan Koskinen, Sophie Munro, Ahmya Gulley, Paytin Eakin, and Savannah Sartorius coming back for Coach Andrew Wellman. Sartorius has been getting a ton of attention lately and could be a player to watch this season. Program strength is a concern to watch for. Waterford should be a very interesting team to watch.

North Farmington: The Raiders were very young and went through a transition period for Coach Michael Allin last season. North Farmington should be improved in their final season in the OAA. They have Shylah Tarin, Hailey Webley, Lucy Nemeth, and Julia Nothstein coming back. Program strength is a concern and something to watch with the Raiders. North Farmington looks to be one of those teams that should be in contention in the Gold this season.

Farmington: The Falcons were a young team last season and will look to have a bounce back season. Farmington has Sydney Nogas, Kate Martin, Jaden Kuderka, Anaya Carter, Gaia DeMeester, Sophia Potterfield, Grace Lamott, Brittany Perry, Breanna Drake, and Emma Mohr coming back for Coach Natalie Nowak. Farmington is in their final year in the OAA before heading off to the Lakes Valley Conference next season.  

Barnes Forced Out at Waterford Kettering.

Written Saturday September 20th at 8:25 PM

Waterford Kettering will not have their football coach for the remainder of the season

Captains Coach Brian Barnes will be forced to step down as football coach of Waterford Kettering as he became the new Athletic Director at Madison Heights Bishop Foley as confirmed by Hometown Life's Brandon Folsom.

Barnes was the head coach for the Ventures from 2016 to 2023 leading them to two Catholic League Prep Bowl titles and an undefeated season in 2022.

Barnes became the new head coach at Waterford Kettering in 2024 leading the Captains to a 2-7 season barely missing out on the postseason. The Captains so far this season is 0-4 and has only made the postseason three times in school history. 

Barnes coached Waterford Kettering in their 51-14 loss to South Lyon East on Friday night. 

Cullen Conway has been named the interim head coach.

The decision came from the Waterford School District and not Waterford Kettering Athletic Director Allison Sartorius 

"I wasn't looking to leave Kettering but someone reached out to me at Foley, it was offered to me and I really couldn't say no. My girls are there, my oldest graduated there, and my wife is the athletic trainer and flag football coach there. I let Kettering know about everything going on and everyone seem to agree to my intentions and Allison understood the decision of putting my family first, I knew it would impact our kids and parents but everyone was supportive and understood this move was about career growth and getting closer to my girls and my wife" Barnes said to Folsom.

Barnes wanted to make this work but the Waterford School District said no with the most likely reason being conflict of interest. "My plan was to work at Foley during the day and travel to Waterford to coach football after school so it wasn't my decision to leave right now, I let our parents know I wanted to finish the season and it wasn't my idea to step away especially with how excited I am of what we were building at Kettering. The scoreboard might not show it but our numbers are really good and we're doing a lot of great things at the youth levels, I couldn't say no to a career step up but I really wanted to finish the season with my kids because they deserve that" Barnes added to Hometown Life.

Barnes leaves Waterford Kettering with a 2-11 record in his 13 games. He will coach football again someday but his focus will be with Madison Heights Bishop Foley in the Catholic League.

The Captains will join Waterford Mott in the OAA in about two months.

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

 

Here is the story from Brandon Folsom of Hometown Life

https://www.hometownlife.com/story/sports/2025/09/20/waterford-ketting-football-forces-out-coach-brian-barnes/86270935007/ 

Top Ten and Rankings Explanation-Week Four.

Written Saturday September 20th at 9:10 AM

This week the rankings came out early with Avondale and Pontiac playing on Saturday, the game didn't have an impact on the rankings so here they are this week.

1. Harper Woods: Dakota Guerrant basically saved the Pioneers league title hopes with three touchdowns in a classic 28-27 win over Stoney Creek Friday night.

2. Clarkston: Great week for the Wolves, getting some of their backups some key playing time.

3. West Bloomfield: Lakers senior experience really helping them here.

4. Adams: Welcome back Ryland Watters.

5. Stoney Creek: Cougars will be fine after this tough 28-27 loss to Harper Woods.

6. Seaholm: Patrick Hughes enough said.

7. Farmington: The 20-18 loss to Holly is officially forgotten for the Falcons.

8. Ferndale: Coach Donovan Jackson has the Eagles clicking right now.

9. North Farmington: Raiders exploded for 49 points against Bloomfield Hills on Friday night.

10. Groves: Falcons came out strong and had an impressive 35-7 win over Rochester. This win should help Groves moving forward. 

 

Rankings Explanation:

Well we're at week four in the season and I'll explain the rankings this week.

I thought about moving Harper Woods down in the rankings after their surviving 28-27 win over Stoney Creek but the Pioneers beat Clarkston at Clarkston which is why the Pioneers are staying at one and the Wolves stay at two.

West Bloomfield stays at three after their impressive 33-16 win at Lake Orion. The Lakers have Clarkston in the Swamp looming. It should be a very interesting game. Adams moves up to four after an impressive second half against Oxford with a lot of it being Ryland Watters coming back.

I thought of keeping Stoney Creek at four but with Adams win over Oxford, I moved them down one spot but the Cougars have a chance to play the Highlanders so this could change in the future.

Seaholm stays at six after a big 24-21 win over Oak Park.

Farmington enters the rankings at seven after a 38-14 win over Troy Athens on Friday night.

Ferndale enters the rankings at eight after a strong fourth quarter at Hurley Field with a 26-14 win on Friday night.

North Farmington returns to the rankings at nine after putting up 49 points against Bloomfield Hills on Friday night.

Groves enters the rankings at 10 after an impressive 35-7 win over Rochester on Friday night.

I dropped Rochester, Oxford, and Oak Park from the rankings after two of the three teams took blowout losses while the other had a rough loss to Seaholm.

It will be very interesting to see what happens next week. 

Week Four Thoughts.

Written Saturday September 20th at 8:50 AM

Updated Saturday September 20th at 8:25 PM 

Here are my week four thoughts. 

Waterford Kettering: The Captains had a rough one with South Lyon East falling 51-14 on Friday night. Waterford Kettering's defense has been a big problem and needs to be corrected quickly if they want to turn things around. The Captains have the talent to turn things around quickly and need to do so but they will have a new coach as Brian Barnes was forced out of Waterford Kettering after accepting the Athletic Director's role at Madison Heights Bishop Foley.

Waterford Mott: What in the world happened to the Corsairs??? after an emotional 42-34 win at Walled Lake Western last week, Waterford Mott allowed 53 points in a stunning 53-19 blowout loss to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep on Friday night. The defense has been the problem in the last two weeks for Coach Tra'Jan Seay allowing 43.5 points per game in that stretch. The Corsairs control their destiny in the Lakes Valley Conference but the defensive points allowed is very troubling for Waterford Mott.

Pontiac: The Phoenix had a rough one with Avondale falling 34-14 on Saturday afternoon. Pontiac is struggling but they are moving along as Coach Wendall Jefferson said it's about building a program with the Phoenix.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets won their first game under new Coach Jim Carlisle with a 34-14 win over Pontiac on Saturday afternoon. Avondale needed this one after a rough three weeks defensively, we'll see if this starts something or the same story continues after three weeks..

Royal Oak: The Ravens got a measure of revenge against Livonia Clarenceville winning 38-6 over the Trojans on Friday night. Royal Oak was in total control leading 32-0 at one point in the game. As mentioned on previous podcasts, the Ravens are a Scooby Doo team and they still are with their play as of late. It will be very interesting to see what Royal Oak does going forward.

Berkley: Turnovers were the story for the Bears in their 26-14 loss to Ferndale at Hurley Field on Friday night. Berkley moved the ball well and overcame a 12-0 third quarter deficit to take the lead but they had a lot of critical errors in drives that stopped them. The Bears don't control their destiny right now.

Ferndale: The Eagles are in the drivers seat in the Gold winning 26-14 over Berkley at Hurley Field. Turnovers were the story for Coach Donovan Jackson's team as they are starting to turn things around after a rough start. Ferndale trailed at the end of the third quarter and found a way. As mentioned they control their own destiny right now.

Troy: The Colts got a dose of reality on Friday night falling to Clarkston 41-0. The Wolves defense was too much for Troy who is still a very young team. They still control their destiny in the Blue but the mental state of the Colts will be tested moving ahead into the season.

Troy Athens: It was a rough homecoming for the Red Hawks falling 38-14 to Farmington on Friday night. Troy Athens defense has been a problem spot this season. I'm not sure if there are any big injuries that is affecting Coach Tom Cook's team or something. The Red Hawks are in a rough patch right now.

Farmington: The Falcons have seem to have bounced back after their 20-18 loss to Holly a few weeks ago by getting the Farmington Cup back and then winning 38-14 over Troy Athens on Friday night. The offense has been playing really well for Coach Jason Albrecht's team thus far. Farmington is in a good spot in the Blue right now.

North Farmington: The Raiders had a strong bounce back after their tough 35-22 loss to arch rival Farmington they went and blew out Bloomfield Hills 49-7 at Ron Holland Field on Friday night. North Farmington was in total control the whole night dominating from start to finish, they still have Seaholm looming and could get back in the league race.

Bloomfield Hills: It was a rough night for Coach Scott Merchant and the Black Hawks falling 49-7 to North Farmington at Ron Holland Field. This is a long transition period for Merchant and also for Bloomfield Hills which they need to change the culture but it's going to take time to do that. It will be very interesting to see what happens going forward.

Seaholm: The Maples had to overcome a 13-3 first quarter deficit to beat Oak Park 21-8 on Friday night. The play of the veer and resilience from quarterback Patrick Hughes was the difference. Coach Jim DeWald has this program in a good spot right now.

Oak Park: The Knights had a rough second, third, and fourth quarters getting outscored 21-8 and falling 24-21 on Friday night. Oak Park had a strong first quarter which led to a 13-3 lead but Seaholm took over behind their veer offense. The Knights are going through it right now. 

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors had a very rough time with Lowell on Friday night falling 40-8 to the Red Arrows. The misdirection that Lowell ran gave Southfield Arts and Tech problems all night. The Warriors are going through some tough times right now and playing two proven west side of the state teams should get them better in the long hall.

Groves: The Falcons proved that they can bounce back from tough losses like they did last week against Harper Woods in a stunning 35-7 win over Rochester. Groves used their athleticism and exposed a Rochester team that was coming off an emotional win the previous week. The Falcons are young still but seem to be growing up at the right time.

Rochester: The Falcons had a let down on Friday night after an emotional 23-21 win over Lake Orion the previous week, Rochester laid an egg falling 35-7 to Groves in Beverly Hills. The Falcons defense got exposed big time against a Falcons squad that is still pretty young. Rochester needs to bounce back if they want to keep their strong season intact.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars had a tough 28-27 loss to Harper Woods on Friday night but Stoney Creek went for two to try and win the game but didn't get it. The Cougars have to feel good with the way their offense played against the Pioneers but the defense had some trouble particularly against Dakota Guerrant but most teams do have trouble against that type of play maker which Guerrant is. There will be some folks that question Coach Rick Powell on why they went for the win instead of going to the extra point to force overtime. It's clear Powell has this program heading in the right direction despite the loss. Stoney Creek will be fine going forward.

Harper Woods: Dakota Guerrant and the defense saved the Pioneers White title hopes after Harper Woods escaped Stoney Creek with a 28-27 road win over the Cougars when things got really dicey late after Stoney Creek went for two to try and win the game but the defense got the stop and recovered an onside kick. Guerrant had three touchdowns and was a force all night against a program that has given them trouble. This should be a wake up call for Harper Woods after getting by Clarkston a few weeks ago and with Saline looming this needs to be one for Coach Rob Oden and the Pioneers.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers had a strong second half behind their athletes which proved huge in a 33-16 win at Lake Orion. West Bloomfield has been very good all season on defense but the Dragons were able to move the ball against them. The Lakers special teams were the difference as they took a punt return for a touchdown and had a long return which set them up to score which they did. West Bloomfield is in a good spot right now, just have to shore up some things.

Clarkston: The Wolves really had no issues with Troy winning 41-0 on Friday night. Clarkston got to play a lot of backups which is always a good sign if your Coach Justin Pintar. The Wolves are rolling along right now.

Oxford: The Wildcats have been up and down lately. They were in the game with Adams (tied 6-6 at the half) until the second half where the Highlanders outscored them 27-0 which resulted in a 33-6 loss on Friday night. Oxford has been in a bit of a rough patch right now but they should be fine going forward.

Adams: The Highlanders struggled offensively in the first half against Oxford but exploded for 27 second half points and beat the Wildcats 33-6 on Friday night. Ryland Watters came back from a knee injury that kept him out and it showed. If Watters stays healthy, Adams is dangerous going forward.

Lake Orion: The Dragons are going through a derecho after falling 33-16 to West Bloomfield falling to 0-4 for the first time since 1980. There are people that are questioning Coach Chris Bell on why he had Anderson Adams in at quarterback and not Brody Thompson at the two yard line late in the first half. Thompson led a really good drive and was playing very well to that point but Adams fumbled the ball off a bad snap and West Bloomfield recovered which led to a Lakers explosion in the second half. Lake Orion did have a ton of missed opportunities and ran the football well especially in the first half. Bell despite the injuries is facing a lot of questions and criticism right now.

Boys Soccer Rankings.

Written Tuesday September 16th at 8:13 AM

Here are the boys soccer rankings according to Anthony Taormina.

1. Troy Athens- Red Hawks proving to still be the standard bearer in the Red

2. Clarkston- Very strong bounce back season for the Wolves

3. Berkley- Bears continue to show that you can compete as a small school in the toughest division

4. Bloomfield Hills- Blackhawks holding steady, once again, one of the White standard bearers

5. Royal Oak- Ravens strong once more in the White also hold a win over the Red Hawks

6. Seaholm- Maples continuing to impress in the Red

7. Troy- Colts are the classic Jekyll and Hyde of the Red

8. Oxford- Wildcats showing a lot of inconsistency this season

9. Lake Orion- Dragons slowly adjusting to life in the Red

10. Rochester- Falcons holding their own in the White

11. Adams- Don’t let the Highlanders record fool you, they are still a very strong program

12. West Bloomfield- Too many losses and ties, not winning soccer for the Lakers

13. Groves- Falcons youth has been on full display

14. North Farmington- Raiders leading the Blue in their final year in the OAA

15. Stoney Creek- Cougars trying to make the White a three team race

16. Farmington- Falcons struggling in their final year in the OAA despite being in the White

17. Ferndale- Eagles have been impressive so far in the Blue, not afraid to play teams in the White

18. Pontiac- Phoenix staying steady in the Blue. Tie against Avondale helps

19, Avondale- Yellow Jackets struggling against the better teams but holding their own in the Blue

20. Harper Woods- Pioneers got a big win over the Knights. Will help in the Blue standings

21. Southfield Arts and Tech- Warriors have only played two games all season long

22. Oak Park- Knights have not scored in the three games they have played all season