When it starts to snow in Michigan, the beginning of the high school winter sports season is right around the corner. Many students participate in winter sports because it offers a way to stay active and in shape indoors while the weather outside is uninviting and harsh. There are plenty of Michigan High School Athletic Association (MSHAA) commissioned winter sports for students to get involved in, and this year in particular there are a number of new players joining DHS’ varsity clubs. Not only are many underclassmen finding their place on their respective sport’s varsity squad, but new players are coming from unexpected sources as well. This season looks to be a cool one.
Taking Center Stage: (From left) Sophomore Jeremy Brookens and seniors Cayetano Wagner and Nick Sleeper take a well-deserved rest during a practice at the Midland Civic Arena on Nov. 13. This season, the team has an unusual amount of skilled underclassmen along with strong senior leadership. Captain Cayetano Wagner perfectly understands the rare potential that this team has in particular, and is excited about the possibility of ending his high school career undefeated against Midland High. Wagner looks to keep the entire team focused on improving, and to help the underclassman mature and adjust to a higher level of play in the SVL. After playing hockey competitively for over 12 years, Wagner realizes the significance of his last season. “I am focusing on the memories and friendships that I have formed on this team more than anything else” Wagner said. The team’s first official contest will be at home versus Essexville Garber next Wednesday, Nov. 25.
Making Leaps and Bounds: Coach Mark Dickerson surveys this year’s potential varsity basketball team at a preseason workout on Nov. 10. In particular, Junior Trevor Davis has been working diligently on his game in preparation for this season. In addition to staying in prime condition, Davis shoots at least 100 shots per day. Davis feels he is ready to showcase his skills. “I’m excited to play for Coach Dickerson this year,” Davis said. “I have not played for him for a full year and I’m really looking forward to it.” The team’s first game will be away at Saginaw Arthur Hill on Dec. 11.
Getting Loose: The girls varsity basketball team stretches together in preparation for a long practice on Nov. 10. There are many talented players headlining the team this year, such as freshman Molly Davis, juniors Kaylee Wasco and Ellie Taylor, and senior Alexie Flaminio. Everyone on the team, however, is excited to begin the season. “I think our team can be really successful this year,” Flaminio said. “We’ve been bonding really well and all of us are passionate about the game.” The team will host Saginaw Arthur Hill in their first official game on Dec. 1.
Feeling Accomplished: After an intense morning workout, senior Nehemiah “Nemo” Mork prepares for a rigorous day of classes. Mork holds a combined 18 individual records ranging from school to Saginaw Valley League level, and was the state champion as a junior in the 50 and 100 freestyle events last year. Mork signed with Michigan State University on Nov. 11. “We have a really good senior class so we should have the best swimming team we’ve had in a long time,” Mork said.
Perfect Form: Senior Jack Yarosh, who just recently bowled a 242, shows off his bowling form. Yarosh is preparing for the upcoming boys bowling season in more ways than most. In addition to maintaining the mentality of a professional bowler, Yarosh eats fast food, Mountain Dew, McFlurrys, and other questionable cuisine in the pursuit of looking like his bowling idol, Jason Belmonte. Yarosh believes that coach Joe Lunsford will be the key factor in the team’s success this year, and is eager to start the season. “I am most excited for the long nights spent out in the alleys with the team where we just bond and get to know each other,” Yarosh said.
Putting in Work: The varsity wrestling team conditions for their season by working out together in fast-paced, partner exercises. These new workouts are a direct result of the team changing their practice style due to two new coaches being brought on staff. They’re attempting to focus on the physical strengths of each individual, rather than having everyone participate in the same exercises. There are a number underclassmen with no previous wrestling experience trying out for the team this year, but senior Zach Peterson is confident in their potential. “There are a few [kids] that look like they’re on the varsity level already, and plenty that will be there by the end of the year,” Peterson said.
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