Four storylines for the Division 4 MHSAA postseason

<p>The Division 4 postseason may be the most up-for-grabs division in the state of Michigan this year. There’s a handful of top contenders in the field and plenty of teams capable of going on a three-week run. Here’s the things to look out for in this year’s tournament.</p> <p><strong>Can Anna Smith lead Mendon to a repeat?</strong></p> <p>Mendon was able to win the D4 state title last season behind the play of <strong>Anna Smith</strong>, a dynamic Class of 2021 outside hitter that nobody had an answer for last November. The Hornets lost some key role players, but still have Smith playing at a high level in her junior year. The College of Charleston commit can finish from anywhere on the floor and has a devastating serve for opponents to deal with. Mendon hasn’t been matched up against the other top teams in D4 this year, so it will be interesting to see if the Hornets still have the finishing ability that they had in 2018. With Smith on the floor, they will have a chance against anyone.</p> <p><strong>Will Southfield Christian live up to expectations?</strong></p> <p>A year ago in Battle Creek, <strong>Southfield Christian</strong> coach Mike Van Dyke said the 2018 season and appearance in the D4 semifinals was hopefully in preparation for greater things in 2019. The Eagles had just one senior on last year’s roster and this year’s squad has been dialed in to get back to Battle Creek and finish the job they started in 2018. The 1-2 punch of <strong>Emily Van Dyke </strong>and <strong>Caitlin Warnshuis</strong> on the outside has been overwhelming for D4 opponents and their competitive schedule should help the Eagles be ready for the tough matchups to come this week. The 2016 and 2017 Class D champs, <strong>Plymouth Christian</strong>, is in the SC district and won’t be an easy out. However, the Eagles were able to defeat PC in last year’s postseason and this Eagles team looks to be even better this year.</p> <p><strong>Don’t forget about them</strong></p> <p><strong><em>Battle Creek St. Philip – </em></strong>It’s been five years since the Fighting Tigers held up the state championship, but they have still been one of the best in Class D/Division 4 since. This year, St. Philip may have its best chance to get back to the championship. The Tigers have tested themselves against the best teams in the state in all divisions and should be ready for the challenges ahead.</p> <p><strong><em>Leland – </em></strong>The Comets were the 2015 state champs and the 2018 D4 runner-up and haven’t been talked about much as a top contender in this year’s title race. While losing a lot of talent from last year’s team, the Comets simply reloaded. They continued to improve throughout the fall and their championship experience should go a long way this month.</p> <p><strong>Who are the dark horses?</strong></p> <p><strong><em>Camden-Frontier</em></strong> – The Redskins have been a top-5 team most of the season, but don’t have the championship experience that the other top teams have. Breaking through to get to Battle Creek isn’t easy and responding to pressure plays a big role. How will Frontier handle the growing pressure with each victory?</p> <p><strong><em>Oakland Christian</em> – </strong>The Lancers are without a senior for the second consecutive season, so their ultimate goals may be focused on next season. However, this year’s squad is still capable of making a deep run. Playing in a highly-competitive MIAC, the Lancers are battle-tested and have won sets against the likes of Southfield Christian and Charyl Stockwell Academy.</p> <p><strong><em>Merrill </em>– </strong>The Vandals have played a competitive schedule in the Central Michigan area and are out to prove that they can play with anyone in Division 4. A veteran roster with six seniors, I expect Merrill to show a lot of composure in the coming weeks and that can take them far with the talent they possess.</p>