Four storylines for the Division 3 MHSAA postseason
The Class C/Division 3 postseason has belonged to one program over the last four years. This year’s MHSAA postseason looks like it could have a new champion crowned, but never rule out the defending champs. Here’s some things to consider…
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Continue ReadingThe Class C/Division 3 postseason has belonged to one program over the last four years. This year’s MHSAA postseason looks like it could have a new champion crowned, but never rule out the defending champs. Here’s some things to consider about this year’s Division 3 postseason.
Will it be 1 vs. 2?
Andelyn SimkinsBoth Schoolcraft and SMCC have been our top two teams in the Division 3 rankings for most of the year and now they find themselves on opposite sides of the MHSAA bracket, potentially setting up an anticipated final between the two. Schoolcraft has been able to compete with the best in the state in any division this year. Andelyn Simkins is as good as advertised, but her supporting cast deserves more credit than it gets. The Eagles are solid in all of the key phases of the game and it has shown in their consistent play. SMCC was the team that some thought could unseat Bronson last year, but the Kestrels took a tough five-set loss to the champs in the semifinal. SMCC has been motivated all year and also has one of the standouts in the Division, junior outside Mikayla Haut. If the Kestrels can serve receive at a high level, it’s going to be tough to keep them from Battle Creek and a potential title.
What to make of Centreville?
The Centreville Bulldogs have been hovering around the top 5 of the Division 3 rankings for most of the year and now its time to see just what they are made of. At 38-11-4, Centreville has played a competitive schedule and their losses are all to quality opponents, but do they have what it takes to win those tight matches against the best in D3? We will likely found out sooner rather than later, as Bronson could await in the district final. Joanna Larsen has been a consistent presence on the floor and has a great setter/hitting partner in Kenleigh West-Wing.
Who can stop the favorites?
Keona SalesmanBronson – The Vikings have to love being overlooked with the postseason beginning. This is their time of year and they still have the powerful hitting of Keona Salesman to lead them. If they can find consistency in their defense and passing, the Vikings may make it five straight championships.
Western Michigan Christian – The Warriors have some notable wins this year and met up with Schoolcraft early in the 2019 season. They have improved a great deal since then and are a very physical and athletic team at the net. Schoolcraft and WMC could cross paths in the quarters and I am sure the Warriors would love another shot.
Charyl Stockwell Academy – The Sentinels have a world of potential and its just a matter of if they can put it all together for three weeks. They have taken a set from SMCC and have the hitting to go swing-for-swing with the best in D3. They just need to find a way to raise their game to a championship level in the big matches.
Dark Horse Contenders
Beaverton – The winners of the Jack Pine Conference have been solid all year, but haven’t gotten the attention they deserve being more of a northern squad. They already own a win over Bronson and have beaten some bigger programs like Mt. Pleasant this year. Don’t overlook the Beavers.
Harbor Beach/Unionville-Sebewaing – The winner of this district opener on Monday night has a chance to make a really strong run in the postseason. The Pirates have been ranked higher all year, but they just suffered a recent loss to the Patriots. USA reached the D3 final last year and had to replace some key pieces, but they have lost just one match since Sept. 21
McBain – The Ramblers don’t get a lot of eyes on them in the Highland Conference, especially with Beal City being a strong team in the league as well. However, McBain has been showing a lot of improvement over the last month and seems to be peaking at the right time.