sports

St. Clair County Community College Introduces Men’s Soccer To Athletic Offerings For 2024-25

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) has announced the exciting addition of men’s soccer to its athletic repertoire starting in the 2024-25 academic year. Becoming one of seven community colleges in Michigan to offer men’s soccer, the Skippers are set to compete in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association alongside esteemed institutions such as Grand Rapids, Jackson, and Schoolcraft.

SC4 Athletic Director Dale Vos expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are happy to announce the addition of men’s soccer to our athletic department. Our women’s soccer program has continued to grow, and we are confident the new men’s program will be an outstanding opportunity for those wanting to play at the college level.”

The team will proudly call the Skippers Soccer Field at Morton Park home, boasting a state-of-the-art synthetic turf surface and top-notch facilities. 

The search for coaching staff is currently underway, with interested candidates encouraged to apply online at sc4.edu/jobs.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Water Developmental Housing Holds Detroit Red Wings Fundraiser

On January 11th, 2024, at 7 p.m., the Detroit Red Wings will play a crucial game against the Edmonton Oilers at the Little Caesars Arena for a special fundraiser. The event aims to raise funds for Blue Water Developmental Housing, Inc. 

Tickets are for Section 101, and are priced at $130, plus transaction fees. Purchasers will not only witness an exciting game but will also receive a complimentary t-shirt to wear at the event. The first 56 ticket buyers stand a chance to ride on the exclusive party bus, while the first 150 will receive a swag bag. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Blue Water Developmental Housing, supporting employee education and emergency funds. 

Fun Fact: Port Huron native, Jack Campbell, plays the goalie position for the Oilers.

For more information, contact: Ashley Lueth at lueth@bwdh.org or (810) 388-1200.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Security Tightens At Port Huron High’s Memorial Stadium With New Policy Changes

In a bid to enhance safety and streamline attendance, the Port Huron Area School District has rolled out immediate policy changes at Memorial Stadium, focusing on football games and other events.

Here are a few of the new policy changes you can expect to see in the future.

  • Effective immediately, attendees are prohibited from bringing backpacks or large bags, and footballs will be confiscated. 
  • Unaccompanied minors are required to be Port Huron Schools High Schoolers with valid IDs. For elementary, middle school, and high school students without IDs, parental accompaniment is mandatory. 
  • Additionally, elementary and middle school students must stay with their parents throughout the game. 

These stringent measures aim to provide a secure environment for all attendees and align with the school district’s commitment to the well-being of its students and the community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Gov. Whitmer Declares September 17th, “Barry Sanders Day” As New Statue Honors Detroit Lions Legend

In a heartfelt tribute to one of Detroit’s football icons, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially proclaimed September 17th, as “Barry Sanders Day” in Michigan. 

This significant declaration coincides with the grand unveiling of an imposing 8-foot bronze statue honoring the legendary Detroit Lions running back, Barry Sanders, just outside Ford Field, ahead of the 2023 NFL season.

Barry Sanders, who held numerous franchise rushing records, etched his name in NFL history with 15,269 rushing yards and an unprecedented ten consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons with the Detroit Lions.

Governor Whitmer expressed her admiration, saying, “Today, we honor Lions legend Barry Sanders with a new statue outside Ford Field. He played with Detroit hustle and humility, always getting the job done and supporting his team. As we enter another Lions season, let’s remember Barry Sanders, one of the greatest to ever do it, and keep on winning.”

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 Hosts Wheelchair Basketball Demo Days For Students And Community Members

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) and its Athletics Department are breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity by introducing wheelchair basketball to their sports lineup. To showcase this exciting addition, the college is hosting demonstration days at the SC4 Fieldhouse, welcoming both disabled and able-bodied individuals.

The schedule for demonstration days is as follows:

  • Thursday, Aug. 10 at 3 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Aug. 16 at 5 p.m.
  • Thursday, Aug. 17 at 9 a.m.
  • Monday, Aug. 21 at 9 a.m.
  • Friday, Aug. 25 at 5 p.m.

SC4 Athletic Director Dale Vos extended a warm invitation, saying, “We welcome everyone to come to demo days with us and check out this exciting new offering at SC4. It’s an exciting co-ed sport for athletes and fans alike.”

The college’s Wheelchair Basketball Team plans to showcase their skills through exhibition contests and games in its inaugural season, including participation in the upcoming Wolverine Invitational at the SC4 Fieldhouse from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1.

For more information on the days of demonstration, visit: sc4.edu.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Baseball Players in Petrolia to Benefit from Park Upgrades and Improvements

The town of Petrolia announces upcoming upgrades to its ball diamonds at Greenwood Park, with further plans for Bridgeview and Kerr parks.

During a recent council meeting, a comprehensive plan was endorsed, kickstarting the replacement of Diamond 2 dugouts at Greenwood. Additionally, funds will be allocated in next year’s budget for extensive enhancements across all three parks.

According to Laurissa Ellsworth, Communications Director, the estimated cost for each dugout stands at approximately $15,500, excluding the new benches. Work is set to commence promptly and is projected to be completed within four weeks. Moreover, new foul line fencing will be installed in front of the bleachers.

Anticipated improvements include fencing repairs, new distance signs, base plugs, foul posts, enhanced drainage, and upgraded dugouts. The town’s staff is diligently working on pricing and quotes, intending to incorporate them into the 2024 capital budget.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell