Backyard rivalry renewed Monday in Rogers City
by Peter Jakey, Managing Editor
Girls? basketball teams got their seasons underway earlier this week, now its time for the boys to get started. Rogers City and Posen don?t have to wait long to play a quality opponent, as both schools are in nonleague action against each other Monday night in Rogers City. These backyard battles on the hardwood have been well worth the price of admission for more than a half a decade. The Hurons had the upper hand last season, winning both meetings.
Returning for Rogers City are senior forwards Jordan Bellmore, Chris Waibel and senior guard Jesse Wilbert. Austin Brege, a junior guard and late-season call-up from the junior varsity (JV) is another likely starter. Huron coach Jesse Streich said one of the team’s goals is to win a third straight district championship, something that he said has never been done before in Huron boys’ basketball history.
Posen brings back three starters, including senior guard Shane Hentkowski and junior guards Jerome Ciarkowski and David Kerr. Center Tyler Kuffel was a midseason call-up from the JV a year ago, and will provide much-needed size in the paint. Viking coach Steve Hentkowski said Posen wants to go further in the district tournament. They almost upset district favorite Hillman in last year?s district semifinal.