Southwest Michigan Athlete of the Week: Cast Your Vote for the Standout Performer!
Last week, despite the harsh winter weather causing cancellations of several athletic events in Southwest Michigan, local athletes continued to shine. The region saw standout performances from various athletes, making the selection for MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette’s Athlete of the Week a tough one. Fans have until Friday, January 30, at 8 a.m. to vote for their favorite athlete from the list of nominees.
Truman Brennan from Paw Paw stood out with consistent double-digit scoring in all three games last week, including a 22-point performance against Edwardsburg. Ben Johnson of Portage Central made history by becoming the school's all-time leading scorer with 16 points in a game against Kalamazoo Central. Brady Penny of Kalamazoo United impressed with a hat trick in a hockey game against the Kalamazoo Eagles.
Dante Goto of Mendon showcased his skills with a triple-double, recording 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 blocks in a game against Climax-Scotts. Maverick Van Heukelom from Mattawan contributed to a shutout victory with 15 saves in a hockey game against Jenison. Javayh Blanks and Ty’Vaughn Jackson of Kalamazoo Central both had standout performances in a game against Portage Central, with Blanks scoring 19 points and Jackson sinking six three-pointers.
Sammy Pruis of Kalamazoo Christian made a clutch play and scored 25 points in a win over Kalamazoo Hackett. Evan Kakabeeke of Portage United scored two goals in a victory against the Kalamazoo Eagles. Mecenzie Allen from Paw Paw had strong showings with 20 points against Edwardsburg and a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds against Sturgis.
Sydney Bir of Sturgis led her team with 14 points in a win over Paw Paw. Elli VanDusen of Kalamazoo Christian scored 13 points in a victory against Kalamazoo Hackett. Gracie Schultz of Mendon showcased an all-around game with nine points, four rebounds, and six steals in a win over Climax-Scotts. Ryder Gorham of Mendon led his team with 19 points, five rebounds, and four assists in a victory against Climax-Scotts. Trevor Sanders of Three Rivers excelled in bowling, rolling a team-high 235 in a conference win over Edwardsburg.
With such impressive performances from Southwest Michigan athletes, the competition for Athlete of the Week is fierce. Be sure to cast your vote before the deadline to support your favorite athlete and recognize their outstanding achievements.