Wes Leonard, Remembered and Honored

February 12, 2012

Nearly a year after his unexpected and tragic death, Wes Leonard's memory lives on as his story continues to touch many on a national level. 

Fennville High School added to his legacy Friday, inducting the former all-state basketball standout into its athletic Hall of Fame in a ceremony one Michigan sportswriter described as both somber and proud. 

Check out his report and links to additional coverage of Friday's induction by clicking the links below, and also one for the Wes Leonard Heart Team and its efforts in preventing sudden cardiac arrest:

Wes Leonard's Fennville Hall of Fame induction one of 'deep sadness' and 'deep pride' (Kalamazoo Gazette)

Wes Leonard inducted into Fennville Hall of Fame (Holland Sentinel)

Wes Leonard inducted into Fennville Hall of Fame (The Associated Press, via Detroit Free Press)

Wes Leonard Heart Team (blog most recently updated Jan. 31)

Our MHSAA Network cameras were there for the ceremony and a feature with thoughts from his mom, coach and teammates.


 

Also, check out this ESPN video from May.

PHOTOS courtesy of Al LaShell Photography

#TBT: 50 Seasons of Boys Hoops Finals

May 9, 2014

By Geoff Kimmerly
Second Half editor

Much like fashion, MHSAA trophies have evolved over the years. 

This week's "throwback" gives us a peek at some of both as they were in 1974, when the MHSAA celebrated 50 seasons of Boys Basketball Finals. 

Holding these championship trophies are Vern Norris (left) and Al Bush, two of four who have served as executive directors of the MHSAA (Bush from 1968-78 and Norris as his successor until 1986 after serving as associate director).  

The Finals of 1974 were the last hosted by Michigan State University's Jenison Field House. Champions that season were Birmingham Brother Rice, Muskegon Heights, Bay City All Saints and Ann Arbor St. Thomas.