Kermit's Baton (Birmingham Eccentric)

March 6, 2012

Michigan's track and cross country community mourned the loss two weeks ago of former Birmingham Seaholm coach Kermit Ambrose, who died after a full 101 years including many putting a heavy stamp on the high school running scene.

Of course, Ambrose's influence stretched far outside high school as well. Marty Budner fills us in on the details in the story linked below, and then paints a fabulous picture of a former coach who affected thousands during more than a century.

It's not only the wins and losses — of which Kermit had many more of the former, but it's also the relationships developed and lessons learned. Many coaches will tell you the best part of their job is helping to teach life lessons and striving to make an impact along the way.

Kermit Ambrose was that kind of teacher.

Read more:

Ambrose: Friend, mentor to all

Ambrose makes an awesome run through life (column)

D8 Final rematch set (Kalamazoo Gazette)

April 12, 2012

Big news on the football opening night front: Reigning Division 8 champion Mendon will face Fowler in a rematch of last season's Final at Ford Field.

Filling the schedule can be a tough task when a school has won 10 MHSAA championships, as the Hornets have accomplished. The Eagles frequently have been feared as well and own four MHSAA titles. The Kalamazoo Gazette's Scott Decamp gives us a rundown of how this rematch came together.

Mendon beat Fowler 33-0 in that championship game, but both teams are expected to return some of their biggest stars this fall.

Defending state champ Mendon football team gets rematch with Fowler in 2012 opener (Kalamazoo Gazette)