FALL ATHLETICS
CHEERLEADING &
COMPETITIVE CHEER
Cheerleaders are involved in both the football and basketball
programs on the Freshman, Junior Varsity and Varsity level.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Cheerleading tryouts are held in the spring of the preceding school year
and in November for Basketball and Competitive Cheer. A background in
gymnastics or dance is helpful, but not required. Cheerleaders and their
parents are required to sign a contract regarding rules and regulations
and must maintain eligibility standards as required in the Athletic
Handbook. All teams attend Summer Camp. It is strongly recommended, but
not required.
Fees:
Physical Exam.
Uniforms:
Uniforms are provided by the school, but the girls must provide their
own shoes, trunks, turtlenecks, etc.
Transportation:
Cheerleaders ride the team or cheerleader bus to away games.
Contact:
Katie 'Brennan' Eichstaedt
323-5206
keichstaedt@portageps.org
BASKETBALL -
WOMEN'S (F)
Participates in the Big 8 Conference on the Varsity, Junior Varsity
and Freshman levels. The season will begin mid-August and run through
the end of November. All teams will practice Monday through Friday
(Varsity at 3:00 p.m., Junior Varsity at 6:00 p.m. and Freshmen at 4:30
p.m. The Varsity will practice between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. Games are
usually played on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
Uniforms:
Provided by school.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
We expect student athletes to maintain a C grade or better in all
classes. Must not get unsatisfactory citizenship marks in any class. To
earn a Letter or JV Numeral, we expect total commitment to the team (be
at all practices on time, participate in all games, etc.).
Fees:
Physical Exam.
Transportation:
Provided by school.
Contact:
Matt Tabor
323-5306
mtabor@portageps.org
CROSS COUNTRY - MEN'S & WOMEN'S (F)
Team running sport made up of individual running effort. Each
member of the Varsity or Junior Varsity has to train daily so as to be
able to run 3.1 miles in a race setting. Cross Country is open to all
students at PCHS. We would encourage 9th grade students especially to
come out.
Practices:
Begin mid-August and are mandatory (time and place TBA). We always start
running gradually, then on a weekly basis add quantity and improve
quality of our running.
Meets:
Most league meets are on Tuesdays. Many invitationals (meets where many
schools are present) are on Saturdays.
Cuts:
We will keep all runners on either the Varsity (selected by the coach,
usually the top seven runners) or the Junior Varsity (all remaining
runners). (Important: Come to practice on time, do all of the workout,
etc.) Cuts will be made with those who cannot physically handle physical
demands of running, those who display a poor attitude or are not
reliable.
Requirements:
Current physical exam. We expect student athletes to maintain a C grade
or better in all classes. Must not get unsatisfactory citizenship marks
in any classes. Cross Country is a sport that requires a great deal of
self-discipline. The above criteria is an indicator of that discipline.
To earn a Letter or JV Numeral, we expect total commitment to the team
(be at all practices on time, do all of the workout, participate in all
meets, etc.).
Fees:
Physical Exam.
Transportation:
For all scheduled contests, we will ride a school bus or van. Practices
will last until about 5:00 p.m.
Needed:
Parents can be very helpful as Timers, Spotters, Recorders, and
Encouragers.
Contact:
Dan Wytko
324-7368 (H) 323-5233 (W)
dwytko@portageps.org
FOOTBALL - JUNIOR
VARSITY AND VARSITY (F)
Sign-up end of May. Depends on end of baseball and tennis seasons.
Practice starts in August.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Restrictions: Maintain C or better grades and no unsatisfactory
citizenship.
Fees:
Physical Exam.
Transportation:
Bus provided to games; own transportation to practices.
Needed:
Booster Club. Parent meeting last month of school year.
For more information contact:
Brett Foerster
323-5335
bfoerster@portageps.org
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL (F)
Start practice in early August.
Requirements:
Current Physical Exam.
Restrictions:
Must pass physical exam (physicals for all sports at PC - end of May).
Athletic eligibility.
Fees:
Physical Exam.
Transportation:
Bus provided to games; own transportation to practices.
Needed:
Booster Club.
Contact:
Jeff Mattix
323-5254
- or -
Greg Chambers
323-5211
gchambers@portageps.org
GOLF, JUNIOR
VARSITY & VARSITY - MEN'S (F)
Practice begins mid-August, matches begin in early August and
ending in mid-October. Must participate in 3 varsity matches and attend
Awards Night to earn a varsity letter.
Requirements:
Current physical exam. Must have own equipment.
Restrictions:
MHSAA restrictions apply.
Fees:
Physical Exam. May be a fee for some practices in August, usually at
reduced rate.
Transportation:
Provide own transportation to practices. Bus/van is provided to matches.
For more information contact:
Chuck Schira
323-5254
cschira@portageps.org
SOCCER - MEN'S (F)
The Men's Soccer Program participates in the Big Eight Conference
on a Varsity and Junior Varsity level during the Fall sports season.
Tryouts are held during the second week of August each year. Candidates
are encouraged to work in the off season to ready themselves for these
tryouts.
Participants learn how to conduct themselves in a competitive
environment, and compete in a healthy, sportsman-like manner with other
high school programs in the area and throughout the State. The
participants develop a high degree of understanding for the game,
hopefully becoming mature, highly motivated athletes.
Requirements:
Current physical exam. Participants must maintain a GPA exceeding
athletic eligibility recommendations. A "C" average is expected. Well
developed technical skills are also required to assure selection on the
Varsity. Understanding of the tactical dimension of the game is highly
desirable.
Practices/Scrimmages:
Official fall practice begins with the tryouts in Mid-August. Practices
will be daily throughout the season. The season concludes with the MHSAA
Championships. Scrimmages are arranged with leading teams prior to the
season during August.
Games:
Matches are usually scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday, with Saturday
reserved for selected non-conference matches. Most matches are played
after school or in the early evening under the lights. A total of 18
matches can be scheduled, including the Conference Championships and
followed by the State H.S. Tournament each year.
Tryouts and Team Selection:
All candidates are invited to participate in the tryout selections.
Attendance is required for both Varsity and Junior Varsity candidates.
Conflicts:
Priority for student athletes should be maintained between scholastic
and athletic responsibilities. Due to the commitment of time to these
two areas, other commitments should be limited. Special situations can
be addressed with the coaching staff.
Letter/Awards:
Varsity Monograms, Participation Awards and J.V. Certificates are
available. Varsity letter winners are based on level of participation
and contribution. The Mustang Award is a special honor given to the most
outstanding defensive player for that season.
Needed:
Parents participate in a support role.
Contact:
Tim Halloran
323-5210
thalloran@portageps.org
SWIMMING - WOMEN'S (F)
The women's swimming and diving team participates in the Big 8
conference during the fall season. The team will be made up of 25 to 35
participants - all of whom must be willing to practice daily for at
least three months. The rewards are many, however. There are social as
well as athletic rewards for the girls involved as the team
traditionally becomes very close knit. There are competitive
opportunities for girls of almost all levels (novice as well as
extremely advanced) and one's lack of experience should not deter one
from attempting to become part of this team. Dual meets with
approximately 10 to 12 opponents are held, as well as invitational and
other championship format meets are available for competition. Young
swimmers are given the opportunity to participate in a championship type
of meet as all team members compete in the All-County Championships each
year.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Requirements for participation on this team are a willingness to
maintain good grades and display the dedication necessary to become a
competitive swimmer. This would mean participation in practices as well
as meets. Practices are held at Portage Central Middle School pool,
usually from 3:15-5:30, Monday through Friday, with some meetings and on
Saturdays.
Fees:
Physical Exam.
Transportation:
Transportation is provided to all contests.
Needed:
Parent support is always sought. The swim team parents develop an
organizational unit each year with the captain's parents usually the
organizers. Parent involvement is centered around support at meets, and
social gatherings after contests.
Contact:
Jim Schafer
323-5335
jshafer@portageps.org
TENNIS - WOMEN'S
(F)
Practice begins August 14th. Sign up in spring at middle school or
call Athletic Director or Coach. There are approximately 16 dates,
ending the 3rd week of October. There are competitive opportunities for
girls of all levels either on the Varsity or Junior Varsity team.
Requirements:
Current Physical exam
Maintain a C or better in all classes; no unsatisfactory citizenship.
Most importantly, the desire and dedication to practice and play as a
TEAM member.
Fees:
Physical Exam, Team shirt.
Transportation:
Mostly provided, some parent support is needed.
Contact:
Peter Militzer
329-1958
pmilitzertennis@netscape.net
WINTER
ATHLETICS
BASKETBALL - MEN'S (W)
For the Freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity Teams, regular
practice begins the 2nd week of November. Twenty game schedule. Compete
in the Big 16. There is a summer program, team camps and a varsity
summer league. J.V. teams camp is at KVCC and Mattawan High School.
Teams practice two weeks in June or July. A great experience with a
great game!
Requirements:
Current physical exam (given last week of school in June). Good academic
standing. A desire to play hard.
Restrictions
Priorities should be:
1) Family
2) School
3) Basketball
Fees:
Physical Exam.
Transportation
Bus provided during school year.
Needed:
Portage Central Booster club for basketball!
Contact:
Corey McNeal
323-5212
cmcneal@portageps.org
CHEERLEADING
Cheerleaders are involved in both the
football and basketball programs on the Freshman, Junior Varsity and
Varsity level. They are also active participants in the Pep Club.
Contact:
Danielle Groth
323-5361
HOCKEY - MEN'S (W)
Tryouts are first of November. Team made up of 20-25 players from
grades 9th-12th. Season begins November 1 and ends second week in March.
Practices:
Practices are held at 4:30 p.m. or 6:00 a.m. weekdays, depending on rink
availability at either Lawson or Wings arena.
Uniforms:
Jersey, socks and pants are provided by the school. Players must provide
own pads and skates.
Requirements:
Current physical exam. Must be able to skate.
Restrictions:
Players must maintain academic eligibility with a C or better in all
classes and no unsatisfactory citizenship.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Transportation:
Bus provided for away games; otherwise players are responsible for their
own transportation.
Needed:
Need support during games and also transportation.
Contact:
Jim Murray
323-5406
jmurray@portageps.org
VARSITY SWIMMING -
MEN'S (W)
The Portage Central High School varsity swimming team competes
during the winter sports season (mid-November to mid-March) against the
top teams in the western part of the State. Team members develop
necessary skills in training, techniques, and mental discipline needed
to compete at dual meets, conference championships and the state finals.
Members experience pride, team unity, and peer support that contribute
to the total mental and physical development of the student-athlete.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Academic requirements must be maintained by each participant. Attend
practices held at the Portage Central Middle School pool usually from
3-5:30 p.m. each day with some practices held before school in the
morning and on Saturdays. Swimming meets are usually held on Thursday at
6 p.m. with an occasional Saturday meet from December through February.
Meet uniforms, swim suits, and transportation are provided by the school
system.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Awards:
Varsity letters are awards to athletes who meet the required standards.
Individual and special awards are achieved through outstanding
performances at the Conference and State levels.
Needed:
A parent support group is active providing assistance in swim meets,
refreshments and social gatherings.
Contact:
Jim Schafer
329-2842
jschafer@portageps.org
VOLLEYBALL -
WOMEN'S (W)
Varsity, Junior Varsity, and 9th Grade Teams. Practice begins the
end of November, games start the third week and continue until the 1st
of March.
Requirements:
Current physical exam and the Code of Conduct information turned into
the Athletic Office.
Uniforms and warm-ups are provided by the school, but the participant
must supply her own knee pads and shoes.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Transportation:
A school bus will be provided for away games.
Needed:
Parents are needed for cheering, support and workers at home contests.
Contact:
Dawn Jaqua
375-7344
WRESTLING - MEN'S
(W)
Alpha weights November 22nd. First practice 3rd Monday of November.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Transportation:
Bus to meets; own transportation to practices.
Contact:
Eric VerHey
323-5610
everhey@portageps.org
SPRING ATHLETICS
BASEBALL, JUNIOR
VARSITY AND VARSITY - MEN'S (S)
Begins the second week of March and runs through May. There is no
Freshman team, but Freshmen can play JV or Varsity. Games are played on
a variety of days with several Saturday doubleheaders. In March, while
we are practicing indoors, due to the weather, practice times will vary
since we must share the facilities with the other spring sports.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
A signed parents' athletic waiver and training rules sheet from the Code
of Conduct Meeting before you can try out.
You must supply a mitt, workout clothes, black (or blue) baseball
cleats, and hustle.
You must abide by the school training and eligibility rules.
Restrictions:
Due to the large number of boys who go out for the two teams, cuts are
necessary. Cuts are based on attitude and abilities shown in the gym.
There are usually 2 or 3 games during Spring recess and any practices or
games missed during that time must be made up before you can play in a
game.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Transportation:
Bus to games.
Needed:
Cheering spectators are welcome! Also, volunteers to run the concession
stand.
Contact:
Paul Schneider
387-3052
GOLF - WOMEN'S (S)
Practice begins in March at the Moors.
Requirements:
Current physical exam. Have own golf clubs and transportation to and
from practices.
Restrictions:
Participants must have a GPA of C or better.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Transportation:
School van.
Needed:
Need rides to and from practices.
Contact:
Marc Uhlmann
323-5245
SOCCER - WOMEN'S
(S)
Beginning in the winter, all candidates for teams that compete
outdoors during March through May start their physical preparation. The
girls either participate in volleyball, non-scholastic indoor soccer, or
some other aerobic conditioning to assure peak performance in the
spring. There is a Junior Varsity team and a Varsity team. Depending on
actual needs, the varsity usually has 4-6 players from each class (9th,
10th, 11th, 12th), thereby allowing ample playing time for everyone.
Team practice begins first week of March for everyone. Games begin March
21. Season ends with the State Championship Game the first week of June.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Scholastically, participants must be good enough to balance a 2-4 hour
team commitment per day for ten to twelve weeks with all their other
school and family commitments. Conflicts should be minimal and resolved
in advance and individually. Outside jobs during the season must have
flexible hours.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Transportation:
Transportation is provided to all contests. It is mandatory for all
players to ride the bus.
Needed:
There is an active parent group that supports activities.
Contact:
Patrick Norman
327-1023
SOFTBALL - WOMEN'S
Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. Season starts the week of March
15th.
Practices:
After school at 3:00, 5:00 or 7:00 p.m. Will be held either in gym or
outdoors, weather permitting. 2-3 hours in length.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
We expect student athletes to maintain a C grade or better in all
classes.
Must not get unsatisfactory citizenship marks in any classes.
Uniforms:
Provided. Participant must supply own glove and cleats. Fund-raisers by
team may provide additional equipment as needed.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Transportation:
Bus is provided for games. We may drive to close away games.
Needed:
Parents are needed for support and encouragement, and various work
projects.
Contact:
Dana Grosser
323-5208
dgrosser@portageps.org
TENNIS - MEN'S (S)
Practice begins in March. Sign up in the athletic department or
call coach. There are approximately 16 dates, ending early June. There
are playing opportunities for boys of all levels.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Maintain a C or better in all classes.
No unsatisfactory citizenship.
Most importantly, the desire and dedication to practice and play as a
TEAM member.
Fees:
Physical exam.
Team shirt.
Transportation:
Mostly provided, some parent support is needed.
Contact:
Pete Militzer
329-1958
pmilitzertennis@netscape.net
TRACK - MEN & WOMEN
Open to anybody who possesses running, jumping, or throwing skills.
Running events include sprints (100-, 200-, & 400- meters), middle and
long distance runs (800-, 1600-, 3200- meters), hurdles (110- or 100-
meter high and 300 intermediate) and relays (4 x 100, 4 x 200, 4 x 400,
and 4 x 800). Field events include the high jump, long jump, pole vault
shot put and discus.
Practices:
Usually two hours beginning in March (State rule) and concludes with the
State Meet in June (1st week). Athletes who normally ride the bus home
will need to find another mode of transportation home after practice.
Meets:
Outdoor meets begin in April with double dual meets within the Big 8
Conference on Tuesdays. Relays and Invitational meets are run either
Friday evening or Saturday. The season will conclude with the Big 8,
Regional, County, and State Meets.
Awards:
Track and field is one of the few sports in which freshmen and
sophomores have an opportunity to compete for a varsity letter with
juniors and seniors. Other awards include a junior varsity letter and a
participation award. At the Spring Sports Awards Night, several
“special” awards are given for excellence: Captain’s Award, Most
Valuable Player, Most Improved, Prospect Award, and Mustang Award.
Requirements:
Must have a current physical exam card on file at the athletic office
indicating that the athlete is able to participate in athletic
activities.
Fees:
Physical exam (given usually in late May or June during final exam week
for the next school year). The cost is minimal. A good pair of running
shoes is also required.
Transportation:
For all scheduled contests, a school bus will be provided to and from
each contest under the coach’s supervision.
Contact:
Dan Wytko
324-7368 (H) 323-5233 (W)
dwytko@portageps.org
WATER POLO - WOMEN'S, JV, Varsity
Water polo is a rigorous sport that demands the ability to swim and
tread water. Practice times are usually between 3:15 and 5:30 p.m.
beginning mid-March to the end of the school year. Games are weeknights
with many tournaments scheduled for the weekends. Participants should
expect to swim, tread water, and be involved in a team game. Like many
sports, the objective is to score goals and prevent your oposition from
scoring goals. Games consist of 4x7 minute quarters. This is a great
sport if you love to swim and love the competition of a team sport.
Requirements:
Current physical exam.
Uniform & Fees:
A swim suit and goggles are needed. A warm-up jacket with be provided
and returned at the end of the season. A team suit can be purchased
through the team. Food money and occasional lodging expenses should be
expected for weekend tournaments.
Transportation:
Participants with take buses to away dual games. Coaches and parents
will coordinate travel for weekend tournaments.
Contact:
Eric Lancaster
323-5225
elancaster@portageps.org