Western Michigan Christian falls to Saugatuck in Division 3 district final contest

LocalSportsJournal.com

NORTH MUSKEGON — The Western Michigan Christian Warriors never could get into a good rhythm on Friday night and fell to Saugatuck 49-29.

The Division 3 district title game was played at North Muskegon.

“I think we ran out of steam and got into some foul trouble,” WMC coach Sarah Koetsier said. Three Warrior starters had two fouls by the second quarter and that affected the game as well.

Junior Ashley Folkema, who averages 18 points per game, was limited to a pair of free throws.

“Ashley’s foul problems really took her out of her game,” Koetsier said. “They played a very high defense that shut down our 3-point shooting. We had some good drives, but they had a tall, strong player and we’re run into her.” Koetsier was referencing sophomore center Kennedy Gustafson, who finished with 18 points.

Photo courtesy of LSJ Photographer Jason Goorman

Maria Eeningenburg led the Warriors (9-12) with 14 points, all of which were scored in the second half. She also had seven rebounds. Kate Derdowski added six points and six rebounds.

“Maria really stepped up for us tonight and had a great game,” Koetsier said.

The young Warriors trailed 22-13 at the half and 38-23 after three quarters.

“I had 2-3 underclassmen who played most of the time in our games,” Koetsier said. “To even be at a point to compete for a district championship is amazing. I am proud of this team. They played with a lot of heart and class and fought to the end.”

Saugatuck advances to next week’s regional semifinal game against Kent City, a 49-45 winner over Morley-Stanwood on Friday night. The regional semifinal game is 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Shelby High School.