ROCKFORD ATHLETICS I HOME OF THE RAMS

The Rockford Varsity Boys Tennis Team opened their 2025 season with a signature 6-3 victory over perennial powerhouse East Grand Rapids. Known for its rich tradition of state championships and guided by legendary coach Mickey Miksell, East Grand Rapids has long been a benchmark program in West Michigan high school tennis. But on this day, it was the Rams who seized the spotlight. For Rockford, the win was more than just a dual-match result, it was proof of how far the program has come. Over time, the Rams have learned that to compete at the highest level, they , trust their training, play the game the right way, and believe in themselves. Against EGR, they did just that, showing grit, confidence, and a commitment to fighting for every point. Head coach Tom Huizing reflected on the milestone win: “We’ve worked hard to be able to compete with programs like East Grand Rapids. Today the guys went out, played the right way, believed in themselves, and showed that when you give 100%, you can beat anybody.” Rockford’s depth shined brightest in doubles, where the Rams swept all five flights in convincing fashion. The top duo of seniors Quinn Geshel and Sam Martin set the tone with a dominant 6-1, 6-0 win, while every doubles team behind them delivered with aggressive play at the net and relentless energy. On the singles side, junior Alex Moore battled his way to a straight-set victory at No. 3, showcasing consistency and poise under pressure. Despite strong efforts, the Rams dropped three close matches in singles, but their doubles lineup more than made up the difference. Match Results Singles #1 – Andrew Owings (EGR) def. Elijah Johnson (R) 6-1, 6-2 #2 – Conner VanDrunnen (EGR) def. Easton Wurm (R) 6-4, 6-1 #3 – Alex Moore (R) def. Henry Seufert (EGR) 6-3, 6-4 #4 – Asher Pereira (EGR) def. Noah Clark (R) 7-6(3), 6-1 Doubles #1 – Quinn Geshel / Sam Martin (R) def. Kai Doan / JD Mehney (EGR) 6-1, 6-0 #2 – Jayden Fudge / Joseph Misiak (R) def. Jack Dockery / Elliott Murray (EGR) 6-2, 6-1 #3 – Coen Beickman / Broderik Gee (R) def. Reuben Avery / Micah Avery (EGR) 6-3, 6-0 #4 – Tray Storms / Carter Drolema (R) def. Cole Balon / Patrick Houlihan (EGR) 6-4, 6-2 #5 – Scott Julian / Liam Storms (R) def. Conner Quigg / Sam Loos (EGR) 4-6, 6-4, 10-4 With the 6-3 victory, Rockford not only opened its season on the right note but also sent a message to the rest of the state: the Rams are ready to take on anyone, anytime. Next up, Rockford will look to carry its momentum into OK Red Conference play, where the competition will only grow tougher.