ROCKFORD ATHLETICS I HOME OF THE RAMS

The Rockford boys varsity tennis team took care of business against an improved East Kentwood squad on Wednesday, earning a 7-2 victory. While the final score leaned heavily in Rockford’s favor, the match showcased just how far the Falcons have come in recent years under the leadership of head coach Chad VanHouten. In just two seasons, East Kentwood has developed into a program that demands respect across the OK Red. Their progress is a testament to hard work, persistence, and a commitment to growth—a message not lost on Rockford head coach Jerry Hewitt. “Every opponent deserves our full attention,” Hewitt has stressed to his players this year. “You can’t take anyone lightly in this conference, and East Kentwood has shown that with the strides they’ve made.” The Rams heeded that mindset, knowing they would need focus and energy against a hungry EK team. The singles flights were split 2-2, highlighted by a thrilling comeback from senior Easton Wurm at No. 2 singles. Wurm took on previously undefeated Simon Wolters in a high-intensity battle, dropping the first set in a tiebreak before storming back with conviction to win 6-7(1), 6-2, 6-2. It was the match of the night, and Wurm’s belief in himself shined through in the biggest moments. “Elijah and Noah both faced tough opponents,” Coach Taran Tyler said, noting East Kentwood’s firepower at the top and bottom of the singles lineup. “But Easton showed that when you trust your game, big wins are possible.” Rockford’s doubles teams, however, were untouchable, sweeping all five flights with dominant performances. Across the board, the Rams’ chemistry, communication, and aggression at the net proved too much for the Falcons. Match Results Singles #1: Angel Rivero-Guedez (EK) def. Elijah Johnson (R) 6-3, 6-2 #2: Easton Wurm (R) def. Simon Wolters (EK) 6-7(1), 6-2, 6-2 #3: Alex Moore (R) def. Finn Schultz (EK) 6-1, 6-1 #4: Parker VanHouten (EK) def. Noah Clark (R) 6-2, 6-2 Doubles #1: Quinn Geshel / Sam Martin (R) def. Varun Garigipati / Doug LaDue IV (EK) 6-0, 6-0 #2: Jayden Fudge / Joseph Miesiack (R) def. Blane Bueche / Brayden DeMaagd (EK) 6-0, 6-0 #3: Coen Beickman / Broderik Gee (R) def. Quan Cheatham / Stella Walker (EK) 6-0, 6-2 #4: Tray Storms / Carter Drolema (R) def. Kyle Hodges / Ty Burton (EK) 6-3, 6-2 #5: Scott Julian / Liam Storms (R) def. Gavin Peterson / Daniel Hildebrand (EK) 6-0, 6-0