Bay City, Michigan, is celebrating its outstanding high school athletes in the latest round of the MLive Bay City Athlete of the Week project. Each week during the winter sports season, local athletes from various disciplines, including basketball, bowling, and wrestling, are recognized for their achievements. Readers are invited to participate by voting for their favorite athletes until the poll closes at 20:00 on Thursday, January 29.
Standout Performers from the Week
Among the nominees, Cody Cederberg-Kubiak of Essexville Garber is making headlines as a key player on the boys basketball team. The senior has proven to be a consistent scorer, showcasing his ability to dominate during games. After a brief illness kept him off the court, Cederberg-Kubiak returned with fervor, achieving an impressive 29 points and 12 rebounds against Bridgeport. His coach, Chris Watz, praised his leadership and scoring capabilities, noting his significant role as a three-year varsity performer.
Another contender is Gali Costilla, a senior point guard for the All Saints girls basketball team. Costilla’s dynamic play is a vital asset, as she combines fierce defense with a keen eye for assisting teammates. Coach Mike Debo highlighted her competitive spirit, noting her contribution during a recent game where she achieved 16 points and 12 rebounds against Owen-Gage.
From Pinconning, Sean Donahue has emerged as an essential player for the boys basketball team. His coach, Jason Donahue, has seen a marked improvement in his aggressiveness as a scorer, contributing an average of 8.8 points and 4.0 assists per game. Donahue’s increasing confidence is a key factor in the team’s recent successes.
Emerging Talents and Seasoned Players
In Standish-Sterling, Ian Emans is making waves as a senior point guard. His leadership on the court is crucial, guiding the offense and providing defensive support against opposing teams. Coach Matt Koin emphasized Emans’ ability to unify the team and facilitate plays without necessarily scoring.
Freshman Claire Foco is showing remarkable potential with the Pinconning girls basketball team. Coach Duane Pitts has noted her continuous improvement and positive attitude, which have made her a key contributor. Foco recently scored a career-high of 15 points in a win over Farwell.
Sophomore Aleese Kimmerer, playing for Hale, is another standout athlete. After stepping into varsity play last year, she has showcased her skills as a primary passer and is leading her team in assists and free-throw percentage. Coach Joe Kimmerer acknowledged her maturity and critical role in the team’s success, highlighting her recent performance of 52 points and 18 rebounds over two games.
In the bowling arena, senior Cole Klee of Pinconning has been a driving force for his team. His leadership and consistent performance, including multiple games with scores in the 200s, have kept his team competitive in the Jack Pine Conference. Coach Brad Shoultes recognized Klee as the backbone of the squad, with a season average of 171.3.
Finally, the Pinconning girls basketball team has seen significant contributions from Isla Merdzinski. The sophomore has quickly adapted to the varsity level, and her recent performances, including 53 points across three games, have been impressive. Coach Scott Lueck commended her development, particularly her defensive growth.
With nominees like Jacob Pahl of Gladwin and freshman Kaidyn Peek of Au Gres also making their mark, the competition is fierce. Pahl’s tough play has been instrumental in leading his team to success, while Peek has seamlessly transitioned into the point guard role, showcasing his ability to score and facilitate plays.
The MLive player polls aim to promote excitement and engagement among the community. While the winners receive recognition, there are no prizes or implications for postseason awards. The initiative seeks to celebrate local talent and inspire future generations of athletes in Bay City.