By BUTCH HARMON
Ionia qualified for the playoffs last fall for the first time since the 2006 season, and fourth-year coach Mike Holes has a team that is poised to return.
Playing in the revamped CAAC White with cross-county foe Portland and with Eaton Rapids, Lansing Catholic, Williamston, and Fowlerville, the Bulldogs will feature a high-powered offense this fall.
A total of 13 starters return from last year’s playoff team, led by senior quarterback Austin Gregory. A three-year starter, he was Ionia’s offensive MVP last season.
Kyle Parks (5’11”, 195 pounds) returns at running back, where he rushed for over 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns last year.
The Bulldogs have a deep group of receivers, led by senior Brian Wiles, a three-year starter, and by Charlie Powell.
Up front, senior Jon Klump (6’0″, 275) returns to the starting lineup for a fourth year. Senior guard Doug Henry is a three-year starter, while junior Dillon Biella (6’3″, 265) also returns up front.
“I feel pretty good with Austin and Kyle back,” Holes said. “We don’t have one receiver that stands out, but I’m comfortable with the six guys we have playing wide receiver for us.”
On defense, Klump gives the Bulldogs a solid roadblock against the run in the middle of the line. Caleb Spohn (5’9″, 255) also returns up front. Seniors Isiaah Hodges (5’10, 185) and Doug Henry (6’0, 190) return at linebacker, with seniors Kollin Leonard and Wiles heading up the secondary.
“One thing we have to get better at on defense is eliminating the big plays,” Holes said. “We have to do a better job of tackling in space.”