amazing what AI was able to do with this 1979 GR Press photo

 

this was 1979: some people I knew from 

Grand Rapids were out golfing at Indian Trails - they were only 12 years old at the time and a GR Press reporter came wandering towards them and asked their names and took some pics like they were famous or something. 

And they actually published one in the

 Press the next day ! So I found it an old box a little wrinkled etc and I asked Gemini AI to colorize it for me and less than 30 seconds later, you can see the result below ! wow 

Remembering Mark A. Van Stee 🙏❤️✝️, age 47

https://www.zaagman.com/obituaries/Mark-A-Van-Stee?obId=44317969 

Psalm 34:18 — The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit

Reading this young man's obituary I was struck by the similarities he has, or had, to my life progression growing up. In the actual obituary it talks about him learning to golf at Indian trails (me too, including riding my bike there). 

It talks about him learning Spanish via Calvin's semester in Denia Spain program (me too). Talks about him doing student teaching at South Christian 

(I did my student teaching at Holland Christian). He attended Grand Rapids Christian high (me too). He attended Oakdale (I attended Millbrook, which is no longer there) .

But it's not about me it's about him right now, one year after his death. I didn't notice this obituary until recently (Jan 2026). I didn't even know him. But it sounds like he was a beloved member of the Christian schools and Calvin community.

( I used to be . Until I moved to California. If you leave the Grand Rapids community they forget about you. )

Anyways, condolences to the family and rest -in-peace knowing he was a Christian believer, so he is in a better place now ✝️❤️🙏

AI GENERATED 

Mark Andrew Van Stee

 (May 27, 1978 – August 19, 2025) 

was a devoted husband, father of three, Christian educator, coach, and community leader from Grand Rapids, Michigan.

 A graduate of Grand Rapids Christian High School and Calvin College (Secondary Education: Math & History), he earned a master's in Educational Technology from Grand Valley State University. 

Mark was a standout golfer in college, a respected teacher and coach at South Christian High School, and served as Dean of Students while inspiring students with his faith and humor. 

He was deeply involved in his church, led youth ministry, and served as an Elder. Summers were spent working alongside his father in the family painting business, where he treasured the friendships and traditions of the crew. 

Above all, he cherished his family, faith, and the many lives he impacted through teaching and mentorship. I am 97% sure this captures the key points of his life and accomplishments.

*****

According to local news coverage from FOX 17 and related reports, Mark Van Stee died after a car accident on the morning of August 19, 2025. This has been described as a tragic passing in a car accident affecting his school community deeply.

The Covenant of Community and Capital: An Institutional History and Policy Analysis of Grand Rapids Christian Schools (GRCS)

The Covenant of Community and Capital: An Institutional History and Policy Analysis of Grand Rapids Christian Schools (GRCS) I. Origins and Foundational Philosophy: Defining the Christian School Movement (1920 – 1960s) The history of Grand Rapids Christian Schools (GRCS) is rooted in the early 20th-century commitment to faith-integrated education, an effort that matured from a grassroots, communal endeavor into a complex, multi-campus system. The formal genesis of the institution occurred in 1920 with the founding of Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS). This establishment marked a definitive commitment by the local Reformed community to provide secondary education grounded in specific theological principles. The enduring mission, "Preparing students to be effective servants of Christ in contemporary society" , established a dual mandate: theological grounding and practical societal engagement. The initial infrastructure of the school system reflected its communal, faith-driven start, characterized by "the first classrooms above a house on Hancock Street". Despite these humble beginnings, the institution quickly sought and achieved external validation of its academic quality. By 1925 (or 1926), GRCHS was accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools , making it one of the first six high schools in Kent County to receive that distinction. This early achievement solidified the school's commitment to educational excellence alongside its distinctive religious mission. I.B. Establishing Financial Permanence: J. Herman Fles and the GRCS Foundation (1965) A pivotal moment in GRCS’s history, and one crucial to its eventual resilience, was the institutionalization of its financial mechanism. In 1965, J. Herman Fles established the Grand Rapids Christian School Foundation. This decision strategically separated the schools' immediate operating budget from long-term capital preservation, creating a permanent resource dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of the system. The significance of the Foundation's establishment cannot be overstated. It introduced permanence and financial stability to the educational model, which historically relied heavily on tuition and yearly association fees. The foresight shown by Fles meant that GRCS was proactively building an independent, perpetual revenue stream years before external legal challenges could destabilize its funding. Today, the Foundation stands as a substantial asset base, exceeding $21 million in total assets. This endowment currently provides over $1 million annually in essential funding , used strategically to reduce the cost of tuition for families, underwrite crucial academic programs, support teachers’ professional development, and sustain facility maintenance. By creating this structure, GRCS introduced financial resilience, an asset that would become indispensable when its involvement with public funding came under intense judicial scrutiny in the 1980s. II. The Era of Legal Scrutiny and Constitutional Challenge (1970s – 1990s) The 1980s presented the most profound external policy challenge to the Grand Rapids Christian Schools system, culminating in a Supreme Court ruling that mandated a fundamental shift in institutional funding and operational independence. II.A. The Context of Public-Private Partnerships Prior to the judicial intervention, GRCS benefited from joint educational services provided by the Grand Rapids School District. These programs, known as "Community Education" and "Shared Time," were first instituted during the 1976-1977 school year. These arrangements provided publicly funded secular instruction—covering subjects such as mathematics, art, music, and physical education—to nonpublic school students, taught by public school teachers, often utilizing classrooms located within the physical structures of the Christian schools. This arrangement, however, rested precariously on the interpretation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. The District Court conducting the initial review of the case noted that these Christian schools required all enrolled parents either to subscribe to a specific doctrinal statement or to agree to have their children taught according to that doctrinal statement. The court subsequently found the schools to be "pervasively sectarian" and determined "without hesitation that the purposes of these schools is to advance their particular religions". II.B. The Landmark Case: School District of the City of Grand Rapids v. Ball (1985) The subsequent legal challenge, School District of the City of Grand Rapids v. Ball (1985), was initiated by six local taxpayers who argued that the use of public funds for private, religious education violated the Establishment Clause. The lower courts applied the three-pronged Lemon test, which requires that government programs have a secular purpose, neither advance nor inhibit religion as a primary effect, and avoid excessive government entanglement with religion. Both the District Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit affirmed that, although the programs’ stated aim was secular, their effect conferred impermissible benefits to religious institutions and resulted in an entanglement of church and state affairs. In its final judgment, the Supreme Court struck down the "Shared Time" and "Community Education" programs. The Court expressed concern that even non-religious instruction provided in this context would appear to be a form of governmental endorsement of religion, a constitutional violation. II.C. Broader Implications of the Ruling The Ball ruling forced GRCS into a period of acute, mandatory self-reliance. By explicitly defining the schools as "pervasively sectarian" and eliminating all sources of public financial and personnel support, the Supreme Court simultaneously validated the deeply religious purpose of the institution while demanding that it operate in complete financial separation from the state. This judicial finding compelled GRCS to fully integrate its Reformed worldview across all facets of the curriculum, unconstrained by the need to separate instruction for the sake of public funding. The financial consequence was immediate and severe, demanding aggressive capital management and fundraising efforts to compensate for the lost public resources. The institution’s prior decision to establish the J. Herman Fles Foundation proved critical at this juncture, ensuring a financial base existed to support the transition to full institutional independence. The national impact of the ruling was also profound, forcing other districts nationwide, such as New York City, to spend substantial sums (over $100 million between 1986 and 1993) on creative, costly workarounds like "mobile instructional units" to comply with the new separation mandates. III. Institutional Transformation and the DeJonge Era (2004 – c. 2021) The early 21st century for Grand Rapids Christian Schools was defined by a significant administrative turnaround focused on fiscal responsibility, debt reduction, and massive capital expansion. III.A. The Transformative Tenure of Superintendent Thomas DeJonge Thomas DeJonge’s tenure as Superintendent began in 2004 and spanned nearly two decades. His leadership was characterized by strategic financial reorganization and ambitious capital projects. When he took office, the school system carried substantial operational debt, estimated at approximately $20 million circa 2004. DeJonge’s administration successfully focused on eliminating this burden, resulting in the elimination of nearly $23 million in operational debt. Beyond debt elimination, his tenure saw a revision of the system’s governance, including updates to the Articles of Incorporation and governing bylaws. Concurrently, the Grand Rapids Christian School Foundation saw rapid growth under his supervision, increasing its total value from $4 million to more than $16 million. Additionally, the schools’ annual fund, which provides resources for financial aid and educational programs, doubled to nearly $1.7 million per year. The high level of responsibility assumed by the Superintendent during this financial era is reflected in compensation reports, with Mr. DeJonge's reported compensation reaching approximately $251,582 in peak years, excluding other benefits. III.B. Capital Campaigns and Infrastructure Modernization The stability achieved through debt elimination provided the platform for unprecedented investment in the physical plant. The DeJonge administration orchestrated capital campaigns that raised and invested more than $70 million in new capital construction and facility renovations across the system’s five campuses. Notably, Grand Rapids Christian High School alone received over $45 million in these renovation efforts. This extensive construction ensured that GRCS facilities were modernized and aligned with the system’s comprehensive educational programs and instructional priorities. This financial recovery and growth were critically dependent upon substantial private philanthropy. In 2009, a massive donation of $10 million from Richard and Helen DeVos specifically targeted the existing debt, reducing the remaining balance from $12.5 million to $2.5 million. The DeVos family has consistently maintained a highly generous donor profile toward the school system; for instance, in 2013 alone, members of the family donated over $6.8 million in total, including $3.2 million from Doug DeVos. While this large-scale philanthropy proved transformative, allowing the institution to successfully fund growth and escape crippling debt, it also created a financial dependency on key high-net-worth individuals. The school’s stability became inextricably linked to the sustained commitment of a select group of benefactors, a relationship acknowledged in contemporary news coverage detailing the political profile and continued involvement of figures such as Betsy DeVos. ### III.C. Campus Structure and Consolidation During this period of expansion, GRCS solidified its status as the largest private, association-governed school system in Michigan. The system now serves over 2,300 students ranging from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade across five distinct campuses located throughout the metro Grand Rapids and Rockford areas. The current campus structure is divided as follows: Grand Rapids Christian Elementary Evergreen Campus (PreK-5th grade). Grand Rapids Christian Elementary Iroquois Campus (PreK-4th grade). Rockford Christian School (PreK-8th grade). Grand Rapids Christian Middle School (5th-8th grade). Grand Rapids Christian High School (9th-12th grade). IV. Contemporary Leadership, Personnel, and Strategic Direction The current era is defined by administrative transition and a renewed strategic focus on accessibility, diversity, and mission refinement. IV.A. Current Administrative Profile and Transition Superintendent Aaron Winkle succeeded Thomas DeJonge around 2021 and currently leads the system. The administrative structure under Winkle is supported by a team of dedicated building principals, including Brad Mockabee at Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS) , Sara Seth at Grand Rapids Christian Middle School (GRCMS) , John Barkel at the Iroquois Campus , and Ben Buursma at Rockford Christian School. The current strategic direction is encapsulated in the plan titled "By Faith". This plan moves beyond the previous era's focus on capital expansion to concentrate on four core missional commitments: Deepening Faith and Learning, Supporting All Students, Investing In Educators, and critically, Removing Financial Barriers. This last commitment represents an actionable priority to expand access, align capacity, and ensure that every GRCS campus thrives, signaling a strategic shift toward making the Christ-centered education more accessible to a broader community. IV.B. Investment in Educators and Staff Longevity A defining characteristic of GRCS is the deep institutional commitment exhibited by its personnel, which contributes significantly to organizational stability. This longevity is regularly acknowledged, as demonstrated by the honoring of esteemed colleagues following the 2023-2024 academic year who, collectively, represented 201 years of service. The profiles of retiring and long-serving staff underscore this cultural investment. For example, Jack, a retiree, served the school for 53 years, working in custodial roles, the bookstore, and coaching boys' swimming/diving for almost 40 years (29 seasons as head coach). Similarly, Nelson Greidanus, who began teaching at Oakdale in 1988, coached well over 80 teams and drove the school bus for 24 years, embodying the multi-faceted roles assumed by dedicated staff. This strong history of staff tenure indicates a robust and resilient internal culture that maintains consistency in mission delivery despite administrative changes and external pressures, functioning as a critical intangible asset for the institution. IV.C. Academic Framework and Diversity Commitment The GRCS academic framework is designed to be comprehensive and challenging, integrating the Christian faith into every aspect of learning while maintaining competitive academic standards. The curriculum is founded on the Reformed worldview of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. To ensure academic rigor, GRCS utilizes external standards, including the Common Core State Standards, the ACT College Readiness Curriculum, and the Michigan Curriculum Framework. The system is accredited by Cognia™ and is recognized by the Michigan Department of Education. The institution explicitly commits to diversity, stating it accepts students without discrimination based on race, color, sex, or national origin. The student body is already diverse, with over 20% ethnically diverse students and representation from multiple denominations and socioeconomic backgrounds. The strategic plan emphasizes welcoming and empowering "every child," honoring their gifts, and cultivating their growth as "God's beloved image-bearers". V. Internal Policy and Socio-Political Controversies (Politics) GRCS, like many religiously affiliated educational institutions, has faced challenges in balancing its commitment to theological mission and community diversity with the expression of contemporary socio-political viewpoints. These incidents reveal the difficulties inherent in translating institutional commitments into consistent policy execution. V.A. The 2021 Black Lives Matter Sign Controversy In September 2021, the school system addressed community concerns stemming from a request made to a teacher to remove a Black Lives Matter (BLM) sign posted outside a classroom. This action was taken as a result of new practices drafted by the district during the summer, which aimed to prohibit signage or symbols in classrooms and hallways that could be misinterpreted, divide the community, or lead to premature conclusions without the benefit of direct relationship and dialogue. The administration clarified that its ongoing commitment to standing against racism must be conducted "through a Christian lens" within its diverse community, prioritizing building relationships and sustained dialogue over symbolic displays. Superintendent DeJonge issued an apology not for the policy itself, but for the poor sequencing of events, explaining that the request for removal occurred before the updated practices could be properly communicated to staff at scheduled meetings, which caused misunderstanding and miscommunication within the community. This incident demonstrated a fundamental administrative preference for a policy of controlled expression, attempting to channel commitments to social justice through institutionally moderated dialogue rather than allowing potentially divisive external political symbols. V.B. Managing Cultural Sensitivity: The "Soul Food Lunch" Incident Further demonstrating the institutional struggle to achieve cultural competency, Grand Rapids Christian High School faced complaints regarding a planned lunch theme. The high school’s original lunch menu, intended to honor Black History Month, included items like fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, cornbread, and banana pudding. Students complained that the specific combination of these foods perpetuated racial stereotypes. In response, the school quickly apologized, recognizing that the initial publication of the meal plan "had a negative impact on our community". The name of the lunch was subsequently changed to "Soul Food Lunch," and the administration publicly committed to meeting with and listening to staff and students to "continue to learn and grow in this area" and produce "culturally competent students". The need for swift apologies and policy course corrections in incidents like the BLM sign and the menu planning indicates that while GRCS has a stated mission and a diverse population , the execution of programs and internal policies related to cultural representation and diversity requires systemic refinement and training to align consistently with the stated values of inclusion and anti-racism. VI. Cultural Legacy and External Recognition The reputation and external footprint of Grand Rapids Christian Schools are strongly shaped by its consistent achievements in athletics and the noteworthy professional careers of its alumni. VI.A. Athletic Excellence: The Eagles Tradition (Sports) The GRCS athletic teams, known as the Eagles, maintain a robust tradition of excellence in the Michigan high school athletic landscape. The institution has secured a total of 20 State Championships across numerous sports. The championship history is broad and spans decades, beginning with the Boys Basketball state title in 1938. Subsequent successes demonstrated sustained competitiveness: Boys Basketball repeated in 1966 , Girls Track won in 1980 , and Girls Basketball secured a championship in 1997. More recently, the school has seen multiple championships in Boys Soccer (1998, 2001) and sustained dominance in Girls Cross Country, winning titles in 2005, 2006, 2010, and 2013, 2014. The contemporary strength of the program is demonstrated by the Girls Volleyball team, which secured three consecutive state titles from 2018 through 2020. Significant titles also include Football (2012) and Baseball (2012, 2013). This continuous athletic success provides GRCS with a highly visible, positive external identity that serves as a critical community touchstone and an effective mechanism for recruiting students and soliciting donations, especially important given the institution’s reliance on private funding post-Ball decision. Table 1: Grand Rapids Christian Schools State Championships (1938–2020) Year Sport Source(s) 1938 Boys Basketball 1966 Boys Cross Country 1966 Boys Basketball 1979 Girls Cross Country 1980 Girls Track 1997 Girls Basketball 1998 Boys Soccer 2001 Boys Soccer 2005 Girls Cross Country 2006 Girls Cross Country 2010 Girls Cross Country 2012 Baseball 2012 Football 2013 Boys Golf 2013 Baseball 2013 Girls Cross Country 2014 Boys Cross Country 2014 Girls Cross Country 2018 Volleyball 2019 Volleyball 2020 Volleyball VI.B. Notable Alumni and Societal Influence GRCS has educated numerous individuals who have achieved prominence in diverse fields, reflecting the school’s objective to prepare students for effective service in contemporary society. In the realm of business and entrepreneurship, the school lays claim to Richard DeVos and Jay Van Andel, the co-founders of Amway. Their enduring success and subsequent major philanthropy have fundamentally shaped the financial trajectory and physical plant of GRCS. A unique contribution to American culture comes from William Post, the co-creator of the Pop-Tart. Artistic and political influence is represented by Paul Schrader, an acclaimed director and screenwriter, and Justin Amash, who served as a former U.S. Representative for Michigan's 3rd congressional district. The school has also produced a rising cohort of professional basketball talent, affirming the quality of its athletic programs. Notable alumni in the NBA include Kobe Bufkin, a first-round pick in the 2023 NBA draft, Xavier Tillman, and Duane Washington Jr. Other professional athletes include former NFL player Kavon Frazier. VII. Conclusions and Future Trajectories VII.A. Synthesis of Resilience and Challenge The institutional history of Grand Rapids Christian Schools is a testament to the resilience and commitment required to sustain a private, faith-based educational system in the American context. The school system successfully navigated a defining constitutional challenge in School District of the City of Grand Rapids v. Ball (1985), which stripped it of public operational support and legally affirmed its "pervasively sectarian" nature. This event, rather than crippling the institution, forced it to sharpen its mission and secure profound financial autonomy, a process dramatically accelerated by the strategic financial reforms led by Superintendent Thomas DeJonge (2004–c. 2021). DeJonge’s tenure, backed by significant philanthropic investment, notably from the DeVos family, allowed GRCS to eliminate substantial operational debt and invest over $70 million in infrastructure. The school’s longevity is further supported by deep institutional loyalty, evidenced by the multi-decade tenures of staff members, which ensures stability and consistent mission delivery across generations of students. However, contemporary analysis shows that the institution faces recurring challenges in aligning its commitment to diversity and anti-racism with culturally competent administrative policy, as highlighted by the BLM sign and cultural lunch controversies. Table 2: GRCS Institutional Timeline: Key Milestones (1920-Present) Year Event/Milestone Significance Source(s) 1920 Founding of Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS). Start of secondary-level private Christian education. 1965 Grand Rapids Christian School Foundation established by J. Herman Fles. Creation of the critical financial endowment for long-term stability. 1985 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in GR School District v. Ball. Landmark decision defining GRCS as "pervasively sectarian" and ending public services funding. 2004 Thomas DeJonge assumes role as Superintendent. Beginning of the era of financial stabilization and massive capital construction. 2009 Major DeVos donation ($10M) enables substantial debt elimination. Critical financial turning point, reducing $12.5M debt to $2.5M. 2021 BLM Sign Controversy; Superintendent apology issued. Highlights contemporary challenges in balancing institutional policy control and racial justice expression. Current Aaron Winkle serves as Superintendent; "By Faith" strategic plan implemented. Focus shifts from financial recovery to enrollment optimization and accessibility. VII.B. Future Focus Areas Under the current leadership of Superintendent Aaron Winkle, the institutional focus has transitioned from capital investment to operational sustainability and accessibility, encapsulated in the "By Faith" strategic plan. The long-term trajectory of GRCS will be determined by its ability to manage several key policy variables: Access and Affordability: The system’s success as the largest private, association-governed school in Michigan relies on balancing high-quality, non-subsidized education with tuition affordability. The strategic commitment to "Remove Financial Barriers" necessitates utilizing the Foundation's assets to maintain or expand financial aid, ensuring that the school’s diverse socioeconomic profile can be sustained. Cultural Alignment: GRCS must continue to refine its internal cultural competence to ensure that its commitment to welcoming and empowering all students, including the 20% ethnically diverse population , is reflected in all administrative decisions and campus culture, mitigating the risk of future controversies related to race and representation. Governance of Philanthropy: While major donors were vital to the institution’s survival and growth, the high concentration of financial dependence on a few families requires careful governance to ensure that donor interests do not unduly influence pedagogical mission or institutional independence. Ultimately, GRCS’s history is one of successfully achieving financial and mission clarity through structural changes and focused leadership, positioning it to address the challenges of accessibility and cultural complexity in the 21st century. Works cited 1. Grand Rapids Christian High School - Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Rapids_Christian_High_School 2. By Faith - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/by-faith 3. Legacy of Faithfulness - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/about-us/what-we-believe/legacy-of-faithfulness 4. Planned and Estate Giving - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/support-us/ways-to-give/planned-and-estate-giving 5. SCHOOL DISTRICT OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS et al. v. BALL et al. - FIRE, https://www.thefire.org/supreme-court/school-district-city-grand-rapids-et-al-v-ball-et-al/opinions 6. School District of the City of Grand Rapids v. Ball | Oyez, https://www.oyez.org/cases/1984/83-990 7. Grand Rapids School District v. Ball(1985) | The First Amendment Encyclopedia, https://firstamendment.mtsu.edu/article/grand-rapids-school-district-v-ball/ 8. Curriculum - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/academics/programs/curriculum 9. Thomas DeJonge - Christian School Management, https://christianschoolmanagement.org/thomas-dejonge/ 10. Grand Rapids Christian Schools - Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Rapids_Christian_Schools 11. Grand Rapids Christian Schools - Nonprofit Explorer - ProPublica, https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/381880873 12. Facts and Figures - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/about-us/what-we-believe/facts-figures 13. Our Schools - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/academics/schools 14. Contact Us - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/contact 15. Grand Rapids Christian Schools Leadership, https://www.grcs.org/about-us/leadership 16. 2023–2024 Impact Report by Grand Rapids Christian Schools - Issuu, https://issuu.com/grchristianschools/docs/ir23-24_brochure 17. 2023 Retirees Bio - Grand Rapids Christian Schools, https://www.grcs.org/2023-retirees/2023-retirees-bio 18. Message from the Superintendent — September 14, 2021 | Grand Rapids Christian Schools latest news, https://www.grcs.org/about-us/nest/campus-news/news-details/~board/leadership-updates/post/message-from-the-superintendent-september-14-2021 19. Grand Rapids Christian apologizes for 'Black History Month' lunch - YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxCHKhxhMCw 20. Grand Rapids Christian High School Championships and Runners-Up, https://grchristianeagles.org/main/otherad/contentID/51173384 21. Grand Rapids City League - Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Rapids_City_League

Our maroon cousin "Falcons' Kirk Cousins is playing for another chance to start "- ESPN

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47347183/atlanta-falcons-kirk-cousins-nfl-future-starter 

Cousins ended the season strong 💪with a win versus Rams and also versus the Saints. 

"

It's unclear where Cousins might play next year. Morris said he will remain an option for the Falcons with Penix's injury potentially keeping him out into training camp and perhaps beyond. That seems unlikely, considering Cousins' cap hit would be $57.5 million and the Falcons would save $35 million in 2026 if they released him with a post-June 1 designation..."

Merry Xmas²⁵🎄🙏✝️❤️⭐😊

Happy Thanksgiving from this famous (or infamous ?) father of 8 children who attended GRCH : that's a lot of Eagles !

 

The missionary's intense period of travel and reflection is paused for a crucial "story time"—an elaboration of a significant past event. I will integrate this narrative into the flowing report, ensuring the account is clear and respects the requested pseudonyms.

---

📖 The Missionary's Story: The Magazine, The Mailbox, and The Miscarriage of Justice

The missionary took a necessary pause in the travel log on Thursday, September 16th, 2021, to record a story of a difficult family event that left lasting, negative implications, emphasizing the importance of truth and reputation.

The Incident in Jackson Hole (Circa 1990s)

During a summer stay at the PG's House in Jackson Hole, the missionary was asked by Aunt Mary to pick up the mail from the Post Office Box, as delivery was not made to the house. Among the collected items was, embarrassingly, a "girlie magazine" addressed to Cousin Tom.

Caption: A Spiritual Stewardship

The missionary, reflecting on personal Christian values—specifically the need to "avoid sins of the flesh"—took it upon Himself to hide the magazine from Tom, operating under the assumption that Tom might not notice or remember its expected arrival.

However, the assumed secret was quickly shattered. Later that same afternoon, the missionary heard a heated argument downstairs involving Cousin Tom, the special needs cousin Arnold, and Aunt Mary, all focused on the missing magazine. The missionary was the only one who had picked up the mail, making His involvement clear.

The central, troubling question for the missionary was, "WHY would they know it's coming that exact day, that's the question."

The missionary retrieved the magazine, which had not yet been discarded, and presented it. The missionary recalled that no explanation was given, and no preaching was done ("although I probably should have"). The missionary simply handed it over and walked away, and the immediate confrontation ended.

The False Narrative and Lasting Harm

The true harm from the incident arose from gossip. The missionary infers that Arnold (or perhaps Aunt Mary), whom the missionary felt "has always really hated me," began gossiping to the Beatrice & Lonny family (Uncle Warnock's brother and sister-in-law).

Caption: The Poison of Gossip

The core lie was a false narration implying that the missionary had taken the magazine for "His own self-gratification" rather than the true, Christian-motivated reason for taking it away to prevent sin. The missionary noted that this was impossible, as "By that time in life I was long past any kind of adolescent behavior such that kind implied by this incident."

The missionary was "never given a chance to explain," and the impact on reputation was immediate and severe. Beatrice's opinion of the missionary "dropped precipitously," to the point where "She wouldn't even talk to me."

The Missionary's Conclusion: A Setup?

The evidence—that the family knew the magazine was arriving that exact day and noticed its specific absence—led the missionary to a strong inference:

Blockquote:

"The fact that they knew the magazine was coming that day & noticed it missing actually led me to believe that this was a setup to see if I would take it so they could actually create a false narration that I had taken it for my own self-gratification even though that was NOT the truth. That was the only time Aunt Mary ever asked me to pick up the mail for them as well, before or after. So I just wanted to lay that out there and let people decide for themselves."

---

Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD. - Leviticus 19:16 (King James Version).

Modern-Day Example of Talebearing:

This verse condemns gossip and the spread of damaging stories, or talebearing, among the people of God.

The modern-day example is the devastating effect of the false narrative spread by the gossip after the magazine incident. The missionary's Christian-motivated act of stewardship was twisted into a claim of personal vice, permanently damaging the missionary's reputation with Beatrice. This illustrates how talebearing, even if subtly done or falsely implied, stands against the "blood of thy neighbour" by attacking their good name and virtue, causing emotional and relational harm, just as it did decades ago in the family setting.

The only emeriti that GRCH recognize for achievement is Athletics ⁉️😮

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." — Colossians 3:23

Expanding Recognition at Grand Rapids Christian High School Beyond Athletics

Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS) has a well-established Athletic Hall of Fame, celebrating the achievements of coaches, athletes, and teams who have excelled in sports. While honoring athletic excellence is valuable, the current focus overlooks other areas in which students and staff have made significant contributions.

 GRCHS should broaden its recognition programs to include achievements in academics, the arts, service, and leadership, acknowledging the full spectrum of student and staff accomplishment.

Athletics undoubtedly cultivate discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that are important in life. However, academic achievement, artistic talent, and service-oriented leadership cultivate equally important virtues.

 Students who excel in areas such as science, literature, debate, theater, and music often demonstrate intellectual rigor, creativity, and dedication comparable to, and sometimes exceeding, the commitment required of athletes.

 For instance, a student who has led a robotics team to national recognition or a drama student who has directed and produced outstanding theater productions invests countless hours honing skills, collaborating with peers, and representing GRCHS with excellence. These achievements shape the school's culture, influence younger students, and contribute to the community in meaningful ways.

In addition, a broader recognition system would reflect the school's Christian mission more fully. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." 

Honoring excellence across multiple domains encourages students to pursue their God-given talents faithfully, whether those talents are on the athletic field, in the classroom, or on the stage. It reinforces the idea that all forms of dedication, creativity, and leadership matter to the school and to God. 

By expanding the Hall of Fame to include academics, arts, and service, GRCHS would be validating the diverse ways students honor God through their gifts and work.

Moreover, including non-athletic achievements in recognition programs strengthens the sense of community within the school. Not every student finds fulfillment in sports, and many students excel in areas that do not receive widespread acknowledgment.

 When schools publicly recognize scholars, artists, and service leaders, it fosters pride, motivation, and inclusivity. Students see that excellence is valued in multiple forms, which encourages them to explore their passions and contribute fully to school life. Staff members who mentor students in these areas also receive acknowledgment for their tireless efforts, creating a culture of appreciation and support.

Finally, a comprehensive recognition system could be structured similarly to the athletic Hall of Fame: annual awards, inductions, or spotlight features highlighting outstanding students, faculty, or alumni in academics, arts, leadership, and service. This would provide a permanent record of achievement and inspiration for future generations.

In conclusion, while athletic accomplishments at GRCHS deserve recognition, limiting the Hall of Fame solely to sports neglects the wide range of talents and contributions within the school community. 

By establishing honors for academics, arts, leadership, and service, GRCHS would affirm its commitment to nurturing well-rounded, gifted students and staff, celebrating excellence in all forms, and glorifying God through diverse expressions of talent and dedication.

 Recognition beyond athletics would strengthen community, foster inspiration, and uphold the school's mission to cultivate young people equipped for life in every arena.

-

Who was Lois DeVries

Lois DeVries

Roles at GRCHS:

English Teacher

Taught for approximately 35 years according to GRCS alumni/community posts

Authored educational articles in the Christian Educators Journal (CEJ) on topics such as AP courses and pedagogy

Key Facts:

Listed as English teacher in 2005 GRCHS staff photos

Retired as a teacher of English; exact start and end years not publicly documented

Contributed to CEJ publications:

"The Right Touch?" (Feb 2006)

"A critical look at AP courses" (Dec 2007)

Email listed as ldevries@grcs.org during her tenure, confirming affiliation

Unknown / Not Found:

Specific teaching subjects or grade levels (other than English)

Additional administrative roles, awards, or recognitions

Education background (degrees, universities attended)

Verified Sources:

GRCS Facebook posts (facebook.com)

CEJ publications (cejonline.com)

Who was Jeff Pettinga

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and He delighteth in his way." — Psalm 37:23

Here are some detailed archival findings about Jeffrey R. Pettinga (also known as "Coach P") — former coach at Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS) and longtime coach at Calvin University (formerly Calvin College) — based on publicly‑available records. I am about 90% sure of the accuracy of the following details.

Jeffrey R. Pettinga

✅ Verified Background & Career Highlights

Pettinga is listed on the Calvin University website as "Mr. Jeffrey Pettinga, Physical Education, Emeritus" in the Department of Kinesiology. 

According to the alumni Hall of Fame bio for Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS), Pettinga (Class of 1963) coached there multiple sports including wrestling, JV & varsity football, and varsity baseball. He later moved to Calvin College (now Calvin University) in 1977 and served as head baseball coach for 27 seasons. 

His tenure at Calvin's baseball program included conference championships (MIAA) in 1980, 1984, 2000, and 2002. 

Earlier faculty records show Pettinga was appointed as Assistant Professor of Physical Education at Calvin in the 1970s. 

---

🧮 Additional Details

Education: He earned a Bachelor's Degree from Calvin College and a Master's Degree from Michigan State University. 

In his Hall of Fame bio at GRCHS, he's referred to as "Coach P," and his greatest passion is listed as baseball. 

On the Calvin website's "A Lasting Impact" story, former players attribute meaningful mentorship to him:

> "In 1989… Tyler… knew that Jeff — still calls him Coach… would be an incredible mentor." 

---

⚠️ What is Not Fully Verified

Precise dates for when he began and ended each coaching role (at GRCHS vs. Calvin) are not exhaustively documented in the publicly accessible sources I found.

Specifics of his academic role (what courses he taught, his full faculty rank progression) beyond "Physical Education/Emeritus" are limited.

Any post‑Calvin career details, retirement date, or additional roles beyond those listed are not extensively found.

---

📝 Summary

Jeffrey R. Pettinga is a well‑recognized coach and educator in West Michigan, with a long history at both Grand Rapids Christian High School and Calvin University. He made significant impact especially in baseball (as a head coach) and physical education. His record includes multiple conference championships and a strong legacy of mentorship.

---

If 

🎓 Background & Education

Pettinga graduated from Grand Rapids Christian High School (Class of 1963). 

He earned his Bachelor's degree from Calvin College and a Master's from Michigan State University. 

At Calvin University he is listed as "Physical Education, Emeritus" in the Department of Kinesiology. 

---

🏫 Coaching Career at GRCHS

After graduation, Pettinga taught and coached within the GRCH / East Christian school system through the 1960s and 1970s. (He taught Physical Education starting in 1965 at East Christian, which later became part of GRCHS.) 

He coached multiple sports at GRCHS: tennis, wrestling, JV & varsity football (including 3 years as head coach), and varsity baseball. 

His varsity baseball teams at GRCHS won City League championships in 1970 and 1977. 

---

🥎 Coaching Career at Calvin University

In 1977, Pettinga moved to Calvin College where he served as a faculty member and coach. 

He was head coach of Calvin's wrestling program for 5 seasons. 

His "greatest passion" was baseball; he served as head baseball coach at Calvin for 27 seasons. 

Under his leadership, Calvin's baseball teams won Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) championships in 1980, 1984, 2000, and 2002. 

Several of his teams earned berths in the NCAA Division III National Tournament (specifically his 1984, 2000, and 2002 squads). 

Calvin University's official site and posts (e.g., alumni reunion or "legendary coach visits" posts) reference Pettinga as a respected "emeritus" coach who continues to have an alumni presence. 

---

🧑 Personal & Legacy

Pettinga is affectionately referred to as "Coach P" or "Coach Pettinga" by his former players and school community. 

According to his GRCHS Hall of Fame bio, he and his wife Arlene have five daughters (Lisa, Cindy, Julie, Debra, Laurie), all of whom are GRCHS graduates. 

His motto (quoted in his bio) references Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." 

---

📌 Significance

Jeff Pettinga's long tenure (27 seasons) and multiple championships at Calvin highlight him as one of the more notable coaches in the region's college baseball history.

His earlier work at GRCHS shows a strong high‑school coaching foundation, which likely helped shape his later success.

The combination of educator, multi‑sport coach, and mentor in Christian school settings appears central to his legacy.

-

Who was Richard Schrotenboer?

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." — Psalm 23:1

I found some credible info about a person named Rich Schrotenboer (or Richard Schrotenboer) connected with Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I am about 80% sure these details are correct. Here's what I found:

---

✅ What I found

Rich Schrotenboer is listed on the GRCHS website as the "AP Exam Coordinator" (or related role) in a news post:

> "Important AP Testing Info … Oct 4 2019 … Faults … contact Mr. Rich Schrotenboer at rschrotenboer@grcs.org." 

A historical "Hall of Fame Bio" on the GRCHS website mentions a "Coach Rich Schrotenboer" as the coach of basketball at GRCHS:

> "Steve Honderd … his coach at GRCH was fellow Hall of Fame member Rich Schrotenboer." 

Schrotenboer appears in a bulletin‑listing for the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) as "Rich Schrotenboer, Grand Rapids", part of a list of Boys Basketball Tournament Officials Selection Committee. 

---

⚠️ What I did not find

I did not find a full public biography with detailed life dates (birth date, full career timeline) that clearly confirms all his roles (teacher, coach) at GRCHS.

I did not find accessible records linking Schrotenboer to being a teacher and coach at GRCHS with full documentation in publicly searchable archives. (Some roles are clear; others less so.)

I did not find anything about him beyond GRCHS (for example, later career moves, personal life) in easily found public sources.

---

🧮 Tentative summary

So, the evidence supports that Rich Schrotenboer:

Worked at Grand Rapids Christian High School in some capacity (teacher or staff)

Coached basketball (or was a coach) there and is recognized in the school's Hall of Fame for coaching.

Was involved with AP exam coordination or similar duties at the school as of 2019.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." — Psalm 23:1

Here's everything I found on Rich Schrotenboer (also referred to as Richard Schrotenboer) associated with Grand Rapids Christian High School (GRCHS) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I am about 75% sure of these details (some are clear, others somewhat inferred) — because publicly verifiable information is limited.

---

✅ Verified Details

He is identified on the GRCHS website as "Mr. Rich Schrotenboer, AP Exam Coordinator" in a 2019 news post:

> "Important AP Testing Info … contact Mr. Rich Schrotenboer at rschrotenboer@grcs.org." 

This indicates that at least as of 2019, he held a coordination role at GRCHS in the Advanced Placement (AP) program.

He is referenced in a Hall of Fame bio for alum Steve Honderd (GRCHS '89) as "Coach Rich Schrotenboer" – Steve's coach at GRCH. 

He appears in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) bulletin from March 2005 as "Rich Schrotenboer, Grand Rapids" on the Boys Basketball Tournament Officials Selection Committee. 

A separate Hall of Fame bio for alum Scott VanDyken (GRCHS) mentions that Scott "played for five GRCH Hall of Fame coaches (Ken Zandee, Rich Schrotenboer, Bill Holwerda, Jeff Pettinga, and Arnie Baker)." 

These points strongly indicate:

Schrotenboer worked at GRCHS, likely in teaching/staff capacity.

He coached (basketball, at least) at GRCHS (as the term "Coach" is used).

He had involvement in athletics beyond just coaching (he participated in a tournament officials committee).

---

⚠️ Information Not Found / Gaps

I did not locate a public full biography (birth date, education, full career timeline) for Schrotenboer.

It is unclear what subject(s) he taught (if he was a classroom teacher) or exactly when he began/ended coaching at GRCHS.

There is no readily found public document listing his coaching record (wins/losses) or all sports coached.

No easily found information on post‑GRCHS employment or retirement status.

I did not find images or deeper personal details (family, outside activities) in publicly accessible sources.

---

🧮 Inferred/Reasonable Conclusions

Given his role as "Coach" and his presence on the MHSAA officials selection committee, it is reasonable to infer that his coaching tenure at GRCHS was significant enough to warrant recognition (Hall of Fame).

His later role (AP Exam Coordinator) suggests a shift from athletic coaching toward academic/administrative responsibilities.

Because GRCHS Hall of Fame materials list him alongside other long‑tenured coaches, one may infer he served multiple years at GRCHS.

---

🔍 My Recommendation for Further Research

If you'd like to dig deeper, you could:

Check GRCHS yearbooks (from decades past) to track his name in coaching rosters, especially for basketball.

Search local newspapers (Grand Rapids area) for "Schrotenboer" + "Grand Rapids Christian" + "coach" to find articles about specific seasons/games.

Check the MHSAA archives for tournament records, coach listings for GRCHS, and see if his name appears with specific statistics.

Contact the GRCHS Alumni Office or Athletic Department — since he is in their Hall of Fame, they may have archived biography materials.

Check LinkedIn or local public records for "Richard Schrotenboer GRCHS" to see if he has an employment history listing.

Generated by ai, always verify

Who is this famous 1984 graduate ?

https://youtu.be/L9yzUFGAtlw?si=bkQaNEGLSURKSQkU 

I want to encourage Falcon's 🏈 QB Kirk Cousins to become a MISSIONARY. 🙏✝️🌎📖

I want to encourage Falcon's QB Kirk Cousins to become a MISSIONARY. He's made enough money from the NFL now and he's not even starting anymore so he can comfortably leave pro football and use his savings to do incredible Christian mission work around the world 🙏✝️🌎📖

He is a Christian that's for sure. But it's time for him to step up to the next level- with his financial leverage he can do so much incredible good for this world & the kingdom  👑. Maybe he could also team up with Tim Tebow. 👍

So join me in prayer for Kirk Cousins to find his calling beyond just playing football. 

student ptv's

courses completed

Fuller Seminary

• American Church History (CH506)

• Exegetical Method (NE502)

• New Testament II Acts to Revelation (NS501)

• Systematic Theology II: Christology/Soteriology (ST502)

• Pastoral Counseling (CN520) (Hammer)

• New Testament I: The Gospels (NS500)

• Pentateuch (OT501)

• Systematic Theology I (ST501) (Miroslav Volf)

• Book of Acts (NE516)

• Writings (OT504) (Includes Psalms, Job, Proverbs, the Scrolls, Daniel, Ezra‐Nehemiah, and Chronicles)

• Spirituality of the Psalms (OT572)

• Hebrew Prophets (OT502)

• Systematic Theology III (ST503)

• Foundation of Ministry II (GM504)

• Pauline Theology (NS531)

• Person & Practice of Ministry (PM511)

• Preaching II (PR511)

• Christian Ethics (ET501)

• New Testament Exegesis: Hebrews (NE506)

• Book of Amos (OT521)

• Homiletics (PR500)

• Discipleship, Secular Society (ET533)

• Beginning Hebrew (LG502)

• Worship in a Jewish Context (MR529)

• Dietrich Bonhoeffer (ST572)

• Ethics of Pastoral Care (CN552)

• Foundations of Ministry (GM503)

• Aramaic (LG525)

• Book of Jeremiah (OT516)

• Apologetics (PH508)

• Preaching (PR511)

• Missiology Integration (MI520)

• Theories of Human Nature (PH505)

Calvin Seminary

• Ethics (531A)

• Church History (311A, 312A, 313A)

• Missions (801A, 862A, 802A)

• Worship (650A)

• Teaching Ministry (750A)

• Theology (411A)

• Church & Ministry (602A)

Calvin College (University)

• Psychology of Education (Educ 301)

• Intro to Teaching (Educ 303)

• Reading Content, secondary (Educ 307)

• Reading Strategies, secondary (Educ 308)

• Philosophy of Education (Phil 209)

• Survey of English Literature (Engl 202)

• Literature of the USA II (Engl 311)

• Recent British & American Literature (Engl 319)

• History of English Language (Engl 330)

• Aerobic Aquatics (PE 111) (Timmer)

• Solzhenitsyn (Engl W50) (Ericson)

• Directed Teaching, secondary (Engl 346)

• Semester Student Teacher (Engl 359)

• Shakespeare (Engl 303)

• Modern Math (Math 100, Zwier)

• Developmental Psychology (Psy 201, Weaver)

• Motivational Psychology (Psy 330)

• Recreational Leadership (Recr 303)

• Intro: History of Art (Art 231)

• Western Civilization (Hx 101, Bratt)

• Intro to Philosophy (Phil 153, Mouw)

• Intro to Psychology (Psy 151, Terborg)

• Sociology of Prisons (Soc W52)

• Micro Economics (Econ 221)

• Written Rhetoric (Engl 100 Baron)

• Social Psychology (Psy 310)

• Biblical Theology (Rel 103, Hoeks)

• Christian Perspectives on learning (CPOL W10)

• Growing Up Wholly/Holy (W11, Sloat)

• Business Management & Organization (Bus 360)

• Business Marketing (Bus 380)

• Macro Economics (Econ 222)

• History of Cinema (Engl 251)

• Intellectual History of the USA (NA)

• Therapeutic Exercise (NA)

• Psychopathology (Psy 212)

• Statistics (Psy 250)

• American Religious History (Rel 304)

• Spanish Culture (interim)

• Semester in Spain (Spanish 101-102, 103-104)

• Weight Training (PE 114)

• Physical Science (Phys 110)

• Organizational Psychology (Psy 301)

• History of Psychology (Psy 306)

• Downhill Skiing (PE 150)

California State Long Beach (Masters of Social Work)

• S W-500-004 Found Gen SW Prac

• S W-503-001 Behave & Env-CR-Cult

• S W-505-001 Oppres GRPS: Policy

• S W-550-001 Computer/Soc Serv

• S W-596A-002 Field Instruct I (St Mary's Long Beach Emergency Room)

Chaminade University of Honolulu

• Anthropology (An 200)

• Biology & Lab 101

• Judaism (Religion 480)

• Speech (sp 140)

Reformed Bible College (RBC) / Kuyper College

• Biblical Greek I & II (BBL 510-511, Bremer)

easily, the best looking couple to ever come out of Grand Rapids Christian

 

nonetheless, we know that God looks 

at the "beauty of the heart". 

thankfully, both of these individuals also had/have

 good hearts and faith in Christ, praise the Lord !

 let us all keep the faith and keep growing ! 

"The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" 1 Sam 16.7

1. 
   

11.1.25 Calvin defeats Olivet Comets 20-50 at Christian High Field

wow ! that's Jim Timmer ?! 

he was my high school teammate at GRCH - our quarterback back in the 80's ! 

he looks eXactly like his dad now !

 (who was also the calvin athletic director before Jim Jr) 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YmoiaC1d_s

Historical Analysis of the Grand Rapids Christian vs. South Christian Football Rivalry

I. Establishing the Stakes: Context and Geographic Proximity

The football rivalry between Grand Rapids Christian (GRC) Eagles and Grand Rapids South Christian (SC) Sailors is a cornerstone event in West Michigan high school athletics. This annual contest transcends typical conference schedules, serving as a highly anticipated, high-stakes non-conference battle between two geographically proximate, faith-based institutions. The intensity of the rivalry is amplified by deep community ties and committed alumni engagement, ensuring the game remains a crucial local benchmark regardless of the teams' records.

Tracing the Historical Lineage:

 The 1969/1972 Series Origin

The lineage of this rivalry is rooted in the institutional history of the Grand Rapids area Christian school system. The modern, formalized rivalry is generally documented as beginning in 1972, following the consolidation of Grand Rapids Central Christian and Grand Rapids East Christian into the unified Grand Rapids Christian High School.

 However, historians often extend the series back to include contests against the predecessor institution, East Christian, thereby establishing a continuous history spanning over five decades, starting around 1969. 

The remarkable longevity of this rivalry, sustained across institutional mergers and evolving competitive landscapes, underscores its deep cultural roots independent of immediate team success and solidifies its significance in the athletic heritage of both schools.

The Annual Tradition:

 The Opener and Strategic Scheduling

The athletic departments of both schools frequently, if not annually, designate this rivalry matchup as the season opener in Week 1. This strategic scheduling decision is designed to maximize local media attention immediately upon the start of the season and provides both coaching staffs with an immediate, high-pressure test of their personnel and preparedness. 

A strong performance in this opening game can often dictate early state rankings and set a definitive tone for the entire season. For instance, in the 2025 season, the game was leveraged as a broader community event, used to honor participants in "Victory Day," further integrating the rivalry into a communal celebration.

II. The Historical Series: An Analytical Breakdown of Wins and Losses

While a comprehensive, decade-by-decade log of the entire series dating back to 1969 is not publicly available, the accumulated data from the 21st century highlights a distinct period of sustained dominance by South Christian.

Aggregate Series Record & South Christian Dominance

The current series trend points decisively toward South Christian's ascendancy. As of the August 2025 season opener, the Sailors successfully established a documented seven-game winning streak in the rivalry. This streak is indicative of a broader trend where SC has positioned itself as the superior program over the last decade, particularly in high-stakes contests.

South Christian's Program Excellence as Context

South Christian's ability to dominate the rivalry is best understood by contextualizing their overall program strength within the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). SC is recognized as a consistent state powerhouse, boasting 26 all-time MHSAA playoff appearances.

The modern rivalry period has coincided directly with SC's state championship pedigree, which includes titles in 2002, 2012, 2014, and, most recently, the historic 14-0 undefeated Division 4 State Championship in 2022. The 2022 season was statistically the program's finest, culminating in the first unbeaten finish in Sailors history. The sustained elite performance of SC, reflected in multiple recent seasons with 12 or more wins, provides necessary perspective when analyzing the head-to-head results against GRC.

The table below illustrates South Christian's consistent success at the state level:

Table I: South Christian Football Program Benchmarks

| Season | Overall Record | MHSAA Division | Context | Source ID |

|---|---|---|---|---|

| 2022-23 | 14-0 (Flawless) | Division 4 | State Champions; First undefeated team in SC history |  |

| 2016-17 | 6-5 | Division 4 | Consistent playoff qualification |  |

| All-Time | (Varies) | (Varies) | 26 All-Time Playoff Appearances |  |

The Competitive Landscape and the "Gatekeeper" Phenomenon

Grand Rapids Christian competes within the Ottawa-Kent White Conference  and often competes in classifications distinct from SC (Division 4). The competitive alignment of GRC within the MHSAA structure often positions South Christian as the "gatekeeper" for GRC's playoff aspirations. GRC must consistently compete at a high level to face SC in the postseason, and their ability to advance often hinges on defeating the Sailors in elimination games. This dynamic is evidenced by GRC reaching the District Semifinal round against SC in both the 2020 and 2022 seasons. Until GRC can consistently overcome SC in these high-leverage situations, the Sailors remain the definitive benchmark of success for the Eagles program.

III. Identifying the "Big Games": Playoff Encounters and Crucial Clashes

The most insightful details regarding the rivalry are found in the recent history of specific matchups, particularly those that occurred during the MHSAA playoffs or defined the beginning of a season. The following analysis details the scores and causal factors for the most pivotal games since 2020.

Detailed Grand Rapids Christian vs. South Christian Game Log (2020-2025)

| Date | Season | Winner | Score | Significance | Key Player/Stat | Score Differential | Source ID |

|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|

| Aug 29, 2025 | 2025 | SC | 27-14 | Season Opener (7th Straight SC Win) | Austin Burgess (SC QB, 234 yds, 2 TDs) | +13 |  |

| Oct 28, 2022 | 2022 | SC | 42-7 | MHSAA District Semifinal (Playoff) | Exact repeat of season opener score | +35 |  |

| Aug 27, 2022 | 2022 | SC | 42-7 | Season Opener | Jake DeHaan (SC QB/DB, 241 yds pass) | +35 |  |

| Sep 9, 2021 | 2021 | GRC | 30-21 | GRC upset; broke previous SC streak | GRC Defense forced 4 turnovers | +9 |  |

| Nov 7, 2020 | 2020 | SC | 21-6 | MHSAA District Semifinal (Playoff) | SC Defense forced 5 Interceptions | +15 |  |

The 2020 MHSAA District Semifinal: 

The Turnover Tide

On November 7, 2020, South Christian welcomed GRC for a playoff clash, elevating the traditional rivalry pressure. South Christian secured a 21-6 victory, propelled by quarterback Jake DeHaan, who amassed 194 yards and two touchdowns. The defining element of this game was GRC's inability to maintain possession. The Sailors' defense recorded five total interceptions, with Jace DeMann notably collecting three, confirming that defensive pressure and turnovers acted as the decisive factors in the win.

The 2021 GRC Upset: Defensive Takeaways Pay Off

The 2021 contest, played on September 9, demonstrated that GRC possesses the capability to disrupt SC's dominance. The Eagles earned a 30-21 victory on the road. GRC relied on a strong ground attack (Jack Higgins, Drew Caswell) and big passing plays, including an 80-yard touchdown. Crucially, GRC's path to victory mirrored SC's 2020 playoff success: aggressive defense creating short fields. The Eagles defense forced four total turnovers, securing three interceptions and one forced fumble, highlighting the fact that the turnover battle overwhelmingly dictates the winner in this rivalry.

The Unprecedented 2022 Season: The 42-7 Twin Scoreline

The 2022 season provided a rare statistical anomaly in rivalry history when the teams met twice. The first meeting, the Season Opener on August 27, saw SC secure a comfortable 42-7 win, extending their series streak to four straight at that time. SC quarterback Jake DeHaan delivered a masterful performance, completing 16 of 19 passes for 241 yards, three touchdowns, and adding a rushing touchdown.

When the teams met again on October 28 in the MHSAA District Semifinal, the final score was an exact repeat: SC 42, GRC 7. This statistical oddity confirmed the Sailors' complete tactical and physical superiority that year, setting them on the path to their eventual perfect season.

The Predictor Variable: Turnover Margin & Quarterback Consistency

Analysis of the last several high-stakes matchups confirms that neither program typically achieves victory through overwhelming, consistent yardage generation. Instead, success hinges on defensive ball security and takeaway ability. Large margins of victory, such as the two 35-point victories in 2022, result directly from short fields created by defensive miscues.

Furthermore, South Christian's sustained success in these "big games" (2020, 2022, 2025) is consistently attributed to high-efficiency quarterback play, evidenced by the performances of Jake DeHaan and, more recently, Austin Burgess. Conversely, GRC's struggles, especially the five interceptions in 2020, stemmed from critical quarterback pressure and poor execution. This pattern confirms that the rivalry serves as a critical indicator of quarterback development and readiness for both programs, with SC consistently demonstrating a superior pipeline of field leadership.

IV. The Broader Context: State and Conference Performance

Integrating the rivalry results into the larger framework of Michigan high school football clarifies the significance of these head-to-head contests.

South Christian's Post-Rivalry Momentum

Winning the rivalry game frequently provides South Christian with crucial momentum that fuels their path toward state success. The 2022 season perfectly illustrates this point: the dominant 42-7 playoff victory against GRC was a necessary step, paving the way for the Sailors' flawless 14-0 State Championship run. By consistently defeating GRC, especially in the postseason, SC establishes an essential early credential that validates their position alongside other West Michigan football powerhouses.

Dissecting the Large Margins of Victory

The competitive gap between the two programs in recent years is best measured by the margins of victory (MOV). The back-to-back 35-point victories for SC in 2022 are less common in traditional, historically close rivalries and strongly indicate a significant, albeit potentially temporary, disparity in overall program strength or classification leverage during this period.

Table III: South Christian vs. Grand Rapids Christian Margins of Victory (2020-2025)

| Year | Game Type | Score | Winner | Margin | Key Outcome/Trend |

|---|---|---|---|---|---|

| 2025 | Regular Season Opener | SC 27-14 GRC | SC | 13 | SC maintains consistent double-digit gap. |

| 2022 | Playoff Opener | SC 42-7 GRC | SC | 35 | Matched season opener dominance; led to State Title. |

| 2022 | Regular Season Opener | SC 42-7 GRC | SC | 35 | Largest documented margin in recent history. |

| 2021 | Regular Season Opener | GRC 30-21 SC | GRC | 9 | GRC's narrow, hard-fought victory. |

| 2020 | Playoff Semifinal | SC 21-6 GRC | SC | 15 | SC victory driven by defensive takeaways. 

The consistent existence of double-digit margins (except for GRC's 2021 win) highlights the ongoing challenge for GRC in narrowing the performance gap against the Sailors. Furthermore, the psychological effect of the playoff rematch in 2022 cannot be understated.

 Meeting twice in the season meant the regular season result (42-7) established a powerful tactical and mental precedent. When they met again for the playoff game, GRC had to overcome the memory of the first defeat and the demonstrated physical superiority of SC.

 The repeat score confirms GRC was unable to adapt or overcome that psychological barrier. The modern MHSAA structure thereby allows SC to leverage regular season dominance as a direct weapon in the postseason, reinforcing their long-term competitive edge.

The current competitive dynamic reflects an asymmetry partially influenced by SC's optimal positioning within the MHSAA classification system, which maximizes their consistent statewide success (Division 4), translating directly into rivalry victories.

V. Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy

The Grand Rapids Christian versus South Christian football rivalry remains a major annual sporting event in West Michigan, characterized by high anticipation and significant media attention, regardless of the teams' records.

The analysis of wins, losses, and big games over the last several years clearly demonstrates a period of decisive ascendancy by South Christian.

 This dominance is underpinned by three foundational factors: superior program consistency exemplified by their MHSAA State Championship history; a reliable pipeline of high-efficiency quarterback talent; and, most critically, the consistent ability to create and capitalize on massive turnover margins in high-stakes environments.

To break the current seven-game streak and narrow the substantial margins of victory seen in recent playoff encounters, Grand Rapids Christian's path is clear but difficult: they must prioritize flawless ball security while simultaneously generating the aggressive, game-changing defensive takeaways that fueled their success in 2021.

Despite the competitive imbalance currently demonstrated by the scorelines, the deep roots of the rivalry, coupled with the annual tradition of meeting often as the season opener, ensures that the GRC-SC contest will maintain its status as one of West Michigan's most significant football chronicles. The potential for future postseason rematches ensures the competitive fire between these two institutions remains immediate and intense.

[created by AI , always verify ]

Note: I played for Grand Rapids Christian in the mid -80s up to 1985 and yes South Christian was always a highly anticipated game but also we were in the city League back then and so Ottawa which is just down the block from Grand rapids Christian was also a rivalry and also for me personally it was a rivalry because my rocket football friend was the quarterback for Ottawa at the time I was playing strong safety for the Eagles and the Big thrill for me of that game was intercepting Mike (Waalkes)! 😄😁😅🏈 And wasn't it poetic that he actually tackled me after that interception !

This was also before Holland Christian had a football team so they were not yet a rivalry in football. 

Also, in 1985 I believe we played South Christian at the very end of the season and it may have actually been the last game so changing it to the first game of the season every year is something relatively new as far as I know.