Welcome to another edition of Making the Grade, where we highlight the achievements of
our student-athletes and discuss the success of Big Rapids Public Schools’ athletic
programs. This episode features a distinguished panel: Mike Selzer, Head Coach of
Football and Boys Track; Tim Haist, Superintendent of Big Rapids Public Schools; Cole
Haist, Student-Athlete and MHSAA Member; and Dawn Thompson, Athletic Director.
The episode begins with each panelist sharing their background and experiences, setting
the stage for an in-depth discussion on the Fall and Winter seasons. The conversation kicks
off with an impressive look at the achievements from the past year. The women’s golf team
not only captured another Conference Championship but also earned a spot in the State
Finals. Similarly, the men’s tennis team reached the State Finals, showcasing their skill and
dedication.

Sports at Big Rapids High School

Mike Selzer then highlights the football team’s third Conference Championship victory and
their successful playoff run. Cole Haist adds his perspective on the season, emphasizing
that the team accomplished all of their goals, marking it as a highly successful year. Dawn
Thompson shifts the focus to the winter season, noting the remarkable achievements of
the women’s basketball team, which completed a perfect 10-0 run in Conference play.
Despite being a young team, they demonstrated incredible promise and performance on
the court. Additionally, Dawn discusses the men’s basketball team, which won 16 games,
and touches on the success of the wrestling and hockey programs. As the discussion
continues, Mike Selzer provides an update on the boys’ track team, offering insights into
their progress and expectations for the upcoming season.

Athletics

Moving on the episode continues by diving deeper into the athletics programs at Big Rapids
Public Schools. Mike begins by recognizing several students who earned spots on athletic
teams at Ferris State University, a testament to the high level of talent cultivated within the
district. Cole Haist talks about the baseball team and their impressive performance in the
previous season. Dawn Thompson rounds out the conversation by detailing the breadth of
sports offered at Big Rapids, noting that most sports have varsity, junior varsity, and even
freshman programs, providing ample opportunities for student-athletes to participate and
grow throughout the school year. For more information on Big Rapids Public Schools athletics, please visit brps.org/o/bra.