Celebrating the Best of Gaylord Area Winter Sports: 2025-26 Highlights

Winter's End in Sports

It's mid-March, and while the snow continues to blanket the Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan, the winter sports season has officially wrapped up for our local athletes. As I look back, it's evident that this season didn't just showcase the competition but also the perseverance and spirit that define sports in the Gaylord area.

The Champions and Their Stories

This season was a rollercoaster ride for teams from Gaylord High School, Gaylord St. Mary, and Johannesburg-Lewiston. Each team contributed memorable moments worth unpacking, highlighting the strength and heart of our athletes.

Zane Willobee: A Triumph of Determination

This year, Gaylord's Zane Willobee gave us a masterclass in determination and resilience. After a tough loss at the Division 2 championship last year, where he narrowly fell to Lowell's Owen Segorski, he returned with a renewed focus. Facing Clio's D'Marion Erlenbeck in the finals, Willobee fought valiantly, clinching a 4-3 victory and securing his second state title. This achievement wasn't just a personal victory but a symbol of hard work paying off and a great story for the local wrestling community.

The St. Mary Basketball Upset

In another thrilling highlight, the Gaylord St. Mary boys' basketball team proved their worth with a stunning upset over East Jordan, the eventual Ski Valley Champs. Holding East Jordan to their only conference loss, young talents like sophomore Cal Royce shone bright, hinting at a promising future for this group.

Winter Weather Challenges

Let's not forget the wrestling meets, basketball games, and ski races that persisted against the backdrop of fierce winter weather. The recent storms may have caused power outages, but they didn't dampen the spirits of our local athletes. The challenges of competing in such conditions only seem to have strengthened their resolve, and many emerged stronger, both mentally and physically.

A Tribute to Coaches and Community Figures

This winter season also brought moments of reflection, particularly in honoring figures like Tom Johnson. Over his 50 years of service to the Gaylord community, Johnson has transcended beyond a mere coach or referee; he is a true pillar of our sports world. The naming of the 'Tom Johnson Court' at Gaylord High School is just one testament to a legacy that embodies commitment and community spirit.

Girls' Basketball and Their Dominance

The Gaylord St. Mary girls' team also had a remarkable season, with leaders Payton Glasby and Kaylee Jeffers each scoring over 1,000 points in their career. Their achievements highlight not just individual talents but a cohesive team philosophy that we've come to admire in our region's sports.

Winning the Ski Valley Conference for the second year in a row, their dominating performance in three playoff games underlines their status as a powerhouse in girls' basketball.

Final Thoughts

As I wrap up my reflections on this exhilarating season, I am filled with gratitude for our local athletes who are proof that passion, hard work, and community support amplify their achievements. I look forward to what's next for Gaylord sports, and I'm excited to witness the future stars blowing the competition away while paying homage to the legends who paved the way.

Stay Engaged

As we transition into spring sports, I encourage our community to rally around these young athletes once more, showing support and celebrating their journeys.