Brogan Temple Story

 Heart of Gold

“Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.”

—-John C. Maxwell

As educators, we strive each day to teach our students the academic standards needed to handle the rigors of the next grade, the next class, and the adult world. These tools will prepare our future leaders to read and comprehend beyond childhood, complete resumes or cover letters, and apply the basics of mathematics to plan and budget as adults. Beyond academics, our students will need to possess human relations attributes, including compassion, empathy, and teamwork. These skills will make them more marketable in the job market, help them maintain healthy relationships as spouses, parents, friends, and coworkers,  provide them with lifelong emotional stability, and equip them to positively influence others. These human relations skills can be taught directly or indirectly, and some are reinforced through our model. Some students come to us already equipped with bits and pieces of these characteristics and simply need encouragement from adults to fully develop them. Then there are those students like Harper Creek eighth grader Brogan Temple who seem to have these traits on full display, modeling to students and teachers alike their importance.

Some of Brogan’s teachers have taken notice of his special qualities. “Even before I met him, I knew Brogan was extra,” said Kayla Whitmyer, one of Brogan’s middle school math teachers. “What I didn’t know was just how extra Brogan was and is... he is extra kind, extra selfless, extra inclusive, extra empathetic, extra compassionate, extra friendly, extra hardworking, extra non-judgmental, extra caring, and extra protective. Brogan is the type of student, athlete, leader, and person that makes everyone, and I mean everyone, he comes in contact with better and happier. His presence is bold, welcoming, and transforming. He is the guy you turn to, not only to celebrate life’s successes, but even more noteworthy, you turn to him for help when struggling, for guidance when lost, and for safety when things are shaky. He is a fierce advocate of what is right, fair, and safe.” 

Brogan, the middle child of Ben and Rebecca Temple, has always seemed to have an easy-going personality, with maturity expanding the influence that his personality would have on others. “I was born on October 14 2011,” Brogan noted. “I have an older brother, Maddox, who is 22 years old. He graduated from Harper Creek in 2022. My younger brother Grayson is 12 years old and in 6th grade.” Brogan went on to talk about some of the things that keep him grounded outside of school. “I enjoy grilling. My favorite thing to grill is steaks. I watch YouTube videos to learn how to grill. I follow Max the Meat Guy and Guga. Brats and hot dogs are also some of my favorite foods to grill.” Brogan enjoys traveling and has been to Texas several times to visit family. “I also stay busy with activities that I participate in at the church we attend, New Hope Apostolic Church,” he added. When Brogan isn’t traveling or attending church, he and his family spend a lot of time during their summers in the water, swimming and boating.

Brogan started kindergarten at Wattles Park and continued there through 4th grade before moving on to middle school. No matter what challenges Brogan encounters, he remains upbeat. “School has never come easily for Brogan, but he still does well and makes the best of it,” said his mom, Rebecca. “No matter what obstacles are thrown his way, Brogan never complains.” Perhaps the learning challenges that Brogan has faced have helped to shape his personality of always staying positive and sticking up for the underdog through his compassion. Brogan added to what his mom said. “I wasn’t always such a good kid,” he noted. “I feel that I have matured over the last few years. I just want to care about and help other people.”

Brogan’s elementary school experience ended with the pandemic,  a period of time many of us would rather forget. Despite the pandemic, Brogan has some fond memories from his five years of elementary school. “I enjoyed elementary school at Wattles Park,” Brogan explained. “The building feels a lot smaller now than when I attended. I started playing sports during my elementary years, participating in Wattles Park Men's Club soccer and basketball. I also started Rocket Football in 4th grade. Rocket Football was canceled in my 3rd-grade year because of COVID. I try to block out the years during COVID.”

The transition to middle school for Brogan was a smooth one. He was ready to make his mark and influence a new group of friends and teachers. Sports continued to be a big part of his life. “I started wrestling in 5th grade,” Brogan noted. “I have participated in wrestling, football, lacrosse, and track since starting 5th grade. Lacrosse and track are during the same sports season. This takes up a lot of time doing two sports at the same time. I would also like to play all of these sports in high school. I would say that I like all sports equally.” Each sport has provided special experiences for Brogan. “For football, we went undefeated for three consecutive years starting in 6th grade,” he explained. “I remember scoring a touchdown in one of our football games. I was on the offensive line, and one of my teammates fumbled the ball. I picked it up and ran it in. I feel that track is a lot more social. I have been a thrower, and I also participated in the 4 by 100 relay. I can remember winning a wrestling match and helping my opponent get back up. Sportsmanship is something that comes naturally to me. Helping someone out is something I like to do.” Perhaps what Brogan appreciated most about sports is that his football coaches would share a quote with him and he teammates before each practice and game. “These quotes are always inspiring,” Brogan mentioned.

As important as athletics are for Brogan, it is another extracurricular activity group that Brogan enjoys the most and where he has thrived. “I joined the student council this year,” said Brogan. “I heard about it and knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of it. I like to help people, and so I decided to try it. We have cleaned around the school grounds, putting new mulch in the yards. I suggested that next year we put mulch out at some of the other buildings. We also went to nursing homes to sing Christmas Carols. We meet once a month to discuss what we can do to help out. I absolutely plan on being on the student council in high school. I have completed all the paperwork to do this. One of my favorite activities was when our student council hosted the Special Olympics this year. It was fun helping out with this. We helped elementary kids all the way to 22-year-olds.”

Volunteering his time to help with the Special Olympics fits perfectly into what makes Brogan tick. He is in his element when his actions help to bring out the best in others. Mrs. Whitmyer has seen this character strength on display with Brogan countless times. “Whether it is his daily greetings at the door, his pride in others’ accomplishments, his ability to multiply joy, or his call to serve and give back to his school and community, Brogan carries himself in a way that makes you want to be the best version of yourself,” she explained. “He lifts others up, both figuratively and literally, and has a knack for ensuring everyone in his presence authentically belongs. Life is heavy, and the world can be cold, but Brogan is a glowing example of humanity and kindness. I could not be prouder of everything Brogan is and what he isn’t. He is EXACTLY what this world needs.”

Like many teenagers, Brogan has found that sports and extracurricular activities have been and will continue to be a huge part of his school experience. Still, the classroom is also part of his ongoing story.  He was asked to talk about a few of his favorite classes, but he had a difficult time narrowing down the list. “Some of my favorite classes have been 8th Grade math with Mrs. Whitmyer," Brogan said. “I have also enjoyed social studies with Mr. Reese and science with Mr. Shipley. Social Studies last year with Mrs. Dempsey was also memorable. She was a first-year teacher. We were her guinea pigs. Mr. Bowling, the weightlifting teacher, and PE teacher, Mr. Newland, were also among my favorite teachers. I also enjoyed life skills with Mr. Dishaw.”

The student/teacher relationship often works both ways, with teachers having a profound impact on students and students also inspiring teachers. Like Mrs. Whitmyer, Brittany Ries, a teacher in Brogan’s co-taught math class, has also felt his influence. “As a teacher for the last 15 years, I've had many students walk through my classroom door,” Mrs. Ries recalled. “Brogan is definitely one of a kind. I have many fond memories of Brogan, but my favorite from this year has to do with his genuine kindness to others. One day, I witnessed him greet EVERY single classmate with a "Morning, (insert classmate name here)!" as they walked into math class. He looked at each of them. He said every one of their names. That's just Brogan. I am lucky enough to work with him for two hours out of my day. Part of my job is preparing our 8th graders for life at the high school and beyond. One day, I asked Brogan, "What kind of work do you want to do as an adult?" He quickly answered, "I want a job where I can help people." I wasn't shocked by his response. I would have if it were any other 8th grader, but that's just Brogan.”  Brogan was the recent recipient of a new award given at the middle school end of the year award ceremony. “The 8th-grade team started department awards this year,” said Mrs. Whitmyer, “and Brogan’s name repeatedly got brought up as a fantastic human, student, and leader who perseveres through life's challenges. He was chosen by his teachers to receive the Excellence in Resilience Award.” 

As Brogan comes to the end of his middle school years, another transition is on the horizon as he goes to the high school on the south side of campus. This is a transition that Brogan looks forward to as he is introduced to new teachers and coaches. “I am excited about going to high school next year with new teachers, classes, and athletic experiences,” he shared. “I have heard that there is a prayer club in high school, which is something I would like to join.” Brogan’s mantra is to live in the moment and cherish each day as it comes, but he still considers his future as an adult. He mentioned several possibilities for careers, including a professional athlete, a chef, or a construction worker. Ultimately, he wants to be able to help others in whatever he chooses to do.

Teachers are awarded with an array of emotions that create a sense of contentment and fulfillment. One of these emotions is the pride that is often felt for students. Many of Brogan’s teachers are blessed with this sense of pride, with his mom and dad sharing the same sentiments. “He is a very humble leader,” noted his mom, Rebecca. “He is constantly helping other kids. Brogan is always very positive, even when things don’t go this way. He is very encouraging to others. Being helpful is his nature. Sports have helped with his work ethic, attitude, and leadership skills. It is not necessarily his goal to have people be proud of him, but it is so easy to be proud of him.” His father, Ben, expressed similar thoughts. “Brogan’s has shown a natural positive attitude, and an element of charisma has come out over the last few years,”  Ben added. “As he has matured, we have seen more of this. He has also become a peacemaker. His teachers say that Brogan is always eager to learn.” 

Like many of our students, Brogan has added many positives to the culture and climate of our schools. His influence will shift next year to high school, with four more years to grow personally and to also help others grow. He is larger than life.

Grady Kape Story

                                                                 Poetry in Motion

“The only thing that stands between you and your dream is the will to try and the belief that it is actually possible.”

—-Joel Brown

Athletic success can at times be tied to talent, but accomplishments in the world of sports run much deeper than natural ability. Hard work, dedication, and following a scripted plan can be the difference between average and good. Still another element exists that separates the elites from the rest. To be the best of the best often requires a mental resolve to overcome discomfort, setbacks, and failures while blocking out the outside noise created by the naysayers. Harper Creek eighth-grade student, Grady Kape, has excelled as a gymnast, with his mental fortitude being his most important attribute. 

Grady was born on July 31, 2011, the first child of Corey and Suzanne Kape. Grady has a younger sister, Ella, who is a sixth-grade student at Harper Creek Middle School. Grady reflected on some of his childhood memories and interests outside of gymnastics. “I enjoy being outside, throwing a football around, or doing flips on the trampoline. I also like hunting and fishing with Mom, Dad, and my grandpa. My grandpa and I like to have a competition when we go fishing to see who can catch the most fish. We usually go fishing for bass and bluegill at Graham Lake or Lee Lake.”

Like Grady and Ella, Corey and  Suzanne were also Harper Creek students. Grady talked about being a Harper Creek student. “Ella and I both went to Sonoma starting in kindergarten. One of my favorite memories from Sonoma was the color run that our teachers at Sonoma organize every year, on the last day of school. I also like having Mom work at the Middle School and at Sonoma. It is convenient  being able to ride in with her to school on the days she is there.” Suzanne has worked as an occupational therapist for Calhoun ISD starting in 2009 and has been providing services for Harper Creek students since 2019.

Both Suzanne and Corey were athletes for Harper Creek, with Corey playing baseball and golf, and Suzanne as a decorated volleyball player. Grady has followed in his parents' footsteps as an athlete. “Grady started gymnastics in preschool when he was three years old,” recalled Suzanne, “taking classes at Branch Gymnastics.” At the time, Suzanne and Corey didn’t anticipate the impact gymnastics would have on Grady. “After a year of taking preschool classes, we decided not to sign Grady up for classes the following year,” said Suzanne. “Although he didn’t return to Branch the next year, we signed him up for rec classes a year later at the age of five.” From there, gymnastics would become a great passion for Grady, taking up much of his time. 

Grady talked about how his journey in gymnastics unfolded from the time he joined the pre-team. “Pre-team is kind of like a try-out for the team. It introduces gymnasts to what a team is like. For pre-team, we had two practices each week for two hours each time. I was on pre-team for half a year before being invited to move up to the team. I have been on Branch Gymnastics’ team since then.” 

Gymnastics has taught Grady a great deal about himself. It has given him tools to navigate through life while also showing him what he was capable of. “Through gymnastics,” Grady noted. “I have learned that I can push myself beyond what I perceive to be my limits.” Gymnastics shares many similarities with other sports, while also differing in other ways. Grady’s coaches help prepare him to perform individually. Although he and his teammates showcase their skills individually, the scores they receive are combined as a total team score. Each event score is calculated by adding a degree of difficulty score to an execution score. A perfect execution score is 10, with a typical total score ranging from 14 to 16 when the degree of difficulty is added to it. The scores for each individual for each event that they perform are then combined for a total team score. “When I first learn a skill, it’s hard to understand and perform it,” explained Grady. “Each skill becomes easier the more I practice it. As I learn a skill, I continue to practice and perform it, and eventually, other skills are introduced. Everything is a part of a progression, with tiny skills leading up to bigger and more difficult skills. The more I progress, the more I have to be tough mentally.” 

Gymnastics has evolved through the years into an athletic competition. At its core, it is a demonstration of physical strength, flexibility, and body awareness in space. In essence, gymnastics is a form of art. It is poetry in motion. Hours and hours of practice are required to perfect each skill. “We do strength training every day,” said Grady. “We use some weights, but a lot of it is body and resistance training. We do a ton of stretching. During the off-season, we work on new skills, cardio, and weight training. We do some running for conditioning.” Grady’s schedule can be grueling. “He usually does some training during the season and off-season at home,” Suzanne shared. “This includes practicing skills on the trampoline and also strength exercises such as chin-ups and push-ups.” Hard work and commitment have allowed Grady to experience success as an athlete, but this could not have happened without the support of his family. “He goes to practice four days a week for four and a half hours a day, a total of eighteen hours a week,” explained Suzanne. “It makes it difficult for him to eat at an evening meal at a normal time, and oftentimes, I have something prepared for him to eat on the drive home from practice.”

Grady’s team competes in a handful of competitions each year. “The events that I participate in include floor routine, pommel horse, rings, vault, parallel bars, and horizontal bar,” Grady noted. “The pommel horse is probably my favorite and strongest event.”  The floor routine is a dynamic and expressive event that includes tumbling passes, dance elements, and artistic flair and is performed on a specially designed spring floor. The pommel horse routine is a series of continuous circular movements performed while supporting the upper body on the hands with the legs moving in a scissor-like or swinging motion. The rings event is a test of strength, control, and skill, and is performed on two rings suspended with straps from a metal frame. The vault event consists of the gymnast sprinting down a runway, jumping onto a springboard, and then propelling themselves onto a vaulting table, and executing various ariel maneuvers before landing on a mat. The horizontal bar is an event that challenges the gymnast to perform various skills on a bar that is held above and parallel to the floor, including giant turns, release and regrasp skills, culminating with a dismount. Parallel bars consist of two wooden bars mounted on adjustable frames, set at a consistent height and width apart, with gymnasts performing swings, flight elements, movements requiring strength and balance, and a dismount. 

The competition season for Grady occurs over a six-month period of time. “There are typically five to seven competitions a year, including nationals and regionals,” Suzanne added. “Most are within a two-hour drive, except for nationals. Last year’s nationals were in Fort Lauderdale. The level that Grady competes at requires a big commitment from him and from Corey, and me. The competition season runs from December to May, but with practices and training, it is a year-round season. Grady entered the 14/15 year age group last year, which is the youngest group that can go to nationals. He was able to qualify for nationals at the regional meet, earning national championship status for his age group on the horizontal bar.”

The chemistry that Grady and his teammates have developed has left a lasting impression on Corey. “When Grady first started this journey, I wasn’t sure if gymnastics would have the same team bond and drive that you see in traditional school sports,” explained Corey. “After watching Grady’s first few gymnastics meets, and seeing how close this team has become, has opened my eyes. I’m amazed by how much of a team sport it really is. I appreciate the life lessons that Grady has gained along the way with this sport. The Branch Gymnastics boys are a special group with many individuals qualifying for nationals and several, including Grady, competing at an elite level.”

Grady’s coaches don’t restrict their athletes to a specific diet, but he still tries to give his body what it needs to train and compete. “I try to eat a lot of protein,” Grady explained. “We have to eat some during practices because they are so long. I usually bring a protein bar with me to practice. I also try to drink a lot of water during practice.” 

Gymnastics requires much of Grady’s time with daily practices and road trips for competitions, but he is still a student. Flexibility is the key for him when it comes to school. “I try to do some of my homework on the bus if I don’t need a computer,” Grady said.  “When I get home from practice, I take a quick shower and then finish my homework.” Grady understands that he may have to up his game when he starts high school with more academic and homework demands. 

As is common in sports, Grady’s body has been pushed to its limits. “I have had a few injuries,”  he added. “I have hyperextended both of my elbows on two different occasions when I was eight years old. I had to take a week off from training to recover from each of these injuries. One time, I fell while practicing on the floor and had a concussion. I was on concussion protocol for six weeks.” 

Grady has developed a passion for his sport. He reflected on this.  “I kind of fell in love with gymnastics after winning first place on the floor for my very first competition. I would like to compete in college with the U of M being my dream school to compete for. I also would like to compete in the Olympics someday.” Gymnastics has helped foster resilience and patience in how Grady approaches his sport and life. “When you think you have reached your limit, keep pushing,” Grady noted. “Eventually, you will hit your goal.” 

Watching your child work hard to experience positive outcomes and success can be a great source of pride. “It is rewarding to see your child find a passion and succeed,” Suzanne shared. “Grady’s physical strength is amazing, but his mental resolve is even more impressive. It is not just his performance as an athlete that makes me proud. Grady is very humble and does not flaunt his success to others. Another cool thing that has happened for Grady is that when he was in sixth grade, he was voted for the American Legion Award by his peers.”

Sometimes, appearances really can be deceiving. On the surface, Grady doesn’t look like a typical athlete. With the help of his coaches and an unwavering work ethic, he has built strength and dexterity that are not easily seen when he is not performing as an athlete. The skill set he has built is the vehicle that has helped him to excel, with his mental resolve being the engine that has driven his success in the past and will propel him to new heights in the future. He has the tools to continue to grow and also to be a role model to help others grow. 

Wyatt Smart Story

 Modern Medicine

“Health is the greatest of human blessings.”

—Hippocrates

Through the aging process, we as adults deal with various ailments that are common among our peers. Treatments that have come with technology and modern medicine allow us to continue living our lives with minimal disruption. Changes in routine may be required, but with these adjustments, we are often able to continue with our normal work and activity routine. Although children normally do not have to navigate each day with health concerns, they are not immune. Harper Creek junior Wyatt Smart has lived with Type 1 diabetes for the past four years. His diagnosis initially jolted his family with a wave of emotions, including fear and uncertainty. Although he and his parents face each day with a bit more caution than they may have before his diagnosis, technology in the medical arena, combined with healthy choices, has allowed Wyatt to continue life as a normal teen with some interventions in place to monitor his condition and help provide his body with what is needed to face the rigors of teenage life.

Wyatt’s life experiences are similar to those of many of his peers. He talked about some of his childhood history. “I was born July 4, 2008, in Indianapolis. One of my earliest childhood memories is of my grandpa teaching me how to fish. Fishing with my dad and my grandpa has provided some of my fondest memories. I still do some fishing on my grandparents’ lake over by Adrian, Michigan.” Wyatt is the oldest of two children for his parents, Craig and Rhonda Smart. His brother Conner, a Harper Creek freshman,  is three years younger than him. Rhonda is a teacher at Wattles Park Elementary, and Craig teaches at the Doris Klausen Center. 

Other than his mom being a teacher in elementary school, his memories of being a student at Wattles Park are similar to those of many children during their elementary school years. “It was nice to be able to go to school with Mom each morning and come home at night with her. I wanted Mom to be my teacher when I was in second grade, but she didn’t think that was a good idea. I always enjoyed hanging out with my friends on the tire swings at recess. I am still good friends with some of my friends from Wattles Park. Ryland Pastor has been one of my best friends since Kindergarten. We are both in the marching band and the jazz band.”

Making the jump from elementary school to Middle School for Wyatt meant waking up an hour earlier each day and not being in the same building as his mom. He reflected on this transition. “Moving on to middle school was a little weird at first. It took time to get used to knowing other students who weren’t at Wattles with me. In time, I made new friends.” Playing in the band would become one of Wyatt’s favorite activities starting in Middle School.  “I started band in 5th grade. My class was the last group that had band in 5th grade. Now it starts in the 6th grade. I started playing just the trumpet, but now I am learning the bass guitar. I’m hoping that by the time I am a senior, I can start playing bass guitar for some songs for our jazz band concerts.” Band has provided balance in Wyatt’s life. He talked about what being in the band means to him. “I like band. I love playing the trumpet. Much of the music we play is amazing. Because of band, I have a great group of friends. I see myself continuing to play the trumpet and guitar after high school, and I may try to join a jazz band when I go off to college.” 

Wyatt began playing hockey when he was eight years old, an activity he continues to enjoy today. He shared some details about playing hockey. “I started with the Battle Creek Bruins,  playing for them until I was eleven years old. When I turned twelve, I began playing for the Broncos in Kalamazoo. Later, I played with a team in Lansing for three years when I was thirteen. Now I play for the Battle Creek Bruins again.” Hockey has turned into a passion for Wyatt. “I love the game of hockey,” he said. “Skating is something that I enjoy very much. The game of hockey is a fun environment to be in.” The thrill of competition and being an athlete despite being diabetic has given a new meaning to the game for Wyatt, but like most sports, it is more than an athletic competition. “I have made many friends through hockey, and it's always fun hanging out with them on the ice. It does take up a lot of time, but it is always worth it. During the season, I probably spend ten hours per week on hockey. One thing that does get difficult with hockey is that it takes away time that I could be spending with my non-hockey friends.” 

 

Hockey has always been Wyatt’s primary sport, but he also participated in swimming in 7th grade. It was then that he began noticing some physical changes. “ I started getting bad cramps,” Wyatt said. “We thought they were for swimming. The muscle cramps were getting worse. My leg would cramp up so bad that I couldn’t move my foot. I started getting tired, I was always dehydrated even though I was drinking plenty of water, and I started losing weight.” Craig and Rhonda finally decided it was time to go see the doctor. “The doctor said that the symptoms I was experiencing were from my going through puberty. The doctor suggested that I drink a protein shake after every practice. I did this for a while, but I continued to lose weight nonetheless. We went back to the doctor two more times. After the third time, a blood test was ordered, which confirmed that I had type 1 diabetes.” 

Now that Wyatt finally had a diagnosis, his life would change. He would have to live with diabetes for the rest of his life, but the diagnosis brought with it a plan of treatment to help him live his life as normally as possible. Wyatt described what things have been put in place to keep his condition manageable. “After being diagnosed, I started eating more snacks between meals to keep my blood sugar stable. I also cut out a lot of carbs and ate more protein.” In a short time, Wyatt has learned much about diabetes. He has become his own advocate and has seized the opportunity to educate others. “Carbs will raise blood sugar,” he explained. “For individuals with diabetes, the pancreas stops working, and therefore the body doesn’t have insulin. Insulin helps to break down carbs into energy, so without insulin, carbs are not beneficial. Without the insulin, carbs are not broken down and they are absorbed into the body as sugar.” Wyatt went on to describe the symptoms he was experiencing prior to his diagnosis and treatment. “Because I was not getting the nutrients I needed, my body was taking my fat stores for energy. This is why I was losing weight. I also felt tired all the time and didn’t have energy because my body couldn’t utilize the energy from the food I was eating. My body needs insulin to survive, so I have to take it several times a day. I also take vitamin D daily because diabetics tend to have low vitamin D levels.” The amount of insulin that Wyatt takes day to day is dependent on his blood sugar level. “For the most part, if I eat like I am supposed to eat and use insulin when needed, I am able to function as a teenager and an athlete and have enough energy to get through the day. I am connected to an insulin pump most of the day. I take it off when I play hockey. I wear a device on my arm that reads my blood sugar level and alerts my pump to give me insulin when needed. Normal blood sugar level is 80-100. If my blood sugar gets too high, my pump will start giving my body insulin.” For Wyatt, staying healthy and out of a dangerous situation requires more than a device reading his blood sugar and a pump providing insulin for his body. “If my blood sugar goes below 70, I need to eat something right away. Even though the device alerts my monitor, I can usually tell if my sugar level is too high or too low. I will usually cramp up, become tired, or have a headache because of being dehydrated when I am high. I will feel shaky and weak when I am low. It’s not the pancreas that is compromised; it's the body's immune system, which is compromised, because diabetes is an autoimmune disease.” 

It is critical for Wyatt and his parents to understand the nuances of diabetes and to recognize when his blood sugar reaches unsafe levels and what to do when this happens. It is also important for Wyatt’s teachers and coaches to have some basic knowledge of his diagnosis and treatment plan. Dealing with diabetes on a personal level and learning about its side effects, and managing it have taught Wyatt the importance of implementing a healthy lifestyle. Wyatt explained why being educated about a disease is important for not just the person with the disease but also those who interact with these individuals. “I feel that teachers should know what students in their classrooms have serious health concerns, be made aware of symptoms and how to handle specific situations, and provide substitute teachers with some basic information about this on their lesson plans.”

Diabetes has no doubt changed Wyatt’s life. It has also done the same for his family. Wyatt elaborated on the role his parents have played in his life as a diabetic. “Having both parents as teachers and being in the buildings that they teach in has been great. When my dad was teaching at the high school, it was extra reassuring for me as a diabetic. Also, my dad has changed his eating habits because of my diabetes, because the way a diabetic eats is really the healthier way all people should eat.”

Although dealing with a childhood disease may equip kids with traits such as determination and smarter decision-making, no parent wants their child to go through the trials of a health scare. Rhonda shared her reflections on the impact of being a parent with a diabetic child has had on her. “When Wyatt was first diagnosed, there was a lot of worry. I was concerned about how diabetes would impact the rest of his life. It was exhausting physically, emotionally, and financially. Initially, insurance wouldn’t pay for his monitor. I regularly have to fight for insurance to cover his diabetic supplies. Before Wyatt had the monitor, I would set my alarm at 2 AM every night to check his blood sugar. When insurance finally paid for the technology, it made things a little easier. His monitor will automatically alert me through an app on my phone when his blood sugar is off. We have learned a lot, and so things are easier because we know how to deal with them better. Not long after Wyatt’s diagnosis, our entire family attended a two-day training at Bronson to learn as much as we could about diabetes and how to manage it.  I have become an advocate for people to understand other people who have diabetes or other serious illnesses.”

Seeing anyone deal with a major illness is not easy. Witnessing it with a child adds a layer of difficulty to this. Modern medicine has made it much easier for normal life to continue with adjustments. Wyatt’s persistence in becoming educated about his disease has served him well and will continue to benefit him for the rest of his life. His willingness to be an advocate for and teach others willing to listen will help those currently dealing with diabetes and future diabetics. 

Brenden Van Syckle Story

 For the Love of the Game

“High school sports: Where lessons of life are still being learned, and where athletes still compete for the love of the game and their teammates.”

—Michael Powers

Hobbies can provide an essential element in our lives. Activities of interest, such as music, gardening, and athletics, can help to balance all facets of life. Harper Creek senior, Brenden Van Syckle, has found a hobby that has been a driving force in his life. Football has been a common interest for his mom, Jodi, and dad, Mike, since they met while working at Battle Creek’s Southwestern Junior High in 1998. You could say that they are a football family. For Brenden, football has become something that he has excelled in, but is much more than this. It has given him friendships and taught him lessons that have guided him in his growth and development. His participation in football has provided amazing memories for his family and blessed him and his father with a shared passion and special bond. 

         Brenden was born in May of 2007, the first of two children Jodi and Mike were blessed with. Brenden’s sister, Lily, a freshman at Harper Creek, was born in March 2010. Football has always defined the Van Syckle family. It would eventually take up the majority of Brenden’s free time, starting later in elementary school, but he also had other common childhood interests early in life. He talked about his infatuation with the movie Cars as a toddler. “Lightning McQueen was my first hero. I had the entire Cars set. I was always playing with them. I can remember one time dumping the sugar container in the middle of the living room couch and making roads in the snow. I am still a Cars fan to this day.” If football is the first love of the Van Syckle family, then dogs might be the second. “We have always had dogs,” Brenden explained.  “It may sound cliche, but when I was in elementary school, my dog, Luca Brasi, actually ate my homework once in elementary school.”

Brenden has followed in his father’s footsteps as a competitive high school football player. Mike played on the gridiron as a defensive lineman, back in the eighties, for the Battle Creek Central Bearcats and later for Northwood University. He returned home from Northwood to help coach the Bearcats. When Brenden was just a baby, Mike and Jodi had visions of him going on to play football for Battle Creek Central. Mike talked about Brenden’s first experience on the football field. “After Brenden was born, Jodi and I made a stop at Bearcat Stadium on our way home from the hospital. We carried Brenden through the stadium and onto the football field.” It was the first of many moments that Brenden would experience on the gridiron.

Mike and Jodi were all in when Brenden began playing football. Watching him has blessed them with special memories and moments of joy. They have both made an effort to savor these moments while also reminding Brenden that they would support him with whatever interests he chooses to pursue. Jodi reflected on this. “Mike and I are huge football fans and have enjoyed watching Brenden play football, but we have always told him that if there is a time when he doesn’t want to play, we would support him.”

When Jodi and Mike started their family, they had initially planned on their children starting their school experience by going to school with Jodi at Wattles Park before making the transition to Battle Creek Central starting in middle school. Brenden reflected on his early school experiences. “I loved school right away, beginning in kindergarten. All of my teachers at Wattles Park were great. I was especially fond of Mrs. Shipley, my kindergarten teacher; Mrs. Kloosterman, my third-grade teacher; and Mrs. Bartholomew, my fourth-grade teacher. I played football with my friends almost every day during recess. This was always fun. Coming to school each day with Mom was special, although there were times when I wished that I didn’t have to come in early and leave late.”

Brenden made many friends at Wattles Park Elementary. Mike and Jodi soon realized that transitioning from Harper Creek to Battle Creek Public wasn’t in the cards for Brenden. He wanted to stay at Harper Creek to continue his school experience with the friends he had made at Wattles Park. Playing football with his classmates was also something that Brenden desired. He wasn’t able to play rocket football with his buddies, which seemed to make him want to team up with them even more in middle school and high school. Jodi reflected on this. “He wasn’t allowed to play rocket football for Harper Creek because the league that they were a part of had size limitations. Brenden was too big to play.” Brenden still played rocket football outside of Harper Creek’s league. Mike helped coach his team and continued in this role through Brenden’s junior year.  “We signed him up to play for New Level Sports,” Jodi explained. “The only size restrictions they had were that he couldn’t run the ball. One of the great experiences that Brenden had playing for New Level Sports was playing with his teammates at Ford Field during halftime of one of the Lions’ games.” Brenden enjoyed his experience with New Level Sports. Mike and Jodi were happy with it also, but they officially decided to have Brenden continue his schooling and football career with Harper Creek, going into his sixth-grade year.

Brenden’s transition to middle school was also a bit of a transition for Jodi, with Brenden not coming to school with her each day. Brenden made the jump to a different school easily. He was finally able to join his classmates on the football field. Brenden retained his kindergarten through fourth-grade friendships while meeting new friends and forming relationships with another group of teachers. One teacher in particular who made an impact on his educational experience was Mr. McManus, one of his English teachers. 

Brenden finally got his first opportunity to play football for Harper Creek in sixth grade, but would have to wait until seventh grade to join his class. He was moved up to the seventh-grade team as a sixth grader, and he remained on the seventh-grade team the following year, where he and his teammates would begin a six-year stretch of building on prosperity and team chemistry each year. Brenden enjoyed success playing football for New Level Sports and developed a love for the game, but playing for Harper Creek in middle school gave him a new perspective. He explained. “When I finally started playing football for Harper Creek in sixth grade, I realized what it was like to have a community around me.” This observation is something that many, including staff and students, experience during their time at Harper Creek. 

Brenden made the move from middle school with many established friendships. He transitioned to a new group of teachers, helping to make school a pleasant experience, including one of his math teachers, Mr. Dell, who was one of his most influential teachers.  Memories in the classroom were important, with those made as an athlete making a lasting impression as well. For many athletes, dreams of conference titles and state championships begin in middle school. Brenden and his teammates had these same visions starting in sixth grade.  As they began their high school careers, there would be a shift with the same grade teammates, with some playing on the freshman team and others on the junior varsity team in ninth grade. As sophomores, some played on the junior varsity team while others were moved up to varsity. Finally, as juniors, they would all be together, and they would get a glimpse of their potential moving forward in their last two years. Brenden played on the junior varsity team as a freshman and was moved up to varsity for the playoffs that year. He continued as a varsity player in his sophomore season.  Brenden reflects on this journey. “Some of my best memories as a high school football player were building on the success of each season with the milestones that we achieved. Our record improved each year, and we were able to win an outright league championship this past season, something that hadn’t happened at Harper Creek in a long time. I’m satisfied with what our team has built over the years. We had one of the most prolific offenses in school history. We wanted a state championship, so the way it ended was disappointing, but I wouldn’t change  anything.” Brenden and his teammates were primed for a run to the state championship in 2024 with a dominant offensive line and high-powered offense, but their season would be cut short with a loss in the first round of the playoffs. 

 Brenden is known as Bigg Cat by teammates, classmates, coaches, and teachers. Mike gave Brenden this nickname when he was younger, in reference to Brenden possibly playing for the Bearcats in high school. The nickname just kind of stuck, and it kind of set the tone for Brenden’s lifetime memories created by being a part of a football family. He reflected on this. “I always enjoyed going out to eat at the Moonraker with some of the girls from the volleyball team and my football teammates after each game. One of my favorite memories from my senior season was at Hastings. We were down inside the ten-yard line looking for a touchdown, and I blocked their linebacker to the back of the end zone and into the student section.”

Brenden has earned some individual honors, including being selected first team all-city and first team all-conference his senior year and being voted most improved player for his team his senior year. These awards are a credit to his hard work, but Brenden prides himself on being a leader for his team more than individual accolades. 

The camaraderie that he and his teammates have built has provided inspiration for Brenden, but the influence from his coaches has also been a huge factor in his development. Specifically, he credits Coach Jerry Miller, Coach Beniah Jones, and Coach Hank Williams for helping him to grow as a person and football player, with Coach Bilger providing the biggest impact, second to his dad. Coach Bilger reflects on how Brenden has made an impression on him. “I’ve had the chance to mentor Bigg Cat both as a teacher and a football coach. On the football field, Bigg Cat has shown tremendous perseverance to get where he is today. As a sophomore, he went back and forth between the JV and varsity rosters, trying to earn a varsity spot as nose guard on the defensive line. He had begun to grow into his body, going into his junior season, so we shifted his role from defense to offense. He was a natural fit at right tackle, where he proved to be a dominating presence on the offensive line.” Coach Bilger described what makes Brenden special as a football player. “Looking back at the three years I’ve spent with Bigg Cat, I can say that it's been a blessing. Some people just love playing the game, but Bigg Cat also enjoys being a student of the game. Most kids have only a casual interest in the strategy behind football, but Bigg Cat is the type of player who always has his nose in film.”

Brenden turned into a student of the game. It seemed the more he learned, the more he wanted to learn. As a high school and college football player and in his experience coaching for Battle Creek Central, Mike developed many connections within the sport. Through the years, he and Brenden have participated in some of the most prestigious football camps in and around Michigan. These camps have helped Mike as a coach and developed Brenden’s expertise for the game of football while also giving him exposure beyond Battle Creek. Brenden explained the gratitude he feels for these opportunities. “It was eye-opening as a child being exposed to high-profile coaches and athletes at some of the football camps that Dad and I attended. These experiences helped to develop a desire inside of me to someday make a living through football as a coach or as a player. I have been able to meet many elite football players, including retired Detroit Lions players Herman Moore and Lomas Brown.” 

Brenden’s physical presence gives him a leg up as a football player. His three-hundred-thirty-pound, six feet seven inch frame makes him an imposing force for high school defenders to deal with. His eagerness to learn the nuances of the game has upped the ante. Mike talked about another influence on Brenden’s football knowledge. “Brenden has helped me coach a semi-pro team, the Kalamazoo Titans, each summer since 2018. We won the national championship in 2020. As an athlete, this experience has helped him to evolve as a coach on the field.”

Brenden’s size, the success he has experienced individually and as a part of a cohesive team, the connections he has made at the camps that he has participated in, and his experience coaching a semi-pro football team have laid the foundation for football beyond high school. He talks about the next chapter in his football career. “I had some college coaches reach out to me during my sophomore and junior years, but it really picked up in my senior year. My first official offer came from Davenport University back in June. Other schools that have recruited me include Central Michigan University, Adrian College, the University of Olivet, Wayne State University, Madonna University, and Siena Heights University. I also received an offer from Hutchinson Community College in Kansas, this past season’s JUCO national champion. I committed to Davenport on February 5th. I’m excited that my teammate Zach Kitchens is going to Davenport with me.” Brenden wants to get a secondary education degree from Davenport University. His dream is to play professional football, but he also would love to teach and coach football at the high school level.

Now that Brenden’s high school football career is finished, it is the end of an amazing ride for him and his teammates. The games, practices, and time spent with teammates are all moments to cherish. He and Mike have also been blessed with some amazing memories. The unique relationship that he and his dad have shared as athlete and coach is something that both Brenden and Mike will forever be grateful for. Mike talked about what it has meant to him to be involved in Brenden’s football life. “While on the field, we are coach and athlete, but I have also been blessed to go back and forth between the roles of coach and dad. The vast amount of time that we have spent together on the road at football camps has strengthened our bond. It has given us time to share our common passion for football, but also gifted us with moments of enjoying the father-son relationship by just hanging out in hotel rooms and the car as we travel.” Brenden feels fortunate as well for how football has strengthened the relationship he has with his dad. “It's been great having my dad coach me through the years. I couldn’t have asked for a better coach. It’s always been a privilege. I have never been treated as the coach’s son. My dad got an opportunity to help coach for Kalamazoo Central this year. It was odd not to have him coach me this year. I always joke with my teammates that Dad might be a great coach, but you don’t have to ride home with him.”

There is no doubt that football has always been Brenden’s passion, but he has also enjoyed being a part of Harper Creek’s track and field team. He reflected on his time in this sport. “I have been on the track team since my freshman year. Initially, I decided to join the team because I was bored and didn’t want to go home after school.” Brenden became more serious about track in his junior year, putting in more effort. His work was evident in the improvement he made as a shot put thrower. “My sophomore year, I threw the shot twenty-nine feet. In my junior year, I made great progress, with my best throw being forty-three and a half feet. My goal for my senior season is to throw further than last year and possibly hit fifty feet. Last year, we won our first-ever school state championship. It was amazing to be a part of that.” 

As a Wattles Park Elementary school teacher, I have experienced those moments of inspiration when a child’s eyes light up with the realization that he or she has mastered a skill, such as reading or fluently multiplying single-digit numbers. The moments of excitement that we share with students are endless. The last day of school each year, when our fourth-grade students walk through our halls one last time, is always bittersweet. Seeing, hearing, and reading about the successes of our former students years later is always joyous. Although it’s been more than a decade, it seems like it was just yesterday when Brenden and his classmates started their journey at Harper Creek as Kindergarten students. Jodi has experienced this with Brenden as a Wattles Park teacher, but also as a mom. She reflected on the emotions of a parent getting ready to send a child out into the world. “I am incredibly proud of Brenden. He has always been a leader as a football player and as a student. He has accomplished what he has set out to do. He has never wavered from his goal.”

The relationship between a brother and sister can certainly have its share of highs and lows. There is always potential for rewards coming with these sibling interactions. Lily explained how this relationship has played out with her and her big brother. “Brenden is an inspiration. He is someone I look up to. He is difficult to deal with and annoying sometimes, but he has always been there for me. I have enjoyed watching him play football.” 

The reference to how it takes a village to raise a child is somewhat cliche, but there are many examples of how true this is. Brenden has received support at home, from his teachers, from his peers, and from the community. These supports, combined with his internal drive, have helped him to succeed as a student and an athlete and will serve him well throughout his life. He is just one example of many students that Harper Creek can be proud of.