Ludington’s Asher Forfinski Named Athlete of the Week After Big Night for the Orioles

September 29, 2026

Junior Quarterback Leads the Orioles

Ludington High School’s Asher Forfinski has been named Athlete of the Week following a recent outstanding performance as quarterback for the Orioles. Forfinski, a junior, stepped into the quarterback role unexpectedly this season but has adjusted well, describing the initial nerves and how they eased with experience. His leadership on the field has been characterized as leading by example, with a push this year to become more vocal for his team.

Big Game Highlights and Dedication

Forfinski recently contributed significantly to the Orioles’ success, with a game that included an unofficial report of 270 yards and numerous carries. He acknowledged feeling the physical toll after such a performance, but remains focused on contributing wherever the team needs him. In addition to quarterback, he also plays defensive running back and has previously held various positions since he started playing football at a young age.

Contributions Beyond Football

Outside of football, Forfinski participates in golf and baseball. He enjoys all his sports, noting a special fondness for whatever is in season. He recalled memorable moments in both football and baseball, including an impactful run in a recent football game and a walk-off hit during a varsity baseball matchup.

Role as a Mentor and Team Leader

Forfinski discussed the challenges and rewards of being a team leader, especially as a junior quarterback. He strives to support teammates in maintaining a positive mindset after setbacks during games. His coaches trust him to encourage and monitor team morale, and he maintains good relationships with players across different grades.

Balancing Athletics, School, and Future Goals

In the classroom, Forfinski is dedicated to doing his best and expressed particular enjoyment in his shop class. Looking ahead, he hopes to pursue athletics at the collegiate level, though he has not decided on a sport yet. His goals for the current football season include winning a conference championship and capturing the team’s first playoff win, while longer-term objectives focus on continued improvement and enjoying the remainder of his high school years.

Community and Family Support

Forfinski credits his parents, grandparents, and extended family as important supporters. He appreciates the encouragement he receives from them after games, and values their role in his success both on and off the field.

Onekama Three-Sport Athlete Ryan Hrachovina Named Athlete of the Week

September 19, 2026

Recognition for Multi-Sport Senior

Ryan Hrachovina, a senior at Onekama High School, has been recognized as Athlete of the Week. He is a three-sport athlete, participating in football in the fall, basketball in the winter, and track and field in the spring.

Leadership on and off the Field

Hrachovina describes his senior year as both exciting and a little bittersweet. He notes that while he has taken on more of a leadership role, he prefers to support his teammates rather than seek the spotlight. After a close football game, he learned of his Athlete of the Week honor, describing the moment as surprising and memorable.

In football, Hrachovina plays both defensive end and tight end, positions he has come to enjoy over his eight years of playing the sport. He describes recent games as having challenges, with the team adjusting to new players but finding their rhythm as the season progresses. The team recently secured a win in a closely contested game, which contributed to the high spirits among players and the community.

Balancing Academics and Athletics

Off the field, Hrachovina is known for his friendly attitude and sense of humor, though he emphasizes that he has grown more responsible over his high school career. He credits support from teachers, family, and upperclassmen for helping him mature, both as a student and as an athlete.

Looking Ahead to Basketball and Track

While football is his favorite sport, Hrachovina is also enthusiastic about the upcoming basketball season, especially after last year’s success. In track and field, he participates in the shot put and discus, with encouragement from his coach to pursue the school record.

Plans Beyond High School

As he approaches graduation, Hrachovina is considering options that include college or a career in construction, which suits his preference for hands-on work. He traces his interest in building to experiences helping friends and family with projects.

Community and Personal Interests

Hrachovina values the close-knit community at Onekama, noting the strong support between athletes and residents. Outside of sports, he enjoys fishing at the local lake, a pastime that he has enjoyed since childhood.

Goals for Senior Year

For his final year, Hrachovina aims for a playoff appearance in football, achieving an in-game dunk during basketball season, and possibly breaking the school record in track and field events.

Pentwater Volleyball Captain Karina Olivarez Named Athlete of the Week

September 18, 2026

Junior Leader Juggles Sports, Academics, and Service

Pentwater High School has recognized junior Karina Olivarez as its Athlete of the Week, citing her role as a captain on the varsity volleyball team and her broad involvement in school activities. Olivarez has participated in volleyball since sixth grade and joined the varsity squad in eighth, focusing on her development as both an athlete and a leader.

Beyond volleyball, Olivarez’s athletic experience is extensive. She has played multiple sports throughout the school year, including basketball, track, softball, cheer, and soccer—often participating in two at a time, such as volleyball and soccer in the fall. She noted that during her eighth grade year, the schedule was especially packed, and she continues to balance activities despite having to scale back due to injuries in her freshman and sophomore years.

Olivarez currently fills an outside hitter role in volleyball, but she has adapted to playing different positions as needed, highlighting the realities of a small-school roster. She emphasized the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and maintaining a supportive team environment, especially when navigating injuries or low numbers.

Academic Accomplishments and Future Plans

Academically, Olivarez maintains a strong focus on her studies. She is currently enrolled in pre-calculus and attends courses in health occupations, preparing for certification in phlebotomy and later as a nursing assistant. Her goal is to pursue a career in nursing, with an interest in anesthesiology, noting her enjoyment of math and science.

She manages her academic and extracurricular commitments by staying organized and motivated, crediting support from classmates and family. Olivarez holds leadership positions in student council, the National Honor Society, and participates in church youth programs, emphasizing her commitment to both her school and wider community.

Community Involvement and Goals

Outside school, Olivarez participates in community projects such as beach cleanups with the State Park. She cites her father and her brother as major role models, instilling a strong work ethic and desire to help others. As a mentor, she takes pride in being a positive example for younger students, especially in a K-12 environment where older athletes play a visible role in the school community.

Looking ahead, Olivarez hopes to see her volleyball team advance far in district play this year. She remains committed to her multiple interests and responsibilities, focusing on teamwork, leadership, and the balance of sports, academics, and service.