The 2024-25 West Michigan Conference Rivers Division high school football season is on the horizon, and teams are preparing for what promises to be another competitive year. North Muskegon was the dominant force in the division last season, but with several teams hungry for success, the upcoming season could bring some surprises.
North Muskegon Norsemen
2023 Record: 6-0 (Rivers Division), 12-1 Overall
North Muskegon enters the 2024 season as the reigning powerhouse of the Rivers Division. The Norsemen were flawless in divisional play last season, going undefeated and outscoring opponents 286-54. With a potent offense that scored 481 points throughout the year and a defense that only allowed 193, North Muskegon is the clear favorite to repeat their success. However, maintaining that dominance will require continued excellence on both sides of the ball as other teams in the division aim to close the gap, and without James Young at quarterback that gap may have gotten smaller.
Hart Pirates
2023 Record: 5-1 (Rivers Division), 9-2 Overall
Hart was a strong contender in 2023, finishing just behind North Muskegon in the Rivers Division standings. The Pirates boasted an impressive offense, racking up 434 points during the season, and their defense was similarly effective, conceding just 201 points. With their only divisional loss coming at the hands of North Muskegon, Hart will be motivated to challenge for the top spot. If they can replicate last season’s form and find a way to overcome the Norsemen, they could be the team to watch in 2024.
Mason County Central Spartans
2023 Record: 4-2 (Rivers Division), 5-5 Overall
Mason County Central had a respectable season in 2023, finishing with a winning record in divisional play. The Spartans’ defense was solid, allowing 112 points, while their offense put up 193 points. However, they struggled to find consistency outside the division, resulting in an overall .500 record. For Mason County Central to make a deeper run in 2024, they’ll need to improve their offensive output and maintain their defensive resilience, especially in non-divisional matchups.
Ravenna Bulldogs
2023 Record: 3-3 (Rivers Division), 3-6 Overall
Ravenna had an up-and-down season last year, finishing with an even record in the Rivers Division. The Bulldogs’ defense was relatively strong, allowing 103 points in divisional play, but their offense struggled to keep pace, scoring 162 points. After ending the season on a three-game losing streak, Ravenna will be looking to rebound in 2024. If they can bolster their offense, the Bulldogs could emerge as a surprise contender in the division.
Shelby Tigers
2023 Record: 2-4 (Rivers Division), 2-7 Overall
Shelby faced challenges last season, managing just two wins in both divisional and overall play. The Tigers’ defense struggled significantly, giving up 179 points in divisional games, while their offense managed only 90 points. Despite these difficulties, Shelby will aim to rebuild and improve in 2024. A focus on strengthening their defense and finding more consistency on offense could help the Tigers climb the standings.
Hesperia Panthers
2023 Record: 1-5 (Rivers Division), 2-7 Overall
Hesperia had a tough go of it in 2023, finishing with just one divisional win and a 2-7 overall record. The Panthers struggled offensively, scoring only 67 points in divisional play, while their defense allowed 232 points. Despite these struggles, Hesperia managed to end the season on a high note with a win, providing a glimmer of hope for the upcoming season. The Panthers will need to address both offensive and defensive shortcomings if they hope to improve in 2024.
Holton Red Devils
2023 Record: 0-6 (Rivers Division), 0-9 Overall
Holton endured a challenging season in 2023, finishing winless in both divisional and overall play. The Red Devils’ offense was nearly nonexistent, scoring just 30 points in the Rivers Division, while their defense allowed a staggering 352 points. With a difficult season behind them, Holton will be looking to rebuild from the ground up in 2024. The focus will be on developing young talent and making incremental improvements on both sides of the ball.
Outlook
The 2024-25 West Michigan Conference Rivers Division season promises to be another exciting chapter in high school football. North Muskegon remains the team to beat, but Hart is hot on their heels, eager to claim the top spot. Mason County Central and Ravenna are solid teams with the potential to disrupt the standings, while Shelby, Hesperia, and Holton will be striving to turn the tide after challenging seasons. As the season unfolds, fans can expect intense matchups and the possibility of unexpected outcomes, making every game a must-see event in the Rivers Division.
