As the leaves fell and the crisp autumn air filled the stadiums, fields, and courts, Royal Oak Schools fall sports teams brought energy, dedication, and excitement to every game, meet, and match. This fall, our student-athletes didn’t just compete—they inspired. Whether under the Friday night lights or in the quiet determination of cross-country trails, their hard work and passion reflected our mission.
Here’s a look back at the highlights of an unforgettable season.
Girls Cross Country Makes History
The Royal Oak High School Girls Cross Country team had a standout fall season, achieving new milestones and solidifying their place as one of the strongest programs in the school’s history. The team’s journey was highlighted by a 1st place finish at the Holly Invitational in the Division 2 Varsity Race, showcasing their competitive edge early in the season. They also made history with a 4th place finish at the Oakland County Championships, the highest ever for ROHS Girls Cross Country.
In league and postseason competitions, the team continued to shine. They secured 3rd place in the OAA White Division and at Regionals, earned their ticket to the State Finals after a thrilling tiebreaker. At the MHSAA State Finals, they placed 28th overall, marking their fourth State Finals appearance in recent years (2019, 2020, 2021, and 2024).
Several athletes received individual accolades for their outstanding performances:
All-OAA Honors: Anna Macdonald, Jane Meinecke, Olivia Peterson
All-County Recognition: Anna Macdonald
All-Region Selection: Anna Macdonald, Jane Meinecke
The team also excelled academically, proving their commitment to excellence on and off the course. They were named a MITCA Academic All-State Team, with a team GPA of 3.970. Notably, Anna Macdonald, Jane Meinecke, Lucy VanHaerents, Emma Viggiano, and Aiyana Wyman earned this distinction. Meinecke, VanHaerents, and Wyman also achieved MITCA Individual Academic All-State Honors with perfect 4.0 GPAs.
Boys Cross Country Delivers Strong Season
The Royal Oak High School Boys Cross Country team showcased their determination and talent throughout the fall season, earning impressive finishes and individual honors along the way. The team had a stellar performance in the OAA White Division, securing a 2nd place finish and demonstrating their competitiveness against tough opponents. At Regionals, they continued to excel, placing 6th overall.
Individually, several athletes stood out with remarkable achievements:
All-OAA Honors: Liam Aiuto, Liam Dao, Andres Jaime, Keats Rosenbrock, Beckett Sipes, Nolan Till
All-Region Recognition: Nolan Till
In addition to his athletic success, Nolan Till earned Academic All-State Honors, highlighting the program’s dedication to excellence both on the course and in the classroom.
This season’s accomplishments are a testament to the team’s hard work, resilience, and sportsmanship. The Royal Oak Boys Cross Country team continues to build on its proud tradition and set a strong example for future athletes.
Boys Soccer Caps Season with Impressive Record
The Royal Oak High School Boys Soccer team had a remarkable season, finishing with a strong 13-6 record and earning the title of OAA White Division Runner-Up. Throughout the season, individual players stood out for their exceptional contributions:
OAA White All-League Honors: Owen Miller, Adam Lampman, Jaren Taylor, Davis Van Every, Tivon Mikael
All-District Recognition: Aaron "AJ" Austin, Cullen Wicka, Baylor Browning, Justin Xhelilaj
All-Region Selection: Justin Xhelilaj
The team’s commitment to growth and collaboration made them a formidable force in every match. Their achievements are a testament to the hard work and determination of both the players and the coaching staff.
Volleyball Demonstrates Excellence On and Off the Court
The Royal Oak High School Volleyball team wrapped up their season with a 13-14 record, showcasing their resilience and dedication in a highly competitive environment. Beyond their on-court efforts, the team excelled academically, living up to the district's mission of fostering growth-minded students who thrive in all areas of life.
This season’s standout achievements included:
All-League Honors: Jaelynn Prebelich
Individual All-State Academic Honors: Mackenzee Childress and Lily Harris
Team All-State Academic Recognition: Reflecting their commitment to excellence in the classroom as well as on the court
Congratulations to the Volleyball team for their hard work and achievements during this memorable season!
Ravens Football: A Season of Growth and Grit
The Royal Oak High School Football team demonstrated perseverance and determination throughout the 2024 season, finishing with a 3-6 record in the competitive OAA Gold Division. Despite the challenges, the team showed resilience, teamwork, and moments of brilliance on the field.
Several players earned well-deserved recognition for their outstanding performances.
OAA Gold All-League Honors:
Payden Morrison
Julien Burns
Blaze Jeffries
Ethan Blay
Brady Taylor
Frank Minnick
Ben Machiniak
This season was a testament to the players’ growth as athletes and individuals. They embodied the values of teamwork and dedication that are at the heart of Raven pride.
Girls Swim & Dive Makes Waves in Competitive Season
The Royal Oak High School Girls Swim & Dive team delivered an impressive season, achieving a 5-5 overall record and showcasing their talent at key competitions. A highlight of the season was their 2nd place finish at the Royal Oak Relays, a testament to their hard work and team spirit.
In the OAA White Division, the team placed 5th overall, battling through tough competition. Several athletes qualified for the State Finals, demonstrating their excellence in the pool:
Kassidy Collins: 200 medley relay, 100 free, 100 breast, 400 free relay (New school record in the 100 breaststroke)
Kaitlyn Eberhardt: 200 medley relay, 50 free, 100 back, 400 free relay
Molly Truesdell: 200 medley relay, 200 IM, 100 fly, 400 free relay
Kamryn Eberhardt: 200 free, 500 free, 400 free relay
Aster Link: 200 medley relay, 100 fly
Mira Tarraf: 100 fly, 500 free
In addition to their athletic accomplishments, the team excelled academically. Seniors Kaitlyn Eberhardt and Hailey Barnwell will receive the MISCA All-State Academic Award and the prestigious NISCA All-American Academic Award for maintaining a GPA of 3.65 and 3.75 or higher, respectively.
Congratulations to the swimmers, divers, and coaching staff on a memorable season!
Boys Tennis Wraps Up a Strong Season
The Royal Oak High School Boys Tennis team had an exceptional season, finishing with an impressive 12-2-2 overall record and securing 2nd place in the OAA Blue Division. Their consistent performance throughout the season, both in dual matches and tournaments, showcased their talent, collaboration, and commitment.
In the OAA Blue League Tournament, the team delivered another strong showing, earning 2nd place overall. Several athletes were recognized for their outstanding contributions with OAA Blue All-League Honors:
Christian Weiss
Jesse Lawrence
Adam Sust
David Imasa
Andrew Aubin
This season's achievements are a reflection of the players' and coaching staff's dedication and commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
Girls Golf Completes a Standout Season
The Royal Oak High School Girls Golf team had a successful season, finishing with a 6-4 overall record and demonstrating their skill and determination throughout the year. Competing in the OAA White Division, the team achieved a 3rd place finish at Regionals, which earned them a spot at the State Championship Meet, where they placed 16th overall.
Individually, Kalli Roelofs and Kolbie Roelofs earned OAA White All-League Honors for their exceptional performances during the season.
The team's consistent hard work and achievements on the course made this a memorable year for Royal Oak Girls Golf. Congratulations to the players and coaches for a fantastic season!
