Lowell Follows Lone Senior to Inaugural MHSAA Boys Volleyball Championship
Lowell High School claimed the inaugural MHSAA Division 2 boys volleyball state championship on Saturday, defeating Grand Rapids South Christian 3-1 at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek. The Red Arrows secured the title with set scores of 25-23, 25-20, 23-25, and 25-18, marking a historic milestone as the sport completed its first official season under the MHSAA postseason umbrella.
A Championship Won Without Timeouts
Lowell head coach Drew Davidson navigated the high-stakes final without calling a single timeout. Davidson intentionally left his team to manage their own momentum, specifically during a difficult third set where Lowell struggled to side out. He noted that he prefers to observe how his players respond when they become flustered, viewing the pressure as a necessary developmental tool for his young roster.
Lowell’s victory at the MHSAA Finals represents their fourth consecutive state title, though it is their first under the official sanctioning of the MHSAA. The team had previously secured three championships awarded by the state coaches association.
Building a Lasting Program
The championship win holds particular significance for the Davidson family, as it served as the final high school match for Max Davidson, the team’s lone senior. Max, who has been part of four consecutive championship teams, expressed confidence in the program’s future, specifically highlighting the growth of freshman setter Issac Kissinger. With a roster featuring six freshmen and four juniors, the Red Arrows appear well-positioned to remain a contender in the coming years.
The decision by coach Drew Davidson to eschew timeouts in a state final highlights a philosophical commitment to player autonomy and resilience. By forcing his team to solve problems on the floor rather than relying on coaching intervention, Davidson prioritized long-term player development over the immediate tactical comfort of a stoppage. This approach likely accelerated the maturation of his young squad, which relied heavily on freshman contributors throughout the season.
What Happens Next
Following this tournament, South Christian faces a transition period as they prepare to graduate seven seniors from a team that finished the season with a 28-14-2 record. While the Sailors lose significant leadership, their coach, Mya Udell, emphasized the legacy of character and support established by this group. Meanwhile, Lowell is likely to enter the next season with a strong core of experienced underclassmen, as the team already incorporates six freshmen into their regular rotation with more expected to join the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many timeouts did Lowell call during the championship final?
Lowell coach Drew Davidson called zero timeouts during the match.
What was the final score of the championship match?
Lowell defeated Grand Rapids South Christian 3-1, with set scores of 25-23, 25-20, 23-25, and 25-18.
How many freshmen were on the Lowell roster?
Lowell’s roster included six freshmen, four juniors, and one senior.
How do you think the inclusion of boys volleyball under the MHSAA will influence the growth of the sport in the coming years?