Kalkaska’s Ponstein to be inducted into MHSSCA Hall of Fame

KALKASKA – A coaching career that has spanned more than three decades will soon be recognized for Kalkaska’s Rik Ponstein.  

Ponstein, who has coached high school softball for 32 years, including the last 28 at Kalkaska, will be inducted into the Michigan High School Softball Coaches Association Hall of Fame on Jan. 29.

Through the years, the former educator has amassed a 595-384 career record and led teams to eight district titles and five Lake Michigan Conference championships.

"I’m very proud and honored by this,” Ponstein said. “I don’t know what the best word to say is, but I just love it here at Kalkaska and the things that we have done and the girls I’ve coached. I try to preach to them all the time that we want to be good sports and play the game the right way, and in the future give back, whether it’s our family or the