SOUTH RANGE BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH JIM HANEK

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CANFIELD, OH- South Range’s baseball team has long been a force to reckon with in high school sports, and Coach Jim Hanek is a significant reason why. With the 2024 season well underway, Coach Hanek shared his thoughts on what constitutes a successful season, the development of young talents, and his coaching philosophy on the first episode of SOUTH RANGE BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER with DJ Yokley.

For Coach Hanek, the team’s recent trip to Myrtle Beach wasn’t merely about wins and losses, though they returned with an impressive 4-1 record. He elaborated, “Wins and losses, yes. I mean, it’s… Those are important, but… the team building, the camaraderie that you get from a trip like that… it just really brings the team closer together.” The importance of team cohesion can often be undervalued, but for teams aiming for the top, it’s clear that Hanek considers it essential.

Fostering a winning culture isn’t just about celebrating victories on the field—it’s also about appreciating the lighter moments. Coach Hanek described the team’s traditional Rios night vividly, recounting moments of lighthearted competition: “There were a few kids that… tried to out eat each other. It didn’t end very well late in the evening,” he chuckled, noting even he had to pass up dessert to focus on the “main course” of the night.

When asked about cultivating standout players like senior Tyler Wardle, Coach Hanek’s pride was evident. “He’s worked hard. I mean, he continues to work hard… and I think he’s a, he’s strong in his faith, you know? And I admire him for the fact… I think that strong faith base he has… that calms him,” he shared, stressing the significance of personal development alongside athletic prowess. For Hanek, inspiring athletes to be well rounded, responsible adults is a key aspect of his coaching duties.

Coach Hanek is also known for his analytical approach to the game, digging deep into data to make informed decisions. Yet he acknowledges the role of intuition. “A lot of… in-game decisions… you just kind of see how the game’s evolving… it’s a mix,” Hanek explained. There’s a dance between following the statistics and trusting one’s instincts that Hanek seems to have mastered over his coaching tenure.

Reflecting on the pressures of winning state championships, Coach Hanek offered perspective: “I think if you’re judged solely on that and you’re looking at that as the ultimate goal and nothing else matters, I think you’re missing a lot.” He emphasized the journey over the destination, the growth of players over wins, and the broader impact a coach can have on young lives.

As South Range’s baseball season progresses, the community will be watching Coach Jim Hanek, not just for his strategic play-calling but for the way he continues to mold a group of young athletes into a tight-knit team poised for success both on and off the diamond. His depth of experience, blended with his thoughtful approach to coaching, makes each game a learning opportunity for his players and a master class for everyone watching. Keep an eye on the Raiders this season as they implement the lessons from Myrtle Beach under the steady guidance of a coach who truly understands the heart of baseball.

 

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CATCHING THE CURB WITH BOB CAMARDO (EP 8)

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COLUMBIANA, OH- As we gear up for the much-anticipated Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fam banquet on May 5, guest speaker Bob Camardo shared invaluable insights on the latest episode of YSN’s podcast, “Catching the Curb.” In his conversation with host DJ Yokley, Camardo, brimming with excitement and a sense of urgency, discussed preparations, upcoming guest speakers, and the importance of community support.

With less than a month to go until the banquet, preparations are in full swing, and the team, led by banquet chairman Tom Miller, is adding the final touches. Camardo highlighted the significance of this gathering: “That’s the only fundraiser we have is that banquet. So it’s important for us to make enough money so that we’re able to give to the charities, which is what we do with that money.”

For members of the community eager to support this cause, tickets are still available, and Camardo assures that the evening will be one to remember. “Please consider joining us because it’s a special night…and like I said, that’s the only fundraiser we do all year. So it’s important for us to get good attendance, good advertising, and again with Gene Steeretor speaking, it should be a heck of a night,” Camardo expressed with enthusiasm.

Another hot topic was the recent changes in the coaching staff for YSU basketball. With new beginnings on the horizon, Camardo shared, “We’re looking to maybe bump our advertising up a little bit,” in anticipation of welcoming Ethan Faulkner and Melissa Jackson as the new basketball coaches. Their appointments have created a buzz and hopes for continued success in YSU sports.

There’s also pride in acknowledging YSU athletes’ accolades, as Camardo mentioned the bowling team’s remarkable journey: “And then on May 20, it’ll be Melissa Jackson, the new basketball coach, and I think the 13th, we’re kind of looking to honor the ysu bowling team. They’re in the Final Four this weekend.”
Addressing the broader spectrum of YSU athletics, Camardo reflected on the challenges and changes faced by the football team, particularly the defense. With a light-hearted take on the situation, he suggested that a defensive overhaul might be a welcome change. “The bad news is that all the defensive players are transferring or have graduated. The good news is that all the defensive players have graduated transferring because the defense was pretty, pretty bad last year.”

While the YSU community may feel the sting of losing a valued coach like Calhoun, Camardo remained appreciative and understanding of the transitions. “When you got four little kids…and the business is a business, exactly. And it’s a business with the kids and with the coaches,” he says, acknowledging the reality of collegiate athletics and coaching careers.

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CURBSTONE COACHES

MINERAL RIDGE COACH’S CORNER WITH HEATHER AULT

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Mineral Ridge’s volleyball coach, Heather Ault, has been making headlines as she leads the 7th and 8th grade volleyball teams to consecutive championships. Ault, who has been coaching this group for five years, credits her lifelong passion for volleyball and her strong connection with the girls for their success.

Ault’s coaching prowess is evident in the team’s exceptional performance, having won back-to-back championships and going undefeated in their league for two years. A proud moment for Ault and her team was when they secured a league victory for the fourth time during her coaching tenure.

The success of the Mineral Ridge volleyball team is a testament to the strong foundation laid by Ault. Her dedication to the sport and the close relationship she has with her players is evident as she mentions how players have wanted to come and play for her from a young age. Ault’s involvement with the girls even extends to her role as a fifth-grade teacher, where she uses her influence to foster enthusiasm for volleyball among her students.

Looking ahead, Ault is confident in the future of Mineral Ridge’s volleyball program, with a strong batch of freshmen and underclassmen ready to carry the torch. When asked about the possibility of coaching at the varsity level, Ault remains evasive, hinting that she’s not ruling out the idea as she focuses on her own children for now.

Ault’s impact as a coach and mentor goes beyond just her players; she’s a respected figure in the community. Andy Hake, who conducted the interview with Ault, acknowledges her exceptional coaching and teaching abilities, indicating the deep respect she has earned within and beyond the volleyball community.

With Ault at the helm, Mineral Ridge’s volleyball program is gearing up for a promising future, driven by passion, dedication, and a love for the game.

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CANFIELD BASEBALL COACH S CORNER EP 1 WITH GARY KNITTLE

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CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “Canfield Baseball Coach’s Corner,” host DJ Yokley sits down with Canfield baseball coach, Gary Knittle, to discuss the season opener and reflect on the development of players within the program. Coach Knittle, known as a mentor and leader in the Canfield community, provides valuable insights into player dynamics, coaching staff, and the upcoming spring break trip.

The conversation delved into the recent season opener, where the Canfield team secured a victory, despite the challenges posed by a young and relatively inexperienced group. Coach Knittle emphasizes the resilience and promise of the team’s freshmen, highlighting their willingness to learn and compete.
In addition to reviewing the successful start of the season, the dialogue touched upon the importance of off-field experiences in enhancing team dynamics and fostering lasting memories. Coach Knittle shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming spring break trip, emphasizing the role it plays in developing camaraderie and mutual respect among the players.

Moreover, the segment saw Coach Knittle’s reflections on the impact he aims to make on the players he mentors. He discussed his deep commitment to the holistic development of his players, not solely measured by wins and losses, but by the lasting impact on their lives beyond the playing field.

Through the candid and invigorating conversation, it’s evident that Coach Knittle’s dedication to the sport extends beyond the technical aspects of coaching. His holistic approach focuses on providing players with valuable life experiences and nurturing a strong sense of camaraderie.

The “Canfield Baseball Coach’s Corner” episode brings to light the passionate and multi-faceted nature of sports coaching, underscoring the countless impressions a dedicated coach can leave on the lives of the players under their guidance.

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UNITED SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH JEN KOONS

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HANOVERTON OH- It’s time for another spring sports season! We know that it would t be complete without United softball.  This season the Eagles are looking to fly high in the EOAC under new head coach Jen Koons.  New is a loose term though, because Koons has been around the program for a while and is very familiar with what she has to work with.  They return a ton of speed on the base paths, and coach Koons promises they will try to cause chaos on the bases whenever possible. You can never sleep on the Eagles come softball season.

Coach Koons graciously took the time to chat with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig to help us preview the upcoming season.  They talk about what stars are returning in their dugout, the schedule they’ve put together to test themselves, and much more. Check out Episode 1 of Coach’s Corner with Jen Koons exclusively on YSN!

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SALEM SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH MICHAEL THORPE

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SALEM OH- Quaker country, are you ready for spring? The girls that lace up their gloves on the softball diamond sure are.  The Quakers have a squad that is overflowing with returning experience that is hungry to prove that they belong in the local conversation.  You’ll find plenty of young experienced players that not only promise to do great things for Salem this year, but also for years to come.  They’ll create the building blocks to keep the program alive and well.

Salem is once again led by head coach Michael Thorpe. He was gracious enough to take the time to talk about the upcoming season with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig. They talk about the big names to watch for, what positions are open for someone to take, and much more. Check out Episode 1 of Coach’s Corner with Michael Thorpe exclusively on YSN!

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SPRINGFIELD SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH MIKE RUBOSKY

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NEW MIDDLETOWN OH-  When you are an athlete at Springfield, winning is in your culture. There’s no way around that.  On the girls side of athletics, the basketball team just set the tone by getting their third straight district championship.  Now it’s softball’s turn to make their mark.  The Tigers may have lost a good core of players to graduation, but they still have plenty of leaders that want to make this program great, and hold up the standard.

Springfield head coach Mike Rubosky is going in to his second year as head coach of the Tigers.  He has already placed the culture he wants into the program, and now it’s time to start building it from the bottom up. Coach took the time to chat about everything Springfield softball with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig. Check out Episode 1 of Coach’s Corner with Mike Rubosky exclusively on YSN.

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SOUTH RANGE SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH JEFF DEROSE

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CANFIELD OH- After another trip to Firestone Stadium last season for South Range, they are locked in to start another season.  The trip to state was the program’s 3rd since 2016.  The Raiders have never missed a beat in pitching over the seasons, having a college level arm in the circle since 2010.  Now it’s a new generation’s turn to continue that tradition and keep this program in the right direction.  Although last year’s senior class was crucial to their tournament run, they still had plenty of young players step up in the biggest moments.  They’ll lean on that experience to guide the players that are stepping into bigger roles on the team.

Raiders head coach Jeff DeRose has had plenty to celebrate in his career at South Range, and he’s hoping this year just adds more.  He took time out his day to chat with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig about the upcoming season.  They discuss what it’ll take to get back to Firestone Stadium, what fans should expect in the circle, and much more. Check out Episode 1 of Coach’s Corner with Jeff DeRose exclusively on YSN!

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CARDINAL MOONEY GIRLS LACROSSE COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH TONI CHAHINE

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YOUNGSTOWN OH- Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the area. If you don’t believe that, all you have to do is look at the increase in numbers that Cardinal Mooney’s girls program has experienced in the last two seasons. Last year with a handful of players who were picking up the sport for the first time, Mooney still found success.  Head coach Toni Chahine knows that now her program is ahead of schedule and she can focus on building IQ and fine tuning the details to turn this program even closer to greatness.

Coach Chahine took the time to catch up with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig to talk about what to expect out of the program this season. They also talk about balancing coaching two varsity sports, and much more. Check out Episode 1 of Coach’s Corner with Toni Chahine.

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MINERAL RIDGE BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH AMY HARRISON

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Mineral Ridge Lady Rams’ coach, Amy Harrison, sat down with host DJ Yokley to discuss the team’s remarkable 22-season, which culminated in an 11-1 record and a share of the MVAC championship.

During the interview, Coach Harrison reflected on the program’s success and the transition from being a player to coaching a new generation of players. She expressed gratitude for the coaching she received as a player and highlighted the continuity of the program as former players, now coaches themselves, are involved in shaping the next generation of players.

Moreover, Coach Harrison shared her pride in the team’s accomplishments and discussed how she instills the value of pride, respect, and multi-sport participation in her players. She also acknowledged the challenges faced by female athletes and emphasized the importance of encouraging versatile athletic participation.

Looking towards the future, Coach Harrison discussed the transition from a winning season to preparing for new challenges, noting the significance of maintaining the players’ confidence and drive for success. She credited the strong personalities of the team and stressed the importance of maintaining a winning mindset from one season to the next.

The conversation shed light on the close-knit community of Mineral Ridge, where Coach Harrison has deep personal connections and where she has dedicated herself to shaping future generations of athletes. She expressed her pride in raising the championship banner and how the experience is something her players will carry with them throughout their lives.

In the spirit of reflection, Coach Harrison revealed that if she could change one thing from the season, it would be to start one of the games differently, believing that an altered approach could have made a significant difference.

The episode provided valuable insight into the dedication and passion Coach Amy Harrison brings to the Mineral Ridge Lady Rams’ basketball program, as well as the impactful experience of leading a successful team in a tight-knit community.

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