WESTMINSTER BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH DAVID RICHARDS (5/8/25)

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NEW WILMINGTON, PA- Westminster College is “buzzing” with excitement as David Richards, a proud member of the Class of 2009 and a “son of two Titans,” returns home to lead the men’s basketball program. Richards, who recently made the move from a highly successful stint at Chatham University, spoke with YSN’s DJ Yokley about the surreal experience of coming back to his alma mater.

“It’s been great. My family’s fired up. They’re really excited for me to be back up here at Westminster,” Richards shared. Having attended games since he was eight, Richards is steeped in Titan tradition and is eager to restore the program’s winning culture.

Richards inherits a team with a strong returning core, including standouts like Drew Weir, Jackson Hendershot, Mick Hergenrother, and a returning Trevor Petro. “We have a great core coming back,” he explained, emphasizing the school’s commitment to recruiting “gym rats and basketball junkies”—players who are passionate, hard-working, and dedicated to constant improvement even in the offseason.

Fans can expect a fast-paced but disciplined style under Richards’ leadership. While the days of “run and gun” may be in the past, Richards insists his teams will play with energy and defensive intensity. “You’ll always see with our teams just how hard we play and how we play together. That’s probably the two biggest things we’ll stress on a daily basis,” he said.

Richards is also bolstering his staff with familiar faces, including longtime coach Craig Hannon, to ensure continuity and infusion of local basketball knowledge. As he prepares for his first season, Richards is focused not just on winning, but on creating a program that values academic excellence, player development, and lifelong relationships.

“I’m here to help them as a student and as an athlete. My office door is always open,” Richards pledged to future Titans and their families.

With the buzz building in “Titantown,” Westminster basketball appears poised for a bright new era under one of its own.

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CRESTVIEW BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH TODD KIBBY (FEATURING GARY KNITTLE 4-10-25)

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COLUMBIANA, OH- In a recent episode of YSN’s “Crestview Baseball Coach’s Corner,” hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig welcomed two prominent figures from the Crestview Rebels, Head Coach Todd Kibby and Assistant Coach Gary Knittle. The episode was a mix of reminiscing, sharing insights, and candid discussions about the realities of coaching baseball in unpredictable weather conditions.

Right from the start, Coach Todd Kibby expressed a sentiment that many coaches in the area would resonate with. “Good,” he replied when asked about his current state, “Just be nice if the weather would break and we could play some consistent baseball adventure every day.” This longing for stable weather was a recurring theme throughout the conversation, reflecting the challenges coaches face in keeping their teams engaged when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

Assistant Coach Gary Knittle mirrored Kibby’s sentiments, “As Coach Kibby said, I think we’d rather be outside and see a little bit of sun, but I guess we’ll settle for this.” Despite these challenges, both coaches demonstrated an optimistic outlook and a commitment to nurturing local talent. Knittle highlighted the significance of the talent pool in the area, recalling the past achievements and the continuing journey of local players. “You mentioned the local talent, and we get asked all the time. There’s a lot of talent in this area, and, you know, and we’re very fortunate.”

The conversation also delved into the dynamics of keeping a team motivated when weather and schedules disrupt regular play. According to Kibby, “Keeping the guys with their task on hand, especially with us, where we have a good mixture of young guys, but getting them that exposure and that experience out of the gate is hard.” It’s a delicate balance of managing practice, ensuring readiness, and building resilience.

Knittle’s transition from retirement back to coaching was another key highlight. “He made me an offer I couldn’t refuse. I mean, it’s pretty simple. It’s like the Godfather,” he chuckled, describing his return to the fold under Coach Kibby. This camaraderie and shared history between the coaches evidently strengthen their team’s foundation.

The episode was not just an insight into Crestview Baseball but also a reflection on the commitment and passion these coaches bring to their roles despite frequent obstacles. As Kibby aptly summarized, “Every day is a new adventure… It’s done. Nothing else you can do.” For listeners and aspiring coaches, the episode stands as a testament to perseverance and adaptability.

 

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AUSTINTOWN FITCH BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH JOE PARIS 3-28-25

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH-  As the 2025 high school baseball season gets underway in Ohio, the Austintown Fitch Falcons are ready to defend their share of last year’s All-American Conference (AAC) championship.

Led by veteran head coach Joe Paris, the Falcons are focused on maintaining the program’s high standards while navigating the challenges of a new season. Fitch enters the year with a mix of returning seniors and untested players who will need to step up quickly. While depth is a concern due to limited varsity experience among some roster members, Paris is confident in the group’s ability and commitment. Known for their strong pitching tradition, the Falcons will again rely on a solid rotation to carry them through a tough slate of games.

The AAC may only include five teams, but Paris emphasized that each one provides serious competition, often making the league title come down to the final week of the season. Every opponent brings its best against Fitch, and the Falcons are prepared for the battle. Outside of conference play, Fitch faces a loaded non-league schedule that includes Federal

League opponents, strong regional contenders, and high-level matchups in Myrtle Beach against top teams from other states. The goal of this schedule is clear: prepare the Falcons for a deep postseason run by facing elite competition throughout the year. Discipline and accountability remain at the core of the program’s identity under Paris, a former college pitcher himself. He instills a work ethic in his players that emphasizes preparation between starts and a commitment to the fundamentals of the game. The coaching staff, many ofwhom are alumni and former players, bring a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the program.

Fitch’s early-season identity centers around effort and teamwork. With platoon battles still being sorted and several pitcher-only players filling key roles, the Falcons expect a true team effort across the board. As always, the goal for Fitch baseball is to play the game the right way, with hustle, heart, and a high baseball IQ.

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HOWLAND BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH BRITT TAYLOR (4-7-25)

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WARREN, OH- In a dynamic chat with the YSN podcast, Coach Britt Taylor sheds light on the promising journey of the Howland Tigers baseball team this season. Under Taylor’s passionate leadership, the Tigers are defying expectations and making waves in their conference, the AAC.

Discussing challenges faced during the unpredictable Northeast Ohio weather, Taylor credited a pre-season trip to Tennessee for giving the team much-needed exposure to high-level competition. “It was a bit of a reality check,” Taylor said about facing teams with 18 games already under their belt. However, the outing set the foundation for an impressive start this year.

The Tigers have shown exceptional form, including a resounding 17-4 victory against Fitch, further supported by commendable leadership from seniors like Aiden Anders, Dom Santee, and Luca Franzaglio. Taylor praised the camaraderie built during the preseason, emphasizing how it bolstered team morale and leadership.

Addressing the Tigers’ offensive strategy, Taylor shared a fondness for an aggressive style of play, intertwined with solid fundamentals. He expressed his enthusiasm for engaging play tactics, such as base stealing and hit-and-runs.

Self-motivated and driven, the team’s inspiration partly stems from an eagerness to elevate Howland’s baseball legacy, showcasing the potential to outshine competition in the conference.

With Taylor at the helm, the Tigers’ blend of disciplined fundamentals and fun-infused play promises an exhilarating season ahead. As they continue to challenge bigger teams and gain recognition, the Tigers are poised to leave a significant mark in the AAC.

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CONNEAUT SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH LEXI ADAMS 3-31-25

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CONNEAUT OH-  In an engaging episode of the YSN Live, hosts Anthony Hartwig and DJ Yokley had the opportunity to speak with Lexi Zappitelli Adams, the head coach of the Conneaut Spartans, who is now in her third year at the helm. Coach Adams, who boasts five years with the program including her time as an assistant, shared insights on the evolving nature of her team and the exciting developments within the program.

Adams is focused on rebuilding the Conneaut Spartans’ softball program, with only three seniors on the team, who she credits with playing pivotal leadership roles. “We’re honestly looking to start to rebuild, and those three seniors are being able to help in that time,” Adams noted, highlighting the initiatives to engage younger players through the establishment of a middle school club team and various skills clinics. Bringing familial bonds into the fold, Adams emphasizes the importance of creating a family-like team culture. “Chemistry is extremely important…learning how to be a teammate, you know, and be a close-knit family,” she stated, reflecting on how these values were instilled during her own high school softball days at Conneaut and emphasizing the need for trust and teamwork on the field.

Building on her aggressive player style from her time at YSU, Coach Adams is keen on fostering a similar competitive spirit in her players, incorporating creative and fun drills to keep the team’s morale high during rain-out days and jam-packed schedules. Lexi Adams continues to draw inspiration from her coaching influences, including her father and former coaches from YSU, while expressing heartfelt gratitude towards her dedicated coaching staff and supportive administration. With steadfast community support, the program looks poised for exciting progress. Coach Adams wraps up her conversation with YSN reflecting on how special it is to coach at her alma mater, striving to rebuild and lead a successful program for the Conneaut Spartans.

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WARREN JFK SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH NIKKI DAY 3-20-25

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WARREN OH- As the softball season approaches, Warren JFK is setting the stage for an exciting year with a mix of returning talent and fresh faces on their roster. Head coach Nikki Day recently provided insights in an interview with YSN to preview what fans can expect this season.

The team features two senior athletes who will be pivotal in leading the relatively young squad. Key shifts in player positions include a move to a commanding role as catcher and a return to the preferred position at shortstop for their senior leaders, who will guide their teammates with the maturity and leadership they displayed last year. Warren JFK’s roster is notably youthful, with six freshmen bringing valuable experience to the field. Among them are promising freshman pitchers who also demonstrate flexibility in playing several positions. With these additions, Day is optimistic about the depth and versatility of the team.

“Our seniors have been excellent in supporting the new players,” Day noted, emphasizing the team’s supportive culture. “They celebrate every small victory and encourage each other, contributing to a positive atmosphere both on and off the field.” The Eagles are eager to measure their progress against conference rivals, testing their growth and aiming for success.

Coach Day also highlighted the robust support system in place, thanking her experienced staff and extending her gratitude to the school administration for backing the team. With a strong focus on developing young talent and fostering a positive team culture, Warren JFK looks forward to a season filled with growth and achievement. As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on the Eagles as they take to the field.

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MOONEY GIRLS LACROSSE COACH’S CORNER WITH TONI CHAHINE 3-24-25

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YOUNGSTOWN OH- In a recent interview with YSN, head coach Toni Chahine discussed the promising new season for Cardinal Mooney’s girls lacrosse team. Following a remarkable 15-3 season, Chahine is optimistic about the team’s prospects, highlighting the invaluable experience gained by her young athletes. “Success is a double-edged sword,” Chahine reflects, emphasizing the importance of hard work and leadership from last season’s graduating seniors.

With a roster filled with enthusiastic underclassmen, the team is brimming with youthful energy and potential. Chahine is especially focused on the development of her junior players, who are expected to make significant contributions, alongside a talented mix of other players ready to shine on the field. Chahine acknowledges the challenges of nurturing a program without a middle school feeder but is committed to expanding opportunities for younger athletes in the community. She stresses the importance of taking pride in smaller achievements, maintaining confidence, and preparing for competitive tournament play.

The first opportunity for fans to witness Cardinal Mooney’s girls lacrosse team in action will be on March 31 in a match against Boardman. Chahine, supported by her dedicated coaching staff and the school administration, is eager to build on the momentum from last year’s success. The team is poised for an exciting season ahead, reinforcing its growing presence and the community’s enthusiasm for lacrosse.

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LAKEVIEW BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH CAM CARSON 3-24-25

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CORTLAND OH— As the baseball season approaches, high expectations are the driving force behind Lakeview’s team, guided by head coach Cam Carson. In a conversation with Anthony Hartwig for YSN’s “Coach’s Corner,” Carson shared his insights on the team’s aspirations and the current state of the program.

The Bulldogs are entering the season with ambitious goals, aiming first to reclaim the NE8 conference title and then to make a strong run at districts. Despite having a small senior class, Carson is confident in the leadership and experience of his seniors, both seasoned players who set a positive tone for their teammates. “Both of them are light-hearted, fun guys who play the game with good energy,” said Carson, highlighting the importance of maintaining a relaxed yet focused atmosphere within the team. The team also boasts a robust junior class, with several three-year starters setting the stage for a promising season. Sophomores are also expected to contribute significantly.

Carson emphasized the need for attention to detail, good energy, and performing the fundamentals to excel in a challenging NE8 conference, which includes formidable opponents like South Range and Hubbard. “We’re gonna have to do the little stuff right,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of routine plays and effective pitching. In addition to conference play, Lakeview’s non-conference schedule is designed to be demanding, preparing the team for the postseason. With games against tough opponents like Ursuline and defending state champs West Branch, Carson believes in the value of challenging his team during the regular season.

The recent expansion of divisions in high school sports was also discussed, though Carson expressed neutrality on its immediate impact, stating that genuine effects would become apparent in the way the season unfolds. With a strong focus on energy and attention to detail, Lakeview baseball is poised to embody the championship mindset that Carson has instilled over the years. As the season gears up, fans can expect a determined team ready to leave everything on the field, embodying the spirit of Lakeview baseball.

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UNITED SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH JEN KOONS 3-18-25

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HANOVERTON OH- In a recent interview with Jen Koons, the head coach of the United Eagles softball team, insights were shared about the team’s preparation for the upcoming season.

Koons emphasized that for her and the team, the softball season never truly ends. With 25 open gyms over the pre-season and participation in the athletics tournament, the team has been keeping their skills sharp. “The competition, really tough,” Koons noted, highlighting the valuable experience gained by playing against top teams like South Range and Howland. The United Eagles’ roster, composed of a mix of seasoned seniors and promising underclassmen, demonstrates a solid foundation for both current and future success. Key seniors are known for their versatility and commitment, expected to provide strong leadership on and off the field.

Koons proudly introduced her underclassmen, mentioning a special freshman group ready to make their mark with talent spanning pitching, speed, and utility skills that promise to enhance the team’s competitive edge. This season, the Eagles are looking beyond their conference, with planned matchups against larger schools like Mayfield and Carrollton, aiming to build resilience and strategy ahead of district competitions.

The coaching staff, including important figures like Matt and Stacey Zines, play a critical role in fostering team culture and implementing mental training, ensuring the Eagles are not only physically prepared but also mentally fortified for the challenges ahead. As Koons and her team set sights on a successful season, all signs point to the Eagles soaring to new heights. With a blend of experienced leadership and fresh talent, United Eagles fans have much to anticipate.

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BOARDMAN BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH JOE LENDAK 3-21-25

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The Boardman Spartans baseball team has a new skipper at the helm this year. A 2013 Spartan graduate that has gained his experience as an assistant coach throughout The Spartans programs. With Boardman coming off a 9-14 year last baseball season, Coach Lendak sees plenty of opportunity to grow and is excited about the possibility of taking that next step as Boardman is returning their top five pitchers in terms of innings logged from a season ago!

Juniors Tyler Kirlick, Collin Resetar and Ryan Neifer will lead the way on the mound with seniors Mason Nawrocki and Landon Whippo also mixing in significant time to lead The Spartans pitching staff. Meanwhile, on the offensive side, guys like senior Grayson Eicher will look to set the tone with the sticks for The Spartans.

This year, Boardman will look to compete for a conference crown in the always tough All American Conference (AAC) with the likes of Austintown-Fitch and Canfield also returning a ton of talent from a season ago. However, Coach Lendak is confident in his guys and their hunger to get it done and bring the conference title back to Boardman!

Opening the season on the road, The Spartans open up their season on Friday, March 28th against The North Canton Hoover Vikings with a slatted 5pm first-pitch start time. Catch Coach Lendak and all the Spartans this season with live games, scores, stats, stories and more on YSN!

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