D’ALTORIO PENS ON WITH WALSH

BOARDMAN OH- Senior David D’Altorio will officially sign his letter of intent to continue his academic and athletic career at Walsh University in Canton, Ohio. D’Altorio has been a four year member of the Spartan Cross Country team, will be a two year member of the Boardman Indoor Track program, and will be a four year member of the Spartan Track and Field team. 

During his Cross Country career, D’Altorio has been named a 3 Time All-Ohioan for finishing in the top 30 at the OHSAA Division 1 State Championship Meet in 2022, 23, and 24. He is currently ranked second all time in Boardman High School history with a career best time of 15:26. This past season, he was the Mahoning County Champion and AAC Athlete of the Year leading the Spartans to victories in both meets. He has been named to all county, league, district, and regional teams multiple times throughout his career. David led the Spartans to qualify as a team to the OHSAA Div 1 State Championship for the first time since 2013. Recently, David was selected to represent Boardman High School and the State of Ohio at the Mid-East Meet of Champions, a senior All Star Race held in Kettering, Ohio, where he will join other Ohioans to compete against the best from Michigan and Indiana. David has also been recognized and awarded for his efforts in the classroom where he is a 3 time Academic All Ohioan for having an overall GPA of 3.5 or above at the time of the state meet.

As a track athlete, David is a state qualifier in both Indoor and Outdoor Track. Last year, David set the BHS Indoor Record in the 3200 at 9:18.32 earning a trip to the state meet. In outdoor track, David was a part of the 4×800 relay team along with Ethan Boots, Adam Nigro, and Brock Farris that defied expectations to make it to Columbus and qualify to New Balance Nationals in Philadelphia. David’s career bests in track are 1:58 in the 800 and 4:20 in the 1600 along with the 9:18 in the 3200. He is a part of the BHS Outdoor Track School Record 4×1600 Relay Team along with Boots, Farris, and Jonathan Burgos-Perez. He has also been awarded Academic All Ohio during last spring’s State Championship in Dayton. 

David joins a Walsh program led by former Massillon Perry Head Coach Rob Mizicko that has featured former Spartans Justin Maroni, Mark Hadley, Nathan Hadley, and current Cavalier/Spartan alum Mitchel Dunham.

*Contributed by Boardman Athletics

DANNY IS JUST DANDY

BOARDMAN OH-  Danny LaCivita is coming out strong in his senior season, finally free from the injuries and setbacks that had been holding him back. With nothing else standing in his way, Danny is reaching his full potential and showing everyone what he’s truly capable of on the course. His perseverance through adversity has only made him stronger, and now he’s running better than ever.

As a leader, Danny is the kind of runner who elevates everyone around him. He pushes his teammates to be their best, leading by example and always bringing a positive attitude to practice and meets. His leadership is felt throughout the team, making him a key figure in the success of Boardman’s cross country program.

One of the things that sets Danny apart is his coachability. He’s always open to advice and eager to make adjustments to improve his performance. His willingness to learn, combined with his upbeat attitude, makes him a dream for his coaches to work with. Danny’s ability to take feedback and apply it shows just how committed he is to being the best he can be.

Danny has set big goals for his senior year—not only for himself but for the legacy he wants to leave behind. He’s focused on being his best this season and on leaving an impact on the program’s culture. Danny wants the future leaders of the team to know how to guide others because of the example he’s set, ensuring the team’s success long after he’s gone.

So catch Danny running while you still can. The Spartan senior has made his mark, and there’s no doubt that Boardman will feel his influence for years to come.

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YOU CAN DREAM IT HE CAN DREW IT

BOARDMAN OH- Drew Kornbau is making the most of his senior year at Boardman, running harder than ever before. His dedication and commitment are paying off, as he’s starting to see the results of all the hard work he’s poured into his training. This season has been a breakout year for Drew, and he’s pushing himself to new limits with every race.

Kornbau has some very tangible goals in mind—he’s set his sights on cracking the times in Boardman’s all-time top 25. With the way he’s been running, that goal is within reach, and he’s determined to leave his mark in the school’s cross-country history.

Drew also knows the importance of making new runners feel welcomed, just as he did when he first joined the team as a freshman. He credits the seniors back then for helping him feel comfortable and for playing a big role in his career success. Now, as a senior himself, he’s doing his part to ensure the younger athletes have that same experience.

After high school, Drew plans to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy, a field he was inspired to enter after his own experiences needing therapy when he was younger. His personal connection to the profession drives him to help others in the same way he was helped.

Beyond cross country, Drew is also involved in the school’s drama club, where he’s found a whole new set of friends and experiences. Balancing both athletics and the arts has given him a unique perspective and a broader circle of support.

Drew maintains an impressive 3.7 GPA, a testament to his strong study habits and his ability to stay organized. He avoids procrastination at all costs, understanding the added stress it brings, and instead focuses on staying ahead of his workload.

When asked what he values most about his teammates, Drew said, “I’ve been running with them for so long, they’re always the best support during races or at low times during workouts.” That support, along with Drew’s relentless drive, is what makes him such a crucial part of the Boardman cross country family.

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DAVID FACING HIS GIANTS

BOARDMAN OH- David D’Altorio is the kind of senior every cross country team dreams of having. His work ethic and passion for the sport set the tone for the entire Boardman squad. Whether it’s pushing through grueling practices or staying focused during meets, David’s drive is contagious, showing his teammates what it takes to succeed.

Throughout his career, David has been on a mission to leave a lasting legacy at Boardman, not just in the record books but in the culture of the program. He’s worked hard to set a standard of excellence and commitment that will inspire future runners long after he’s gone.

David’s discipline doesn’t stop on the course. In the classroom, he’s just as focused, with plans to pursue a career in engineering. He’s also looking forward to competing in cross country and track at the collegiate level, no matter where he ends up.

When asked what he values most about his teammates, David said, “they are more than teammates to me. We act as though we are a family and we get together and hang out outside of practice, which makes our team chemistry and bonds super close and strong.” That bond is just another piece of what makes David such a special leader for Boardman.

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THE ONE THEY CALL SWANNY

BOARDMAN OH- When an athlete steps from their sophomore to junior year, there’s a noticeable shift in attitude and leadership. For Boardman’s Lauryn Swantek, this change is clear, and as a junior, one thing is certain—the future is bright for her. With her drive and dedication, Lauryn is setting herself up for success in both running and life.

Swantek is easily one of the hardest-working athletes you’ll find at Boardman. Whether it’s on the course or in the classroom, she’s always pushing herself to improve. That relentless drive is crucial for a long-distance runner like Lauryn, where the sport demands athletes push their bodies beyond the point of exhaustion. While many runners hit a wall and want to quit, Lauryn thrives in breaking through that barrier.

Lauryn also feeds off the team aspect of cross country. While the sport might seem individualistic from the outside, she knows how important it is to have a solid group of teammates to work with every day. Having that support system, people who constantly push each other and pick each other up, is a huge part of why she loves the sport.

As a leader, Lauryn sets the tone with her positivity and encouragement, always supporting her teammates through the inevitable tough times cross country throws their way. She knows how brutal the sport can be, but her leadership keeps the team motivated and focused.

When asked what she values most about her teammates, Lauryn said, “them being very supportive. I also value their hard work because the harder they work, the more opportunities our team has. I also value the fun times we have both outside of and during cross country practice and meets.”

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THE BRADY ACT

BOARDMAN OH- Young talent is always fun to watch, and Boardman has a rising star in sophomore Olivia Brady on their cross country team. In just her second season, Brady has already established herself as a key member of the team, and the scary part for her opponents is that she’s only scratching the surface of her potential.

Olivia’s unstoppable work ethic is what sets her apart. She’s constantly pushing her body to the limit, always striving to be faster, stronger, and better with every run. She never backs down from the grind, and that drive is evident in the results she’s starting to put up on the course.

Running isn’t just something Olivia does—it’s a big part of her life. She treasures the opportunity to hit the pavement with her friends every day. From cross country in the fall to indoor track in the winter and outdoor track in the spring, Olivia’s school year revolves around running. It’s what fuels her, and she’s all in year-round.

Despite the demanding training, Olivia hasn’t been fazed by the increased academic workload that comes with high school. She’s carrying a 4.0 GPA into her sophomore season, showing she can balance her passion for running with her dedication in the classroom.

New freshmen this year can look up to Olivia as a role model. She just finished her freshman year with flying colors and has set the bar high for others to follow. Her success, both academically and athletically, makes her someone the younger runners can aspire to.

Olivia has already accomplished a lot in her young career, but she’s far from finished. With plenty more milestones ahead, she’s poised to do big things throughout high school. If you’re a Boardman Spartan fan, make sure you don’t miss a second of it.

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V FOR VENNETTI

BOARDMAN OH- Gabby Vennetti is exactly the kind of senior every cross country team needs. The sport can be intimidating, especially for freshmen and young runners stepping into their first year. Gabby goes out of her way to make sure her teammates feel welcomed and comfortable, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Her positive attitude and leadership help ease the nerves for younger runners, making her an invaluable part of the team.

But don’t mistake her kindness for a lack of grit. Gabby is a strong runner who’s been a staple of Boardman’s cross country success throughout her career. She’s put in the miles and consistently delivered, helping to drive the team forward season after season.

One of Gabby’s biggest strengths is her mental toughness. Cross country is as much a mental game as it is physical, and Gabby has mastered pushing through the walls that long-distance running can create. She stays locked in for the entire race, which keeps her times consistent and gives her an edge over the competition.

Off the course, Gabby is just as dedicated. She’s a member of both the National Honor Society and the Italian National Honor Society at Boardman, proving her commitment to excellence isn’t limited to running. Her hard work extends into the classroom, where she maintains a 4.0 GPA thanks to her sharp study habits.

When asked what she values most about her teammates, Gabby said, “that they always pick me up when I’m feeling down, and I can always trust them.” It’s clear that Gabby’s leadership, both on and off the course, makes her a key piece of the Boardman cross country team.

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GEISS SETS PACE; BEAVER LOCAL TAKES TEAM CROWN IN SUBURBAN LEAGUE MEET

POLAND, OH- The Suburban League Cross Country Meet was nothing short of a footrace frenzy, with local runners pushing the pace through the leaf-strewn courses of autumn. It was a day where the stopwatch was king, and the runners from schools across the league battled it out for top honors.

Leading the pack was Rebecca Geiss from Heartland, who clocked in an impressive 20 minutes and 50 seconds, setting the pace for the day. Not far behind, Hannah Ruberto from Beaver Local finished strong with a time of 21 minutes and 59 seconds, snagging second place. The Poland team showed their depth, with Mila Milosevic taking third with a time of 23 minutes and 50 seconds, leading her team to a low score of 27 points, a testament to their combined efforts and strategy.

Bella DiPasqua and Kate Harrell, also from Poland, weren’t far off the leading pace, finishing fourth and fifth respectively, demonstrating Poland’s dominance on their home turf. Meanwhile, Gabby McDowell from Heartland and Berkely Corey from Springfield put up notable times, contributing crucial points to their teams.

As the runners continued to cross the finish line, it was clear that the competitive spirit was high. Poland’s Sarah White and Maya Walker rounded out the top finishes for their team, ensuring Poland’s position as a tough contender in the league.

The Heartland team, despite the strong individual showing from Geiss and McDowell, totaled 47 points, reflecting the tight competition among the top runners. Beaver Local, with a team score of 52 points, also demonstrated their prowess, making it a close race for the team title.

GEISS BRINGS A CHAMPIONSHIP HOME TO HEARTLAND

COLUMBIANA OH- State championships are hard to get to, and even harder to win.  When an individual or team bring a championship trophy home to a school it brings pride to the whole community.  Pride being the biggest of key word when it comes to Heartland Christian. It’s a pride of Lions that band together in Heartland and show everyone what it means to have an attitude of a champion.  After the cross country season concluded, not only do they have the attitude of a champion, but now Heartland Christian has a brand new trophy of a champion.

Sophomore runner Rebecca Geiss has brought the glory home to the Purple Palace with a great showing in Columbus at the state championships.  She finished with a time of 17.55.0 to win the gold.  It finished a strong season for Geiss in the most tremendous way it could end. For Geiss though, it’s all about running for more than herself. She runs for her family, she runs for her community, and she runs for her faith.  She still has plenty of time to get even better before she graduates high school. We at YSN are so excited to see what Rebecca’s future holds.

Rebecca took the time to talk with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig to recap her season, and the championship feeling.  You won’t want to miss this exclusive interview with the newest YSN member to bring home a state championship!

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SOUTH RANGE CROSS COUNTRY STANDS TALL

CANFIELD, OH- The South Range Boys Cross Country team has been making impressive strides in their 2023 season. In a series of standout performances, they have consistently showcased their talent and determination.

At the Salem Early Bird Invitational, the team started strong, securing a remarkable 1st place victory. Emmitt Slabach took 2nd place, while Chuck Reigrut earned an impressive 4th place finish.

The Walsh Jesuit Invitational proved to be another significant milestone, as the team clinched 2nd place overall. Once again, Emmitt Slabach stood out, finishing in 2nd place, with Chuck Reigrut close behind in 3rd.

The Cardinal Middlefield Invitational saw the team at the top of their game, securing a 1st place victory. Emmitt Slabach continued to shine, capturing 2nd place, while Chuck Reigrut maintained his strong performance with a 4th place finish.

What sets this team apart is their collective effort and teamwork. During their victories at the Salem Early Bird and Cardinal Middlefield Invitationals, the 3 through 6 runners – Max Freeze, Caleb Baun, Cam Ward, and Xavier Winner – displayed remarkable resilience, overtaking opponents down the stretch to secure the victories.

The team also faced stiff competition at the Boardman Invitational, where they secured a 10th place finish. In this event, Chuck Reigrut particularly stood out, finishing an impressive 6th out of 483 runners.

Last weekend, The South Range Boys Cross Country team achieved a remarkable 6th place finish at the highly competitive Madison Invitational, where a total of 32 teams participated. Notably, they emerged as the top DII (Division II) team in the event.

Emmitt Slabach, one of the team’s standout runners, delivered an outstanding performance by securing 1st place in the race. Additionally, Chuck Reigrut displayed his strong running capabilities, finishing in 12th place among a field of 245 boys, further contributing to the team’s impressive overall performance.

With these outstanding performances, the South Range Boys Cross Country team is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with this season. Their dedication and competitive spirit have earned them well-deserved recognition, and they continue to inspire with their achievements on the cross-country course.