DATTILO DIGS IN FOR SENIOR SEASON

/in , /by

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – Lucas Dattilo has been a part of the Springfield Tigers football program for as long as anyone can remember and now he is one of the seniors on this 2023 Tigers team that has the community buzzing with excitement. From his spot on the line, Lucas looks to lead by example in the trenches and create plays that will spring the Tigers to success each game.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie had the opportunity to sit down with Lucas Dattilo this week to discuss his senior season, what his plans are for the season and after he graduates, what it means to him to be a Springfield Tiger, and a rapid fire questionnaire to find out some of the little things that make him the person and player that he is.

Tune in to this exclusive player profile with senior Lucas Dattilo of the Springfield Tigers!

 

PRESENTED BY:

MUSTANGS GEARING UP FOR THE SEASON: 2023 GRAND VALLEY FOOTBALL PREVIEW

/in , /by

East Palestine, OH-In the heart of Orwell, Ohio, the Grand Valley Mustangs are gearing up for an exciting football season that promises to be one of transformation and determination. After a challenging 2022 season, the Mustangs are ready to take the field once again, fueled by lessons learned and an unyielding drive to succeed.

The 2022 season wasn’t all the Mustangs had hoped for, ending with a 2-8 record. However, this was a significant improvement from their previous year, where they finished with a 1-7 record. Beyond the numbers, the Mustangs showed remarkable growth on the offensive front, and much of this progress can be attributed to their senior quarterback, Nate Boiarski. Boiarski’s impressive performance included amassing 1,225 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, leaving a legacy that would be tough to replicate.

With Boiarski’s graduation, the Mustangs are preparing to pass the torch to an emerging star, Sammy Goforth. An incoming junior, Goforth showcased his skills in the previous season, taking a few snaps as a sophomore. Now, he’s set to lead the team as the starting quarterback. Known for his agility and elusiveness, Goforth’s dynamic playing style promises to keep opposing defenses on their toes. As he steps into this pivotal role, the Grand Valley community is eager to witness his growth and impact on the field.

The Mustangs won’t be short on talent in the receiving department either. Returning to the field is Robert Rogers, who concluded the 2022 season as Ashtabula County’s top receiver. Rogers tallied an impressive 819 receiving yards on 56 receptions, with an astonishing 11 touchdowns to his name. His ability to create openings and his exceptional leaping skills have earned him the moniker “Grasshopper,” making him a force to be reckoned with on the field.

As the Mustangs embark on the new season, the backfield will be fortified by the presence of John Foss-Peters and Kam Cottrell. Both players are known for their hard-nosed, downhill running style, making them effective on inside runs as well as sweeps. With their combined prowess, they’re poised to make a significant impact on the Mustangs’ offensive strategy.

The offensive line, a cornerstone of any successful football team, will be anchored by senior Trevor Mullen and sophomore Austin Miller. Their experience and dedication are expected to provide the stability and protection needed to maximize the team’s offensive potential.

This season marks the Mustangs’ final year in the CVC conference before returning to the NAC conference for the 2024-2025 year. The team is also set to face new opponents, including Conneaut, Wickliffe, Berkshire, and Kirtland. While the upcoming schedule is filled with exciting matchups, one game that stands out is the clash against their rivals, Pymatuning Valley, in week 3. This game carries not only the promise of victory but also the prestigious Battle of the Valley Trophy.

When asked about their approach to the upcoming season, head coach Clint Nims emphasized the need for mental and physical toughness, along with a determination to finish strong. This sentiment encapsulates the Mustangs’ determination to overcome challenges and leave an indelible mark on the field.

Football enthusiasts in Orwell and beyond are eagerly awaiting the upcoming season, with expectations running high for the Grand Valley Mustangs. As they bid farewell to the CVC conference, this year promises to be a memorable swansong, filled with grit, passion, and the pursuit of victory. Make sure to catch all the thrilling action as the Mustangs charge forward, making history on the field. You can follow their journey on the home of High School sports in Ashtabula County, www.YSNlive.com.

HERALDS HOPE TO BRING NEWS OF SUCCESS: 2023 FOOTBALL PREVIEW

/in , /by

East Palestine, OH- In the world of sports, there’s a beauty in witnessing a team’s evolution, its struggles, and its unyielding determination to rise above challenges. The Saint John Heralds, a team deeply rooted in the heart of Ashtabula’s community, have been on a remarkable journey of transformation. As they gear up for the 2023 season, the Heralds are determined to leave behind the disappointments of the past and create a new narrative of success and redemption.

The Heralds’ 2022 season concluded with a record of 2-7, a tough pill to swallow for both players and fans alike. Yet, this season served as a crucial building block for the team’s future endeavors. With their second year as a member of the Northeastern Athletic Conference, the Heralds are set to showcase their growth and development on a larger stage.

One of the most noticeable aspects of the Heralds’ transformation has been their renewed sense of unity and youthful vigor. In 2022, the team was characterized by its youth and inexperience, a challenge that often tested their mettle. However, as the saying goes, “adversity introduces a man to himself.” The Heralds used their setbacks as fuel to grow, learn, and emerge stronger than before.

While the departure of key playmakers like Matt Miller will be felt, the team’s heartbeat lies in its returning quarterback, Vin Narducci. Narducci’s journey from being an offensive lineman to a quarterback showcases his adaptability and determination. His impressive performance in his first year as a varsity quarterback, throwing for over 1200 yards and 8 touchdowns, offers a glimpse into his potential as a leader on the field.

Narducci’s growth has been nurtured by the support of his talented wide receivers, namely junior Sullivan Twinning and sophomore Anthony Severino. With their speed and exceptional catching abilities, Twinning and Severino are poised to create dynamic plays that keep the opposition on their toes.

In the backfield, the Heralds boast a duo that perfectly balances power and agility. Junior Ryan Williams brings his formidable strength and blocking skills, enhancing the team’s offensive prowess. Complementing him is the swift and elusive Will Anderson, a player whose playmaking abilities promise to rejuvenate the Heralds’ run game.

The offensive line’s improvement, driven by senior Hank Wagner and sophomores Anthony Petrochello, Milo Twining and Donald Crawford, further solidifies the team’s prospects. The addition of sophomore Frankie Dubsky as center reflects the team’s emphasis on both experience and strategic understanding, crucial elements in navigating intense game situations.

The Heralds’ determination to evolve extends beyond their lineup. The 2023 season introduces new opponents like Trinity, Wickliffe, Beachwood, Steubenville Central Catholic, and Lincoln West. These fresh challenges will undoubtedly test the Heralds’ progress and mettle. However, they won’t be devoid of familiar faces, as conference teams Windham, Chalker, and Pymatuning Valley continue to be part of their journey. Notably, the eagerly awaited rivalry game against Fairport Harbor in week 9 adds an extra layer of excitement to the season.

Coach Bob Dlwgosh, a guiding force behind the team’s resurgence, encapsulates the Heralds’ aspirations succinctly: “To be successful, we just need to carry this level of intensity and focus we’ve had all summer into the season and keep it for 10 weeks.” This attitude reflects the Heralds’ commitment to consistency and perseverance, traits that are vital in a sport as demanding as football.

The Saint John Heralds’ revival story is one of relentless effort, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a community united by a common goal. As they step onto the field for the 2023 season, they do so not just as a football team, but as a symbol of determination and transformation. With each play, each touchdown, and each victory, the Heralds are scripting a story of redemption that resonates far beyond the confines of a football field.

For those who can’t make it to the games in person, the Heralds’ journey will be available live on www.YSNlive.com, an opportunity for fans near and far to witness the resurgence of a team that’s ready to rewrite its destiny.

WARRIORS BANKING ON EXPERIENCE TO REACH NEW HEIGHTS: 2023 EDGEWOOD FOOTBALL PREVIEW

/in , /by

East Palestine, OH- The Edgewood Warriors are gearing up for an electrifying 2023 high school football season, and all eyes are on their impressive roster and determined coaching staff as they prepare to take the field. After a playoff season in 2022 that concluded with a solid 6-5 record, the Warriors are hungry for more success and are armed with a lineup that boasts both experience and raw talent.

Last year’s campaign saw the Warriors wave goodbye to some key playmakers due to graduation, including their leading receiver Christian Cunningham. Despite this setback, the team’s youthful core showed immense promise and resilience, setting the stage for what’s to come this year. With an incredible 15 seniors and 20 starters who have honed their skills over at least two years of varsity playing time, the Warriors are now Ashtabula County’s most seasoned team.

The offensive front will remain a stronghold for the Warriors, as their entire offensive line from the previous year returns, led by the exceptional Nick Barger. Barger’s intelligence and strength make him a cornerstone of the team, particularly as a reliable pass protector. Under center, the Warriors will have the privilege of fielding Tony Hall, Ashtabula County’s leading passer from the 2022 season. Hall’s impressive stats from his inaugural year as the full-time starter—nearly 1,900 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and just 8 interceptions—demonstrate his prowess and potential.

The receiving corps stands as one of the Warriors’ strongest assets, featuring names like Anthony Hunt, Jacob Ernst, and Zach Carlton-Hull. Hunt’s precision, Ernst’s athleticism, and Carlton-Hull’s agility create a formidable trio that promises to keep opponents on their toes. Additional talents like Austin Zall, Ben Schwartfigure, and Michael Bisbey further deepen the pool of pass-catching abilities.

In the backfield, the tandem of Zeke Lucas and Seth Enos offers a blend of power and resilience that sets them apart. These running backs are known for their exceptional strength, often requiring more than a single hit to bring them down. Moreover, their blocking skills provide an extra layer of protection for Hall, the quarterback.

While offense captured attention in 2022, the Warriors’ coaching staff has placed a strong emphasis on defense as they prepare for the forthcoming season. With the return of the formidable linebacking duo, Seth Enos and Zeke Lucas, who collectively tallied over 200 tackles last year, the team has a solid foundation to build upon. The defensive line’s performance is expected to elevate, and playmaking abilities within the defensive backs, led by Hunter Braat who snagged 4 interceptions in 2022, are poised to keep opponents on their toes.

The Warriors’ 2023 schedule will see some new faces, with four fresh opponents added. Youngstown Liberty will serve as their home opener, followed by matchups against Painesville Harvey, Hawken, and Madison. The final regular-season showdown against bitter rivals Lakeside, who the Warriors managed to best 32-28 last year, promises to be a thrilling conclusion.

Coach Olajuwon Cooper exudes confidence in this year’s roster, describing them as a potentially special group with a strong focus on high-level competition and fundamental excellence. The leadership of the 15 seniors is expected to be a driving force, guiding the team’s performance throughout the season. Cooper’s assertion that success hinges on consistently playing at a high level and imposing their will on opponents underscores the Warriors’ determination. Coach Cooper was quoted “We can be expected to compete at a high level and be a fundamentally sound football team in all facets of the game. Our 15 seniors provide great leadership and will be catalyst for us all season. To be successful this season we must consistently play at a high level and dictate games to our opponents. We are looking to impose our will and do whatever it takes to win. We’ve had a great offseason and now it’s time for that work to pay off!”

For fans eager to witness this exciting journey unfold, all of the Warriors’ games will be available to stream live on www.YSNlive.com. As the Edgewood Warriors gear up to make their mark on the 2023 high school football season, anticipation and excitement are reaching a fever pitch. This year holds the promise of memorable moments, fierce competition, and the unwavering spirit of the Warriors’ community rallying behind their team.

DRAGONS LOOK TO BURN BRIGHT: 2023 LAKESIDE FOOTBALL PREVIEW

/in /by

East Palestine, OH- The Lakeside Dragons are poised to take the field once again, riding the momentum of a successful playoff season in 2022 where they secured a 6-5 record. Despite bidding farewell to some key graduating players, the Dragons are far from lacking in talent and determination. With a lineup that boasts experienced veterans and promising newcomers, anticipation is running high for what lies ahead on the gridiron.

One of the standout factors for the Lakeside Dragons this season is the return of their entire starting offensive line, a group that has earned a reputation as arguably the strongest line in the county. The formidable lineup includes Hasani Sy, Greyson Petros, Gavin “Moose” Grant, Randy Valeriano, and Ethan Hastings. With their collective prowess and unmatched teamwork, this offensive line is set to create crucial opportunities for the Dragons’ playmakers throughout the season.

The backfield will be a showcase of versatility, with a trio of skilled players ready to bring different strengths to the game. Leading the pack is Nate Bartone, who impressed in the 2022 season as the leading rusher with 626 yards and 7 touchdowns. Alongside him, Caleb Stitt and the lightning-fast Devin Miller offer dynamic skill sets that promise to be effective in various game scenarios.

Under the spotlight as the team’s second-year starter is quarterback Alex DiSalvatore, a towering presence at 6’4″ with an arm to match. DiSalvatore’s campaign in 2022 showcased his growth and determination, as he threw for 1,138 yards, connecting for 13 touchdowns while minimizing interceptions to 8. His primary target on the field is the playmaking Jimmy Timonere, whose exceptional ability to leap and secure catches makes him a formidable opponent for defensive backs.

The Dragons’ journey commences with a rematch against Eastlake North, a team they bested with a resounding 26-0 victory in 2022. As the season unfolds, the Dragons’ schedule reveals exciting new matchups that promise to test their mettle. Notable additions include games against NDCL in week 2, facing off against Youngstown’s powerhouse Ursuline in week 3, and rekindling an old NEC rivalry with Jefferson in week 7.

Buzz Edwards, the head coach of the Lakeside Dragons, is well aware of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Speaking about the season and the team’s expectations, Edwards emphasized the mixture of experienced underclassmen and talented newcomers. Edwards noted that the challenge lies in finding the right combination for success and urged veterans to step up into leadership roles to guide the team forward. Coach was quoted “ We have a very experienced group of underclassmen and returning players that are very talented and have been through it all. We also have a very talented but very inexperienced group of underclassmen who have not seen anything. Getting them coached up by the 18th of August is vital for us. We have to grow up fast. The challenge is trying to get the right combination for us to be successful. Some veterans need to realize there isn’t anyone that will come in and lead them anymore. It’s on them now to do it. “

For ardent supporters and curious fans, the Lakeside Dragons’ games will be available for live viewing on www.YSNlive.com, ensuring that the excitement of each play and every touchdown can be experienced from the comfort of home.

As the Lakeside Dragons prepare to make their mark on the gridiron once again, they do so with a sense of determination and camaraderie. With an unyielding offensive line, a versatile backfield, and a confident quarterback-receiver duo, the stage is set for the Dragons to capture hearts and ignite the spirit of competition in the 2023 football season.

FITCH TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL STEEL VALLEY YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP

/in /by

AUSTINTOWN OH- The Steel Valley Conference has a rich history on the gridiron when talking to the players of the past. Playing football in Youngstown was a dream come true when the Steel Valley was in its golden days.  It’s no surprise that the people that saw those Steel Valley dreams come true are now doing everything they can to help foster the next generation’s dreams of dominating Grit City.

Fitch alum Tim McWilson is incredibly proud of his roots. He’s wanted to start a youth camp for quite some time. When COVID 19 put a pause on those plans, he never gave up the vision. Last summer McWilson was able to put together an insanely successful camp hosted by his old stomping grounds. It went so well that having another one this summer was a no brainer for both parties.  On June8th at 9:00 the young stars of the future can come to Greenwood Field and learn from some of the best guest coaches you can find. After the festivities end, they’ll be treated by a guest appearance by former Ohio State running back Beanie Wells.  This is a great opportunity for the youth of the valley to grow their gridiron skills.

Tim was kind enough to talk with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig about why feeding in to the youth of Youngstown is so important. They talk about some of his favorite memories at Fitch, what planted the seeds of this camp, and much more. Check out this exclusive interview only on YSN!

Presented By

STARS TO SHINE IN 44TH PENN-OHIO FOOTBALL CLASSIC

/in /by

SALEM, OH- The Bright Lights will be beaming down on some of the area’s best talent on June 22nd, as the 44th Edition of the Penn-Ohio Football All-Star game will take place LIVE from Sebo Stadium in Salem.

Team Ohio looks very promising with the amount of talent they’ve been able to bring together, as they look for back-to-back wins in the game.  The Quarterback room is especially impressive with the like of West Branch’s Dru DeShields, Salem’s Jackson Johnson, and South Range’s Billy Skripac.

The game will feature area talent from Boardman, Southern, West Branch, Salem, South Range, Toronto, Indian Creek, Valley Christian, Lisbon, Crestview, Columbiana, Edison, Springfield, and many more.

Tickets to the game can be purchased at the gate for $10 on June 22nd, or if you can’t make it, the game can be seen on YSN beginning at 7pm.

Best of luck to both teams, and congratulations on a successful career at your respective schools.


PAWLOWSKI MAKES A CAPITAL CONNECTION

/in , , /by

East Palestine- Mason Pawlowski came into the 2022 football season with offers from various programs all interested in his ability to produce on and off the field. Serving as the cornerstone to the Regional Championship Jefferson Falcons offensive line he played an integral part in solidifying one of the most explosive offenses in Division IV region 13. While offers began to stack up for Pawlowski, Capital University stuck out the most and was ultimately chosen to be the place where he will fight in the trenches next year.

 

Pawlowski fully embraced the student portion of his student athlete title during his tenure at Jefferson High School as one of the top academic students in the school achieving a 4.0 GPA and becoming one of the top ranked students in his class. When speaking to head football coach Brandon Hanna about Mason he marveled at Pawlowski’s work ethic and his undying pursuit to become better every day. Whether he was blocking against the biggest and strongest defenders on the line or getting called into the backfield to serve as additional muscle Mason embraced and conquered any challenge that was placed before him. He looks forward to incorporating the Falcons mindset of “BTC” or Be The Change when embarking on his new journey at Capital University.

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH DAVE RACH

/in /by

COLUMBIANA, OH- For the first time in nearly three decades, the baton has been passed from a Hall of Fame coach in Dan Yeagley, to recently announced South Range life-long product, David Rach.

Rach brings a boatload of coaching experience into the fold, as well as the respect of the entire Raider community.  Rach has been coaching for over a decade and intertwined this with his experience as an all-state player in high school and a standout linebacker at Youngstown State University.

Coach Rach immediately identified that he’s not looking to make changes to what’s been working, as he’d much rather continue to build the tradition South Range has established along the way that has garnered state-wide attention and a recent state championship.

YSN and DJ Yokley sat down with the new head ball coach and were honored to have the first interview with Coach Rach at Athletix.

PRESENTED BY

 

BUENTE TABBED TO LEAD JFK IN NEXT CHAPTER

/in , /by

WARREN, OH- The next chapter in John F. Kennedy Catholic School football begins today. After meeting with our team this morning, Mr. Joseph Kenneally, President, announces that Mr. Damon Buente has been selected as the Head Varsity Football Coach. He says, “I am thrilled that Damon will take the reins of the Kennedy Football Program. A number of talented coaches applied for this position and, ultimately, we believe Coach Buente is the person to guide our program into the future. I appreciate the fact that he has an established relationship with our players and program continuity for our team was critical in our decision process. Coach Buente will continue our proud tradition of teaching players to be leaders of courage, integrity, and dedication on the field and in the classroom.”

Coach Buente has 11 years of varsity experience as a strength conditioning coach, offensive coordinator, and coaching both sides of the ball during his career at both Canfield and Western Reserve High Schools. Since 2014 he has also coached Track as an assistant and head coach at Western Reserve and most recently joined the 2022 Kennedy Football staff as a Varsity Assistant Coach and 2023 Assistant Track Coach. Coach Buente says of his appointment, “I am forever grateful for the mentorship and guidance that Coach Prologo gave to me and my peers. While growing up, I gave him every reason to give up on me as a player and he never did. How lucky I am to pick up the torch at a program like JFK. I’m very fortunate and excited to get to work with our team.”

Coach Buente is a 2012 graduate of Miami University and has taught both high school and junior high at Western Reserve Local Schools since 2014. He serves as a member of the District Autism Awareness Team and Trauma Informed Care Team.

Questions can be directed to President Joseph Kenneally at 330-369-1804 or [email protected].