WARRIORS START OFF BEACH WEEK WITH A BASH

Photo Credit Dominic Hall

Story contributed by Larry Jennings

Vera Beach, Florida- The Edgewood Warriors commenced their 2024 season with a resounding 13-3 victory, invoking the mercy rule against the Westby Norsemen from Westby, Wisconsin. The clash took place at the former LA Dodgers spring training facility in Vero Beach, Florida.

Despite the Norsemen notching a run in the opening frame, the Warriors swiftly retaliated. Zane Naylor’s bases-loaded hit-by-pitch drove in their first run, followed by Aidan Hernandez’s single, bringing home pinch runner Logan Randolph for Tony Hall. Riley Baldwin’s solid line drive plated two more, with Caleb Johnson’s double extending the lead to 6-1 after the first inning.

In the bottom of the second, Alex Sperduto’s sacrifice fly added another run for the Warriors, while Westby managed to score one more in the top of the third.

As Westby threatened in the fifth, loading the bases and scoring one run, Alex Sperduto replaced Anthony Ciesicki on the mound, striking out the next two batters to halt the momentum.

The Warriors unleashed a barrage of offense in the bottom of the fifth, tallying six more runs through a combination of hits, wild pitches, and walks, sealing the 13-3 victory under the mercy rule.

The game was not without its physical toll, as the Warriors endured a total of seven hit-by-pitches, ensuring they might feel a few bruises come Thursday morning.

Tony Hall and Riley Baldwin led the Warriors in hits with two each, with Baldwin also topping the team with three runs batted in, highlighting their impactful contributions to the team’s triumphant season opener.

 

MUSTANGS MARCH PAST RED RAIDERS IN PAINESVILLE

Photo Credit: Jocyln Nicholas

Painesville, OH- In a decisive victory over the Harvey Red Raiders in Painesville on Monday, the Grand Valley Mustangs showcased the strength of their bottom lineup, securing a 12-2 win. Trenton Murduck, Justin Hagan, and Gage Mast emerged as key contributors, combining for five of the team’s eight hits while scoring four runs and driving in six.

The turning point came with a remarkable seven-run surge in the fifth inning. Kamden Cottrell kicked off the offensive onslaught by drawing a walk, followed by Austin Hall’s single, Trenton Murduck’s double driving in two runs, and Joey DiAlfredi’s fielder’s choice resulting in another run. Gage Mast’s groundout and Payton Plizga’s double added to the scoring frenzy.

The Mustangs had earlier opened the scoring in the fourth inning when Hagan’s single brought in two runs.

Eric Ellsworth delivered a stellar performance on the mound for Grand Valley, earning the win by pitching four scoreless innings, allowing only two hits while striking out eight and walking three. Meanwhile, Trent Hull took the loss for the Harvey Red Raiders, pitching four innings and giving up three runs on five hits, with nine strikeouts and two walks. Plizga made an appearance in relief for Grand Valley.

Murduck and Hagan showcased their prowess in the lineup, each collecting two hits, with Hagan driving in three runs from the eighth spot. The Mustangs demonstrated discipline at the plate, accumulating seven walks, with Blake Taylor, Plizga, and John Foss leading the team with two walks each.

For the Harvey Red Raiders, Aidan Englehart and Brandon Bildstein contributed with one RBI each, while Hull led the team with three hits in four at-bats and stole two bases. Overall, the Red Raiders managed to steal four bases in the game.

With their sights set on another victory, the Mustangs anticipate a rematch against the Red Raiders at home on Tuesday.

ST. JOHN BASEBALL STARTS OFF WITH A BANG

Ashtabula, OH- The St. John Heralds dominated the Mathews Mustangs with a resounding 12-2 victory on Monday, led by an outstanding performance from Will Anderson, who drove in four runs on two hits. Anderson’s impact was felt throughout the game as he doubled in the fifth inning, bringing home two runs, and drew a walk in the fourth inning, scoring another.

The scoring action began early for St. John when Aaron Wychock executed a steal of home in the bottom of the second inning. Ryan Williams extended their lead to 2-0 with a timely single in the third inning.

The Heralds showcased their offensive prowess with a five-run outburst in the fifth inning. Anthony Severino’s walk brought in one run, followed by Anderson’s double which plated two more. Ezra Campbell contributed with a sacrifice fly, adding another run, and Williams capped off the inning with a double of his own, driving in one more.

On the mound, Williams started strong for St. John, allowing only three hits and two runs over five innings while striking out nine batters. Gabe Pesa started for Mathews, conceding six hits and five runs (two earned) over three and two-thirds innings.

Anderson also made a significant impact in relief, pitching one shutout inning, striking out three batters, and not allowing any hits.

St. John Heralds’ offense was firing on all cylinders, amassing a total of 12 hits in the game. Bryson Vennitti led the charge with three hits in four at-bats, while Brady Cole and Williams also contributed multiple hits.

Vennitti and Kyle Hejduk showcased their speed on the bases, each stealing multiple bases, contributing to St. John’s impressive total of eight stolen bases in the game.

For Mathews, Pesa led the team at the plate with one RBI, going 1-for-2. Dom Toto managed two hits in three at-bats for Mathews.

Looking ahead, the Heralds are set to face the Conneaut Spartans in their next home game on Tuesday, riding high on their commanding victory.

LADY HERALDS HAVE ROUGH START IN OPENER

Ashtabula, OH- The Fighting Heralds faced a tough challenge against the Mathews Mustangs, succumbing to a 14-0 defeat in Monday night’s matchup. Mathews wasted no time asserting dominance, seizing an early lead in the first inning with Ramsey’s triple followed by Matheny’s double and Hufford’s single, each driving in a run.

In the second inning, Mathews unleashed an offensive barrage, scoring seven runs on six hits. Newsome’s single brought in two runs, while Matheny and Hufford contributed with singles of their own. Shugart’s powerful homer to center field added two more runs, with another run coming in through a subsequent play.

Maintaining their momentum, Mathews tacked on another run in the third inning, with Hufford’s double extending their lead to 11-0. Matheny secured the win on the mound for Mathews, while Isabelle Holler of the Fighting Heralds endured the loss, pitching four and one-third innings and allowing 13 runs, 11 of which were earned.

Isabelle Stern managed to notch a hit for the Fighting Heralds, while Matheny led Mathews with an impressive three hits in three at-bats. Newsome and Hufford emerged as offensive standouts for Mathews, each driving in three runs. Pate contributed two hits for Mathews, and Ramsey drew two walks. Mathews demonstrated discipline at the plate, accumulating six walks overall, while also showcasing solid defense with no errors committed.

Hufford’s stellar performance included eight plays made in the field. Looking ahead, the Fighting Heralds prepare for their next challenge against the Windham Varsity Bombers on Tuesday.

THUNDER JAMS AND LONG SHOTS IN THE ACBF SENIOR CLASSIC

Edgewood, OH- In an electrifying showcase of talent and sportsmanship, the Ashtabula County Senior All-Star game brought together the finest seniors from across the region. Divided into two teams, Team Bowser (Orange) and Team Bowler (Black), the seniors treated fans to a game filled with excitement and high-level basketball.

QUARTER SCORES
1st Half: Team Bowser (Orange) 69 – Team Bowler (Black) 68
2nd Half: Team Bowser (Orange) 72 – Team Bowler (Black) 77

Final: Team Bowser (Orange) 130 – Team Bowler (Black) 128

Team Bowser (Orange) Total Points:

  • Brady Andrejack (Edgewood): 9
  • Connor Mead (Lakeside): 16
  • Caydense Wiser (Pymatuning Valley): 7
  • Blake Krznaric (Pymatuning Valley): 15
  • Alex DiSalvatore (Lakeside): 20
  • Jacob Ernst (Edgewood): 22
  • Logan Kray (Edgewood): 15
  • Zane Neczeporenko (Pymatuning Valley): 26

This highly anticipated event, organized by the Ashtabula County Basketball Foundation, brought together the best of the best from the county’s high school basketball teams. Coached by two esteemed mentors, Edgewood’s John Bowler and Geneva’s Eric Bowser, the game was a testament to the talent and dedication of these young athletes.

During halftime, the crowd was treated to an exhilarating 3-point contest, won by Conneaut’s Chance Loomis, who showcased his sharpshooting skills by knocking down an incredible 27 3-pointers in just 2 minutes.

The player of the game honors were also awarded to Conneaut’s Chance Loomis, who delivered a standout performance with 31 points. Loomis’s scoring prowess and leadership on the court were instrumental in keeping Team Bowser competitive throughout the game.

From thunderous dunks by Aiden Hathy, Joey DeGeorge, Jerry Arrington, and Jacob Ernst to jaw-dropping long-range shots by Peyton Williams and Trevor Clute, the game featured a dazzling array of skills and highlights.

Overall, the All-Star game served as a fitting tribute to the hard work and talent of the Ashtabula County seniors. It was a memorable sendoff for these exceptional athletes as they embark on the next chapter of their basketball journeys.

ACBF SENIOR GIRLS GAME SHOWCASES ASHTABULA’S BEST

Edgewood, OH- In a thrilling display of talent and camaraderie, the Ashtabula County Senior All-Star game showcased the best of girls’ basketball in the region. Divided into two teams, Team Vencill (Orange) and Team Iarocci (Black), the seniors put on a show for the enthusiastic crowd.

QUARTER SCORES
1st Half: Team Vencill (Orange) 33 – Team Iarocci (Black) 26
2nd Half: Team Vencill (Orange) 25 – Team Iarocci (Black) 25

Team Vencill (Orange) Total Points:

  • Kayla Farley (Conneaut): 8
  • Chloe Freeman (Grand Valley): 9
  • McKenna Vencill (Edgewood): 17
  • Delaney Morrison (Geneva): 8
  • Morgan Crawford (Grand Valley): 4
  • Brooke Richmond (Geneva): 6
  • Maddy McDonald (Edgewood): 2
  • Katie McCollister (Edgewood): 4

Team Iarocci (Black) Total Points:

  • Alyssa Cevera (St. John): 17
  • Grace DiSalvatore (St. John): 3
  • Kaelyn Hart (Grand Valley): 6
  • Moharrah Jackson (Geneva): 13
  • Dixie Miller (Grand Valley): 10
  • Lanie Torrance (Lakeside): 2

The game, coached by Edgewood’s Randy Vencill and Ashtabula County legend Nic Iarocci, showcased the incredible talent and sportsmanship of the seniors. Despite the competitive nature of the game, it was evident that the players cherished the opportunity to share the court with their fellow seniors.

During halftime, the crowd was treated to an exciting 3-point contest, won by Geneva’s Brook Richmond, who showcased her sharpshooting skills by knocking down an impressive 36 3-pointers in just 2 minutes.

The player of the game honors went to Edgewood’s McKenna Vencill, who delivered a stellar performance with 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists. Vencill’s versatility and leadership on the court were instrumental in securing the victory for Team Vencill.

Overall, the All-Star game served as a fitting tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Ashtabula County seniors throughout their high school careers. It was a wonderful sendoff for these talented athletes as they transition to the next chapter of their lives.

LONGHORNS STAMPEDE PAST FALCONS IN DISTRICTS

North Ridgeville, OH- In a hard-fought battle on the court, the Jefferson Falcons faced off against the Lutheran West Longhorns in the OHSAA playoffs district semifinal, ultimately falling short with a final score of 44-65.

QUARTER SCORES
Jefferson Falcons: 9 | 15 | 5 | 15 = 44
Lutheran West: 10 | 19 | 21 | 15 = 65

Jefferson Falcons Total Points:

  • Joey DeGeorge: 14
  • Anthony Covetta: 12
  • Dylan Beebe: 10
  • Robbie Pisano: 5
  • Joel Navarro: 2
  • Terry Brown: 1

Lutheran West Total Points:

  • Jayson Levis: 21
  • Tino Yli-Junnila: 15
  • Matt Meyer: 8
  • Josh Meyer: 8
  • Dylan Bartchok: 7
  • Nick Parker: 6

Despite a valiant effort by the Falcons, led by standout performances from Joey DeGeorge, Anthony Covetta, and Dylan Beebe, they were unable to overcome the formidable Lutheran West squad. DeGeorge led the Falcons’ scoring with 14 points, followed closely by Covetta with 12 points and Beebe with 10 points. However, the Falcons faced a tough defensive challenge from Lutheran West, which limited their offensive opportunities throughout the game.

On the other side, Lutheran West showcased their offensive prowess, with Jayson Levis leading the charge with 21 points, followed by Tino Yli-Junnila with 15 points. The Longhorns’ balanced scoring attack, coupled with their strong defensive performance, proved to be the difference-maker in securing the victory and advancing to the district championship game.

While the Falcons’ season comes to an end with this loss, they can look back on a season filled with remarkable achievements and milestones. Notably, both senior Joey DeGeorge and junior Anthony Covetta reached the impressive milestone of 1,000 career points, highlighting their outstanding contributions to the team.

As for Lutheran West, they will now prepare to face the winner of the Rocky River Pirates vs. Howland Tigers game in the district championship game. With their strong performance in the semifinal matchup, the Longhorns are poised to continue their postseason success and vie for the district title.

JEFFERSON BEATS BENGALS IN OVERTIME THRILLER

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Jefferson, OH- In a nail-biting showdown, the Jefferson Falcons soared to victory over the Benedictine Bengals in a thrilling overtime battle, clinching a hard-fought win with a final score of 71-59.

QUARTER SCORES
Jefferson Falcons: 19 | 15 | 10 | 10 | 17 = 71
Benedictine Bengals: 12 | 12 | 11 | 14 | 10 = 59

Jefferson Falcons Total Points:

  • Anthony Covetta: 27
  • Joey DeGeorge: 25
  • Joel Navarro: 13
  • Robbie Pisano: 3
  • Dylan Beebe: 2
  • Terry Brown: 1

Benedictine Bengals Total Points:

  • Kris Smith: 23
  • John Horn: 16
  • Makell Byrd: 13
  • Damone Darmond: 5
  • Bryce Meitan: 3
  • Noah Whistler: 2
  • Matthew Torres: 2

The Falcons’ victory was marked by an incredible display of determination and resilience, with senior Joey DeGeorge delivering a clutch performance when it mattered most. DeGeorge’s last-second three-pointer at the end of regulation sent the game into overtime, igniting the crowd and propelling the Falcons to victory.

Leading the charge for the Falcons were Anthony Covetta and Joey DeGeorge, who combined for an impressive 52 points. Their stellar offensive contributions, coupled with Joel Navarro’s 13 points, proved instrumental in securing the win for the Falcons.

Despite the Bengals’ formidable efforts, led by Kris Smith with 23 points and John Horn with 16 points, they ultimately fell short in overtime. The Falcons’ relentless determination and clutch performances proved to be the deciding factor in this intense playoff matchup.

With this thrilling victory, the Jefferson Falcons advance to the district semifinals of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Lutheran West Longhorns. Riding high on the momentum of their overtime triumph, the Falcons look to continue their postseason success and advance further in the playoffs.

As for the Benedictine Bengals, their season comes to an end with this hard-fought loss in the sectional final.

FALCONS FLY BY MUSTANGS

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Hillsdale, OH- In a hard-fought playoff battle, the Grand Valley Mustangs faced off against the Hillsdale Falcons, but ultimately fell short with a final score of 70-54. Despite a valiant effort from the Mustangs, the Falcons’ offensive firepower proved to be too much to handle.

QUARTER SCORES
Grand Valley Mustangs: 12 | 10 | 15 | 17 = 54
Hillsdale Falcons: 19 | 16 | 17 | 18 = 70

Grand Valley Mustangs Total Points:

  • Braden Hart: 22
  • Jerry Arrington: 15
  • Bobby Roger: 8
  • Sammy Goforth: 5
  • Payton Plizga: 4

Hillsdale Falcons Total Points:

  • Troy Bennett: 23
  • Braylon Jaris: 19
  • Brian Knichbaum: 18
  • Jack Fickes: 5
  • Gabe Stack: 3
  • Hayden McFadden: 2

Despite facing a formidable opponent in the Falcons, the Mustangs showcased determination and resilience throughout the game. Led by Braden Hart’s impressive performance with 22 points, the Mustangs fought hard to keep pace with the Falcons’ offensive onslaught.

However, the Falcons proved to be a tough challenge, with Troy Bennett leading the charge with an outstanding 23-point performance. Supported by Braylon Jaris and Brian Knichbaum, who contributed 19 and 18 points respectively, the Falcons maintained their lead throughout the game.

Despite the loss, the Mustangs had several standout moments to celebrate this season, including senior Jerry Arrington’s achievement as the all-time leader in rebounds for Grand Valley. Although their playoff journey comes to an end with this defeat, the Mustangs can take pride in their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

As for the Hillsdale Falcons, their victory propels them into the district semifinals of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face off against the Warren JFK Eagles. With their potent offensive attack and resilient defense, the Falcons look to continue their postseason success and advance further in the playoffs.

WARRIORS ON FIRE IN SECTIONAL FINAL WIN

East Ashtabula, OH- In a thrilling sectional final showdown, the Edgewood Warriors delivered a commanding performance against the Gilmour Academy Lancers, securing a resounding victory with a final score of 77-57. Led by the stellar scoring efforts of Jacob Ernst and Peyton Williams, the Warriors showcased their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity throughout the game.

QUARTER SCORES
Edgewood Warriors: 16 | 16 | 24 | 21 = 77
Gilmour Academy Lancers: 4 | 10 | 14 | 29 = 57

Edgewood Warriors Total Points:

  • Jacob Ernst: 41
  • Peyton Williams: 14
  • Brady Andrejack: 8
  • Logan Kray: 6
  • Mason Thorr: 4
  • Russell Thomas: 4

Gilmour Academy Lancers Total Points:

  • Jimmy Lawless: 10
  • Nick Iliano: 9
  • Tim Lee: 8
  • Kenn Flaherty: 8
  • David Pfundstein: 6
  • Zae Titas: 6
  • Brady Olson: 5
  • Tanner Deweese: 2
  • Kingston Seeles: 2
  • Brayden Titas: 1

From the opening tip-off, Jacob Ernst demonstrated his scoring prowess, delivering a dominant performance that set the tone for the game. With an explosive first quarter, Ernst showcased his sharpshooting abilities, knocking down five 3-pointers and contributing 14 points to the Warriors’ early lead. Peyton Williams also displayed his shooting skills, adding to the Warriors’ offensive onslaught with four 3-pointers of his own.

Despite the Lancers’ efforts to mount a comeback in the second and third quarters, the Warriors maintained their composure and continued to control the tempo of the game. With a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense, the Warriors extended their lead heading into the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Warriors showcased their resilience and determination, fending off a late surge from the Lancers to secure the sectional championship victory. With Jacob Ernst leading the charge with an impressive 41-point performance, the Warriors celebrated their well-deserved triumph on the court.

With this victory, the Edgewood Warriors (18-5) clinch the sectional championship title and advance to the district semifinals of the OHSAA playoffs. They will await the winner of the Notre Dame Cathedral Latin Lions vs. Geneva Eagles game as they continue their postseason journey.

As for the Gilmour Academy Lancers (15-9), their season comes to an end with this loss in the sectional final.