CHAMPION, OHIO — The Jefferson Falcons were overwhelmed on Friday evening, falling 13-0 to the Champion Golden Flashes in a dominant performance by the home team.
Champion wasted no time getting on the board, striking in the bottom of the first inning when Gabrielle Gradishar launched a three-run homer to center field, giving the Golden Flashes an early lead they would never relinquish.
The big inning came in the third, when Champion erupted for six runs on just three hits. Adalyn McIntosh delivered an RBI single, and Jonna Strock blew the game wide open with a grand slam to left field. Maddison Sylvester capped off the inning with a groundout that brought in another run.
Jefferson starting pitcher Ada Sirrine worked three innings, allowing six hits and 12 runs—10 of them earned—while striking out three and walking three.
Gradishar was lights out in the circle for Champion, tossing a complete-game one-hitter. The right-hander struck out 11 batters and didn’t allow a single walk in her five-inning outing.
Alaina Barress recorded the lone hit for Jefferson, going 1-for-2 at the plate.
Champion’s offense was spread out, with seven different players each recording a hit. Strock led the way with four RBIs, while McIntosh, Gradishar, Ava Sylvester, Haley Bungard, Sam Strock, and Taylor Rouan all contributed to the hit parade. Defensively, the Golden Flashes were flawless, turning a double play and committing no errors. Catcher Josie Perhach handled the most defensive chances with 11.
The Falcons will look to bounce back quickly as they hit the road again Saturday for a matchup against Austintown-Fitch.
ANDOVER, Ohio — The Grand Valley Mustangs used timely offense and a dominant outing from Payton Plizga to shut out the Pymatuning Valley Lakers, 7-0, on Friday afternoon in Andover.
The Mustangs wasted no time getting on the board, capitalizing on a first-inning error that brought in two runs. In the second inning, Plizga gave himself some breathing room on the mound by launching a two-run homer to left field, extending Grand Valley’s lead to 4-0.
Plizga was just as sharp on the hill as he was at the plate. The right-hander tossed a complete-game shutout, allowing only two hits while striking out five and walking just one. He earned the win with an efficient and composed seven-inning performance.
Opposite Plizga, Smith took the loss for the Lakers. He pitched four innings, giving up five runs—only two of which were earned—on three hits, while striking out four and walking three.
Plizga led the Mustangs’ offense with a perfect 2-for-2 day at the plate, driving in two runs and drawing two walks. Blake Taylor also notched two RBIs in the win. Grand Valley’s lineup showed patience throughout the game, drawing six walks and swiping nine bases. Both Plizga and Carl Krieg stole multiple bags, keeping pressure on the Lakers’ defense throughout.
On defense, the Mustangs were equally sharp, turning a double play to stifle a potential Lakers rally. Pymatuning Valley managed just two hits in the game, one each from Britton and Paul, and also turned a double play of their own.
With the win, Grand Valley improves their momentum heading into their next matchup on the road against Harding this coming Monday.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Logo-graphic-3-6862886.png16202880Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-04-04 21:46:082025-04-04 21:46:08MUSTANGS MOVE PAST LAKERS
Ashtabula, OH — Isabelle Holler delivered a dominant performance in the circle on Friday evening, striking out 12 batters to lead the Saint John Heralds to a 6-4 victory over the visiting Bristol Panthers in Northeastern Athletic Conference (NAC) action.
Holler went the distance for the Heralds, allowing 11 hits and four earned runs over seven innings while walking just two. Her command and composure on the mound helped Saint John battle back from an early deficit and hold off a late push from Bristol.
The Panthers broke through in the top of the fourth inning. M. Workman singled to bring in the game’s first run, and A. Atchinson followed with a two-run double to give Bristol a 3-0 lead.
Saint John answered in the bottom of the fifth. A wild pitch allowed a run to score, then Maddie Holler came up clutch with a bases-clearing double that gave the Heralds a 5-4 advantage.
Gianna Torres added a spark for the Heralds, ripping a triple and scoring twice on the night to help fuel the comeback. Her aggressive base running and timely hitting proved to be key in a close contest.
Isabelle Holler also contributed offensively, driving in three runs and going 1-for-1 at the plate. Caitlyn Carney helped set the tone at the top of the lineup, collecting two hits in four at-bats.
Workman took the loss for Bristol, pitching five and one-third innings while allowing five runs on four hits. She struck out seven and walked three. At the plate, she led the Panthers with a 4-for-5 effort. Atchinson chipped in with a 2-for-4 performance and two RBIs.
Bristol finished with 11 hits and was sharp defensively, committing no errors. S. Gibson led the team in the field with eight chances.
The Heralds (1-0) will look to stay unbeaten as they hit the road Monday for another NAC matchup against Bloomfield.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/435564138_1587906595388164_9073908478559814092_n.jpg10531179Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-04-04 21:24:352025-04-04 21:24:35LADY HERALDS GRAB FIRST SEASON WIN OVER PANTHERS
Ashtabula, OH – Senior Ryan Williams turned in a stellar all-around performance, collecting three hits, driving in three runs, and pitching a scoreless inning in relief to lead the Saint John Heralds to an 11-1 victory over the Bristol Panthers in NAC conference action Friday at Smith Field.
Bristol got on the board early in the top of the first inning after Kaiden Kohler grounded out to bring home a run. But the Heralds wasted no time responding in the bottom half, as Ezra Campbell drove in the tying run with a groundout before Williams gave Saint John the lead with a sharp RBI single to center.
Williams stayed hot in the sixth inning, capping a five-run outburst with a two-run double that put the game out of reach for the Panthers.
The Heralds steadily built their lead throughout the game. Campbell singled home a run in the second, Aaron Wychock added an RBI single in the third, and Campbell doubled in another in the fifth. A wild pitch, an RBI single by Will Anderson, and Campbell’s third RBI hit of the day helped spark the sixth-inning explosion before Williams delivered the dagger.
Wychock earned the win on the mound, limiting Bristol to one hit and one run over five innings while striking out five and walking two. Williams closed out the game with a strong inning of relief, striking out one and allowing just one hit.
Offensively, Williams and Campbell led the charge with three hits apiece, combining for seven RBIs. Anderson, Anthony Severino, and Dyln Newsome also recorded multi-hit games, contributing to the team’s 15-hit offensive outburst. Severino and Williams drew two walks each, helping Saint John to a total of six free passes on the day.
The Heralds were aggressive on the base paths, racking up seven stolen bases. Newsome and Gus Petros each swiped multiple bags to keep the pressure on the Panthers.
Kaiden Kohler and Croc Thorp each collected one hit for Bristol, with Kohler also driving in the Panthers’ only run. Kohler took the loss on the mound, surrendering six runs on 12 hits over five innings, striking out four and walking four.
Saint John will look to keep the momentum rolling when they travel to face Chalker on Wednesday.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/436729394_3120683431401376_5160657482679459810_n-e1713838389555.jpg6291021Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-04-04 21:12:262025-04-04 21:25:05HERALDS START NAC PLAY WITH A WIN
Ashtabula, OH- The Saint John Heralds erupted for nine runs in the fifth inning to secure a decisive 13-3 victory over the Edgewood Warriors on Tuesday at Smith Field in Ashtabula, Ohio. The offensive explosion propelled the Heralds to a run-rule win in their home opener.
Edgewood struck first in the top of the second inning when Vegh drew a bases-loaded walk to bring home a run. However, Saint John responded in the bottom of the fourth to take control of the game. Chase Clutter got things started with a sacrifice fly to drive in a run, followed by Will Anderson’s RBI single. A costly Edgewood error allowed two more runs to cross the plate, giving the Heralds a 4-1 advantage.
The fifth inning proved to be the turning point as Saint John broke the game wide open. Chase Newsome singled in a run, Anderson followed with a two-run single, and Ezra Campbell delivered a clutch two-run double. Additional runs came across on a pair of Edgewood errors and a fielder’s choice off the bat of Kyle Hejduk, capping off the nine-run outburst.
Gus Petros got the start for the Heralds, delivering a solid outing on the mound. He worked four innings, allowing three hits and two runs while striking out four and walking four. Hejduk and Carson Williams came on in relief to close out the game.
Edgewood’s starting pitcher, Measel, held his own early but ran into trouble in the later innings. He allowed five hits and four unearned runs over 3.2 innings, striking out four and walking two.
Offensively, Anderson led the charge for Saint John, going 2-for-4 with three RBIs. Campbell also contributed two hits, while Hejduk and Aaron Wychock displayed patience at the plate with two walks apiece. The Heralds played flawless defense, committing no errors, with Dyln Newsome recording five putouts.
For Edgewood, Sperduto and Vegh each drove in a run, while Braat showed discipline at the plate with two walks. The Warriors drew six walks as a team but struggled to string together hits against the Heralds’ pitching staff.
Saint John will play their next games all at home Wednesday against the Lordstown Red Devils, Thursday against Warren JFK, and Friday against Bristol. The Warriors will play their next game on the road against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers on Thursday, followed by a home game against West Geauga on Friday.
Saint John will look to build on this strong performance as they continue their season, while Edgewood aims to bounce back in their next game.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/435566742_764588288763565_3635647773107812293_n-e1714008479370.jpg9011172Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-04-01 21:07:242025-04-01 21:07:24HERALDS HOT BATS LEAD TO WIN OVER WARRIORS
Youngstown, OH — Your Sports Network (YSN) CEO and Founder DJ Yokley delivered a surprise donation to The Rich Center for Autism on March 28th. The $6,000 check he delivered was made possible through the collection of gate fees charged during boys and girls high school all-star basketball and volleyball games.
“DJ reached out to me earlier this year about supporting The Rich Center for Autism, but today’s contribution was an incredible surprise!” Rich Center Executive Director Dr. Michael Latessa said. “YSN and the local sports community truly stepped up to show compassion and care while supporting our center. We are so grateful to YSN and everyone who participated in or attended the all-star games!”
Yokley made the most of his time visiting The Rich Center by taking a tour, seeing how students and staff interact and asking questions about autism and how YSN can further assist the Center.
“We’re proud to be able to raise awareness and funds to benefit such a great organization in our valley like the Rich Center. Our mission is to make a greater impact in the world through sports by promoting a heroic sense of belonging in our communities through student-athletes, coaches, and fans.” said Yokley.
YSN’s willingness to learn about autism and the day-to-day challenges faced at The Rich Center, in addition to making a monetary donation, has both YSN and the Center excited for the future.
“DJ showed a genuine interest in The Rich Center and how YSN can help in the future,” Community Engagement Coordinator Jake Ellis said. “He asked very specific questions while touring our facility and wanted to learn as much as he could during his time here. That is a great first step to promoting both awareness and acceptance for the autism community.”
April is Autism Awareness Month and The Rich Center is extremely grateful for the support we receive from our community.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/img_1747-e1743435616498.jpg7801380YSN Staffhttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngYSN Staff2025-03-31 11:41:332025-03-31 11:41:33YSN USES ALL-STAR GAMES TO DONATE $6,000 TO RICH CENTER FOR AUTISM
The Jefferson Falcons softball team is set to embark on an exciting season under the leadership of first-year head coach Nick Price. While this may be his first year at the helm, Price is no stranger to the program, having been on the coaching staff since 2019. With over a decade of coaching experience in both travel and high school softball, Price is ready to guide the Falcons through a season filled with promise and potential.
In a recent Coaches Corner interview with YSN’s Sam Torres, Price discussed his transition to head coach, the talent returning to the roster, and the expectations for the upcoming season. Despite the new responsibilities that come with the head coaching role, Price has embraced the challenge, with media obligations being one of the few unexpected adjustments. “The media stuff, really,” Price admitted when asked what has caught him off guard. “Between newspapers and interviews, that was always done by the previous coach. But everything else has been the same, just like running travel.”
One advantage for Price is his familiarity with the program and its players. The Falcons return six starters from last year’s team, a strong foundation for building success. While the departure of three key starters initially posed a concern, a standout freshman, Alaina Barress, has stepped up in a big way. “We walked in a freshman, Alaina Barress, who does not play like a freshman,” Price said. “It’s probably the best outfield Jefferson’s had in quite some time.”
The team is anchored by a strong group of seniors, led by standout Allison Hill. “I think she’s the best player in the county,” Price stated confidently. “Experienced kid, hard worker, I’ve never seen anybody outwork her. Selfless player. Huge bat.” Another key senior, Marillia Matuz, is making the move from third base to shortstop, a transition she has handled seamlessly. “It doesn’t seem like she’s never played there. Great stick, contact hitter, strong arm,” Price added.
Junior Kennidie Rogers is another returning player poised for a big year. Moving back to center field, her natural position in travel ball, Rogers brings a powerful bat and explosive potential. “The one goal I gave her is to keep her emotions in check. Play each at-bat like it’s the first one. She does that, and she’s going to light the world on fire.”
Beyond the experienced upperclassmen, younger players are making their presence felt. Alongside Barris, sophomore Julia Sprague and junior Riley DeMattea are expected to contribute significantly. “Julia has come a long way in one year, and I’m looking for her to really compete,” Price said. “Riley just keeps getting better and better with the bat. Defensively, she’s strong.”
Perhaps the most crucial component to Jefferson’s success will be its pitching. Price acknowledges that the team’s young pitchers had a tough freshman year but sees major growth heading into this season. “Coming into this year, I got two good ones. I think you can put them on any other team in the county besides maybe Edgewood, and they would be a starter,” he explained. “I’m excited, and I got two of them. Their arms are going to be fresh come playoff time.”
With a deep lineup of hitters, a vastly improved pitching staff, and a group of dedicated athletes putting in extra work outside of high school ball, Jefferson is poised for a strong campaign. “They work hard. A lot of people don’t see that,” Price noted, emphasizing the players’ commitment to private coaching, travel ball, and weight training. “They’re getting coached well, and it’s making my job a lot easier when I get them into high school.”
As the season gets underway, all eyes will be on the Falcons to see how they perform under Price’s leadership. With a mix of veteran leadership and emerging young talent, Jefferson looks ready to compete at a high level. Expect the Falcons to be a team to watch come playoff time, as Price’s squad aims to make a deep run in his inaugural season as head coach.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Softball-CC-6770258.png16202880Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-03-25 22:04:322025-03-25 22:04:32THE PRICE IS RIGHT IN JEFFERSON
JEFFERSON, OHIO – In a game filled with momentum swings, clutch plays, and high stakes, it was only fitting that the Jefferson Falcons’ biggest win of the season came down to the final shot. With the score tied at 54 and time winding down, senior guard Anthony Covetta delivered in dramatic fashion, sinking a contested three-pointer as the buzzer sounded to lift the Falcons to a thrilling 57-54 victory over the Bay Village Rockets in the OHSAA district semifinals on Wednesday night.
Jefferson (20-4) punched its ticket to the district championship, where it will face the Buchtel Griffins on March 1.
The Falcons got off to a slow start defensively, giving up 20 points in the first quarter as Bay Village’s Melvin and Miller found success attacking the lane. But Jefferson responded in the second quarter, holding the Rockets to just four points while putting up 16 of their own to take a 30-24 lead at halftime. Covetta led the charge offensively, finding his rhythm early and keeping the Falcons in striking distance.
Bay Village made its push in the third, storming back with a 21-point quarter to reclaim the lead. Melvin continued to be a problem for the Jefferson defense, finishing with a game-high 20 points, while Miller added 15. Entering the fourth, the Rockets led 45-42, setting up a dramatic finish.
The Falcons battled back in the final frame, getting key contributions from Joel Navarro (11 points), Dylan Beebe (7), Terry Brown (7), and Dylan Shetler (5). Covetta, though, was the difference-maker, delivering a 27-point performance, including the game-winning shot that sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
Scoring Summary
Jefferson Falcons:
Anthony Covetta – 27 points
Joel Navarro – 11 points
Dylan Beebe – 7 points
Terry Brown – 7 points
Dylan Shetler – 5 points
Bay Village Rockets:
Melvin – 20 points
Miller – 15 points
Evans – 6 points
Cockburn – 5 points
Mack – 4 points
Rinhart – 2 points
Willmitch – 2 points
Jefferson now turns its focus to Buchtel, where it will look to extend its playoff run and claim a district title. If Wednesday night’s thriller was any indication, the Falcons are more than ready for the moment.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/472508908_917580133853049_4392989398615305340_n-e1736308464906.jpg5051365Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-02-26 18:21:242025-02-26 18:31:03COVETTA’S COLD BLOODED 3 SENDS FALCONS TO DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP
ORWELL, Ohio – The Grand Valley Mustangs punched their ticket to the Division 6 district championship game with a commanding 57-44 win over the Cuyahoga Heights Red Wolves in the district semifinals on Tuesday night at Grand Valley High School.
From the opening tip, Grand Valley (21-3) set the tone with a tenacious defensive effort and a balanced offensive attack. The Mustangs led 10-7 after the first quarter and steadily built on their advantage, heading into halftime with a 23-14 lead.
Carter Turk delivered a stellar performance, pouring in a game-high 30 points to lead the Mustangs. Braden Hart provided key scoring support with 14 points, while Payton Plizga chipped in with seven. Solly Shultz (3), Ben Cozad (2), and Sammy Goforth (1) also contributed to the scoring effort.
Cuyahoga Heights (16-8) made a strong push in the third quarter, outscoring Grand Valley 17-13 behind a 22-point effort from McClardey, but the Mustangs responded with a dominant fourth quarter, putting up 21 points to seal the victory. Boyers (11), Unger (8), and Apathy (3) also contributed for the Red Wolves.
With the win, Grand Valley advances to the district championship, where they will face the Dalton Bulldogs on March 1 at 4pm in Salem, Ohio. Meanwhile, Cuyahoga Heights sees its season come to an end with a 16-8 record.
The Mustangs will look to carry their momentum into the championship game as they seek to add to an already impressive postseason run.
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/472044391_913766667405682_1796169716667605503_n-e1736003737141.jpg8801365Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-02-26 17:54:522025-02-26 17:54:52MUSTANGS HEADED TO DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP
SAYBROOK, OHIO – In a hard-fought battle on their home court, the Saint John Heralds punched their ticket to the OHSAA Division 7 sectional final with a 66-58 victory over the Jackson-Milton Blue Jays on Friday night. The win improves the Heralds to 14-9 on the season and sets up a matchup against the winner of Lordstown and Hillsdale on February 26.
Senior Dyln Newsome led the way for the Heralds with a game-high 26 points, providing a steady scoring presence throughout all four quarters. Fellow senior Vin Narducci added 19 points, stepping up in key moments to keep the Heralds ahead.
The game was closely contested in the first half, with Saint John holding a narrow 12-10 advantage after the first quarter. Both teams traded baskets in the second frame, but the Heralds managed to extend their lead to 30-27 at halftime.
Jackson-Milton fought back in the third quarter behind a stellar performance from Ryen Romigh, who poured in a game-high 36 points. The Blue Jays outscored Saint John 19-14 in the period to take a 46-44 lead heading into the final eight minutes.
With their season on the line, the Heralds responded in the fourth quarter with a dominant 22-12 run, fueled by clutch baskets from Newsome and Narducci. Chase Newsome and Grayson Petros each chipped in seven points, while Aaron Wychock and Gus Petros combined for seven more to help secure the victory.
Despite the loss, Jackson-Milton’s Romigh put on an outstanding performance, accounting for more than half of his team’s points. Vincent Fay contributed nine, while James Croyle and Ethan Kerr added five each.
Saint John now turns its attention to the sectional final on February 26, where they will look to continue their postseason run. Jackson-Milton finishes its season with a 10-13 record, battling until the final buzzer in a strong effort.
Jackson-Milton Scoring Leaders:
Ryen Romigh – 36
Vincent Fay – 9
James Croyle – 5
Ethan Kerr – 5
Jackson Horner – 2
Blake Hochendoner – 1
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/DSC_5629-scaled-e1740192804541.jpg7801374Sam Torreshttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngSam Torres2025-02-21 23:01:382025-02-22 19:23:14SENIORS LEAD THE WAY IN HERALDS PLAYOFF WIN
