WHAT YOU CECI IS WHAT YOU GET

CANFIELD, OH- In a heartfelt conversation on the YSN podcast, South Range Lady Raider basketball star Ceci Foster discussed her journey as the sole senior leading the team. Known for her leadership, grace, and impeccable three-point shooting, Ceci shared insights on her final high school basketball season, her transition to South Range, and her future at Ohio State University.

Foster reminisced about her freshman year playing varsity volleyball with her sister, emphasizing the leadership skills she learned and now hopes to pass on to younger teammates. “I learned from her, like, really how to be a leader,” Ceci reflected on her transformative experience.

Despite the challenge of transferring to South Range from East Palestine as a sophomore, Foster feels she has found her place. “I really fit in at South Range,” she stated, attributing her ease of making friends to her outgoing nature.

In her final basketball season, Foster emerged as a key scorer, achieving a career-high of over 20 points in a game. She attributes her success to the hard work put in during summer training. Foster candidly discussed the nights when shots don’t land as expected, acknowledging the importance of persistence and adaptability on the court.

A standout moment for Ceci was her senior night, where she was honored with grand decorations and an enthusiastic crowd, making her feel celebrated as the only senior. As she prepares for her final games, Foster remains focused on enjoying her remaining time on the court, balancing emotions of excitement and nostalgia.

Looking forward, Ceci is set to attend Ohio State University, a family tradition. Though undecided on her exact career path, she is considering finance, confident in her passion for numbers.

Listeners of the podcast were reminded of Ceci’s impact not only as an athlete but as a role model for young fans who admire her dedication and spirit. With a promising future ahead, Foster leaves a legacy of hard work and perseverance at South Range High School.

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POPPING FROM THE PAGE

WELLSVILLE, OH- Wellsville High School standout Bella Poppelriter has recently committed to continuing her athletic career at Bethany College, where she will play volleyball. Poppelriter, known for her remarkable skills on both the basketball court and volleyball court, joined the YSN podcast to discuss her journey and future plans.

In a candid interview with host DJ Yokley, Bella recounted her recent basketball feats, including a career-high 31 points against Leetonia. Yokley praised her athletic prowess and leadership qualities, noting her ability to score, call out plays, and make pivotal defensive moves.

Despite her success in basketball, Poppelriter explained her choice to pursue volleyball at the collegiate level. “I just developed this love for volleyball. It’s so fun to me,” she shared. Bella emphasized that being part of a successful volleyball team contributed significantly to her passion for the sport.

Reflecting on her multi-sport high school career, Poppelriter highlighted some memorable moments, such as achieving her thousand-point milestones and making significant progress in volleyball. “Just being able to get different accomplishments in different sports is amazing,” she said.

Growing up in Wellsville, Bella’s dedication to sports extended beyond personal achievement. She spoke fondly of her community’s support and pride. “It feels amazing because I know everybody out there is just supporting me,” she expressed.

When asked about her inspirations, Bella mentioned her best friend Presley Stokes, her supportive family, and her dedicated coaches. She credited her father for being a constantly motivating presence, helping her with training since she was little.

Looking ahead, Poppelriter expressed excitement about joining Bethany College, drawn to its small, close-knit environment. Her commitment to staying near her family played a crucial role in her decision. “It just felt like the perfect fit for me,” she concluded.

As Bella prepares for this new chapter, she hopes to inspire younger athletes in her community to work hard and pursue their dreams, just as she has. The YSN network and the Wellsville community eagerly anticipate witnessing Bella’s continued success in her college volleyball career.

 

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SHE’S A PRO

LOWELLVILLE, OH- In a riveting player profile session hosted by DJ Yokley at Giovanni’s in downtown Lowellville, sophomore basketball star Sydney Procick showcased not only her athletic prowess but also her charismatic personality and visionary outlook.

As the basketball season reaches its midpoint, Procick reflected on her journey through the first half of the season. “I’m really working on trying to, if I mess up, just keep moving forward and not worry about the past and just elevate my teammates and hope we continue to do what we’ve been doing,” she shared. The young athlete emphasized the importance of resilience and teamwork, especially on a team with only nine players, facing challenges such as injuries and illnesses.

Procick credited her leadership skills to her father, who has coached her since third grade. “He’s taught me a lot… just do everything with your all, and if you mess up, keep going and don’t worry about the past,” she revealed. This family-driven guidance has clearly shaped her approach to both sports and life.

Beyond the basketball court, Procick has an adventurous spirit with a love for travel. When asked about her dream vacation, she quickly responded, “Greece… because I love the beach and I think it’s really pretty.” Her bucket list also includes destinations like Aruba and Italy, reflecting her passion for exploring new places.

While Sydney excels in sports and dreams of traveling the globe, she remains grounded in her family values. With her parents and siblings as her role models, she aspires to mirror their success and kindness. “They give me everything, teach me a lot. And both my siblings, I look up to them a lot. They’re very successful, great humans. I want to be like them,” she said.

As her basketball season continues, Sydney Procick is undoubtedly a rising star to watch. Her leadership, perseverance, and vibrant personality make her a standout both on and off the court.

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HARD TO IGNORE DELSIGNORE

LOWELLVILLE, OH- Jocelyn Delsignore, a senior cheerleader from Lowellville, shared her journey and aspirations in a recent interview with DJ Yokley on the YSN podcast. The event took place at Giovanni’s in Lowellville, where Delsignore discussed the transformative impact cheerleading has had on her life.

Starting her cheerleading career later than most, in sixth grade, Delsignore initially joined to be with friends but quickly fell in love with the sport. “Cheer has really changed my life,” she explained, illustrating how the camaraderie and supportive environment fostered by coaches Angel and Liv, and assistant coach Liv elevated the experience to more than just a high school activity.

Delsignore, who has been dancing competitively since the age of three, naturally gravitated towards the athleticism and the spirit of cheerleading. She touched on the challenges of maintaining high energy levels during less exciting games, noting that the sense of community and team solidarity makes these moments manageable.

Her journey is not without its competitive highlights. The recent win of the coveted “banana,” the top spirit award at UCA cheer camp, marked a pinnacle in her cheerleading career. “It was so different when you’re the senior leading that team…I felt so much pride in that moment for everything that we’d worked for,” she said.

Beyond cheerleading, Delsignore is also dedicated to her academic pursuits. She expressed excitement about her future at Youngstown State University, where she plans to major in journalism with a minor in fashion. Her involvement with the Lowellville media team has only fueled her passion for writing and reporting, and she aspires to one day work for media giants like Vogue.

When asked about her favorite moments and influences, Delsignore credited her parents and several mentors from both cheerleading and her dance studio for their guidance and support. She emphasized how experiences like dance competitions helped her gain confidence and overcome fears at an early age.

Looking ahead, Delsignore dreams of moving to New York City to further her career in journalism and fashion. She fondly recounted her visits to the city, highlighting Broadway and Fifth Avenue among her favorite spots, while humorously declaring Times Square as her least favorite.

Jocelyn Delsignore’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and ambition. As she prepares for the next chapter in her life, her legacy at Lowellville will undoubtedly inspire many future cheerleaders and journalists to follow their dreams with the same fervor and dedication.

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LEAVE IT TO LEWIS

LOWELLVILLE, OH- As her senior year at Lowellville progresses, Morgan Lewis, a multi-sport athlete and cheerleader, shares her experiences and aspirations both on and off the field. In a recent interview on YSN’s player profile series, Lewis opened up about her goals, influences, and future plans.

Reflecting on her senior year, which she describes as “bittersweet,” Lewis is determined to turn her current sports season around and achieve a winning record. “I really want to have a winning season and turn this season around from what we’re doing right now, and I think we can,” she stated confidently.

As a senior with significant influence on her peers and a supportive figure in the locker room, Lewis emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. “I think we just need to go into more games with a positive mindset,” she explained. This optimistic outlook has been shaped by learning from challenges and obstacles throughout her life.

Lewis credits much of her success and positive demeanor to her parents’ unwavering support. Competing in volleyball, basketball, softball, and cheerleading, her parents have been her biggest supporters. “They go to every single game,” she mentioned proudly.

While her athletic ambitions at the collegiate level remain undecided, Lewis is considering a future in teaching, drawn to the idea of nurturing young minds.

Morgan also cherishes the tight-knit community at Lowellville where “everybody knows each other,” and values her teammates whom she considers family. Her younger sister, also on the team, has been a source of mutual support and strength, teaching her to “keep moving forward” and “not worry about the little things.”

Outside of sports, Morgan enjoys leisure activities such as watching TV shows like Outer Banks and movies like Wicked. Her preference for warmer weather and fondness for beach vacations in North Carolina reveal a relaxed side to this dedicated athlete.

Looking ahead, if given a million dollars, she would invest in a three-story mansion complete with a sports room, reflecting her passion for athletics.

Morgan Lewis’s journey through her final year at Lowellville highlights a blend of ambition, familial support, and community spirit. As she looks forward to her next steps, her story continues to inspire those around her.

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BREAKING BIRCH

EAST LIVERPOOL, OH- In a feat that has left the local community buzzing with excitement, the sharpshooter Nate Birch has etched his name into the annals of East Liverpool High School history. Breaking the school’s long-standing record, Birch nailed an astonishing 11 three-pointers in a single game, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.

In a recent episode of the YSN Power Hour, hosted by DJ Yokley, Birch reflected on his monumental achievement and the journey leading up to it. “It means a lot,” Birch said, humbly acknowledging the significance of his record-breaking performance. Despite facing a shooting slump in previous weeks, Birch found his rhythm thanks to the unwavering support of his teammates. “They know I was hot, obviously,” he added.

This season marks Birch’s debut as a starter, a role he has embraced with determination. His off-season regime, which involved tirelessly shooting 100-150 long-range shots daily, has clearly paid off. Encouraged by his father, who installed a basketball hoop in their backyard, Birch honed his skills over the summer, demonstrating an exemplary work ethic that extends beyond the court.

Birch is not just a scorer but a versatile player who contributes in various facets of the game. “It’s not always about who starts; it’s about who finishes and who finishes it the right way,” DJ Yokley highlighted during their conversation. Birch has taken this philosophy to heart, consistently striving to help his team achieve victory.

Off the court, Birch enjoys spending time with friends and family, particularly his best friend Cohen and his father, whom he regards as his role model. His dedication to both his sport and his loved ones underscores his well-rounded character.

Although his immediate focus is on winning crucial games – aiming for district, OVAC, and even state titles – Birch remains thoughtful about his future. With aspirations to study Graphic Design in college, he is planning for a career that promises numerous opportunities.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Nate Birch, not just for his prowess behind the three-point line but for his continuing journey of growth and success. His story is one of hard work, resilience, and a bright future that extends beyond the basketball court.

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PEASE ON EARTH

EAST LIVERPOOL, OH- As the East Liverpool High School basketball team surges to an impressive 9-2 record, one name stands out among the talented roster: Cohen Pease. The senior guard has been instrumental in the Potters’ successful season, showcasing skill, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to his team.

In the latest episode of YSN’s “Power Hour” podcast, host DJ Yokley caught up with Pease to discuss his preparation, achievements, and aspirations. Pease, who has been a fixture in the local basketball scene for years, has worked tirelessly to elevate his game. Over the summer, he focused on improving his skills and conditioning, adding ten pounds of muscle and honing his shooting accuracy.

“I put in a lot of work over the summer, from skills training to the weight room. My goal was to be a winning program and aim for a championship,” Pease shared during the podcast.

Pease’s selfless nature and team-first mentality have gained him respect both on and off the court. When teammate Nate broke the school record with 11 three-pointers, Pease was among the first to congratulate him, exemplifying the strong camaraderie within the team. Raised by a father who instilled values of humility and teamwork, Pease attributes his selflessness to his upbringing.

“Being a great teammate, cheering for others, and having good body language are crucial,” said Pease. “Those are qualities my dad always emphasized.”

Pease’s influence extends beyond his teammates; he’s a role model for younger athletes in the community. “Playing in front of a packed house and knowing people want to watch Potter basketball is a blessing,” he remarked.

As he looks to the future, Pease has already garnered interest from several Division III colleges and is eager to continue his athletic career at the collegiate level, although he has yet to make a final decision.

For now, Cohen Pease remains focused on leading East Liverpool through a memorable season, embodying the spirit and determination that make him a standout both on the court and in the community.

 

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MAKENNA MAKES THE CUT

LOWELLVILLE, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Makenna Beeson, a vibrant senior at Lowellville High School, to discuss her passion for cheerleading and her future plans.

Beeson, who has been deeply involved in cheerleading since the third grade, shared the rigorous training and dedication that has led to the program’s success. “Our coaches are some of the best around,” she remarked, emphasizing the perfectionism that drives their practices. “We always say ‘game ready,’ and we’ll keep running routines until we get them perfect.”

Her journey into cheer began early, inspired by watching high school cheerleaders at football games. “I would always complain to my mom that I didn’t want to wait until third grade to start cheering,” she recalled. This determination has been a constant, driving her through middle school and into high school, where she has made significant strides, both in skill and in personal growth.

Beeson addressed the common misconception that cheer is not a serious sport with a challenge: “Try it. The amount we do at cheer camp, how sore we are by day two, day three, it’s insane.” Her dedication is clear, from overcoming the fear of leading and choreography to developing the dances and cheers that energize her team and audience.

Looking to the future, Makenna shared her possible plans to continue cheerleading in college but remains undecided between Kent State University and Youngstown State University. More definitively, she expressed a strong interest in studying psychology, driven by her empathetic nature and a love for helping others. “Treat yourself like you’re your own best friend,” she advises, highlighting the value of self-compassion and perspective.

Outside of cheer, Beeson is surrounded by a supportive network, including her parents, her grandmother, and teachers. Her connections with her cheer teammates have blossomed into lifelong friendships, another testament to the sport’s impact on her life.

As the holiday season approaches, Beeson fondly spoke of family traditions, such as finding the pickle ornament at her grandparents’ house. Despite uncertainties about where life will take her, she cherishes these moments and the possibility of staying close to home.

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CLASH OF THE TITUS

CANFIELD, OH- It was a Friday night to remember at Spartan Stadium as South Range’s freshman sensation, Tommy Titus, delivered a moment that will be etched in the region’s high school football lore for years to come. The young wide receiver, donning the number 88 jersey, made an incredible touchdown catch that electrified the crowd and solidified his place in South Range history.

During the South Range Raiders show at GIAngelo’s in Boardman, Titus recounted the exhilarating moment. “It felt pretty good, honestly, it was an amazing feeling,” he shared with host DJ Yokley. “I celebrated with more than two of my teammates on the sideline,” Titus added, underscoring the camaraderie within the team.

The catch, which DJ Yokley described as a play where “you blew the roof off Spartan Stadium,” saw Titus calmly securing the ball amidst roaring cheers, much like a scene in slow motion. The play didn’t just stun the crowd; it also immediately caught the attention of Titus’s father, who eagerly requested the game tape, marking the catch as a family milestone.

As a freshman, Titus’s performance has been nothing short of remarkable. Host DJ Yokley praised the young athlete for his composure and skill, noting that such an achievement places Titus and his teammate Tristan into an everlasting timeline in South Range’s storied football program. Reflecting on his journey from middle school to varsity football, Titus acknowledged the challenging transition, citing the increased speed, strength of opponents, and complexity of plays. “All my teammates and Coaches helped me,” he remarked, displaying humility despite his standout success.

Beyond football, Titus showcases versatility as a three-sport athlete, playing point guard on the basketball court and shortstop on the baseball diamond. When asked about his ambitions at South Range, Titus modestly expressed hopes for repeated state success and a continued tradition of winning.

Titus’s grounded persona, highlighted by his acknowledgment of his family’s unwavering support, paints a picture of a young athlete destined for greatness. South Range’s future looks bright with Tommy Titus stepping up, not just as a player to watch but as a symbol of hope and inspiration for the Raiders.

As Yokley aptly summarized, Tommy Titus doesn’t need many words; his actions on the field speak volumes. The South Range community, no doubt, will be eagerly watching as this young star continues to rise.

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ALBAUGH IS ALL GOOD

CANFIELD, OH- In the heart of South Range Raiders’ football territory, Adam Albaugh stands as a testament to dedication, humility, and hard work. The junior lineman, featured this week on YSN’s South Range Player Profile, shared insights into his life both on and off the field, reflecting a remarkable journey of growth and determination.

In an electric week 15 matchup, Albaugh’s infectious team spirit was palpable. “We’re like family out there. A bunch of brothers and whiz go battle every Friday,” he emphasized, illustrating the brotherhood that fuels their success. Reflecting on the nerve-wracking moments of the recent game, Albaugh described the thrill of clinching a last-second victory, highlighting the unwavering focus and camaraderie that drive the Raiders.

The episode revealed more than just Albaugh’s prowess on the gridiron. A dedicated member of 4H, Albaugh juggles football with raising pigs and cows, a hobby introduced by his sister. His mornings start as early as 5 a.m., caring for his animals before swapping chores for chin straps. “It’s crazy – the fair and football at the same time,” he admitted, describing the whirlwind of Canfield Fair week.

Despite the early mornings and rigorous schedule, Albaugh finds solace in the simple joys of farm life and enjoys fishing with his junior football teammates. By his own admission, he’s not always been a football-only athlete but has found a niche within the sport for its contact and competitive spirit.

Academically, Albaugh is a history aficionado, captivated by the World Wars and classic films such as “Kelly’s Heroes” and “True Grit.” His future aspirations are broad yet grounded, aiming for a good job and a serene life, potentially by a lake in Tennessee.

Raised by a supportive family, Albaugh credits his calm demeanor to his parents. His sister, a respiratory therapist, remains a guiding force in his life, often doubling as a “second mom.”

As the Raiders march forward, bolstered by players like Albaugh, it’s clear that the essence of their team lies in both their athletic and personal diversity. Adam Albaugh, with his hardworking ethos on and off the field, embodies the spirit of South Range Raiders, proving that excellence is nurtured with every step, both under the Friday night lights and in the early morning stables.

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