NEVER A DOUBTING TOMAS

PEPPER PIKE, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Orange High School swimmer Tomas Cakulev captivated listeners as he shared his inspiring story. From his early introduction to the sport to his unwavering dedication, Cakulev’s journey in swimming is one of triumph over adversity.

At the young age of ten, Cakulev was introduced to swimming by a friend who invited him to a practice at a local club. It was during these early experiences that Cakulev discovered the importance of bonding with teammates, both in and out of the pool. The camaraderie and competition formed the foundation of his love for the sport and ignited a competitive fire within him.

Cakulev’s competitive nature extends beyond the pool, as he strives for excellence in all aspects of his life. Whether it be academics or personal growth, his drive to compete and improve is ever-present. He finds motivation in beating his own records during practice, pushing himself to shave off precious seconds and continuously bettering his performance.

Despite encountering obstacles along the way, Cakulev’s determination remained unshaken. From challenging classes to inconsistent coaching, he navigated through adversity both in and out of the pool. These obstacles taught him the value of perseverance and instilled in him a sense of resilience that has carried him through his swimming career.

Throughout his competitive journey, Cakulev has developed a set of rituals to stay motivated before, during, and after events. He curates a playlist filled with his favorite songs, preferring a balanced tempo to keep himself focused yet not overly hyped. Before races, he dons his headphones, immersing himself in his own world while ensuring he stays warm to maintain peak performance. After races, Cakulev exemplifies great sportsmanship by congratulating his fellow swimmers and seeking feedback from his coach to identify areas for improvement.

Cakulev’s role models both inside and outside the pool include professional swimmers who have achieved great success. However, he also draws inspiration from his parents and his younger brother, who is making waves in his own swimming career. Their support and guidance have been instrumental in his development as an athlete.

One quote that resonates deeply with Cakulev is “if it is to be, it is up to me.” This motto serves as a reminder that he holds the power to shape his own destiny. It fuels his determination to push himself during practice, knowing that his hard work and dedication will lead to achieving his goals.

As a senior at Orange High School, Cakulev leaves a lasting impact on the swimming community, both as a talented athlete and a sportsman. His story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring swimmers, demonstrating the power of perseverance, camaraderie, and self-belief.

 

PRESENTED BY

NO NONSENSE NINA

PEPPER PIKE, OH- In an exclusive player profile interview for YSN, Orange High School’s swimming sensation and senior, Nina Deshpande, shared her ambitions and preparations for her final year in high school swimming.

Deshpande, a state qualifier last year, is no stranger to success. As she gears up for her senior year, she faces the challenge of surpassing her previous achievements and making her mark in the swimming world.

Reflecting on her successful junior year, Deshpande emphasized the importance of dedication and effort in every practice. “Every practice matters,” she stated. Deshpande admitted feeling the pressure to maintain her stellar performance and secure a place in the state competition once again. Moreover, she revealed her determination to qualify for the finals, a goal she narrowly missed last year.

As a senior, Deshpande recognizes the added responsibility of being a role model and leader for her younger teammates. She strives to create a positive and supportive environment, encouraging her peers to perform their best both in and out of the pool. Deshpande mentioned team bonding activities as a crucial element in fostering camaraderie within the team.

When asked about her competitive drive, Deshpande attributed it to her early exposure to swimming and the highly competitive swimming community she grew up in. Having trained alongside talented athletes, both older and younger, she has developed a strong sense of competition that fuels her desire to excel.

Outside of her swimming pursuits, Deshpande enjoys indulging in her favorite pastime: shopping. Target, being her go-to store, offers her both online and in-person retail therapy.

As the holiday season approaches, Deshpande revealed her excitement for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. While she appreciates the delicious foods associated with Thanksgiving, her favorite being mashed potatoes, she also looks forward to celebrating the festive spirit during Christmas.

The dedicated athlete credited her family for their unwavering support throughout her swimming journey. She mentioned her older brother, a talented athlete himself, and her mother, who introduced her to swimming and always encouraged her to strive for her best. Deshpande expressed her desire to make her family proud with her accomplishments in the pool.

In conclusion, Deshpande’s determination, leadership qualities, and relentless drive make her a force to be reckoned with in the competitive swimming world. As she enters her final year of high school swimming, all eyes will be on Deshpande as she aims to surpass her previous achievements and leave a lasting legacy in Orange High School’s swimming program.

PRESENTED BY

 

HEEEEEEEEEATH!

CANFIELD, OH-  South Range Raiders’ junior tight end, Heath Crouse, opened up about his experience playing for the esteemed high school football team and the impact of having a successful older brother, JD Crouse, who also excelled in the same position.

Crouse humbly expressed his admiration for his brother, stating that being in JD’s shadow is an honor as he has been an invaluable mentor and role model. He credits JD for helping him improve as a player and as a person. The tight-knit Crouse family has instilled in him a sense of greatness and the drive to always give his best, whether on the field or in his daily life.

The interview also highlighted Heath Crouse’s dedication to his craft. He emphasized the importance of hitting the weight room, improving his footwork and hand-eye coordination, and always pushing himself to the limit. Taking inspiration from his brother’s work ethic, Crouse aims to surpass JD’s accomplishments, continually striving to be better.

When asked about the differences between him and his brother on the field, Crouse acknowledged JD’s superior catching ability but emphasized his own strengths in terms of footwork. Additionally, Heath claimed to have better academic grades, while JD’s humor and storytelling skills took the crown.

The South Range Raider expressed his gratitude for the close-knit community and the strong bonds formed within the team. He attributes their success to the chemistry they share, branding it as a key factor that sets them apart.

Off the field, Heath looks up to his parents and JD as his role models. Their unwavering support and guidance have shaped him into the person he is today. Among his parents’ and brother’s qualities, he admires their knowledge and their ability to push him to become a better individual.

Heath Crouse also delved into his personal life, revealing his interest in cooking. He mentioned that being more like his father in terms of his strong work ethic, and his mother in terms of culinary skills, has played a significant role in shaping his character.

The YSN podcast interview provided insight into the life of Heath Crouse and shed light on his journey as a South Range Raider. With his dedication and the support of his family, teammates, and community, Heath Crouse is poised for continued success on the football field and beyond.

 

PRESENTED BY

FISCHING FOR GREATNESS

BERLIN CENTER, OH- In this episode of YSN’s Player Profile, we dive deep into the world of Fischer Himes, the senior offensive lineman who has been an integral part of his team’s success this season. Known for his dedication and leadership, Himes sheds light on the bond within the team and discusses their upcoming playoff game against Lowellville.

Himes, who has helped pave the way for his team to score six rushing touchdowns, emphasizes the importance of team effort and acknowledges the praise they receive from their coaches. This recognition serves as a confidence boost for the offensive line, reminding them of their crucial role in their team’s victories.

As they prepare for their rematch against Lowellville, Himes expresses confidence in their advantage, having analyzed their opponent’s tactics in their previous encounter. The team’s strong performance in the first game provides them with the necessary confidence to face Lowville once again.

In regards to their offensive strategies, Himes appreciates the versatility and dynamism of their offense, where the ball can be distributed to six different players, keeping the opposing defense on their toes. This balanced and unpredictable style of play has proven successful throughout the season.

The conversation also touches on the importance of a fresh defense, with Himes emphasizing the significance of player substitutions to maintain a high level of performance throughout the game.

Outside of football, Himes reveals his passion for fishing and playing Xbox games. Himes is particularly excited for the release of Fortnite, a highly anticipated game in which he plans to join his peers.

When asked about his future plans after high school, Himes mentions his interest in pursuing a business degree, potentially at Kent State University. While he does not envision playing football beyond high school, he is focused on giving his all during his final season.

Switching to lighter topics, Himes shares his favorite gas station order, including Cheddar Slim chips and strawberry milk – a classic favorite. He also admits to enjoying throwback music.

In a lighthearted Q&A, Himes humorously relates to the scenario of having a million dollars and choosing to invest it in the most expensive boat possible, allowing him to sail along the coast indefinitely.

As Himes bids farewell and prepares for the upcoming playoff game against Lowellville, YSN wishes him and his team the best of luck in their pursuit of victory and continued success on and off the field.

 

PRESENTED BY

HEMBERGER IS SERVED WELL DONE

BERLIN CENTER, OH- Nate Hemberger, a standout player for the West Reserve football team, showcased his talent and humble demeanor. Despite his imposing presence on the field, Hemberger’s soft-spoken nature belies his exceptional skills and achievements.

With an impressive tally of 155 tackles this season, Hemberger has set a new record for West Reserve. His recent performance, where he scored seven touchdowns – six on the ground and one through a pump block recovery – further solidifies his status as a star athlete. Hemberger credited the teamwork of his linemen, receivers, and defensive backs for his success, highlighting their crucial contributions.

What sets Hemberger apart is his exceptional blocking ability, which he openly admits preferring over any other aspect of the game. He takes pride in launching opponents downfield, showcasing his versatility as a fullback. His dedication to the team shines through as he expresses a desire to play on the offensive line, highlighting his selflessness and commitment to the game.

The interview also delved into Hemburger’s thoughts on being given more offensive touches due to an unfortunate injury. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity but emphasized his wish for a fully healthy team, acknowledging the importance of having a complete roster for playoff games.

As the team moves forward in the playoffs, Hemberger and his teammates relish the opportunity to play two home games, something West Reserve hasn’t experienced in a while. The support from their community fuels their drive and determination, setting the stage for an electrifying atmosphere at their home field.

Despite being a junior, Hemberger already shows exceptional leadership qualities, admiring the senior players who have led the team this season. He mentions Luke Henning, Joey Sigworth, and Josh Damp as exemplary leaders whose shoes he hopes to fill once they graduate. The podcast interview reveals Hemburger’s maturity and willingness to take on a bigger role in the future.

Looking beyond high school, Hemberger dreams of playing college football, a goal he has held for many years. However, should that path not materialize, he plans to pursue a career as a chiropractor. Coincidentally, his gas station order of two Red Bulls and a Slim Jim may come in handy, as he may find himself often approached for impromptu adjustments once he becomes a qualified chiropractor.

In a light-hearted segment, Hemberger shares his preference for Rod Wave’s music and mentions attending one of his recent concerts. This reveals his diverse interests and adds a personal touch to the interview.

When asked about what he would do with $1 million, Hemberger surprises with an answer that speaks volumes about his passion for football and his team. He expresses a desire to purchase turf for the football field, a gesture that would benefit the entire team and future generations of players.

As Hemberger prepares for the next playoff game against Lowville, the young athlete remains focused, humble, and eager to give his best on and off the field. His dedication, talent, and leadership qualities make him a true asset to the West Reserve football team and a role model to his peers.

 

PRESENTED BY

BY AIR, BY LAND, OR BY SEESHOLTZ

CANFIELD, OH-  Tyson Seesholtz, who moved to South Range during his freshman year, spoke highly of the tight-knit community and the support he received from the residents. He emphasized the caring nature and unity within the community, which he believes sets South Range apart from other places he has lived.

As a wrestler and football player, Seesholtz showcased his talent and dedication. Last year, as a freshman, he made a name for himself in wrestling, and this year, he is gearing up for a successful football season. Despite his young age, Seesholtz remains unfazed by the prospect of facing older, more experienced opponents. His years of wrestling have prepared him to take on any challenge, regardless of age, height, or weight.

When asked about the connection between wrestling and football, Seesholtz attributed the success of wrestlers in football, particularly on the line, to their relentless work ethic and strong hand fighting skills. These qualities translate well into football, allowing wrestlers to excel in positions that require sags, tackles for loss, and overall dominance on the field.

While Seesholtz is making waves in the sports arena, he also excels in his academics. He expressed a passion for science, stating that it comes naturally to him, especially when compared to his core subjects. Seesholtz’s love for science has sparked an interest in pursuing an engineering degree or cybersecurity in college.

Influenced by his supportive family, Seesholtz emphasized the importance of his parents and their unwavering support throughout his athletic and academic journey. He particularly acknowledged his father’s character of spending quality time together, as countless car rides to and from wrestling tournaments and practices have made a significant impact on his life. Seesholtz also expressed gratitude for his mother’s emotional support and comforting presence.

Looking ahead, Seesholtz has big aspirations for his future. Alongside his athletic ambitions, he hopes to pursue higher education at a collegiate level, with a preference for Division I schools. With his interest in engineering and cybersecurity, Seesholtz aims to make a mark in these fields, inspired by his cousin who introduced him to the world of cybersecurity.

Lastly, Seesholtz aims to leave a lasting legacy of hard work and determination. He hopes that young athletes, like his former wrestling coach, will remember him for his perseverance and the belief that one should never give up, but rather, keep pushing forward.

Tyson Seesholtz is already making waves in both wrestling and football, and his dedication to excellence both on and off the field is setting him on a path for success. South Range High School and its community are proud to have an inspiring athlete like Seesholtz representing them.

 

PRESENTED BY

LAND OF THE FREE

CANFIELD, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, the spotlight was on Sam Freedy, a young football player and Super Bowl champion from the little Raiders team. The episode provided an exclusive interview, offering a glimpse into Sam’s victorious championship experience and his dreams of playing in the NFL.

Sam shared his excitement about winning the championship on Saturday, describing it as a thrilling experience. When asked where he was when the clock hit zero, he revealed that he was on the sidelines, eagerly witnessing the final moments of the game. Upon the victory, the first thought that ran through his mind was, “We won.” Sam’s pride in his team’s achievement was evident throughout the interview.

Aside from his football success, Sam also discussed his favorite things to do off the field. He mentioned hanging out with friends, emphasizing the strong camaraderie within their football team. Sam also revealed his love for Spagwhich, a favorite food joint where he hangs out frequently.

With Halloween just around the corner, Sam disclosed his costume plans – he’s going to be the popular video game character “Fall Guy,” specifically the green one. When it comes to school, Sam’s favorite subject is math, and his beloved teacher. As for Halloween treats, Sam favors Snickers but seems to have a distaste for Reese’s.

When asked about why he loves football, Sam’s response was simple and straightforward: “Because you get to hit people and just hit.” His passion for the sport shines through, and he expressed his hope of becoming an NFL player in the future. Unsurprisingly, Sammy’s team of choice is the Pittsburgh Steelers, showing his loyalty to the game.

As the interview wrapped up, it became clear that Sam’s family plays an integral role in his life. He mentioned his siblings, Addison, Justin, and Chloe, as well as his supportive parents, who he appreciates for their constant support, transportation, and generosity – providing food and covering expenses.

With his eyes set on a future in the NFL, Sam hopes to follow in the footsteps of his favorite football players. Although he couldn’t pinpoint a single player as his absolute favorite, it is evident that he finds inspiration from a multitude of professional athletes.

When asked about his favorite South Range Raider, Sam enthusiastically named Brady Krumbacher, hinting at his aspirations of emulating his favorite player’s success.

Sam Freedy’s podcast appearance provides a glimpse into the life of a talented and determined young athlete. With his championship victory under his belt and his aspirations to become an NFL player, Sam is well on his way to making a name for himself in the football world.

PRESENTED BY

BULLDOGS READY FOR BATTLE

POLAND, OH – The Poland Bulldogs hosted the East Liverpool Potters in the first round of the playoffs last week and cruised to a 42-14 victory. Logan Hackstedde and Andrew Todd, two seniors, took their last first playoff game to heart and had the Dogs ready to go into battle. Up next for Poland is a rematch with the Struthers Wildcats in the second round this Friday at Bulldog Stadium.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, sat down with Logan and Andrew this week at Combine Brothers to talk about the first round match up against East Liverpool, what the boys did well and what they want to do moving forward to keep that winning momentum going, and what these two seniors think the keys to victory are for this week.

All that and so much more in this very special dual player profile with Poland Bulldogs senior stars, Logan Hackstedde and Andrew Todd!

PRESENTED BY:

 

THE LION

CANFIELD, OH- The South Range Raiders have found themselves a defensive gem in junior standout Troy Combs. Known for his hard-hitting tackles and game-changing interceptions, Combs is quickly gaining attention as a generational talent in the football community.

Combs, hailing from a family that bleeds Raider pride, has followed in the footsteps of his older brother Matthias, a notable wide receiver who left a lasting impression on the team. In a recent interview at Giangelo’s in Boardman, Combs expressed gratitude for his brother’s influence and praised his character both on and off the field.

Reflecting on his growth throughout the season, Combs admitted that early on, he struggled with patience and would often get juked out or penalized for holding. However, under the guidance of coach Rocks, Combs has evolved into a more composed and patient player, allowing him to make impactful plays.

What sets Combs apart is his ability to not only deliver bone-crushing hits but also showcase his speed and agility when intercepting passes. When asked to choose between laying a hit or making an interception, Combs unhesitatingly expressed his love for setting the tone with a big hit, believing it sends a powerful message to the opposing team.

Looking ahead to the playoffs, Combs emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and building a stronger bond with his teammates. He acknowledged the challenge posed by their upcoming fearless opponents and expressed excitement for the opportunity to showcase his skills against a team that throws the ball frequently.

Combs credits the close-knit bond among the South Range Raiders as a catalyst for their success. Their unique practice methods, such as “squeezing and spilling,” instill trust and belief in each other, making them a formidable force on the field.

Beyond football, Combs has his sights set on a future in architecture or graphic design, citing his love for building Legos as the inspiration behind his interest. With his dedication and talent on the gridiron, Combs undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him, with football being a potential opportunity for success.

As the South Range Raiders continue their journey in the playoffs, Troy Combs remains focused on making a lasting impact on the team while constantly striving for personal growth. With his exceptional defensive skills and unwavering dedication, Combs is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in high school football.

 

PRESENTED BY

VICTORY FORMATION

CANFIELD, OH- Victor Toy, a talented young athlete from the South Range Little Raiders, has been making waves in the football community as a standout guard and defensive end. In a recent interview for the YSN podcast, the up-and-coming player shared his thoughts on football, his teammates, and his aspirations for the future.

When asked about being a Super Bowl champion, Victor expressed the significance of the team’s efforts. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and credited his team’s unity as the key to their success. Victor’s humble attitude and dedication to his teammates shine through in his responses.

The 32-numbered player revealed that he has always enjoyed the physical aspect of the game, especially the thrill of hitting opponents. However, he also pointed out that being with his friends was an equally enjoyable aspect of playing football. Victor’s popularity among his peers is evident, as he enthusiastically shouted out the names of his friends during the interview.

Apart from football, Victor mentioned his love for mathematics and expressed a fondness for his favorite teacher. When it comes to other sports, Victor mentioned a potential interest in wrestling and expressed commitment to maintaining his fitness through exercise and workouts.

As Victor and his team prepare for the state title in Sandusky, he is proud to represent the South Range Raiders. Being a part of the long-standing tradition of the Raiders football program is a significant honor for Victor, who hopes to continue the legacy of his family members who have previously played for South Range.

Notably, Victor is the cousin of Tristan Toy, a player whose remarkable athletic performances have caught the attention of many spectators. Victor’s excitement and support for his cousin’s achievements are evident, as he passionately described his reactions during Tristan’s successful plays.

Looking toward the future, Victor dreams of becoming a professional football player, with his sights set on joining the Cleveland Browns. However, he also voiced his desire to be a good person, just like his role model father, who is not only supportive but also skilled in the sport.

In the interview, Victor also expressed his gratitude towards his mother who takes care of him and encourages him to pursue his goals. From making him his favorite breakfast, dippy egg sandwiches, to being there for him at school, Victor appreciates his mother’s love and support.

Victor Toy’s dedication, humility, and passion for football are what make him a rising star to watch out for. With a supportive family, a great team, and a drive to succeed, it won’t be long before Victor Toy leaves his mark on the world of football.

PRESENTED BY