BOTTOM LINE, FOLKWEIN IS PHENOMENAL

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- Redefining the word athlete, Kylie Folkwein is leading the charge of a new generation of
athletics at Austintown-Fitch. The tri-sport athlete has a legendary endurance, making you wonder if it’s Folkwein or Alkaline that she’s made of because she keeps going!

After successful seasons in both volleyball and basketball, Folkwein looks to capitalize on her best sport yet in softball. Playing for the very talented Lady Dukes over the summer following the state championship win with The Falcons in her freshman year, it would be safe to say, the bar has been set extremely high for her sophomore campaign.

Making the transition from center field and taking ownership of a new position for Fitch, Folkwein finds herself behind the dish as the everyday catcher for Austintown this season. With plenty of experience catching talent levels similar to the likes of Sydnie Watts, Folkwein feels right at home when she is behind it. Batting an incredible .625 with a home run and 10 RBI in just six games this season, Folkwein looks to keep soaring for the skies as she looks to be one of the top prospects for colleges to look at once her availability opens up!

YSNs Ty Bartell and Anthony Hartwig got the opportunity to chat with the Fitch sophomore about her journey so far this season, the transition to behind the dish, the role she has taken on this year and so much more! Do not miss this edition of Player Profile exclusively on YSN.

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THE BELLA EFFECT

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WARREN OH-  In high school athletics, it’s rare to see a player leave a mark as indelible as Bella Meyer. Her impact on Champion’s athletic programs transcends mere statistics, embodying the essence of excellence and leadership.

Meyer’s influence extends far beyond the softball diamond. While she’s been instrumental in maintaining the softball team’s standard of excellence, she’s also played a pivotal role in revitalizing the basketball program. Her competitive drive knows no bounds, propelling her to greatness in every sport she touches, but it’s on the softball field where she truly shines.

For Meyer, softball isn’t just a game; it’s a lifelong passion that began at an early age. Now, in her senior season, she stands poised to continue her journey at the next level, a testament to her unwavering dedication and skill.

With a commitment to play softball at Youngstown State, Meyer joins a select group of Flashes destined for collegiate success. Alongside teammates Addie Warzala and Gabby Gradishar, she’s part of a trio set to make waves at the collegiate level, a testament to Champion’s rich softball tradition.

On the field, Meyer’s prowess is unmatched. Leading the team with a batting average of .706, she’s a force to be reckoned with at the plate, tallying impressive numbers early in the season. With a home run, three doubles, three triples, and nine RBI, her impact is felt in every aspect of the game.

But Meyer’s legacy extends beyond statistics. She’s a symbol of Champion’s enduring softball tradition, a testament to the passion and dedication of its athletes. Her name will be etched alongside the greats, adding yet another chapter to Champion’s storied history of softball excellence.

As Bella Meyer prepares to embark on the next chapter of her journey, one thing remains certain: her impact on Champion’s athletic programs will be felt for years to come, a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering determination.

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BOMBING LIKE BENSON

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LOUISVILLE OH- Since the moment Matti Benson first stepped onto the Louisville softball field, she’s captured the hearts and imaginations of fans across northeast Ohio. Her high school career reads like a fairytale, marked by a staggering number of home runs that defy the norm and redefine excellence.

Benson’s journey is one of records and milestones. With the program record for home runs in a season, runs in a career, and tied for the career home run record, her impact on Louisville softball is nothing short of legendary. But what sets Benson apart isn’t just her impressive statistics; it’s her humble leadership and unwavering commitment to the team’s success.

Despite her individual accolades, Benson has always put the team’s goals above her own. As a humble leader, she leads by example, inspiring her teammates to greatness while remaining grounded in her pursuit of excellence. Her influence extends beyond the diamond, serving as a shining example to the youth of Louisville’s program, ensuring a bright future for Leopard softball.

Benson’s dedication to self-improvement is unparalleled. With a keen ability to self-coach and dissect her own game, she continually strives to elevate her performance to new heights. Her unparalleled work ethic serves as a benchmark for her peers, a testament to her relentless pursuit of greatness.

Even as she prepares to embark on the next chapter of her journey, signing on to play Division 1 softball at Maryland, Benson’s impact on local softball will resonate for years to come. Her legacy isn’t just measured in statistics; it’s measured in the lives she’s touched and the inspiration she’s provided to a generation of aspiring athletes.

In the annals of northeast Ohio softball, Matti Benson isn’t just a player; she’s a phenomenon, a symbol of excellence, dedication, and unwavering passion. As she prepares to leave her mark on the collegiate stage, one thing remains clear: the legend of Matti Benson will endure long after she’s moved on to the next level.

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BIG GAME GABBY

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WARREN OH- Despite facing adversity early in her high school career, Gabby Gradishar has emerged as a towering figure in Champion’s softball landscape. Hindered by a knee injury that sidelined her during her freshman year, this is just her second season gracing the varsity field. Yet, her impact has been nothing short of remarkable.

Gradishar’s dominance in the pitcher’s circle is a testament to her unparalleled talent. Despite the limited sample size in the Champion uniform, she has showcased her prowess, leaving batters in awe and opponents in dismay. Her journey is not just about overcoming obstacles; it’s about rewriting the narrative of resilience and determination.

Drawing from the experience of last season, Gradishar has become a beacon of leadership for her team. The memory of reaching the regional final serves as fuel, propelling them forward in their quest to secure a coveted spot in the state semifinal. For Gradishar, every pitch, every inning is a chance to inch closer to that ultimate goal.

Statistically, Gradishar’s dominance speaks volumes. With an ERA of 0.78, she has asserted herself as one of the most formidable pitchers in the area. Her impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio is a testament to her precision and control, instilling fear in the hearts of opposing batters with every windup.

But Gradishar’s impact extends beyond the pitcher’s circle. As a key component of the Flashes’ lineup, her offensive prowess is equally formidable. With a batting average of .647, coupled with 5 home runs and 14 RBI, she’s not just a threat on the mound; she’s a force to be reckoned with at the plate.

For Gradishar, committing to play college softball at the Division 1 level is the culmination of a lifelong dream. Her journey from adversity to triumph serves as inspiration to aspiring softball players everywhere. With her commitment to Penn State, she’s not just securing her future; she’s cementing her legacy as one of Champion’s finest.

In the grand tapestry of Champion softball, Gabby Gradishar isn’t just a player; she’s a symbol of perseverance, determination, and unwavering passion. As she continues to etch her name into the annals of the sport, one thing remains clear: the legend of Gabby Gradishar is just beginning.

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WALL TO WALL WARZALA

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WARREN OH- In the heart of Champion’s softball prowess lies the formidable figure of junior catcher, Addie Warzala. Renowned as one of the area’s top statistical catchers, her impact transcends mere numbers, shaping the very essence of her team’s success.

Warzala’s symbiotic relationship with Champion’s pitching staff is a testament to her dedication. She’s not just a catcher; she’s the linchpin, forging an unbreakable bond with ace pitcher Gabby Gradishar. Their connection isn’t just on the field; it’s a product of relentless practice and mutual respect, a testament to Warzala’s commitment to excellence.

Credit must also be given to the Champion coaching staff, entrusting Warzala with the pivotal responsibility of calling pitches for Gradishar. It’s a rare skill, one that elevates her beyond her peers, showcasing her strategic acumen and game intelligence.

But Warzala’s journey isn’t just about talent; it’s about sheer determination. Her work ethic is legendary, fueling her relentless pursuit of improvement. Every success, every accolade is a product of countless hours of sweat and sacrifice, a testament to her unwavering drive.

On the offensive front, Warzala is more than just a defensive powerhouse. Sporting an impressive batting average of .556 with 11 RBI, she’s a force to be reckoned with at the plate, adding yet another dimension to Champion’s formidable lineup.

For Warzala, the dream doesn’t end on the high school diamond. With her commitment to play at Slippery Rock University, she’s poised to take her talents to the next level. It’s a testament to her dedication and skill, a validation of her relentless pursuit of greatness.

Addie Warzala isn’t just a player; she’s the embodiment of excellence, a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and pure talent. As she continues to etch her name into the mythology of the sport, one thing remains clear: the legend of Addie Warzala is far from over.

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COLUMBIANA SENDS THE SPARTANS BACK HOME

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COLUMBIANA OH- Mackenzi Gamble hit two home runs and drove in four as Columbiana defeated Akron Springfield 15-1 on Wednesday. Gamble homered in the second and third innings.

Columbiana got on the board in the bottom of the first inning after Gamble singled, Springfield committed an error, and Alaina Johnston singled, each scoring one run. The Clippers then added to their lead with five runs in the bottom of the second inning thanks to home runs by Maryn Hepler, Gamble, and Cameron Perkins.

Five more Columbiana runs crossed the plate in the third inning to extend the lead to 13-1. Caitlynn Pleska homered to right field, scoring three runs, Gamble hit a solo home run to center field, and Ella Dota doubled, scoring one run.

Gamble earned the win for Columbiana. She surrendered four hits and one run over five innings, striking out eight and walking none. Lilli Stokes took the loss for Springfield. The right-handed pitcher went one inning, surrendering two runs on two hits, striking out none and walking one. Joey Klein started the game for Springfield. The right-handed pitcher surrendered 17 hits and 13 runs (11 earned) over three innings, striking out two and walking one.

Columbiana collected 19 hits in the game. Alivia Bell, Gamble, Pleska, and Perkins each collected three hits. Dota and Hepler each collected multiple hits.

FALCONS GET RIGHT BACK TO BUSINESS

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By Ty Bartell

WARREN, Ohio — The Austintown-Fitch Falcons softball team made quick work of the Warren G. Harding Lady Raiders, seizing a bounce-back opportunity with a commanding 15-0 victory in five innings during AAC action at the Warren softball complex on Wednesday.

Fitch wasted no time asserting dominance, launching a ten-run onslaught in the opening inning. The team capitalized on eight of its 13 hits on the day, along with a hit batter, two walks, and a sacrifice fly to establish an early lead.

Freshman center fielder Kaliana Ray set the tone with a single, stole second base, advanced on a fly out, and scored on a wild pitch by Warren G. Harding’s junior right-handed pitcher Karly Trisler. K-Quick later added a two-run triple, crossing the plate for the second time on senior shortstop Ayla Ray’s fourth homer of the season, extending The Ace of Bases streak of consecutive games with a home run to three!
Sophomore Abby Toth contributed with a walk and a single, scoring twice in the explosive first inning.

Junior Sydnie Watts showcased her offensive prowess, getting hit by a pitch and blasting her first home run of the season, marking the 18th of her outstanding career. Watts also excelled in the circle, nearly securing her fourth career perfect game until Warren G. Harding’s junior Ky’Ziya Minor broke the bid with an infield single in the fourth inning.

Watts pitched the full five innings in shutout fashion, tallying an impressive 11 strikeouts in the win.
With the victory, Fitch (5-1) now looks forward to hosting a conference rematch against The Warren G. Harding Raiders (2-3) on Friday, April 12th.

Stay updated with Austintown-Fitch softball all season long with live games, scores, stats, stories, and more on YSN!

RIDGE PULLS THROUGH A NAIL BITER WITH UNITED

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- Both teams were strong in the circle on Wednesday, but Mineral Ridge was just a little bit stronger at the plate in their 3-2 victory over United.

Matilyn Zines started the game for United Varsity Golden Eagles and recorded 18 outs.

United lost despite outhitting Mineral Ridge eight to one. Grace Coffee, Chloe Angelo, and Kiley Hetherington each collected two hits.

United got on the board in the first inning after Coffee doubled, scoring one run. They then added one run in the third. Coffee singled, making the score 2-0.

Mineral Ridge took the lead in the bottom of the fourth inning after United committed an error, and Maddie Gerberry scored after tagging up, each scoring one run.

Lily Merolillo earned the win for Mineral Ridge. The starting pitcher gave up six hits and two runs over four innings, striking out three and walking none. Zines took the loss for United. The right-handed pitcher went six innings, surrendering three runs (zero earned) on one hit, striking out nine and walking one.

Coffee provided pop in the middle of the lineup, and led United with two runs batted in. The cleanup hitter went 2-for-3 on the day. Angelo stole two bases.

Sydney Wyllie went 1-for-2 at the plate to lead Mineral Ridge in hits. Maggie Collins and Gerberry each drove in one run in the Rams win.

WEST BRANCH TURNS THE OFFENSE ON IN CARROLLTON

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CARROLLTON OH- West Branch defeated Carrollton 9-2 on Wednesday thanks in part to five runs in the fourth inning. Josie Milliken doubled, scoring two runs, Mati Hawk tripled, scoring two runs, and Sara Schmidt hit a sacrifice fly, scoring one run.

West Branch opened the scoring in the first after Schmidt doubled, scoring one run. They scored three more runs in the top of the third on a home run to left field by Addi Craven.

Klary McKay started in the circle for the Warriors. The starting pitcher gave up seven hits and two runs (one earned) over seven innings, striking out four and walking one.

Craven provided pop in the middle of the lineup, and led West Branch with three runs batted in. The infielder went 1-for-4 on the day. Hawk went 2-for-3 at the plate to lead in hits. Ellie Tucker paced the lineup with three walks. Overall, the team had patience at the plate, piling up five walks for the game.

FLEPS KEEPS CRESTVIEW IN CHECK

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Chloe Fleps was dominant in the circle, as the righty rang up 11 strikeouts in Liberty’s 5-1 victory over Crestview on Wednesday. Fleps gave up five hits and one run over five innings while walking one.

Liberty got on the board in the top of the third inning after Fleps doubled, and Sara Horn singled, each scoring two runs.

Emma Snyder began the game for Crestview. She gave up six hits and five runs (three earned) over five innings, striking out 10 and walking three.

Fleps provided pop in the middle of the lineup, and led the Leopards with three runs batted in. The 3-hole hitter went 2-for-2 on the day. Sarah Spisak stole two bases. Liberty ran wild on the base paths, piling up four stolen bases for the game. They were also were sure-handed and didn’t commit a single error. Spisak made the most plays with 12.

Lexie Huff went 1-for-2 at the plate as they led the team with one run batted in. Chloe Stoops went 2-for-2 at the plate to lead Crestview in hits. Stoops stole three bases. The Rebels stole four bases in the game.  Their defense turned one double play in the game. They were sure-handed in the field and didn’t commit a single error. Taelor Brown had the most chances in the field with seven.