ORANGE BOYS TAKE ANOTHER TENNIS STATE TITLE

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WOOSTER, OH — The Orange Lions are once again state champions.

With a determined and dominant performance, the Lions captured their second OTCA (Ohio Tennis Coaches Association) state championship, defeating Cincinnati Indian Hill in the finals to bring home the Division II title.

The victory was especially sweet for Orange, as it came against the same Indian Hill team that handed them a heartbreaking loss in last year’s state final. This time, the Lions flipped the script, delivering a composed and commanding performance to secure the crown.

Earlier in the day, the Lions advanced to the finals with a hard-fought win over Lexington in the semifinals. On the other side of the bracket, Indian Hill defeated Columbus Academy, setting up a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s championship showdown.

Fueled by redemption and backed by strong play throughout the lineup, Orange made their statement in the final. The team’s depth, poise, and experience shone through as they captured the decisive win.

This championship marks Orange’s second state title, with their first coming in 2021. After falling just short in 2023, the Lions’ return to the top is a testament to their resilience, growth, and relentless drive.

With another trophy now in the case, the Orange Lions have solidified their place among the elite programs in Ohio high school tennis.

*Story contributed by Tim Porter

POLAND’S ACE UP THE SLEEVE

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POLAND OH- Poland junior Andrew Aey has quickly become a standout on the Bulldogs’ tennis team, not only for his strong performance on the court but for his leadership and commitment to the program’s growth. In a recent Player Profile on YSN, Andrew sat down with Anthony Hartwig to discuss his development as a player, his family’s influence, and why representing Poland means so much.

Aey described the transition from being one of the youngest on the team to an upperclassman leading by example. “It’s a great feeling, honestly, to kind of just see the younger generations, newer players coming in,” he said. The Bulldogs have seen a notable increase in participation since Aey’s freshman year, up from sometimes just seven players a match to now fielding as many as 15. “The attendance really jumped up and it’s really sweet to see other kids kind of just getting into the sport,” Aey reflected. Having picked up a racket at three, Aey tried several sports before tennis stuck. He credits his first coach, Susan Sansciola, for being a key influence: “She really helped me really improve my tennis game throughout the years. She was the first coach I had when I kind of started taking it seriously around the age of seven.”

Aey shared that mastering the mental side of tennis has been the toughest challenge: “It’s really something that just comes with experience. It’s not like a stroke you just go out and work on … it just happens to you over time.” The junior standout also emphasized the crucial support of his family, especially his parents, in making his tennis journey possible, with countless hours and resources devoted to getting him to tournaments across the country. International tennis stars have inspired Aey, too—Rafael Nadal in particular. “He has one of my favorite quotes: ‘Losing isn’t my enemy. Fear of losing is,’” Aey cited.

But it is donning the Poland jersey that remains closest to Aey’s heart: “It means so much to me, honestly, even more than USTA, anything like that. I live in a community of just great people … I wouldn’t be here without the support of my community, my parents, the coaches, people in my life.” Now, as Aey eyes the upcoming district tournament on May 22nd and 23rd, Aey hopes to continue making his school and community proud—on and off the court.

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EDGEWOOD OPENS EYES WITH THRILLING WIN OVER GENEVA

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ASHTABULA OH-  Edgewood boys tennis is still cooking in the 2025 season.  The Warriors were seriously tested on Wednesday as a strong Geneva program stood in front of them.  Edgewood was up for the task and grabbed a huge 3-2 win over the Eagles.

Record: 5-0

League: 3-0

1. Noah Vencill (E) def. LJ Stark (G) 7-5

7-6 (12-10)

  1. Carter Howard (E) 6- def. Myles Colgan 6-1 6-3 (G)
  2. Nick DeFazio (E) def. Shayne Miniara (G) 6-46-1

1D. Isaiah Rose/Logan Wilsey (G) def.

Brady Vencill/Matthew Pierce-Ruhland

(E) 6-3 6-0

2D. Ethan Taylor/Cam Yost (G) def.

Randy Vencill/Brennan Bush (E) 6-1 6-1

EDGEWOOD BEATS THE RAIN TO STAY UNBEATEN

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ASHTABULA OH-  Edgewood tennis is off to a hot start to the season despite the colder temperatures.  In the Warriors latest conquest that kept them at a perfect 4-0 record they blanked Jefferson 5-0.

1. Noah Vencill (E) def. Reagan Williams

(J) 6-0 6-0

2. Carter Howard (E) def. Gabe Williams

(J) 6-0 6-0

3. Nick DeFazio (E) def. Ben Brand (J)

6-26-1

1D. Brady Vencill/Matthew Pierce-Ruhland (E) def. Gavin Furman/Connor Kovach (J) 4-6 6-0 6-1

2D. Randy Vencill/Brennan Bush (E) def.

Dylan Hunt/Hendrick Wolfert (J) 6-1

6-1

Edgewood is slated to take on St John on Tuesday in their next match weather pending.

ARFARAS SET TO BECOME PURPLE RAIDER

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CANFIELD, OH – Canfield’s Carson Arfaras is set to continue his tennis career at the collegiate level, committing to Mount Union to play for the Purple Raiders.

Arfaras has been a key contributor to the Cardinals’ tennis program throughout his high school career, earning four varsity letters while steadily rising as one of the top players in the area. As a sophomore, he secured Second-Team All-AAC honors before elevating his game to earn First-Team All-AAC recognition as a junior.

His dedication, consistency, and competitive spirit have helped Canfield remain a strong contender in the AAC. Now, he looks to bring that same work ethic and success to Mount Union, where he will continue to develop his skills at the next level.

Arfaras’ commitment marks another proud moment for Canfield athletics, as he joins a long list of Cardinals who have gone on to compete at the collegiate level.

BROLLING WITH THE PUNCHES

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Girard, OH – Junior Myleigh Broll is quickly making a name for herself on the Girard girls’ tennis team, earning the moniker “Ironman” for her relentless dedication and determination. Despite picking up a tennis racket just last year, Myleigh has shown remarkable growth and passion for the sport, driving her team forward and inspiring both peers and coaches. “At first, I just wanted to try something new,” said Myleigh. “But the moment I stepped out on the court, I realized I loved it. I couldn’t disappoint my team, so I went all in, practicing day in and day out.”

Myleigh attributes much of her success to her rigorous training regimen, which includes taking additional lessons and dedicating countless hours to practice. The Girard tennis program, led by Coach Silverman, who Myleigh praises for his ability to foster confidence and provide unwavering support, has been pivotal in her development. “Coach Silverman may not know everything, but his approach makes him the best in my eyes,” she noted. The team’s collaborative spirit and her coaches’ guidance have continuously boosted her performance and drive.
Tennis is known for its mental challenges as much as its physical ones. Myleigh candidly admits her mental strength on the court is still a work in progress. However, she’s developing routines to improve her focus and confidence. “I take deep breaths, close my eyes, and envision positive images, especially of my family,” she said.

Beyond tennis, Myleigh is an all-around student-athlete, excelling in the classroom and engaging in various extracurricular activities. She particularly enjoys baking, science classes, and math, credited to her teacher Mrs. Aduchi. Outside school, she participates in softball and is an avid football fan, enjoying both high school games and the NFL. Looking ahead, Myleigh is contemplating a future that keeps her close to her roots. “I want to delve into sports medicine and prefer to stay near home for college,” she shared, mentioning her admiration for campuses like Notre Dame.

As Myleigh continues to juggle her burgeoning tennis career, academic pursuits, and personal interests, she remains grateful for the support from her family, friends, and coaches. “I would not be where I am without them,” she emphasized. Myleigh Broll exemplifies the spirit of commitment and passion, making her a shining example of perseverance and dedication at Girard High School. With her unyielding drive and supportive community, there’s no limit to what she can achieve.m For more insights into Myleigh Broll’s journey and Girard girls’ tennis, tune into the latest Girard Tennis player profile where Myleigh shares her experiences and aspirations.

 

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SILVERMAN SERVING UP GOLD

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GIRARD, OH—At just 14 years old, Cameron Silverman had an epiphany that tennis was her calling. Now, as Girard High School’s number one singles player, Silverman, a junior, has amassed an impressive 10-3 record this season. Having picked up her first racquet at age four and sporadically engaged with the sport in her early years, it wasn’t until her mid-teens that she truly embraced tennis with fervor.
Despite facing the challenges of a new program and the mental battles inherent in the sport, Silverman credits the camaraderie and supportive energy of her team, as well as the guidance of her devoted coaches, for her success. “It’s crazy to me. I’m so grateful,” she said, reflecting on the coach’s pivotal role in her journey.

Silverman’s disciplined approach includes self-evaluation after matches and listening to instructional videos to refine her strategies. She emphasizes the importance of mental fortitude, advising, “You have to kind of forget the bad points and just move on.”
A history enthusiast off the court, Silverman excels academically and has a particular fondness for historical studies. Known for her leadership qualities, she often draws inspiration from her uncle, a police officer who faces daily challenges with resilient optimism.

Silverman acknowledges the complexity of competing against friends but remains driven by the broader rewards awaiting her. “There’s a bigger reward at the end of the journey,” she says. Moreover, Silverman enjoys healthy pre-match snacks like Clif Bars, but she admits to indulging her sweet tooth with post-match treats such as cookies and cream ice cream.

Wrapping up her heartfelt shout-outs, Silverman thanked her parents, twin sister Addison, coaches, teammates, teachers, staff, and the athletic director, who made the tennis club possible. “It was an honor to discuss Cameron’s journey in tennis, and with her dedication and support system, the sky’s the limit for this rising star,” said Anthony Hartwig. Girard is fortunate to have Cameron Silverman, a remarkable player on and off the court, as a part of their community.

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HITTING DIMES ON THE COURT

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BOARDMAN OH- In the bustling halls of Boardman High School, the tennis courts resonate with the sound of ambition and hard work, largely thanks to junior tennis standout, Dimitra Coutris. Recently spotlighted in a Player Profile, Dimitra opened up about her journey, leadership, and the bonds that make her pursuit in tennis both rewarding and impactful. With the departure of a significant senior class last year, Dimitra and her fellow juniors stepped seamlessly into leadership roles. It wasn’t just about filling the shoes of their predecessors, but about fostering an inclusive team environment for the younger players, particularly the incoming freshmen. “We wanted to make sure everyone felt included,” Dimitra shared during the podcast. “We did some activities to ensure everyone was comfortable with each other.”

Her inspiration stems from past leaders like Brianna Birdie and Emily Yerko, who paved the way for her to embrace leadership. Dimitra recalls their influence fondly, crediting her success to their early guidance and ongoing support.

Dimitra’s tennis journey began at ten years old, when her mother enrolled her and her siblings in various sports. While her brother found a passion in soccer and her twin sister took to golf, Dimitra was drawn to the tennis court. This individual choice has since blossomed into a significant part of her identity, driven by a mix of personal determination and familial support. The podcast also delved into the mental rigor of tennis, a sport that requires as much psychological resilience as physical prowess. For Dimitra, this has been an area of marked improvement. “I’ve definitely learned how to calm myself and stay present,” she said, highlighting the importance of mental focus in her matches.

Off the court, Dimitra excels academically with a 3.9 GPA, admitting that the transition to high school demanded a new level of dedication. Her passion for English and support from influential teachers like Mr. Pollini and Mrs. Marinucci have bolstered her academic journey.
Beyond her personal achievements, Dimitra’s involvement in the “Big Spartan, Little Spartan” program underscores her commitment to mentorship and community. “It’s amazing to see how much of an impact you can have on these young kids’ lives,” she reflected, realizing the importance of role models in shaping the next generation.

A big Greek family with unwavering support stands behind her, a fact Dimitra cherishes deeply. Whether it’s attending her tennis matches or sharing laughter and memories, her family’s presence fuels her drive both on and off the court. As the season advances, Dimitra’s growth in doubles play with her partner Nina has become a point of pride, showcasing her adaptability and teamwork. Her story is one of continuous learning, resilience, and a profound sense of community—an inspiration to her team and all who know her.

In gratitude, Dimitra extends thanks to her parents, grandparents, and Coach Joanne, who has been a pivotal figure in her tennis journey from the very start. With a promising future ahead, both in academics and athletics, Dimitra Coutris continues to be a beacon of leadership and dedication at Boardman High. We can’t wait to see what milestones she will achieve next.

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PAYTON PAYS OFF THE WORK

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Boardman, OH — In a remarkable journey from underclassman to a prominent team leader, Boardman High School junior Payton Konnerth is making waves on the court. With no seniors on the girls’ tennis team this year, Konnerth has stepped up to fill the void, providing essential leadership and guidance to her younger teammates. “It’s definitely different than in the past when I’ve been the underclassman,” Konnerth reflected. “But now, since there are no seniors, the juniors are the oldest girls. We really had to step up and become the leaders of the team.”
An avid tennis player since the age of seven, Konnerth’s early memories of playing at Applewood Swimming and Tennis Club showcased her resilience. Despite facing challenges due to suboptimal courts, she honed her skills through dedication and passion, often practicing with her supportive father.

“He started to get more serious as I did,” Konnerth said of her father’s growing interest in tennis. “He watches more videos, learns more about the game, and does all he can to help me get better.” Konnerth credits a significant part of her growth to the solitary nature of tennis, a sport that demands both physical acumen and mental fortitude. “You really have to lock in and hammer down on focus,” she commented. Her leadership skills have flourished as she leads stretches, prepares teammates for matches, and offers invaluable advice.

Her enthusiasm extends beyond personal achievement; Konnerth delights in seeing the sport’s growing popularity within the Youngstown community. “It’s really good to see, because it is a smaller sport, and I think everybody should try it,” she remarked on the increasing number of tennis programs in local schools. Balancing her athletic pursuits with academic excellence, Konnerth maintains a remarkable 3.9 GPA. She attributes her success in the classroom to her perseverance and willingness to seek help when needed. “I’m not afraid of a challenge. I will talk to my teachers and make sure that I know it before a test,” she explained.

Her journey is also supported by influential teachers like her math instructor, Mrs. Rohan, and her art teacher, Mrs. Sears, who have provided invaluable support. As Konnerth continues to lead her team through the season, she maintains a humble perspective, expressing gratitude to her family, friends, coaches, and teachers. With another year ahead to further cement her leadership, Payton Konnerth is undoubtedly a rising star both on and off the tennis court.

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MOONEY’S STRONG START CONTINUES

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YOUNGSTOWN OH- Mooney is off and running in the first few weeks of the season.  On Tuesday the Cardinals defeated Warren JFK to move their record to 5-1 on the season.

Match scores:

1st singles: Brooke Campbell (Mooney) def. Saumya Sheth 6-3,6-2 2nd singles: Abigail Markey (Mooney) def. Emily Sweeney 6-3,6-2 1st doubles: Alexa Vargo and Roselyn Wade (Mooney) def. Andrea Ryan and Ella Economus 4-6,6-2,6-4.