KATHLEEN “THE DREAM” JONES

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By Ty Bartell

AKRON OH- What’s that old saying in the world of sports? You can’t teach height? Well that may be
true, what is even more special is having skill to pair with that height. Those two factors together are a coach’s dream, and for The Archbishop Hoban Knights volleyball team, dreams come true! With The Knights middle Kathleen Jones, a great balance of both height and skill is brought to the table.

Just a sophomore, Jones found herself involved with the sport as early as sixth-grade and has always had her parents, especially her dad, there as a constant motivator. Proving herself as a dangerous attacker, Jones has put down a total of 163 so far kills this season, second on the team. Pair that with some phenomenal net defense, as Jones has sent back shots at a nice rate this season as she is tied for second on The Knights in total blocks with 26 on the year as of writing this article. In the midst of a perfect 19-0 season, Hoban has high hopes in making a deep run during tournament time and players like Kathleen Jones are vital to those types of runs.

Do not miss the first-ever volleyball profile for The Hoban Knights as Ty Bartell got the chance to sit down with Kathleen “The Dream” Jones where the discuss her career so far, the special year The Knights are having and much more in this edition of Player Profile!

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CAMPBELL ENDS THE BEST REGULAR SEASON IN PROGRAM HISTORY

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LIBERTY OH- Campbell’s volleyball team closed out their regular season in historic fashion, notching their 17th win, setting a new benchmark in the program’s history. The Red Devils displayed their dominance with a sweep of Liberty, achieving victory with scores of 25-19, 25-18, and 25-14.

Several standout performances by Campbell players contributed to their historic achievement. Leading the charge was Kendall Brunn, who delivered an impressive 14 kills, showcasing her prowess as an offensive force on the court. MiLeena Williams also made a significant impact with 12 kills and contributed defensively with 3 blocks.

Elysia Rudolphi displayed her serving skills with 5 aces, while Angeliz Diaz added 4 aces, further solidifying Campbell’s control over the match. In the role of setter, Carla Ramirez Ortiz contributed 29 assists, emphasizing her crucial role in orchestrating the team’s offense.

Defensively, the Red Devils were anchored by Gabriela Villanueva Santos, who secured 15 digs, and Carla Ramirez Ortiz and Cyra Cross, each recording 10 digs, helping to maintain a strong backcourt.

 

DIRENZO IS A NO GO FOR ATTACKERS

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- Offense wins games and defense wins championships is the old adage, right? At least that
has been the case for the Austintown-Fitch Falcons volleyball team, who have won 4 consecutive All-American Conference (AAC) championships and have been the definition of lockdown in the time frame. Defense, of course, starts with a team’s libero or defensive specialist, the defensive anchor of any squad. The Falcons have that position covered this season by junior Izzy DiRenzo!

Getting her first season as the full-time defensive specialist, DiRenzo has a team high 256 digs this season, while averaging 6 a set and over 21 a match! Also both team highs. Sacrificing herself to thwart some of the best attackers in, not only the area, but the entire state! Learning her craft in middle school, hardwork and determination have been pointers to Izzy’s success. Fueled by her family support and moms Italian-style home cooking, DiRenzo also has a very natural “lead by example” aura through her play style.

You will not want to miss out on this very special edition of Player Profile as Ty Bartell got the chance to chat with the lockdown Austintown defensive specialist, Izzy DiRenzo!

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CRESTVIEW COMPLETES PERFECT MVAC SLATE

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COLUMBIANA OH- Crestview’s volleyball team continued its dominant run through the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference (MVAC) with a convincing sweep over LaBrae, securing their undefeated record in the conference. The match scores reflected the Rebels’ complete control over the game, ending at 25-13, 25-14, and 25-11.

The Crestview squad showcased their talent and team chemistry on the court, with several standout performances. Leading the charge was Grace Auer, who recorded an impressive 15 kills and 24 assists, highlighting her versatility as a key contributor to her team’s success.

Abbey Emch was a force at the net, tallying 13 kills and three crucial blocks, demonstrating her value as both an attacker and defender. Lainy Auer displayed her all-around skills, securing a double-double with 6 kills, 15 assists, and 12 digs, which showcased her ability to make an impact in various aspects of the game.

Julia Blasko contributed 5 kills, while Katie Lissi played a pivotal role with 5 kills, 4 aces, and 2 blocks, proving her versatility and strong presence at the net. The defensive efforts were anchored by Emily Downey, who recorded 11 crucial digs to help protect the backcourt.

EAGLES PREPARED FOR THE PIRATES

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WARREN OH- Warren JFK continued their strong performance in the Portage Trail Conference as they secured a significant victory against Southeast in a challenging four-set match. The scores reflected the competitive nature of the contest, ending at 25-18, 25-14, 22-25, and 25-14.

The Warren JFK squad displayed their skills on the court, with several standout performances. Danielle Wickham led the team in aces, contributing 3 crucial ones that helped secure the victory. Hannah Myers was a force to be reckoned with, recording an impressive 10 kills during the match.

Furthermore, the assists flowed seamlessly from Danielle Wickham, who tallied an impressive total of 25 assists, showcasing her role as a key playmaker for the team. Marina Sanders made her presence felt at the net, earning 2 blocks, which were essential in disrupting the opponent’s offense.

In the backline, the defense was fortified by Jasmine Ridley, who recorded an impressive 16 digs, showcasing her agility and ability to protect the backcourt.

AIR ROBY

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- When speaking to high school volleyball coaches, many of them will tell you one of their
favorite types of players are the utility type. The kind that can and will play while exceeding at any position for the sake of the team. Austintown-Fitch Falcons sophomore Morgan Roby is one of those types of players. A swiss army knife type that has seen playing time at multiple positions, stepping up to cover injuries during the season.

Playing as an outside hitter, opposite side hitter and libero this year, Roby has racked up 213 digs so far this season, tied for third on the team, while averaging over 10 a match. Roby has also recorded 83 kills in her sophomore campaign, servicing as a threat on the attacking side. One of the most remarkable Roby skills? Her unbelievable vertical, at an amazing 27.1 inches, the highest on the team and one of the highest in the school!

Her ability to jump out of the gym and willingness to adapt to several positions is not even Roby’s best quality. That would be her ability to be a constant bright spot on the team with infectious positivity! Looking up to her older brother, Morgan has aspirations of playing athletics at the collegiate level and has the work ethic to match.

YSNs Ty Bartell got the chance to talk with The Falcon sophomore in this edition of Player Profile where they discussed the current season, the support from her family and that amazing jumping ability!

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GIRARD GIVES THEIR SENIORS A GOOD SEND OFF

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GIRARD OH- In a special senior night celebration, Girard took to the court with enthusiasm and determination, ultimately delivering a dominating performance to secure a win over Salem with scores of 25-7, 25-13, and 25-4.

Girard’s offensive prowess was on full display, with Bree Latell leading the charge with an impressive 18 kills. Nico Cochran added 6 kills to the mix, while Alexis Pieton contributed with 4 kills. Bailey Walters orchestrated the offense brilliantly, recording 27 assists to set up her teammates for success.

The service game was a key factor in Girard’s victory, with Bailey Walters, Bree Latell, and Nico Cochran delivering strong performances from the service line. Walters led the team with 17 service points, while Latell and Cochran each contributed 13. Walters also showcased her serving accuracy with 9 aces, with Latell and Cochran adding 4 aces each.

Defensively, Bailey Walters continued to shine, not only as a setter but also as a reliable digger, tallying 7 digs. Latell, Cochran, and Molly Durkin chipped in with their defensive efforts, recording 5, 5, and 4 digs, respectively. At the net, Alexis Pieton, Bailey Walters, and Brooke Perry played a pivotal role in the blocking department, with Pieton leading the team with 3 blocks, accompanied by 3 blocks from Walters and 2 blocks from Perry.

Girard’s senior night celebration was truly special, not only due to the victory but also because of the incredible contributions of the seniors who led their team to this impressive win. The dominating performance showcased the team’s unity and determination, making it a memorable night for everyone involved.

CLIPPERS PASS ANOTHER NON CONFERENCE TEST

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COLUMBIANA OH- In a highly anticipated non-conference matchup, Columbiana faced off against Springfield in a four-set battle, ultimately securing the win with scores of 25-19, 26-24, 16-25, and 25-19.

Columbiana’s well-balanced performance proved to be the key to their victory. Kelsey Cameron led the charge with 10 kills and 2 blocks, showcasing her prowess at the net. Danica Halas contributed 8 kills, while the playmaking duo of Ellie Jackson (6 kills, 18 assists, 16 digs) and Cameron Perkins (6 kills, 13 assists, 12 digs) both recorded impressive double-doubles, demonstrating their all-around impact on the game. Defensively, Ava Heinrich was a force to be reckoned with, tallying 25 digs and delivering 4 aces.

On the Springfield side, Baelyn Brungard led the charge with 12 kills, 19 digs, and 12 service points, displaying her versatility. Jameka Brungard was a formidable presence with 11 kills, 10 digs, and six blocks, contributing significantly at the net. Mariah Jones showcased her skills with 11 kills, 14 digs, and 12 service points, ensuring a competitive performance. Cali Matey added 14 digs, while Karigan Mullen orchestrated the offense with 32 assists and chipped in with 11 digs.

ANOTHER MILESTONE NIGHT FOR CAMPBELL

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CAMPBELL OH- In a memorable night for Campbell’s volleyball team, Kendall Brunn etched her name into the record books, reaching an incredible milestone of 1000 career kills. The Red Devils showcased their dominance in a sweeping victory over Badger, with scores of 25-19, 25-11, and 25-16.

The match was not just about the win but also the celebration of Brunn’s remarkable achievement. Her performance on the court was nothing short of spectacular, recording a staggering 27 kills, 15 of which came in the decisive third set. Brunn’s ability to find the floor with her powerful attacks has been a hallmark of her career, and this night was a testament to her consistency and skill.

Supporting Brunn’s standout performance, MiLeena Williams added 10 kills, while Cyra Cross contributed 8 kills and 2 aces. Carla Ramirez Ortiz orchestrated the offense brilliantly, amassing 45 assists to ensure her teammates were in prime scoring positions.

On the defensive front, Angeliz Diaz led the charge with 14 digs, followed by Cyra Cross with 9 and Angelis Espada with 7. The Red Devils displayed a well-rounded game, with strong serving by MiLeena Williams (4 aces) and Cyra Cross (2 aces).

As the final point was scored, securing not only the win but also a historic night for Kendall Brunn, the Red Devils celebrated not just a victory but a remarkable individual achievement. Brunn’s 1000 career kills serve as a testament to her dedication, skill, and impact on the Campbell volleyball program.

FOLKLORE, OR FOLKWEIN? YOU DECIDE

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- When speaking about athletics in larger high schools, it becomes increasingly difficult to
participate and start in multiple sports. The bigger the school means more competition within and less spots for everyone on the team. Not to mention, the time commitment that comes with being a multiple sport athlete and the sacrifices that need to be made to accommodate a time schedule like that.

For Austintown-Fitch sophomore, Kylie Folkwein, it is just another day at the office! Entering Austintown as a freshman phenom last year, Folkwein found herself involved in volleyball, basketball and softball while having important roles and playing time in all three! Managing to rack up 144 kills in volleyball a season ago, Folkwein looked to build upon a strong freshman season. Ranking second on the team in kills (194) and kills per set (2.8), Kylie has also gotten down defensively as she is tied for third on the team in digs (213) at the time of this article.

With improved numbers all the way around this season, many may begin to wonder “Doesn’t she play for a prolific travel softball team? How can that be?” Well folks, it’s not folklore, it’s Folkwein! As Ty Bartell got the chance to sit down with the sensational sophomore for her first of many Player Profiles this season.

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