AKRON OH- In the latest installment of YSN’s “Wrestling Wednesdays,” hosts Gary Althiser, Brydon “Squeek” Feister, Anthony Hartwig, and DJ Yokley delved into the inspiring journey of state wrestling champion Feister. Squeek, who proudly represented the YSN coverage area, shared insights into his triumphant path to victory in Columbus.
Reflecting on the moments following his championship win, Squeek fondly recalled the first thoughts that ran through his mind: finding his mother in the stands to share in that moment. It was evident that family played a pivotal role in his journey, from his brother, who served as his drilling partner, to his father’s influence and work ethic. Squeek’s journey was not without its challenges, including a bout with illness that saw him drop significant weight. Demonstrating resilience, he pushed through adversity, regaining strength and focus, highlighted by his strategic approach in the finals match. The hosts commended him for his determination, recognizing it as a true testament to his character and skill.
Beyond the mat, Squeek remains grounded with aspirations of becoming a four-time state champion and pursuing higher education. His humility and dedication serve as an inspiration to young athletes, making him a role model within the Hoban community and beyond. In a segment filled with camaraderie, humor, and admiration for the sport, the episode underscored the hard work and spirit required to achieve greatness in wrestling. The enthusiasm and support from the YSN team further highlighted the network’s commitment to showcasing local talent.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_5618.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-03-13 19:30:242025-03-13 19:30:24WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 11) FEATURING BRYDON FEISTER
AUSTINTOWN OH- Reghan Koch, a formidable freshman wrestler at Austintown Fitch, has quickly made a name for herself in Ohio’s wrestling circuit. Recently interviewed on the YSN Live podcast, Reghan discussed her exceptional performance at the district tournament and her preparation for the state tournament.
Winning as a freshman can be daunting, but Reghan’s resolve and talent shone brightly. She achieved district champion status, marking Fitch’s dramatic improvement from 34th place last year to a top contender this season. Koch attributes much of this success to the unity and intrinsic drive among her teammates, propelled by their coaches’ motivating spirit. Reghan’s journey began in the sixth grade, inspired by her younger brother’s wrestling. Despite initial doubts about the sport, she found herself thriving on the mat, eventually overcoming knee surgery to return stronger than ever. Her resilience has not only been a personal milestone but has also set a high bar for her freshmen peers.
When discussing her preparation and mindset for the state tournament, Reghan emphasized staying grounded. She approaches each match ready to give her all, setting ambitious goals without losing sight of the basics. Her experiences on the Green Machine team provided a solid foundation that she continues to build upon. Reghan also spoke about her passion for capturing moments with her camera. Her keen eye for photography allows her to document the raw emotions and intensity of wrestling, providing a unique lens through which her teammates and the sport itself can be appreciated. Looking forward, Reghan remains focused on seizing opportunities to compete at higher levels, including ambitions to wrestle at national tournaments like Fargo. As she stands ready to represent Austintown Fitch at the state level, Reghan Koch embodies the spirit of determination and excellence, marking the beginning of what promises to be a stellar wrestling career.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_5478.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-03-05 16:55:102025-03-05 16:56:00WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 10) FEATURING REGHAN KOCH
POLAND OH- In an insightful interview on the “YSN Wrestling Wednesday”, Poland High School’s wrestling sensation, Ella Thomas, detailed her determined journey toward wrestling excellence. Speaking with hosts Anthony Hartwig and Gary Althiser, Thomas reflected on her successful state run last year and her elevated ambitions for the current season.
Ranked second in the state, Thomas expressed surprise at her substantial achievements last year, which have since laid the foundation for her newfound confidence. “I had a bunch of hard, tough tournaments,” Thomas shared, attributing her rigorous competition schedule to the enhancement of her skills and mental fortitude. With aspirations of defeating top-ranked McKenna Craft, Thomas emphasized a key focus on maintaining a robust mentality. Her experiences at high-profile competitions such as Iron Man and Finley taught her valuable lessons, particularly the importance of entering matches with the belief that anything is possible.
Thomas’s development is supported by a dedicated coaching team at Poland. “Jordan Beetle and John Arnett have really taught me over these years,” she noted, acknowledging their influence on her focused approach this season. Now drilling with promising eighth-grader Michael Miller, Thomas benefits from a competitive yet encouraging training environment that pushes her to continually improve. As she prepares for the upcoming sectionals, Thomas is committed to staying healthy and refining her technique. Her statement, “I’m gonna beat it this year,” highlights her unwavering determination to achieve her goal of reaching the top of the state podium. Ella Thomas’s journey is more than just personal ambition. Her role as an exemplar within Poland’s up-and-coming girls’ wrestling team underscores her influence as both a competitor and a leader, inspiring peers and younger wrestlers alike. With her eyes set firmly on championship success, Thomas embodies the resilience and drive of a true wrestling champion.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_5151.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-02-13 02:15:242025-02-13 02:15:24WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 8) FEATURING ELLA THOMAS
In a recent feature on YSN’s Wrestling Wednesdays, Evan Protopapa, the junior wrestling standout from Austintown Fitch, shared insights into his journey and aspirations in the sport. Despite being an underclassman, Protopapa has taken on the mantle of leadership as one of the captains of a predominantly young team, showcasing his maturity and dedication to the sport.
Protopapa’s commitment to wrestling became evident when he decided to focus solely on the sport beginning his freshman year, putting aside his time with travel soccer to hone his skills on the mat. His dedication has been rewarded with a captaincy role, a testament to the respect he has earned from both his peers and coaches. The young wrestler thrives on the deep competition within the Austintown Fitch program, where he cites the camaraderie and rigorous training environment as key factors in his development. His drilling partner, Joey Janis, a senior, plays a crucial role in pushing him to excel during practice sessions. With a clear focus on his goals, Protopapa aims for the state podium, citing this as his chief aspiration. His competitive spirit is matched by a well-rounded approach to wrestling, as evidenced by his disciplined diet of chicken and rice, which reflects his commitment to maintaining peak physical condition.
Beyond the physical demands, Protopapa acknowledges the importance of mental preparation in wrestling. He emphasizes keeping a positive mindset as crucial to his success, a lesson that has been reinforced by his coach, John Bird, whom he credits as a significant motivator. Off the mat, Protopapa is equally passionate about academics, particularly in math. This balanced approach to student-athlete life underscores his dedication both as a wrestler and a scholar. Concluding the interview, Protopapa expressed gratitude to those who have supported him along the way, including his mother, his coaches, and fellow wrestlers, showcasing the network of support that fuels his drive to succeed. Evan Protopapa’s journey is a testament to the values of hard work, focus, and leadership—qualities that make him a rising star in the Austintown Fitch wrestling program. As he continues to strive for excellence, the local wrestling community watches with anticipation, eager to see his potential come to fruition on the state stage.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_4998.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-02-06 15:42:302025-02-06 15:42:30WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 7) FEATURING EVAN PROTOPAPA
HUBBARD, OH – In a spotlight interview on the latest episode of Wrestling Wednesdays on YSN Live, Hubbard senior wrestler Alex Hackwelder opened up about reaching the milestone of 100 career wins, his philosophy on the sport, and his future aspirations. The episode, hosted by Anthony Hartwig, Gary Althiser, and Scotty Mincher, was an insightful look into the life and mindset of one of the area’s top young athletes.
Achieving his 100th win last Friday at Fitch, Hackwelder described the experience as a significant and emotional accomplishment. “It’s what you…one of the milestones you work for as soon as you start your freshman year,” said Hackwelder, highlighting the long-term dedication and effort behind his success. Celebrating this milestone alongside his team and family made the moment even more special. Hackwelder shared the importance of his training partners and coaches in his journey. He currently drills with teammates Benjamin Logan and receives coaching frim others, who provide varied challenges and support. “It’s nice to get different feels and get some different guys here and there…to work with different guys and get different feels is really important to me,” Hackwelder noted.
Reflecting on the legacy of past team leaders like Nick Bowser, Hackwelder conveyed the responsibility he feels as a senior to continue raising the bar for the Hubbard wrestling program. “It’s really important to carry on what we learned from those guys last year…and try to do our best to replicate that,” he said. Hackwelder’s goals for the current season include a Northeast Eight Championship and standing atop the podium at the state championships in Columbus. Beyond personal achievements, he aspires to leave a lasting positive impact on the program. “I kind of want to leave a positive mark on the program and be remembered as somebody that…helped out his teammates as well and did everything he can for just the program, not just myself,” he added.
Balancing mental and physical preparation is key for Hackwelder, who emphasizes the importance of mindset in wrestling. He admitted struggling with confidence in the past but now focuses on enjoying the sport and its challenges. “I’m just trying my best to go have fun…that really helps me to settle down and put into perspective that, you know, it’s just a sport and I’m just going out there to have fun,” Hackwelder shared. Looking to the future, Hackwelder is considering attending a four-year college, potentially continuing in athletics, and majoring in engineering. He emphasized the invaluable life lessons wrestling has taught him, which he believes will serve him well in any future endeavors.
As the interview concluded, Hackwelder took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him throughout his journey, including his teammates, coaches, and family. “I hope they know that they’re all very important to me… and to feel them supporting me and to know they’re watching just kind of gives me that extra boost sometimes when it’s a little tough,” he expressed. Alex Hackwelder’s story is an inspiring testament to hard work, perseverance, and the love of the sport, capturing the essence of what it means to be a dedicated athlete and leader.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/54C42E5A-5E85-4AD8-B627-A52262C004F7.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-01-15 17:15:282025-01-15 17:15:28WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 5) FEATURING ALEX HACKWELDER
Under the bright lights of YSN’s “Wrestling Wednesday,” the spotlight fell on senior wrestling phenom Tristan Eckles. With a season still sparkling from his undefeated streak, Tristan stepped into the studio, ready to share insights and stories that have shaped his journey so far. Hosts Anthony Hartwig, Gary Althiser, and special guest Scotty Mincher leaned in, eager to unpack the discipline, determination, and drive behind his success.
Tristan’s presence exuded a calm confidence—one that has been meticulously cultivated. Reflecting on his pre-match routine, he recounted how he deliberately avoids getting caught up in the rankings and statistics of his opponents. “I try to clear my mind and focus on my technique,” he said. “Stress can be a wrestler’s greatest enemy.” It’s a strategy that has served him well, grounding him in the fundamentals while others might be lost in the hype.
Behind every great athlete, there’s often a mentor who provides both wisdom and inspiration. For Tristan, that mentor is his father, a former state placer and OVAC champion. “I’ve always looked up to him,” Tristan admitted. “His support has been invaluable.” Surpassing his father’s accolades isn’t just a goal—it’s a challenge that fuels Tristan’s drive. Yet, the bond they share transcends competition. They have wrestled together countless times, each bout reinforcing the strength of their relationship. “He’s still got the size advantage over me,” Tristan laughed, acknowledging his father’s tenacious spirit, even with a knee injury.
One of the more surprising revelations from Tristan was his approach to emotional regulation. Eschewing the typical pre-match playlist that many athletes swear by, Tristan finds solace in silence. “Music makes me too emotional,” he confessed. “It’s better for me to stay calm and centered.” This mental clarity extends beyond the mat, reflecting in how he balances his academic pursuits. Math and science—his favorite subjects—demand the same analytical mindset that wrestling does. “It’s about problem-solving in real-time,” he noted, drawing a parallel between his studies and his sport.
Tristan’s journey is not a solitary one. He trains with partner Damon Stansberry, whose technical prowess and strength push him to new heights. “Having someone like Damon to drill with is crucial,” he said. “He exposes my weaknesses and helps me improve.” This collaborative spirit is also present in his interactions with coaches Josh Stansbury, Jeremy Shaw, and Jeff Wright, whom he acknowledged for their relentless dedication and strategic insights.
Looking ahead, Tristan is considering multiple paths. College wrestling beckons, but he also has an eye on military service or even cage fighting—a testament to his all-encompassing athletic ambition. “Whatever I choose, the values and discipline I’ve learned from wrestling will guide me,” he affirmed. His plan remains fluid, yet driven by a core commitment to excellence and growth.
In a lighter moment, Tristan indulged in a bit of post-weight cut nostalgia, expressing a deep affection for McDonald’s and Chipotle. “There’s nothing like a good burger or burrito after making weight,” he smiled. His go-to drink? Chocolate milk—a simple yet deeply satisfying reward after the rigors of weight management. Towards the end of his interview, Tristan extended heartfelt gratitude to those who have been instrumental in his journey. From his family to his friends, each shout-out was a testament to a support network that has stood by him through highs and lows. “They’ve all played a part in my story,” he concluded, exemplifying the humility and groundedness of a true athlete.
Preswnted By:
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/989AD06C-A292-4D0C-A19A-97D740CD620E.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-01-09 15:58:512025-01-09 15:58:51WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 4) FEATURING TRISTAN ECKLES
In a significant achievement for South Range High School, senior wrestler Kayden Welker has secured his place in the 100 Wins Club, a coveted milestone in the world of high school wrestling. Welker clinched his 100th victory at the Beavers Local Hopple Tournament, where he demonstrated the skill and determination that have defined his wrestling career.
In the latest episode of YSN’s “Wrestling Wednesday,” Welker joined hosts Anthony Hartwig, Gary Althiser, and Scotty Mincher to discuss his journey to 100 wins and his future goals. A jubilant Welker expressed his excitement about the milestone, particularly noting the joy of having his father in his corner. “It was very exciting having my dad in the corner. It was pretty awesome to have that achievement now,” Welker said. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Welker emphasized the importance of the mental aspect of wrestling, acknowledging the nerves that often accompany matches and his methods of preparation. “I get really nervous before I wrestle. So once I have music and I start get going, I start to get going, I’m usually pretty good,” he explained.
Welker’s goals for his senior season are ambitious yet attainable, driven by personal aspirations and family legacy. Among his key targets are winning the Eastern Ohio Wrestling League (EOWL), securing sectional and district championships, and ultimately making a mark at the state tournament. With the support of a close-knit team and a strong personal drive, Welker looks forward to his remaining high school matches with specific bouts circled on his calendar, including a redemption match against Trevor Osborne from Southeast, who’s currently ranked third in the state. Welker’s success is also a testament to the strength of the South Range wrestling program, which has evolved significantly over the years under the guidance of Coaches Frank and Dave. From humble beginnings, the program has risen to win a state title during Welker’s freshman year and continues to nurture wrestling talent at all levels.
As Welker progresses, he is considering pursuing wrestling at the collegiate level, with family values and team camaraderie being essential in his decision-making process. The South Range community and wrestling supporters now eagerly anticipate Welker’s continued success in his senior season and future sporting endeavors.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/C12EECF1-4304-4215-879F-98585FEBFC7A.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2024-12-20 16:24:362024-12-20 16:24:36WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 3) FEATURING KAYDEN WELKER
In the latest episode of “Running Point” on YSNLive.com, the highly-anticipated “Wrestling Wednesday” segment features hosts Anthony Hartwig and Gary Althiser, bringing in guest Scotty Mincher to delve into the throes of the winter wrestling season.
With snowflakes hinting at the wintery setting, Althiser kicks off the episode recapping a recent invitational at Malvern, highlighting new rule changes in wrestling that are poised to alter the sport’s dynamics. Key updates include the introduction of four-point back points, a three-point takedown, and revised out-of-bounds rules that ensure wrestling continues as long as one point of contact remains inbounds, barring safety risks. The West Branch wrestling teams shine in the spotlight, with both boys’ and girls’ teams putting on notable performances at the Beachwood, and Hickory invitationals.
This episode also explored the cementing of team dynamics, emphasizing that wrestling triumphs hinge on collective team effort rather than solitary heroics. Gary Althiser praises the rise of young talents like Jackson Benner, whose contributions boost team morale and motivate veteran teammates. Looking ahead, Anthony Hartwig previews Hoban’s intense competition schedule, which stretches from the Solon tournament through to mid-January, showcasing the relentless pace of the wrestling season. A special mention goes to senior Nick Bowser’s return, driven by the determination to reclaim lost postseason opportunities due to last season’s injuries.
A historic milestone was also noted for the West Branch women’s wrestling team, which debuted and finished eighth overall at their inaugural competition in Hickory, Pennsylvania. Jocelyn Brink’s decisive victory in her weight division, coupled with strong performances, marked an encouraging step forward for women’s wrestling—backed by the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s endorsement.
As the episode wraps, the hosts gear up for upcoming coverage of the Hopple Invitational at Beaver Local and a Division 3 classic event at Waterloo. The hosts emphasize the importance of focusing on technique and process over winning in the early part of the season, underscoring the essence of steady progress and resilient effort.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/F29C96C7-CE6E-4C95-BFDE-1A90826DD719.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2024-12-13 14:43:562024-12-13 14:43:56WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EPISODE 2)
COLUMBIANA, OH — As wrestling teams across the region gear up for another intense season, significant changes in coaching, divisional alignments, and scoring rules promise to reshape the local wrestling scene.
Coaching Transitions and Team Developments Gary Althiser, the tenured head coach of Wellsville Tigers, enters his 10th season leading one of Ohio’s smallest public school wrestling programs. Wellsville, currently in a rebuilding phase, boasts 14 committed athletes, with hopes of expanding their roster. Notable coaching shifts include Kenny Beaumarin’s transition from United to Minerva, affecting the competitive dynamics within the EOAC. Meanwhile, United and East Palestine programs are adapting to changes in leadership, setting the stage for a season of new strategies and fresh talent.
Divisional Shake-Ups and Ranking Highlights Division adjustments have seen South Range maintain a robust team featuring ranked wrestlers. Poland and Gerard’s descent from Division 2 to Division 3 has reshuffled competitive standings, introducing new rivalries and opportunities.
Scoring Rule Changes Impact Matches New scoring rules implemented this season will alter match dynamics significantly. Takedowns now award three points instead of two, and new procedures for back point counts could accelerate the path to technical falls, potentially leading to shorter, yet more intense, matches. Additionally, the revised out-of-bounds rule allowing match continuation with minimal contact aims to keep the pace of competition brisk, promising a more fluid tournament experience.
Girls’ Wrestling and Community Growth The inclusion of girls in wrestling is steadily growing. Poland’s girls’ team, steered by the successful Coach Beetle, exemplifies this trend as they compete vigorously in both boys’ and girls’ tournaments. This inclusive movement has energized the wrestling community, offering more opportunities for young athletes.
Local Wrestling on the Rise Spotlighting the recurrent segment “Wrestling Wednesday,” hosted by Gary Althiser and Anthony Hartwig, the podcast covers these significant developments while offering insights, interviews, and more. Their dedication to expanding local wrestling coverage continues to resonate, as they bring new schools like Perry Pirates and Southeast into their fold.
With practices intensifying and the season’s official start on December 5th, local teams, coaches, and wrestlers are bracing for a competitive and transformative wrestling season. The “YSN Wrestling Wednesday” podcast, sponsored by Greenwood Chevrolet, remains a crucial resource for fans and participants, providing timely updates and in-depth discussions, ensuring that the wrestling community stays informed and connected as the season unfolds. For further news and detailed analyses, tune into “Wrestling Wednesday” on YSN’s Running Point every Wednesday at 1:000 on all our social platforms or ysnlive.com. Stay updated and join the discussion as our local wrestlers take to the mats with aspirations of victory and growth.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2F876758-FC0E-4431-99CF-C02188BA554E.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2024-12-05 16:32:532024-12-05 16:32:53WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 1)
The dust has cleared in Columbus, and it’s hard to imagine a better turn out for the YSN athletes. So many wrestlers put their best foot forward on the biggest stage to show off what they’re all about. When the final day was done YSN had 22 placers and a pair of state champions. They ranged from seniors sending off their careers with a bang, to freshmen that let the world know they were there to stay. It has been an exciting wrestling season that has seen nothing but greatness.
As we celebrate the great season with our final episode of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser of the year, we can’t think of a better way than to welcome in both of the state champions that represented their community with pride. Keegan Sell won his second straight state championship to finish his career, and Makyah Newlun brought East Liverpool their first state championship in a long time. Check out the season finale, and celebrate our wrestlers with us!
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/40054864-60B4-4D14-A52D-1E4A7B0C4626.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2024-03-13 18:45:272024-03-13 18:45:27WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 14) FEATURING KEEGAN SELL & MAKYAH NEWLUN