Tag Archive for: AAC coach of the year

BOARDMAN SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH FRED MOOTZ 6/3/25

/in /by

BOARDMAN OH- In a season marked by resilience, hard work, and team spirit, Boardman Spartans softball coach Fred Mootz has been named both YSN and AAC Coach of the Year, capping an impressive run that has landed his team in the state semifinals.

Mootz, a longtime friend of the YSN family, sat down with hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig on the latest YSN podcast episode to reflect on the Spartans’ whirlwind season. “It’s just been unbelievable. It’s an incredible ride,” Mootz said. He credited the Spartans’ success to offseason conditioning, a focus on team chemistry, and learning from last year’s heartbreak, when the team fell just short in the sectional championship. The Spartans returned much of last year’s roster and elevated their game, with players like pitcher Tori Strines reaching new heights. Tori, according to Mootz, has been “unhittable” during the team’s playoff run, giving up just one run in three games and providing constant leadership in pressure-packed moments.

Mootz, who coaches alongside his daughter Paige, expressed how deeply rewarding it has been to share these experiences with his family and team. “They’re the best group I’ve ever coached… I love these kids like they’re my own,” he said, becoming emotional as he described the close-knit culture the staff has built. The coaching honors, Mootz said, are a reflection of the collective effort. “This run has very little to do with me. I have a great support staff at home and in my dugout,” he noted, also thanking mentors Marco Marinucci and Mike Tro for guiding his journey from travel ball to the Boardman dugout.

As the Spartans prepare for their next challenge, Mootz remains grounded but optimistic. “It’s so hard to win. But as we got toward the end of the year and when we won the Canfield game, it really was that turning point,” he said. With two more wins standing between Boardman and a state title, Mootz and his Spartans are embracing the moment. “They know what’s at stake now. They know what they’re capable of,” he said. And for Mootz, the legacy is clear: “When I’m done with all this, my goal is that they still call me, and that we left a lasting impression.”

Presented By:

A TIME WERNER CLASSIC

/in /by

CORTLAND OH—With an infectious smile and 100 career hits under her belt, Lakeview junior Kalyssa Werner is living a dream season on the softball diamond. The Bulldogs, fresh off an impressive campaign, are set to play in the state semifinals—a moment that Werner says still feels surreal. “It doesn’t hit you until afterwards,” Werner admitted in a recent interview on the YSN podcast. “I’m like, oh my goodness, we’re actually going to States. There’s no other team I’d rather be doing it with.”

Lakeview’s ascent hasn’t come by accident. Werner credits the team’s self-belief and bustling lineup, where every hitter boasts an average over .350 and anyone can step up when it matters most. “If I’m having an off day hitting, I know Kennedy behind me’s got me, Mac’s got me, Isabella… It can be anybody, honestly,” she explained. Werner recently surpassed 100 hits in her career—a milestone she didn’t even know she’d reached until her mom signaled from the stands. “I’m not a very stats person… I liked not knowing because it puts less pressure on you,” Werner said.

Despite being regarded as underdogs by outsiders, she says the Bulldogs stay focused on their own high standards. “We have such a great culture. What’s going on outside doesn’t really affect me,” she noted, highlighting the role of her supportive parents and coaches. There’s just one catch—Werner has never seen a “Star Wars” movie, a playful point of contention with her coach and teammates. “I like the princess movies,” she said with a laugh, promising to do her homework before next season. With a deep lineup and calm confidence, Kalyssa Werner and the Lakeview Bulldogs are ready to take their shot at state glory—no force required.

Presented By: