Tag Archive for: academic challenges

NO CHANCE AGAINST DECIANCIO

CANFIELD OH-  South Range High School’s softball team has achieved rarefied success over the past four years, and senior Riley DeCiancio has been at the heart of it all. DeCiancio has contributed to the Raiders’ run of four consecutive district championship victories—an achievement few student-athletes ever experience.

In a recent interview on the YSN Live Podcast, DeCiancio reflected on her journey from a freshman “swinging both from JV to varsity” to a senior leader, describing each championship season as “more special, especially this year.” She said the bonds with her teammates are “like sisters,” making the responsibility of senior leadership feel less like a burden and more like a family effort. This year proved especially triumphant for DeCiancio—not just on the field, but mentally as well. “I have overcome a lot of mental blocks…This year, definitely mentally, I’ve had the best year yet,” she shared. She credits the team’s resilience to their unity, saying, “We really just had to stay close to one another and lean on one another and understand that things aren’t always going to go our way.”

The 2024 Raiders faced their share of adversity with injuries and lineup changes, but DeCiancio led the team through it, helping them peak at the right time. “Coach Starkey said that it was a new season [for playoffs], and that we were going to be a new team, and that’s really just what we’ve done,” she said. One of DeCiancio’s favorite aspects of playing at South Range is the lockdown outfield, which she describes as a “certified no fly zone,” owing to the group’s trust and communication. She takes particular pride in supporting underclassmen like standout Sophia “Mud” Brogan, noting, “Anytime that she’s succeeding, it feels like… the entire team is.”

As her high school softball career winds down, DeCiancio admitted mixed emotions: “Honestly, I feel like I’m very detached from it. I graduate in two days… I feel like it’s going to hit me once it’s over.” Yet, she cherishes the moments she’s shared, especially with her mother, her “biggest supporter,” and the rest of her family. Next fall, DeCiancio will be attending Youngstown State University to study business management—possibly with an eye on a future in real estate. But the lessons learned and friendships forged over four championship seasons at South Range will stick with her for years to come. “I’m going to miss the girls on the team, definitely. Every single one of them truly do feel like sisters,” she said. With her combination of athletic accomplishment, leadership, and strong community ties, Riley DeCiancio leaves South Range with a legacy of winning and camaraderie—on and off the softball diamond.

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DRUSCHEL DARES YOU TO DOUBT HER

EAST LIVERPOOL OH- Tori Druschel, a senior at Beaver Local High School, recently sat down with Anthony Hartwig on an YSN to discuss her final basketball season, academic achievements, and future plans. As Druschel nears the end of her high school journey, she reflects on the bittersweet emotions of her senior year and the importance of making the most of each moment with her teammates, especially fellow seniors Laura Reeder and Callie Sorge.

Druschel highlights her ability to balance participation in four varsity sports while maintaining strong academic performance. She attributes her success to the support of her family, coaches, and teachers, particularly Mr. Plum, an influential English teacher. Although science proved to be a challenging subject, Druschel’s dedication and determination have helped her overcome obstacles. Excelling in sports like soccer and volleyball, she has embraced the physical demands of basketball, focusing on rebounding—a pivotal skill she has honed over her high school career. As she prepares to attend Ohio State University and pursue a major in forensic psychology, Druschel is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

Throughout the podcast, Druschel emphasized the sense of community and support she experienced at Beaver Local, both on and off the field. Her gratitude extends to her parents, grandfather, and long-time coach, Coach Sorge, who have been integral parts of her journey. Druschel hopes to leave a legacy of teamwork and inclusivity, ensuring that all team members feel valued and motivated to reach their fullest potential.

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BEICHNER BREAKS THE MOLD

BOARDMAN OH – Matthew Beichner, a senior at Boardman High School, has proven to be a standout both in the pool and in the classroom. His journey in swimming began at the young age of five at the BTSC Boardman Tennis Swim Club. Since then, Beichner’s commitment to the sport has only grown, culminating in a senior year filled with joy and achievement.

In addition to his prowess in swimming, Beichner is also a dedicated cross country runner. He attributes his strong leg muscles and time management skills to his rigorous involvement in both sports. For Matthew, cross country has not only honed his physical capabilities but also instilled a strong sense of dedication and integrity. Despite facing multiple injuries through his high school years, including a stress fracture in his ankle and neck surgery, Beichner’s resilience is evident. This year marked his first injury-free swim season, a testament to his perseverance and determination. Academically, Beichner holds a 4.0 GPA, a feat that requires significant time management given his four-hour daily commitment to swimming. He credits teachers like Mrs. Burkey, his former chemistry teacher and avid swim supporter, for helping him maintain his academic excellence.

Looking ahead, Matthew plans to pursue a major in biochemistry, with aspirations of attending medical school to become an anesthesiologist. Inspired by his family’s medical background and his own health experiences, Beichner is motivated to make a meaningful impact in the field. Throughout his journey, Matthew has been supported by his family, coaches, teammates, and even his dog Cooper, all of whom play a significant role in his life. “I wish more athletes gave pet shout outs,” joked Anthony Hartwig, host of the YSN podcast, highlighting the personal touch Beichner brings to his acknowledgments. As he prepares for the next chapter, Matthew Beichner stands out as a model student athlete, embodying both academic dedication and athletic passion.

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MAKAYLA MAKES ALL THE PLAYS

 

Leavittsburg, OH — In our latest LaBrae Girls Basketball player profile, junior standout Makayla Scruggs opened up about her journey through the ranks of LaBrae High School’s girls’ basketball team.

Scruggs, who has emerged as a cornerstone of the team, shared her thoughts on transitioning from an underclassman to a leader. “It kind of feels weird. It feels like just yesterday was my freshman year,” she remarked, reflecting on how responsibilities have shifted and grown alongside her love for basketball. A self-described basketball enthusiast from a young age, Scruggs credits her early exposure to the sport and friendly sibling rivalry with her sister Angel for her passion and development. “We would use paint buckets as hoops and always work on our moves,” she recounted with a smile.

Scruggs’ strong relationships with her teammates, especially fellow juniors, have been a pivotal part of this journey. “We know what we’re gonna do. It’s like we can almost read each other,” she explained. This camaraderie, fostered over years of playing together, has made the team a close-knit community, capable of overcoming injuries and setbacks with resilience and determination. Despite the challenges junior year presents academically, particularly with a heavy load of AP and college-level courses, Scruggs remains undeterred. Reflecting on her time management skills, she admitted, “I wasn’t good at time management, but it’s kind of not a choice anymore.”

Looking to the future, Scruggs envisions a career in psychology, possibly as a school psychologist, combining her passion for helping others with her love of the school environment. As the basketball season progresses, Scruggs remains a beacon of positivity and hard work, despite the team’s adversity with injuries. Her ability to balance athletic and academic pursuits, while setting a proactive example for her sister and teammates, stands as a testament to her character and dedication. Catch the full interview with Makayla Scruggs, and stay tuned for more inspiring profiles of young athletes making a difference on and off the court.

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MILLER’S TIME TO BE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BERLIN CENTER OH- Western Reserve junior Quincy Miller recently joined the YSN’s Anthony Hartwig to discuss her journey through high school basketball and the evolving responsibilities she faces as an upperclassman. Miller, who once tasted the triumph of a district championship as a freshman, is now more motivated than ever to lead her team back to glory.

“Winning a district championship my freshman year really drives me,” Miller shared. “Falling short last year has made us all the more hungry to win it this time around.” This determination has fueled the team’s off-season dedication, particularly in improving their ball-handling skills, a focus Miller emphasized as crucial for their progress. Miller’s role on the team transcends performance metrics as she steps into more significant leadership responsibilities. With a smaller, tight-knit squad this year, she finds herself in a supportive position for younger teammates like freshman Kyla. “We’re all pretty close, which makes it easier for us to work together and help each other get better,” Miller noted.

The bond among teammates isn’t confined to the court. Miller describes how off-the-court activities, like playing dodgeball after practices, have enhanced their chemistry. “Sometimes we all get food after games or engage in some fun activities during practice. It really helps in keeping our spirits high and making us a stronger unit,” she added. Balancing academics and athletics, Miller faces typical challenges but maintains a forward-thinking attitude toward her future. Though she remains undecided about playing basketball at the collegiate level, she is exploring options like beautician school. Through it all, her family, with her father as her head coach and her brother contributing as a JV coach, remains a pivotal source of support and inspiration.

“Some girls might not like having their dad as a coach, but I find it beneficial. It’s not just about becoming a better basketball player; it’s about growing as a person,” Miller said. As the season progresses, Miller’s focus remains clear. With each game, practice, and off-court interaction, she embodies the spirit of a dedicated athlete and a committed teammate ready to overcome past setbacks and propel her team to new heights. For now, Western Reserve’s basketball community looks forward to the journey ahead, undoubtedly inspired by Miller’s steadfast dedication and leadership.

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