Tag Archive for: Anthony Hartwig

MINERAL RIDGE SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH WILL SANDY & JOE MEROLILLO 3-10-25

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- As the 2025 softball season gets underway, Mineral Ridge’s softball team is setting ambitious goals after a promising journey last year. Co-head coaches Will Sandy and Joe Merolillo are at the helm again, eager to capitalize on the momentum built in previous seasons.

Last year, the Rams showcased their potential with a strong performance in the district, and both coaches are keen on advancing even further this season. Coach Sandy reflected on the progress from previous years, emphasizing the importance of reducing errors and adhering to team strategies. “We’ve been preaching improvement and taking things one step at a time, and we’re in a great position to do that,” Sandy stated. With a roster packed with returning talent and promising new faces, the Rams are primed for a successful campaign. Senior players like Lily Marilillo and Sydney Wyllie are expected to continue their leadership roles, building on their previous contributions. Marilillo’s versatility both in the circle and at shortstop is anticipated to be a cornerstone of the Rams’ defense.

The MVAC remains fiercely competitive, and Coach Sandy is aware of the challenges but relishes the opportunity to face long-time rivals such as McDonald. Meanwhile, Coach Merolillo highlighted the strategic planning behind the team’s non-conference schedule, designed to equip the Rams with the experience needed for postseason triumphs. The co-coaching dynamic between Sandy and Merolillo has become a hallmark of the program, fostering a united and motivated team environment. Both coaches are committed not only to winning games but to ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for their players.  As Mineral Ridge brings their signature “Mineral Riz” swagger to the field, they are not just aiming to compete — they are determined to clinch both league and district titles. With the support of an engaged community and a dedicated team, the Rams are ready to take on the 2025 season with enthusiasm and grit.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 10) FEATURING REGHAN KOCH

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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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THE BRYCE IS RIGHT

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CANFIELD, OH- In this week’s episode of the YSN podcast, hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig sat down with Canfield High School’s standout basketball player, Bryce Roberts. Known for his on-court prowess, Bryce remains a silent force that emerges on game day to dominate the stat sheet.

Discussing their recent low-scoring district championship victory, Bryce highlighted the team’s emphasis on elite defense. “We knew coming into it that our defense was going to have to be elite,” he shared, underscoring the strategic preparation against West Branch.

Reflecting on their team dynamics, Bryce credited Coach Andy for fostering an environment of preparedness and unity, which allows any five players to step up seamlessly on the court. He emphasized the instrumental role of the experienced senior class, describing them as the most successful group to pass through Canfield.

Bryce revealed his inspirations, giving nods to former Canfield players and his parents, both athletes themselves. His mother, a former college basketball player, has been a guiding influence, teaching him the significance of hard work and confidence.

Looking ahead, Bryce dreams of playing college basketball, with aspirations to improve various aspects of his game, including his physical play and defense. Off the court, he aims to pursue a career in the medical field, influenced by both family members and personal experiences with sports-related injuries.

In closing, Bryce expressed immense pride in representing Canfield, a school with a supportive community that always rallies behind its athletes. With his nickname “Brob” affectionately given by teammates, Bryce Roberts continues to be a beacon of talent and humility, both respected and beloved by his peers and coaches alike.

 

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RUDIBAUGH CAN ROLL IT

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EAST LIVERPOOL, OH- East Liverpool’s early-dawning bowling prodigy, Addison Rudibaugh, has undeniably etched her name into the lanes across Ohio. Joining the elite ranks as a third-year state qualifier, Addison manifested her bowling prowess by seizing second place in this year’s prestigious state championship with a striking score of 668.

Throughout the recent episode of the YSN Podcast, hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig explored Addison’s remarkable journey. Reflecting on what has been a “dream come true,” Addison acknowledged her long-held aspiration to reach states, which she has now actualized for three consecutive years. “Ever since I was little, I always wanted to go to states for bowling in high school,” she shared enthusiastically.

Rudibaugh’s journey from feeling the initial nerves as a sophomore at her first state appearance to confidently approaching her third showcase exemplifies a mental maturity well beyond her years. She credits maintaining a positive mindset and the powerful motivation provided by her father as key components in her successful performances.

Interestingly, the roots of Addison’s passion trace back to her family’s legacy at their local bowling alley. Beginning to bowl since she “could walk,” Addison not only developed her skills on the family-owned lanes but also nurtured connections that have spanned across multiple states, embracing the communal aspect of the sport she cherishes.

Beyond her high school achievements, Addison eagerly outlines aspirations such as joining the PWBA, exploring coaching opportunities, and potentially advancing to the PBA regionals. She is steadfast in her commitment to cultivating young talent, intending to inspire the next generation of bowlers in East Liverpool.

As Addison Rudibaugh embraces the future, East Liverpool’s community stands strong behind her, celebrating both her current successes and her inspired ambitions.

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HEARTLAND CHRISTIAN BASKETBALL COACH S CORNER WITH JOSH SCOTT 2-18-26

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COLUMBIANA, OH- In a historic victory for Heartland Christian School, the boys’ basketball team clinched their first-ever conference championship, guided by their esteemed coach, Josh Scott. This pivotal achievement was a product of the team’s dedication and the strategic foresight of Coach Scott, who has been a cornerstone of Heartland Christian’s athletic program.

During a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Coach Scott expressed his overwhelming pride and satisfaction in the team’s accomplishments. “It’s special, there’s no doubt about that,” Scott remarked, highlighting the significance of providing student-athletes a level playing field with opportunities for success and recognition. This victory stands as a testament to the hard work and commitment of the young athletes who were determined to leave their mark despite the loss of key players from the previous season.

The team’s journey was characterized by a robust season schedule, intentionally designed by Coach Scott to test and enhance their skills against formidable opponents. “You never back down from a fight,” Scott asserted, emphasizing his strategy to engage with tougher teams to sharpen his players’ competitive edge.

As Heartland Christian looks ahead to the upcoming tournament, Scott remains focused on maintaining the team’s momentum. He understands the challenges ahead, notably acknowledging that their upcoming rivals also pose significant threats. Nonetheless, Scott is optimistic, driven by the belief that the foundational skills and resilience instilled in his players will serve them well in the pursuit of continued success.

Coach Scott’s leadership extends beyond the court, fostering an environment where character building and athletics go hand in hand. His commitment to this dual mission is supported by a dedicated coaching staff, forming a strong support system that prioritizes student development and sportsmanship.

The Heartland Christian community continues to rally behind the team, cherishing their landmark achievement and looking forward to future triumphs.

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ASKIN’ FOR GASKINS

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COLUMBIANA, OH- Luvrain Gaskins, a senior standout for the Crestview Lady Rebels, joined hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig for a special YSN player profile. Known as the all-time leader in rebounds for her team, Luvrain has been a key figure in transforming the program. Reflecting on her journey, she discussed her freshman year, the growth she experienced, and the team’s consistent appearance in district championships over the years. Luvrain emphasized the competitive culture cultivated at Crestview, crediting strong bonds with fellow seniors, and the infusion of new talent as critical factors.

Throughout her high school career, Luvrain has seen changes in team dynamics, evolving her role from a young player to a seasoned leader. She expressed gratitude for the supportive and competitive environment that has developed over the years and highlighted the invaluable influence of her coach, Blatch. His emphasis on defense, preparedness, and team cohesion has been instrumental to their success.

Luvrain shared aspirations of clinching a district championship, a dream shaped by past near-misses. She detailed the significance of team traditions, such as earning the hard hat for effort and a positive attitude, which symbolize the attributes the team holds dear.

Music plays a vital role in her pre-game routine, with an eclectic taste spanning rap to classic rock—excluding country. Despite being put on the spot, she humorously navigated a question about selecting a song that defines her team, choosing “We Are the Champions” to describe the collective spirit and ambition of the Crestview Rebels.

Looking towards the future, Luvrain revealed her commitment to play basketball at a university in Indiana, eager to continue her growth and embrace new challenges. She also spoke with admiration of personal role models, especially her grandfather, who encouraged her throughout her basketball journey. As Crestview carries memories of supportive teachers, peers, and achievements, Luvrain Gaskins stands ready to take on the next chapter with the poise and determination she honed on the court.

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HAWK EYE VIEW

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BELOIT OH- West Branch’s girls basketball team continues to make waves as they navigate another successful season, with senior standout Mati Hawk leading the charge. In a recent interview on YSN, Hawk opened up about her senior year, both the challenges and triumphs, showcasing her leadership role on and off the court.

Despite losing a significant senior class last year, West Branch has surged ahead, proving doubters wrong. “Everyone was doubting us, so we had to come out and work hard,” Hawk shared. Her commitment to enhancing her performance, particularly in shooting, has translated into tangible success, as she notes improvements in her three-point and free throw capabilities. While the West Branch offense impresses, it is their formidable defense that turns heads. Known for their stringent man-to-man strategy, the team has consistently kept opponents’ scores low. Hawk reflected on their defensive prowess, emphasizing the group’s collective determination: “We all work together and know we have each other’s backs.”

Beyond basketball, Hawk prepares for a seamless transition into softball, demonstrating her versatility as a multi-sport athlete. As she looks ahead to graduation, Hawk plans to attend Youngstown State University to study business management. Yet, for now, her focus remains on savoring her remaining time in high school athletics. In her heartfelt acknowledgments, Hawk expressed gratitude towards her parents, coaches, and friends, underscoring the supportive network that surrounds her. As West Branch eyes another district championship, the journey continues with Hawk as a central figure, embodying resilience and ambition.

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HEIKKINEN AT HOME IN THE PAINT

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CANFIELD OH- South Range basketball standout Graham Heikkinen is embracing his senior year, filled with moments of determination, nostalgia, and community support. Coming off a remarkable 18-4 season, South Range is prepping for a strong postseason push, motivated by doubters who dismissed their potential after losing a talented senior class last year.

Graham, joined by fellow seniors Luke Rohan and Nate Lewis, is determined to keep South Range competitive. The team swiftly found its rhythm, particularly evident during their first game where teamwork flourished, boasting impressive assists. Overcoming challenges, such as integrating players from a successful football season, Heikkinen admires how the team gelled and thrived. Their sights are set on securing a district championship, a milestone that would deeply resonate within the South Range community.

Reflecting on his return to South Range for his senior year, after attending another school, Graham cherishes playing with teammates he has known since third grade. He aims to make lasting memories and contribute to every aspect of the game. Heikkinen has honed his skills as a strong inside presence, inspired by NBA greats like Kevin Garnett. His dedication to improving in the off-season, especially in embracing physicality, has paid off. Coach Carden’s leadership has been pivotal in Heikkinen’s final high school season, cultivating a dynamic team environment. As Graham looks towards potential collegiate studies in sports management, he expresses a desire to remain involved in basketball, possibly transitioning into coaching. As he reflects on the meaningful connections and achievements during his high school career, Heikkinen extends gratitude to his family, coaches, and community. As South Range gears up for tournament time, Graham’s aspirations remain high, fueled by a supportive network and his enduring passion for the game.

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SHEPHERD HERDS THE WARRIORS FORWARD

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BELOIT OH- In a candid interview with Anthony Hartwig from YSN, senior basketball player Carter Shepherd shared insights into her journey with the West Branch girls basketball team. Emphasizing the program’s rich tradition and winning culture, Carter expressed the pride and joy of contributing to its legacy.

Reflecting on her freshman year, Carter described the surreal feeling of donning the team jersey, realizing she had become a role model for younger players. Now a senior, Carter embraces her leadership role, emphasizing unity and determination, especially after the team lost key senior players from the previous season. Carter credited Coach DeShields for instilling a defense-first mindset within the team and playing a significant role in her mental development. She also highlighted the support from the West Branch community, which travels well to support the team at home and away games.

Off the court, Carter enjoys reading and spending time with friends, demonstrating a well-rounded lifestyle. As she prepares for her final games, Carter remains grateful for her family, teammates, and coaches, all of whom have been instrumental in her journey. As the team heads into tournament play, Carter and her teammates are eager to continue the tradition of excellence associated with West Branch basketball, confident in their ability to compete at the highest level.

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FINLEY’S NOT FINISHED

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AKRON OH- In this latest YSN Player Profile, Anthony Hartwig sits down with Finley Kennedy, a standout senior on the Hoban girls basketball team. Kennedy, the sole senior this season, opens up about the emotional journey of her final high school season and the responsibilities that come with being the team’s veteran leader.

Kennedy admits the emotional weight of being the only senior and the inevitable transition of leaving her teammates behind. Yet, her ambitions continue beyond high school as she eyes playing basketball at the next level. Reflecting on her role, she credits her composure and experience in keeping the team calm and focused. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of balancing emotional expression to maintain positive momentum on the court. The Hoban Knights, known for their winning tradition across all sports, hold a significant legacy that Kennedy upholds. She speaks proudly of the high standards, particularly in the girls’ basketball program, known for their intense defensive pressure and their reputation for rigor and success.

Kennedy’s basketball roots run deep, influenced by her mother, a college basketball coach, who instilled both skill and a strong faith in her daughter. Her comfort in navigating her basketball journey is evident in how she balances athletics with academics, maintaining a strong performance even with a lighter class load during her senior year. Looking ahead, Kennedy is considering a move to Florida, fueled by the promise of sunshine, as she pursues business marketing. Her decision-making process in choosing a college revolves around the value of forming relationships both on and off the court. Finley’s journey, supported by her faith and family, is a testament to her resilience and ambition. As she steps off the court for Hoban, her legacy of leadership and tenacity leaves a lasting impact on her team and the Hoban sports community.

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