Tag Archive for: Ashtabula St John

HERALDS LATE GAME COMEBACK FALLS SHORT

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Mickey Zheng Photography

Ashtabula, OH- The game between the St. John Heralds and the Mathews Mustangs unfolded in a series of closely contested quarters that kept the spectators eagerly anticipating each play. The opening quarter saw both teams matching each other point for point, with a balanced score of 13-13. However, the second quarter proved to be a turning point as the Mathews Mustangs surged ahead, outscoring the Heralds by a notable margin, establishing a 36-20 lead by halftime. Despite the Heralds’ efforts to close the gap in the third quarter with a 16-point effort, the Mustangs maintained their advantage, heading into the final quarter with a 56-36 lead. The Heralds showed resilience in the fourth quarter, putting up 23 points, but the Mustangs managed to secure the victory with a final score of 69-59. The back-and-forth nature of the quarters highlighted the competitive spirit of both teams, making for an exciting and hard-fought game.

Top Performers:

St. John Total Points:

  • Anthony Severino: 16 points
  • Aaron Wychock: 2 points
  • Aj Henslee: 11 points
  • Brady Cole: 7 points
  • Vin Narducci: 23 points
  • Anthony Petrochello: 3 points

Mathews Total Points:

  • Dom Spagnoletta: 35 points
  • Jake Petak: 10 points
  • Dom Toto: 10 points
  • Cody Kuhn: 3 points
  • Ty Grimes: 6 points
  • Anthony Marinkovich: 2 points
  • Billy Woodall: 3 points

Long Range Success:

Anthony Severino showcased his three-point shooting prowess, sinking 3 shots from beyond the arc, including 2 crucial baskets in the fourth quarter. Vin Narducci also made an impact from long range, hitting 2 three-pointers, with a pivotal one in the final quarter.

Despite the individual standout performances, the Heralds couldn’t overcome the Mustangs’ consistent scoring throughout the game.

Game Analysis:

The first half saw both teams neck and neck, with St. John and Mathews tied at 13 points each after the opening quarter. However, Mathews surged ahead in the second quarter, outscoring the Heralds by ten points and establishing a lead they maintained until the final buzzer.

Vin Narducci’s impressive 23-point contribution for the Heralds and Dom Spagnoletta’s stellar 35-point performance for the Mustangs were standout moments, showcasing the individual talents on display throughout the game.

Despite the loss, the Heralds exhibited resilience and determination, making it a hard-fought battle for Mathews.

Looking Ahead:

The St. John Heralds, now with a record of 0-6, will hit the road for their next challenge against the Chalker Wildcats (2-4) on 01/05/24. The Wildcats, coming off a tough loss to the Bristol Panthers, will be eager to bounce back.

Meanwhile, the Mathews Mustangs (6-1) will enjoy home-court advantage in their upcoming matchup against the Cardinal Huskies (2-4) on 01/02/24. The Huskies, fresh from a defeat against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers, will be seeking redemption in this clash of rivals.

As the season progresses, both teams will strive to leave their mark on the league, and fans can expect more exciting matchups and memorable performances in the games to come.

SMOOTH SAILING FOR LAKERS IN WIN OVER HERALDS

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers Photography

Andover, OH- In a decisive victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers showcased their dominance on the court, overpowering NAC foe the St. John Heralds with a final score of 71-34. The Lakers demonstrated their skill and teamwork throughout the game, leaving little room for the Heralds to mount a comeback.

The Lakers took control early on, posting impressive scores in each quarter. The first quarter saw Pymatuning Valley establish an early lead, outscoring St. John 29-16. The momentum continued into the second quarter, with the Lakers extending their advantage to 53-25 by halftime.

The second half of the game only solidified the Lakers’ dominance. St. John struggled to find an answer to Pymatuning Valley’s offensive prowess, managing only a single point in the third quarter. The Lakers maintained their intensity, closing out the game with a resounding 71-34 victory.

Leading the charge for Pymatuning Valley was Zane Neczeporenko, who contributed an impressive 21 points to the team’s total. Blake Krznaric added 18 points, while Trevor Clute and Brady Tisch chipped in with 8 points each. The Lakers showcased a balanced offensive effort, with multiple players making significant contributions.

On the St. John side, Anthony Severino led the scoring with 12 points, but the team struggled to match the Lakers’ offensive output. Despite the Heralds’ efforts, the Lakers’ defensive prowess and strategic play proved too much to overcome.

Looking ahead, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers, now boasting a 4-1 record, are set to face the Badger Braves on December 15, 2023. The Braves, with a 3-1 record, will undoubtedly provide a challenging matchup. Meanwhile, the St. John Heralds, still in search of their first win at 0-5, will hit the road to face the Cardinal Huskies on December 27, 2023. The Huskies, currently 0-3, will be eager to bounce back from a recent loss to the Kirtland Hornets. Basketball enthusiasts can expect an exciting showdown as both teams look to make their mark in the upcoming games.

HERALDS SERVE UP HOME COOKING BEHIND CEVERA’S 29

/in , /by

Ashtabula, OH- In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the St. John Heralds girls’ basketball team secured a resounding victory against the Mathews Mustangs. The final score reflected the Heralds’ dominance, ending at 61-11, with the team showcasing their prowess across all four quarters.

Key Player: Alyssa Cevera Shines Bright

Leading the charge for the Heralds was senior guard Alyssa Cevera, whose stellar performance earned her the title of both leading scorer and player of the game. Cevera’s remarkable 29 points not only showcased her scoring ability but also underscored her leadership on the court. Her dynamic play was a force to be reckoned with, contributing significantly to the team’s success with blocks, steals, and assits as well.

Joining Cevera in the spotlight was sophomore Mickey Zheng, who added 10 points to the Heralds’ impressive total. Zheng’s contributions extended beyond scoring, as she showcased exceptional skills in stealing and assisting, further solidifying her role as a key player for the team.

Team Contributions and Scores

The well-rounded effort from the entire St. John Heralds team was evident in the distribution of points. Other notable contributors included Caitlyn Carney with 7 points, Alexa Jordan with 8 points, and Grace DiSalvatore with 5 points. The team’s collective effort and coordinated gameplay were instrumental in securing this decisive victory.

On the opposing side, the Mathews Mustangs faced a tough challenge throughout the game. Their total points were spread thin, with Ava Clayton leading the team with 5 points, and Katherine Rowan, Riley Paddock, and Marlee Ruiter each contributing 2 points.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Matches

With this triumph, the St. John Heralds now stand at a 2-2 record and are gearing up for their next challenge on the road against the Lakeside Dragons, who currently hold a 0-4 record. The Dragons are coming off a 61-18 loss to the Madison Blue Streaks, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup on 12/20/23.

Meanwhile, the Mathews Mustangs, now at a 1-5 record, will face the Fairport Harding Skippers (0-3) in their upcoming game on 12/14/23. The Skippers, fresh from a 45-23 loss to the Rhodes Rams, will be looking to rebound, making this game an important test for both teams.

As the season unfolds, the St. John Heralds look poised for success, building on their recent triumph and aiming for further victories in the competitive basketball landscape.

SPARTANS HAMM LEADS CHARGE PAST HERALDS

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Conneaut Athletics

Conneaut, OH- Hoping to keep their perfect record intact at home, the Conneaut Spartans secured a well-deserved victory against the St. John Heralds, with a final score of 78-65. The game unfolded with intensity, featuring stellar performances from key players on both sides.

The first quarter set the tone for the Spartans as they established an early lead, with a score of 15-9. The momentum carried into the second quarter, where Conneaut’s offensive prowess was on full display, amassing 27 points to St. John’s 15. The teams battled fiercely in the third and fourth quarters, but the Spartans maintained their composure, ultimately sealing the win with a total of 78 points.

Leading the charge for the Spartans was Noah Hamm, whose impressive 24-point contribution showcased his scoring prowess. Additionally, Chance Loomis and Jr Hutchinson added 23 and 14 points, respectively, highlighting the team’s balanced offensive strategy. Not to be overlooked, supporting players like Jordan Kulko, Davonte Harris, and Cole Stump made crucial contributions to secure the Spartans’ third consecutive victory, maintaining an undefeated record at 3-0.

St. John Heralds fought valiantly, with Anthony Severino leading the scoring effort with 22 points. Vin Narducci’s 21-point performance was another standout for the Heralds, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Spartans’ collective effort.

Looking ahead, the Conneaut Spartans are gearing up for a challenging road matchup against the Perry Pirates on 12/13/23. The Pirates, led by the dynamic point guard Brayden Richards, promise to test the Spartans’ mettle as they embark on their journey in the CVC. Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest as the Spartans aim to extend their winning streak.

Meanwhile, the St. John Heralds will face off against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers, a fellow NAC member boasting a 3-1 record. The Lakers are coming off a solid 73-65 victory over the Fairport Harding Skippers, setting the stage for a compelling matchup between two competitive teams in the conference. Basketball enthusiasts can expect another exciting clash as both teams vie for supremacy in the NAC.

PANTHERS POUNCE ON HERALDS

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Mickey Zheng Photography

Bristolville, OH- In a tough road game for the Heralds, the Bristol Panthers dominated the St. John Heralds with a resounding victory, closing the game with a staggering scoreline of 77-20.

The first quarter saw a stark contrast in performance, with St. John struggling to find their footing and amassing a mere 8 points. Meanwhile, Bristol showcased their offensive prowess, securing a commanding lead with 23 points.

As the game progressed, Bristol continued to assert their dominance, scoring 24 and 16 points in the second and third quarters, respectively. St. John fought valiantly, but the relentless pressure from the Panthers limited their offensive opportunities.

Individual performances from standout players highlighted the game. Jayden Miller led Bristol with an outstanding 22 points, supported by a balanced contribution from his teammates, including Jack Berry and Mikey Burbach, who each scored 14 points.

On the St. John side, Aaron Wychock showcased his skills, contributing 7 points. However, the collective efforts of the Heralds were insufficient to overcome the relentless defensive pressure imposed by Bristol.

The key to Bristol’s triumph lay in their ability to press effectively, forcing an impressive 23 turnovers in the first half alone. This defensive prowess translated into 22 crucial points from transition baskets, setting the foundation for their comprehensive win.

Looking ahead, the St. John Heralds, with a current record of 0-3, will face the formidable Conneaut Spartans (2-0) in their next matchup on 12/09/23. The Spartans, coming off a 72-65 victory over the Northwestern Wildcats, will pose a challenging test for the Heralds.

As for the undefeated Bristol Panthers (3-0), their next challenge awaits against the Maplewood Rockets (1-1) on 12/12/23. The Rockets, fresh from a 69-34 defeat to the Mathews Mustangs, will look to bounce back, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup against the Panthers’ relentless offensive and defensive prowess.

HERALDS LOSE HEARTBREAKER IN FINAL SECONDS

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Mickey Zheng Photography

Windham, OH- In early season NAC play, the St. John Heralds clashed with the Windham Bombers in a thrilling matchup. The final buzzer echoed through the gymnasium, leaving the Heralds with a close defeat at the hands of the Bombers. Let’s break down the action quarter by quarter and highlight the standout performances from both teams.

First Quarter: Heralds Face an Early Deficit

The opening quarter set the tone for the game as the Windham Bombers raced ahead, outscoring the St. John Heralds 24-14. Despite the Heralds’ efforts, the Bombers showed determination and offensive prowess, building an early lead that would prove challenging to overcome.

Second Quarter: Heralds Mount a Comeback

Undeterred by the early deficit, the St. John Heralds rallied in the second quarter. They tightened their defense and unleashed an impressive offensive display, putting up 18 points. The Windham Bombers, however, managed to maintain their lead, heading into halftime with a 30-32 advantage.

Third Quarter: Back-and-Forth Battle

As the game progressed, both teams engaged in a back-and-forth battle. The Heralds managed to keep pace with the Bombers, with each team scoring 7 points in the third quarter. The stage was set for a nail-biting final period.

Fourth Quarter: Heralds Fight Until the End

In the last quarter, the St. John Heralds fought relentlessly, determined to secure a comeback victory. They posted an impressive 22 points, showcasing their offensive prowess. However, the Windham Bombers maintained their composure, responding with 18 points to secure the win.

Key Players for the Heralds: Vin Narducci and Aaron Wychock

Vin Narducci emerged as the top scorer for the Heralds, contributing an impressive 30 points to the team’s total. Aaron Wychock also made a significant impact with 12 points. The duo displayed excellent long-range shooting, each making 4 three-pointers.

Windham Bombers’ Standouts: C. Brenton and Nick Hopper

For the Windham Bombers, C. Brenton led the way with an outstanding performance, scoring 23 points. Nick Hopper also played a crucial role, adding 16 points to the Bombers’ total.

Looking Ahead

Despite the tough loss, the St. John Heralds are gearing up for their next challenge. On 12/08/23, they will face off against the Bristol Panthers, who boast a 2-0 record in the NAC league. The Bombers, with a 1-0 record, will take on the Lordstown Red Devils on the same date. Basketball enthusiasts can expect another thrilling showdown as these teams continue their quest for victory in the upcoming games.

HERALDS FALL IN HOME OPENER

/in , /by

Ashtabula, OH- In a challenging season opener, the St. John Heralds faced a tough defeat against the Crestview Red Devils, with a final score of 60-26. The Heralds showed resilience throughout the game but were unable to overcome Crestview’s early lead, trailing 23-8 at the end of the first quarter and 40-16 at halftime.

Vin Narducci led the scoring effort for St. John with an impressive 11 points, supported by AJ Henslee with 6 points. However, Crestview’s Dekota Johnson showcased exceptional skill, contributing 16 points to his team’s victory. Other key contributors for Crestview included Charlie Scheickert with 13 points and Brody Durham with 8 points.

Looking ahead, the St. John Heralds (0-1) will aim to bounce back in their upcoming game against the Bristol Panthers on the road scheduled for 12/08/23. On the other hand, the Crestview Red Devils (1-0) will carry their momentum into a matchup against the Ravenna Ravens on the road on 12/07/08.

Despite the challenging start, the Heralds remain optimistic about their season and are determined to make a strong comeback in the games to come. Heralds fans can anticipate an exciting and competitive season ahead as the team works to fine-tune their strategy and build on their strengths.

ASHTABULA COUNTY HOOPS PREVIEW

/in , /by

Ashtabula,OH- As the winter season approaches, the anticipation for high school basketball in Ashtabula County is reaching its peak. The upcoming 2023-2024 season promises thrilling matchups, fierce competition, and a showcase of young talent. Let’s take a closer look at some of the teams that are gearing up for an exciting campaign.

Lakeside Dragons: Rising with Height and Experience

The Lakeside Dragons enter the season with a determination to improve upon their 6-17 record from the previous year, and they have the tools to make it happen. Head coach Josh Hartz leads a squad with a formidable frontcourt, boasting four seniors, all standing at 6’3 or taller.

Aiden Hathy, a 6’6 senior swing player, brings versatility to the team, excelling in both paint defense and scoring from inside and outside. Alex DiSalvatore, a 6’4 senior, adds toughness and strength in the paint, complemented by his ability to defend perimeter shooters. With seniors Connor Mead and Kerrye White also contributing, the Dragons aim to utilize their size advantage strategically.

In the backcourt, junior guard Dylan Newsome assumes the role of primary ball handler and distributor, showcasing sharpshooting prowess on offense and formidable on-ball defense.

Jefferson Falcons: A Deep and Skilled Lineup

The Jefferson Falcons, coming off a 16-7 season, present a well-rounded team with depth and skill. Junior Anthony Covetta leads the charge, showcasing shooting ability, ball skills, and an increased focus on defense that positions him as one of the county’s most dangerous players.

Supporting Covetta is the experienced Robbie Pisano, a cerebral point guard, and senior Joey DeGeorge, a 6’5 stretch four with a high release point. The Falcons feature depth in the guard position with talents like sophomore Joel Navarro and junior Caleb Welser.

Entering the challenging CVC conference for the first time, the Falcons aim to make their mark and build on last year’s success.

Edgewood Warriors: Filling Big Shoes with a Well-Rounded Approach

The Edgewood Warriors face the challenge of filling the void left by their top scorer, Zach Vencill. With a 15-10 record in the previous season, the Warriors look to senior Jacob Ernst to lead the charge. Ernst’s well-rounded game includes excellent ball handling, three-point shooting, and strong finishes at the rim.

Senior Logan Kray, known for his rebounding prowess, contributes on the offensive end with his shooting and playmaking abilities. The underrated defender Brady Anderjack adds a tenacious on-ball defense to the mix.

The Warriors’ strategy involves spreading the floor with sharpshooters and pushing the pace with quick guards like Zach Carlton-Hull.

St. John Heralds: Youthful Backcourt and Emerging Big Men

After finishing the 2022-2023 season at 6-17, the St. John Heralds face the challenge of filling the gap left by the graduation of post player Jesus Hernandez. With a youthful team, senior AJ Hensley leads as the lone senior.

The Heralds will heavily rely on their backcourt play, with junior Vin Narducci and sophomore Anthony Severino leading the charge. Narducci’s scoring ability and Severino’s slippery moves on the court bring a dynamic element to the team. Junior Aaron Wychock, known for his quick defensive presence, adds energy to the backcourt.

In the paint, the Heralds turn to sophomores Anthony Petrochello and Donald Crawford to control the boards and provide a strong presence.

Grand Valley Mustangs: Frontcourt Dominance

Coming off a 7-16 season, the Grand Valley Mustangs aim to replace the scoring and court presence of dynamic guard Nate Boiarski. The team looks to seniors Bobby Rogers and Jerry Schultz to lead the charge in the frontcourt.

Rogers, with unmatched athleticism and elite off-ball defensive skills, contributes both in rebounding and scoring. Schultz, following a breakout junior season with a double-double average, anchors the center position with scoring and shot-blocking prowess.

Guards Braden Hart and Sammy Goforth take charge of ball handling and setting the tone on offense, showcasing their scoring ability and playmaking skills.

Pymatuning Valley Lakers: Reloaded for Success

After a stellar 20-4 season crowned with a NAC conference championship, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers enter the new season without dynamic players Tyler Britton and John Moschell, who graduated. However, the team returns with a talented post player in Blake Krznaric, a sharpshooter with shot-blocking abilities who stands at a towering 6’5.

The Lakers’ backcourt features dynamic guards in Ryan Croston and Zane Neczeporenko. Croston stands out as the team’s best on-ball defender, while Neczeporenko’s ball-handling and shooting skills contribute to offensive opportunities.

Conneaut Spartans: New Coach, Young Talent

After a 5-18 season, the Conneaut Spartans embark on the 2023-2024 journey with a new coach, Rich Marshall. The team, featuring only two seniors in Chance Loomis and JR Hutchinson, embraces a youthful roster.

Loomis, a talented guard with exceptional ball-handling skills and sharpshooting ability, provides offensive firepower. Hutchinson, playing guard and forward, contributes through defense and energy, aiming to spark the Spartans.

With no players over 6’2, the Spartans plan to utilize pace, energy, and technical play to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season. Rotations featuring Noah Hamm, Ryan Turner, Jordan Kulko, Cole Stump, and Devonte Harris will provide different looks and maintain a dynamic playing style.

As the season unfolds, basketball enthusiasts in Ashtabula County can look forward to witnessing the growth and development of these teams, filled with promising talents and a shared passion for the game. Whether it’s the Dragons utilizing their size advantage, the Falcons showcasing depth, or the Lakers defending their conference championship, the stage is set for an exhilarating journey on the hardwood. The county’s basketball landscape is rich with stories waiting to be written, and each team is poised to contribute its chapter to the unfolding narrative of the 2023-2024 season. This year looks to be a fun and exciting year in hoops and you will be able to watch and follow all your favorite teams right here on www.ysnlive.com your home for northeast ohio high school sports.

LAKERS GRAB FIFTH CONSECUTIVE NAC CHAMPIONSHIP IN WIN OVER HERALDS

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas Photography

Andover, OH- Trying to finish strong, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (6-3, 3-0 NAC) asserted their authority over the St. John Heralds (3-6, 1-3 NAC) in a commanding 60-6 victory, securing their fifth consecutive NAC championship. This game was a testament to the Lakers’ unwavering dedication to their powerful rushing attack, led by the dynamic duo of Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston.

The Lakers wasted no time in setting the tone for the game, with Ryan Croston making a statement early in the first quarter. Croston’s 13-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, put Pymatuning Valley on the board at 8-0. Moments later, Vin Narducci of St. John felt the heat of the Lakers’ defense, throwing an interception to Jayce Fulkman. Within moments, Croston was back in the end zone with a 5-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers extended their lead to 16-0.

Despite a brief interception from Croston, the Lakers continued their offensive onslaught with Ty Vickery’s 4-yard touchdown run, although the 2-point conversion was unsuccessful, making the score 22-0. Before the end of the first quarter, Croston connected with Matthew Adkins for a 6-yard touchdown pass, and with another 2-point conversion, the Lakers ended the first quarter with a commanding 30-0 lead.

The Lakers continued their relentless charge into the second quarter, as Ty Vickery scored another touchdown with a 5-yard run, and the 2-point conversion was good, extending their lead to 38-0. Vickery struck again with a 7-yard touchdown run, making it 44-0.

In the third quarter, Croston exhibited his explosive speed with a 48-yard touchdown run, and Ben Crouser successfully converted the 2-point attempt. Jayce Fulkman joined the scoring parade with a 28-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers continued to dominate with a 60-0 lead.

In the fourth quarter, the St. John Heralds managed to avoid a shutout when Ryan Williams scored a 1-yard touchdown run with only 29 seconds left on the clock, but time expired before they could attempt the extra point.

With this convincing victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers not only secured their NAC championship but also secured their spot in the OHSAA state playoffs. Their playoff journey promises to be exciting, and their fans can look forward to the prospect of a 1st round game against the Labrae Vikings with a loss to Windham, or a week 1 rematch against Mineral Ridge in the first round with a win over Windham. The Lakers’ commitment to their running game, exemplified by Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston, was the driving force behind this triumph. As the Lakers head into Week 10, they continue to be a force to be reckoned with, while the St. John Heralds will regroup for their upcoming matchup against the Lincoln West Wolverines.

HERALDS FALL TO SKIPPERS IN RAINY NAC BATTLE

/in , /by

Geneva, OH- In a rain-soaked battle at the Spire in Geneva, the Fairport Harding Skippers managed to outlast the Heralds with a final score of 12-0. The heavy downpour proved to be a significant factor in the game, as both teams struggled to effectively pass the ball throughout the match.

The first quarter saw Fairport’s James Gadomski connecting with Yomar Castellano on a 25-yard touchdown pass, giving the Skippers an early lead of 6-0. Unfortunately, Fairport couldn’t convert the two-point conversion, leaving the score at 6-0.

As the second quarter was winding down, Gadomski made a costly mistake, throwing an interception to St. John’s Anthony Severino. This turnover gave the Heralds a glimmer of hope, but they couldn’t capitalize on the opportunity, and the score remained 6-0 heading into halftime.

The game continued to be a defensive struggle in the third quarter, with both teams battling through the slippery field conditions. However, in the fourth quarter, Fairport’s Castellano managed to break through, scoring on an 8-yard touchdown run, extending the Skippers’ lead to 12-0.

Both teams’ defenses played exceptionally well, preventing any big plays and keeping the score relatively low. Ultimately, the final score stood at 12-0 in favor of the Fairport Harding Skippers.

With this win, the Skippers improved their record to 3-5 overall and 2-1 in the NAC. Meanwhile, the St. John Heralds fell to 3-5 overall and 1-2 in the NAC. Looking ahead, the Heralds will face a tough road matchup against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (5-3, 2-0 NAC) who boast one of the best rushing offenses in the conference in week 9. On the other hand, the Skippers will play a non-conference game at home against the Jackson Milton Bluejays (6-2) in their upcoming week 9 clash. Both teams will be eager to build on their performances in this hard-fought contest as they continue their season.