Tag Archive for: Champion

TAYLOR MADE FOR GREATNESS

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WARREN OH-!Taylor Kuhn, the senior and captain of Champion’s girls’ soccer team, stands as one of the brightest stars in the YSN family and the embodiment of soccer talent and intelligence. Her remarkable field vision and soccer IQ have consistently allowed her to make the right decisions on the field, making her a driving force for her team. Recently, she achieved a monumental milestone by becoming the program’s all-time leader in career assists, a testament to her playmaking abilities and the impact she has had on Champion’s soccer legacy.

In the 2022 season, Kuhn’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. She showcased her versatility as a player, netting an impressive 30 goals and contributing 17 assists. Her excellence on the field did not go unnoticed, earning her the distinction of being named to the 1st Team All-State and 1st Team All-District. These accolades highlight her exceptional skills and leadership within the sport.

As the 2023 season unfolds, Taylor Kuhn continues to shine brightly on the soccer pitch. Through nine games, she has already tallied an impressive 22 goals and contributed 7 assists, further solidifying her reputation as a prolific scorer and playmaker. Her consistency and dedication to the sport are evident in her performance year after year.

Beyond her high school soccer career, Taylor Kuhn has set her sights on continuing her soccer journey at Notre Dame College, where she will undoubtedly make her mark as a standout player. Her ambitions extend beyond the soccer field, as she aspires to pursue a career in the medical field, showcasing her dedication not only to athletics but also to her future profession.

Taylor Kuhn’s journey in soccer serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, and her impact on Champion’s soccer program is immeasurable. As she continues to excel on the field and pursue her dreams off it, she remains a shining example of talent, leadership, and ambition within the world of high school soccer.

KUHN BECOMES PROGRAM ASSIST LEADER IN CHAMPION’S DECISIVE WIN

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In a commanding display of soccer prowess, Champion High School’s girls’ soccer team left no doubt about their dominance as they overwhelmed Brookfield with a stunning 11-0 victory. The Champions’ relentless attack left their opponents struggling to keep up, resulting in an impressive goal tally that left spectators in awe.

Champion’s goal-scoring heroes were in top form, with Taylor Kuhn leading the charge with an astonishing five goals. Her clinical finishing was nothing short of remarkable and proved to be a constant thorn in Brookfield’s side. Maylee Nadaud added two more goals to the tally, showcasing her scoring prowess alongside Mia Nadaud, Kaliyah Gray, Grayson Knoske, and Mackenzie Royal, who each contributed a goal of their own.

Assists were also aplenty in Champion’s scintillating performance. Taylor Kuhn not only lit up the scoreboard but also played the role of provider, contributing two assists and breaking the program record for career assists in the process. Alivia Danowski, Savanna Lefkowitz, Grayson Knoske, and Maylee Nadaud also joined in on the assist action, showcasing the team’s remarkable chemistry and unselfish play.

Defensively, Champion was rock-solid, with Allison Henderlight making a single save, ensuring that Brookfield’s attempts to claw back into the game were firmly denied. On the other side of the field, Brookfield’s Jasmine Hubbard put up a valiant effort with an impressive 14 saves, despite the relentless offensive onslaught she faced.

This dominant victory for Champion sends a resounding message to their competitors, highlighting their offensive prowess and teamwork. It was a match that showcased not only their scoring ability but also their commitment to the beautiful game. As both teams move forward in the season, Champion’s performance in this match will undoubtedly be a defining moment, setting the tone for future encounters.

BROOKFIELD BASHES THROUGH MVAC OPENER

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BROOKFIELD OH- Brookfield made a resounding statement as they opened up MVAC play with a commanding 40-7 victory over Champion. The first quarter set the tone for Brookfield’s dominance, with Christian Davis catching a 20-yard touchdown pass from Josh Rankin, putting Brookfield ahead 7-0.

In the second quarter, the Brookfield offense continued to shine, led by Rico Smith, who broke free for an electrifying 80-yard touchdown run, extending their lead to 14-0. Smith wasn’t done yet, adding another impressive 33-yard touchdown run, though the extra point was no good, making it 20-0. Brett Carsone joined the scoring frenzy with an 11-yard touchdown pass from Rankin, bringing the score to 26-0 at halftime.

The third quarter continued to favor Brookfield as Carsone and Rankin connected again, this time for a 27-yard touchdown pass, increasing the lead to 33-0. Champion managed to find the end zone in the fourth quarter, with Christian Williams throwing a 4-yard touchdown pass, and Conner McDermott converting the extra point, closing the gap to 33-7.

However, Brookfield had the last word, as Christian Davis hauled in a spectacular 55-yard touchdown pass from Rankin, sealing the deal with a final score of 40-7.

The Brookfield stats showcased a stellar performance, with Rankin completing 9 of 15 passes for 153 yards and 4 touchdowns. Rico Smith powered the ground game with 163 yards on 12 carries and 2 touchdowns, while Christian Davis displayed his receiving prowess with 6 receptions for 108 yards and 2 touchdowns. This impressive win marked a strong start to MVAC play for Brookfield, demonstrating their offensive firepower and solidifying their position as a formidable football team.

RED DEVILS STARTING TO FIND A STRIDE

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CAMPBELL OH- In a thrilling volleyball matchup, Campbell managed to secure a hard-fought victory over Champion, ultimately prevailing in four sets with scores of 18-25, 25-13, 25-13, and 25-23. The match was a testament to their resilience and teamwork, showcasing their determination to come back from an early deficit.

Campbell’s serving game was on point, led by the impressive performance of Da’Janelle Will, a freshman sensation, who delivered a staggering 7 aces. Jayda Coriano, a sophomore standout, also made her presence felt with 4 crucial aces, putting Champion’s defense to the test.

On the offensive front, Kendall Brunn led the charge with an outstanding 17 kills, while MiLeena Williams and Cyra Cross contributed 13 and 10 kills, respectively. Their combined firepower proved to be a significant factor in turning the tide of the match.

Campbell’s defense was equally impressive, with Kendall Brunn not only excelling in kills but also demonstrating her prowess at the net with 5 critical blocks. Angeliz Diaz showcased her agility and defensive skills with 18 digs, while Carla Ramirez Ortiz and Cyra Cross added to the defensive effort with 10 and 11 digs, respectively.

The engine behind Campbell’s offense was undoubtedly Carla Ramirez Ortiz, who amassed an impressive 43 assists, ensuring her teammates had plenty of opportunities to score.

With this hard-fought victory under their belts, Campbell now looks ahead to their next challenge in MVAC play. They will be hosting Brookfield on Thursday, and with the momentum from this win, they aim to continue their impressive run and solidify their standing in the league. The future looks promising for Campbell as they continue to showcase their talent and determination on the volleyball court.

A PAIR OF HAT TRICKS LETS THE FLASHES SHINE

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WARREN OH- In a commanding girls’ soccer match, Champion asserted their dominance with a resounding 7-1 victory over Girard.

Taylor Kuhn and Maylee Nadaud were the standout performers, each achieving a remarkable hat trick with 3 goals apiece, showcasing their offensive prowess on the field. Jackie Fields also made a significant contribution, adding 1 goal to the team’s impressive tally.

With this convincing win under their belt, Champion is ready to face their next challenge as they prepare to host Garfield on Wednesday. Their strong performance against Girard sets the stage for an exciting matchup as they continue their journey in the season.

JFK WINS TRI MATCH AT CHAMPION

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WARREN OH- Warren JFK has a lot of new faces on their volleyball team, and building momentum early was going to be important. The Eagles got a great boost on Saturday as they opened their season with a pair of wins at the Champion Tri Match.  JFK beat Pymatuning Valley 2-1 (20-25 25-20 25-22) and then beat Champion 2-0 (25-22 25-17).

In their first game against the Lakers they were led by Hannah Myers who collected 6 kills.  Danielle Wickham set the hall well gathering 19 assists for the Eagles.  Marina Sanders was a presence for the Eagles net defense finishing with 3 blocks. In the back row, Rylie Gillespie gathered 3 digs.  Reagan Roberts served up 3 aces as well.

Against Champion it was Myers that led the offense with another 6 kills.  Wickham had double digit assists again with 10. Sanders added 3 more blocks at the net for the Eagles.  Gillespie added 3 more digs to her total for the day, while Roberts added 3 more service aces.

Warren JFK is back in action on Monday as they travel to Liberty. Pymatuning Valley hits the road again on Wednesday traveling to Edgewood.  Champion travels to Windham on Monday.

 

KENNEDY STORMS PAST FLASHES

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LIBERTY, OH- In a thrilling opening match of the season, the Warren John F Kennedy High School football team clashed with the Champion Flashes in a game that showcased remarkable plays and intense competition. The game started with a burst of energy as Champion’s Carter Boggs carved his way through the defense, dashing 57 yards for an impressive touchdown with 7 minutes and 40 seconds left in the first quarter. This put Champion in the lead, 7-0. However, Kennedy quickly responded as Riley Littler displayed his kicking prowess, nailing a 32-yard field goal with 5 minutes and 30 seconds remaining in the quarter, reducing the deficit to 7-3.

Not willing to be outdone, Kennedy’s offense came alive as Freddy Bolchalk and Noah Elser executed a precise 17-yard pass for a touchdown, propelling Kennedy to a 10-7 advantage. The second quarter showcased Kennedy’s dominance as they expanded their lead. Marcus Komora’s explosive 52-yard run found the end zone, extending Kennedy’s lead to 17-7 with 8 minutes and 17 seconds left in the first half. Bolchalk and Noah Elser continued to shine, connecting with a 25-yard pass for another touchdown just over 4 minutes before halftime, giving Kennedy a commanding 24-7 lead as the teams headed to the locker rooms.

Despite both teams’ efforts, the second half remained scoreless, save for a pivotal moment in the final quarter. Kennedy’s defense made a statement early in the fourth quarter, as a high snap on a punt attempt led to a safety, further solidifying their grip on the game. When the final whistle blew, Kennedy emerged triumphant with a final score of 26-7, claiming victory in their season opener. With this win, Kennedy started the season strong at 1-0, while Champion faced an early setback, falling to 0-1. The game showcased Kennedy’s offensive prowess and defensive tenacity, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

GAME PHOTOS HERE

MEYER’S MAGICAL SEASON

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WARREN OH- Champion has a rich history of softball success. With a list of names that goes on for miles of players that have brought pride to the Champion program, you don’t have to look hard for inspiration. However, on Champion’s standards they’d been in a down trend the last couple of seasons.  Since their state championship in 2019, Champion hadn’t gotten out of the district rounds of the state tournament.  That is until this group of players made sure to change all that. Champion put their best foot forward this year and got Champion back to one of the most respected teams in the land. One of their biggest leaders was junior shortstop Bella Meyer.

Bella got a huge burst of leadership during the basketball season when because of injuries she quickly became a player that everyone turned to. Getting her teammates through that adversity taught Meyer a ton about how to be a leader. She carried those skills into her softball season.  She rallied her fellow Flashes to an impressive regional runner up season.  Meyer made the decision earlier in the school year to commit to Youngstown State to continue her softball career.  That decision took a lot of stress over the recruitment process off of Meyer’s shoulders.  She was able to play loose and free, and it showed all season long.

Meyer’s numbers this season were nothing short of incredible.  Meyer hit .583 on the season in the middle of the Champion order.  She hit 17 doubles, 7 triples, and 2 home runs.  All of that added up to 33 RBI.  Meyer raked a slugging percentage of .968.

Meyer was kind enough to join YSN’s Anthony Hartwig to talk about her junior year. They talk about taking steps as a leader, what it’s like getting Champion’s tradition back, and so much more. Check out the latest Champion Softball Player Profile only on YSN!

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CHAMPION WINS A NAIL BITING PITCHER’S DUEL

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Gabrielle Gradishar shut down Keystone, throwing a complete game shutout and leading Champion  to a 1-0 victory on Wednesday in the regional semifinals.

The pitching was strong on both sides. Gradishar struck out 16, while Delaney Peters sat down five.

Champion got things moving in the second inning. Addison Warzala hit a solo homer.

One bright spot for Keystone was a single by Charlee Hudak in the third inning.

Gradishar earned the win for the Flashes. The ace went seven innings, allowing zero runs on four hits, striking out 16 and walking zero.

Peters took the loss for Keystone. The pitcher went seven innings, allowing one run on five hits, striking out five and walking one.

Champion smacked one home run on the day. Warzala went deep in the second inning.

Warzala led the Flashes with two hits in three at bats. Champion didn’t commit a single error in the field. Warzala had the most chances in the field with 16.

Hudak went 2-for-2 at the plate to lead the Wildcats in hits.

Champion advances to the regional final where they’ll meet South Range. That game will take place at Willig Park in Canton at 5:00.

CHAMPION IS BACK IN THE HISTORY BOOKS

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By Noah Ricks

 

LEAVITTSBURG, OH – It was a long time coming for the illustrious Champion softball program. After COVID canceling the 2020 season, falling short in the district finals in 2021, and then in the sectional finals in 2022, they finally got back to where they wanted to be. As a result, they won their first district championship since 2019 with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Lakeview in front of a packed house at LaBrae High School.

 

Champion had a field day out on the field as they just had to sit back and let young sophomore Gabby Gradishar do her splendid work on the mound. She just missed out on another perfect game in the tournament, giving up just one hit and compiling 13 strikeouts on the evening. Assisting Gradishar was the intact communication of second base player Savannah Tvaroch and first base player Abigail Meadors, as they were right there to tag the Lakeview runner out.

 

Despite the batting struggles, Lakeview’s defense had a strong showing against the loaded batting core of Champion, as they had nice saves with tagging the bags in the knick of time, all while guarding the home plate well. However, Champion relied on Meadors to find the hole in that defense as her 2 RBIs helped pave the way to Golden Flash victory. Her RBIs came in the first inning, as she caught the Bulldogs on an error, and then in the fifth inning as she had the right placement just into the right field grass to extend the lead. It then took none other than a Gradishar strikeout in the top of the seventh to seal the deal for the team.

 

Champion improves to 24-3 with their district championship win in four years. They will start their run at their first regional title since their state title run of 2018 when they play LaGrange Keystone at the Willig Softball Complex in Canton on Wednesday at 2:00 PM. Lakeview finishes their Cinderella season at 18-4. 

 

YSN’s Noah Ricks talked to Champion coach Cheryl Weaver, starting pitcher Gabby Gradishar, and first base player Abigail Meadors following the contest. All three interviews can be watched below.