Tag Archive for: coaching challenges.

BOARDMAN GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH ANNIE PAVLANSKY

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BOARDMAN, OH- The Boardman High School Lady Spartans basketball team has welcomed a fresh face to its sidelines as Annie Pavlansky assumes the role of head coach. Known for her deep-rooted family ties in coaching, Pavlansky is taking the helm with high hopes and expectations for the team.

The announcement was made at the annual Spartan coaches corner event, coinciding with the festive Spartans giving celebration. Pavlansky expressed her honor and excitement about leading such a storied program.

“I am so honored that they even chose me and considered me for this role,” Pavlansky said. “It’s been such a great program, and they’ve set such a great expectation, great tradition, and I’m just hoping to carry that moving forward.”

Pavlansky steps up from within the Spartan ranks, following a successful handover from championship coach Jeff Hammerton. With no change in championship expectations, Pavlansky is aiming to build on the legacy of Mackenzie Riccitielli’s era, ensuring the team remains competitive and driven.

Returning key players, such as Ava Freeboro and Sara Barrow, alongside emerging talents, will be instrumental as the Lady Spartans navigate a potentially challenging season. Pavlansky commended the players’ efforts in adapting to her coaching style and embracing the rigorous demands of practice.

“We’re young and inexperienced a little bit but are learning to play together. They are responding to everything we’re telling them and working hard and pushing each other,” Pavlansky noted.

The new coach emphasizes consistency and good habits, understanding that basketball is a marathon, not a sprint. With the holiday season approaching, maintaining focus and dedication remains integral.

When asked about her coaching style, Pavlansky described herself as “cool, calm, and collected,” though she admits her competitive spirit comes alive during critical moments in games. She values collaborative leadership, often involving her assistant coaches in steering the team.

Looking forward, Pavlansky is grateful for the strong support from her family and colleagues, particularly her father and uncles, who are seasoned coaches.

Expressing gratitude on the eve of Thanksgiving, Pavlansky said, “I’m thankful for my family, my friends, all of our girls, and the incredible coaching staff here at Boardman.”

With unwavering support and a clear vision, Pavlansky’s debut season as the head coach of the Lady Spartans promises to be an exciting new chapter in Boardman High School’s proud basketball tradition.

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LOWELLVILLE CROSS COUNTRY COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH ERIC GROW

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- This week on YSN’s “Coach’s Corner,” Eric Hughes sat down with Lowellville’s dedicated Cross Country Coach, Eric Grow, who opened up about his journey, challenges, and sources of inspiration as he heads into his fifth year of coaching.

Grow, who began his coaching career in football, made the transition to cross country when Lowellville found themselves in need of a coach. “I had some running background, so I just filled the shoes,” he recalls.

Recruiting for the team presents a unique challenge in a school with a graduating class of just 31 students. “The amount of kids that we have to even try to recruit is very tiny,” Grow notes. Despite these limitations, he’s driven by his passion for making an impact on the students. “My favorite part of coaching is just seeing the impact I can make on the kids and hopefully see them grow,” he shared.

A highlight from Grow’s tenure as coach came when his team nearly made it to regionals for the first time in Lowellville’s history. Unfortunately, a tie for fourth place meant they didn’t advance, but the experience remains a powerful memory.

Among his team members, Grow speaks highly of leaders like Kenzie McCornick and Nathan Yon. Not only does Kenzie bring positivity and support to her fellow runners, but Nathan’s dedication — even balancing golf with his running training — sets a strong example for others.

Grow also emphasizes the mental aspect of running. “It’s definitely a mental sport… It’s hard to teach that. So, luckily, I have a lot of kids that are, you know, pretty well with that.”

Citing his own high school coach, Stephanie Yon, as a major influence, Grow acknowledges her critical role in guiding him into his coaching career. “She was a great role model as a coach. I wouldn’t be here without her,” he said.

His commitment to Lowellville runs deep, as an alumnus and community member. “My whole goal was to come back and teach and coach and try to continue to make this community grow,” Grow reflected.

With the season underway, Coach Grow remains focused on maintaining a positive atmosphere and encouraging his runners to “win that mental battle every day.” His dedication promises to inspire not only his athletes but the entire Lowellville community.

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SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH DAVE RACH

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CANFIELD, OH- In an engaging episode of YSN’s podcast, Coach’s Corner, hosted by DJ Yokley, South Range High School’s head football coach, Dave Rach, opened up about the team’s recent victory over Salem and the challenges they face moving forward.

Coach Rach emphasized the importance of managing playing time for both starters and new players, highlighting the delicate balance between protecting key players and giving others valuable game experience. “Sometimes it’s a fine line…you want your first groups to get as many reps as possible without putting them in harm’s way,” he noted.

Despite a dominant performance, which saw South Range invoking the mercy clock for the second consecutive week, Rach remains focused on continuous improvement. He acknowledged that the team had made strides in reducing penalties, a key concern after the first week. “We had five for 35 this past week…so it was kind of back to normal,” he said, highlighting the team’s progress.

Looking forward, South Range faces a daunting task against Division II Barberton. Despite Barberton’s 0-2 start, Coach Rach dismissed any notions of an easy game. “This is a team that was six and four last year in Division II…they win their first playoff game, then they lose to Akron Hoban,” he reminded listeners, underscoring the level of competition.

The podcast also provided insights into the personal side of coaching, as Rach shared his experiences watching his son, David, play youth football. Maintaining a healthy balance between being a supportive parent and a professional coach, Rach highlighted the importance of supporting coaches and teaching his son resilience and accountability.

As South Range prepares for the upcoming clash against Barberton, the team will rely heavily on standout players like Aiden Dominguez and Heath Krause. Rach praised their leadership and dedication, noting their significant contributions to the team’s success.

Reflecting the community spirit and passion for football that define South Range, this episode of Coach’s Corner offered a comprehensive look at the team’s journey so far and the challenges ahead, both on and off the field. As fans look forward to more exciting games, Rach’s leadership and focus on improvement will undoubtedly steer South Range towards a promising season.

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SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH DAVE RACH

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CANFIELD, OH- In the lively ambiance of Giangelo’s on 224 in Boardman, South Range Raiders’ head football coach Dave Rach shared insights on the team’s latest triumph and future aspirations. Invited by YSN’s DJ Yokley for the “South Range Coach’s Corner” podcast, Rach reflected on a significant victory against their long-time rivals, Springfield.

Coach Rach emphasized the natural motivation his team has for rivalry games, underscoring the deep roots and pride in such competitions that resonate within the community. His reflections on the packed stadium demonstrated the overwhelming support from fans, which Rach cherishes and draws inspiration from ahead of each kickoff.

Discussing the team’s performance, Yokley and Rach touched upon the robust start of the offense and areas ripe for improvement. Rach expressed a focus on reducing penalties and tightening discipline, highlighting that while aggressiveness is encouraged, it must be channeled appropriately.

In looking ahead to the next challenge against Salem, Coach Rach identified their opponent’s stout run defense and physical style as key hurdles. However, he remains confident in the Raiders’ game plan, emphasizing the fundamentals of ball protection, special teams excellence, and owning the ground game.

Tales of senior leadership also peppered the conversation, with Rach praising the maturity and growth of his players. The commitment of seniors like Tristan Toy, who notably returned to play despite an obliterated jersey, personifies the team’s spirit and dedication.

Balancing football with community commitments, especially during events like the Canfield Fair, Rach spoke on the team’s ability to adapt and prioritize. The synergy between football obligations and life outside the sport is a hallmark of South Range’s support system.

Coach Rach also shared lighter fare, literally, with his favorite Canfield Fair treats – steak hoagies and chocolate milkshakes.

In all, the podcast episode offers a window into the ethos and strategy driving the South Range Raiders this season. For more updates and in-depth football commentary, tune into YSN’s broadcast.

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