Tag Archive for: coaching staff

TAYLOR IS SWIFT TO THE PLATE

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HUJBBARD OH-  Hubbard High School’s softball team has found a standout leader in junior Haleigh Taylor, who was recently featured in a player profile on YSN with Anthony Hartwig. Now an upperclassman, Taylor has stepped confidently into a leadership role, crediting her bond with underclassmen and the supportive senior class for making the transition smooth.

Taylor’s outstanding season in both pitching and hitting has played a pivotal role in the team’s success, racking up double-digit home runs and over 40 RBIs so far. “I’m happy with my numbers and helping the team score some runs,” Taylor shared, highlighting the impact of talented teammates like Layla and Lauren, who set the stage for the team’s offensive production. Inside the dugout, Taylor described a major turning point after the team’s first game against Lakeview, when a heart-to-heart with coaches brought the Eagles together and ignited camaraderie that’s carried them through the season. “We realized we could compete with anyone,” Taylor said.

Taylor also spoke warmly of her relationship with her father, who joined the coaching staff in her sophomore year, as well as her longtime pitching coach, Erin Gabriel, whom she credits for helping her with the mental challenges on the mound. Despite sometimes struggling with confidence as a pitcher, Taylor says Gabriel’s support and wisdom have been invaluable: “I wish I could have her in my ear talking to me during games… everything just is magically perfect.” Off the field, Taylor fills her time with volleyball and weightlifting but values unwinding with friends and family. Close friendships with teammates and travel ball players like Marina Caning and Sydney Lutz have fueled her love for the game. As the team’s postseason run continues, Taylor is proud to represent Hubbard and grateful for the support of her family, coaches, and friends—proving she’s just as much a leader off the field as on it!

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RUNNING WEDNESDAYS WITH RICK SYPERT (EP 3) FEATURING DAVID DALTORIO

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BOARDMAN OH- On this week’s “Running Wednesday” podcast, Boardman High School senior David Daltorio joined hosts Anthony Hartwig and Rick Sypert to reflect on a milestone season, his journey through Spartan athletics, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

Daltorio, who will run for Walsh University in the fall, expressed his excitement about joining a pipeline of accomplished Boardman alumni at Walsh. “I think it’s just something I’ve always wanted, to be up there with those guys,” he said, referencing former Spartan standouts. Coach Sypert praised Daltorio’s leadership and impact on the Boardman program, noting how he mentors emerging runners and sets a high standard for work ethic and perseverance. “He’s a role model, he’s a leader, and he does so many good things for us around here,” Sypert said.

Daltorio, a multi-state qualifier in both track and cross country, credited the tight-knit team dynamic and supportive coaches for his growth, both as an athlete and a person. “I’ve grown so much—so much more than I ever thought I would,” he reflected. He also underscored the importance of hard work and resilience, habits he hopes will inspire future Spartans: “If you’re hurting in a race, we’re not going to give up today. That’s something I scream at them during the entire race.” With graduation approaching, Daltorio still has goals in his sights: breaking the school’s 3200-meter record and achieving All-Ohio honors at the outdoor state meet. After that, he looks forward to celebrating—preferably with a round of golf and a serving of his favorite grape ice cream from local favorite Handel’s. As the postseason looms and the Boardman track community looks ahead, it’s clear Daltorio’s influence—on the scoreboard and in the locker room—will be felt for years to come.

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WESTMINSTER BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH DAVID RICHARDS (5/8/25)

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NEW WILMINGTON, PA- Westminster College is “buzzing” with excitement as David Richards, a proud member of the Class of 2009 and a “son of two Titans,” returns home to lead the men’s basketball program. Richards, who recently made the move from a highly successful stint at Chatham University, spoke with YSN’s DJ Yokley about the surreal experience of coming back to his alma mater.

“It’s been great. My family’s fired up. They’re really excited for me to be back up here at Westminster,” Richards shared. Having attended games since he was eight, Richards is steeped in Titan tradition and is eager to restore the program’s winning culture.

Richards inherits a team with a strong returning core, including standouts like Drew Weir, Jackson Hendershot, Mick Hergenrother, and a returning Trevor Petro. “We have a great core coming back,” he explained, emphasizing the school’s commitment to recruiting “gym rats and basketball junkies”—players who are passionate, hard-working, and dedicated to constant improvement even in the offseason.

Fans can expect a fast-paced but disciplined style under Richards’ leadership. While the days of “run and gun” may be in the past, Richards insists his teams will play with energy and defensive intensity. “You’ll always see with our teams just how hard we play and how we play together. That’s probably the two biggest things we’ll stress on a daily basis,” he said.

Richards is also bolstering his staff with familiar faces, including longtime coach Craig Hannon, to ensure continuity and infusion of local basketball knowledge. As he prepares for his first season, Richards is focused not just on winning, but on creating a program that values academic excellence, player development, and lifelong relationships.

“I’m here to help them as a student and as an athlete. My office door is always open,” Richards pledged to future Titans and their families.

With the buzz building in “Titantown,” Westminster basketball appears poised for a bright new era under one of its own.

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CRESTVIEW’S KILLER BEE

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COLUMBIANA OH-  After an injury sidelined her during her pivotal junior year, Crestview High School’s senior catcher Brenna Figley is making an inspiring return to the diamond. Figley recently joined hosts Anthony Hartwig and DJ Yokley on the YSN Live podcast to reflect on her journey, what it means to lead the Rebels during her final season, and her plans for softball at the next level.

Figley, who missed most of last season due to a broken thumb, shared that the setback gave her a new appreciation for the game. “I feel like not playing the full season last year and it ending unexpectedly… I just appreciate everything a little bit more now,” she said. She credited her coaches and teammates for keeping her involved — even allowing her to run bases with her cast on — and helping her stay resilient both mentally and physically. Despite unpredictable spring weather and the challenge of rainouts, Figley keeps her focus by working hard during indoor practices and supporting her pitchers, even if she admits “there’s nothing more I hate than catching bullpen.” Calling pitches and maintaining energy in the gym has been key to keeping her skills sharp.

Figley also spoke about the legacy of Crestview catchers, notably following in the footsteps of standout alum Carson Moore. “I feel like it was a lot of pressure to come up to [Moore’s standard]. But honestly, I think that’s what helped me push; I didn’t want to be like, ‘Oh wow, we really miss Carson behind the plate,’” Figley said. Looking ahead, the Crestview senior is excited to continue her career at Ave Maria University, where she’ll once again team up with Moore. “Being able to play one more season with Carson… is so exciting,” she said, describing her recruiting journey as “a community thing” that made her proud to make her dreams a reality.

As for her leadership this season, Figley emphasized her commitment to helping her underclassmen develop. “I love just talking to the girls and being there for the girls… sometimes they just need somebody to tell them that it’s okay and to just calm down,” she told the hosts. With an eye on team success and her well-loved motto of “hit the crap out of the ball,” a phrase shared by her coach to motivate her at the plate, Brenna Figley is determined to make her mark on Crestview softball — and inspire the next generation of Rebels behind her.

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WYMER IS HERE JUST IN TIME

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NEW MIDDLETOWN OH-  Springfield High School’s softball team has found its latest sensation in freshman pitcher Makenna Wymer, whose remarkable debut has captured the attention of the local sports community. Wymer’s varsity journey began with a bang—her very first career start ended in a no-hitter, a rare feat for any athlete, let alone a ninth grader. “Honestly, I didn’t even know I was doing it until it was over, but I definitely couldn’t do it without my teammates and their help,” Wymer told YSN’s Anthony Hartwig in a recent podcast interview.

Despite her youth, Wymer’s confidence and poise have helped her transition seamlessly into a leadership role on the team. She credits a close-knit group of upperclassmen for making her feel welcome and setting a positive tone this season: “They definitely are very good leaders…they always got that mentality of getting the game going,” she explained. A Springfield native, Wymer’s softball journey began in tee-ball, with pitching becoming her passion after joining 8U leagues. She describes her style as hardworking and tenacious, motivated by personal standards of excellence and a little help from her family—especially her supportive parents and best friend, Gracie, who plays shortstop right behind her.

Wymer’s competitive spirit extends beyond the diamond. Off the field, she enjoys spending time with family, going on annual camping trips, and living in the comfort of a tight-knit Springfield community. Her dreams stretch far, revealing aspirations of vacationing in Greece and improving both her pitching consistency and power at the plate.  As Springfield continues its season, all eyes will be on Wymer—whose blend of talent, humility, and drive promises an exciting future for Blue Devils softball.

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GOTTA GIVE IT TO GAVIN

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CANFIELD OH-  South Range High School sophomore Gavin Hiscox is making waves this spring, both at the plate and in the hearts of his community. Hitting over .600 with 12 RBIs, Hiscox has emerged as a key player for the Raiders baseball team, earning recognition across the region.

In a recent episode of the YSN Live podcast, hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig caught up with Hiscox to discuss his breakout season. “The baseball probably looks like a beach ball right now,” greeted Yokley, noting Hiscox’s hot streak. The young athlete credited early season scrimmages and meetings with coaches for setting a positive tone: “They just pretty much told me, like, the varsity this year, very excited… I was predicting the season would go well from that,” said Hiscox. Balancing athletics and academics is no small feat for the multi-sport standout, who keeps a rigorous schedule across football, basketball, and baseball. “Student is always before athlete,” emphasized Hiscox, revealing early morning sessions in the weight room have helped him grow stronger and more confident.

Physical development hasn’t gone unnoticed, as Hiscox shared that he’s gained 25 pounds since last football season and grown several inches since eighth grade. The added size and strength have translated to power at the plate, with Yokley joking, “That’s why he’s hitting nukes.” But Gavin’s impact stretches beyond statistics. He values team camaraderie, especially looking forward to the upcoming Myrtle Beach trip: “We all get the older players, get to live… in the same house for a while, and then just, like, food, hanging out on the beach… It creates such a good connection between the team,” he said.

Looking ahead, Hiscox is setting an example for younger Raiders: “Even though I’m young, I try and be a leader to everyone… Show everyone what it’s supposed to be like to be a Raider.” When asked what defines a Raider, he says, “You got to be hard working… Just be a good person, really.” With a strong head on his shoulders and unwavering dedication, Gavin Hiscox appears poised for a bright future—on the diamond and beyond.

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CRESTVIEW BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH TODD KIBBY (FEATURING GARY KNITTLE 4-10-25)

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COLUMBIANA, OH- In a recent episode of YSN’s “Crestview Baseball Coach’s Corner,” hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig welcomed two prominent figures from the Crestview Rebels, Head Coach Todd Kibby and Assistant Coach Gary Knittle. The episode was a mix of reminiscing, sharing insights, and candid discussions about the realities of coaching baseball in unpredictable weather conditions.

Right from the start, Coach Todd Kibby expressed a sentiment that many coaches in the area would resonate with. “Good,” he replied when asked about his current state, “Just be nice if the weather would break and we could play some consistent baseball adventure every day.” This longing for stable weather was a recurring theme throughout the conversation, reflecting the challenges coaches face in keeping their teams engaged when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

Assistant Coach Gary Knittle mirrored Kibby’s sentiments, “As Coach Kibby said, I think we’d rather be outside and see a little bit of sun, but I guess we’ll settle for this.” Despite these challenges, both coaches demonstrated an optimistic outlook and a commitment to nurturing local talent. Knittle highlighted the significance of the talent pool in the area, recalling the past achievements and the continuing journey of local players. “You mentioned the local talent, and we get asked all the time. There’s a lot of talent in this area, and, you know, and we’re very fortunate.”

The conversation also delved into the dynamics of keeping a team motivated when weather and schedules disrupt regular play. According to Kibby, “Keeping the guys with their task on hand, especially with us, where we have a good mixture of young guys, but getting them that exposure and that experience out of the gate is hard.” It’s a delicate balance of managing practice, ensuring readiness, and building resilience.

Knittle’s transition from retirement back to coaching was another key highlight. “He made me an offer I couldn’t refuse. I mean, it’s pretty simple. It’s like the Godfather,” he chuckled, describing his return to the fold under Coach Kibby. This camaraderie and shared history between the coaches evidently strengthen their team’s foundation.

The episode was not just an insight into Crestview Baseball but also a reflection on the commitment and passion these coaches bring to their roles despite frequent obstacles. As Kibby aptly summarized, “Every day is a new adventure… It’s done. Nothing else you can do.” For listeners and aspiring coaches, the episode stands as a testament to perseverance and adaptability.

 

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HOWLAND BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH BRITT TAYLOR (4-7-25)

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WARREN, OH- In a dynamic chat with the YSN podcast, Coach Britt Taylor sheds light on the promising journey of the Howland Tigers baseball team this season. Under Taylor’s passionate leadership, the Tigers are defying expectations and making waves in their conference, the AAC.

Discussing challenges faced during the unpredictable Northeast Ohio weather, Taylor credited a pre-season trip to Tennessee for giving the team much-needed exposure to high-level competition. “It was a bit of a reality check,” Taylor said about facing teams with 18 games already under their belt. However, the outing set the foundation for an impressive start this year.

The Tigers have shown exceptional form, including a resounding 17-4 victory against Fitch, further supported by commendable leadership from seniors like Aiden Anders, Dom Santee, and Luca Franzaglio. Taylor praised the camaraderie built during the preseason, emphasizing how it bolstered team morale and leadership.

Addressing the Tigers’ offensive strategy, Taylor shared a fondness for an aggressive style of play, intertwined with solid fundamentals. He expressed his enthusiasm for engaging play tactics, such as base stealing and hit-and-runs.

Self-motivated and driven, the team’s inspiration partly stems from an eagerness to elevate Howland’s baseball legacy, showcasing the potential to outshine competition in the conference.

With Taylor at the helm, the Tigers’ blend of disciplined fundamentals and fun-infused play promises an exhilarating season ahead. As they continue to challenge bigger teams and gain recognition, the Tigers are poised to leave a significant mark in the AAC.

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MOONEY GIRLS LACROSSE COACH’S CORNER WITH TONI CHAHINE 3-24-25

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YOUNGSTOWN OH- In a recent interview with YSN, head coach Toni Chahine discussed the promising new season for Cardinal Mooney’s girls lacrosse team. Following a remarkable 15-3 season, Chahine is optimistic about the team’s prospects, highlighting the invaluable experience gained by her young athletes. “Success is a double-edged sword,” Chahine reflects, emphasizing the importance of hard work and leadership from last season’s graduating seniors.

With a roster filled with enthusiastic underclassmen, the team is brimming with youthful energy and potential. Chahine is especially focused on the development of her junior players, who are expected to make significant contributions, alongside a talented mix of other players ready to shine on the field. Chahine acknowledges the challenges of nurturing a program without a middle school feeder but is committed to expanding opportunities for younger athletes in the community. She stresses the importance of taking pride in smaller achievements, maintaining confidence, and preparing for competitive tournament play.

The first opportunity for fans to witness Cardinal Mooney’s girls lacrosse team in action will be on March 31 in a match against Boardman. Chahine, supported by her dedicated coaching staff and the school administration, is eager to build on the momentum from last year’s success. The team is poised for an exciting season ahead, reinforcing its growing presence and the community’s enthusiasm for lacrosse.

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LAKEVIEW BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH CAM CARSON 3-24-25

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CORTLAND OH— As the baseball season approaches, high expectations are the driving force behind Lakeview’s team, guided by head coach Cam Carson. In a conversation with Anthony Hartwig for YSN’s “Coach’s Corner,” Carson shared his insights on the team’s aspirations and the current state of the program.

The Bulldogs are entering the season with ambitious goals, aiming first to reclaim the NE8 conference title and then to make a strong run at districts. Despite having a small senior class, Carson is confident in the leadership and experience of his seniors, both seasoned players who set a positive tone for their teammates. “Both of them are light-hearted, fun guys who play the game with good energy,” said Carson, highlighting the importance of maintaining a relaxed yet focused atmosphere within the team. The team also boasts a robust junior class, with several three-year starters setting the stage for a promising season. Sophomores are also expected to contribute significantly.

Carson emphasized the need for attention to detail, good energy, and performing the fundamentals to excel in a challenging NE8 conference, which includes formidable opponents like South Range and Hubbard. “We’re gonna have to do the little stuff right,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of routine plays and effective pitching. In addition to conference play, Lakeview’s non-conference schedule is designed to be demanding, preparing the team for the postseason. With games against tough opponents like Ursuline and defending state champs West Branch, Carson believes in the value of challenging his team during the regular season.

The recent expansion of divisions in high school sports was also discussed, though Carson expressed neutrality on its immediate impact, stating that genuine effects would become apparent in the way the season unfolds. With a strong focus on energy and attention to detail, Lakeview baseball is poised to embody the championship mindset that Carson has instilled over the years. As the season gears up, fans can expect a determined team ready to leave everything on the field, embodying the spirit of Lakeview baseball.

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