Tag Archive for: college recruitment

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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CALLING CAPTAIN TAGGART

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WARREN, OH- On the latest episode of YSN, standout multi-sport athlete Taggart Carfangia joined hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig for a memorable conversation that covered everything from his unique name’s origins to his impressive journey through sports and academics at Warren JFK.

Taggart’s unique first name has always sparked curiosity. But, as DJ Yokley quickly learned, its roots are both unexpected and memorable. “Where did the name Taggart come from?” DJ asked early in the interview.

Taggart shared, “So when my mother was younger, my mother and my, her sister, her sister had a boss and she didn’t like that boss too much. But my mom thought the name Taggart was super unique and she’d never heard of the name Taggart before, so that’s just what she went with.”

As DJ put it, “So you got named after a bum boss?” Taggart laughed, “I guess that’s how the story goes.”

Over his high school career, Taggart has earned a whopping ten varsity letters across golf, soccer, basketball, and baseball. When asked what drives him to compete in so many sports, Taggart credited his upbringing: “Growing up, I was a super athletic kid. My parents always pushed me and drove me to really be the best I could. My dad always told me, if you’re going to do something, do it at 110%.”

But balancing sports with academic and social life can be daunting. Taggart admits there are challenges: “I do get burnt out, just like everybody on this planet does—I’m human, we’re all human. Recovery is key… I like to keep my whole body in a correct order. I like to eat healthy, you know, after a game, maybe go get a smoothie or something, you know, really rebuild myself.” He also emphasizes the importance of friends and stepping away from sports, adding, “I like to hang out with my friends… just kind of keeping a level head, you know, taking care of my body is the real good key.”

It hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Taggart revealed that the summer before his senior year, he hit a major setback: “My junior year, summer, I tore both of my hip flexors, which is kind of a bummer because that’s really when you need your baseball and golf swing. But, you know, coming back from that, getting, having the best PT in the entire planet, just kind of got a grind through it… Since I can’t do a bunch of physical stuff, I just make sure my mental is all tough.”

Mental toughness and a support network played a huge role in his recovery: “If I’m having a bad game or something, [I] make sure I find ways to pick myself up and just keep going through it.”

Despite being a state champion in golf, Taggart chose to pursue baseball at the next level. “I started playing baseball when I was a very, very young age. My dad threw me in. He was like, you’re either gonna be good at it or you’re not. So I was like, okay, so I might as well, you know, be really good at it,” Taggart recalls. “The atmosphere, everything, just makes the love, my love for the sport grow.”

Leadership has been another central part of his story. Asked how he’s adjusted to shifting roles on the team—from underclassman to upperclassman, outfielder to shortstop—Taggart discussed the importance of nurturing younger players: “I like to take them in and, you know, show them what’s right, what’s wrong. And yes, that does come with some vocal things and some physical things, like maybe getting them riled up before a game or giving them a few words.”

He named a few underclassmen who have impressed him—like Landon Snyder (“he’s the best all around catcher I think I’ve seen at JFK”) and Lucas Mele (“our play styles are so similar”).

Taggart’s journey to play collegiate baseball at Chatham University was marked by persistence. “Junior year I struggled to get any offers but, you know, I always tried, tried, tried and tried. And that’s what I really pride myself in is I really never give up. I really don’t like to take no for an answer… I hammered the recruitment camps and everything.”

His advice for aspiring athletes? Never settle for less. “My father told me, always strive for greatness, never settle for less.”

Taggart plans to study business and finance at Chatham, but he remains open to where his academic journey takes him. As he steps into college life, he’s excited about independence but admits leaving the nest is a little nerve-wracking: “One thing that makes me nervous is being away from my parents, actually not having that guidance… But I think that my parents have given me the right—the correct steps to be able to live life on my own.”

In closing, Taggart credits his parents and role models for molding him into the young man he is today: “It’s always been my parents. And then two of the guys that I really give props to is my cousin Jacob Carfangia and Hubbard’s Andrew Kali. Those two guys went to play college ball. I looked up to those guys. They took me in when I was a freshman and they showed me the ropes… It really inspired me to chase greatness.”

With dedication, resilience, and a sense of humor about a name most often mispronounced, Taggart Carfangia leaves behind a legacy at Warren JFK—and the promise of even more achievements ahead.

ALWAYS KEEPING IT COOL

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YOUNGSTOWN OH- In the world of high school softball, few names resonate as strongly as Katie Koulianos. A standout player for Ursuline High School, Koulianos is preparing to take her talents to the collegiate level at Otterbein University in Columbus, Ohio. In a recent interview on the YSN Live podcast, Koulianos spoke candidly about her impressive dedication to the sport. With a daily routine that starts at 4:30 a.m. and includes rigorous workouts, Koulianos credits her commitment and discipline as key factors in her success. “I always make sure to work on something I need to improve,” she shared.

Reflecting on her time at Ursuline, Koulianos highlighted the unique team dynamic this season, with only two seniors on the roster. “We’re looking forward to the underclassmen stepping up. We have so much talent, and we’re eager to see it continue throughout the season,” she expressed. Koulianos will soon trade Ursuline’s green and gold for Otterbein’s colors and has her sights set on excelling both on and off the softball field. As she anticipates joining Coach Anderson’s team, Koulianos values the personal connections she’s already built during her visits. “I love the area, the team, and the coaches,” she mentioned with enthusiasm.

As Koulianos wraps up her high school career, she looks forward to making a lasting impact on her teammates and cherishing every moment on the field. With plans to pursue a degree in business and eventually enter the field of medical sales, Koulianos is poised to continue her pursuit of excellence far beyond the diamond. YSN podcast hosts Anthony Hartwig and DJ Yokley praised Koulianos for her hard work and the inspiring legacy she leaves at Ursuline. It’s clear that for Katie Koulianos, the future is as bright as her illustrious career thus far.

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SWAYING TO THE BEAT

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CAMPBELL OH- In a recent episode of the YSN Live podcast, the spotlight was on Sway Rodriguez, a remarkable basketball talent from the Campbell Memorial Red Devils. Renowned for his flair and impeccable game sense, Rodriguez candidly shared insights into his captivating journey on and off the court.

Rodriguez’s presence was exuberantly introduced by DJ Yokley, who hailed the young athlete as “the most electrifying man in the game” due to his consistent ability to dominate the court. The highlight-reel moments fill Rodriguez’s career, such as his memorable buzzer beater against Gerard, a testament to his instinctive basketball prowess. For Rodriguez, every game offers an opportunity to give his all, with his teammates’ unwavering support boosting his confidence and fueling his performance. Recounting his team’s district championship triumph over Labrae, Rodriguez recalled his critical eight points in the fourth quarter, stepping up when his team needed him most. When the game ended, Rodriguez’s sportsmanship shone through as he uplifted an opponent, proving his character is as commendable as his athletic skills.

Off the court, Rodriguez cherishes academic pursuits, particularly mathematics, while acknowledging English as a subject that demands greater effort from him. Guided by influential mentors like Coach Canarino, Rodriguez credits his mother as his foremost role model, instilling in him the values of humility and hard work. As Rodriguez eyes future opportunities in college basketball or engineering, he remains undecided but optimistic, assured by a support system rooting for his success. YSN and its audience echo this support, eagerly anticipating Rodriguez’s ascent in both his basketball and personal endeavors. As DJ Yokley articulated, YSN is “rooting for you hard back here,” signaling a broader community rallying behind this young star with soaring potential.

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THE BELL RINGS TRUE

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH — Noah Bell, a sophomore at Ursuline High School, is making waves on the basketball court as he emerges as a key player for the school’s varsity team. In a recent interview on YSN with Anthony Hartwig, Bell shared insight into his journey, the team’s dynamic, and his aspirations.

Bell, alongside classmates Jace and Jay, forms the backbone of Ursuline’s sophomore class. Their shared history dates back to playing together in eighth grade on the AAU circuit, fostering a chemistry that translates into strong performances on the court. “We love playing with each other. We all love each other on and off the court, and it shows out there,” said Bell, expressing the camaraderie among teammates. Reflecting on last season’s success and the pressure to replicate it, Bell emphasized the team’s readiness to face challenges head-on. “We know we have a bullseye on our backs, and everyone’s going to give us their best game,” he noted, adding that Coach Gunther’s rigorous training sessions have prepared them well.

Set on a path to become a Division 1 athlete, Bell’s dedication is evident. From a young age, he envisioned himself dunking before turning 14, which he achieved at 13, showcasing his commitment to continual improvement. Whether dominating inside the paint or hitting shots from the perimeter, Bell’s versatility makes him a formidable opponent. Coach Gunther, who has coached Bell since eighth grade, plays a pivotal role in his development. Bell appreciates the trust and relentless drive that Gunther instills in him and his teammates. Acknowledging the legendary status of Ursuline’s athletic programs, Bell expressed pride in being part of a school that holds tradition and success in such regard. Balancing academic excellence with athletic prowess, Bell is a straight-A student, crediting time management and support from his mother and coaches as crucial to his success. As Ursuline heads into tournament season, all eyes are on Bell and his team to see how far their talent and determination will take them. With two more high school years ahead, the sky’s the limit for this young basketball star.

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KRIEG CRANKS IT UP A NOTCH

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CORTLAND OH- Anthony Hartwig of YSN recently featured junior Raegan Krieg from the Maplewood girls basketball team, exploring her journey and insights on the successful 20-win season of the Maplewood Rockets. As one of the few upperclassmen on a young roster, Krieg relishes the opportunity to lead and mentor younger teammates. Reflecting on the team’s staggering improvement from a 12-win season to 20 wins, she attributes this success to the hard work over the summer months, where the starting five collectively put up over 10,000 shots. This dedication off the court has translated into substantial game-time success, fostering a robust team dynamic.

Krieg, a seasoned player since fourth grade, values the influential role she now embodies, having once looked up to older athletes. She finds pride and responsibility in guiding underclassmen, ensuring they have strong role models as she once did. Family plays a pivotal role in Krieg’s life, providing unwavering support from the sidelines. Sharing the court with her twin sister, Lauren, has been a unique journey filled with mutual encouragement and growth since their early years in junior high.

Beyond basketball, Krieg has her sights set on college, aiming to continue her softball career while aspiring to become an athletic trainer or sports psychology professional. Amidst the stressful recruitment process, she seeks collegiate programs that prioritize positive team culture and academic support. In an inspiring conclusion, Krieg extended heartfelt thanks to her family, teammates, coaches, and alumni, acknowledging their crucial roles in her athletic and personal development. As the season progresses, both Krieg and the Maplewood Rockets anticipate achieving new heights, with her leadership shining both on and off the court.

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VICTORY AND VALOR

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH-Valley Christian High School’s football season has taken a turn for the better this year, with the team boasting an impressive 4-1 record thanks to the remarkable leadership and dedication of senior player Alfred Coward. Fresh off a commanding win against East Palestine, Coward opens up about what sets this team apart and his unyielding drive to succeed.

Coward, who has been a key player for Valley Christian throughout his high school career, speaks highly of his teammates’ passion and conviction. “You can be the biggest, the strongest, the fastest, but if you don’t have that will, it doesn’t matter,” Coward emphasizes, pointing out that sheer physical capability isn’t enough without the heart to back it up.

Last season’s end was a bitter pill to swallow for Coward and his teammates, as they concluded with a 4-6 record, falling short of playoff inclusion. “It was very bitter,” Coward admits. “The whole summer, the whole offseason, I was just waiting to come back with a different type of ferociousness.”

Coward’s offseason was marked by relentless dedication. From walking five miles to the gym to working out every day, he left no stone unturned in his preparation. “It was a grind, for sure,” he says. “But it didn’t feel like a grind because I knew it was going to help me get to my goal.”

That goal is to play college football, an ambition that drives Coward daily. “You can’t simulate that energy in the stadium,” he says of the college game atmosphere. “It’s a passion, and that passion is never going to fade.”

When asked to pitch himself to any college coach in America, Coward’s response reflects his determination: “The conviction I have, the grit I would bring to the field, it will never waver.”

One striking moment in the season was during a game against Leetonia, where Coward’s late-game interception nearly turned into a touchdown. “I read the quarterback, saw the ball coming, and thought, ‘That’s me,'” he recounts. Despite being tackled at the 1-yard line, his subsequent transition to quarterback to score the touchdown is a testament to his versatility and resolve.

Coward’s inspiration comes from his late grandfather, Alfred Coward, whom he proudly carries as his namesake. “He was a man of conviction, and once he put his mind to something, he went all the way.”

Among his teammates, Jackson Bragg stands out as someone who pushes Coward to be better. Their friendly rivalry on the field is a driving force. “He’s going to let you know if you miss a tackle,” Coward laughs. “I gotta win. I gotta beat him.”

With his heart ablaze and eyes set on future goals, Alfred Coward continues to lead Valley Christian with the same ferociousness and dedication he has shown throughout his football journey.

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