Tag Archive for: community

ALBAUGH IS ALL GOOD

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CANFIELD, OH- – In the heart of South Range Raiders’ football territory, Adam Albaugh stands as a testament to dedication, humility, and hard work. The junior lineman, featured this week on YSN’s South Range Player Profile, shared insights into his life both on and off the field, reflecting a remarkable journey of growth and determination.

In an electric week 15 matchup, Albaugh’s infectious team spirit was palpable. “We’re like family out there. A bunch of brothers and whiz go battle every Friday,” he emphasized, illustrating the brotherhood that fuels their success. Reflecting on the nerve-wracking moments of the recent game, Albaugh described the thrill of clinching a last-second victory, highlighting the unwavering focus and camaraderie that drive the Raiders.

The episode revealed more than just Albaugh’s prowess on the gridiron. A dedicated member of 4H, Albaugh juggles football with raising pigs and cows, a hobby introduced by his sister. His mornings start as early as 5 a.m., caring for his animals before swapping chores for chin straps. “It’s crazy – the fair and football at the same time,” he admitted, describing the whirlwind of Canfield Fair week.

Despite the early mornings and rigorous schedule, Albaugh finds solace in the simple joys of farm life and enjoys fishing with his junior football teammates. By his own admission, he’s not always been a football-only athlete but has found a niche within the sport for its contact and competitive spirit.

Academically, Albaugh is a history aficionado, captivated by the World Wars and classic films such as “Kelly’s Heroes” and “True Grit.” His future aspirations are broad yet grounded, aiming for a good job and a serene life, potentially by a lake in Tennessee.

Raised by a supportive family, Albaugh credits his calm demeanor to his parents. His sister, a respiratory therapist, remains a guiding force in his life, often doubling as a “second mom.”

As the Raiders march forward, bolstered by players like Albaugh, it’s clear that the essence of their team lies in both their athletic and personal diversity. Adam Albaugh, with his hardworking ethos on and off the field, embodies the spirit of South Range Raiders, proving that excellence is nurtured with every step, both under the Friday night lights and in the early morning stables.

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GRAND ON THE GRIDIRON

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CANFIELD, OH-The South Range Raiders’ impressive season continues to ride on the back of strong performances and solid teamwork, epitomized by none more so than senior defensive lineman Steve Grandon. Amid an 11-0 run, the Raiders look ahead to week 12 with optimism and grit, spurred by Grandon’s unwavering support both on and off the field.

During a recent episode of the YSN Podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley, Grandon discussed the challenges and triumphs of his final high school season. Despite the pressures of being a senior balancing academics and athletics, particularly grappling with a demanding schedule of English assignments, Grandon remains focused on the ultimate goal: leading his team toward potential championship glory.

Grandon’s contribution to the Raiders extends beyond mere athletic prowess. He embodies the spirit of camaraderie, identifying himself humbly as the “hype guy” – the one responsible for rallying his teammates and keeping spirits high. “Everybody incorporates on the team. It’s. Everybody has one certain job to complete, and you just got to rely on everybody else,” he emphasized.

Off the field, Grandon contemplates two possible career paths: a service in the military, following the footsteps of several family members, or a hands-on vocation in carpentry, a passion he shares with his grandfather. The latter has given him cherished memories, like building cornhole boards – a simple yet meaningful project where the process held more value than the product.

Grandon’s dedication is mirrored by the staunch support from his family, particularly his “super fan” aunt and a bustling household of six siblings. His service-oriented attitude and resolve to impart valuable lessons to his younger brothers and sisters are testaments to his outstanding character.

In a surprising revelation, the senior lineman also shared a passion for culinary arts, promising a delicious “steak, potatoes, and maybe lobster” with a chocolate milkshake if ever tasked with preparing a last meal. His siblings are the lucky recipients of his culinary experiments, further strengthening family bonds.

As the Raiders charge forward, eyes set on championship aspirations, Grandon’s anchor-like presence is vital. Both on the gridiron and in life, the community-centered values and resilience he demonstrates are qualities his team and coaches highly cherish.

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THE HEARTBEAT OF THE WARRIORS RETIRES AFTER 33 YEARS

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East Ashtabula, OH- Warriors family and friends gave a standing ovation and cheered loudly as they said thank you and farewell to the long time voice of Friday nights at Corlew Stadium, Greg Mendrala. After 33 years as the voice of the Edgewood Warriors, Greg Mendrala is stepping away from the microphone, leaving behind a legacy of passion, dedication, and community spirit. Mendrala, who has been the public address announcer for the Edgewood Warriors football team, marked his final game this season, capping off an illustrious career that spanned over three decades.

A local radio veteran, Mendrala is known for his roles as a morning show host for STAR 97.1, WFUN 970, and 102 ZOO in Ashtabula. His transition into high school football announcing came unexpectedly when former Athletic Director Al Goodwin asked him to fill in as the PA announcer just before the season began 33 years ago. Already comfortable behind the mic, Mendrala took on the role, and his enthusiasm and knack for engaging the crowd ensured his return every season since.

During an interview with YSN’s Larry Jennings at halftime of his final game, Mendrala reflected on his time as the Warriors’ announcer. While he couldn’t pinpoint a specific moment that stood out over the years, he expressed that the entire experience had been a joy. “I’ve loved every second of it,” Mendrala shared. His dedication and enthusiasm have made him a beloved figure in the Edgewood community, with his voice becoming synonymous with Warriors football.

Mendrala shared a humorous moment during the interview, noting that he knew it was time to step down when he started announcing the names of the sons of players he had called during his early years. But while he’s retiring from the PA booth, Mendrala isn’t planning to be far from the action. He mentioned his desire to remain involved with Edgewood football, potentially joining the YSN team to help cover the games he loves so much.

Edgewood Athletic Director Steve Kray also expressed his gratitude, noting that Mendrala’s presence over the years has been pivotal. “His enthusiasm has inspired generations of players and fans alike, making every game a memorable event. Thank you, Greg, for your remarkable contributions and for being the heartbeat of the Warriors,” Kray stated.

As Mendrala steps away, the Edgewood community is left with decades of unforgettable memories, his voice forever woven into the fabric of Warriors football. Though his time as PA announcer has come to an end, Mendrala’s impact will be felt for many years to come.

Thank you, Greg Mendrala, for 33 years of unforgettable moments.

BILLY PUTS SOUTH RANGE OVER THE HUMP

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CANFIELD, OH- At a cozy gathering at Gangelo’s on Route 224, the South Range Raiders’ own Billy Humphrey took center stage in a recent episode of YSN’s South Range Raider Show, hosted by DJ Yokley. A senior and key defensive lineman, Humphrey exuded both humility and pride as he discussed his journey, on and off the field.
Billy Humphrey, who admits to initially struggling with public speaking, has come a long way since his days in speech and debate. “For me at that time, that was probably the toughest thing that I did,” he confessed, noting how the experience shaped him despite its difficulty.

Transitioning into his football career, Humphrey shared the sense of camaraderie and collective pride that defines the South Range Raiders. “Everyone feels involved, everyone feels in, everyone just does their job. And that’s a pride that I have because everyone does their part,” he said.

As the Raiders stand strong with a 6-0 record, Humphrey emphasized the team’s disciplined week-by-week approach. “Win the next game,” he stated succinctly. With an eye on future victories but a resolute focus on the present, he embodies the disciplined spirit valued by his coaches and teammates alike.

Beyond the gridiron, Humphrey revealed a touching motivation behind his dedication—his family. Especially his mother, who he credits as a pillar of support. “I appreciate her so much for everything that she does… I don’t think I would be here right now if it wasn’t for her,” he shared emotionally.

Despite his achievements, Humphrey remains unassuming about his legacy. “I just want people to remember me for me,” he said, a testament to his humble character.

Billy Humphrey’s story speaks volumes about resilience, dedication, and the importance of support systems, both familial and communal. For the Raiders, he’s not just a player but a symbol of the very heart and soul of South Range.

 

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WESTERN RESERVE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH KONNER JOHNSTON

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-The latest episode of the YSN Podcast, titled “The Devils Hour with Coach KJ,” gave listeners an electrifying look into the life and energy of Konner Johnston, affectionately known as Coach KJ. Hosted by Chris Colucci, the episode delves into both Johnston’s current role and his inspiring journey.

Opening with a lively introduction, Colucci sets the stage by outlining the myriad roles Coach KJ fills for the Western Reserve football team. Johnston is not just a get-back coach or snack handler; he is the ultimate hype man, radiating positivity and energy on the sidelines. His enthusiasm isn’t confined to just Friday nights— it’s a year-round commitment from January to August, dedicated to everyone’s success on and off the field.

Johnston’s connection to Western Reserve runs deep. A former player for the team, he found it an honor to return and invest in the next generation under the mentorship of Coach Armey, whom he greatly admires. This deep sense of community and mutual respect is what keeps him rooted in the program.

The podcast also highlighted Johnston’s significant role at Kent State University, where he started as an intern in October 2021 and has now become a full-fledged strength and conditioning coach. He proudly mentioned his involvement with several championship-winning teams, demonstrating his impact extends beyond high school athletics.

Listeners were taken through a typical Friday night for Coach KJ, from the pre-game warm-ups filled with pumping music to the intense fourth quarters symbolized by Waka Flocka’s “Grove Street Party.” Johnston shared how these traditions were instilled to build resilience and camaraderie among players.

The episode closed on a high note as Colucci encouraged listeners to enjoy the ambiance and food at Ben’s, the local establishment where the podcast was recorded. As the credits rolled, the camaraderie and spirit of Coach KJ left everyone eagerly awaiting the next episode.

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YOU DON’T KNOW ‘JACK

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CANFIELD, OH-  South Range High School’s junior baseball player, Tyson Tarajack, has been making waves in the local sports scene with his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the game. In a recent podcast interview with DJ Yokley, Tyson shared insights into his journey, his aspirations, and the importance of faith and family in his life.

Despite carrying the weight of a renowned family name in the baseball community, Tyson has made it his mission to pave his path and create his legacy. He mentioned, “I’ve decided to actually take it up a notch recently in my career. I feel like I’ve actually shown that all the work I put in, and I have a lot of people behind me on my team.”

Growing up with a strong support system, Tyson credits his father as his ultimate role model. “My dad will always be my role model, no matter what. He has done everything possible to get me where I am right now,” he shared during the interview. Tyson also highlighted the significant role his grandmother plays in his life, acting as a pillar of support alongside his father.

Faith plays a vital role in Tyson’s life, providing him with solace during challenging times. He expressed, “My faith is super important to me just to get through things. Finally giving my life to God and putting all my problems towards God has really cleared my mind.”

The recent loss of a close friend deeply affected Tyson and the South Range community. In response, they have rallied around the family and dedicated the rest of the season to honor the young man’s legacy. “We want to do everything we can for the family and honor him,” Tyson stated, reflecting on the tragedy.

Known for his composure on the field, Tyson emphasized the importance of staying focused and working diligently to improve his craft. “The biggest thing I have is just composure. No matter what happens on the mound, I don’t let anything get to me,” he noted.

With dreams of reaching the MLB and a strong work ethic driving him forward, Tyson remains focused on his goals. “When it’s all said and done, I just want to go as far as possible in baseball,” he shared, highlighting his determination to excel at the highest levels of the sport.

In conclusion, Tyson Tarajack exemplifies the resilience, determination, and humility that define a true sportsman. As he navigates the highs and lows of his baseball journey, his unwavering faith, family support, and commitment to his craft continue to guide him toward a bright future in the world of baseball.

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WARDLE AND PEACE

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CANFIELD, OH-  In the latest episode of the YSN Player Profile podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley, we had the privilege of diving deep into the life and career of South Range baseball standout, Tyler Wardle. As Tyler embarks on the tail end of his senior year, he reflects on the years of effort, dedication, and growth that have shaped him both on and off the field.

The senior year is a whirlwind for many student-athletes, but for Tyler, it’s been particularly special. “I’ve been so blessed to spend with my teammates, with my senior class, the guys around me,” he shared. “These are the guys I grew up with, the people who’ve been around me for so long. And I am so blessed to share an experience like this with them.”

One of the key themes that Tyler echoed throughout the interview was the impact of falling short of expectations and how it drives him. He explained, “There’s something to be said of falling short of expectations. You know, it puts a sour taste in your mouth. It lights a fire under you. You know, you go from something that… this is our goal, this is what we’re going to do. And then you fall short of that… it’s a punch in the mouth.”

For Tyler, learning from these moments, especially within such a competitive conference, has been crucial. “Baseball is all about learning from what you’ve done wrong and what you can do better. And I think having a competitive league like we have is such a good experience.” This idea of continual learning was further emphasized when Tyler recalled a personal lesson from his time on the junior varsity team: “I showed up late and … got benched for that day. … It humbled me greatly and I realized that not everything is given. Sometimes I take things for granted and I have to learn not to do that.”

Navigating setbacks and growth wasn’t all that Tyler discussed. His burgeoning faith plays a significant role in his life, especially during challenging times. “During COVID I started reading my Bible. … I realized how much in there applied to me and how much I could apply to my life,” he said. His leadership in faith became even more prominent as he took on a role within the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at South Range, stating, “God has made me the man I am today. It’s an absolute blessing.”

Heading to Grove City next year, the recruitment process was enlightening for Tyler. Contrary to the glamorous perception many have, it required intensive effort and visibility. “You gotta go make yourself known,” Wardle noted. “I never would have gotten recruited by Grove City if I didn’t go to their camp and be around the coaches.”

Tyler’s humility and team-centric attitude have left an indelible mark on his coach and teammates. Reflecting on his relationship with Coach Hanek, Tyler admitted that he initially found it challenging to connect. However, by striving to be a beacon of communication and leadership, he further solidified their bond, ensuring that the team operated harmoniously.

The senior quartet at South Range, which includes Tyler, has developed a unique camaraderie. Despite the individual pressures they face, they always come back stronger as a unit. Tyler said, “I … appreciate everything they’ve done for me, everything they’ve done for our team, and honestly, just for them being around, being good friends.”

Lastly, the influence of Tyler’s family has been monumental in his journey. With heartfelt gratitude, he mentioned his dad’s mentorship: “He’s like a watching presence who knows what you’re doing wrong and knows how to help you with it. He’s been an absolutely amazing father to me.” He also shared a touching sentiment about his mother: “After every game, she gives me a hug and says, ‘Good game, buddy.’ Having that hug and that, you know, little bit, means the world to me.”

In conclusion, Tyler Wardle’s story is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering support from his loved ones. As he moves forward to new challenges and opportunities at Grove City, we at YSN and the South Range community will undoubtedly cherish his contributions and root for his continued success.

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AUL OR NOTHING

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Mineral Ridge High School volleyball senior Samantha Aulet recently sat down with DJ Oakley on the YSN podcast to discuss her transformative senior year, leadership on and off the court, and her impressive record of 2000 assists.

Aulet expressed the excitement of approaching her senior year and the desire to make lasting memories while leading her team. She emphasized the importance of not just leading the offense as a setter, but also providing guidance and support for the younger players and during practice sessions.

Having been a pivotal player throughout her high school career, Aulet talked about her evolving role and leadership style, highlighting the shift from focusing on the back row as a freshman to leading the entire team and fostering a positive attitude.

During the podcast, Aulet also shared insights into the strategic aspects of the game, discussing her role as a coach on the floor and the communication with coaches and teammates during the games.
Aulet credited the growth of the volleyball program to the solid foundation laid by former players, emphasizing the contribution of her senior-year teammates in building the team’s success.

Regarding her record of 2000 assists, Aulet candidly discussed the competitive nature within her family and how she set her sights on achieving the record after her sister accomplished the same feat. Though she fell six assists short due to an injury during a game, Aulet’s determination and competitiveness shone through as she reflected on the experience and the lessons learned from facing adversity.

The podcast showcased Aulet’s pride in her career achievements, including winning the league three out of four years and her role in the team’s success. She also humorously mentioned the regret of an injury that occurred during a game and how it affected her pursuit of the record.

Aulet’s resilience and dedication were highlighted throughout the interview, showcasing her positive impact on Mineral Ridge’s volleyball program. As she looks forward to the next chapter, Aulet’s commitment to leadership and her impressive record of 2000 assists set a shining example for future athletes at Mineral Ridge High School.

With her senior year coming to a close, Mineral Ridge’s Samantha Aulet continues to leave a lasting legacy in the volleyball program, overcoming challenges and making a profound impact both on and off the court.

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BERNIE BRINGS IT BACK!

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH- Local legend and former football quarterback Bernie Kosar, known for his career with the Cleveland Browns and the University of Miami, shared valuable insights and experiences during a special interview for the YSN podcast. The interview was part of the lead-up to the YSN slam dunk contest taking place at Boardman High School.

Kosar expressed gratitude for being able to contribute to the YSN event and outlined the importance of community involvement and giving back. He emphasized the challenges that young athletes face today, particularly in dealing with pressures and anxieties, and highlighted the need for holistic approaches to mental well-being.

During the interview, Kosar also touched on the lessons he learned through sports, emphasizing discipline, respect, and the value of competing on and off the field. He discussed the impact of sports on young athletes, emphasizing the importance of nurturing life skills and holistic development.
Additionally, Kosar shared his personal journey in dealing with health challenges and the importance of seeking natural and holistic approaches to well-being. He spoke openly about the adverse effects of certain medications and the responsibility he feels in sharing his experiences to support others in making informed decisions regarding their health.

Kosar’s heartfelt and candid reflections were a source of inspiration for many, and his commitment to giving back to his community and supporting the next generation of athletes was evident throughout the interview.

The YSN event, set to take place, promises to not only showcase athletic talent but also underscore the importance of community involvement and support. Kosar’s participation has added an extra layer of significance to the event, and his message of resilience, self-improvement, and community engagement is sure to resonate with attendees.

As the YSN event approaches, the community eagerly anticipates the positive impact that Kosar’s insights and the overall event will bring to local sports and the community at large.

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MINERAL RIDGE BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH AMY HARRISON

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Mineral Ridge Lady Rams’ coach, Amy Harrison, sat down with host DJ Yokley to discuss the team’s remarkable 22-season, which culminated in an 11-1 record and a share of the MVAC championship.

During the interview, Coach Harrison reflected on the program’s success and the transition from being a player to coaching a new generation of players. She expressed gratitude for the coaching she received as a player and highlighted the continuity of the program as former players, now coaches themselves, are involved in shaping the next generation of players.

Moreover, Coach Harrison shared her pride in the team’s accomplishments and discussed how she instills the value of pride, respect, and multi-sport participation in her players. She also acknowledged the challenges faced by female athletes and emphasized the importance of encouraging versatile athletic participation.

Looking towards the future, Coach Harrison discussed the transition from a winning season to preparing for new challenges, noting the significance of maintaining the players’ confidence and drive for success. She credited the strong personalities of the team and stressed the importance of maintaining a winning mindset from one season to the next.

The conversation shed light on the close-knit community of Mineral Ridge, where Coach Harrison has deep personal connections and where she has dedicated herself to shaping future generations of athletes. She expressed her pride in raising the championship banner and how the experience is something her players will carry with them throughout their lives.

In the spirit of reflection, Coach Harrison revealed that if she could change one thing from the season, it would be to start one of the games differently, believing that an altered approach could have made a significant difference.

The episode provided valuable insight into the dedication and passion Coach Amy Harrison brings to the Mineral Ridge Lady Rams’ basketball program, as well as the impactful experience of leading a successful team in a tight-knit community.

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