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LISBON, OH- In a candid and engaging interview on YSN’s latest podcast episode, Lisbon Blue Devil’s senior captain, Luke Kraft, opens up about his experiences, challenges, and aspirations both on and off the field.

Luke Kraft, a mainstay on the Lisbon football team, embodies the heart and soul of his community. As a seasoned defensive lineman and now tight end, the senior captain takes immense pride in donning the Lisbon blue each week. “It means everything. I love Lisbon,” he passionately stated in the interview with YSN host DJ Yokley, sharing how he’s lived in the town his entire life.

Kraft attributes his leadership style to leading by example rather than being the most vocal. However, he acknowledges there are times when he has to step out of his comfort zone to motivate his teammates. Reflecting on the team’s early struggles this season, he expressed frustration over the health issues that plagued their performance, but he maintains a fighter’s spirit: “If we never got sick, who knows what we could have been? But we still got a couple games to go out there and win some games.”

Under new head coach Meek, the team culture has flourished. Kraft appreciates the coach’s ability to maximize productivity during practice while keeping the team morale high – notably by skipping less favorable activities like yoga. Instead, the team bonds over wings, fries, and video game tournaments, which Kraft almost won, proudly playing as Clemson in an NCAA football game.

Beyond football, Kraft enjoys a mix of simple pleasures and creative pursuits. From listening to music and dining out with friends to performing in school plays, his interests are as varied as they are passionate. When asked about his future aspirations, Kraft remains undecided but open to the myriad of possibilities that lie ahead.

Kraft’s deep-rooted support system includes his family and role models like his third-grade teacher, Mrs. Rudabaugh, whom he fondly recalls for her unwavering kindness. It’s clear his values are firmly anchored in gratitude and humility.

Looking forward, Kraft envisions an intriguing dinner with historical giants such as Jesus, LeBron James, and George Washington, demonstrating the breadth of his curiosity and intellect.

As Lisbon gears up for the remaining games of the season, it’s clear that with leaders like Luke Kraft, the team isn’t just playing for victories—they’re playing for pride, community, and a legacy of resilience.

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In the premiere episode of the YSN podcast, “Orange Girls Basketball Coach’s Corner,” host DJ Yokley sits down with the renowned La’Shawn Brown, head coach of the Orange High School’s girls basketball team. With an impressive 14-year coaching career and a legendary basketball background herself, Brown offers a captivating glimpse into her life and coaching philosophy.

For Brown, basketball was not initially on her radar. Standing as the tallest girl in her high school and middle school, she originally had ambitions to pursue track. However, she was encouraged to give basketball a try, despite facing the setback of having lost her fingers in an accident at a young age. Overcoming this challenge, Brown showcased her skills and had a breakthrough sophomore year at Heights High School, paving the way for a storied basketball career.

Through her personal adversities, Brown developed resilience and discipline, instilled in her by her grandmother, who taught her to view herself no differently from anyone else. The experience of being treated like any other player and accepting her amputated hand propelled her to excel on and off the court.

As the head coach of the Orange girls basketball team, Brown is grateful for the opportunity to build a strong program and elevate her team’s level of play. She acknowledges the progress made in her inaugural year as head coach and expresses high expectations for the upcoming season. Brown commends her players’ dedication and hard work during the summer and anticipates the positive impact of new team members on the court.

Reflecting on her coaching journey, Brown highlights the importance of instilling discipline and affirmations to push her players beyond their comfort zones. She aims to create an environment where being uncomfortable, tired, or sore is accepted as part of the growth process.

Challenges remain for Brown in controlling expectations, particularly when it comes to understanding her players’ abilities and pushing them to exceed their limits. However, she welcomes the assistance of her experienced coaching staff and relishes the opportunity to mold her team into one that is prepared to fight, hustle, and do whatever it takes to succeed.

As the Orange girls basketball team heads into a new season, Coach Brown wants opponents to know that her team won’t back down. With a resilient and determined mindset, her players are ready to give their all, fight for every win, and leave it all on the court.

To hear more from Brown and gain insight into the world of Orange girls basketball, tune in to the full episode of the “Orange Girls Basketball Coach’s Corner” on the YSN podcast.

Stay tuned for future episodes highlighting the behind-the-scenes stories of coaches and athletes in the Orange High School community.

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