Tag Archive for: Competitive balance

MADE FOR ZAID

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CANFIELD, OH– As the South Range Raiders celebrate another successful season, senior Nick Zaid joined DJ Yokley at Giangelo’s in Boardman for the latest edition of the South Range Raiders show. Known for his humility and reserved nature, Zaid opened up about his love for his community, the significance of representing them on Friday nights, and the support he’s received since childhood.

Zaid, who has been an integral part of the Raiders this season, spoke fondly of the unwavering support from the South Range community. “They’ve always been there since day one. We’ve grown as a family,” he expressed. The senior shared the pride he feels donning the Raider jersey, acknowledging the role he plays as a hero and role model to the younger generation.

Having primarily been a baseball player, Zaid made the switch to football during his senior year. The decision was driven by his desire to have fun with friends and play alongside his younger brother, a junior. “It’s my senior year and I want to enjoy it with my friends and my brother,” he shared. He admitted that the experience of sharing the field with his brother has been both competitive and fulfilling, adding a unique dynamic to their relationship.

Outside of his high school sports, Zaid is an avid NFL fan, with a particular affinity for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Influenced by his family’s passion for the team, Zaid’s current favorite player is T.J. Watt. Reflecting on his baseball journey, Zaid revealed that he’s been playing since the age of three, favoring positions like first base and outfield.

Academically, Zaid excels in mathematics, a subject he finds comes naturally to him. Among his mentors, Coach Rach stands out for welcoming him into the football team and making him feel like part of the family, even when he joined later in the year.

When asked about how he’d spend a million dollars, Zaid humorously responded with a true fan’s dream: Steelers season tickets.

Nick Zaid’s story is a testament to the strong community ties and the supportive environment at South Range, which encourages its students to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

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MINERAL RIDGE COACH’S CORNER WITH JEN STITH

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH-  In a recent interview on the YSN, Mineral Ridge Athletic Director Jen Stith discussed the significance of her hometown community, the evolving landscape of women in sports, and the potential impact of the expansion of divisions in the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA).

Stith, who has deep roots in Mineral Ridge as a former student and long-time educator, expressed her personal connection to the community and the special role it plays in the success of the athletic programs. She highlighted the supportive and family-like atmosphere that has contributed to the rise of girls’ sports and the positive relationships between coaches and students.

Addressing the changing perceptions of women in sports, Stith shared her perspective as a woman athletic director in what was traditionally a male-dominated arena. She emphasized the growing recognition of women’s capabilities and the increasing opportunities for women to take on leadership roles in athletics at all levels.

When discussing the OHSAA division expansion, Stith expressed optimism about the potential for more competitive balance, particularly for smaller schools like Mineral Ridge. She hoped that the move would provide opportunities for schools of similar sizes to compete at a level where they can excel and achieve success, suggesting that it could lead to more championships.

Stith also touched on the significance of rivalries within the community, underlining the role of community engagement and support in fostering a strong sports culture.

The interview with Jen Stith provided valuable insights into the intersection of community, women in sports, and the future of high school athletics in Ohio. As Mineral Ridge continues to thrive in its athletic endeavors, Stith’s perspective offers a unique and important outlook on the impact of these interconnected elements on the sports landscape.

Overall, Jen Stith’s reflections serve as a testament to the transformative power of community support, the increasing prominence of women in sports leadership, and the potential benefits of the OHSAA division expansion for schools like Mineral Ridge.

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