competitive league Archives - Your Sports Network

Mineral Ridge, OH— Excitement is brewing in the Mineral Ridge community as Marcus Higgs takes the helm as the new head coach for the Rams basketball team. In a recent interview with Coach’s Corner, Higgs shared his vision and optimism for the upcoming season.

Taking over from a background in the football program, Higgs is no stranger to the student-athletes of Mineral Ridge. “I was more than delighted to take this job,” Higgs said. “I knew all the kids and it was a no-brainer for me.”

Injuries plagued the Rams’ basketball team last season, but this year is shaping up to be different. Higgs expressed his relief that most players emerged unscathed from football season, making special mention of returning seniors Jordan Moore and Jon Rozzi, both ready for a full season on the court. “When the clock hit zero in the last football game, I was very happy to know all my guys were still healthy,” Higgs noted. The Rams’ roster is robust, featuring a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents. In addition to Moore and Rozzi, the team will count on a slew of upperclassen to provide quality minutes. The Rams promising sophomores are also vying for playing time.

Higgs’s coaching philosophy is rooted in defensive tenacity and controlled offensive pacing. “Aggressive defense, making sure teams know you’re coming, and controlling the pace on offense” are central to his strategy. He aims to instill a culture that trickles down to the freshman and middle school programs as well, fostering a cohesive, competitive spirit throughout. In discussing the competitive landscape of the MVAC, Higgs acknowledged the tough road ahead. With the addition of Campbell Memorial to the league, every game will demand the Rams’ best effort.

Higgs was enthusiastic about his experienced coaching staff. Former head coaches George Lanterman, Brian Durrett, and Rick Culver bring invaluable experience, while freshman coach Bobby Cameron, a community member and program alumnus, embodies local pride and commitment. Before the start of the season, Higgs emphasized the importance of valuing each possession and playing formidable defense. “We need to see growth in valuing the ball and playing aggressive defense. Each possession counts,” he stressed.

Aiming for a winning season and a strong tournament run, Higgs believes the Rams have the potential to achieve great things. “Winning games is the only way these guys will start believing. Competing for a district title is our goal, and I see positive aspects so far.” The Mineral Ridge community eagerly anticipates the upcoming season, confident in Coach Higgs’s leadership and the team’s potential. This year promises to be one where the Rams make their mark.

Presented By:

CANFIELD OH- As the South Range girls basketball team gears up for another exciting season, Coach Jeff Fishel and his Raiders are ready to prove that their best days lie ahead. In a candid Coaches Corner interview, Fishel shared his optimism and plans for the upcoming season.

Reflecting on last year’s challenges, Fishel acknowledged the disappointment of a second straight season under .500, a rarity for the program. “We learned a lot of hard lessons last year and immediately got to work in the spring to address them,” said Fishel, crediting the dedication and resilience of his returning players. This season, the Raiders will be led by their lone senior, C.C. Foster, and an experienced group of returning letter winners, including Gwen Lowry, Taylor Dado, Haley John, Sophia Lucente, and Heidi Bartels. “Gwen has dedicated herself to getting better and has become a great leader,” Fishel said, highlighting Lowry’s significant growth and her pivotal role this season.

The rejuvenation of culture within the program is bolstered by contributions from players involved in South Range’s winning softball program. “They bring that winning culture and are helping us get our basketball culture back to where it was,” remarked Fishel. Facing a challenging NE8 conference where no team can be underestimated, Fishel remains undaunted. “This is probably the most level the league’s been. Every night will be interesting and fun for people to follow,” he said.

The Raiders’ non-conference schedule is equally formidable, featuring matchups against perennial powerhouses like United, Columbiana, and Liberty. Highlights include a festive Holiday Hoops Tournament where South Range will face teams like Garfield and Beaver PA. Fishel also expressed excitement about his newly assembled coaching staff. “We’ve hit home runs with every hire. They bring energy, knowledge, and are completely bought into our program,” he said. Notably, former standout players like Lexi Naples are now giving back by coaching the next generation.

Ending on a reflective note, Fishel underscored the life lessons basketball teaches, from addressing issues promptly to surrounding oneself with good people. “Basketball has taught me that nobody does this alone. Surround yourself with good people and you’ll be successful,” said Fishel. The South Range girls basketball team’s first test will come on November 25th, when they travel to face United. Their highly anticipated home opener is slated for December 5th against Liberty. With renewed energy and determination, the Raiders look poised to rebound and make their mark this season under the guidance of Coach Jeff Fishel.

Presented By: