Tag Archive for: D line

A KNACK FOR SUCCESS

/in /by

BERLIN CENTER, OH-  As the Berlin Center Bulldogs gear up for their highly anticipated week 10 matchup against Jackson Milton, star player Joe Rovnak sat down with podcast host Chris Colucci for an insightful and spirited discussion at Ben’s Restaurant.

In a recent episode of “YSN,” Rovnak didn’t hold back his enthusiasm for the game, particularly highlighting the team’s recent standout performance against Mineral Ridge. “I think it was our best game of the year,” Rovnak said, reflecting on the Bulldogs’ resilience and ability to score substantially in the second half. “I think that was a high B,” he added, emphasizing that the team is yet to reach its full potential.

This week’s game against Jackson Milton is more than just another contest; it’s a rivalry week clash that comes loaded with emotions and stakes. “It’s week 10, it’s senior night, anything can happen,” Rovnak noted, capturing the unpredictable and electrifying nature of high school football.

Rovnak, a junior poised to take on a leadership role next season, was effusive about the current senior class, expressing admiration and love for his peers. “Everybody’s got that senior class that they love, and this is my senior class. I love them to death,” Rovnak shared.

Looking ahead, Rovnak aims to be a guiding light for the underclassmen. His focus isn’t purely on athletic prowess but also on teaching younger players the importance of timing and discipline. “I want to be able to teach them how to do that so we can become a better football team next year,” he said.

As for the upcoming game, Rovnak recognized Jackson Milton’s dynamic defense, noting their tendency to change formations and personnel frequently. This adaptability makes the game particularly challenging and unpredictable.

Beyond football, Rovnak’s offseason plans are as disciplined as his on-field strategy. When asked about other sports, he plainly stated, “Lift. Lift. Lift.” While he won’t wrestle, his commitment to physical conditioning remains unwavering.

The Bulldogs currently boast an 8-1 record, and Rovnak is optimistic about their chances to finish strong, praising the team’s unity and camaraderie. “We all click,” he said with a smile, noting the seamless blend of freshmen and seniors bonding over shared goals.

With an eye on the season’s end but a heart still in the game, Berlin Center fans have every reason to be excited about Joe Rovnak’s contributions—both on and off the field.

PRESENTED BY

FROM COAST TO KOSEK

/in /by

NEW MIDDLETON OH- As the Springfield Tigers gear up for a significant Friday night football showdown against the McDonald Blue Devils, excitement and tension are palpable among fans and players alike. Both teams enter the fray with impressive 6-2 records, looking to bolster their playoff positions and vie for a league championship.

In a recent episode of the “Tiger’s Table,” host Steve Leslie sat down with senior standout Kaesen Kosek to preview the upcoming match and reflect on the Tigers’ season. Leslie heralded the significance of the night as the Tigers aim to secure outright league championship status, a goal they’ve aspired to all season long. Kosek, who had a pivotal interception in their last game against Mineral Ridge, highlighted the teamwork and camaraderie that define this Springfield squad. “First, I’d like to give a shout out to my D-line because I’m not making that pick if that Higgs, if he doesn’t hit,” said Kosek, emphasizing the collective effort that goes into each play.

When asked about the team’s preparation and mindset, Kosek revealed, “We don’t talk about this much. I think it is kind of an unspoken thing in the locker room.” He added, “Everybody on the team knows what needs to be done… and everybody’s doing what they have to do to do it.” Beyond their defensive prowess, Kosek also praised the offensive execution, pointing out that both facets of the game contribute to their overall success. “A great defense makes a good offense because our offense is always getting the ball in great field position,” he stated, showcasing the symbiotic relationship between the team’s units.

Leslie and Kosek also touched on the challenges posed by the upcoming opponent. “McDonald’s coming with their best shot… but if our defense stays lights out, and if Carson and Dante are playing like they have been on offense, I think we’re hard to beat,” Kosek said confidently. Tune into YSN for comprehensive coverage of the game, with Chris Sigler and Steve Leslie calling the action live. Friday night promises to be a thrilling chapter in Springfield’s march towards the playoffs.

Presented By:

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 8) WITH DAVE RACH

/in /by

CANFIELD, OH- As the scent of autumn fills the air and the leaves begin to turn, the South Range Raiders football team braces itself for the final hurdle before the playoffs. In an engaging discussion at Giangelo’s for the South Range Raiders Show, Coach Dave Rach opened up about the team’s relentless drive and the challenges ahead.

With an impressive undefeated streak, the Raiders recently clinched a crucial victory over Niles at Beau Rhine Stadium, a feat Coach Rach attributes to the team’s daily commitment to improvement. “Our guys know how special Friday nights are,” said Rach. “We want to get our money’s worth every time we lace them up.”

Looking ahead to their next matchup against Louisville, Rach emphasized the importance of treating every game like a playoff bout. Transitioning from conference to non-conference games, the Raiders are not allowing themselves any room for complacency. “We’re at the point where every game feels like a playoff game,” Rach noted. Facing Louisville, a team with a deceptively challenging record and significant on-field talent, South Range aims to test and prove its mettle one more time before entering the postseason.

Furthermore, Rach highlighted the value of senior leadership within the team, singling out Shaun Updegraff and Hunter Cooper for their contributions both on and off the field. Despite an injury sidelining Cooper, his commitment to supporting his teammates has not waned, providing a morale and strategic boost during practices.

While the focus remains on football, Rach’s lighter side was revealed as the conversation shifted to Halloween. Ranking the holiday’s favorite movies and expressing his unique array of fears—from snakes to clowns—Rach’s responses offered a humorous respite from the intense football discourse.

With only one regular season game left, the South Range Raiders are zeroing in on the playoffs with a sense of purpose and unwavering focus. As they prepare to face the Louisville Leopards, Coach Rach and his squad are poised to showcase the growth and resilience that have defined their season.

PRESENTED BY

BIG PLAY PATER

/in /by

BERLIN CENTER, OH-  As the Western Reserve Blue Devils prepare for their highly anticipated game against the Springfield Tigers, the excitement is palpable among both players and fans. The Blue Devils, riding an undefeated 6-0 record, host Springfield in what is arguably the most crucial matchup of their season.

Quarterback Chris Pater, the leader of this formidable squad, elaborated on last week’s victory against Cameron under tricky weather conditions. From a quarterback’s perspective, Pater admitted, “We had a lot of flaws. We looked pretty sloppy,” emphasizing the team’s current focus on refining their strategies and upping their performance standards.

Despite offensive challenges, the Blue Devils’ defense, led by Nate Hamburger, has been nothing short of stellar. “Our run defense especially has been outstanding this year,” Pater proudly noted, further highlighting their strong defensive lineup.

Historical context adds weight to this week’s game as well. “We haven’t beaten the Springfield Tigers in, I think, seven or eight years. This game is huge for us,” Pater said, reinforcing the motivation driving the Blue Devils. Host Chris Colucci chimed in with his own thoughts, claiming he personally favors the Blue Devils despite Springfield being statistically favored by three points.

The significance of home-field advantage isn’t lost on Pater. Describing the atmosphere at Western Reserve, he said, “It’s unbelievable. The stands are always packed. You can barely hear.” The support and energy from the home crowd could be a game-changing factor as the team steps onto the field.

Both on and off the field, the Blue Devils have demonstrated a synergistic dynamic, especially within the running back and quarterback room. Colucci dubbed the trio of Pater, Ricardi, and Darnie as a “three-headed monster,” to which Pater agreed, stating that their versatility presents a significant challenge for opposing defenses.

As the season progresses, Pater believes fine-tuning the smaller aspects of their game, such as blocking and route running, will be essential for continued success. Defensively, communication among the defensive backs is an area identified for improvement, ensuring complete synchronization between the lines.

Friday’s clash is not just about breaking a long-standing losing streak against the Tigers. It also represents a step closer to an undefeated season—a 7-0 tally that appears well within reach for this dedicated and talented team.

As fans eagerly await kickoff, plans are already set to continue the celebratory spirit beyond the game. Ben’s restaurant promises to open late, offering a communal space for fans to revel in the team’s performance, win or lose.

“Good luck this week, Chris,” Colucci signed off in his podcast, voicing what every Western Reserve fan is undoubtedly feeling. As the Blue Devils ready themselves for this pivotal game, one thing is certain—Friday night football has never been more exhilarating in Berlin Center, Ohio.

PRESENTED BY