Tag Archive for: dad

A KAIDEN KIND OF PLAYING

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LOWELLVILLE OH– If there’s one name that reverberates through the halls of Lowellville High School and echoes across the community on Friday nights, it’s Kaiden Italiano. The junior standout, who plays as a receiver and linebacker for the Lowellville Rockets, has made a significant impact both on and off the field.

Kaiden’s journey in football began back in third grade, inspired by his brother’s enthusiasm for the game. “He started playing a little before me, and he was having a lot of fun,” Kaiden explained in a recent podcast interview on YSN Live. “I thought I should do it, too.” Though his football roots trace back to the small yet passionate community of Lowellville, Kaiden’s earlier years saw him in Western Reserve – a rival school that adds an extra layer of excitement to game days. On joining Lowellville, he found an immediate connection. “I just like the community a lot better,” he says.

The transition wasn’t just about football. Kaiden was a skilled wrestler who competed at the state level, but Lowellville did not offer a wrestling team. His athletic focus shifted entirely to the gridiron, where he has thrived, especially under the leadership of quarterback Ricky Rorich. “He can do it all,” Kaiden remarked about Rorich, adding that sometimes it’s all too easy for fellow receiver Josh to snatch the limelight. Playing opposite Josh on the field means Kaiden often sees the ball headed his way before it veers towards Josh. Yet, Kaiden’s versatility shines brightest on the defensive end, where his proclivity for talking and his love for hard-hitting defense makes him a formidable linebacker. “Sacking the quarterback’s fun,” he chuckles. “It’s a lot of fun hitting somebody and then talking.”

The spirit of Lowellville football isn’t just built on talent but also mentorship. Kaiden singles out Coach Greer as a significant influence. “He’s like a really good friend to a lot of us. He’s always texting us, making sure we’re all good,” he shares. Beyond football, Kaiden’s role models include his father, who runs a roofing company. Inspired by his dad’s work ethic and support, Kaiden plans to join the family business after graduation. “Big money,” he nods with a smile, hinting at a prosperous future. As Lowellville gears up for another thrilling football season, the community’s eyes will undoubtedly be on Kaiden Italiano – a young athlete who embodies the heart and hustle of Lowellville.

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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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BIG PLAY PUCKETT

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MCDONALD, OH- McDonald High School’s junior quarterback, Kyle Puckett, is making waves on the field this season with his stellar performances and dynamic play style. Known for his ability to “sling the rock all over the yard,” Puckett has proven himself to be a versatile and valuable asset to the team.

Under the guidance of Coach Williams, Puckett has excelled in an offense that many initially thought would be heavily focused on the run. “A lot of people think the wing’s a running offense,” Puckett said. “But once we started running it, it all worked out. It’s so fun. We throw the ball, and I have so much chemistry with my guys.”

One highlight this season was the trick play against Colombiana, which showcased the team’s strong camaraderie and quick decision-making skills. Puckett attributes much of his success to this close-knit group, emphasizing their collective ability to adapt and execute plays effectively.

Off the field, Puckett mirrors his on-field leadership by building relationships with his teammates, from leading practice sessions to treating his offensive line to Dunkin’ Donuts. “I buy breakfast in the morning, treat them with the most respect because those are the guys behind everything,” Puckett said.

When asked about his inspirations, Puckett mentioned professional quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Baker Mayfield for their poise and mobility. He aspires to emulate their qualities and continue developing his game to reach new heights.

Looking ahead, Puckett has ambitions of playing at the collegiate level and is already considering his future education and career plans. “Maybe something in business,” he mused.

As McDonald High heads deeper into the season, all eyes will be on Puckett as he continues to lead his team with undeniable confidence and skill. With performances like his, it’s only a matter of time before college recruiters take notice.

For now, McDonald fans can relish the excitement and watch as their QB1 sets the field ablaze with his remarkable talents.

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THE ACADEMIC MONSTER

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PEPPER PIKE, OH-  Austin Thomas, a standout athlete at Orange High School, was featured in a player profile segment. With his notable achievements in academics and sports, Thomas has earned the nickname “Academic Monster” among his peers.

Thomas, a multisport athlete involved in both wrestling and football, has managed to excel in both areas, displaying remarkable dedication and time management skills. Despite his demanding schedule, Thomas prioritizes his academic pursuits, maintaining an impressive 4.7 GPA.

When asked about his ability to manage his commitments, Thomas admitted that sleep often takes a backseat. He emphasized the importance of utilizing study halls efficiently and making the most of his time after practice. Thomas prioritizes completing schoolwork, staying focused, and ensuring he makes the most of his academic opportunities.

Thomas’s dedication to academics stems from his desire to pursue higher education beyond high school solely based on his athletic abilities. He recognizes the significance of enriching both mind and body, ensuring that he can secure a college education that matches his ambitions and aspirations.

While Thomas is uncertain about his specific career path when he attends college, he has another year and a half to explore his options. With his strong work ethic and determination, Thomas is undoubtedly poised for success, no matter what path he chooses.

The podcast also delved into the relationship between Thomas’s involvement in wrestling and football. Thomas explained that wrestling has greatly influenced his football skills, particularly in terms of hand placement, footwork, and overall body control. By mastering techniques such as hand movements, foot placement, and hip positioning, Thomas has gained a competitive edge on the football field.

When it comes to his competitive mindset, Thomas revealed that he adopts a different persona in his respective sports. Whether it’s wrestling or football, once Thomas steps onto the mat or dons his football helmet, he switches into a focused and intense mindset that fuels his drive to succeed.

Surprisingly, Thomas finds motivation from his teammates and uses any frustrations or annoyances as fuel to push himself further during practice. This competitive spirit ignites a fire within him, propelling him to constantly work harder and improve.

During the podcast, Thomas also shared insights regarding his family dynamics. Living with his parents and having an older brother who is away at college, Thomas reminisced about their early roughhousing days. Although their physical playfulness came to an end after a few accidents left his brother injured, the Thomas household was always filled with laughter and good-natured sibling rivalry.

Reflecting on his high school experience, Thomas treasures the relationships he has built with his teammates, coaches, teachers, and fellow students. The camaraderie, support, and shared laughs are what he cherishes the most, as they have shaped him into the person he is today.

Thomas also mentioned his admiration for football player CJ Justin Tanner and wrestler Terrence Davis. Their dedication, work ethic, and competitive drive have served as inspiration for him, pushing him to reach new heights in his own athletic pursuits.

As Austin Thomas continues to dominate both academically and athletically at Orange High School, his determination, time management skills, and unwavering focus make him a role model for aspiring student-athletes. With college on the horizon, Thomas is set to leave a lasting impact on both the academic and sports communities he becomes a part of.

 

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HEEEEEEEEEATH!

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CANFIELD, OH-  South Range Raiders’ junior tight end, Heath Crouse, opened up about his experience playing for the esteemed high school football team and the impact of having a successful older brother, JD Crouse, who also excelled in the same position.

Crouse humbly expressed his admiration for his brother, stating that being in JD’s shadow is an honor as he has been an invaluable mentor and role model. He credits JD for helping him improve as a player and as a person. The tight-knit Crouse family has instilled in him a sense of greatness and the drive to always give his best, whether on the field or in his daily life.

The interview also highlighted Heath Crouse’s dedication to his craft. He emphasized the importance of hitting the weight room, improving his footwork and hand-eye coordination, and always pushing himself to the limit. Taking inspiration from his brother’s work ethic, Crouse aims to surpass JD’s accomplishments, continually striving to be better.

When asked about the differences between him and his brother on the field, Crouse acknowledged JD’s superior catching ability but emphasized his own strengths in terms of footwork. Additionally, Heath claimed to have better academic grades, while JD’s humor and storytelling skills took the crown.

The South Range Raider expressed his gratitude for the close-knit community and the strong bonds formed within the team. He attributes their success to the chemistry they share, branding it as a key factor that sets them apart.

Off the field, Heath looks up to his parents and JD as his role models. Their unwavering support and guidance have shaped him into the person he is today. Among his parents’ and brother’s qualities, he admires their knowledge and their ability to push him to become a better individual.

Heath Crouse also delved into his personal life, revealing his interest in cooking. He mentioned that being more like his father in terms of his strong work ethic, and his mother in terms of culinary skills, has played a significant role in shaping his character.

The YSN podcast interview provided insight into the life of Heath Crouse and shed light on his journey as a South Range Raider. With his dedication and the support of his family, teammates, and community, Heath Crouse is poised for continued success on the football field and beyond.

 

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GLISTA DEMANDS

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BOARDMAN, OH- This week we’ll be profiling Aaron Glista, an impressive offensive lineman who embodies the true essence of being a Spartan. Join us as we explore his journey, from his love for Spirit Week to his passion for football and the energy he feels when playing in front of his supportive school.

We’ll also learn about his family dynamics, his favorite holiday traditions, and even some interesting insights into his potential future career as a history teacher.

Get ready to be inspired by Aaron’s dedication and love for the game as we delve deep into his player profile.

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ALL GO FOR CVERCKO

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BOARDMAN, OH- In today’s episode, titled “Boardman Player Profile: Andrew Cvercko,” we delve into the fascinating world of a talented young athlete from a sports-oriented family. Andrew joins us to discuss the unique dynamics and pressures that come with being part of a competitive household.

We explore his journey in various sports, from soccer to swimming, and the influential role his family has played in his athletic pursuits.

Join us as we uncover Andrew’s passion for football, his determination to excel, and his plans for the future. So, sit back, relax, and get ready for another engaging player profile on YSN!

 

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NOBODY BETTER THAN JONATHAN

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BOARDMAN, OH- Welcome back to another exciting episode of YSN’s Player Profile, the podcast where we bring you all the latest updates and profiles of talented athletes. In today’s episode, we have a special player profile featuring Jonathan Vergos-Perez, a freshman on the Boardman cross country team.

Join us as we dive deep into Jonathan’s background, his love for running, and his journey from California to Ohio. We’ll also discuss his experiences in different sports and his ambitious goals for the future. Stay tuned to hear about Jonathan’s determination, his family’s support, and his plans to excel in both academia and athletics. Get ready to be inspired by this talented young athlete.

 

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WORDS TO LIV BY

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CANFIELD, OH- Liv Meli, a senior volleyball player for South Range High School, sits down with DJ Yokley for an interview on YSN. Liv reflects on her four years of playing volleyball and how fast it has gone by. As a senior, she has taken on a leadership role on the team, emphasizing the importance of being a team player and bringing energy to the court.

When asked about where she learned confidence, Liv credits her parents for always encouraging her to be confident and put herself out there. Although she admits that she is not the loudest person, she tries her best to be confident. Liv’s sister, who is younger but has a big personality, has also been a role model for her in terms of confidence.

Liv discusses the importance of having fun during games and how it contributes to the team’s energy on the court. She mentions that when her teammates are there to support and uplift her, she can switch into a more assertive mode during games. Despite facing tough competition throughout the season, Liv sees it as a learning experience and believes that the team’s strong bond and Coach Iron’s support will contribute to their success.

Off the court, Liv shares a close bond with her sister, often going out for coffee or food together. She mentions their love for Starbucks and going to restaurants like Olive Garden. Liv expresses her gratitude for her family’s support, highlighting how they are always there for her through ups and downs.

When asked about one quality from each of her parents that she would like to adopt, Liv admires her mom’s caring nature and her dad’s confidence. She appreciates how her mom always tries to make everyone happy, while her dad encourages her to put herself out there and not worry about what others think.

Outside of volleyball, Liv enjoys shopping and often goes on spontaneous shopping trips with her sister. She mentions that she loves browsing both online and in physical stores, appreciating the experience of looking around.

Overall, Liv’s profile showcases her dedication, leadership, and the importance of having fun both on and off the volleyball court. With the support of her teammates, coach, and family, Liv has high hopes for the team’s success in the upcoming season.

 

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ECKERT KEEPS PERSPECTIVE

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CANFIELD, OH-  In today’s episode titled “Canfield Player Profile: Tyler Eckert,” we have the pleasure of diving into the life and experiences of Tyler Eckert, the senior inside linebacker and special teams extraordinaire for the Cardinals.

Throughout this conversation with Tyler, we explore the grit and determination he exemplifies week after week, fighting for his spot and making the most of his playing time. As a senior, Tyler understands the fleeting nature of the game and how every snap could be his last, pushing him to give it his all each time he steps onto the field. But what led Tyler to the world of football in the first place? We delve into his early beginnings and his love for the game, instilled in him by his father. From wanting to be the star quarterback or running back, Tyler found his role as a special teams player and spot player, something that his coach greatly values. We explore what it means to him to be singled out by his coach and how it fuels his drive to do whatever it takes for the team.

Football, as we know, teaches valuable life lessons, and Tyler shares some of his insights. Despite facing injuries in the past, Tyler’s perseverance and the support of his team kept him coming back for more. We discuss the importance of resilience and the bond he shares with his teammates – a brotherhood that has grown over the years. But Tyler’s interests extend beyond the football field. We learn about his hobbies, including hunting trips with his uncle, playing video games like Fortnite and Madden on his PS5, and his love for the Philadelphia Eagles, particularly rooting for Jalen Hurts.

Family plays a significant role in Tyler’s life, and he opens up about the influence of his mom, who is his rock, and the lessons his late father taught him about perseverance. We also hear about his older sister, who is currently a freshman in college, and Tyler’s own aspirations to study pharmacy, continuing the family legacy.

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