Tag Archive for: defensive player

HAVRILLA HAS IT ALL

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CANFIELD OH- In the latest Canfied Player Profile host Anthony Hartwig sits down with Canfield High School junior Jenna Havrilla to delve into her evolving role on the team, her journey through the sport, and the delicate balance of being a student-athlete.

Havrilla, now one of the upperclassmen on her team, reflects on the transition from being an underclassman to embracing a leadership role. “There’s definitely a big change being one of the older girls, and I just have to set a positive example for the younger ones,” she notes. As part of a tight-knit junior class, Havrilla shares the importance of chemistry among her peers and how each player’s unique role contributes to the team’s success. This season, she has invested significantly in advancing her offensive skills, especially through summer workouts focusing on ball handling. Traditionally a defensive stalwart, Havrilla aims to bring a more well-rounded game to the varsity level.

Her basketball journey began in third grade and has been fueled by her love for the sport and the camaraderie with her teammates. Her friend Jenna Treri stands out as someone basketball has brought into her life, highlighting the tight bonds formed on the court. Balancing academics and athletics can be challenging, but Havrilla seems to have found her stride. “There’s definitely a lot of homework, but I get it all done,” she says, citing her disciplined approach to managing school work amid her busy sports schedule. When it comes to study habits, she prefers listening to music to stay focused. As the conversation dips into personal life, Havrilla opens up about her musical tastes, from hype-up tracks like “Dreams and Nightmares” to mellow tunes by SZA. She even shares a lighter side with her love for 80s music, mentioning “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” as guilty pleasures.

The interview reveals family traditions that mean a lot to Havrilla, such as the competitive Thanksgiving wishbone tradition she shares with her brother and cousins. Her family’s support shines through her narrative, especially the contrasting approaches of her sports-savvy dad and her supportive, though less sports-focused, mom. As the interview wraps up, Havrilla takes the opportunity to thank her teammates, coaches, and particularly her family for their unwavering support. Her father’s good luck messages before games underscore the close-knit family bonds that have bolstered her athletic journey. This conversation not only highlights Havrilla’s athletic prowess but also gives listeners a glimpse into the determined and balanced approach she brings to every aspect of her life. For more profiles and sports coverage, stay tuned to YSN.

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A WERNER CLASSIC

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Lakeview, OH — Junior standout Kalyssa Werner is making waves both on the basketball court and in her challenging academic pursuits at Lakeview High School. Known for her defensive prowess, Werner is stepping into a significant leadership role this season, despite her naturally reserved demeanor.

With Lakeview girls basketball team off to a roaring start at 2-0, thanks to key wins against local rivals, Werner has already shown she’s integral to the team’s early success. The supportive environment created by a new coaching staff has bolstered her confidence, as she works on her offensive game to complement her strong defensive skills. “I’ve been working more on my shooting recently because our coaches have confidence in us,” she remarked. “That instills confidence in me as a player.”

Her busy schedule doesn’t end with basketball. Werner juggles academics, athletics, and social commitments, taking on a challenging course load that includes college-level classes and preparing for the upcoming softball season. “It’s definitely challenging,” she admits. “But having friends who play the same sports helps balance my social life and schoolwork.”

Educationally, this year ranks as the toughest yet for Werner. “I’m taking a college chemistry class in first period, and it’s very difficult,” she shared. Despite the challenges, she has a soft spot for her bio and chemistry classes, enjoying them more than she expected. Werner’s journey in basketball began with her admiration for her younger sister, McKenna, and the coaching from her father. “I’ve always looked up to her. She’s been my inspiration,” Werner says, highlighting the family’s tight-knit bond and mutual encouragement in sports. Adjusting to a new coaching staff this year, Werner praises Coach Lee and his team for their organized and energetic approach. “They’ve made it really easy to transition and made me love the sport more,” she explained.

Off the court, family traditions play a crucial role in Werner’s life, especially during the holiday season. From decorating Christmas trees to baking cookies, these moments bring joy and connectivity, complemented by a love for movies like “Home Alone” and festive songs like “Mary, Did You Know” by Carrie Underwood. For Kalyssa Werner, basketball at Lakeview is more than a sport—it’s about community, family, and personal growth. As she continues to lead her team and push her academic boundaries, she reflects on the support network that makes it all possible. “I’m thankful for everyone who’s been there,” she concludes, acknowledging her coaches, teammates, and, most importantly, her family.

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BLUE KOLLAR BALL PLAYER

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POLAND, OH- In a thrilling display of defensive prowess, the Poland Bulldogs stormed back into the win column with a dominating shutout victory against Niles, final score standing at an emphatic 42-0. The standout performance, held at Bulldogs Bar and Grill, was highlighted by senior linebacker Jeffrey Kollar’s relentless leadership.

“Ending the game with a shutout meant everything to us,” Kohlar reflected, basking in the team’s triumph after a tough loss to South Range. “After giving up so much in the last game, this win was a huge confidence booster.”

The game’s pivotal moment came during a Niles kickoff return where a potential touchdown loomed. Kollar watched from the sidelines, confident in his teammate Jayce’s ability to stave off the threat, which he did spectacularly. “We got a scare, but I had faith in Jayce. He made a crucial tackle,” Kohler noted.

It was a tackle that set the stage for perhaps the finest example of Bulldogs’ resilience. Defending from their own three-yard line, the Bulldogs chose aggression over complacency. “We took that as a new challenge,” Kollar explained. “Instead of rolling over, we took pride in our hard work and got the ball back.”

Host Matt Romeo marveled at the team’s unity both on and off the field, highlighting it as a key ingredient in their recipe for success. “You can’t win championships without being a family,” Kollar affirmed. The Bulldogs’ camaraderie and cohesive spirit were clear as they prepare for a crucial upcoming game against Gerard.

Respecting Gerard’s potent offense, Kollar and his teammates are preparing meticulously. “Their offense is one of the more explosive we’ll face. We aim to minimize their damage and focus on guarding the pass,” Kollar stated, showing both respect for their opponents and determination for the challenges ahead.

With senior night approaching, Kollar takes in every moment with profound appreciation. “You never know when your last play is. From pregame speeches to the final whistle, it’s all special,” he mused.

As the Bulldogs gear up for Girard, their latest victory lays a strong foundation of confidence and unity. Expect the Bulldogs to bring the same tenacity and teamwork to the coming games, with Kollar’s leadership shining as a beacon for Poland’s football community.

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NATE THE GREAT

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- The first week of the high school football season kicked off with a bang as Nate Alexander, junior defensive back for Western Reserve, delivered a spectacular performance that had fans on the edge of their seats. In an adrenaline-filled game against Crestview, Alexander secured the defensive player of the game title with an impressive interception that shifted the momentum in his team’s favor.

Reflecting on his standout play, Alexander shared his insights on the summer preparations that led to this moment. “We knew Crestview’s running backs were coming hard, and we were ready to hit them back,” he explained, brimming with excitement from his first varsity start. His clutch interception was not only a pivotal moment but also a personal triumph.

Last week’s game against McDonald was no short of a thriller, going all the way into overtime. “Their kicker got hurt, so we kind of knew they were going to go for two,” Alexander said, explaining the team’s strategy. The game ended on a high note for Crestview, effectively shutting down McDonald’s two-point conversion attempt.

As the season progresses, Alexander’s focus now shifts to Louisville, a team that knocked Crestview out of the playoffs last year. “We really want to get it back for our seniors,” he admitted, motivated by last season’s bitter end. With a promising season ahead, Alexander and his teammates are keen to make amends and push deeper into the playoffs.

Outside the gridiron, Alexander is looking at a future in physical therapy, inspired by his own experiences overcoming a freshman year injury. While college plans are still forming, he hopes to stay close to home, mentioning Kent State and Youngstown State University as possible destinations.

Whether it’s dreaming of physical therapy, enjoying team campouts, or plotting their next big win, Alexander’s passion for his sport and his future is evident. With the Browns and OSU as his favorite teams and a love for Skittles and Glacier Freeze Gatorade on road trips, this humble hero is set to make his mark both on and off the field.

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THE DEVILS HOUR : DOM ZIMBARDI AND PARKER NAMIE

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- Western High School’s senior football players Dominic Zimbardi and Parker Namie shared their experiences and expectations for their final season on the YSN podcast, “The Devils Hour.”

The Western Blue Devils are off to a strong start, having showcased resilience and strong teamwork in their recent win against Columbiana despite the challenges introduced by a rain delay. “It was slow at first,” Zimbardi recalled, “but once we started bumping some jams, the mood lifted, and we played our best football.”

Namie echoed this sentiment, noting the team’s ability to overcome hurdles, both on and off the field. “We didn’t want to go through the rain delay, but we picked up once we were back out there,” he said.

The anticipation and excitement are palpable as the Blue Devils prepare for their upcoming game against McDonald, a significant rivalry game often referred to as the “Blue Devils vs. Blue Devils” showdown. According to Zimbardi, their preparation is meticulous, with focused training sessions led by coach Mark Vijelik to counter McDonald’s Wing T offense. “We’re working very hard and are ready to have a battle up front,” Zimbardi assured.

The seniors also highlighted the importance of team bonding, recounting a memorable retreat over the summer at Coach Alessi’s house. The retreat included activities that ranged from building campfires to the physically demanding task of pushing an ATV. “It was pretty exhausting,” Namie admitted, but it brought the team closer together.

As they look forward to the rest of the season, both Zimbardi and Namie have their eyes on graduation, symbolizing the end of a rewarding yet demanding high school journey. “High school really is just a job without pay,” Zimbardi remarked, reflecting on the balance between being a student and an athlete.

With a promising season ahead, the Western Blue Devils’ senior players are determined to leave a lasting legacy on the field. Fans and followers can expect a spirited performance this season as the team aims to finish strong.

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