YOUNGSTOWN, OH- In the latest episode of “Valley Christian Coach’s Corner,” Coach Andy Hake offers an in-depth perspective on the pressures and triumphs of high school football in the Mahoning Valley. Hosted by DJ Yokley, this episode is rich with insights and anticipation for the upcoming football season.

Coach Hake begins by addressing the immense pressure coaches and players face during the highly scrutinized Friday night games. Despite these challenges, he stands firm in his support and admiration for local teams and coaches, including Tim Cooper, the head coach of West Branch.

Hake highlights the parity in the small divisions of the league, particularly the Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference (EOAC), noting that this balance of power makes the games even more thrilling to watch.

A heartwarming moment in the episode comes when Coach Hake shares his excitement about taking his son, Augie, to the Canfield Fair. The fair is a beloved Mahoning Valley tradition, drawing attendees from all over the country for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of food.

The discussion then pivots to the strong performances of various high school teams, such as Boardman, Fitch, Harding, West Branch, Poland, Canfield, and Salem. Coach Hake and Yokley express enthusiasm for the upcoming matchups, particularly the games between Cheney and Struthers. They point out that Cheney’s success can be attributed to their athletic prowess and fast-paced gameplay, led by standout quarterback Matt Jones.

Coach Hake reflects on Valley Christian Eagles’ recent challenging game against Malvern, acknowledging the need for improvement but emphasizing the learning opportunities such matchups provide. With an eye on their next game against St. Thomas Aquinas, he stresses the importance of continuous growth and preparedness for playoff contention.

Hake’s commitment to his team’s resilience and discipline shines through as he highlights the abilities of his quarterbacks, Dion and Jayshon. He attributes the team’s perseverance to their tough upbringing in Youngstown, instilling them with determination and grit.

The episode concludes with mutual appreciation between Yokley and Hake, underscoring the strength of community support and camaraderie in local high school sports.

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