Tag Archive for: discipline

POLAND FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 7) WITH TOM PAVLANSKY

POLAND, OH- As the season enters its crucial stages, the Poland Bulldogs high school football team gears up for a critical matchup against the Lakeview Bulldogs this Friday. Celebrating a decisive victory over Girard last week, Head Coach Tom Pavlansky emphasizes the importance of discipline and teamwork heading into week nine of the 2024 season.

Coach Pavlansky, reflecting on the recent Senior Night, shared the emotional weight of watching his players walk out with their parents. “It’s bittersweet,” he described. “These kids have made significant commitments, and seeing them for what might be their final home game is hard. But we’re focused on making the most of the weeks we have left together.”

Highlighting last week’s game against Girard, Pavlansky praised his team’s ability to stay composed amid challenges. “We have a standard of discipline established from day one,” he explained. “Our players know how to maintain their composure, and it made a huge difference during the chippier moments of the game.”

The upcoming match against Lakeview is pivotal for both teams, with Lakeview needing a win to solidify a postseason spot. Coach Pavlansky is well aware of the challenge ahead. “Lakeview is a big, physical team with skilled players. It’s as close to a playoff game as it gets,” he noted.

Star players to watch include Josh and Jas Stefancin, whose selfless play epitomizes the team’s spirit. Both have performed admirably, adapting to whatever roles have been required to support the team’s success.

“This is a playoff game as far as we’re concerned,” said Pavlansky, urging his team to prepare with urgency and focus. “We have a great challenge this week, but also a fantastic opportunity to prove ourselves against a tough opponent.”

Kickoff is set for Friday night, promising a high-stakes clash that will test the mettle and determination of the Poland Bulldogs. As the community rallies behind their team, all eyes will be on how Coach Pavlansky’s disciplined squad fares under the bright lights.

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A VRABEL WARNING

LOWELLVILLE, OH-  In our latest episode of the YSN podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Anthony Vrabel, the rock-solid offensive and defensive lineman for Lowellville High School’s football team. As he enters his senior year with an impressive two-in-one start, Anthony reflects on his journey and ambitions.
“It’s gone by so fast,” Anthony admits, discussing his high school football career. One of his most memorable moments? Winning the league back-to-back. For him, it means more than just a trophy; it signifies being the best team in the MVAC and carrying a target for two years—a testament to Lowellville’s enduring football legacy.

Guided by Head Coach Manula, who Anthony credits for instilling discipline and preparation, the team continues to work hard, both in and off the season. “It really takes a lot of hard work,” he emphasizes, shining light on the less glamorous but crucial off-season efforts to get everyone game-ready.

On the field, Anthony’s love for blocking stands out. Whether opening lanes for star running backs like Geno Perry and Santino or holding the line on defense, he finds joy in every high-impact moment. His preferences? “I like stopping the run a lot,” he says with a grin, and he enjoys the increased physicality of battling with running backs over quarterbacks.

Anthony’s football philosophy is deeply rooted in his family’s coaching heritage. His father, whom he respects both as a coach and a mentor, creates meticulously detailed game plans that Anthony admires. “My dad is a great offensive mind,” he says, hinting at his own future aspirations in coaching.

Off the field, Anthony excels in academics and eyes a future filled with opportunities. Whether pursuing a trade or following in his family’s coaching footsteps, his love for football remains the constant driving force. “There’s something about winning,” he states, underscoring the thrill of victory that fuels his dedication.

Raised in a tight-knit family, including two sisters, Anthony cherishes the support and wisdom from his father and grandfather. With faith playing a central role in his life, he is confident that “God’s gonna guide me to where I need to be.”

When he’s not on the gridiron, you’ll find Anthony indulging in his other passion—golf. With a particular fondness for his fairway woods, his dream golf foursome includes legends like Tiger Woods, Scottie Scheffler, and John Daly.

Anthony Vrabel is more than just a football player; he’s a dedicated athlete with a bright future, grounded by family, faith, and an unwavering love for the game. As he prepares for what lies ahead, one thing is certain: his journey will continue to inspire and impact many, both on and off the field.

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BERNIE BRINGS IT BACK!

YOUNGSTOWN, OH- Local legend and former football quarterback Bernie Kosar, known for his career with the Cleveland Browns and the University of Miami, shared valuable insights and experiences during a special interview for the YSN podcast. The interview was part of the lead-up to the YSN slam dunk contest taking place at Boardman High School.

Kosar expressed gratitude for being able to contribute to the YSN event and outlined the importance of community involvement and giving back. He emphasized the challenges that young athletes face today, particularly in dealing with pressures and anxieties, and highlighted the need for holistic approaches to mental well-being.

During the interview, Kosar also touched on the lessons he learned through sports, emphasizing discipline, respect, and the value of competing on and off the field. He discussed the impact of sports on young athletes, emphasizing the importance of nurturing life skills and holistic development.
Additionally, Kosar shared his personal journey in dealing with health challenges and the importance of seeking natural and holistic approaches to well-being. He spoke openly about the adverse effects of certain medications and the responsibility he feels in sharing his experiences to support others in making informed decisions regarding their health.

Kosar’s heartfelt and candid reflections were a source of inspiration for many, and his commitment to giving back to his community and supporting the next generation of athletes was evident throughout the interview.

The YSN event, set to take place, promises to not only showcase athletic talent but also underscore the importance of community involvement and support. Kosar’s participation has added an extra layer of significance to the event, and his message of resilience, self-improvement, and community engagement is sure to resonate with attendees.

As the YSN event approaches, the community eagerly anticipates the positive impact that Kosar’s insights and the overall event will bring to local sports and the community at large.

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ORANGE GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH LASHAWN BROWN

PEPPER PIKE, OH- In the premiere episode of the YSN podcast, “Orange Girls Basketball Coach’s Corner,” host DJ Yokley sits down with the renowned La’Shawn Brown, head coach of the Orange High School’s girls basketball team. With an impressive 14-year coaching career and a legendary basketball background herself, Brown offers a captivating glimpse into her life and coaching philosophy.

For Brown, basketball was not initially on her radar. Standing as the tallest girl in her high school and middle school, she originally had ambitions to pursue track. However, she was encouraged to give basketball a try, despite facing the setback of having lost her fingers in an accident at a young age. Overcoming this challenge, Brown showcased her skills and had a breakthrough sophomore year at Heights High School, paving the way for a storied basketball career.

Through her personal adversities, Brown developed resilience and discipline, instilled in her by her grandmother, who taught her to view herself no differently from anyone else. The experience of being treated like any other player and accepting her amputated hand propelled her to excel on and off the court.

As the head coach of the Orange girls basketball team, Brown is grateful for the opportunity to build a strong program and elevate her team’s level of play. She acknowledges the progress made in her inaugural year as head coach and expresses high expectations for the upcoming season. Brown commends her players’ dedication and hard work during the summer and anticipates the positive impact of new team members on the court.

Reflecting on her coaching journey, Brown highlights the importance of instilling discipline and affirmations to push her players beyond their comfort zones. She aims to create an environment where being uncomfortable, tired, or sore is accepted as part of the growth process.

Challenges remain for Brown in controlling expectations, particularly when it comes to understanding her players’ abilities and pushing them to exceed their limits. However, she welcomes the assistance of her experienced coaching staff and relishes the opportunity to mold her team into one that is prepared to fight, hustle, and do whatever it takes to succeed.

As the Orange girls basketball team heads into a new season, Coach Brown wants opponents to know that her team won’t back down. With a resilient and determined mindset, her players are ready to give their all, fight for every win, and leave it all on the court.

To hear more from Brown and gain insight into the world of Orange girls basketball, tune in to the full episode of the “Orange Girls Basketball Coach’s Corner” on the YSN podcast.

Stay tuned for future episodes highlighting the behind-the-scenes stories of coaches and athletes in the Orange High School community.

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ORANGE BOY’S BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH MARVIN RASHAD

PEPPER PIKE, OH- In a recent episode of the “YSN – Orange Boys Basketball Coach’s Corner” podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Marvin Rashad, the new head basketball coach at Orange High School. The conversation was filled with excitement and optimism as Coach Rashad shared his vision for the team and his passion for the game.

Coach Rashad, a former player himself, spoke about how basketball has been a blessing in his life, teaching him valuable lessons of discipline, hard work, and perseverance. He expressed his belief that the game is not just about wins and losses, but also about personal growth and the development of life skills.

Describing his journey to Orange High School as a “Cinderella story,” Coach Rashad recounted a pivotal game three years ago when his previous team, Shaw High School, faced off against Orange in a sectional championship. Against all odds, Shaw emerged victorious, and Coach Rashad’s coaching prowess caught the attention of the administrators at Orange High School.

Since taking over as head coach, Coach Rashad has been focused on changing the culture and instilling a sense of responsibility and accountability in his players. He emphasizes that they represent not only themselves and their families but also the school and the coaching staff. The players are urged to approach the game with a sense of urgency and to give their best, knowing that every action reflects on their coach and the program.

The enthusiasm surrounding Coach Rashad’s appointment is evident in the response from the players. Over 60 students expressed their desire to play for him, a testament to his ability to inspire and motivate. Coach Rashad humbly acknowledged this overwhelming support and expressed his commitment to Orange High School, stating that he has found his home and plans to build a successful program for years to come.

Cleveland is a community that deeply values basketball, and Coach Rashad understands the high expectations that come with leading a team in this city. He acknowledges the competitive nature of the game but encourages his players to play with confidence and freedom, while still maintaining discipline and structure. He aims to create a team that is known for its resilience and fighting spirit, regardless of the outcome on the scoreboard.

As a coach who has played at the next level himself, Coach Rashad recognizes the aspirations of his players to play college basketball. He advises them to embrace the challenges that come with that goal, emphasizing the importance of listening, being coachable, and developing a resilient mindset. He wants his players to understand that nothing comes easy and that they must be ready to fight for their dreams.

Coach Rashad’s journey to becoming a basketball coach was influenced by his junior high coach, Nick Daniel Wright, who not only cared about his players’ performance on the court but also showed genuine concern for their well-being outside of basketball. This experience ignited Coach Rashad’s desire to become a coach who genuinely cares about his players’ personal growth and success.

In summary, Coach Marvin Rashad brings enthusiasm, inspiration, and a strong commitment to the Orange Boys Basketball program. He aims to build a culture of responsibility and accountability while instilling confidence and freedom in his players. With his own experiences and positive mentorship, Coach Rashad is ready to make a lasting impact on the lives of his players and the success of the program.

 

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