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Photo Credit: Will Anderson

PARMA, OH – Great Scott! The Saint John Heralds just took a time machine back to the winner’s circle.

For the first time since 1985, the Heralds are district champions, defeating the Waterloo Vikings 9-6 on Friday afternoon at Cuyahoga Community College’s Western Campus in the OHSAA Division IV District Final.

The victory ends a 40-year drought and punches Saint John’s ticket to the Regional Semifinals—a milestone moment that feels ripped straight out of a Back to the Future script.

The Heralds wasted no time getting on the board. Anthony Severino brought in the game’s first run with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the first inning. Waterloo answered in the top of the second with a two-run single from Daniel Cunningham to briefly take a 2-1 lead.

But like any good comeback story, Saint John wasn’t going to stay in the past for long. Gus Petros tied things up at 2-2 in the bottom half of the second with an RBI single down the right field line.

Then came the defining moment. In the bottom of the third, the Heralds exploded for five runs on six hits. Ezra Campbell delivered the key swing of the inning with a two-run double that electrified the Saint John dugout and gave them a 7-2 lead. It was the kind of rally that would’ve made Doc Brown proud.

Will Anderson got the start on the mound and gave Saint John five strong innings, allowing just two hits and two runs while striking out three. Brady Cole and Ryan Williams came on in relief to secure the win.

Offensively, the Heralds tallied 10 hits. Campbell, Anderson, and Chase Newsome each had two-hit games, while Campbell and Petros drove in a pair of runs apiece. Cole swiped two of the team’s five stolen bases as Saint John applied pressure on the basepaths all day long.

Matthew Ralston led the Vikings with a 3-for-3 performance at the plate. Cunningham and Trevor Flarida each drove in two runs, while Landon McClain drew three of Waterloo’s six total walks.

With the win, Saint John advances to the OHSAA Regional Semifinal on Tuesday, June 3 at 2:00 PM at Oberlin College, where they will face the winner of the Warren JFK Eagles vs. Christian Central Comets.

From VHS to victory, this 2025 team has done what no Heralds squad has accomplished since parachute pants were in style. And now, with a district title in their pocket and momentum on their side, Saint John is ready to write the next chapter—no time machine required.

GIRARD OH – The excitement is palpable as the Girard volleyball team prepares for an important regional semi-final matchup against Elyria Catholic tomorrow night at Berkshire High School. Head Coach Phil Walters, leading this resurgent squad, is optimistic yet cautious after a hard-fought season filled with tough competition and invaluable lessons learned.

“It’s been an incredible journey,” Coach Walters shared during the latest episode of YSN’s “Coach’s Corner.” “Our girls have worked tirelessly, and it’s great to see their efforts culminating in this district championship. But we’re not done yet. The focus now is on the challenge Elyria Catholic presents.” This season, Girard’s volleyball team has shown formidable resilience, enduring a grueling schedule with notable victories against top-ranked teams. The impressive win over Columbiana in a district semi-final match, despite facing a roaring away crowd, speaks volumes about the squad’s tenacity.

“We’ve played some of the toughest teams around, and it’s prepared us well for the post-season,” Walters noted. “Facing teams like Marlington, Lakeview, and others has made our girls grow, adapt, and respond under pressure.” Coach Walters also highlighted the pivotal role of his seniors—Nico Cochran, Alexis Beaton, and Bailey—whose hunger and dedication have been the driving force behind the team’s success. “Senior leadership is crucial. They know every game could be their last, and that intensity is unmatched,” Walters explained. “Their commitment and motivation have carried us this far.”

Fans are encouraged to come out in full support as the Girard squad takes on Elyria Catholic. The team thrives on the energy from a strong fan base, which has been crucial in previous matches. “We haven’t been in a regional semi since 2011,” Walters pointed out. “Having a big crowd there makes a difference. It motivates the girls and elevates their performance. We’re inviting everyone to come and be a part of this significant moment.” Join us in Berkshire tomorrow night to cheer on Girard as they aim for a spot in the regional finals. A victory could set up a thrilling all-YSN regional championship, with Crestview slated to play the late game.

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