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STRUTHERS, OH—In an enlightening Coach’s Corner Anthony Hartwig sat down with Halle Minchin-Skook, the newly appointed head coach of Struthers Girls Basketball. Minchin-Skook, a Struthers alumnus, brings both passion and experience to the program she once graced as a player.

The interview opened with Hartwig’s warm introduction, celebrating Minchin-Skook’s return to her roots. Reflecting on her journey, Minchin-Skook shared, “It was a no-brainer that I wanted to take over the program. It means everything to me to give back to a community that gave so much to me.” The new head coach discussed her aspirations to instill a gritty, hard-working culture in the team, reminiscent of her days under Coach Grandy, emphasizing the significance of a robust coaching staff. She praised key members, including JV coach Kara Bornamus, seasoned scout and film specialist Coach Jack Berman, and Varsity Assistant Erica Wilson, whose extensive coaching experience provides invaluable support.

Minchin-Skook highlighted several standout players set to make an impact this season, from senior leaders Ava Croyle and Caitlin Kimball to up-and-coming talents such as freshman Mylea Law. “I can’t speak enough about just the character of all the athletes on my team,” she said. The coach didn’t shy away from addressing the competitive landscape of the NE8 conference and their rigorous non-conference schedule, which includes powerhouses like Warren Harding, West Branch, and Ursuline. “Playing tougher teams only makes you better for tournament time,” she noted. Significantly, Minchin-Skook acknowledged the expanded tournament format’s potential for fairer competition, expressing optimism about Struthers’ prospects in the new structure. The nterview concluded with heartfelt gratitude towards the supporting staff and administration, who play an essential role in the program’s success. For community members eager to support the team, the episode was a rallying cry to fill the field house for the Wildcats’ season opener on November 27th against Mineral Ridge.

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LOWELLVILLE, OH – The anticipation for the new girls’ basketball season in Lowellville is palpable as Coach Lisa Modelski gears up for another exciting year. Modelski, who has led the Rockets to multiple district semifinal appearances, recently joined Anthony Hartwig to give an inside look into the upcoming season.

Reflecting on last year, Coach Modelski highlighted the growth of her young team. “We started two freshmen last year, and I’m excited to see their development as sophomores,” she shared. The Rockets boast a blend of experience and youth, with key returners like Morgan Lewis, Sydney Prosek, and Gianna Palumbo expected to lead the charge. “The experience is there, but we’re still quite young,” Modelski noted. “Our seniors, especially those coming back from injuries like Michelle Kavanaugh and Alyssa Kuzian, are going to be critical.”

Despite being low in numbers this season, with only nine players on the roster, Coach Modelski remains optimistic. “These girls are committed and they bring a tenacity that’s admirable,” she said. The Rockets face a challenging schedule within the MVAC, competing against strong teams such as Mineral Ridge and Springfield. Outside the league, they’ll be tested by non-conference matchups against Bristol, Newton Falls, and Valley Christian. “We might have a small roster, but our non-conference schedule is strong enough to prepare us for the tournament,” Modelski said.

Underlining the season’s emotional undertone, Modelski paid tribute to the late Coach Rick Palumbo, a beloved figure in Lowellville basketball who passed away this year. “We lost a great member of our staff, but his spirit and lessons will guide us through,” she remembered. Coach Modelski also extended her excitement for the new boys’ basketball coach, Antonio Matisse, who has previously led the Rockets’ girls’ team to great heights. “Having someone like Tony, who understands the program’s values and history, will only strengthen our athletics department,” Modelski stated.

The Rockets open their season on the road against Bristol on November 23rd, eager to showcase their growth and resilience. Despite the travel-heavy early schedule, Modelski believes in the backing of the Lowellville community. “Our fans are dedicated, and we hope they’ll support us on the road.” As the Rockets set their sights on another successful season, one thing is clear: with Coach Modelski at the helm, Lowellville girls’ basketball is in good hands.

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