Tag Archive for: DJ Yokley

CALL OF DUTY; BELL WINS BOWLING GREEN’S MEDAL OF HONOR

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BOWLING GREEN, OH-  In a recent episode of YSN’s podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Logan Bell, the 2024 Medal of Honor recipient and Medal of Excellence winner from Bowling Green State University. Bell, a standout athlete from Lisbon David Anderson High School known for shattering records and later taking his talents to the baseball diamond, opened up about his journey, the essence of teamwork, and his aspirations for the future.

Bell’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field was recognized when he was awarded Bowling Green’s prestigious Medal of Honor. This accolade is not just a testament to his athletic prowess but also a nod to his leadership and community impact. Reflecting on the moment he found out about the award, Bell shared, “I’m very thankful to have been nominated and received the award, and I’m glad that I can represent BGSU in the way that it intends athletes to represent the school.”

Bell’s collegiate career was punctuated by significant challenges, including undergoing the harrowing experience of Tommy John surgery. “Relying on my parents and my faith to get me through those, that long summer and that long return to playing is kind of the biggest thing that has helped me,” stated Bell, emphasizing the support system that saw him through his trials.
He credits his never-give-up attitude to taking things one day at a time, focusing on each step of the recovery process rather than being overwhelmed by the road ahead.

Throughout the interview, Bell consistently highlighted the importance of being a good teammate, a philosophy he lives by. “It’s not about my accomplishments, it’s about the team’s accomplishments,” he profoundly iterated, reinforcing the message that individual recognition always takes a backseat to the collective success of his team.

Bell is no stranger to hardship. He discussed the numerous rejections he faced in high school, noting, “Pick out something that you see every day and write down your goals.” He added that resilience amid criticism is key – to see it as a means to enhance one’s capabilities instead of taking it personally.
As for his future, Bell is clear on his aspirations and pragmatic about the possible trajectories his baseball career could take. He spoke passionately about the prospect of winning a MAC championship and venturing into professional baseball. “Whether it takes me the next 20 years of my life or whether it takes me five years,” Bell mused, underlining his commitment to achieving what many only dream of.

Logan Bell’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and humility. Showcasing remarkable talent and a veteran’s poise, he serves as an embodiment of what it means to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. Bell exhibits the heart and hustle of a true champion, and according to DJ Yokley, he does it all while sporting a work-in-progress mustache.

In the world of collegiate athletics, where stars shine bright, Bell is undoubtedly one of the luminaries guiding the way for future generations.Bell’s story serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere — fight for your dreams, lean on your community, strive for excellence, and remember that the journey is every bit as significant as the destination.

ARE RIVALRIES IMPORTANT?

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COLUMBIANA, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN POWER HOUR, host DJ Yokley was joined by the passionate and outspoken guest, Andy Hake, to talk about the high stakes and the sentimental value that local sports rivalries add to communities. Here, we’ll delve into some of the highlights from that conversation and glean wisdom from a sports aficionado who understands the beating heart of local rivalries.

“In the days of our youth, rivalries were intense and quintessential to the sporting experience,” Hake reminisces. Recalling the blood-rushing excitement of games between Crestview Rebels and Columbiana Clippers, he said, “Every game was a battle; we lived for those face-offs. They taught us about pride, about community, and about giving it your all.”

Andy Hake’s commentary extends beyond nostalgia, as he voices concerns about the evolution of sports culture today. “It just feels like that edge, that importance of local rivalry, it’s been blunted a bit in today’s sports scene,” he asserts. Hake emphasizes how these clashes were about more than just the game; they influenced school pride, local support, and personal identity. You wouldn’t catch him “dead in a rival school’s colors” back in the day, such was the influence of these intense rivalries on personal choices.

These matchups are known to rumble community spirits, but sometimes the competitive nature can take unexpected turns. When discussing a hypothetical transfer to a rival school for coaching, Andy said, “It would have to be about aligning with their values. You have to believe in what you’re doing and who you’re doing it for.” His dedication to community values and the welfare of the students is clear as daylight, conveyed with the message that the “kids’ best interests” always come first.

On the topic of open enrollment and its impact on high school sports, Hake articulated his reservations. “The playing field’s changed with open enrollment. We’ve got new challenges we have to tackle, but it’s crucial to keep the spirit of the game alive, to keep those traditions that shape us,” he said, hinting at the complexities of maintaining fair play and community integrity in the face of these educational dynamics.
Acknowledging the long-standing significance of coaching in shaping young athletes’ lives, Hake maintains, “We’re not just here to create NFL stars. We’re here to develop individuals, identify talent, instill good values, and push athletes to reach their utmost potential, irrespective of the college divisions they end up playing for.”

As the conversation winded down, Hake circled back to the community aspect of sports. “Rivalries light a fire, they bring us together, and they give us a reason to cheer,” he shared. “It’s about that commitment, that drive, the sacrifice, and, of course, that controlled violence we love in sports.”

For Andy Hake, high school sports rivalries are more than just games—they are a vital component of cultural identity and personal growth. As communities evolve and the dynamics of these rivalries change, it is voices like Hake’s that remind us of the value and passion inherent in local sports.
Tune into YSN POWER HOUR to catch this engaging episode and join the conversation as Hake and Yokley dissect the role of rivalries in sports and life.

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A BEACON OF FAITH

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH-  As a beacon of hope and resilience for the younger generation, Faith Schneider has undoubtedly made a mark in Mineral Ridge’s sports history. Faith recently joined us on YSN podcast, where she opened up about her impressive journey throughout her high school volleyball career.

“When I first came to the school, I had to sit out half the year,” Faith recalled, addressing the challenges she faced early on. Despite this, she went on to achieve a remarkable milestone, surpassing a thousand digs—a feat she hadn’t anticipated. “I wasn’t really expecting, like, anything like that. But with the team like that, I had. It was very easy to do that,” she humbly stated.

Faith’s gratitude toward her team revealed the cohesive force that propelled the program to excellence. “It’s really been about, like, leadership and about, like, everyone working together and just working hard and always wanting to, like, win and have a common goal,” she expressed, highlighting the importance of unity and collective aspiration.

A natural leader herself, Faith emphasized the essence of leading by example, aiming not only to inspire but also to instill joy. “I just want them to, like, remember, like, the moments of me being, like, stupid or funny and them always, like, looking back on that,” she shared. This mindset reflects her leadership style, one that is both uplifting and memorable.

Looking back on the figures who shaped her journey, Faith credited her older peers, particularly mentioning Olivia Booth. “She’s, like, one of my favorite seniors… She was literally the one that, like, really brought me under and, like,” Faith says, alluding to the influence and guidance she received as a younger athlete.

Achieving all-state honors was a landmark moment for Faith, one that surprised and humbled her. “It’s very amazing… It just feels, like, really amazing to, like, know that people, like, know me and they have my back, and then they know that I could be a good player,” she said, acknowledging the recognition and support she’s received.

Enduring and overcoming adversity is part of any athlete’s journey, and Faith is no exception. Her philosophy, embedded by her parents, is to learn and grow from every setback. “He’d [her father] always be like, you know you always gonna have that bad game, that bad match, but it’s how you bounce back from it that really shows, like, the type of person you are,” she explained, speaking on the resilience ingrained in her approach.

Looking ahead, the discomfort of starting anew weighs on anyone venturing into uncharted territories. Yet, for Faith, Edinburgh feels like a second home, credited largely to the welcoming nature of the team and coaching staff. “It was very, like, home. Like, I just could, like, see myself there, and I love, like, the team. Like the. Just the whole atmosphere of the whole program,” she beamed with enthusiasm for her future.
As her legacy at Mineral Ridge endures, Faith carries the pride of being a foundational brick in the school’s sports culture. “It just feels really good that I can, like, be an example for a lot of girls,” Faith remarked, understanding the impact she leaves behind.

Concluding her high-school sports journey, Faith Schneider stands as an example of what hard work, a positive mindset, and a sense of community can achieve. Her story will continue to inspire and motivate many in Mineral Ridge and beyond as she takes the next step in her academic and athletic career.

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THE MASTER OF HIS CRAFT

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CANFIELD, OH- Preston Tolnar, a nine-year-old golf prodigy from Canfield, is hitting headlines as he prepares to compete at Augusta National for the prestigious Drive, Chip and Putt contest. This remarkable talent, already the talk of the town, is set to represent Mill Creek Golf Course at this distinguished event.

Preston, a fourth grader at Canfield, has already accumulated seven years of golfing experience, beginning at the tender age of two. His journey has led him to the opportunity to showcase his skills at Augusta National, a dream for many in the golfing world. The competition, organized by the PGA of America, the United States Golf Association, and the Augusta National Golf Club, invites young golfers to display their prowess in driving, chipping, and putting.

Brian Tolnar, Preston’s father, commends the contest as a vital initiative to foster youth interest in golf. Preston devotes his time to practice after school, honing his skills both on the green and in the classroom, where he excels in science, social studies, and math. Besides his dedication to golf, Preston is a multi-sport athlete with a passion for basketball and football.

This exceptional young golfer, a Phil Mickelson enthusiast, is humbly looking forward to the upcoming contest at Augusta National. Preston’s family, along with his local community, eagerly anticipates his upcoming participation in the event, as they rally behind him, cheering for success and a memorable experience.

As Preston sets his sights on the 18th green at Augusta, he embodies the embodiment of youthful ambition and sportsmanship that has made the Youngstown community proud. We wish Preston Tolnar the best of luck as he prepares to tee off at Augusta National in this exciting chapter of his golfing journey.

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NOTHING BY A G THING

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Sophomore sensation Gianna Gilbert of the Mineral Ridge Lady Ram basketball team recently sat down with YSN for an exclusive interview at the Post Office Pub. The talented young athlete opened up about her proudest moments, dedication to the sport, and her pre-game routines that have contributed to her success on the court.

When asked about her proudest achievement, Gilbert emphasized the dedication and hard work that she and her teammates put into the game. Reflecting on their victories in the MVAC and the strong team connection, she acknowledged the challenges they overcame, including injuries, and the unwavering commitment from the entire team.

Gilbert also provided insight into the rigorous behind-the-scenes work required for success, emphasizing the long hours of practice, drills, film sessions, and summer leagues that lay the foundation for their on-court performances.

One surprising reveal during the interview was Gilbert’s pre-game rituals and superstitions. From selecting a specific song for each season to wearing the same spandex for different games, tying her shoes a certain way, and even holding on to specific pregame routines, Gilbert highlighted the importance of maintaining a consistent mindset and preparation for each game.

Amidst these revelations, it was evident that basketball holds a special place in Gilbert’s heart, with the sport providing her with a constant source of joy, motivation, and a means to connect with others.

As a rising star in Mineral Ridge’s basketball scene, Gianna Gilbert’s future looks bright, and her dedication to the sport is sure to inspire many aspiring athletes.

The YSN interview shed light on both the hard work and passion that drive Gianna Gilbert’s success, offering an inspiring glimpse into the life and mindset of this young basketball phenom.

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DON’T DOUBT DOTA

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- 8th grade standout Delaney Dota recently sat down with DJ Yokley for an exclusive interview at the Post Office Pub in Mineral Ridge. Delaney, a multi-sport athlete, shared her thoughts on her impressive basketball season, future aspirations, and the support she receives from her family.

Delaney expressed her excitement and nervousness about transitioning to high school, emphasizing the need for hard work and team growth to match the level of high school competition. She also highlighted the importance of running and cross country in preparing her for basketball and her dedication to improving her game, particularly in becoming more aggressive on the court.

During the interview, Delaney revealed her highest-scoring game as 19 points and her desire to expand her shooting range beyond the banned three-point line. She also credited her uncle and family, especially her father, for instilling the discipline and work ethic that have contributed to her success.

As she looks ahead to her future in high school, Delaney’s leadership and commitment to improvement are sure to make her a key player to watch in the coming years.

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CATCHING THE CURB WITH BOB CAMARDO (SEPTEMBER 2023)

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COLUMBIANA, OH- We are joined by the one and only Mr. Bob Camardo, President of the Curvestone Coaches. In this episode, we dive into the origins and importance of the Curvestone Coaches, an organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving the sports history of the area.

As we explore Bob’s journey and the impact of the coaches, we’ll learn about the incredible speakers they have had over the years, from sports legends like Pete Rose and Gail Sayers to the upcoming guest, Gene Sterator, CBS rules analyst for the NFL and NCAA Basketball Tournament.

Tune in to discover how you can become a member, nominate someone for the Hall of Fame, and contribute to this rich legacy of sports in our region.

For more information about speakers and joining the Curbstone Coaches CLICK HERE!

BOARDMAN GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH RICK SYPERT

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BOARDMAN, OH-  In this episode, we dive into the world of Boardman Girls Cross Country with the legendary Coach Rick Sypert.

We talk about the amazing group of girls he has this year, led by talented seniors and driven underclassmen. Coach Sypert shares insights on their training, including their weight program and the exponential changes he’s seen in his athletes.

We also get a sneak peek into their upcoming night race and the unique experience it offers. Join us as we chat with Coach Cypher and get to know the incredible team he leads.

Get ready for an exciting and inspiring conversation on YSN’s Boardman Coach’s Corner!

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YSN TO HOST CHARITY ALL-STAR GAME FOR PARTNER SCHOOLS AT SOUTH RANGE

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CANFIELD, OH-  With over 400 basketball games played on YSN this Winter, it was time to highlight some of the best and give back to those in need at the same time.  Your Sports Network is proud to announce that it will host a set of All-Star Games on March 20th that will showcase its partner school’s players.  The Network has also teamed up with South Range Senior, Jaxon Anderson on his senior project to have the game benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (www.alexslemonade.org) which is a non-profit organization whose mission is to change the lives of children with cancer through funding impactful research, raising awareness, supporting families, and empowering everyone to help cure childhood cancer.

South Range Senior, Jaxon Anderson

“We always set our sights on making the biggest impact possible,” says YSN CEO and Founder, DJ Yokley.  “These schools, student-athletes, and coaches are the heartbeat of YSN.  To team up with Jaxon to benefit children (and families) who are battling life’s toughest punch is something I feel people will rally behind” Yokley added.

All proceeds for ticket sales and souvenir sales will be donated to ALSF.  Invitations for players and coaches are being finalized, but the action will showcase some of the best talents the state has to offer.

Jaxon Anderson, and YSN’s DJ Yokley

 

For more information, or to get involved email [email protected]