Tag Archive for: Dragons

SALEM SLAYS THE DRAGONS

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SALEM OH- Salem continued their winning streak on Friday night, securing a hard-fought 64-58 victory over Niles in a challenging non-conference matchup.

Spearheading Salem’s offensive effort, Colin Riesen contributed 16 points, while Lance Bailey and Camden Sampson both delivered standout performances with 18 points each. Evan Jones added 9 points to round out Salem’s scoring distribution.

Niles put up a resilient fight, with Anthony Budak leading their scoring efforts with 17 points, closely followed by Avon Fryer and Stef Dorsey, who each contributed 11 points.

The win marks Salem’s second consecutive triumph, highlighting their resilience and determination on the court. Salem looks ahead to their next challenge on January 5th at Carrollton, while Niles will return home after Christmas to host Edgewood on December 29th, aiming to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming matchup.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/12-22-b-bb-salem-niles/12-22-b-bb-salem-niles/103EOS1D/

DRAGONS NEW ERA TO BEGIN WITH COACH TERRENCE HENTON

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Ashtabula, OH- The Lakeside Dragons have proudly unveiled Terrence Henton as their new head football coach, a homegrown talent with a deep connection to the Ashtabula Area City School District. Graduating in 1993, Henton’s journey from a standout running back to a mentor and coach exemplifies his commitment to the community and the sport he loves.

Henton’s football legacy began with the Ashtabula Panthers, a team that later merged with the Harbor Mariners to create the formidable Lakeside Dragons. His exceptional talents and unwavering work ethic earned him a spot with the renowned Ashland Eagles, a top-tier Division 2 football program. Transitioning to wide receiver in college, Henton maximized his speed and athleticism, showcasing his versatility on the field.

The coaching trajectory in Henton’s career took flight in 2004 when he joined Lakeside as a track coach. His passion for developing young talent became evident in 2007 when he stepped into the realm of youth football coaching, leaving an indelible mark on many of the area’s best high school players.

In 2017, Henton embraced the challenge of coaching high school players as a WR/DB. His coaching acumen flourished further when he assumed the role of Lakeside junior high head football coach for two seasons starting in 2019. A pivotal moment in Henton’s coaching journey unfolded in 2022 when he joined forces with Olajuwon Cooper, Head Football Coach of the Edgewood Warriors, as Offensive Coordinator. Together, they orchestrated one of the most prolific and record-breaking offenses in Ashtabula County history, guiding Tony Hall to become the all-time leader in both single-season and career touchdowns and passing yards.

Beyond the local arena, Henton has dedicated the past four years to coaching at the Nike Elite 11 QB camps, honing the skills of some of the nation’s most promising players and programs.

Henton’s decision to stay close to home and contribute to the community that shaped him is rooted in deep pride. “IM FROM BULA!! they wrote a song about it!!! I rep Ashtabula everywhere I go. I’m not from Cleveland or Youngstown!!! IM FROM BULA!!” he declares passionately, reflecting on the cherished memories of his upbringing, from the scent of popcorn and pizza to purchasing game tickets at Betty’s beauty shop.

Coaching, for Henton, is not just a job; it’s a calling. His ability to form lasting relationships with his players is a testament to his genuine desire to positively impact the lives of youth through sport. When asked about his coaching philosophy, Henton fervently states, “I coach because of the coaches I had!! My youth coach Gary Butte took me in like a son… Roby Potts is the Nick Saban/Kirby Smart in my life.”

Acknowledging the accomplishments of his predecessor, Coach Buzz Edwards, Henton expresses deep respect for the transformative work done in turning the Lakeside Dragons’ program around. “Buzz doesn’t get enough credit for what he has done,” affirms Henton. “He will always be one of the smartest football guys in my phone!! I told him I will keep picking his brain until he says get away.”

In addition to his gratitude towards Edwards, Henton commends Edgewood’s head football coach Olajuwon Cooper and Athletic Director Steve Kray. The opportunity and trust bestowed upon him to lead the youth at Edgewood High School are sources of everlasting gratitude for Henton.

Terrence Henton is a man deeply invested in the area, the students, and the future success of the Lakeside Dragons football program. His commitment, passion, and genuine care for the community set the stage for an exciting new chapter in the Dragons’ football journey.

WARRIORS SURVIVE LATE GAME DRAGON PUSH

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

East Ashtabula, OH- In another matchup that kept fans on the edge of their seats to the very end, the Edgewood Warriors emerged victorious against the Lakeside Dragons with a final score of 62-61. The game showcased intense competition, with both teams delivering stellar performances and the outcome hinging on a dramatic last-minute sequence.

Player Point Totals:

Edgewood Warriors:

  • Peyton Williams: 3 points
  • Brady Andrejack: 12 points
  • Jacob Ernst: 17 points
  • Russell Thomas: 5 points
  • Logan Kray: 21 points
  • Mason Thorr: 4 points

Lakeside Dragons:

  • Alex DiSalvatore: 26 points
  • Dyln Newsome: 11 points
  • Aiden Hathy: 13 points
  • Chase Newsome: 8 points
  • Jarez Osborne: 3 points

The Dragons fought fiercely and managed to take a narrow lead, 61-60, after Dyln Newsome’s clutch layup with just 5 seconds remaining. However, the Warriors quickly responded, and in a heart-stopping moment, Logan Kray received the inbound pass and drove the length of the court. With only 0.3 seconds left on the clock, Kray was fouled and calmly sank both free throws, securing a thrilling 62-61 victory for the Edgewood Warriors. They say pressure both bursts pipes and creates diamonds and Kray showed that he could shine brightly.

With this win, the Warriors improve to a 4-1 record and will face the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (5-2) in their upcoming home game on 12/22/23. The Lakeside Dragons (2-3) will hit the road to take on the Chardon Hilltoppers (1-1) on 12/23/22. The Hilltoppers, coming off a home game against the Geneva Eagles, will be looking to make an impact in their matchup against the Dragons.

POLAND DOESN’T WAIVER IN THE CONFERENCE

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NILES OH- Poland continued their perfect record in the NE8 on Monday, securing a decisive 46-28 victory on the road against Niles.

Mary Brant led the scoring for Poland with an impressive 16 points, supported by Leanna Boccieri and Elliana Thompson, each contributing 9 points. Leanne Williams added 8 points to the scoreboard.

On the Niles side, Caroline Cormell and Kherington Stanford each scored 6 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Poland’s dominance.

With this win, Poland advances to a 5-3 record and will return home to host Lakeview on Thursday. Niles, now at 2-5, will hit the road to face Mathews on Thursday. Poland’s continued success in the NE8 sets the stage for an intriguing season as they navigate upcoming challenges.

DRAGONS SCORCH BLUE STREAKS

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

Ashtabula, OH- In a back and forth exciting game with long 3’s and big blocks, the Lakeside Dragons emerged victorious against the Madison Blue Streaks with a final score of 59-50. The Dragons showcased their resilience and skill in a matchup that saw both teams fighting tooth and nail for every point.

Key Players Shine for Lakeside: The Dragons’ success in this game can be attributed to the standout performances of key players. Dyln Newsome, with his sharpshooting prowess, stole the spotlight by sinking two crucial three-pointers in the fourth quarter, finishing the game with an impressive 21 points. Aiden Hathy made his presence felt on both ends of the court, contributing 13 points and delivering six emphatic blocked shots that ignited the crowd.

The Dragons’ balanced scoring attack included notable contributions from Alex DiSalvatore, Connor Mead, Jay Lopez, and Chase Newsome. Together, they formed a cohesive unit that proved too much for the Blue Streaks to handle.

Upcoming Clash with Edgewood Warriors: With this hard-fought victory, the Lakeside Dragons improve their season record to 2-2. The team’s next challenge lies in a road matchup against the Edgewood Warriors on December 20, 2023. The Dragons will be looking to carry the momentum from this win and gain an edge over their crosstown rivals, the undefeated Warriors.

Seth Negin’s Sharpshooting Not Enough for Madison: Despite a valiant effort from the Madison Blue Streaks, led by the sharpshooting Seth Negin, who nailed four three-pointers en route to a 17-point performance, they couldn’t overcome the Dragons’ offensive onslaught. Mac Steel and Dom Magda also made solid contributions with 14 and 10 points, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.

Next Challenge for Madison: The Madison Blue Streaks, with a season record of 3-2, will be regrouping for their upcoming home game against the Perry Pirates. The Pirates, coming off a dominating 75-39 win over the Conneaut Spartans, will be aiming to build on their success. Madison looks to bounce back and continue their pursuit of victory in what promises to be another thrilling matchup.

As the Lakeside Dragons savor their hard-earned win, and the Madison Blue Streaks regroup for their next challenge, basketball enthusiasts eagerly await the clash between Lakeside and Edgewood, anticipating another intense battle between these fierce rivals.

FALCONS SOAR PAST DRAGONS FOR FIRST CVC WIN

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Ashtabula, OH- In a high-scoring showdown, the Jefferson Falcons soared to a commanding 68-40 triumph over the Lakeside Dragons. The Falcons showcased their offensive prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, en route to their first conference victory of the season.

Quarter by Quarter Recap:

  • First Quarter: The game kicked off with both teams battling fiercely, but the Falcons managed to edge ahead with a 15-13 lead.
  • Second Quarter: Jefferson continued to build momentum, outscoring Lakeside 19-13 in the second quarter. The offensive effort was led by sharpshooter Anthony Covetta, who contributed significantly to the Falcons’ growing point total.
  • Third Quarter: The Falcons dominated the third quarter, posting an impressive 21 points while holding Lakeside scoreless. The Lakeside Dragons faced a challenging defensive effort from the Falcons.
  • Fourth Quarter: Although Lakeside fought back in the final quarter, the Falcons maintained their offensive prowess, securing a 68-40 victory by the end of the game.

Top Performers:

  • Jefferson Falcons:
    • Joey DeGeorge was the standout performer for the Falcons, contributing a staggering 30 points to the team’s total.
    • Anthony Covetta showcased his sharpshooting skills, knocking down four crucial three-pointers and finishing the game with 16 points.
    • Robbie Pisano also played a key role, adding 9 points to the scoreboard while creating extra possesions with multiple steals.
  • Lakeside Dragons:
    • Connor Mead led the Lakeside team with 13 points, showcasing his scoring ability.
    • Jay Lopez and Dylan Newsome also made valuable contributions, with 8 and 7 points, respectively.

Beyond the Arc: The Falcons’ success beyond the arc was a defining factor in the game, as they sunk a total of seven three-pointers. Anthony Covetta, in particular, proved deadly from long range with four successful three-point shots.

Upcoming Matches:

The Jefferson Falcons, now boasting a 1-3 record, will look to build on their success as they face the Conneaut Spartans on December 22, 2023. The Lakeside Dragons, with a 1-2 record, will aim to rebound at home against the Madison Blue Streaks, who are coming off a victory over the Geneva Eagles. The upcoming matchups promise to be intense battles as both teams seek to make their mark in the conference standings.

WARRIORS STAY UNBEATEN AFTER HOME WIN OVER RIVAL DRAGONS

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Photo Credit: Edgewood Athletics

East Ashtabula- In a commanding performance, the Edgewood Warriors girls’ basketball team maintained their perfect record by overpowering the Lakeside Dragons in a decisive 75-37 victory. The Warriors showcased a balanced offense and stifling defense throughout the game, leaving their opponents struggling to keep pace.

Key Players Shine for Edgewood

Several Warriors contributed significantly to the team’s impressive point total. Leading the charge was Katie McCollister with a standout performance, accumulating 16 points. Mckenna Vencill also played a pivotal role, adding 15 points to the scoreboard. The scoring was well-distributed among the team, emphasizing the depth of talent within the Edgewood roster.

Lakeside’s Efforts Fall Short

Despite a valiant effort from Lakeside, Marlaya McCoy’s notable contribution of 21 points couldn’t bridge the gap against Edgewood’s relentless attack. The Dragons faced a formidable opponent in the Warriors, who demonstrated not only individual skill but also a cohesive team strategy that proved too much for Lakeside to handle.

Looking Ahead

With this victory, the Edgewood Warriors maintain their undefeated status with a 5-0 record. The team now sets its sights on a road matchup against the Perry Pirates (4-1) on December 15, 2023. The Pirates are eager to rebound from a close loss to the Madison Blue Streaks and will undoubtedly present a challenge for the Warriors.

On the other side, the Lakeside Dragons (0-5) will hit the road to face the Harvey Red Raiders (1-4) on the same date. The Red Raiders, coming off a tough loss to the Geneva Eagles, will be looking to secure a win on their home court. The Dragons aim to bounce back and turn their season around with a strong showing against the Red Raiders. Both matchups promise exciting basketball action as teams vie for crucial victories in the ongoing season.

DRAGONS FLY HIGH IN HARTZ FIRST WIN

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

Orwell, OH- In a thrilling CVC matchup that showcased the Lakeside Dragons’ prowess on the court, the team secured a convincing 48-32 victory against the Grand Valley Mustangs. This win not only marked an important triumph for the Dragons but also represented the inaugural victory for first-year head coach Josh Hartz.

The Dragons took control of the game early on, establishing an 8-7 lead in the first quarter. As the match progressed, Lakeside continued to build momentum, outscoring Grand Valley in each subsequent quarter.

Key Performances:

  • Lakeside Dragons:
    • Alex DiSalvatore led the scoring charge for the Dragons, contributing an impressive 15 points.
    • Aiden Hathy showcased his offensive skills, adding 10 points to the team’s total.
    • Jay Lopez and Dylan Newsome combined for 15 points, emphasizing the Dragons’ balanced attack.
  • Grand Valley Mustangs:
    • Jerry Schultz and Braden Hart led the scoring effort for the Mustangs, each contributing 8 points.
    • Bobby Rogers and Sammy Goforth added 11 points combined, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Dragons’ dominance.

Coach Hartz’s Debut Victory:

For Coach Josh Hartz, this game marked a significant milestone in his coaching career. Taking charge in his first year as head coach, Hartz guided the Lakeside Dragons to a well-deserved win, showcasing strategic prowess and effective leadership on the sidelines.

Looking Ahead:

The Lakeside Dragons, now boasting a 1-1 record, will return to their home court on 12/13/23 to face the Jefferson Falcons (0-3). The Falcons are seeking redemption following a challenging 100-83 loss to the Chartiers Valley Colts in the Marshden Roundball Classic.

On the other hand, the Grand Valley Mustangs (0-2) will strive for a comeback in their upcoming game against the Wickliffe Blue Devils (0-2) scheduled for 12/12/23. Both teams will aim to rebound from early-season setbacks and turn the tide in their favor.

As the Lakeside Dragons celebrate their victory, the fans eagerly anticipate a promising season under Coach Hartz’s guidance, hoping for more impressive performances and exciting moments on the basketball court.

NILES PUTS TOGETHER AN IMPRESSIVE SHOWING

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By Matt Maher 


BROOKFIELD, OH – The Red Dragons found win number two Friday night after playing a tightly contested game on the road against Brookfield. Three players found themselves in double digits for Niles including Avon Fryer and Yausene Blackmon who both scored 11 and Stef Dorsey who put up an impressive 17. 

 

Niles came out of the first with a 16-13 lead that saw Dorsey put up two 3-pointes and both Blackmon and Fryer both found four points. On the other side, Brookfield Saw an impressive individual effort from Matteo Fortuna that saw not only defense but five points from a 2-point bucket and three of four tosses from the charity stripe found netting. 

 

The second quarter was uneventful in an eventful way. The score sheet reads Brookfield outscoring Niles 7-3 but Niles had possession for majority of the quarter because Fryer and Dorsey both decided that the Brookfield defense was too strong in the early stages of the quarter and decided to let Dorsey hold on to the ball in the offensive zone for well over three minutes. This extended wait was met with laughter from Niles who couldn’t believe Brookfield wasn’t pressuring them as well as annoyance from the Brookfield coach and players who were just waiting for something to happen. The Warriors finally decided to engage and forced Dorsey to pass the ball and the game finally picked back up with just over three minutes to play. 

 

While the second quarter brought a lot of standing around and waiting the third quarter was a return to form as Niles really found their stride putting up 14 points including Dorsey going two for two from the stripe and hitting a three and Fryer getting a nifty three as well. Matteo Fortuna added to his team leading 11 point night by going two for two from the stripe.

 

The fourth was Niles chance to bring it home and boy did they deliver. McKinley would put up 19 points including four of eight made free throws from Dorsey and a very well earned 3-pointer from True Carey-Hardin. Fortuna found two more points and Brandon Hardman started the feel the wheels turning as he found five points including a shooting foul where he put the bucket away and made the extra shot completing the and-1.

 

Brookfield battled hard all game and showed some of the toughest defense this reporter has seen so far this season! Niles showed great resilience against the great coverage from Brookfield and earned a very hard fought 52-41 victory over the Warriors. Niles hits the paint next when they host Lakeview in their first conference game on Tuesday December 12th at 7:00PM. Brookfield will look for their first win when they travel to Sharpsville on Saturday December 9th, that game tips off at 1:30PM.



LAKERS TAKE THE SHOW ON THE ROAD

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

Ashtabula, OH- In the Dragons home opener for 2023-2024 season, the Lakeside Dragons clashed with the Pymatuning Valley Lakers in a game that delivered excitement until the final buzzer. The Lakers emerged victorious with a final score of 72-68, but the contest was a true showcase of skill, determination, and the heart of both teams.

A Hard-Fought Battle: Quarter by Quarter Breakdown

The Lakers and Dragons engaged in an intense battle from the opening tip-off, with Lakeside claiming a 27-22 lead at the end of the first quarter. However, Pymatuning Valley fought back in the second, outscoring the Dragons 19-13 and entering halftime with a slim 41-40 lead. The third quarter was no different, as both teams exchanged blows, setting the stage for a dramatic final period. In the end, Pymatuning Valley’s resilience secured the hard-fought 72-68 victory.

Star Performances: Bryan’s Flawless Night and Neczporenko’s Defensive Prowess

Seth Bryan of the Lakers emerged as the game-changer, going a perfect 10 for 10 from the free-throw line and sinking three crucial three-pointers. Bryan’s 27-point performance showcased his scoring prowess and clutch play, earning him a well-deserved spotlight. Not far behind was Zane Neczporenko, who not only contributed 16 points but also made his presence felt on the defensive end with numerous steals.

On the Lakeside side, Aiden Hathy was a standout performer, leading the Dragons with an impressive 23 points. Hathy’s contributions extended beyond scoring, as he showcased his defensive skills with blocked shots and grabbed rebounds throughout the game. Dylan Newsome added firepower to the Dragons’ offense, sinking four three-pointers and keeping the Lakers on their toes.

Looking Ahead: Lakers look to build on a win and Dragons work to get started

As the Lakers bask in the glow of their hard-fought victory, they are gearing up for another challenge at home against the Fairport Harding Skippers on 12/08/23. The Skippers, eager to bounce back from a 75-61 loss to the Badger Braves, will face a Lakers team hungry for redemption and looking to build on the positives from their clash with Pymatuning Valley.

For the Lakeside Dragons (0-1), the road to redemption takes them to the Grand Valley Mustangs on 12/09/23. The Mustangs, coming off a narrow 47-44 loss to the Edgewood Warriors, will provide another stern test for the Dragons as they seek their first win of the season.

As the Lakers and Dragons regroup, fans can anticipate more thrilling matchups and captivating basketball action in the games to come. The season is young, and with each game, the story of redemption and triumph continues to unfold for these determined teams.