Tag Archive for: excitement

BOARDMAN BOYS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH STEVE FLORES

/in /by

BOARDMAN, OH- In a bustling high school gym shimmering with anticipation, DJ Yokley sat down for a compelling conversation with Steve Flores, the newly appointed head coach of the Boardman Spartans boys’ basketball team. The setting was perfect, encapsulated within the festivities of “Spartans Giving,” an event that brought the community and school together in a remarkable spectacle of camaraderie.

Flores, in his first year at the helm, emphasized the intrinsic value of events like Spartans Giving. “Anything you can do to promote team building and connection with the community,” Flores shared, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event that went beyond just basketball to include all winter sports.

Though not a Boardman native, Flores has made the town his home. Originally from East Liverpool, his deep-rooted ties to Boardman, including his family’s engagement with the school and community, have made him a perfect fit for the role. “I’ve made my home here. My kids go to school here. My wife teaches here. So, to be coaching at a great school like this, it’s just a big honor,” he explained.

When asked about his nerves entering such a prominent position, Flores dismissed the notion, replacing it with sheer excitement. With less than a week away from their first game, the team is eager to showcase their hard work against Uniontown.

Known for its passionate basketball fan base, Boardman’s basketball heritage is something Flores holds in high regard. “High school sports is just so special,” he noted, reminiscing about the palpable excitement that Friday night games bring—echoing sounds of the band and the thrill of competition.

For the upcoming season, Flores plans to bring a fresh, vibrant energy to the team. He expressed high hopes for his roster teeming with both returning talents and promising young players. Stars like Terrell McDowell, Grayson Eichert, and newcomers like Jace Varley are ready to dazzle the court.

In his journey, Flores attributes significant support to Pat, a previous coach, and his wife, Jen, who have both helped ease some of the burdens associated with his demanding role. “I couldn’t ask for a better situation to step into,” he said appreciatively.

As the season’s dawn approaches, Flores encourages all Spartan alumni and fans to rally behind the team. “We may not be the biggest or quickest every night, but we will be the hardest working, most physical team,” he declared with conviction.

With Thanksgiving around the corner, Flores concluded by reflecting on his gratitude for the opportunity to coach such a dedicated group of boys, emphasizing his commitment to their growth both on and off the court.

As the Boardman Spartans gear up for their season, one thing is certain—the community’s heart beats vigorously in anticipation of a thrilling journey under Coach Steve Flores’ guidance.

PRESENTED BY

EAST PALESTINE BOYS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH TRISTAN REYNOLDS

/in /by

COLUMBIANA, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast’s “Coach’s Corner”, Tristan Reynolds, the head coach of the East Palestine Bulldogs boys basketball team, sat down to discuss the team’s progress and his personal Thanksgiving favorites. As the Bulldogs embark on their second year under Reynolds’ leadership, there is a renewed sense of excitement surrounding the program.

Reynolds expressed his enthusiasm for the growing numbers of players in the basketball program. He attributed this success to the strong support from the community and the school. The coach spoke fondly about East Palestine’s basketball history, highlighting the team’s championship-winning years under the legendary Bingham.

When asked about his team’s prospects for the upcoming seasons, Reynolds emphasized the importance of a strong work ethic and a buy-in from his players. He praised the toughness of the athletes who also played football, believing it would translate into their basketball performances. The coach expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete and put on a show for their supporters.

Reynolds spoke highly of the players who will play key roles for the Bulldogs. Owen Yuriyuchi, the team’s captain, was commended for his versatility and leadership qualities. Shane Richardson, a senior returning after battling injuries last year, was identified as a player to watch. The coach also mentioned Kyler Bourne, the big man on the team, who has been working hard to improve his game. Additionally, Reynolds highlighted the potential of freshman RJ Mae, who brings a unique spark to the team.

The coach acknowledged the anticipation surrounding the younger classes but emphasized the importance of seizing the present moment. He encouraged his players to go after their goals with determination and effort, as no team will give them victories easily. Reynolds stressed the need to perform well against tough conference opponents, considering the Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference as a formidable basketball league.

Looking beyond the conference games, the coach discussed the significance of non-conference matchups as important preparation for the end-of-season tournaments. East Palestine’s schedule includes games against Urban Scholars, Kingsway Christian, East Liverpool Christian, Springfield, and Lordstown.

In a departure from the basketball talk, Reynolds agreed to participate in a fantasy Thanksgiving draft with the podcast host. With his first pick, Reynolds surprised listeners by selecting his mother’s famous pepperoni rolls. He went on to choose buttered rolls, turkey, stuffing, and cranberry ginger ale to complete his Thanksgiving favorites.

As the interview wrapped up, Reynolds reflected on his growth as a head coach and the responsibilities that come with the position. He acknowledged that coaching at the varsity level involves more than just on-court strategy, as it requires representing the school and community.

In closing, Coach Reynolds expressed his gratitude for the support and wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving. With a promising basketball season ahead and a favorite Thanksgiving feast in mind, the Bulldogs and their dedicated coach are poised for success on and off the court.

 

PRESENTED BY