BELOIT OH- In the wake of a thrilling victory last season, the West Branch Warriors baseball team is gearing up to defend their state championship title. With high expectations from their community and the high school sports world at large, the focus is on maintaining their unique team chemistry and dedication to playing the game the right way. Spearheading this endeavor is Boston Mulinix, the multifaceted athlete renowned for his leadership both on and off the field.
In a recent interview with YSN, Boston Mulinix discussed the journey ahead for the Warriors. He emphasized the importance of tuning out external pressures and keeping the team’s standards as the driving force for the upcoming season. “We’re all in this together,” Mulinix stated. “It’s all about the team and maintaining that ‘we over me’ mentality.”
Boston Mulinix, who has been recognized for his incredible tenure in both baseball and football, is now focusing his athletic career on football, having chosen to continue at Baldwin Wallace University. Despite the challenges he’s faced, like the torn labrum in his shoulder and playing an entire football season with a serious groin injury, his resilience and mental toughness shine through. “My love for the game and my teammates is what keeps me going,” Mulinix shared. “I’m always driven by the West Branch community’s blue-collar values, and that’s something I carry with me.” As the Warriors prepare for the season ahead, they’re fueled by the confidence that comes from their triumphs, yet remain humble and focused on starting from scratch with every new challenge. With Boston Mulinix at the helm, you can’t help but root for this determined team, hoping for another stellar season on the baseball diamond.
CORTLAND OH— As the baseball season approaches, high expectations are the driving force behind Lakeview’s team, guided by head coach Cam Carson. In a conversation with Anthony Hartwig for YSN’s “Coach’s Corner,” Carson shared his insights on the team’s aspirations and the current state of the program.
The Bulldogs are entering the season with ambitious goals, aiming first to reclaim the NE8 conference title and then to make a strong run at districts. Despite having a small senior class, Carson is confident in the leadership and experience of his seniors, both seasoned players who set a positive tone for their teammates. “Both of them are light-hearted, fun guys who play the game with good energy,” said Carson, highlighting the importance of maintaining a relaxed yet focused atmosphere within the team. The team also boasts a robust junior class, with several three-year starters setting the stage for a promising season. Sophomores are also expected to contribute significantly.
Carson emphasized the need for attention to detail, good energy, and performing the fundamentals to excel in a challenging NE8 conference, which includes formidable opponents like South Range and Hubbard. “We’re gonna have to do the little stuff right,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of routine plays and effective pitching. In addition to conference play, Lakeview’s non-conference schedule is designed to be demanding, preparing the team for the postseason. With games against tough opponents like Ursuline and defending state champs West Branch, Carson believes in the value of challenging his team during the regular season.
The recent expansion of divisions in high school sports was also discussed, though Carson expressed neutrality on its immediate impact, stating that genuine effects would become apparent in the way the season unfolds. With a strong focus on energy and attention to detail, Lakeview baseball is poised to embody the championship mindset that Carson has instilled over the years. As the season gears up, fans can expect a determined team ready to leave everything on the field, embodying the spirit of Lakeview baseball.
GARRETTSVILLE OH- In a recent interview with YSN, Garfield G-Men baseball team head coach Michael Paes discussed the expectations for the upcoming season. The G-Men, who have been close to winning both league and district championships in past years, are aiming to build on their success.
Coach Paes emphasized the importance of character development, stating that the primary focus is on becoming “better people,” both on and off the field. Despite the departure of some key players, he remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. Paes highlighted the necessity for new players to step up and deliver consistent performances in pitching, batting, and fielding roles. The team faces a demanding schedule in the competitive MVAC gray tier, complemented by a challenging non-conference lineup against strong local teams. Leadership is crucial within the team, as Paes believes it fosters a family-like atmosphere where shared goals drive everyone.
As the G-Men strive to take the next step towards securing a championship title, Coach Paes expressed gratitude for his dedicated coaching staff and the Garfield administration for their continued support. Stay tuned for more updates on the Garfield G-Men as they pursue their goals this season.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_5968.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-03-26 22:24:062025-03-26 22:24:06GARFIELD BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH MICHAEL PAES 3-19-25
WARREN OH- Anthony Hartwig, in an exclusive interview with coach James Ciambotti, recently offered a detailed preview of the upcoming season for Warren JFK’s baseball team. Known for its elite status, the team has been a formidable presence in the region over the past few years.
Reflecting on last season, Ciambotti acknowledged the disappointment of their exit in Louisville but emphasized the experience gained throughout the playoffs. “The kids were on the ball club last year… you’re putting these guys through playoff experience, which can only help down the road,” he shared. This taste of competition has left the team hungry for the coming season. The Eagles face the challenge of replacing standout players like Caleb Hadley. Freshman Landon Snyder and Michael Bartow are set to split time behind the plate, while several versatile players, including Freddie Bulchuk and Andrew La Paula, add depth to the pitching roster, which remains the team’s strength.
A demanding schedule awaits JFK as they prepare to battle robust teams like Lake Christian. While acknowledging the tough matchups, Ciambotti believes they build resilience, stating, “We’re going out there, we expect to win… it’s just to toughen it up for the tournament.” Ciambotti credits his accomplished staff, particularly pitching coach Carmen de Cristofaro, for their unwavering support and dedication. As the Eagles strive to compete for titles at all levels, the strong culture and passion for baseball within the team and its leadership reflect their relentless pursuit of success.
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https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_5716.png10801920Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2025-03-18 11:24:422025-03-18 11:24:42WARREN JFK BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH JIM CIAMBOTTI 3-17-25
CANFIELD, OH- On the latest episode of the YSN podcast, host DJ Yokley welcomed South Range senior Heath Crouse, whose reputation on the football field has garnered widespread admiration in the tight-knit community. As a tight end and defensive lineman, Crouse has made significant strides, following in the footsteps of his older brother, JD.
Crouse reminisced about his personal and athletic growth throughout his high school years, highlighting the independence and work ethic he’s developed. “I’ve learned to be more independent, to always work hard, and to focus on doing the little things right,” Crouse shared.
The senior reflected fondly on the support he’s received from both his family and the community. “The Krause name means a lot around here,” he noted, acknowledging how his family’s legacy has inspired him to maintain the high standards set by his brother and parents.
As the season progresses, Crouse hopes to lead his team to new heights, stressing the importance of camaraderie and collective effort. With ambitions extending beyond high school football, Crouse also expressed his intent to pursue a career in heavy equipment operation, inspired by his family’s work ethic.
“Heath chants” from the stands serve as a constant reminder of the community’s unwavering support, something that brings a smile to Crouse’s face every game night.
With his sights set on finishing the season strong, Heath Crouse embodies the spirit of hard work and dedication, qualities that define the Krause family legacy.
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CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of the YSN Player Profile podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley, we had the privilege of diving deep into the life and career of South Range baseball standout, Tyler Wardle. As Tyler embarks on the tail end of his senior year, he reflects on the years of effort, dedication, and growth that have shaped him both on and off the field.
The senior year is a whirlwind for many student-athletes, but for Tyler, it’s been particularly special. “I’ve been so blessed to spend with my teammates, with my senior class, the guys around me,” he shared. “These are the guys I grew up with, the people who’ve been around me for so long. And I am so blessed to share an experience like this with them.”
One of the key themes that Tyler echoed throughout the interview was the impact of falling short of expectations and how it drives him. He explained, “There’s something to be said of falling short of expectations. You know, it puts a sour taste in your mouth. It lights a fire under you. You know, you go from something that… this is our goal, this is what we’re going to do. And then you fall short of that… it’s a punch in the mouth.”
For Tyler, learning from these moments, especially within such a competitive conference, has been crucial. “Baseball is all about learning from what you’ve done wrong and what you can do better. And I think having a competitive league like we have is such a good experience.” This idea of continual learning was further emphasized when Tyler recalled a personal lesson from his time on the junior varsity team: “I showed up late and … got benched for that day. … It humbled me greatly and I realized that not everything is given. Sometimes I take things for granted and I have to learn not to do that.”
Navigating setbacks and growth wasn’t all that Tyler discussed. His burgeoning faith plays a significant role in his life, especially during challenging times. “During COVID I started reading my Bible. … I realized how much in there applied to me and how much I could apply to my life,” he said. His leadership in faith became even more prominent as he took on a role within the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at South Range, stating, “God has made me the man I am today. It’s an absolute blessing.”
Heading to Grove City next year, the recruitment process was enlightening for Tyler. Contrary to the glamorous perception many have, it required intensive effort and visibility. “You gotta go make yourself known,” Wardle noted. “I never would have gotten recruited by Grove City if I didn’t go to their camp and be around the coaches.”
Tyler’s humility and team-centric attitude have left an indelible mark on his coach and teammates. Reflecting on his relationship with Coach Hanek, Tyler admitted that he initially found it challenging to connect. However, by striving to be a beacon of communication and leadership, he further solidified their bond, ensuring that the team operated harmoniously.
The senior quartet at South Range, which includes Tyler, has developed a unique camaraderie. Despite the individual pressures they face, they always come back stronger as a unit. Tyler said, “I … appreciate everything they’ve done for me, everything they’ve done for our team, and honestly, just for them being around, being good friends.”
Lastly, the influence of Tyler’s family has been monumental in his journey. With heartfelt gratitude, he mentioned his dad’s mentorship: “He’s like a watching presence who knows what you’re doing wrong and knows how to help you with it. He’s been an absolutely amazing father to me.” He also shared a touching sentiment about his mother: “After every game, she gives me a hug and says, ‘Good game, buddy.’ Having that hug and that, you know, little bit, means the world to me.”
In conclusion, Tyler Wardle’s story is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering support from his loved ones. As he moves forward to new challenges and opportunities at Grove City, we at YSN and the South Range community will undoubtedly cherish his contributions and root for his continued success.
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BERLIN CENTER, OH- Senior shooting guard and defensive specialist, Kaleigh Williams, opened up about her journey with the Western Reserve basketball team. The podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley, provided insight into Williams’ dedication to the sport and her aspirations for the future.
Williams discussed her triumphant return to the court following a challenging junior season plagued by a quad injury. Expressing her commitment to the team, she expressed her desire to leave a lasting legacy as the toughest defensive player in Western Reserve history.
Uniquely, Williams’ passion for basketball extends beyond the court, reflecting her dedication to the Western Reserve community and her involvement in softball, track, and cross country. She emphasized the importance of the tight-knit bond shared among her fellow teammates.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Williams’ future aspirations were also explored. She spoke of her dedication to animal science and her involvement in the Biomed program at the career center. With a comprehensive vision for her future, Williams demonstrated a deep connection to her roots, stemming from her upbringing on a farm and her involvement in 4H.
Throughout the interview, Williams credited her strong support system, including her parents and Coach Miller, for instilling values of dedication and hard work, both on and off the court. Her unwavering commitment to her sport, studies, and community solidified her status as an ideal role model for her peers and the younger generation.
Overall, Kaleigh Williams’ profile on YSN offered an inspiring look into the life of a dedicated student-athlete, exemplifying resilience, determination, and a deep-rooted connection to her community. Her impact on the Western Reserve basketball program and aspirations for her future endeavors serve as a testament to her unwavering spirit and dedication.
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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In the premiere episode of the YSN podcast, “Orange Girls Basketball Coach’s Corner,” host DJ Yokley sits down with the renowned La’Shawn Brown, head coach of the Orange High School’s girls basketball team. With an impressive 14-year coaching career and a legendary basketball background herself, Brown offers a captivating glimpse into her life and coaching philosophy.
For Brown, basketball was not initially on her radar. Standing as the tallest girl in her high school and middle school, she originally had ambitions to pursue track. However, she was encouraged to give basketball a try, despite facing the setback of having lost her fingers in an accident at a young age. Overcoming this challenge, Brown showcased her skills and had a breakthrough sophomore year at Heights High School, paving the way for a storied basketball career.
Through her personal adversities, Brown developed resilience and discipline, instilled in her by her grandmother, who taught her to view herself no differently from anyone else. The experience of being treated like any other player and accepting her amputated hand propelled her to excel on and off the court.
As the head coach of the Orange girls basketball team, Brown is grateful for the opportunity to build a strong program and elevate her team’s level of play. She acknowledges the progress made in her inaugural year as head coach and expresses high expectations for the upcoming season. Brown commends her players’ dedication and hard work during the summer and anticipates the positive impact of new team members on the court.
Reflecting on her coaching journey, Brown highlights the importance of instilling discipline and affirmations to push her players beyond their comfort zones. She aims to create an environment where being uncomfortable, tired, or sore is accepted as part of the growth process.
Challenges remain for Brown in controlling expectations, particularly when it comes to understanding her players’ abilities and pushing them to exceed their limits. However, she welcomes the assistance of her experienced coaching staff and relishes the opportunity to mold her team into one that is prepared to fight, hustle, and do whatever it takes to succeed.
As the Orange girls basketball team heads into a new season, Coach Brown wants opponents to know that her team won’t back down. With a resilient and determined mindset, her players are ready to give their all, fight for every win, and leave it all on the court.
To hear more from Brown and gain insight into the world of Orange girls basketball, tune in to the full episode of the “Orange Girls Basketball Coach’s Corner” on the YSN podcast.
Stay tuned for future episodes highlighting the behind-the-scenes stories of coaches and athletes in the Orange High School community.
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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In a recent episode of the “YSN – Orange Boys Basketball Coach’s Corner” podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Marvin Rashad, the new head basketball coach at Orange High School. The conversation was filled with excitement and optimism as Coach Rashad shared his vision for the team and his passion for the game.
Coach Rashad, a former player himself, spoke about how basketball has been a blessing in his life, teaching him valuable lessons of discipline, hard work, and perseverance. He expressed his belief that the game is not just about wins and losses, but also about personal growth and the development of life skills.
Describing his journey to Orange High School as a “Cinderella story,” Coach Rashad recounted a pivotal game three years ago when his previous team, Shaw High School, faced off against Orange in a sectional championship. Against all odds, Shaw emerged victorious, and Coach Rashad’s coaching prowess caught the attention of the administrators at Orange High School.
Since taking over as head coach, Coach Rashad has been focused on changing the culture and instilling a sense of responsibility and accountability in his players. He emphasizes that they represent not only themselves and their families but also the school and the coaching staff. The players are urged to approach the game with a sense of urgency and to give their best, knowing that every action reflects on their coach and the program.
The enthusiasm surrounding Coach Rashad’s appointment is evident in the response from the players. Over 60 students expressed their desire to play for him, a testament to his ability to inspire and motivate. Coach Rashad humbly acknowledged this overwhelming support and expressed his commitment to Orange High School, stating that he has found his home and plans to build a successful program for years to come.
Cleveland is a community that deeply values basketball, and Coach Rashad understands the high expectations that come with leading a team in this city. He acknowledges the competitive nature of the game but encourages his players to play with confidence and freedom, while still maintaining discipline and structure. He aims to create a team that is known for its resilience and fighting spirit, regardless of the outcome on the scoreboard.
As a coach who has played at the next level himself, Coach Rashad recognizes the aspirations of his players to play college basketball. He advises them to embrace the challenges that come with that goal, emphasizing the importance of listening, being coachable, and developing a resilient mindset. He wants his players to understand that nothing comes easy and that they must be ready to fight for their dreams.
Coach Rashad’s journey to becoming a basketball coach was influenced by his junior high coach, Nick Daniel Wright, who not only cared about his players’ performance on the court but also showed genuine concern for their well-being outside of basketball. This experience ignited Coach Rashad’s desire to become a coach who genuinely cares about his players’ personal growth and success.
In summary, Coach Marvin Rashad brings enthusiasm, inspiration, and a strong commitment to the Orange Boys Basketball program. He aims to build a culture of responsibility and accountability while instilling confidence and freedom in his players. With his own experiences and positive mentorship, Coach Rashad is ready to make a lasting impact on the lives of his players and the success of the program.
CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of “YSN’s South Range Football Coach’s Corner,” DJ Yokley sits down with head football coach of the South Range Raiders, David Rach. With the theme of Thanksgiving in the air, the conversation takes an interesting turn as the two engage in a fantasy Thanksgiving draft, selecting their favorite holiday dishes.
Coach Rach surprises with his first pick, going for buttered noodles with gravy as his top choice. Meanwhile, DJ opts for a crowd favorite, fried turkey, as his first overall pick. The draft continues with Rach selecting deviled eggs and pickled eggs, emphasizing his love for unique and traditional holiday dishes. Yokley counters with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, adding a classic touch to his team.
As the draft progresses, Coach Rach shocks Rach with his fifth and final pick, choosing rolls or biscuits over popular options like green bean casserole. The selection leaves DJ amused, questioning Rock’s vegetable intake.
Amidst the lighthearted draft, Coach Rach reflects on his first year coaching the South Range Raiders. He expresses the immense pride he feels for his team’s efforts and the love and belief they have for each other, citing it as the most rewarding aspect of being a head coach.
The conversation takes a brief detour as DJ challenges Coach Rock to explain the controversial rule of a forward fumble, particularly on fourth down. While the coach admits to his lack of knowledge on the specifics, he recalls an encounter with officials explaining that it is not a rule exclusive to high school football.
With the podcast episode coming to a close, Coach Rach gears up for the upcoming game against the Perry Pirates. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the team’s high standards and executing their three-phase approach to secure victory. Additionally, the coach acknowledges the challenges they may face against a tough opponent like Perry but reinforces his belief in the South Range Raiders’ abilities.
Overall, the conversation provides insight into Coach Rach’s mindset and the South Range Raiders’ season journey. With reflective moments, humorous exchanges, and football-related discussions, this episode of “YSN’s South Range Football Coach’s Corner” offers a well-rounded perspective on the team’s dynamics and aspirations.
Be sure to tune in to the next episode for more updates and interviews with South Range football players and coaches. The competition heats up as the Raiders face off against the Perry Pirates in an exciting clash. Stay connected with YSN for all the latest South Range football updates.
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