Tag Archive for: Falcons

SEVERN SHARPENS HER SKILLS

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- Be on the lookout Austintown-Fitch Falcons softball fans, there is a new everyday second basemen in town and her name is Sam Severn!

Working as a designated player much of last year, Severn found herself at a bridge point in the lineup, where her bat made her an everyday ball player for the state championship Falcons. Fast forward to this year and even more responsibility rests on her shoulders, taking the reins of a defensive spot on the field over at second base following the graduation of Caitlin Mitchell a year ago.

Severn may seem shy at first, but that is exactly what she wants you to think, for a competitive fire burns inside the junior at temperatures like no other! While everyone else is getting hype pregame, you can find Severn locking in a different way, often keeping to herself, getting focused and lighting that fire.

Batting at the seven spot in a stacked Austintown lineup, Severn has started off the season with a hot swing, batting an impressive .474 at the time of this article, Severn has found herself an everyday home on both sides of the ball. Always working and striving to be the best she can be. As Severn continues her progression, I would advise not to get too close, you might get burned!

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EAGLES FLY PAST FALCONS ON THE BASEBALL FIELD

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Photo Credit: Tanya Jean Photography

Jefferson, OH- The Jefferson Falcons faced a tough challenge against the Geneva Eagles, falling short in a 17-2 defeat on Monday.

The Eagles wasted no time getting ahead, capitalizing on opportunities in the first inning to take an early lead. Curtis Maier’s double, combined with errors from the Falcons, allowed them to jump ahead with a quick run.

Geneva continued to build on their advantage in the second inning, with Maier’s single and a smart tag up adding to their tally.

Despite the Falcons’ efforts to rally, the Eagles maintained control, adding two more runs in the third inning, courtesy of Sebastian Hall’s walk.

The Eagles’ offense truly soared in the sixth inning, exploding for eight runs on four hits. Shea Arkenburg and Wyatt Habina delivered key hits, while an error and another double from Maier extended the Eagles’ lead significantly.

Hewitt Wilt shone on the mound for the Eagles, pitching with precision and striking out nine batters over four and two-thirds innings to secure the win.

On the Falcons’ side, Luke Lambert battled through two innings on the mound, but ultimately couldn’t contain the Eagles’ potent offense.

Offensively, Tate Hudson, Toby Dickson, Giovanni Matticola, and Logan Saksa each contributed with hits for the Falcons, with Hudson and Dickson also driving in runs.

For the Eagles, Maier stood out with an impressive performance, leading the team with four runs batted in while collecting three hits. Habina and Andrew Oros also made significant offensive contributions, each with multiple hits.

Geneva displayed patience at the plate, drawing eight walks throughout the game, with Ryland Besco, Kean Arkenburg, and Wilt leading the charge. Besco also showcased his speed on the basepaths, stealing two bases.

As the Falcons regroup for their next matchup against Geneva, they’ll aim to learn from this experience and come back stronger on Tuesday.

FALCONS GROUNDED BY BLUE STREAKS

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Photo Credit: Tanya Jean Photography

Jefferson, OH- In a big time CVC matchup, the Jefferson Falcons faced a tough challenge against the Madison Blue Streaks, ultimately falling 9-4 in Monday’s matchup.

The Blue Streaks wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Tori Semple igniting their offense in the first inning with a crucial RBI single. They further extended their lead in the third inning, courtesy of RBI singles by Semple and Ella Masony, putting the Falcons on the back foot early in the game.

Madison continued their offensive onslaught in the fourth inning, tallying five runs on four hits, highlighted by a dynamic performance from Natalie Best and Semple, who delivered clutch hits to drive in runs.

Despite a valiant effort from Olivia Lewis on the mound for the Falcons, who battled through four innings, the Blue Streaks’ offense proved too potent to contain, amassing 10 hits and eight runs during Lewis’s tenure.

On the opposing mound, Kara Mekulsia showcased her dominance for the Blue Streaks, delivering a stellar performance over seven innings, striking out an impressive 11 batters while allowing just four runs.

Offensively, Allison Hill led the charge for the Falcons, driving in two runs and providing a consistent presence in the lineup. Mia Contenza also made her mark, leading the team with a solid 2-for-3 performance at the plate.

For the Blue Streaks, Semple emerged as a standout performer, delivering a remarkable five runs batted in while going a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate. Best and Ally Negin also contributed significantly, each collecting multiple hits, with Negin showcasing patience at the plate by drawing two walks.

Madison’s disciplined approach was evident throughout the game, as they accumulated eight walks while displaying flawless defense, committing zero errors on the field. Negin’s defensive prowess was particularly noteworthy, tallying the most chances without a single miscue.

The Falcons will return to the diamond for the next game against the Edgewood Warriors on Tuesday.

WATTS HAS A MILESTONE DAY AGAINST THE DEVILS

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN, Ohio — The Fitch Lady Falcons’ varsity softball team extended their impressive record to 6-1 with a commanding 10-0 victory over the Brunswick Blue Devils of the Greater Cleveland Conference (7-2) in a five-inning mercy rule game at home on Saturday.

The game marked several notable milestones, most prominently pitcher Sydnie Watts securing her 50th career win. Watts, who recorded 12 strikeouts in the game, reached a career total of 701 strikeouts in 322.1 innings pitched for Fitch. In the current season, Watts boasts a 0.41 ERA over 34 innings, allowing just 10 hits and 4 walks, with 2 earned runs.

The Falcons wasted no time in establishing their dominance, scoring three runs in the first inning off Brunswick starter Aaliyah Radwan. Watts contributed with a sacrifice fly to right field, driving in her 9th RBI of the season and plating Abby Toth, who had tripled following Ayla Ray’s two-run homer.

The Ray sisters spearheaded the offensive onslaught, with Kaliana going 3-for-4 on the day, including a double down the left-field line, and Ayla launching her fifth homer of the season, setting a Fitch record for consecutive games with a home run at four!

The Falcons continued their offensive barrage, amassing 14 hits off two Blue Devil pitchers. Kaliana Ray contributed with a single and scored on Toth’s bases-clearing double during a four-run second inning. Kylie Folkwein also made her presence felt with a 2-for-3 performance, including an RBI double and a solo home run to right-center field, her second of the year. Morgan Roby and Sam Severn also had strong performances at the plate, each going 2-for-3.

With the win, Fitch sets its sights on a matchup against the Riverside Beavers (7-4) in Painesville on Tuesday, April 16th, with a 5 p.m. first pitch.
Stay updated with Austintown-Fitch softball all season long with live games, scores, stats, stories, and more on YSN!

FALCONS KEEP THE EAGLES OUT OF THEIR NEST

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- The Austintown-Fitch Falcons varsity baseball team defended their home field by defeating The Hubbard Eagles by a final score of 8-3. Fitch set the tone in the bottom of the first when Frankie Senediak and Carter Owens both reached to start the contest before Mason Petridis doubled, bringing home two runs, capping off a three run bottom of the first.

Hubbard responded when Andrew Kali walked and Gabe Rusnak doubled him home to put The Eagles on the board. Rusnak would score on a passed ball to trim Hubbard’s deficit to a single run. Senediak and Owens would go back-to-back on hits in the bottom of the second to get a run back for Fitch.

Hubbard had a counter response in the top of the third when Braydon Songer reached aboard and later scored courtesy of Johnny Reyes’ RBI double to trim the deficit back down to a run at 4-3 Austintown. Scoring would halt until The Falcons added a run in the bottom of the fourth and again in the bottom of the fifth to make it 6-3 Fitch. The Falcons finally finished their scoring with two runs in the bottom of the sixth to finish the game as 8-3 winners!

Anthony Wibert started the game, pitched four innings and gave up three runs in the start. While Player of the Game, Carter Owens pitched the final three innings in shutout fashion while also going 3 for 3 at the plate and reaching base four times!

Fitch (7-3) now will look ahead to The Cardinal Mooney Cardinals (2-4) when they host Mooney on Monday, April 15th with a 5 p.m. first pitch start. While Hubbard (4-5) will attempt to get back to .500 when they play a two game home and away set against The South Range Raiders (4-1) also starting on Monday with a 5 p.m. start time at Hubbard.

THE ACE OF BASES

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- There are few people that have the unique ability to command attention when they speak,
even if they do not choose to use their voice often. Even fewer will leave lasting impacts at their high schools and community not just for what they did athletically, but for what they did as leaders, serving as an example for younger generations, thus setting a standard for a revolution that could last ages. The Ace of Bases, Ayla Ray is that type of person.

Raised with a “no excuses” mentality from her parents at a young age, Ayla has looked not to other factors in her shortcomings throughout her athletic experience, but within herself. That mentality has not made her one of the best softball players, not only in the area, but the entire state of Ohio. Serving as a role model for her three younger sisters, but also countless others throughout the Austintown community.

From the quiet and shy freshman to the confident and composed senior, the journey of growth Ray has made as a person goes beyond herself as a player. One that every single one of her high school coaches have nothing but praise for the type of influential leader Ayla Ray is. However, The Ace of Bases has continued her success as a player in her senior campaign! Batting .444 with a team-leading four home runs and 14 RBI this season! How does that jingle go? Ace is the place with the helpful hard-hit drives?

Committed to Youngstown State University (YSU) to play softball, Ray looks to keep her talents close to home and follow in her fathers footsteps as another generation of Penguins. Not just Ayla, but longtime friend and Champion Flashes standout Isabella Meyer is yet another to make the commitment to YSU as perhaps another revolution is on the horizon for Ray!

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HANNA TO LEAD FALCONS ON THE COURT AND THE FIELD

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Ashtabula, OH- The Jefferson Falcons are gearing up for an exciting season ahead next year as they announce Brandon Hanna as their new head high school girls basketball coach. Hanna, already renowned for his leadership as the Falcons’ head football coach, brings a wealth of coaching experience and a proven track record of success to the girls basketball program.

Having steered the Falcons’ football team to its first-ever regional championship, Hanna is no stranger to guiding teams to greatness. His appointment follows the departure of former head coach TJ Furman, who played a pivotal role in the development of the girls basketball program at Jefferson over the years.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Hanna credits Coach Furman for his mentorship and the solid foundation he’s inherited. “I’m blessed and honored to lead both of these programs,” Hanna remarks. “We thrive in these uncommon opportunities.”

With six years of coaching experience in girls AAU and a successful stint as the Jefferson Falcons’ 8th grade girls coach, Hanna is poised to make an immediate impact. His previous coaching endeavors boast an impressive 17-2 record as the girls 8th grade coach, indicative of his ability to nurture talent and drive results.

Hanna’s transition to coaching girls basketball is seamless, given his longstanding involvement with the sport. “I’ve been running the only local girls AAU program in the county for a few years now,” he shares. “I’m believing that will help our program in the near future.”

Excited about the prospects of the upcoming season, Hanna is confident in the talent and dedication of the players under his wing. “Excited would be an understatement,” he exclaims. “We have a solid group of girls returning, as well as a solid group of girls coming out of our Jr. High program.”

Setting ambitious goals for the team, Hanna aims high with aspirations of reaching the state tournament. “The goal is to punch our ticket to Dayton,” he declares. “The larger the vision, the greater the process! We understand there are many things that need to happen before that, but we’re looking forward to thriving in the process!! I thank God daily for preparing me for these moments.”

Addressing any concerns about his transition from football to girls basketball, Hanna reassures everyone of his commitment to the team. “If anyone is worried about the coaching transition from Football to Girls Basketball, just know that I’m a Girl Dad first,” he affirms.

As Brandon Hanna embarks on this new chapter as head girls basketball coach, the Jefferson Falcons can anticipate a season filled with determination, growth, and a relentless pursuit of excellence under his guidance.

TAKING THE ABBY ROAD TO THE TOP

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- The Austintown-Fitch Falcons softball team has yet another star-studded first baseman that is making all the noise out in Falcon Country. Celebrating a newfound Austintown holiday “Abby Day” which just so happens to occur everyday! Abby Toth made an instant impact on The Falcons lineup in her freshman year last season, hitting .450 with five home runs and 20 RBI, Toth was impressive to say the least.

This year she has managed to bat a team high .688 with four extra base hits and two RBI at the time of this article. Batting in the ever-important third spot in the lineup, a tremendous amount of trust has been put onto the sophomores shoulders; however, she has welcomed the challenge with open arms.

In this edition of Player Profile, YSNs Ty Bartell and Anthony Hartwig get the chance to talk with the Falcon first basemen about the state championship run last year, her continued progression as a player and some softball superstition.

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BOTTOM LINE, FOLKWEIN IS PHENOMENAL

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- Redefining the word athlete, Kylie Folkwein is leading the charge of a new generation of
athletics at Austintown-Fitch. The tri-sport athlete has a legendary endurance, making you wonder if it’s Folkwein or Alkaline that she’s made of because she keeps going!

After successful seasons in both volleyball and basketball, Folkwein looks to capitalize on her best sport yet in softball. Playing for the very talented Lady Dukes over the summer following the state championship win with The Falcons in her freshman year, it would be safe to say, the bar has been set extremely high for her sophomore campaign.

Making the transition from center field and taking ownership of a new position for Fitch, Folkwein finds herself behind the dish as the everyday catcher for Austintown this season. With plenty of experience catching talent levels similar to the likes of Sydnie Watts, Folkwein feels right at home when she is behind it. Batting an incredible .625 with a home run and 10 RBI in just six games this season, Folkwein looks to keep soaring for the skies as she looks to be one of the top prospects for colleges to look at once her availability opens up!

YSNs Ty Bartell and Anthony Hartwig got the opportunity to chat with the Fitch sophomore about her journey so far this season, the transition to behind the dish, the role she has taken on this year and so much more! Do not miss this edition of Player Profile exclusively on YSN.

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FALCONS GET RIGHT BACK TO BUSINESS

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By Ty Bartell

WARREN, Ohio — The Austintown-Fitch Falcons softball team made quick work of the Warren G. Harding Lady Raiders, seizing a bounce-back opportunity with a commanding 15-0 victory in five innings during AAC action at the Warren softball complex on Wednesday.

Fitch wasted no time asserting dominance, launching a ten-run onslaught in the opening inning. The team capitalized on eight of its 13 hits on the day, along with a hit batter, two walks, and a sacrifice fly to establish an early lead.

Freshman center fielder Kaliana Ray set the tone with a single, stole second base, advanced on a fly out, and scored on a wild pitch by Warren G. Harding’s junior right-handed pitcher Karly Trisler. K-Quick later added a two-run triple, crossing the plate for the second time on senior shortstop Ayla Ray’s fourth homer of the season, extending The Ace of Bases streak of consecutive games with a home run to three!
Sophomore Abby Toth contributed with a walk and a single, scoring twice in the explosive first inning.

Junior Sydnie Watts showcased her offensive prowess, getting hit by a pitch and blasting her first home run of the season, marking the 18th of her outstanding career. Watts also excelled in the circle, nearly securing her fourth career perfect game until Warren G. Harding’s junior Ky’Ziya Minor broke the bid with an infield single in the fourth inning.

Watts pitched the full five innings in shutout fashion, tallying an impressive 11 strikeouts in the win.
With the victory, Fitch (5-1) now looks forward to hosting a conference rematch against The Warren G. Harding Raiders (2-3) on Friday, April 12th.

Stay updated with Austintown-Fitch softball all season long with live games, scores, stats, stories, and more on YSN!