Tag Archive for: Falcons

FALCONS FLY BY MUSTANGS

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Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Hillsdale, OH- In a hard-fought playoff battle, the Grand Valley Mustangs faced off against the Hillsdale Falcons, but ultimately fell short with a final score of 70-54. Despite a valiant effort from the Mustangs, the Falcons’ offensive firepower proved to be too much to handle.

QUARTER SCORES
Grand Valley Mustangs: 12 | 10 | 15 | 17 = 54
Hillsdale Falcons: 19 | 16 | 17 | 18 = 70

Grand Valley Mustangs Total Points:

  • Braden Hart: 22
  • Jerry Arrington: 15
  • Bobby Roger: 8
  • Sammy Goforth: 5
  • Payton Plizga: 4

Hillsdale Falcons Total Points:

  • Troy Bennett: 23
  • Braylon Jaris: 19
  • Brian Knichbaum: 18
  • Jack Fickes: 5
  • Gabe Stack: 3
  • Hayden McFadden: 2

Despite facing a formidable opponent in the Falcons, the Mustangs showcased determination and resilience throughout the game. Led by Braden Hart’s impressive performance with 22 points, the Mustangs fought hard to keep pace with the Falcons’ offensive onslaught.

However, the Falcons proved to be a tough challenge, with Troy Bennett leading the charge with an outstanding 23-point performance. Supported by Braylon Jaris and Brian Knichbaum, who contributed 19 and 18 points respectively, the Falcons maintained their lead throughout the game.

Despite the loss, the Mustangs had several standout moments to celebrate this season, including senior Jerry Arrington’s achievement as the all-time leader in rebounds for Grand Valley. Although their playoff journey comes to an end with this defeat, the Mustangs can take pride in their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

As for the Hillsdale Falcons, their victory propels them into the district semifinals of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face off against the Warren JFK Eagles. With their potent offensive attack and resilient defense, the Falcons look to continue their postseason success and advance further in the playoffs.

DESTANIE IS CALLING

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AUSTINTOWN OH- As Destanie McCullough prepares to bid farewell to her high school basketball career at Austintown Fitch, her journey over the past four years reflects a commitment to excellence, unwavering leadership, and a relentless drive to elevate her team to new heights.

Since stepping foot onto the court as a freshman, McCullough poured her heart and soul into the Fitch basketball program. Through countless hours of practice, dedication, and perseverance, she honed her skills and emerged as a pivotal figure for the Falcons, both on and off the court.

McCullough’s leadership played a crucial role in propelling Fitch to one of its most successful seasons in program history. Her unwavering determination and ability to rally her teammates in the face of adversity were instrumental in guiding the Falcons to numerous victories and memorable moments on the court.

One of the most special aspects of McCullough’s senior season was the opportunity to share it with her fellow seniors, teammates she has grown and bonded with over the years. Together, they forged a strong bond and created lasting memories that will endure long after their time at Fitch.

On the court, McCullough’s strength and tenacity were undeniable. Her ability to finish through contact and dominate the boards made her a force to be reckoned with, providing a crucial presence in the paint for the Falcons. With an average of 8.3 points per game (second on the team) and 6 rebounds per game (first on the team), McCullough consistently delivered when her team needed her most. Additionally, her defensive prowess, averaging 1.7 steals per game, showcased her versatility and impact on both ends of the floor.

As McCullough reflects on her time at Fitch, she takes pride in knowing that she has played a role in shaping the future of the program. By setting an example of hard work, determination, and selflessness, she has paved the way for the next generation of Fitch basketball players to continue the legacy of success she leaves behind.

As she prepares to embark on the next chapter of her basketball journey, McCullough leaves a lasting impact on the Fitch community, her teammates, and all those who have had the privilege of witnessing her talent and leadership on the court. Her legacy will endure as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of a true leader.

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RAY BANS REQUIRED

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- Few players have the natural ability to lead by example, the type where few words need
to be said and when they are true weight is held in every one that they speak. Leaders are not often chosen, rather the position chooses them. That is the case for Austintown-Fitch senior Ayla Ray! Now, you may have heard “the Ace of Base” lighting up box scores on a softball field before, but Ayla has rapidly become “The Ace of Lace” when she steps foot on the basketball court!

Averaging a team-high 11.6 point per game this season to go along with another team-high in made 3-point shots with 33 this year, “Ace” has been the place to get your helpful offense all year long. Coming from great parents, both Tatum and Renauld have shown unwavering support for their oldest daughter as she has blazed the trail for her younger sisters to follow. Always a special connection with her dad, Ayla and Renauld bonded over basketball despite the frequent coaching looks, Ayla could always count on the coach at home.

Although Ayla may be going to the next level for softball, there is no doubt in the waves that she has made in basketball! With plenty of noticeable improvements from freshman year until now, Ayla has proved and continued to prove that hard work pays off! YSNs Ty Bartell got the opportunity to sit down with “Ace” to recap the season so far, her role as a leader, The Falcons second sectional final win in 30 years and much more!

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LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- The makeup of most successful basketball teams generally need the following: A
shooter, someone who can make buckets when needed down the stretch. A point guard to start the offense and keep it flowing. A post player, someone with good height to secure rebounds. And finally a bruiser, someone who will step up on defense to guard the opponents toughest player, someone who shows fearlessness on a nightly basis, someone who wears bruises and cuts as badges of honor from the times they went to war with their team by their side Austintown-Fitch senior Lannie Henning exemplifies all what it means to be a bruiser and more!

Starting at a young age in rec ball with fellow senior Ayla Ray, Lannie Henning has been around the sport of basketball for quite some time! No easy paths to play at the varsity level, Lannie grinded her way through each season, no matter who the skipper of the squad was, Henning brought a good attitude and a willingness to get better while taking the best of what each coach had to offer. As the door to play at the next level has unexpectedly opened for Lannie, what could the future hold for this determined athlete? Catch this edition of Player Profile as YSNs Ty Bartell had the opportunity to sit and chat with Lannie about the basketball journey so far, some highlight memories and some future plans for The Falcons senior!

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FITCH FINALLY PUNCHES THROUGH TO DISTRICTS

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By Ty Bartell 

AUSTINTOWN, OH— The Austintown-Fitch Falcons girls basketball team delivered a commanding performance in the sectional final matchup against the Canton McKinley Bulldogs, securing a resounding 57-35 victory on Thursday night.

In a clash between the Falcons, representing the All American Conference (AAC), and the long-tenured Federal League member Bulldogs from Canton McKinley, Austintown-Fitch emerged as the dominant force.

The Falcons wasted no time asserting their dominance, starting the game with a fast-paced offensive onslaught to seize a double-digit lead by the end of the first quarter, holding a commanding 16-6 advantage over the Bulldogs. Fitch continued their stellar defensive performance in the second quarter, keeping Canton McKinley’s offense at bay while extending their lead with a 14-2 period to hold a commanding 30-8 lead at halftime.

Although the Bulldogs managed to play the game more evenly in the second half, with Fitch holding a narrow 12-11 edge in the third quarter, the Falcons maintained control with a 42-19 lead heading into the final period. Austintown-Fitch then put the finishing touches in the fourth quarter, securing the victory despite Canton McKinley outscoring them 16-15 in the final period.

Player of the Game honors were awarded to both “Ace” Ayla Ray and Rachel Spalding. Ray led all scorers with a game-high 15 points, while Spalding contributed 11 points to help pace the Falcons. On the opposing side, Kylonee Foster led Canton McKinley with 14 points, followed by Sha’Rayia Hall with 9 points.

With the win, Austintown-Fitch improves to a 14-9 record on the season and advances to the Division 1, Region 1, Northeast 1 brackets district semi-final at Massillon Perry, where they will face another pack of Bulldogs in Stow-Munroe Falls (19-5) on Tuesday, February 27th. Canton McKinley concludes their season with a record of 9-14.

For the latest updates on Austintown-Fitch Falcons basketball and more, including live games, scores, stats, and stories, fans can stay tuned to YSN throughout the season.

FALCONS FALL TO RED DEVILS AT HOME

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Jefferson, OH- In a postseason clash between the Jefferson Falcons and the Crestwood Red Devils, the Red Devils emerged victorious with a commanding 49-28 win. Despite a valiant effort from the Falcons, led by Mia Contenza and Alex Cosart, the Red Devils’ dominant performance proved to be too much to overcome.

QUARTER SCORES
Jefferson Falcons: 6 | 9 | 9 | 4 = 28
Crestwood Red Devils: 15 | 13 | 8 | 13 = 49

Jefferson Falcons Total Points:

  • Mia Contenza: 10
  • Alex Cosart: 8
  • Dani Furman: 6
  • Trinity Velliquette: 4

Crestwood Red Devils Total Points:

  • Hannah Ward: 29
  • Liv Martini: 12
  • Maddie Dustman: 5
  • Becca Brady: 2
  • Grace Harper: 1

Despite a resilient effort from the Falcons, highlighted by Mia Contenza’s 10 points and Alex Cosart’s 8 points, they were unable to contain the offensive onslaught from the Red Devils.

For the Red Devils, Hannah Ward delivered a standout performance with an impressive 29 points, leading her team to victory. Liv Martini added 12 points, while Maddie Dustman, Becca Brady, and Grace Harper contributed points as well, showcasing the Red Devils’ balanced scoring attack.

With this loss, the Jefferson Falcons conclude their season with a final record of 10-13. Although their postseason journey has come to an end, the Falcons can take pride in their efforts throughout the season and look to build upon their success in the future.

As for the Crestwood Red Devils, they advance in the OHSAA tournament and prepare to face the Glenville Tarblooders in their next matchup on 2/24/24. With their dominant performance against the Falcons, the Red Devils will look to carry their momentum forward as they continue their postseason campaign.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Falcons had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game. As they reflect on their season, the Falcons will look to learn and grow from their experiences, setting the stage for future success on the court.

BIG GAMES FROM COVETTA AND DEGEORGE LIFT FALCONS OVER DRAGONS

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Jefferson, OH- In a matchup between the Jefferson Falcons and the Lakeside Dragons, the Falcons emerged victorious with a convincing 72-53 win. The game was highlighted by stellar performances from Anthony Covetta and Joey DeGeorge, who led the Falcons to victory with their scoring prowess and all-around contributions on the court.

QUARTER SCORES
Jefferson Falcons: 20 | 16 | 20 | 16 = 72
Lakeside Dragons: 15 | 11 | 19 | 8 = 53

Jefferson Falcons Total Points:

  • Anthony Covetta: 24
  • Joey DeGeorge: 24
  • Robbie Pisano: 10
  • Joel Navarro: 7
  • Terry Brown: 4
  • Dylan Beebe: 3

Lakeside Dragons Total Points:

  • Alex DiSalvatore: 17
  • Dyln Newsome: 13
  • Aiden Hathy: 11
  • Chase Newsome: 9
  • Conner Mead: 3

Anthony Covetta and Joey DeGeorge led the charge for the Falcons, each scoring an impressive 24 points while also making significant contributions in rebounds, steals, and blocked shots. Their outstanding performances set the tone for the Falcons’ dominance throughout the game.

Robbie Pisano added 10 points for the Falcons, while Joel Navarro, Terry Brown, and Dylan Beebe contributed points as well, showcasing the Falcons’ balanced offensive attack.

Despite a valiant effort from the Dragons, led by Alex DiSalvatore with 17 points and Dyln Newsome with 13 points, they struggled with foul trouble throughout the game. By the fourth quarter, three of the Dragons’ starters found themselves in foul trouble, hindering their ability to mount a comeback against the Falcons’ relentless offense.

With this win, the Jefferson Falcons improve to a record of 12-8 on the season, setting the stage for a highly anticipated matchup against the Perry Pirates in their next game. The Falcons will look to carry the momentum from this win and continue their strong performance as they push for postseason success.

As for the Lakeside Dragons, they will regroup and prepare for their next game against the Chagrin Falls Tigers. With a record of 5-13, the Dragons remain determined to bounce back and finish the season on a positive note, aiming to build upon their competitive spirit and resilience.

The Falcons’ victory over the Dragons serves as a testament to their talent and determination, as they continue to strive for success on the court. As the season progresses, the Falcons will look to maintain their focus and intensity as they aim to make a deep playoff run.

RAIDERS SPOIL SENIOR NIGHT IN FITCH

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By Ty Bartell

 

AUSTINTOWN, Ohio — The Warren G. Harding Raiders claimed a hard-fought 51-41 victory over the Austintown-Fitch Falcons in a tough-nosed All American Conference (AAC) basketball matchup on Friday night, spoiling the Falcons’ senior night.
From the opening tip-off, the Raiders asserted their dominance, building an early lead over the Falcons. By the end of the first quarter, Harding held a commanding 11-4 advantage. The Raiders maintained their lead throughout the second quarter, heading into halftime with a 23-15 lead.

However, the Falcons came out firing in the third quarter, mounting a spirited comeback. With a strong offensive surge, Austintown-Fitch outscored Harding 19-10 in the period, taking their first lead of the game at 34-33 as the teams headed into the final quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Warren Harding’s defense stepped up, stifling the Falcons and limiting their scoring opportunities. The Raiders’ impressive defensive effort, coupled with clutch performances from Gummy Hart, who scored 10 of his 12 points in the final quarter, secured the 51-41 victory for Harding. The Colemans also made significant contributions, with both Chaz Coleman and Ny Coleman posting 10 points each.

Despite the loss, Marcel Finkley led the scoring for Austintown-Fitch with an impressive game-high 18 points, supported by Allen Hill, who contributed 14 points.

With the win, Warren Harding improves to a 12-8 record overall and 6-2 in conference play, securing second place in the AAC. The Raiders will now prepare to face the Farrell Steelers

(17-4) on Tuesday, February 20th, with a 7 p.m. tip-off. Meanwhile, Austintown-Fitch (11-9, 4-4) will aim to bounce back against the Highland Hornets (11-8) also on Tuesday, with tip-off scheduled for 7 p.m.
For the latest updates on AAC basketball and more, including live games, scores, stats, and stories, fans can stay tuned to YSN throughout the season.

FALCONS PREY ON BRAVES

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Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Jefferson, OH- In a exciting performance, the Jefferson Falcons soared to victory over the Badger Braves with a decisive final score of 87-54. The Falcons’ potent offense and strong defensive presence proved too much for the Braves to handle throughout the game.

QUARTER SCORES
Jefferson Falcons: 14 | 19 | 27 | 27 = 87
Badger Braves: 13 | 11 | 13 | 17 = 54

Jefferson Falcons Total Points:

  • Anthony Covetta: 34
  • Joey DeGeorge: 20
  • Joel Navarro: 10
  • Robbie Pisano: 10
  • Caleb Welser: 8
  • Dylan Beebe: 5

Badger Braves Total Points:

  • Duncan Moy: 20
  • Lewis Flower: 14
  • Jack Harnett: 14
  • Preston Geracitano: 4
  • Bryce Gross: 2

Leading the charge for the Falcons was Anthony Covetta, who put on a scoring clinic with an impressive 34 points. Covetta’s scoring prowess was complemented by Joey DeGeorge, who contributed 20 points, and Joel Navarro and Robbie Pisano, who each added 10 points to the scoreboard. Caleb Welser and Dylan Beebe rounded out the Falcons’ scoring efforts with 8 and 5 points, respectively.

Despite a valiant effort from the Braves, led by Duncan Moy with 20 points and Lewis Flower and Jack Harnett with 14 points each, they were unable to keep pace with the Falcons’ relentless offensive onslaught.

With this victory, the Jefferson Falcons improve to a record of 12-8 on the season, showcasing their ability to perform at a high level against tough opponents. Looking ahead, the Falcons will prepare to face off against the Lakeside Dragons on February 17th, 2024, aiming to continue their winning momentum.

Meanwhile, the Badger Braves have concluded their regular season with a record of 16-6 and will now shift their focus to the OHSAA postseason tournament. After receiving a bye in the first round, the Braves will await the winner of the Heartland Christian Lions and Chalker Wildcats game, prepared to make a deep playoff run.

The Falcons’ dominant performance serves as a testament to their talent and determination as they look to make a strong push in the postseason. With their potent offense and solid defense, the Falcons are poised to make a significant impact in the playoffs.

HOWLAND DOMINATES IN THEIR REGULAR SEASON FINALE

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AUSTINTOWN OH- In a commanding performance on Tuesday night, Howland asserted their dominance from start to finish, securing a resounding 63-43 win over Fitch on the road. It was a game marked by Howland’s relentless offense and suffocating defense, as they controlled the tempo throughout the matchup.

Leading the scoring charge for Howland was Alyssa Massucci, who delivered a standout performance with an impressive 26 points. Gia Hoso added to the offensive onslaught with 10 points, while Mia Barrish, Sophia Powell, Jessie DeSalvo, and Maya Kubanscek each contributed 6 points, showcasing Howland’s balanced attack.

Despite a valiant effort from Fitch, led by Kaliana Ray with 12 points and Ayla Ray with 9 points, they struggled to contain Howland’s offensive firepower and fell short in their attempts to mount a comeback.

With this win, Howland improved their season record to 16-6, setting the stage for the upcoming tournament as they prepare to host Ravenna on February 21st. The victory provides momentum and confidence as Howland looks ahead to postseason play.

Meanwhile, Fitch, with a record of 13-8, has one more regular-season game remaining, scheduled for Saturday at Salem. As they prepare for their final matchup before the postseason, Fitch will aim to regroup and finish their regular season on a high note, seeking to carry positive momentum into the playoffs.