Tag Archive for: family

DIPAOLO KEEPS THINGS SUNNY FOR YOUNGSTOWN

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH-  In a recent interview on the YSN podcast, local meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo provided a behind-the-scenes look at his career, his dedication to the local community, and his love for sports

DiPaolo, known for his work at Channel 21, and StormTracker 21, shared insights into the competitive nature of the meteorology industry. He emphasized the importance of hard work and continuous learning, stressing that people respect those who put in the effort.

The conversation delved into his journey, from participating in speech and debate at Cardinal Mooney to honing his skills in meteorology at Ohio University. DiPaolo also reflected on the influence of his role models, crediting his chief at Channel 21 and a former speech and debate coach for their impact on his career.

The discussion also highlighted DiPaolo’s commitment to the local community, including his support for small businesses and non-profit organizations. The meteorologist, known for his involvement across various community initiatives, spoke about his efforts to use his platform to assist others. Furthermore, as an Eagle Scout, he emphasized the significance of giving back to the community as a core value.

Aside from his meteorological endeavors, DiPaolo’s love for sports shone through during the interview. As a self-proclaimed “huge Browns fan,” he expressed his enthusiasm for the world of sports and his upcoming role as a slam dunk judge at the YSN All-Star Game.

The interview concluded with DiPaolo providing a glimpse into his personal life, touching on the joys and challenges of fatherhood and his wife’s unwavering support. He candidly addressed the privilege and honor he feels in sharing his life with the Mahoning Valley community.

As the conversation wrapped up, it became evident that Andrew DiPaolo’s dedication to his craft and his community has made him a cherished figure in the local spotlight, exemplifying hard work, commitment, and humility.

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A UNIQUE WAY FOR ANEKWE

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In the podcast episode titled “YSN⧸ORANGE BASKETBALL PLAYER PROFILE: DOM ANEKWE,” we get an inside look at the life and mindset of Dom Anekwe, a senior basketball player at Orange High School. Dom talks about the physicality and toughness required for his position as a big man down low for the Lions. He emphasizes the importance of staying motivated, being consistent, and constantly improving his game, especially his mid-range shooting.

Throughout the conversation, Dom reflects on his track and field experience and how it has contributed to his basketball skills, with a core focus on consistency. He also shares his expectations for the team’s upcoming season, including their defensive strength and their ability to handle close games.
One of the most poignant moments of the episode is when Dom talks about his role models, including Kobe Bryant, Michael B. Jordan, and LeBron James. However, he reserves a special place in his heart for his grandmother, who is a source of unwavering support, encouragement, and valuable life advice.
Dom’s deep admiration for his grandmother is evident as he shares how she attends all his games and provides him with wisdom and guidance. He discusses the impact of her presence in his life, and the valuable advice she has given him, which includes keeping God in his favor.

The conversation takes a heartwarming turn as Dom shares his excitement for the upcoming Thanksgiving celebration, highlighting his grandmother’s delicious dishes and the memorable family moments they share.

In a lighthearted moment, Dom reveals his cooking skills and his specialty—spaghetti, and eagerly responds to the idea of trying a spaghetti sandwich, showing his fun and adventurous side.

The episode wraps up with Dom expressing his excitement and determination as he gears up for the games, ready to give his best and be great for the Lions. The conversation offers a glimpse into the life of a dedicated high school basketball player, highlighting the impact of family, values, and the determination to succeed both on and off the court.

 

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THE ACADEMIC MONSTER

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PEPPER PIKE, OH-  Austin Thomas, a standout athlete at Orange High School, was featured in a player profile segment. With his notable achievements in academics and sports, Thomas has earned the nickname “Academic Monster” among his peers.

Thomas, a multisport athlete involved in both wrestling and football, has managed to excel in both areas, displaying remarkable dedication and time management skills. Despite his demanding schedule, Thomas prioritizes his academic pursuits, maintaining an impressive 4.7 GPA.

When asked about his ability to manage his commitments, Thomas admitted that sleep often takes a backseat. He emphasized the importance of utilizing study halls efficiently and making the most of his time after practice. Thomas prioritizes completing schoolwork, staying focused, and ensuring he makes the most of his academic opportunities.

Thomas’s dedication to academics stems from his desire to pursue higher education beyond high school solely based on his athletic abilities. He recognizes the significance of enriching both mind and body, ensuring that he can secure a college education that matches his ambitions and aspirations.

While Thomas is uncertain about his specific career path when he attends college, he has another year and a half to explore his options. With his strong work ethic and determination, Thomas is undoubtedly poised for success, no matter what path he chooses.

The podcast also delved into the relationship between Thomas’s involvement in wrestling and football. Thomas explained that wrestling has greatly influenced his football skills, particularly in terms of hand placement, footwork, and overall body control. By mastering techniques such as hand movements, foot placement, and hip positioning, Thomas has gained a competitive edge on the football field.

When it comes to his competitive mindset, Thomas revealed that he adopts a different persona in his respective sports. Whether it’s wrestling or football, once Thomas steps onto the mat or dons his football helmet, he switches into a focused and intense mindset that fuels his drive to succeed.

Surprisingly, Thomas finds motivation from his teammates and uses any frustrations or annoyances as fuel to push himself further during practice. This competitive spirit ignites a fire within him, propelling him to constantly work harder and improve.

During the podcast, Thomas also shared insights regarding his family dynamics. Living with his parents and having an older brother who is away at college, Thomas reminisced about their early roughhousing days. Although their physical playfulness came to an end after a few accidents left his brother injured, the Thomas household was always filled with laughter and good-natured sibling rivalry.

Reflecting on his high school experience, Thomas treasures the relationships he has built with his teammates, coaches, teachers, and fellow students. The camaraderie, support, and shared laughs are what he cherishes the most, as they have shaped him into the person he is today.

Thomas also mentioned his admiration for football player CJ Justin Tanner and wrestler Terrence Davis. Their dedication, work ethic, and competitive drive have served as inspiration for him, pushing him to reach new heights in his own athletic pursuits.

As Austin Thomas continues to dominate both academically and athletically at Orange High School, his determination, time management skills, and unwavering focus make him a role model for aspiring student-athletes. With college on the horizon, Thomas is set to leave a lasting impact on both the academic and sports communities he becomes a part of.

 

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TO THE VICTOR COME THE SPOILS

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PEPPER PIKE, OH-  In the latest episode of the YSN podcast, the spotlight shone on Orange High School’s sophomore wrestling sensation, Victor Kangas. The young athlete sat down with host DJ Yokley for an in-depth interview, discussing his goals for his sophomore year, his growth as a wrestler, and his plans for the future.

Kangas expressed his desire to be more of a leader on the mat this year, especially for the incoming freshmen wrestlers. With a year of experience under his belt, Kangas believes that he can provide guidance and support to the younger members of the team.

Reflecting on his challenging freshman year, Kangas revealed that he endured countless beatings in practice due to being the lightest weight class wrestler. Facing opponents who were always heavier and stronger than him, Kangas credits these difficult experiences for developing his mental toughness and improving his skills on the mat.

Despite the grueling nature of the sport, Kangas has embraced the discipline and dedication that wrestling requires. He emphasized the importance of pushing oneself during practices, acknowledging that they may never become easier, but they ultimately contribute to becoming a better athlete.

Kangas discovered his passion for wrestling in eighth grade, even though he was unable to compete due to a broken hand. Watching his teammates practice and witnessing the tight bond they shared made him realize that he wanted to be a part of this team sport.

Off the mat, Kangas expressed his appreciation for his family’s unwavering support. His parents, often driving long distances to attend his meets, are always there cheering him on. The young wrestler recognizes their presence as a tremendous source of motivation and comfort.

When asked about his post-match rituals, Kangas humorously admitted that food is typically the first thing on his mind. He fondly recalled indulging in skittles, which became his go-to snack due to their availability at the meets. But beyond the snacks, Kangas experiences a rush of excitement after a win and a drive to improve if he suffers a loss.

Looking towards his future, Kangas expressed an interest in pursuing a trade after graduation. Exploring fields such as welding, he hopes to find a career that allows him to work with his hands and avoid the confines of a traditional desk job.

When he’s not wrestling, Kangas enjoys spending time with his friends, some of whom are also on the wrestling team. Additionally, he finds solace and entertainment in playing video games, though he admits that his current favorite game is constantly changing.

As Victor Kangas continues to showcase his talent and dedication on the wrestling mat, the Orange High School community eagerly anticipates his leadership and contributions to the success of the team in the years to come. Best of luck to this rising star as he strives towards his goals and makes his mark in the world of wrestling.

 

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ALL GO FOR CVERCKO

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BOARDMAN, OH- In today’s episode, titled “Boardman Player Profile: Andrew Cvercko,” we delve into the fascinating world of a talented young athlete from a sports-oriented family. Andrew joins us to discuss the unique dynamics and pressures that come with being part of a competitive household.

We explore his journey in various sports, from soccer to swimming, and the influential role his family has played in his athletic pursuits.

Join us as we uncover Andrew’s passion for football, his determination to excel, and his plans for the future. So, sit back, relax, and get ready for another engaging player profile on YSN!

 

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A PERFECT TENNEY

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CANFIELD, OH- On this episode, we have a special player profile for you, featuring an impressive athlete from the Canfield Cardinals. Get ready to dive into the world of Colton Tenney, a talented fullback and defensive end. 

We’ll explore Colton’s passion for football and how it has shaped his life. From the moment he attended his first football camp in Canfield, to his dedication to the sport year after year, we’ll learn what drives Colton’s aggression on the field.But don’t be fooled by his tough exterior. Off the field, Colton describes himself as a “respectful gentle giant,” a stark contrast to the intensity he brings to the game. We’ll find out how his coaches played a crucial role in helping him tap into his aggressive side, transforming him into a force to be reckoned with on the gridiron.As we delve deeper into our conversation, we’ll uncover Colton’s preference for defense, his love for chasing down opponents with the ball, and how the adrenaline rush fuels his performance.

We’ll also hear about his experiences as a fullback, battling it out on the offense and tackling the challenges that come with it.Football serves as more than just a sport for Colton. It has become a vital outlet, allowing him to channel his inner strength and resilience. Listen closely as he shares how football has helped shape his character and taught him the importance of perseverance, even when faced with adversity.Moreover, Colton sheds light on the significance of donning the “C” on his chest and representing the Canfield Cardinals.

We’ll discover what it means to him to be part of a tight-knit brotherhood and how their state championship win has fueled their determination to overcome obstacles and reach new heights.Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Colton Tenney, a young athlete who exemplifies the spirit of never giving up.

Get ready for an inspiring and exhilarating episode that showcases the true power of football in shaping lives.

 

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RUSSO RUNS WILD

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BOARDMAN, OH-Welcome back to YSN, where we bring you the latest player profiles and exclusive interviews with some of the most talented athletes in the game. In today’s episode, we have a special guest joining us – Morgan Russo, a rising star in cross-country running.

Morgan sits down with our host to discuss her passion for running and what it means to be a part of a team. She shares her journey of how she fell in love with cross country in 7th grade and how it became her sport of choice. We also delve into her dedication to pushing through challenges and the motivation she finds in her teammates, even when things get tough.

Join us as we uncover the behind-the-scenes moments of Morgan’s cross-country experience, from the joys of hanging out and playing games with her team to the stressful recruiting process she’s currently navigating. She opens up about her dreams of securing scholarships and her aspirations to study psychology or education.

We also get a glimpse into Morgan’s close-knit family, including her mom’s valuable advice and her dad’s infectious goofiness. From pogo sticks at camping trips to sibling bonds, we explore the support system that keeps Morgan grounded.

So stay tuned for an inspiring conversation with Morgan Russo, where we discover the drive and determination that fuels her success on and off the cross-country track. This is an episode you won’t want to miss.

 

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ALL GANS NO BRAKE

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BOARDMAN, OH- Welcome back to another exciting episode of YSN Player Profile, where we dive deep into incredible stories of young, talented individuals.

Today, we have a special treat for you as we bring you a player profile on none other than Zach Ganser, the outstanding boardman golfer. Joining us to discuss his recent performance in a tournament, Zach shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs on the course.

We’ll uncover how Zach left it all out there, despite the tough conditions, and learn about the lessons he learned about himself along the way. Stay tuned as we explore the pride Zach feels representing his school and his plans for the future.

Don’t miss a moment of this inspiring episode. So, let’s jump right in and get to know Zach Ganser, the resilient and determined golfer who is determined to make his mark on the green.

 

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NOBODY BETTER THAN JONATHAN

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BOARDMAN, OH- Welcome back to another exciting episode of YSN’s Player Profile, the podcast where we bring you all the latest updates and profiles of talented athletes. In today’s episode, we have a special player profile featuring Jonathan Vergos-Perez, a freshman on the Boardman cross country team.

Join us as we dive deep into Jonathan’s background, his love for running, and his journey from California to Ohio. We’ll also discuss his experiences in different sports and his ambitious goals for the future. Stay tuned to hear about Jonathan’s determination, his family’s support, and his plans to excel in both academia and athletics. Get ready to be inspired by this talented young athlete.

 

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WORDS TO LIV BY

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CANFIELD, OH- Liv Meli, a senior volleyball player for South Range High School, sits down with DJ Yokley for an interview on YSN. Liv reflects on her four years of playing volleyball and how fast it has gone by. As a senior, she has taken on a leadership role on the team, emphasizing the importance of being a team player and bringing energy to the court.

When asked about where she learned confidence, Liv credits her parents for always encouraging her to be confident and put herself out there. Although she admits that she is not the loudest person, she tries her best to be confident. Liv’s sister, who is younger but has a big personality, has also been a role model for her in terms of confidence.

Liv discusses the importance of having fun during games and how it contributes to the team’s energy on the court. She mentions that when her teammates are there to support and uplift her, she can switch into a more assertive mode during games. Despite facing tough competition throughout the season, Liv sees it as a learning experience and believes that the team’s strong bond and Coach Iron’s support will contribute to their success.

Off the court, Liv shares a close bond with her sister, often going out for coffee or food together. She mentions their love for Starbucks and going to restaurants like Olive Garden. Liv expresses her gratitude for her family’s support, highlighting how they are always there for her through ups and downs.

When asked about one quality from each of her parents that she would like to adopt, Liv admires her mom’s caring nature and her dad’s confidence. She appreciates how her mom always tries to make everyone happy, while her dad encourages her to put herself out there and not worry about what others think.

Outside of volleyball, Liv enjoys shopping and often goes on spontaneous shopping trips with her sister. She mentions that she loves browsing both online and in physical stores, appreciating the experience of looking around.

Overall, Liv’s profile showcases her dedication, leadership, and the importance of having fun both on and off the volleyball court. With the support of her teammates, coach, and family, Liv has high hopes for the team’s success in the upcoming season.

 

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