Tag Archive for: Featured High School Football

MILTON HOLDS STRONG THIS TIME AROUND

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NORTH JACKSON OH- Jackson-Milton was triumphant over Mineral Ridge 12-8 on Tuesday. Mineral Ridge were the first to get on the board in the first when  Lily Merolillo singled, scoring one run. Jackson-Milton jumped into the lead in the bottom of the first when Maggie Simkins drew a walk, scoring one run, and Gabby Kerr doubled, scoring three runs. Mineral Ridge responded when Savannah Turek hit a solo home run to center field in the top of the second. Jackson-Milton then scored six runs on three hits in the bottom of the third inning. Simkins singled, scoring one run, Alena Len doubled, scoring two runs, Emma Johns singled, scoring one run, an error scored one run, and Macayla Thornhill grounded out, scoring one run. Grace Johns hit a solo home run to left field in the bottom of the fourth.

Brena McBeth earned the win for the Blue Jays. They gave up nine hits and eight runs (seven earned) over four innings, striking out six and walking five. Turek took the loss for Mineral Ridge. They went two and two-thirds innings, allowing nine runs on three hits, striking out three and walking eight. Thornhill collected the save.

Jackson-Milton collected 10 hits in the game. The Johns sisters each collected two hits. Kerr, Simkins, and Len each drove in two runs. McBeth led the way with three walks. Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, amassing 10 walks for the game. Johns, McBeth, and Simkins each stole multiple bases. Jackson-Milton stole 11 bases in the game.

Mineral Ridge piled up 13 hits in the game. Maggie Collins, Merolillo, Aaliyah Wall, and  Megan Haynie each collected two hits for Mineral Ridge. Sandy, Collins, Turek, Merolillo, Sydney Wyllie, and Haynie each drove in one run. McKenna Barker led Mineral Ridge with two walks. Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, collecting five walks for the game. The Rams turned one double play in the game.

DRAGONS NEW ERA TO BEGIN WITH COACH TERRENCE HENTON

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Ashtabula, OH- The Lakeside Dragons have proudly unveiled Terrence Henton as their new head football coach, a homegrown talent with a deep connection to the Ashtabula Area City School District. Graduating in 1993, Henton’s journey from a standout running back to a mentor and coach exemplifies his commitment to the community and the sport he loves.

Henton’s football legacy began with the Ashtabula Panthers, a team that later merged with the Harbor Mariners to create the formidable Lakeside Dragons. His exceptional talents and unwavering work ethic earned him a spot with the renowned Ashland Eagles, a top-tier Division 2 football program. Transitioning to wide receiver in college, Henton maximized his speed and athleticism, showcasing his versatility on the field.

The coaching trajectory in Henton’s career took flight in 2004 when he joined Lakeside as a track coach. His passion for developing young talent became evident in 2007 when he stepped into the realm of youth football coaching, leaving an indelible mark on many of the area’s best high school players.

In 2017, Henton embraced the challenge of coaching high school players as a WR/DB. His coaching acumen flourished further when he assumed the role of Lakeside junior high head football coach for two seasons starting in 2019. A pivotal moment in Henton’s coaching journey unfolded in 2022 when he joined forces with Olajuwon Cooper, Head Football Coach of the Edgewood Warriors, as Offensive Coordinator. Together, they orchestrated one of the most prolific and record-breaking offenses in Ashtabula County history, guiding Tony Hall to become the all-time leader in both single-season and career touchdowns and passing yards.

Beyond the local arena, Henton has dedicated the past four years to coaching at the Nike Elite 11 QB camps, honing the skills of some of the nation’s most promising players and programs.

Henton’s decision to stay close to home and contribute to the community that shaped him is rooted in deep pride. “IM FROM BULA!! they wrote a song about it!!! I rep Ashtabula everywhere I go. I’m not from Cleveland or Youngstown!!! IM FROM BULA!!” he declares passionately, reflecting on the cherished memories of his upbringing, from the scent of popcorn and pizza to purchasing game tickets at Betty’s beauty shop.

Coaching, for Henton, is not just a job; it’s a calling. His ability to form lasting relationships with his players is a testament to his genuine desire to positively impact the lives of youth through sport. When asked about his coaching philosophy, Henton fervently states, “I coach because of the coaches I had!! My youth coach Gary Butte took me in like a son… Roby Potts is the Nick Saban/Kirby Smart in my life.”

Acknowledging the accomplishments of his predecessor, Coach Buzz Edwards, Henton expresses deep respect for the transformative work done in turning the Lakeside Dragons’ program around. “Buzz doesn’t get enough credit for what he has done,” affirms Henton. “He will always be one of the smartest football guys in my phone!! I told him I will keep picking his brain until he says get away.”

In addition to his gratitude towards Edwards, Henton commends Edgewood’s head football coach Olajuwon Cooper and Athletic Director Steve Kray. The opportunity and trust bestowed upon him to lead the youth at Edgewood High School are sources of everlasting gratitude for Henton.

Terrence Henton is a man deeply invested in the area, the students, and the future success of the Lakeside Dragons football program. His commitment, passion, and genuine care for the community set the stage for an exciting new chapter in the Dragons’ football journey.

HILLTOPPERS GROUND GAME TOO MUCH FOR IRISH

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Ravenna, OH- In a highly anticipated matchup between 2 powerhouse programs, the Ursuline Fighting Irish faced off against the Chardon Hilltoppers in a Division 3 matchup that ultimately ended in a 31-14 victory for Chardon.

The first quarter set the tone as Vinny Columbi’s 5-yard touchdown run capped a 70-yard drive, putting Chardon ahead 7-0. Ursuline quickly responded with Joe Balog’s 5-yard TD run, tying the game at 7-7 with 2:42 left in the quarter.

Chardon seized an opportunity in the second quarter, recovering a fumble at Ursuline’s 24-yard line. AJ Bruce’s 13-yard carry set up Vinny Columbi’s 1-yard TD run, giving Chardon a 14-7 lead at halftime.

The third quarter saw Chardon extend their lead with Sam Sacerich’s 27-yard field goal, making it 17-7. However, Ursuline fought back, with Jack Ericson connecting with DC Ferrell on a 13-yard TD pass to narrow the gap to 17-14.

As the game entered the fourth quarter, Chardon continued to press their advantage. Caleb Hewitt’s 34-yard TD run extended their lead to 24-14. Ursuline, facing a crucial drive from their own 35, stalled at the Chardon 38, turning the ball over on downs with 9:45 remaining.

Chardon capitalized on the opportunity, as AJ Bruce’s 13-yard TD run sealed the victory with a final score of 31-14. Ursuline’s attempt to mount a comeback ended with a sack of Ericson on 4th down at the Chardon 33, sealing their fate.

With this loss, the Ursuline Fighting Irish concluded their season with a record of 13-1, while the Chardon Hilltoppers (11-3) advanced to the Division 3 state semi-final against the Toledo Central Catholic Fighting Irish in week 14.

LAKERS STAY PERFECT IN NAC PLAY

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Photo Credit: Kelly Summers

Windham, OH- In a dominant display of ball control and defense, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers secured an impressive victory against the Windham Bombers, blanking their opponents with a final score of 36-0. It was a statement win for the Lakers, highlighting their superiority on both sides of the ball.

The game kicked off with a bang in the 1st quarter, as Ryan Croston bulldozed his way into the end zone with a 9-yard touchdown run. The Lakers didn’t stop there, successfully converting a 2-point attempt to take an early 8-0 lead. Croston continued to shine, breaking free for a spectacular 42-yard touchdown run, though the 2-point conversion was denied, leaving the score at 14-0.

In the 2nd quarter, Ty Vickery extended the Lakers’ lead with a 5-yard touchdown run, but another failed 2-point conversion attempt kept the score at 20-0. The Lakers showed no mercy in the 3rd quarter, with Jayce Fulkman muscling his way into the end zone with a 6-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion. The Lakers now led comfortably at 28-0.

The final quarter saw Luke Giddings recover a fumble and return it for a touchdown, further sealing the Lakers’ commanding lead. With another successful 2-point conversion, the final score was set at 36-0.

Pymatuning Valley’s quarterback, Ryan Croston, emerged as the standout performer of the game, scoring two rushing touchdowns and amassing an impressive 113 yards on the ground.

With this decisive victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers improved their season record to 7-3, maintaining a perfect 5-0 record in the NAC. Their next challenge will be in the first round of the OHSAA playoffs as they host the Crestview Rebels, who have a record of 5-5 overall and 5-2 in the MVAC.

Unfortunately, for the Windham Bombers, their season ends with a record of 2-8 overall and 1-4 in the NAC, as they failed to qualify for the OHSAA playoffs. The Lakers’ performance in this game surely left an indelible mark, setting the stage for an exciting playoff run.

RED DEVILS HOLD OFF MUSTANGS

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STORY BY TYLER HARTZ:

Orwell, OH- This game got off to a slow start as both teams exchanged punts in the first quarter, we finally got our first piece of action in the second quarter where Sammy Goforth (#7) recovered a fumble setting up Grand Valley inside the 10-yard line. Just a few plays later John Foss-Peters (#13) was able to punch the ball in from the 1-yard line giving the Mustangs an early lead, 7-0 against Crestwood. The Red Devils would respond instantly with a 67-yard reception, as quarterback Charlie Summer (#3) found receiver Wyatt Januska (#4) in the endzone, and the Red Devils went for the 2pt conversion with a hand off to running back Nate Blasiole. At halftime the Red Devils led 8-7.

A few minutes had passed in the second half, but Grand Valley was back on the board, when John Foss-Peters found the back of the endzone again on a 3-yard run with the 2-point conversion being no good. The Mustangs had the lead 13-8, only for Wyatt Januska (#4) to take the following kickoff 75 yards to the house for a quick answer, and that put the Red Devils back up top 14-13. However, Grand Valley wasn’t done in the 3rd quarter, running back Andrew Soltis (#26) scored off a 6-yard rush, with the 2-point conversion being successful, scored by Aidan Baker.

With 9:31 left in the 4th quarter Crestwood brought receiver Wyatt Januska (#4) on a jet sweep to the right, where he found launched the ball down field to brother A.J Januska (#8) for a 43-yard touchdown pass and the 2-point conversion was successful, scored by Bryce Giel (#6). With the score now 22-21 in favor of Crestwood, Grand Valley was moving the ball downfield, when they were faced with a 4th and long. The Mustangs were lined up in punt formation, the ball was snapped, and Sammy Goforth (#7) took off running left, when Aidan Baker (#21) got open, and Goforth (#7) delivered a beautiful pass on 4th down to keep the drive alive. The same drive Goforth (#7) found senior wide receiver Jerry Schultz on a 16-yard reception give put the Mustangs back up top, 27-22 with the 2-point conversion being no good. Crestwood then got the ball back and was able to waste enough time on the clock before running back Nate Blasiole (#2) found the back of the endzone on a 6-yard run and giving Crestwood the lead 28-27. Grand Valley had one more drive, but failed to convert on 4th and 10, they turned the ball over and Crestwood kneeled the ball to end the game.

WARRIORS LOCK IN PLAYOFFS,RECORDS, AND BRIDGE IN RIVALRY WIN

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Edgewood, OH- In a rivalry game for the ages, the Edgewood Warriors emerged victorious against the Lakeside Dragons with a final score of 38-20. The Warriors (6-4, 2-3 CVC Lake Division) secured their spot in the OHSAA playoffs for the second consecutive year, while the Dragons (4-6, 2-3 CVC Lake Division) saw their season come to an end as they were mathematically eliminated from the postseason.

The game got off to a promising start for Edgewood in the first quarter, with Samuel Linder kicking a 12-yard field goal, giving the Warriors an early 3-0 lead. Edgewood continued to dominate as Zeke Lucas dashed for a 12-yard touchdown run, and Tony Hall connected with Jacob Ernst for a spectacular 67-yard touchdown pass. With successful extra points, the Warriors led 17-0.

Lakeside began to mount a comeback in the second quarter, with Nate Bartone scoring a 4-yard touchdown run and Devan Miller adding a 2-yard touchdown run, but their two-point conversion attempts fell short. This narrowed the gap to 17-12 in favor of Edgewood.

The third quarter saw a dramatic turn of events as Tony Hall, who had a standout night, threw an interception that was returned for a touchdown by Lakeside’s Matt Wagner. A successful two-point conversion gave Lakeside a 20-17 lead. However, Edgewood quickly regained the advantage as Tony Hall found Jacob Ernst with a 43-yard touchdown pass, putting the Warriors ahead 24-20.

In the fourth quarter, Hunter Braat intercepted Lakeside’s Alex DiSalvatore, providing Edgewood with a crucial defensive play. With the clock ticking down, Tony Hall showcased his skills once again, throwing a 45-yard touchdown pass to Riley Baldwin. The extra point was good, extending Edgewood’s lead to 31-20. Zeke Lucas put the icing on the cake with a 49-yard touchdown run, and the extra point made it 38-20, sealing the victory for the Warriors.

Tony Hall emerged as the star of the game, passing for three touchdowns and over 200 yards. With his performance, Hall became the Ashtabula County all-time single-season leader in both passing yards and touchdowns, with over 2,400 yards and 31 touchdowns. The previous records of 2,365 yards (held by Edgewood’s Zach Winchell in 2020) and 29 touchdown passes (set by Jefferson’s Lucas Hitchcock in 2014) were surpassed, cementing Hall’s place in both Edgewood’s and Ashtabula’s  football history.

With this exciting win, the Edgewood Warriors look forward to the OHSAA playoffs and a potential matchup against the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals. Congratulations to the Edgewood Warriors for their impressive victory and Tony Hall for his record-breaking performance!

DRAGONS TURN UP HEAT AGAINST SPARTANS

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

Ashtabula, OH- In their final home game of the season, the Lakeside Dragons soared to a resounding victory against the Conneaut Spartans with a final score of 30-6. The Dragons started the game with a fiery determination that would set the tone for the evening.

The first quarter saw Lakeside’s tall and agile quarterback, Alex DiSalvatore, make an explosive 23-yard touchdown run, setting the crowd ablaze with excitement. A successful two-point conversion added a stamp to the drive, giving Lakeside an early 8-0 lead.

The second quarter was no different, with Lakeside’s Nate Bartone bulldozing his way into the end zone with a 1-yard touchdown run. Once again, the Dragons successfully converted for two additional points, further extending their lead to 16-0.

As the game progressed into the third quarter, Conneaut’s Max Gleason managed to score a 2-yard touchdown run, finally getting the Spartans on the board. However, their two-point conversion attempt fell short, leaving the score at 16-6 in favor of Lakeside.

Lakeside was far from finished, though, as Devan Miller electrified the crowd with a breathtaking 67-yard touchdown run. Another successful two-point conversion left the score at 24-6, firmly solidifying the Dragons’ dominance.

In the fourth quarter, Nate Bartone once again demonstrated his prowess by scoring a 10-yard touchdown run. Although the two-point conversion was unsuccessful this time, the Dragons maintained a comfortable lead of 30-6.

With the final whistle, Lakeside celebrated a resounding victory, improving their record to 4-5 and 2-2 in the CVC Lake Division. Their sights are now set on the “Battle for the Bridge” in Week 10, where they will face their crosstown rivals, the Edgewood Warriors. This match holds significant importance, as the winner will secure a better playoff position in the OHSAA state football playoffs.

The Conneaut Spartans, with a 5-4 record and a 2-2 standing in the CVC Lake Division, will take on the Madison Blue Streaks in Week 10. The Spartans have already secured their playoff spot and now aim for a home game in the first round with a victory over Madison.

Lakeside’s backfield powerhouse, Nate Bartone, was the star of the night, rushing for over 100 yards and contributing two crucial touchdowns to the team’s impressive victory. The Dragons now look forward to their next challenge, while fans eagerly anticipate “The Battle for the Bridge” and the thrilling football action that lies ahead.

WARRIORS RECLAIM HOADLEY CUP IN WIN OVER FALCONS

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Jefferson, OH- Hoping to bounce back from a 3 game skid, the Edgewood Warriors showcased their strength and precision on the gridiron, securing a resounding victory against the Jefferson Falcons. The final score: Edgewood 54, Jefferson 7.

The game got off to a scorching start in the first quarter when Tony Hall, Edgewood’s star quarterback, displayed his precision with a 30-yard pass to Zach Carlton-Hull. The Edgewood faithful erupted as the tackle was made at the 2-yard line. Just moments later, Hall punched it in from 1 yard out, and Samuel Linder’s extra point was good, giving Edgewood an early 7-0 lead.

Hall continued to shine as he connected with his receivers for three more touchdowns in the first quarter alone. A 27-yard strike to Hunter Braat, a magnificent 50-yard bomb to Ben Schwartfigure, and another 1-yard toss to Jacob Ernst all found their mark, putting Edgewood up 21-0.

The second quarter saw no respite for Jefferson, as Hall and Ernst connected again for a 1-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 28-0. A missed extra point briefly halted the Warriors’ scoring spree, but they maintained a commanding 34-0 advantage.

Jefferson managed to find the end zone in the third quarter, as Kaige Boczar scored on a 7-yard run, making it 34-7 in favor of Edgewood. However, the Warriors promptly responded with Hall and Ernst connecting once more, stretching their lead to 41-7.

In the final quarter, Zeke Lucas broke free for an impressive 81-yard touchdown run, and Edgewood continued their showcase. Hall closed out his phenomenal performance with a 34-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Hunt, bringing the score to 54-7.

With this victory, the Edgewood Warriors improved to a 5-4 record and 1-3 in the CVC Lake Division. The team now prepares for the highly-anticipated “Battle for Bridge” against crosstown rivals, the Lakeside Dragons, in week 10. This clash carries added significance as both teams vie for  spots in the OHSAA playoffs in their respective divisions.

On the other side, the Jefferson Falcons faced a tough loss and are still searching for their first win this season with an 0-9 record and 0-4 in the CVC Lake Division. They will go on the road to challenge the formidable Geneva Eagles, who boast an 8-1 record and a perfect 4-0 division record.

Notably, Tony Hall emerged as the standout performer of the day, contributing a remarkable seven touchdowns to Edgewood’s victory. With this win, the Edgewood Warriors also reclaimed the Hoadley Cup, ending the Jefferson Falcons’ two-year reign over the coveted trophy.

BADGERS TAKE DOWN MUSTANGS

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Story by Tyler Hartz:

Burton, OH- The Berkshire Badgers wasted no time getting on the board, scoring at the 7-minute mark when Quarterback Miles Miller (#8) found the back of the endzone on a designed quarterback keeper. Just three minutes later Miller (#8) delivered a strike to wide receiver Mason Mendolera (#24) for a 7-yard touchdown. Two minutes later, on the first play of the Badgers third drive, Miller (#8) found wide receiver Jack Hastings (#5) open in the endzone on a hookup of 39 yards for the Badgers third score of the quarter putting them up 21-0 in 10 minutes of play. The Mustangs had little to no answer for the Badgers the entire game.
To start the second quarter Mustangs quarterback Sammy Goforth (#7) threw an interception and it was picked off by Paul Brent (#84) to give the Badgers the ball back to start the second quarter. The following drive, the Badgers found paydirt again as Miller (#8) found Jack Hastings again for a 12-yard touchdown, the PAT was no good and the Badgers led 27-0 with 10:25 remaining in the second quarter. Later in the quarter, Miller (#8) wasted no time finding the endzone again for his second touchdown of the game on a 2-yard run, the PAT was no good. Going into halftime the Badgers led 33-0.
Things for the Mustangs got worse in the second half, Berkshire running back Justin Phillips (#4) scored on an 8-yard run to put the Badgers up 40-0.
For the remainder of the game, both teams traded blows, but the game stayed 40-0 in favor of the Badgers of Berkshire.
Next week Grand Valley will be playing back at home week 10 against the Crestwood Red Devils, and the Berkshire Badgers will be traveling to Jack Britt Memorial stadium to take on the Harvey Red Raiders.

LAKERS GRAB FIFTH CONSECUTIVE NAC CHAMPIONSHIP IN WIN OVER HERALDS

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Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas Photography

Andover, OH- Trying to finish strong, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (6-3, 3-0 NAC) asserted their authority over the St. John Heralds (3-6, 1-3 NAC) in a commanding 60-6 victory, securing their fifth consecutive NAC championship. This game was a testament to the Lakers’ unwavering dedication to their powerful rushing attack, led by the dynamic duo of Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston.

The Lakers wasted no time in setting the tone for the game, with Ryan Croston making a statement early in the first quarter. Croston’s 13-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, put Pymatuning Valley on the board at 8-0. Moments later, Vin Narducci of St. John felt the heat of the Lakers’ defense, throwing an interception to Jayce Fulkman. Within moments, Croston was back in the end zone with a 5-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers extended their lead to 16-0.

Despite a brief interception from Croston, the Lakers continued their offensive onslaught with Ty Vickery’s 4-yard touchdown run, although the 2-point conversion was unsuccessful, making the score 22-0. Before the end of the first quarter, Croston connected with Matthew Adkins for a 6-yard touchdown pass, and with another 2-point conversion, the Lakers ended the first quarter with a commanding 30-0 lead.

The Lakers continued their relentless charge into the second quarter, as Ty Vickery scored another touchdown with a 5-yard run, and the 2-point conversion was good, extending their lead to 38-0. Vickery struck again with a 7-yard touchdown run, making it 44-0.

In the third quarter, Croston exhibited his explosive speed with a 48-yard touchdown run, and Ben Crouser successfully converted the 2-point attempt. Jayce Fulkman joined the scoring parade with a 28-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers continued to dominate with a 60-0 lead.

In the fourth quarter, the St. John Heralds managed to avoid a shutout when Ryan Williams scored a 1-yard touchdown run with only 29 seconds left on the clock, but time expired before they could attempt the extra point.

With this convincing victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers not only secured their NAC championship but also secured their spot in the OHSAA state playoffs. Their playoff journey promises to be exciting, and their fans can look forward to the prospect of a 1st round game against the Labrae Vikings with a loss to Windham, or a week 1 rematch against Mineral Ridge in the first round with a win over Windham. The Lakers’ commitment to their running game, exemplified by Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston, was the driving force behind this triumph. As the Lakers head into Week 10, they continue to be a force to be reckoned with, while the St. John Heralds will regroup for their upcoming matchup against the Lincoln West Wolverines.