Tag Archive for: Featured

TIGERS MAUL THE BLUE DEVILS

* CONTRIBUTED BY NOAH DOUGHTY

MCDONALD, OH – The battle on the gridiron between the Springfield Tigers and the McDonald Blue Devils promised to be a thrilling contest. The fans packed the stands, eager to watch their favorite teams clash in a showdown of football prowess.

The game started with the McDonald Blue Devils taking an early lead. With just 3:39 left in the first quarter, Drew Zajack powered his way into the end zone with a hard-fought 4-yard touchdown run. The crowd roared as James Hipple’s extra point split the uprights, giving McDonald a 7-0 lead.

However, the Springfield Tigers were determined to fight back. In the second quarter, with 10:34 left on the clock, Kolten Ruark, the Tigers’ quarterback, showcased his skill by leading a scoring drive that culminated in an 11-yard touchdown run. Kaeson Kosek’s successful extra point tied the game at 7-7, and the Tigers’ faithful fans erupted in cheers.

As the second quarter progressed, the Tigers continued to gain momentum. With 3:10 left on the clock, Kolten Ruark dropped back and delivered a perfect 29-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Dylan Sheely. The crowd watched in awe as the ball sailed through the air, and with Kosek’s extra point, the Tigers took the lead, 14-7.

The third quarter brought even more excitement for the Springfield Tigers. Just 11:15 left on the clock, Kaeson Kosek, who had already proven his kicking prowess, decided to shine on the offensive side. He took a handoff and dashed 6 yards to the end zone, extending the Tigers’ lead to 21-7. His successful extra point added to their advantage, and the Tigers’ supporters were ecstatic.

The Springfield Tigers’ defense, inspired by their offensive success, held strong throughout the remainder of the game. They refused to allow the McDonald Blue Devils to score again, leaving the score at 21-7 when the final whistle blew.

The victory was a testament to the Springfield Tigers’ resilience and determination. They had overcome an early deficit and dominated the game, securing a well-deserved 28-7 win. As the players and fans celebrated under the stadium lights, they knew they had witnessed a memorable performance by the Tigers on that memorable Friday night.

CARDINALS SOAR PAST THE BEARS

* CONTRIBUTED BY ERIC HUGHES

YOUNGSTOWN. OH – It was a chilly Friday evening as the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals took on the East Golden Bears in a thrilling high school football matchup. The excitement in the air was palpable, and both teams were determined to claim victory on the gridiron.

The game kicked off with a burst of energy from the East Golden Bears. Just one minute into the first quarter, running back Thomas Davis exploded with a spectacular 57-yard run. The crowd cheered as Davis showcased his speed and agility. Shortly after, Davis punched the ball into the end zone with a 1-yard touchdown run, giving East an early lead of 6-0. However, their two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

The Cardinal Mooney Cardinals quickly responded, showing their resilience and offensive prowess. With 1:51 left in the first quarter, running back Adyn Page carried the ball 8 yards into the end zone, giving the Cardinals their first touchdown of the game. Kicker Chris Clautti’s extra point was good, and Mooney took the lead, 7-6.

Mooney’s momentum continued to build as the first quarter came to a close. Quarterback Ashton O’Brien displayed his passing skills, connecting with tight end Johnathan Brenner on a 19-yard touchdown pass with just 32 seconds remaining. Chris Clautti’s reliable leg added the extra point, extending Mooney’s lead to 14-6.

The East Golden Bears, however, were not to be outdone. In the second quarter, Thomas Davis struck again with a 6-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 14-12 as their two-point attempt fell short.

But the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals continued to make their presence felt. O’Brien’s arm was on full display as he connected with wide receiver Matt Kay on a 9-yard touchdown pass with 5:21 left in the second quarter. Clautti’s PAT was good, and Mooney’s lead grew to 21-12.

The East Golden Bears refused to back down and clawed their way back into the game. Quarterback Andrew Blackmon orchestrated a drive that culminated in a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Nathaniel Torres. East’s two-point conversion attempt was once again unsuccessful, but they managed to narrow the gap to 21-18 with just 1:27 remaining in the second quarter.

As the clock wound down in the second quarter, Ashton O’Brien had one more trick up his sleeve. He launched a 12-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Tyon Flowers, and with Clautti’s extra point, Mooney’s lead stretched to 28-18.

The second half continued to favor the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals. With 8:45 left in the third quarter, running back Cam Paige powered through with a 4-yard touchdown run, making it 35-18 after Clautti’s PAT.

O’Brien, the talented Mooney quarterback, extended their lead even further with a 19-yard touchdown run, and kicker Mason Janis added the extra point to make it 42-18 with 5:23 left in the game.

Mooney was not finished, and in the final minutes, O’Brien connected with Matt Kay again. This time, it was an 18-yard tip-drill touchdown pass that left the East Golden Bears in disbelief. The extra point attempt was no good, but Mooney sealed the deal with a commanding 48-18 lead.

When the final whistle blew, the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals emerged as the victors, their determination and skill on full display. The win was a testament to their teamwork and resilience, and their fans celebrated this exciting victory on that chilly Friday night under the stadium lights.

VIKINGS SINK THE RED DEVILS

* CONTRIBUTED BY NATE DICROSS

LEAVITTSBURG, OH – The crisp autumn air carried the excitement of Friday night lights as the LaBrae Vikings prepared to face off against the Campbell Memorial Red Devils. The stands were filled with passionate fans, and the anticipation was palpable as the teams took the field.

The game began with a bang as the LaBrae Vikings swiftly asserted their dominance. Just minutes into the first quarter, running back Davin Derry, a true force on the field, broke free from the line of scrimmage. With impeccable speed and agility, he dashed 22 yards for a breathtaking touchdown. The crowd erupted in cheers as Max Young’s extra point sailed through the uprights, giving the Vikings an early 7-0 lead with 9:28 left in the first quarter.

In the second quarter, LaBrae continued to build on their lead. Max Young, the team’s kicker, showcased his skills with a remarkable 35-yard field goal, extending the Vikings’ lead to 10-0 with 10:51 remaining in the second quarter. The crowd’s enthusiasm grew with each successful play.

Then, the Vikings demonstrated their prowess in the passing game. Quarterback Kenny Yoho connected with wide receiver Jay McGarry on a 54-yard touchdown pass. While the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, the Vikings still led 16-0 with 7:24 left in the second quarter. The chemistry between Yoho and McGarry was undeniable, leaving the Red Devils struggling to contain LaBrae’s aerial assault.

As the second quarter wound down, Davin Derry struck again. This time, he showcased his versatility by breaking through the Red Devils’ defense and sprinting 24 yards to the end zone. With Max Young’s PAT, the Vikings now held a commanding 23-0 lead, and there was only 1:27 left in the second quarter.

The Vikings weren’t finished yet. They continued to pour on the points, and this time, it was Derry once more. With just over a minute left in the second quarter, he bulldozed his way into the end zone with a powerful 1-yard run. Max Young’s trusty leg sent the extra point right through the uprights, bringing the score to 30-0 with just 1:10 left in the second quarter. The Red Devils were left reeling, struggling to find an answer to LaBrae’s relentless offensive onslaught.

In the fourth quarter, the Vikings, now firmly in control of the game, decided to put the exclamation point on their victory. Gabe Green, another key player in their arsenal, powered through the Red Devils’ defense with a 4-yard touchdown run. Max Young’s extra point was on point yet again, and the scoreboard read 37-0 with just 5:09 left in the game.

The final whistle blew, and the LaBrae Vikings emerged as the undisputed victors. The 37-0 win was a testament to their exceptional teamwork, skill, and determination. As the players and fans celebrated this resounding victory under the Friday night lights, they knew that the LaBrae Vikings were a force to be reckoned with on the football field.

YOU GOTTA KNOW, DON’T SLEEP ON BEAU

BELOIT OH- For the West Branch Warriors, the departure of star quarterback Dru DeShields left a gaping hole in the roster, and the big question on everyone’s mind was: who would step up to fill those shoes? The answer came in the form of a determined young senior, Beau Alazaus. In his first year as a quarterback, Beau seized the opportunity to lead his team with an emphatic “yes.”

Throughout his football journey, Beau always held the belief that he had what it took to become QB1. It’s a dream that starts in the backyard, throwing the football to oneself, and for Beau, that dream became a reality when he saw the chance to take the reins of the West Branch offense. Like all first-year quarterbacks, nerves were part of the equation, but Alazaus didn’t let them dictate his performance.

As the leader of the Warriors, Beau Alazaus has shown immense growth and composure on the field. Week after week, his stats tell the tale of a talented and hardworking quarterback: 172 completions on 252 attempts, 2,206 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and just 4 interceptions. He maintains an impressive average of 276 passing yards per game and boasts a stellar completion rate of 68%. His quarterback rating stands at 121.9, reflecting his efficiency and ability to make smart decisions under pressure. And let’s not forget, he’s not just a passer; he’s a dual-threat quarterback with four rushing touchdowns to his name.

Beau Alazaus has not only stepped into the role of the starting quarterback for West Branch, but he has embraced the challenges and opportunities that come with it. His leadership, talent, and dedication to the game have not only met the expectations but have set a new standard. The future is bright for this young QB, and the West Branch Warriors couldn’t be in better hands.

Alazaus was able to hop on YSN’s Running Point to talk about his first year under center, the pressures that can come with that, and how easy the program makes it to succeed. Check out the latest West Branch Football Player Profile only on YSN!

Presented By:

PUSHING IT TO THE BRINK

YOUNGSTOWN OH- In the world of high school volleyball, few athletes shine as brightly as Cardinal Mooney’s junior outside hitter, Brinkley Bair. This season, she’s not just back on the court; she’s better than ever, capturing the attention of fans and opponents alike.

After a season on the sidelines, Brinkley’s return has been nothing short of spectacular. Her athleticism is unmatched, making her one of the most exciting players in the Youngstown area. What sets her apart is her impeccable transition. Brinkley’s approach to the ball is lightning fast, leaving opposing blockers struggling to react to her powerful swings.

Her 2023 stats speak volumes about her impact on the team. With 160 kills, she averages an impressive 2.4 kills per set. She’s not just an offensive powerhouse; Brinkley is equally proficient on the defensive end with 112 digs. Her serving skills are nothing to scoff at, contributing 9 aces to her team’s success. Moreover, her ability to block at the net with 17 blocks showcases her versatility.

Brinkley Bair isn’t just a standout player; she’s a fantastic leader for the Cardinal Mooney team. With one more year left in her high school career, there’s no doubt that her journey promises to be an exciting one. Keep an eye on this rising star; the best is yet to come.

Presented By:

CANFIELD THE LONE SHOW IN TOWN ON A THURSDAY NIGHT

HOWLAND OH- In a Thursday night special, the Canfield football team showcased their dominance with a commanding victory over Howland, finishing with a score of 34-7. The Cardinals came out strong in the first quarter and didn’t look back, securing their fifth win of the season.

The opening quarter saw Scottie Eaton making his presence felt with a 24-yard touchdown run, putting Canfield ahead 7-0 with just 1:13 left on the clock.

The second quarter continued the Cardinals’ impressive performance as Danny Inglis hauled in a spectacular 65-yard touchdown reception from Paul Bindas, extending Canfield’s lead to 14-0 with 9:37 left in the second. Howland’s John Perry, the Homecoming King, responded with a 1-yard quarterback sneak touchdown, closing the gap to 14-7 with 3:16 remaining in the half.

However, the Cardinals weren’t done. Scottie Eaton added another touchdown to his name, this time with a 12-yard run, leaving Howland trailing 21-7. This marked the end of a dominant first half for Canfield.

The third quarter started with Canfield leading 28-7 after Scottie Eaton’s remarkable 64-yard touchdown run, showcasing his explosive skills. Eaton’s impressive performance continued as he added another 14-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to 34-7 with 4:02 left in the third. Eaton accumulated an astounding 211 rushing yards in the game, with an incredible 115 yards gained in the third quarter alone.

KNIGHTS HEAD TO POSTSEASON UNBEATEN

By Ty Bartell

GIRARD OH- It has been needless to say, but The Archbishop Hoban Knights volleyball team has been
on an impressive roll! Undefeated this season against a who’s who of regional opponents all with one goal in mind, get to the state final four. Big goals for a talented team, but the most important thing is the confidence that they have not only in themselves, but one another as teammates and friends. Hoban hit the road on Thursday night for a matchup with The Girard Indians for the second time in as many years. In last year’s contest, The Indians took a thrilling five set match from The Knights 3-2, hoping much of the same would replicate itself Thursday night and they can finally hang that first loss on Hoban.

Set one was a fun battle with both teams stopping at various scores, all tied up, along the way. Hoban would pull away with a key rally in the latter stages of the set, capitalizing on some key Girard mistakes, effectively taking the opening set 25-19. Coming out with a fury in set two, The Knight put the pedal to the metal while Girard had trouble getting out of their own way with some uncharacteristic mistakes. The Knights would take full advantage of the errors, blasting The Indians by a score of 25-8 in set two. Leading two sets to none on the road, Hoban was sitting in the driver seat, looking for match win number 20. Girard showed a similar type of fight and intensity as the first set, capturing an early 9-3 lead. However, as Hoban has done some many times this season, they adjusted and mounted a comeback, duplicating the score of the first set with a 25-19 set three victory.

Kathleen “the Dream” Jones got it done behind the service line with 16 service points and 3 aces in the match. Meanwhile, outside hitter Amber Watson led the Knights in kills with 12. The lone senior Sophia Day came one dig shy of a double-double, notching 16 assists and 9 digs in the win. While Hoban used a collective team effort to seal up the net with five different Knights each recording a block during the match!

On the other side, Girard was led by Bree Latell with 7 kills and 7 service points. Bailey Walters led The Indians with 14 assists while pitching in an ace and 5 digs. Alexis Pieton and Nico Cochran each helped the net defense with 2 blocks a piece, while Cochran also contributed with 5 digs.

The win for Hoban (20-0) keeps their undefeated season alive as they have one more regular season matchup where they will stay on the road to meet Cuyahoga-Valley Christian Academy (CVCA) (18-2) on Saturday, October 14th. Meanwhile, Girard (16-6) will now look ahead to the tournament where they will host Northeast 8 conference opponent The Niles Red Dragons (1-17) on Wednesday, October 17th.

Game Photos Can Be Found HERE https://ysn.smugmug.com/10-12-vb-hoban-girard/10-12-vb-girard-hoban

THE “T” IN ADVERSITY

BOARDMAN, OH- In today’s episode, we have a special player profile featuring Tomas Andujar, a standout athlete from Boardman High School.

Despite facing some challenges this season, Tomas has always had a positive outlook and made the best out of every situation. We’ll hear about his resilience, his road to recovery, and how he continues to inspire his teammates both on and off the field. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into Tomas’s journey and learn about his aspirations for the future.

This is an episode you don’t want to miss!

 

PRESENTED  BY

CANFIELD FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 8) WITH MIKE PAVLANSKY

CANFIELD, OH- In this episode, we dive into the Canfield Football Coach’s Corner with the legendary Mike Pavlansky.

Join us as we discuss the team’s recent game against Holy Name and how they graded out. We’ll also take a look ahead to their upcoming matchup against Howland and the challenges they may face playing on a Thursday night.

Plus, Coach Pavlansky shares his thoughts on the impressive senior class and their chance to make school history. So grab a seat and get ready for another exciting episode of YSN Coach’s Corner.

 

PRESENTED BY

A PERFECT TENNEY

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.

 

PRESENTED BY