Tag Archive for: Fitch

BOARDMAN BOYS TAKE GOLD AT MAHONING COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS

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AUSTINTOWN, OH- This past Saturday marked a momentous occasion for Boardman High School as they clinched the Mahoning County Track and Field Championship, a feat they hadn’t achieved since 2010. It was a spectacular end to fourteen years of waiting, with the Spartans toppling the defending champions, Austintown Fitch, by a narrow 6-point lead, 171 to 165.

Senior Aiden Berg was a standout performer, earning MVP honors after winning the 400 meters and taking third in both the 100 and 200 meters. His efforts were crucial in helping Boardman rally from a 26-point deficit to capture the title.

The Spartans set the tone early, grabbing a first-place finish in the 4×800 relay thanks to the efforts of junior David D’Altorio, senior Ethan Boots, sophomore Adam Nigro, and freshman Jonathan Burgos-Perez. The momentum continued with freshman Ethan Timblin securing sixth in the 110H, and the Spartan 4×200 relay team placing seventh.

Brock Farris shined in the middle distances, winning the 1600 and later the 800, with Boots and Nigro also snagging top spots in their events. In the sprints, besides Berg’s heroics, Sava Crnjak took fourth in the 400 meters.

The field events also saw Boardman athletes excelling. Robrick Taylor won the high jump, while Kayant Fontanez-Waid and Santino Radjukovic made their marks in the long jump and discus, respectively. The younger competitors also showed up big, with sophomores like Ahmed Mohammed and James Mitchell and juniors like Isaiah Doyle and Chase Conner making significant contributions.

The championship was ultimately sealed in the final event, the 4×400 meter relay, where Boots, Nigro, Crnjak, and Farris dominated, winning by a staggering 10 seconds.

Head Coach John Phillips couldn’t contain his pride, stating, “I am so proud of the effort from our kids, and the leadership from our seniors. We didn’t start off very well today, but the team held it together—that’s a huge credit to them and to our coaching staff. We are putting a lot on the shoulders of freshmen and sophomores this year, and those young kids really stepped up today in big moments. I am so happy for our seniors, they deserve this. This was fun and we will enjoy it, but we have a lot to improve on so it’s back to work this week.”

FALCONS CAN’T MATCH WEST BRANCH OFFENSE

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AUSTINTOWN, OH- Last Friday turned into a tough outing for the Austintown-Fitch Falcons as they fell 5-1 to the West Branch Warriors.

The game started off slow, but West Branch got things rolling in the second inning when Jeremiah Thomas knocked a single to put the first run on the board. Not to be outdone, Mason Petridis responded for the Falcons with a homer to left field after battling through a 7-pitch at-bat, tying the game up at one apiece in the bottom of the second.

However, the Warriors quickly regained their lead in the third thanks to Hunter Shields, who ripped a double to bring in another run, pushing West Branch ahead 2-1.

Anthony Perry was the standout on the mound for West Branch, giving up just one run on six hits over nearly seven innings, striking out five and walking one. Over on the Falcons’ side, Nik Kyprianou took the loss after giving up two runs in just over two innings of work. Carter Owens started the game for the Falcons, pitching two solid innings and Gavin Bell closed it out to earn the save for the Warriors.

Petridis had a good day despite the loss, going 2-for-3 and driving in the Falcons’ only run. Frank Senediak also had a pair of hits, showing some resilience in the Falcons’ lineup.

West Branch, meanwhile, showcased their aggressive baserunning, stealing five bases throughout the game. Aaron Tucker and Boston Mulinix were particularly pesky on the paths, each snagging multiple bases. The Warriors’ defense was on point too, with Tucker involved in six plays, helping his team to keep a clean sheet without any errors.

West Branch’s lineup had a strong showing at the plate, racking up nine hits. Shields was especially effective, driving in three runs and going 2-for-4.

The Falcons are looking to turn things around in their next game against the Boardman Spartans on Monday. They’ll be hoping to tighten up their game and get back on the winning track.

WATTS FINDS PERFECTION TO GIVE LOUISVILLE THEIR FIRST LOSS

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LOUISVILLE OH- The Austintown-Fitch Falcons softball team handed The Louisville Leopards their first loss of the season by a score of 10-0 in seven innings. Charged by a Sydnie Watts perfect game, her fourth in her high school career, The Falcons jumped ahead early with a four run top of the first with two-run blasts by both Abby Toth, her first of the season and Morgan Roby, her first over-the-fence in high school, to give Fitch the early 4-0 advantage.

Supplying more offense in the top of the second, The Falcons senior shortstop Ayla Ray belted a two-run shot, her team-leading eighth of the season, bringing in RBI 23 and 24 which also leads the team! Watts mirrored the bottom of the second inning with the bottom of the first as she struck out two batters and forced one popup to get through to clean frames with The Falcons up 6-0 over The Leopards.

Fitch added a run in in the top of the fifth when Kylie Folkwein crushed her third home run of the season as she sent a towering shot over the pine tree in left-center field! Through five innings, Fitch led 7-0.
The final runs of the game came in the top of the seventh when Sydnie Watts continued her games with a home run streak to three with a three-run shot to left, her fourth of the year, putting Austintown up 10-0. Watts would be even more impressive in the bottom of the seventh when she struck out two batters, totaling 12, to complete her fourth perfect game and 13th no-hitter in her high school career, doing it in just 72 pitches! As The Georgia Tech commit continues to dazzle.

Austintown-Fitch (9-1) will now get some rest after winning three games in three days when they travel to Boardman (7-5) on Monday, April 22nd with a 5 p.m. first pitch. Meanwhile,

Louisville (10-1) will look to bounce back against GlenOak (4-2) when they host The Golden Eagles on Friday, April 19th.

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

DARNLEY DIALS IN; FITCH FLIES PAST MOONEY

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AUSTINTOWN, OH- The Austintown-Fitch Falcons delivered a powerhouse performance on Monday, securing a resounding 10-2 victory over the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals. From the first pitch to the final out, the Falcons showcased their prowess on both offense and defense, leaving their opponents in the dust.

The Falcons wasted no time asserting their dominance, putting runs on the board early and often. Mason Petridis set the tone in the first inning with a clutch double that drove in a crucial run, giving Austintown-Fitch an early lead.

Building on their momentum, the Falcons continued to pile on the pressure in the second inning. Frank Senediak’s well-timed single extended the lead to 3-0, setting the stage for what would be a commanding performance.

A relentless offensive onslaught saw Austintown-Fitch adding to their lead in the third inning, with Rocco DiFlorio’s sacrifice groundout bringing another run across the plate, further solidifying their control of the game.

The sixth inning proved to be the Falcons’ crowning moment, as they exploded for four more runs to put the game out of reach for Cardinal Mooney. Nik Kyprianou and Jake Wallace came through in the clutch with timely singles, while Hayden Warmouth’s towering homer to center field put the exclamation point on Austintown-Fitch’s commanding lead.

On the mound, John Darnley delivered a stellar performance, stifling Cardinal Mooney’s offense and earning the well-deserved win for the Falcons. Darnley’s five and one-third innings of work saw him allowing just one run on four hits, while striking out three and walking two.

Despite a valiant effort from Cardinal Mooney’s William Petty, who racked up six strikeouts, it was ultimately not enough to contain the Falcons’ potent lineup.

Austintown-Fitch’s offensive firepower was on full display, with Petridis, Carter Owens, and Senediak each contributing two hits to the team’s impressive tally. Petridis, Warmouth, and Senediak also played key roles in driving in runs, while Owens showcased his speed on the basepaths with two stolen bases.

Defensively, the Falcons remained solid throughout, working the count and drawing six walks to keep the pressure on Cardinal Mooney. With four stolen bases in the game, Austintown-Fitch proved to be a force to be reckoned with in all facets of the game.

The Cardinals showed flashes of what could be at times on offense, with Taco Verroco going 2-for-4 at the plate to lead the team in hits, while Ben Oddis went 1-for-3 with a double, RBI, and a run scored.

As they look ahead to their next matchup, Austintown-Fitch Varsity Falcons are poised to continue their winning ways as they take on the Lakeside Dragons at home on Wednesday. 

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CANFIELD TAKES THEIR SHOT, SNAPS FALCONS LONG WIN STREAK

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By Ty Bartell 

CANFIELD, Ohio — The Austintown-Fitch varsity softball team suffered its first loss since May 28, 2022, ending a remarkable streak of 682 calendar days and 28 games without defeat in a drenching-thunderstorm ending 2-1 setback to All-American Conference neighboring rival Canfield.

The showdown unfolded Tuesday at Field #7 at McCune Park, where mother nature intervened with two outs in the Fitch 7th inning. Junior second baseman Sam Severn stood at third base, carrying the tying run. Severn had reached base with an infield single, advanced to second on a sacrifice, and then moved to third on a wild pitch by Canfield’s senior pitcher Malena Toth. As sophomore pinch-hitter Lily Stevens battled Toth in a tense at-bat, the skies opened up with intense thunder, lightning, and rain, forcing the umpires to clear the field. After a 10-minute delay and no signs of the weather letting up, the game was called due to at least five full innings being completed.

The last time Fitch faced a non-win was a 1-1 tie against Canfield on May 29, 2023. Both teams later competed in State title games on June 3, 2023, with Fitch clinching the Division I championship and Canfield coming up just short to Tallmadge.

The game showcased a classic pitcher’s duel between Lady Cardinal senior Malena Toth (7-1) and Lady Falcon junior Sydnie Watts (4-1). Toth, who secured her first win against Fitch in six career starts, was instrumental in both of Canfield’s runs, drawing a leadoff walk in the 2nd inning and hitting a crucial double in the 6th inning. Canfield’s sophomore designated player, Caylee Ortiz, and catcher Leah Figueroa were pivotal in driving in the runs.

Despite a valiant effort from Watts, who struck out nine batters over six innings, she could not slam the door shut with two down in the bottom of the sixth. Watts yielded five hits and two earned runs, while Toth allowed four hits and one earned run while striking out six.

Figueroa emerged as the hero for Canfield, delivering the game-winning RBI single in the bottom of the sixth inning. Her clutch performance earned her Player of The Game honors.

With this loss, Fitch moves to a 4-1 record, while Canfield improves to 7-1. Canfield will next host the Boardman Spartans (5-3) on Wednesday, April 10th, while Fitch will seek to bounce back against conference opponent, the Warren Harding Raiders, also on Wednesday in Warren, Ohio.

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

FALCONS KEEP WINNING WAYS IN THE GRAND STRAND

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MYRTLE BEACH, SC- The Fitch Falcons were on full flex with their offensive firepower, Carter Owens propelled the Austintown Fitch Falcons to a resounding 12-3 victory over the Ashland Tomcats 2024 on Friday.

Owens showcased his hitting prowess throughout the game, collecting an impressive three hits in four at-bats. His contributions at the plate proved instrumental in the Falcons’ offensive onslaught, as he singled in the third, fifth, and seventh innings, keeping the pressure on the Tomcats’ pitching staff.

Fitch wasted no time establishing their dominance, jumping out to an early lead in the top of the first inning. Jackson Cheeks drew a walk, Carson Fuller scored after tagging up, and Hayden Warmouth delivered a key RBI single, each contributing to the Falcons’ early scoring spree.

The Falcons continued to add to their lead in the third inning, with Jake Wallace’s double and Owens’ single driving in additional runs, further solidifying Austintown-Fitch’s control of the game.

On the mound, Anthony Wibert delivered a solid performance for the Falcons, earning the win as the starting pitcher. Wibert surrendered seven hits and two runs over five innings, striking out five batters and issuing just one walk. The Falcons’ pitching staff held firm against the Tomcats’ offense, stifling their scoring opportunities and preserving Austintown-Fitch’s commanding lead.

While the Tomcats fought valiantly, Drew Kelley endured a tough outing on the mound, taking the loss after giving up five runs on six hits over two and one-third innings. Austintown-Fitch’s relentless offensive attack proved too much to handle for the Ashland pitching staff, as they struggled to contain the Falcons’ potent lineup.

Offensively, Austintown-Fitch was firing on all cylinders, amassing an impressive 16 hits in the game. Cheeks led the charge with three RBIs, while Fuller, Frank Senediak, and Ross Harris also contributed with multiple hits each. Mason Petridis displayed patience at the plate, drawing two walks to keep the Falcons’ offense rolling.

Defensively, Austintown-Fitch was solid, turning one double play and committing no errors in the field. Wallace showcased his defensive prowess with the most chances in the field at eight, ensuring the Falcons’ victory remained secure.

With this convincing victory under their belts, the Fitch Falcons finish their beach party with a 3-1 record and are primed and ready for their next challenge as they prepare to face Harding on Monday. 

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.

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.

GLEN OAK SNEAKS PAST THE FALCONS

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By Tim Corso 


AUSTINTOWN OH- Glen Oak snuck past Fitch 53-50 in boys’ basketball action Tuesday Night.

In what was a back-and-forth game all night, the Eagles used Ja’Corey Lipkins’ 31-point effort to shoot down the Falcons in their own gym.

Lipkins knocked down two clutch free throws to put the lead at three with just 3.5 seconds remaining.

The game wasn’t all Glen Oak as Fitch got out to a 9-0 start, forcing the Eagles to use a timeout after going scoreless for more than half of the first quarter.

Whatever adjustments Canton made worked as they got the deficit down to just three heading into the half.

Late into the third quarter, Lipkins took over.

He knocked down a pair of three-pointers in what turned a 35-34 Falcon lead into a 42-35 Glen Oak lead.

For most of the night, whatever Lipkins threw at Fitch, DeShawn Vaughn and Marcel Finkley had an answer for it.

Finkley answered multiple Eagle three-pointers and hit the clutch shot to tie the game late.

Vaughn also hit a couple big shots down the stretch to keep his squad in the game.

When it came down to it, Finkley’s 24 and Vaughn’s 12 weren’t enough to propel Fitch past Glen Oak and Lipkins.

Neither team had another place reach double-figures on the night.

Glen Oak improves to 13-5, while Fitch drops to 10-7.

FITCH OWNS OVERTIME

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By Tim Corso


AUSTINTOWN OH- Fitch used a big overtime push to get past Ursuline 73-64 Friday Night.

The Falcons got off to a fast start to begin the game with a 7-2 run. Unfortunately for the Falcons, that spark didn’t last long.

They held a slim lead after one quarter, but the Irish got things going.

Jayden Payne was a force in the paint and on the glass forcing the Falcons into many difficult shots.

His strong post-game helped bring the Irish back.

He would end up finishing the night with 12 points.

It was until the end of the first half that Ursuline got going. Down 20-18 late in the second frame, Ursuline went on a 15-0 run to end the first half. That run included multiple big three-pointers from Jaylen Gunther.

Gunther ended the game with 13 points.

Then, the second half…and it was all Fitch.

A once 15-point lead shrunk to just three after the third quarter. A lot of that was due to the stellar play of Deshawn Vaughn.

Vaughn hit a game-high four shots from deep as apart of his 26-point showing. His 19 points in the second half, and overtime was just the push the Falcons needed.

Vaughn made a big shot late that was answered by Gunther’s two free throws to send it to overtime.

In the extra session, Allen and Allex hill used their length and athleticism to shut down the glass and finish the game strong. Fitch outscored Ursuline 11-2 in the period.

On top of Vaughn’s big night, Marcel Finkley (14), Allex Hill (12), and Carter Owens (10) also reached double figures for the Falcons.

For the Irish, Geno Lucente (20) joined Gunther and Payne in double-figures in the setback.

For Fitch (10-6) they’ll take host Canton Glen Oak on Tuesday, 2/6.

As for Ursuline (12-3), they’ll have a quick turnaround and take on the South Range Raiders, tomorrow 2/3.