Tag Archive for: Football

SOUTH RANGE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH TJ IRONS

CANFIELD, OH- In this episode of the YSN’s South Range Coach’s Corner, we join host DJ Yokley at GIAngelo’s in Boardman for the South Range Raiders show. His special guest for the night is the head volleyball coach of the South Range Raiders, TJ Irons. They kick off the conversation by discussing the unusual break in their schedule, with a couple of Tuesdays off in a row.

Coach Irons explains that while it’s strange, volleyball allows for more flexibility in scheduling compared to other sports. The discussion then turns to the tough schedule that the team has had in the past week. Coach Irons recounts the challenging matches against Gerard, East Liverpool, and Lakeview, all of whom are strong teams in their league. Despite the tough competition, the girls came back ready to go after a breather against Western Reserve.  The conversation shifts to the delicate nature of high school sports and how external factors can sometimes affect the team’s performance. Coach Irons mentions that homecoming festivities added a bit of distraction for the girls, with some of them getting their nails and hair done. However, he commends the girls for looking great and having fun at the homecoming dance. Looking ahead to the playoffs, Coach Irons discusses the importance of creating a legacy for the team. He mentions the success of other South Range teams in various sports and how it inspires the volleyball team to believe in their ability to go far in the tournament. The host notes that the girls seem to have adopted a winning mentality from their fellow athletes in the school, with many having brothers on successful teams. With five seniors on the team, Coach Irons emphasizes the special role that they play and the discussions they have about the legacy they want to leave. He acknowledges that thinking about legacy is not easy for high school kids, but they are aware of how fortunate they are to compete with their friends every night. The main focus before every game is to have fun and make the most of the opportunity.

In reflection, Coach Irons is pleased with the team’s progress throughout the season. He mentions the increased emphasis on strength training in the weight room, hoping it will give them an advantage in the upcoming postseason. Overall, it’s a candid and insightful discussion about the challenges and aspirations of the South Range Raiders volleyball team, as they strive to leave their mark in the playoffs and create a lasting legacy for their school.

 

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ECKERT KEEPS PERSPECTIVE

CANFIELD, OH-  In today’s episode titled “Canfield Player Profile: Tyler Eckert,” we have the pleasure of diving into the life and experiences of Tyler Eckert, the senior inside linebacker and special teams extraordinaire for the Cardinals.

Throughout this conversation with Tyler, we explore the grit and determination he exemplifies week after week, fighting for his spot and making the most of his playing time. As a senior, Tyler understands the fleeting nature of the game and how every snap could be his last, pushing him to give it his all each time he steps onto the field. But what led Tyler to the world of football in the first place? We delve into his early beginnings and his love for the game, instilled in him by his father. From wanting to be the star quarterback or running back, Tyler found his role as a special teams player and spot player, something that his coach greatly values. We explore what it means to him to be singled out by his coach and how it fuels his drive to do whatever it takes for the team.

Football, as we know, teaches valuable life lessons, and Tyler shares some of his insights. Despite facing injuries in the past, Tyler’s perseverance and the support of his team kept him coming back for more. We discuss the importance of resilience and the bond he shares with his teammates – a brotherhood that has grown over the years. But Tyler’s interests extend beyond the football field. We learn about his hobbies, including hunting trips with his uncle, playing video games like Fortnite and Madden on his PS5, and his love for the Philadelphia Eagles, particularly rooting for Jalen Hurts.

Family plays a significant role in Tyler’s life, and he opens up about the influence of his mom, who is his rock, and the lessons his late father taught him about perseverance. We also hear about his older sister, who is currently a freshman in college, and Tyler’s own aspirations to study pharmacy, continuing the family legacy.

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RESERVE RUNS WILD ON WATERLOO

BERLIN CENTER, OH- It was a crisp autumn evening, and the small town of Western Reserve was buzzing with excitement as their high school football team prepared to face off against the Waterloo Vikings. The stands were packed with loyal fans, each sporting the blue and white colors of Western Reserve, while the Vikings’ supporters, though fewer in number, cheered just as passionately.

As the game kicked off, it became apparent that Western Reserve was determined to dominate the field. In the first quarter, Luke Henning, the star Quarterback, showcased his skills with two remarkable touchdowns. The first came from a nine-yard rush, and the second from an impressive sixteen-yard sprint. The Western Reserve fans erupted in joy, their team taking an early lead.

The second quarter was no different, with Western Reserve continuing to pile on the points. Jack Darney powered his way through the Vikings’ defense for a five-yard touchdown. Nate Hemberger added to the lead with a breathtaking 33-yard touchdown run. The crowd roared in approval as Josh Stamp made a spectacular catch in the end zone, securing another 33-yard touchdown. The Vikings struggled to find an answer to Western Reserve’s relentless offense, and the score at halftime stood at 33-0 in favor of the home team.

After the break, the Western Reserve team showed no signs of letting up. In the third quarter, Joey Sigworth made a strong push and managed to score a 10-yard touchdown, extending their lead to 40-0.

In the final quarter, Western Reserve’s dominance continued, but it was now Chris Pater’s time to shine. He accounted for two touchdowns, one with a perfectly placed pass through the air and another with a sensational kickoff return. Western Reserve’s offensive prowess seemed unstoppable, and the score climbed to 54-0.

Despite the lopsided score, the Waterloo Vikings didn’t give up. In the closing moments of the game, their quarterback, Jayden Hakin, managed to break through Western Reserve’s defense with a six-yard rushing touchdown. The Vikings’ fans cheered loudly, celebrating their team’s fighting spirit.

However, it was Western Reserve’s night, and the final score read 61-8 in their favor. The hometown heroes celebrated their victory with a jubilant crowd, improving their record to 6-2 for the season. On the other hand, Waterloo, now with a record of 2-6, looked ahead to the next game with determination, knowing that they had shown resilience in the face of a formidable opponent.

The Western Reserve fans left the stadium that night with a sense of pride and optimism, while the Waterloo Vikings, though defeated, knew they had given it their all on the field. It was a memorable evening of football in Western Reserve, and the spirit of the game lived on in the hearts of the players and fans alike.

*Story Contributed by Chris Colucci

CLIPPERS WONT LET PALESTINE GAIN MOMENTUM

EAST PALESTINE OH- Columbiana asserted their dominance on the road, preventing East Palestine from building a winning streak with a convincing 43-21 victory.

Columbiana’s Liam Surgenavic showcased his skills with six rushes for an impressive 171 yards and a touchdown. Parker Bush contributed to the team’s ground game success with seven carries for 74 yards and two touchdowns. Kian Hartley also made his presence felt, finding the end zone three times despite gaining 26 yards.

Columbiana’s ground attack outshone East Palestine, amassing 300 yards compared to their opponent’s 183.

East Palestine had some standout performers as well, with Owen Jurjavcic leading the rushing efforts with 133 yards on 20 carries, and Jesse Lipp adding 79 yards from 16 carries. Jurjavcic displayed his versatility by completing 13 of 25 passes for 140 yards.

R.J. May emerged as a key target, securing catches for 91 yards and a touchdown. Shane Richardson contributed with four catches for 31 yards, while Noah McKay chipped in with three catches for 18 yards.

RAIDERS CONTINUE DOMINANCE IN NE8

NILES, OH- In another thrilling football clash between the South Range Raiders and the Niles Red Dragons, it was the Raiders who dominated the game, securing a commanding 48-14 victory. The Raiders displayed their offensive prowess early and often, establishing their dominance from the opening quarter.

The first quarter set the tone for the game, with the Raiders jumping to a 14-0 lead.  Blake Ewert dashed for an impressive 11-yard rushing touchdown. Tristan Toy added another 11-yard rushing touchdown, with Logan Butcher making both extra-point attempts.

The second quarter continued to favor South Range as Aidan Dominguez scored a 1-yard rushing touchdown, further extending their lead. Michael Chadbourne contributed to the scoring frenzy with a 19-yard rushing touchdown. The Raiders headed into halftime with a commanding 30-0 lead.

Niles managed to break their silence in the third quarter when Antaun Gardner unleashed a spectacular 70-yard rushing touchdown, putting points on the board for the Red Dragons. Anthony Georgalas added the extra point.

The fourth quarter saw both teams finding the endzone. Aidan Dominguez of the Raiders rushed for a 3-yard touchdown, with Logan Butcher successfully converting the extra point. Niles, showing their resilience, responded with a 15-yard rushing touchdown by Antaun Gardner, and Georgalas added the extra point. However, the Raiders sealed the game with a remarkable 70-yard rushing touchdown by Aidan Dominguez, putting the final nail in the coffin.

The game showcased South Range’s dominance on both sides of the ball, with a well-balanced offensive attack and a stout defensive performance. The Raiders demonstrated their ability to score from various positions and secured their victory convincingly.

For South Range, Tristan Toy made his mark with 97 yards through the air on four completions, while racking up 71 yards and a score on the ground.  Aidan Dominguez averaged 13 yards a carry on the ground on 8 carries going for 104 yards and three scores.  Blake Ewert would finish the night as the leader in rushing yards with 137 yards and a score on 15 attempts.  Gaven Nagy led the Raiders in receptions with three catches for 37 yards, while Brady Crumbacher had a 60-yard reception.

Defensively, Gus Valentine had four tackles to pace South Range, while Dominguez, and Dylan Smesko each had three apiece.

For Niles, standout senior Antuan Gardner was able to garner 109 yards and two scores on 12 carries, which is a feat against the stout Raider defense.  Josh McCoy had 69 yards on two carries as well.  Anthony Budak completed just four completions out of 19 for a total of thirty yards in the contest.

The Raiders (7-1, 5-0) will invite Louisville to Rominger Stadium in Week 9, while Niles (5-3, 2-2) will travel to take on Struthers.  Both games will be LIVE on YSN.

 

PASTA KINGS; LISBON RUNS PAST LEETONIA

LEETONIA, OH- In an electrifying EOAC football contest between the Lisbon Blue Devils and the Leetonia Bears, fans were treated to a showcase of incredible talent and record-breaking performances on both sides of the field. As the final whistle blew, it was Lisbon who emerged victorious with a resounding 50-23 win, but the game was filled with standout moments.

The first quarter set the tone for the high-scoring affair. Leetonia got on the board early with a 67-yard pass, showing their offensive firepower. However, Lisbon’s Ashton Hinchliffe wasted no time responding. Hinchliffe, with over 1,000 rushing yards on the season, broke free for a spectacular 46-yard rushing touchdown, setting a record for rushing yards in a quarter. Ben Weber’s successful PAT evened the score at 7-7. Hinchliffe wasn’t done yet, as he continued to shine with a lightning-fast 47-yard rush, putting the Blue Devils ahead 14-7 after Weber’s PAT.

In the second quarter, Lisbon’s Trevor Siefke, who had accumulated over 1,000 passing yards on the season, showcased his dual-threat abilities with a 26-yard rushing touchdown, extending their lead to 21-7. Logan Stauffer then etched his name in the school record books with a remarkable 33-yard punt return for a touchdown. Hinchliffe added another rushing touchdown, and Lisbon took a commanding 37-7 lead into halftime.

The third quarter saw Hinchliffe continue his incredible night with a zero-yard rushing touchdown, pushing the lead to 43-7 in favor of Lisbon.

Leetonia mounted a comeback effort in the fourth quarter, scoring multiple touchdowns and conversions, but Lisbon’s Logan Stauffer wasn’t finished making history. Stauffer, who had already set a school record for receiving yards in a season, connected with Trevor Siefke for a spectacular 71-yard touchdown pass, securing the 50-23 victory for the Blue Devils.

This game showcased the exceptional talents of both teams, with record-breaking performances and moments that will be remembered by fans and players alike. Lisbon celebrated their well-deserved win, while Leetonia displayed their resilience with a strong fourth-quarter showing. Football enthusiasts can’t help but look forward to more thrilling contests in the EOAC as the season progresses.

CARDINALS LOOK FRESH OFF THE BYE

CANFIELD OH- The Canfield Cardinals returned from their bye week with a burst of energy, securing a commanding victory over Parma Heights Holy Name with a final score of 42-9.

In the first quarter, Canfield wasted no time getting on the board as running back Scottie Eaton powered his way to a 4-yard rushing touchdown. Kicker Ethan Rittenour successfully added the extra point, giving Canfield an early 7-0 lead.

The second quarter saw Holy Name making a defensive play with DB Aiden Butler tackling Scottie Eaton in the end zone for a safety, earning their first points of the game. However, Canfield responded swiftly, with Eaton scoring his second rushing touchdown of the night, this time from 3 yards out. Rittenour’s successful PAT extended Canfield’s lead to 14-2.

The third quarter showcased Canfield’s versatility, as Scottie Eaton returned a kick 90 yards for an electrifying touchdown. Rittenour’s PAT was good, bringing the score to 21-2. The Cardinals continued to build their lead with quarterback Paul Bindas racing 40 yards for another touchdown, and Rittenour’s PAT made it 28-2. Eaton wasn’t done yet, breaking free for a spectacular 72-yard rushing touchdown, and Rittenour’s PAT was on target, giving Canfield a commanding 35-2 lead.

In the fourth quarter, Holy Name managed to find the end zone with running back Nicholas Nemeth scoring a 1-yard rushing touchdown. Chase Jozity successfully added the PAT, narrowing the gap to 35-9. Canfield responded swiftly, as wide receiver Anthony Mazzella added to the scoreboard with a 15-yard rushing touchdown. Rittenour’s PAT was good once again, sealing the victory for Canfield with a final score of 42-9.

The Canfield Cardinals showcased their prowess on both sides of the ball, returning from their bye week with a convincing win and an impressive offensive display led by Scottie Eaton’s remarkable performance.

SPRINGFIELD CONTAINS THE RAMS

* CONTRIBUTED BY NOAH DOUGHTY

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – Under a clear and starry night sky, the Springfield Tigers and the Mineral Ridge Rams squared off in a thrilling football showdown. The anticipation in the air was palpable as fans from both sides filled the stands, eager to witness a battle of skill and determination.

The Tigers wasted no time making their presence felt. Just 7 minutes and 23 seconds into the game, Kaeson Kosek, the star running back, powered through the Rams’ defensive line with a determined 4-yard run for a touchdown. Kaeson himself followed it up with a successful extra point, giving Springfield an early 7-0 lead.

The Tigers’ momentum continued to build. Kaeson Kosek struck again, this time with a 10-yard touchdown run. With another precise extra point by Kaeson, Springfield now led 14-0 with 7:05 left in the second quarter.

But the Rams weren’t ready to concede just yet. With 2 minutes and 16 seconds left in the third quarter, Luke Porter booted a 27-yard field goal through the uprights, putting Mineral Ridge on the board at 14-3. The Tigers roared back in the fourth quarter, demonstrating their offensive prowess. Kolten Raurk powered his way into the end zone with a determined 1-yard touchdown run, extending Springfield’s lead to 20-3 with 9:18 left on the clock. However, the extra point attempt was no good. Kaeson Kosek, who had already shown his scoring ability, displayed his accuracy as a kicker. With 5 minutes and 3 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, he confidently kicked a 37-yard field goal, further extending Springfield’s lead to 23-3.

The Rams, facing a significant deficit, fought valiantly. With just 1 minute and 23 seconds left in the game, Owen Shingledecker connected with Brady Balestrino on a 36-yard touchdown pass, giving Mineral Ridge their first touchdown of the night. Although they narrowed the gap to 23-10, the clock was not in their favor.

As the final seconds ticked away, the Springfield Tigers celebrated a hard-earned victory. Their offense had shone brightly, and their defense had stood strong against the Rams. It was a night of excitement and skillful plays, and the Tigers emerged victorious under the Friday night lights.

REBELS SURGE PAST FLASHES

* CONTRIBUTED BY TONY PERAZIO

 COLUMBIANA, OH – The stage was set for an exciting matchup between the Crestview Rebels and the Champion Golden Flashes. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the two teams clashed under the Friday night lights, eager to prove their worth on the gridiron.

Early in the first quarter, Colin Cope, the Rebels’ reliable kicker, lined up for a 28-yard field goal attempt. With precision and poise, he sent the football soaring through the uprights, putting Crestview on the scoreboard at 3-0 with 4:47 remaining in the quarter. The Golden Flashes weren’t to be outdone, and they answered back with a field goal of their own, making it 3-3. The game was shaping up to be a tightly contested battle.

As the clock ticked down towards the end of the first quarter, the Rebels’ offense came alive. Max Hawkins, took a handoff and bulldozed his way into the end zone with a powerful 4-yard touchdown run. With just 25 seconds left, Crestview now led 8-3.

The second quarter brought even more excitement. Christian Williams powered through the Rebels’ defense with a 1-yard touchdown run, giving Champion the lead, 10-8 with 9:24 left in the half. The Rebels, however, weren’t about to let the game slip away. They responded with a touchdown of their own, taking the lead 14-10 with just 44 seconds left in the half.

Max Hawkins, who showcased his incredible speed and agility. He broke free on a 49-yard touchdown run, putting Crestview ahead 23-10 with 1:05 left in the third quarter. The fourth quarter continued to be dominated by the Rebels. Max Hawkins added to his impressive night with a 4-yard touchdown run, making the score 30-10 with 11:41 remaining. The Golden Flashes were desperate to mount a comeback, but their hopes were dashed when Shane Bacon, a tenacious defensive player, pounced on a fumbled ball in the end zone for a touchdown. With just 4:13 left in the game, the Rebels held a commanding 37-10 lead.

As the final seconds ticked away, the Crestview Rebels celebrated their hard-fought victory. It was a night to remember, with Max Hawkins leading the charge and the defense sealing the deal. The Rebels had shown their mettle and emerged victorious under the Friday night lights.

WARRIORS ROLL RED DEVILS

* CONTRIBUTED BY NATE DICROSS

BROOKFIELD, OH – The Brookfield Warriors took the field with determination in their hearts, ready to face off against their MVAC rivals, the Campbell Memorial Red Devils. The crowd buzzed with anticipation as the teams lined up for the kickoff, and the game began with a bang.

It didn’t take long for the Warriors to make their mark. Just minutes into the first quarter, Rico Smith, the star running back, took the ball six yards to the end zone for a touchdown. The crowd erupted in cheers as Brianna Smith’s extra point sailed through the uprights, putting Brookfield ahead 7-0 with 9:34 left in the first quarter.

The Warriors were on fire, and they weren’t about to let up. Kaiden Kirila showcased his speed and agility with an 18-yard touchdown run, followed by another successful extra point by Brian Smith. The scoreboard now showed 14-0 in Brookfield’s favor, with 4:31 left in the first quarter.

Brookfield’s defense was equally impressive. CJ Campana intercepted a pass and returned it 37 yards for a touchdown, extending their lead to 21-0 with just 1:22 left in the first quarter.

As the game moved into the second quarter, the Warriors showed no signs of slowing down. Rico Smith added another touchdown to his name with a one-yard run, and Brian Smith’s PAT was good, making it 28-0 with 10:45 left in the second quarter.

Kaiden Kirila was not to be outdone and broke free for a 37-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to 35-0 with 7:52 left in the second quarter.

The Red Devils were struggling to find their footing, and Brookfield’s defense continued to shine. Despite a missed extra point attempt in the third quarter after Rico Smith’s four-yard touchdown run, the Warriors held an imposing 42-0 lead with 2:44 left on the clock.

In the fourth quarter, the Warriors decided to showcase their passing game. Quarterback Josh Rankin connected with Brett Carsone on a spectacular 60-yard touchdown pass. Brian Smith’s PAT was good, extending the lead to 48-0 with 10:11 left in the game.

With the game seemingly out of reach, the Campbell Memorial Red Devils didn’t give up. Kevin Timlin broke free for a stunning 70-yard touchdown run, and Nash Thomas successfully converted a two-point attempt, putting the Red Devils on the board with 6:43 left in the game. The score was now 48-8 in favor of Brookfield.

As the final minutes ticked away, the Warriors’ victory was sealed. The Brookfield faithful celebrated a dominant performance by their team, one that showcased their talent on both offense and defense. It was a game to remember, and the Warriors had certainly left their mark on the gridiron that day.