Tag Archive for: Football

EAGLES SOAR PAST THE BEARS

* CONTRIBUTED BY DEREK RHODES

LEETONIA, OH – The excitement in the air was palpable, and the fans filled the stands with eager anticipation. Both teams had their sights set on victory, but as the game unfolded, it was clear that the Eagles were soaring to new heights.

The first quarter saw both teams locked in a battle of wills, with neither side giving an inch. But as the clock ticked down, the Eagles’ offense began to show its teeth. At 8 minutes and 32 seconds, the game-changing moment arrived.

Andrew Ogilvie, the Eagles’ star running back, took a handoff from quarterback Luke Courtney and burst through the line of scrimmage with blazing speed. With every stride, he left defenders in his wake. At last, he crossed the goal line with a 17-yard touchdown run. The stadium erupted in cheers as the Eagles took an early 7-0 lead after a successful PAT by their reliable kicker.

The Eagles’ momentum was unstoppable. Less than a minute later, at 7 minutes and 56 seconds, Ogilvie struck again, this time with a 2-yard touchdown run. The crowd was on its feet as the Eagles’ offense continued to shine. The PAT was good, and United led 14-0.

With the Bears struggling to find answers, Luke Courtney showcased his passing skills. He connected with Tyler Newburn on a beautiful 36-yard completion, setting up a 1-yard quarterback sneak by Courtney himself. In the blink of an eye, the Eagles extended their lead to 21-0 with another successful PAT.

But the Eagles were far from finished. Andrew Ogilvie, the game’s standout performer, added another touchdown to his name with a 3-yard rushing score at 3 minutes and 9 seconds remaining in the first half. The PAT was good, and the Eagles soared to a commanding 28-0 lead.

The Bears couldn’t catch a break, and the Eagles didn’t let up. With just 2 minutes and 23 seconds left in the half, Ogilvie found the end zone once more, this time with a 4-yard touchdown run. The extra point was successful, and the Eagles led 35-0, leaving the Bears reeling.

As the game wore on, the Eagles’ defense stood tall, denying the Bears any opportunity to claw back into the contest. The final whistle sounded, and the scoreboard read United Eagles 35, Leetonia Bears 0.

It was a dominant performance by the United Eagles, with Andrew Ogilvie leading the way with five touchdowns on the night. The crowd cheered their team’s triumph, and the Eagles celebrated their resounding victory under the Friday night lights.

CHAMPION STIFFLES CAMPBELL MEMORIAL

CONTRIBUTED BY NATE DICROSS

CAMPBELL, OH – It was a crisp, autumn evening, and the excitement in the air was palpable as the Champion Golden Flashes prepared to take on the Campbell Memorial Red Devils. The stadium was packed with eager fans, their cheers echoing through the chilly night. The first quarter had been a defensive battle, with neither team managing to penetrate the other’s end zone. But as the second quarter began, the game’s momentum was about to change in a dramatic fashion.

With just over three minutes remaining in the second quarter, the Golden Flashes’ defense stepped up in a big way. The Red Devils, trying to mount a drive and break the deadlock, were moving the ball steadily downfield. But the Champion defense had other plans. As Campbell Memorial took a run off the edge, defensive lineman Michael Sanders exploded off the line of scrimmage with a burst of speed that left the offensive line stunned. With a perfectly timed swipe of his massive hand, Sanders knocked the ball out. The stadium gasped in unison as the football tumbled towards the ground. Without missing a beat, Connor McDermott pounced on the loose ball, scooping it up with a single fluid motion. The crowd erupted in cheers as he turned and sprinted downfield with the pigskin cradled in his arms. His teammates raced alongside him, providing crucial blocks and clearing a path to the end zone.

With every step, it seemed as though McDermott was fueled by the energy of the roaring crowd. He streaked downfield, running 40 yards with the football. The end zone beckoned, and as he crossed the goal line, he spiked the ball in celebration.

With the crowd still buzzing, the Golden Flashes lined up for the extra point attempt. The snap was clean, the hold was perfect, and the kicker’s boot was good. The extra point sailed through the uprights, and Champion now led 7-0 with just three minutes remaining in the second quarter.

Despite a valiant effort, the Campbell Memorial Red Devils found themselves struggling to gain any momentum. The Golden Flashes’ defense continued to stifle their offense, forcing turnovers left and right. By the end of the game, the Red Devils had committed a total of five turnovers, a testament to Champion’s tenacious defense.

As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard remained unchanged: Champion Golden Flashes 7, Campbell Memorial Red Devils 0. It was a hard-fought victory for Champion, as they improved to 1-6 on the season. Connor McDermott’s remarkable 40-yard fumble recovery had made all the difference, and the Golden Flashes and their fans celebrated their triumph on that memorable autumn evening.

RED DEVILS DOUBLE THREAT

CAMPBELL, OH – The Campbell Memorial Red Devils have bright spots all over the field, two of those athletes are Jacob Tovarniak and Dre Brown. Jacob, a cornerstone of the Campbell Memorial football team, is a junior who wears multiple hats as an offensive tackle and defensive end. Standing tall and powerful on the offensive line, Tovarniak is a force to be reckoned with, consistently protecting his teammates and creating opportunities for his offense to shine. On the defensive side, his relentless pursuit of the quarterback and ability to disrupt plays have made him a formidable presence. Beyond the field, Jacob is known for his leadership, often motivating his teammates to give their best both on and off the field. With an eye on college football and a strong work ethic, Jacob Tovarniak embodies the spirit of Campbell Memorial’s football program and is sure to leave an indelible mark on the sport.

Dre Brown, the youngest addition to the Campbell Memorial football family, is a promising freshman sensation who is making his first start as a running back and defensive back this week. His explosive speed and agility have made him a standout player, particularly in the running game, where he has a knack for breaking through defenses. On defense, Dre’s keen instincts and ability to read plays make him a valuable asset in stopping the opposition. Dre’s dedication to improving his skills is undeniable, and his enthusiasm for the game is contagious. As he continues to improve, Brown is poised to become a prominent figure in Campbell Memorial’s football legacy, symbolizing the bright future of the program.

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CAMPBELL MEMORIAL RED DEVILS FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP. 7) WITH ANDREW KING

CAMPBELL, OH – Head coach Andrew King and the Campbell Memorial Red Devils are looking to build some momentum in the final weeks of the 2023 regular season. Coming off a tough match up with the Garrettsville Garfield G-Men in week 6, the Red Devils will return home this week as they will take on the Champion Flashes on Friday night.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, was able to sit down with Coach King at Tavern 26 this week to discuss last week’s game at Garrettsville Garfield, what he and his staff have been doing to keep the spirits high and the team focused on the rest of the season, and what his keys to victory are for a very tough opponent in Garrettsville Garfield this week, and so much more.

This week’s episode of Campbell Memorial Red Devils football coach’s corner with head coach Andrew King, is LIVE!

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SPRINGFIELD TIGERS FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP. 7) WITH SEAN GUERRIERO

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – Head coach Sean Guerriero has the Springfield Tigers (4-2) football team hitting hit their stride in the middle of the season as they are now on a three game winning streak and playing exceptional football. Last week the Tigers took on undefeated Jackson-Milton and came away with an impressive 35-10 victory. Up next for Springfield will be another solid football team as the Western Reserve Blue Devils (5-1) will come to town on Friday night.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, was able to catch up with Coach Guerriero this week down at the Tigers Table to talk about the victory last week over previously unbeaten Jackson-Milton, what his thoughts are about the current winning streak for the Tigers, what his expectations are as the regular season begins to wrap up, and what his keys to victory are for this week against another talented team in Western Reserve.

All that and much much more in this week’s episode of Springfield Tigers football coach’s corner with head coach, Sean Guerriero!

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DYNAMIC DANTE

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – Dante Gentile, the dynamic junior running back and linebacker for the Springfield Tigers, is a name that commands respect both on and off the football field. With 559 rushing yards to his name, Dante has emerged as a pivotal player for the Tigers, captivating the hearts of fans and earning the admiration of his teammates. His combination of speed, agility, and an innate sense of the game makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His ability to break tackles and find gaps in the defense has not only led to impressive yardage but also electrifying moments that leave spectators in awe.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, was able to sit down with Dante this week at the Tiger’s Table to discuss the season so far, what it means to be a Springfield Tiger to him, how he wants this season to end, what his goals are moving forward into his senior year, a rapid fire questionnaire where we learn what makes Dante the special player and person he is, and so much more!

This week’s episode of Springfield Tigers football player profile with Dante Gentile is LIVE!

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GROUND AND POUND

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – Kaesen Kosek is one of the leaders for the Springfield Tigers, making a lasting impact on and off the football field. As a junior running back and linebacker, Kaesen has become a force in the area of high school football. His dedication to the game is reflected in his impressive stats as he has tallied 294 rushing yards on the offensive side of the ball and 23 total tackles on defense. These numbers, however, only scratch the surface of his contributions to the team.

Kaesen is known for his relentless work ethic and unwavering commitment to improvement. He spends countless hours practicing his craft, honing his skills as both a ball carrier and a defensive power. His speed, agility, and power on the field have made him a standout player, and he’s a driving force behind the team’s success.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, was able to sit down with Kaesen this week at the Tiger’s Table to talk about his junior season so far, what his plans are for this season and potentially playing college football, how he wants this season to end, and a rapid fire question session where we get to learn more about what makes Kosek the player and person he is.

All that and so much more in this week’s episode of Springfield Tigers football player profile with junior star, Kaesen Kosek!

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NITTOLI NEVER STOPS

POLAND, OH –  The Poland Bulldogs have been paced by a talented senior class that looks to make history this season. One senior, Danny Nittoli, with his remarkable speed and agility, has been a force to reckon with as a running back and linebacker. His ability to navigate through opposing defenses with finesse and his relentless tackling prowess as a linebacker have made him an invaluable asset to the Bulldogs. Beyond his athleticism, Danny’s natural leadership qualities have been instrumental in motivating his teammates to push their limits and strive for excellence. His commitment to the sport extends beyond the field, exemplified by his tireless work ethic in the weight room and on the practice field, setting an inspiring standard for his fellow players.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, was able to sit down with Danny this week at Combine Brothers to talk about his senior season, what his plans are for after high school, how he wants this season to end, and a rapid fire question session where we get to learn more about what makes Nittoli the player and person he is.

All that and so much more in this week’s episode of Poland Bulldogs football player profile with senior star, Danny Nittoli.

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POLAND BULLDOGS FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP. 5) WITH TOM PAVLANSKY

POLAND, OH – Coming off their first loss of the season, head coach Tom Pavlansky and the Poland Bulldogs (5-1) are ready to put that behind them and move into the new week. The Dogs took on a tough South Range (5-1) team in week six and ended up falling just short, 21-7. Up next for Poland is another tough test as they will travel to Niles to take on the 5-1 Red Dragons on Friday night.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie had the opportunity to talk with Coach Pav this week at Combine Brothers to talk about their week six match up with South Range, what he and his staff have to do to correct the mistakes and return to the win column this week, and what Coach’s keys to victory are for week seven against the Niles Red Dragons.

All that and so much more in this week’s episode of Poland Bulldogs football coach’s corner with head coach, Tom Pavlansky!

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SOUTHERN BOUNCES BULLDOGS

SALINEVILLE, OH- Southern Local seized the spotlight during their solitary home football game in a span of five weeks, delivering an impressive 42-7 victory over East Palestine on a memorable Friday evening.

The Indians wasted no time making their mark, as Richie Sloan ignited the scoreboard with a dazzling 43-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, setting the tone at 7-0. Shortly thereafter, Ryan Exline showcased his speed with a remarkable 64-yard touchdown run, further extending the lead. Timmy Potts then exhibited his passing prowess, connecting with Markell Smith on a 31-yard touchdown strike that sent Southern ahead 21-0 by the close of the opening quarter.

The second quarter began with a defensive standout moment when Markell Smith intercepted a pass and dashed an astounding 80 yards into the end zone for yet another Southern touchdown. With a mere 2:24 remaining in the half, Ryan Exline found the end zone once more, this time with a 7-yard touchdown run, culminating in a commanding 35-0 lead heading into halftime.

The third quarter saw Ayden Frischkorn contribute to Southern’s impressive lead with a 20-yard touchdown run at the 9:47 mark.

East Palestine, determined to get on the board, finally found their opportunity with Owen Jurjavcic’s 9-yard touchdown run, putting them on the scoreboard with 8:50 remaining in the game.

Southern High School, now boasting a season record of 3-2, with a league record of 2-1, is geared up for their upcoming clash with Columbiana next Friday. Thanks to Lisbon’s recent upset victory over United, the Indians have surged back into contention and are currently tied for second place in the league alongside Columbiana and United. While Valley Christian maintains their league lead, they still have pivotal matchups against United, Lisbon, Columbiana, and Southern in the immediate future.

Meanwhile, East Palestine, with a season record of 0-6 and a league record of 0-3, is preparing to host Wellsville next Friday in hopes of turning their fortunes around.