Tag Archive for: Football

BY AIR, BY LAND, OR BY SEESHOLTZ

CANFIELD, OH-  Tyson Seesholtz, who moved to South Range during his freshman year, spoke highly of the tight-knit community and the support he received from the residents. He emphasized the caring nature and unity within the community, which he believes sets South Range apart from other places he has lived.

As a wrestler and football player, Seesholtz showcased his talent and dedication. Last year, as a freshman, he made a name for himself in wrestling, and this year, he is gearing up for a successful football season. Despite his young age, Seesholtz remains unfazed by the prospect of facing older, more experienced opponents. His years of wrestling have prepared him to take on any challenge, regardless of age, height, or weight.

When asked about the connection between wrestling and football, Seesholtz attributed the success of wrestlers in football, particularly on the line, to their relentless work ethic and strong hand fighting skills. These qualities translate well into football, allowing wrestlers to excel in positions that require sags, tackles for loss, and overall dominance on the field.

While Seesholtz is making waves in the sports arena, he also excels in his academics. He expressed a passion for science, stating that it comes naturally to him, especially when compared to his core subjects. Seesholtz’s love for science has sparked an interest in pursuing an engineering degree or cybersecurity in college.

Influenced by his supportive family, Seesholtz emphasized the importance of his parents and their unwavering support throughout his athletic and academic journey. He particularly acknowledged his father’s character of spending quality time together, as countless car rides to and from wrestling tournaments and practices have made a significant impact on his life. Seesholtz also expressed gratitude for his mother’s emotional support and comforting presence.

Looking ahead, Seesholtz has big aspirations for his future. Alongside his athletic ambitions, he hopes to pursue higher education at a collegiate level, with a preference for Division I schools. With his interest in engineering and cybersecurity, Seesholtz aims to make a mark in these fields, inspired by his cousin who introduced him to the world of cybersecurity.

Lastly, Seesholtz aims to leave a lasting legacy of hard work and determination. He hopes that young athletes, like his former wrestling coach, will remember him for his perseverance and the belief that one should never give up, but rather, keep pushing forward.

Tyson Seesholtz is already making waves in both wrestling and football, and his dedication to excellence both on and off the field is setting him on a path for success. South Range High School and its community are proud to have an inspiring athlete like Seesholtz representing them.

 

PRESENTED BY

David Rach, South Range

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 11) WITH DAVID RACH

CANFIELD, OH-  Having clinched the NEA (Northeast Athletic Conference) title in their first year, Coach Rach expressed his pride in the hard work and consistency of his players. The seniors, in particular, have an impressive record of 27-0 against Northeast State throughout their careers. The coach acknowledged the challenges of winning football games and commended his team’s relentless dedication.

Transitioning from his role as defensive coordinator to head coach, Coach Rach admitted that the experience has been different. He credits his capable staff for providing support and allowing him to focus on other aspects of coaching. However, he also acknowledged the learning curve in managing the team and ensuring he strikes the right balance between guidance and giving his coaches the freedom they need.

As the South Range Raiders move from the regular season to the playoffs, Coach Rach acknowledged the different dynamic they face when preparing for unfamiliar opponents. He acknowledged the excitement and unpredictability that comes with facing teams they haven’t encountered before. The team is working diligently in the film room to be prepared for any challenges that their upcoming opponent, Fearless, may present.

Despite the underdog status, Coach Rach highlighted the team’s drive to improve and emphasized that they will take each game as an opportunity to grow. He spoke about the importance of continuous improvement throughout the playoffs and the need to address any weaknesses that persisted during the regular season.

When asked about the difference in preparation for the postseason compared to the regular season, Coach Rach noted that the need for thoroughness becomes even more significant. With unfamiliar opponents, the team must be ready to face anything thrown their way. He mentioned the challenge of acquiring limited films on opponents, leading them to search for additional resources such as YouTube to gain insights.

In a light-hearted moment during the podcast, Coach Rach engaged in a Rock, Paper, Scissors match with the podcast host. The stakes were set high, with the winner gaining the right to ask a question.

As the South Range Raiders gear up for their postseason pursuits, Coach Rach and his players are eager to continue their winning streak. Their remarkable achievements this season, coupled with their dedication to improvement, promise an exciting postseason for the team and their devoted fans.

 

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LAND OF THE FREE

CANFIELD, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, the spotlight was on Sam Freedy, a young football player and Super Bowl champion from the little Raiders team. The episode provided an exclusive interview, offering a glimpse into Sam’s victorious championship experience and his dreams of playing in the NFL.

Sam shared his excitement about winning the championship on Saturday, describing it as a thrilling experience. When asked where he was when the clock hit zero, he revealed that he was on the sidelines, eagerly witnessing the final moments of the game. Upon the victory, the first thought that ran through his mind was, “We won.” Sam’s pride in his team’s achievement was evident throughout the interview.

Aside from his football success, Sam also discussed his favorite things to do off the field. He mentioned hanging out with friends, emphasizing the strong camaraderie within their football team. Sam also revealed his love for Spagwhich, a favorite food joint where he hangs out frequently.

With Halloween just around the corner, Sam disclosed his costume plans – he’s going to be the popular video game character “Fall Guy,” specifically the green one. When it comes to school, Sam’s favorite subject is math, and his beloved teacher. As for Halloween treats, Sam favors Snickers but seems to have a distaste for Reese’s.

When asked about why he loves football, Sam’s response was simple and straightforward: “Because you get to hit people and just hit.” His passion for the sport shines through, and he expressed his hope of becoming an NFL player in the future. Unsurprisingly, Sammy’s team of choice is the Pittsburgh Steelers, showing his loyalty to the game.

As the interview wrapped up, it became clear that Sam’s family plays an integral role in his life. He mentioned his siblings, Addison, Justin, and Chloe, as well as his supportive parents, who he appreciates for their constant support, transportation, and generosity – providing food and covering expenses.

With his eyes set on a future in the NFL, Sam hopes to follow in the footsteps of his favorite football players. Although he couldn’t pinpoint a single player as his absolute favorite, it is evident that he finds inspiration from a multitude of professional athletes.

When asked about his favorite South Range Raider, Sam enthusiastically named Brady Krumbacher, hinting at his aspirations of emulating his favorite player’s success.

Sam Freedy’s podcast appearance provides a glimpse into the life of a talented and determined young athlete. With his championship victory under his belt and his aspirations to become an NFL player, Sam is well on his way to making a name for himself in the football world.

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BULLDOGS READY FOR BATTLE

POLAND, OH – The Poland Bulldogs hosted the East Liverpool Potters in the first round of the playoffs last week and cruised to a 42-14 victory. Logan Hackstedde and Andrew Todd, two seniors, took their last first playoff game to heart and had the Dogs ready to go into battle. Up next for Poland is a rematch with the Struthers Wildcats in the second round this Friday at Bulldog Stadium.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, sat down with Logan and Andrew this week at Combine Brothers to talk about the first round match up against East Liverpool, what the boys did well and what they want to do moving forward to keep that winning momentum going, and what these two seniors think the keys to victory are for this week.

All that and so much more in this very special dual player profile with Poland Bulldogs senior stars, Logan Hackstedde and Andrew Todd!

PRESENTED BY:

 

POLAND BULLDOGS FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP. 9) WITH TOM PAVLANSKY

POLAND, OH – Head coach Tom Pavlansky has led the Poland Bulldogs into the second round of the OHSAA State Football Playoffs this season after defeating the East Liverpool Potters last week. 42-14. Up next for the Bulldogs is a rematch with NE8 foe, Struthers, on Friday night as the #6 seeded Wildcats will travel down to Bulldog Stadium.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie was able to catch up with Coach Pavlansky this week at Combine Brothers to discuss their first round victory over the Potters, what his takeaways were from the win, what his expectations are for this week’s rematch with Struthers, and what Coach’s keys to victory are for round two against the Wildcats.

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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THE LION

CANFIELD, OH- The South Range Raiders have found themselves a defensive gem in junior standout Troy Combs. Known for his hard-hitting tackles and game-changing interceptions, Combs is quickly gaining attention as a generational talent in the football community.

Combs, hailing from a family that bleeds Raider pride, has followed in the footsteps of his older brother Matthias, a notable wide receiver who left a lasting impression on the team. In a recent interview at Giangelo’s in Boardman, Combs expressed gratitude for his brother’s influence and praised his character both on and off the field.

Reflecting on his growth throughout the season, Combs admitted that early on, he struggled with patience and would often get juked out or penalized for holding. However, under the guidance of coach Rocks, Combs has evolved into a more composed and patient player, allowing him to make impactful plays.

What sets Combs apart is his ability to not only deliver bone-crushing hits but also showcase his speed and agility when intercepting passes. When asked to choose between laying a hit or making an interception, Combs unhesitatingly expressed his love for setting the tone with a big hit, believing it sends a powerful message to the opposing team.

Looking ahead to the playoffs, Combs emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and building a stronger bond with his teammates. He acknowledged the challenge posed by their upcoming fearless opponents and expressed excitement for the opportunity to showcase his skills against a team that throws the ball frequently.

Combs credits the close-knit bond among the South Range Raiders as a catalyst for their success. Their unique practice methods, such as “squeezing and spilling,” instill trust and belief in each other, making them a formidable force on the field.

Beyond football, Combs has his sights set on a future in architecture or graphic design, citing his love for building Legos as the inspiration behind his interest. With his dedication and talent on the gridiron, Combs undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him, with football being a potential opportunity for success.

As the South Range Raiders continue their journey in the playoffs, Troy Combs remains focused on making a lasting impact on the team while constantly striving for personal growth. With his exceptional defensive skills and unwavering dedication, Combs is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in high school football.

 

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VICTORY FORMATION

CANFIELD, OH- Victor Toy, a talented young athlete from the South Range Little Raiders, has been making waves in the football community as a standout guard and defensive end. In a recent interview for the YSN podcast, the up-and-coming player shared his thoughts on football, his teammates, and his aspirations for the future.

When asked about being a Super Bowl champion, Victor expressed the significance of the team’s efforts. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and credited his team’s unity as the key to their success. Victor’s humble attitude and dedication to his teammates shine through in his responses.

The 32-numbered player revealed that he has always enjoyed the physical aspect of the game, especially the thrill of hitting opponents. However, he also pointed out that being with his friends was an equally enjoyable aspect of playing football. Victor’s popularity among his peers is evident, as he enthusiastically shouted out the names of his friends during the interview.

Apart from football, Victor mentioned his love for mathematics and expressed a fondness for his favorite teacher. When it comes to other sports, Victor mentioned a potential interest in wrestling and expressed commitment to maintaining his fitness through exercise and workouts.

As Victor and his team prepare for the state title in Sandusky, he is proud to represent the South Range Raiders. Being a part of the long-standing tradition of the Raiders football program is a significant honor for Victor, who hopes to continue the legacy of his family members who have previously played for South Range.

Notably, Victor is the cousin of Tristan Toy, a player whose remarkable athletic performances have caught the attention of many spectators. Victor’s excitement and support for his cousin’s achievements are evident, as he passionately described his reactions during Tristan’s successful plays.

Looking toward the future, Victor dreams of becoming a professional football player, with his sights set on joining the Cleveland Browns. However, he also voiced his desire to be a good person, just like his role model father, who is not only supportive but also skilled in the sport.

In the interview, Victor also expressed his gratitude towards his mother who takes care of him and encourages him to pursue his goals. From making him his favorite breakfast, dippy egg sandwiches, to being there for him at school, Victor appreciates his mother’s love and support.

Victor Toy’s dedication, humility, and passion for football are what make him a rising star to watch out for. With a supportive family, a great team, and a drive to succeed, it won’t be long before Victor Toy leaves his mark on the world of football.

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WESTERN RESERVE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH JOHN ARMENI

BERLIN CENTER, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “Coaches Corner with Coach John Armeni,” the focus was on Western Reserve’s victorious Week Twelve playoff game and the upcoming rematch against Lowellville. Coach Armeni shared his insights and thoughts on the team’s performance, individual records broken, and the importance of the offensive line.

Week Twelve of the playoffs has been a whirlwind for Coach Armeni and his team. It’s hard to believe that the regular season has already reached its end, with playoff football now captivating the community. The atmosphere during their last game against Lisbon was electrifying, with the players showing immense excitement and determination. Practice sessions even took place in the snow, adding an extra challenge to their preparations.

Regarding the victory over Lisbon, Coach Armeni credited their offense for having little trouble during the game. Their offensive line dominated, allowing them to open up running lanes and get their skill players involved. Defensively, there were some struggles early on, but adjustments were made, leading to an improved performance. One crucial moment in the game was calling a timeout and being able to score right before halftime, which boosted their momentum and ultimately propelled them to victory.

Nathan Hemberger, an exceptional talent and the league leader in tackles, played a significant role in the game against Lisbon. Not only did he score six rushing touchdowns, but he also blocked a punt and scored a touchdown off the block. Hemberger’s outstanding contributions broke multiple records, including the most touchdowns scored in a game, most touchdowns in a season, and the school record for Western Reserve. Additionally, Air Henning, with both a thousand yards passing and rushing, showcased his importance to the team’s success.

Coach Armeni emphasized that the personal accomplishments and records are a testament to the team’s overall success. Of course, he acknowledged that none of it would be possible without the support and efforts of the offensive line. The linemen have been dominant recently, and their contributions should not go unnoticed.

Looking back at the regular season, Coach Armeni noted that their biggest win was against Louisville, a fiercely competitive opponent. He praised Lowellville’s coaching staff and their talented roster, including strong linemen and skilled athletes. Western Reserve’s game plan was to control the tempo, which they executed successfully, resulting in a hard-fought victory. As they head into the rematch, the team aims to replicate their previous strategy and turn the game into a battle rather than a track meet.

Coach Armeni mentioned that his players have responded well to the playoffs and are focused on playing their best football. While personal accomplishments and records are great, the primary goal remains winning games and advancing further in the playoffs.

As Western Reserve gears up for their rematch against Louisville, the entire community is filled with anticipation and excitement. The team’s dedication, the spectacular performances, and the resilience of their offensive line have all contributed to their success. With the playoffs in full swing, Coach Armeni and his players are determined to continue their winning streak and make their mark in the postseason.

 

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WESTERN RESERVE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH COLLIN DOTSON

BERLIN CENTER, OH- Western Reserve’s defensive coordinator, Coach Collin Dotson, shared his insights on the team’s successful season and their upcoming rematch against Lowellville.

Coach Dotson, who has been coaching alongside Head Coach John Armeni since 2015, expressed his admiration for Coach Armeni as a mentor and friend. He described the experience of working with him as “unbelievable” and emphasized the importance of the tight-knit coaching staff at Western Reserve.

When asked why he chose football as his coaching path, Coach Dotson credited his experiences as a player at Howland for instilling in him a passion for leadership and mentoring young men. He shared his love for being around student-athletes and the opportunity to give back by offering them a positive experience like he had as a player.

Speaking about his time at Western Reserve, Coach Dotson highlighted the incredible support from the community. He described the community as tight-knit and caring, with a genuine love for their coaches and players. Coach Dotson attributed much of the team’s success to this community support and emphasized that it was not mere lip service. The genuine care and affection within the community inspired the coaching staff to reciprocate that love.

The camaraderie among the coaching staff at Western Reserve also played an essential role in their success. Coach Dotson spoke highly of the diverse backgrounds and expertise brought by each member of the staff. From former players to veteran coaches, the staff’s tight bond, both on and off the field, has contributed significantly to the team’s achievements this season.

With a senior-heavy roster, Coach Dotson applauded the leadership and resilience displayed by the players. Despite experiencing numerous coaching changes during their high school careers, these seniors have learned to adapt and have become a tough group of young men. Coach Dotson expressed his gratitude for their buying-in mentality and wished he could have had them on the team for more years.

As the defensive coordinator, Coach Dotson’s aggressive mentality shines through in his coaching style. He enjoys the versatility and freedom that coaching defense provides. Instead of sitting back and playing it safe, Coach Dotson and his defense line up in multiple formations, coverages, and blitzes, making it challenging for opposing teams to counter their strategies.

In terms of their successful season, Coach Dotson stressed the importance of performing well both in the conference and the non-conference games. He highlighted the competitiveness of their conference, including challenging matchups against teams like Mineral Ridge, Springfield, and Lowellville, with whom they now have a rematch.

Looking ahead to their upcoming matchup against Lowellville, Coach Dotson mentioned the advantage of having faced their offense before, allowing for better game planning and adjustments. He expressed confidence in his defensive unit’s ability to rise to the occasion.

The Western Reserve Blue Devils, currently the third seed in the playoffs with a 9-2 record, undoubtedly owe their success, in part, to the hard work and dedication of Coach Collin Dotson and the entire coaching staff. As they continue their playoff journey, their cohesive bond and aggressive defensive approach will undoubtedly be crucial factors in their pursuit of victory.

 

PRESENTED BY

THE DEVIL’S KINGDOM

BERLIN CENTER, OH- In a recent podcast episode of YSN (Your Sports Network), football player Dominic Ricciardi was interviewed by host Chris Colucci. The episode titled “Player Profile with Dom Ricciardi” provided valuable insight into Ricciardi’s thoughts on his team’s achievements and the importance of senior leadership.

Ricciardi, a key player for his team, expressed the significance of being in the playoffs, highlighting that it hadn’t been a common occurrence in the past. He emphasized the positive impact of head coach Armini and the remarkable coaching staff assembled, attributing their success to a strong sense of teamwork.

The football program’s notable 9-2 record this season was a highlight for Ricciardi, who acknowledged the exceptional team effort that helped them achieve such a remarkable standing. He praised the senior leaders on the team whose influence and mentorship have played a significant role in his own development.

Looking ahead to their upcoming game against Lowellville, Ricciardi expressed excitement to face a familiar opponent and determine how both teams have progressed since their previous encounter. He mentioned the importance of analyzing game footage and making corrections based on halftime speeches and film studies, which have been pivotal in their growth as a team.

The interview also touched on the outstanding performance of teammate Nate Hemburger, who stepped up to fill a gap left by an injured player. Ricciardi spoke highly of Hemburger’s athleticism and dedication as both a great athlete and an exceptional teammate.

Outside of football, Ricciardi revealed his favorite gas station order, including lemon-lime Gatorade, kettle barbecue chips, and big Sour Patch Kids. He also mentioned his affinity for R&B music, particularly his current favorite artist, Daniel Caesar.

When asked about his ideal Friday night, Ricciardi emphasized the importance of spending time with friends and loved ones, emphasizing the value of companionship.

As the interview concluded, Ricciardi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share his thoughts and wished his team luck in their upcoming game and the remainder of his high school football career.

The episode provided listeners with valuable insights into Ricciardi’s perspective on team achievements, the importance of strong leadership, and his personal interests outside of football.

 

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