Tag Archive for: Gary Althiser

WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 10) FEATURING REGHAN KOCH

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AUSTINTOWN OH- Reghan Koch, a formidable freshman wrestler at Austintown Fitch, has quickly made a name for herself in Ohio’s wrestling circuit. Recently interviewed on the YSN Live podcast, Reghan discussed her exceptional performance at the district tournament and her preparation for the state tournament.

Winning as a freshman can be daunting, but Reghan’s resolve and talent shone brightly. She achieved district champion status, marking Fitch’s dramatic improvement from 34th place last year to a top contender this season. Koch attributes much of this success to the unity and intrinsic drive among her teammates, propelled by their coaches’ motivating spirit. Reghan’s journey began in the sixth grade, inspired by her younger brother’s wrestling. Despite initial doubts about the sport, she found herself thriving on the mat, eventually overcoming knee surgery to return stronger than ever. Her resilience has not only been a personal milestone but has also set a high bar for her freshmen peers.

When discussing her preparation and mindset for the state tournament, Reghan emphasized staying grounded. She approaches each match ready to give her all, setting ambitious goals without losing sight of the basics. Her experiences on the Green Machine team provided a solid foundation that she continues to build upon. Reghan also spoke about her passion for capturing moments with her camera. Her keen eye for photography allows her to document the raw emotions and intensity of wrestling, providing a unique lens through which her teammates and the sport itself can be appreciated. Looking forward, Reghan remains focused on seizing opportunities to compete at higher levels, including ambitions to wrestle at national tournaments like Fargo. As she stands ready to represent Austintown Fitch at the state level, Reghan Koch embodies the spirit of determination and excellence, marking the beginning of what promises to be a stellar wrestling career.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 6) FEATURING JAKE HUGHES

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In an electrifying segment of “Wrestling Wednesday” on YSN, freshman Jake Hughes of Beaver Local took center stage to discuss his meteoric rise in the high school wrestling scene. Hosted by DJ Yokley with contributions from Gary Althiser, the episode highlighted Jake’s accomplishments, mindset, and future aspirations.

Jake Hughes, who recently clinched the 157-pound title at the OVAC tournament, made a memorable impression not only with his performance but also with his post-victory celebration. “After that match, I kind of looked at him and he was like, let’s go. And I went over and grabbed it,” Jake recounted his flag-carrying moment, which has since become legendary among YSN fans. The young wrestler attributes his early success to rigorous training and high-level practice from a young age. “I’ve been training at the highest level all my life. So going out there on the high school mat’s no different than going out there with practicing with these kids my whole life,” Jake explained, underscoring the value of his preparation.

When asked about the nerves accompanying his freshman year, Jake remained unfazed. “Obviously, the nerves are there a little bit before every single match you have, but I try to make it more of like, excitement and turn it into more of a positive thing,” he shared, reflecting a maturity that belies his age. A key component of Jake’s training regime includes wrestling mindset sessions. These weekly lessons have been instrumental in helping him manage pressure and maintain focus. “It’s helped me out a lot over the past year… with relaxing under pressure and knowing that you’re ready,” he noted.

Gary Althiser, an experienced voice in the wrestling community, pointed out that Hughes’ rigorous tournament schedule, including stops at Cambridge, Brecksville, and EOWL, has been crucial in preparing him for the postseason. Jake concurred, acknowledging that every tournament is a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal. Despite his youth, Jake maintains a disciplined lifestyle, evident in his choice of post-weigh-in meals: a Pedialyte and an uncrustable peanut butter and jelly sandwich. His primary drilling partner, three-time state placer Bobby Bucheit, plays a significant role in pushing him to new heights in practice. The support system of coaches, particularly Adam Cabala, and his family has been pivotal in Jake’s success. “Adam Cabala has been my main coach, like, as far as outside of the Beaver Local room, and he’s been helping me a lot… [and] even like, my parents being there, supporting me when I’m at home,” Jake acknowledged.

Looking ahead, Jake aims not only for personal glory but also to honor the legacy of Beaver Local wrestling. When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Jake emphasized the importance of enjoying the journey: “Just to have fun with it because at the end of the day it is just a sport and you need to have fun with it.” As the wrestling community anticipates his future performances, Jake’s level-headed attitude and dedication suggest a promising career ahead. His current focus remains on taking one match at a time while keeping his ultimate goals in sight. Jake Hughes’ appearance on “Wrestling Wednesday” underscored not just his talent and potential, but also his humble, hardworking nature. His journey is one that wrestling enthusiasts will eagerly follow, as he continues to make his mark on the sport.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EPISODE 2)

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In the latest episode of “Running Point” on YSNLive.com, the highly-anticipated “Wrestling Wednesday” segment features hosts Anthony Hartwig and Gary Althiser, bringing in guest Scotty Mincher to delve into the throes of the winter wrestling season.

With snowflakes hinting at the wintery setting, Althiser kicks off the episode recapping a recent invitational at Malvern, highlighting new rule changes in wrestling that are poised to alter the sport’s dynamics. Key updates include the introduction of four-point back points, a three-point takedown, and revised out-of-bounds rules that ensure wrestling continues as long as one point of contact remains inbounds, barring safety risks. The West Branch wrestling teams shine in the spotlight, with both boys’ and girls’ teams putting on notable performances at the Beachwood, and Hickory invitationals.

This episode also explored the cementing of team dynamics, emphasizing that wrestling triumphs hinge on collective team effort rather than solitary heroics. Gary Althiser praises the rise of young talents like Jackson Benner, whose contributions boost team morale and motivate veteran teammates. Looking ahead, Anthony Hartwig previews Hoban’s intense competition schedule, which stretches from the Solon tournament through to mid-January, showcasing the relentless pace of the wrestling season. A special mention goes to senior Nick Bowser’s return, driven by the determination to reclaim lost postseason opportunities due to last season’s injuries.

A historic milestone was also noted for the West Branch women’s wrestling team, which debuted and finished eighth overall at their inaugural competition in Hickory, Pennsylvania. Jocelyn Brink’s decisive victory in her weight division, coupled with strong performances, marked an encouraging step forward for women’s wrestling—backed by the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s endorsement.

As the episode wraps, the hosts gear up for upcoming coverage of the Hopple Invitational at Beaver Local and a Division 3 classic event at Waterloo. The hosts emphasize the importance of focusing on technique and process over winning in the early part of the season, underscoring the essence of steady progress and resilient effort.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 14) FEATURING KEEGAN SELL & MAKYAH NEWLUN

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The dust has cleared in Columbus, and it’s hard to imagine a better turn out for the YSN athletes.  So many wrestlers put their best foot forward on the biggest stage to show off what they’re all about.  When the final day was done YSN had 22 placers and a pair of state champions.  They ranged from seniors sending off their careers with a bang, to freshmen that let the world know they were there to stay.  It has been an exciting wrestling season that has seen nothing but greatness.

As we celebrate the great season with our final episode of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser of the year, we can’t think of a better way than to welcome in both of the state champions that represented their community with pride.  Keegan Sell won his second straight state championship to finish his career, and Makyah Newlun brought East Liverpool their first state championship in a long time.  Check out the season finale, and celebrate our wrestlers with us!

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 13) FEATURING DALLAS MCCRACKEN

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It’s finally here! A whole season worth of wrestlers fighting and grinding has led to one weekend in Columbus.  As YSN prepares for more coverage of the state tournament than ever before, we must ask what to expect on the mats? Good thing we have a couple of wrestling gurus who can answer all questions.  YSN has 44 wrestlers competing at state, and our very own Gary Althiser, and Chris Colucci are on the ball with all the info you’ll need in this state preview episode of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser.

This episode’s special guest is one of those 44 wrestlers getting ready for the biggest stage this sport has to offer in high school.  Dallas McCracken has brought the limelight to United wrestling with consistent success.  As he hears up for his final time as a United Eagle he reflects on his career, and what got him here with the boys on Running Point.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAY WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 12) FEATURING ADDISON PAPARELLA & ZOEY BEAMER

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Districts are here! After a hugely successful sectional tournament over the weekend, plenty of YSN wrestlers have gotten themselves one step away from a trip to Columbus.  However, as we all know that final step gets a bit higher as the calendar flips to districts.  The best wrestlers across the region get together to fight for limited spots.  With the next round being the hardest yet, we wanted to take the time to celebrate some great performances in the sectional round! This episode of Wrestling Wednesday features a pair of East Palestine Bulldogs who have punched their tickets.  Join Gary Althiser, Chris Colucci, and Scotty Mincher as they talk to their special guests, and preview the district rounds!

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 11) FEATURING ELLA THOMAS

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We are days away from the sectionals getting started for wrestling! Gary and the boys of Running Point could not be more excited for the postseason. As we get through the calm before the storm, we thought it’d be a good time to recognize one of the brightest young stars on the mats this season. From Poland freshman Ella Thomas has reigned nothing but dominance on the girl’s side of grappling.  With a record of 35-0 and 33 pins, all challengers have fallen by the wayside when standing across from Thomas.  So now the question is how can she continue that success all the way to the state podium? Hear it from the phenom herself as Thomas joins wrestling Wednesday, and the guys get ready for the journey to Columbus!

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAY WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 10) FEATURING CHRIS COLUCCI

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The wrestling season gets closer and closer to State.  With plenty of grapplers who have impressed this season, the excitement for the upcoming tournament is off the charts.  It’s the calm before the storm, but that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to talk about.  On this episode of Wrestling Wednesday the boys talk to the voice of wrestling on YSN, Chris Colucci on what he’s seen this season while on the mic.  Chris picks out what it’s been like seeing the sport from a new angle, what it’s like to run a wrestling centered social media platform to highlight all the local athletes, and so much more. Check out the latest episode of Wrestling Wednesday with Gary Althiser.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 9) FEATURING ISAAC GRIFFITH

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The bulk of the wrestling season is starting to reach its climax.  With the EOWL now under wraps, the only thing between our wrestlers and going their ultimate goal in Columbus is the completion of duals and conference play.  After that is taken care of, eyes set to the team and individual tournaments.

On this episode of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser the boys recap the week that was, including some big winners in Fitch for the EOWL. They also preview what’s coming up, and talk about how important getting through these next two weeks healthy can be.

This episode’s special guest is Girard’s Isaac Griffith.  Isaac is having one of the best seasons of his entire career. It culminated in him reaching his 100th career win. A dominant feat obtained by the best the sport has to offer. However Isaac is not resting on 100. He has other goals ahead that include a trip to the podium in Columbus. He’s got plenty of challenges standing in front of him, but with his passion and confidence he will be tough to take down come tournament time.

 

Check out Episode 9 of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser, and keep an eye on YSN for your best place for wrestling coverage inside the YSN family. Wrestling Wednesdays air Wednesdays on Running Point at 1:00.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 7) FEATURING MARKY STANKORB

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Wrestling season is really starting to heat up as teams get closer and closer to the ultimate goal in Columbus.  With huge tournaments popping up every weekend, YSN has Gary Althiser as your guide through the hectic last stretch of the season.  This week on Wrestling Wednesday it’s time to recap the Top Gun invitational hosted by Alliance. One of the bigger tournaments on the schedule, the Top Gun featured the area’s best teams.  Gary and the boys go over the results and who had the big weekends. The recap includes the inaugural girls division of the Top Gun where West Branch had three girls place. Many other YSN teams sent their girls wrestlers there for the experience on the mat.

In this episode the live guest comes from Austintown Fitch.  The Falcons have been talked about multiple times this season on the show, and it was about time we heard a voice from the nest. Marky Stankorb the pride of the wrestling room in Fitch joined the guys to talk about his career, his goals, and his drive to be the best in the sport.

Wrestling fans better buckle up because the season is downhill and fast paced from here. YSN will continue to have you covered every Wednesday at 1:00 on Running Point with the latest news from the sport with our very own guru, Gary Althiser.

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