Tag Archive for: Gary Knittle

CRESTVIEW BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH TODD KIBBY (FEATURING GARY KNITTLE 4-10-25)

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COLUMBIANA, OH- In a recent episode of YSN’s “Crestview Baseball Coach’s Corner,” hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig welcomed two prominent figures from the Crestview Rebels, Head Coach Todd Kibby and Assistant Coach Gary Knittle. The episode was a mix of reminiscing, sharing insights, and candid discussions about the realities of coaching baseball in unpredictable weather conditions.

Right from the start, Coach Todd Kibby expressed a sentiment that many coaches in the area would resonate with. “Good,” he replied when asked about his current state, “Just be nice if the weather would break and we could play some consistent baseball adventure every day.” This longing for stable weather was a recurring theme throughout the conversation, reflecting the challenges coaches face in keeping their teams engaged when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

Assistant Coach Gary Knittle mirrored Kibby’s sentiments, “As Coach Kibby said, I think we’d rather be outside and see a little bit of sun, but I guess we’ll settle for this.” Despite these challenges, both coaches demonstrated an optimistic outlook and a commitment to nurturing local talent. Knittle highlighted the significance of the talent pool in the area, recalling the past achievements and the continuing journey of local players. “You mentioned the local talent, and we get asked all the time. There’s a lot of talent in this area, and, you know, and we’re very fortunate.”

The conversation also delved into the dynamics of keeping a team motivated when weather and schedules disrupt regular play. According to Kibby, “Keeping the guys with their task on hand, especially with us, where we have a good mixture of young guys, but getting them that exposure and that experience out of the gate is hard.” It’s a delicate balance of managing practice, ensuring readiness, and building resilience.

Knittle’s transition from retirement back to coaching was another key highlight. “He made me an offer I couldn’t refuse. I mean, it’s pretty simple. It’s like the Godfather,” he chuckled, describing his return to the fold under Coach Kibby. This camaraderie and shared history between the coaches evidently strengthen their team’s foundation.

The episode was not just an insight into Crestview Baseball but also a reflection on the commitment and passion these coaches bring to their roles despite frequent obstacles. As Kibby aptly summarized, “Every day is a new adventure… It’s done. Nothing else you can do.” For listeners and aspiring coaches, the episode stands as a testament to perseverance and adaptability.

 

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KNITTLE TO MAKE YSN ALL-STAR GAME HIS SWAN SONG

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CANFIELD, OH- Over the last 11 seasons, Canfield Baseball Coach Gary Knittle has certainly made his mark.  As a coach, he’s helped lead the Cardinals to a 99-27 record over then 11 year span which qualifies him as the highest winning percentage in Canfield Baseball history.  Knittle also holds a 38-4 record in the AAC which also places him at the top of winning percentage in Cardinal history.

With all the accolades that Knittle has gained over the last decade, it’s the difference that he’s made in the lives of his players that the community will miss the most—placing player after player, year after year in college baseball, in the midst of his own battles that include one for his life in a bout with cancer.

Knittle gave an exclusive quote to YSN after learning about his decision to walk away from his position as Head Coach of the Canfield Cardinals after the 2024 season.

“Over the past 11 seasons, I have been blessed to be part of the Canfield Cardinals baseball program. It has been an honor to be on the short list of Head Coaches in our storied tradition. However, all good things must come to an end. and after much consideration, I have decided to step away as the Head Baseball Coach at Canfield High School. “Family” is how we break every practice and after every game, and that is what we preach to our young men in our program. It is why former alumni show up in force as we make our runs in tournament play.

It is why former and current players help out in our youth programs in Canfield. It is also why we have had such great success. We could also not have had all the success without the tireless hours our entire coaching staff has poured into our “Family”. It is a year-round commitment. The coaching staffs that I have worked with over the years are the best in the state and I would argue that with anyone. I thank you for helping our “Family” over the years. While I have gained a huge “Family” while being part of the Canfield Cardinal baseball program, I also have a “Family” at home that I need to focus on. Though I have tried to keep my battle with Cancer these past two seasons off the radar, it’s hard to hide getting treatment every couple of weeks.

It has been a valuable lesson for our players as they truly understand that there are a lot bigger things in life to worry about other than going Outer or losing a game in walk off fashion. At home my unbelievable wife has been the Head Coach of our team in the Winter and Spring the last 11 seasons and she is undefeated! But it is time to enjoy being a husband and dad watching my son’s hockey games and my daughter cheering The memories made during my time at Canfield are ones that I will never forget. Winning 24 games in a row, all the Spring trips down South, watching over two dozen former players continuing their careers at the collegiate level, but most importantly watching these young men go on to do great things in the community and give back to the “Family” that is what Canfield Cardinal Baseball is all about!

Bear Out! Go Cards!”

 

CANFIELD BASEBALL COACH S CORNER EP 1 WITH GARY KNITTLE

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CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “Canfield Baseball Coach’s Corner,” host DJ Yokley sits down with Canfield baseball coach, Gary Knittle, to discuss the season opener and reflect on the development of players within the program. Coach Knittle, known as a mentor and leader in the Canfield community, provides valuable insights into player dynamics, coaching staff, and the upcoming spring break trip.

The conversation delved into the recent season opener, where the Canfield team secured a victory, despite the challenges posed by a young and relatively inexperienced group. Coach Knittle emphasizes the resilience and promise of the team’s freshmen, highlighting their willingness to learn and compete.
In addition to reviewing the successful start of the season, the dialogue touched upon the importance of off-field experiences in enhancing team dynamics and fostering lasting memories. Coach Knittle shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming spring break trip, emphasizing the role it plays in developing camaraderie and mutual respect among the players.

Moreover, the segment saw Coach Knittle’s reflections on the impact he aims to make on the players he mentors. He discussed his deep commitment to the holistic development of his players, not solely measured by wins and losses, but by the lasting impact on their lives beyond the playing field.

Through the candid and invigorating conversation, it’s evident that Coach Knittle’s dedication to the sport extends beyond the technical aspects of coaching. His holistic approach focuses on providing players with valuable life experiences and nurturing a strong sense of camaraderie.

The “Canfield Baseball Coach’s Corner” episode brings to light the passionate and multi-faceted nature of sports coaching, underscoring the countless impressions a dedicated coach can leave on the lives of the players under their guidance.

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CANFIELD BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH GARY KNITTLE

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CANFIELD, OH- After a tough loss to end the 2022 campaign, the Cardinals are loaded up and are on a mission in 2023.  Leading the way once again is veteran Coach, Gary Knittle and a great staff of stickball experts alongside of the skipper.

With some high-end returners making their way back into the lineup this year, Coach Knittle is optimistic about this team and their goals in the year ahead.

YSN’s DJ Yokley sat down with Coach Knits for a 1 on 1 to talk about the Cards in 2023 on the opening day episode of Canfield Coach’s Corner with Gary Knittle.

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CANFIELD BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH GARY KNITTLE

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The Canfield Cardinals were a ballclub that took the area by storm last season. With an undefeated regular season under their belt, Canfield brings back a plethora of talent.   With Josh Juliano returning, he led the team in batting average at .524 last season. The Cardinals also return their pitching leader, LHP and OSU commit, Landon Beidelschies.  Beidelschies, 0.41 ERA in 10 games, led a Canfield pitching staff that had a combined 1.06 ERA.  Pair A.J. Havrilla and Ryan Petro with this squad, and The Cardinals look to continue their domination.

Playing in a tough AAC and adding in a grueling non-conference schedule, Canfield will sharpen their teeth before the tournament. 

Ty and Anthony from Running Point sat down with Head Coach Gary Knittle to talk about the upcoming season, and what to expect this season.

*Contributed By YSN’s Ty Bartell

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AJ HAVRILLA AND COACH GARY KNITTLE EXCLUSIVE PLAYER PROFILE/COACH’S CORNER

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*Contributed by Richie Juliano

CANFIELD, OH – Canfield baseball player AJ Havrilla sat down with his head baseball coach Gary Knittle and Steve Leslie for a one of a kind player profile at Cocca’s Pizza in Canfield. AJ just recently committed to play baseball at Ohio State University. Havrilla is just a Junior, and will have two more years of Canfield baseball until he heads west to Columbus. AJ talks about his recruiting process, family leadership, and his overall love for the game of baseball. Catch this special commitment interview with the future Buckeye, AJ Havrilla.

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HEADED HOME: CANFIELD CARDINALS BASEBALL PREVIEW

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CANFIELD, OH – Head coach Gary Knittle took some time with us and spoke about the talent around Canfield this year. Coach expects good things, but reminded us that theres plenty of competing inside their own dugout. Players are still earning positions and starting roles. Speaking of starting roles the Cardinals have a really good pitching staff. Leading the way is Landon Beidelschies and Nate Shaw as a great 1-2 punch. Two guys committed to Division 1 programs. Nate Shaw is committed to Wright State and Landon Beidelschies is committed to Westpoint. With arms like these they are a coach’s dream. Younger players of note are Ben Slanker and A.J Havrilla.

Catch all your Canfield Baseball right here on YSNLIVE.com!

*Contributed by Billy McCartney