Tag Archive for: Girls Basketball

LOWELLVILLE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH LISA MODELSKI (1-9-25)

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- In a special “Coach’s Corner” episode recorded at Giovanni’s in downtown Lowellville, Girls Basketball Coach Lisa Modelski opened up about the highs and lows of the current season and her nine-year tenure with the team.

Joined by host DJ Yokley, Modelski discusses the struggle of maintaining student interest in sports, specifically basketball, in a small school environment. Highlighting the demanding physical toll on players, she praised the determination and resilience of her nine-player squad.

“Basketball is hard,” Modelski acknowledged. “These girls sacrifice their bodies for their community. They play with such dignity, and I’m so proud of them.”

Facing challenges with maintaining player numbers and dealing with injuries, Coach Modelski focuses on developing her players beyond just their athletic skills. She emphasized that creating a positive atmosphere is key, noting that keeping the team spirits high is as vital as winning games. “It’s not always about winning,” she stated. “It’s about making these girls better basketball players and individuals.”

Modelski also expressed her commitment to fostering a family-like environment within the team. Reflecting on her own family’s involvement in basketball, she strives to instill a sense of unity and support among her players. “You don’t have to be best friends, but when you’re here, you’re going to be sisters,” she said.

The coach mentioned the significant impact of her three seniors, Alyssa Kazan, Morgan Lewis, and Michelle – highlighting their leadership and perseverance despite personal and injury challenges.

As the season progresses, Modelski remains focused on reigniting the team’s motivation and maintaining a positive outlook. “They need to get back to just focusing on having fun and what they do well,” she urged.

Balancing her professional and personal life, Modelski credited her coaching staff for helping her remain centered. “They center me,” she said, appreciating the mutual support within her team.

Looking ahead, Modelski dreams of a beach vacation in Fiji to unwind from the season’s stresses. However, she remains dedicated to her team’s growth and success above all.

Coach Modelski’s unwavering dedication continues to inspire her players and the Lowellville community, proving that success is measured by more than just the number of wins.

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LADY WARRIORS OUTLAST BADGERS IN LATE GAME THRILLER

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Story by: Larry Jennings

East Ashtabula, OH – In a heated Monday night matchup during the holiday break, the Edgewood Lady Warriors extended their winning streak to seven games, narrowly defeating the Berkshire Badgers 49-46 in front of an excited home crowd. Both teams entered the contest riding impressive win streaks, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.

The Warriors wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. Faith Vencill’s tip from the opening jump found Annie Johnston, who dished the ball to Avery Vencill for a corner three-pointer just six seconds into the game. Edgewood kept up a relentless pace through the first half of the opening quarter, surging to a commanding 12-0 lead before Berkshire finally broke through with under three minutes remaining.

Berkshire closed the gap as the first quarter wound down, with Jenna Hornak draining a buzzer-beating three-pointer to narrow the Warriors’ lead to 17-11. The Badgers’ aggressive defense took center stage in the second and third quarters, forcing turnovers that allowed them to chip away at the deficit. With 4:28 left in the third quarter, Stella Bateman’s layup gave Berkshire their first lead of the game.

The Badgers extended their advantage to 40-35 by the end of the third quarter, once again capping the period with a buzzer-beating three-pointer, this time courtesy of Julia Young. Trailing by as many as nine points with under five minutes remaining, the Warriors dug deep and mounted a comeback. Clutch baskets by Edgewood brought them back into the lead with just 1:47 left to play.

A pair of crucial free throws from Avery Vencill in the final minutes sealed the victory for the Warriors, as the teams exchanged possessions in a tense conclusion. The final score stood at 49-46, keeping Edgewood’s win streak alive.

Carly Kray led the Warriors’ scoring with 15 points, while Annie Johnston and Avery Vencill contributed nine points each. Faith Vencill and Leigha Guyton chipped in with eight points apiece. Berkshire was led by Stella Bateman with 12 points, followed by Jenna Hornak and Meredith Bors, who each scored eight.
When asked about the fast start and the big comeback, Coach Randy Vencill said, “Thankfully, we started well, we had talked about starting games better, and we did, but it was tough to keep up that momentum, but we also finished strong, so we’ll take that.”

The Warriors (7-2) will look to keep their momentum going in a conference matchup at home against Geneva on Friday, January 3. Meanwhile, Berkshire (7-4) will take to the road on January 8 to face the Cardinal Huskies.

LADY HERALDS FALL IN CLOSE ROAD GAME

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Photo Credit: Kristy Call

VIENNA, Ohio – December 19, 2024 – In a tightly contested matchup at Mathews High School, the Saint John Heralds battled valiantly but fell just short against the Mathews Mustangs, 42-37, in a non-conference girls’ basketball game. The loss moves the Heralds to 3-2 on the season as they prepare for their next road test against the Chalker Wildcats on December 21.

Back-and-Forth Battle

The game began with promise for the Heralds, who edged out a slim 10-8 lead in the first quarter behind aggressive play from Alexa Jordan. The Mustangs roared back in the second frame, outscoring Saint John 16-6, led by standout guard Paddock, who racked up 22 points overall, including a dominant second-quarter performance.

Trailing 24-16 at halftime, the Heralds regrouped during the break and mounted a spirited comeback in the third quarter. The trio of Jordan, Izzy Holler, and Selena Park combined to lead Saint John to a 15-10 advantage in the period, trimming the deficit to just three points entering the final frame.

However, the Mustangs held their ground in the fourth quarter, with timely baskets from Ruiter and Delgarbino. Despite a late push from Jordan and Bella Stern, the Heralds couldn’t overcome Mathews’ defensive pressure and clutch free-throw shooting down the stretch.

Offensive Highlights

For Saint John, Alexa Jordan delivered a stellar 13-point performance, showcasing her scoring versatility and leadership. Izzy Holler contributed 8 points, while Selena Park and Bella Stern chipped in 7 each. Marissa Arietta-Williams added 2 points and provided crucial defensive stops throughout the contest.

Mathews’ offense revolved around Paddock, who was nearly unstoppable with her 22-point effort. Ruiter added 10 points, while Delgarbino and Brown combined for another 10 to help seal the victory.

Looking Ahead

The Heralds will aim to bounce back on Saturday when they travel to face the Chalker Wildcats. With adjustments and renewed focus, Saint John looks poised to return to the win column and continue their strong start to the season.

LADY WARRIORS IMPRESSIVE IN BIG WIN OVER DRAGONS

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Story by: Larry Jennings

Edgewood, OH – The Edgewood Warriors Girls’ basketball team showcased their strength and depth on Monday night, overpowering the Lakeside Dragons in a one-sided Chagrin Valley Lake Division matchup. From the opening tip to the final buzzer, the Warriors controlled the game, securing a decisive 64-29 victory.

Faith Vencill wasted no time putting the Warriors on the board with an early basket, but Lakeside’s On’Esty Anderson quickly responded with a three-pointer to give the Dragons their only lead of the night. From that moment on, it was all Warriors, as their relentless rebounding and ball-handling set the tone for the game.

Edgewood’s dominance was clear from the start, as they closed out the first quarter with a commanding 25-6 lead. Rebounding proved to be the key, with Carly Kray, Leigha Guyton, and Faith Vencill controlling the boards on both ends of the court. The Warriors maintained their momentum in the second quarter, heading into halftime with a 47-18 lead.

The second half saw the Warriors in full control, with a running clock in place due to the lopsided score. This gave several junior varsity players the opportunity to gain valuable game experience. Despite their commanding lead, the Warriors kept up the intensity, finishing the game with a 35-point margin.

Leigha Guyton led the Warriors in scoring, putting up an impressive 17 points, followed by Faith Vencill with 14 and Carly Kray with 10. The Dragons were paced by On’Esty Anderson, who contributed 10 points, while Anna Mae Walter and Emily Olson each added six.

The win marks the Warriors’ fourth consecutive victory, pushing their record higher as they prepare for Friday’s road matchup against Painesville Harvey. Meanwhile, the Dragons, looking to regroup after the tough loss, will travel to Pymatuning Valley on Wednesday in hopes of finding their footing.

With their stellar rebounding and teamwork on display, the Warriors sent a strong message to the rest of the division: they’re a force to be reckoned with this season.

WARRIOR GIRLS CLAIM VICTORY IN HOME OPENER OVER SPARTANS

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Photo Credit: Edgewood Athletics

Story by: Larry Jennings

Edgewood, OH — Battling rust and the lingering effects of a week-long snowstorm hiatus, the Edgewood Warriors girls basketball team found their rhythm Tuesday night, defeating the visiting Conneaut Spartans 48-38 in their home opener.

The game showcased resilience and determination from both squads, as early-season challenges and a lack of practice time were evident. The Spartans jumped out to an early lead before the Warriors surged ahead with a dominant first-quarter performance, leading 15-6 behind strong showings from Annie Mae Johnston and Faith Vencill, who each tallied six points in the frame.

However, the Spartans clawed their way back in the second quarter, narrowing the gap with a 12-9 scoring advantage. Conneaut’s defensive adjustments kept Edgewood in check, and at halftime, the Warriors’ lead was trimmed to 24-18.

The third quarter brought fireworks as the Spartans tied the game at 29 apiece with three minutes remaining. Edgewood responded with grit, ending the quarter on a 10-4 run to regain control at 39-33. The final quarter saw the Warriors lock down defensively, outscoring Conneaut 9-5 to seal the 48-38 victory.

“We were definitely rusty after the layoff,” said Edgewood head coach Randy Vencill. “The girls fought through the fatigue, made some key shots, and played solid defense when it mattered most. It wasn’t perfect, but we’ll take the win.”

Leigha Guyton and Annie Mae Johnston led the Warriors in scoring, each contributing 13 points. Faith Vencill battled fiercely on the boards against Conneaut’s Isabella Fix and Alexis Kiser, who led the Spartans with 12 points apiece.

The win evens Edgewood’s record at 2-2, while Conneaut drops to 1-1 on the season. The Warriors will hit the road Friday night to face Jefferson, while the Spartans look to rebound at home against the Geneva Eagles.

With both teams shaking off early-season rust, fans can expect sharper performances as the season unfolds. For now, Edgewood celebrates a hard-fought victory and valuable momentum heading into the next game.

PREGIBON PUTS THE PRESSURE ON

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YOUNGATOWN OH – Junior Katie Pregibon is making waves both on and off the court as she steps into her role as an upperclassman for the Cardinal Mooney girls basketball team. Known for her remarkable three-point shooting, Pregibon’s journey from a timid freshman to a confident leader is inspiring both teammates and coaches alike.

In a recent interview on the YSN Podcast, Katie discussed the challenges and rewards of becoming one of the team’s veterans. “I’ve enjoyed trying to be a good leader for the team, and I think it’s been going pretty well,” she shared. Her growth in leadership is evident, particularly in her efforts to guide younger players and her determination to improve her vocal presence on the court. Much of Katie’s newfound confidence stems from rigorous practice sessions and the unwavering support of her senior teammates and coaching staff. “Confidence comes from practice,” she emphasized, crediting her seniors for their constant encouragement.

Head Coach Dom DiurIo and his staff have also played a crucial role in Katie’s development. “Coach Diureo definitely helps me become confident,” she noted, highlighting the positive reinforcement and constructive criticism that push her to excel. Katie’s prowess as a shooter has been a significant asset for the team, particularly her ability to find a rhythm beyond the arc. “It’s very rewarding when it goes in, especially in clutch time,” she exclaimed. Her journey in basketball began at a young age, playing with friends at the YMCA and St. Charles. Transitioning to high school ball and AAU competition, Katie’s passion for the game only grew stronger. Katie’s athletic prowess is not confined to basketball; she also excels in golf, following in her mother’s footsteps—a Hall of Fame golfer at Mooney. Her family’s supportive presence in her sporting life further fuels her drive. “It’s really rewarding to look up in the stands and see my dad cheering me on,” she shared.

Academically, Katie faces the rigorous challenges of her junior year head-on, excelling in tough courses like AP Biology and managing her time effectively to balance sports and studies. With aspirations to study biology, possibly marine biology, Katie’s future shines bright, both on the court and in the classroom. Her hard work and dedication make her a role model for her peers and a standout player for Cardinal Mooney.

As the holiday season approaches, Katie reflects fondly on family traditions and support, particularly enjoying family dinners cooked by her dad and reminiscing about memorable Christmas gifts like family trips to Florida. In her closing remarks on the podcast, Katie expressed heartfelt gratitude to her support system, including her parents, brother, coaches, and close family friends. As Katie Pregibon continues to develop her skills and leadership, she stands as an exemplary figure for the Cardinal Mooney community, embodying the spirit of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork.

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EAST PALESTINE GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH RICK GATES

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East Palestine, OH – The East Palestine High School has ushered in a fresh era for their girls’ basketball program by appointing Rick Gates as the new head coach. Gates, who boasts a storied coaching career in the region, is set to lead the Bulldogs through an exciting journey this season.

Gates, renowned for his successes with both boys’ and girls’ programs, joins East Palestine after a beneficial stint assisting Tristan Reynolds with the boys’ team. His transition to the girls’ side comes with high hopes and notable enthusiasm. “I’m just excited to get started on my new journey and our team’s new journey with the girls program at EP,” Gates remarked during a recent episode of YSN’s “Coach’s Corner” with Anthony Hartwig.

Taking over the program in August, Gates faced immediate challenges due to a late start and the no-contact period of fall sports. His focus swiftly moved to instilling a solid foundation, emphasizing fundamentals and team culture. Despite limited initial contact, Gates expressed optimism about the team’s potential. The Bulldogs’ roster features two juniors, five sophomores, and one freshman, setting a stage for a youthful yet promising team. Key players like juniors CamI Kridler and Liv Dyke are expected to take on leadership roles, guiding their younger teammates through the season.

Without seniors and with only eight players in the squad, Gates adopts a unique coaching strategy. “We need all eight of them to contribute every single night in practice,” he emphasized. “We don’t have a superstar, so we need eight solid players that are all going to fill in their roles.” The Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference (EOAC) presents a significant competitive challenge. Gates acknowledges the strength of teams like Columbiana, Southern, and United but remains confident that his team can also vie for success. “We have a shot to play competitively with [them],” he noted. Non-conference games will serve as essential trials for Gates’ Bulldogs, aiming to prepare the squad for intense league matches and the upcoming postseason.

Joining Gates in this new chapter are assistants Jill Baird, Jocelyn Fristake, Addison Glavin, Alexis Gates Hauser, Carson Rotledge, and Kevin McKinstry. The diverse and experienced staff aims to foster growth and success within the program. “We have really had this take a step back and go fundamentals first,” Gates revealed, highlighting the collaborative and developmental focus of his staff. This comprehensive approach underscores the promising direction in which Gates intends to steer the East Palestine girls’ basketball program. YSN’s Anthony Hartwig concluded with optimism for the team and appreciation for Gates’ leadership: “Congratulations on the job. We know you’re going to do great things in East Palestine.” As the new season tips off, East Palestine fans eagerly anticipate the evolution and successes ahead under Rick Gates’ experienced leadership.

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HEARTLAND CHRISTIAN GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH SCOTT LIBB

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COLUMBIANA OH- As the countdown to the 2023-24 high school basketball season begins, Heartland Christian Lions’ girls basketball team is ready to take the court with renewed energy and ambition. Head coach Scott Libb, featured in the debut episode of YSN’s “Heartland Christian Girls Basketball Coach’s Corner,” shared his excitement and insights on what promises to be a thrilling season.

Despite facing challenges with lower numbers, Coach Libb remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, attributing their preparedness to the effort and commitment shown by the players during scrimmages and practices. “The girls are really buying into the program, and we’ve done really well in our first three scrimmages,” Libb said, noting the outstanding effort from his team. A cohesive and supportive unit, Heartland Christian’s girls basketball team is built on the values of family and community. Leading the charge is senior Rachel Reynolds, who, alongside her sophomore sister Sarah, forms the backbone of a squad that includes other key players like Emily and Gabriella McDowell, and freshman standout Emmy Matthews. Thanks to such a strong core and the integration of new talents like Callie Shaw and Olivia Vitolio, the team is looking formidable.

This season will mark a new chapter as Heartland Christian joins the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference (OVC), adding a competitive edge with matchups against perennial powerhouses like Southern. “The beginning of the year is going to be tough as we get our feet wet, but the girls are getting more educated with what we’re doing,” Libb acknowledged. Reflecting on last year’s success, which saw the team break over 20 school records and win more games than ever before, Libb emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and unity. “The biggest thing basketball has taught me is that it’s not just about me; it’s about everyone around you,” he shared. This principle resonates deeply as the team strives for even greater achievements, including aspirations for an OVAC championship.

The Lions’ journey begins with their home opener against Southern on November 22. Heartland Christian’s vibrant community support, coupled with the team’s drive and cohesion, promises an exciting season ahead. And when he’s not on the court, Coach Libb looks forward to enjoying a classic Thanksgiving spread, particularly the turkey, a fitting nod to both tradition and the warmth of family—a quality that defines his approach to coaching and team building. For those passionate about local sports, be sure to catch all the action and cheer on the Lions as they embark on what is sure to be an unforgettable season.

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LADY SPARTANS GET OFF ON RIGHT FOOT

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MARLINGTON, OH- The Boardman Lady Spartans bounced back from Saturday’s loss by defeating a well coached Marlington team Monday night by a score of 57-36.

The Spartans had a well-rounded offense, with sophomore Mikayla Rivera leading all scorers with 16 points. Seniors Sarah Bero and Ava Freeborough had 15 points and 9 points, respectively. Junior Jocelynn Torres chipped in with 7 points. Freshman Mia Duble and senior Janessa Prisby had 3 apiece. Finally, senior Tori Strines and freshman Lia Colla finished out the scoring with 2 points.

It was a hard-fought first half with both teams sharing baskets but ultimately it was the Spartans taking the lead 23-20 going into halftime. Marlington put up a fight in the third quarter, but a charge in the fourth quarter, led by Rivera, put the Spartans ahead big and they never looked back. Spartans won the fourth quarter by a score of 22-6 which led to the final score of 57-36.

The Lady Spartans will take a break for Thanksgiving and get back into action next Monday at Warren JFK.

*Contributed by Lauren Pavlansky

SPRINGFIELD GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH JOHN MATISI

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NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – The Springfield High School girls’ basketball team is poised for another exciting season, bringing back a wealth of experience and talent under the guidance of head coach John Matisi. In a recent interview with Anthony Hartwig on the YSN podcast, Matisi shared his insights and expectations for what looks to be a promising year ahead.

The team returns four starters from last season, including Jamika Brungard, the reigning MVAC Player of the Year. “These seniors have played in 17 tournament games in their first three years, which is an insane number,” Matisi remarked. He emphasized the readiness and resilience of his team, stating, “They’re ready for anything that anybody could throw at them.”

In addition to Brungard, seniors Mariana Toscano, Kerrigan Mullen, and Kendall Maughn are expected to play significant roles this season. Juniors Maren Winkler and Reagan Raginski, as well as sophomore Christina Vecchione, add depth and experience to the roster. Freshmeny have also shown promise in the pre-season.  Coach Matisi also highlighted the importance of leadership this year, noting how the seniors have stepped up vocally during practices. “They’re showing the younger kids how we want to play and what it takes to be successful,” he said.

As for their schedule, Springfield faces a challenging slate of non-conference games designed to prepare them for postseason play, including matchups against Columbiana, Crestview, Poland, and Rootstown. Within the MVAC, Matisi expects strong competition from Ridge, Western Reserve, and Jackson Milton, among others. “Our focus this year has been on offensive skills,” Matisi said, pointing to the team’s goal of improving their scoring output. Last year’s average of 45 points per game left room for growth, and the coach has stressed the need for all players to be scoring threats. The season opener is scheduled for Friday, November 22nd, against Columbiana, though this may change depending on the football team’s progress. “We’re looking forward to seeing Columbiana again, a team that beat us last year,” said Matisi. With a balanced mix of senior leadership and young talent, the Springfield girls’ basketball team is ready to take on the challenges of the new season and build on their past successes. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive year from the Tigers.

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