Tag Archive for: Golden Bears

A WALK IN THE PARK; LIONS DOWN EAST

YOUNGSTOWN, OH- Jake Walker was on fire, driving in four runs on two hits to spearhead Heartland Christian’s overwhelming 17-1 rout of East on Monday. Walker’s magic came alive in the sixth inning when he singled twice, first bringing in three runs and then adding another RBI to his tally.

The Lions’ victory was solidified by an explosive sixth inning where they piled on 15 runs. Paul Bender and Matt Kingston delivered crucial singles, Kaden Stryffeler and Christian Hamilton worked the count for RBI walks, and Drew Gault smashed a couple of doubles. Will Morgan chipped in with a sacrifice fly, Seth Walker added a two-RBI single, and a couple of errors by East also helped fuel the scoring frenzy.

East initially got on the board in the first with Derek Cruz’s line-out. However, Heartland Christian quickly took control in the fourth, capitalizing on an error to grab a 2-1 lead.

On the mound, Brett Walker bagged the win, allowing just one run and three hits over three innings while striking out two. East’s Oscar Agosto shouldered the loss after yielding eight runs over five and a third innings. Tyler Rarick and Walker came in relief for Heartland Christian, effectively shutting down East’s lineup.

At the dish, Walker and Gault each notched a pair of hits, while Morgan led the team with three walks, highlighting their patience at the plate. The Lions drew a whopping 12 walks in total.

Defensively, Heartland Christian was flawless, committing no errors. Gault, in particular, was a standout, involved in seven plays.

Agosto was a bright spot for East, managing two hits in his three at-bats.

Looking ahead, Heartland Christian is set to host Edison on Tuesday, hoping to carry this momentum into their next game.

AREA TEAMS REASSIGNED IN OHSAA RELEASE

East Palestine, OH- The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has unveiled its Divisions and Regional assignments for the upcoming 2024 season, setting the stage for an exciting year of high school sports. The release, made on 04/25/24, marks a significant moment for area schools as several have been reassigned either moving up or down the divisions.

Divisional placements are primarily determined by enrollment figures, with a competitive balance multiplier in effect for transfers, which can adjust the qualifying numbers based on individual circumstances. Division 1 will see the fewest number of teams, with 70, while divisions 2 through 7 will average around 106 teams each. 10 YSN teams will find a new home for the 2024 season with the details listed below:

Moving Down

  • Ashtabula Lakeside (2023 record 4-6): The Dragons will transition from Division 2 Region 5 to Division 3 Region 9 due to decreased enrollment. Joining one of the toughest regions in the state, Lakeside will face formidable opponents like Chardon, Ursuline, Canfield, and Kenston, alongside CVC teams Geneva and Madison.
  • Girard Indians (2023 record 5-6): With decreased enrollment, the Indians move from Division 4 Region 13 to Division 5 Region 17. Competing against programs like Norwayne, Garfield, and Harrison Central, they’ll share the region with NE8 conference members South Range, Lakeview, and Poland.
  • Poland Bulldogs (2023 Record 10-2): Another team moving down, the Bulldogs shift from Division 4 Region 13 to Division 5 Region 17. Facing powerhouses like South Range, Garfield, and Harrison Central, they’ll also contend with NE8 members Girard and Lakeview in a region where conference play will heavily influence playoff seeding.
  • East Palestine Bulldogs (2023 Record 2-8): Due to decreased enrollment, the Bulldogs move down to Division 7 Region 25, where they’ll compete against programs like Danville, Lowellville, Western Reserve, and Toronto, alongside EOAC teams Lisbon, Southern, Leetonia, and Wellsville.

Moving Up

  • Conneaut Spartans (2023 Record 5-5): With increased enrollment, the Spartans ascend to Division 4 Region 13 from Division 5 Region 17. Joining a region with 2 state champions in Glenville for Division 4 and Perry for Division 5 from 2023, they’ll compete alongside CVC Lake division conference mates Edgewood and Jefferson.
  • Perry Pirates (2023 Record 16-0 Division 5 State Champion): Fresh off a historic undefeated season and a Division 5 state championship, the Pirates move up to Division 4 Region 13. Competing against successful teams like Akron Buchtel, Cardinal Mooney, and Mentor Lake Catholic, they’ll share the region with CVC conference mates Conneaut, Edgewood, Jefferson, and West Geauga.
  • Louisville Leopards (2023 Record 1-9): With increased enrollment, the Leopards transition from Division 3 Region 13 to Division 2 Region 5. Competing against annual playoff contenders like Akron Hoban and Austintown-Fitch, they’ll face tough competition alongside conference mates Lake and Hoover.
  • Youngstown East Golden Bears (2023 Record 3-7): Moving up from Division 4 Region 13 to Division 3 Region 9, the Golden Bears join arguably the most challenging region in the state, competing alongside fellow SVC members Ursuline and Chaney.
  • Crestview Rebels (2023 Record 5-6): Enhanced by the competitive balance multiplier, the Rebels move from Division 6 Region 21 to Division 5 Region 17. Facing programs like South Range and Garrettsville Garfield, they’ll join MVAC conference mate Champion in the region.
  • Springfield Tigers (2023 Record 7-5): Moving from Division 7 Region 25 to Division 6 Region 21, the Tigers enter a region with formidable programs like Kirtland and Mogadore, alongside fellow MVAC members Jackson-Milton and Mineral Ridge.

With these adjustments, the stage is set for an exciting and competitive 2024 season across Ohio high school football and you can catch all the action here on YSNlive.com

LISBON LEAVES EAST FEELING BLUE

LISBON, OH- Brady Carpenter was on a roll, snagging three hits as the Lisbon Blue Devils steamrolled East 10-0 on Friday. Carpenter set the tone with singles in the first, fourth, and fifth innings, proving to be a key player in the lineup.

The Blue Devils hit the scoreboard first in the second inning, capitalizing on a fielder’s choice by Gage Owens that allowed a run to score, despite a tough pitch from Francisco Rodriguez Santos. The real damage came in the fourth inning, where the Blue Devils hammered out five runs on five hits. Contributions came from Ryan Carpenter with a double, Aiden Myers grounding out to bring in a run, and Bryce Esarey and Marc Moore each adding singles that scored runs.

On the mound, Brady Carpenter was just as impressive, shutting down East with a one-hit, zero-run performance over five innings, where he struck out nine and walked three. Rodriguez Santos, on the other hand, struggled a bit for East, giving up six runs (two earned) across four innings.

The Blue Devils were sharp throughout, tallying ten hits with Moore picking up two of them. They kept it clean in the field too, not making a single error, with Logan Sturgeon leading with four defensive plays.

For East, Jordan Brown managed their only hit, going 1-for-1, while Oscar Agosto nabbed two bases.

Next up, the Lisbon Blue Devils are headed to Lowellville on Saturday, looking to carry their momentum forward.

BOARDMAN TAKES ANOTHER STEP FORWARD IN WIN

YOUNGSTOWN, OH- The Boardman Girls Basketball Program has turned a corner, and it doesn’t appear they’re looking back.

The Lady Spartans basketball team showcased their dominance on the road, securing a resounding 52-17 victory against Youngstown East. The win marks the Spartans’ sixth consecutive triumph and propels their season record to an impressive 14-4, underscoring their status as a formidable force in the area.

Once again, it was Mackenzie Riccitelli who spearheaded the Spartans’ offensive onslaught, delivering a stellar performance with a game-high 23 points, highlighted by an impressive display from beyond the arc with 5 three-pointers. Riccitelli’s all-around contribution was exemplary, as she amassed 6 steals, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists, showcasing her versatility and impact on both ends of the court.

Ava Freeborough proved to be a pivotal playmaker for the Spartans, tallying 8 points while dishing out a season-high 7 assists, orchestrating the team’s offensive rhythm with precision and finesse. Sarah Bero, a consistent presence in the paint, added 7 points and dominated the boards with an impressive 10 rebounds, anchoring the Spartans’ defensive efforts.

Sam Duble showcased her sharpshooting prowess, knocking down two crucial three-pointers en route to 6 points and contributing 3 steals to the defensive end. M.C. Werth provided valuable contributions with 4 points and 5 rebounds, epitomizing the Spartans’ depth and resilience as a team.

Tori Strines and Mikayla Rivera made notable contributions from the perimeter, with Strines sinking a three-pointer and Rivera adding a free throw to the scoreboard. The collective effort of the entire team was evident, as all 14 players saw action on the court, underscoring the Spartans’ unity and cohesion.

Amira Mousa, Jocelynn Torres, Janessa Prisby, Ava Gaps, Olivia Combis, Lily Ison, and Emma Terlesky seized the opportunity to showcase their talents in the second half, further highlighting the depth of the Spartans’ roster and their commitment to excellence.

For Youngstown East, Alyssa Crankfield and Yelian Seda led the scoring charge with five points each.

As the Lady Spartans savor their latest triumph, they shift their focus to their upcoming showdown against Warren Harding, a crucial AAC contest that promises to test their mettle once again. With confidence soaring and momentum on their side, the Spartans are poised to continue their pursuit of greatness, fueled by determination, teamwork, and a relentless drive to succeed.

BEARS BEAT CHANEY TO THE PUNCH

By Matt Maher 


YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The Golden Bears welcomed the CowGirls to their side of town for another installment of Steel Valley girls basketball where the 2nd best team in Campbell took down the 4th best team by the final score of 44-37. Both teams showed some great skill on the court but it would be the Golden Bears spectacular grit and the great efforts of  Alyssa Crankfield and Johniqua Clay that would be the key differences in this game.

 

Chaney showed they could tango with East in the first where they were able to find 8 points to Campbells 9. The Cowgirls were led by Alyssa Brown who scored all of Chaney’s points in the quarter with two made 2’s and 4-of-4 made free throws. East saw Clay put up 4 all in the paint and Crankfield found 5 points in the paint as well for the Golden Bears including a successful and-1.

 

Johniqua Clay would keep up her dominance by scoring 5 points in the 2nd quarter all within the arc with two 2’s and a made free throw. Crankfield would add an impressive 3 into the mix as well and make 2-of-2 free throws. Chaney saw Madonna Jones step up with 3 points from beyond the arc and Iysis Harmon would add a bucket to give Chaney another score. 

 

Chaney continued to stay close to east after the break, scoring 13 points to East’s 12, though their close quarters were still hurting Chaney’s chances. Alyssa Brown entered back on to the score sheet with 12 more points including 3 more made free throws, a 3 and three 2’s. Brianna Wright added 6 points to her total and Crankfield found 8 points for herself with three 2’s and another great trip to the line with both shots hitting from the stripe. 

 

The 4th quarter was another close quarter, with East putting up 12-11. Brown would add 7 more points and finish with a team leading 20 points on the night. Jaziya Burley-Anderson added another 3 to the mix and Alexandria Pete would find her first point in the form of a free throw. East saw Clay find 4 more points with a nice layup and hitting 2-of-2 shots from one of her trips to the line. Crankfield continued to impress with 8 more points including three 2’s and another great trip to the line with both shots connecting, she ended 5-for-5 from the line and with 20 points on the night!

 

Despite the individual boost from Alyssa Brown, Chaney couldn’t find enough consistency in the scoring department to top the Golden Bears. Johniqua Clay and Alyssa Crankfield both deserve standing ovations after their performances on Wednesday night. The Cowgirls (10-5, 2-3) will be back at home when they face Campbell Memorial on January 20th at 2:45PM and East (7-6, 1-3) will travel to Harding on January 22nd at 7:00PM.

 

EAST BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH CHIVAS WHIPPLE

By Ty Bartell

YOUNGSTOWN OH- When talking about Youngstown East athletics, one thing is for sure, the love for the programs runs deep! Community support from far and wide all over the country there is love for The Golden Bears. Members of the Steel Valley Conference (SVC) once again, The Bears feel they are up for the challenge to compete for a conference crown. Although a smaller conference that only features four teams, when it comes to basketball on the boys side, it’s a free-for-all when it can be anyone’s year!

The Golden Bears are continuing to build and feel like they are just the tip of the iceberg of what the program can become. YSNs Ty Bartell got the opportunity to talk with Head Coach Chivas Hipple about the upcoming hoops season for East. Talking about the team, the tough conference ahead, the key to get wins this year and much more! Always a fun chat with an always great coach and leader, you do not want to miss this edition of Coaches Corner with Chivas Whipple! Stay updated with East basketball this season with live games, scores, stats, stories and more on YSN!

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EAST GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH TANISHA FRANKLIN

By Ty Bartell

YOUNGSTOWN OH- Juggling the responsibilities of being an athletic director and a head coach is never easy.
Things are not made any simpler when a program needs to be re-established to the success it once had. But for Youngstown East Golden Bears girls basketball Head Coach Tanisha Franklin, it is the hard work and grit that is needed that she is more than accustomed to! Doubling as the schools Athletic Director, Coach Franklin is a driving force behind athletic programs at East making a turn around. For the girls basketball team, Coach Franklin and The Golden Bears are coming off one of their best seasons in recent years, with a 13-8 record a season ago, East looks to build off last year.

In this year’s edition of Coaches Corner, YSNs Ty Bartell got the chance to speak with Coach Franklin on the takeaways from last year, how to continue success this season, the impactful players to expect this year and so much more! Catch this first episode of Coaches Corner and catch all East High School scores, stats, stories and more on YSN!

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CHANEY WINS CLASH IN YOUNGSTOWN

YOUNGSTOWN OH- In a Week 10 showdown between Youngstown rivals, Chaney delivered a resounding 35-6 victory over East.

The first quarter set the tone for the game, with Matt Jones making his presence known with a 7-yard touchdown run at 6:37, followed by a second touchdown run of the same length just four seconds before the quarter’s end, both capped off with successful PATs, setting Chaney ahead 14-0. The second quarter continued the trend, with Jones extending his scoring spree with a 13-yard touchdown run at 5:59 and a 2-yard run at 1:30, each accompanied by successful PATs, pushing the lead to a commanding 28-0.

The third quarter remained scoreless, but the fourth quarter saw Bryson Douglas contribute with an 11-yard touchdown run at 8:20, again with a successful PAT, increasing the lead to 35-0. East managed to break the silence late in the game with Andrew Blackmon connecting with Jose Castro for an 8-yard touchdown pass at 1:45, although the two-point conversion was unsuccessful, resulting in a final score of 35-6.

 

CARDINALS SOAR PAST THE BEARS

* CONTRIBUTED BY ERIC HUGHES

YOUNGSTOWN. OH – It was a chilly Friday evening as the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals took on the East Golden Bears in a thrilling high school football matchup. The excitement in the air was palpable, and both teams were determined to claim victory on the gridiron.

The game kicked off with a burst of energy from the East Golden Bears. Just one minute into the first quarter, running back Thomas Davis exploded with a spectacular 57-yard run. The crowd cheered as Davis showcased his speed and agility. Shortly after, Davis punched the ball into the end zone with a 1-yard touchdown run, giving East an early lead of 6-0. However, their two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

The Cardinal Mooney Cardinals quickly responded, showing their resilience and offensive prowess. With 1:51 left in the first quarter, running back Adyn Page carried the ball 8 yards into the end zone, giving the Cardinals their first touchdown of the game. Kicker Chris Clautti’s extra point was good, and Mooney took the lead, 7-6.

Mooney’s momentum continued to build as the first quarter came to a close. Quarterback Ashton O’Brien displayed his passing skills, connecting with tight end Johnathan Brenner on a 19-yard touchdown pass with just 32 seconds remaining. Chris Clautti’s reliable leg added the extra point, extending Mooney’s lead to 14-6.

The East Golden Bears, however, were not to be outdone. In the second quarter, Thomas Davis struck again with a 6-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 14-12 as their two-point attempt fell short.

But the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals continued to make their presence felt. O’Brien’s arm was on full display as he connected with wide receiver Matt Kay on a 9-yard touchdown pass with 5:21 left in the second quarter. Clautti’s PAT was good, and Mooney’s lead grew to 21-12.

The East Golden Bears refused to back down and clawed their way back into the game. Quarterback Andrew Blackmon orchestrated a drive that culminated in a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Nathaniel Torres. East’s two-point conversion attempt was once again unsuccessful, but they managed to narrow the gap to 21-18 with just 1:27 remaining in the second quarter.

As the clock wound down in the second quarter, Ashton O’Brien had one more trick up his sleeve. He launched a 12-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Tyon Flowers, and with Clautti’s extra point, Mooney’s lead stretched to 28-18.

The second half continued to favor the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals. With 8:45 left in the third quarter, running back Cam Paige powered through with a 4-yard touchdown run, making it 35-18 after Clautti’s PAT.

O’Brien, the talented Mooney quarterback, extended their lead even further with a 19-yard touchdown run, and kicker Mason Janis added the extra point to make it 42-18 with 5:23 left in the game.

Mooney was not finished, and in the final minutes, O’Brien connected with Matt Kay again. This time, it was an 18-yard tip-drill touchdown pass that left the East Golden Bears in disbelief. The extra point attempt was no good, but Mooney sealed the deal with a commanding 48-18 lead.

When the final whistle blew, the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals emerged as the victors, their determination and skill on full display. The win was a testament to their teamwork and resilience, and their fans celebrated this exciting victory on that chilly Friday night under the stadium lights.

MOONEY TAKES FOOTHOLD IN STEEL VALLEY CONFERENCE

Cardinal Mooney launched into conference play triumphantly by sweeping East in a 3-0 victory (25-18, 25-21, 25-14).

Jaida Lane’s standout performance included 10 kills and 2 blocks, while Brinkley Bair added 9 kills and 6 digs. Amarra Anderson’s 6 kills contributed to the team’s success. Natalie Blasko orchestrated the offense with 27 assists and 2 aces, and Maria Pecchia’s defensive prowess was on display with 14 digs and 2 aces.

Cardinal Mooney is set to compete again next Monday, facing off against Columbiana.