Tag Archive for: head coach

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 5) WITH DAVE RACH

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CANFIELD, OH- At the bustling GiAngelos, Coach Dave Rach of the South Range football Raiders joined YSN’s DJ Yokley to discuss the team’s prevailing success in Episode 5 of “South Range Coach’s Corner.” Despite his modesty, it was clear that Rach’s leadership has been pivotal in the Raiders’ undefeated streak.

In their recent clash against Struthers, the Raiders showcased their trademark determination. “Anytime you’re playing an NE8 game, it takes an extra level of focus,” remarked Rach. The team, led by star running back Devin Braham, executed a strategy that minimized the opposition’s scoring opportunities, emphasizing sound defensive principles and team effort.

When faced with unexpected challenges, such as Struthers’ early score, the team maintained composure reminiscent of their 2022 state championship run. “We rallied around each other and figured out what went wrong,” noted Rach. This adaptability and resilience are the hallmarks of a well-coached team.

Defensive excellence and ball-hunting instincts were highlighted as the Raiders continuously sought turnovers. “We talk all the time about getting eleven hats to the ball,” Rach explained. This relentless pursuit of the ball paid off with game-changing plays, including a pivotal strip and near-score by Jimmy, highlighting the team’s depth and character.

As the Raiders’ profile rises, so does the attention. The recent game against Struthers attracted the highest viewership in YSN’s history. With more media spotlight and fan support, Rach emphasized the importance of staying focused amid growing distractions. “We just try to immerse ourselves in the process of preparing,” he said, with the team keenly aware of the new challenges each week brings.

Looking ahead, the Raiders face the Poland Bulldogs in their final home game. Despite the unconventional schedule with senior night in week six and no away games yet, Rach is confident. “We have a special group of seniors,” he said, praising their maturity and dedication. The Bulldogs, known for their athleticism and strategic play, will provide another stern test, but Rach remains optimistic.

In a lighter moment, Rach unveiled a new creation at GiAngelos – “The Rangus Pizza,” named after contributions from students in his class. Featuring tomato sauce, red & green peppers, pepperoni, dollops of ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone, topped with Romano cheese, this culinary delight is set to become a fan favorite.

As South Range marches forward undefeated, Coach Rach and his team embody excellence both on and off the field. Their journey continues to captivate audiences, with the promise of more thrilling football and a testament to the power of teamwork and leadership.

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POLAND FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH RYAN WILLIAMS

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POLAND, OH-  As the mid-season mark approaches, the Poland Seminary High School Bulldogs are preparing for what could be their most challenging game yet. The Bulldogs are set to face off against the undefeated Hubbard team in a high-stakes match that has the community buzzing with excitement.

In a recent episode of the Poland Bulldog Show, Coach Ryan Williams shared his extensive journey in coaching, having started in 1992 at Crestview High School before making significant stops at Cardinal Mooney and Austin Town Fitch. His experience, combined with his passion for mentoring young athletes, has cemented his status as a cornerstone of Poland Seminary’s coaching staff.

Despite a recent nail-biting loss to Canfield, where Poland fought back from a two-touchdown deficit only to fall short by a yard on a crucial fourth down, Coach Williams remains optimistic. “Our guys battled. I mean, we played hard. We didn’t play real smart sometimes, and that’s frustrating, but we were playing our hardest as time ran out. We were real proud of our guys that way,” Williams said.

Attention now shifts to Hubbard, a team Williams describes as balanced and confident. “They’ve done a nice job of matching personnel with what they’re asking them to do. They’ve got a couple of nice wideouts, a big physical back, and a quarterback who is a dual threat,” he noted. With Poland also boasting dual-threat quarterbacks, the upcoming game promises to be a fiercely competitive affair.

As anticipation builds, there’s no denying the excitement surrounding this mid-season clash. With homecoming festivities adding to the electric atmosphere, Coach Williams and his team are eager to showcase their perseverance and tactical prowess on the home field.

The Poland Bulldogs are ready to prove that they can bounce back stronger, embracing the challenge that comes with facing an undefeated team. As Williams aptly put it, “The most important game of the season is the next one.”

Kickoff is set for 7:00 pm at Poland Seminary High School’s home field. Fans are encouraged to show up in strong support as the Bulldogs look to make this a memorable contest.

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POLAND FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH TOM PAVLANSKY

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POLAND, OH-  As the football season charges full steam ahead, the Poland Bulldogs find themselves four weeks in with an impressive momentum. Head Coach Tom Pavlansky, guiding this spirited team, sat down with YSN to reflect on the journey and the challenges that lie ahead.

This year’s Bulldogs team stands out, with Pavlansky applauding his players’ dedication and camaraderie. “We have great kids here at Poland. They play hard and with great enthusiasm,” Pavlansky commented, emphasizing the mutual respect and unity within the squad.

Transitioning seamlessly through pregame itineraries and facing unpredictable weather conditions, the Bulldogs have demonstrated resilience. Their recent shutout victory is a testament to that. Pavlansky attributes this notably to a “total team effort,” praising both players and coaching staff for their coordination and execution. Defensive resilience amidst rain and mud showcased their commitment.

Offensive prowess has also been a highlight. Key players, Vito Camaro and Chase Jones, led a dominant ground game last week, collectively nearing 200 rushing yards. Pavlansky underscored the role of the offensive line and the significant tactical adjustments made due to weather conditions, ensuring ball security and strategic play.

Looking forward, the Bulldogs are gearing up for their upcoming rivalry against Canfield, a historic fixture that stirs the local community. Pavlansky recalled vivid memories from past encounters, expressing both personal and historic attachments. “It’s our rival; that can’t be understated,” he remarked, adding that memories from games as far back as 1974 still resonate with him.

As they prepare, the focus remains on daily progress and discipline. “We’ve got to put the work in,” Pavlansky asserted, reflecting the team’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Friday’s game is poised to be more than just another match; it’s about legacy and creating lasting memories, especially for the seniors. The Bulldogs are set to take on Canfield with determination to secure a victory that will be remembered for years to come.

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CAMPBELL MEMORIAL FOOTBALL COACH”S CORNER WITH JERMAINE VENABLE

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CAMPBELL, OH-  In an engaging debut of the “Campbell Football Coaches Corner” podcast series, hosted by Matt Maher at Tavern 26, Coach Jermaine Venable shed light on Campbell Memorial’s recent triumphs and challenges on the football field. The inaugural episode, which aired last week, provided listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the high school football team’s latest victory and the unwavering community support that fuels their success.

Coach Venable, a seasoned defensive line coach, embarked on a detailed discussion about Campbell Memorial’s decisive win against St. Thomas Aquinas. Assessing his team’s performance, Venable rated it a ‘B’, noting areas for improvement but also expressing pride in the players’ resilience and effort, especially amid travel disruptions due to local fair activities.

“It’s about building depth and keeping fresh bodies on the field,” Venable emphasized, acknowledging his team’s strategic player rotations which contributed significantly to their defensive shutout.

The conversation also highlighted Venable’s dual role, extending his expertise to the offensive line and his commitment to community engagement. A lifelong Campbell Memorial advocate, Venable brings a rich personal history to his coaching approach, having graduated from the same district where he now invests his time. His dedication extends beyond the field, serving in the school’s in-school suspension program, reinforcing discipline and structure among the younger students.

“It’s all about commitment,” Venable said, after reflecting on his passion for both football and his community. “I’ve got deep roots here; my family’s history is intertwined with Campbell, and that motivates me every day.”

In a heartfelt moment, Venable credited his family’s support, particularly his wife Chantelle, and spoke fondly of his late father, his lifelong role model. The tribute to his father underscored the deeply personal values that shape his coaching philosophy.

The lighthearted end to the podcast came with a nod to Tavern 26’s famed menu, where Coach Venable revealed his favorite — the haddock tacos, a testament to his love for seafood.

Listeners left the episode not only with insights into the football team’s strategic plans but also with an appreciation for Coach Venable’s unwavering commitment to his team and community. As Campbell Memorial’s football season progresses, fans can rest assured that the leadership guiding their Red Devils is as dedicated and passionate as ever.

For those unable to attend the upcoming home opener, the game will be streamed live on YSNLive.com, continuing to bring the thrill of Campbell Memorial football to fans far and wide.

Tune in next week for more updates and inside stories on the Campbell Memorial Red Devils show, right here at Tavern 26, where football and community come together.

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URSULINE GIRL’S BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH LAVELL TURNAGE

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH- In the latest episode of the YSN podcast, host and basketball enthusiast, DJ Yokley catapults audiences into the world of Ursuline Girls Basketball. Joined by first-year head coach, LaVell Turnage, they dive into the highs and challenges of coaching the Lady Irish.

During the conversation, Turnage reflects on the emotional journey of coming back home to his alma mater. He discusses the immense pride he feels walking into the gym, reminiscing about the memories created during his time as a student and athlete. For him, being back at Ursuline isn’t just about being a coach; it’s about making a lasting impact on the lives of his players and instilling important life lessons.
The topic shifts towards the upcoming season and the adjustments that come with being a head coach. Turnage acknowledges that the team’s success lies in building a cohesive unit, with each player understanding their role as a puzzle piece. Emphasizing the importance of communication, he encourages the girls to focus on mastering simple fundamentals such as layups, free throws, and defense, which will keep them competitive in games.

The conversation also highlights the challenging schedule ahead for the Lady Irish, with tough matchups against schools like Hoban and St. Vincent-St. Mary. While acknowledging the difficulty, Turnage states that he appreciates the opportunity to test his team’s mettle and see how they respond to adversity.
As the podcast delves deeper, Coach Turnage reveals the key players to watch out for this season. Point guard Lily Scott, committed to Mount Union next year, is lauded for her skill and dedication to the game. Coach highlights other standouts who have shown immense potential despite transitioning from middle school basketball.

However, Turnage acknowledges that challenges lie ahead, particularly in nurturing the underclassmen and helping them find their identity within the team. With more underclassmen than upperclassmen, he sees it as an opportunity to build for the future and cultivate a team that will compete at a high level in the coming years.

Throughout the podcast, Turnage’s love for Ursuline and his dedication to the development of young women are evident. Drawing from his own experiences growing up in a single-parent household, he sees coaching as a means to provide guidance and love to his players. He strives to move the needle for girls’ basketball, both locally and nationally, and inspire his players to pursue opportunities in the sport beyond the high school level.

The YSN podcast continues to shed light on the impactful work being done by passionate coaches like LaVell Turnage. His commitment to his team and his desire to mold young women extends beyond the basketball court, making him a role model for players and coaches alike.

 

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GOING, GOING, VAUGHN

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AUSTINTOWN, OH-  In today’s player profile, we delve into the world of Austintown Fitch High School football and shine the spotlight on one of their star players, Deshawn Vaughn.

Deshawn, a talented quarterback and free safety, has faced his fair share of challenges, with a devastating injury sidelining him for a season. But now, in his senior year, he’s determined to make up for lost time and leave it all on the field. Join us as we explore Deshaun’s journey, his growth during his injury, and his goals for the season. Don’t miss out on this intriguing profile of a player who’s ready to make a lasting impact.

Stay tuned to YSN, where we bring you the inside scoop on the stories that matter in the world of high school sports.

 

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David Rach, South Range

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 4) WITH DAVID RACH

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CANFIELD, OH- In Episode 4, as always, we have a special guest joining us, David Rach, the head coach of the South Range Raiders.

We’ll be diving into the aftermath of their impressive 41-3 victory over Warren JFK, making them 2-1 for the season. Coach Rach reflects on the team’s preparation, the importance of establishing a dominant run game, and the defensive prowess displayed by his players.

We also discuss the challenges of practicing during a week with no school and the unique scheduling situation this year. Stay tuned for an insightful and engaging conversation with Coach David Rach on this week’s episode.

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David Rach, South Range

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH DAVID RACH

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BOARDMAN, OH-  In this episode, titled “South Range Football Coach’s Corner (Ep 2) with David Rach,” we dive into the exhilarating world of coaching with South Range head coach, David Rach. Join us as we discuss his first-ever game as a head coach, the preparation and anticipation leading up to the game, and the emotions he experienced throughout the week.

From the nerve-wracking moments to the proud triumph of securing a victory, Coach Rach shares his insights and reflections on this unforgettable experience. Stay tuned for an inside look at the South Range Raiders’ journey and the passion that drives this football program. It’s time to step into the Coach’s Corner with David Rach!

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