Tag Archive for: heartland Christian Lions

HEARTLAND SNAPS LISBON’S WINNING STREAK

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LISBON, OH- The Lisbon Blue Devils couldn’t keep pace with a steady offensive attack from Heartland Christian, falling 14-2 on Friday evening, and providing Lisbon their first loss of the young season.

Lisbon got on the board first with a Marc Moore RBI groundout in the opening inning, but Heartland Christian responded in the second and never looked back. A wild pitch tied things up, then Brennan Murray delivered a two-run single to put the Lions up 3-1.

Heartland kept piling on runs, while Christian Hamilton held Lisbon in check on the mound. The right-hander went the distance, allowing just three hits and two runs while striking out two and walking three over seven innings.

Bryce Esarey started for Lisbon and struck out nine over 3.1 innings, but was tagged with the loss after allowing four runs (three earned) on just one hit. The Blue Devils struggled defensively and couldn’t contain the Lions’ aggressive baserunning and patient approach at the plate.

Ashton Hinchliffe, Aiden Myers, and Brady Carpenter recorded hits for Lisbon, with Moore and Myers each driving in a run. Lisbon showed some spark on the bases with five stolen bags.

For Heartland, Brady DeSantis led the RBI charge with two, while Jack Morgan paced the offense with a 2-for-5 day from the leadoff spot. The Lions drew 10 walks and ran wild, swiping nine bases in the game. Paul Bender, Morgan, and Alex Hamilton each played a key role in pressuring Lisbon’s defense.

The Blue Devils will look to bounce back on Saturday when they host East Canton.

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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HEARTLAND CHRISTIAN BOYS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER: (EP 1) WITH JOSH SCOTT

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COLUMBIANA, OH- The Heartland Christian boys basketball team will have to reload some talent after losing the top three scorers from a season ago. Jonathan Bertovich was a standout athlete on the hardwood for the Lions, leading the team scoring close to 25 points per game. The Lions also lose Sam Osborn and Nate Garzanich who scored over 6 points per game last year. Heartland Christian looks to build off of a 19 win season from last year, while making it to the district semifinal before falling in a close one to Lowellville.

Head Coach Josh Scott joined Ty Bartell to discuss the upcoming Heartland Christian boys basketball campaign. He talks about the great numbers coming back to the program, along with the importance of defense now that they lose the scorers and size from last years team. Check out this coach’s corner with Heartland Christian head coach Josh Scott.