Tag Archive for: Heartland Christian

LIONS STILL KING OF THE CATS

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NEWTON FALLS OH- In a thrilling matchup in Newton Falls, Heartland managed to come out on top with a narrow 4-3 victory over the home team.

Heartland’s offense was led by Jake Walker, who went 1-for-4 with an RBI, and Jack Morgan, who contributed a hit, an RBI, a walk, and a run scored. Drew Gault had a perfect day at the plate, going 2-for-2 with an RBI and two walks, while Will Morgan added two hits and scored a run.

On the mound, Christian Hamilton pitched 5.1 solid innings for Heartland, allowing six hits and two earned runs while striking out two.

Newton Falls put up a fight with Ethan Powell leading the offense, going 2-for-2 with two RBIs and a run scored. Owen Gazda also had a strong game, going 2-for-2 with an RBI and a walk, while Carter Rapczak added two hits of his own.

Cameron Huff pitched well for Newton Falls, striking out six batters over six innings while allowing six hits and one earned run.

In the end, Heartland’s timely hitting and solid pitching were enough to secure the close victory over Newton Falls.

URSULINE LOCKS DOWN THE LIONS

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Ursuline easily dispatched Heartland Christian on Tuesday on the road, 14-1.

The Irish got on the board in the top of the second inning after Thomas Kosovan singled, scoring two runs, Luke Kollar grounded out, scoring one run, CJ Frasco homered to left field, scoring two runs, and Thomas Pesa doubled, scoring one run.

Johnny Cambert earned the win for Ursuline. The starting pitcher allowed two hits and zero runs over two innings, striking out four and walking one. Brett Walker took the loss for Heartland Christian. The starting pitcher went one and one-third innings, giving up five runs on five hits, striking out none and walking three. Pesa threw one inning of no-run ball for Ursuline. He allowed zero hits, striking out one and walking one.

The Irish collected 15 hits in the game. Pesa drove the middle of the lineup, leading with four runs batted in. The right-handed hitter went 3-for-4 on the day. Anthony Triveri, Rowan Urbach, and Pesa each collected three hits. Frasco collected two hits in three at bats. Urbach stole two bases. The Irish had patience at the plate, amassing seven walks for the game. They stole four bases in the game. Ursuline didn’t commit a single error in the field. Urbach had the most chances in the field with seven.

Brett Walker and Jake Walker each collected one hit for Heartland Christian. Tyler Rarick led with one run batted in. The Lions turned one double play in the game.

GAULT PROVIDES THE HEAT; LIONS POUND EP

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NEW WATERFORD, OH- Drew Gault has been working towards days like these.  In a dazzling display of power-hitting, Drew Gault led the charge for the Heartland Christian as they clinched a decisive 12-2 win over East Palestine on Monday. Gault’s impressive performance, highlighted by two home runs and five RBIs, stole the spotlight and propelled his team to victory.

Gault wasted no time making his mark, launching homers in both the second and fourth innings to ignite the Lions’ offense and send the crowd into a frenzy.

Despite East Palestine striking first with a run in the opening frame, the Lions quickly responded, seizing the lead in the bottom of the inning. Brett Walker’s timely single drove in two runs, giving Heartland Christian the early advantage.

East Palestine managed to tie the game in the second inning, but Gault’s homer in the bottom half of the inning swung the momentum back in favor of the Lions, propelling them to a 5-2 lead.

The Lions continued to pile on the runs, with Tyler Rarick adding another tally in the third by stealing home. However, it was the explosive fourth inning that truly showcased Heartland Christian’s offensive prowess. Gault’s second homer of the game, coupled with errors that allowed additional runs to score, extended the Lions’ lead to a commanding 10-run margin.

On the mound, Jake Walker delivered a gutsy performance, stifling East Palestine’s offense and securing the win for the Lions. Walker’s six innings of work saw him allowing just three hits and two runs while racking up an impressive eight strikeouts.

Despite East Palestine’s efforts, they were unable to contain the Lions’ relentless offense and solid defense. Heartland Christian’s aggressive baserunning, highlighted by six stolen bases, kept the pressure on their opponents throughout the game.

With contributions from players like Rarick and Owen Bender, who stole multiple bases, and a patient approach at the plate that resulted in six walks, the Lions showcased their depth and versatility on both sides of the ball.

For East Palestine, Phoenix Marvin started the game on the bump, and surrendered three hits and two runs (one earned) over one inning, striking out one and walking none.  Payyon Rutledge took the tough loss for East Palestine. The reliever went one and one-third innings, surrendering one run on three hits, striking out two and walking one. 

Offensively, EP’s Marvin, Logan Guy, and Jason Robb each collected one hit for East Palestine. Morrison and Beatty each drove in one run for the Bulldogs.

As they look ahead to their next matchup, Heartland Christian will prepare to face Ursuline on Tuesday at the Ace of Diamonds facility. 

 

HEARTLAND JOINS OVAC

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COLUMBIANA, OH- The Heartland Christian athletic program made a significant leap forward as they officially joined the ranks of the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference (OVAC). During an enlightening conversation on YSN, Athletic Director Josh Scott shared the driving force behind the move and its expected impact.

“The biggest thing, more than anything, was just for our kids to have something to play for, like all the other schools do. They are in a conference,” said Scott, emphasizing the importance of competitive goals for students.

At the heart of this decision is the opportunity for the school’s athletic program to provide meaningful experiences for the students. Joining the OVAC aligns with the school’s goal of offering impactful moments that reach beyond the court or field. The benefits of membership are more than just logistical; they fuel a culture of persistence and recognition.

Scott views the inclusion into the OVAC as a potential stepping stone, possibly laying the groundwork for Heartland Christian to become part of a multi-conference system in the future. “We’re hoping that we can show some stability, some responsibility of being in a league, and then maybe we’d be a little bit more attractive down the road to be in some of these local conferences as well,” he shared.

Travel and logistics are always a consideration for schools when joining new conferences. While acknowledging the challenges, Scott remains positive. “The reward was bigger in the fact that our kids now have a championship to play for, all conference honors, and just more opportunity across the board for our kids,” he pointed out.

Another aspect that Scott is excited about is the potential of “big moment games where, you know, the outcome matters.” Having regular chances to compete for championships and honors provides a different kind of motivation for student-athletes, which can be transformative both in sports and personal development.

Reflecting on Heartland Christian’s journey, Scott is both humbly proud and grateful to be part of this evolutionary step for the school. “I’ve been just, this one called to the whole system here… to see it to come to fruition. I just, I hope that the kids will find a way to enjoy it as much as we hope that they will,” he shared, looking to the future with optimistic anticipation.

Heartland Christian is poised to embark on a thrilling new chapter as a member of the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference. Under Josh Scott’s leadership, the school’s athletics are sure to flourish, marking the potential for new legacies built on the foundation of hard work, passion, and community spirit.
Stay tuned to this space as YSN continues to provide coverage on Heartland Christian’s exciting new journey in the OVAC, and perhaps, the crowning of their first conference championship in the near future.

LIONS ADVANCE TO PROGRAM’S FIRST DISTRICT FINAL

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COLUMBIANA OH- Heartland Christian made program history by advancing to their first-ever district championship game, stunning the second-seeded Bristol with a sensational 55-43 victory. The win not only propelled the Lions to new heights but also marked a significant milestone for head coach Josh Scott, who celebrated his 200th career win in memorable fashion.

Fuelled by a collective determination to defy expectations, Heartland Christian delivered a standout performance on both ends of the court, showcasing their resilience and grit in the face of adversity.

Leading the charge for Heartland were standout performances from Jake Walker, who led the team with 16 points, and Isaiah Mathews, who contributed 12 points to the scoreboard. Brody Conaway added 9 points to the Lions’ offensive effort, while Will Morgan chipped in with 7 points, highlighting the team’s balanced scoring attack.

With this historic win, Heartland Christian punches their ticket to the district championship, where they are set to face top-seeded Warren JFK. The upcoming matchup promises to be a thrilling showdown between two determined teams, as both vie for the coveted district title. Set to take place on Friday at 7:00 at Grand Valley High School, the district championship game holds immense significance for Heartland Christian.

TIGERS ONE STEP CLOSER TO REPEAT

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NEWMIDDLETOWN OH- In their quest to defend their regional championship title, Springfield took a significant stride forward on Saturday with a commanding 59-43 victory over Heartland Christian, advancing to the district round of the tournament. With their sights set on postseason glory, Springfield showcased their talent and determination on the court, leaving no doubt as to their capabilities.

Leading the charge for Springfield was Jameka Brungard, who delivered a standout performance with an impressive 24 points, leading the team’s offensive charge with her scoring prowess. Ava Vecchione also made significant contributions with 19 points, while Mariana Tuscano added 10 points to bolster Springfield’s offensive firepower.

Despite a spirited effort from Heartland Christian, Springfield’s relentless attack proved too much to handle, as they secured the decisive victory to continue their postseason journey.

With the win, Springfield advances to Wednesday’s district semifinal, where they are set to face off against Badger. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to take place at Mineral Ridge at 6:00.

WARRIORS TAKE A STANCE

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By Michael Ginocchi 


Beloit, OH- The West Branch Boys’ Basketball team won their final game before tournament play by defeating Heartland Christian 64 to 42. West Branch finished the regular season with an 18-4 record and were EBC champs. 

 

The Warriors led 35 to 23 at the half, but Heartland showed a lot of heart by cutting the lead to eight points in the second before the Warriors pulled away. West Branch will play at home on Tuesday against the 13-9 Youngstown East Golden Bears in the first round of the state playoffs. The matchup between the two teams should be an exciting first round game. West Branch won the first meeting 73 to 71 in overtime a few weeks ago.

 

Leading the Warriors’ offense was Jeremiah Thomas with 16 points and Gavin Gregory with 10 points. Jaxon Robb contributed 9 points and Cooper Anderson and Joey Jackson each had 8 points.

 

The Heartland Lions were led in scoring by Will Morgan with 12 points and Jake Walker with 11 points. Their regular season record ends with a 13-9 record. The Lions will face Southington Chalker at home on Tuesday at 7 pm. in the first round of the state basketball playoffs. 






HEARTLAND’S HISTORIC RUN CONTINUES

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COLUMBIANA OH- In another remarkable display of their historic season, Heartland Christian’s basketball team continued their record-breaking journey on Wednesday, overpowering Lordstown with an emphatic 62-21 victory. With each win, Heartland adds to their legacy, surpassing previous milestones to establish new standards of success for the program.

Leading the charge for Heartland were Rylee Shadowens and Rachel Reynolds, who each contributed 14 points to the scoring onslaught. Sarah Reynolds added 10 points to the scoreboard, while Mackenzie Lightly chipped in with 6 points, highlighting the team’s balanced offensive effort.

Looking ahead, Heartland prepares for another challenge as they hit the road to face Valley Christian on Friday.

LIONS POUNCE ON THE URBAN SCHOLARS

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COLUMBIANA OH- In a commanding performance on Friday, Heartland Christian demonstrated their dominance over the Academy of Urban Scholars, securing a resounding 68-22 victory.

The scoring leaders for Heartland were Collin Kalaher with an impressive 18 points, closely followed by Jake Walker contributing 16, and Tyler Rarick with 11. Brody Conaway added 6 points to the team’s well-rounded effort.

With the win, Heartland Christian advances to a 10-4 record and will aim to maintain their momentum as they face Lordstown on Wednesday. The comprehensive victory not only showcases Heartland’s scoring prowess but also sets a positive tone as they continue their basketball campaign.

NEWTON FALLS OVERWHELMS THE LIONS

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COLUMBIANA OH- On Tuesday night, Newton Falls took their potent offense on the road and secured an impressive 71-58 win against Heartland Christian. The game showcased Newton Falls’ scoring prowess as they executed effectively to emerge victorious.

Jabriel Rufai led the offensive charge for Newton Falls with an outstanding 25-point performance, highlighting his scoring ability. Carson Howard added 12 points, and Ethan Powell contributed 10 points to the Tigers’ well-balanced scoring effort. Zach Stinson chipped in 7 points, further bolstering Newton Falls’ offensive production.

Heartland Christian put up a commendable effort, with Jake Walker leading their scoring with 16 points. Will Morgan contributed 15 points, and Collin Kalahee added 11 points for the Lions.

With this road win, Newton Falls moves to a 4-4 record and will shift their focus back to MVAC play as they host Crestview on Friday. Heartland Christian, now standing at 5-4, looks ahead to their next matchup at home against Chalker on Saturday. The game demonstrated Newton Falls’ offensive firepower and sets the stage for both teams as they navigate the challenges of the season.