NORTH JACKSON OH- The Jackson-Milton Blue Jays softball team is gearing up for the 2025 season with a mix of experienced leaders and promising newcomers. Head coach Tyler Halavick, entering his second season, is focused on building on last year’s 13-6 record and leading the team to even greater success.
With the start of the season approaching, the Blue Jays have taken advantage of early warm weather, practicing outdoors daily and participating in scrimmages. Halavick is using these opportunities to assess player positions and test the team’s resilience. His roster includes senior Grace Johns, a versatile utility player, and junior Brena McBeth, who will lead the pitching staff alongside newcomer Katie Byers. Freshmen Charly Estes and Joslynn Cellers will also contribute significantly this season.
The team faces tough competition in the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference, including McDonald and Ridge. However, Halavick is confident the Blue Jays are ready to rise to the challenge. He emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and staying focused after setbacks, with leadership from Johns helping the team stay unified toward their goals.
The Jackson-Milton community has been incredibly supportive, with the athletic department providing new jerseys and gear that you can see The Jays rocking this season! With high expectations for the season, Halavick is focused on the fundamentals, believing that executing the small details will lead to success. The Blue Jays are excited to hit the diamond andshowcase their energetic, team-oriented style of play, with their first game scheduled Tuesday, March 25th on the road against Salem.
NEW MIDDLETOWN OH- Springfield’s softball team, led by dedicated coach Mike Rubosky, is set to enter the new season with a robust lineup and a commitment to improvement. Reflecting on last year’s challenging record, Coach Rubosky observed that instead of feeling discouraged, the returning players are more motivated than ever. This resilience and determination have led to increased participation, with more girls joining this season.
Key players include experienced seniors and standout juniors, along with promising newcomers expected to make a significant impact in the team. The team hopes its dynamic lineup, a mix of speed and power, will translate into a stronger performance in the win column. Springfield faces a competitive schedule in the MVAC Scarlet division, with no easy games on the horizon. Nevertheless, Coach Rubosky emphasizes that his team is ready for the challenge, committed to playing their game regardless of the opponent.
In preparation for the postseason, Rubosky has taken an open mindset toward the recent expansion of divisions. “We just want to play games,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of focusing on their play rather than the potential impact of new divisions. With a supportive community and a dedicated coaching staff behind them, the Springfield Tigers are eager to take the field. Their season kicks off against Latonia on March 29th, and spirits are high as they strive to redefine last year’s narrative and embrace a season of potential and growth.
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As the Windham Bombers softball team gears up for another season, Head Coach Tom VanKirk is focused on developing a program that extends far beyond wins and losses. VanKirk, who took over as head coach two years ago, is a Windham alum, and he brings a deep sense of pride to the role. Having coached for nearly 20 years, including at the youth and travel levels, VanKirk’s goal is to revitalize the Bombers’ program and build a foundation for the future.
“We’re trying to establish a culture, not just an extracurricular activity,” VanKirk said. “I want this to be a program that the community and the girls truly own. The players and the coaches all have a stake in it.” The Bombers are a mix of youth and experience. With just one senior on the roster, Quinn Justham, who has been a standout since her freshman year, the team will rely heavily on its juniors and sophomores. Among the key players are junior Breille Jones, returning from an injury, and Libby Inman, who will be a main pitcher. Additionally, sophomore Alex Hudak is expected to make an impact, along with Mackenzi Blockinger, another versatile player who can excel in various positions.
The coaching staff is equally important in VanKirk’s eyes. With the addition of a junior varsity team this year, the Bombers now have more opportunities for players to develop and grow. VanKirk credits the team’s success to his dedicated coaching staff, including Larry Jones, a local coach with years of experience, and Dan Peterson, who now leads the JV team.“We’ve really got a great group of assistants who are hands-on, always contributing and coming up with drills,” VanKirk said. “They all bring something unique to the table.”
While the Bombers face challenges, particularly with the competition in their conference, VanKirk is confident in his team’s ability to compete at a high level. The Bombers have already made strides in base running, an area where they excelled last year. With a focus on aggressive plays like stolen bases and bunting, VanKirk hopes to continue that success. “Base running is one of the easiest things to coach, but it’s also one of the most rewarding when done correctly,” he said.
Looking ahead, VanKirk has big aspirations for the Bombers, including fostering a competitive environment that will carry the team into the postseason. The schedule is packed with tough competition, including a highly anticipated game against Garrettsville on opening day, which will reignite a local rivalry.
As a coach, VanKirk’s philosophy is clear: play with fearlessness and embrace mistakes. He encourages his players to make mistakes in practice, learning from them, and carrying that mindset into games. “Fail at full speed,” VanKirk said. “We want to make our mistakes in practice and play with confidence when it matters.”
VanKirk’s passion for softball is palpable. After years of coaching and raising his own family in the community, he is committed to making Windham a powerhouse in the sport. For him, softball is more than just a game – it’s about building a program that lasts.“I love the speed of the game,” he said. “Softball is like a chess match, and I’m just excited to see where we can take this program.” With a strong foundation in place and a deep sense of community pride, the Windham Bombers are ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead in the 2025 season.
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The 2025 season for the Austintown-Fitch softball team is filled with anticipation as head coach Steve Ward prepares his squad for another shot at a championship. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the Falcons are poised for success, even in the face of significant challenges.
“We’ve lost some very strong leadership,” Ward said. “But this year, we’re seeing shared leadership and players stepping up in their roles. It’s really exciting to see them grow into their responsibilities.” The Falcons return to the field after a strong 2024 season, where they captured a district title and made a deep run in the postseason. Despite losing some key players from last year’s team, Ward is confident in the team’s ability to continue their dominance.
“This year, our hunger is real,” Ward said. “We’re hungry for a third title, and we’re hungry to win the AAC. We’ve got to focus on maximizing our potential, and if we do that, everything else will fall into place.” The team is set to face one of the toughest schedules in the state, starting with a challenging non-conference slate. The Falcons will face Mentor on March 22 to kick off the season. Ward has a long-standing friendship with Mentor’s coach, Joe, and the team is expecting a tough battle right out of the gate.
“We’ve built a strong relationship with Coach Joe,” Ward said. “Her team is always well-coached, and it’ll be a great early test for us.”Along with Mentor, the Falcons will face off against tough teams like Uniontown Lake, Riverside, and Aurora, teams that are expected to test the Falcons’ depth and resilience. Conference opponents such as Boardman, Howland, Canfield and Warren Harding will provide formidable competition, but Ward remains confident in his team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
“Our conference is one of the best in Ohio,” Ward said. “We’re in a meat grinder, but we love it. You can’t take a break, and you can’t take a snooze. If you do, someone’s going to hit one over the fence.” One area where the Falcons are particularly excited is their defense. Known for their explosive offense, the Falcons are ready to show off a defense that has been overshadowed in recent seasons. With a solid infield and outfield capable of cutting off runners and getting to the right spots, Ward believes this year’s squad will be well-rounded.
“We’ve got a lot of fun talent to watch,” Ward said. “We’re going to be explosive, but our defense is going to make a statement. We’ve got the tools to compete at every level.” Of course, the success of the Falcons this season will rely heavily on their pitchers. While the team is young in terms of innings pitched, Ward has faith in their ability to grow into their roles and become the reliable arms the Falcons need to make a run at the title.
“I’m really excited about our pitchers,” Ward said. “They’re growing at a rapid pace. Give them some time to gain confidence, and they’ll be winners.”Ward also took a moment to shout out his coaching staff, which has been with him for over a decade. He credited the staff for their unwavering dedication and ability to connect with the players.
“Our coaching staff is amazing,” Ward said. “They’re always there for the girls, and they’re great at what they do. Coach Bobby is the players’ favorite, and Coach Spalding is so methodical in her approach. Each coach brings something special, and we’re lucky to have them.” Off the field, the Falcons’ sense of community support is something that Ward truly cherishes. The Falcons’ fans, who filled the fences last year, are ready to back their team again in 2025.
Ward knows that the connection between the team and the community is special, and he’s determined to give them a season to remember. “We’re so grateful for our community’s support,” Ward said. “They’re always there for us, and we want to do our best to represent them. We love our school system, and we love our Falcon family. It’s truly a blessing.”
As the season progresses, the Falcons are ready to take on the challenges ahead with a strong sense of purpose and unity. With explosive offense, solid defense, and a pitching staff that is steadily improving, the Falcons are primed for another successful campaign. Their quest for a third title and an AAC championship begins soon, and if Coach Ward’s confidence is any indication, it will be a season worth watching.
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As the Ursuline Fighting Irish softball team prepares for the upcoming season, head coach Kristina Dugan is focused on developing a competitive and cohesive squad. With two returning senior leaders, Katie Koulianos and Mackenzie Smith, the Irish will rely on experience and leadership to guide a group of younger players stepping into bigger roles. Koulianos, an all-district honorable mention, has been a key contributor at third base, while Smith, a veteran catcher, leads by example on and off the field.
“We have some juniors and sophomores with experience who we’re looking forward to seeing step up,” Dugan said. “Brooke Opalick, Kayla Sztary, Brooke Burton, Arianna Schiavone, and Lauren O’Leary are players we believe can elevate their roles this season.”
Ursuline’s roster also features promising freshmen Eva Camuso and Emma Davies, whom Dugan is eager to see develop at the varsity level. The team has emphasized key areas such as communication, aggressiveness, and capitalizing on small opportunities to sharpen its overall approach.
A challenging schedule awaits the Irish, including matchups against tough opponents like Austintown -Fitch, Canfield, Walsh Jesuit, Mathews, and Archbishop Hoban. Dugan views the demanding slate as preparation for the postseason.
“Playing high-level competition gets us ready for the tournament,” she said.Aside from performance on the field, the coaching staff places a strong emphasis on the mental aspect of the game. Dugan believes instilling confidence and resilience in her players is just as crucial as refining their physical skills.
“We focus on self-reflection and making sure they recognize both positives and areas for improvement,” Dugan said. “Bringing fun back into the game is important, too. These girls work so hard year-round, and we want to keep their passion for the sport alive.”
With a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, Dugan is optimistic about the season ahead. “Our players are hardworking, coachable, and eager to improve,” she said. “Even the younger players have opportunities to step up and lead. It’s about owning what they know and growing as a team.”
The Irish will open their season at home against Brookfield on March 22 at Youngstown State University. Shortly after, the team will travel to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for a series of games, providing a valuable bonding experience for the group.
With basketball season in the rearview mirror, Edgewood Warriors head coach Randy Vencill is wasting no time shifting gears to the softball diamond. Despite the quick turnaround, Vencill is energized and optimistic about the upcoming season, emphasizing his team’s experience and strong leadership.
“As long as I keep moving, I don’t fall asleep. So that’s the plan: keep it moving,” Vencill said with a laugh. At the heart of the Warriors’ roster is pitcher Lucy Paolillo, the reigning county and conference player of the year. Paolillo not only dominates in the circle but also makes an impact at the plate. Alongside her, catcher and leadoff hitter Natalie Ianetta sets the tone offensively, while shortstop Addie Lampson looks to add power to her consistent play after a productive offseason in the gym.
In the infield, second baseman Avery Vencill provides steady defense, and Faith Vencill will take over in center field following the graduation of key seniors. Senior leaders Makenna Rhodes and Gianna Ianetta will also play vital roles in guiding the younger players and maintaining the program’s culture of excellence.
“Our seniors have been leading us. They know our expectations, they know the culture we like to set up,” Vencill said. “They’ve been helping the new freshmen and the JV team, showing them the ropes.”As for team goals, Edgewood aims to compete for a conference title and make a deep postseason run. Vencill acknowledges the ever-present challenge of West Branch in tournament play but remains determined to notch a victory against them.
“We always seem to run into West Branch, whatever sport it is,” Vencill said. “I always vowed that we’d get a win at West Branch one way or another before I die.” The Warriors’ non-conference schedule also presents key tests, including a matchup against perennial powerhouse Champion and a doubleheader with Streetsboro. These games will serve as measuring sticks for Edgewood as they prepare for postseason play. Vencill credits the strong community support for the program’s success, noting that the team’s fundraiser has resulted in an overwhelming number of sponsorship banners lining the outfield fence.
“The fans complain because we have so many banners that a lot of them can’t even see,” Vencill said. “We think we’ve got a new spot to put them this year so they can actually watch the game.” As the Warriors countdown to opening day, Vencill hopes to get his team outside for much-needed field time after weeks of indoor training. Their season will begin with a trip to Orlando, where Edgewood will play two games and two scrimmages before returning home for their first official contest on March 27.
“We’re just going to get a ton of time on the field,” Vencill said. “And some sunny weather. The girls get to make some memories and have a vacation. The support from the community has been tremendous in helping us get down there.”With a roster full of talent and experience, the Edgewood Warriors are primed for an exciting season ahead. And for Vencill, the passion for coaching remains strong, driven by the relationships he builds and the impact he has on his players.
“I always thought it would be all about wins and losses, but it’s really not,” Vencill said. “Just trying to make good people out of some young ladies, make a difference in their lives, and give them a great high school experience.” Edgewood fans can catch the Warriors in action soon, as they embark on what promises to be a competitive and thrilling season.
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COLUMBIANA OH- Crestview softball star Brenna Figley is taking her talents to the next level, officially committing to Ave Maria to continue her softball career. She’ll join fellow former Rebels Karsyn Moore and Kaedyn Sutton in the program, adding another Crestview connection to the roster.
Figley’s high school career has been impressive despite battling an injury that sidelined her for most of her junior season. As a freshman, she earned MVAC second-team honors as an infielder. In her sophomore year, she made the MVAC second team as a catcher and represented Crestview in the YSN All-Star Game. Over her career, she’s maintained a .426 batting average, showing her consistency at the plate.
YSN would like to congratulate Brenna on everything she has accomplished in her high school career. We wish her the best of luck in both her senior season at Crestview, and her journey into the next level.
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BOARDMAN OH- Alexandra Ward, a Spartan senior, has committed to extend her athletic and academic career to play softball at Otterbein University. During her junior season at Boardman, Ward’s batting average was a commendable .344. This included (1)home run and 19 RBI’s. Ward was named to 2nd Team All AAC and is a scholar athlete recipient as well. After the completion of her senior season, Ward will be a 3 year letter winner.
BHS Varsity softball head coach, Fred Mootz, describes Alex as, “the heartbeat of our team. She’s invested in herself and wanted to be the best version she could be for our team.”
When not playing softball for the Spartans, Alex is involved in many organizations for the school. Alex is a member of Link Crew, National Honor Society, Big Spartan Little Spartan and Emerging Leaders. Outside of school, Alex plays travel softball for Athletix.
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BOARDMAN OH- Tori Strines, a Spartan Senior, has committed to play softball at Olivet Nazarene University in Illinois. During her junior season at Boardman, Strines batting average was an impressive .435. This included (3)home runs and 18 RBI’s. On the mound, Strines ERA was 3.21. For the past 3 seasons, Strines was named to First Team All AAC and All Northeast Ohio Honorable Mention. After the completion of her senior season, Strines will be a 4 year letter winner.
BHS Varsity softball head coach, FredMootz, describes Tori as, “Tough, tenacious and scrappy. She leaves it all out on the field. Regardless of the situation we put Tori in, she takes care of business- the moment is never too big for her.”
Outside of the Softball Diamond, Tori is a member of the BHS Girls Basketball team. Strines is a 2 year letter winner and was instrumental in helping the Spartan claim the title of AAC Champs last season.
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HOWLAND OH- Howland’s Brooke Tatar is taking her talents to the next level, officially signing to play softball at Slippery Rock University. Tatar has been a force for the Tigers, building an impressive resume over her career and leaving her mark in the record books.
Tatar’s list of achievements speaks for itself. She’s been named to the All-AAC First Team three times, earned Honorable Mention and Second Team All-District honors, and was recognized as a NEOFSCA Honorable Mention All-Northeast Ohio player. She also holds two OHSAA records: one for smashing three home runs in a single game and another for 39 RBIs in a season, which broke Howland’s school record.
In the circle, Tatar has been just as dominant, setting the school record for most strikeouts in a season with 132. Off the field, she’s been recognized as an OHSAA Scholar Athlete, proving she’s as sharp in the classroom as she is on the field.
Slippery Rock is getting a competitor who knows how to deliver in big moments. Congrats to Brooke on her signing, and best of luck as she gears up for her senior season with the Tigers!
https://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/9CED3506-FD7B-4ABC-93D2-CB1D3EB5E6B0.jpeg323626Anthony Hartwighttps://ysnlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Default-Email-Signature-2673571-300x70.pngAnthony Hartwig2024-12-08 01:11:192024-12-08 01:11:19TATAR SIGNS ON TO SLIPPERY ROCK
