Tag Archive for: High School Wrestling

FINAL OBSERVATIONS FROM COLUMBUS

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By Gary Althiser


COLUMBUS OH- To say things went well for the YSN family at the state tournament would be putting it mildly. In 2023, 19 wrestlers finished in the top eight, while this season the number increased to 22. Like last season, two wrestlers were crowned champions, but unlike last season one of them – East Liverpool’s Makyah Newlun – become YSN’s first female to win a gold medal. A lot of other interesting and exciting things happened over the weekend, here are a few.

Cardiac Kids

In what might have been the most exciting match of the tournament for YSN, East Liverpool freshman Paige Cowan pulled off an improbable win over Harrison’s Caiden Baird in the opening round. Down 4-2 with 12 seconds remaining, Baird was penalized with her second stalling call, giving Cowan a point, and cutting the lead to just one. With the clock ticking, Cowan took a shot near the edge of the circle, popping her head out to the side with control as time expired. The official raisedhis hand with two fingers pointing up, signaling Cowan was awarded a takedown, giving her a 5-4 win. The win proved to be an important one for Cowan as she finished 8th for the potters.

Following suit in his finals match, Cowan’s teammate on the boys side, Tristan Eckles, also pulled off a win with time expiring. Down 3-1 with 14 seconds remaining in the third period, Eckles worked from the bottom position to not only secure a reversal but also two near-fall points in the process. Those final four points gave Eckles a 5-3 win and a 7th place finish.

Heart

Louisville’s 126-pound wrestler Kolten Barker might have wrestled more minutes per match than anyone else in the tournament. Barker finished 3rd, and in his five matches, not only were there no pins, but three of the matches went to overtime, with the other two being decided by just two points each. In two of Barkers three overtime wins, the matches went to a tie breaker which means a full minute overtime period, followed by two 30 second periods after the full 6-minute match. The other overtime match went to an ultimate tie breaker, which means three 30 second periods were wrestled after the first full minute overtime. That is 36 minutes and 30 seconds of wrestling in just five matches. To put that into perspective, that’s 31 minutes and 10 seconds more than Newlun spent on the mat the entire tournament. Barker’s only defeat was a 5-3 semi-finals loss to Saint Mary’s Memorial’s Tate Hisey, the eventual state champion.

Heartbreaker

Four YSN wrestlers made it to the semi-finals, but only two came away with wins, Newlun and Garrettsville Garfield’s Keegan Sell. The other two wrestlers, United’s Dallas McCracken and Southern’s Gabriel Blissenbach, suffered defeats in overtime. Both McCracken and Blissenbach scored just before time expired in the third period to force overtime. McCracken secured a takedown that saw the 285-pounder leap over his opponent to score, while Blissenbach was awarded a stalling point with about five seconds left in the match. Unfortunately, both gave up takedowns in overtime to seal their fate. McCracken finished 5th to become a three-time state placer, while Blissenbach finished 3rd to become Southern’s first all-state wrestler.

Teammates

While they may not technically wrestle and score points for the same team, I do not think anyone will argue against using the word teammates when discussing boys and girls wrestlers from the same school. Most practice at the same time in the same wrestling room, and you can see success from one bleeding into the other. For United, McCracken was joined on the podium with two female wrestlers: Auston Brown who finished 3rd, and his sister, Dakota, who finished 7th. For Hubbard, Nick Bowser placed 4th, and Emily Flynn 6th. Howland had two wrestlers in the top eight: Adam Heckman 2nd, and Madison Burns 5th. Salem had multiple boys and girls wrestlers qualify for the state tournament, with one placer – Annika Murray who finished 6th.

68 Years

East Liverpool ended two long droughts while in Columbus, both of which have stood since the 1950’s. Newlun became the first wrestling state champion for the school since brothers Darryl and Jim Hoppel brought home titles in 1955. A year after that in 1956 was the last time three Potters placed at the state tournament in the same season until Cowan, Eckles, and Newlun accomplished the feat last weekend. The Potters girls finished 11th overall out of over 100 teams represented.

WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 14) FEATURING KEEGAN SELL & MAKYAH NEWLUN

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The dust has cleared in Columbus, and it’s hard to imagine a better turn out for the YSN athletes.  So many wrestlers put their best foot forward on the biggest stage to show off what they’re all about.  When the final day was done YSN had 22 placers and a pair of state champions.  They ranged from seniors sending off their careers with a bang, to freshmen that let the world know they were there to stay.  It has been an exciting wrestling season that has seen nothing but greatness.

As we celebrate the great season with our final episode of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser of the year, we can’t think of a better way than to welcome in both of the state champions that represented their community with pride.  Keegan Sell won his second straight state championship to finish his career, and Makyah Newlun brought East Liverpool their first state championship in a long time.  Check out the season finale, and celebrate our wrestlers with us!

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WRESTLING STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS DAY ONE RECAP

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Division 1

 

By Chris Colucci

COLUMBUS OH- It’s disappointing to learn that Marky Stankorb faced defeat in both of his matches at the state tournament. In his first match, he contended valiantly against Alex Taylor of Mount Vernon ranked 4th in the state, was edged out by a narrow margin with a 4-2 decision. Despite his best efforts, Marky couldn’t secure the win. His second match against Cliff Nicholson of Medina followed a similar pattern, with Cliff emerging victorious with a 6-2 decision.  Stankorbs season comes to an end and hope for the best as he goes to the collegiate level.

Division 2

Entering Division 2 with the largest contingent of wrestlers under our coverage is a remarkable achievement, reflecting the dedication and talent within our team. With 23 kids stepping onto the mats, anticipation was high, and our wrestlers did not disappoint. Out of this formidable group, an impressive 19 have secured their spots for tomorrow’s matches, showcasing their skill and determination. This dominance not only speaks volumes about the depth of our team but also sets a strong foundation for our performance in the upcoming rounds.

 

In the heat of competition, the first match often sets the tone for the day. For eight of our wrestlers – Tristan Eckles, Bobby Buchheit, Adam Heckman, Tyler Scharrer, Jonathan Bissell, Ryan Chafins, Aiden Stecker, and Isaac Griffith – victory in their opening bouts meant an early conclusion to their matches for the day. Their ability to secure swift wins underscores their readiness and preparation, setting a high standard for the team.

 

However, wrestling is a sport that demands resilience in the face of adversity. For those who stumbled in their initial matches, the journey wasn’t over. Nine wrestlers – Justice Fisher, Cody Carpenter, Kaiden Barker, Colton Rhoads, Joey Kana, Kyle Vencill, Gabe Morgan, Gabe Miller, Christopher Mijavec, and Nick Bowser – demonstrated remarkable grit, bouncing back to claim victories and secure their spots for tomorrow’s matches. Their ability to overcome setbacks speaks volumes about their determination and fighting spirit, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the competition.

Division 3

In Division 3 wrestling, our team faced both triumphs and challenges, with a total of 7 wrestlers competing. Despite the smaller size of our group, the majority displayed impressive skill and determination, with 5 out of the 7 wrestlers securing victories in their first matches. This remarkable achievement not only demonstrates the talent within our team but also highlights the strength of their preparation and execution on the mats. For Jermaine Watson, Tyson Seesholtz, Gabe Blissenbach, Keegan Sell, Scotty Edwards, and Dallas McCracken, their successful performances in their opening matches have earned them a well-deserved rest, as they eagerly await tomorrow’s matches.

 

However, wrestling is a sport where challenges are inevitable, and unfortunately, two of our wrestlers, Dominic Kemble and Johnny Bailey, faced setbacks in both of their matches, bringing their season to an end. While their journey may have concluded for this season, their efforts and dedication throughout the competition are commendable. Their resilience in facing tough opponents serves as a testament to their character and commitment to the sport. As they reflect on their experiences and look towards the future, they can take pride in their contributions to the team and use this as motivation for future endeavors.

Girls Division

In the Girls Division of wrestling, our teams showcased their prowess and determination with a total of 12 wrestlers competing. The majority of our wrestlers, 8 in total, displayed exceptional skill and tenacity, securing victories in their matches earning themselves a well-deserved spot to continue competing tomorrow. The triumphs not only highlight their individual talents but also reflect the collective strength of our team, demonstrating our dedication to excellence on the mat. Additionally, 3 of our wrestlers faced initial setbacks but showed remarkable resilience, bouncing back to win their second matches and extend their tournament journey into tomorrow. Their ability to overcome adversity underscores the fighting spirit that defines our team and sets the stage for further success as we progress in the competition.

 

However, amidst the victories and comebacks, there was one wrestler, Sloane McNally, who faced a tougher day on the mats, losing both of her matches. While her journey in this tournament may have ended sooner than hoped, Sloane’s efforts and perseverance throughout the competition are commendable. Her determination to compete at the highest level serves as an inspiration to her teammates and a reminder of the challenges inherent in the sport. As we move forward, Sloane’s resilience will undoubtedly contribute to the team’s collective resolve, as we continue to strive for success in the Girls Division of wrestling.






WRESTLING WEDNESDAY WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 10) FEATURING CHRIS COLUCCI

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The wrestling season gets closer and closer to State.  With plenty of grapplers who have impressed this season, the excitement for the upcoming tournament is off the charts.  It’s the calm before the storm, but that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to talk about.  On this episode of Wrestling Wednesday the boys talk to the voice of wrestling on YSN, Chris Colucci on what he’s seen this season while on the mic.  Chris picks out what it’s been like seeing the sport from a new angle, what it’s like to run a wrestling centered social media platform to highlight all the local athletes, and so much more. Check out the latest episode of Wrestling Wednesday with Gary Althiser.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 9) FEATURING ISAAC GRIFFITH

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The bulk of the wrestling season is starting to reach its climax.  With the EOWL now under wraps, the only thing between our wrestlers and going their ultimate goal in Columbus is the completion of duals and conference play.  After that is taken care of, eyes set to the team and individual tournaments.

On this episode of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser the boys recap the week that was, including some big winners in Fitch for the EOWL. They also preview what’s coming up, and talk about how important getting through these next two weeks healthy can be.

This episode’s special guest is Girard’s Isaac Griffith.  Isaac is having one of the best seasons of his entire career. It culminated in him reaching his 100th career win. A dominant feat obtained by the best the sport has to offer. However Isaac is not resting on 100. He has other goals ahead that include a trip to the podium in Columbus. He’s got plenty of challenges standing in front of him, but with his passion and confidence he will be tough to take down come tournament time.

 

Check out Episode 9 of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser, and keep an eye on YSN for your best place for wrestling coverage inside the YSN family. Wrestling Wednesdays air Wednesdays on Running Point at 1:00.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 7) FEATURING MARKY STANKORB

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Wrestling season is really starting to heat up as teams get closer and closer to the ultimate goal in Columbus.  With huge tournaments popping up every weekend, YSN has Gary Althiser as your guide through the hectic last stretch of the season.  This week on Wrestling Wednesday it’s time to recap the Top Gun invitational hosted by Alliance. One of the bigger tournaments on the schedule, the Top Gun featured the area’s best teams.  Gary and the boys go over the results and who had the big weekends. The recap includes the inaugural girls division of the Top Gun where West Branch had three girls place. Many other YSN teams sent their girls wrestlers there for the experience on the mat.

In this episode the live guest comes from Austintown Fitch.  The Falcons have been talked about multiple times this season on the show, and it was about time we heard a voice from the nest. Marky Stankorb the pride of the wrestling room in Fitch joined the guys to talk about his career, his goals, and his drive to be the best in the sport.

Wrestling fans better buckle up because the season is downhill and fast paced from here. YSN will continue to have you covered every Wednesday at 1:00 on Running Point with the latest news from the sport with our very own guru, Gary Althiser.

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WARRIORS COMPETE IN SCHOOL’S FIRST GIRLS WRESTLING MATCH

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History was made Tuesday night as three Lady Warriors competed in West Branch’s first ever girls wrestling match at Northwest High School.

Junior Jocelyn Brink, sophomore Trista Swanson, and freshman Brooklyn Stoufer competed as representatives of the West Branch girls wrestling team which is a first for West Branch High School.  The three girls took on opponents from Northwest High School.

Congratulations to all three girls for making West Branch History!

*Contributed By Ryan Wolf at wbathletics.org

WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 2)

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We are on the doorstep of the start of high school wrestling on YSN, and no one is more excited about that than Gary Althiser.  Our YSN Wrestling expert goes into another season with his weekday segment on Running Point to talk up the wrestlers in the area.  We have a lot of teams in action this week, and Gary, Anthony, and Scotty have previews for all of it.  Here are the matches and tournaments that are featured in this episode.

Thursday December 7:

Dual Meet West Branch vs United

Saturday December 9 Tournament sites and teams attending:

Malvern: Wellsville, Southern, United, East Palestine, Western Reserve

Beechwood: Crestview

Ashton Hynde Invitational (Madison): Orange, Grand Valley, Edgewood, Salem, Austintown Fitch, Conneaut, Jefferson, Boardman

Cambridge Invitational: Beaver local

Dry tech duals: Canfield, Girard

Rick Link invitational (Union local): East Liverpool, Edison

Fitch Duals: Howland, Austintown Fitch

Heart of Ohio Tournament (Mechanicsburg): Lakeside

Harken Invitational: Py Valley

Stay tuned all season for more episodes of Wrestling Wednesdays with Gary Althiser on Wednesdays at 1:00 on Running Point.

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ORANGE WRESTLING COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH BRODY ARRUNDALE

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “Orange Wrestling Coach’s Corner,” Coach Brody Arrundale opens up about his first year as head coach of the varsity wrestling program at Orange High School in Pepper Pike.
Coach Arrunndale reflects on the rising popularity of wrestling, crediting the inclusion of women in the sport for its recent growth. He emphasizes the importance of managing expectations for the young team, highlighting their potential and strong leadership qualities.
With a focus on making the sport enjoyable and beneficial for the student-athletes, Arrundale stresses the significance of instilling discipline and nurturing personal growth. He also shares his own journey into wrestling, speaking about his passion for the sport and the invaluable lessons it has taught him.
As the team only has one senior, Arrundale sees this as both a challenge and an opportunity for the underclassmen to step up and develop their skills.
Arrundale’s leadership style revolves around creating a supportive and motivating environment, where students are encouraged to work hard for each other and understand the personal growth that comes from their dedication to the sport.
The coach’s personal motivation stems from his deep understanding of what wrestling can offer beyond traditional achievements, and he is committed to passing on the sport’s valuable lessons to the next generation of athletes.
Orange High School’s wrestling program is in good hands with Coach Arrundale at the helm, and the upcoming season looks promising under his guidance.

 

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 1)

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WELLSVILLE OH- It’s time to get back on the mat for another exciting season of high school wrestling on YSN!  Our coverage of the sport this year will be bigger than it’s ever been! One of the hallmarks of our wrestling coverage over the past two seasons has been Wrestling Wednesdays with Wellsville head coach, and YSN guru Gary Althiser.  Gary is back for season 3, and ready to keep everyone updated on all the latest wrestling news.

Wrestling Wednesdays will be every Wednesday at 1:00 on YSN’s Running Point brought you by Greenwood Chevrolet.  Check out Episode 1 where Gary gives us a preview of his season in Wellsville, an overview of wrestling across the network, and much more!

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