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CANFIELD, OH- In a recent episode of “YSN,” hosted by DJ Yokley, South Range Raiders senior Gerry Hively shared insights into his multi-faceted life, passion for football, and aspirations for the future. The episode featured an engaging conversation recorded at Giangelo’s in Boardman.

Hively, fondly called the “people’s champion,” is recognized not only for his skills on the football field but also for his dedication to the community and diverse interests. The South Range senior revealed his future plans to join the Air Force for aviation mechanics with hopes of transitioning to a pilot role. Hively’s journey into the Air Force began after initial interest in the Army’s helicopter mechanics program didn’t pan out, leading him to the skies with the Air Force.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Hively plays tuba in the South Range Marching Band. He described the unique challenges and rewards of balancing his dual roles on the field and in the band, with “Country Roads” being his favorite performance piece.

Further showcasing his depth, Hively discussed his love for working on cars, having recently restored a 1964 Impala with his grandfather. Looking ahead, he dreams of someday working on one of the GT 40s that famously raced.

A poignant moment in the interview was Hively’s plan to donate his hair at the end of the school year in memory of his late grandfather and grandmother, both of whom battled cancer. This gesture underscores his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the football field and classroom.

Whether discussing his admiration for the camaraderie depicted in films like “Top Gun” or his plans for future wilderness adventures in Alaska, Hively exhibited a maturity and vision that resonate beyond his years. His story is a testament to the resilience, community spirit, and forward-thinking attitude that define the South Range Raiders.

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CANFIELD, OH- Madison Dado, a senior at South Range High School, was the guest on the YSN podcast’s South Range Raider show. Madi was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in both volleyball and softball.

Deangelos asked Madi about her responsibilities on the volleyball team, and she explained that she played different positions each year. She had gained a strong understanding of the middle position after playing it for two years, and she also played in the back row.

When it came to training for both sports, Madi mentioned that she consistently went to Troy Parks throughout each season. She focused on the specific sport she was playing at the time, giving her full attention to the current season.

Deangelos then mentioned Madi’s impressive abilities on the softball field, particularly her powerful throws. He noted that in both volleyball and softball, speed played a significant role. Madi explained that while she was in control as a center fielder in softball, playing volleyball required a different level of communication and understanding with her teammate, Anna Troy.

The conversation shifted to Madi’s role in guiding Anna, a freshman on the team. Madi credited Anna’s natural talent and ability to assimilate into the team seamlessly. Madi herself had received guidance from Reagan, a teammate who helped her navigate the back row position.

Her recent successful run with the team, having faced tough opponents has been impressive. The busy schedule allowed little time to relax, as they had to quickly shift focus to the next opponent. Madi also mentioned how she managed to balance her time during homecoming week, thanks to a day off provided by Coach Irons.

As the conversation moved toward Madi’s future goals, she expressed her desire to continue playing a sport at the collegiate level. She explained that her passion for the sport and the relationships she built through it were driving factors. However, she also shared her aspiration to become a physician’s assistant after college, inspired by her love for the show Grey’s Anatomy and her family’s background in healthcare.

Madi spoke fondly of her family, acknowledging the sacrifices they made to support her and her sisters’ sporting endeavors. Her parents, a nurse and a police officer, served as role models, always encouraging her to pursue her dreams.

Before wrapping up, Madi gushed about her excitement for a trip to Myrtle Beach. and expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming experience.

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