Tag Archive for: injuries

COLUMBIANA BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH BRYCE FRANKEN 3-19-25

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COLUMBIANA, OH – As warm weather approaches, the anticipation for high school baseball builds within the Columbiana community. The Clippers, led by head coach Bryce Franken, are preparing to embark on a new season characterized by significant turnover, but teeming with potential.

Coach Franken highlights the fresh dynamics following the departure of seven seniors, five of whom were everyday players. Despite the challenges of fielding new faces, Franken remains committed to maintaining the team’s strong track record within the Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference (EOAC), where the Clippers have remained unbeaten under his guidance. “I’ve never lost a game in the EOAC,” Franken shared, emphasizing the team’s unwavering focus. “Even though we’ve got a lot of turnover, I’m still looking to continue that trend.”

Several returning players are set to anchor the team this season. However, the team will be missing the leadership of a key pitcher on the mound for the initial games due to an injury, prompting younger talents to step into more crucial roles. With new challenges come new opportunities. Franken believes the current scenario offers a unique chance for athletes to display their competitive zeal and fight for positions. “It’s exciting to see those guys competing for spots and, you know, seeing the young guys really start to step up,” he stated, noting the intense competition unfolding during preseason scrimmages.

The teamwork extends beyond players to the robust support from the coaching staff and school administration. The program is bolstered by assistant coaches who continue to foster a culture of excellence. The Clippers’ season officially begins against Wellsville on March 28, and eyes are firmly set on navigating both the EOAC and newfound challenges in the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference (OVAC). “We’re not taking any games for granted this year,” Franken declares, outlining a strategy rooted in humility and hard work. “We are starting from the bottom, working our way up.” As the first pitch draws near, the Columbiana Clippers are not just ready to play but determined to uphold a legacy of success, one game at a time.

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BEAVER LOCAL GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH TONY SORGE

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EAST LIVERPOOL OH — As the girls’ basketball season approaches, Beaver Local head coach Tony Sorge is filled with a sense of optimism and determination. In the latest “Coach’s Corner,” Sorge shared insights into the team’s journey and expectations for the upcoming season.

Reflecting on last year’s challenges, Sorge discussed the significant blow the team faced with the mid-season injury of star player Peyton Roberts. “We started off slow, but we were gaining momentum and confidence until Peyton’s injury,” Sorge said. Despite the setback, the experience pushed other players to step up, setting the stage for a stronger, more cohesive team this year. Now in the new season, Sorge believes the team is “definitely further ahead” because of last year’s trials. Two returning starters, seniors Cali Sword and Tory Druschel, are expected to take on leadership roles, bringing their experience and skills to the forefront. Other key players include junior Bella McLevy, known for her defensive prowess, and sophomore Mallory Miller, who had significant varsity time last year.

Speed will be the team’s focus this season, as mentioned by Sorge. “We lost size with the graduation of our seniors, so we have to get out and play fast,” he said. The emphasis will be on using their agility to dominate the court. The schedule is packed with challenging games against top-tier teams like Union Local, Indian Creek, and East Liverpool, to name a few. Despite the tough competition, Sorge is confident, stating, “We feel that we can compete and win a lot of these games.”

The strength of the program is further bolstered by a dedicated coaching staff, extending from the youth level to varsity. Coach Sorge praised the commitment of his assistants and the quality of coaching at the middle school and youth levels, highlighting the importance of development from a young age. Beaver Local fans can catch the team in action for the first game on Friday, November 22, at home against Union Local. “We’re working hard and are excited to start the season,” Sorge concluded. The Beaver Local girls’ basketball team is poised for a competitive season, driven by lessons from the past and a unified drive to excel. Fans are encouraged to come out and support their local team as they embark on what promises to be an exciting journey.

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LOWELLVILLE GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH LISA MODELSKI

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LOWELLVILLE, OH – The anticipation for the new girls’ basketball season in Lowellville is palpable as Coach Lisa Modelski gears up for another exciting year. Modelski, who has led the Rockets to multiple district semifinal appearances, recently joined Anthony Hartwig to give an inside look into the upcoming season.

Reflecting on last year, Coach Modelski highlighted the growth of her young team. “We started two freshmen last year, and I’m excited to see their development as sophomores,” she shared. The Rockets boast a blend of experience and youth, with key returners like Morgan Lewis, Sydney Prosek, and Gianna Palumbo expected to lead the charge. “The experience is there, but we’re still quite young,” Modelski noted. “Our seniors, especially those coming back from injuries like Michelle Kavanaugh and Alyssa Kuzian, are going to be critical.”

Despite being low in numbers this season, with only nine players on the roster, Coach Modelski remains optimistic. “These girls are committed and they bring a tenacity that’s admirable,” she said. The Rockets face a challenging schedule within the MVAC, competing against strong teams such as Mineral Ridge and Springfield. Outside the league, they’ll be tested by non-conference matchups against Bristol, Newton Falls, and Valley Christian. “We might have a small roster, but our non-conference schedule is strong enough to prepare us for the tournament,” Modelski said.

Underlining the season’s emotional undertone, Modelski paid tribute to the late Coach Rick Palumbo, a beloved figure in Lowellville basketball who passed away this year. “We lost a great member of our staff, but his spirit and lessons will guide us through,” she remembered. Coach Modelski also extended her excitement for the new boys’ basketball coach, Antonio Matisse, who has previously led the Rockets’ girls’ team to great heights. “Having someone like Tony, who understands the program’s values and history, will only strengthen our athletics department,” Modelski stated.

The Rockets open their season on the road against Bristol on November 23rd, eager to showcase their growth and resilience. Despite the travel-heavy early schedule, Modelski believes in the backing of the Lowellville community. “Our fans are dedicated, and we hope they’ll support us on the road.” As the Rockets set their sights on another successful season, one thing is clear: with Coach Modelski at the helm, Lowellville girls’ basketball is in good hands.

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MS. JACKSON’S NOT SORRY

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- Liv Jackson, the senior center power forward for the Orange Lady Lions basketball team, recently sat down for an exclusive interview on YSN to discuss her experiences and aspirations as a talented athlete and driven student. During the interview, Liv shared her excitement for making the most of her senior year and creating lasting memories with her teammates and friends before embarking on her college journey.

With her eyes set on a career in the medical field as an orthopedic surgeon, Liv’s passion for medicine and surgery shone brightly as she expressed her desire to contribute to the ongoing discoveries in the field.

On the basketball court, Liv’s competitive drive and resilience were evident as she described her approach to the game, including her determination to be more aggressive and develop a more unpredictable playing style. She highlighted her strengths in finishing layups and rebounding, while also acknowledging the need to work on turning her weaknesses into strengths.

As a leader on the team, Liv emphasized the importance of radiating confidence and being a supportive friend to her teammates, offering advice and encouragement to the underclassmen and stressing the value of staying true to oneself, a virtue she learned from her mother.

Looking ahead to a special moment at Rocket Mortgage Field House, Liv expressed her eagerness to play in such a grand stadium, embracing the opportunity to shine on a larger stage.

Liv’s humility, determination, and respect for her family, particularly her mother, serve as a testament to her character and drive to succeed both on and off the court. Her positive outlook and leadership qualities make her a role model for her peers and aspiring athletes.

As she continues to make her mark both in basketball and academia, Liv Jackson illustrates the power of determination, resilience, and humility, embodying the spirit of a true athlete and scholar. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all those who strive for excellence in their pursuits.

 

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David Rach, South Range

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH S CORNER EP 12 WITH DAVID RACH

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CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of “YSN’s South Range Football Coach’s Corner,”  DJ Yokley sits down with head football coach of the South Range Raiders, David Rach. With the theme of Thanksgiving in the air, the conversation takes an interesting turn as the two engage in a fantasy Thanksgiving draft, selecting their favorite holiday dishes.

Coach Rach surprises with his first pick, going for buttered noodles with gravy as his top choice. Meanwhile, DJ opts for a crowd favorite, fried turkey, as his first overall pick. The draft continues with Rach selecting deviled eggs and pickled eggs, emphasizing his love for unique and traditional holiday dishes. Yokley counters with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, adding a classic touch to his team.

As the draft progresses, Coach Rach shocks Rach with his fifth and final pick, choosing rolls or biscuits over popular options like green bean casserole. The selection leaves DJ amused, questioning Rock’s vegetable intake.

Amidst the lighthearted draft, Coach Rach reflects on his first year coaching the South Range Raiders. He expresses the immense pride he feels for his team’s efforts and the love and belief they have for each other, citing it as the most rewarding aspect of being a head coach.

The conversation takes a brief detour as DJ challenges Coach Rock to explain the controversial rule of a forward fumble, particularly on fourth down. While the coach admits to his lack of knowledge on the specifics, he recalls an encounter with officials explaining that it is not a rule exclusive to high school football.

With the podcast episode coming to a close, Coach Rach gears up for the upcoming game against the Perry Pirates. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the team’s high standards and executing their three-phase approach to secure victory. Additionally, the coach acknowledges the challenges they may face against a tough opponent like Perry but reinforces his belief in the South Range Raiders’ abilities.

Overall, the conversation provides insight into Coach Rach’s mindset and the South Range Raiders’ season journey. With reflective moments, humorous exchanges, and football-related discussions, this episode of “YSN’s South Range Football Coach’s Corner” offers a well-rounded perspective on the team’s dynamics and aspirations.

Be sure to tune in to the next episode for more updates and interviews with South Range football players and coaches. The competition heats up as the Raiders face off against the Perry Pirates in an exciting clash. Stay connected with YSN for all the latest South Range football updates.

 

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THE “T” IN ADVERSITY

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BOARDMAN, OH- In today’s episode, we have a special player profile featuring Tomas Andujar, a standout athlete from Boardman High School.

Despite facing some challenges this season, Tomas has always had a positive outlook and made the best out of every situation. We’ll hear about his resilience, his road to recovery, and how he continues to inspire his teammates both on and off the field. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into Tomas’s journey and learn about his aspirations for the future.

This is an episode you don’t want to miss!

 

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BOARDMAN FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 6) WITH DJ DOTA

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BOARDMAN, OH-  In this episode of “Boardman Football Coach’s Corner,” we have a special guest joining us – DJ Dota, the head coach of the Boardman Spartan football team. Coach Dota reflects on a tough week for the team, with both wins and losses on the depth chart, as well as some key injuries. He discusses the importance of building depth and preparing the players for any situation.

The conversation also delves into the difference between being injured and being hurt, and how the team works to keep players healthy and in optimal condition. Coach Dota highlights the role of their athletic trainer in ensuring the well-being of the players.

Additionally, they touch on the challenges of getting enough reps for the second-string players and the difficulty of simulating game-like conditions.

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PERSISTANCE PERSONIFIED; AQUISTO’S RISE FROM ADVERSITY TO SUCCESS

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CANFIELD, OH- Just to be back on the field is where Kam Aquisto wanted to be.  Season after season was a disappointment after putting in the work to be on the field, and each year a ‘freak’ injury kept him from being able to accomplish his athletic goals.  2023 is where we bring you the most intriguing stories of young athletes defying the odds and conquering the game. In today’s episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Kam Aquisto, a high school football player who has overcome multiple injuries to become a standout player on his team during his senior campaign.

From a devastating leg injury to a torn ACL, Kam’s resilience and determination have propelled him forward. Join us as we explore his mindset, his unwavering support system, and his incredible comeback. Get ready to be inspired by Kam Aquisto’s story on this episode of YSN.

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