Tag Archive for: interception

A BIG HIKE TO THE TOP

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Lowellville, OH – In a small town where Friday nights mean football, one young athlete stands out both on and off the field. AJ Boehlke, a junior at Lowellville High School, sat down with Eric Hughes of YSN to discuss his career, his inspirations, and his future aspirations.

Boehlke, who has played football since the third grade, credits his father for inspiring his passion for the sport. “My dad… got me into football and taught me a little bit about it,” he shared. This early enthusiasm has since blossomed into a deep commitment to the game and his team. Playing both tight end and linebacker, Boehlke admits that his heart is on defense. “I like defense more… I feel like they’ve made me,” he said. His defensive prowess shines particularly in stopping the run, a challenge he relishes weekly on the field.

Elevated to a leadership role as a junior, Boehlke feels the weight and honor of this responsibility. “It means a lot that coach Manuel has a lot of trust in me to call the defense and run the defense,” he confided, underscoring the trust placed in him by his coaches and teammates. Boehlke’s dedication was evident when he praised teammate Vance East, who stepped up in Boehlke’s absence last week. “I’m very proud of [East]. He stepped up a lot,” said Boehlke, reflecting the humility and camaraderie that characterize his approach to football. His growth as a player owes much to past teammates and coaches. Special mention goes to Santino, last year’s linebacker, who imparted valuable lessons that Boehlke carries with him. Coaches Greer and Varble have also been pivotal, providing mentorship and fostering a robust player-coach relationship.

Outside the gridiron, Boehlke’s inspirations extend to his parents, who he credits for shaping his character. “They’ve helped me be the person I am today,” he acknowledged, a testament to the strong support system behind his success. Looking forward, Boehlke has his sights set on Youngstown State University (YSU), contemplating a future in exercise science. This next chapter, however, remains a few pursuits away, as he continues to build his legacy at Lowellville. In a town that lives and breathes football, AJ Boehlke exemplifies the spirit of a true Rocket—committed, spirited, and ever reaching for greatness.

 

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POLAND FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 4) WITH TOM PAVLANSKY

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POLAND, OH- After a tough loss to their rivals, the Canfield Cardinals, the Poland Bulldogs showcased resilience in their recent victory over Hubbard, improving their record to 3-1. Head Coach Tom Pavlansky joined Matt Romeo at Bulldogs Bar and Grill for an episode of YSN’s Poland Bulldog Show to discuss the team’s performance and what’s next for the Bulldogs.

Despite the tantalizing aroma of garlic Parmesan wings in the air, Coach Pavlansky remained focused during the interview. “It always starts with the seniors,” he said, emphasizing the leadership and dedication shown by the upperclassmen. He credited the players and their families for their unwavering support and commitment, which have been instrumental in maintaining the team’s high standards.

The Bulldogs’ defense has been a standout, securing their second shutout in as many weeks. Coach Pavlansky praised defensive coaches La Pahowski, Williams, and Skinner for their efforts. “Our guys have fought and played like crazy… it’s a credit to the kids buying into the scheme and what is being coached.”

One player who made headlines was Vito Camaro, whose interception and subsequent run for a touchdown marked a memorable moment for the Bulldogs. Pavlansky described it as a special memory, especially given the context of a homecoming game against an undefeated opponent.

The discussion also touched on the upcoming challenge against South Range, a formidable rival. With their senior night adding to the stakes, Pavlansky acknowledged the Raiders’ skill and robust coaching. “They’re the best team we’ve faced… exceptionally well-coached,” he noted, understanding the importance of preparation and execution.

As the coach and his team look ahead, they are committed to honing their skills and maintaining their competitive edge. “We’re going to do our part and try to be the best Poland Bulldog group that we can be,” said Pavlansky.

The interview concluded on a high note, with Matt Romeo lauding Pavlansky’s leadership and fostering a sense of anticipation for the thrilling matchups ahead. The Poland Bulldog Show continues to be a cornerstone for fans seeking insight into their beloved team’s journey throughout the season.

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VICTORY AND VALOR

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH-Valley Christian High School’s football season has taken a turn for the better this year, with the team boasting an impressive 4-1 record thanks to the remarkable leadership and dedication of senior player Alfred Coward. Fresh off a commanding win against East Palestine, Coward opens up about what sets this team apart and his unyielding drive to succeed.

Coward, who has been a key player for Valley Christian throughout his high school career, speaks highly of his teammates’ passion and conviction. “You can be the biggest, the strongest, the fastest, but if you don’t have that will, it doesn’t matter,” Coward emphasizes, pointing out that sheer physical capability isn’t enough without the heart to back it up.

Last season’s end was a bitter pill to swallow for Coward and his teammates, as they concluded with a 4-6 record, falling short of playoff inclusion. “It was very bitter,” Coward admits. “The whole summer, the whole offseason, I was just waiting to come back with a different type of ferociousness.”

Coward’s offseason was marked by relentless dedication. From walking five miles to the gym to working out every day, he left no stone unturned in his preparation. “It was a grind, for sure,” he says. “But it didn’t feel like a grind because I knew it was going to help me get to my goal.”

That goal is to play college football, an ambition that drives Coward daily. “You can’t simulate that energy in the stadium,” he says of the college game atmosphere. “It’s a passion, and that passion is never going to fade.”

When asked to pitch himself to any college coach in America, Coward’s response reflects his determination: “The conviction I have, the grit I would bring to the field, it will never waver.”

One striking moment in the season was during a game against Leetonia, where Coward’s late-game interception nearly turned into a touchdown. “I read the quarterback, saw the ball coming, and thought, ‘That’s me,'” he recounts. Despite being tackled at the 1-yard line, his subsequent transition to quarterback to score the touchdown is a testament to his versatility and resolve.

Coward’s inspiration comes from his late grandfather, Alfred Coward, whom he proudly carries as his namesake. “He was a man of conviction, and once he put his mind to something, he went all the way.”

Among his teammates, Jackson Bragg stands out as someone who pushes Coward to be better. Their friendly rivalry on the field is a driving force. “He’s going to let you know if you miss a tackle,” Coward laughs. “I gotta win. I gotta beat him.”

With his heart ablaze and eyes set on future goals, Alfred Coward continues to lead Valley Christian with the same ferociousness and dedication he has shown throughout his football journey.

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NATE THE GREAT

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- The first week of the high school football season kicked off with a bang as Nate Alexander, junior defensive back for Western Reserve, delivered a spectacular performance that had fans on the edge of their seats. In an adrenaline-filled game against Crestview, Alexander secured the defensive player of the game title with an impressive interception that shifted the momentum in his team’s favor.

Reflecting on his standout play, Alexander shared his insights on the summer preparations that led to this moment. “We knew Crestview’s running backs were coming hard, and we were ready to hit them back,” he explained, brimming with excitement from his first varsity start. His clutch interception was not only a pivotal moment but also a personal triumph.

Last week’s game against McDonald was no short of a thriller, going all the way into overtime. “Their kicker got hurt, so we kind of knew they were going to go for two,” Alexander said, explaining the team’s strategy. The game ended on a high note for Crestview, effectively shutting down McDonald’s two-point conversion attempt.

As the season progresses, Alexander’s focus now shifts to Louisville, a team that knocked Crestview out of the playoffs last year. “We really want to get it back for our seniors,” he admitted, motivated by last season’s bitter end. With a promising season ahead, Alexander and his teammates are keen to make amends and push deeper into the playoffs.

Outside the gridiron, Alexander is looking at a future in physical therapy, inspired by his own experiences overcoming a freshman year injury. While college plans are still forming, he hopes to stay close to home, mentioning Kent State and Youngstown State University as possible destinations.

Whether it’s dreaming of physical therapy, enjoying team campouts, or plotting their next big win, Alexander’s passion for his sport and his future is evident. With the Browns and OSU as his favorite teams and a love for Skittles and Glacier Freeze Gatorade on road trips, this humble hero is set to make his mark both on and off the field.

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CANFIELD FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH JOE IGNAZIO

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CANFIELD, OH- The Canfield Cardinals soared to a thrilling victory this past Friday night, marking the first win of the Joe Ignazio era. The game, hailed as one of the most captivating of the season, showcased the tenacity and resilience of the Cardinals as they edged out their opponents in an overtime battle.

In his post-game reflection, Coach Ignazio praised his team for their standout performance and determination. “Our kids played their butt off and it was good to have one to build their confidence,” Ignazio said. The Canfield Cardinals showed significant improvement, adhering to the coach’s philosophy that the best teams grow leaps and bounds from week one to week two.

Special teams proved crucial, as the coach emphasized the importance of every phase of the game. “Young kids tend to think special teams are a playoff, and they’re absolutely not,” Ignazio remarked. The team almost faced a costly lesson, but their perseverance through two critical plays helped secure the victory.

Players like Angelo DeLucia and Enzo Coca stood out, both leaving indelible marks on the stat sheet. DeLucia, a defensive powerhouse, racked up multiple tackles and pressures on the quarterback, while Coca demonstrated versatility with significant contributions both offensively and defensively. His interception and blocked field goal in regulation were pivotal moments that propelled the Cardinals to overtime triumph.

Coach Ignazio’s leadership and ability to cultivate a competitive environment were evident throughout the game. Reflecting on the physicality and competitive nature ingrained in the team, Ignazio attributed it to his upbringing and the enduring tradition of Canfield athletics. “We’ve talked to our team about consistency,” he said, highlighting the repetitive practice and relentless work ethic that are key to building confidence.

As the Cardinals prepare for their next challenge against Homestead Falls, Coach Ignazio remains focused on fostering growth and maintaining high standards. “When we got back to the locker room, they presented me with the game ball, and that was special. But I told them right away, put that thing in the trash because it really is not about me,” Ignazio stated, underscoring his team-first mentality.

The victory serves as a significant springboard for the remainder of the season, with the team eager to continue their journey under Coach Ignazio’s guidance. As the Canfield Cardinals take to the field once more, the community’s support and the team’s dedication promise an exciting chapter ahead.

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THE LION

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CANFIELD, OH- The South Range Raiders have found themselves a defensive gem in junior standout Troy Combs. Known for his hard-hitting tackles and game-changing interceptions, Combs is quickly gaining attention as a generational talent in the football community.

Combs, hailing from a family that bleeds Raider pride, has followed in the footsteps of his older brother Matthias, a notable wide receiver who left a lasting impression on the team. In a recent interview at Giangelo’s in Boardman, Combs expressed gratitude for his brother’s influence and praised his character both on and off the field.

Reflecting on his growth throughout the season, Combs admitted that early on, he struggled with patience and would often get juked out or penalized for holding. However, under the guidance of coach Rocks, Combs has evolved into a more composed and patient player, allowing him to make impactful plays.

What sets Combs apart is his ability to not only deliver bone-crushing hits but also showcase his speed and agility when intercepting passes. When asked to choose between laying a hit or making an interception, Combs unhesitatingly expressed his love for setting the tone with a big hit, believing it sends a powerful message to the opposing team.

Looking ahead to the playoffs, Combs emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and building a stronger bond with his teammates. He acknowledged the challenge posed by their upcoming fearless opponents and expressed excitement for the opportunity to showcase his skills against a team that throws the ball frequently.

Combs credits the close-knit bond among the South Range Raiders as a catalyst for their success. Their unique practice methods, such as “squeezing and spilling,” instill trust and belief in each other, making them a formidable force on the field.

Beyond football, Combs has his sights set on a future in architecture or graphic design, citing his love for building Legos as the inspiration behind his interest. With his dedication and talent on the gridiron, Combs undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him, with football being a potential opportunity for success.

As the South Range Raiders continue their journey in the playoffs, Troy Combs remains focused on making a lasting impact on the team while constantly striving for personal growth. With his exceptional defensive skills and unwavering dedication, Combs is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in high school football.

 

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EAST PALESTINE PLAYER PROFILE: BULLDOG ROUNDTABLE

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EAST PALESTINE, OH- In today’s episode, “East Palestine Football Bulldog Roundtable,” we gather an exclusive panel of talented players from the East Palestine Bulldogs football team. Shane Richardson, Ayvre Klingensmith, RJ May, and Anthony Lehman are joining us, each representing a different grade level – senior, sophomore, freshman, and junior, respectively.

Hosted by the “Voice of the Bulldogs” Tim Figley, this roundtable discussion takes us through the journey of these dedicated athletes, from their offseason training and team improvements to memorable moments and individual accomplishments throughout the season.

As we dive deeper into their experiences, we uncover the challenges they’ve faced, the impact of other sports on their performance, and the camaraderie that drives them forward. From heart-pumping touchdowns to game-changing tackles, this episode provides an intimate look at the mindset and dedication required to excel in high school football. So, get ready to hear inspiring stories, valuable insights, and the unwavering passion of these remarkable Bulldog athletes. Stay tuned for an episode that’ll have you cheering from the sidelines.

This is YSN: East Palestine Football Bulldog Roundtable. Let’s get started!

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FOSTER KEEPS KYLEN IT

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AUSTINTOWN, OH- In this episode, we have a special guest, Kylan Foster, a senior linebacker from the Austintown Fitch Falcons.

Kylan takes us on a journey through his football career, discussing his passion for hitting people and being an aggressive player on the field. We learn about his underdog mentality, his love for the game, and his desire to excel as an individual.

Join us as we get to know Kylan, his aspirations for the future, and his thoughts on upcoming challenges, including a big rivalry game against Central Valley.

Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation with an exceptional athlete. Let’s jump right in on YSN.

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