Tag Archive for: Kirtland

MUSTANGS GET STUNG BY KIRTLAND

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Photo Credit: Jocyln Nicholas

Orwell, OH- Despite a valiant effort to mount a comeback in the fifth inning, the Grand Valley Varsity Mustangs fell just short in a narrow 5-4 loss to Kirtland on Wednesday. The Mustangs narrowed the deficit with a series of hits and a well-executed fielder’s choice, but ultimately couldn’t overcome Kirtland’s early lead.

Kirtland seized the momentum in the top of the fourth inning, with Tyler Turk scoring on a tag-up play and Macguire Boyd driving in another run with a single to put them on the scoreboard.

Max Paul delivered a solid performance on the mound for Kirtland, earning the win after allowing only two runs (one earned) on six hits over six innings, while striking out nine batters and walking four. On the other side, Payton Plizga of the Grand Valley Varsity Mustangs pitched admirably but was saddled with the loss, surrendering three earned runs on nine hits over six and one-third innings, with seven strikeouts and just one walk.

Plizga and Eric Ellsworth contributed RBIs for the Mustangs, showcasing their offensive prowess in a closely contested game. Justin Hagan emerged as a standout performer at the plate for Grand Valley, going 4-for-4 on the day.

Kirtland’s offense was led by Boyd, Tyler Turk, and Lucci Cantini, each collecting two hits, while Boyd, Jack Turk, and Cantini drove in runs to support their team’s effort.

In the end, despite a spirited offensive display and strong pitching from both sides, the Mustangs fell short of victory. They will look to bounce back in their next matchup, a home game against St. John on Saturday, as they aim to return to the win column and build on their competitive performance against Kirtland.

MUSTANGS GET STUNG BY THE HORNETS

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Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Orwell, OH- In a thrilling matchup, the Kirtland Hornets emerged victorious over the Grand Valley Mustangs with a final score of 59-47. The game, played at the Hornets’ home turf, saw both teams fiercely competing until the final buzzer.

Quarter Scores:

  • Grand Valley Mustangs: 10 | 12 | 16 | 9 | Total: 47
  • Kirtland Hornets: 13 | 12 | 15 | 19 | Total: 59

Grand Valley Mustangs Total Points:

  • Jerry Schultz Arrington: 22
  • Braden Hart: 13
  • Logan Zirzow: 2
  • Ben Cozad: 2
  • Peyton Dryer: 2
  • Bobby Rogers: 2
  • Payton Plizga: 2
  • Teagan Fenton: 1
  • Sammy Goforth: 1

Kirtland Hornets Total Points:

  • Gino Blasini: 16
  • Vince Carriero: 15
  • Danny Alfieri: 10
  • Nick Barisic: 8
  • Jack Green: 4
  • Will Sayle: 4
  • Aaron Fortuna: 2

The first quarter set the tone for the rest of the game, with both teams displaying offensive prowess. The Hornets managed to take a slight lead, ending the quarter with a score of 13-10. However, the Mustangs quickly retaliated, keeping the game close as they entered halftime with a score of 25-24 in favor of Kirtland.

As the second half commenced, the intensity only grew. The Hornets managed to maintain their lead, but the Mustangs stayed within striking distance, refusing to let the game slip away. Heading into the final quarter, the Hornets held a narrow 40-39 advantage.

In the fourth quarter, the Hornets showcased their resilience and determination, pulling away from the Mustangs with a series of impressive plays. Despite a valiant effort from Grand Valley, Kirtland’s offensive firepower proved too much to handle, ultimately securing them the victory with a final score of 59-47.

Leading the charge for the Grand Valley Mustangs was Jerry Schultz Arrington, who delivered an outstanding performance with 22 points. Braden Hart also contributed significantly with 13 points of his own. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome the Hornets’ balanced attack.

For the victorious Kirtland Hornets, Gino Blasini led the scoring with 16 points, followed closely by Vince Carriero with 15 points. Danny Alfieri also made a significant impact, adding 10 points to the team’s total. With contributions from multiple players, the Hornets showcased their depth and cohesion on both ends of the court.

With this win, the Kirtland Hornets improve to a solid 13-5 record, further solidifying their position as a formidable force in the league. On the other hand, the Grand Valley Mustangs, now standing at 6-12, will look to bounce back as they prepare to face the Jefferson Falcons in their upcoming matchup.

HORNETS STING MUSTANGS

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Orwell, OH- In a challenging matchup against the Kirtland Hornets, the Grand Valley Mustangs found themselves facing an uphill battle from the very start. The Hornets wasted no time in establishing their dominance, with a flurry of touchdowns in the first quarter.

First, Kirtland’s Jake LaVerde connected with Will Sayle for an impressive 31-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful extra point, putting Kirtland ahead 7-0. The Hornets continued to pour it on, as Rocco Alfieri dashed for a 35-yard touchdown run, extending their lead to 14-0. Will Beers then added to the onslaught with a 20-yard touchdown run, although the extra point was missed, making it 20-0 in favor of Kirtland. The first quarter continued to be a nightmare for the Mustangs, with LaVerde finding Gino Blasini for a 15-yard touchdown pass, and the extra point made it 27-0.

The second quarter wasn’t any kinder to Grand Valley, as LaVerde showcased his versatility by rushing for a 29-yard touchdown, and the extra point made it 34-0. The Mustangs’ struggles continued when Sammy Goforth threw an interception, which was returned for a touchdown by Kirtland’s Will Beers, pushing the score to a daunting 41-0 at halftime.

In the third quarter, Kirtland showed no signs of letting up, with Macguire Boyd breaking free for a remarkable 60-yard touchdown run. The extra point was good, stretching the lead to 48-0. Evan Koprwoski then hauled in a 23-yard touchdown reception, and the extra point was successful, leaving the Mustangs trailing 55-0.

Ultimately, the game ended with a final score of Kirtland Hornets 55 – Grand Valley Mustangs 0. This was a challenging outing for the Mustangs, who now stand at a 2-4 overall record and 0-1 in the CVC Chagrin division. Looking ahead, they will face the Harvey Red Raiders, who hold a 3-3 record (1-0 CVC Chagrin division) in week 7 on the road. The Kirtland Hornets, on the other hand, have a strong 5-1 record (1-0 CVC Chagrin Division) and will also be on the road against the Berkshire Badgers (3-3, 1-0 in CVC Chagrin division) in week 7. The Mustangs will undoubtedly seek to bounce back from this tough loss in their upcoming matchup.

EMCH’S RECORD BREAKING NIGHT LIFTS REBELS TO FOUR PEAT

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ORWELL OH- The Orwell district was arguably the hardest volleyball bracket in the state of Ohio in Division III. The list of teams featured four state ranked teams who each had a legitimate chance at winning a district title.  In the end though it would come down to two teams who won district championships a season ago. Finding themselves in the same bracket this year, both Kirtland and Crestview knew there could only be one.  Crestview was ranked 8th in the state, Kirtland was ranked 13th.  The match lived up to what the rankings would make you expect with the Rebels and Hornets trading blows all night long.  Eventually Crestview sophomore Abbey Emch would prove to have too much firepower for Kirtland to handle. Her efforts led the Rebels to a four set victory.  (26-24 25-23 23-25 25-17)

Emch broke her second program record in two tournament rounds. After breaking the record for most total blocks in a game in the semifinals with 16, she broke the record for kills in a match with 34.  She also had 24 digs to finish a massive double double.  Grace Auer put together a triple double with at least 20 in three categories with 20 kills, 29 assists, and 25 digs.  Lainy Auer also managed a double double with 24 assists, and 20 digs.  Ashleigh Hodge led the Rebels in blocks on the night with 5.

For the fourth consecutive year the Rebels will advance to regional bracket in Barberton. They will be matched up with another state ranked opponent in the top team in the state of Ohio, Lake Catholic.  That match is slated for Thursday at 6:00 in Barberton.  The other end of the regional bracket is Waynedale vs Independence.

MINERAL RIDGE SEES SEASON END IN SEMIFINALS

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ORWELL OH- Mineral Ridge knew the task ahead of them would be tough as they found themselves across from Kirtland in the Orwell District Semifinals. Kirtland is ranked 13 in the state, while the Rams finished the year ranked 16.  After a quick start, the Rams saw Kirtland flex their muscles and take the match in four sets.  (19-25 25-17 25-12 25-18)

Leading the Rams offense on the night was Ava Hulett withn12 kills. Faith Schneider finished strong with 8 kills.  Hulett finished with a double double with 18 digs. Schneider finished with a team leading 20 digs. Samantha Aulet was able to set up 25 assists on the night.  Olivia Booth led the team in blocks with 3.

Mineral Ridge finished their great run at 24-3 on the season. They won the MVAC Scarlett tier.  Congratulations to the Rams on a fantastic run, and thank you for allowing us at YSN to be on the ride.

IRISH BARREL THEIR WAY ONWARD

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LEAVITTSBURG OH-  Four runs batted in from Liza Barbato helped lead Ursuline past Kirtland 12-2 on Tuesday in the district semifinals. Barbato drove in runs on a single in the second, a single in the third, and a home run in the fourth.

Ursuline secured the victory thanks to eight runs in the third inning.  They put the pressure on, lead by singles by Barbato and Alyssa Sheely, a walk by Paige Ogden, by Layni Bednar, and a fielder’s choice by Savannah Patrone.

Ursuline fired up the offense in the first inning. Gianna Cantini’s wild pitch allowed one run to score.

After Kirtland scored one run in the top of the fourth, the Irish answered with one of their own. Kirtland scored when Cantini drew a walk, scoring one run. Ursuline then answered when Barbato hit a solo homer.

The Irish pulled away for good with one run in the second inning. In the second Barbato singled on a 0-1 count, scoring one run.

Ursuline tallied eight runs in the third inning. The offensive onslaught was led by Patrone, Barbato, Sheely, Ogden, and Bednar, all driving in runs in the inning.

Ogden was credited with the victory for Ursuline. The pitcher surrendered two runs on two hits over four innings, striking out nine. Mia Opalick threw one inning in relief out of the bullpen.

Cantini took the loss for Kirtland. The righty lasted four innings, allowing eight hits and 12 runs while striking out three.

Ursuline tallied eight hits in the game. Barbato and Sheely all managed multiple hits for Ursuline. Sheely and Barbato each collected three hits to lead.

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TIGERS RALLY RUNS OUT OF STEAM

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NEW MIDDLETOWN OH-

Springfield scored four runs in the sixth inning, but Kirtland still won 13-4 on Thursday. The big inning for Springfield came thanks to an error on a ball put in play by Sami McKim and a double by Bree Holt.

Kirtland opened up scoring in the second inning. Bella Hostutler drove in one when Hostutler singled.

The Hornets tallied five runs in the fourth inning. Their offense in the inning came from singles by Hostutler, Madison Matijevic, Gianna Cantini, Gianna DiFranco, and Ava Puruczky.

Cantini got the win for Kirtland. The righthander lasted seven innings, allowing three hits and four runs while striking out ten.

Madi Lesnak took the loss for Springfield. The hurler went seven innings, allowing 13 runs on 18 hits and striking out seven.

Kirtland tallied 18 hits. Malia Becker, Matijevic, Puruczky, Hostutler, DiFranco, and Cantini all had multiple hits for Kirtland Hornets Varsity. Hostutler, Puruczky, Matijevic, and Becker each collected three hits to lead. Becker led with two stolen bases, as they ran wild on the base paths with five stolen bases.

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URSULINE TAKES THE STING OUT OF THE HORNETS

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YOUNGSTOWN OH- Ursuline scored seven runs in the second on its way to a 12-1 victory over Kirtland on Saturday. The offensive firepower by Ursuline was led by Katie Koulianos, Alyssa Sheely, Madelyn Miklandric, Savannah Patrone, and Kyleigh Golden, who each had RBIs in the inning.

The Irish got on the board in the first inning when Mia Opalick singled on a 3-2 count, scoring one run.

Ursuline scored seven runs in the second inning. Their big inning was driven by singles by Sheely, Miklandric, and Patrone and an error on a ball put in play by Koulianos and Golden.

Opalick pitched Ursuline to victory. The righty went four innings, allowing one run on two hits and striking out five. Liza Barbato threw one inning in relief out of the bullpen.

Gianna Cantini took the loss for Kirtland. The righty went four innings, allowing 12 runs on eight hits and striking out one.

The Irish tallied eight hits. Miklandric and Sheely all collected multiple hits. Sheely and Miklandric each collected two hits to lead the team.

Madison Matijevic led Kirtland with two hits in three at bats.

Ursuline returns to action on Monday as they host Howland.

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NOTHING STOPPING CHAMPION FROM PUNCHING THEIR TICKET

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CORTLAND OH- Champion continues to find themselves in the district championship game. This program keeps rolling and succeeding. Kirtland tried to stand in their way on Wednesday, but nothing was going to stop the Flashes from punching their ticket to another title game. Champion earned the 47-37 win.

Two seasons ago, Champion won the district championship, last year they fell to Garfield. This year they’ll try to get revenge on the. G-Men.

Champion was led by both Ava Howell, and Lorinda Dodrill who each scored 14. Carlie Easterday chipped in an important 8 points.

Champion advances to the Lakeview district championship where they’ll play conference foe Garfield. The two teams split two meetings this season, both winning at home. Tip is set for 7:00 at Lakeview High School.

GARFIELD’S JOURNEY MEETS ITS END

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PERRY, OHIO. The Kirtland Hornets and the Garfield G-men traveled to Alumni Stadium to face of on the gridiron in the regional semi-final of the Ohio division five high school playoffs.

The Kirtland Hornets got off to a hot start early in the rainy and windy weather conditions marching down field on two separate drives one of them being a touchdown drive putting the Hornets up 9 to 0 going into halftime. The G-Men led by senior running back, Anthony Demma and senior quarterback Brody Swigonski just could not find the holes as the Kirtland defense proved to be no match for their ground game centered offense as they were just held to 7 points after a late touchdown pass by Swignoski to running back Ryan Stoller.

The Hornets tacked on a couple more scores, one including a 9 yard rushing touchdown by running back Tommy Gogolin to put the Hornets up for good as they closed the game out winning 25 to 7 advancing to the next round to take on the South Range Raiders.

*Contributed By YSN’s Matt Morrison