Tag Archive for: leadership

CALL OF DUTY; BELL WINS BOWLING GREEN’S MEDAL OF HONOR

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BOWLING GREEN, OH-  In a recent episode of YSN’s podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Logan Bell, the 2024 Medal of Honor recipient and Medal of Excellence winner from Bowling Green State University. Bell, a standout athlete from Lisbon David Anderson High School known for shattering records and later taking his talents to the baseball diamond, opened up about his journey, the essence of teamwork, and his aspirations for the future.

Bell’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field was recognized when he was awarded Bowling Green’s prestigious Medal of Honor. This accolade is not just a testament to his athletic prowess but also a nod to his leadership and community impact. Reflecting on the moment he found out about the award, Bell shared, “I’m very thankful to have been nominated and received the award, and I’m glad that I can represent BGSU in the way that it intends athletes to represent the school.”

Bell’s collegiate career was punctuated by significant challenges, including undergoing the harrowing experience of Tommy John surgery. “Relying on my parents and my faith to get me through those, that long summer and that long return to playing is kind of the biggest thing that has helped me,” stated Bell, emphasizing the support system that saw him through his trials.
He credits his never-give-up attitude to taking things one day at a time, focusing on each step of the recovery process rather than being overwhelmed by the road ahead.

Throughout the interview, Bell consistently highlighted the importance of being a good teammate, a philosophy he lives by. “It’s not about my accomplishments, it’s about the team’s accomplishments,” he profoundly iterated, reinforcing the message that individual recognition always takes a backseat to the collective success of his team.

Bell is no stranger to hardship. He discussed the numerous rejections he faced in high school, noting, “Pick out something that you see every day and write down your goals.” He added that resilience amid criticism is key – to see it as a means to enhance one’s capabilities instead of taking it personally.
As for his future, Bell is clear on his aspirations and pragmatic about the possible trajectories his baseball career could take. He spoke passionately about the prospect of winning a MAC championship and venturing into professional baseball. “Whether it takes me the next 20 years of my life or whether it takes me five years,” Bell mused, underlining his commitment to achieving what many only dream of.

Logan Bell’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and humility. Showcasing remarkable talent and a veteran’s poise, he serves as an embodiment of what it means to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. Bell exhibits the heart and hustle of a true champion, and according to DJ Yokley, he does it all while sporting a work-in-progress mustache.

In the world of collegiate athletics, where stars shine bright, Bell is undoubtedly one of the luminaries guiding the way for future generations.Bell’s story serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere — fight for your dreams, lean on your community, strive for excellence, and remember that the journey is every bit as significant as the destination.

A BEACON OF FAITH

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH-  As a beacon of hope and resilience for the younger generation, Faith Schneider has undoubtedly made a mark in Mineral Ridge’s sports history. Faith recently joined us on YSN podcast, where she opened up about her impressive journey throughout her high school volleyball career.

“When I first came to the school, I had to sit out half the year,” Faith recalled, addressing the challenges she faced early on. Despite this, she went on to achieve a remarkable milestone, surpassing a thousand digs—a feat she hadn’t anticipated. “I wasn’t really expecting, like, anything like that. But with the team like that, I had. It was very easy to do that,” she humbly stated.

Faith’s gratitude toward her team revealed the cohesive force that propelled the program to excellence. “It’s really been about, like, leadership and about, like, everyone working together and just working hard and always wanting to, like, win and have a common goal,” she expressed, highlighting the importance of unity and collective aspiration.

A natural leader herself, Faith emphasized the essence of leading by example, aiming not only to inspire but also to instill joy. “I just want them to, like, remember, like, the moments of me being, like, stupid or funny and them always, like, looking back on that,” she shared. This mindset reflects her leadership style, one that is both uplifting and memorable.

Looking back on the figures who shaped her journey, Faith credited her older peers, particularly mentioning Olivia Booth. “She’s, like, one of my favorite seniors… She was literally the one that, like, really brought me under and, like,” Faith says, alluding to the influence and guidance she received as a younger athlete.

Achieving all-state honors was a landmark moment for Faith, one that surprised and humbled her. “It’s very amazing… It just feels, like, really amazing to, like, know that people, like, know me and they have my back, and then they know that I could be a good player,” she said, acknowledging the recognition and support she’s received.

Enduring and overcoming adversity is part of any athlete’s journey, and Faith is no exception. Her philosophy, embedded by her parents, is to learn and grow from every setback. “He’d [her father] always be like, you know you always gonna have that bad game, that bad match, but it’s how you bounce back from it that really shows, like, the type of person you are,” she explained, speaking on the resilience ingrained in her approach.

Looking ahead, the discomfort of starting anew weighs on anyone venturing into uncharted territories. Yet, for Faith, Edinburgh feels like a second home, credited largely to the welcoming nature of the team and coaching staff. “It was very, like, home. Like, I just could, like, see myself there, and I love, like, the team. Like the. Just the whole atmosphere of the whole program,” she beamed with enthusiasm for her future.
As her legacy at Mineral Ridge endures, Faith carries the pride of being a foundational brick in the school’s sports culture. “It just feels really good that I can, like, be an example for a lot of girls,” Faith remarked, understanding the impact she leaves behind.

Concluding her high-school sports journey, Faith Schneider stands as an example of what hard work, a positive mindset, and a sense of community can achieve. Her story will continue to inspire and motivate many in Mineral Ridge and beyond as she takes the next step in her academic and athletic career.

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MOLNAR’S MOMENT

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- At YSN, we shine the spotlight on young athletes who redefine commitment and passion. Today, we delve into the remarkable world of Kylee Molnar, a Mineral Ridge rising star whose dedication to sports is as inspiring as it is intense. DJ Yokley, host of YSN, sat down with Kylee to discuss her love for athletics, her punishing schedule, and the drive that catapults her towards success.

Since her early feature on YSN, Kylee has become a familiar name, not just for her prowess in multiple sports but for her genuine outlook towards her future. When asked about her motivation, Kylee shared, “I want to go to college for playing sports. Of course, I have a scholarship so my parents don’t have to pay for it.” Displaying maturity beyond her years, Kylee’s focus on securing a sports scholarship reflects her considerate nature and long-term vision.

A testament to her athletic versatility and enthusiasm, Kylee doesn’t restrict herself to a single sport – or even two. She juggles an astounding array of activities, including basketball, volleyball, cross country, track, and club sports. With such a packed routine, one might wonder how she manages it all. Yes, Kylee keeps a meticulous schedule. “I used to get up at like 05:00 a.m. before school started… Then I went to volleyball practice after, for 2 hours and, and then after volleyball I went to lifting and then I had to get a jump stretch after that,” she says, outlining a day that would exhaust even seasoned athletes.

The rigors of her routine are palpable when she discusses her workouts. “It could be hills some days. Linda loops, 400 repeats, mile repeats, six-mile runs. Just crazy stuff,” Kylee explains, revealing the extent of her training. These early morning workouts set the tone for the rest of her day which includes a full slate of school, sports, and study.

Balancing a high-octane sports regimen with schoolwork and family time isn’t easy, but Kylee does it with poise and discipline. When DJ Yokley asked what she enjoys outside of sports, her response was heartwarming, “I spend time with my family, but I also volunteer. My mom’s the booster, so I have to volunteer at the concession stand and on the field.”

Despite her disciplined diet, Kylee confesses her love for ‘pop’, or as some may call it, soda. “My cross country coach, he says it’s poison for me, but I really like some pop.” She proclaims root beer as her favorite, painting a picture of a regular teenager beneath the elite athlete.

When it comes to leadership, Kylee envisions her role as one of guidance and support: “Just speaking up, like helping people who don’t know what they’re doing, like trying to get them to the best of their abilities.” Kylee’s understanding of leadership extends beyond mere performance; it’s about empowering her teammates to reach their peak potential.

Kylee’s achievements are indeed impressive. DJ Yokley pointed out her accomplishments in junior high cross country, noting she “finished third at the league meet, making first team all MVAC finished 7th at the state meet out of 132 other runners.” Not just a talented runner, Kylee simultaneously excelled as a key player on the 8th-grade volleyball team.

As the interview came to a close, it became clear that Kylee thrives under pressure. Relishing the adrenaline rush, she shared, “That’s incredible… You’re at your best when the stage is biggest.” This sentiment embodies the spirit of a true competitor, one who consistently chases excellence with boundless energy and unwavering commitment.

From YSN, we salute Kylee Molnar for her exceptional prowess as an athlete and commend her efforts both on and off the field. Keep an eye on this outstanding Mineral Ridge player as she heads into high school. There’s no telling the heights she’ll reach, and we can’t wait to chronicle her journey.

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AUL OR NOTHING

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Mineral Ridge High School volleyball senior Samantha Aulet recently sat down with DJ Oakley on the YSN podcast to discuss her transformative senior year, leadership on and off the court, and her impressive record of 2000 assists.

Aulet expressed the excitement of approaching her senior year and the desire to make lasting memories while leading her team. She emphasized the importance of not just leading the offense as a setter, but also providing guidance and support for the younger players and during practice sessions.

Having been a pivotal player throughout her high school career, Aulet talked about her evolving role and leadership style, highlighting the shift from focusing on the back row as a freshman to leading the entire team and fostering a positive attitude.

During the podcast, Aulet also shared insights into the strategic aspects of the game, discussing her role as a coach on the floor and the communication with coaches and teammates during the games.
Aulet credited the growth of the volleyball program to the solid foundation laid by former players, emphasizing the contribution of her senior-year teammates in building the team’s success.

Regarding her record of 2000 assists, Aulet candidly discussed the competitive nature within her family and how she set her sights on achieving the record after her sister accomplished the same feat. Though she fell six assists short due to an injury during a game, Aulet’s determination and competitiveness shone through as she reflected on the experience and the lessons learned from facing adversity.

The podcast showcased Aulet’s pride in her career achievements, including winning the league three out of four years and her role in the team’s success. She also humorously mentioned the regret of an injury that occurred during a game and how it affected her pursuit of the record.

Aulet’s resilience and dedication were highlighted throughout the interview, showcasing her positive impact on Mineral Ridge’s volleyball program. As she looks forward to the next chapter, Aulet’s commitment to leadership and her impressive record of 2000 assists set a shining example for future athletes at Mineral Ridge High School.

With her senior year coming to a close, Mineral Ridge’s Samantha Aulet continues to leave a lasting legacy in the volleyball program, overcoming challenges and making a profound impact both on and off the court.

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CANFIELD BASEBALL COACH S CORNER EP 1 WITH GARY KNITTLE

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CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “Canfield Baseball Coach’s Corner,” host DJ Yokley sits down with Canfield baseball coach, Gary Knittle, to discuss the season opener and reflect on the development of players within the program. Coach Knittle, known as a mentor and leader in the Canfield community, provides valuable insights into player dynamics, coaching staff, and the upcoming spring break trip.

The conversation delved into the recent season opener, where the Canfield team secured a victory, despite the challenges posed by a young and relatively inexperienced group. Coach Knittle emphasizes the resilience and promise of the team’s freshmen, highlighting their willingness to learn and compete.
In addition to reviewing the successful start of the season, the dialogue touched upon the importance of off-field experiences in enhancing team dynamics and fostering lasting memories. Coach Knittle shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming spring break trip, emphasizing the role it plays in developing camaraderie and mutual respect among the players.

Moreover, the segment saw Coach Knittle’s reflections on the impact he aims to make on the players he mentors. He discussed his deep commitment to the holistic development of his players, not solely measured by wins and losses, but by the lasting impact on their lives beyond the playing field.

Through the candid and invigorating conversation, it’s evident that Coach Knittle’s dedication to the sport extends beyond the technical aspects of coaching. His holistic approach focuses on providing players with valuable life experiences and nurturing a strong sense of camaraderie.

The “Canfield Baseball Coach’s Corner” episode brings to light the passionate and multi-faceted nature of sports coaching, underscoring the countless impressions a dedicated coach can leave on the lives of the players under their guidance.

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DON’T DOUBT DOTA

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- 8th grade standout Delaney Dota recently sat down with DJ Yokley for an exclusive interview at the Post Office Pub in Mineral Ridge. Delaney, a multi-sport athlete, shared her thoughts on her impressive basketball season, future aspirations, and the support she receives from her family.

Delaney expressed her excitement and nervousness about transitioning to high school, emphasizing the need for hard work and team growth to match the level of high school competition. She also highlighted the importance of running and cross country in preparing her for basketball and her dedication to improving her game, particularly in becoming more aggressive on the court.

During the interview, Delaney revealed her highest-scoring game as 19 points and her desire to expand her shooting range beyond the banned three-point line. She also credited her uncle and family, especially her father, for instilling the discipline and work ethic that have contributed to her success.

As she looks ahead to her future in high school, Delaney’s leadership and commitment to improvement are sure to make her a key player to watch in the coming years.

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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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PRYOR MOTIVES

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PEPPER PIKE, OH-  Senior basketball player Ernest Pryor from Orange High School is gearing up for his most awaited season yet as he looks to leave his mark on the court. In a recent interview with YSN, Pryor expressed his anticipation for his senior year, emphasizing his team’s goal to win a district championship and his personal aspiration to play college basketball.

Pryor, known for his sharpshooting abilities, is determined to elevate his game and improve on his defensive skills to contribute more effectively to the team. He also acknowledged the significance of his close-knit senior teammates and the invaluable support from their new coach, Coach Marv, a former college basketball player.

In the interview, Pryor also credited his parents and a Navy Seal as his role models, attributing their guidance and perseverance as sources of motivation. His determination to make the most of his senior year reflects his desire to avoid the regrets of missed opportunities, serving as a driving force behind his efforts on the court.

With a strong sense of purpose and a passion for the game, Pryor is poised to lead his team to success this season. As he prepares for his future beyond high school, he remains focused on making the most of his basketball career and realizing his dreams at the collegiate level.

As Ernest Pryor’s senior season unfolds, it’s clear that his dedication to the sport and his team will continue to define his legacy at Orange High School.

 

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KOZAK’S CAUSE

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In a recent podcast episode of YSN titled “Orange Swimming Player Profile: Emma Kozak,” the spotlight was on senior swimmer Emma Kozak from Orange High School. The episode provided insights into her journey as a swimmer, her role as a senior leader, and her aspirations for the future.

Emma, a seasoned swimmer, began competing at the age of eight. While admitting to a love-hate relationship with the sport, she persevered and continued to pursue her passion. Along the way, it was her friends and teammates who motivated her to keep swimming. She embraced her role as a leader both vocally and through her actions, encouraging her teammates during practices and pushing them to give their best effort.

As a senior, Emma enjoys the privilege of being the top dog in the school. She laughs off the misconceptions that seniors are scary, highlighting the camaraderie and support that exists within the team. Her ability to create a positive and fun atmosphere during practices has made her a mentor figure to her teammates, inspiring them to push through tough workouts and strive for their goals.

Representing Orange High School in the pool holds a special significance for Emma, as she has been attending the school since preschool. She expressed her gratitude for the honor and recognizes the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

When it comes to role models, Emma looks up to her fellow swimmer, Lily Klingensmith, who has shown her how to maintain a balanced life while excelling in swimming and academics. Outside of the pool, Emma credits her mother as her ultimate role model, appreciating her amazing qualities and particularly her culinary skills. Emma’s favorite dish, her mom’s lasagna roll-ups, is renowned amongst her family.

Looking ahead, Emma has her sights set on college. While considering the University of Kentucky among her options, she plans to pursue a career in healthcare. Her personal experiences with her mother’s battle with cancer have fueled her desire to help others and make a difference in their lives.

As Emma heads towards graduation, the Orange High School community rallies behind her. With her leadership, determination, and compassion, Emma Kozak is set to leave a lasting legacy in the pool and beyond.

We wish Emma the best of luck in all her future endeavors.

 

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EAST PALESTINE BOYS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH TRISTAN REYNOLDS

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COLUMBIANA, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast’s “Coach’s Corner”, Tristan Reynolds, the head coach of the East Palestine Bulldogs boys basketball team, sat down to discuss the team’s progress and his personal Thanksgiving favorites. As the Bulldogs embark on their second year under Reynolds’ leadership, there is a renewed sense of excitement surrounding the program.

Reynolds expressed his enthusiasm for the growing numbers of players in the basketball program. He attributed this success to the strong support from the community and the school. The coach spoke fondly about East Palestine’s basketball history, highlighting the team’s championship-winning years under the legendary Bingham.

When asked about his team’s prospects for the upcoming seasons, Reynolds emphasized the importance of a strong work ethic and a buy-in from his players. He praised the toughness of the athletes who also played football, believing it would translate into their basketball performances. The coach expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete and put on a show for their supporters.

Reynolds spoke highly of the players who will play key roles for the Bulldogs. Owen Yuriyuchi, the team’s captain, was commended for his versatility and leadership qualities. Shane Richardson, a senior returning after battling injuries last year, was identified as a player to watch. The coach also mentioned Kyler Bourne, the big man on the team, who has been working hard to improve his game. Additionally, Reynolds highlighted the potential of freshman RJ Mae, who brings a unique spark to the team.

The coach acknowledged the anticipation surrounding the younger classes but emphasized the importance of seizing the present moment. He encouraged his players to go after their goals with determination and effort, as no team will give them victories easily. Reynolds stressed the need to perform well against tough conference opponents, considering the Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference as a formidable basketball league.

Looking beyond the conference games, the coach discussed the significance of non-conference matchups as important preparation for the end-of-season tournaments. East Palestine’s schedule includes games against Urban Scholars, Kingsway Christian, East Liverpool Christian, Springfield, and Lordstown.

In a departure from the basketball talk, Reynolds agreed to participate in a fantasy Thanksgiving draft with the podcast host. With his first pick, Reynolds surprised listeners by selecting his mother’s famous pepperoni rolls. He went on to choose buttered rolls, turkey, stuffing, and cranberry ginger ale to complete his Thanksgiving favorites.

As the interview wrapped up, Reynolds reflected on his growth as a head coach and the responsibilities that come with the position. He acknowledged that coaching at the varsity level involves more than just on-court strategy, as it requires representing the school and community.

In closing, Coach Reynolds expressed his gratitude for the support and wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving. With a promising basketball season ahead and a favorite Thanksgiving feast in mind, the Bulldogs and their dedicated coach are poised for success on and off the court.

 

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