Tag Archive for: McDonald game

WHERE THERE IS A WILL THERE IS A WAY

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Lowellville, OH – In a town where football is more than just a game, Lowellville Rockets quarterback Ricky Willrich has emerged as a standout leader both on and off the field. Fresh off an impressive victory over McDonald, Willrich sat down with YSN Live to discuss his journey, team dynamics, and future aspirations.

The Rockets faced a tough challenge against McDonald in the regular season but turned the tables in their most recent matchup. “We just changed our defensive game plan and stuck to our offensive efforts, and it just worked this time,” Willrich explained. Key to this victory was running back Geno Perry, who scored an astonishing five touchdowns. “Playing with Geno is amazing because his running really opens up the passing game for me,” Willrich said, highlighting team dynamics that have become crucial to the Rockets’ success.

Willrich also praised his offensive line, a unit that provides the solid foundation he needs to perform. “Playing behind seniors like Brandon Harris and Nick Donatelli gives me confidence,” he stated. The young quarterback didn’t hesitate to acknowledge the contributions of his predecessor, Vinny Blowing to Michael, whom he credits for teaching him how to read defenses and avoid mistakes.

Beyond his role as a quarterback, Willrich also plays defensive back, a position he believes enhances his understanding of the game. “Playing DB helps me understand how a DB’s role can change the routes I tell my receivers to run,” he said, evidencing a comprehensive grasp of football strategies. Looking ahead, Willrich aims to become a more versatile player. “I need to work on becoming a dual-threat quarterback and get faster,” he admitted, setting a goal for continuous personal improvement. He’s also preparing for the upcoming game against Minerva, a pass-heavy team that poses new challenges. “Their DBs are disciplined, so we have to be smart with our offensive strategies,” he noted.

Nicknamed the “New Generation of Rockets,” Willrich and his teammates are building on the legacy of their predecessors while forging a path of their own. “We adapt each year based on our strengths,” he said, recognizing the unique qualities of this year’s squad. Willrich’s love for football extends beyond Friday night lights, rooted in the community’s passionate support. “Playing here is like being part of one big family,” he reflected. While he also excels in basketball and track, football remains his first love. When asked about his inspirations, Willrich pointed to his mom and Coach Greer as pivotal figures in his life. “Both have always been there for me, teaching and guiding me,” he said. His drive to win keeps him motivated through the grueling seasons, a testament to his commitment and resilience. With his leadership, humility, and determination, Ricky Willrich is not just a rising star in Lowellville but also a role model for his peers and a pillar in his community. Keep an eye on this Rockets quarterback as he continues to shine.

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WHY NOT WYATT?

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Springfield, OH – As the Springfield Tigers gear up for the first round of the Ohio high school football playoffs, excitement and anticipation are palpable among players and fans alike. This Friday night, the Tigers will face off against Sullivan Black River at Tiger Stadium in what promises to be an electrifying matchup.

This week on “Tiger’s Table,” presented by YSNLive.com, senior linebacker and fullback Wyatt Kuboff joined the show to discuss the team’s preparation and outlook as they head into the playoffs. Kuboff emphasized the team’s increasing confidence and defensive cohesion as key components of their recent success. Reflecting on their performance against McDonald, Kuboff noted, “The defensive line is improving each week. When they do their job, it opens up opportunities for the linebackers to make plays. We haven’t seen our best defensive effort yet, but we’re getting closer.”

The Tigers have shown a robust defensive strategy, characterized by relentless pressure and strategic playmaking, which Kuboff believes can be refined even further as the playoffs progress. Offensively, Kuboff highlighted the versatility and depth of their squad. “We’ve got a lot of tools on offense. Being able to mix up the run and pass keeps defenses on their toes,” he said. With quarterback Braden Baird efficiently distributing the ball, the Tigers’ offense has become increasingly dynamic, presenting multiple threats to opponents.

For fans planning to attend the game, important reminders include ticket pricing—$11 for adults and $5 for students—with no passes being accepted as mandated by the state. Tickets can be purchased online or at Tiger Stadium. Those unable to make it to the stadium can catch all the action on YSNLive.com, which will be streaming over 20 games Friday night at a $9.99 fee. Head coach Guerrero maintains that the team’s preparation methods remain consistent, sticking to the routine that has brought them success throughout the season. Springfield aims to leverage their home-field advantage to secure a victory and advance further into the playoffs.

As the Tigers rally under the Friday night lights, the community’s support will be instrumental. The team’s shared goal is not just about winning games but executing their strategy flawlessly and building on each week’s performance. In Kuboff’s words, “We’ve got to keep playing, no matter the opponent. Execution in crucial moments is what can make the difference.” Tiger Nation’s hopes are high as Springfield Tigers step into round one, eyeing victory and the potential for more home games to follow. All eyes will be on Tiger Stadium this Friday night as the Springfield Tigers begin their quest for playoff success.

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FOREVER YOUNG

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- In the latest episode of “The Devils Hour” on YSN, hosted by Billy Cappabianca, Jackson Young—junior tight end and defensive end for the Western Reserve Blue Devils—offered an insightful look into his busy life both on and off the field.

Young, who juggles football, basketball, and track, also finds time to manage a slew of animals as part of the Junior Fair program, a task he says teaches him invaluable responsibility. “I get up, go to the barn, and when I get home from practice, I’m heading back to the barn,” Young shared.

Family support plays a crucial role in Young’s life. He spoke fondly of his younger brother Bennett, a freshman, and the pivotal influence of his parents. His dad, in particular, acts as a motivator, often pushing him to go harder and stay focused during games.

The episode also touched on the Blue Devils’ first loss of the season, which Young views as a wake-up call that will galvanize the team heading into the playoffs. “It stung a little bit, but I think that will help us persevere farther into the playoffs,” he remarked.

As the season progresses, Young and his team look forward to three key league matches against Waterloo, Minnow Ridge, and Jackson Milton, aiming for a strong playoff push.

Highlighting his season thus far, Young proudly recounted blocking his first field goal, a moment he credits to the excitement and encouragement from fans and teammates alike.

With a promising future ahead, Jackson Young’s balance of athletic, academic, and personal responsibilities marks him as a standout leader for the Blue Devils. His commitment and passion demonstrate the bright potential within this young athlete.

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BLESSED TO HAVE SINN

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, “The Devil’s Hour with Caleb Sinn,” the dynamic athlete was joined by host Chris Colucci at Ben’s Restaurant to discuss his stellar performances in both football and wrestling, providing an in-depth look into his sporting life and aspirations.

Caleb Sinn, a junior at Western Reserve High School, has become a standout in the local sports scene, particularly known for his prowess on the defensive line. His recent accolade of “Athletix Player of the Game” at the McDonald game highlighted his ability to dominate the backfield, a skill he credited to his dedication and love for defense.

“I like playing on defense because we get a chance to show our coaches that offense doesn’t just win games,” Sinn remarked, emphasizing the thrill and importance of teamwork on the defensive front.

A multi-sport athlete, Sinn has found significant crossover benefits between wrestling and football. “Wrestling helps a lot with football, especially with tackling and the physicality of the game,” he explained. When asked to choose between the two sports, Sinn expressed a deep-seated passion for wrestling, a sport he has cherished since sixth grade.

Despite his athletic commitments, Sinn has his sights set on another noble pursuit post-high school—enlisting in the Marines. His sense of duty towards his country was notably commended by Colucci during the interview.

Reflecting on a recent game against Camel, Sinn noted the strengths of their opponent’s offensive line and the strategic adjustments his team made. His preferred technique on the defensive line, the swim move, was also discussed, showcasing his tactical approach and football IQ.

Beyond sports, Sinn shared a glimpse of his personal likes and day-to-day routines. From his favorite vacation spots like Florida and Hawaii to his go-to gas station snacks—chocolate milk and a protein bar—Sinn’s grounded and straightforward nature shone through.

Chris Colucci closed the interview by highlighting the continuous support from local businesses like Ben’s Restaurant, urging the community to participate in Friday night events that celebrate student-athletes. Significantly, Colucci praised Sinn’s relentless spirit and his future potential in both wrestling and football.

With an inspiring blend of athletic talent and a commitment to service, Caleb Sinn is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the coming years. His journey serves as an example for young athletes, proving that dedication and passion can pave the way for remarkable achievements.

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NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- In a riveting episode of the YSN podcast titled “The Devils Hour with Joe Rovnak,” Blue Devils’ center, Joe Rovnak, shared his unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs experienced throughout the football season. Hosted by Chris Colucci, the conversation gave listeners an insider’s view into the life and mindset of one of the team’s most formidable players.

Rovnak, known for his massive presence and critical role as a center, opened up about the strategic and physical demands of his position. “It’s pretty fun being in the middle of everything,” he said, noting the importance of film study and proper technique in executing complex blocks. Colucci, himself a former offensive lineman, emphasized the difficult nature of the center position, jokingly dismissing the role of guards and tackles as less challenging.

Rovnak’s enthusiasm was particularly evident when discussing his favorite plays. “I have to say, like a screenplay,” he revealed, explaining the thrill of breaking out and delivering key hits downfield. The conversation also touched on the excitement of high-stakes games, with Rovnak recounting intense matches against Louisville and McDonald, where the team’s resilience and community support shone through.

With upcoming games against formidable opponents, Rovnak expressed confidence in his team’s ability to overcome challenges. “They’re big, they’re strong,” he said of their next rivals, “Just gotta overcome it. Beat ’em.”

Aside from football, Rovnak briefly mentioned his stint on the wrestling team, where he competed as a heavyweight, showcasing his versatility and dedication to athleticism. Chris Colucci praised Rovnak for his weight loss and conditioning, further solidifying his role as a key asset to the Blue Devils.

As the episode came to a close, Colucci wished Rovnak and the Blue Devils the best for the remainder of the season, highlighting the community’s unwavering support and the importance of the upcoming games.

Listeners were left with a deeper appreciation for the hard work and strategic thinking that goes into each play, as well as the camaraderie and spirit that drive the Western Reserve Blue Devils forward.

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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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