Tag Archive for: mental preparation

WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 5) FEATURING ALEX HACKWELDER

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HUBBARD, OH – In a spotlight interview on the latest episode of Wrestling Wednesdays on YSN Live, Hubbard senior wrestler Alex Hackwelder opened up about reaching the milestone of 100 career wins, his philosophy on the sport, and his future aspirations. The episode, hosted by Anthony Hartwig, Gary Althiser, and Scotty Mincher, was an insightful look into the life and mindset of one of the area’s top young athletes.

Achieving his 100th win last Friday at Fitch, Hackwelder described the experience as a significant and emotional accomplishment. “It’s what you…one of the milestones you work for as soon as you start your freshman year,” said Hackwelder, highlighting the long-term dedication and effort behind his success. Celebrating this milestone alongside his team and family made the moment even more special. Hackwelder shared the importance of his training partners and coaches in his journey. He currently drills with teammates Benjamin Logan and receives coaching frim others, who provide varied challenges and support. “It’s nice to get different feels and get some different guys here and there…to work with different guys and get different feels is really important to me,” Hackwelder noted.

Reflecting on the legacy of past team leaders like Nick Bowser, Hackwelder conveyed the responsibility he feels as a senior to continue raising the bar for the Hubbard wrestling program. “It’s really important to carry on what we learned from those guys last year…and try to do our best to replicate that,” he said. Hackwelder’s goals for the current season include a Northeast Eight Championship and standing atop the podium at the state championships in Columbus. Beyond personal achievements, he aspires to leave a lasting positive impact on the program. “I kind of want to leave a positive mark on the program and be remembered as somebody that…helped out his teammates as well and did everything he can for just the program, not just myself,” he added.

Balancing mental and physical preparation is key for Hackwelder, who emphasizes the importance of mindset in wrestling. He admitted struggling with confidence in the past but now focuses on enjoying the sport and its challenges. “I’m just trying my best to go have fun…that really helps me to settle down and put into perspective that, you know, it’s just a sport and I’m just going out there to have fun,” Hackwelder shared. Looking to the future, Hackwelder is considering attending a four-year college, potentially continuing in athletics, and majoring in engineering. He emphasized the invaluable life lessons wrestling has taught him, which he believes will serve him well in any future endeavors.

As the interview concluded, Hackwelder took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him throughout his journey, including his teammates, coaches, and family. “I hope they know that they’re all very important to me… and to feel them supporting me and to know they’re watching just kind of gives me that extra boost sometimes when it’s a little tough,” he expressed. Alex Hackwelder’s story is an inspiring testament to hard work, perseverance, and the love of the sport, capturing the essence of what it means to be a dedicated athlete and leader.

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MAKAYLA MAKES ALL THE PLAYS

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Leavittsburg, OH — In our latest LaBrae Girls Basketball player profile, junior standout Makayla Scruggs opened up about her journey through the ranks of LaBrae High School’s girls’ basketball team.

Scruggs, who has emerged as a cornerstone of the team, shared her thoughts on transitioning from an underclassman to a leader. “It kind of feels weird. It feels like just yesterday was my freshman year,” she remarked, reflecting on how responsibilities have shifted and grown alongside her love for basketball. A self-described basketball enthusiast from a young age, Scruggs credits her early exposure to the sport and friendly sibling rivalry with her sister Angel for her passion and development. “We would use paint buckets as hoops and always work on our moves,” she recounted with a smile.

Scruggs’ strong relationships with her teammates, especially fellow juniors, have been a pivotal part of this journey. “We know what we’re gonna do. It’s like we can almost read each other,” she explained. This camaraderie, fostered over years of playing together, has made the team a close-knit community, capable of overcoming injuries and setbacks with resilience and determination. Despite the challenges junior year presents academically, particularly with a heavy load of AP and college-level courses, Scruggs remains undeterred. Reflecting on her time management skills, she admitted, “I wasn’t good at time management, but it’s kind of not a choice anymore.”

Looking to the future, Scruggs envisions a career in psychology, possibly as a school psychologist, combining her passion for helping others with her love of the school environment. As the basketball season progresses, Scruggs remains a beacon of positivity and hard work, despite the team’s adversity with injuries. Her ability to balance athletic and academic pursuits, while setting a proactive example for her sister and teammates, stands as a testament to her character and dedication. Catch the full interview with Makayla Scruggs, and stay tuned for more inspiring profiles of young athletes making a difference on and off the court.

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EASY E IS GOOD FOR 3

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CANFIELD, OH- The Canfield Cardinals are navigating an intense football season, currently sitting on the edge of the playoffs in the number 16 seed. Amidst the gridiron battles, senior kicker Ethan Rittenour has emerged not just as a pivotal player but as a beacon of dedication and skill for his team.

For Rittenour, this season has been a whirlwind. “It’s gone real fast,” he reflects, barely believing that they are already fighting for a spot in week eleven. Although the bye week offered a chance for the team to recuperate, Rittenour wishes they could have used it to further solidify their standings.

Ethan’s journey to football began on the soccer field. Starting from the age of five, it was only this year that Ethan decided to trade his soccer cleats for football boots. His transition has been nothing short of spectacular; he boasts a 55-yard field goal in practice and a solid 35-yard goal in-game against Louisville. “My leg is golden,” he jokes, and it seems to be true.

Key to his success are his supportive coaching staff and teammates. Former NFL player Jeff Wilkins and current team leaders like Gino Delucia have played significant roles in Rittenour’s development. Off the field, his family, including his parents and grandparents, have been staunch supporters, cheering him on every step of the way.

Rittenour’s ambitions stretch beyond his senior year. Planning to major in exercise science, he has his eyes set on becoming a personal trainer and potentially a special teams coordinator. His passion for the tactical aspects of football, especially special teams, underscores his unique appreciation for the game.

To the younger players, Rittenour offers these words: “Keep your head up. Even if you miss, you always get another chance.” His mindset, honed by years of discipline and passion, is one he hopes to pass down to aspiring athletes in Canfield.

As the Cardinals push towards a playoff berth, Ethan Rittenour’s golden leg and resilient spirit remain crucial to the team’s pursuit. The Canfield community watches with bated breath, knowing they have a special talent on their side.

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SLIV DOESN’T SLIDE

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POLAND, OH-The latest episode of the YSN Poland Bulldog Show featured star defensive tackle Nate Slivkoff in an engaging interview that shed light on his experiences on and off the field. Hosted by Matt Romeo, the episode delved into Slivkoff’s preparation, mental fortitude, and future ambitions.

Slivkoff, known for his relentless performance on the field, shared insights from last Friday’s game against South Range—a match-up he described as both draining and exhilarating. “Their hurry-up offense was absolutely brutal,” Slivkoff admitted. Despite the challenge, his anticipation for a potential playoff rematch is palpable. “I’d be excited to play against them in the playoffs, hopefully later this year,” he added.

The conversation also explored the unique adrenaline rush that high school football offers. “It’s all about seeing all the people there for your game and watching you play,” Slivkoff said. Reflecting on the ethos of meaningful games in October, the young athlete emphasized the importance of learning from past performances and correcting mistakes for future matchups.

In an intriguing twist, Slivkoff spoke about his pregame rituals, which include a silent car ride followed by a quiet walk to mentally prepare himself. “It’s not as much physical as it is mental,” he explained.

Coach Pav, a notable figure in Slivkoff’s football journey, was also mentioned in the episode. However, Slivkoff revealed that he doesn’t have him as a teacher this year. Interestingly, the senior doesn’t attend Poland High School; he studies software development at the Career Center in Canfield. “Looking forward to finding either work instantly or going straight to college,” Slipkoff said about his post-graduation plans.

As the interview wrapped up, Slivkoff remained focused on the immediate challenge ahead—the game against Niles. “The most important game of the season is the next game of the season,” he asserted, emphasizing the team’s mindset of taking one game at a time.

With such dedication both in sports and academics, Nate Slivkoff proves to be a multifaceted young talent. The Poland Bulldogs can certainly hope for great things from him as they advance through the season.

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POLAND FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 5) WITH TOM PAVLANSKY

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POLAND, OH-  Despite a challenging game last Friday, the Poland Bulldogs and their head coach, Tom Pavlansky, are keeping their heads held high and eyes focused on the future. During a lively discussion at Bulldogs Bar and Grill, Coach Pavlansky shared his insights and reflections with host Matt Romeo on the latest episode of the YSN Poland Bulldog Show.

“We didn’t get the result we wanted, but our kids fought hard,” Coach Pavlansky stated. “It’s important to learn from our experiences and keep working hard in practice.”

The conversation touched on the high-intensity atmosphere of Friday’s game, which closely mirrored the Georgia-Alabama clash in college football. Both teams showcased their resilience, demonstrating why high school football is such a beloved part of the community.

Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions, the Bulldogs maintained their focus. With the onset of “football weather,” Coach Pavlansky emphasized that no drastic changes were needed in their practice routines. “We need to be ready for anything. The other team faces the same conditions,” he remarked.

Romeo also took a closer look at Coach Pavlansky’s pregame rituals, highlighting his dedication both in the classroom as a social studies teacher and on the field. “Coaching is teaching, and teaching is coaching. They are one and the same,” Pavlansky explained.

Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are gearing up for their next match against Niles, a young and eager squad. While acknowledging their opponent’s recent challenges and strengths, Pavlansky maintained that his team’s focus remains solely on the game ahead.

“We play Niles this week, and that’s where our focus should be,” Pavlansky asserted. “We know we have to be ready to go.”

With this unwavering spirit and a positive outlook, the Poland Bulldogs are determined to continue growing and improving as they progress through the season. As Coach Pavlansky aptly put it, “There’s too much negative in the world. We have to stay positive and keep believing in each other.”

 

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SILVERMAN SERVING UP GOLD

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GIRARD, OH—At just 14 years old, Cameron Silverman had an epiphany that tennis was her calling. Now, as Girard High School’s number one singles player, Silverman, a junior, has amassed an impressive 10-3 record this season. Having picked up her first racquet at age four and sporadically engaged with the sport in her early years, it wasn’t until her mid-teens that she truly embraced tennis with fervor.
Despite facing the challenges of a new program and the mental battles inherent in the sport, Silverman credits the camaraderie and supportive energy of her team, as well as the guidance of her devoted coaches, for her success. “It’s crazy to me. I’m so grateful,” she said, reflecting on the coach’s pivotal role in her journey.

Silverman’s disciplined approach includes self-evaluation after matches and listening to instructional videos to refine her strategies. She emphasizes the importance of mental fortitude, advising, “You have to kind of forget the bad points and just move on.”
A history enthusiast off the court, Silverman excels academically and has a particular fondness for historical studies. Known for her leadership qualities, she often draws inspiration from her uncle, a police officer who faces daily challenges with resilient optimism.

Silverman acknowledges the complexity of competing against friends but remains driven by the broader rewards awaiting her. “There’s a bigger reward at the end of the journey,” she says. Moreover, Silverman enjoys healthy pre-match snacks like Clif Bars, but she admits to indulging her sweet tooth with post-match treats such as cookies and cream ice cream.

Wrapping up her heartfelt shout-outs, Silverman thanked her parents, twin sister Addison, coaches, teammates, teachers, staff, and the athletic director, who made the tennis club possible. “It was an honor to discuss Cameron’s journey in tennis, and with her dedication and support system, the sky’s the limit for this rising star,” said Anthony Hartwig. Girard is fortunate to have Cameron Silverman, a remarkable player on and off the court, as a part of their community.

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THE TALES OF LORELAI

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CORLAND OH – As the clock winds down on her senior year, Lorelai Lowe, a standout player on the Lakeview Girls Soccer team, took a moment to share her experiences and emotions in a recent episode of the YSN podcast. In a heartfelt conversation, she delved into the highs and lows of her final season, the special bond she shares with her freshman sister, and the unique journey that has shaped her soccer career.
Lorelai’s soccer story began in North Carolina at the age of four, a passion ignited by her mother and fueled by the sport’s popularity in the region. Despite moving frequently due to her father’s career in the Marine Corps, soccer remained a constant in her life. Now settled in Cortland, Lorelai’s dedication to the sport and her team is evident. “It feels like full circle,” Lorelai said, reflecting on playing alongside her sister this year. Despite the natural sibling squabbles, she values the time they’ve had on the field together. “Having her on the same team as me for my last run is really special.”

Her time at Lakeview has been marked by numerous achievements, including being the top scorer on her team and earning Second Team All-District honors in both her sophomore and junior years. Beyond individual accolades, Lorelai emphasized the importance of leadership and the strong connections formed with her teammates. Moving to Ohio in her sophomore year, she credits the soccer team for helping her find a sense of belonging. “Making that relationship with people on the team is super special,” Lorelai noted. As she looks ahead to her future at Kent State University, where she plans to study political science and play club soccer, Lorelai’s ambitions extend beyond the field. Inspired by her father and former coaches, she hopes to pursue a career in law.

“I’ve always enjoyed the idea of being a lawyer,” Lorelai shared, adding that her interest in politics has been a lifelong passion.
Through the ups and downs, Lorelai’s family remains her steadfast support system. She especially credits her mom for providing invaluable advice and guidance. “Probably not to worry what other people say or think about you,” Lorelai recalled her mother’s wisdom, highlighting the importance of self-confidence and perseverance.

As the soccer season progresses, Lorelai’s sights are set on making the most of her final high school moments, both academically and athletically. And while she dreams of a future that might take her back to the beaches of North Carolina, her time at Lakeview and the friendships she’s forged here will always hold a special place in her heart. In the closing of the podcast episode, Lorelai extended heartfelt thanks to her coaches, parents, sister, and the friends who have been instrumental in her journey. From her early days in North Carolina to her current role as a team leader at Lakeview, Lorelai Lowe’s soccer story is one of resilience, passion, and close-knit camaraderie. As she prepares to embark on her next chapter, her legacy at Lakeview will undoubtedly inspire future generations of soccer players.

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MR. UNLIMITED

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH-  In the heart of the Eagle’s Nest, Ja’Sean Lindsey has emerged as the undisputed standout for the Valley Christian Eagles, dazzling fans and opponents alike with his electrifying performance on the field. The senior tailback’s journey has been one of resilience, hard work, and unyielding determination, transforming him into the player everyone is talking about this season.

Lindsey’s path to gridiron glory was not without adversity. Overcoming a collarbone injury during his sophomore year and grappling with self-doubt as a junior, Lindsey’s ability to bounce back has been nothing short of remarkable. This year, he’s the epitome of confidence and athleticism, largely attributing his success to a rigorous offseason regimen inspired by his father, a military man. With an eye-watering routine of up to 5,000 pushups and 3,000 air squats daily, Lindsey packed on 20 pounds of muscle, enhancing his durability and explosiveness on the field.

“Man, it’s been amazing. Seeing how my game has progressed, I just feel a lot better out there,” Lindsey said, reflecting on his journey. “The 20 pounds of muscle has really helped with my durability and performance, allowing me to get up play after play, ready to go again.”

Through five games, Lindsey’s stats are phenomenal, amassing almost 600 yards over the last two matchups with just over 30 carries. His success is a testament to his relentless work ethic and the powerful synergy with his offensive line, who he credits for opening up “holes you could drive a car through.”

Yet, it’s not just his physical prowess that sets Lindsey apart. Mentally, he’s entering each game like a chess match, preparing methodically, much as he’s recently taken to the strategic game off the field thanks to his dad’s guidance. This combination of physical and mental preparedness has made him a force to be reckoned with.

Off the field, Lindsey’s aspirations are equally impressive. Aiming to become a nurse practitioner, he’s driven by a passion for helping others, showcasing his humility and unwavering focus on giving back. “I’m a person that likes to help people, to save lives and help people get better,” he shared.

In dedicating this season to his parents, Lindsey acknowledges the pivotal role they’ve played in his success. “This season is for my parents. My father pushed me into this fitness journey, and my mom has been relentless about the importance of school.”

With a bright future on the horizon, Ja’Sean Lindsey continues to inspire both on and off the field, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines Valley Christian Eagles football. As he looks to the next level in both his athletic and academic pursuits, there’s no doubt that Lindsey’s star will only continue to rise.

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SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 5) WITH DAVE RACH

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CANFIELD, OH- In a packed restaurant filled with supporters wearing burgundy and gold, South Range Raiders Head Coach Dave Rach spoke candidly about the team’s journey and future prospects during the fourth episode of the YSN podcast series, “South Range Coach’s Corner.” Hosted by DJ Yokley, the lively discussion at GiAngelos captured the essence of community spirit and competitive drive that fuels the Raiders’ success.

Rach expressed his gratitude for the robust community support, noting its impact on both home and away games. “It’s definitely humbling,” Rach said. “Our kids get excited, our coaches get excited on Friday nights to see all the support from our community.”

The Raiders have showcased remarkable progress through the season, particularly highlighted by a significant stride from week three to week four. “We’ve gotten better each week,” Rach stated, attributing this improvement to the disciplined preparation and leadership within the team.

One of the pivotal moments discussed was the Raiders’ recent emotional victory over Lakeview in NE8 play, marked by a touching “pink out” for Ann Myers. Despite a brief scare from Lakeview’s 83-yard touchdown, South Range’s resilience shone through, culminating in a commanding 38-7 victory. “Our kids answered the bell and did a great job,” Rach reflected.

Looking ahead, Rach acknowledged the impending challenge against Struthers, a team known for its physicality and coaching prowess. With an uncertain quarterback situation for Struthers, Rach emphasized the need for preparedness and flexibility. “We’ve got to play great football, get eleven hats to the ball and swarm and tackle at a high level,” he noted.

Special teams have also played a crucial role in South Range’s performance, with Rach highlighting their ability to flip the field and contribute significantly to the team’s success. Praising kicker Luke Starkey, Rach mentioned his confidence in sending Starkey for long field-goal attempts, which can be game-changers.

In a lighter moment, when asked about his dream game show appearance, Rach humorously admitted his affinity for “The Price is Right” and the game of Plinko. “I always wanted to play Plinko growing up,” Rach shared, adding a personal touch to the insightful conversation.

As South Range Raiders prepare for their next big game against Struthers, the community’s support remains unwavering, and Coach Dave Rach’s guiding principles focus on preparation, resilience, and unity. “Our guys work so hard for 350 plus days out of the year to go out and have ten guaranteed opportunities to have fun and turn it loose,” Rach concluded, encapsulating the drive that propels the Raiders towards continued success.

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WESTMINSTER COACHES CORNER: 9/12/24

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NEW WILMINGTON, OH-As the Westminster Titans football team gears up for the 2024 season, Head Coach Scott Benzel shared his insights on the team’s preparations and expectations in a recent discussion on WCN’s “Westminster Caches Corner” podcast.

Coach Benzel, reflecting on a summer filled with personal joys such as watching his son play various sports, emphasized the value of a productive off-season camp. A notable addition this year was a leadership development group from the military, which enhanced the team’s focus on preparation and teamwork. Despite moments of tension among players, the overall experience was positive, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming season.

This year, significant adjustments have been made to simplify the defensive strategies while expanding offensive concepts, especially due to the return of the experienced offensive line group, who are expected to drive the team’s success. The strategic decision to have a first-week bye aims to motivate the players and provide them with necessary rest mid-season, a move spotlighting Coach Benzel’s careful planning.

Key players Ty McGowan, Ty Elam, and Ryan Gomes were highlighted for their leadership and impactful play. McGowan is transitioning into a more vocal leadership role, while Elam, returning from injury, is known for his energetic and playmaking abilities. Gomes, although missing the first two games due to an incident from last year, remains a crucial component with his preparation and leadership on the field.

The team’s first game follows a week one bye, pitting them against Waynesburg—a challenge Coach Benzel and the Titans eagerly anticipate. Benzel underlined the importance of maintaining high performance and energy throughout games, focusing on minimizing mistakes, and making big plays.

The Titans have set progressive seasonal goals, with the primary aim of qualifying for the playoffs. The team looks to capitalize on the coaching strategies discussed by RJ Scott and other podcast guests, which include exploiting opponent weaknesses and effective in-game adjustments.

In addition to football, the podcast featured Coach Garrish Takar, who reflected on his 22-year career coaching men’s and women’s soccer at Westminster. Takar shared insights on his coaching approach, the challenges following key player losses, and the strategies moving forward. Both coaches emphasized the importance of mental preparation, discipline, and community impact through sports.

As the Westminster Titans embark on a challenging season, they remain motivated by their preseason PAC ranking and the tough schedule ahead. With a strong sense of community and teamwork, they aim to prove their capabilities, one game at a time.

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