Tag Archive for: Mineral Ridge

MINERAL RIDGE BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH ANTHONY RAGOZINE 3-12-25

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By Ty Bartell

MINERAL RIDGE OH-  Mineral Ridge Rams baseball coach Anthony Ragozine is excited for the upcoming season, returning a strong, experienced roster. After advancing to the district finals last year, the Rams bring back nearly all key players, with just three seniors on the roster. Despite losing two seniors, including one starter, Ragozine feels confident about the team’s depth and experience.

The lineup is led by four-year starter A.J. Sandy, left fielder, and three-year starter Jack Gillie, who missed part of his freshman season due to injury. Key juniors like Xavier Klamer, who will pitch and play shortstop, and Justin Dailey, the starting center fielder, are expected to make significant contributions. Sophomores like Nick Anderson, a pitcher and outfielder, and Gavin Harding, a promising pitcher and third baseman, are also integral to the team’s success.

Pitching is a strong suit for the Rams, with several experienced arms returning. Ragozine has high expectations for his pitchers, especially after solid performances last year. Freshman Preston Kline adds depth to the staff, and Ragozine plans to rely on this pitching depth throughout the season. The Rams play an aggressive style of baseball that emphasizes pitching dominance, putting pressure on opponents.

The Rams are positioned to compete for a conference title in the competitive MVAC’s Scarlet Division, which includes teams like Lowellville, Jackson Milton, Western Reserve and Waterloo. Ragozine recognizes that the league will be tough this year, but he believes the Rams’ pitching and aggressive style will keep them in the hunt for the championship.Community support plays a key role in the team’s success. The Rams benefit from the involvement and enthusiasm of the Mineral Ridge administration and parents, creating an electric atmosphere at home games, especially during conference matchups.

Looking ahead, Ragozine and the Rams are focused on their first game against Toronto, a perennial powerhouse. The game offers an early test to see where the Rams stand for the season, and Ragozine looks forward to the challenge. He encourages the Mineral Ridge community to come out and support the team, as the Rams aim for another successful season and, ultimately, a district championship banner to hang in the gym.

Presented By:

WYLLIE COYOTE

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- Mineral Ridge’s senior softball standout, Sydney Wyllie, recently shared her thoughts on the upcoming season and her journey through the sport in a recent interview with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig. As she prepares for her final year on the team, Wyllie reflects on the emotions that come with senior season and the unique leadership position she finds herself in.

Throughout the interview, Wyllie emphasized the strong bond she shares with her teammates and the sense of camaraderie they’ve built over the years. The group of senior leaders, including Wyllie, has developed a supportive environment that helps underclassmen grow both on and off the field. “It’s just super awesome to be out there with my teammates, even if it is for the last season,” she remarked. Wyllie, who plays in the outfield and is known for her skills as a slapper, passionately discussed her approach to the sport. Her dedication is evident in the way she strives to be a dependable leader and an inspiring role model, especially for the fresh faces on the team. Recalling the guidance she received as a freshman from older players, she now hopes to pass on her knowledge and enthusiasm to the younger members of the team.

Off the field, Wyllie has her sights set on an academic future. While undecided between attending the University of Cincinnati or Ohio State, she plans to major in architecture, merging her love for art and academics into her career path. As Wyllie anticipates graduation and the transition to college, she carries with her not only cherished memories from softball but also the leadership skills and friendships that have shaped her high school experience. The season ahead is sure to be emotional, yet full of opportunities for Sydney Wyllie to leave her mark on Mineral Ridge softball.

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MEROLILLO MAKING HER FINAL IMPACT

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- Mineral Ridge senior and softball pitcher Lily Merolillo navigates through an emotional senior season, cherishing her final games with lifelong teammates while preparing for a bright future. Reflecting on her last high school season, Merolillo shared the challenge of handling “all the lasts” that accompany senior year. The close bond with her teammates, described as a second family, adds to the bittersweet nature of her final season. Continuously striving for improvement, she remains committed to extra practice, exemplifying her dedication both on and off the field.

Merolillo, who fell in love with softball at a young age, continues to embrace the pressure and responsibility that comes with pitching. Her confidence is bolstered by the team’s solid defense and her belief in the importance of lifting each other up. Despite the difficulty of parting from familiar faces, including her father who co-head coaches the team, Merolillo is excited for the future. Committed to Teal College, she plans to major in exercise science while continuing her softball career. This season, Mineral Ridge faces a challenging schedule, testing the squad’s skills against formidable opponents like Boardman. Merolillo is optimistic about their prospects, invigorated by the prospect of one last successful run with her team.

With her sights set on leaving a lasting legacy of support and teamwork, Merolillo prepares to transition from an accomplished high school athlete to a promising college player, her journey fueled by family, coaches, and a supportive community.

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MINERAL RIDGE SOFTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH WILL SANDY & JOE MEROLILLO 3-10-25

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- As the 2025 softball season gets underway, Mineral Ridge’s softball team is setting ambitious goals after a promising journey last year. Co-head coaches Will Sandy and Joe Merolillo are at the helm again, eager to capitalize on the momentum built in previous seasons.

Last year, the Rams showcased their potential with a strong performance in the district, and both coaches are keen on advancing even further this season. Coach Sandy reflected on the progress from previous years, emphasizing the importance of reducing errors and adhering to team strategies. “We’ve been preaching improvement and taking things one step at a time, and we’re in a great position to do that,” Sandy stated. With a roster packed with returning talent and promising new faces, the Rams are primed for a successful campaign. Senior players like Lily Marilillo and Sydney Wyllie are expected to continue their leadership roles, building on their previous contributions. Marilillo’s versatility both in the circle and at shortstop is anticipated to be a cornerstone of the Rams’ defense.

The MVAC remains fiercely competitive, and Coach Sandy is aware of the challenges but relishes the opportunity to face long-time rivals such as McDonald. Meanwhile, Coach Merolillo highlighted the strategic planning behind the team’s non-conference schedule, designed to equip the Rams with the experience needed for postseason triumphs. The co-coaching dynamic between Sandy and Merolillo has become a hallmark of the program, fostering a united and motivated team environment. Both coaches are committed not only to winning games but to ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for their players.  As Mineral Ridge brings their signature “Mineral Riz” swagger to the field, they are not just aiming to compete — they are determined to clinch both league and district titles. With the support of an engaged community and a dedicated team, the Rams are ready to take on the 2025 season with enthusiasm and grit.

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RISK TAKER, HISTORY MAKER

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Ava Hulett, a senior standout from Mineral Ridge, continues to leave an indelible mark on the athletics scene. Despite a season that didn’t end as she hoped, Hulett’s illustrious career is far from over. She has already amassed over 1,000 digs and kills in volleyball and over 1,400 points in basketball, cementing her place in Mineral Ridge history. Her track season is yet to come, promising even more accolades as she shines the brightest in her favorite sport.

In a recent interview with YSN hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig, Ava revealed her excitement about focusing solely on track this year. Her singular focus comes as she enters her final high school track season, free from the demands of starting open gyms for other sports. This new chapter in her career is filled with promise and Ava is eager to add more accomplishments to her already impressive resume.

While she faces the pressures of high expectations, Ava thrives under the spotlight. It’s in these moments of heightened attention that she delivers her best performances, driven by the crowd’s energy. Ava attributes her motivation to a combination of personal goal-setting and the unwavering support of her parents and coaches, who push her to achieve more.

Although track is her primary focus, DJ Yokley reminds us of the upcoming YSN All Star basketball game where Ava will represent Mineral Ridge. The event promises to draw a large crowd, and Ava is eager to perform on such a big stage.

Even as she looks toward her future, Ava remains deeply connected to her roots in Mineral Ridge. She speaks fondly of the incoming classes of athletes, particularly highlighting their potential in basketball and volleyball. As she prepares to leave Mineral Ridge, Ava hopes to make her mark by breaking hurdle records and potentially becoming a state champion.

Ava Hulett embodies the spirit of a true athlete, balancing academics and sports while remaining humble despite her significant achievements. Her exemplary work ethic and dedication serve as an inspiration to many in the community. As she gears up for her final track season, everyone awaits the legacy she will leave behind at Mineral Ridge.

PRESENTED BY

BALDWIN’S BRADY

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Mineral Ridge High School’s standout athlete, Brady Balestrino, took a monumental step in his sports career by signing with Baldwin Wallace to continue playing football at the collegiate level. Amid the cheers of friends, family, and coaches, Balestrino officially committed, marking the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.

Balestrino, renowned for his exceptional skills on the turf, has been a versatile player, excelling in multiple sports, including hockey. Despite the challenges of a rigorous recruitment process, Balestrino’s determination and humility shone through. “Working as hard as I did, you know, it’s not a bad thing. This is kind of what I wanted to do, play at the next level,” Balestrino shared in a candid interview with DJ Yokley on the YSN podcast.

The recruitment journey was a rewarding experience for Balestrino, offering insights into various collegiate programs. Baldwin Wallace stood out to him as the perfect fit. “Since the first time I stepped on campus, you know, it just felt like home,” he said, appreciating the personal touch and genuine interest shown by the BW coaching staff.

As Balestrino prepares to leave high school, he reflects fondly on his time at Mineral Ridge, attributing much of his team’s success to the dedication instilled by Coach Rob Riley and the supportive community. “Mineral Ridge’s community that backs you when you play football, it’s just amazing,” Balestrino acknowledged.

Looking forward, Balestrino is enthusiastic about studying sports marketing at Baldwin Wallace, combining his academic pursuits with his love for sports. His story stands as an inspiration for future athletes from Mineral Ridge, underscoring the impact of perseverance, community support, and the pursuit of one’s passion.

With signing day concluded, Brady’s journey continues to inspire young athletes, proving that with hard work and determination, dreams can indeed become reality.

 

PRESENTED BY

LADY RAMS SEASON CLOSES IN DISTRICT SEMI

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- The Mineral Ridge Lady Rams wrapped up an incredible season Tuesday night, battling hard in the District Semifinals but falling to Canton Central Catholic 61-45. The Rams kept it close through three quarters, but a tough fourth quarter sealed their fate as the Crusaders pulled away late.

The senior duo of Ava Hulett and Ava Carikido led the charge for Mineral Ridge. Hulett stuffed the stat sheet with 14 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 steals, while Carikido put up 10 points, grabbed 6 boards, and swiped 4 steals. The Lady Rams got another big performance from Sullivan Sandy, who dropped 11 points to go with a steal and 2 rebounds. Norah Schneider chipped in 8 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 steals, while Kylee Molnar added 2 points to the effort.

Despite the tough loss, the Lady Rams have plenty to be proud of. They dominated the MVAC Scarlet Tier, winning back-to-back championships and going undefeated in conference play. Their deep playoff run proves just how strong this group has been all season long. The Lady Rams showed grit, talent, and heart every time they hit the court, and their accomplishments won’t be forgotten anytime soon.

GIRARD GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER 2-18-25

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GIRARD OH- In an exciting pre-game interview on the YSN podcast, Coach Joe Bornemiss of the NE8 champion Girard Lady Indians shared insights into his team’s preparation for their upcoming clash against South Range at the Thriller Dome. The match marks their third encounter this year.

Despite some logistical frustrations due to pre-scheduled voting that affected home game advantages, Bornemiss remains focused on leading his team through a challenging season. The coach highlighted the unpredictability of the NE8, noting, “it could have been tied with five losses… I just knew it was going to be a very, very competitive league.” Central to Girard’s success is the team’s offensive “three-headed monster” comprising Makenzee White, Caylee Wilkes, and Ally Gassman, who have consistently posed difficult challenges for opposing defenses. Bornemiss also praised the depth of his roster, with contributions from bench players like Ivory Hewitts and Jess Hansens bolstering the team’s defensive resilience.

As Girard prepares to hit the road, Bornemiss exudes confidence in his players’ adaptability and road game prowess, describing them as “road warriors.” Emphasizing the importance of a strong defensive and offensive plan, Bornemiss reflected on the necessary strategic adjustments and praised the team’s pre-game routines. Closing the interview on a personal note, Bornemiss expressed gratitude for his wife’s support, highlighting the family-oriented spirit within Girard’s sports community. As fans eagerly await the game, the Girard Lady Indians are set to deliver a thrilling performance emblematic of their challenging yet rewarding journey this season.

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HAKE’S TAKE; ROAD TO REDEMPTION

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH- In a heartfelt episode of the YSN podcast, Andy Hake, head coach of the Mineral Ridge Rams, shared his emotional journey through a challenging five-year period marked by personal mistakes, public scrutiny, and ultimate redemption. Hake candidly recounted the events from 2020 when he used a vape pen at school due to stress and anxiety, leading to a case that has now been resolved.

During the discussion, Hake emphasized the lessons learned from his experience and expressed gratitude to those who supported him during trying times. He highlighted the unwavering support of Valley Christian and the Mineral Ridge community, including a unanimous 5-0 vote by the board of education reaffirming their faith in his abilities as a coach and educator.

Hake acknowledged that moments of weakness are common and should not define a person’s entire body of work. He shared his commitment to serving the kids at Mineral Ridge with renewed vigor and dedication, aiming to be the best version of himself.

As the state released him from the five-year case, Hake expressed readiness to return to teaching and coaching, emphasizing the importance of imparting values such as faith, family, and patriotism to the young generation. His story of resilience and redemption serves as a reminder that second chances are vital for personal growth and transformation.

This candid and inspiring conversation from the YSN podcast showcases Hake’s journey from adversity to redemption, leaving listeners with a profound sense of hope and optimism.

RIDGE CELEBRATES SENIORS BY EVADING BOMBERS

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- Mineral Ridge sent their seniors off in style Wednesday night, taking down Windham 64-45. It was a slow start for both squads, but the Rams found their rhythm by halftime, heading into the break up 25-16. The offenses picked up in the second half, but Ridge never let go of the lead.

Kaden Shaffer paced the Rams with 17 points, while Chase Moore dropped 9. Blake Basista, Jon Rozzi, and Landon Bingham each knocked down 8.

Windham’s Carlos Bruton led all scorers with 20, Dylan McCune added 11, and Jayquon Smith finished with 7.

Mineral Ridge wraps up the regular season Friday at home against Jackson-Milton, while Windham hits the road Tuesday to face Garfield.

Game Photos Can Be Found HERE