Tag Archive for: MVAC

MINERAL RIDGE BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH BOB MOLNAR

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Bob Molnar, the 8th grade basketball coach at Mineral Ridge, recently achieved an impressive feat as his team completed an undefeated 18-0 season, with a perfect 14-0 record in the conference. In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley, Molnar shared his insights into the coaching profession and his dedication to the young athletes in his community.

Molnar emphasized the importance of setting and achieving goals, highlighting the girls’ determination to go truly undefeated in the MVAC and win the championship. He attributed their success to early training and exposure to competitive basketball, nurturing and mentoring the girls since the third grade. Molnar also stressed the significance of teaching life lessons through sports, instilling a long-term perspective in the young athletes.

With a background as a father of five and extensive coaching experience since 2000, Molnar expressed his preference for coaching girls due to their focused attention to detail and increased seriousness about their athletic and academic future. He also shared his involvement in other sports programs, illustrating his enduring commitment to the local community and its youth.

Molnar’s dedication to teaching and mentoring through sports has had a profound impact on the Mineral Ridge community, fostering a culture of perseverance, commitment, and sportsmanship among the young athletes he coaches.

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QUAKERS START SLOW, FINISH STRONG AGAINST SPRINGFIELD

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NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH- It’s all about setting the pace, and for Salem- it took being on the wrong end of a Springfield 5-0 run to wake the jumpshots, and go on a 14-0 run themselves to finish to the tune of 56-33.

Led by standout performances from Rylee Hutton, who commanded the court with a game-high 22 points, and Lauren Barton, who contributed 11 points to the scoreboard, the Lady Quakers showcased their offensive prowess and teamwork throughout the game. Their dynamic play and strategic execution propelled Salem to a decisive victory, capping off their regular season on a high note.

Despite facing a formidable opponent, the  Lady Tigers demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the contest. Jameka Brungard led the charge with an impressive 14 points, while Ava Vecchione contributed 10 points to the Lady Tigers’ efforts. Despite their valiant performance, the Lady Tigers were unable to overcome Salem’s relentless offensive attack and suffocating defense.

With the regular season now concluded, the Lady Tigers look ahead with optimism and determination as they prepare for postseason play. Despite the setback, the team remains focused on their goals and committed to making a strong showing in the upcoming playoffs.

Salem finishes their regular season campaign on Saturday against Austintown Fitch.

SPRINGFIELD NABS MVAC CHIP WITH WIN OVER DEVILS

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NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH-  In a fiercely contested matchup between two powerhouse teams, the Springfield Tigers emerged victorious over the McDonald Blue Devils, clinching a share of the MVAC Scarlet division championship in a nail-biting 46-43 win.

From the opening tip-off, both teams showcased their determination to claim victory and secure their place at the top of the division standings. The intensity was palpable as the Tigers and Blue Devils battled relentlessly throughout the game, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer sounded.

Leading the charge for the Springfield Tigers was Aidan Appel, whose stellar performance propelled his team to victory. Appel showcased his versatility and skill on both ends of the court, tallying an impressive 13 points while also contributing 5 steals and 3 assists. His leadership and tenacity set the tone for the Tigers’ resilient effort against a formidable opponent.

Joining Appel in the Tigers’ offensive onslaught was Carson Cunningham, who delivered a strong performance with 9 points and 3 rebounds. Cunningham’s contributions were instrumental in providing the Tigers with much-needed offensive firepower throughout the contest.

Dylan Sheely emerged as a force to be reckoned with once again, making significant contributions on both ends of the floor. Sheely’s dynamic play resulted in 8 crucial points, while his defensive prowess was evident with 5 steals and 3 assists, further solidifying his impact on the game.

Additionally, Sean Guerriero showcased his all-around skillset, contributing 6 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds to the Tigers’ winning effort. Guerriero’s contributions on both ends of the court played a pivotal role in securing the victory and clinching a share of the division championship.

Despite a valiant effort from the McDonald Blue Devils, led by Drew Zajach with 15 points and Joey Cappuzzello with 11, the Tigers’ relentless determination and cohesive teamwork ultimately proved decisive in securing the crucial victory.

With this hard-fought win, the Springfield Local High School Tigers etched their name into the annals of MVAC Scarlet division history, securing a share of the championship and cementing their status as one of the top teams in the conference. As they celebrate this momentous achievement, the Tigers look ahead with optimism and determination, eager to continue their success as they set their sights on even greater accomplishments in the postseason and beyond.

RESERVE SNAGS THE TROPHY OVER JACKSON

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-  In a clash of titans that epitomized the essence of high school basketball rivalry, the Western Reserve Blue Devils emerged victorious over the Jackson Milton Blue Jays in a thrilling showdown for the illustrious President’s Memorial Trophy. With the 57th installment of their storied competition unfolding on the hardwood, Reserve showcased their mettle with a commanding 68-44 triumph over their fierce adversaries.

From the opening tip-off, it was evident that both teams were prepared to leave everything on the court in pursuit of glory and honor. The stakes were high, the atmosphere electric, and the intensity palpable as fans from both camps filled the stands, eagerly anticipating a contest for the ages.

Leading the charge for the Western Reserve Blue Devils was their formidable big man, Andrew Hendricks. With a dominating double-double performance, Hendricks showcased his prowess in the paint, tallying 14 crucial points while asserting his presence with authority under the boards. Hendricks’ unwavering commitment to excellence earned him the prestigious title of Player of the Game, a testament to his invaluable contributions to Reserve’s victory.

But Hendricks wasn’t the lone star shining bright for the Blue Devils. Dom Ricciardi, with a stellar display of offensive firepower, led all Devil scorers with an impressive 17 points, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. Luke Henning bolstered Reserve’s offensive onslaught with 13 points of his own, while Brock Wellman rounded out the quartet of double-digit scorers with a solid 11 points, underscoring the team’s depth and resilience.

On the opposing side, the Jackson Milton Blue Jays fought valiantly throughout the contest, led by the dynamic duo of Ryan Romigh and Alex Rotuna. Romigh’s outstanding performance saw him finish with an impressive 23 points, while Rotuna contributed 10 points of his own in a commendable display of skill and determination.

Despite the Blue Jays’ tenacity and determination, they ultimately found themselves unable to withstand the relentless offensive barrage unleashed by their formidable opponents.

With this crucial victory, the Western Reserve Blue Devils improved their standing in the MVAC to three wins and six losses, while boasting an overall record of 4-11. Conversely, the Jackson Milton Blue Jays now stand at 3-6 in conference play, with an overall record of 5-8, as they regroup and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

LUKE’S LEGACY

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-  Luke Henning, a senior athlete at Western Reserve High School, is garnering attention for his outstanding performance on the basketball court and beyond.

Known for his versatility in sports, Henning’s impact as a leader and teammate has left a lasting impression on the Western Reserve community. His exceptional skills and uplifting personality have made him a standout figure in high school sports.

In a recent interview with YSN’s DJ Yokley, Henning attributed a large part of his success to his family, particularly his brother, who set the groundwork for his athletic journey.

Looking ahead, Henning has his sights set on Ohio University, where he plans to study wildlife biology, inspired by his love for animals and the outdoors. His commitment to his studies and his passion for sports has made him a role model for many aspiring young athletes in the area.

As he prepares to take the next step in his academic and professional life, the impact of his influence is sure to be felt, not only on the court but also in the broader community that he has touched with his sportsmanship and dedication.

Luke Henning’s legacy at Western Reserve High School will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark, and his future endeavors at Ohio University are awaited with eager anticipation.

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ALL IS WELL

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- Senior basketball player, Brock Wellman, of Western Reserve High School in a recent podcast episode on YSN, shared insights about his multi-sport journey, family support, and future aspirations.

During the episode, host DJ Yokley engaged in a candid conversation with Wellman, discussing his involvement in basketball, football, and baseball, as well as the challenges and gratifications of being a multi-sport athlete. Wellman expressed his appreciation for the tight-knit bond with his teammates and the rich sporting history at Western Reserve, emphasizing his fondness for baseball as his primary sport.
Aside from his athletic pursuits, Wellman shed light on the unwavering support from his family, especially his hardworking parents and devoted grandmother. His mother’s commitment to her demanding job as a 911 dispatcher has instilled in him the value of perseverance and dedication.

Looking to the future, Wellman revealed his interest in pursuing a career in sports, particularly in sports broadcasting, inspired by his passion for athletics. He also highlighted his desire to work in his father’s business, focusing on ironwork and garage doors.

Moreover, Wellman reflected on his role models, citing his parents as significant influences and expressing his admiration for their strong work ethic.

As Wellman prepares to graduate in 2024, his episode on YSN provided a glimpse into the life, experiences, and aspirations of a dedicated and versatile student-athlete at Western Reserve High School.

The podcast episode presented a compelling narrative of Wellman’s journey, showcasing the enduring impact of family support, a strong work ethic, and a passion for sports, leaving listeners with a deeper understanding of the talented athlete’s character and ambitions.

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VIKINGS OFFENSE PREVAILS OVER CRESTVIEW

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LEAVITTSBURG, OH- The LaBrae Viking offense is worth the price of admission, and on Tuesday night- they showed why en route to an 85-46 win over MVAC rival, Crestview.

The Vikes splashed 28 points right out of the gate in the first quarter, only giving up ten, which set the tone for the likes of their three-headed monster in David Blackmon, Derek Wilson, and Austin Rowe- who accounted for 69 of the team’s 85 points on the night.  Wilson led the way with 31 points, followed by Rowe with 22, and Wilson with 16.  Jay McGarry had seven tallies, and Jaxson Lancaster and Owen Boone each chipped in four.

LaBrae would win every quarter’s scoring totals during the contest.

The Rebels were led by valiant efforts from Jonathan Best with 16 points, Justin McKee with a dozen, and Jameson English with seven points and four assists on the night.

LaBrae improves to 11-1 overall and 7-0 in the league, while Crestview is 3-9 and 3-4 in the MVAC.  The Rebels will play host to Liberty on Friday night.

 

GRIT PAYS OFF FOR DEVILS OVER SPRINGFIELD

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McDONALD, OH- Senior Wyatt Wolford and sophomores Brady Klockner and Joey Cappuzzello each contributed 12 points to lead McDonald (7-6) to their seventh win of the season, matching their previous year’s total. Notably, this victory marks the Blue Devils’ first triumph over the Tigers since January before the pandemic.

The McDonald Blue Devils, led by a youthful roster of eight sophomores, appear to be finding their groove as they navigate the challenges of the season. The team’s recent hard-fought 57-54 home victory against the experienced Springfield Tigers is a significant win that they hope will fuel their momentum moving forward.

In a closely contested matchup, Springfield (9-3) held a slim 9-7 lead after the first quarter. However, McDonald kicked off the second quarter with a quick three-pointer from Klockner, sparking a pivotal 7-0 run for the Blue Devils. The teams traded blows, with Tigers junior Carson Cunningham scoring eight points in the second quarter, giving Springfield a 32-31 lead at halftime.

The turning point came in the second half, as McDonald’s Casey Miller hit a crucial three-pointer, and Cappuzzello made a pair of free throws to give the Blue Devils a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. A decisive 9-0 run, featuring clutch threes from sophomores Jonathan Black and Drew Zajack, kept the Tigers at bay until the final minutes.

For Springfield, Aiden Appel led the scoring with 13 points, while senior Sean Guerriero added 12. Dylan Sheely (11) and Carson Cunningham (10) also reached double figures.

McDonald Blue Devils now look ahead with confidence, building on this significant win as they continue their season journey.

WESTERN RESERVE COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH ANTHONY DUFFIELD

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- In a recent episode of the MVR’s Coach’s Corner, head coach Anthony Duffield of the Western Reserve wrestling squad discussed the team’s progress and challenges faced during the ongoing season. The podcast episode shed light on the journey of the young and up-and-coming team from its promising start to the upcoming competitions.

Duffield revealed that the team had initially started the season with around 15-16 wrestlers, and despite the long and physically demanding season, the squad managed to retain its numbers with no dropouts. He discussed the impact of sickness on some of the wrestlers and expressed gratitude for the three wrestlers who placed in the recent tournament.

The podcast also delved into the coaching strategies employed by Duffield to maintain the team’s focus and drive toward the postseason. Duffield emphasized the significance of maintaining a balance between fun and serious training and highlighted the importance of instilling growth in the wrestlers both on and off the mat.

The episode also provided insights into the team’s preparations for the upcoming competitions, including an emphasis on drilling and situational wrestling to refine techniques and address conditioning concerns. Duffield also discussed the progress and leadership shown by the sophomore wrestlers, signaling a promising future for the team.

The podcast episode offered an intimate glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the Western Reserve wrestling squad under Coach Anthony Duffield’s guidance. As the team continues its journey through the season, fans and supporters eagerly anticipate the further development and successes of the young squad.

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THE WILLS OF A WINNER

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- The Western Reserve wrestling team’s sophomore standout, Murphy Wills, is making waves as a promising athlete and emerging leader. In a recent interview with YSN’s DJ Yokley, Wills shared insights about his wrestling journey, aspirations, and personal life.

With nearly a decade of wrestling experience, Wills credits his entry into the sport to a family connection and a natural affinity for the dynamic discipline. He described the appeal of wrestling, highlighting the camaraderie and competition that forged lasting friendships with opponents.

As he matures in the sport, Wills has transitioned from a more instinctual approach to a refined technique, underlining his commitment to continuous improvement. Additionally, he embraces the role of leadership on the team, recognizing the responsibility that comes with guiding his peers and shaping the program’s future.

Looking ahead, Wills aims to make it to sectionals this year and dreams of competing at the state level in his senior year. Beyond wrestling, he plans to pursue a career as a welder and has drawn inspiration from a vocational program.

Wills spoke warmly of his family, particularly his mother, as a source of unwavering support and motivation. He also playfully shared insights into his siblings, acknowledging their potential superpowers in a lighthearted moment of fun.

As Wills continues his wrestling journey, his dedication, vision, and drive position him as a rising star within the Western Reserve wrestling team.

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