Tag Archive for: offseason training

BREAKING IN LIKE BARRESS

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JEFFERSON OH — Few freshmen make their mark on varsity sports quite like Alaina Barress has this softball season. Sitting down with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig, Barress spoke about her stellar debut and the determination that’s powered her through adversity.

Coming off a significant injury that sidelined her for six months, Barress credits her rigorous offseason work for her immediate impact. “I’ve worked really hard in the offseason…showing up in the open gyms, and I think it’s showing,” Barress said. Transitioning from middle school to high school is no small leap, but Barress has handled it with poise both on the field and in the classroom, juggling honors courses alongside a demanding athletic schedule. Time management and using school hours wisely have been key. “I try to keep up with my grades… and if I do have homework, I just get it done that night so I’m not running behind,” she explained.

Barress also praised her teammates and coaches for creating a welcoming, team-first environment. Senior standouts like Allie Hill and Marilia have been role models, while her coaches and family—especially her father, who doubles as her coach—have provided continuous support. Despite the hectic spring weather and frequent schedule changes, Barress keeps her competitive edge with pre-game rituals and a tight-knit team dynamic. “I always have to have two French braids…and flip my batting gloves three times before I step in the box,” she shared. As she nears the end of a memorable freshman campaign, Barress is already looking to inspire the next wave of underclassmen. Her advice: “Look up to the older girls and put the work in, because it will really pay off during the season.” With young stars like Alaina Barress, the future of Jefferson softball looks bright.

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TRENT KEEPS IT LIT

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH= In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Cardinal Mooney’s star catcher Trent Litman shared insights into his baseball journey, offering an inspiring look at his dedication and growth. Known on YSN as “The Fireman” for his consistent offensive prowess, Litman detailed his progression from a backup for the junior varsity team to a key varsity player making significant impacts on the field.

During the podcast, co-host DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig delved into Litman’s development. Litman credited his mentors, including Ian Francis and Will Petty, for elevating his skills, particularly in catching—a role he only recently took on. This guidance has helped him maintain a confident mindset at bat and manage the pressures of a competitive schedule filled with formidable opponents like Hoban and St. Ed’s.

The discussion also highlighted Litman’s leadership, as he embraces his role in guiding a predominantly young team. With aspirations for college baseball, Litman has committed to Garrett College, choosing the junior college route to maximize his potential amidst the flux of transfer portals.

Baseball runs deep in the Litman family, and this passion fuels Trent’s pursuit of excellence. His ultimate goal is to progress to a major university and potentially a professional baseball career while establishing roots in business inspired by his father.

As he embarks on his senior year, Litman’s journey promises more memorable moments, whether through hitting home runs or outsmarting opponents as a catcher. Fans of Cardinal Mooney baseball can certainly expect thrilling performances from “The Fireman” this season.

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KRIEG CRANKS IT UP A NOTCH

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CORTLAND OH- Anthony Hartwig of YSN recently featured junior Raegan Krieg from the Maplewood girls basketball team, exploring her journey and insights on the successful 20-win season of the Maplewood Rockets. As one of the few upperclassmen on a young roster, Krieg relishes the opportunity to lead and mentor younger teammates. Reflecting on the team’s staggering improvement from a 12-win season to 20 wins, she attributes this success to the hard work over the summer months, where the starting five collectively put up over 10,000 shots. This dedication off the court has translated into substantial game-time success, fostering a robust team dynamic.

Krieg, a seasoned player since fourth grade, values the influential role she now embodies, having once looked up to older athletes. She finds pride and responsibility in guiding underclassmen, ensuring they have strong role models as she once did. Family plays a pivotal role in Krieg’s life, providing unwavering support from the sidelines. Sharing the court with her twin sister, Lauren, has been a unique journey filled with mutual encouragement and growth since their early years in junior high.

Beyond basketball, Krieg has her sights set on college, aiming to continue her softball career while aspiring to become an athletic trainer or sports psychology professional. Amidst the stressful recruitment process, she seeks collegiate programs that prioritize positive team culture and academic support. In an inspiring conclusion, Krieg extended heartfelt thanks to her family, teammates, coaches, and alumni, acknowledging their crucial roles in her athletic and personal development. As the season progresses, both Krieg and the Maplewood Rockets anticipate achieving new heights, with her leadership shining both on and off the court.

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VICTORY AND VALOR

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH-Valley Christian High School’s football season has taken a turn for the better this year, with the team boasting an impressive 4-1 record thanks to the remarkable leadership and dedication of senior player Alfred Coward. Fresh off a commanding win against East Palestine, Coward opens up about what sets this team apart and his unyielding drive to succeed.

Coward, who has been a key player for Valley Christian throughout his high school career, speaks highly of his teammates’ passion and conviction. “You can be the biggest, the strongest, the fastest, but if you don’t have that will, it doesn’t matter,” Coward emphasizes, pointing out that sheer physical capability isn’t enough without the heart to back it up.

Last season’s end was a bitter pill to swallow for Coward and his teammates, as they concluded with a 4-6 record, falling short of playoff inclusion. “It was very bitter,” Coward admits. “The whole summer, the whole offseason, I was just waiting to come back with a different type of ferociousness.”

Coward’s offseason was marked by relentless dedication. From walking five miles to the gym to working out every day, he left no stone unturned in his preparation. “It was a grind, for sure,” he says. “But it didn’t feel like a grind because I knew it was going to help me get to my goal.”

That goal is to play college football, an ambition that drives Coward daily. “You can’t simulate that energy in the stadium,” he says of the college game atmosphere. “It’s a passion, and that passion is never going to fade.”

When asked to pitch himself to any college coach in America, Coward’s response reflects his determination: “The conviction I have, the grit I would bring to the field, it will never waver.”

One striking moment in the season was during a game against Leetonia, where Coward’s late-game interception nearly turned into a touchdown. “I read the quarterback, saw the ball coming, and thought, ‘That’s me,'” he recounts. Despite being tackled at the 1-yard line, his subsequent transition to quarterback to score the touchdown is a testament to his versatility and resolve.

Coward’s inspiration comes from his late grandfather, Alfred Coward, whom he proudly carries as his namesake. “He was a man of conviction, and once he put his mind to something, he went all the way.”

Among his teammates, Jackson Bragg stands out as someone who pushes Coward to be better. Their friendly rivalry on the field is a driving force. “He’s going to let you know if you miss a tackle,” Coward laughs. “I gotta win. I gotta beat him.”

With his heart ablaze and eyes set on future goals, Alfred Coward continues to lead Valley Christian with the same ferociousness and dedication he has shown throughout his football journey.

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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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