Tag Archive for: ohio

REED KEEPS IT BETWEEN THE PIPES

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AUSTINTOWN, OH- Two-time Super Bowl champion and former Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Jeff Reed gave fans an inside look at his storied NFL career in a candid conversation on the latest episode of the YSN podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley.

Reed, known for his larger-than-life personality and game-winning kicks, discussed his transition from soccer to football, his uniquely outgoing presence as a kicker, and fond memories of the Steelers locker room.

“Most kickers, most goalies in hockey, they always say you’re kind of to yourself… I just don’t believe in that. I’m eccentric. I say what’s on my mind, sometimes too much,” Reed said, crediting both his mother and his experience as a “class clown” for his confidence.

Comparing the cultures under coaches Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin, Reed explained that each brought a different energy to the team. “With Coach Cowher, even though you saw him spit on people like me, he was laid back if you did your job… With Tomlin, he was a younger dude… It was very different.” Reed recalled the adjustment period when Tomlin arrived, but reaffirmed his respect: “I love Coach Tomlin. I love Coach Cower. Very different coaches, but very great coaches.”

Kicking at Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium) brought its own challenges, Reed admitted, especially during the notorious 2007 “Mud Bowl” where he kicked the game-winning field goal in a 3-0 battle against the Miami Dolphins. “We should have never played that game… it was actually a place to put the football and stand,” he laughed, noting the field’s notorious conditions.

As for today’s NFL, Reed noted the evolution of the kicking game but lamented a decline in the position’s perceived value. He also shared advice for young athletes: “If you can strengthen your mentality more than just your skill set, you’ll be successful… If you miss a kick, who cares? Keep it moving. How are you going to bounce back?”

The episode offered listeners a heartfelt reminder of what made Reed a fan favorite—not just his reliable leg, but his authenticity and infectious energy.

For aspiring kickers and Steelers fans alike, Reed’s story remains a testament to mental toughness, embracing your personality, and building strong team culture both on and off the field.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 10) FEATURING REGHAN KOCH

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AUSTINTOWN OH- Reghan Koch, a formidable freshman wrestler at Austintown Fitch, has quickly made a name for herself in Ohio’s wrestling circuit. Recently interviewed on the YSN Live podcast, Reghan discussed her exceptional performance at the district tournament and her preparation for the state tournament.

Winning as a freshman can be daunting, but Reghan’s resolve and talent shone brightly. She achieved district champion status, marking Fitch’s dramatic improvement from 34th place last year to a top contender this season. Koch attributes much of this success to the unity and intrinsic drive among her teammates, propelled by their coaches’ motivating spirit. Reghan’s journey began in the sixth grade, inspired by her younger brother’s wrestling. Despite initial doubts about the sport, she found herself thriving on the mat, eventually overcoming knee surgery to return stronger than ever. Her resilience has not only been a personal milestone but has also set a high bar for her freshmen peers.

When discussing her preparation and mindset for the state tournament, Reghan emphasized staying grounded. She approaches each match ready to give her all, setting ambitious goals without losing sight of the basics. Her experiences on the Green Machine team provided a solid foundation that she continues to build upon. Reghan also spoke about her passion for capturing moments with her camera. Her keen eye for photography allows her to document the raw emotions and intensity of wrestling, providing a unique lens through which her teammates and the sport itself can be appreciated. Looking forward, Reghan remains focused on seizing opportunities to compete at higher levels, including ambitions to wrestle at national tournaments like Fargo. As she stands ready to represent Austintown Fitch at the state level, Reghan Koch embodies the spirit of determination and excellence, marking the beginning of what promises to be a stellar wrestling career.

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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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A KNACK FOR SUCCESS

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-  As the Berlin Center Bulldogs gear up for their highly anticipated week 10 matchup against Jackson Milton, star player Joe Rovnak sat down with podcast host Chris Colucci for an insightful and spirited discussion at Ben’s Restaurant.

In a recent episode of “YSN,” Rovnak didn’t hold back his enthusiasm for the game, particularly highlighting the team’s recent standout performance against Mineral Ridge. “I think it was our best game of the year,” Rovnak said, reflecting on the Bulldogs’ resilience and ability to score substantially in the second half. “I think that was a high B,” he added, emphasizing that the team is yet to reach its full potential.

This week’s game against Jackson Milton is more than just another contest; it’s a rivalry week clash that comes loaded with emotions and stakes. “It’s week 10, it’s senior night, anything can happen,” Rovnak noted, capturing the unpredictable and electrifying nature of high school football.

Rovnak, a junior poised to take on a leadership role next season, was effusive about the current senior class, expressing admiration and love for his peers. “Everybody’s got that senior class that they love, and this is my senior class. I love them to death,” Rovnak shared.

Looking ahead, Rovnak aims to be a guiding light for the underclassmen. His focus isn’t purely on athletic prowess but also on teaching younger players the importance of timing and discipline. “I want to be able to teach them how to do that so we can become a better football team next year,” he said.

As for the upcoming game, Rovnak recognized Jackson Milton’s dynamic defense, noting their tendency to change formations and personnel frequently. This adaptability makes the game particularly challenging and unpredictable.

Beyond football, Rovnak’s offseason plans are as disciplined as his on-field strategy. When asked about other sports, he plainly stated, “Lift. Lift. Lift.” While he won’t wrestle, his commitment to physical conditioning remains unwavering.

The Bulldogs currently boast an 8-1 record, and Rovnak is optimistic about their chances to finish strong, praising the team’s unity and camaraderie. “We all click,” he said with a smile, noting the seamless blend of freshmen and seniors bonding over shared goals.

With an eye on the season’s end but a heart still in the game, Berlin Center fans have every reason to be excited about Joe Rovnak’s contributions—both on and off the field.

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READY, SET, GONZO!

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-  Amid the boisterous crowd at Ben’s Restaurant, it was impossible to ignore the commanding presence of Junior linebacker Noah Gonzalez as he sat down with YSN’s Chris Colucci in the latest podcast episode titled ‘The Devils Hour.’ Gonzalez, a rising star on the Western Reserve Blue Devils football team, reflected on their recent triumph against Mineral Ridge and shared his vision for the future.

Western Reserve’s recent victory, a decisive win featuring 28 unanswered points, set the tone for the discussion. Gonzalez emphasized the slow yet steady progress that led to their success. “We did great. Score speaks for itself,” he stated, highlighting the importance of cohesion and the pep talk that turned the game around.

With senior year on the horizon, Gonzalez already carries the mindset of a leader. His dedication and aspiration to be a role model for incoming freshmen are evident. “I want to be someone that leads them into, you know, what they can be,” he declared, stressing the importance of building on the legacy and maintaining Western Reserve’s strong performance.

A recent ankle injury tested Gonzalez’s resolve, but his absence revealed the depth within the team. Hunter Taylor stepped up, showcasing the ‘next man up’ mentality vital for any successful squad. Gonzalez praised Taylor’s work ethic, underlining the strength of their linebacker unit, which includes standout teammate Nate Hamburger.

As the Blue Devils gear up for their Senior Night showdown against Jackson Milton, Gonzalez’s focus remains unwavering. The rivalry game carries significant weight, and the team aims to demonstrate why they are considered a top contender. “We want to light up that scoreboard,” Gonzalez stated confidently, vowing to send a clear message to upcoming playoff opponents.

While football season dominates the present, Gonzalez looks forward to future challenges. His plans include rigorous winter workouts and rallying with his fellow seniors, aiming to conclude their high school careers on a high note.

In closing, Gonzalez’s passion for football and his dedication to his team and community paints a promising picture for Western Reserve’s upcoming season. His leadership both on and off the field will undoubtedly inspire his teammates as they march toward their final games and beyond.

 

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BIG PLAY PATER

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-  As the Western Reserve Blue Devils prepare for their highly anticipated game against the Springfield Tigers, the excitement is palpable among both players and fans. The Blue Devils, riding an undefeated 6-0 record, host Springfield in what is arguably the most crucial matchup of their season.

Quarterback Chris Pater, the leader of this formidable squad, elaborated on last week’s victory against Cameron under tricky weather conditions. From a quarterback’s perspective, Pater admitted, “We had a lot of flaws. We looked pretty sloppy,” emphasizing the team’s current focus on refining their strategies and upping their performance standards.

Despite offensive challenges, the Blue Devils’ defense, led by Nate Hamburger, has been nothing short of stellar. “Our run defense especially has been outstanding this year,” Pater proudly noted, further highlighting their strong defensive lineup.

Historical context adds weight to this week’s game as well. “We haven’t beaten the Springfield Tigers in, I think, seven or eight years. This game is huge for us,” Pater said, reinforcing the motivation driving the Blue Devils. Host Chris Colucci chimed in with his own thoughts, claiming he personally favors the Blue Devils despite Springfield being statistically favored by three points.

The significance of home-field advantage isn’t lost on Pater. Describing the atmosphere at Western Reserve, he said, “It’s unbelievable. The stands are always packed. You can barely hear.” The support and energy from the home crowd could be a game-changing factor as the team steps onto the field.

Both on and off the field, the Blue Devils have demonstrated a synergistic dynamic, especially within the running back and quarterback room. Colucci dubbed the trio of Pater, Ricardi, and Darnie as a “three-headed monster,” to which Pater agreed, stating that their versatility presents a significant challenge for opposing defenses.

As the season progresses, Pater believes fine-tuning the smaller aspects of their game, such as blocking and route running, will be essential for continued success. Defensively, communication among the defensive backs is an area identified for improvement, ensuring complete synchronization between the lines.

Friday’s clash is not just about breaking a long-standing losing streak against the Tigers. It also represents a step closer to an undefeated season—a 7-0 tally that appears well within reach for this dedicated and talented team.

As fans eagerly await kickoff, plans are already set to continue the celebratory spirit beyond the game. Ben’s restaurant promises to open late, offering a communal space for fans to revel in the team’s performance, win or lose.

“Good luck this week, Chris,” Colucci signed off in his podcast, voicing what every Western Reserve fan is undoubtedly feeling. As the Blue Devils ready themselves for this pivotal game, one thing is certain—Friday night football has never been more exhilarating in Berlin Center, Ohio.

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WESTERN RESERVE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH KRISIE HUGHES

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-In a passionate conversation at Ben’s Restaurant in Berlin Center, Ohio, Western Reserve volleyball coach Krisie Hughes detailed the resilient journey of her team this season on the popular podcast, YSN’s “The Devils Hour.” Sitting down with host Chris Colucci,  Hughes expressed pride in her team’s tenacity as they navigated a challenging season.

Commencing the season with a rocky 1-4 record, Western Reserve has since clawed their way back to 5-6, demonstrating the relentless spirit Hughes has worked tirelessly to instill in her players. “Our league is very tough,” Hughes mentioned, highlighting the fierce competition they face. Yet, it’s this adversity that’s molding her players into formidable contenders. “They’re battling, and I feel like it can go either way,” she added, pointing out the significant improvement despite tough losses.

Leadership plays a pivotal role in the team’s dynamics, with six seniors taking the helm. Captains Haley Fellowes and Abby Blair exemplified the diverse leadership styles, from vocal encouragement to energizing the team during tight matches. Hughes gave a heartfelt shout-out to all her seniors, acknowledging their unique contributions: Dalen Brown, Abby Blair, Haley Fellows, Izzy Mauro, Lauren Steed, and Amanda Hamilton.

“It’s great to have that leadership,” Hughes noted, underscoring how the seniors’ roles extend beyond the court. Their task isn’t just scoring points, but also uplifting their teammates during downtimes, a quality Hughes holds in high regard as crucial for their season’s aspirations.

Transitioning from last year’s remarkable season — one that saw four exceptional seniors leave a legacy — posed challenges. New talents had to rise up, notably in the back row and among underclassmen like Quincy Miller and Chloe Ensleye. Hughes spoke highly of their growth and potential, “There are times when we look like we need their help. But again, we’re gonna be up and down.”

With the second half of the season underway, Hughes has set clear goals to establish consistency and finish strong. “We need to finish the game… we need to be more consistent,” she emphasized. This call-to-action seeks to address streaky performances, aiming for a reliable execution so critical for their end-game: tournament success.

The community’s support hasn’t gone unnoticed. Abby Blair remarked on the inter-sport camaraderie, highlighting support from other sports teams which Hughes believes acts as an additional “player” on the court by sustaining enthusiasm and momentum.

As Western Reserve Volleyball marches forward, Hughes hopes the second half of the season solidifies their hard work and unity into tangible victories. “Good luck on the season,” Blair wished her coach — a sentiment echoed by fans, all rooting for a deep playoff run.

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BLUE BERGER WITH A SLICE OF JACK

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-  In a recent episode of “The Devil’s Hour,” hosted live at Ben’s in Berlin Center, seniors Nate Hemberger and Jack Darney shared their experiences, aspirations, and team dynamics with host Chris Colucci.

Jack Darney, who tore his ACL at the end of last season, discussed his grueling recovery process. “It was long and very repetitive,” he admitted. However, Darney’s determination has brought him back to the field three months ahead of schedule. “I’m nine months out—usual recovery is about a year,” he noted.

Nate Hemberger, with an impressive 35 tackles in just two games, revealed his mindset on game nights. “I just like to hit everybody,” he said with a smile. This tenacity and focus are attributes he carries both on and off the field.

Looking ahead, the seniors are eager for the challenges of their final high school season. This week, they face the Columbiana Clippers, known for their strong running game. “We’re expecting a lot of runs up the middle,” Nate explained, while Jack added insight into their defensive strategy, “Their best guys are in the middle, so we plan on running right at them.”

Both players also reflected on their last year at Western Reserve. While Nate looks forward to college opportunities, Jack candidly stated, “I’m just excited to get out of here.” Despite their differing perspectives, both agreed that their team’s intensity and purposeful practice sessions are what make the Blue Devils special.

The episode wrapped up with a nod to rising talents, like Noah Gonzalez and freshman Dom Croup, who are already making impactful contributions to the team.
As the Blue Devils prepare for Friday’s game against Columbiana, the community’s support is palpable. Chris Colucci encouraged fans to continue showing up for their weekly podcast recordings at Ben’s, creating a lively and supportive environment for these young athletes.

For now, all eyes are on the Blue Devils as they continue their season with high hopes and relentless determination.

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THE ACADEMIC MONSTER

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PEPPER PIKE, OH-  Austin Thomas, a standout athlete at Orange High School, was featured in a player profile segment. With his notable achievements in academics and sports, Thomas has earned the nickname “Academic Monster” among his peers.

Thomas, a multisport athlete involved in both wrestling and football, has managed to excel in both areas, displaying remarkable dedication and time management skills. Despite his demanding schedule, Thomas prioritizes his academic pursuits, maintaining an impressive 4.7 GPA.

When asked about his ability to manage his commitments, Thomas admitted that sleep often takes a backseat. He emphasized the importance of utilizing study halls efficiently and making the most of his time after practice. Thomas prioritizes completing schoolwork, staying focused, and ensuring he makes the most of his academic opportunities.

Thomas’s dedication to academics stems from his desire to pursue higher education beyond high school solely based on his athletic abilities. He recognizes the significance of enriching both mind and body, ensuring that he can secure a college education that matches his ambitions and aspirations.

While Thomas is uncertain about his specific career path when he attends college, he has another year and a half to explore his options. With his strong work ethic and determination, Thomas is undoubtedly poised for success, no matter what path he chooses.

The podcast also delved into the relationship between Thomas’s involvement in wrestling and football. Thomas explained that wrestling has greatly influenced his football skills, particularly in terms of hand placement, footwork, and overall body control. By mastering techniques such as hand movements, foot placement, and hip positioning, Thomas has gained a competitive edge on the football field.

When it comes to his competitive mindset, Thomas revealed that he adopts a different persona in his respective sports. Whether it’s wrestling or football, once Thomas steps onto the mat or dons his football helmet, he switches into a focused and intense mindset that fuels his drive to succeed.

Surprisingly, Thomas finds motivation from his teammates and uses any frustrations or annoyances as fuel to push himself further during practice. This competitive spirit ignites a fire within him, propelling him to constantly work harder and improve.

During the podcast, Thomas also shared insights regarding his family dynamics. Living with his parents and having an older brother who is away at college, Thomas reminisced about their early roughhousing days. Although their physical playfulness came to an end after a few accidents left his brother injured, the Thomas household was always filled with laughter and good-natured sibling rivalry.

Reflecting on his high school experience, Thomas treasures the relationships he has built with his teammates, coaches, teachers, and fellow students. The camaraderie, support, and shared laughs are what he cherishes the most, as they have shaped him into the person he is today.

Thomas also mentioned his admiration for football player CJ Justin Tanner and wrestler Terrence Davis. Their dedication, work ethic, and competitive drive have served as inspiration for him, pushing him to reach new heights in his own athletic pursuits.

As Austin Thomas continues to dominate both academically and athletically at Orange High School, his determination, time management skills, and unwavering focus make him a role model for aspiring student-athletes. With college on the horizon, Thomas is set to leave a lasting impact on both the academic and sports communities he becomes a part of.

 

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TO THE VICTOR COME THE SPOILS

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PEPPER PIKE, OH-  In the latest episode of the YSN podcast, the spotlight shone on Orange High School’s sophomore wrestling sensation, Victor Kangas. The young athlete sat down with host DJ Yokley for an in-depth interview, discussing his goals for his sophomore year, his growth as a wrestler, and his plans for the future.

Kangas expressed his desire to be more of a leader on the mat this year, especially for the incoming freshmen wrestlers. With a year of experience under his belt, Kangas believes that he can provide guidance and support to the younger members of the team.

Reflecting on his challenging freshman year, Kangas revealed that he endured countless beatings in practice due to being the lightest weight class wrestler. Facing opponents who were always heavier and stronger than him, Kangas credits these difficult experiences for developing his mental toughness and improving his skills on the mat.

Despite the grueling nature of the sport, Kangas has embraced the discipline and dedication that wrestling requires. He emphasized the importance of pushing oneself during practices, acknowledging that they may never become easier, but they ultimately contribute to becoming a better athlete.

Kangas discovered his passion for wrestling in eighth grade, even though he was unable to compete due to a broken hand. Watching his teammates practice and witnessing the tight bond they shared made him realize that he wanted to be a part of this team sport.

Off the mat, Kangas expressed his appreciation for his family’s unwavering support. His parents, often driving long distances to attend his meets, are always there cheering him on. The young wrestler recognizes their presence as a tremendous source of motivation and comfort.

When asked about his post-match rituals, Kangas humorously admitted that food is typically the first thing on his mind. He fondly recalled indulging in skittles, which became his go-to snack due to their availability at the meets. But beyond the snacks, Kangas experiences a rush of excitement after a win and a drive to improve if he suffers a loss.

Looking towards his future, Kangas expressed an interest in pursuing a trade after graduation. Exploring fields such as welding, he hopes to find a career that allows him to work with his hands and avoid the confines of a traditional desk job.

When he’s not wrestling, Kangas enjoys spending time with his friends, some of whom are also on the wrestling team. Additionally, he finds solace and entertainment in playing video games, though he admits that his current favorite game is constantly changing.

As Victor Kangas continues to showcase his talent and dedication on the wrestling mat, the Orange High School community eagerly anticipates his leadership and contributions to the success of the team in the years to come. Best of luck to this rising star as he strives towards his goals and makes his mark in the world of wrestling.

 

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