Tag Archive for: parental support

BEICHNER BREAKS THE MOLD

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BOARDMAN OH – Matthew Beichner, a senior at Boardman High School, has proven to be a standout both in the pool and in the classroom. His journey in swimming began at the young age of five at the BTSC Boardman Tennis Swim Club. Since then, Beichner’s commitment to the sport has only grown, culminating in a senior year filled with joy and achievement.

In addition to his prowess in swimming, Beichner is also a dedicated cross country runner. He attributes his strong leg muscles and time management skills to his rigorous involvement in both sports. For Matthew, cross country has not only honed his physical capabilities but also instilled a strong sense of dedication and integrity. Despite facing multiple injuries through his high school years, including a stress fracture in his ankle and neck surgery, Beichner’s resilience is evident. This year marked his first injury-free swim season, a testament to his perseverance and determination. Academically, Beichner holds a 4.0 GPA, a feat that requires significant time management given his four-hour daily commitment to swimming. He credits teachers like Mrs. Burkey, his former chemistry teacher and avid swim supporter, for helping him maintain his academic excellence.

Looking ahead, Matthew plans to pursue a major in biochemistry, with aspirations of attending medical school to become an anesthesiologist. Inspired by his family’s medical background and his own health experiences, Beichner is motivated to make a meaningful impact in the field. Throughout his journey, Matthew has been supported by his family, coaches, teammates, and even his dog Cooper, all of whom play a significant role in his life. “I wish more athletes gave pet shout outs,” joked Anthony Hartwig, host of the YSN podcast, highlighting the personal touch Beichner brings to his acknowledgments. As he prepares for the next chapter, Matthew Beichner stands out as a model student athlete, embodying both academic dedication and athletic passion.

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MIHOK MAKING WAVES

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BOARDMAN, OH—In the latest YSN Player Profile, sophomore swimming sensation Zac Mihok discussed his burgeoning career with interviewer Anthony Hartwig. Mihok has already made waves by qualifying for districts, a remarkable achievement for an underclassman at Boardman High School.

Reflecting on his journey, Mihok credits his swift ascent in the swimming world to the experience gained from last year’s rigorous competition schedule. “This year has been just a reflection of what happened last year,” Mihok noted, emphasizing the importance of learning and passing knowledge onto his teammates. Mihok’s dedication to swimming is unparalleled, as he pours all his energy into the sport. He finds satisfaction in the daily grind of practice, believing that perseverance in the face of challenges is what propels him forward. “When you know that you can do it, that’s what takes you to the next place,” he shared. His confidence in the pool stems significantly from the trust he places in his coaches, Carlo Gordon, Mark Brooks, and Chelsea, whom he describes as pivotal figures in his development. “They push me to limits where I don’t really even think I would be able to find,” Mihok said of the coaching staff’s influence.

Beyond the pool, Mihok maintains a stellar academic record, boasting a 4.0 GPA. His love for learning, particularly in mathematics, has been nurtured by influential educators like his middle school math teacher, Mrs. Hatch, who supported him through challenging times. Looking ahead, Mihok dreams of a future in aerospace engineering, captivated by the prospect of modeling spaceships and missiles. Nevertheless, swimming remains a passion he hopes to pursue post-high school. As the Tokyo Olympics brought swimming into the spotlight, Mihok appreciated the widespread attention on the sport he loves. Inspired by legendary swimmer Michael Phelps, whom he watched compete in Rio in 2016, Mihok aspires to reach similar heights in his career. Concluding the interview, Mihok expressed gratitude to his family for their unwavering support, particularly his parents, Jennifer and Jeffrey, and his grandparents, who have all played crucial roles in his life. With two years of high school remaining, this rising star continues to navigate the dual demands of athletics and academics, embodying a commitment to excellence in both arenas.

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HARD TO IGNORE DELSIGNORE

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- Jocelyn Delsignore, a senior cheerleader from Lowellville, shared her journey and aspirations in a recent interview with DJ Yokley on the YSN podcast. The event took place at Giovanni’s in Lowellville, where Delsignore discussed the transformative impact cheerleading has had on her life.

Starting her cheerleading career later than most, in sixth grade, Delsignore initially joined to be with friends but quickly fell in love with the sport. “Cheer has really changed my life,” she explained, illustrating how the camaraderie and supportive environment fostered by coaches Angel and Liv, and assistant coach Liv elevated the experience to more than just a high school activity.

Delsignore, who has been dancing competitively since the age of three, naturally gravitated towards the athleticism and the spirit of cheerleading. She touched on the challenges of maintaining high energy levels during less exciting games, noting that the sense of community and team solidarity makes these moments manageable.

Her journey is not without its competitive highlights. The recent win of the coveted “banana,” the top spirit award at UCA cheer camp, marked a pinnacle in her cheerleading career. “It was so different when you’re the senior leading that team…I felt so much pride in that moment for everything that we’d worked for,” she said.

Beyond cheerleading, Delsignore is also dedicated to her academic pursuits. She expressed excitement about her future at Youngstown State University, where she plans to major in journalism with a minor in fashion. Her involvement with the Lowellville media team has only fueled her passion for writing and reporting, and she aspires to one day work for media giants like Vogue.

When asked about her favorite moments and influences, Delsignore credited her parents and several mentors from both cheerleading and her dance studio for their guidance and support. She emphasized how experiences like dance competitions helped her gain confidence and overcome fears at an early age.

Looking ahead, Delsignore dreams of moving to New York City to further her career in journalism and fashion. She fondly recounted her visits to the city, highlighting Broadway and Fifth Avenue among her favorite spots, while humorously declaring Times Square as her least favorite.

Jocelyn Delsignore’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and ambition. As she prepares for the next chapter in her life, her legacy at Lowellville will undoubtedly inspire many future cheerleaders and journalists to follow their dreams with the same fervor and dedication.

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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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WARREN JFK VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH SAM YOUNG

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WARREN, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “Coach’s Corner,” we sat down with Sam Young, the remarkable head coach of the Warren JFK volleyball program. Now in his seventh year, Young’s journey from a novice to a celebrated coach is both inspiring and testament to perseverance and unwavering dedication.

Young reminisced about his unexpected foray into coaching, stating, “When I started here in 2018, I just wanted to help. I had no idea about volleyball at all.” His willingness to step up when the team had no stable leadership couldn’t be understated. Facing the challenge of potentially shutting down the program, Young accepted the head coach position despite his initial lack of experience.

Over the years, his commitment paid off. “Those first couple years were rough,” Young admitted, referencing the lack of equipment, players, and stability. Fast forward to today, the team has seen a significant turnaround. With 27 players coming out this summer, the program’s growth is evident, reflecting increased interest and stronger commitment among the athletes.

Sam’s coaching philosophy emphasizes persistence and the incremental improvement of both skills and team camaraderie. “For me, it’s always about taking it one day at a time,” Young shared, underlining the importance of continuous improvement and learning from past mistakes.

Highlighting influential players, Young gave special mention to senior captains Anaiah Johnson and Danielle Wickham. Their perseverance through tough times has been crucial. Additionally, players like Hannah Meyer and Riley Gillespie are setting new records and elevating team performance, demonstrating the high standards now synonymous with JFK volleyball.

Young also spoke candidly about balancing coaching with family life. With two young children, the dynamics of his responsibilities have evolved, adding layers of logistical challenges. However, his dedication to the sport and his family remains unwavering. “For me, it’s just the idea of, hey, it is what it is. So, there’s, you know, just go do it,” he noted.

The Warren JFK volleyball program has come a long way under Young’s stewardship. With promising young talent on the rise and an instilled culture of hard work and dedication, the future looks bright. Young’s journey from a novice coach to a revered mentor showcases the transformative power of commitment and passion in nurturing successful sports programs.

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LOOK GOOD, FEEL GOOD, PLAY GOOD

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LOWELLVILLE, OH-  Nestled in the serene landscapes of Bedford Trails, the Lowellville boys’ golf team boasts a standout member in Christian Coira. Garnering admiration for both his impeccable presentation and maturity, Christian has swiftly become a key figure on the team.

“The best-dressed human being in this place right now,” the Charismatic Host remarked, setting the tone for Christian’s unique blend of style and substance.
Christian attributes his composed demeanor and polished presence to the guidance of his father, who instilled a sense of maturity in him from a young age. “My dad always taught me to be more mature about life and learn things younger,” Christian shared. This wisdom has not only shaped him as a person but also given him an edge on the golf course, where he embodies the mantra, “look good, feel good, play good.”

Despite being relatively new to the game, Christian’s dedication and strategic approach—dressing the part and maintaining confidence—have significantly impacted his performance and psychological edge over competitors. His journey into golf was sparked by camaraderie with friends and his father’s wisdom about the game being a breeding ground for significant deals and connections.

Christian balances his athletic pursuits with a strong emphasis on academics. “High school is the hardest part to me because once you get to college, then you get to learn what you actually want to do in life,” he stated. His aspirations to pursue electrical engineering at prestigious institutions like Pitt or Ohio State reveal a young man driven by both his sporting and academic ambitions.

Central to Christian’s foundation are his role models—his parents. His father’s honesty serves as a guiding principle, while his mother provides unwavering support. This blend of traits contributes to Christian’s well-rounded character.

In a hypothetical scramble, Christian’s dream team would comprise Tiger Woods, LeBron James, and his father—a fitting trio that reflects his passion for excellence, admiration for athletic prowess, and deep-rooted family values.

As the season unfolds and the snow begins to fall, Christian looks forward to indoor golf at Double Bogey’s, highlighting a sense of preparedness and community spirit that defines his approach to life and golf.

Christian Coira exemplifies the balance of youthful enthusiasm and mature thoughtfulness, making him a cherished asset to Lowellville’s golf team and a promising individual in all his future endeavors. Keep an eye on this rising star, as we are sure there are great things ahead for him.

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PITTER PATER; SEE YOU LATER

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- West Reserve’s football team is abuzz with anticipation this season, thanks to junior quarterback Chris Pater, who steps into the spotlight following the graduation of former QB Air Henning. In a recent episode of YSN’s “Devils Hour,” Pater sat down to share his experiences and aspirations for the team.

During the podcast, Pater, affectionately dubbed a “tank” by Coach Armenia for his resilience and physical prowess, spoke about the pressures and excitement of being QB one. “Obviously Luke was an amazing quarterback, and it’s been rough replacing him,” Pater acknowledged. “But being quarterback in week one was really about showing people what I’m made of, that I can do this.”

Despite this pressure, Pater is not shying away from his leadership role. “I don’t take it as extra weight,” Pater explained. “Everybody’s looking towards me, so I need to show them what to do, encourage them, and motivate them.”

The team has enjoyed a strong start, bolstered by their camaraderie and rigorous training. Over the summer, coaches held team-bonding activities including a grueling 6 AM workout that involved pushing a side-by-side with a trailer full of stones for about 2 miles. Such exercises have cemented their unity, which Pater believes will propel them to more success than last year.

“It brought us closer as a team than we have been in the past three years,” Pater noted, optimistic about their prospect of a great season. Despite his affection for passing, Pater is ready for any challenge, even if it means running the ball more, embodying a true team player mentality.

Beyond the gridiron, Pater is also driven by a legacy. His father was a renowned athlete, and Pater proudly carries that legacy, even sporting a tattoo of his family name. “I want to carry on the Pater name and be everything my dad was and more,” he shared.

Coach Armenia commended Pater for his fearless attitude and adaptability, describing him as a quarterback with the vision and poise to make plays that many seasoned players would struggle with.

As Pater looks forward to another year at West Reserve, he’s determined to leave behind a lasting legacy. “I want young kids to look up and say they want to play like Chris Pater,” he said, emphasizing the importance of being a great student-athlete.

With a strong bond and a focused leader in Chris Pater, West Reserve’s football team is poised for a remarkable season. Fans and teammates alike are eager to see how far their unified efforts and Pater’s leadership will take them.

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