Tag Archive for: parents

RAE IS RARE

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- Junior basketball standout, Rae Oberster, is poised to make a significant impact on the court as a leader for the Orange Lady Lions. In a recent interview on the YSN podcast, Oberster shared insights into the challenges and aspirations that come with being a junior on the team.

Oberster recognizes the weight of her new role, highlighting the delicate balance between authority and unity among teammates. As the team’s floor general, she strives to lead by example, emphasizing the importance of understanding and directing plays to guide the team to success.

When asked about her passion for basketball, Oberster credited her parents for inspiring her determination, especially her mother’s courageous move to a foreign country during high school. She reflected on her love for the sport, emphasizing the value of hard work and the gratification of seeing results through dedication and skill.

While her offensive prowess is undoubted, Oberster’s commitment to growth and patience during times of adversity bodes well for the Lady Lions. She emphasized the significance of celebrating small victories as key stepping stones towards a successful season.

Oberster’s family plays a significant role in her life, particularly her father, with whom she shares a strong bond over basketball. Her enthusiasm for the game extends even to her Christmas wish, as she eagerly anticipates a win at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.

As she gears up to represent her school and community on the court, Oberster’s infectious excitement and dedication make her a standout player to watch this season. With her leadership and offensive prowess, all signs point to a promising season for the Orange Lady Lions.

The Orange Lady Lions’ fans can look forward to witnessing Rae Oberster’s unwavering commitment and skill as she takes charge on the court.

 

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I SPIES

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- Orange High School’s swimming team has found a hidden gem in senior student-athlete Avery Spies. Despite starting swimming as a casual whim during sophomore year, Spies has quickly risen to become one of the team’s key leaders, inspiring fellow swimmers with his relatability and unwavering support.

Spies admits that he shares a special connection with those who are new to the sport, having faced similar challenges himself. As someone who started swimming without much prior experience, Spies understands the difficulties and frustrations that come with learning the technical language and improving performance. By providing moral support and serving as a guiding figure, Spies establishes a strong bond with his teammates, encouraging them to stick with the sport and overcome the obstacles they face.

Jumping into the swimming scene late, Spies encountered his fair share of challenges. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic made his entry even more arduous. However, with determination and perseverance, Spies tackled the steep learning curve, gradually improving his times and techniques. Despite the initial struggles, he quickly adapted to the rigors of competitive swimming, demonstrating resilience and a willingness to push through difficult practices.

When asked about his mindset during races, Spies emphasizes the personal battle he faces in the pool – a war with his own thoughts. Overcoming negative thinking and self-doubt, Spies remains locked in and focused, relishing the feeling of triumph over his inner demons after each practice. His mental strength and ability to stay motivated have become invaluable assets in his swimming journey.

Spies’s favorite events are the middle-distance sprints, particularly the 100-meter and 200-meter freestyle races. While acknowledging the immense pain and struggles that come with these events, he appreciates the intensity and the opportunity to witness the difference made during the final meters. He thrives on the challenge, embracing the physical and mental endurance required to excel in these races.

Beyond the pool, Spies draws inspiration from his parents, especially his father, who overcame significant adversity in his own life. Having lost his parents at a young age and growing up with limited resources, Spies’s father serves as a constant reminder that anything is possible through hard work and determination.

As a senior leader in the Orange High School swimming team, Spies reflects on his personal growth and evolution over the years. He attributes his improved perspective to his newfound ability to think long-term, recognizing that daily practices may seem insignificant, but their cumulative impact leads to measurable changes and growth in the sport. This broader perspective has allowed him to appreciate the journey and the transformative power of dedication and consistency.

With his exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to growth, Avery Spies is not only making waves in the pool but also leaving a lasting impact on his teammates and the Orange High School community. As his senior year progresses, all eyes are on Spies, eager to witness his continued success and the positive influence he brings to the sport he loves.

 

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NEVER A DOUBTING TOMAS

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Orange High School swimmer Tomas Cakulev captivated listeners as he shared his inspiring story. From his early introduction to the sport to his unwavering dedication, Cakulev’s journey in swimming is one of triumph over adversity.

At the young age of ten, Cakulev was introduced to swimming by a friend who invited him to a practice at a local club. It was during these early experiences that Cakulev discovered the importance of bonding with teammates, both in and out of the pool. The camaraderie and competition formed the foundation of his love for the sport and ignited a competitive fire within him.

Cakulev’s competitive nature extends beyond the pool, as he strives for excellence in all aspects of his life. Whether it be academics or personal growth, his drive to compete and improve is ever-present. He finds motivation in beating his own records during practice, pushing himself to shave off precious seconds and continuously bettering his performance.

Despite encountering obstacles along the way, Cakulev’s determination remained unshaken. From challenging classes to inconsistent coaching, he navigated through adversity both in and out of the pool. These obstacles taught him the value of perseverance and instilled in him a sense of resilience that has carried him through his swimming career.

Throughout his competitive journey, Cakulev has developed a set of rituals to stay motivated before, during, and after events. He curates a playlist filled with his favorite songs, preferring a balanced tempo to keep himself focused yet not overly hyped. Before races, he dons his headphones, immersing himself in his own world while ensuring he stays warm to maintain peak performance. After races, Cakulev exemplifies great sportsmanship by congratulating his fellow swimmers and seeking feedback from his coach to identify areas for improvement.

Cakulev’s role models both inside and outside the pool include professional swimmers who have achieved great success. However, he also draws inspiration from his parents and his younger brother, who is making waves in his own swimming career. Their support and guidance have been instrumental in his development as an athlete.

One quote that resonates deeply with Cakulev is “if it is to be, it is up to me.” This motto serves as a reminder that he holds the power to shape his own destiny. It fuels his determination to push himself during practice, knowing that his hard work and dedication will lead to achieving his goals.

As a senior at Orange High School, Cakulev leaves a lasting impact on the swimming community, both as a talented athlete and a sportsman. His story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring swimmers, demonstrating the power of perseverance, camaraderie, and self-belief.

 

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NEWMAN IS OLD SCHOOL

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CANFIELD, OH- Welcome back to another edition of “YSN/Canfield: Player Profile,” where we delve into the lives and experiences of athletes from the Canfield Cardinals. In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Seth Newman, a senior and defensive end for the team.

We discuss the tight-knit bond of the senior class, their ability to overcome adversity, and the traditions that have shaped them. Seth shares his reflections on personal growth, the legacy he hopes to leave behind, and his plans for the future beyond high school.

Stay tuned as we uncover the story of this remarkable player and the lessons he has learned both on and off the football field. Get ready for an inspiring and candid conversation with Seth Newman on today’s episode: Canfield Player Profile.

 

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WORDS TO LIV BY

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CANFIELD, OH- Liv Meli, a senior volleyball player for South Range High School, sits down with DJ Yokley for an interview on YSN. Liv reflects on her four years of playing volleyball and how fast it has gone by. As a senior, she has taken on a leadership role on the team, emphasizing the importance of being a team player and bringing energy to the court.

When asked about where she learned confidence, Liv credits her parents for always encouraging her to be confident and put herself out there. Although she admits that she is not the loudest person, she tries her best to be confident. Liv’s sister, who is younger but has a big personality, has also been a role model for her in terms of confidence.

Liv discusses the importance of having fun during games and how it contributes to the team’s energy on the court. She mentions that when her teammates are there to support and uplift her, she can switch into a more assertive mode during games. Despite facing tough competition throughout the season, Liv sees it as a learning experience and believes that the team’s strong bond and Coach Iron’s support will contribute to their success.

Off the court, Liv shares a close bond with her sister, often going out for coffee or food together. She mentions their love for Starbucks and going to restaurants like Olive Garden. Liv expresses her gratitude for her family’s support, highlighting how they are always there for her through ups and downs.

When asked about one quality from each of her parents that she would like to adopt, Liv admires her mom’s caring nature and her dad’s confidence. She appreciates how her mom always tries to make everyone happy, while her dad encourages her to put herself out there and not worry about what others think.

Outside of volleyball, Liv enjoys shopping and often goes on spontaneous shopping trips with her sister. She mentions that she loves browsing both online and in physical stores, appreciating the experience of looking around.

Overall, Liv’s profile showcases her dedication, leadership, and the importance of having fun both on and off the volleyball court. With the support of her teammates, coach, and family, Liv has high hopes for the team’s success in the upcoming season.

 

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SOUTH RANGE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH TJ IRONS

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CANFIELD, OH- In this episode of the YSN’s South Range Coach’s Corner, we join host DJ Yokley at GIAngelo’s in Boardman for the South Range Raiders show. His special guest for the night is the head volleyball coach of the South Range Raiders, TJ Irons. They kick off the conversation by discussing the unusual break in their schedule, with a couple of Tuesdays off in a row.

Coach Irons explains that while it’s strange, volleyball allows for more flexibility in scheduling compared to other sports. The discussion then turns to the tough schedule that the team has had in the past week. Coach Irons recounts the challenging matches against Gerard, East Liverpool, and Lakeview, all of whom are strong teams in their league. Despite the tough competition, the girls came back ready to go after a breather against Western Reserve.  The conversation shifts to the delicate nature of high school sports and how external factors can sometimes affect the team’s performance. Coach Irons mentions that homecoming festivities added a bit of distraction for the girls, with some of them getting their nails and hair done. However, he commends the girls for looking great and having fun at the homecoming dance. Looking ahead to the playoffs, Coach Irons discusses the importance of creating a legacy for the team. He mentions the success of other South Range teams in various sports and how it inspires the volleyball team to believe in their ability to go far in the tournament. The host notes that the girls seem to have adopted a winning mentality from their fellow athletes in the school, with many having brothers on successful teams. With five seniors on the team, Coach Irons emphasizes the special role that they play and the discussions they have about the legacy they want to leave. He acknowledges that thinking about legacy is not easy for high school kids, but they are aware of how fortunate they are to compete with their friends every night. The main focus before every game is to have fun and make the most of the opportunity.

In reflection, Coach Irons is pleased with the team’s progress throughout the season. He mentions the increased emphasis on strength training in the weight room, hoping it will give them an advantage in the upcoming postseason. Overall, it’s a candid and insightful discussion about the challenges and aspirations of the South Range Raiders volleyball team, as they strive to leave their mark in the playoffs and create a lasting legacy for their school.

 

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LUKE-WARM RECEPTION

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CANFIELD, OH-  In today’s episode, we have a special guest joining us, none other than Luke Starkey from the South Range High School football team.

Luke’s journey has been filled with ups and downs, starting with a devastating injury that left him sidelined last year. But through perseverance and unwavering support from his family, Luke has made a remarkable comeback.

As we dive into his story, we’ll explore the challenges he faced during his recovery, the motivation that fueled him, and the defining moments that made him the player he is today. Join us as we get a glimpse into the life of Luke Starkey, a rising star on the South Range team.

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JAFFER NOT JOKING AROUND

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CANFIELD, OH- In today’s episode, we have an exclusive player profile featuring Jace Jaffer, the senior wide receiver for the Canfield Cardinals.

Join us as we sit down with Jace at Cocoa’s Pizza, to get an inside look at his senior year, his role as a leader in the wide receivers’ room, and his future aspirations. From his dedication to the game, to his plans for further education and building a business with his brother,

Jace shares valuable insights about his journey on and off the field. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with a talented young athlete who has his sights set on success both in football and in the real estate industry.

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DUBLE TROUBLE

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BOARDMAN, OH- In today’s episode, we focus on Sam Duble, a senior and prominent member of the girl’s soccer team.

Join our host, DJ Yokley, as he delves into Sam’s journey from a clueless freshman to a seasoned leader on the field. Sam shares her experiences with upperclassmen mentors and her aspirations for the future of Spartan soccer.

Tune in to discover her passion for helping injured athletes as a potential physical therapist and the impact her family has had on her life.

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MARINELLI MAKES IT HAPPEN

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AUSTINTOWN, OH- In this episode, we explore the world of high school football as we sit down with Sergio Marinelli, the outside linebacker of the Austin Town Fitch Falcons.

We dive deep into Sergio’s upbringing and the role that his family plays in his life. From his hardworking father to his soccer-playing brother, we learn about the values and work ethic that have shaped Sergio into the player he is today.

Join us as we discuss Sergio’s journey as the heart of the team, his love for hitting on the field, and his iconic flowing hair.

We also touch on the upcoming game against Central Valley and the Ohio-Pennsylvania border battle. Tune in and get ready for some inspiring stories and football insights in this exciting episode Player Profile!

 

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