Tag Archive for: playbook

WESTERN RESERVE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 5) WITH JOHN ARMENI

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- In an unprecedented streak, the Western Reserve High School football team is off to a remarkable 5-0 start under the astute leadership of Coach John Armeni, whose disciplined approach and unwavering focus have significantly contributed to the team’s success. The team’s recent victories over McDonald and Lowville, particularly the 41-22 triumph against Lowville—a team that ended their playoff run last season—showcase their robust play and strategic prowess.

Despite the impressive start, Coach Armeni remains grounded and focused on each game, emphasizing continuous improvement and addressing areas of weakness. “We are an unfinished product,” Armeni stated, acknowledging the need for ongoing adjustments and refinements despite their current record. Notably, Armeni highlighted the importance of improving their passing defense, which he identified as a point of concern despite their solid run defense and offensive capabilities.

A hallmark of the team’s success has been their commitment to the run, facilitated by standout performances from key players like Jack Darnay, Dom McCarty, and Chris Pater. The offense’s adaptability was also evident when it showcased its passing proficiency with Alec Abrams making critical catches in consecutive games. On the defensive side, the team has been formidable, with players like Noah Gonzalez stepping up with significant contributions, including interceptions and numerous tackles.

Looking ahead, the team faces formidable opponents in the upcoming weeks, including Campbell, Springfield, and Jackson Milton. Armeni praised Campbell for their athletic and physical prowess, highlighting the need for his team to maintain their intensity and preparation. “You have to fight your way out,” Armeni warned, setting the tone for the grueling matches to come.

The community’s support has been instrumental, with local businesses like Ben’s Restaurant backing the team and hosting weekly “Coach’s Corner” interviews. Chris Colucci, host of the YSN podcast, emphasized the essential role of community support in sustaining the team’s momentum and morale.
As the season reaches its midpoint, Coach Armeni and the Western Reserve team remain steadfast in their mission to play meaningful and high-stakes games, with their eyes set firmly on maintaining and building upon their early victories. “All you can ask for is to play meaningful games,” Armeni reflected, capturing the spirit of competition and the drive to succeed that has characterized this remarkable season so far.

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DREW IS JACKED

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MCDONALD, OH-In a lively and engaging profile on YSN’s Player Profile, hosted by DJ Yokley, listeners were taken on a vibrant and candid journey through the life of a standout athlete, Drew Zajack. Now a junior at McDonald, Drew’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and community pride.

From the moment DJ introduced Drew, there was an air of familiarity and mutual respect. DJ fondly compared Drew’s striking looks to that of Thor, teasing him about a recent haircut that nearly masked his iconic hairstyle, known and loved in the McDonald community. Drew chuckled, confessing that, despite its fame, he used no special products in maintaining his hair.

Entering his junior year at McDonald, Drew reminisced with DJ about the evolution of his high school experience. Starting varsity as a freshman felt overwhelming, like drinking from a fire hose. Yet, as years passed, the game slowed down, and Drew found his rhythm. Coach Williams’ decision to move Drew from quarterback to running back was a thrilling change, aligning perfectly with Drew’s love for running the ball and “running through people’s faces,” a phrase that both amused and impressed DJ.

But Drew’s talents extend beyond just his athletic prowess. He’s become a cornerstone of the team, his leadership style defined by his actions on the field. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: work hard, be selfless, and lead by example. He exudes calm confidence, viewing the pressures of his role not as burdens, but as blessings and opportunities to perform and inspire.

Off the field, Drew’s life has had its challenges. Dealing with ADHD, he’s turned what many see as a curse into a source of energy and focus. Drew shared how this condition fuels his determination, allowing him to pursue his goals with relentless passion.

For the younger athletes looking up to him, Drew’s message is clear: consistency and hard work, even when no one’s watching, make all the difference. Reflecting on his own inspirations, Drew named former McDonald stars as his idols. He hopes to pass the torch to promising talents like Josh Crumpack and Carter Koma, emphasizing the same values of hard work and selflessness.

Family, too, plays a crucial role in Drew’s journey. Describing them as his rock, he recounted moments of doubt during his freshman year where their unwavering support made all the difference. They are his biggest supporters, and their smiles are his greatest reward.

As the conversation wrapped up, DJ posed an intriguing question about which pro or college players Drew compared himself to. After some thought, Drew mentioned AJ Hawk and TJ Watt, highlighting his love for the physicality of the game.

With humor, humility, and a clear sense of purpose, Drew Zajack’s profile not only showcased his athletic abilities but also painted a vivid picture of a young man deeply connected to his roots, driven by passion, and poised to leave a lasting impact on his community. As DJ Yokley aptly concluded, there’s a lot more to look forward to with Drew Zajack on and off the field.

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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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DON’T MESS WITH THE ZANDER

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CANFIELD, OH-  Today we have an exclusive interview with a standout player from the South Range Raiders, Zander Mercer.

Join us as we dive into the life of this senior blindside tackle and uncover his love for the game, his aspirations for the future, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

Get ready for an inspiring and entertaining conversation with Zander Mercer.

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