Tag Archive for: Player Profile

KOZAK’S CAUSE

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In a recent podcast episode of YSN titled “Orange Swimming Player Profile: Emma Kozak,” the spotlight was on senior swimmer Emma Kozak from Orange High School. The episode provided insights into her journey as a swimmer, her role as a senior leader, and her aspirations for the future.

Emma, a seasoned swimmer, began competing at the age of eight. While admitting to a love-hate relationship with the sport, she persevered and continued to pursue her passion. Along the way, it was her friends and teammates who motivated her to keep swimming. She embraced her role as a leader both vocally and through her actions, encouraging her teammates during practices and pushing them to give their best effort.

As a senior, Emma enjoys the privilege of being the top dog in the school. She laughs off the misconceptions that seniors are scary, highlighting the camaraderie and support that exists within the team. Her ability to create a positive and fun atmosphere during practices has made her a mentor figure to her teammates, inspiring them to push through tough workouts and strive for their goals.

Representing Orange High School in the pool holds a special significance for Emma, as she has been attending the school since preschool. She expressed her gratitude for the honor and recognizes the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

When it comes to role models, Emma looks up to her fellow swimmer, Lily Klingensmith, who has shown her how to maintain a balanced life while excelling in swimming and academics. Outside of the pool, Emma credits her mother as her ultimate role model, appreciating her amazing qualities and particularly her culinary skills. Emma’s favorite dish, her mom’s lasagna roll-ups, is renowned amongst her family.

Looking ahead, Emma has her sights set on college. While considering the University of Kentucky among her options, she plans to pursue a career in healthcare. Her personal experiences with her mother’s battle with cancer have fueled her desire to help others and make a difference in their lives.

As Emma heads towards graduation, the Orange High School community rallies behind her. With her leadership, determination, and compassion, Emma Kozak is set to leave a lasting legacy in the pool and beyond.

We wish Emma the best of luck in all her future endeavors.

 

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NO NONSENSE NINA

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- In an exclusive player profile interview for YSN, Orange High School’s swimming sensation and senior, Nina Deshpande, shared her ambitions and preparations for her final year in high school swimming.

Deshpande, a state qualifier last year, is no stranger to success. As she gears up for her senior year, she faces the challenge of surpassing her previous achievements and making her mark in the swimming world.

Reflecting on her successful junior year, Deshpande emphasized the importance of dedication and effort in every practice. “Every practice matters,” she stated. Deshpande admitted feeling the pressure to maintain her stellar performance and secure a place in the state competition once again. Moreover, she revealed her determination to qualify for the finals, a goal she narrowly missed last year.

As a senior, Deshpande recognizes the added responsibility of being a role model and leader for her younger teammates. She strives to create a positive and supportive environment, encouraging her peers to perform their best both in and out of the pool. Deshpande mentioned team bonding activities as a crucial element in fostering camaraderie within the team.

When asked about her competitive drive, Deshpande attributed it to her early exposure to swimming and the highly competitive swimming community she grew up in. Having trained alongside talented athletes, both older and younger, she has developed a strong sense of competition that fuels her desire to excel.

Outside of her swimming pursuits, Deshpande enjoys indulging in her favorite pastime: shopping. Target, being her go-to store, offers her both online and in-person retail therapy.

As the holiday season approaches, Deshpande revealed her excitement for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. While she appreciates the delicious foods associated with Thanksgiving, her favorite being mashed potatoes, she also looks forward to celebrating the festive spirit during Christmas.

The dedicated athlete credited her family for their unwavering support throughout her swimming journey. She mentioned her older brother, a talented athlete himself, and her mother, who introduced her to swimming and always encouraged her to strive for her best. Deshpande expressed her desire to make her family proud with her accomplishments in the pool.

In conclusion, Deshpande’s determination, leadership qualities, and relentless drive make her a force to be reckoned with in the competitive swimming world. As she enters her final year of high school swimming, all eyes will be on Deshpande as she aims to surpass her previous achievements and leave a lasting legacy in Orange High School’s swimming program.

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SCARNECCHIA ROLLS WITH THE TIDE

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WARREN OH- In the world of sports, there are athletes who not only excel on the field but also inspire with their remarkable stories of determination and resilience. Skylar Scarnecchia, a senior at Champion High School, is one such athlete. Committed to playing wheelchair basketball at the University of Alabama, she is a true champion in every sense of the word.

Skylar’s journey in wheelchair basketball began just a year and a half ago, but in that short time, she has risen to an elite level that has caught the attention of prestigious programs like Alabama. Her unwavering commitment and passion for the sport have propelled her to this remarkable achievement.

Off the court, Skylar is no less impressive. A survivor of stage four cancer, she embodies strength and courage. Her indomitable spirit has not only helped her overcome adversity but has also become a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges. Skylar’s story is a testament to the power of determination and faith, and she has taken it upon herself to share her journey with various school systems in the area, inspiring countless others.

Academically, Skylar is an honor roll student, demonstrating her dedication not only to her sport but also to her studies. She is a three-year member of Champion Teens Care, a testament to her commitment to giving back to her community. Skylar’s contributions to her school and community have not gone unnoticed, as she is the proud recipient of the Cleveland Clinic Sports Health Courage Award.

Beyond wheelchair basketball, Skylar is also a member of the Champion Girls Golf Team, which advanced to districts this season. Her dedication to multiple sports showcases her versatility and determination to excel in all her endeavors.

As Skylar embarks on her collegiate journey with the University of Alabama, the Crimson Tide is gaining not only a talented athlete but also an inspiring individual who embodies the values of resilience, determination, and faith. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Skylar Scarnecchia and look forward to following her journey as she continues to inspire and excel, both on and off the court. Roll Tide!

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NO DOUBT ABOUT NADAUD

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By CJ Bako


Warren OH- Champion has had a remarkable season being 21-0 after the win in the regional semifinals over Norwayne. It’s easy to look at the success of the flashes and put it on the offense, but the defense has been absolutely fantastic and that unit is led by senior captain Mia Naduad.

Naduad has had to battle adversity this year being a forward her entire career, but with seniors leaving, the team needed help on the defensive end and Naduad stepped up. It may be uncomfortable to learn a new position especially in one year but Mia has not missed a beat. Shutting down multiple schools only allowing 15 goals all year! Naduad has stepped into not only a much needed role on the defensive end, but also as a leader and voice for this flashes team.

In talking to Mia she states “the success of this team has been because of the coaches teaching us something new everyday, and the great group of young players able to step up”. The flashes hope to keep their momentum and play in the regional finals on Saturday November 4th against Akron Manchester.

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BULLDOGS READY FOR BATTLE

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POLAND, OH – The Poland Bulldogs hosted the East Liverpool Potters in the first round of the playoffs last week and cruised to a 42-14 victory. Logan Hackstedde and Andrew Todd, two seniors, took their last first playoff game to heart and had the Dogs ready to go into battle. Up next for Poland is a rematch with the Struthers Wildcats in the second round this Friday at Bulldog Stadium.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, sat down with Logan and Andrew this week at Combine Brothers to talk about the first round match up against East Liverpool, what the boys did well and what they want to do moving forward to keep that winning momentum going, and what these two seniors think the keys to victory are for this week.

All that and so much more in this very special dual player profile with Poland Bulldogs senior stars, Logan Hackstedde and Andrew Todd!

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TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT

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CANFIELD, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Player Profile, the Canfield Cardinals’ football team highlighted the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and the desire to prove themselves as serious contenders in the upcoming playoffs. The episode titled “CANFIELD PLAYER PROFILE: TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT” featured interviews with three senior players: Scottie Eaton, Paul Bindas, and Vince Luce.

Scottie Eaton, the featured running back of the Cardinals, spoke about his transition into the role and credited the offensive line for his success. He mentioned the trust the team has in their coaches to make effective decisions for the betterment of the team. Eaton acknowledged the crucial contributions of the linemen, stating, “They mean the world. Without them, I’m nothing.”

PB, the team’s quarterback, discussed his battle with injuries throughout the season, showcasing his determination to lead by example for his teammates. Paulie’s resilience and refusal to back down impressed both his peers and younger players, inspiring them to never quit when faced with adversity. The quarterback emphasized the brotherhood within the team as a driving force behind their success, stating, “I love this team so much. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

Vince Luce, a senior offensive and defensive lineman, shared his experiences of recovering from a prolonged injury. While sidelined, Vince expressed pride in his teammates’ response to adversity and their ability to maintain a high level of play. Reflecting on the team’s one in three start to the season, Luce credited the coaching staff for their constant encouragement and the team’s unwavering commitment to overcome challenges, noting, “We fought to the challenge.”

With their current record standing at seven wins and three losses, the Canfield Cardinals are gearing up for the second round of the playoffs. The team acknowledges the strength of their upcoming opponents but embraces the underdog status, using it as motivation to perform at their best. Vince Luce, speaking on behalf of the team, expressed their determination to play with intensity, physicality, and to have fun, stating, “Let the chips fall.”

In a light-hearted moment during the episode, the players engaged in a game of rock, paper, scissors, allowing the winner to ask a question to the loser. The playful and competitive nature of the players shone through as they shared a laugh and showcased their camaraderie.

As the Canfield Cardinals head into the playoffs, it’s evident that their unity, resilience, and desire to prove themselves as serious contenders will play a vital role in determining their success on the field.

Listen to the full episode on the YSN podcast to learn more about the Canfield Cardinals’ journey and their aspirations for the playoffs.

 

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LIFE IN THE FAST LAIN

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COLUMBIANA OH- With a surname steeped in the rich tradition of Crestview’s volleyball legacy, sophomore Lainy Auer has continued to uphold her family’s reputation. As the youngest of three sisters, with two elder siblings who’ve left an indelible mark on the Crestview program, and a mother who serves as the head coach, it might be easy to assume that Lainy was handed her position. However, she’s quick to prove that she’s earned every moment on the court through her sheer determination and undeniable talent.

Inheriting the versatility of her older sister Grace, Lainy excels as both a setter and a hitter. Her ability to seamlessly transition between these roles during rotations makes her a dynamic offensive force, providing the team with a constant threat that can put up a triple-double on any given night. Her skills extend to the back row as well, where she adds an extra layer of defensive prowess to her already impressive repertoire.

Lainy’s leadership on the floor is a testament to her maturity and adaptability, even as one of the younger players on the team. Her past experiences in club volleyball have accustomed her to setting and leading older teammates, effectively bridging the age gap without hesitation.

Looking at her impressive 2023 season stats, it’s clear that Lainy is a force to be reckoned with. She has amassed 182 kills at an impressive 2.3 per set, with a remarkable .334 hitting percentage. Her contributions aren’t limited to offense, as she’s also accumulated 205 digs, 16 blocks, and an impressive 56 aces.

As Lainy and the Rebels prepare to face Smithville in the upcoming regional semifinals, it’s abundantly clear that she’s a central pillar of their success. Her individual achievements, coupled with her family’s legacy, paint a promising picture for the future of Crestview volleyball. The Regional Semifinals will be  on Thursday in Barberton at 6:00.

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ITS NATURAL FOR NATALIE

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COLUMBIANA OH- Earning a spot on the court  alongside the talented Crestview roster is no small feat. With a team packed with exceptional players, the challenge to secure a role can be daunting. However, junior defensive specialist Natalie Blakeman took that challenge head-on and ran with it. Today, she stands as an integral part of the team, contributing her skills in a straightforward yet crucial role – playing solid defense.

Blakeman’s prowess in the back row is nothing short of tremendous and has been a driving force behind Crestview’s smooth offensive execution. In a sport where the first touch can set the tone for the entire play, Natalie consistently delivers, ensuring that Crestview remains in system and ready to attack.

Statistically, Blakeman’s impact is evident, with an impressive 141 digs this season and a mere 7 digging errors. Furthermore, she has showcased her versatility by tallying 87 serve receives, proving her reliability in multiple aspects of the game.

It’s often said that role players like Natalie Blakeman are the glue that separates good teams from great teams. Her consistent defensive performance ensures that the Crestview offense can operate with precision, turning defense into a powerful offensive weapon.

As Crestview prepares for the Regional Semifinal, scheduled for Thursday at 6:00 at Barberton High School against Smithville, Natalie’s contribution becomes all the more vital. She exemplifies the dedication and teamwork that make Crestview a formidable force in the region.

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SPRINGFIELD REIGNS SUPREME

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NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – The Springfield Tigers played host to Monroeville in the first round of the playoffs last week and came away with a 35-21 victory. Two seniors, Kolten Ruark and Tyler Young led the charge for the Tigers as they helped pace Springfield all night long. Up next for the Tigers is going to be a long bus ride down to Mount Vernon to take on the #2 seeded Danville on Friday night.

YSN’s own, Steve Leslie, sat down with Kolten and Tyler this week at the Tiger’s Table to talk about the first round match up against Monroeville, what the boys did well and what they want to do moving forward to keep the momentum going, what their keys to victory are for this week, and so much more!

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SHADES OF GRAYSON

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WARREN OH- Grayson Knoske, a sophomore standout on Champion’s girls’ soccer team, has earned her place among the best underclassmen in the area. Her impact on the team has been nothing short of remarkable, as she played a pivotal role in their undefeated regular season and district championship victory. What truly sets Knoske apart is her ability to perform like a seasoned senior. Her leadership qualities are already evident, and as she takes on more responsibility, her influence on the team is only set to grow.

Beyond her leadership, Grayson Knoske’s talent is undeniable. Throughout the season, opposing defenses have been confounded in their attempts to thwart her attacks on the goal. Her exceptional field vision and blistering speed make her an incredibly challenging force to stop.

In the 2023 season, Knoske’s statistics speak volumes of her contributions: she has scored 33 goals, provided 19 assists, and accumulated 85 points, averaging an impressive 4.3 points per game. Notably, she stands as the second-highest goal-scorer on the team, underscoring her significance to their success.

Currently, Grayson Knoske and her Champion Flashes are gearing up for the Regional Semifinal, where they will face off against Norwayne at Boardman High School this Tuesday. With kickoff scheduled for 7:00,

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