Tag Archive for: playoff experience

SOUTH RANGE BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH PAT CARDEN 2-28-25

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CANFIELD OH- South Range’s basketball team is gearing up for a pivotal district championship match against Norwayne, following a season of impressive performances under head coach Pat Carden. The game, scheduled for 7 PM at Cleveland Heights, will see the South Range team seeking their first-ever school district title, in what promises to be an energetic clash of styles with the pressing and fast-paced Norwayne team.

Coach Pat Carden, who describes himself as mildly exhausted, remains hopeful about the prospects of his team. Under his guidance, South Range has shown remarkable improvement, with the team averaging an impressive 63.9 points per game this season. This offensive prowess was on full display in recent games, where the team notched 14 and 13 three-pointers in consecutive matches. One of the standout players leading the charge is Luke Rowan, who has elevated his game to become a more versatile asset on the floor. Rowan has added strong on-ball defense and a knack for driving toward the basket to his arsenal, complementing his already sharp shooting skills. His contributions have been pivotal in filling the void left by previous star players.

Carden credits much of the team’s success to the chemistry cultivated within the squad, which has been strengthened by shared experiences in other sports, adding to a culture of competitiveness and camaraderie. He’s especially proud of how the team has transitioned from “patching the ship” in his first year to “steering in the right direction” this season. With significant accolades already under their belt, including reaching 20 wins this season—a rare feat in school history—the team aspires to crown the year with a district title. Coach Carden, along with his staff, is committed to ensuring that the players are well-prepared, both mentally and strategically, as they head into the all-important match. The South Range basketball team, with a history of resilience and a reputation for excellence in various sports, hopes to etch their names into school history with a victory that would mark a new high in their storied athletic program.

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BOBBY BUCKETS

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BESSEMER PA- Mohawk basketball standout Bobby Fadden is not just a prolific scorer but also a budding leader. In a recent interview with YSN, Fadden discussed his transition from an emerging talent to a seasoned veteran entering his junior season.

“I’m excited to be a junior and take on a leadership role following Jay Rona last year,” Fadden shared with co-host Anthony Hartwig. Having surpassed 1,000 points already, Fadden emphasized the importance of communication and emotional leadership in his new role. Reflecting on his goals, Fadden stated his desire to enhance his jumper and aim for a championship ring for his team. Fadden’s enduring love for basketball traces back to his early years, influenced significantly by his father, the former Mohawk basketball coach. Despite initially favoring football and baseball, Fadden’s passion for basketball was ignited by the constant motion and energy the sport demands.

Crediting his father and Coach O’Layer as pivotal influences, Fadden highlighted the lessons on attitude and resilience instilled in him. “You can’t talk to refs, you can’t complain. You have to get over it and go to the next play,” he noted. A multifaceted student-athlete, Fadden balances a challenging academic schedule, excelling particularly in shop classes and tackling pre-calculus and statistics. His ambitions extend beyond high school with hopes to play football or basketball in college and potentially pursue a career in engineering or accounting. Above all, Fadden embraces his role as a mentor and role model for younger students. “I want to make a good impact on kids and let them know I’m a good person,” he expressed. Closing the interview, Fadden acknowledged the support of his parents, coaches, and teammates, emphasizing their contribution to his journey. As Mohawk’s season unfolds, all eyes will be on Fadden, both as a player and a leader.

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SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 11) WITH DAVE RACH

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CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “South Range Coach’s Corner,” Dave Rach and DJ Yokley welcomed a special guest: former head coach Dan Yeagley. The undefeated South Range Raiders are preparing for a crucial playoff rematch against Gerard, and the discussion was rich with reflections, strategies, and the deep bond that ties the coaching staff and their community.

As the conversation opened, DJ Yokley asked about the team’s preparation and the insights they might have gleaned from their previous game against Gerard.

“You starters are pulled, majority of them out in the second half,” said Yokley, praising their strategic depth-building. Rach responded by emphasizing the importance of providing valuable playoff experience to the younger players, ensuring they’re battle-hardened for future seasons.

A touching moment came when Rach was asked to identify someone who had profoundly influenced his life. Without hesitation, he pointed to Yeagley.

“He continues to be somebody that invests in me and leads me,” Rach shared, a sentiment echoed by his actions and words throughout his coaching career.

In a surprise turn, Dan Yeagley made his entrance alongside his wife. The atmosphere turned nostalgic as the two coaches reminisced and praised each other’s philosophies and impacts.

The upcoming game against Girard was at the forefront of the discussion. Yeagley highlighted his concerns about facing a team for the second time in a season, describing the unique challenges and psychological hurdles it poses.

“Playing the team twice… I worry about just kids being kids and taking the team lightly,” Yeagley admitted, despite his confidence in Rach’s ability to prepare the team.

With this game being the last at Rominger Stadium for the season, the emotional weight was palpable. Both coaches emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and pride in defending their home turf.

Rach summed it up aptly: “The game, your last home game, is going to be a game that you remember forever.”

Closing the episode, both coaches expressed their admiration for each other’s styles and contributions. Rach spoke of Yeagley’s consistency and relentless approach to building the program, while Yeagley praised Rach’s interaction with the kids and his professional demeanor.

“He’s special. He’s just very special,” Yeagley said, encapsulating the mutual respect and affection between the two.

As the Raiders prepare to take on Gerard this Friday at Rominger Stadium, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The winner advances, and the loser goes home. With the legacy of their coaching staff and the support of their community behind them, the South Range Raiders are more than ready for the challenge.

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