Tag Archive for: pre-game routine

BREAKING IN LIKE BARRESS

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JEFFERSON OH — Few freshmen make their mark on varsity sports quite like Alaina Barress has this softball season. Sitting down with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig, Barress spoke about her stellar debut and the determination that’s powered her through adversity.

Coming off a significant injury that sidelined her for six months, Barress credits her rigorous offseason work for her immediate impact. “I’ve worked really hard in the offseason…showing up in the open gyms, and I think it’s showing,” Barress said. Transitioning from middle school to high school is no small leap, but Barress has handled it with poise both on the field and in the classroom, juggling honors courses alongside a demanding athletic schedule. Time management and using school hours wisely have been key. “I try to keep up with my grades… and if I do have homework, I just get it done that night so I’m not running behind,” she explained.

Barress also praised her teammates and coaches for creating a welcoming, team-first environment. Senior standouts like Allie Hill and Marilia have been role models, while her coaches and family—especially her father, who doubles as her coach—have provided continuous support. Despite the hectic spring weather and frequent schedule changes, Barress keeps her competitive edge with pre-game rituals and a tight-knit team dynamic. “I always have to have two French braids…and flip my batting gloves three times before I step in the box,” she shared. As she nears the end of a memorable freshman campaign, Barress is already looking to inspire the next wave of underclassmen. Her advice: “Look up to the older girls and put the work in, because it will really pay off during the season.” With young stars like Alaina Barress, the future of Jefferson softball looks bright.

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PUT YOUR HOPE IN HERRICK

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GIRARD OH- In the latest episode of YSN Live, hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig welcome Cam Herrick, the standout pitcher for the Girard Indians baseball team. Known for his blazing fastballs and strategic off-speed pitches, Herrick embraces his leadership role within the team.

A key figure in Girard’s success, Herrick shared insights into his preparation both mentally and physically for the current season. With a focus on mastering his pitch arsenal, particularly refining his slider and changeup, Herrick emphasized the importance of working in the offseason. Despite starting his journey as not the leading pitcher, his determination has led him to hold the top spot. One interesting revelation from Herrick was his pre-game ritual, highlighting a unique routine: not eating before a game to avoid stomach issues while on the mound. It’s this kind of dedication and understanding of personal limits that makes Herrick a formidable opponent in the NE8 conference.

While Herrick lights up the mound, he also expressed his love for playing third base, showing his versatility and readiness to take on pressure situations. When asked about his future aspirations, third base remained his position of choice, showing his deep roots and comfort at the “hot corner.” Beyond his athletic prowess, Herrick spoke fondly of Girard’s community and how it has shaped his journey, attributing much of his growth to the support of family, coaches, and teachers like Mr. Johnson and Coach Al Jeers. Herrick’s commitment to his team and school, as well as his aim to leave a lasting legacy, resonates through his words. As Herrick continues to make a mark in the NE8 conference, his journey is watched closely by fans and aspiring players, embodying the spirit and talent thriving in Girard.

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THOMAS TAKES THE POINT

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HOWLAND, OH – The Howland girls basketball team is turning heads this season, driven by the impressive performance of its rising star sophomore, Mia Thomas. Known for her poise and leadership on the court, Thomas has embraced her role as the team’s point guard, a position that comes with significant responsibility.

In a recent interview with Anthony Hartwig on YSN, Thomas shared her journey of growth and her excitement for the future of Howland girls basketball. “From the start of the summer, we knew it was going to be tough because we graduated five starters,” Thomas noted. She credited Coach Pounds for placing trust in her and her teammates, which has helped her step confidently into her role, despite being one of the youngest players on the team. Thomas describes her team’s dynamic as close-knit and resilient. Despite challenges early in the season, the team has found its rhythm, thanks in part to its cohesive spirit. “We all just work 10 times harder each day because we don’t have the oldest team. It’s hard to compete with older teams, but we’re pushing for each other,” Thomas explained.

Off the court, Thomas balances her academic life, expressing a particular interest in English and history while admitting that mathematics isn’t her favorite subject. She highlights the unwavering support of her family and the inspiration she draws from her grandfather, a former Clemson basketball player. This familial guidance propels her motivation and work ethic both in sports and in life. As Thomas continues to hone her skills, she remains focused on enjoying the game and building a legacy with her fellow underclassmen. With her leadership and determination, the future looks promising for Mia Thomas and the Howland Tigers.

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