Tag Archive for: Pymatuning Valley

LAKERS RUSH PAST SKIPPERS FOR FIRST NAC WIN

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Photo Credit: Kelly Summers

Fairport, OH- Building off of a dominating performance in week 6, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers sailed to victory against the Fairport Skippers with a final score of 40-0. The Lakers wasted no time making their presence known on the field, as they established their lead early in the first quarter.

The first quarter saw Ryan Croston bulldoze his way into the end zone with a powerful 10-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion. Pymatuning Valley took an early 8-0 lead. The Lakers continued to flex their offensive muscles when Ty Vickery added another touchdown, this time from 5 yards out, and once again the 2-point conversion was successful. The first quarter ended with the Lakers comfortably ahead, 16-0.

The second quarter remained scoreless, as both defenses dug in to prevent any further advances on the scoreboard. However, the Lakers were far from finished.

In the third quarter, Ryan Croston showcased his speed and determination with a 20-yard touchdown run, accompanied by a 2-point conversion that extended the Lakers’ lead to 24-0. Ty Vickery wasn’t to be outdone and added yet another 5-yard touchdown run, with the conversion once again good, making the score 32-0 in favor of the Lakers.

The Lakers put the finishing touches on their impressive performance in the fourth quarter when Ty Vickery broke free for a spectacular 45-yard touchdown run. With the successful 2-point conversion, the final score stood at a resounding 40-0 in favor of Pymatuning Valley.

With this victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers improved their record to 4-3 overall and 1-0 in the NAC. Their next challenge awaits them at home in week 8, where they will face off against the Mathews Mustangs, who have a 1-6 record overall and also boast a 1-0 NAC record. The Lakers’ dominant rushing attack has been on full display for 2 straight weeks.

On the other side, the Fairport Skippers, now 2-5 overall and 1-1 in the NAC, will be gearing up for their week 8 matchup against the St. John Heralds, who hold a 3-4 overall record and a matching 1-1 NAC record.

LAKERS RUN GAME MAKES A HUGE SPLASH

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Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers

Andover, OH- Hoping to make their homcoming a sweet one, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers clashed with the Southeast Pirates in a high-scoring battle that had fans cheering the whole game. The Lakers displayed their dominance on the ground, led by the dynamic duo of Ryan Croston and Ty Vickery. The final score read Pymatuning Valley Lakers 64 – Southeast Pirates 34, leaving the Lakers with a triumphant victory.

The first quarter saw Pymatuning Valley strike first, as Ryan Croston bulldozed his way into the end zone with a 1-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful two-point conversion run by Ty Vickery, giving the Lakers an early 8-0 lead. Southeast answered back with a 35-yard touchdown pass from Antonio Mejia to Jack Muldowney, but their two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the score at 8-6 in favor of Pymatuning Valley.

The Lakers continued to pour on the points in the first quarter, with Ryan Croston finding the end zone again on a 7-yard touchdown run, followed by another successful two-point conversion, this time by Ty Vickery, extending their lead to 16-6. Before the quarter ended, Ty Vickery added to the lead with a 5-yard touchdown run and another two-point conversion, making it 24-6 in favor of Pymatuning Valley.

In the second quarter, Ryan Croston broke loose for a spectacular 37-yard touchdown run, and Ty Vickery’s two-point conversion run was good, stretching the lead to 32-6. Southeast fought back with a 24-yard touchdown pass from Antonio Mejia to Case Meyers, and Gavin Bertka’s extra point brought the score to 32-13.

Just before halftime, Ty Vickery found the end zone again with a 2-yard touchdown run, and his two-point conversion run was successful, giving the Lakers a commanding 40-13 lead at the break.

The third quarter saw Southeast’s Antonio Mejia connect with Austin Mejia for a 30-yard touchdown pass, and with the extra point from Gavin Bertka, the score tightened to 40-20. The Pirates continued their comeback efforts in the fourth quarter, with Antonio Mejia throwing a 56-yard touchdown pass to Austin Mejia, and Bertka’s extra point made it 40-27.

But Pymatuning Valley had an answer every time, as Ryan Croston and Ty Vickery continued their dominant performance. Croston’s 8-yard touchdown run and Vickery’s two-point conversion pushed the lead to 48-27. Southeast battled on with Antonio Mejia’s 12-yard touchdown pass to Case Meyers, and Bertka’s extra point cut the deficit to 48-34.

In the waning minutes of the game, Ty Vickery added two more touchdowns to his impressive performance with runs of 44 and 50 yards, along with successful two-point conversions on both occasions, sealing the Lakers’ 64-34 victory.

The Pymatuning Valley Lakers showcased an unstoppable rushing attack, with Ty Vickery leading all rushers with nearly 300 yards on the ground, 4 touchdowns, and 8 two-point conversions. Ryan Croston also had a remarkable game, amassing over 200 yards rushing and contributing 4 touchdowns of his own. Defensively the Lakers were just as impressive with multiple tackles for loss and snagging 3 interceptions including one by Alex Simon who brings his season total to 3.

With this victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers improved to 3-3 and are set to begin conference play on the road against the Fairport Harding Skippers (2-4) in week 7. Meanwhile, the Southeast Pirates, with a 5-1 record, will kick off their Portage Trail Conference campaign at home against the St. Thomas Aquinas Knights (0-6) in week 7.

GIRARD GAINS BACK THEIR MOMENTUM

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GIRARD OH- Girard football stormed back to the win column in style, snapping a two-game losing streak with an authoritative 42-6 victory over Pymatuning Valley.

The first quarter set the tone for Girard’s resurgence, with Stephen Sims plunging into the end zone from one yard out, putting the first points on the board with 10:08 to go. Ahmad Curd followed suit, taking a handoff from Tuff McConahy and sprinting eight yards for another touchdown at the 5:54 mark. Just 19 seconds later, Domenico Simone received a 13-yard pass from McConahy, adding to the onslaught with a touchdown of his own at 5:35.

The second quarter saw no let-up from Girard as they extended their lead. Stephen Sims connected with McConahy, this time for a three-yard passing touchdown at 9:29, keeping the momentum firmly in Girard’s favor.

Entering the third quarter, Girard remained relentless, with Stephen Sims finding the end zone yet again on a one-yard passing touchdown from McConahy at 4:43. The extra point by Zach Morris was successful, further bolstering Girard’s lead.

Pymatuning Valley managed to put some points on the board in the fourth quarter with Talone connecting on a 13-yard passing touchdown to Collier-Dixon, and Morris adding the extra point.

However, it was Girard’s night, and the victory was sealed with a final score of 42-6. This commanding performance marked a significant turnaround for Girard, giving them renewed confidence as they look ahead to their upcoming matchups.

JFK WINS TRI MATCH AT CHAMPION

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WARREN OH- Warren JFK has a lot of new faces on their volleyball team, and building momentum early was going to be important. The Eagles got a great boost on Saturday as they opened their season with a pair of wins at the Champion Tri Match.  JFK beat Pymatuning Valley 2-1 (20-25 25-20 25-22) and then beat Champion 2-0 (25-22 25-17).

In their first game against the Lakers they were led by Hannah Myers who collected 6 kills.  Danielle Wickham set the hall well gathering 19 assists for the Eagles.  Marina Sanders was a presence for the Eagles net defense finishing with 3 blocks. In the back row, Rylie Gillespie gathered 3 digs.  Reagan Roberts served up 3 aces as well.

Against Champion it was Myers that led the offense with another 6 kills.  Wickham had double digit assists again with 10. Sanders added 3 more blocks at the net for the Eagles.  Gillespie added 3 more digs to her total for the day, while Roberts added 3 more service aces.

Warren JFK is back in action on Monday as they travel to Liberty. Pymatuning Valley hits the road again on Wednesday traveling to Edgewood.  Champion travels to Windham on Monday.

 

RAMS TRIUMPH IN THRILLING 4TH QUARTER SHOWDOWN

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Mineral Ridge, OH- In a heart-pounding clash between two formidable high school football teams, the Mineral Ridge Rams emerged victorious against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers with a final score of 29-22. The game, which showcased intense back-and-forth action and spectacular plays, had fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The game kicked off with both teams displaying their offensive prowess. The Mineral Ridge Rams, led by quarterback Ian Erb, wasted no time in making their mark. With just over three minutes left in the first quarter, Erb executed a 1-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful PAT by kicker Landon Pal. The Rams took an early 7-0 lead, setting the tone for an exciting contest. The Pymatuning Valley Lakers were quick to respond, showcasing their resilience. Quarterback Ryan Croston orchestrated a 12-yard touchdown run with just 23 seconds left in the quarter. Running back Ty Vickery then added a two-point conversion, putting the Lakers ahead with a score of 8-7 at the end of the first quarter.  As the second quarter unfolded, the Lakers continued to showcase their offensive prowess. Ty Vickery, the standout running back for Pymatuning Valley, powered through the Rams’ defense for a 2-yard touchdown run. However, the subsequent two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the Lakers with a 14-7 lead. The Rams refused to be outdone. Ian Erb orchestrated an impressive drive down the field and connected with wide receiver Brady Balestrino for a remarkable 26-yard touchdown pass. Despite having the PAT blocked, the Rams closed the gap to a single point, with the Lakers leading 14-13. The third quarter showcased the Rams’ determination to regain control of the game. Ian Erb’s versatility was on full display as he executed a 1-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion pass to none other than Brady Balestrino. The Rams surged ahead with a score of 21-14, setting the stage for a thrilling final quarter. As the tension mounted in the fourth quarter, both teams continued to fight tooth and nail for supremacy. Ryan Croston, the Lakers’ quarterback, demonstrated his passing skills by connecting with wide receiver Jaren Nowkowski for a 33-yard touchdown pass. Ty Vickery once again added a crucial two-point conversion, swinging the lead back to the Lakers at 22-21. However, the Rams were determined to have the final say. Quarterback Owen Shingledecker showcased his arm strength with a 37-yard touchdown pass to Brady Balestrino in the waning moments of the game. Shingledecker then completed a vital 2-point conversion pass to Ian Erb. With the scoreboard reading 29-22 in favor of the Rams, the stage was set for a dramatic finish. With mere seconds remaining on the clock, the Lakers desperately sought to tie the game. However, Rams’ defensive back Owen Shingledecker intercepted a pass from Ryan Croston as time expired. The Rams emerged victorious in a nail-biting contest, securing a hard-fought 29-22 win. The clash between the Mineral Ridge Rams and the Pymatuning Valley Lakers will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most thrilling games of the season. With momentum shifts, explosive plays, and a game-deciding interception, both teams demonstrated their dedication and skill on the field. The Rams’ triumphant finish underscored their resilience and ability to rise to the occasion, leaving fans eager for their next electrifying matchup.

LAKERS READY TO SET SAIL: PYMATUNING VALLEY FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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East Palestine, OH- The Pymatuning Valley Lakers are gearing up for the upcoming football season with high hopes and determination, aiming to build upon the lessons and successes of their 2022 campaign. Last year, the Lakers finished with a 4-7 record, but what truly defined their season was their remarkable turnaround, finishing as conference champions by going undefeated in NAC conference play during a stunning four-game winning streak.

The Lakers started the 2022 season with a bit of a chill, struggling to find their rhythm. However, as the season progressed, they caught fire at just the right moment. This year, they are set to capitalize on the momentum they generated, thanks to their young and talented roster that now boasts valuable experience.

The 2022 Lakers were defined by their youthful exuberance, as underclassmen took on significant roles within the team. This strategic approach to grooming young talents has positioned the Lakers for an even stronger showing this year. Returning with a sense of confidence and experience, the Lakers are ready to prove that they are a force to be reckoned with.

One of the cornerstones of the team’s success is their quarterback, Ryan Croston. Entering his junior year as a third-year starter, Croston has shown remarkable improvement in his passing abilities. In the previous season, he amassed 430 passing yards and delivered three touchdowns. While his passing skills are noteworthy, it’s his running prowess that truly sets him apart. Croston emerged as the Lakers’ leading rusher in 2022, amassing an impressive 1,164 yards and scoring six touchdowns on the ground. His versatility and ability to make plays with his legs make him a vital asset to the Lakers’ offensive strategy.

Adding to the potency of the Lakers’ backfield is junior running back Ty Vickery, who returns for his second year. Vickery made his presence felt in the 2022 season, accumulating 922 rushing yards and leading the team with an astonishing 13 rushing touchdowns. Known for his rugged style and exceptional blocking skills, Vickery is a running back who punishes opposing defenses and refuses to be brought down easily. This dynamic duo is further enriched by the addition of highly touted freshman Luke Giddings, who has already turned heads with his impressive performance at the 2023 Ashtabula County High School football combine.

On the offensive line, the Lakers face the challenge of filling the void left by graduate Kamron Cargill, their top offensive lineman from the previous season. Seniors like Ben Crouser and up-and-coming talents like junior tackle Jon Finello and Brennen Moore are expected to step up and ensure the continuity of the strong offensive line tradition. Despite their youth, this line brings a blend of natural strength, awareness, and experience from the previous season, making it a formidable unit.

The Lakers’ passing game may not be their primary focus, but they possess the tools to air it out when needed. The receiving corps, which includes junior Jaren Nowakowski and sophomores Jayce Fulkman and Sean Croston, boasts speed and agility that can be leveraged to surprise opponents.

As a Division 6 team, the Lakers understand the necessity of versatility, often requiring players to contribute on both offense and defense. This approach ensures that the best athletes are on the field at all times, capable of making game-changing plays on both ends. This dual-role strategy highlights the Lakers’ commitment to dominating the game from all angles.

The Lakers’ schedule for the upcoming season features some new opponents, including Girard, a 2022 playoff team, and Southeast, who finished the previous season with a 4-6 record. Among the anticipated matchups, the clash against their rival and future conference foe, Grand Valley, stands out. This encounter, set for September 1st, holds more than just bragging rights—it’s a battle for the coveted Battle of the Valley trophy.

Coach Neal Croston understands the keys to success for his team in the upcoming season: “We need to limit big plays on defense and create big plays on offense. Our overall team speed and strength has increased this year and that should help on both sides of the ball.” With a renewed sense of purpose, improved skills, and an unwavering commitment to their game plan, the Lakers are poised to make a significant impact in the 2023 football season.

For those eager to follow the Lakers’ journey, all their games will be available on Ashtabula’s home for high school sports, www.ysnlive.com. The Pymatuning Valley Lakers are ready to hit the field, rebuilt and revitalized, showcasing their passion and dedication to the sport they love. The stage is set for another exciting season of football, and the Lakers are determined to leave their mark on the gridiron.

COUSINS COLLIDE; STACHOWICZ AND AEY LEAD THE CHARGE PAST PV

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CANFIELD, OH- Juli Stachowicz threw a shutout and whiffed 14 out of 15 outs collected to lead South Range past Pymatuning Valley Lakers 17-0 on Tuesday.

Stachowicz led the Raiders to victory by driving in six runs. Stachowicz went 2-for-2 at the plate. Stachowicz drove in runs on a home run in the first, a double in the second, a walk in the third, and a in the fourth.  Her cousin, freshman outfielder, Anna Aey went 3-for-4 with a homer, a double, and a single with two RBI, and two runs scored.

South Range got things moving in the first inning, when Samantha Susany singled on a 1-1 count, scoring two runs.  The Raiders tallied seven runs in the fourth inning. Ashley Rupert, Susany, Stachowicz, Solena DeJesus, and Jayli Wilt all contributed in the big inning with RBIs.

A single by Rieane Zajac in the fourth inning was a positive for Pymatuning Valley.

Stachowicz earned the win for South Range. The lefthander surrendered zero runs on one hit over five innings, striking out 14 and walking one.

Baleigh Alderman toed the rubber for Pymatuning Valley. The pitcher allowed ten hits and nine runs over two innings, walking one. Saige Payne threw two innings in relief out of the bullpen.

South Range racked up 16 hits on the day. Aey, Keira Brogan, Kelly Szolek, Stachowicz, Madison Dado, and Wilt all managed multiple hits for the Raiders. Brogan and Aey each collected three hits to lead the victors.

Zajac went 1-for-2 at the plate to lead Pymatuning Valley in hits.

With the win, South Range will enter into a third meeting with Poland for the District Title on Thursday at 5pm.

GAME PHOTOS HERE

SMOOTH SAILING FOR THE LADY LAKERS CONTINUES

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East Palestine, OH- The Pymatuning Valley Lakers triumphed over the Crestwood Red Devils 14-4 on Monday. The Crestwood Red Devils fired up the offense in the second inning, when an error scored one run for the Red Devils. Pymatuning Valley pulled away for good with six runs in the third inning.  In the third Nataleigh Haines hit a solo homer, Saige Payne singled on a 1-1 count, scoring one run, Mariah Sharpe doubled on a 1-2 count, scoring one run, Baleigh Alderman singled on a 1-0 count, scoring one run, and Kylie Luke singled on a 3-2 count, scoring two runs. The lady Lakers tallied six runs in the fifth inning.  Pymatuning Valley’s big bats were led by Haines, Rieane Zajac, Payne, Alderman, and Brooke Gray, all sending runners across the plate with RBIs in the inning. Alderman led the Lakers to victory in the circle. The Laker ace surrendered two runs on one hit over three innings, striking out four and walking one.  Payne threw four innings in relief out of the bullpen.

Hunter was on the rubber for Crestwood surrendering six runs on six hits over three innings, striking out four and walking one. Mia Gullatta threw four innings in relief. Pymatuning Valley cranked out two home runs on the day. Haines hit a bomb in the third inning. Alderman had a homer in the seventh inning. Pymatuning Valley racked up 14 hits in the game.  Haines, Alderman, Payne, Luke, and Zajac each managed multiple hits for the Lakers.  Haines went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead Pymatuning Valley in hits. Helm led Crestwood with two hits in three at bats. The Lakers will face off against the red hot 1 seeded South Range Raiders Tuesday in Canfield for the district championship.

THE LADY LAKERS MAKE A BIG SPLASH IN OHSAA TOURNAMENT PLAY

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East Palestine, OH- Saige Payne had all the right stuff on Tuesday for Pymatuning Valley Lakers, allowing zero runs in the opening round win over Liberty by a score of 10-0. The Lakers secured the victory thanks to six runs in the fifth inning.  The offensive onslaught by Pymatuning Valley was led by Kylie Luke, Ruby Beck, Payne, and Mandie Herman, all knocking in runs in the inning.

Pymatuning Valley scored six runs in the fifth inning.  The offensive onslaught by the Lakers was led by Luke, Beck, Payne, and Herman, who each had RBIs in the inning. A bright spot for Liberty was a single by Fleps in the fourth inning. Payne was in the pitcher’s circle for the Pymatuning Valley Lakers. The Laker ace allowed one hit and zero runs over five innings, striking out eight and walking one. Fleps was in the circle for Liberty. Fleps went four and two-thirds innings, allowing ten runs on 11 hits and striking out six. Pymatuning Valley tallied 11 hits on the day.  Payne, Brooke Gray, Mariah Sharpe, and Rieane Zajac all had multiple hits for the Lakers.  Zajac, Sharpe, Gray, and Payne each collected two hits to lead Pymatuning Valley. Pymatuning Valley will host Garrettsville Garfield 05/11/2023 for the sectional semi-final.

LAKERS WASTE NO TIME

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ANDOVER, OHIO- The Badger Braves fell behind early and couldn’t come back in a 14-1 loss to Pymatuning Valley on Wednesday.

Pymatuning Valley scored on an error, a single by Luke Harvey, and a single by Chase Vickery to get things rolling in the first inning.

The Braves struggled to contain the high-powered offense of the Lakers, giving up 14 runs as Pymatuning Valley scored seven out of the fourteen runs in the fourth inning. The big inning came thanks to singles by Ryan Croston and Trevor Clute, a walk by Seth Bryan, a sacrifice fly by Harvey, and by Sean Croston. Croston led things at the plate for the Lakers as he went 2-for-3.

Jon Moschell got the win on the mound as the fireballer went five innings, allowing one run on three hits and striking out ten. Lewis Flowers, Jack Springer, and Logan Klingensmith all had one hit to lead the Braves at the plate.

On the mound, Bradley Hamilton took the loss for as the righty went one inning, allowing five runs on two hits, striking out two and walking one.

The Braves will try to jump back and get a win when they take on Chaney on Thursday at 5:00. Pymatuning Valley will take on Edgewood on Thursday at 5:00. 



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