Tag Archive for: RAIDERS

THE MAD HITTER

CANFIELD, OH- Madison Dado, a senior at South Range High School, was the guest on the YSN podcast’s South Range Raider show. Madi was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in both volleyball and softball.

Deangelos asked Madi about her responsibilities on the volleyball team, and she explained that she played different positions each year. She had gained a strong understanding of the middle position after playing it for two years, and she also played in the back row.

When it came to training for both sports, Madi mentioned that she consistently went to Troy Parks throughout each season. She focused on the specific sport she was playing at the time, giving her full attention to the current season.

Deangelos then mentioned Madi’s impressive abilities on the softball field, particularly her powerful throws. He noted that in both volleyball and softball, speed played a significant role. Madi explained that while she was in control as a center fielder in softball, playing volleyball required a different level of communication and understanding with her teammate, Anna Troy.

The conversation shifted to Madi’s role in guiding Anna, a freshman on the team. Madi credited Anna’s natural talent and ability to assimilate into the team seamlessly. Madi herself had received guidance from Reagan, a teammate who helped her navigate the back row position.

Her recent successful run with the team, having faced tough opponents has been impressive. The busy schedule allowed little time to relax, as they had to quickly shift focus to the next opponent. Madi also mentioned how she managed to balance her time during homecoming week, thanks to a day off provided by Coach Irons.

As the conversation moved toward Madi’s future goals, she expressed her desire to continue playing a sport at the collegiate level. She explained that her passion for the sport and the relationships she built through it were driving factors. However, she also shared her aspiration to become a physician’s assistant after college, inspired by her love for the show Grey’s Anatomy and her family’s background in healthcare.

Madi spoke fondly of her family, acknowledging the sacrifices they made to support her and her sisters’ sporting endeavors. Her parents, a nurse and a police officer, served as role models, always encouraging her to pursue her dreams.

Before wrapping up, Madi gushed about her excitement for a trip to Myrtle Beach. and expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming experience.

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WORDS TO LIV BY

CANFIELD, OH- Liv Meli, a senior volleyball player for South Range High School, sits down with DJ Yokley for an interview on YSN. Liv reflects on her four years of playing volleyball and how fast it has gone by. As a senior, she has taken on a leadership role on the team, emphasizing the importance of being a team player and bringing energy to the court.

When asked about where she learned confidence, Liv credits her parents for always encouraging her to be confident and put herself out there. Although she admits that she is not the loudest person, she tries her best to be confident. Liv’s sister, who is younger but has a big personality, has also been a role model for her in terms of confidence.

Liv discusses the importance of having fun during games and how it contributes to the team’s energy on the court. She mentions that when her teammates are there to support and uplift her, she can switch into a more assertive mode during games. Despite facing tough competition throughout the season, Liv sees it as a learning experience and believes that the team’s strong bond and Coach Iron’s support will contribute to their success.

Off the court, Liv shares a close bond with her sister, often going out for coffee or food together. She mentions their love for Starbucks and going to restaurants like Olive Garden. Liv expresses her gratitude for her family’s support, highlighting how they are always there for her through ups and downs.

When asked about one quality from each of her parents that she would like to adopt, Liv admires her mom’s caring nature and her dad’s confidence. She appreciates how her mom always tries to make everyone happy, while her dad encourages her to put herself out there and not worry about what others think.

Outside of volleyball, Liv enjoys shopping and often goes on spontaneous shopping trips with her sister. She mentions that she loves browsing both online and in physical stores, appreciating the experience of looking around.

Overall, Liv’s profile showcases her dedication, leadership, and the importance of having fun both on and off the volleyball court. With the support of her teammates, coach, and family, Liv has high hopes for the team’s success in the upcoming season.

 

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HARDING SNEAKS UP ON THE CARDINALS IN THE END

MINERAL RIDGE OH- In a hard-fought matchup, Cardinal Mooney went head-to-head with Warren Harding in a thrilling contest that ultimately ended in a heartbreaking 24-21 loss for Mooney.

The first quarter set the tone for an exciting game as Harding’s Chaz Coleman connected with Ryan Powell on a 47-yard pass, resulting in a touchdown at the 10:27 mark. The extra point attempt failed, but Harding took an early 6-0 lead.

Mooney quickly responded when Adyn Paige broke through Harding’s defense with a 4-yard rushing touchdown at 6:12. With the successful extra point, Mooney took a 7-6 lead.

Later in the first quarter, Jake Daugherty of Harding made a 27-yard field goal, helping his team regain the lead at 9-7 with 1:34 left in the quarter.

The third quarter saw Mooney reclaiming the momentum. Ashton O’Brien connected with Jon Brenner for a 19-yard touchdown pass at the 3:04 mark, extending Mooney’s lead to 14-9. O’Brien continued to shine, throwing a 32-yard touchdown pass to Carlos Gomez at 1:54, further extending Mooney’s lead to 21-9.

However, Warren Harding wasn’t ready to concede the game. Chaz Coleman had an impressive 23-yard rushing touchdown at just 14 seconds left in the third quarter, narrowing the score to 21-16.

As the game entered the decisive fourth quarter, Harding managed to complete a comeback. Coleman orchestrated a 2-yard rushing touchdown at 0:38, putting Harding ahead 24-21. To secure the win, Coleman successfully converted a 2-point conversion with a pass to Khamari Adams, solidifying the 24-21 victory for Warren Harding.

RAIDERS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF A FIVE SET MARATHON

STRUTHERS OH- In a volleyball showdown filled with suspense and determination, South Range triumphed in a thrilling five-set match against Struthers, bringing an end to their losing streak. The Raiders displayed resilience and fortitude as they fought for every point, ultimately emerging victorious with a final score of 25-10, 26-28, 23-25, 25-20, 15-9.

South Range’s victory was a testament to their unwavering spirit and never-say-die attitude. After a challenging stretch, they showed up with a renewed determination to secure the win.

Sarah Kuhns the Raiders’ setter and floor leader, Kuhns, was instrumental in the victory, tallying 18 assists and displaying excellent court awareness. Her 18 digs showcased her dedication to both offense and defense. Kuhns also contributed with a valuable ace.

Anna Toy an offensive force for South Range, Toy’s 10 kills were crucial in securing points for her team. Her remarkable defensive effort was evident in her 25 digs, demonstrating her willingness to battle on every front. Two aces further highlighted her well-rounded game.

Madie Mook’s eight kills added to South Range’s offensive firepower, while her six digs showcased her defensive prowess. Her three aces provided a much-needed spark during key moments in the match.

Olivia Meli A formidable presence at the net, Meli contributed with six blocks, disrupting Struthers’ offensive efforts. Her six kills further solidified her impact on both offense and defense.

 

SPARTANS ARE THE LAST ONES STANDING IN A THRILLER WITH SOUTH RANGE

CANFIELD OH- In a thrilling volleyball showdown that went the distance, Boardman emerged victorious with a hard-fought win over South Range. This exciting match featured incredible athleticism and determination from both teams, ultimately ending with a 5-set scoreline of 25-10, 25-27, 21-25, 25-23, 15-8 in favor of Boardman.

The Boardman squad showcased their prowess on the court, and several players delivered standout performances. Leading the charge for Boardman was Maya Flores, who proved to be an offensive powerhouse with an impressive double-double. Flores recorded 10 aces and a staggering 23 kills, leaving a significant mark on the game.

Gianna Cicchillo was a defensive stalwart for Boardman, registering an impressive 24 digs, while Ava Commons orchestrated the team’s plays effectively with 32 assists. Cici Johnson contributed to both ends of the court with 6 blocks and 4 kills, and Jasmine Graham and Sadie Satterfield added 15 and 14 digs, respectively.

On the South Range side, the team demonstrated their resilience and determination throughout the contest. Hayden Carey stood out with a double-double performance, providing 16 assists, 14 digs, and 2 aces. Anna Toy delivered an exceptional performance with a double-double of her own, notching 24 digs and a remarkable 17 kills, along with 3 aces.

Sarah Kuhns contributed significantly with 11 digs, 14 assists, and 1 ace in her double-double performance. The South Range squad showcased their tenacity and skill, making it a closely contested match.

The atmosphere was electric as both teams battled fiercely for control of the game, with each point hotly contested. Boardman ultimately sealed the victory with determination and composure in the final set, securing the 5-set triumph.

DON’T MESS WITH SMESKO

CANFIELD, OH- In this episode, we dive deep into the world of South Range football and get to know one of their talented players, Dylan Smesko. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the life, experiences, and passions of this outstanding junior athlete.

From his nerves before interviews to his favorite Gatorade flavor, we cover it all. Discover the secrets behind South Range’s close-knit team and the role models that have shaped Dylan’s journey. We’ll also explore his leadership on the field, his love for speed, and his dream job in cybersecurity.

Get ready to be inspired by the incredible stories and aspirations of this rising star in the world of football. So, sit back, relax, and tune in to this captivating episode of YSN, as we present the South Range Player Profile: Dylan Smesko.

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BRIAN BRINGS THE BOOM

CANFIELD, OH- In today’s episode, we’re diving into the South Range player profile of Andrew Brian. As a key player on the South Range football team, Andrew has had an impressive journey, from winning the state championship as a sophomore to stepping into a leadership role as a junior.

Join us as we explore Andrew’s experiences and learn about the valuable lessons he’s learned from his teammates who have served as role models. From the fearless playing style of Billy to the strong work ethic of Shane, and even the guidance from Chris Colucci who helped Andrew transition into his position as center. We also get a glimpse into the dynamics of the huddle and some unexpected moments that happen behind the scenes.

Listen in as Andrew shares his thoughts on staying calm under pressure and his passion for lifting weights and playing poker. We’ll also learn about his love for basketball and wrestling. So grab your headphones and get ready to hear the story of Andrew Brian on this exciting episode of Player Profile, on YSN!

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ANOTHER STRONG WIN FOR RESERVE

By Ty Bartell

BERLIN CENTER OH- During fall sports season, Monday nights on the network typically mean non-conference
volleyball matches! As most teams have conference matchups scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays, it leaves open days for teams you do not always get to see square-off, meet on the court. Swing over to Berlin-Center, Ohio and you would have seen a fun matchup between two 10+ win teams with The Western-Reserve Blue Devils hosting in The South Range Raiders! Reserved entered the match 16-1 and current leaders atop of The Mahoning Valley Athletic conference’s (MVAC) Scarlet Division in a first place tie with The Mineral Ridge Rams. While The Raiders were 10-7 and in the middle of the pack of The Northeast 8 (NE8) heading into Monday evening.

The Blue Devils came out in set one with a firm grasp of the momentum while being fed more from the amped-up home crowd! South Range could not get anything going on offense, as Western-Resrve claimed the opening set by an eye-opening score of 25-9! However, The Raiders were not going to be embarrassed and were determined to show more fight in set two. That is exactly what transpired, as South Range battled tooth and nail from the beginning to the end of the set and managed to take set two 25-21, evening the match 1-1.

The match suddenly became a best of three and momentum was back in the air like a jump ball for either team’s taking! The Blue Devils would get back to playing their brand of volleyball in set three as South Range struggled to get rallies going in the set. Reserve would take set three, convincingly, 25-14. Being at home with the advantage, The Devils would play no games in set four. Despite a good fight from The Raiders who were trying to force five, it was Western-Reserve that ,ade the winning plays down the stretch to secure the set 25-18 and the match 3-1!

Angelina Cappabianca was active everywhere in the box score with 10 kills, 7 aces, 5 digs and 2 blocks! Ally Jones, once again, led Reserve in digs with 24. While three different Blue Devils recorded double-doubles, with Haylee Fellows nailing one down with 36 assists and 11 digs and Lisa Eichert recording 12 kills, 16 digs and 3 aces. Alyvia Hughes set herself apart from the others with an outstanding 24 kills and 10 digs, earning the third Western-Reserve double-double in the victory!

The Blue Devils (17-1)(11-1) will get back to conference play with a road matchup against The Springfield Tigers (9-8)(7-5) on Tuesday, October 3rd. South Range (10-8) will stay out of conference when they host The Boardman Spartans (10-6) on Wednesday, October 4th.

SOUTH RANGE CROSS COUNTRY STANDS TALL

CANFIELD, OH- The South Range Boys Cross Country team has been making impressive strides in their 2023 season. In a series of standout performances, they have consistently showcased their talent and determination.

At the Salem Early Bird Invitational, the team started strong, securing a remarkable 1st place victory. Emmitt Slabach took 2nd place, while Chuck Reigrut earned an impressive 4th place finish.

The Walsh Jesuit Invitational proved to be another significant milestone, as the team clinched 2nd place overall. Once again, Emmitt Slabach stood out, finishing in 2nd place, with Chuck Reigrut close behind in 3rd.

The Cardinal Middlefield Invitational saw the team at the top of their game, securing a 1st place victory. Emmitt Slabach continued to shine, capturing 2nd place, while Chuck Reigrut maintained his strong performance with a 4th place finish.

What sets this team apart is their collective effort and teamwork. During their victories at the Salem Early Bird and Cardinal Middlefield Invitationals, the 3 through 6 runners – Max Freeze, Caleb Baun, Cam Ward, and Xavier Winner – displayed remarkable resilience, overtaking opponents down the stretch to secure the victories.

The team also faced stiff competition at the Boardman Invitational, where they secured a 10th place finish. In this event, Chuck Reigrut particularly stood out, finishing an impressive 6th out of 483 runners.

Last weekend, The South Range Boys Cross Country team achieved a remarkable 6th place finish at the highly competitive Madison Invitational, where a total of 32 teams participated. Notably, they emerged as the top DII (Division II) team in the event.

Emmitt Slabach, one of the team’s standout runners, delivered an outstanding performance by securing 1st place in the race. Additionally, Chuck Reigrut displayed his strong running capabilities, finishing in 12th place among a field of 245 boys, further contributing to the team’s impressive overall performance.

With these outstanding performances, the South Range Boys Cross Country team is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with this season. Their dedication and competitive spirit have earned them well-deserved recognition, and they continue to inspire with their achievements on the cross-country course.

KUHNS KEEPS UP FAMILY LEGACY

CANFIELD OH- In the dynamic world of high school volleyball, having an experienced and skilled leader can make all the difference. Sarah Kuhns, the senior setter and captain of the South Range volleyball team, embodies this role to perfection. With a wealth of varsity experience under her belt, Kuhns is the backbone of the team, offering invaluable guidance and expertise to her younger teammates.

Sarah’s journey in the sport began as a freshman, and over the years, she has accumulated an impressive number of varsity sets played, making her a true veteran of the game. Her extensive experience on the court serves as a calming presence for her teammates, especially the freshmen who are navigating the demands of high school volleyball for the first time. There isn’t a situation or challenge that Kuhns hasn’t faced, and her ability to lead by example is a cornerstone of the Raiders’ success.

One of Sarah’s remarkable achievements is her remarkable assist count. With 934 career assists and counting, she is closing in on the monumental 1,000-assist milestone, a testament to her exceptional setting skills. Her junior season, in particular, showcased her growth and impact as she tallied 300 assists, a personal best. As a senior, she’s on track to surpass this impressive record, solidifying her legacy as one of South Range’s premier setters.

Behind every successful athlete, there’s often a strong support system, and for Sarah, that includes her sister Mary. Mary, a former South Range volleyball standout, played a pivotal role in introducing Sarah to the sport. Her influence didn’t stop at the court’s edge; Mary continues to be a wellspring of guidance and advice, both in volleyball and life in general. Mary’s expertise as a libero during her playing years has undoubtedly contributed to Sarah’s development as a leader.

As a senior, Sarah Kuhns and her fellow senior teammates have set their sights on achieving new heights for the South Range volleyball program. With a solid record of 10 wins already in the season, the Raiders are poised for their best performance since 2019, a year when they reached the district championship with 15 wins. Sarah’s leadership, experience, and unwavering commitment to her team’s success make her a driving force in achieving these goals. South Range fans can undoubtedly look forward to an exciting season led by their remarkable captain, Sarah Kuhns.

 

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