Tag Archive for: softball family

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

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CANFIELD OH- In a recent episode of the YSN Live podcast, co-hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig sat down with South Range standout Heidi Bartels to discuss her journey as one of the team’s most versatile and valued players. Bartels, who has made a name for herself filling in at multiple positions and consistently contributing at the plate, credits her positive attitude and close-knit teammates for her success.

Bartels, praised as a “great teammate” by her coaches and podcast hosts alike, described how moving around the softball field has been second nature since she was young. “It’s really easy to help out my team when I have such great teammates,” Bartels shared. “It’s just really exciting to know that my coaches and teammates have enough faith in me that I’m able to do so.” Despite the challenging nature of softball, where even the best players encounter setbacks, Bartels’ trademark positivity rarely falters. She attributes this to the strong support system within the dugout. “They are always there to pick me up whenever I’m down or struggling,” she said.

A standout moment this season came during a critical game against Triway, where Bartels’ bat set the tone for her teammates. Yet, when asked about her contributions, Bartels is quick to highlight the influence of the seniors and especially her older sister Gretchen, a former South Range player now in college. “It’s kind of sad because I loved playing with Gretchen,” she admitted, “but she’s off in college doing great things.” Bartels’ family spirit is a defining element both on and off the field, fueling a friendly rivalry with her siblings centered around their hitting coach and a coveted bag of High Chews candy. Beyond her immediate family, Bartels notes how her father is always in the stands, recording her games and offering unwavering support. “I always know that they’re cheering me on no matter what,” she said.

When it comes to leadership, Bartels insists that being a good teammate matters far more than individual statistics. “At the end of the day, softball is just a game,” she explained. “I don’t ever want to be the type of teammate that girls don’t want to go to practice because I’m there.” Reflecting on the adversity the Raiders have faced this season—both on the field and with their coach, Mr. Farron, dealing with personal challenges—Bartels remarked how the team grew stronger together. The community’s support was evident during a spaghetti dinner fundraiser, an event Bartels called “super exciting” and a possible turning point in the season. As the team heads deeper into postseason play, Bartels remains confident in the resilience of the Raiders. “Our coaches never stopped believing in us,” she said. With her unwavering attitude and versatile skills, Heidi Bartels continues to be an essential part of South Range’s softball success story.

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HAVE YOU HEARD THE WARD?

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BOARDMAN, OH — The Boardman Lady Spartans softball team enjoyed a storybook season, capped off with an All-American Conference (AAC) championship, thanks in no small part to the leadership and talent of standout third baseman Alex Ward.

Ward, a key player since her sophomore year, sat down with the YSN Live podcast to reflect on the journey. “We definitely felt like underdogs,” she admitted. “It’s just really proving, you know, we proved ourselves… people are really now finding out that you can’t sleep on us.” The Spartans clinched the AAC title in definitive fashion, including a crucial run-rule victory over perennial rival Canfield that Ward called a “statement” win. She attributed the team’s success to unity, humility, and hard work, crediting Coach Fred Moots—named Conference Coach of the Year—for setting the tone. “He’s a great leader. He’s always the first one to text us… looking into ways we can get better,” Ward shared.

Ward’s growth hasn’t just been on the field, but in the dugout as well. She emphasized her role as a vocal leader and team motivator: “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized being a better teammate is more important sometimes… I’d rather be known for being the best teammate, always cheering, always making sure everyone’s having fun.” Known for her fearless play at third base—often without a facemask, to her mother’s concern—Ward will take her talents to Otterbein University next year. Thanks to the strong community in Boardman and support from her coaches, teammates, and family, she graduates leaving a legacy both on and off the diamond. “We couldn’t do it without everyone else,” Ward reflected. “Our school and the Boardman community really care about this team, and we really care about them.” The Lady Spartans’ run and Ward’s contributions exemplify what makes Boardman softball a force to be reckoned with, now and in the seasons to come.

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CITY ON THE HILL

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JEFFERSON OH-  Jefferson senior Allie Hill is preparing to take her next big leap, both academically and athletically, as the standout Falcon readies for graduation and a future playing softball at the University of Rio Grande.

In a recent interview with YSN, Hill opened up about the emotional landscape of her final season, the tight bonds she’s formed with teammates, and the support system that’s fueled her journey. “It’s hard, but I just try to think about what I’m leaving behind,” Hill shared, reflecting on her senior year. She credits a tight-knit, family-like atmosphere on her team for making this year especially meaningful, saying, “We have a very good team this year. Not even skill-wise, just personalities—we’re a big, big family.” Throughout her rise from Jefferson’s local fields to the broader competition in travel ball, Hill’s passion has always been about uplifting others: “Sometimes I feel like I treasure their success more than I treasure mine. I just like supporting people and inspiring them to do better and stay positive.”

Hill’s journey has always been a family affair. Inspired by her sister to pick up the sport, and supported every step of the way by her parents, she credits them with pushing her to seize every opportunity. “Both of my parents, they take me as far as they can to try to get me the best opportunities they can,” she said. Next fall, Hill will head south to Rio Grande in Ohio, where she plans to play softball and major in business and accounting—hoping to one day help her father’s future business. She’s looking forward to the close-knit feel on campus and finding a familiar sense of home there. As she prepares to leave Jefferson behind, Hill has some simple advice for underclassmen: “Just try your best to have fun. Having fun is the most important thing. And supporting your teammates, having each other’s backs—being a family.” With a legacy of positivity and teamwork, Allie Hill is leaving her mark on Jefferson softball—and is ready for whatever comes next.

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