Tag Archive for: SOUTH RANGE

David Rach, South Range

SOUTH RANGE FOOTBALL COACH S CORNER EP 12 WITH DAVID RACH

CANFIELD, OH- In the latest episode of “YSN’s South Range Football Coach’s Corner,”  DJ Yokley sits down with head football coach of the South Range Raiders, David Rach. With the theme of Thanksgiving in the air, the conversation takes an interesting turn as the two engage in a fantasy Thanksgiving draft, selecting their favorite holiday dishes.

Coach Rach surprises with his first pick, going for buttered noodles with gravy as his top choice. Meanwhile, DJ opts for a crowd favorite, fried turkey, as his first overall pick. The draft continues with Rach selecting deviled eggs and pickled eggs, emphasizing his love for unique and traditional holiday dishes. Yokley counters with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, adding a classic touch to his team.

As the draft progresses, Coach Rach shocks Rach with his fifth and final pick, choosing rolls or biscuits over popular options like green bean casserole. The selection leaves DJ amused, questioning Rock’s vegetable intake.

Amidst the lighthearted draft, Coach Rach reflects on his first year coaching the South Range Raiders. He expresses the immense pride he feels for his team’s efforts and the love and belief they have for each other, citing it as the most rewarding aspect of being a head coach.

The conversation takes a brief detour as DJ challenges Coach Rock to explain the controversial rule of a forward fumble, particularly on fourth down. While the coach admits to his lack of knowledge on the specifics, he recalls an encounter with officials explaining that it is not a rule exclusive to high school football.

With the podcast episode coming to a close, Coach Rach gears up for the upcoming game against the Perry Pirates. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the team’s high standards and executing their three-phase approach to secure victory. Additionally, the coach acknowledges the challenges they may face against a tough opponent like Perry but reinforces his belief in the South Range Raiders’ abilities.

Overall, the conversation provides insight into Coach Rach’s mindset and the South Range Raiders’ season journey. With reflective moments, humorous exchanges, and football-related discussions, this episode of “YSN’s South Range Football Coach’s Corner” offers a well-rounded perspective on the team’s dynamics and aspirations.

Be sure to tune in to the next episode for more updates and interviews with South Range football players and coaches. The competition heats up as the Raiders face off against the Perry Pirates in an exciting clash. Stay connected with YSN for all the latest South Range football updates.

 

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HEEEEEEEEEATH!

CANFIELD, OH-  South Range Raiders’ junior tight end, Heath Crouse, opened up about his experience playing for the esteemed high school football team and the impact of having a successful older brother, JD Crouse, who also excelled in the same position.

Crouse humbly expressed his admiration for his brother, stating that being in JD’s shadow is an honor as he has been an invaluable mentor and role model. He credits JD for helping him improve as a player and as a person. The tight-knit Crouse family has instilled in him a sense of greatness and the drive to always give his best, whether on the field or in his daily life.

The interview also highlighted Heath Crouse’s dedication to his craft. He emphasized the importance of hitting the weight room, improving his footwork and hand-eye coordination, and always pushing himself to the limit. Taking inspiration from his brother’s work ethic, Crouse aims to surpass JD’s accomplishments, continually striving to be better.

When asked about the differences between him and his brother on the field, Crouse acknowledged JD’s superior catching ability but emphasized his own strengths in terms of footwork. Additionally, Heath claimed to have better academic grades, while JD’s humor and storytelling skills took the crown.

The South Range Raider expressed his gratitude for the close-knit community and the strong bonds formed within the team. He attributes their success to the chemistry they share, branding it as a key factor that sets them apart.

Off the field, Heath looks up to his parents and JD as his role models. Their unwavering support and guidance have shaped him into the person he is today. Among his parents’ and brother’s qualities, he admires their knowledge and their ability to push him to become a better individual.

Heath Crouse also delved into his personal life, revealing his interest in cooking. He mentioned that being more like his father in terms of his strong work ethic, and his mother in terms of culinary skills, has played a significant role in shaping his character.

The YSN podcast interview provided insight into the life of Heath Crouse and shed light on his journey as a South Range Raider. With his dedication and the support of his family, teammates, and community, Heath Crouse is poised for continued success on the football field and beyond.

 

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RAISING RAIDERS

CANFIELD, OH- A football mom’s love for her son transcends the boundaries of the playing field, creating a truly special and enduring relationship. From the early days of flag football to the roaring crowds of high school games, a mother’s support is unwavering. The bond between a football mom and her son is forged through countless hours of practice, shared victories, and the occasional defeat. In the stands, she becomes his biggest cheerleader, celebrating each touchdown as if it were a personal triumph, and every tackle as a testament to his strength and resilience.

As her son navigates the challenges of the game, a football mom becomes a pillar of strength and a source of inspiration. Through the ups and downs of the season, she remains a constant source of encouragement, offering words of wisdom and comfort during difficult moments. The late-night practices, early morning games, and the sacrifices made for the love of the sport only deepen the connection between mother and son. It’s a relationship built on a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and a shared passion for the game that extends far beyond the gridiron.

The specialness of the football mom-son relationship lies not only in the shared love for the sport but in the life lessons learned along the way. It’s a bond that fosters resilience, perseverance, and teamwork. Beyond the wins and losses, the football mom is there to witness her son grow into a dedicated athlete, a compassionate teammate, and, most importantly, a young man who carries the values instilled by his biggest fan – his mother – into every aspect of his life.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Kristen (Brady) Crumbacher and Shannan (Gus) Valentine and their sons to discuss what makes this time of year so special- especially being a senior parent.

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SECOND HALF SURGE PROPELS RANGE TO REMATCH

BARBERTON, OH- What started out as a nail-biter for South Range fans turned out to be old hat for the burgundy and gold.  In a high-scoring showdown, the South Range Raiders showcased their offensive prowess, securing a commanding 48-21 victory over Clearview. The game, filled with explosive plays and impressive drives, unfolded in favor of South Range, leaving Clearview struggling to keep up.

Clearview set the tone in the first quarter, with quarterback Ty Christensen connecting with wide receiver Malcolm Lane for a 17-yard touchdown reception at 3:53. The extra point attempt was unsuccessful, but Clearview took an early 6-0 lead.

The second quarter witnessed a surge from South Range as running back Aidan Dominguez rushed for a 9-yard touchdown at 5:08. Logan Butcher’s successful extra point put South Range on the scoreboard. Clearview, however, swiftly answered with Christensen finding Ethan Lorenzana for a 38-yard touchdown reception at 3:08. The extra point by Ty Pinto extended Clearview’s lead to 13-7.

Determined to take control, South Range’s Dominguez scored his second rushing touchdown of the night, a 4-yard run, tying the game at 14-14. The first half concluded with the teams deadlocked, setting the stage for an intense second half.

South Range unleashed a barrage of touchdowns in the third quarter. Blake Ewert powered through for a 1-yard rushing touchdown at 9:56, followed by Dominguez’s 1-yard run at 6:07. Quarterback Tristan Toy connected with Brady Crumbacher for a 14-yard touchdown reception at 0:26. The relentless Logan Butcher added the extra points, propelling South Range to a commanding 35-14 lead by the end of the third quarter.

The final quarter saw South Range extending their lead even further. Tristan Toy sprinted for an impressive 62-yard rushing touchdown at 10:51. Shortly after, Dylan Smesko added another touchdown with a 28-yard rushing run at 7:48. Butcher’s consistent accuracy on extra points continued.

Clearview fought back with a 6-yard rushing touchdown by Ethan Lorenzana at 2:12, and Ayden Cruz successfully converted a 3-yard 2-point reception at 1:56. However, South Range’s substantial lead proved insurmountable.

The game concluded with South Range emerging victorious at 48-21. The Raiders’ dynamic offense, led by impressive performances from Aidan Dominguez, Blake Ewert, and Tristan Toy, proved too much for Clearview to handle, especially in the second half.

The Raiders racked up 454 yards of offense including six rushing touchdowns and a score through the air.  Tristan Toy went 7/13 for 138 yards with a TD and two picks, and ran for 109 yards and a score as well.  Blake Ewert ran the ball 18 times for 91 yards and a touchdown.  Aidan Dominguez carried the rock 8 times for 46 yards and three scores, and had a pick on defense.  Dyland Smesko had seven carries and 78 yards and an incredible touchdown that showcased the heart of the junior running back.  Brady Crumbacher continued his unbelievable senior campaign with jaw-dropping returns on special teams, and took the lid off the Clipper defense through the air with a pair of catches for 35 yards and a TD.  Gaven Nagy had a highlight reel catch as well setting up the Raiders in scoring position, and finished the game with 4 catches and 70 yards.

Defensively, Aidan Dominguez had the Clippers on lockdown with seven tackles, and a pick.  Nagy and Toy had five tackles apiece, and Toy added an interception to his ledger.  Luke Starkey had an interception as well, and contributed a pair of tackles.  Jimmy Powell also put his mark on the game with a quartet of stops for the Raiders.

The Raiders now head to the Regional Finals again to set up a rematch with the Perry Pirates who met in the 2022 Regional Finals where South Range won 48-21.

SOUTH RANGE GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH JEFF FISHEL

CANFIELD OH- South Range will always be formidable in girls basketball, or least that is how it has seemed the last decade.  The Raiders have been to 5 regional tournaments since 2013.  Head coach Jeff Fishel has seen them go to the Regional Finals twice under his coaching.  That’s why a season like last year, which some programs would love to have, was considered a “down year” for the Raiders.  Coach Fishel took it in and put together what he calls the best off season his program has had so far.  There’s a lot of reasons to be excited for the Raiders season, and we have you covered with a preview.

Anthony Hartwig and Ty Bartell sat down with coach Fishel to see what the season will have in store. They talk about the program’s culture, the leaders of the squad, and so much more. Check out Episode 1 of Coach’s Corner with Jeff Fishel only on YSN.

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DEDICATED TO THE DEDICATED

CANFIELD, OH- As a part of three generations of South Range Raiders Scott Valentine said it best when he delivered “I’m sure Coach has spent more time in those four walls since it was built than he has at his own dinner table and we couldn’t think of a better building to bear their names.” when talking about Dan Yeagley on Thursday night.

Former players were tasked with raising funds for the signage and dedication of the appropriately named “Dan & Kelli Yeagley Field House” and teams from 1996 through 2023 were listed as donors to the cause and facilitated by Nick Toy and getting players of different generations involved and the vision of Randy Dominguez, said Valentine.

 

Yeagley, who had coached his alma mater since 1995 accrued an overall coaching record of 248-75 in his 28 years at the helm.  Coach Yeagley also helped guide the Raiders to 13 conference championships, 3 regional titles, and the crown jewel 2022 State Championship.

All of that would not have been possible without the love and support of Dan’s loving wife, and best friend, Kelli – who endured the roller coaster ride that is being a coach’s wife for every step of the way.  South Range, and the community that makes it knew it was only fitting to show gratitude for her sacrifices along the way.

“Kelli and I have been blessed with great players throughout the years, and great friends, and even more great coaches- and I can’t thank you enough.  This is such an honor, it really is- remember what it stands for: preparation, commitment, dedication, hard work, and remember it stands for sacrifices” said Yeagley.

The Raiders take on Clearview on Friday night in the Regional Semi-Finals, where Coach Yeagley and Kelli have sideline passes to cheer on their favorite team.

 

SOUTH RANGE BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WUTH PAT CARDEN

In the dawn of a new era, South Range is buzzing with anticipation under the guidance of first-year head coach, Pat Carden. Following a triumphant 2022-23 season where the Raiders clinched the NE8 title for the first time, the team is poised for even greater success.

With a roster brimming with returning talent, expectations are sky-high for South Range. Dive into the promising journey ahead with Episode 1 of Coach’s Corner, as Coach Pat Carden lays out the game plan for the Raiders’ pursuit of excellence with Anthony Hartwig and Ty Bartell, and exclusively on YSN!

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SOUTH RANGE DECOMMISSIONS GENERALS

CANFIELD, OH-In a highly-anticipated second-round matchup in the OHSAA Football Playoffs, the South Range Raiders clashed with the Ridgewood Generals at a packed Rominger stadium, and the Raiders left no room for doubt in a commanding 35-0 victory.

The scoring began with a bang as the Raiders’ Blake Ewert showcased his explosiveness, breaking through the Ridgewood defense with a remarkable 49-yard rushing touchdown. Just two minutes into the game, the South Range crowd erupted with excitement as they took an early 7-0 lead, courtesy of Logan Butcher’s extra point.

South Range continued to dominate in the second quarter. Ewert added to his impressive night with a 5-yard rushing touchdown, followed by another successful extra point from Logan Butcher. The score surged to 14-0 in favor of the Raiders. The relentless South Range offense struck again with Aidan Dominguez finding the end zone with a 3-yard rushing touchdown. Butcher was once again clutch with the extra point, extending the lead to 21-0.

The Raiders were not finished yet, with Junior QB, Tristan Toy connecting with Brady Crumbacher for a 13-yard touchdown reception, capping off a brilliant drive. Butcher’s extra point was money yet again, and the halftime score stood at an imposing 28-0 in favor of South Range.

Following an outstanding halftime show, the third quarter saw South Range maintain their offensive prowess. Tristan Toy demonstrated his quarterbacking skills with a 21-yard touchdown pass to Aidan Dominguez. Butcher continued to be a reliable force with the extra point, and the scoreboard read 35-0.

The fourth quarter went scoreless, as South Range’s defense continued to stifle Ridgewood, denying them any opportunity to mount a comeback, and ending the Generals’ season in Week 12.

The game’s outcome was a testament to South Range’s offensive prowess and defensive resilience. Blake Ewert’s explosive rushing night finished with 149 yards and two scores on 18 carries, combined with Logan Butcher’s accuracy on extra points 5/5, allowed the Raiders to take control early and maintain their momentum throughout. The passing game, led by Tristan Toy’s pinpoint accuracy going 6/7 for 79 yards through the air while rushing for 81 yards, was equally impressive, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive attack.

Defensively Brady Crumbacher was the leading play-stopper with 7 tackles.  Kam Aquisto had four stops, and Gus Valentine, Heath Crouse, and Dylan Smesko clogged up things for a trio of solo tackles apiece.

With the victory, South Range will take on Clearview who upset Norwayne 19-16 on Friday night at a site to be determined by the OHSAA.  Stay tuned to YSN for all the details of that matchup and many more.

 

BY AIR, BY LAND, OR BY SEESHOLTZ

CANFIELD, OH-  Tyson Seesholtz, who moved to South Range during his freshman year, spoke highly of the tight-knit community and the support he received from the residents. He emphasized the caring nature and unity within the community, which he believes sets South Range apart from other places he has lived.

As a wrestler and football player, Seesholtz showcased his talent and dedication. Last year, as a freshman, he made a name for himself in wrestling, and this year, he is gearing up for a successful football season. Despite his young age, Seesholtz remains unfazed by the prospect of facing older, more experienced opponents. His years of wrestling have prepared him to take on any challenge, regardless of age, height, or weight.

When asked about the connection between wrestling and football, Seesholtz attributed the success of wrestlers in football, particularly on the line, to their relentless work ethic and strong hand fighting skills. These qualities translate well into football, allowing wrestlers to excel in positions that require sags, tackles for loss, and overall dominance on the field.

While Seesholtz is making waves in the sports arena, he also excels in his academics. He expressed a passion for science, stating that it comes naturally to him, especially when compared to his core subjects. Seesholtz’s love for science has sparked an interest in pursuing an engineering degree or cybersecurity in college.

Influenced by his supportive family, Seesholtz emphasized the importance of his parents and their unwavering support throughout his athletic and academic journey. He particularly acknowledged his father’s character of spending quality time together, as countless car rides to and from wrestling tournaments and practices have made a significant impact on his life. Seesholtz also expressed gratitude for his mother’s emotional support and comforting presence.

Looking ahead, Seesholtz has big aspirations for his future. Alongside his athletic ambitions, he hopes to pursue higher education at a collegiate level, with a preference for Division I schools. With his interest in engineering and cybersecurity, Seesholtz aims to make a mark in these fields, inspired by his cousin who introduced him to the world of cybersecurity.

Lastly, Seesholtz aims to leave a lasting legacy of hard work and determination. He hopes that young athletes, like his former wrestling coach, will remember him for his perseverance and the belief that one should never give up, but rather, keep pushing forward.

Tyson Seesholtz is already making waves in both wrestling and football, and his dedication to excellence both on and off the field is setting him on a path for success. South Range High School and its community are proud to have an inspiring athlete like Seesholtz representing them.

 

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David Rach, South Range

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

CANFIELD, OH-  Having clinched the NEA (Northeast Athletic Conference) title in their first year, Coach Rach expressed his pride in the hard work and consistency of his players. The seniors, in particular, have an impressive record of 27-0 against Northeast State throughout their careers. The coach acknowledged the challenges of winning football games and commended his team’s relentless dedication.

Transitioning from his role as defensive coordinator to head coach, Coach Rach admitted that the experience has been different. He credits his capable staff for providing support and allowing him to focus on other aspects of coaching. However, he also acknowledged the learning curve in managing the team and ensuring he strikes the right balance between guidance and giving his coaches the freedom they need.

As the South Range Raiders move from the regular season to the playoffs, Coach Rach acknowledged the different dynamic they face when preparing for unfamiliar opponents. He acknowledged the excitement and unpredictability that comes with facing teams they haven’t encountered before. The team is working diligently in the film room to be prepared for any challenges that their upcoming opponent, Fearless, may present.

Despite the underdog status, Coach Rach highlighted the team’s drive to improve and emphasized that they will take each game as an opportunity to grow. He spoke about the importance of continuous improvement throughout the playoffs and the need to address any weaknesses that persisted during the regular season.

When asked about the difference in preparation for the postseason compared to the regular season, Coach Rach noted that the need for thoroughness becomes even more significant. With unfamiliar opponents, the team must be ready to face anything thrown their way. He mentioned the challenge of acquiring limited films on opponents, leading them to search for additional resources such as YouTube to gain insights.

In a light-hearted moment during the podcast, Coach Rach engaged in a Rock, Paper, Scissors match with the podcast host. The stakes were set high, with the winner gaining the right to ask a question.

As the South Range Raiders gear up for their postseason pursuits, Coach Rach and his players are eager to continue their winning streak. Their remarkable achievements this season, coupled with their dedication to improvement, promise an exciting postseason for the team and their devoted fans.

 

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