Tag Archive for: spartans

WARRIORS PROVE THEY’RE STILL DANGEROUS

By Michael Ginocchi 


Beloit, OH
– The West Branch girls basketball team faced a tough challenge at hand when they Welcomed the red hot 8-2 Boardman Spartans to Beloit. After Boardman led 12-9 at the end of the first, the Warrior defense anchored down allowing zero points in the second quarter. 

 

In the second half, Boardman tried to mount a comeback, but that Warrior defense was too strong. They only allowed 17 total second half points and  created  turnovers to help get some easy points.  In the end, it was an impressive 52-29 win over a very good Boardman team.

 

It was a balanced scoring effort in the win for West Branch. Sophie Gregory led the way with 15 points and Chloe Dennison was just as impressive adding 12. Both players were key contributors on defense. Carter Shepard had a nice showing making all the right plays. She scored 7 points and grabbed some key rebounds. Livvie Showalter also added some needed rebounds throughout the game.

 

Boardman struggled to find its rhythm offensively. They were held to 0 second quarter points and just 17 in the second half. Mackenzie Riccitelli was the only Spartan in double figures with 10 points. Sarah Bero helped out the Spartan offense with 7 points, while Victoria Strines added 5.

 

West Branch improves to 11-2 overall with the win. The Warriors will be back in action on Wednesday at Marlington. Boardman drops to 8-3 with the loss. The Spartans will look to bounce back at Austintown Fitch in a another big AAC contest.

 

SPARTANS COME UP SHY AGAINST MASSILLON

BOARDMAN, OH- In a challenging home matchup, the Boardman boys’ basketball team faced a formidable opponent in Massillon Washington and came up short with a final score of 70-25. The game saw Massillon Washington dominating from the start, leaving Boardman with a tough loss on their home court.

Terrell McDowell led the scoring for the Spartans, contributing 7 points to the team’s total. Jayse Varley followed closely with 5 points, while Grayson Eicher and Jeffrey Markovitch each chipped in with 4 points. Noah Ziak and Vince Butto added 2 points apiece, and Kaden Mayhew rounded out the scoring with a free throw.

Despite the challenging outcome, the Spartans displayed resilience and continued to compete throughout the game. The Massillon Washington team’s strong performance, particularly in the second and third quarters, proved to be a significant factor in the final score.

Looking ahead, Boardman will regroup and turn their focus back to conference play. The Spartans are set to face Austintown in their upcoming game next Tuesday, aiming to bounce back and showcase their competitive spirit in the conference matchups.

BOARDMAN BATTLES WAY TO VICTORY OVER CARDINALS

CANFIELD, OH- In a challenging away game, the Boardman girls’ basketball team showcased their resilience, securing a hard-fought 46-41 victory against the formidable Canfield Cardinals. The win not only elevates their season record to an impressive 8-2 but also marks a successful start to AAC play with a 1-0 record.

Leading the charge for the Spartans was Mackenzie Riccitelli, who delivered an outstanding performance with a game-high 17 points, including two three-pointers and an efficient 5-6 display from the free-throw line. Sam Duble ignited the offense, scoring all 12 of Boardman’s points in a blazing first quarter and finishing with a total of 15 points. Duble’s remarkable 4-of-6 performance from beyond the arc, especially a crucial shot in the fourth quarter, played a pivotal role in securing the lead for the Spartans.

Sarah Bero contributed 7 points and showcased her prowess on the boards, leading the team with 11 rebounds. Bero’s scoring was particularly effective from the free-throw line, where she demonstrated precision by converting 7 of 8 attempts. Ava Freeborough added 5 crucial points, including a pivotal three-pointer in the fourth quarter that helped extend the lead. M.C. Werth rounded out the scoring with 2 points and displayed stellar defense throughout the evening.

Tori Strines, known for her valuable minutes on the court, once again provided a significant contribution for the Spartans. The collective effort, from the players on the bench to the coaching staff, played a vital role in securing the hard-fought victory.

For Canfield, Cami Dill led the scoring with 16, and pulled the Cardinals back into the game in the first half and continuously challenged Boardman’s defense.

With a four-game winning streak under their belt, the Boardman girls’ basketball team is gearing up for another challenge as they hit the road to face the West Branch Warriors on Saturday. As the momentum builds, the Spartans aim to extend their winning streak to five and continue their pursuit of success in the season ahead.

SKIPPERS SAIL PAST SPARTANS

Fairport Harbor, OH- In a high-scoring clash, the Conneaut Spartans faced off against the Fairport Harding Skippers, ultimately succumbing to the Skippers’ offensive prowess. The game unfolded with electrifying plays and impressive individual performances, but the Spartans couldn’t overcome the relentless assault from Fairport Harding.

Quarter 1: Conneaut 13 – Fairport Harding 23

The first quarter saw a fast-paced exchange of baskets, with both teams finding success on the offensive end. However, Fairport Harding managed to create a slight lead, finishing the quarter with a score of 23 to Conneaut’s 13.

Quarter 2: Conneaut 15 – Fairport Harding 19

The second quarter intensified the competition, but Fairport Harding maintained their edge. Conneaut fought hard to close the gap, but the Skippers’ offense proved resilient. At halftime, the Spartans trailed 28-42.

Quarter 3: Conneaut 14 – Fairport Harding 28

The third quarter witnessed an offensive explosion from Fairport Harding. The Skippers extended their lead with an impressive 28 points in the quarter, making it challenging for the Spartans to mount a comeback. Conneaut added 14 points to their total, but the gap widened as Fairport Harding surged ahead.

Quarter 4: Conneaut 24 – Fairport Harding 23

In the final quarter, the Spartans showed resilience, outscoring Fairport Harding. However, the Skippers’ earlier lead proved insurmountable. Conneaut managed to score 24 points in the quarter, but Fairport Harding matched them with 23, securing the victory with a final score of 93-66.

Player Stats:

Conneaut Total Points:

  • Chance Loomis: 33
  • Ryan Turner: 10
  • Jordan Kulko: 15
  • Davonte Harris: 2
  • JR Hutchinson: 5
  • Aiden Goudge: 1

Fairport Harding Total Points:

  • Yomar Castellano: 22
  • Trisitan Doeing: 14
  • James Gadomski: 23
  • Jan Castellano: 8
  • Josh Parsons: 16
  • Michael Hess: 6
  • Kevin Castellano: 2
  • Myles Merchak: 2

Despite the loss, Chance Loomis led the Spartans with an impressive 33 points.

Upcoming Games:

The Conneaut Spartans (3-6) will hit the road to face the Geneva Eagles (7-2) on 1/6/24. Meanwhile, the Fairport Harding Skippers (5-2) will defend their home court against the Mathews Mustangs (7-1) on 1/5/24.

CANFIELD SLOWLY WEARS DOWN THE SPARTANS

CANFIELD OH- Canfield made a statement on Tuesday night as they kicked off conference play by hosting Boardman. In what started as a competitive first half, the Cardinals turned the tide in the second, transforming the game into a runaway victory with a final score of 60-36.

Dom Cruz led the charge for Canfield with an impressive 19-point performance, showcasing his scoring prowess. Ben Weaver added 10 points, while Tony Russo contributed 9 points to the Cardinals’ offensive effort. Jake Delisio and Sam Castronova each chipped in 8 points, underscoring the team’s balanced scoring attack.

Boardman’s Terrell McDowell led their scoring effort with 12 points, while Grayson Eicher added 8 points to the Spartans’ total.

With this win, Canfield advances to a 7-2 record and will carry the momentum into a road matchup against Fitch on Friday as they continue league play. Boardman, now standing at 3-6, looks ahead to a non-conference game at home on Friday against Massillon Washington. The game highlighted Canfield’s ability to control the tempo and execute effectively, setting the stage for both teams as they navigate the challenges of the season.

WARREN JFK GETS THROUGH TEST ON THE ROAD

BOARDMAN OH- Warren JFK faced a formidable challenge on Friday night as they ventured into one of the toughest environments in the area, taking on Boardman. In a tightly contested matchup, JFK emerged victorious, edging out the Spartans 57-52 in a thrilling contest.

Jaden Rishel led the scoring charge for Warren JFK with an impressive 20-point performance, displaying skill and composure on the court. Michael Condoleon contributed significantly with 16 points, while Nick Ryan added 12 points and Nico Ciminero chipped in 9 points to round out the scoring for JFK.

Boardman fought valiantly in front of their home crowd, with Grayson Eicher leading the team with 14 points. Noah Ziak added 12 points, Kaden Mayhew contributed 9 points, and Nico Hozschuli tallied 8 points in a collective effort.

The hard-fought victory propels Warren JFK to an 8-1 record, and they will look to maintain their momentum when they host Badger on Wednesday. Boardman, now standing at 3-5, will hit the road on Tuesday for a matchup against Canfield, seeking to bounce back from a challenging but competitive contest. The game showcased the intensity of high school basketball and sets the stage for both teams as they continue their respective seasons.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/12-29-b-bb-boardman-jfk/12-29-b-bb-boardman-jfk/103EOS1D/

MUSTANGS GALLOP PAST SPARTANS

Orwell, OH- In a thrilling Ashtabula County matchup, the Grand Valley Mustangs showcased their dominance, securing a decisive 83-57 victory over the Conneaut Spartans. The game unfolded with intense action across all four quarters.

  • 1st Quarter: Grand Valley 25, Conneaut 20
  • 2nd Quarter: Grand Valley 19, Conneaut 10
  • 3rd Quarter: Grand Valley 27, Conneaut 14
  • 4th Quarter: Grand Valley 12, Conneaut 13

The standout performance of the night belonged to Jerry Schultz, who not only led the Mustangs with a game-high 31 points but also electrified the crowd with a thunderous slam dunk through traffic in the 2nd quarter. Schultz’s display of athleticism and scoring prowess left spectators in awe and set the tone for the Mustangs’ commanding performance.

The scoring sheet showcased a well-rounded effort from the Grand Valley squad, with significant contributions from key players:

  • Peyton Dryer: 2 points
  • Teagan Fenton: 2 points
  • Bobby Rogers: 17 points
  • Ben Cozad: 9 points
  • Sammy Goforth: 4 points
  • Payton Pligza: 7 points
  • Braden Hart: 11 points

On the opposing side, the Conneaut Spartans fought valiantly, led by Chance Loomis, who delivered an impressive 39-point performance. Despite their efforts, the Spartans couldn’t match the collective strength and strategic gameplay of the Mustangs.

Looking forward, the Grand Valley Mustangs (2-5) are set to defend their home court against the Cardinal Huskies (2-6) on January 6, 2024. The Huskies will be coming off a game against the Mathews Mustangs on January 2, presenting a challenging matchup for both teams. Meanwhile, the Conneaut Spartans (3-4) will hit the road for their next game against the Fairport Harding Skippers (3-2) on January 3, 2024. The Skippers enter the matchup with confidence following a commanding 95-53 win over the Maplewood Rockets.

As the Grand Valley Mustangs savor their well-earned victory, fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming clashes, confident in the team’s ability to build on this success and make waves in the remainder of the season. The electrifying performance against Conneaut has set a high standard for the Mustangs, and they are poised to face future challenges with determination and skill.

RICCITELLI WILLS THE SPARTANS TO VICTORY

CANFIELD OH- In a hard-fought defensive grudge match on the second day of the South Range Holliday Hoops Classic, Boardman showcased resilience and determination, willing their way past Hilliard Davidson with a final score of 29-22.

The game unfolded as a testament to both teams’ defensive prowess, with each possession hotly contested. Boardman, however, found a way to navigate the defensive struggle and secure a crucial victory.

Mackenzie Riccitelli emerged as the offensive force for Boardman, contributing an impressive 22 points and leading the team’s scoring effort. Sarah Bero added 6 points to the tally, providing valuable support in a low-scoring affair.

The win propels Boardman to a 7-2 record, setting the stage for conference play as they hit the road to face Canfield on Wednesday. The victory in this defensive battle highlights Boardman’s versatility and ability to grind out wins in challenging matchups, a valuable asset as they navigate the remainder of their season.

SPARTANS STEAL AND SCORE THEIR WAY TO VICTORY

CANFIELD OH- In a commanding display of skill and tenacity, the Boardman Spartans dominated the court, stealing and scoring their way to an emphatic 54-14 victory over the Struthers Wildcats.

From the opening tip-off, the Spartans set the tone for the game with their relentless defense and swift transitions from steals to scores. The Wildcats struggled to find their rhythm, facing a barrage of pressure from the Boardman squad.

Leading the charge for the Spartans was MacKenzie Riccitelli, who poured in 14 points and pulled down 4 rebounds. Her offensive prowess was complemented by the solid contributions of Sarah Bero, who notched 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Samantha Duble added 9 points to the scoreboard, showcasing the depth of scoring talent on the Spartans’ roster. Tori Strines chipped in with 7 points and 3 rebounds, further solidifying Boardman’s dominance in both ends of the court.

On the opposing side, the Wildcats fought valiantly, with Emma Morris leading their scoring efforts with 9 points and contributing 3 rebounds. However, the Spartans’ commanding defense limited the Wildcats’ offensive opportunities, stifling their ability to mount a comeback.

With this win, Boardman improved their season record to 6-2 and is set to face Hilliard Davidson (5-4) on Friday, December 29th, in the second day of the 6th annual South Range Holiday Hoops Classic. Meanwhile, Struthers, now standing at 1-7, will also be featured on day two as they open the day against the Garrettsville Garfield Lady G-Men (1-5). Stay updated with The South Range Holiday Hoops Classic with live games, scores, stats, stories and more on YSN!

LADY SPARTANS BOUNCE BACK IN A BIG WAY

BOARDMAN, OH- On a day when Mackenzie Riccitelli blew out 18 candles on her birthday cake, she and her teammates blew out Tallmadge on the scoreboard.  The Boardman girls’ basketball team showcased resilience and determination, securing a commanding 52-38 victory on Friday night. The game unfolded as a back-and-forth battle, with the Spartans overcoming halftime challenges to outscore the Blue Devils 22-5 in the final quarter, ultimately sealing a 14-point triumph.

The win served as a strong rebound for Boardman, coming off a tough loss to Aurora just days prior. With this victory, the Spartans improved their record to an impressive 5-2, while Tallmadge dropped to 6-3.

Mackenzie Riccitelli emerged as the star of the game, delivering a phenomenal performance with a game-high and career-high 28 points, showcasing precision from the free-throw line with a perfect 10-10 record. Riccitelli’s impact extended beyond scoring, contributing 7 rebounds and 4 steals. Ava Freeborough added 8 crucial points, including a pivotal three-pointer in the fourth quarter that helped solidify Boardman’s lead.

Despite facing foul trouble, Sarah Bero displayed resilience, finishing with 7 points and 5 rebounds. Tori Strines, coming off the bench, made a significant contribution with a key three-pointer in the first half. Sam Duble, M.C. Werth, and Mikayla Rivera each added 2 points to the tally, with Werth’s noteworthy hustle play late in the game earning an extra possession for the Spartans.

Boardman’s success at the free-throw line was a highlight, boasting an impressive 18-22 record in the game. The girls look ahead to their next challenge, returning to action in the South Range Holiday Classic next Thursday, where they are set to face the Struthers Wildcats.