Tag Archive for: support system

ALWAYS KEEPING IT COOL

/in /by

YOUNGSTOWN OH- In the world of high school softball, few names resonate as strongly as Katie Koulianos. A standout player for Ursuline High School, Koulianos is preparing to take her talents to the collegiate level at Otterbein University in Columbus, Ohio. In a recent interview on the YSN Live podcast, Koulianos spoke candidly about her impressive dedication to the sport. With a daily routine that starts at 4:30 a.m. and includes rigorous workouts, Koulianos credits her commitment and discipline as key factors in her success. “I always make sure to work on something I need to improve,” she shared.

Reflecting on her time at Ursuline, Koulianos highlighted the unique team dynamic this season, with only two seniors on the roster. “We’re looking forward to the underclassmen stepping up. We have so much talent, and we’re eager to see it continue throughout the season,” she expressed. Koulianos will soon trade Ursuline’s green and gold for Otterbein’s colors and has her sights set on excelling both on and off the softball field. As she anticipates joining Coach Anderson’s team, Koulianos values the personal connections she’s already built during her visits. “I love the area, the team, and the coaches,” she mentioned with enthusiasm.

As Koulianos wraps up her high school career, she looks forward to making a lasting impact on her teammates and cherishing every moment on the field. With plans to pursue a degree in business and eventually enter the field of medical sales, Koulianos is poised to continue her pursuit of excellence far beyond the diamond. YSN podcast hosts Anthony Hartwig and DJ Yokley praised Koulianos for her hard work and the inspiring legacy she leaves at Ursuline. It’s clear that for Katie Koulianos, the future is as bright as her illustrious career thus far.

Presented By:

WYLLIE COYOTE

/in /by

MINERAL RIDGE OH- Mineral Ridge’s senior softball standout, Sydney Wyllie, recently shared her thoughts on the upcoming season and her journey through the sport in a recent interview with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig. As she prepares for her final year on the team, Wyllie reflects on the emotions that come with senior season and the unique leadership position she finds herself in.

Throughout the interview, Wyllie emphasized the strong bond she shares with her teammates and the sense of camaraderie they’ve built over the years. The group of senior leaders, including Wyllie, has developed a supportive environment that helps underclassmen grow both on and off the field. “It’s just super awesome to be out there with my teammates, even if it is for the last season,” she remarked. Wyllie, who plays in the outfield and is known for her skills as a slapper, passionately discussed her approach to the sport. Her dedication is evident in the way she strives to be a dependable leader and an inspiring role model, especially for the fresh faces on the team. Recalling the guidance she received as a freshman from older players, she now hopes to pass on her knowledge and enthusiasm to the younger members of the team.

Off the field, Wyllie has her sights set on an academic future. While undecided between attending the University of Cincinnati or Ohio State, she plans to major in architecture, merging her love for art and academics into her career path. As Wyllie anticipates graduation and the transition to college, she carries with her not only cherished memories from softball but also the leadership skills and friendships that have shaped her high school experience. The season ahead is sure to be emotional, yet full of opportunities for Sydney Wyllie to leave her mark on Mineral Ridge softball.

Presented By:

MEROLILLO MAKING HER FINAL IMPACT

/in /by

MINERAL RIDGE OH- Mineral Ridge senior and softball pitcher Lily Merolillo navigates through an emotional senior season, cherishing her final games with lifelong teammates while preparing for a bright future. Reflecting on her last high school season, Merolillo shared the challenge of handling “all the lasts” that accompany senior year. The close bond with her teammates, described as a second family, adds to the bittersweet nature of her final season. Continuously striving for improvement, she remains committed to extra practice, exemplifying her dedication both on and off the field.

Merolillo, who fell in love with softball at a young age, continues to embrace the pressure and responsibility that comes with pitching. Her confidence is bolstered by the team’s solid defense and her belief in the importance of lifting each other up. Despite the difficulty of parting from familiar faces, including her father who co-head coaches the team, Merolillo is excited for the future. Committed to Teal College, she plans to major in exercise science while continuing her softball career. This season, Mineral Ridge faces a challenging schedule, testing the squad’s skills against formidable opponents like Boardman. Merolillo is optimistic about their prospects, invigorated by the prospect of one last successful run with her team.

With her sights set on leaving a lasting legacy of support and teamwork, Merolillo prepares to transition from an accomplished high school athlete to a promising college player, her journey fueled by family, coaches, and a supportive community.

Presented By:

WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 10) FEATURING REGHAN KOCH

/in /by

AUSTINTOWN OH- Reghan Koch, a formidable freshman wrestler at Austintown Fitch, has quickly made a name for herself in Ohio’s wrestling circuit. Recently interviewed on the YSN Live podcast, Reghan discussed her exceptional performance at the district tournament and her preparation for the state tournament.

Winning as a freshman can be daunting, but Reghan’s resolve and talent shone brightly. She achieved district champion status, marking Fitch’s dramatic improvement from 34th place last year to a top contender this season. Koch attributes much of this success to the unity and intrinsic drive among her teammates, propelled by their coaches’ motivating spirit. Reghan’s journey began in the sixth grade, inspired by her younger brother’s wrestling. Despite initial doubts about the sport, she found herself thriving on the mat, eventually overcoming knee surgery to return stronger than ever. Her resilience has not only been a personal milestone but has also set a high bar for her freshmen peers.

When discussing her preparation and mindset for the state tournament, Reghan emphasized staying grounded. She approaches each match ready to give her all, setting ambitious goals without losing sight of the basics. Her experiences on the Green Machine team provided a solid foundation that she continues to build upon. Reghan also spoke about her passion for capturing moments with her camera. Her keen eye for photography allows her to document the raw emotions and intensity of wrestling, providing a unique lens through which her teammates and the sport itself can be appreciated. Looking forward, Reghan remains focused on seizing opportunities to compete at higher levels, including ambitions to wrestle at national tournaments like Fargo. As she stands ready to represent Austintown Fitch at the state level, Reghan Koch embodies the spirit of determination and excellence, marking the beginning of what promises to be a stellar wrestling career.

Presented By:

THE COMEBACK WILL BE STRONGER THAN THE SETBACK

/in /by

WARREN, OH-In a recent episode of YSN Live, host DJ Yokley sat down with Didi Ryan, an extraordinary student-athlete from John F. Kennedy High School, to discuss her remarkable journey of resilience and determination. Known for her impressive skills in soccer and basketball, Didi has captivated many with her character and relentless spirit.

A significant challenge arose when she suffered a complete ACL tear during a basketball game. Despite the injury, Didi’s mindset remains positive. “To me, this is not a setback,” she shared, viewing it as a test from God to make her stronger. Demonstrating maturity beyond her years, she emphasized the importance of mental strength and patience in her recovery process.

Throughout the interview, DJ Yokley highlighted Didi’s competitive nature and her unwavering support from the JFK community and her family. With a recovery timeline of six to eight months, Didi is determined not to rush her return. Her focus is on fully regaining her strength and ensuring she’s ready to shine again.

This challenging period has only deepened her gratitude for her family and friends, who have rallied around her with unconditional support. “The support has been literally endless,” she expressed, recognizing the outpouring of encouragement she’s received.

As she looks to the future, Didi is motivated to come back stronger, embracing her role as a positive influence on young athletes who admire her both on and off the field. Her resilience serves as an inspiration, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence in all aspects of life.

PRESENTED BY

HAWK EYE VIEW

/in /by

BELOIT OH- West Branch’s girls basketball team continues to make waves as they navigate another successful season, with senior standout Mati Hawk leading the charge. In a recent interview on YSN, Hawk opened up about her senior year, both the challenges and triumphs, showcasing her leadership role on and off the court.

Despite losing a significant senior class last year, West Branch has surged ahead, proving doubters wrong. “Everyone was doubting us, so we had to come out and work hard,” Hawk shared. Her commitment to enhancing her performance, particularly in shooting, has translated into tangible success, as she notes improvements in her three-point and free throw capabilities. While the West Branch offense impresses, it is their formidable defense that turns heads. Known for their stringent man-to-man strategy, the team has consistently kept opponents’ scores low. Hawk reflected on their defensive prowess, emphasizing the group’s collective determination: “We all work together and know we have each other’s backs.”

Beyond basketball, Hawk prepares for a seamless transition into softball, demonstrating her versatility as a multi-sport athlete. As she looks ahead to graduation, Hawk plans to attend Youngstown State University to study business management. Yet, for now, her focus remains on savoring her remaining time in high school athletics. In her heartfelt acknowledgments, Hawk expressed gratitude towards her parents, coaches, and friends, underscoring the supportive network that surrounds her. As West Branch eyes another district championship, the journey continues with Hawk as a central figure, embodying resilience and ambition.

Presented By:

KEEP TRYING TO STOP TRIVERI

/in /by

CANFIELD OH- In a recent episode of YSN Live, hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig highlighted the remarkable journey of Jenna Triveri, an AAC Player of the Year and state champion athlete. Known for her impressive performances across various sports, Jenna has become a standout figure in the athletic community.

Despite the challenges of balancing sports with academics, Jenna’s dedication has shone through. “I love younger girls can look up to me. I love how even the seniors can count on me,” Jenna shared during the podcast. Her leadership has been pivotal in driving the success of her team, particularly in defense, as she credits both her teammates and rigorous personal preparation for their success. Jenna’s leadership, forged through experiences from her freshman year, has seen her becoming a role model for her juniors. “I just want to be that person to all the younger girls,” she explained, emphasizing the value of being a guide and mentor.

Off the court, Jenna’s resilience, particularly from past injuries, has been a testament to her character. Turning to faith and family for support, Jenna has exemplified how to navigate adversity. “I put a lot of trust in God to let him to guide me,” she stated. The Triveri name, synonymous with excellence, earns another feather with Jenna’s achievements. While she humorously claims herself as the best athlete in her competitive family, Jenna’s legacy is more about inspiring the next generation through her relentless work ethic and positive influence. As she continues to pursue her goals, including a potential state championship in basketball, Jenna Triveri remains committed to leaving a lasting impact. Her journey is a beacon for aspiring athletes, underscoring the importance of hard work, leadership, and community support in achieving greatness.

Presented By:

THIRD TIMES THE CHARM FOR BUCEY

/in /by

COLUMBIANA OH- In a recent YSN Player Profile, host Anthony Hartwig sat down with Crestview Junior and pivotal basketball player, Ava Bucey. During the engaging dialogue, Ava candidly shared her journey through multiple injuries and how they have shaped her basketball career and personal growth.

Ava recounted the significant challenges she faced after suffering an ACL and meniscus tear in seventh grade, followed by a meniscus re-tear in her sophomore year. Despite these adversities and more minor setbacks along the way, Ava’s passion for basketball and commitment to her team never waned. The continued support of her family, friends, and teammates played a vital role in her determination to return to the court.

Ava also highlighted the mental struggles of recovery, emphasizing that while the physical rehabilitation was demanding, regaining trust in her body and earning her teammates’ trust were equally challenging. However, her love for the sport and her team kept her motivated. Beyond personal adversities, the podcast explored the current season for Crestview’s girls basketball team, reflecting on both past lessons and future potential. After an early tournament exit last year, Ava expressed the team’s hunger for success, bolstered by a strengthened schedule and a cohesive group dynamic.

In the wider school community, Ava appreciates the camaraderie with fellow juniors across sports disciplines, celebrating both athletic and academic achievements. Her positive outlook and leadership contribute to the empowering culture within Crestview’s athletic programs. As the team heads into the tournament season, Ava’s resilience and leadership serve as an inspiration. With a supportive network and a fiercely competitive spirit, the Crestview girls basketball team, led in part by Ava Bucey, is poised for greatness.

Presented By:

ABBI IS GRADE A

/in /by

BOARDMAN OH- In the latest YSN Player Profile, senior swimmer Abbi Mihok from Boardman High School shared her experiences and insights as she navigates through her final year. Host Anthony Hartwig delved into Abbi’s journey, exploring the blend of bittersweet sentiments and excitement she feels as she prepares for her last swim meets with her team.

A leader in and out of the pool, Abbi was named team captain this year, a role she’s been preparing for since her freshman year. Her involvement in various clubs and her natural leadership qualities have positioned her as a mentor to the younger swimmers on the team. Abbi expressed her commitment to uplifting her teammates and preparing them for future leadership roles. Abbi emphasized that maintaining a consistent routine helps her manage the pressures of senior year. She also highlighted the demanding nature of swimming, both physically and mentally, crediting her coaches and teammates for their unwavering support. Her great uncle, who exemplifies resilience and determination, serves as a personal inspiration for her.

Outside of swimming, Abbi’s passion for sciences like biology and anatomy guides her future aspirations. She plans to pursue a career in physical therapy, driven by a desire to help others and witness their progress. As she sets her sights on the upcoming district competitions, Abbi reflects on the journey she’s had, inspired by the support of her family and motivated by the opportunity to prove herself once more. Her story is not just one of athletic achievement but also one of leadership, compassion, and potential.

Presented By:

BEICHNER BREAKS THE MOLD

/in /by

BOARDMAN OH – Matthew Beichner, a senior at Boardman High School, has proven to be a standout both in the pool and in the classroom. His journey in swimming began at the young age of five at the BTSC Boardman Tennis Swim Club. Since then, Beichner’s commitment to the sport has only grown, culminating in a senior year filled with joy and achievement.

In addition to his prowess in swimming, Beichner is also a dedicated cross country runner. He attributes his strong leg muscles and time management skills to his rigorous involvement in both sports. For Matthew, cross country has not only honed his physical capabilities but also instilled a strong sense of dedication and integrity. Despite facing multiple injuries through his high school years, including a stress fracture in his ankle and neck surgery, Beichner’s resilience is evident. This year marked his first injury-free swim season, a testament to his perseverance and determination. Academically, Beichner holds a 4.0 GPA, a feat that requires significant time management given his four-hour daily commitment to swimming. He credits teachers like Mrs. Burkey, his former chemistry teacher and avid swim supporter, for helping him maintain his academic excellence.

Looking ahead, Matthew plans to pursue a major in biochemistry, with aspirations of attending medical school to become an anesthesiologist. Inspired by his family’s medical background and his own health experiences, Beichner is motivated to make a meaningful impact in the field. Throughout his journey, Matthew has been supported by his family, coaches, teammates, and even his dog Cooper, all of whom play a significant role in his life. “I wish more athletes gave pet shout outs,” joked Anthony Hartwig, host of the YSN podcast, highlighting the personal touch Beichner brings to his acknowledgments. As he prepares for the next chapter, Matthew Beichner stands out as a model student athlete, embodying both academic dedication and athletic passion.

Presented By: