Tag Archive for: team bonding

BICKERSTAFF BECOMING A LEGEND

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GOTTA BOAST ABOUT YOST

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NILES, OH—Maddie Yost, a standout soccer player from Niles and member of the SVA soccer team, is gearing up for her first national trip to Denver—a journey seasoned teammates are already familiar with. In a recent interview on YSN, Yost shared her excitement about joining the accomplished squad heading to the Mile High City, following in the footsteps of a team that claimed a national championship there two years ago.

Yost’s journey with SVA began at age six or seven, initially unsure about her commitment before soon falling in love with the sport. She credits the “strong bond” with her teammates and the influence of coach Greg Mitchell for keeping her passion alive over the years. “It’s just a great atmosphere overall,” Yost said. Although she missed the team’s last Denver trip, Yost is looking forward to stepping into a high-level competition, led by teammates’ support and advice about the unique challenges—like Denver’s high altitude. “We’ve been wearing altitude masks for the last month while conditioning,” she explained, noting the hard work required to prepare.

For Yost, the Denver experience is about more than just soccer. She’s excited to explore the city, mentioning plans for rafting and sightseeing with teammates. Off the field, she enjoys relaxing at home, especially by the pool—a rare break from the family’s busy sports schedule. As she looks ahead, Yost aspires to play college soccer and is considering a career in the medical field. She’s searching for a college program with strong team chemistry and a welcoming environment. “I just love the sport of soccer,” Yost reflected, crediting her passion for keeping her motivated through tough practices and busy days. Yost was quick to thank her support system—her parents, coaches Scott McMillan and Greg Mitchell—for helping her reach this point. With her sights set on the upcoming national championship, she’s ready to represent Niles and SVA on the biggest stage yet.

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BOOTHE BELONGS AT THE TOP

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WARREN OH-  Howland High School standout Ava Boothe is gearing up for another shot at a national title with the SVA soccer team, sharing her excitement and insights during a recent Player Profile  on YSN.

Boothe, who helped her team secure a championship two years ago, is now preparing for the elevated challenge of competing in a higher bracket at this year’s nationals in Denver. “Hopefully we win it again and hopefully, like, the teams are scared of us,” Boothe said, underscoring both the confidence and humility she and her teammates are carrying into the tournament. Preparation for Denver’s challenging altitude hasn’t been taken lightly. Boothe explained how the team has been training with masks to simulate the thinner air, an effort that paid off in previous trips. “When we went down last time, a lot of players threw up like on the other team because they didn’t train or anything. But we didn’t throw up or anything,” she said with a laugh.

Beyond the pitch, Boothe highlighted the importance of camaraderie and team bonding, recalling team hikes and whitewater rafting trips as memorable off-the-field experiences. The senior also spoke highly of her relationship with Coach Greg, who coaches her at both SVA and Howland. “Me and him are like real tight. So we have a really good relationship,” Boothe said. Looking ahead, Boothe is considering several college offers, hoping to balance her soccer ambitions with studies in business, marketing, and possibly sports management. She stressed the importance of finding a college where she feels comfortable and supported, readying herself for both academic and athletic success. As the SVA squad heads to Denver, Boothe’s blend of determination, preparation, and appreciation for her teammates and coaches sets the stage for another promising run at the national crown.

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KNOSKE KNOWS BEST

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WARREN OH-  YSN’s latest player profile spotlights Grayson Knoske, a key player for the SVA soccer team heading once again to the Denver Nationals. Interviewed by Anthony Hartwig, Knoske shared her excitement and perspective as the almost exclusively YSN-alumni squad prepares to compete in one of youth soccer’s most prestigious tournamentsFor Knoske and her teammates, this isn’t their first trip to Denver. Reflecting on their earlier appearance, Knoske said, “We’re all older, so… the competition overall is going to be more difficult, and that’s something we really need to work through.” She acknowledged that their previous victory puts a target on their backs, but the team remains grounded. “Just because we won in 2023 doesn’t mean we should come in with that mentality that we’re going to win, because you can never promise that,” Knoske noted.

Team bonding has been crucial in their journey. Knoske highlighted off-field activities in Denver, especially shopping and sightseeing, as ways the team builds camaraderie: “I think our whole team loves shopping. It’s nice for us to all, like, just go out and be girls for a little bit and not play soccer.” On the field, Knoske has embraced her evolving role as a leader, adapting to new positions and focusing on improving communication with her teammates. She credits the team’s close-knit dynamic and local talent as major strengths, saying, “All our girls are so close, and coming together to show our talent is really special to all of us.”

The SVA squad’s preparation has even included altitude training with specialized masks, as they get ready for the unique conditions in Denver. Knoske explained, “We’re kind of taking it more seriously and going on runs by ourselves… we’re expecting it a little bit more.” Asked what she loves most about soccer, Knoske said, “I love the competitiveness. I feel like for me, I never get bored on the field.” Knoske also expressed deep appreciation for her coach, Greg, and thanked the local community and her parents for their ongoing support. As the team heads to Denver, their blend of experience, humility, and unity will be their greatest assets in the quest for another national title.

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HUMPHREY HANDLES THE PRESSURE

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CORTLAND OH- Lakeview High School’s Annabelle Humphrey is making waves both locally and nationally as she and her teammates at SVA Soccer Academy prepare for their second consecutive trip to Denver, Colorado, for the national soccer championships. Speaking with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig, Annabelle talked about the heightened expectations and preparations this year, noting the challenge of defending their trophy amidst stiffer competition and the excitement of welcoming new players to the squad.

“Denver’s obviously way different than Ohio, especially with the altitude. We’ve all been training with altitude masks to prepare, which definitely makes it harder to breathe,” Humphrey explained. “It kind of motivates us that this is the next step. It’s going to be harder, but we want it.” The team is made up almost entirely of local YSN area players, which Annabelle says speaks volumes about the strength of the region’s soccer talent. “It shows that we have a great group of girls around us,” she reflected. “It’s very impressive.”

Aside from the intense training, the team is also busy fundraising for the trip, balancing practice with efforts to ensure every player can make the journey to nationals. Though soccer takes up much of her summer, Annabelle cherishes the chance to bond with her teammates—on and off the field. “It means a lot,” she said, emphasizing the lasting memories and friendships formed. Looking ahead, the high school senior is eager to continue her soccer career at the college level, hoping to study exercise science and maybe even coach one day. For now, she’s focused on finishing strong with her club and school teams. “Once you do high school, then you have one more club season and then you’re done,” she said. “It’s definitely preparing all of us for what’s coming next.” Annabelle was quick to thank her family, teammates, and coaches for their support, underscoring the collective effort behind her individual success. With Denver on the horizon, she’s ready for the challenge—proudly representing her school, academy, and local soccer community.

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RUDGE WILL NEVER BUDGE

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BOARDMAN OH- Boardman High School’s freshman catcher Addie Rudge is making waves in her debut varsity softball season, breaking records and leading her team to heights not seen in years. In a recent episode of YSN Live, Rudge’s impact has been felt both behind the plate and at bat—most notably when she broke the school’s RBI record as a freshman, surpassing the previous mark of 38 and finishing the season with 45.

Rudge’s journey to high school stardom began in Little League, where her name drew notice in tournaments like Feel the Dreams. She credits dedicated off-season work and strong team chemistry for helping her transition smoothly to the high school level. “It’s been taking forever, and now that I’m finally here, it’s like, whoa, you’re actually a freshman now,” Rudge said of her transition. This season, Boardman’s softball program clinched its first AAC (All-American Conference) league title since 2011 and advanced to the state semifinals, accomplishments Rudge called “great for our team.” A significant portion of Boardman’s playoff run has featured stellar pitching from Tori Strines—something Rudge, as the team’s catcher, appreciates deeply. “She’s got great speed and she spins the ball, she locates pitches very well, and she mixes up her pitches, so I get a taste of different pitches, and I just love catching for Tori,” she said.

Rudge also balances her athletic commitments by contributing as a Little League umpire during the summer, giving back to the sport and seeing it from a new perspective. “It makes me really happy to be able to give back to the community, not only by playing, but to be able to umpire,” she shared. Despite her youth, Rudge shows remarkable maturity, valuing education as highly as athletics and planning for continued success on the field. “As much as I love softball, education is my number one focus,” she stated, adding that her main goals next year include breaking the school’s hits record and defending Boardman’s conference title. Proud to follow in her father’s footsteps as a Spartan, Addie Rudge is quickly establishing herself as a leader and role model for future generations of Boardman athletes. With three more years ahead of her, the future looks bright for the Boardman backstop.

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A DYNAMIC DEVIL DUO

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MCDONALD OH- This year, the McDonald Blue Devils baseball team is making headlines with a thrilling run to the regional semifinals, thanks in no small part to the efforts of freshman standout Quinn Schmidt and senior leader Nate Metzinger. The duo, who recently sat down for a taped interview with the YSN Live podcast, shared insights into the team’s season, the camaraderie on the squad, and their personal journeys in baseball.

Metzinger, the lone senior and a key offensive contributor with double-digit RBIs, described the pride he feels seeing younger players step up. “It feels good knowing that somebody has my back and is able to come and help me and continue our journey,” he said. Metzinger emphasized that hard work and dedication define what it means to be a Blue Devil, values he’s passed down to teammates like Schmidt. For Schmidt, his freshman year has been nothing short of eye-opening. “It’s been great… the family on this team is just outstanding—from practices all the way to going out and just having fun, eating dinner,” he said. Schmidt credits off-season training and support from coaches for his strong performance—he’s nearly batting .500—and acknowledges the role of older teammates like Metzinger in his rapid growth.

Both players highlight the all-around team effort this season, noting strong defense and timely hitting as the catalysts behind their success. Playing at the renowned Scene Park has added to the excitement, with Schmidt remarking on the energetic atmosphere and supportive community. “You have a whole community cheering for you and wanting you guys to do your best,” he said. Metzinger admits he didn’t foresee a deep postseason run at the start of the year, but as the team gelled, their prospects grew. “We started clicking as a team and then I seen the possibility,” he reflected.

Looking ahead, Metzinger hopes to pursue a career as an electrician, while Schmidt sets his sights on playing college baseball and eventually starting his own sports-related business. Despite differing plans for the future, both athletes recognize the lasting friendship and memories forged on this surprising and special season. As the Blue Devils continue their march through the state tournament, all eyes will be on these two players—representing both the future and legacy of McDonald baseball.

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NO CHANCE AGAINST DECIANCIO

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CANFIELD OH-  South Range High School’s softball team has achieved rarefied success over the past four years, and senior Riley DeCiancio has been at the heart of it all. DeCiancio has contributed to the Raiders’ run of four consecutive district championship victories—an achievement few student-athletes ever experience.

In a recent interview on the YSN Live Podcast, DeCiancio reflected on her journey from a freshman “swinging both from JV to varsity” to a senior leader, describing each championship season as “more special, especially this year.” She said the bonds with her teammates are “like sisters,” making the responsibility of senior leadership feel less like a burden and more like a family effort. This year proved especially triumphant for DeCiancio—not just on the field, but mentally as well. “I have overcome a lot of mental blocks…This year, definitely mentally, I’ve had the best year yet,” she shared. She credits the team’s resilience to their unity, saying, “We really just had to stay close to one another and lean on one another and understand that things aren’t always going to go our way.”

The 2024 Raiders faced their share of adversity with injuries and lineup changes, but DeCiancio led the team through it, helping them peak at the right time. “Coach Starkey said that it was a new season [for playoffs], and that we were going to be a new team, and that’s really just what we’ve done,” she said. One of DeCiancio’s favorite aspects of playing at South Range is the lockdown outfield, which she describes as a “certified no fly zone,” owing to the group’s trust and communication. She takes particular pride in supporting underclassmen like standout Sophia “Mud” Brogan, noting, “Anytime that she’s succeeding, it feels like… the entire team is.”

As her high school softball career winds down, DeCiancio admitted mixed emotions: “Honestly, I feel like I’m very detached from it. I graduate in two days… I feel like it’s going to hit me once it’s over.” Yet, she cherishes the moments she’s shared, especially with her mother, her “biggest supporter,” and the rest of her family. Next fall, DeCiancio will be attending Youngstown State University to study business management—possibly with an eye on a future in real estate. But the lessons learned and friendships forged over four championship seasons at South Range will stick with her for years to come. “I’m going to miss the girls on the team, definitely. Every single one of them truly do feel like sisters,” she said. With her combination of athletic accomplishment, leadership, and strong community ties, Riley DeCiancio leaves South Range with a legacy of winning and camaraderie—on and off the softball diamond.

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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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TAYLOR IS SWIFT TO THE PLATE

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HUJBBARD OH-  Hubbard High School’s softball team has found a standout leader in junior Haleigh Taylor, who was recently featured in a player profile on YSN with Anthony Hartwig. Now an upperclassman, Taylor has stepped confidently into a leadership role, crediting her bond with underclassmen and the supportive senior class for making the transition smooth.

Taylor’s outstanding season in both pitching and hitting has played a pivotal role in the team’s success, racking up double-digit home runs and over 40 RBIs so far. “I’m happy with my numbers and helping the team score some runs,” Taylor shared, highlighting the impact of talented teammates like Layla and Lauren, who set the stage for the team’s offensive production. Inside the dugout, Taylor described a major turning point after the team’s first game against Lakeview, when a heart-to-heart with coaches brought the Eagles together and ignited camaraderie that’s carried them through the season. “We realized we could compete with anyone,” Taylor said.

Taylor also spoke warmly of her relationship with her father, who joined the coaching staff in her sophomore year, as well as her longtime pitching coach, Erin Gabriel, whom she credits for helping her with the mental challenges on the mound. Despite sometimes struggling with confidence as a pitcher, Taylor says Gabriel’s support and wisdom have been invaluable: “I wish I could have her in my ear talking to me during games… everything just is magically perfect.” Off the field, Taylor fills her time with volleyball and weightlifting but values unwinding with friends and family. Close friendships with teammates and travel ball players like Marina Caning and Sydney Lutz have fueled her love for the game. As the team’s postseason run continues, Taylor is proud to represent Hubbard and grateful for the support of her family, coaches, and friends—proving she’s just as much a leader off the field as on it!

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