Tag Archive for: team legacy

RUNNING WEDNESDAYS WITH RICK SYPERT (EP 6) STATE CHAMPIONSHIP RECAP

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The latest episode of YSN’s “Running Wednesdays” delivered inspiration and excitement as hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig interviewed three of the Mahoning Valley’s standout high school track athletes: Drew Zajack and Julianna Krumpak of McDonald, and Ava Hulett of Mineral Ridge.

Fresh from their trips to the podium at the state championships, Zajack and Krumpak joined the show live from vacation. Zajack, who captured the Division III state title in discus with a dramatic final throw, recounted overcoming injury and the pressure of the moment. “It was a hard week before. I didn’t really get in any throws… I was nursing a pretty bad back injury,” Zajack shared. Despite physical setbacks, he found focus for the final, clutch throw. “I released it and did like a little ballerina and got out the back of the ring. That’s all that matters.” Krumpak, meanwhile, highlighted the team atmosphere that powered McDonald’s relay squads to the podium after missing out in previous seasons. “Coming back this year was really big for us, and we wanted to really show what we could do. We were able to do that and made it on the podium – it was a great feeling,” she said. Both athletes credited the massive support McDonald fans brought to Columbus, with Zajack calling it “the best feeling ever” to celebrate with teammates, family, and community.

Ava Hulett of Mineral Ridge, a recent graduate and now Wright State commit, reflected on her journey as a high school athlete who left a lasting impact on her program. Hulett set the school record in the 100-meter hurdles and brought home state medals in multiple events this season. Looking back, she expressed pride in her accomplishments and what she’s passed on to younger athletes: “I know a lot of younger athletes look up to me now and they respect me. I’ve taught some of them a lot of things I hope they can carry into future seasons.” She also emphasized the importance of balancing hard work with rest, advising Ridge’s incoming freshmen not to push themselves to burnout. With the season behind them, all three athletes shared their plans for well-deserved downtime—relaxing at the beach, shopping trips, and simply savoring a rare break from daily practice before training begins again. As Coach Rick Sypert summed up, these are the stories of legacy and inspiration: young athletes pushing through adversity, supporting each other, and setting standards that will shape their programs for years to come. The Mahoning Valley has plenty to be proud of as these champions look ahead to bright futures both on and off the track.

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A TIME WERNER CLASSIC

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CORTLAND OH—With an infectious smile and 100 career hits under her belt, Lakeview junior Kalyssa Werner is living a dream season on the softball diamond. The Bulldogs, fresh off an impressive campaign, are set to play in the state semifinals—a moment that Werner says still feels surreal. “It doesn’t hit you until afterwards,” Werner admitted in a recent interview on the YSN podcast. “I’m like, oh my goodness, we’re actually going to States. There’s no other team I’d rather be doing it with.”

Lakeview’s ascent hasn’t come by accident. Werner credits the team’s self-belief and bustling lineup, where every hitter boasts an average over .350 and anyone can step up when it matters most. “If I’m having an off day hitting, I know Kennedy behind me’s got me, Mac’s got me, Isabella… It can be anybody, honestly,” she explained. Werner recently surpassed 100 hits in her career—a milestone she didn’t even know she’d reached until her mom signaled from the stands. “I’m not a very stats person… I liked not knowing because it puts less pressure on you,” Werner said.

Despite being regarded as underdogs by outsiders, she says the Bulldogs stay focused on their own high standards. “We have such a great culture. What’s going on outside doesn’t really affect me,” she noted, highlighting the role of her supportive parents and coaches. There’s just one catch—Werner has never seen a “Star Wars” movie, a playful point of contention with her coach and teammates. “I like the princess movies,” she said with a laugh, promising to do her homework before next season. With a deep lineup and calm confidence, Kalyssa Werner and the Lakeview Bulldogs are ready to take their shot at state glory—no force required.

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CANFIELD BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH MATT WEYMER 6/3/25

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CANFIELD, OH – As Canfield gears up for a high-stakes regional baseball matchup against Hubbard, head coach Matt Weymer took time to reflect on his team’s roller-coaster season and the resilience that has brought the Cardinals one step from the Final Four. In an interview on YSN Live’s latest episode, Weymer described the year as “a pretty wise statement” to call it a roller coaster. The Cards experienced both dominant stretches and tough losses, hampered at times by the absence of key player Tanner Stricko. Weymer credits the team’s ability to stay composed and focused, saying, “There was no panic within our program, and I think the kids really showed that.”

Since Stricko’s return, the Cardinals have gone 12-1, a marked difference from their 8-9 record without him. Offensively, Canfield has surged at the right time, with Weymer calling recent performances “some of the best offensive baseball I’ve ever been a part with as a coach.” Looking ahead to the showdown with Hubbard, Weymer acknowledged the challenge posed by their deep pitching staff, but emphasized the Cardinals’ confidence. “Our pitchers don’t feel the need to go out there and give up zero runs… If we hold the fort defensively and on the mound, our offense will do what it’s been doing naturally,” he said.

Off the field, Weymer also touched on the personal sacrifices and rewards of coaching. He spoke about the importance of family and the unique experience of having his son, Phil, around the team. “He really does feel like those are his big brothers… They’ve been so great with him all year, and that’s really made it fun,” Weymer shared. With a veteran group of seniors driving the team’s character and leadership, Weymer expressed pride in their legacy. “Players really drive programs… the best teams are the ones where the players just love being around each other.” Win or lose, this Canfield Cardinals squad and their coach have already secured a special place in the program’s storied history—but their eyes are fixed on punching a ticket to the Final Four.

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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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PAINTING A PICTURE OF EXCELLENCE

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ANDOVER OH- In the recent interview with YSN,  Pymatuning Valley senior basketball player Zoey Painter opened up about the emotional rollercoaster that has been her final high school basketball season. Despite a rocky start with three narrow losses, Painter and her team found their rhythm as the season progressed.

A key part of the team’s turnaround, Painter has embraced her role as a senior leader under the guidance of new coach Cole. His approach boosted the team’s confidence, a crucial element that Painter credits for their improved performance. A highlight of Painter’s season was her record-breaking performance, setting a new single-game record for three-pointers. “It means a lot,” she reflected, recalling her determination to beat her previous personal best.

Off the court, Painter’s academic life has been balanced, having completed most of her coursework and getting a head start on her passion for sociology and criminal criminology, interests she plans to pursue at John Carroll University. As Painter looks forward to the postseason, she remains filled with gratitude for the support from her community and teammates. While she may not be lacing up for college basketball, her legacy at Pymatuning Valley shines through her leadership and commitment.

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CRESTVIEW GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH AARON BLATCH 1/22/25

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COLUMBIANA OH- In a riveting episode of YSN Live, hosts Anthony Hartwig and DJ Yokley sat down with Aaron Blatch, the head coach of Crestview’s undefeated girls’ basketball team. The conversation illuminated Blatch’s coaching philosophy, team dynamics, and the journey that has brought his program to the apex of success in the NBAC.

Blatch, who has helmed the team for several seasons, credits the success to the exceptional character and talent of his players, emphasizing the collective effort put in by the entire coaching staff, including his brother and fellow coaches John Gallagher and Cassie Spate. He remarked, “We have a lot of great kids and amazing players. Seeing them improve individually and collectively is very rewarding for us.” Patience has been a cornerstone of Blatch’s approach, as Anthony Hartwig noted. Blatch discussed the importance of steady progress and the contributions of previous teams in laying the groundwork for their current achievements. “Anything worthwhile is going to take some time,” Blatch shared, highlighting the collaborative effort across different levels of the program.

The episode also touched on the team’s strategically strengthened schedule, featuring games against high-caliber opponents like Hoban, Streetsboro, and Massillon Washington. Blatch explained that the tougher schedule is part of a long-term strategy to prepare the team for the postseason. “We wanted the schedule with the big picture in mind,” Blatch stated, underscoring the importance of challenging matchups in building resilience and skill. A recurring theme in the discussion was the remarkable team chemistry and selflessness among players, which has been pivotal in their dominant season. Yokley praised this aspect, likening their coordinated play to synchronized swimming. Blatch agreed, noting the unique talents each player brings to the floor and the absence of ego-driven competition. “It speaks to the character of the team,” he said.

As the season progresses, Blatch remains focused on further improvement and maintaining the team’s high standards. He acknowledged the challenges posed by winter weather disruptions but remained unfazed, stressing that off-days can sometimes be beneficial for the team’s overall well-being. Blatch’s leadership and the team’s collective effort have positioned Crestview as a formidable force in high school basketball. The future looks bright as they head toward the postseason, aiming to capitalize on their hard work and talent. For listeners seeking inspiration and insight into building a successful sports program, this episode of YSN Live featuring Coach Aaron Blatch is a treasure trove of wisdom and dedication.

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