Tag Archive for: Track

LOWELLVILLE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH JIM TSILIMOS (1-8-25)

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- The Louisville Rockets have officially announced the hiring of Jim Tsilimos as their new head football coach. Tsilimos, a state champion and future hall of fame coach, brings a wealth of experience and success to the Rockets, who are eager to build on their storied tradition.

In an interview with YSN’s DJ Yokley on the “Louisville Football Coach’s Corner” podcast, Tsilimos expressed his excitement about taking on the new challenge. “I really like their tradition,” Tsilimos said. “They seem to be right up in the league every year, and they make the playoffs. That’s a coach’s dream because that’s part of my goals.”

Tsilimos, who has had successful coaching stints at Carrollton and Lisbon, is known for his strong emphasis on the running game and defense. “Louisville always seems to find someone to run the rock,” he commented, reflecting his confidence in the team’s ability to maintain a dominant ground game.

One of Tsilimos’s key strategies will include a mix of formations, with about 60% of plays under center and 40% in pistol, a departure from the prevalent shotgun-only approach. He stressed the importance of a strong offensive line for achieving success.

Beyond the Xs and Os, Tsilimos places a high value on multi-sport participation and overall student-athlete development. “I want you playing basketball; I want you going out for track or baseball in the spring. Enjoy yourself in high school,” he advised his players, emphasizing the fleeting nature of high school sports.

Looking ahead, Tsilimos plans to build on the existing foundation, promising a well-coached and competitive team. He also aims to engage younger athletes and develop a strong program from the lower levels up.

While specific names for his coaching staff are yet to be finalized, Tsilimos assured fans that skilled and dedicated assistants will soon join him.

As Louisville looks forward to the upcoming season, the community is buzzing with optimism, eager to see the impact of Tsilimos’s leadership on their beloved Rockets.

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BEHIND PAZEL’S EYES

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Lowellville, OH – YSN had the pleasure of sitting down with Josh Pazel, Lowellville’s stellar wide receiver, at Bedford Trails to discuss his journey in football and beyond. Starting his football career in third grade with flag football and transitioning to tackle football by fifth grade, Pazel has become a cornerstone of the Lowellville Rockets football team.

In the interview, Pazel explained his early inspiration came from watching YouTube videos, igniting a passion for the sport. Playing for a smaller school like Lowellville, Pazel values the close-knit community feeling, stating, “You just want to go out and show everyone all your skills.”

Known for forming one-half of a formidable receiving duo with Bruce, Pazel elaborated on the dynamic between them: “The only way you can stop either of us is through a double team. You can’t double team both of us.” Their synergy has significantly contributed to the Rockets’ strong passing game this season, bolstered by sophomore quarterback Ricky Woolwich. “I even worked with him last year, preparing for this year, and everything’s just really clicking,” Pazel remarked. Beyond football, Pazel is an all-around athlete, participating in basketball and track. While he loves basketball the most, he acknowledges the success he’s had in track. Commenting on his basketball skills, particularly his jumping abilities, Pazel humorously noted his varied success with dunks last season but affirmed, “I can get up there.”

Pazel credits his success and development to coaches like Coach Career and, of course, his parents, who have been his steadfast supporters. Drawing inspiration from NFL greats like Odell Beckham Jr. and Julio Jones, Pazel strives to emulate their explosive play styles. As for his pre-game rituals, Pazel prefers to mentally lock in, listening to music and preparing himself visually. Despite being a junior, Pazel already has clear aspirations for his future. He plans on pursuing a career in photography, an art form he finds “the coolest thing ever” for its ability to showcase creativity.

FOREVER YOUNG

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- In the latest episode of “The Devils Hour” on YSN, hosted by Billy Cappabianca, Jackson Young—junior tight end and defensive end for the Western Reserve Blue Devils—offered an insightful look into his busy life both on and off the field.

Young, who juggles football, basketball, and track, also finds time to manage a slew of animals as part of the Junior Fair program, a task he says teaches him invaluable responsibility. “I get up, go to the barn, and when I get home from practice, I’m heading back to the barn,” Young shared.

Family support plays a crucial role in Young’s life. He spoke fondly of his younger brother Bennett, a freshman, and the pivotal influence of his parents. His dad, in particular, acts as a motivator, often pushing him to go harder and stay focused during games.

The episode also touched on the Blue Devils’ first loss of the season, which Young views as a wake-up call that will galvanize the team heading into the playoffs. “It stung a little bit, but I think that will help us persevere farther into the playoffs,” he remarked.

As the season progresses, Young and his team look forward to three key league matches against Waterloo, Minnow Ridge, and Jackson Milton, aiming for a strong playoff push.

Highlighting his season thus far, Young proudly recounted blocking his first field goal, a moment he credits to the excitement and encouragement from fans and teammates alike.

With a promising future ahead, Jackson Young’s balance of athletic, academic, and personal responsibilities marks him as a standout leader for the Blue Devils. His commitment and passion demonstrate the bright potential within this young athlete.

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NATE LEWIS AND THE NEWS

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CANFIELD, OH- Under the bright lights of South Range football, few athletes have risen to prominence as swiftly and impressively as number 14, Nate Lewis.
Emerging as a dynamic player this season, Lewis’s journey has been far from straightforward. After being sidelined by an early-season injury last year, Lewis faced the challenging task of constant rehabilitation. “It was really hard just going to practice every day and not being able to do anything,” he revealed. However, perseverance paid off as, during the last three games, Lewis became a pivotal figure for the Raiders, proving his mettle on the field.

Host DJ Yokley describes Lewis as “an absolute weapon,” noting his unmatched speed and agility. Not surprisingly, Lewis attributes his swiftness to his track background, where he competes in events like the 4×1 and the 4×2. While he admits he didn’t fully enjoy track, it undeniably honed his speed and endurance.

Lewis’s on-field chemistry with teammate Tristan is particularly noteworthy. Yokley likens their connection to that of NFL legends Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown, citing an almost telepathic ability to locate each other during gameplay.

Off the field, Lewis is a typical teenager. He enjoys video games, with Minecraft and the new NCAA football game being among his favorites. He also aspires to be remembered for his hard work and dedication, traits instilled in him by his family. “Definitely my parents and my grandparents,” Lewis acknowledges, emphasizing the support and values they have imparted.

When asked about his future ambitions, Lewis remains uncertain, but his current focus is clear: to continue excelling both in sports and academics, where his favorite subject is math.

As a student-athlete, Lewis exemplifies the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance. His story is not just about athletic success but also about character and determination. South Range and the broader community have a lot to look forward to from this rising star.

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ROCK IT LIKE ROSSI

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- Lowellville, OH – Elizabeth Rossi, a standout senior volleyball player for the Lowellville Rockets, recently sat down for an in-depth interview on the YSN podcast. Reflecting on her high school career, Rossi shared her poignant thoughts on the fleeting nature of time, the strength of camaraderie with her teammates, and her future aspirations.

As her final high school volleyball season winds down, Rossi expressed how quickly the years have flown by. “It’s actually gone by really fast. I would never expected it to have gone this fast,” she said. The emotions of playing her last games with her friends are bittersweet, describing it as both thrilling and bittersweet.

Throughout her volleyball journey, Rossi has played the crucial role of a middle hitter, thriving on the intensity and challenge of going for kills. Her family has been her biggest motivation, always supporting her at every turn. Beyond volleyball, she has dabbled in other sports, including soccer and track, but volleyball remains her favorite.

Transitioning from the larger Niles High School to the tight-knit Lowellville community was a significant change for Rossi, but one she warmly welcomed. “Just having everyone as a family, everyone knows each other, and it’s a really great community,” she commented. Her dedication on the court has been acknowledged by coaches and peers alike, with many teammates and senior friends, including Morgan Lewis, Odessa, and Alyssa, leaving a lasting impact on her.

When asked about her future, Rossi revealed exciting plans for post-graduation. Inspired by her mother’s work in a hair salon, she aims to pursue a career in nursing with a focus on cosmetics. “Being around all that self-care and stuff has made me interested,” she explained.

As her final year progresses, Rossi remains a beacon of determination and grace for her underclassmen. Her advice to them is simple yet profound: “Just keep pushing. It’s gonna be a hard fight with, like, such a small school that we have, but just to keep fighting.”

Elizabeth Rossi’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of community, and the strength found in shared passions. The Lowellville Rockets are proud of their senior star, and her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes.

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RIVERA THE ROCKET

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- Eric Hughes of YSN Live recently sat down with Lowellville Rockets’ senior volleyball sensation, Hadassah Rivera, to discuss her milestone achievement of reaching 1000 career digs and her future plans post-graduation.

Rivera, who began playing volleyball in the 7th grade, has always aspired to reach this significant milestone. “It’s definitely a big accomplishment for me,” she shared. “I’ve been trying to reach this since I was a freshman. So finally, my senior year, laying it all out on the court, it was really definitely a goal that I reached and so it was very exciting.”

Her journey has been marked by the support and camaraderie of her teammates. “I love my teammates like Ariana, Alyssa, my setters, my middles, Morgan, I love all of them,” Rivera emphasized. “It’s really because we are a big family and it’s just really nice to not only go out there in a sport that I love, but also with the people that I love.”

As her high school volleyball career draws to a close, Rivera described her final season as bittersweet. “Definitely gonna be some tears at the end of it,” she admitted, but she remains resolute in giving her all during her last year on the court.

Apart from volleyball, Rivera is also an accomplished track athlete, competing in the 800 and 400-meter events. Her demeanor reflects a deep sense of gratitude toward her coaches, especially Track Coach Eric and Volleyball Coach Josh. “Coach Eric…always pushed me to my best version of me,” she noted. “And Coach Josh…believed in me to go out and start my freshman year. He just truly was the one to shape me to who I am today.”

Rivera’s motivations extend beyond the sports realm. She attributes her resilience and drive to her relationship with Jesus. “I really wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for him,” she said.

Looking ahead, Rivera has set her sights on attending ministry school after graduation. “I want to give back to the world, whether that’s working in the church or doing missions around the world,” she revealed.

Hadassah Rivera’s journey exemplifies dedication, faith, and a spirit of community—qualities that will undoubtedly shape her future endeavors, both on and off the court.

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SALEM’S HUTTON TO CONTINUE AS A RAIDER

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SALEM, OH- Rylee Hutton, a standout triple-threat athlete from Salem, has officially signed with the University of Mount Union where she will continue to impress on the basketball court, track, and soccer field, while advancing her academic pursuits.

Throughout her high school career, Rylee has not only dominated in athletics but has also excelled in the classroom, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and ranking in the top 20 of her class. On the basketball court, she scored over 1,000 career points, becoming the seventh player in Salem history to reach this milestone. Her scoring prowess, highlighted by an 18 points-per-game average in one season—the second highest in school history—earned her multiple accolades, including All-Ohio Special Mention her senior year.

Rylee’s athletic versatility shines in track and field as well, where she holds school records in the 400m dash, long jump, and the 4x400m relay. A four-time state qualifier in four different events, she has consistently proven her elite status on the track, complementing her basketball achievements with equal fervor.

On the soccer field, Rylee’s record of 127 career goals, along with six hat tricks in a single season and a total of 17 in her career, set new school records. Her outstanding performance led to her being named the Player of the Year in the Eastern Buckeye Conference (EBC) during her junior year, alongside four consecutive first-team selections in both the EBC and district levels.

Rylee’s proud parents, Deri and Rob Hutton, and her sister Kelly, joined her during her signing day, a testament to her hard work and dedication. The University of Mount Union awaits a true powerhouse of an athlete and scholar in Rylee, poised to bring her relentless drive and sportsmanship to the collegiate level.

RUNNING WEDNESDAYS WITH RICK SYPERT (EP 3) FEATURING BROCK FARRIS & BLAKE BAKER

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Another week has come and gone at the track, and yes there is a ton to go over.  With a huge Chuck of results coming in from the Poland Invitational, and beyond you can tell these runners are starting to find their groove as we race towards post season. Rick Sypert and Anthony Hartwig are back this week to go over all the biggest names and times from the prior week.  They also preview the week ahead which is highlighted by the Trumbull County Championships.

This week the show brings on two special guests. Current rivals, and future teammates a rock Farris and Blake Bsker.  Brock from Boardman has etched his name in record books and is considered one of the best in the region.  While Blake represents the Spartans AAC rival Canfield with speed that is seldomly seen.  Both athletes have a massive reputation that goes far beyond their talent on the track.  The sportsmanship and grace in which they carry themselves had granted them the respect of the entire Track & Field community.  Both Brock and Blake look to continue their track careers at Youngstown State after graduating high school. But don’t worry Spartan, and Cardinal fans, they still have plenty of goals in their sights before that happens.  Check out Episode 3 of Running Wednesdays with Rick Sypert!

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HU LETTS LOOSE

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Ava Hulett, a standout junior athlete at Mineral Ridge High School, is setting her sights on leaving a lasting legacy in her senior year. In a recent interview with YSN’s DJ Yokley at the Post Office Pub, Hulett shared her thoughts on her impressive basketball season, her multi-sport dedication, and her aspirations for the future.

Hulett, a key player in the girls’ basketball program at Mineral Ridge, expressed pride in her team’s performance, despite the challenges of a tough schedule. The team’s resilience and unity were evident as they overcame obstacles throughout the season.

As a multi-sport athlete, Hulett balances her focus between basketball and volleyball, showcasing her determination and versatility both on and off the court. Her commitment to excellence serves as an inspiration to young athletes in the community.

Looking ahead to her senior year, Hulett reflects on the opportunities available to female athletes in today’s sports landscape. She emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance, acknowledging the impact of being a role model to aspiring athletes.

With her eyes set on her final year, Hulett aims to achieve a significant milestone in basketball by reaching 1,000 points and potentially breaking a school record. Her dedication and drive have already garnered attention, positioning her among the elite athletes in the region.

As Hulett continues to excel in her athletic endeavors, she remains focused on leaving a lasting mark at Mineral Ridge High School. Her determination and sportsmanship make her a role model for young athletes and a force to be reckoned with on and off the court.

The Mineral Ridge community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in Hulett’s athletic journey as she continues to shine in her pursuits.

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NOTHING BY A G THING

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Sophomore sensation Gianna Gilbert of the Mineral Ridge Lady Ram basketball team recently sat down with YSN for an exclusive interview at the Post Office Pub. The talented young athlete opened up about her proudest moments, dedication to the sport, and her pre-game routines that have contributed to her success on the court.

When asked about her proudest achievement, Gilbert emphasized the dedication and hard work that she and her teammates put into the game. Reflecting on their victories in the MVAC and the strong team connection, she acknowledged the challenges they overcame, including injuries, and the unwavering commitment from the entire team.

Gilbert also provided insight into the rigorous behind-the-scenes work required for success, emphasizing the long hours of practice, drills, film sessions, and summer leagues that lay the foundation for their on-court performances.

One surprising reveal during the interview was Gilbert’s pre-game rituals and superstitions. From selecting a specific song for each season to wearing the same spandex for different games, tying her shoes a certain way, and even holding on to specific pregame routines, Gilbert highlighted the importance of maintaining a consistent mindset and preparation for each game.

Amidst these revelations, it was evident that basketball holds a special place in Gilbert’s heart, with the sport providing her with a constant source of joy, motivation, and a means to connect with others.

As a rising star in Mineral Ridge’s basketball scene, Gianna Gilbert’s future looks bright, and her dedication to the sport is sure to inspire many aspiring athletes.

The YSN interview shed light on both the hard work and passion that drive Gianna Gilbert’s success, offering an inspiring glimpse into the life and mindset of this young basketball phenom.

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