Tag Archive for: varsity level

GARFIELD BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH MICHAEL PAES 3-19-25

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GARRETTSVILLE OH- In a recent interview with YSN, Garfield G-Men baseball team head coach Michael Paes discussed the expectations for the upcoming season. The G-Men, who have been close to winning both league and district championships in past years, are aiming to build on their success.

Coach Paes emphasized the importance of character development, stating that the primary focus is on becoming “better people,” both on and off the field. Despite the departure of some key players, he remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. Paes highlighted the necessity for new players to step up and deliver consistent performances in pitching, batting, and fielding roles. The team faces a demanding schedule in the competitive MVAC gray tier, complemented by a challenging non-conference lineup against strong local teams. Leadership is crucial within the team, as Paes believes it fosters a family-like atmosphere where shared goals drive everyone.

As the G-Men strive to take the next step towards securing a championship title, Coach Paes expressed gratitude for his dedicated coaching staff and the Garfield administration for their continued support. Stay tuned for more updates on the Garfield G-Men as they pursue their goals this season.

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COLUMBIANA BASKETBALL COACH S CORNER WITH TODD JOHNSON 2-13-25

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COLUMBIANA, OH= Todd Johnson, head coach of the Columbiana Clippers basketball team, has delivered an unforgettable season, guiding his team to back-to-back EOAC championships and an impressive 19-2 record. In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Johnson shared insights on his coaching philosophy and the journey of nurturing basketball talent in the area.

Coach Johnson, a proud Columbiana alum himself, discussed how he’s dedicated the last nine years to building a solid foundation for the Clippers. Emphasizing the importance of developing youth programs, he proudly recounted how their efforts to engage boys in grades two through six have significantly contributed to the team’s success.

A key highlight of the season included a critical victory over Valley Christian on the road, a game that showcased the determination and grit of the Clippers. Johnson acknowledged the team’s ability to perform under pressure, crediting the hard work and persistence of his players in turning moments of adversity into triumphs.

As the Clippers prepare for the postseason, Johnson maintains his focus on the next game, ensuring his team remains motivated and united. His passion and dedication have not only elevated the Clippers but have inspired a new generation in Columbiana to pursue basketball excellence. The community and players alike cherish Johnson’s commitment, as he continues to bleed Columbiana colors and foster a culture of success for the Clippers.

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MAKAYLA MAKES ALL THE PLAYS

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Leavittsburg, OH — In our latest LaBrae Girls Basketball player profile, junior standout Makayla Scruggs opened up about her journey through the ranks of LaBrae High School’s girls’ basketball team.

Scruggs, who has emerged as a cornerstone of the team, shared her thoughts on transitioning from an underclassman to a leader. “It kind of feels weird. It feels like just yesterday was my freshman year,” she remarked, reflecting on how responsibilities have shifted and grown alongside her love for basketball. A self-described basketball enthusiast from a young age, Scruggs credits her early exposure to the sport and friendly sibling rivalry with her sister Angel for her passion and development. “We would use paint buckets as hoops and always work on our moves,” she recounted with a smile.

Scruggs’ strong relationships with her teammates, especially fellow juniors, have been a pivotal part of this journey. “We know what we’re gonna do. It’s like we can almost read each other,” she explained. This camaraderie, fostered over years of playing together, has made the team a close-knit community, capable of overcoming injuries and setbacks with resilience and determination. Despite the challenges junior year presents academically, particularly with a heavy load of AP and college-level courses, Scruggs remains undeterred. Reflecting on her time management skills, she admitted, “I wasn’t good at time management, but it’s kind of not a choice anymore.”

Looking to the future, Scruggs envisions a career in psychology, possibly as a school psychologist, combining her passion for helping others with her love of the school environment. As the basketball season progresses, Scruggs remains a beacon of positivity and hard work, despite the team’s adversity with injuries. Her ability to balance athletic and academic pursuits, while setting a proactive example for her sister and teammates, stands as a testament to her character and dedication. Catch the full interview with Makayla Scruggs, and stay tuned for more inspiring profiles of young athletes making a difference on and off the court.

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CLASH OF THE TITUS

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CANFIELD, OH- It was a Friday night to remember at Spartan Stadium as South Range’s freshman sensation, Tommy Titus, delivered a moment that will be etched in the region’s high school football lore for years to come. The young wide receiver, donning the number 88 jersey, made an incredible touchdown catch that electrified the crowd and solidified his place in South Range history.

During the South Range Raiders show at GIAngelo’s in Boardman, Titus recounted the exhilarating moment. “It felt pretty good, honestly, it was an amazing feeling,” he shared with host DJ Yokley. “I celebrated with more than two of my teammates on the sideline,” Titus added, underscoring the camaraderie within the team.

The catch, which DJ Yokley described as a play where “you blew the roof off Spartan Stadium,” saw Titus calmly securing the ball amidst roaring cheers, much like a scene in slow motion. The play didn’t just stun the crowd; it also immediately caught the attention of Titus’s father, who eagerly requested the game tape, marking the catch as a family milestone.

As a freshman, Titus’s performance has been nothing short of remarkable. Host DJ Yokley praised the young athlete for his composure and skill, noting that such an achievement places Titus and his teammate Tristan into an everlasting timeline in South Range’s storied football program. Reflecting on his journey from middle school to varsity football, Titus acknowledged the challenging transition, citing the increased speed, strength of opponents, and complexity of plays. “All my teammates and Coaches helped me,” he remarked, displaying humility despite his standout success.

Beyond football, Titus showcases versatility as a three-sport athlete, playing point guard on the basketball court and shortstop on the baseball diamond. When asked about his ambitions at South Range, Titus modestly expressed hopes for repeated state success and a continued tradition of winning.

Titus’s grounded persona, highlighted by his acknowledgment of his family’s unwavering support, paints a picture of a young athlete destined for greatness. South Range’s future looks bright with Tommy Titus stepping up, not just as a player to watch but as a symbol of hope and inspiration for the Raiders.

As Yokley aptly summarized, Tommy Titus doesn’t need many words; his actions on the field speak volumes. The South Range community, no doubt, will be eagerly watching as this young star continues to rise.

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SOUTH RANGE BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH PAT CARDEN

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CANFIELD OH- In anticipation of another thrilling basketball season, South Range High School’s boys’ basketball head coach, Pat Carden, sat down with us to share his insights and expectations for the team. Despite the successes of his first year, Carden is not resting on his laurels as he prepares his squad for even greater achievements.

Reflecting on the previous season, Coach Carden mentions that his first year at the helm was a period of significant learning and adjustments. “It was a huge learning curve for me, but we got a full off-season to implement some changes,” he shared. The team experienced a minor setback when they narrowly missed out on the league title due to an unexpected loss to Lakeview. “We learned that any given night you can be beat, and you have to be ready to go,” he noted. This season, the team is again overlapping with South Range’s successful football program. Key players like Nate Lewis and several sophomores are still committed to football, leaving Carden to prepare with a limited roster. However, the team remains hopeful and determined.

Key returning players include senior Luke Rowan and point guard Nate Lewis, both critical to the team’s dynamics. Additionally, senior Graham Hiking has returned to the fold, bringing with him vitality and competitive edge. The coach also mentions promising juniors, along with a couple of exciting freshmen. During the interview, Coach Carden emphasized the importance of an upcoming preview scrimmage against Bristol, which will serve as a vital test for players with limited varsity experience. “It’s crucial for our guys to get as close to game situations as possible,” he said. Discussing their challenging conference and non-conference schedule, Coach Carden is optimistic. The team faces tough opponents right from the start, including West Branch, Louisville, and Boardman—matches that will undoubtedly prepare them for the high stakes of tournament play. “We get thrown into the fire right away. Those games will test us and see what we’re all about,” he remarked.

Expectations for the team remain high, with Carden pushing for a strong work ethic and defensive intensity. “We want to play hard and fast, especially on the defensive end,” Carden expressed. In year two, practices have begun to reflect his vision, with drills and team dynamics molding into a cohesive unit. Coach Carden also praised the foundational work put in at the junior high level, highlighting the robust coaching staff that aids in the program’s continuity. “We have great junior high programs and knowledgeable coaches that prepare our players for the next level.”

As the South Range boys’ basketball team embarks on their new season, Coach Carden’s vision is clear: dedication, high energy, and relentless effort. The team’s depth, bolstered by a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, promises another exciting chapter in South Range basketball.

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MEGA POWERS

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CANFIELD, OH In a recent feature on the YSN Podcast, Canfield High School senior Joel Rogers, affectionately nicknamed “Mega,” shared insights into his multifaceted life as an athlete, student, and community contributor.

Rogers, known for his role on the Canfield football team, detailed his journey from simply following his older brother into long snapping to becoming a pivotal player on the team. “I kind of just went out there one day with him. We tried it. I did all right at it,” Rogers recounted, describing his transition to the long snapping position. Though he also plays on the offensive and defensive lines, long snapping has become his passion and primary focus.

Beyond the gridiron, Rogers is making significant contributions in his school and the broader community. Known for his can-do attitude, he recently took the initiative to repair a broken jugs machine, an essential tool for the football team’s practice sessions. “I could probably fix that, thinking it’s going to be real quick, easy. And it just kind of stemmed from that,” Rogers humbly explained.

His commitment to community service shines through his involvement with the career center, where he led a project to build a playhouse for Habitat for Humanity. “I felt like I was part of something big,” Rogers reflected, emphasizing the importance of giving back.

Balancing his responsibilities as a student and an athlete, Rogers is also carving out a future in construction. He dreams of starting his own construction company, specializing in woodworking and potentially working on expansive mansions. Influenced by his building and construction teacher, Mr. Benchwick, and his father’s side work, Rogers has developed a keen interest in understanding the mechanics of construction.

Amidst all his endeavors, Rogers finds the most support from his grandmother, his biggest cheerleader. “She hasn’t missed a single one of my events through my whole high school,” he said, showcasing the strong family support system that fuels his achievements.

As the Canfield football team heads into the playoffs, Rogers and his teammates aspire to leave a legacy of hard work and resilience. “We weren’t great our 7th, 8th grade or even our freshman year. But we all sort of just clicked,” Rogers noted, highlighting the team’s journey of growth and unity.

From football fields to community projects, Joel “Mega” Rogers exemplifies dedication, leadership, and a spirit of service, making Canfield proud both on and off the field.

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COLT 44

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LISBON, OH- The Lisbon Blue Devils’ football team has been turning heads this season with their cohesive gameplay and significant growth. A key figure in this transformation is junior captain Colt Tullis. Stepping up as both a leader and a versatile player, Tullis has set the tone for a young team eager to make their mark.

In a recent interview on the YSN podcast, Tullis offered insights into the team’s progress and his journey. “We’ve taken it game by game,” he said. “Our big focus is getting better after every game, every practice. We got a bunch of guys that want to get better.”

Tullis’s ability to adapt is exemplified by his transition from tailback to right guard, a move he made selflessly to benefit his team. “I wanted to help the team play as big of a role as I could and do what we needed to win some games,” Tullis shared.

This season, Tullis’s leadership has drawn comparisons to past captains, notably last year’s quarterback, Trevor Sifky. “He had the most drive. He wanted to win. He wanted to be great, and I really admire that,” Tullis remarked.

Away from the field, Tullis has his sights set on a future in criminology, aspiring to become a U.S. Marshal. His commitment and focus, both academically and athletically, are poised to serve him well beyond his high school years.

As the Blue Devils continue their season, the influence of their junior captain, Colt Tullis, will undoubtedly be felt, both in the huddle and in the hearts of his teammates.

YSN is proud to spotlight such a dedicated athlete and leader, embodying what it means to be a Lisbon Blue Devil.

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THE MAD HITTER

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CANFIELD, OH- Madison Dado, a senior at South Range High School, was the guest on the YSN podcast’s South Range Raider show. Madi was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in both volleyball and softball.

Deangelos asked Madi about her responsibilities on the volleyball team, and she explained that she played different positions each year. She had gained a strong understanding of the middle position after playing it for two years, and she also played in the back row.

When it came to training for both sports, Madi mentioned that she consistently went to Troy Parks throughout each season. She focused on the specific sport she was playing at the time, giving her full attention to the current season.

Deangelos then mentioned Madi’s impressive abilities on the softball field, particularly her powerful throws. He noted that in both volleyball and softball, speed played a significant role. Madi explained that while she was in control as a center fielder in softball, playing volleyball required a different level of communication and understanding with her teammate, Anna Troy.

The conversation shifted to Madi’s role in guiding Anna, a freshman on the team. Madi credited Anna’s natural talent and ability to assimilate into the team seamlessly. Madi herself had received guidance from Reagan, a teammate who helped her navigate the back row position.

Her recent successful run with the team, having faced tough opponents has been impressive. The busy schedule allowed little time to relax, as they had to quickly shift focus to the next opponent. Madi also mentioned how she managed to balance her time during homecoming week, thanks to a day off provided by Coach Irons.

As the conversation moved toward Madi’s future goals, she expressed her desire to continue playing a sport at the collegiate level. She explained that her passion for the sport and the relationships she built through it were driving factors. However, she also shared her aspiration to become a physician’s assistant after college, inspired by her love for the show Grey’s Anatomy and her family’s background in healthcare.

Madi spoke fondly of her family, acknowledging the sacrifices they made to support her and her sisters’ sporting endeavors. Her parents, a nurse and a police officer, served as role models, always encouraging her to pursue her dreams.

Before wrapping up, Madi gushed about her excitement for a trip to Myrtle Beach. and expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming experience.

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