Tag Archive for: volleyball practice

THE WAY JAY DOES IT

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COLUMBIANA, OH – In the latest Crestview Volleyball player profile, volleyball sensation Jayden Scheller opened up about her journey, team dynamics, and the essence of being a part of one of the most successful high school volleyball programs in the region.

Scheller, now a senior, has seen her role grow significantly in her final year with the team. “At first, it was intimidating because you don’t want to let such an amazing team down,” she shared. Reflecting on her experience since transferring to Crestview in her sophomore year, Scheller emphasized the welcoming and supportive spirit of her teammates and coaches. “The girls on the team are so encouraging, making it easy to go out there and do your job.”

Being part of Crestview volleyball is described by many as akin to being in a rock star band, thanks to their consistent success. The community’s support plays a pivotal role in the team’s morale. “We’re not just playing a game; we’re playing for our community, our coaches, and our parents,” Scheller noted. A typical Crestview practice is no walk in the park. The team starts with a rigorous 30-minute warm-up, followed by specific skill drills and simulated six-on-six matches. This high level of preparation is evident in their dominating performances on the court. The gym’s often harsh conditions also provide a unique advantage. “Training in such an environment gives us a heads-up on other gyms,” Scheller mentioned, highlighting how the lack of air conditioning during the summer months makes them more resilient.
Off the court,

Scheller maintains a strong academic record and participates in several challenging classes, including AP Literature and Calculus. Her love for history and subjects like economics and psychology also stand out, showcasing her well-rounded character.
Family and friends are central to Scheller’s life. “I’m really close with my family, and we often have game nights,” she shared. Her favorite activities include playing the card game Dutch Blitz and staying active by playing sports like pickleball with friends.
When asked about her inspirations, Scheller expressed immense gratitude towards her parents and volleyball coaches. “They push me to be the best I can be while being incredibly supportive,” she said.

As she wraps up her high school career, Jayden Scheller stands as a testament to hard work, resilience, and community spirit. Her journey at Crestview has been marked not only by athletic success but also by personal growth and academic excellence. Fans and supporters can undoubtedly look forward to more stellar performances from Jayden and her teammates as they continue to make their mark on high school volleyball.

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WESTERN RESERVE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH KRISIE HUGHES

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-In a passionate conversation at Ben’s Restaurant in Berlin Center, Ohio, Western Reserve volleyball coach Krisie Hughes detailed the resilient journey of her team this season on the popular podcast, YSN’s “The Devils Hour.” Sitting down with host Chris Colucci,  Hughes expressed pride in her team’s tenacity as they navigated a challenging season.

Commencing the season with a rocky 1-4 record, Western Reserve has since clawed their way back to 5-6, demonstrating the relentless spirit Hughes has worked tirelessly to instill in her players. “Our league is very tough,” Hughes mentioned, highlighting the fierce competition they face. Yet, it’s this adversity that’s molding her players into formidable contenders. “They’re battling, and I feel like it can go either way,” she added, pointing out the significant improvement despite tough losses.

Leadership plays a pivotal role in the team’s dynamics, with six seniors taking the helm. Captains Haley Fellowes and Abby Blair exemplified the diverse leadership styles, from vocal encouragement to energizing the team during tight matches. Hughes gave a heartfelt shout-out to all her seniors, acknowledging their unique contributions: Dalen Brown, Abby Blair, Haley Fellows, Izzy Mauro, Lauren Steed, and Amanda Hamilton.

“It’s great to have that leadership,” Hughes noted, underscoring how the seniors’ roles extend beyond the court. Their task isn’t just scoring points, but also uplifting their teammates during downtimes, a quality Hughes holds in high regard as crucial for their season’s aspirations.

Transitioning from last year’s remarkable season — one that saw four exceptional seniors leave a legacy — posed challenges. New talents had to rise up, notably in the back row and among underclassmen like Quincy Miller and Chloe Ensleye. Hughes spoke highly of their growth and potential, “There are times when we look like we need their help. But again, we’re gonna be up and down.”

With the second half of the season underway, Hughes has set clear goals to establish consistency and finish strong. “We need to finish the game… we need to be more consistent,” she emphasized. This call-to-action seeks to address streaky performances, aiming for a reliable execution so critical for their end-game: tournament success.

The community’s support hasn’t gone unnoticed. Abby Blair remarked on the inter-sport camaraderie, highlighting support from other sports teams which Hughes believes acts as an additional “player” on the court by sustaining enthusiasm and momentum.

As Western Reserve Volleyball marches forward, Hughes hopes the second half of the season solidifies their hard work and unity into tangible victories. “Good luck on the season,” Blair wished her coach — a sentiment echoed by fans, all rooting for a deep playoff run.

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MILLER MAKING MAGIC

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COLUMBIANA, OH* – Taking the leap from freshman year to sophomore can be daunting for any student-athlete, but for Crestview’s Kerrigan Miller, it’s been a transformative journey. The young volleyball talent recently opened up on YSN’s podcast about her growth, challenges, and the supportive environment that has shaped her promising career.

In just her second year on the team, Miller has already seen significant playing time, not only on the volleyball court but also on the varsity basketball floor last year. This dual-sport experience has fortified her mental tenacity, helping her adjust swiftly to the fast-paced varsity level. “Basketball definitely helped me to be more confident and prepared for this volleyball season,” Miller noted. Crestview’s volleyball program, known for its dominance and tight-knit community, has provided a nurturing yet competitive atmosphere for Miller. She emphasized the importance of the team’s family-like bond, stating, “Everyone is just so nice to everyone. There’s no problems. It just makes the sport so much more fun to play.”

Off the court, Miller is equally impressive. Balancing a rigorous academic schedule with her athletic commitments, she is already diving into college-level coursework as a sophomore, with classes like Algebra II and Understanding Music pushing her to new academic heights. Despite the challenging curriculum, she maintains a positive attitude and diligent work ethic. One of Miller’s most significant inspirations comes from the senior class of athletes, from whom she draws leadership lessons and motivation. She admires their ability to lift the team’s spirits, even during grueling practices. “They always bring people up. They were definitely the best senior class I could ask for to learn from,” she shared.

As she continues to grow both as a player and a student, Miller looks forward to the future, driven by a desire to excel and increase her playing time. Reflecting on her journey, she extends heartfelt gratitude to her support system, including her family and friends, who have been unwavering pillars of support. Kerrigan Miller is not just making magic on the volleyball court; she’s setting the stage for a bright and impactful future at Crestview and beyond. This sophomore is a shining example of dedication, perseverance, and the power of a positive environment.

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LOWELLVILLE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH CHRISTINA FREED

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- As the Lowellville Rockets volleyball team kicks off their season, the anticipation is palpable. Under the guidance of Head Coach Christina Freed, the Rockets are aiming to build on last year’s promising start and solidify their presence as a formidable force in their league. With Coach Freed entering her second year at the helm and her seventh year in volleyball coaching overall, she brings a blend of experience and vision to the team.

The Rockets are buoyed by a strong senior class, consisting of seven dedicated players who are expected to provide leadership both on and off the court. Speaking to YSN’s DJ Yokley on the podcast “LOWELLVILLE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER,” Coach Freed highlighted the importance of team chemistry and unity. Over the summer, the team invested in various bonding activities, including surprise lunches, pool gatherings, and team dinners, in hopes of fostering a cohesive and supportive environment.

“Chemistry was really important this year,”  said Coach Freed. “We did a lot to make sure the girls came together as a team. It’s about building relationships and trust, ensuring everyone knows their role and responsibilities.”

The team’s efforts to strengthen bonds seem to be paying off. Already off to a 1-0 start, the Rockets are committed to maintaining a winning record throughout the season. Coach Freed employs a balanced approach, focusing not only on skills and strategies but also on mental and emotional readiness.

Each home game holds special significance, as players dedicate their performances to important figures in their lives. This practice adds a layer of motivation and personal connection to each match. For Coach Freed, this year’s dedication goes to her cousin Ricky, whose resilience in overcoming personal challenges serves as an inspiration.

“No matter how low you go, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel,” said Coach Freed, emphasizing the life lessons she wishes to impart to her players.
As the Lady Rockets volleyball aims for success, the team’s determination and strong chemistry will be crucial factors. With the leadership of Coach Freed and the senior class, the Rockets are well-poised to compete fiercely in the season ahead, making their community proud.

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MOLNAR’S MOMENT

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- At YSN, we shine the spotlight on young athletes who redefine commitment and passion. Today, we delve into the remarkable world of Kylee Molnar, a Mineral Ridge rising star whose dedication to sports is as inspiring as it is intense. DJ Yokley, host of YSN, sat down with Kylee to discuss her love for athletics, her punishing schedule, and the drive that catapults her towards success.

Since her early feature on YSN, Kylee has become a familiar name, not just for her prowess in multiple sports but for her genuine outlook towards her future. When asked about her motivation, Kylee shared, “I want to go to college for playing sports. Of course, I have a scholarship so my parents don’t have to pay for it.” Displaying maturity beyond her years, Kylee’s focus on securing a sports scholarship reflects her considerate nature and long-term vision.

A testament to her athletic versatility and enthusiasm, Kylee doesn’t restrict herself to a single sport – or even two. She juggles an astounding array of activities, including basketball, volleyball, cross country, track, and club sports. With such a packed routine, one might wonder how she manages it all. Yes, Kylee keeps a meticulous schedule. “I used to get up at like 05:00 a.m. before school started… Then I went to volleyball practice after, for 2 hours and, and then after volleyball I went to lifting and then I had to get a jump stretch after that,” she says, outlining a day that would exhaust even seasoned athletes.

The rigors of her routine are palpable when she discusses her workouts. “It could be hills some days. Linda loops, 400 repeats, mile repeats, six-mile runs. Just crazy stuff,” Kylee explains, revealing the extent of her training. These early morning workouts set the tone for the rest of her day which includes a full slate of school, sports, and study.

Balancing a high-octane sports regimen with schoolwork and family time isn’t easy, but Kylee does it with poise and discipline. When DJ Yokley asked what she enjoys outside of sports, her response was heartwarming, “I spend time with my family, but I also volunteer. My mom’s the booster, so I have to volunteer at the concession stand and on the field.”

Despite her disciplined diet, Kylee confesses her love for ‘pop’, or as some may call it, soda. “My cross country coach, he says it’s poison for me, but I really like some pop.” She proclaims root beer as her favorite, painting a picture of a regular teenager beneath the elite athlete.

When it comes to leadership, Kylee envisions her role as one of guidance and support: “Just speaking up, like helping people who don’t know what they’re doing, like trying to get them to the best of their abilities.” Kylee’s understanding of leadership extends beyond mere performance; it’s about empowering her teammates to reach their peak potential.

Kylee’s achievements are indeed impressive. DJ Yokley pointed out her accomplishments in junior high cross country, noting she “finished third at the league meet, making first team all MVAC finished 7th at the state meet out of 132 other runners.” Not just a talented runner, Kylee simultaneously excelled as a key player on the 8th-grade volleyball team.

As the interview came to a close, it became clear that Kylee thrives under pressure. Relishing the adrenaline rush, she shared, “That’s incredible… You’re at your best when the stage is biggest.” This sentiment embodies the spirit of a true competitor, one who consistently chases excellence with boundless energy and unwavering commitment.

From YSN, we salute Kylee Molnar for her exceptional prowess as an athlete and commend her efforts both on and off the field. Keep an eye on this outstanding Mineral Ridge player as she heads into high school. There’s no telling the heights she’ll reach, and we can’t wait to chronicle her journey.

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