Tag Archive for: Volleyball

POPPING FROM THE PAGE

WELLSVILLE, OH- Wellsville High School standout Bella Poppelriter has recently committed to continuing her athletic career at Bethany College, where she will play volleyball. Poppelriter, known for her remarkable skills on both the basketball court and volleyball court, joined the YSN podcast to discuss her journey and future plans.

In a candid interview with host DJ Yokley, Bella recounted her recent basketball feats, including a career-high 31 points against Leetonia. Yokley praised her athletic prowess and leadership qualities, noting her ability to score, call out plays, and make pivotal defensive moves.

Despite her success in basketball, Poppelriter explained her choice to pursue volleyball at the collegiate level. “I just developed this love for volleyball. It’s so fun to me,” she shared. Bella emphasized that being part of a successful volleyball team contributed significantly to her passion for the sport.

Reflecting on her multi-sport high school career, Poppelriter highlighted some memorable moments, such as achieving her thousand-point milestones and making significant progress in volleyball. “Just being able to get different accomplishments in different sports is amazing,” she said.

Growing up in Wellsville, Bella’s dedication to sports extended beyond personal achievement. She spoke fondly of her community’s support and pride. “It feels amazing because I know everybody out there is just supporting me,” she expressed.

When asked about her inspirations, Bella mentioned her best friend Presley Stokes, her supportive family, and her dedicated coaches. She credited her father for being a constantly motivating presence, helping her with training since she was little.

Looking ahead, Poppelriter expressed excitement about joining Bethany College, drawn to its small, close-knit environment. Her commitment to staying near her family played a crucial role in her decision. “It just felt like the perfect fit for me,” she concluded.

As Bella prepares for this new chapter, she hopes to inspire younger athletes in her community to work hard and pursue their dreams, just as she has. The YSN network and the Wellsville community eagerly anticipate witnessing Bella’s continued success in her college volleyball career.

 

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

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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LEAVE IT TO LEWIS

LOWELLVILLE, OH- As her senior year at Lowellville progresses, Morgan Lewis, a multi-sport athlete and cheerleader, shares her experiences and aspirations both on and off the field. In a recent interview on YSN’s player profile series, Lewis opened up about her goals, influences, and future plans.

Reflecting on her senior year, which she describes as “bittersweet,” Lewis is determined to turn her current sports season around and achieve a winning record. “I really want to have a winning season and turn this season around from what we’re doing right now, and I think we can,” she stated confidently.

As a senior with significant influence on her peers and a supportive figure in the locker room, Lewis emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. “I think we just need to go into more games with a positive mindset,” she explained. This optimistic outlook has been shaped by learning from challenges and obstacles throughout her life.

Lewis credits much of her success and positive demeanor to her parents’ unwavering support. Competing in volleyball, basketball, softball, and cheerleading, her parents have been her biggest supporters. “They go to every single game,” she mentioned proudly.

While her athletic ambitions at the collegiate level remain undecided, Lewis is considering a future in teaching, drawn to the idea of nurturing young minds.

Morgan also cherishes the tight-knit community at Lowellville where “everybody knows each other,” and values her teammates whom she considers family. Her younger sister, also on the team, has been a source of mutual support and strength, teaching her to “keep moving forward” and “not worry about the little things.”

Outside of sports, Morgan enjoys leisure activities such as watching TV shows like Outer Banks and movies like Wicked. Her preference for warmer weather and fondness for beach vacations in North Carolina reveal a relaxed side to this dedicated athlete.

Looking ahead, if given a million dollars, she would invest in a three-story mansion complete with a sports room, reflecting her passion for athletics.

Morgan Lewis’s journey through her final year at Lowellville highlights a blend of ambition, familial support, and community spirit. As she looks forward to her next steps, her story continues to inspire those around her.

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THE SAIT COMES MARCHING IN

Newton Falls, OH — As the Newton Falls girls’ basketball season progresses, senior Lilly Sait finds herself navigating the whirlwind of emotions that come with her final year of high school sports. In a recent player profile on YSN, Lilly sat down with host Anthony Hartwig to discuss her experience as a leader, her future plans, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind. “Coming in and having to be a leader for the team has been a little stressful,” Lilly admitted. “It’s really good to have a good support system and just try to work together and be positive all the time.”

Throughout her high school career, Lilly has benefited from strong leadership examples, including past teammates like Danny Drake and Natalie Albert, as well as the guidance of her coach. Now, she finds herself in the role of mentor, striving to maintain a positive and enjoyable atmosphere within the team. A standout on both the basketball and volleyball courts, Lilly’s senior night for volleyball marked the beginning of a bittersweet realization that her high school sports journey is nearing its end. “It’s definitely more emotional now that basketball season is here,” she said. “I still have track after, but basketball is my last big sport.”

In addition to her athletic pursuits, Lilly has maintained a strong academic record while balancing a variety of extracurricular activities. She takes pride in her ability to juggle sports, volunteering, and schoolwork, all while holding onto straight A’s. Looking ahead, Lilly plans to attend Kent State University at Salem to study radiology, where she hopes to leverage her love for hands-on work and passion for helping others. Staying close to home is an added bonus, allowing her to remain connected with her supportive family.

As she reflects on her time at Newton Falls, Lilly expresses deep gratitude for her parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teammates, and coaches. “Coach Baker and Coach Tony are like second, second and third dads to me. They’re always making sure I’m being the best person I can be,” she shared. With leaders like Mia Deciser and Delilah Simpson ready to step into her shoes, Lilly is confident that the future of Newton Falls girls’ basketball is bright. As she prepares for life after high school, the imprint she leaves on her team and community is sure to be felt for years to come. For now, Lilly Sait remains focused on finishing her senior season strong, cherishing every moment and continuing to inspire those around her.

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TUSCANO TAKING IT ALL IN

Springfield, OH – As the buzzer heralds the final season of her high school basketball journey, Mariana Tuscano stands poised and reflective. In her senior campaign for the Springfield Tigers, Tuscano has embraced the moment, soaking in every detail of her last year on the hardwood.

“I know once the tournament run starts, it’s definitely gonna hit me because any game could be the last. But right now, I’m just trying to enjoy it,” she shared in a recent interview with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig. Tuscano, a dedicated athlete who’s also excelled in volleyball, attributes her ability to manage senior-year pressures to her previous experiences. “It definitely helped me out because I already got one cry down… But I’m just gonna keep playing,” she remarked, shedding light on the emotional toll senior year can take on a student-athlete.

Having been a pivotal figure in Springfield’s rise, Tuscano cherishes the bond and history with her teammates. “I’ve been playing with these girls since I was young… We’re definitely going to try to go do what we did before with all the tournament runs,” she reflected warmly. The season has seen Tuscano continue her role as a leader. “I think I’ve had the role of a leader since last year… This year, we’re just gonna keep trying to help the younger girls out,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to mentoring the next generation.

Academically, Tuscano has set herself up for success, balancing her lighter senior-year workload with her basketball commitments. “I can just go to practice, come home and not really have to worry about staying up late doing homework,” she explained, highlighting her strategic planning. As Tuscano looks ahead, she remains undecided between pursuing nursing or business at Youngstown State University but is confident in her future path. “I’m definitely going to college… Probably YSU,” she confirmed.

Looking back, Tuscano expresses immense pride in her time at Springfield. “I’m definitely going to be proud of myself for graduating and just the way my high school career went,” she said confidently. In closing, Tuscano shared her gratitude for her coaches, teammates, and most importantly, her family. “My mom, she’s my biggest supporter… My brothers are also always there for me,” she said, acknowledging the unwavering support system that has been crucial to her success. With her senior season in full swing, Mariana Tuscano remains a beacon of leadership, dedication, and inspiration for the Springfield Tigers, destined to leave an indelible mark on the school’s storied basketball program.

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EAST PALESTINE GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH RICK GATES

East Palestine, OH – The East Palestine High School has ushered in a fresh era for their girls’ basketball program by appointing Rick Gates as the new head coach. Gates, who boasts a storied coaching career in the region, is set to lead the Bulldogs through an exciting journey this season.

Gates, renowned for his successes with both boys’ and girls’ programs, joins East Palestine after a beneficial stint assisting Tristan Reynolds with the boys’ team. His transition to the girls’ side comes with high hopes and notable enthusiasm. “I’m just excited to get started on my new journey and our team’s new journey with the girls program at EP,” Gates remarked during a recent episode of YSN’s “Coach’s Corner” with Anthony Hartwig.

Taking over the program in August, Gates faced immediate challenges due to a late start and the no-contact period of fall sports. His focus swiftly moved to instilling a solid foundation, emphasizing fundamentals and team culture. Despite limited initial contact, Gates expressed optimism about the team’s potential. The Bulldogs’ roster features two juniors, five sophomores, and one freshman, setting a stage for a youthful yet promising team. Key players like juniors CamI Kridler and Liv Dyke are expected to take on leadership roles, guiding their younger teammates through the season.

Without seniors and with only eight players in the squad, Gates adopts a unique coaching strategy. “We need all eight of them to contribute every single night in practice,” he emphasized. “We don’t have a superstar, so we need eight solid players that are all going to fill in their roles.” The Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference (EOAC) presents a significant competitive challenge. Gates acknowledges the strength of teams like Columbiana, Southern, and United but remains confident that his team can also vie for success. “We have a shot to play competitively with [them],” he noted. Non-conference games will serve as essential trials for Gates’ Bulldogs, aiming to prepare the squad for intense league matches and the upcoming postseason.

Joining Gates in this new chapter are assistants Jill Baird, Jocelyn Fristake, Addison Glavin, Alexis Gates Hauser, Carson Rotledge, and Kevin McKinstry. The diverse and experienced staff aims to foster growth and success within the program. “We have really had this take a step back and go fundamentals first,” Gates revealed, highlighting the collaborative and developmental focus of his staff. This comprehensive approach underscores the promising direction in which Gates intends to steer the East Palestine girls’ basketball program. YSN’s Anthony Hartwig concluded with optimism for the team and appreciation for Gates’ leadership: “Congratulations on the job. We know you’re going to do great things in East Palestine.” As the new season tips off, East Palestine fans eagerly anticipate the evolution and successes ahead under Rick Gates’ experienced leadership.

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WESTMINSTER FALLS TO ALLEGHENY IN PAC CHAMPIONSHIP SEMIS

MEADVILLE, Pa.–The Westminster College women’s volleyball program was dealt a 3-0 loss by Allegheny College in the semifinal round of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) Championship Tournament Thursday night at the David V. Wise Center.

Allegheny won 25-20, 25-19 and 25-18.

Allegheny, the six-team championship tournament’s top seed, improved to 25-5 and will host No. 2 Saint Vincent, a 3-1 semifinal winner over No. 3 Chatham University, in Saturday’s title match. It is the first time either program has played for a PAC title. Westminster, the championship tournament’s No. 4 seed, fell to 20-15 with Thursday’s loss. It is the Titans’ fourth 20-win season since 2018.

Junior outside hitter Rachel Brady (Columbus, Pa., Corry) hit .226 with 10 kills. She added seven digs and a pair of block assists. Thursday was Brady’s 16th match this year reaching double-digit kills. Junior middle hitter Jamie Robertson (Los Angeles, Calif., Palisades Charter) hit .357 with six kills, four digs and two block assists while sophomore right side Orlasia Hunter (Canton, Ohio, Saint Thomas Aquinas) added six kills and a pair of digs. Freshman setter Morgan O’Brien (Pittsburgh, Pa., Our Lady of the Sacred Heart) had 18 assists and nine digs. Junior setter Angie Nardone (Ellwood City, Pa., Lincoln) finished with seven assists and six digs. Freshman libero Brooke Gecina (Aurora, Ohio, Aurora) totaled 23 digs.

Angelee Bawek hit .238 with 16 kills and 10 digs for Allegheny.

JAMMIN WITH JAMEKA

NEW MIDDLETOWN OH- Springfield local’s volleyball sensation, Jameka Brungard, took center stage at this week’s Tiger’s Table, hosted by Steve Leslie of YSNlive.com. Brungard, a senior at Springfield, shared stories of her athletic achievements, community support, and future aspirations in a heartfelt, candid interview.

The evening kicked off with a well-deserved round of applause for Brungard, who recently set a new school record with 27 kills in one game. Though she modestly admitted to being unaware of her impending milestone during the match, her pure joy and enthusiasm were clearly evident as she recounted the moment of her achievement. “I screamed, right in the middle of the game,” she laughed, delighting the audience with her infectious energy. Brungard also touched on the indispensable role her family plays in her athletic journey. “My family means the world to me. They’re always just encouraging me,” she shared. The close-knit Brungard family, known for their sports prowess, continues to inspire each other, including her cousin Bo Brungard, a star quarterback at YSU.

Steve Leslie praised the entire Brungard clan, calling them “one of the best sports families in our area.” He further highlighted Jameka’s versatility, not just on the volleyball court but also on the basketball court, where she was named Player of the Year last season. A true team player, Brungard spoke highly of her coach, Caitlin Barber, and her fellow seniors. “We’re very close,” she said, affirming the strong bond among the six senior players. “Anna [her teammate] takes charge of planning our group activities outside of volleyball.” As she prepares for a crucial tournament match against Jackson Milton, Brungard remains focused on the collective goals of her team. “I think it’ll take a lot of hard work, but I’m hoping we pull it out just so we can see all of our hard work pay off,” she stated.

Looking to the future, Brungard has her sights set on higher education, specifically at West Virginia University. “I hope to go to college,” she confirmed, adding that she aims to focus on academics rather than continuing her athletic career. As the Tiger’s Table wrapped up, Leslie reminded the community to come out and support Jameka and the Lady Tigers in their upcoming match. The night ended with a show of support for Brungard, who left the audience inspired by her dedication, hard work, and passion for both sports and her Springfield community. Catch all the latest updates and interviews from the Springfield Tigers every Tuesday at Tiger’s Table, and don’t miss their upcoming games covered live on YSN.

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WARRIORS CLINCH FIRST DIVISION TITLE IN 19 YEARS

Story by Larry Jennings

Photo Credit: Edgewood Athletics

In a showdown to decide the Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division title, the Edgewood Warriors hosted the Jefferson Falcons in a thrilling volleyball match that captivated a packed gymnasium. Going into the contest, Edgewood carried a perfect 9-0 conference record and had already secured at least a share of the title. The Falcons, with an 8-1 record, were determined to avenge their only conference loss, which had come at the hands of the Warriors earlier in the season.
From the opening whistle, it was clear that this match would be a battle. The Warriors burst out of the gate, building a commanding six-point lead. However, the Falcons showed resilience, slowly chipping away at the deficit to pull within one point at 16-15. Edgewood responded in emphatic fashion, taking the lead to 21 -17 run to regain control. But once again, Jefferson fought back, tying the score at 25 in a nail-biting finish. In the end, it was the Warriors who found the composure to claim the first set, 27-25.
The second set proved just as competitive, with the Falcons taking an early lead. Though the Warriors fought back to tie it at 14, Jefferson held strong and pushed the set into overtime. This time, it was the Falcons who emerged victorious by the same narrow margin, 27-25, leveling the match at one set apiece.
Edgewood, however, was not to be denied. Behind the powerful kills of Faith Vencill and the precision attacks of Addy Lamson, the Warriors regained momentum in the third set. They dominated Jefferson with a 25-13 victory. The fourth set saw Edgewood in full control, sealing the match with a convincing 25-12 win.
For the Falcons, Abby Cotton and Marilla Matuz led the charge with kills, while Matuz was also a standout on defense with a game-high number of digs. But it wasn’t enough to stop the Warriors, who claimed their first conference title in 19 years with the victory.
With the win, Edgewood looks ahead to their next challenge in the postseason tournament. They will face the winner of the West Geauga vs. Cleveland Central Catholic match on October 19, with home-court advantage. Jefferson will also be in action the same day, hosting the winner of the Conneaut vs. Warrensville Heights game.
This was a season-defining moment for the Warriors, and their eyes are now firmly set on making a deep run in the sectional / district tournament

WARRIORS SWEEP BLUESTREAKS TO STAY UNBEATEN IN CVC LAKE DIVISION

Story by: Larry Jennings
Ashtabula, OH- The Edgewood Warriors took part in a triple-header against the Madison Blue Streaks on Tuesday evening at the Edgewood Gymnasium.  The Edgewood Freshman team took the win, 2 sets to 1, and the JVs took their match in two straight.
The varsity Edgewood Warriors maintained their undefeated conference record with an impressive sweep of the Madison Blue Streaks in a Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division volleyball match. The Warriors, who improved to 15-5 overall and 9-0 in conference play, showed why they are the team to beat in the division, overpowering the Blue Streaks (9-12, 4-6) in three straight sets.
The match got off to a dominant start for Edgewood, as they blitzed Madison 25-8 in the opening set. Edgewood’s offensive precision and unrelenting attack left Madison scrambling, with senior Faith Vencill leading the charge.
In the second set, Edgewood head coach Kyra Vencill was able to rotate her roster confidently, giving key players a chance to rest while still maintaining control of the game. Despite a stronger showing from the Blue Streaks, the Warriors secured a 25-17 victory to go up 2-0 in the match.
The third set played out similarly to the second, with both teams engaging in several lengthy rallies. Madison fought to stay in the game, but Edgewood’s consistency and depth proved too much. The Warriors closed out the match with a 25-16 win, completing the sweep and inching closer to claiming the Lake Conference title outright.
Edgewood’s offense was led by a stellar performance from Faith Vencill, who racked up 18 kills on the night. MaKenna Rhodes added 7 kills, while Gianna Ianetta delivered 3 aces to keep the Blue Streaks off-balance. Luci Paolillo contributed 13 points to further fuel the Warriors’ attack.
Madison’s Olivia Miller stood out with 11 kills, and Jadeyn Zepeda added 2 serving aces, but the Blue Streaks couldn’t find a way to slow down Edgewood’s high-powered offense.
“It was great to get off to a fast start and carry momentum through the night,” said Coach Vencill after the match. “We’re getting ready to face Jefferson tomorrow, and it’s important to keep this momentum going as we work towards securing the Lake Conference title.”
With the win, the Warriors are now in position to claim the conference championship with only the one match remaining. Meanwhile, Madison will look to bounce back in their next game against Perry.
As the season winds down, Edgewood’s eyes remain firmly set on a perfect conference record and a deep playoff run.
Match Stats:
Edgewood Warriors:
– Kills: Faith Vencill (18), MaKenna Rhodes (7)
– Aces: Gianna Ianetta (3)
– Points Scored:** Luci Paolillo (13)
Madison Blue Streaks:
– Kills: Olivia Miller (11)
– Aces: Jadeyn Zepeda (2)
Next Matches:
– Edgewood vs. Jefferson
– Madison vs. Perry