Tag Archive for: West Branch

WARRIORS PROVE THEY’RE STILL DANGEROUS

/in /by

By Michael Ginocchi 


Beloit, OH– The West Branch girls basketball team faced a tough challenge at hand when they Welcomed the red hot 8-2 Boardman Spartans to Beloit. After Boardman led 12-9 at the end of the first, the Warrior defense anchored down allowing zero points in the second quarter. 

 

In the second half, Boardman tried to mount a comeback, but that Warrior defense was too strong. They only allowed 17 total second half points and  created  turnovers to help get some easy points.  In the end, it was an impressive 52-29 win over a very good Boardman team.

 

It was a balanced scoring effort in the win for West Branch. Sophie Gregory led the way with 15 points and Chloe Dennison was just as impressive adding 12. Both players were key contributors on defense. Carter Shepard had a nice showing making all the right plays. She scored 7 points and grabbed some key rebounds. Livvie Showalter also added some needed rebounds throughout the game.

 

Boardman struggled to find its rhythm offensively. They were held to 0 second quarter points and just 17 in the second half. Mackenzie Riccitelli was the only Spartan in double figures with 10 points. Sarah Bero helped out the Spartan offense with 7 points, while Victoria Strines added 5.

 

West Branch improves to 11-2 overall with the win. The Warriors will be back in action on Wednesday at Marlington. Boardman drops to 8-3 with the loss. The Spartans will look to bounce back at Austintown Fitch in a another big AAC contest.

 

WARRIORS FIND A WAY TO STALL ALLIANCE

/in /by

By Michael Ginocchi


Beloit, OH–   The West Branch boy’s basketball team hosted conference rival Alliance in a key matchup inside the EBC. Both teams came into the contest 2-0 in the conference and the winner of the game would remain in first place. Alliance got off to a fast start which propelled them to a 27-16 lead at halftime. Aviator forward K’Vaughn Davis caught fire towards the end of the second knocking down 3 big three pointers.

 

In the second half, West Branch turned the tide and flipped all the momentum. The Warriors held Davis to just 2 second half points and outscored Alliance 28-24. Both the offense and defense stepped up ultimately propelling West Branch to a thrilling 56-51 win.

 

For West Branch Jaxon Robb finished with a smooth 19 points. He also was money from the free throw line finishing 8-10. Gavin Gregory finished with 13 points, while grabbing some key offensive rebounds to help seal the win. Cooper Anderson continued his great play scoring in double figures with 10, while Camden Lane put in 9 for the Warriors.

 

Alliance had two players score in double figures. Both K’Vaughn Davis and JR Jackson finished with 16 points each. While Davis did most of his damage throughout the first half, Jackson continued his steady play throughout the game. Sam Gress added 8 points to help keep Alliance in the game late.

 

With the win, West Branch improves to 8-2 (3-0 EBC) on the season. The Warriors are in sole first place and will look to continue that success when the host Carrollton this Tuesday at 6:45 p.m. Alliance drops to 3-5 (2-1 EBC) with the loss. The Aviators will look to bounce back on Tuesday vs Minerva.

WARRIORS GET BACK UP

/in /by

West Branch Dominates Minerva to Extend EBC Streak

On Wednesday, West Branch rebounded from a small losing streak by returning to conference play and securing a resounding 59-13 victory over Minerva. The Warriors displayed their dominance in both ends of the court, extending their undefeated record to 6-0 in the Eastern Buckeye Conference (EBC).

Sophia Gregory led the scoring charge for West Branch with an impressive 21-point performance, showcasing her offensive prowess. Chloe Dennison contributed 9 points, while Mikayln Woods added 7 points, highlighting the team’s well-rounded scoring effort.

With this commanding win, West Branch advances to a stellar 10-2 overall record and maintains their perfect record in the EBC. The Warriors will look to carry this momentum into their upcoming matchup as they host Boardman on Saturday at 1:15.

WARRIORS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THIS OVERTIME THRILLER

/in /by

The varsity boys basketball team used solid free throw shooting in overtime to defeat Akron Garfield this afternoon in a rare weekday matinee game.  The Warriors are now 7-2 on the season while Garfield falls to 6-3.

The Warriors took control early leading 19-7 after one and 30-19 at the half.  The Rams started to chip away in the third quarter but a strong start to the fourth on both ends of the court led to the comeback, eventually tying the game and taking the lead late.  With :17 second left in the game and down 48-46, Camden Lane was fouled on the in bounds pass and went to the line.  Lane would sink both free throws tying the game.  The Rams would get two decent looks at the hoop in the final seconds but failed to convert sending the game into overtime.

In overtime, the Rams would score first taking a 50-48 lead, but West Branch would ramp up the defensive pressure along with some good rebounding helping the Warriors limit Ram opportunities while finding a way to the line on the offensive end.  All eight of the Warrior overtime points came from the free throw line.  Joey Jackson would hit two of four from the stripe, while both Jaxon Robb and Lane would knock down 3-4 each to help lead the Warriors to the win.

Robb would finish the day with 22 points including three 3-pointers, while Lane finished with 18 including two 3’s.  Gavin Gregory would add eight for West Branch.

The Warriors will return home on Friday to take on Alliance for the lead in the EBC as the Aviators also sit at 2-0 in the league.  Game time is scheduled for 6:45 following the JV game.

*Contributed By Ryan Wolf at wbathletics.org

PUTTING ON A SHOW

/in /by

BELOIT OH- when you’re looking at elite basketball, a successful team often hinges on a combination of key elements: a skilled point guard, reliable shooting, and a dominant post player. For West Branch, that formidable mix finds its embodiment in senior Livvie Showalter, whose presence in the paint has become synonymous with excellence.

Livvie Showalter’s impact extends beyond the basketball court, as she has been a prominent name in West Branch athletics, leaving her mark in both volleyball and basketball. However, it’s on the hardwood where Showalter truly shines as a dominant force in the post, contributing significantly to West Branch’s success.

When dissecting Showalter’s basketball prowess, her ability to command the post is evident. Not only does she effortlessly find her way onto the score sheet, but her real work lies in the less glamorous aspects of the game. Showalter is a relentless force on the boards, creating opportunities for her teammates by securing crucial rebounds. With her stationed by the bucket, space opens up for the rest of the team to execute their roles effectively.

As West Branch sets its sights on a deep tournament run, Showalter’s contributions are poised to play a pivotal role in the team’s success. While the spotlight may often gravitate towards scoring and flashy plays, the impact of Livvie Showalter, particularly in the paint, should not be overlooked.

In the quest for basketball excellence, Showalter’s dedication, skill set, and selfless work in the trenches make her an indispensable asset. As West Branch navigates the challenges ahead, the dominant presence of Livvie Showalter in the paint will undoubtedly be a key factor in the team’s pursuit of success.

Presented By:

WARRIORS INDUCT NEXT HALL OF FAME CLASS

/in /by

On Saturday, December 30th the West Branch Local Schools inducted four more members into the West Branch Hall of Fame.  This years inductees were Nancy Penrod (represented below by Luke and Jake Davis), Brenden Wells, Justin Buttermore, and Melinda Trimmer Taylor.

A banquet was held at 4:00 PM in the High School cafeteria.  The new members were announced to the community in between the varsity girls and varsity boys basketball games against Canfield in the West Branch Fieldhouse.

Justin Buttermore, Class of 1993– Justin’s journey in the world of education and coaching is a testament to his passion for both fields. Born and raised in West Branch, he graduated from West Branch High School in 1993. During his high school years, Justin made a mark as a versatile athlete, earning two letters in football, two in basketball, and one in track. His leadership skills and commitment to excellence were evident as he served on the Student Council and was a proud member of the National Honor Society.

Post-graduation, Justin pursued higher education at Capital University, where he earned his degree in secondary education in 1997. His dedication to continuous learning led him to the American College of Education, where he obtained his Masters degree in 2015.

In his high school days, Justin’s athletic prowess garnered him all-league honors in both football and basketball. He captained the basketball team during his senior year and was part of two League Championship football teams and one League Championship basketball team, both advancing to the regional finals.

Justin began his coaching career as a graduate assistant football coach at Clarion University in 1997. The following year, he embarked on his teaching and coaching journey at Hilliard Davidson High School, where he spent five impactful years.

In 2004, Justin assumed the position of head coach and teacher at Tri-Valley High School, a role he held for an impressive 14 seasons. Under his guidance, the team achieved remarkable success, winning nine league titles and making 10 playoff appearances. Justin left Tri-Valley with a remarkable record of 124 wins and 38 losses, establishing himself as the winningest coach in school history.

The pinnacle of his coaching career at Tri-Valley was in 2017 when they became regional champions and finished as state runners-up in Division III. In 2018, Justin moved on to Granville High School, where he continued to achieve success with a 20-4 record and two league titles.

Since 2020, Justin has been the Head Coach at Upper Arlington High School, where he has already made a significant impact. Under his leadership, the team has won 30 games and lost 10, securing two league titles. In 2021, Upper Arlington High School won their first regional championship in 20 years, narrowly missing out on the state title against eventual champions St. Edwards.

Throughout his coaching career, Justin has amassed an impressive overall record of 174-51, earning league Coach of the Year honors 12 times. He was recognized as the 2006 Division III OHSAA Coach of the Year and Division I Coach of the Year in 2021.

Justin’s decision to become a teacher and coach was deeply influenced by the mentors and role models he encountered at West Branch High School. Justin married Abby Buttermore (formerly Abby Doak), also a West Branch graduate. Together, they have two sons—Bo, currently serving as an assistant coach at the University of Toledo, and Doak, a sophomore at Ohio University majoring in Business Finance. The family is completed by their daughter, a current senior at Upper Arlington High School

Melinda Trimmer Taylor, Class of 2015– Melinda Taylor, a distinguished individual and athlete, traces her roots back to West Branch, where she graduated in 2015 with an outstanding academic and athletic record. During her high school years, Melinda showcased her exceptional skills on both the basketball court and soccer field, earning a well-deserved reputation as a four-year letter winner in both sports.

In the sport of basketball, Melinda’s leadership qualities were evident as she was selected as the team captain twice. Her prowess is etched in the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) record book, where she holds an impressive eight entries, including career assists (800), season assists (262), assists in a game (19), games played (107), season free throw percentage (83%), and consecutive free throws made (36). Her senior year achievements were particularly remarkable, earning her the title of Northeast Inland District Player of the Year and Ohio Division II Co-Player of the Year. Melinda also secured a spot on the 1st team all-Ohio and was named Player of the Year twice in her four-time 1st team all-league selections.

On the soccer field, Melinda earned four letters and demonstrated her leadership skills as a two-time captain. Her consistent performance led to four consecutive 1st team all-league selections and three appearances as an All-District member.

Melinda’s athletic prowess did not end with high school. She continued her academic and basketball journey at Youngstown State University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2019. During her time at YSU, she set records for consecutive free throws made (35), single-season Assist to Turnover Ratio (2.23), and single-season free throw percentage (94.8%).

Following her undergraduate success, Melinda pursued her passion for medicine at the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. Throughout her medical school journey, she consistently received Academic Honors and became a proud member of esteemed organizations such as the Sigma Sigma Phi Honor Society, American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Medical Women’s Association.

In her personal life, Melinda is happily married to Beau Taylor, and together they have a son named Roman. They have chosen to make their home in North Canton, Ohio, where Melinda’s legacy continues to inspire those around her, both in the medical field and within her community.

Brenden Wells, Class of 2013– Brenden, a proud West Branch High School graduate of the class of 2013, carved his name into the annals of his alma mater’s sports history with an exceptional athletic career that spanned both football and baseball.

In football, Brenden’s prowess was unmatched, earning him the distinction of being a four-year letter winner. His legacy is etched in the record books, with career statistics that still stand as a testament to his skill and determination. Notably, he holds records for Career rushing yards (3,747), Career touchdowns (44), Career points (264), and the most rushing yards in a single game. His on-field achievements have become an inspiration for aspiring athletes at West Branch.

On the baseball diamond, Brenden’s star continued to shine brightly. A two-time 1st team All-Ohio selection in 2011 and 2013, he was named the NBC Player of the Year in 2013. His consistent excellence earned him a spot on the first team of the NBC three times. The record books bear witness to his incredible achievements in baseball, including season and career records for triples, stolen bases, hits, and runs scored. His 29 career triples and 102 stolen bases place him among the all-time greats in the state of Ohio.

Post high school, Brenden’s journey continued at Marshall University, where he earned an athletic scholarship. In 2017, he transferred to Malone University, where he played four remarkable seasons. His impact was felt in every game, leading the team in batting average for three seasons and becoming Malone’s career leader in triples with an impressive 16. In his senior year, he topped the Great Midwest Athletic Conference in hits with 70.

Brenden’s contributions to Malone University earned him two-time All-League Second Team selections and the distinction of being named Player of the Week twice during his collegiate career. His dedication to the game and exemplary performance have left an indelible mark on the university’s baseball program.

Currently residing in Beloit, Brenden has found professional success at Wally Armour Auto Group. His journey from West Branch to collegiate stardom is a testament to his dedication, skill, and passion for the sports that have shaped his life. Brenden continues to be a source of pride for his community and an inspiration for aspiring athletes.

Nancy Penrod,– Nancy Penrod was a 1970 graduate of Salem High School.  She also received her Bachelors Degree in Education from Bowling Green State University in 1974. Nancy served as a teacher in the West Branch School District for 33 years where she earned the Golden Apple award and was twice honored at the Top 10% banquet. After her retirement from West Branch she served as a math coach at Lisbon then as an employee of the Salem Public Library.

Nancy gave back to the school and the community in so many different ways. She was a member of the Sebring American Legion Youth Foundation which provides scholarships to Sebring and West Branch students. She also was a member of the West Branch Education Association where she sat on several negotiation committees and served as the Associations secretary for many years. At Knox she was the secretary of the PTO and helped with the Knox Share-a-Christmas.

Where Nancy really stood out was the work she did with the West Branch Booster Club. She served as the booster treasurer for years, sold 50/50 tickets at football games and sat on the Scholarship committee. If you wanted to find Nancy on a Thursday night you would have to go to the Bingo hall. She was there from the beginning of Booster Bingo and helped for 28 years.

*Contributed By Ryan Wolf at wbathletics.org

CARDINALS KEEP THEIR STREAK ALIVE IN OVERTIME

/in /by

BELOIT OH- In a clash of two teams riding high on winning streaks, Canfield and West Branch engaged in a basketball showdown that lived up to the anticipation on Saturday night. Both teams entered the game with a five-game winning streak on the line, and the contest played out as a back-and-forth battle with plenty of lead changes.

Despite a valiant effort from both sides, four quarters proved insufficient to determine a winner, and the game extended into overtime. In the additional period, the Cardinals demonstrated resilience and determination, ultimately prevailing with a final score of 59-53.

Canfield’s Dom Cruz led the scoring effort with an impressive 20 points, showcasing his offensive prowess. Sam Castranova contributed 15 points, and Tony Russo added 12 points to the Cardinals’ balanced scoring attack. Ben Weaver chipped in 7 points to round out the scoring.

For West Branch, Jaxon Robb delivered a standout performance with a game-high 22 points. Jeremiah Thomas and Gavin Gregory each contributed 9 points, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.

With this hard-fought victory, Canfield extends their winning streak to six games and sets the stage for their upcoming conference play as they host Boardman on Tuesday. West Branch, now standing at 6-2, will hit the road to face Garfield in an effort to bounce back from this overtime thriller. The game showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their future matchups.

MCQUISTON SENDS CANFIELD OFF THE FLOOR IN STYLE

/in /by

BELOIT OH- Canfield set the tone for an exciting doubleheader on Saturday with a dramatic victory as the girls’ team clinched a thrilling 36-34 win against West Branch. In a game marked by suspense, the Cardinals showcased their resilience, securing the victory with a late three-pointer from Grace McQuiston.

The tension escalated when West Branch managed to take a late 34-33 lead. However, Canfield swiftly responded, racing down the court and relying on McQuiston to deliver a clutch three-pointer with little time remaining. Remarkably, this shot marked McQuiston’s first made field goal of the night, making it all the more significant.

Jenna Triveri led Canfield in scoring with 9 points, followed closely by Camie Dill with 8 points. Carly Fleming contributed 6 points, while Cami Hritz and McQuiston each added 5 points to the Cardinals’ scoring effort.

For West Branch, Sophia Gregory led all scorers with 16 points, showcasing an impressive individual performance. Chloe Dennison added 7 points, contributing to the Warriors’ offensive output.

With this thrilling win, Canfield moves to a 6-3 record and looks ahead to their first conference game of the season on Wednesday, hosting Boardman. West Branch, now standing at 9-2, will embark on the second half of EBC play with a matchup at Minerva on Wednesday. The game exemplified the excitement and unpredictability of high school basketball, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the subsequent boys’ game and future matchups for both teams.

WARRIORS GO INTO THE HOLIDAY BREAK HAPPY

/in /by

EAST LIVERPOOL OH- West Branch showcased their resilience and second-half prowess on Saturday morning, overcoming a slow start in East Liverpool to secure a comfortable 42-15 victory.

Chloe Dennison led the offensive charge for West Branch, contributing 11 points, including three successful three-pointers. Mikalyn Woods added 8 points, while Sophia Gregory and Livvie Showalter chipped in with 7 and 6 points, respectively.

The Warriors’ ability to adjust and dominate in the second half has become a defining characteristic of their success, maintaining an unblemished 9-0 record. With their eyes set on further triumphs, West Branch looks forward to their next challenge after Christmas, facing Olmstead Falls on December 28th at 10:00 am. The morning victory against East Liverpool solidifies West Branch’s reputation as a formidable force in the ongoing basketball season.

WEST BRANCH FINDS A NICE GIFT UNDER THE TREE

/in /by

BELOIT OH- West Branch soared into the holiday season with a resounding 58-39 victory against Fairless, showcasing their strength on the basketball court.

Cooper Anderson led the charge for West Branch, pouring in an impressive 20 points. Jaxon Robb contributed 12 points, while Gavin Gregory and Camden Lane added 10 and 9 points, respectively, demonstrating the team’s well-distributed offensive firepower.

The win propels West Branch to a 5-1 record, setting a positive tone as they head into the holiday break. Fans can anticipate an exciting matchup on December 27th as West Branch returns to action at home against the Academy of Urban Scholars, where the team aims to build upon their recent success and continue their winning streak. The cohesive performance against Fairless highlights West Branch’s potential and resilience on the basketball court.