Tag Archive for: western reserve

RIDGE BACKS UP FIRST PLACE SPOT

MINERAL RIDGE OH- Securing their first-place position in the MVAC, Mineral Ridge triumphed over Western Reserve with a convincing 56-40 victory on Thursday. Ava Hulett led the charge with an outstanding performance, notching 22 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. Sam Aulet contributed 9 points, while Lily Merolillo added 8 points and secured 9 rebounds. Gianna Gilbert chipped in with 6 points.

With this win, Mineral Ridge boasts an impressive 18-2 record and looks ahead to hosting Jackson Milton on Monday. On the other side, Western Reserve (11-7) will return home to face Lowellville in their upcoming matchup.

RESERVE SNAGS THE TROPHY OVER JACKSON

BERLIN CENTER, OH-  In a clash of titans that epitomized the essence of high school basketball rivalry, the Western Reserve Blue Devils emerged victorious over the Jackson Milton Blue Jays in a thrilling showdown for the illustrious President’s Memorial Trophy. With the 57th installment of their storied competition unfolding on the hardwood, Reserve showcased their mettle with a commanding 68-44 triumph over their fierce adversaries.

From the opening tip-off, it was evident that both teams were prepared to leave everything on the court in pursuit of glory and honor. The stakes were high, the atmosphere electric, and the intensity palpable as fans from both camps filled the stands, eagerly anticipating a contest for the ages.

Leading the charge for the Western Reserve Blue Devils was their formidable big man, Andrew Hendricks. With a dominating double-double performance, Hendricks showcased his prowess in the paint, tallying 14 crucial points while asserting his presence with authority under the boards. Hendricks’ unwavering commitment to excellence earned him the prestigious title of Player of the Game, a testament to his invaluable contributions to Reserve’s victory.

But Hendricks wasn’t the lone star shining bright for the Blue Devils. Dom Ricciardi, with a stellar display of offensive firepower, led all Devil scorers with an impressive 17 points, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. Luke Henning bolstered Reserve’s offensive onslaught with 13 points of his own, while Brock Wellman rounded out the quartet of double-digit scorers with a solid 11 points, underscoring the team’s depth and resilience.

On the opposing side, the Jackson Milton Blue Jays fought valiantly throughout the contest, led by the dynamic duo of Ryan Romigh and Alex Rotuna. Romigh’s outstanding performance saw him finish with an impressive 23 points, while Rotuna contributed 10 points of his own in a commendable display of skill and determination.

Despite the Blue Jays’ tenacity and determination, they ultimately found themselves unable to withstand the relentless offensive barrage unleashed by their formidable opponents.

With this crucial victory, the Western Reserve Blue Devils improved their standing in the MVAC to three wins and six losses, while boasting an overall record of 4-11. Conversely, the Jackson Milton Blue Jays now stand at 3-6 in conference play, with an overall record of 5-8, as they regroup and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

BLUE DEVILS TURN UP THE HEAT

BERLIN CENTER OH- In a decisive victory on Thursday night, Western Reserve wasted no time in dispatching MVAC rival McDonald, securing a convincing 50-24 win.

The standout performers for Western Reserve were Kylee Ramsey, who led the scoring with an impressive 25 points, and Alyvia Hughes, who contributed 17 points. On the McDonald side, Addison Grewell notched 7 points, while Cierra Shiley added 6.

With the win, Western Reserve boasts a 10-6 record and looks ahead to a road trip to Sebring on Monday. McDonald (6-9) will regroup before their upcoming matchup against Springfield on February 5th. The dominant performance by Western Reserve showcased their strength as they continue to navigate through the season.

VIKINGS KEEP CONFERENCE PACE

ATWATER OH- In a pivotal conference matchup within The Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference (MVAC) Scarlet Division, the Waterloo Vikings boys’ basketball team showcased their dominance with a convincing win against The Western Reserve Blue Devils. The game unfolded at a brisk pace, ultimately resulting in a 52-40 victory for The Vikings.

Waterloo wasted no time asserting their authority, storming ahead with a commanding 14-4 lead over Reserve by the end of the first quarter. The second quarter further solidified Waterloo’s dominance, as they outscored their opponents 19-7, extending their halftime lead to a formidable 33-11.

A remarkable display of sharpshooting saw Waterloo connect on seven 3-pointers in the first half, contributing significantly to their substantial advantage. Although The Blue Devils rallied in the third quarter with an 18-15 effort, The Vikings maintained a comfortable lead of 48-29 heading into the final period.

Reserve staged a late comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, outscoring Waterloo 11-4. However, their efforts fell short as The Vikings secured the win with a final score of 52-40.

The standout performer for Waterloo was Jackson Eichler, who earned the title of Player of the Game with an impressive 20-point contribution. Eichler showcased his scoring prowess by hitting five shots from beyond the arc. Supporting him were Drew Flarida with 9 points and Gage Hawley with 8 points. On the opposing side, The Blue Devils were led by Andrew Handricks and Dom Ricciardi, both contributing 7 points.

With this conference triumph, The Vikings improved their season record to 9-4 overall and 6-2 in MVAC play. Their next challenge awaits as they host The Lowellville Rockets (6-5, 5-1) on Tuesday, January 23rd, with a 7 p.m. tip-off. Meanwhile, Western Reserve (4-10, 3-5) will have an opportunity to bounce back as they host Springfield (10-3, 7-1) on the same evening.

Stay updated on MVAC basketball action throughout the season with live games, scores, stats, stories, and more on YSN!

LUKE’S LEGACY

BERLIN CENTER, OH-  Luke Henning, a senior athlete at Western Reserve High School, is garnering attention for his outstanding performance on the basketball court and beyond.

Known for his versatility in sports, Henning’s impact as a leader and teammate has left a lasting impression on the Western Reserve community. His exceptional skills and uplifting personality have made him a standout figure in high school sports.

In a recent interview with YSN’s DJ Yokley, Henning attributed a large part of his success to his family, particularly his brother, who set the groundwork for his athletic journey.

Looking ahead, Henning has his sights set on Ohio University, where he plans to study wildlife biology, inspired by his love for animals and the outdoors. His commitment to his studies and his passion for sports has made him a role model for many aspiring young athletes in the area.

As he prepares to take the next step in his academic and professional life, the impact of his influence is sure to be felt, not only on the court but also in the broader community that he has touched with his sportsmanship and dedication.

Luke Henning’s legacy at Western Reserve High School will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark, and his future endeavors at Ohio University are awaited with eager anticipation.

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ALL IS WELL

BERLIN CENTER, OH- Senior basketball player, Brock Wellman, of Western Reserve High School in a recent podcast episode on YSN, shared insights about his multi-sport journey, family support, and future aspirations.

During the episode, host DJ Yokley engaged in a candid conversation with Wellman, discussing his involvement in basketball, football, and baseball, as well as the challenges and gratifications of being a multi-sport athlete. Wellman expressed his appreciation for the tight-knit bond with his teammates and the rich sporting history at Western Reserve, emphasizing his fondness for baseball as his primary sport.
Aside from his athletic pursuits, Wellman shed light on the unwavering support from his family, especially his hardworking parents and devoted grandmother. His mother’s commitment to her demanding job as a 911 dispatcher has instilled in him the value of perseverance and dedication.

Looking to the future, Wellman revealed his interest in pursuing a career in sports, particularly in sports broadcasting, inspired by his passion for athletics. He also highlighted his desire to work in his father’s business, focusing on ironwork and garage doors.

Moreover, Wellman reflected on his role models, citing his parents as significant influences and expressing his admiration for their strong work ethic.

As Wellman prepares to graduate in 2024, his episode on YSN provided a glimpse into the life, experiences, and aspirations of a dedicated and versatile student-athlete at Western Reserve High School.

The podcast episode presented a compelling narrative of Wellman’s journey, showcasing the enduring impact of family support, a strong work ethic, and a passion for sports, leaving listeners with a deeper understanding of the talented athlete’s character and ambitions.

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WESTERN RESERVE HSBB COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH JOE SERENSKY

BERLIN CENTER, OH- In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, “Western Reserve HSBB Coach’s Corner (Ep 3) with Joe Serensky,” Coach Serensky discusses his team’s recent wins and the impact of his senior players on the basketball program.

Coach Serensky expressed optimism about the team’s recent performance, stating, “We’re gaining ground on guys.” He acknowledged the challenges of changing the team’s playing style mid-season but highlighted the progress and momentum they are building.

Addressing the youthful makeup of the team, Coach Serensky emphasized the long-term vision, noting that the team is not just built for the current season but for the future as well. He mentioned strategically giving opportunities to younger players to assess their potential impact in the upcoming seasons.
One player who received praise from Coach Serensky was Josh Classic, whom he described as a versatile and dedicated athlete with a passion for the game, emphasizing his work ethic and determination to improve.

Speaking about the contributions of senior players, Coach Serensky emphasized their positive impact on the team’s culture and camaraderie, expressing gratitude for their leadership and support for the younger players. He particularly highlighted the selfless and positive attitudes of the senior players in the locker room during challenging moments.

The podcast also touched on Coach Serensky’s personal influences in the world of basketball, citing his father, uncle, and local coach Steve Spees as key figures who inspired his passion for the sport.
The importance of scouting reports in game preparation was another topic discussed, with Coach Serensky emphasizing their significance in developing effective game strategies and adapting to opponents’ styles of play.

The podcast wrapped up with Coach Serensky expressing excitement for upcoming games and sharing his passion for the sport.

Overall, the episode provided insight into Coach Joe Serensky’s perspective on team development, the impact of senior players, and the meticulous preparation that goes into guiding a high school basketball team.

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SPRINGFIELD STAYS PERFECT IN THE MVAC

By Ty Bartell

BERLIN CENTER OH- In the second edition of Springfield Tigers against Western Reserve Blue Devils in girls basketball this season, the question remained, could the two teams live up to the drama in the first matchup? Back on December 11th, The Blue Devils pushed The Tigers to their limit in The Den, but Springfield still emerged victorious 42-41, courtesy of a winning bucket by Jameka Brungard. The Tigers went into Thursday undefeated in the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference’s (MVAC) Scarlet Division, as they look for their second consecutive conference crown! However, this time they would take the battle to Berlin Center in The Devils’ Lair!

Springfield got the three ball working early, with three different Tigers finding the mark from distance, helping them to an early advantage, 15-11 over Western Reserve after the first quarter. Scoring would subsequently slow down in the second quarter, as both squads were held to single digit scores through the next eight minutes of play. Springfield would have the edge by a bucket at 9-6 over Reserve in the second to hold a 24-17 halftime lead!

Opening up the second half, the first four minutes looked similar to the second quarter, with points coming at a premium for both teams’ offense. The Blue Devils would eventually wake up and catch fire from the perimeter, nailing down four 3-point shots in the quarter, outscoring Springfield 13-7 in the third and effectively cutting the Tigers lead to a single point at 31-30 heading to the final quarter of regulation. The quarter saw both teams lock it down on defense and neither was able to get separation from one another with the game tied 35-35 in the closing minutes of the fourth. Then with 2:45 remaining in the game, Karigan Mullen, like a certain Mullen before her, hit a big 3-point shot with ice in her veins to put the Tigers up and never look back! Winning the ball game 40-39 as Springfield with a flair for the dramatic, claimed their second win of the season by a single point over Western Reserve.

Jameka Brungard was a catalyst on the court, both on the boards and with her scoring, finishing with a game-high 16 points. Mariana Tuscano followed her with 8 points and Kendall Maugh had 6 points. Quincy Miller led the way for Reserve with 12 points followed by Angelina Cappabianca who had 11 points. Interviews with Jameka Brungard, Karigan Mullen and Springfield Head Coach John Matisi can be found below!

Springfield (11-4)(8-0) stays undefeated inside the conference as their next contest will come on Saturday, January 20th when they hit the road to do battle with The Columbiana Clippers (12-2). Meanwhile, Western Reserve (8-5)(4-2) will travel to their rival The Jackson Milton Blue Jays (7-6)(3-4) for the first time in almost two years in girls basketball on Monday, January 22nd. Stay updated with MVAC basketball all season long with live games, scores, stats, stories and more on YSN!

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/1-18-g-bb-reserve-springfield/1-18-g-bb-springfield-reserve/104EOS1D

 

WESTERN RESERVE COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH ANTHONY DUFFIELD

BERLIN CENTER, OH- In a recent episode of the MVR’s Coach’s Corner, head coach Anthony Duffield of the Western Reserve wrestling squad discussed the team’s progress and challenges faced during the ongoing season. The podcast episode shed light on the journey of the young and up-and-coming team from its promising start to the upcoming competitions.

Duffield revealed that the team had initially started the season with around 15-16 wrestlers, and despite the long and physically demanding season, the squad managed to retain its numbers with no dropouts. He discussed the impact of sickness on some of the wrestlers and expressed gratitude for the three wrestlers who placed in the recent tournament.

The podcast also delved into the coaching strategies employed by Duffield to maintain the team’s focus and drive toward the postseason. Duffield emphasized the significance of maintaining a balance between fun and serious training and highlighted the importance of instilling growth in the wrestlers both on and off the mat.

The episode also provided insights into the team’s preparations for the upcoming competitions, including an emphasis on drilling and situational wrestling to refine techniques and address conditioning concerns. Duffield also discussed the progress and leadership shown by the sophomore wrestlers, signaling a promising future for the team.

The podcast episode offered an intimate glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the Western Reserve wrestling squad under Coach Anthony Duffield’s guidance. As the team continues its journey through the season, fans and supporters eagerly anticipate the further development and successes of the young squad.

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THE WILLS OF A WINNER

BERLIN CENTER, OH- The Western Reserve wrestling team’s sophomore standout, Murphy Wills, is making waves as a promising athlete and emerging leader. In a recent interview with YSN’s DJ Yokley, Wills shared insights about his wrestling journey, aspirations, and personal life.

With nearly a decade of wrestling experience, Wills credits his entry into the sport to a family connection and a natural affinity for the dynamic discipline. He described the appeal of wrestling, highlighting the camaraderie and competition that forged lasting friendships with opponents.

As he matures in the sport, Wills has transitioned from a more instinctual approach to a refined technique, underlining his commitment to continuous improvement. Additionally, he embraces the role of leadership on the team, recognizing the responsibility that comes with guiding his peers and shaping the program’s future.

Looking ahead, Wills aims to make it to sectionals this year and dreams of competing at the state level in his senior year. Beyond wrestling, he plans to pursue a career as a welder and has drawn inspiration from a vocational program.

Wills spoke warmly of his family, particularly his mother, as a source of unwavering support and motivation. He also playfully shared insights into his siblings, acknowledging their potential superpowers in a lighthearted moment of fun.

As Wills continues his wrestling journey, his dedication, vision, and drive position him as a rising star within the Western Reserve wrestling team.

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