Tag Archive for: western reserve

ANOTHER STRONG WIN FOR RESERVE

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By Ty Bartell

BERLIN CENTER OH- During fall sports season, Monday nights on the network typically mean non-conference
volleyball matches! As most teams have conference matchups scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays, it leaves open days for teams you do not always get to see square-off, meet on the court. Swing over to Berlin-Center, Ohio and you would have seen a fun matchup between two 10+ win teams with The Western-Reserve Blue Devils hosting in The South Range Raiders! Reserved entered the match 16-1 and current leaders atop of The Mahoning Valley Athletic conference’s (MVAC) Scarlet Division in a first place tie with The Mineral Ridge Rams. While The Raiders were 10-7 and in the middle of the pack of The Northeast 8 (NE8) heading into Monday evening.

The Blue Devils came out in set one with a firm grasp of the momentum while being fed more from the amped-up home crowd! South Range could not get anything going on offense, as Western-Resrve claimed the opening set by an eye-opening score of 25-9! However, The Raiders were not going to be embarrassed and were determined to show more fight in set two. That is exactly what transpired, as South Range battled tooth and nail from the beginning to the end of the set and managed to take set two 25-21, evening the match 1-1.

The match suddenly became a best of three and momentum was back in the air like a jump ball for either team’s taking! The Blue Devils would get back to playing their brand of volleyball in set three as South Range struggled to get rallies going in the set. Reserve would take set three, convincingly, 25-14. Being at home with the advantage, The Devils would play no games in set four. Despite a good fight from The Raiders who were trying to force five, it was Western-Reserve that ,ade the winning plays down the stretch to secure the set 25-18 and the match 3-1!

Angelina Cappabianca was active everywhere in the box score with 10 kills, 7 aces, 5 digs and 2 blocks! Ally Jones, once again, led Reserve in digs with 24. While three different Blue Devils recorded double-doubles, with Haylee Fellows nailing one down with 36 assists and 11 digs and Lisa Eichert recording 12 kills, 16 digs and 3 aces. Alyvia Hughes set herself apart from the others with an outstanding 24 kills and 10 digs, earning the third Western-Reserve double-double in the victory!

The Blue Devils (17-1)(11-1) will get back to conference play with a road matchup against The Springfield Tigers (9-8)(7-5) on Tuesday, October 3rd. South Range (10-8) will stay out of conference when they host The Boardman Spartans (10-6) on Wednesday, October 4th.

TIGERS ON THE PROWL

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* CONTRIBUTED BY NOAH DOUGHTY

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH – The sun hung low on the horizon, casting long shadows across the football field as the Springfield Tigers prepared to face off against the Western Reserve Blue Devils. The excitement in the air was palpable, and the crowd’s anticipation was electric. Both teams were hungry for victory, but only one could emerge as the triumphant victor.

The first quarter was a tense battle, with neither team managing to break through the other’s defense. It seemed as though every yard gained was a hard-fought victory. But as the second quarter began, the Tigers were about to roar to life.

With determination in his eyes, quarterback Dante Gentile led the Tigers down the field. With each snap of the ball, they gained ground steadily, inching closer to the end zone. The crowd held its collective breath as Dante took the snap, faked a handoff, and darted toward the goal line.

In a flash, Dante Gentile plunged into the end zone, capping off the drive with a powerful 3-yard touchdown run. The crowd erupted in cheers as Kaesen Kosek, the Tigers’ reliable kicker, sent the extra point straight through the uprights. Springfield took an early 7-0 lead.

The Blue Devils, however, were not to be outdone. Quarterback Luke Henning orchestrated a brilliant drive of his own. With precision passes and determined running plays, they marched down the field. Finally, Luke connected with Dom Riccardi on a 22-yard touchdown pass, and Adriy Chuta Soy’s extra point was good. The game was tied at 7-7, and the fans were treated to an exciting contest.

But Springfield was not to be denied. Dante Gentile, their fearless leader, took matters into his own hands once again. With a gritty determination, he bulldozed his way through the Blue Devils’ defense and scored a 1-yard rushing touchdown. This time, Kaesen Kosek’s extra point attempt was no good, but the Tigers took a 13-7 lead.

As the clock ticked down in the second quarter, Springfield was hungry for more. Quarterback Kolten Raurk dropped back, scanning the field for an open receiver. His eyes locked onto Sean Guerro, streaking toward the end zone. Raurk’s pass was a thing of beauty, connecting with Guerro for a 19-yard touchdown strike. Though the two-point conversion attempt fell short, Springfield extended their lead to 19-7.

The Tigers were not finished yet. In the fourth quarter, Kaesen Kosek, who had been reliable all night, pounded the ball into the end zone with a 4-yard touchdown run. Hayden Pavlock’s extra point was good, and the score now stood at 26-7 in favor of Springfield.

The Tigers’ defense held firm for the remainder of the game, preventing any comeback attempts by the Blue Devils. As the final whistle blew, Springfield celebrated a hard-earned victory, 26-7. The roar of their fans echoed through the night, a fitting tribute to their triumphant performance on the gridiron.

BLUE DEVILS FLEX ON BACKYARD RIVAL

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BERLIN CENTER OH- There are many rivalries in the world of high school sports, it is what generates the drama
and piques the interest of casual fans and sports-a-holics alike. As common as rivalries are, a little less common is the backyard rivalry. You know those types; the ones where distance between towns can literally be measured with a stones throw. That is the case in the battle of Western-Reserve Blue Devils versus Jackson-Milton Blue Jays! No matter the sport, it is guaranteed to be one on everyone in North Jackson’s and Berlin Center’s radar. In this instance it was showcased on the volleyball court between the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference leading Blue Devils and a Blue Jays squad riding the momentum of a comeback victory down two sets to none against The Springfield Tigers.

With the stage set, both teams were amped up and scoring was swinging back-and-forth like a pendulum. However, it was Western-Reserve that broke away in the middle of the set and cruised to a 25-11 victory in the match opener. Following up in the second set, The Blue Jays grabbed and maintained a lead for a bit in the beginning stages of the set. But once again, The Blue Devils routed their way back in front of Jackson-Milton and rode the momentum shift to a 25-14 set two win. It was a score so nice they did it twice! With Western Reserve grabbing a commanding lead in set three, they did not relinquish it once the captured it and won the set, and the match, with a similar score of 25-14!

Angelina Cappabianca was Ms.Utility once again, recording 10 kills, 6 aces and 6 blocks! Haylee Fellows spread the wealth around to the tune of 22 assists while also having 9 digs and 3 kills of her own. Quincy Miller baked up a dozen double-double with 12 assist and 12 digs! While the Player of the Match Lisa Eichert had the double-double with 10 kills and 11 digs while fortifying the net with 3 blocks!

Western Reserve (16-1)(11-1) has now won nine straight matches against The Blue Jays and now set their sights on South Range (10-6) when they host The Raiders on Monday, October 2nd. Jackson Milton (3-13)(3-8) will also be in action on Monday where they will hit the road to battle Ursuline (11-4). Interviews with Head Coach Kristine Hughes and Player of the Match Lisa Eichert can be found below!

BLUE DEVILS PUT THE ROCKETS ON BLAST

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Western Reserve Dominates Lowellville in 3-0 Victory

In a stunning display of volleyball prowess, Western Reserve emerged victorious with an emphatic 3-0 win over Lowellville. The final scores of 25-13, 25-10, and 25-10 reflected Western Reserve’s absolute control of the game, leaving their opponents struggling to find answers.

The Western Reserve squad featured several standout players who delivered outstanding performances throughout the match. Lisa Eichert was a force to be reckoned with, leading the charge with an incredible 19 kills, 2 aces, and 9 digs. Eichert’s powerful attacks and precision proved too much for Lowellville to handle.

Alyvia Hughes matched Eichert’s impressive stats, recording 19 kills of her own along with 11 digs and 1 ace. Her consistency at the net and remarkable defensive efforts were crucial to Western Reserve’s success.

Angelina Cappabianca added to the offensive onslaught with 12 kills, 2 blocks, 1 ace, and 5 digs. Cappabianca’s versatility and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively were instrumental in securing the victory.

Ally Jones was a defensive stalwart, recording 16 digs and ensuring that Lowellville struggled to find gaps in Western Reserve’s defense.

Haylee Fellows orchestrated the team’s offense with precision, tallying an impressive 28 assists and adding 3 digs to her stat line. Her ability to set up her teammates for success was a key factor in the team’s dominant performance.

This resounding victory solidified Western Reserve’s position as a formidable force in the world of high school volleyball. Their exceptional teamwork, powerful attacks, and solid defense left Lowellville with no room to mount a comeback.

RESERVE MAKES IT THROUGH MCDONALD’S BEST SHOT

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BERLIN CENTER OH- In an intense and closely contested volleyball matchup, Western Reserve emerged victorious over McDonald in a thrilling five-set battle, with scores of 25-9, 24-26, 27-25, 24-26, and 15-7. This exciting clash of talent showcased the resilience and determination of both teams.

Alyvia Hughes of Western Reserve was the standout player of the match, delivering an exceptional performance. Hughes notched a game-high 35 kills, underlining her prowess as an offensive force. Her contributions extended beyond scoring, as she also recorded an impressive 20 digs, 2 blocks, and 1 ace. Her all-around excellence played a pivotal role in her team’s victory.

Lisa Eichert also made significant contributions for Western Reserve, tallying 23 kills and 13 digs, showcasing her ability to impact both the offensive and defensive aspects of the game. She added 4 aces to her impressive performance. Haylee Fellows orchestrated the team’s offense effectively, amassing 40 assists and contributing 2 aces, further solidifying Western Reserve’s offensive capabilities.

On the McDonald side, Abby Blair’s defensive presence was remarkable, as she recorded 8 blocks, making it challenging for Western Reserve to find openings at the net. Megan Klockner displayed her skills with 40 assists and 5 aces, emphasizing her role as a playmaker for her team. Grace Bundy added 16 kills, contributing significantly to McDonald’s offensive efforts.

The match showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, with each set fiercely contested. Ultimately, Western Reserve’s ability to secure the fifth set secured their victory.

 

WESTERN RESERVE CAGES THE WILDCATS

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By Ty Bartell

BERLIN CENTER OH- Monday night on Your Sports Network was a night that showcased the volleyball and soccer talent from around the area. With four matchups occurring in both sports, including the volleyball match out in Berlin Center between, the home team, The Western-Reserve Blue Devils and The Struthers Wildcats. Coming from different conferences, The Blue Devils out of The Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference (MVAC) and The Wildcats out of The Northeast 8 (NE8), the matchup served as a non-conference test before both teams resumed conference action on Tuesday.

Both teams were hungry for an opening set victory and showed it with their play to start! As the exchanging of points happened at a rapid rate and in a blink of an eye it was tied up 11-11 between the two teams in set one. However, The Blue Devils focused up and got efficient with their swings. Managing a 14-1 run to end the set, Western-Reserve would capture the opening set win 25-12. Taking the momentum that ended the set previous and carrying it into the next one, The Blue Devils were not messing around. Coming out with a fury and capitalizing on Struthers mistakes while doing work behind the service line saw Reserve capture a convincing 25-9 set two win and take a commanding 2-0 set lead.

The third set was the most competitive, with The Wildcats at one point grabbing a 12-7 lead with Mickey Taaffe leading the way behind the service line for Struthers. But once again, despite the battle of The Wildcats, The Blue Devils just had a little more in the tank. Managing the deficit and working themselves back in front as the third set came down to the wire. It would be Western-Reserve that would get the better of Struthers 25-21 in and fun and competitive concluding set three.

Angelina Cappabianca had an impressive statline for The Blue Devils, recording 10 kills, 7 blocks and an ace on the evening. Lisa Eichert led the way in kills (15) while also getting the double-double with digs (11), Eichert also pitched in elsewhere with 2 aces and a block. The two setters were equally as good on Monday as Haylee Fellows and Quincy Miller each had 14 assists to lead the team. While Ally Jones was the defensive anchor once again with her team-leading 18 digs on the night.

The straight-set sweep for Western Reserve (10-1) puts them back into conference action as they hit the road Tuesday, September 19th to do battle with The Waterloo Vikings (5-5). Struthers (5-8) will also be in conference action, as they look to bounce back against a very tough Girard (9-2) also on Tuesday.

BLUE DEVILS WIN BACK TO BACK MVAC BATTLES

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BERLIN CENTER OH- In an exhilarating MVAC matchup, Western Reserve secured a hard-fought 21-14 win over Lowellville.

The first quarter remained scoreless as both teams battled for control. The suspense built as the game entered the second quarter, where Western Reserve drew first blood. Quarterback Luke Henning connected with Dominic Ricciardi on a 5-yard touchdown pass, and Andriy Chuta Soy added the extra point, putting Western Reserve ahead 7-0. However, Lowellville responded swiftly, with Tino Rivera-Ocasio charging into the end zone for a 4-yard touchdown run, and Matthew Lucido’s successful PAT leveled the score at 7-7.

The third quarter opened with Lowellville making a strong statement. Quarterback Michael Ballone orchestrated an 18-yard touchdown run, and with Lucido’s PAT, they claimed a 14-7 lead. Western Reserve, determined to turn the tide, answered back. Henning showcased his passing prowess once more, delivering a 13-yard touchdown pass to Ethan Cannon. With Chuta Soy’s PAT, the game was tied at 14-14.

As the final quarter unfolded, the stakes were higher than ever. Western Reserve seized the moment, with running back Jack Darney bulldozing his way into the end zone for a 9-yard touchdown run. Chuta Soy’s successful PAT gave Western Reserve a critical 21-14 advantage. In a thrilling finale, Western Reserve’s defense held strong, ensuring that Lowellville couldn’t mount a comeback.

This intense matchup highlighted the resilience and determination of both teams. Western Reserve showcased its offensive versatility, with Henning orchestrating crucial touchdown passes. Lowellville fought fiercely but fell just short of securing the victory. In the end, Western Reserve emerged triumphant, securing a significant MVAC win and thrilling its fans.

MINERAL RIDGE EVENS THE SCORE

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BERLIN CENTER OH- In a highly anticipated rematch, Mineral Ridge exacted sweet revenge by defeating Western Reserve in three thrilling sets, drawing even at the top spot in the MVAC. The scores stood at 25-15, 26-24, and 25-21, showcasing Mineral Ridge’s determination and redemption on their home court.

Mineral Ridge’s Sammie Aulet played a pivotal role in orchestrating the offense, tallying an impressive 28 assists. Meanwhile, Faith Schneider was the offensive powerhouse, notching an impressive 17 kills, relentlessly attacking the opponent’s defense. Sheryaliz Bonita-Molina contributed with precise serving, earning three aces that kept the pressure on Western Reserve.

Western Reserve, known for their formidable squad, gave their all in this intense showdown. Alyvia Hughes led the charge with 13 kills, proving her prowess at the net. She also showcased her defensive skills with 13 digs and two blocks. Izzy Mauro played a crucial role with six kills and an imposing five blocks, demonstrating her dominance in the blocking department. Lisa Eichert contributed with eight kills and 10 digs, showcasing her versatility on both offense and defense.

This victory for Mineral Ridge serves as redemption for an earlier season loss to Western Reserve, and it propels them to share the top spot in the MVAC. The thrilling match demonstrated the competitive spirit and skill of both teams, and fans can anticipate more exciting clashes as the season unfolds.

RESERVE JUST KEEPS WINNING

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BERLIN CENTER OH- Western Reserve showcased their dominance on the volleyball court with a convincing 3-0 victory over Sebring, with set scores of 25-17, 25-13, and an impressive 25-4 in the final set. Alyvia Hughes, the standout player of the match, achieved a remarkable milestone as she recorded her 1000th career kill during this outstanding performance.

Alyvia Hughes was a force to be reckoned with, contributing significantly to her team’s success. She achieved a double-double with an astonishing 15 kills and 10 digs, showcasing her prowess at both the net and in the back row. Her versatility and skill were undeniable, making her a vital asset to the Western Reserve team.

Assisting Hughes in her impressive performance were Haylee Fellows with 20 assists and Quincy Miller with 10 assists. Their precise sets allowed Hughes and her teammates to execute their plays effectively and score critical points throughout the match.

Defensively, Ally Jones stood out with 14 digs, ensuring that the Western Reserve team maintained control over the match. The final set’s score of 25-4 was a testament to the team’s dominance on the night.

Alyvia Hughes’s achievement of 1000 career kills, combined with her 1000 career digs, is a remarkable feat that underscores her impact on the game. Western Reserve’s victory and Hughes’s milestone together create a memorable moment in their season, and their strong performance leaves a lasting impression in the world of high school volleyball.

 

HUGHES DIGS UP 1000 AS DEVILS STAY PERFECT

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BERLIN CENTER OH- In a dominant display of skill and teamwork, Western Reserve continued their undefeated streak by defeating Mooney in a convincing 3-0 victory. The scores of 25-9, 25-12, and 25-14 highlighted Western Reserve’s dominance on the volleyball court. Alyvia Hughes and Lisa Eichert shone brightly, both achieving double-doubles for the match. Alyvia recorded an impressive 14 kills and 14 digs, showcasing her all-around abilities, while Lisa contributed with 11 kills and 13 digs.

Haylee Fellows played a pivotal role with 22 assists, effectively setting up her teammates for success throughout the match. Abby Blair showcased her prowess at the net with 5 blocks and 5 kills, adding to the team’s formidable presence. Notably, Alyvia Hughes reached a significant milestone in her career, recording her 1000th career dig during the game. This memorable win not only improved Western Reserve’s record to 9-0 but also solidified their reputation as a dominant force in the world of high school volleyball.