Tag Archive for: young team

TRENT KEEPS IT LIT

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH= In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, Cardinal Mooney’s star catcher Trent Litman shared insights into his baseball journey, offering an inspiring look at his dedication and growth. Known on YSN as “The Fireman” for his consistent offensive prowess, Litman detailed his progression from a backup for the junior varsity team to a key varsity player making significant impacts on the field.

During the podcast, co-host DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig delved into Litman’s development. Litman credited his mentors, including Ian Francis and Will Petty, for elevating his skills, particularly in catching—a role he only recently took on. This guidance has helped him maintain a confident mindset at bat and manage the pressures of a competitive schedule filled with formidable opponents like Hoban and St. Ed’s.

The discussion also highlighted Litman’s leadership, as he embraces his role in guiding a predominantly young team. With aspirations for college baseball, Litman has committed to Garrett College, choosing the junior college route to maximize his potential amidst the flux of transfer portals.

Baseball runs deep in the Litman family, and this passion fuels Trent’s pursuit of excellence. His ultimate goal is to progress to a major university and potentially a professional baseball career while establishing roots in business inspired by his father.

As he embarks on his senior year, Litman’s journey promises more memorable moments, whether through hitting home runs or outsmarting opponents as a catcher. Fans of Cardinal Mooney baseball can certainly expect thrilling performances from “The Fireman” this season.

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MOONEY BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH ED REESE 3-18-25

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH – With baseball season just around the corner, the Cardinal Mooney baseball team is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year. Under the leadership of Coach Ed Reese, a revered figure whose commitment and expertise have been influential, the team is honing their skills and preparing for a challenging schedule.

Despite being young on paper, the team is bringing back 11 or 12 letter winners, armed with significant experience after last season’s rollercoaster. Reese highlighted the importance of learning how to win games in high-pressure situations and believes his players are poised for success. “We’re going to learn how to win games a little bit,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of situational practice in cultivating consistency. The schedule is stacked with tough contenders, including local rivals Ursuline and JFK, as well as formidable teams like Akron Hoban and state champ West Branch. While speed will be a key advantage for the Cardinals, the pitching lineup, led by returning player Ben Oddis, faces challenges, particularly with ace Johnny Brenner’s uncertain return due to injury.

Reese isn’t shy about the team’s goals, aiming for a long-lasting presence in the tournament. “I want to be the team that plays the longest in the area, and that’s our goal every year,” he stated.  More than just a team, the Cardinals embody a strong sense of camaraderie and tradition, qualities deeply rooted in the Mooney family. As Coach Reese, a proud alumnus with championship accolades, stated, “The Mooney family is a real thing,” reflecting the unwavering support the program receives from its community.  As the season unfolds, Mooney baseball fans can expect a team that not only competes fiercely but also represents the legacy of Cardinal Mooney with pride and passion.

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FINLEY’S NOT FINISHED

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AKRON OH- In this latest YSN Player Profile, Anthony Hartwig sits down with Finley Kennedy, a standout senior on the Hoban girls basketball team. Kennedy, the sole senior this season, opens up about the emotional journey of her final high school season and the responsibilities that come with being the team’s veteran leader.

Kennedy admits the emotional weight of being the only senior and the inevitable transition of leaving her teammates behind. Yet, her ambitions continue beyond high school as she eyes playing basketball at the next level. Reflecting on her role, she credits her composure and experience in keeping the team calm and focused. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of balancing emotional expression to maintain positive momentum on the court. The Hoban Knights, known for their winning tradition across all sports, hold a significant legacy that Kennedy upholds. She speaks proudly of the high standards, particularly in the girls’ basketball program, known for their intense defensive pressure and their reputation for rigor and success.

Kennedy’s basketball roots run deep, influenced by her mother, a college basketball coach, who instilled both skill and a strong faith in her daughter. Her comfort in navigating her basketball journey is evident in how she balances athletics with academics, maintaining a strong performance even with a lighter class load during her senior year. Looking ahead, Kennedy is considering a move to Florida, fueled by the promise of sunshine, as she pursues business marketing. Her decision-making process in choosing a college revolves around the value of forming relationships both on and off the court. Finley’s journey, supported by her faith and family, is a testament to her resilience and ambition. As she steps off the court for Hoban, her legacy of leadership and tenacity leaves a lasting impact on her team and the Hoban sports community.

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ALL TIME HIMES

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CORTLAND OH- Maplewood High School junior, Morgan Himes, is making her mark as a leader on the Maplewood Rockets girls’ basketball team. Emerging as an upperclassman amidst a young roster, Himes embraces her role as both a mentor and a player. “It’s definitely great being an upperclassman,” she shared, highlighting the joy she finds in guiding her younger teammates.

With the team seeing an impressive turnaround from last year’s 12 wins to a remarkable 20 wins this season, Himes attributes the success to team confidence and encouragement. “All of our confidence is really just from all of us as a team,” she noted, emphasizing the collective spirit that fuels their performance. The Rockets have become known for their vibrant community support, which Himes describes as an exhilarating experience, especially during home games. “I’ve never played a basketball game with as many fans as we had this year,” she remarked, reflecting on the electrifying atmosphere.

Beginning her basketball journey in the fourth grade, Himes has developed a profound love for the sport. Drawing inspiration from former high school athletes like Marissa Ventura and encouragement from role models such as Maddie Murray, Himes continuously seeks to evolve as both a player and a leader. “It’s really great to be in the position just like she was,” she said of Ventura. Looking ahead, Himes remains committed to fostering the team’s growth and achieving even more success as she and the Rockets prepare for upcoming tournament play. Her journey reflects dedication, unity, and the power of leadership in bringing out the best in a young and dynamic team. “This whole team has been great to play with,” she concluded, expressing her appreciation for her teammates and coaches.

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SOUTH RANGE GIRL S BASKETBALL COACH S CORNER WITH JEFF FISHEL 1 27 25

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CANFIELD, OH- In a recent episode of YSN’s “Coach’s Corner,” South Range Lady Raider’s basketball coach, Jeff Fishel, sat down with DJ Yokley to discuss the team’s dynamics, his approach to coaching, and his personal influences.

Opening the episode with a light-hearted conversation about Coach Fishel’s iconic suits and unique wardrobe choices, Fishel explained how he adopted the trend from a coaching peer and how it evolved into a team tradition. “It gets our girls excited. They know it’s a big game, they understand what’s happening, and it’s something that they enjoy,” he shared, emphasizing that his primary goal is to motivate his players, not overshadow them.

The conversation soon shifted to the team’s current season. With only one senior, CC Foster, on the squad, Fishel described the challenges and benefits of having a rotating leadership. “We’ve been more balanced in scoring this year… but the other side of that, it’s a little bit frustrating because we’re inconsistent,” he noted. This unpredictability, however, makes the team harder to scout, providing a strategic edge.

Fishel also praised the resilience of his players amidst the season’s inevitable challenges, including injuries and illnesses. “You have to expect [adversity]. If you’re able to expect that, you can deal with it a little bit better,” he remarked. This pragmatic approach is a testament to his adaptive coaching style.

When discussing his coaching influences, Fishel paid homage to his former coaches and mentors, crediting them for much of his professional success and personal development. From his playing days under Coach McHugh to his early coaching years with Burt Sellers, these figures have significantly shaped his coaching philosophy.

Continuing on a personal note, Fishel shared his deep-rooted love for the South Range community, a place where he has spent his entire life. “I remember when I was a kid… It was a treat for me growing up,” he fondly recalled.

As the discussion drew to a close, Fishel touched on the importance of family. With a disciplined military father and a nurturing mother, he attributes much of his character to their upbringing. These experiences have also influenced how he raises his own children, striving to instill the same values he was taught.

In his closing remarks, Fishel expressed gratitude towards the South Range community and his team’s supporters. He ended with a hopeful note for Anthony, a community member recovering from an illness, showcasing once again, his commitment to both his team and his community.

Jeff Fishel’s appearance on YSN’s “Coach’s Corner” not only provided insights into the Lady Raider’s season but also highlighted the coach’s personal journey and the profound impact of community and mentorship in shaping his coaching career.

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SLOAN AT THE POINT

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LEAVITTSBURG, OH – Junior Mia Sloan has stepped into her role as an upperclassman for the Labrae High School girls’ basketball team with grace and determination. Despite a roster plagued by injuries, Sloan’s leadership as a point guard has become indispensable for the younger players on the team.

“I’ve always felt like I’ve been a big leader,” Sloan stated in a recent interview. Taking on the mantle of leadership, she’s helped guide a youthful team through a challenging season, building unity and fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Known for her defensive prowess, Mia credits her father for instilling in her a love for defense. “My dad started me on defense, and ever since then, I found a love for it,” she shared. Her competitive spirit has been a cornerstone for the Labrae girls’ basketball program, as she’s often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s key players.

This season, the Labrae team faced the adversity of losing key players Mariah and Ella to season-ending injuries. Sloan and her teammates have rallied around their sidelined friends, drawing inspiration from them to push forward. “We wish we could play with them still. I think that’s why we are so determined to win,” she said. Mia balances her role on the court with a rigorous academic schedule, including College Credit Plus (CCP) classes. Demonstrating exceptional time management skills, she ensures that her studies do not falter amid her athletic commitments. “I am not a procrastinator. After practice, I go home and do my homework. I take my study halls very seriously,” she revealed.

Reflecting on her future, Sloan aims to pursue a career in early education, inspired by her third-grade English teacher, Coach Rowe, who also happens to be her basketball coach. “She’s a very hype coach,” Sloan explained, applauding Rowe’s ability to motivate and connect with her players. In addition to basketball, Sloan is a dedicated golfer, having played since the sixth grade and competing for the school team since her freshman year. She appreciates the unique blend of individual performance and team effort in golf, a mentality she carries onto the basketball court. As the season progresses, Sloan remains focused on her goals, both athletic and academic. She aims to “raise the bar” in every aspect, motivated by her coaches and the unwavering support of her family. Mia Sloan’s journey is a testament to the power of teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. With players like her, the future of Labrae girls’ basketball looks promising, indeed.

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YOST WITH THE MOST

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NILES OH- In a season marked by groundbreaking achievements and unyielding dedication, the Niles Girls Soccer team has secured their first-ever NE8 Championship, guided in part by standout sophomore Maddie Yost. “It’s great,” says Maddie. “Our team is pretty young, with some freshmen starting, so it’s amazing to have this experience.” Under the watchful eye of Coach Scott McMillan, the team’s hard work and early 6:00 AM conditioning sessions paid off, culminating in a historic victory.

“Our hunger was immense,” Yost admits. “We wanted it so bad; we conditioned early and maintained focus even when the goal seemed just within reach.” Practicing with seriousness and camaraderie alike, the team’s chemistry on and off the field played a pivotal role. “We do a lot of team bonding—swimming, movie nights at Coach Scott’s house,” Yost recounts. Notably, Maddie Yost herself emerged as a leader, despite being just a sophomore. Described as vocal and focused, she captained the team alongside seniors Natalia Tate and Gianna Wagner. This leadership has nurtured a successful environment, fostering growth among the younger players.

The team’s success has resonated throughout the Niles community, rallying fans and unifying the school behind their triumph. Yost reflects, “It’s amazing to see everyone come out and support us. It feels like we have a big family behind us.” While balancing a rigorous academic schedule—highlighting a penchant for math and science—Yost’s ambition remains unwavering. She eyes collegiate soccer and a potential nursing career, following in the footsteps of her parents who played college soccer and continue to provide invaluable support and guidance.

Looking ahead, Maddie Yost remains focused on maintaining her leadership role and pushing her confidence to new heights. “There’s always room to grow,” she says, embodying the spirit and determination that have defined this historic season for Niles Girls Soccer. As the Dragons advance in their tournament endeavors, the Niles community eagerly anticipates more memorable moments from a team—and a player—that have already etched their names in the annals of school history.

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RICKY HAS MAD SKILLS

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POLAND, OH-  Friday night’s clash between the Poland Seminary Bulldogs and the Niles Red Dragons provided a glittering display of teamwork and talent, resulting in a convincing victory for the Bulldogs. In an exclusive interview on the YSN podcast’s “Poland Bulldog Show,” senior star Ricky Madeline offered a glimpse into the Bulldogs’ diverse and dynamic backfield that took center stage in the game.

During the podcast episode hosted by Matt Romeo, Madeline recounted the standout performances by himself, Chase, and Angelo. The trio found themselves in the end zone multiple times, pushing the Bulldogs to a triumphant finish. Angelo, affectionately nicknamed “Jello,” secured his first touchdown of the season, adding to the electric atmosphere. Madeline praised Chase’s standout performance, comparing his skills to those of Saquon Barkley for his explosive plays in open space.

“Even without our quarterbacks, we have a very strong backfield,” Madeline stated, emphasizing the variety of talent and skill sets within the team. “Some of us are bruisers; some are shifty and quick. Together, we form a formidable unit.”

Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are gearing up for a significant showdown against Gerard. Preparation is key, particularly against a team known for its passing game and athletic prowess. “We have special packages ready, different formations and setups—we’re ready for Friday night,” Madeline assured listeners.

Beyond individual accolades, Ricky spoke of the team’s unity and resilience. Following a tough loss to South Range, the Bulldogs rebounded with determination, ready to prove their mettle. “It was a much-needed win. We had to bounce back and show we’re still contenders.”

As the season progresses, the Bulldogs are not only aiming for playoff glory but to continue showcasing the growth, spirit, and hard work that defines them. With more spotlight on the horizon, fans and players alike are brimming with anticipation.

For the Poland Seminary Bulldogs, the season is far from over. They’re ready to lock in, play their Friday night games, and conquer whatever challenge stands in their way.

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THE NO-FLY ZONE

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LOWELLVILLE, OH-  In high school sports, memorable moments often come from the most unexpected sources. Last Friday’s thrilling game between Lowellville and Campbell saw Cody Nolfi, a linebacker for the Rockets, become the hero with a game-winning interception that caught everyone by surprise—including himself.

“I was not expecting that,” Nolfi admitted in an exclusive interview on the YSN podcast. “I was just watching for a run, and then the ball was just there. So I went and got it.”

Nolfi’s interception wasn’t the only highlight of the game. The Rockets’ defense proved to be a formidable force, making crucial stops—including a fumble recovery in the red zone and a dramatic halt of Campbell’s drive at the 1-yard line as time ran out in the first half. These defensive feats underscore their readiness to take on future opponents with confidence.

When asked about the rivalry with Campbell, Nolfi acknowledged the added spice to the matchup. “There’s a little rivalry. I always have a little bit of beef with some Campbell players,” he said with a competitive grin.

The Lowellville Rockets, under Coach Manil, are on a quest to uphold their championship legacy, having won back-to-back titles. Nolfi praised his coach for the hard work and winning culture he instills in the team. Despite the roster shakeup, Nolfi believes this year’s squad has what it takes to prove doubters wrong. “We’re better than people think. We don’t necessarily need the alumni to succeed, though they were great,” he asserted.

A latecomer to football, Nolfi didn’t start playing until his sophomore year. Nevertheless, he quickly made his mark on the field. His favorite moments include scoring his first touchdown against Waterloo last year and, of course, his recent game-winning interception. Though he plays both offense and defense, Nolfi prefers defense. “I just like stopping the run,” he said.

Outside of football, Nolfi is a multi-sport athlete and plays third base in baseball. His interests don’t stop there—he’s an avid hunter and fisherman, boasting of a six-foot shark catch in Florida. When asked about his future plans, Nolfi shared aspirations of joining the family plumbing business, carrying on a new kind of legacy.
With his hard work on and off the field, Cody Nolfi is poised to make an impact wherever he goes, embodying the spirit of a true Lowellville Rocket.

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SOUTH RANGE VOLLEYBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH TJ IRONS

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CANFIELD, OH- In this episode of the YSN’s South Range Coach’s Corner, we join host DJ Yokley at GIAngelo’s in Boardman for the South Range Raiders show. His special guest for the night is the head volleyball coach of the South Range Raiders, TJ Irons. They kick off the conversation by discussing the unusual break in their schedule, with a couple of Tuesdays off in a row.

Coach Irons explains that while it’s strange, volleyball allows for more flexibility in scheduling compared to other sports. The discussion then turns to the tough schedule that the team has had in the past week. Coach Irons recounts the challenging matches against Gerard, East Liverpool, and Lakeview, all of whom are strong teams in their league. Despite the tough competition, the girls came back ready to go after a breather against Western Reserve.  The conversation shifts to the delicate nature of high school sports and how external factors can sometimes affect the team’s performance. Coach Irons mentions that homecoming festivities added a bit of distraction for the girls, with some of them getting their nails and hair done. However, he commends the girls for looking great and having fun at the homecoming dance. Looking ahead to the playoffs, Coach Irons discusses the importance of creating a legacy for the team. He mentions the success of other South Range teams in various sports and how it inspires the volleyball team to believe in their ability to go far in the tournament. The host notes that the girls seem to have adopted a winning mentality from their fellow athletes in the school, with many having brothers on successful teams. With five seniors on the team, Coach Irons emphasizes the special role that they play and the discussions they have about the legacy they want to leave. He acknowledges that thinking about legacy is not easy for high school kids, but they are aware of how fortunate they are to compete with their friends every night. The main focus before every game is to have fun and make the most of the opportunity.

In reflection, Coach Irons is pleased with the team’s progress throughout the season. He mentions the increased emphasis on strength training in the weight room, hoping it will give them an advantage in the upcoming postseason. Overall, it’s a candid and insightful discussion about the challenges and aspirations of the South Range Raiders volleyball team, as they strive to leave their mark in the playoffs and create a lasting legacy for their school.

 

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