Author: Bill Beckner Jr.

Latrobe’s Mya McHugh applies the tag to Penn-Trafford’s Ella Mains during the WPIAL Class 5A consolation game last season.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Latrobe offense tries different approach

March 26, 2025

Latrobe softball coach Bob Kovalcin expected his team to hit the ball early in the season, but with technique, not just haphazard power.

Penn-Trafford and Latrobe baseball players meet with the umpires before Tuesday’s game at Graham-Sobota Field in Latrobe.

Penn-Trafford rallies from 5-0 deficit to sweep baseball series with Latrobe

March 25, 2025

Penn-Trafford was limited offensively for the first five innings Tuesday and stared down a five-run deficit for most of the game.

Belle Vernon’s Parker Lind throws during the 2024 season.

Hempfield starting pitcher Riley Miller throws against
Penn-Trafford on Friday.

Loaded Hempfield opens softball season with win over Penn-Trafford

March 14, 2025

Good weather doesn’t have much of a track record at this time of year, so it was somewhat surprising that the softball season started on time Friday, a sun-splashed opening day and 70-plus-degree temperatures greeting WPIAL teams.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby attempts a layup over Jeannette’s Markus McGowan on Feb. 4.

With six Division I college commits, Hempfield is primed for another run at WPIAL and PIAA championships.

OLSH’s Leah Parker fights for a rebound with Greensburg Central Catholic’s Avery Jones during their PIAA Class 2A second-round game Tuesday.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble fights for a rebound with Cambria Heights’ Sienna Kirsch (left) and Gracey Vinglish during a first-round PIAA game March 7 at Southmoreland High School.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday, March 11, 2025

March 10, 2025

Boys

Latrobe coach Brad Wetzel talks with John Wetzel during a game against Uniontown earlier this season.

Jeannette football standout Kymon’e Brown is expected to see increased college recruiting attention as the clock ticks toward his senior season.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble (23) celebrates with Georgia Evans after Evans hit a 3-pointer against Cambria Heights during a PIAA Class 3A first-round game Friday at Southmoreland High School.

Max Butler reacts as time expires on Latrobe’s victory over Kiski Area on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, at Kiski Area.

Westmoreland County PIAA basketball playoff capsules for March 7, 2025

March 6, 2025

PIAA basketball playoffs

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble scores over Shady Side Academy’s Karis Thomas (left) and Cameron Capel during the WPIAL Class 3A championship.

North Catholic’s Joe Waskiewicz scores against Knoch on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, in Cranberry.

Norwin celebrates beating Canon-McMillan in their WPIAL Class 6A semifinal Tuesday at Mt. Lebanon High School.

Norwin girls fend off Canon-McMillan’s rally, return to WPIAL Class 6A title game

February 25, 2025

Kendall Berger was doing most of the heavy lifting for No. 1 seed Norwin through three quarters, but she needed some help — especially when Canon-McMillan started to close in.

Jeannette’s Xavier Odorisio-Farrow defends on Sewickley Academy during WPIAL Class 2A semifinal action Monday.

Westmoreland County basketball notebook: Jeannette forwards step up in semifinal win

Jeannette challenged its big men this week. Be more aggressive, go to the basket, look to score.

Jeannette’s Xavier Odorisio-Farrow dunks on Sewickley Academy’s 6-foot-8 Mamadou Kane during a WPIAL Class 2A semifinal Monday at Fox Chapel.

Jeannette’s Xavier Odorisio-Farrow fights for a rebound with OLSH’s Vann Kavals during WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinal action Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025 at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Westmoreland County basketball notebook: Jeannette relies on playoff experience

February 23, 2025

Kymon’e Brown served up a pointed answer in an interview after his Jeannette Jayhawks pulled off an improbable rally to squeeze past Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in the WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinals.

Jeannette celebrates Lonnie Greene’s basket and one against OLSH during WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinal action Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025 at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Westmoreland County basketball playoff preview capsule for Feb. 24, 2025

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Bethel Park girls basketball players line up for the national anthem Friday night in Murrysville.

Bethel Park stuns Franklin Regional, which comes up short after furious rally

February 14, 2025

An enormous fourth-quarter comeback fizzled into a crushing defeat for the Franklin Regional girls basketball team as its first playoff appearance in six years ended with a near miss.

Franklin Regional’s Connor Crossey (10) attempts a shot over Indiana’s Jaden Petrovich on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025, at Franklin Regional.

Penn-Trafford’s Lauren Marton works against Hempfield’s Ava Shipman on Jan. 15 in Harrison City.

Penn-Trafford girls still working to improve despite undefeated record

February 5, 2025

Penn-Trafford isn’t getting baited into undefeated talk.

Norwin’s Kendall Berger scores over Mt. Lebanon’s Anessa Donoghue on Jan. 8.

The top two boys basketball teams in WPIAL Class 2A have circled back for a rematch.

Franklin Regional’s Abby Paterline heads the ball against Plum on Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, in Murrysville.

Franklin Regional’s Abby Paterline named to U.S. Youth Soccer ODP National Team

February 2, 2025

Every state has an Olympic Development Program for soccer, but not every player makes it as far as Abby Paterline has.

New Southmoreland coach Dustin Shoaf was a standout player at Mercyhurst.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Age no worry for new Southmoreland football coach Dustin Shoaf

Youth is a state of mind. So says new Southmoreland football coach Dustin Shoaf, who might know a thing or two about the subject.

Franklin Regional’s Connor Crossey celebrates with head coach Jesse Reed after defeating Latrobe, 73-71 in overtime, on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, in Murrysville.

Connor Crossey leads inspired Franklin Regional to OT win over Latrobe

January 31, 2025

From the time Franklin Regional’s Caden Brush, a senior stricken with leukemia, won a ceremonial opening tip while sitting in his wheelchair, the Panthers had someone to play for and a reason to win.

Norwin’s Alex Graney
Norwin’s Alex Graney plays against Upper St. Clair on Dec. 10, 2024, at USC.

Penn-Trafford’s Torrie DeStefano scores past Hempfield’s Lillian Houghtalen on Jan. 15.

Belle Vernon’s Zion Moore goes to the basket as Derry’s John Wasnick defends Friday.

Zion Moore leads Belle Vernon past Derry, running winning streak to 7

January 24, 2025

Late in the first half, Zion Moore saw two toddlers wander onto the court and waddle his way.

Stanley Rajkovich (right) will lead Derry against Jeannette on Saturday at Seton Hill.

Shootout at Seton Hill ready to tip off this weekend

January 23, 2025

Event director Allen Deep didn’t consider altering the schedule for the Shootout at Seton Hill basketball showcase this weekend, even with five games Sunday that will take fans away from watching the AFC and NFC championship games.

Southmoreland’s Noah Felentzer drives against Uniontown’s K’Adrian McLee on Jan. 22.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Noah Felentzer filling scoring role at Southmoreland

Noah Felentzer expected to get the basketball more this season for Southmoreland.

Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch passes under pressure from Browns defensive tackle Phillip Taylor on Nov. 25, 2012, in Cleveland.

Jim Render, Charlie Batch, Zack Washington Sr. selected to National H.S. Football Hall of Fame

January 22, 2025

A coaching great and two former star playmakers from the WPIAL are headed for the National High School Football Hall of Fame.

Franklin Regional head coach Bernie Pucka talks with Addison Musto (13) and Chloe Pucka during the second half of their game against Shaler on Monday, Jan. 13, 2024, in Murrysville.

After super start, Franklin Regional girls realize more work lies ahead

A perfect 6 for 6 through the first half of its Section 1-5A schedule, the Franklin Regional girls basketball team breathed a little easier but remained guarded as it collectively glanced at the standings.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Balance, depth key factors in Penn-Trafford’s unbeaten run

Penn-Trafford began as the week as one of only three undefeated girls basketball teams in the WPIAL.

Penn-Trafford’s Torrie DeStefano scores against Latrobe during a December game.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Balance, depth key factors in Penn-Trafford’s unbeaten run

Penn-Trafford began the week as one of only three undefeated girls basketball teams in the WPIAL.

Yough graduate Dustin Shoaf runs for Mercyhurst in 2022.

Southmoreland turns to former Yough star Dustin Shoaf, 23, to lead football program

January 21, 2025

Dustin Shoaf hasn’t taken a handoff like this since college.

Penn-Trafford’s Tyler Anthony hits a 3-pointer over Albert Gallatin’s Ethan Kennedy on Tuesday.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Jayla Peterson brings the ball upcourt against Shady Side Academy on Jan. 9, 2025, in Fox Chapel.

Jayla Peterson offers scoring punch to talented Greensburg Central Catholic backcourt

January 15, 2025

Erica Gribble is used to getting compliments on her game.

Norwin’s Averi Brozeski battles Mt. Lebanon’s Emily Smith for possession during their game on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2024, at Mt. Lebanon.

The Franklin Regional hockey team countered a three-game losing streak with two straight wins heading into 2025.

GCC’s Samir Crosby reacts after hitting a 3-pointer against Jeannette on Friday.

Samir Crosby lifts No. 2 Greensburg CC over No. 1 Jeannette in much-anticipated showdown

January 10, 2025

Samir Crosby didn’t play basketball last season because he wanted to lift weights and get ready for football.

Hempfield’s Claire Mitchell celebrates after hitting a home run against Norwin during WPIAL Class 6A softball semifinals May 24, 2023, at Gateway High School.

OF Claire Mitchell joins Hempfield pipeline to Division I softball

At this rate, Hempfield is going to be able to fill out a full lineup card with NCAA Division I college players next softball season.

Shady Side Academy’s Karis Thomas scores off a steal past Greensburg Central Catholic’s Mya Morgan during their game on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, in Fox Chapel.

Greensburg Salem sophomore Sophie Beckerleg gets ready to fire up a shot during practice Nov. 15, 2024.

Westmoreland County girls basketball teams face challenge of step up in class

January 8, 2025

Yough girls basketball moved up to Class 4A this season and did so with some trepidation and uncertainty. It’s a natural reaction to facing larger schools, and the Cougars were not the first, and won’t be the last, to feel that way.

Every team makes a run. Coaches and players say it all the time not because it’s cliché but because they see it happen on the court.

Hempfield girls basketball coach Bob Madison (center) talks to his team earlier this season.

Japan’s Rei Higuchi, in red, and Spencer Lee, of the United States, compete in their men’s freestyle 57kg final wrestling match, at Champ-de-Mars Arena, during the 2024 Summer Olympics, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, in Paris, France.

2024 in Westmoreland County sports: From Hershey to Paris, athletes celebrate greatness

December 31, 2024

From youth levels to the Olympics, Westmoreland County athletes shined in 2024 with a common denominator: a chase for gold.

Hempfield and Latrobe girls basketball players and coaches gather for a pregame meeting Saturday night.

Hempfield’s Danny Husenits scores past Greensburg Central Catholic’s Braden Riley during the Greensburg Salem Holiday Classic on Friday.

Hempfield boys hand Greensburg Central Catholic its 1st loss of the season

December 27, 2024

As chalk might have it, a Class 6A boys basketball team is supposed to beat a Class 2A team.

Derry’s Stanley Rajkovich is a 6-foot-7 sophomore.

‘It’s about who finishes’: Derry boys rely on depth to climb atop Section 3-4A

December 26, 2024

Derry thought it could stretch the bench to eight, maybe nine deep at the start of the boys basketball season.

Latrobe head coach Brad Wetzel talks with John Wetzel during the Wildcats’ game against Uniontown on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, at Greater Latrobe.

Westmoreland high school boys basketball notebook: Latrobe to gain out-of-town experience

For years, Brad Wetzel wanted his Latrobe boys team to play on basketball’s hallowed grounds.

Submitted
Maggie Maiers wears the Latrobe girls basketball team belt.
Maggie Maiers wears the Latrobe girls basketball team belt.

Fox Chapel’s Tucker Cullen celebrates after scoring his second goal against Penn-Trafford on Nov. 21.

PIHL announces all-star schedule, player selections

December 23, 2024

The five-game schedule and player selections are set for the 2024-2025 PIHL All-Star games set for Jan. 26 at the Robert Morris Island Sports Center on Neville Island.

Franklin Regional’s Macallister Bresnahan breaks away from the Plum defense to score a touchdown in August.

Franklin Regional’s Bresnahan gets offer from Robert Morris

Franklin Regional football player Macallister Bresnahan is officially a Division I college football prospect.

Mt. Pleasant’s (from left) Kiersten O’Connor, Joseph Gardner, coach Sandy Felice, David Mutter and Lily King.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Mt. Pleasant quartet sets national swimming record

December 22, 2024

A national record, not bad for this fearsome foursome’s first time swimming together.

Greensburg Central’s Liam Gallagher shoots a 3-pointer over Kiski Area’s Amaree Gonzalez during their game on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at Hempfield.

Derry basketball players celebrate after their 67-61 overtime victory against No. 3 Belle Vernon on Friday, Dec. 20, 2024.

South Park’s Shelly Thropp next month will be just the second woman to be inducted into the Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association Hall of Fame, joining Jodie Chmielewski of Pine-Richland.

Latrobe senior Emerson Skatell wins the Westmoreland County Coaches’ Association race in October.

Latrobe runner Skatell chooses Lehigh

December 15, 2024

Named after a band called “Emerson Drive,” Latrobe senior Emerson Skatell is in perfect rhythm with her college choice.

Greensburg Central’s Ashlyn Black celebrates after scoring during the PIAA Class A championship match.

Latrobe rallied from 10 points down in the fourth quarter to defeat Gateway, 75-71, in the Section 1-5A opener Friday night.

Hempfield girls basketball coach Bob Madison (center) talks to his team during a timeout Saturday at Greensburg Salem.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Liam Gallagher (right) fights for a rebound with Franklin Regional’s Anthony Mitchell on Friday at Hempfield.

Greensburg Central Catholic holds on to beat Franklin Regional

December 6, 2024

One coach was concerned with how his team started. The other, with how his finished.

Hempfield’s Drew Gordon defends on Greensburg Salem’s Ryan Burkhart during the 2022 Hempfield tipoff tournament.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Hempfield, Jeannette to host tipoff tournaments

December 5, 2024

The Hempfield Spartan Field House will be the site of six boys basketball games Friday and Saturday for the 20th Hempfield tipoff tournament.

Hempfield’s Ella Berkebile celebrates her three-run home run against Seneca Valley on May 1.

Softball smarts lead Hempfield catcher Ella Berkebile to Bucknell

A cerebral leader behind the plate for Hempfield, Ella Berkebile has softball instincts that allow her to control the cadence of games.

Penn-Trafford’s Torrie DeStefano (24) looks to get around Norwin’s Anna Fraser on Tuesday.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Penn-Trafford happy to have defensive spark plug back

December 4, 2024

Penn-Trafford learned how to play without Torrie DeStefano last season after the then-sophomore guard suffered a season-ending knee injury just six games into the schedule.

Penn-Trafford’s Alexis Brown works past Latrobe’s Alexa Yurko during their game on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in Harrison City.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble dribbles past Serra Catholic’s Bri Battles on Jan. 29.

Starting 5s: Previewing girls high school basketball season in Westmoreland County

November 28, 2024

Starting 5s

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Braden Riley (15) fouls Jeannette’s Noah Sunder (24) late in the fourth quarter in a PIAA Class 2A second-round game Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Norwin.

Waiting on 10 players to return from football season might seem like a burden to some WPIAL basketball coaches.

Norwin’s Daniel Maddock works against Plum’s Marco Tommasino on Sept. 19.

Norwin notebook: Soccer standout headlines all-section list

November 16, 2024

Norwin boys soccer standout Daniel Maddock was named the player of the year in Section 1-4A by the Big 5/6 Conference, an online entity that covers the largest classifications in the WPIAL.

Mt. Pleasant’s Morgan Gesinski works past Deer Lakes’ Olivia Shurina during their game on Sept. 30.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Moe Rosensteel Award winner to be revealed Monday

The winner of the sixth Moe Rosensteel Most Outstanding Player of the Year for the top girls soccer player in the WPIAL will be announced at 5 p.m. Monday via social media.

Thomas Jefferson’s Shepherd Turk sacks Aliquippa quarterback Marques Council during the fourth quarter of their WPIAL Class 4A semifinal last Friday.

Finalists announced for 6th annual Bill Fralic Memorial Award for WPIAL’s top 2-way lineman

November 15, 2024

The six finalists for the sixth annual Bill Fralic Memorial Award are competing to be named the best two-way senior football lineman in the WPIAL, and they still have work to do.

Penn-Trafford’s Tasso Whipple drives to the goal line against Franklin Regional’s Jack Silvis (left) and Elijah Bennett on Oct. 11.

Franklin Regional’s Madison DeRiggi defends Plum’s Megan Marston on Dec. 18, 2023.

Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown cuts through the GCC defense during a WPIAL Class A quarterfinal Friday at Norwin.

Jeannette head coach Tommy Paulone watches from the sideline during a game against Clairton on Sept. 28, 2024, at Thomas Jefferson.

Franklin Regional’s Keaton Sheetz battles Moon’s Aedan Costa for possession during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game on Saturday at Highmark Stadium.

Franklin Regional turns attention to state playoffs after loss in WPIAL Class 3A title game

After they received their silver medals and runner-up trophy, Franklin Regional boys soccer players sat in a circle on the turf at Highmark Stadium.

Moon’s Marc Haupt celebrates after scoring against Franklin Regional during the WPIAL Class 3A championship Saturday.

Penn-Trafford takes the field for a playoff game against South Fayette on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024.

Westmoreland High School Athletes of the week: Week ending Oct. 20, 2024

The Westmoreland County Athletes of the Week is presented by Smail Kia. Look for the tags and look for the savings at Smail Kia in Greensburg.

Franklin Regional’s Joey Bayne moves the ball against Latrobe during a game on Oct. 8, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Franklin Regional’s Joey Bayne turning heads on football, soccer fields

Joey Bayne changed his hairstyle recently, going from long, wavy, brown locks to a blond buzz-cut with dark tiger stripes.

Norwin’s Annie Czajkowski leads Latrobe senior Emerson Skatell near the mile marker at the Westmoreland County Coaches’ Association cross country meet Oct. 9 at Westmoreland County Community College.

Norwin notebook: Knights sweep county cross country titles

Norwin doesn’t go to cross country meets to see the changing leaves and experience ambience.

In 2nd stint with team, new coach wants Norwin hockey to push pace

Familiarity will not be a problem for Denny Zeravica, the new hockey coach at Norwin.

Captains for Yough and Greensburg Salem meet at midfield Friday, Oct. 18, 2024.

Greensburg Salem routs Yough, steps toward playoff spot

October 18, 2024

Cole Savage was in the mood for a big-man touchdown. His team is in the mood to make the WPIAL playoffs.

Latrobe’s Cameron Mikulsky gets past Penn-Trafford’s Ryan Geyer on Sept. 10.

Westmoreland County soccer playoff preview capsules for Oct. 19, 2024

WPIAL soccer playoffs

Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer players huddle before Thursday night’s WPIAL Class A preliminary round game at California.

Goalkeeper Rease Solomon and her Penn-Trafford teammates were seeded No. 4 for the Class 4A WPIAL playoffs and have a bye into the quarterfinals.

Norwin’s George Bunovich (right) battles Plum’s Noah Smith for a ball during their match last week.

Defending 4A boys champ Norwin expecting similar draw in WPIAL soccer playoffs

October 15, 2024

Scott Schuchert expects his team to get a similar to draw to last season’s playoffs when Norwin ran the table as a No. 8 seed and won its first WPIAL championship in boys soccer.

Greensburg Central’s Jackson Vacanti controls the ball during a game against Eden Christian on, Aug. 27, 2024, at Eden.

Greensburg Salem football players will wear special helmet decals on their helmets Friday night at Derry to honor assistant coach Rich Bowen, who died earlier this week after a battle with rectal cancer.

Plum’s Marco Tommasino defends on Norwin’s Ryan Schoemer on Thursday at Norwin High School.

Plum outlasts Norwin to capture boys soccer section title

October 10, 2024

Plum seemed to have a lot going against it in the Section 1-4A boys soccer finale.

Franklin Regional’s Joey Bayne kicks the game-winning field goal to beat Latrobe 3-0 on Sept. 13.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Kickers step into spotlight

In what has been the year of the kicker in the WPIAL, local legs are getting into the act.

Yough and Mt. Pleasant girls soccer players line up for the national anthem Wednesday night at Viking Stadium.

Latrobe’s Roman Agostoni celebrates after scoring the lone goal against Franklin Regional on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, at Latrobe.

Norwin’s Siena Ali celebrates her goal against Penn-Trafford during the second half Monday.

Norwin girls avenge loss to Penn-Trafford, stay in section title hunt

October 7, 2024

Norwin watched film Sunday to get ready to play rival Penn-Trafford.

Braden Riley and the Greensburg Central Catholic boys golf team will begin play in the WPIAL Class 2A tournament this week.

Westmoreland high school notebook: WPIAL team golf tournaments tee off

October 6, 2024

WPIAL golf this week shifts to team competition for the postseason.

Franklin Regional’s Jammier Austin runs down Latrobe’s Alex Tatsch after a long run and strips the ball and was recovered by Franklin Regional Friday Sept. 13, 2024 at Franklin Regional High School.

Latrobe standout Tatsch done for season because of shoulder injury that requires surgery

Latrobe will play the rest of the football season without its star running back and linebacker.

Captains for Greensburg Central Catholic and Jeannette meet at midfield before their game Friday, Oct. 4, 2024.

Samir Crosby accounts for 5 TDs, propels Greensburg Central Catholic past Jeannette

October 4, 2024

If Greensburg Central Catholic was looking for momentum heading into halftime against rival Jeannette, it found it in a flurry.

Norwin (left) and Gateway players and coaches meet with referees before Thursday night’s Section 1-4A boys soccer game in Monroeville.

Hempfield pitcher Julia Varhola delivers against Seneca Valley on Apr. 10, 2024, in Jackson.

Latrobe and Belle Vernon boys soccer players go through the handshake line Tuesday.

Peters Twp.’s Ellie Benson watches her fairway shot on Hole 16 during the WPIAL Class AAA girls golf championship on Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at Butler Country Club.

Peters Township junior, Shady Side Academy freshman dodge raindrops to win WPIAL golf titles

September 30, 2024

Alyssa Zhang took up golf just four years ago.

Franklin Regional’s Liam Copeland hits on No. 18 during the WCCA golf championships Aug. 30, 2023, at Latrobe Elks Lodge Golf Club.

Westmoreland high school notebook: County players advance to WPIAL golf final round

September 29, 2024

The fields are set for the final round of the WPIAL boys and girls golf championships.

Elizabeth Forward’s Mya Morgan watches her tee shot on Hole 17 during the WPIAL Class 3A girls golf championship on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023, at Diamond Run Golf Club.

WPIAL to crown 2024 boys, girls individual golf champions

Boys

Players from Yough (left) and Mt. Pleasant meet for the coin toss before their game Sept. 27, 2024, at Yough’s Cougar Mountain.

Steve Scorpion coaches Franklin Regional during a 2019 game.

Ligonier Valley’s Addy Witcoski carded a 3-over-par 38, a program record for the Rams.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Addy Witcoski sets Ligonier Valley golf record

September 15, 2024

Addy Witcoski went to the golf course Tuesday like she would for any match, unaware she was about to make history.

Franklin Regional’s Joey Bayne kicks the game winning field goal to beat Latrobe 3-0 Friday Sept. 13, 2024 at Franklin Regional High School.

Players from Seneca Valley and Norwin meet at midfield for the coin toss before their game Sept. 13, 2024, at Norwin Knights Stadium.

Short-handed Norwin no match for Seneca Valley in conference opener

September 13, 2024

Norwin might be improved, but the third-ranked Knights found out the hard way that nothing is going to come easy in Class 6A.

Latrobe’s Roman Agostoni (right) celebrates his second goal against Franklin Regional with Brady Kring on Thursday.

Agostoni’s highlight-reel goals carry Latrobe to boys soccer win over Franklin Regional

September 12, 2024

The soccer ball left Latrobe defender Brady Kring’s foot and sailed high into the night sky like a punt at Panther Stadium.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Jeannette, Ligonier Valley players suspended

Jeannette and Ligonier Valley will be down two players each for the next two games because of ejections that happened last Friday night.

Latrobe goalkeeper Gianna Trunzo made seven saves Wednesday night in a 1-0 victory over Norwin at Rossi Field in Latrobe.

Penn-Trafford’s Chad Pusateri takes out Latrobe’s Roman Agostoni on Tuesday.

Captains for Greensburg Salem and Valley meet at midfield before their game Friday.

Sizzling Greensburg Salem rolls past Valley, off to best start since 2011

September 6, 2024

Greensburg Salem honored its conference championship football teams from 2003 and ’04 before Friday night’s kickoff.

Latrobe’s Roman Agostoni (center) prepares to fist-bump a referee before a pregame meeting Thursday night at James Weir Stadium in Belle Vernon.

Agostoni gets hat trick, Latrobe keeps rolling vs. Belle Vernon

September 5, 2024

On a night when shots were plentiful and goals piled up, Latrobe was more impressed by its defensive play and limiting Belle Vernon’s potent offense in its latest soccer victory.

Monessen’s TyVaughn Kershaw carries against Charleroi on Aug. 23.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Monessen sends scoreboards spinning

Monessen is the highest-scoring team in WPIAL football through two weeks with a brow-raising, 60.5-point average.

Penn-Trafford’s Avery Bosack celebrates with Tori Yurt (27) after Yurt’s first goal against Latrobe in the first half Wednesday at Greater Latrobe High School.

Football players from Franklin Regional (left) and Hempfield line up for the coin toss before their game Aug. 30, 2024, at Hempfield.

Franklin Regional rides all-around performance past Hempfield; Detruf returns

August 30, 2024

Classic ingredients can go a long way on a high school football Friday night.

Franklin Regional soccer players warm up before Thursday night’s game at Penn-Trafford. The Panthers won, 3-1.

Franklin Regional boys soccer team tops Penn-Trafford in early season section showdown

August 29, 2024

Franklin Regional’s Joey Bayne kicks a game-tying field goal against Latrobe in 2022.

Twelve of the 49 players on the Moe Rosensteel Most Outstanding Player Award watch list play for Westmoreland County teams.

Plum’s Emily Grubich celebrates with Allison Porter (left) after scoring a second-half goal against Franklin Regional on Monday.

Plum girls thinking Bigger after shutout win over Franklin Regional

August 26, 2024

Olivia Bigger kicks extra points for the Plum football team.

Avonworth’s Fiona Mahan controls the ball in front of Central Columbia’s Haley Bull during the 2023 PIAA Class 2A championship game.

WPIAL girls soccer preview: Defending state champ Moon again among teams to beat

August 20, 2024

WPIAL girls soccer preview

The late Ron Bukowski with his son, Southmoreland coacn Tim Bukowski

Latrobe linebacker Alex Tatsch, coach Ron Prady and quarterback John Wetzel

Thanks to program’s revival, ‘People are talking about Latrobe football’

August 18, 2024

Mention Latrobe and football in the same breath and, to most people, Pittsburgh Steelers training camp comes to mind.

Elizabeth Forward’s Mya Morgan celebrates after winning the WPIAL Class 3A girls golf championship Oct. 4, 2023, at Diamond Run Golf Club.

Greensburg Central Catholic junior football player Jerry Davis

400-meter champ Jerry Davis adds speed to Greensburg Central Catholic roster

August 11, 2024

Jerry Davis played at Serra Catholic the past two football seasons but did not experience the WPIAL playoffs.

Greensburg Salem boys basketball coach Cam Auld talks to his squad during a game last season at Southmoreland.

Norwin girls soccer coach Ashley DeVito talks with players during a conditioning workout this week at Norwin Knights Stadium.

New coach DeVito eager to build up Norwin girls soccer team

August 8, 2024

While she grasps for similarities between the girls soccer programs at Penn Hills and Norwin, Ashley DeVito continually finds herself recognizing the differences.

Latrobe’s Andy Tatsch pulls in a catch during the WCCA 7-on-7 competition in July.

Resurgent Latrobe has star power for move back to Class 5A

Editor’s note: Trib HSSN will publish team-by-team previews for one conference per day until the start of the high school football season Aug. 23.

Greensburg Central Catholic sophomore baseball player Anthony Grippo.

Greensburg Central Catholic baseball player Anthony Grippo commits to Penn State

August 7, 2024

A new NCAA recruiting rule kicked in earlier this month.

The Norwin boys soccer team celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating North Allegheny in penalty kicks in the Class 4A final Nov. 4 at Highmark Stadium.

Franklin Regional’s Austin Kerns takes down Hempfield’s Daniel Katonka on Oct.14, 2022.

Mt. Pleasant softball coach Chris Brunson

Championship softball coach Chris Brunson leaving Mt. Pleasant for Waynesburg University

June 28, 2024

Championship softball coach Chris Brunson is making the jump to the college level as he leaves the Mt. Pleasant high school team to head to Waynesburg University.

New Highlands boys basketball coach Bill Flow

Notre Dame golfer Palmer Jackson tees off on the 18th hole during a 2019 tournament in Vero Beach, Fla.

Palmer Jackson wraps up decorated career at Notre Dame

When Palmer Jackson tapped in for par on the ninth hole at Omni La Costa North Course in Carlsbad, Calif., at the end of May, he brought an end to a shining college golf career at Notre Dame.

Penn-Trafford third baseman Tyler Freas tag outs Lower Dauphin’s Casey Westerberg during their PIAA Class 5A state playoff game Monday.

PIAA Class 5A baseball quarterfinals preview: Penn-Trafford vs. Hollidaysburg

June 5, 2024

PIAA baseball playoffs

Jeannette quarterback Terrelle Pryor breaks away from Beaver Fall’s Todd Thomas on a 55-yard touchdown run during the 2007 WPIAL Class AA championship game.

Penn-Trafford senior catcher Mack Keenan remembers watching the team bus follow a fire truck escort back to Harrison City in 2019 after the Lady Warriors softball team won the PIAA championship.

Norwin’s Bailey Snowberger tags out Seneca Valley’s Emry Rice on a steal attempt during the WPIAL Class 6A softball championship game Friday at Lilley Field.

“Yes, we butt heads,” Ligonier Valley catcher Sydnee Foust said of pitcher Cheyenne Piper. “But we keep each other focused.”

Battery mates Cheyenne Piper, Sydnee Foust to lead Ligonier Valley into PIAA 3A playoffs

May 31, 2024

Softball pitchers get all of the credit when they throw no-hitters, while their catchers humbly remove their masks and pads and wander off into obscurity.

Seneca Valley celebrates with the trophy after beating Norwin in the WPIAL Class 6A softball championship game Friday at Lilley Field.

Seneca Valley fights off Norwin upset bid to win 4th WPIAL softball championship

CALIFORNIA — Caught in the throes of a surprising three-run deficit against the underdog of these playoffs, Seneca Valley sprang to life late and reprised its role as the top dog in WPIAL 6A softball.

Norwin pitcher Brookelyn Kotch delivers against Pine-Richland during their WPIAL Class 6A playoff game on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Gateway.

Norwin uses additional day to prepare for WPIAL Class 6A softball title game

May 30, 2024

As some dust kicked up from a light breeze, Norwin softball coach Brian Mesich sent a pop fly to shallow center field.

Penn-Trafford’s Cam Ponko tags out Latrobe’s Corrine Wright during the WPIAL Class 5A third-place game Tuesday at Gateway.

Ligonier Valley’s Zoe Plummer tracks down a ball hit by Ellwood City’s Ellie Kalantzis during their WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal playoff game May 16.

Norwin’s Josey Michalski rounds the bases after hitting a 2-run home run against Hempfield during the first inning of their WPIAL Class 6A semifinal on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Gateway.

Norwin stuns defending champion Hempfield in Class 6A softball semifinals

May 22, 2024

To Norwin, the signs were there.

Penn-Trafford’s Ethan Septak rounds the bases after hitting a home run against Fox Chapel during their WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal on Monday, May 20, 2024, at Gateway.

Penn-Trafford’s Chuck Fontana celebrates his RBI triple against Moon during their WPIAL Class 5A playoff game.

Westmoreland baseball notebook: Section 1-5A provides intrigue

May 19, 2024

Section 1-5A was an anomaly.

Penn-Trafford’s Lorryn Sepe celebrates after the Warriors scored the go-ahead run against Bethel Park during their WPIAL Class 5A playoff game on Monday, May 13, 2024, at West Mifflin.

As a winning streak began to stretch out like salt water taffy from a preseason trip to Myrtle Beach, Mt. Pleasant baseball coach Chris Firmstone became less surprised.

Hempfield pitcher Riley Miller delivers against Seneca Valley on May 1.

Hempfield, Seneca Valley softball teams downplay importance of No. 1 seed for WPIALs

May 8, 2024

Neither coach seemed too concerned about it, but they also did not discount the value of getting the top seed.

Yough coach Jim Nesser (right) resigned after six seasons.

After 41 years in coaching, Jim Nesser steps down at Yough

Though he has won section, WPIAL and PIAA boys basketball championships, Jim Nesser is quick to point out he also has guided teams through rough patches, covering both ends of the spectrum in a coaching career that spans four decades.

Despite squandering many chances, Greensburg Salem baseball holds on for win over Yough, clinches playoff spot

May 6, 2024

Greensburg Salem felt it could have done more with its 15 hits and slew of opportunities on the base paths.

Belle Vernon’s Sienna Steeber is a nominee for the 2024 Westmoreland County Scholar-Athlete Excellence Award, sponsored by Judge Michael Stewart.

Makayla Etling’s hot bat powers Southmoreland past Yough

May 3, 2024

If teams continue to pitch inside to Makayla Etling, they are probably going to continue to pay the price.

Hempfield’s Adam Hess celebrates after his walk-off RBI single in the bottom of the seventh inning to beat Norwin on Thursday.

Frazier outlasts Jeannette in extra innings in battle of softball section unbeatens

April 29, 2024

Emilia Bednar wasn’t sure what to expect when she stepped to the plate in the top of the eighth inning Monday in a battle of unbeaten softball teams at Jeannette.

Greensburg Central Catholic and Jeannette baseball players go through the handshake line after Friday’s game in Carbon.

Bats heat up for Greensburg Central Catholic in win over Jeannette

April 19, 2024

For a team that struck out 19 times against Brentwood earlier this week, Greensburg Central Catholic looked pretty confident at the plate when it finally got to play rival Jeannette after multiple postponements.

Mt. Lebanon pitcher David Shields warms up Thursday at Norwin.

Serra Catholic softball players cheer on the team Wednesday at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Norwin notebook: Former Knights standout picks Pitt wrestling

Pitt is it for Chase Kranitz.

Greensburg Central Catholic sophomore baseball players Ian Shipley, Anthony Grippo and Tyler Samide.

Stacked lineup has confidence soaring for Greensburg Central Catholic baseball

April 11, 2024

Practice ends on a pleasant afternoon, and Greensburg Central Catholic sophomores Ian Shipley, Anthony Grippo and Tyler Samide begin to play with an unwound baseball, its spider web-like strings flowing in the breeze while seeming to stretch from home plate to the fence.

Hempfield’s Carson Shuglie rounds the bases after hitting a go-ahead two-run homer against Central Catholic on April 3 at No Offsesason in Russelton.

Westmoreland County high school baseball notebook: Rain sends teams scrambling to find turf fields

Last week’s bout of rainy weather shined a spotlight on fields that are fully covered with artificial turf.

Southmoreland softball players and coaches gather after Wedneday’s 4-3 victory over visiting Yough.

Franklin Regional’s Cam Rowell dunks over Moon defenders during their PIAA Class 5A state semifinal on Monday, Mar. 18, 2024, at Peters Twp.

Penn-Trafford and Hempfield softball players and coaches gather for a pregame meeting on Thursday at Robert D. Kalp Field.

Penn-Trafford’s Hunter Brown hoists Eric Biroscak into the air after Biroscak drove in two runs with a single in the bottom of the seventh inning to defeat Fox Chapel Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2024, in Harrison City.

Penn-Trafford baseball avenges tight loss to Fox Chapel by walking it off in rematch

March 27, 2024

One walk-off win deserves another.

Hempfield pitcher Riley Miller smiles after getting a strikeout against North Allegheny on Monday, March 25, 2024, at Hempfield.

Westmoreland softball notes: Hempfield receives championship rings

Last season had a nice ring to it for Hempfield.

Hempfield’s Allie Cervola celebrates as she rounds the bases after hitting a lead-off home run against North Allegheny during their game on Monday.

Hempfield softball starts fast with season-opening shutout of North Allegheny

March 25, 2024

Like a bear just out of hibernation, the Hempfield softball team took a big yawn, stretched out its limbs and delivered a shutout in its season opener.

Latrobe senior softball player Kayla Williams

Imhotep Charter’s Ahmad Nowell blocks a shot by Franklin Regional’s Cooper Rankin during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game on Friday, Mar. 22, 2024, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Imhotep Charter finally puts away pesky Franklin Regional to win 10th PIAA basketball title

March 22, 2024

HERSHEY — Franklin Regional and Imhotep Charter are 300 miles apart, on opposite ends of the state.

Franklin Regional’s Cooper Rankin scores against Moon’s Carter Tumulty during their PIAA Class 5A semifinal on Monday.

Franklin Regional’s Max Rutkowski (left) is stopped by Latrobe goaltender Brock Pflugh during a playoff game earlier this month.

Westmoreland high school notes: Latrobe hockey heads to West Chester

March 20, 2024

Latrobe wants to hold off uniform turn-in day a little longer.

The 1997 Franklin Regional boys basketball team.

Norwin’s Ava Christopher (30) attempts a driving layup past Seneca Valley’s Brooke Dufford (25) on Feb. 22.

Jeannette’s Isaiah Mallich celebrates hitting a 3-pointer to break a 44-44 tie and give the Jayhawks a 47-44 lead late in overtime against Greensburg Central Catholic in a PIAA Class 2A second-round game Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Norwin.

Jeannette shocks rival Greensburg Central Catholic in PIAA 2nd round

March 13, 2024

The anatomy of this victory started with a game plan and a belief that anything was possible.

Hempfield sets championship goals as Westmoreland County teams open softball season

Hempfield won its eighth WPIAL softball championship last season.

Norwin’s Kendall Berger is fouled by Chartiers Valley’s Lilah Turnbull during a PIAA Class 6A second-round game Tuesday at Peters Township High School.

Cara Dupilka and her Greensburg Central Catholic teammates will face West Middlesex in the PIAA second round Tuesday.

Belle Vernon softball coach Tom Rodriguez has a career record of 303-143 with five WPIAL championships.

Westmoreland notebook: Mid Mon Valley hall of fame selects newest class

March 10, 2024

Longtime Belle Vernon softball coach Tom Rodriguez, former Monessen football standout Joe Como and late Belle Vernon administrator Steve Russell are part of the 29th Mid Mon Valley All Sports Hall of Fame class.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys basketball players warm up before Saturday’s home PIAA playoff game against Windber.

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio rips the ball away from York’s Ciarra Gibbs during their PIAA Class 6A first-round game Friday at Norwin.

WPIAL champion Norwin girls run away from York William Penn in PIAA opener

March 8, 2024

After getting knocked to the floor early, Lauren Palangio quickly dusted herself off and jumped back into character.

Derry Area freshman Stanley Rajkovich battles Burrell’s Macky Bennis for the ball Jan. 26.

Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsules for March 9, 2024

Boys

Unsung heroes dot coaching staffs of Westmoreland County state playoff teams

March 7, 2024

It’s the first practice after a relaxing weekend, and Norwin girls basketball coach Brian Brozeski is lowering the hoops around the gymnasium at “The Castle.”

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio scores against North Allegheny during the WPIAL Class 6A championship game March 1.

The Norwin girls basketball team celebrates after defeating North Allegheny in the WPIAL Class 6A championship game on Friday, Mar. 1, 2024, at Petersen Events Center.

Greensburg Central Catholic players celebrate as time expires in the WPIAL Class 2A championship game against Serra Catholic on Thurday at Pitt.

Ellwood City senior Joe Roth scored 21 points to lead the Wolverines past Yough in the WPIAL 3A seventh-place game.

Greensburg Central Catholic head coach Christian Hyland gestures from the bench during te fourth quarter against Northgate in their WPIAL Class 2A semifinal on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, at Gateway.

The Norwin girls basketball breaks a timeout Monday during its 63-47 victory over Chartiers Valley in the WPIAL Class 6A semifinals at Peters Township.

Norwin girls find 2nd wind, top Chartiers Valley to reach WPIAL 6A final

February 26, 2024

Early on, Chartiers Valley took charges.

Braden Riley and his Greensburg Central Catholic teammates will play Northgate in the WPIAL semifinals Tuesday.

Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 27, 2024

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Mya Morgan plays for Greensburg Central Catholic and the Western PA Bruins.

Franklin Regional senior Brandon Smith won the 2024 WPIBL boys singles championship Wednesday, Feb. 21 at AMF Mt. Lebanon.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Camp planned to honor late Southmoreland coach

The legacy of “Fred” lives on at Southmoreland.

Christopher Horner | TribLive
Franklin Regional lineman Max Leven (left) talks with Andrew Devola during practice Aug. 1, 2022, in Murrysville.

Drive to improve, helpful mentors lead Franklin Regional grad to Division I football

Gentle giant Max Leven had a goal when he left Franklin Regional, but for him to achieve that goal, he felt he needed some fine-tuning.

The Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball team prepares to play Northgate on Friday night in the first round of the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs.

With senior guard back from injury, Greensburg Central Catholic girls rout Northgate

February 16, 2024

While she was cleared to return and was going to need ice treatment after the game, Cara Dupilka wasn’t sure how much she could give Greensburg Central Catholic in the first round of the playoffs after missing three games with a bone bruise in her left foot.

Mt. Pleasant’s Grace Arrigo blocks the shot of OLSH’s Mia Grisafi during a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game last season.

Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 17, 2024

Girls

Latrobe coach Mackenzie Livingston watches from the bench Jan. 15 at Penn-Trafford.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Latrobe takes playoff plunge

February 14, 2024

Latrobe hopes to make a splash in the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball playoffs, right after the team dries off.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble shoots a 3-pointer against Serra Catholic on Jan. 29.

Class 6A

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio blocks a shot by North Allegheny’s Kellie McConnell during a January game at Norwin. The Knights swept the Tigers in section play for the first time this season.

Norwin, GCC girls could draw No. 1 seeds as WPIAL playoff brackets are revealed

February 11, 2024

Brian Brozeski doesn’t wade too far into the waters of bracketology.

Mt. Pleasant junior swimmer Kiersten O’Connor

Gateway’s Mykel Bruce-McCrommon blocks the shot of Latrobe’s John Wetzel on Friday.

Gateway boys edge Latrobe as Wildcats fall short of playoffs

February 9, 2024

With the outcome of another game that had a direct effect on theirs already decided, the Latrobe boys basketball team took the court and played for pride.

Norwin girls basketball players go through the handshake-line after Thursday night’s 46-39 victory over visiting Seneca Valley.

Hailey Johnson and the Monessen girls basketball team play against Jefferson-Morgan on Jan. 4.

Relentless rebounder flying high for Monessen girls

February 7, 2024

There is something about looking to the sky that fascinates Hailey Johnson.

Penn-Trafford’s Lauren Marton battles Latrobe’s Addison Toy for a loose ball on Jan. 15.

Norwin girls basketball players (from left) Averi Brozeski, Lauren Palangio, Anna Fraser and Elizabeth Yarosik walk on to the court for senior night Thursday in North Huntingdon.

‘We want it’: Norwin girls basketball players excel during small moments in quest for championships

January 31, 2024

Norwin leads the league in smiles.

Franklin Regional head coach Bernie Pucka gives instructions during a game against Plum on Monday, Dec. 19, 2022, in Murrysville.

Boys basketball teams from Belle Vernon (right) and Southmoreland stand for the National Anthem on Friday night in Alverton.

Belle Vernon runs past Southmoreland in stat-filled ‘track meet’

January 26, 2024

Given room to run, Belle Vernon feasted on transition points and loaded up the stat sheet Friday night, ringing up a season high for points in an 85-73 victory at Southmoreland in Section 3-4A boys basketball.

Norwin’s Kendall Berger celebrates after hitting a 3-pointer against North Allegheny on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, at Norwin.

Franklin Regional’s Fin Hutchison shoots a three-pointer in double overtime against Shaler on Friday.

Franklin Regional boys win 2OT thriller over Shaler

January 19, 2024

Uncle Kevin would have been proud. Of a thrilling Franklin Regional win. Of a runaway second overtime by the Panthers in a playoff-like atmosphere. And most of all, of his nephew’s big shot.

Gateway’s Mykel Bruce-McCrommon is fouled by Franklin Regional’s Cameron Rowell on Jan. 12.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Class 5A section loaded with contenders

January 18, 2024

Section 3 could be the most competitive lineup of teams in WPIAL Class 5A. That much is clear at the halfway point of the schedule.

Latrobe’s John Wetzel drives against Franklin Regional’s Cam Rowell on Jan. 9.

Sharpened by early-season gauntlet, Latrobe boys find their stride

When it came time to piece together the boys basketball schedule for this season at Latrobe, veteran coach Brad Wetzel stretched boundaries.

Kiski Area coach Corey Smith draws up a play during Wednesday night’s game at Penn-Trafford.

Gateway’s Alec Dunsmore scores past Franklin Regional’s Cam Rowell on Friday.

Gateway boys use defense to get past Franklin Regional in section showdown

January 12, 2024

This Gateway boys basketball team is inherently defensive and plays a halfcourt style with goals steeped in fundamentals and a touch of grit.

Clairton and Greensburg Central Catholic players and coaches meet with an official before Thursday night’s game.

New Greensburg Salem athletic director Drake D’Angelo poses for a holiday photo with his family, from left, Adelina, Jenn and Gianna.

Franklin Regional’s Colin Masten battles Latrobe’s Max Butler for a rebound during their game on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024, in Murrysville.

Colin Masten breaks out of slump, leads Franklin Regional past Latrobe

January 9, 2024

Colin Masten said he had been in a mini-slump of late. In basketball terms, that means he wasn’t making shots or producing much on the offensive end.

Drake D’Angelo has been Burrell’s athletic director since 2017.

Greensburg Salem set to hire Drake D’Angelo as athletic director

Greensburg Salem will vote to hire Drake D’Angelo as its athletic director, according to board agenda for Wednesday night’s meeting.

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio scores between Hempfield defenders during their game on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, at Hempfield Area.

Battle-tested Norwin girls roll past Hempfield

January 8, 2024

Norwin has yet to lose to a WPIAL team this girls basketball season. Eight up, eight down.

GCC’s Tyree Turner reacts after hitting a 3-pointer against Jeannette on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at Jeannette.

Greensburg Central Catholic dominates Jeannette behind Tyree Turner’s 25 points

January 5, 2024

Greensburg Central Catholic players and coaches were stranded after the game at Jeannette on Friday night because their bus arrived late.

North Catholic girls basketball players huddle on the floor before Thursday night’s game against visiting Greensburg Salem.

Southmoreland’s Elliott Premus defends Belle Vernon’s Zion Moore on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024.

Franklin Regional and Penn-Trafford prepare to tip off on Tuesday night in Harrison City.

Franklin Regional pulls away after Penn-Trafford shrinks Panthers’ big lead

January 2, 2024

Franklin Regional has a pilot light that burns brightly and ignites the Panthers’ fast-paced attack.

Latrobe’s Alex Tatsch (left) and John Wetzel are receiving Division I scholarship offers.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Latrobe becoming hot spot for Division I athletes

January 1, 2024

An assistant football coach from Southern Cal flew across the country recently to meet with coveted Latrobe prospect Alex Tatsch.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin scores on a 92-yard touchdown run during the PIAA Class 3A championship game Dec. 9.

‘Q’ & A with Belle Vernon star football player Quinton Martin

During a WPIAL playoff game last month Quinton Martin hurdled a defender on his way to a first down, but no penalty was called.

Latrobe’s Elle Snyder shoots a three-pointer over Woodland Hills’ Jhalynn Wilson during their game on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Indiana and Hempfield players and coaches meet with a referee before Friday night’s game at Latrobe.

Hempfield girls score signature win by avenging earlier loss to Indiana

December 29, 2023

Up nine and then down six in a game where no lead was safe, budding Hempfield relied on its defense and late-game aptitude to score arguably its best win of the season.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball players leave the court at halftime of Thursday night’s game against Upper St. Clair in the Hoopfest at Cal (Pa.).

Greensburg Central Catholic basketball coach Christian Hyland (kneeling) talks to his team during Wednesday’s 61-37 victory over Yough at Greensburg Salem.

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio celebrates with Bella Furno after scoring against McKeesport on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023, at Norwin.

Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Norwin’s Lauren Palangio, Latrobe’s Luke Willochell

December 23, 2023

Lauren Palangio

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Norwin receiver’s options include WVU walk-on offer

Norwin football player Luke Denny popped up on a lot of college radar screens after a big play-filled senior season.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Franco Alvarez (left) prepares to jump center against Hempfield’s Maximus Williams on Friday night.

Greensburg Central Catholic withstands crafty foul strategy to beat Hempfield

December 22, 2023

Teams have tried to slow down Greensburg Central Catholic in a number of ways, but this was something new.

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio blocks a shot by McKeesport’s Brooke Evans during their game on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023, at Norwin.

Jeannette basketball players huddle up before Friday night’s Section 3-2A game against Serra Catholic.

Greensburg Salem’s girls basketball players huddle before Thursday night’s Section 1-4A opener at Derry.

Yough’s Autumn Matthews directs the offense against Beaver Falls during a playoff game last season.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Matthews makes a good point for Yough

December 13, 2023

One of the first things new Yough girls coach Brian Znavor did when he joined the team was move senior Autumn Matthews to point guard.

Southmoreland girls basketball coach Amber Cernuto (center) said one of the chief challenges of low roster numbers is creating a strong practice environment.

One-and-one free throws always have been a gamble.

Norwin players and coaches huddle during Saturday’s 63-58 comeback victory over Latrobe at the WCCA Showcase.

Yough’s Austin Matthews drives past Deer Lakes defender Wayne Love Jr. on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, at Yough Senior High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Franco Alvarez charges toward the basket against Penn-Trafford on Friday.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys outlast Penn-Trafford in 2OT for win in opener

December 1, 2023

While he was far from overweight, Franco Alvarez worked on slimming down in the offseason so he could be faster on the basketball court.

Norwin starters Lauren Palangio (left), Kendall Berger, Bailey Snowberger (3) and Ava Kobus (right) celebrate beating North Allegheny in a PIAA Class 6A girls quarterfinal Friday, March 17, 2023, at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Avonworth’s Fiona Mahan controls the ball in front of Central Columbia’s Haley Bull during the PIAA Class 2A state championship game on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

North Allegheny’s Abigail Stager, Avonworth’s Fiona Mahan earn All-America honors

November 25, 2023

Abigail Stager and Fiona Mahan led their girls soccer teams on lengthy playoff runs this season, but their accomplishments stretched beyond the scope of the WPIAL and PIAA.

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Aris Lamanna had nine shutouts this season.

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Aris Lamanna named TribLive Westmoreland girls soccer player of the year

Player of the Year

WPIAL champ Owen Christopher of Norwin claims TribLive Westmoreland boys soccer player of year award

Player of the Year

Belle Vernon quarterback Braden Laux made sure to give his line plenty of credit for their championship season.

‘Team’ is the word for WPIAL champion Belle Vernon

As a postgame press conference wound into its final question and answer Friday night at Acrisure Stadium, Braden Laux grabbed the microphone.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin celebrates after a Leopards’ score during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game against Avonworth on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, at Acrisure Stadium.

Mt. Pleasant’s Riley Gesinski returns as a starting point guard this season.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin scores past Avonworth’s Jackson Vogt during the 2022 WPIAL Class 3A championship game.

In WPIAL championship rematch, Avonworth poses threat to Belle Vernon repeat bid

November 22, 2023

Avonworth and Belle Vernon were having spells of déjà vu, even a little total recall, as they prepared to meet for the second year in a row for the WPIAL Class 3A football championship.

Latrobe’s Ava Yurko (left) will play for Youngstown State in college.

Latrobe soccer player Ava Yurko chooses Youngstown State

November 21, 2023

Add another Division I college soccer commit to the list at Latrobe.

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Aris Lamanna makes a save next to Latrobe’s Ava Yurko during their game on Monday, Oct. 9, 2023, in Murrysville.

Senior outside hitter Jillian Pensenstadler was set to represent Norwin at an all-star volleyball event.

Sarah Podkul, who also plays softball, is one of three returning starters for Hempfield.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin hurdles East Allegheny’s Bryce Dendy and Amir Rollins in the WPIAL Class 3A semifinals Friday, Nov. 17, 2023 at Norwin.

Belle Vernon rushes back to WPIAL final with dominant win over East Allegheny

November 17, 2023

When it comes time to choose a ball carrier for each running play, Belle Vernon has options.

Susan Fralic, the widow of former football star Bill Fralic, wraps her arms around a new exhibit honoring her husband Thursday at the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum at the Heinz History Center.

Captains for Greensburg Central Catholic and South Side meet for the coin toss before their WPIAL Class A quarterfinal Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, at Peters Township.

Norwin’s Alex Thomas celebrates with Mario Cavallaro (l) after Cavallaro’s goal against McDowell in the first period during the Class A Championship on Monday, March 21, 2022 at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex.

Franklin Regional head coach Lukas Petersen watches from the sideline during the Panthers’ WPIAL Section 4-3A game against Plum on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022, in Murrysville.

Franklin Regional soccer player Tyler Pipon

Clairton and Jeannette captains gather for the coin toss Friday.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Landon Honick scores a touchdown against Riverview on Friday.

Greensburg Central Catholic survives scare vs. Riverview

October 20, 2023

Sophomore Landon Honick didn’t want his team’s playoff hopes to stretch into Week 9.

Franklin Regional’s Danny Christafano celebrates a goal against Plum last season.

Westmoreland County high school soccer playoff matchups for Saturday, Oct. 21

Boys

Mt. Pleasant’s Brody Hutter beats Elizabeth Forward’s Krystian Kennedy to the end zone for a third-quarter touchdown Oct. 6.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: 3 teams could clinch playoff spots in Week 8

October 19, 2023

Four Westmoreland County teams have clinched WPIAL playoff berths, but more can secure spots this week.

Mt. Pleasant’s Garrett Eicher causes Elizabeth Forward’s Charles Gigut to fumble while Micah Roadman (72) holds on Oct. 6.

Brothers Mason and Brandon Yeschenko of the Belle Vernon boys soccer team.

Siblings abound on Westmoreland County playoff soccer teams

October 17, 2023

When Mason and Brandon Yeschenko were younger, they would put on large, red boxing gloves and settle disputes by going a couple of rounds in the basement.

Latrobe’s Ava Yurko celebrates with Maddy Petruzzi after scoring against Plum on Oct. 2.

Players from Franklin Regional and Hempfield take part in the coin toss before their game Friday.

Hempfield’s Allie Cervola celebrates after scoring the winning run in the bottom of the seventh inning against Norwin during a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal last season.

Slick-fielding Hempfield shortstop Allie Cervola picks Ohio

October 12, 2023

Hempfield doesn’t just have a history of winning WPIAL and PIAA championships in softball.

Latrobe’s Ja’Tawn Williams takes down Franklin Regional’s Austin Kerns on Sept. 1.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Latrobe senior making impact

There has been plenty of buzz in Latrobe about a promising junior class that includes players such as running back/linebacker Alex Tatsch and quarterback/safety John Wetzel.

Riverview senior Lola Abraham (center) and her coach and father, Sean Abraham (right) gather with GCC coach Derek Cuthbert, his players and officials for a pregame meeting Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023.

Belle Vernon’s Trevor Kovatch moves the ball upfield against Mt. Pleasant on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023, at Mt. Pleasant.

Franklin Regional’s Toryn Fulton scoops up a ball against Latrobe last season.

Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller is looking for her third WCCA girls cross country title.

Westmoreland high school notebook: WCCA cross country meets set for Wednesday

October 8, 2023

The next events on the Westmoreland County Coaches Association fall calendar are the cross country championships.

Sophomore Morgan Gesinski of Mt. Pleasant

Franklin Regional takes the field against Norwin on Friday.

Franklin Regional shows grit, staves off furious Norwin rally

October 6, 2023

Franklin Regional remained in the Big East playoff hunt.

Mt. Pleasant’s Austin Ulery celebrates after scoring the winning goal late in the game against McGuffey on Thursday.

Plum’s Zach Mauro scored the go-ahead against Latrobe.

Penn-Trafford senior Nick Turowski hits a drive on No. 17 at Latrobe Country Club Sept. 25, 2023 during the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A Golf Championship.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: P-T golfer Nick Turowski can join exclusive company with win

October 1, 2023

Penn-Trafford senior Nick Turowski is primed to become a two-time WPIAL golf champion.

Once the odds-on favorite most weeks, Jeannette is more dark horse these days as the football team continues to heal from a couple of thin years.

Canon-McMillan and Norwin prepare to play a Section 2-4A boys soccer game on Thursday night in North Huntingdon.

Canon-McMillan boys soccer scores upset of No. 3 Norwin

September 28, 2023

Both boys soccer teams had given up 10 goals coming into their latest Section 2-4A matchup.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Elizabeth Forward coach set to face old pals at Southmoreland

Peering across the field and trying to get a win against his buddies will be an interesting proposition for John DeMarco.

Franklin Regional coach Scott Arnold (standing, center) talks to his team after Wednesday night’s 1-0 win at Penn-Trafford.

Belle Vernon boys soccer players warm up before Tuesday night’s game at Yough.

Penn-Trafford’s Tasso Whipple (34) runs the ball against Hempfield on Friday.

Penn-Trafford rides Whipple’s record-setting night to win over Hempfield

September 22, 2023

Junior tailback Tasso Whipple averaged more than 13 yards per carry on the way to a single-game school rushing record of 300 yards and scored four touchdowns as he and Penn-Trafford remembered what it felt like to win at home.

Jeannette boys soccer coach Steve Pons talks to his team during halftime of Thursday night’s game against Greensburg Salem at McKee Stadium.

High-scoring Jeannette boys continue hot streak with victory over Greensburg Salem

September 21, 2023

The highest-scoring team in WPIAL boys soccer isn’t going to slow down until the throttle burns out.

Hempfield head coach Nick Keefer speaks to the team before his first game as head coach before playing Greensburg Salem Friday Aug.25, 2023 at Spartan Stadium.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Hempfield gets new left tackle as injuries hit lineup

Hempfield is making some position changes work because of injuries. Rising talent Brock Heisler, a 6-foot-4, 225-pound sophomore tight end and long snapper, has been a part of the on-the-fly adjustments.

Mt. Pleasant’s Maggie Piper moves the ball upfield past Southmoreland’s Aubrey Seder on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023, at Vikings Stadium.

Franklin Regional and Latrobe line up for the national anthem before their game Tuesday. Sept. 19, 2023.

Latrobe and Penn-Trafford players and coaches meet with officials before their Section 3-3A game Monday in Harrison City.

Latrobe sophomore finds golden goal to beat Penn-Trafford

September 18, 2023

Sophomore forward Annalyse Bauer had a couple of near-miss scoring opportunities in the second half, bumping a header off the post and later ringing a shot off the football crossbar.

Latrobe’s Alex Tatsch sheds the tackle attempt by Hempfield’s Brennan Knight in the fourth quarter Friday Sept. 8, 2023 at Spartan Stadium.

Latrobe’s Alex Tatsch earns scholarship offer from West Virginia

September 17, 2023

Alex Tatsch spent a perfect late-summer day in Morgantown.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Znavor takes over Yough girls basketball team

Brian Znavor is the new girls basketball coach at Yough.

Greensburg Central Catholic soccer player Riley Kerr

Captains for Latrobe and Thomas Jefferson meet for the coin toss before their game Sept. 15, 2023, at Latrobe Memorial Stadium.

No. 2-ranked Thomas Jefferson too much for Latrobe

September 15, 2023

Latrobe called for a blackout from its home fans Friday night.

Belle Vernon celebrates after its 1-0 victory over Mt. Pleasant on Thursday night at James Weir Stadium.

Latrobe’s Robin Reilly gets a shot off past Franklin Regional’s Eden Williams and Brooke Blakley Wednesday at Rossi Field.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Key injury tests Franklin Regional

September 5, 2023

Franklin Regional is adopting a next-girl-up mentality after losing a key starter to an injury.

Yough’s Kendalyn Umbel watches her winning goal during the Cougars’ game against Mt. Pleasant on Oct. 19, 2021.

Increasing number of top girls soccer players opting out of high school competition

When a few Westmoreland County girls soccer players came to a Y in the road — to play or not to play this season — they all chose the same direction.

Ligonier Valley golfer Brody McIntosh had his first ace in a match against Mt. Pleasant at Norvelt Golf Club.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Ligonier Valley’s McIntosh pockets hole in one

September 3, 2023

Ligonier Valley golfer Brody McIntosh had quite a surprise waiting for him at the sixth hole during last Monday’s match at Norvelt Golf Club.

Penn-Trafford’s Ava Hershberger gets past Oakland Catholic’s Caroline Miller during WPIAL 2A girls field hockey semifinal action Thursday, Oct.27, 2022 at Penn-Trafford High School.

Bishop Canevin and Greensburg Central Catholic football players take part in the coin toss before their game Sept. 1, 2023, in Carbon.

Bishop Canevin revs up in victory against Greensburg Central Catholic

September 1, 2023

Greensburg Central Catholic was hoping Bishop Canevin would be rusty because the highly touted Crusaders did not play a game or scrimmage last week.

Plum’s Zack Mauro (right) celebrates his goal with Brady French during the first half against Franklin Regional on Thursday.

Plum shuts out rival Franklin Regional in early season section showdown

August 31, 2023

Plum is finding different ways to score goals this soccer season.

Ligonier Valley’s John Jablunovsky sprints to the end zone in the fourth quarter against Apollo-Ridge last season.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Top runners clash when Ligonier Valley, Southmoreland meet

John Jablunovsky and Da’sjon Craggette ran wild in their season openers, each rushing for more than 200 yards as their teams won.

Franklin Regional junior Eden Williams scored the winning goal Wednesday night in the Panthers’ 1-0 win over Penn-Trafford.

Penn-Trafford’s Nick Turowski finished second in last year’s WCCA boys golf championship after shooting 73.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: WCCA boys golf championship coming this week

August 27, 2023

The first event on the Westmoreland County Coaches Association’s fall calendar will take place later this week with the boys golf championship.

Jeannette quarterback Payton Molter celebrates during the Jayhawks’ victory over Burrell on Friday.

Latrobe football players take the field before their game against Derry on Aug. 25, 2023, at Latrobe Memoiral Stadium.

Latrobe gets all phases clicking in convincing opening-night win over Derry

August 25, 2023

A few weeks ago, Latrobe Memorial Stadium hosted the Pittsburgh Steelers’ annual “Friday Night Lights” practice.

Yough athletic director resigns

Yough is looking for an athletic director after the resignation of Bill Flow.

Da’sjon Craggette, shown playing for Greensburg Central Catholic last season, will play for Southmoreland this fall.

Moon goalkeeper Serayah Leech celebrates with Lillian Snyder after defeating Mars, 2-0, in a PIAA Class 3A state semifinal Nov. 16, 2022, at North Allegheny.

2023 WPIAL girls soccer preview: Rankings, contenders, players to watch

August 22, 2023

WPIAL girls soccer preview

Latrobe quarterback John Wetzel leaps over Highlands’ Nick McQuade in the fourth quarter Friday, Nov. 4, 2022 at Highlands Golden Rams Stadium.

Deep backfield gives Latrobe options in running game

August 17, 2023

When teams prepared to play Latrobe last season, their focus was on stopping bruising running back Robert Fulton.

Southmoreland quarterback Kadin Keefer throws during WCAA 7-on-7 competition July 19 at Latrobe.

Latrobe’s Ella Bulava said her knee injury “puts me back about seven to eight months.”

Westmoreland County high school notes: Latrobe’s Ella Bulava out with torn ACL

August 15, 2023

Ella Bulava, a senior soccer standout at Latrobe and a Maryland commit, will miss the high school season after having surgery for a torn ACL.

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Aris Lamanna has increased her weightlifting workouts and has been running four times a week.

Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review
Franklin Regional coach Lance Getsy instructs players during the 2021 Westmoreland County Coaches Association Larry Sellitto Memorial Passing Tournament at Latrobe.

After productive summer, Franklin Regional itching to put on pads

August 5, 2023

Third-year Franklin Regional football coach Lance Getsy was in a walking boot at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Larry Sellitto Memorial Passing Tournament at Latrobe.

Monessen senior athletes recently held a powderpuff football game to raise money for the families of the late Amari Altomore and current student Mason Madzey. Girls basketball players presented a check for $7,200. Pictured are, front row, from left, Donald Madzey, Stacy Madzey, Tynia Williams, Hailey Johnson, Sidney Campbell, Mason Madzey and Bethany Altomore. In the back row is Wayne Hall.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Football practice about to heat up

Starting Monday, high school football teams will take part in “heat week,” the customary lead-up to training camp.

Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca at practice last season.

2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca

August 3, 2023

The Harry Truman quote is on his cell phone screen for quick reference.

The Moon girls soccer team celebrates with the state championship trophy after defeating Upper Perkiomen in the PIAA Class 3A final on Friday, Nov. 18, 2022, at Cumberland Valley.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby dodges between Leechburg defenders on Friday, Oct. 28, 2022 at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Belle Vernon’s Zion Moore shines at summer events

July 2, 2023

With his brother, Dwight Moore Jr., standing pat and clenching his teeth about 30 feet away under the basket, Zion Moore took three casual dribbles toward him, jump-hopped and went straight up.

Mt. Pleasant sophomore Lily King dives off the starting block during the 200 freestyle at the WCCA Swimming and Diving Championships Jan. 28, 2023 at Derry Area.

Belle Vernon’s Viva Kreis earns honorable mention for Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award

June 30, 2023

Belle Vernon’s Viva Kreis already gained national attention when she won the $10,000 Heisman High School Scholarship Award last December.

Mt. Pleasant boys basketball coach Annie Malkowiak and Duke men’s basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski.

New Mt. Pleasant boys coach congratulated by Mike Krzyzewski

June 29, 2023

Encouragement from family and friends is one thing. But when Mike Krzyzewski gives you his blessing, you go for it.

Mt. Pleasant hoops coach Malkowiak brings passion to new gig

When she started coaching, Annie Malkowiak was young and brash.

Annie Malkowiak to coach Mt. Pleasant boys basketball, a 1st for Westmoreland County

June 28, 2023

Mt. Pleasant’s Jackson Hutter runs against Belle Vernon on Friday, Oct. 14, 2022.

Mt. Pleasant’s Jackson Hutter adds 1st Division I scholarship offer

June 21, 2023

Jackson Hutter hopes the Division I college football offer he received this week is the first of many.

The Tre Cunningham Memorial Basketball Tournament championship chain.

Norwin notebook: Knights to compete in Cunningham Memorial tournament

June 17, 2023

Norwin will once again have a team in the third annual Tre Cunningham Memorial Basketball Tournament June 22-24 at Jeannette.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin celebrates as time expires in the PIAA Class 3A championship game against Neumann Goretti on Dec. 10, 2022.

Southmoreland’s Brynn Charnesky holds the WPIAL runner-up trophy next to Gwen Bassinger after the Class 3A final against Avonworth on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at Lilly Field.

Hempfield coach Tina Madison at third base against Norwin during WPIAL Class 6A softball semifinals May 24, 2023, at Gateway High School.

Hempfield’s Mia Bandieramonte, who hit the game-winning home run in the eighth inning, holds the championship trophy after the Spartans beat Seneca Valley in the WPIAL Class 6A softball championship game Wednesday at Lilley Field at Cal (Pa.).

Hopewell’s Ty Eberhardt celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Latrobe in the Class 4A final Tuesday at Wild Things Park.

Latrobe pitcher Logan Bradish delivers against Chartiers Valley during their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal. The Wildcats face Hopewell for the WPIAL title at 4 p.m. Tuesday at Wild Things Park.

Latrobe pitcher Logan Bradish delivers against Chartiers Valley during their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal Monday.

Norwin pitcher Alyssa McCormick celebrates after getting out of a bases-loaded jam against Hempfield on April 17.

Westmoreland WPIAL softball playoff capsules: Games for Wednesday, May 24, 2023

WPIAL softball playoffs

Latrobe pitcher Logan Bradish (22) celebrates with Tyler Fazekas after defeating Chartiers Valley in their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal Monday.

Hempfield coach Tina Madison was named Class 6A coach of the year by the Big 56 Conference.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Big 56 honors baseball, softball players

May 21, 2023

The Big 56 Conference, a website that recognizes accomplishments of teams and athletes in the WPIAL’s largest classification, announced its all-section teams.

Erica Rodriguez delivers in clutch as GCC softball advances with win over Charleroi

May 18, 2023

Sophomore Erica Rodriguez got credit for an RBI earlier in the game when she was issued a bases-loaded walk.

Southmoreland’s Brynn Charnesky (left) hugs Kaylee Doppelheuer after Charnesky drove in Doppelheuer for the winning run against Yough in the bottom of the seventh inning during a WPIAL Class 3A softball playoff game Thursday at Norwin.

Southmoreland scores 7 in 7th in wild win over Yough

The stairway to seven began with a glimmer of hope and a confident approach.

Shaler pitcher Bria Bosiljevac celebrates after getting out of a bases loaded jam against Franklin Regional during their WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at Gateway High School.

Ligonier Valley celebrates with starting pitcher Cheyenne Piper after coming back to beat Hopewell in the WPIAL Class 3A first round Tuesday.

May 6, 2023

They were supposed to be two of the top girls basketball players in the WPIAL last season — locks for top-10 all-star picks and clear-cut player of the year candidates in Westmoreland County.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Steve Pons takes over as Jeannette boys soccer coach

Jeannette’s boys soccer team is under new leadership.

Norwin’s Trey Huha celebrates as he bring it home the win in the boys 400-meter relay during the WCCA championships Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium.

Norwin notebook: Knights shine at WCCA championships

Norwin sent a message to the rest of the WPIAL at the 100th Westmoreland County Coaches’ Association track and field championships April 27, at Latrobe.

Norwin’s Keegan Carr leads off Friday’s game at Hempfield.

Sophomore lefty powers streaking Norwin past slumping Hempfield

May 5, 2023

Ethen Culbertson threw Hempfield a curve.

Norwin’s Justin Weaver hits a walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth inning to beat Hempfield on Thursday.

Southmoreland sophomore Makayla Etling (5) is greeted at home after hitting a home run against Yough on April 26.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Southmoreland captures elusive section title

May 3, 2023

Southmoreland has been a playoff regular in recent seasons, and the Scotties won a WPIAL championship in 2018.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Emma Henry slides safely into home ahead of the tag of Serra Catholic catcher Cassidy Trahan on April 13.

Close games sharpen Greensburg Central Catholic softball for battles ahead

It’s funny how a regular-season schedule can sometimes balance itself out.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble averaged 16.9 points as a freshman.

Westmoreland high school notebook: GCC’s Gribble lands Navy offer

May 1, 2023

Three NCAA Division I college offers and only one year of high school basketball.

Norwin senior Ryan Orosz bats against North Allegheny on March 30, 2023, at Norwin High School.

Westmoreland baseball, softball teams crank up use of walk-up music

April 28, 2023

If he strikes out or has a rough inning pitching, Ryan Orosz can reset quickly with the press of a button.

Westmoreland baseball notebook: Yough inches closer to 2nd straight section title

April 27, 2023

Yough secured a WPIAL playoff berth after an 11-1, run-ruled victory over Mt. Pleasant on Tuesday on Cougar Mountain.

The Belle Vernon football team was honored Wednesday at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg.

Belle Vernon football team honored at state Capitol

A perk of winning a state championship in Pennsylvania is the recognition that comes with it from the state government.

Franklin Regional’s Adrianna Martz and Alexa Patberg celebrate after a two-run hit by Mackenzie Woehler against Latrobe in the sixth inning Wednesday April 26, 2023, at Franklin Regional High School.

Ciara Camacho takes a bite out of Kiski Area in Franklin Regional win

April 21, 2023

After the softball game ended, Ciara Camacho scooped up her puppy, “Chubbs,” and cradled him as she headed for the family vehicle.

Yough’s Mikayla Spoonhoward high-fives assiatant coach Sam Estupinian after scoring the winning run in Friday’s 2-1, walk-off victory over visiting Mt. Pleasant.

Waldier earns Yough softball team walk-off win over Mt. Pleasant

April 14, 2023

Yough had plans to bring in sophomore Adoria Waldier as a relief pitcher as its Section 3-3A softball game against Mt. Pleasant stretched into the later innings.

The Canon-McMillan baseball team talks after Thursday’s 8-1 win over Norwin.

Hempfield softball players celebrate a 3-2 walk-off win over top-ranked Seneca Valley on Wednesday.

Carson Shuglie’s grand slam powers Hempfield past Baldwin

April 10, 2023

Hempfield did not have classes Monday as Easter break wound to a close, so some baseball players arrived early for their home game against Baldwin.

Yough catcher Jack Sampson tags out Southmoreland’s Ty Keffer at home plate next to pitcher Allen Novacek last season.

With new head coach, veteran roster, Yough baseball hitting on all cylinders

April 6, 2023

Dan Palm said he was surprised but supportive when Craig Spisak resigned last year as Yough’s baseball coach to take the same position at Norwin.

Franklin Regional freshman Luke Williams was hitting .458 (11 for 24) through eight games.

Westmoreland baseball notebook: Franklin Regional’s Williams right at home as freshman

Freshman baseball players usually need an adjustment period. Time to get used to older teammates, harsher critiques and varsity pitching.

Southmoreland softball coach Todd Bunner (center) meets with his team Monday against Ligonier Valley.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Kyler Miller (left) scored 35 goals last season.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Miller to play soccer for Robert Morris

April 3, 2023

Greensburg Central Catholic soccer standout Kyler Miller accepted a preferred walk-on offer from Robert Morris, extending his playing career to the Division I level.

Mt. Pleasant’s Tiffany Zelmore is fouled by OLSH’s Claudia Ierullo during WPIAL girls 3A first-round action Saturday, Feb.18, 2023 at Peters Twp. High School.

Hempfield and Latrobe baseball players go through the handshake line after Thursday’s baseball game.

Clutch defense helps Hempfield hold off Latrobe

March 30, 2023

With Latrobe on Hempfield’s bumper late in Thursday’s nonsection baseball game, the host Spartans turned to their defense to bail them out of some tense moments, particularly those attached to two of the final three outs.

Westmoreland baseball notebook: Latrobe keeps tradition going with opening game

The Ohio trip has become a tradition at Latrobe. And if the Wildcats don’t make the trek to Upper Arlington to play the Golden Bears to christen a new baseball season, then the Golden Bears come to them.

Franklin Regional’s Blake Bertucci makes a running catch against Latrobe last season.

Franklin Regional baseball team getting strong hitting, pitching in fast start

Junior Blake Bertucci and his fellow Franklin Regional baseball pitchers are playing with less stress these days.

Latrobe pitcher Kayla Williams celebrates a strikeout against Thomas Jefferson on Thursday, April 21, 2022, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Latrobe softball has power, ‘talent to win it all’

March 29, 2023

Watching softballs fly over the fence can make some coaches jump around like a child on a trampoline.

Penn-Trafford’s Braden Boss scores behind Norwin’s Ryan Orosz in the second inning on Friday, March 25,2022 at Norwin High School.

Hempfield pitcher Riley Miller delivers against Norwin during a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Westmoreland softball notebook: Perennial power Hempfield off to strong start

March 22, 2023

Hempfield plans to play deep into the WPIAL and PIAA 6A postseason. Those are the standards set every year by the perennial power.

Franklin Regional pitcher Carli Ramchandran delivers against Armstrong during a game last season.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Mya Morgan takes a shot over California’s Samantha Smichnick during WPIAL girls 2A first-round action Feb. 17.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Avery Davis scores past Shenango’s Amara DeFrank and Kylee Rubin during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Friday.

Greensburg Central Catholic beats WPIAL champ in PIAA quarterfinals

March 17, 2023

The question was raised in pregame warmups: Could Greensburg Central Catholic compete with WPIAL champion Shenango?

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Aris Lamanna makes a save next to Mars’ Ainsley Ray during their WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal on Oct. 27, 2022, at Mars.

Latrobe’s Jacob Hannah fires a shot against Mars during their game on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022, at Kirk Nevin Arena.

Latrobe hockey relishes 2nd chance in Penguins Cup playoffs

March 12, 2023

Latrobe is not about to waste a second chance at PIHL glory.

Westmoreland high school notebook: PIHL Class A final could feature 2 local teams

One Westmoreland County team is guaranteed a spot in the PIHL Class A championship. But there could be two.

Yough and Penn Cambria players and coaches meet with the officials before Saturday’s PIAA Class 3A first-round playoff game at Mount Aloysius College.
Yough and Penn Cambria players and coaches meet with the officials before Saturday’s PIAA Class 3A first-round playoff game at Mount Aloysius College.

Madison Johnson (left) is one of a handful of freshman who play considerable roles for Monessen.

Short-handed Monessen girls keep grinding toward PIAA opponent

March 9, 2023

It’s been an exhausting week for Monessen’s girls basketball team, and it still has a game to play.

North Allegheny’s Lyida Betz defends on Norwin’s Ava Kobus during WPIAL Class 6A girls semifinal action Friday, Feb. 27, 2023, at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff capsules: Games for March 10, 2023

PIAA basketball playoffs

Yough junior Terek Crosby leads the Cougars into the PIAA playoffs for the first time since 2005.

Belle Vernon’s Zion Moore shoots over Laurel Highlands’ Mason Bolish in a WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023. Belle Vernon lost in overtime.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Norwin’s Kendall Berger scores against Hempfield on Jan. 9.

Norwin girls show no signs of rust in dominant quarterfinal win over Baldwin

February 23, 2023

After a 13-day layoff from game competition, Norwin hoped to be back in rhythm in its WPIAL girls basketball playoff opener.

Jonathan Anderson (left) is one of two New Castle players averaging 17 points per game. The Red Hurricanes face Norwin on Friday.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Burgettstown celebrates its 50-45 victory over Greensburg Central Catholic on Wednesday night at Peters Township.

Penn-Trafford’s Tori DeStefano celebrates with Olivia Pepple (11) after Pepple hit the game-winner against Shaler during WPIAL 5A girls first-round action Tuesday.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble scores past California’s Addison Gregory and Rakiyah Porter during a WPIAL Class 2A first-round game Friday, Feb. 17, 2023, at Gateway High School.

Erica Gribble leads Greensburg CC to dominant win over California in WPIAL 2A 1st round

February 17, 2023

“Just go play.”

Mt. Pleasant’s Morgan Gesinski drives past Apollo-Ridge’s Jaden Mull during their game on Monday, Jan. 13, 2023, at Apollo-Ridge High School.

Westmoreland basketball playoff preview capsule for games of Feb. 18, 2023

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Yough’s Mikalah Chewning drives to the basket against Beaver Falls during their WPIAL Class 3A preliminary-round game Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023.

Monessen’s Hailey Johnson drives to the basket against Avella on Feb. 9, 2023.

Monessen girls surge into playoffs as section champs, WPIAL contenders

February 15, 2023

Monessen was 2-4 and had just opened Section 2-A play with a loss at West Greene.

Yough’s Autumn Matthews drives past Charleroi’s Bella Carroto in the first quarter Monday, Jan. 30, 2023.

Westmoreland basketball playoff preview capsule for games of Feb. 16, 2023

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Westmoreland high school notebook: George fills out football staff at Greensburg Salem

February 12, 2023

New Greensburg Salem football coach Ty George has filled out his staff of assistants for his debut season.

Westmoreland athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Maddie Moore, Norwin’s Adam Bilinsky

February 11, 2023

Maddie Moore

PIHL announces January players of the month

Upper St. Clair played six games in January and senior forward Colin Ruffner scored in every one of them.

Norwin’s Adam Bilinsky (center) talks with coaches and referees in the pregame meeting Friday, Feb. 10, 2023, at Hempfield.

Adam Bilinsky reaches milestone as Norwin eliminates Hempfield from playoffs

February 10, 2023

Adam Bilinsky was hoping his 1,000th point would come on a dunk.

Sarah Penrod (4), Avery Musto and the rest of the Franklin Regional girls basketball team walks the handshake line Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023, after defeating visiting Belle Vernon, 63-52.

Kathryn Botti (center) and her Norwin teammates have clinched a WPIAL playoff spot.

Westmoreland high school girls basketball notebook: Playoff picture clearing up

February 8, 2023

The WPIAL will announce playoff pairings beginning at 3 p.m. Monday via Trib HSSN, and postseason games could begin as early as next Thursday, according to the league calendar.

Apollo-Ridge’s Jaden Mull (left) and Sydney McCray battle Mt. Pleasant’s Tiffany Zelmore for possession last month.

Latrobe basketball players huddle up before their Section 3-5A game Friday, Feb. 3, 2023, at Franklin Regional.

Hard-charging Latrobe boys knock off Franklin Regional

February 3, 2023

The playoff race in WPIAL Section 3-5A boys basketball just got a lot more interesting.

Norwin’s Kathryn Botti fights for a rebound with Hempfield’s Sarah Podkul on Thursday.

Autumn Matthews and her Yough teammates have won four straight.

Yough girls charging toward playoffs during breakthrough season

February 1, 2023

Mike Gerdich, walking gingerly in front of his team’s bench, watches a loose basketball roll out of bounds and into the near corner during a home game against Charleroi.

Greensburg Salem’s Ashley Smith works against North Catholic’s Kaitlyn Tavella on Jan. 5.

Belle Vernon basketball players Quinton Martin (5), Zion Moore (left) and others line up for the handshake line after a 66-52 victory over Franklin Regional on Saturday at the Shootout at Seton Hill.

Belle Vernon’s Zion Moore shoots over Southmoreland’s Ronnie Collins on Friday, Jan. 27, 2023.

Despite rough going, Belle Vernon boys get past Southmoreland

January 27, 2023

Feeling like his team got away with something in its latest win — the first of three straight games this weekend for Belle Vernon — boys basketball coach Joe Salvino showed more frustration than content as he emerged from the locker room on Friday night and climbed the stairs back to the gym floor.

Norwin’s Bailey Snowberger (front) fights for a loose ball with North Allegheny’s Kellie McConnell on Thursday.

Norwin’s Ava Kobus celebrates next to head coach Brian Brozeski as time winds down against Hempfield on Jan. 9.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Despite loss, Norwin has strong resume

January 25, 2023

Top-ranked Norwin finally was tripped up by a Class 6A team this week when the Lady Knights lost to No. 2 Upper St. Clair, 56-45, on the road.

Latrobe’s Elle Snyder (10) celebrates with Camille Dominick after defeating Woodland Hills, 76-65, on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Venicia Vignoli won’t forget the first win of her high school basketball career any time soon.

Greensburg Central Catholic’;s Amari Mack had six receiving touchdowns this season.

Serra Catholic’s Isiah Petty (4) celebrates with Joey Demoss after Demoss’ 3-pointer against Jeannette on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023, at Jeannette High School.

Serra Catholic boys stage yet another rally, get past Jeannette

January 20, 2023

Apparently, all Serra Catholic needs is a double-digit deficit to stir things up and inspire the team. It’s becoming second nature for the Eagles to rumble to life in the second half.

Kiski School to host weekend prep basketball showcase

The Kiski School will host an impressive lineup of teams and players for a boys prep basketball showcase this weekend.

Woodland Hills girls basketball coach Von Pitts (kneeling) talks to his team during a 55-40 victory at Franklin Regional on Thursday, Jan 19, 2023.

Norwin coach Brian Brozeski, talking with an official during a game against Hempfield on Jan. 9, won his 200th career game on Jan. 3.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Yough in playoff hunt

January 18, 2023

Yough? In a section race?

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Mya Morgan brings the ball upcourt against Winchester Thurston on Monday, Jan. 31, 2022, in Carbon.

Moon had a girls soccer season to remember in the fall.

New Ligonier Valley athletic director Wesley Siko

Westmoreland high school notes: Ligonier Valley rehires Siko as AD

January 15, 2023

When Ligonier Valley made the giant leap from District 6 to the WPIAL in 2020, Wesley Siko was the Rams’ athletic director and oversaw the move.

Norwin’s Savannah Schneck (right) plays in a game earlier this season against North Allegheny and Eva Prenatt.

McKeesport’s Maddie Hertzler looks to pass while being guarded by Penn-Trafford’s Lilly Palladino on Friday night in Harrison City.

3-pointers from McKeesport’s Malina Boord help cool off Penn-Trafford girls

January 13, 2023

Malina Boord wears No. 3.

Highlands’ Jocelyn Bielak drives past Greensburg Salem’s Giavanna Rosensteel during the Golden Rams’ victory Thursday.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin carries past Neumann Goretti’s Kyreese Bradley during the PIAA Class 3A state championship game on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at Cumberland Valley High School.

Franklin Regional junior Cooper Rankin (3) is closely guarded by Latrobe sophomore Alex Tatsch (25) during a game Jan. 11, 2023, at Latrobe.

Franklin Regional boys grind out victory over Latrobe

January 10, 2023

To win at Latrobe on Tuesday night, Franklin Regional had to slow down, then grind down the Wildcats.

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher drives to the basket past Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings and Dorian McGhee during their game on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022, at the CCBC Dome.

Belle Vernon, Laurel Highlands set for another anticipated matchup

There will be an abundance of athleticism on the basketball court Tuesday night in Uniontown.

New Norwin football coach Mike Brown led Hempfield the past two seasons.

Norwin hires Penn-Trafford grad, former Hempfield coach Mike Brown

January 9, 2023

Mike Brown learned a lot in his two years as football coach at Hempfield.

Norwin’s Ava Kobus celebrates after hitting a 3-pointer against Hempfield on Monday.

Top-ranked Norwin takes care of Hempfield girls

Her teammates call her “A,” but Norwin’s Ava Kobus could just as well be called, “Spark.”

Alex Thomas is one of six Norwin players on the PIHL Division 2 all-star team.

Westmoreland high school notebook: PIHL all-stars headed to RMU

January 8, 2023

Robert Morris’ Island Sports Center will be the place for the PIHL All-Star Games on Jan. 29.

Ty George expected to be named head football coach at Greensburg Salem

According to the school board agenda for Wednesday night’s meeting, Greensburg Salem will vote to hire Ty George as its football coach.

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio grabs the ball over North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman during their game on Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022, at Norwin High School.

Westmoreland High School Athletes of the Week: Week ending Jan. 7, 2023

January 7, 2023

Lauren Palangio

Norwin’s Ashley Laukus wins the girls high jump during the WPIAL Class 3A Team Track and Field Championships May 11 at West Mifflin High School.

Norwin notebook: Ace high jumper makes college choice

Senior Ashley Laukus is one of the top high jumpers at Norwin.

The ball is tipped between Jeannette and Greensburg Central Catholic on Friday.

North Catholic’s Alayna Rocco scores past Greensburg Salem’s Ashley Smith during their game on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023, at Greensburg Salem High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic head coach Marko Thomas during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament Thursday, July 21, 2022, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Norwin girls basketball players huddle up during a 53-32 victory over North Allegheny on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2022.

Top-ranked Norwin girls shut down North Allegheny in section opener

January 3, 2023

Last January, Norwin stunned then-No. 1 North Allegheny to snap the Tigers’ 33-game section winning streak.

Greensburg Central Catholic pitcher Emma Henry celebrates after the final out against Springdale in their WPIAL Class A consolation playoff game May 26 at Plum.

Yough’s Parker Rost makes a pass against Jeannette on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022, at Greensburg Salem High School.

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Franco Harris runs for a 25-yard touchdown as a light snow falls against the Oakland Raiders at the AFC Championship game Jan. 4, 1976 in Pittsburgh.

Mt. Pleasant’s Lamont Rogers (left) celebrates with Yukon Daniels after defeating Southmoreland on Friday, Dec. 16, 2022, in Alverton.

Mt. Pleasant boys basketball team turns to defense to get first victory

December 16, 2022

Mt. Pleasant recently put an extended 2-3 zone defense to use and was starting to see its merits heading into Friday night’s nonsection boys basketball game at rival Southmoreland.

Penn-Trafford senior linebacker Daniel Tarabrella lifts weights before practice on Aug. 22, 2022.

Penn-Trafford linebacker Daniel Tarabrella commits to Duquesne

Home is where the commitment is.

The Greensburg Salem girls basketball team huddles before its game against Derry on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022.

Norwin and Yough players tap hands after their WCCA Showcase game Saturday.

Franklin Regional’s Cameron Rowell (right) fights for a rebound with Carlynton’s Austin Milliner.

Franklin Regional basketball starts tourney with win vs. Carlynton

December 9, 2022

After the postgame handshake line dispersed, Cam Rowell grabbed the microphone at the scorer’s table and shouted into it, “Go Panthers!”

Southmoreland’s head coach Frank Muccino watches his players during boys’ basketball practice on Nov. 27, 2019 at Southmoreland High School.

Mt. Pleasant’s Tiffany Zelmore drives to the basket past Freeport’s Leah Hartman during their 2021 WPIAL Class 4A playoff game.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Mt. Pleasant’s Zelmore hits 1,000 the hard way

December 7, 2022

Tiffany Zelmore reached 1,000 career points, and the Mt. Pleasant senior did so in fewer games than most who achieve the milestone.

Hempfield’s Sarah Podkul steals the ball from Canon-McMillon’s Kelsey Wandera on Feb. 4, 2021.

As the offense built from the back, slowly at first and then picking up speed, Sara Felder ran wide like a receiver in football.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Carlo Denis named 2022 Tribune-Review Westmoreland Boys Soccer Player of the Year

When Greensburg Central Catholic needed a goal over the top, it knew whose number to call.

Moon’s Hailey Longwell headlines Trib HSSN Girls Fab 15 Soccer Team

Hailey Longwell had nothing to lose this season.

Seneca Valley’s Beau Lizewski leads Trib HSSN Boys Fab 15 Soccer Team

When Seneca Valley needed to break down a back line, funnel possession to the midfield or counter an attack, the Raiders knew who get the soccer ball to.

Penn-Trafford’s Joe Enick named 4th annual Bill Fralic Memorial Award winner

The more Joe Enick learned about Bill Fralic, the more he saw himself in the football legend.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Tyree Turner drives past Penn-Trafford’s Nathan Crum during the Hempfield Tip-off Tournament on Friday, Dec. 2, 2022, at Hempfield Area High School.

Tyree Turner’s 24 points lift GCC past Penn-Trafford in Hempfield tournament

December 2, 2022

Tyree Turner said it took him a while to get back into basketball form after football season.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin takes on Mt. Pleasant on Friday, Jan. 21, 2022.

Yough girls basketball program continues to gain steam as new section awaits

November 28, 2022

The gymnasium at Yough is squeaking with basketball shoes, and there is energy in the air as girls run laps to open a practice.

Yough freshman Terek Crosby drives to the hoop during Yough’s WPAL Class 4A playoff matchup against Knoch on March 1, 2021.

With new drop in classification and 4 starters back, Yough boys have look of contender

A drop in classification. A new section. A host of letterwinners returning.

Franklin Regional’s Jake Kimmich moves the ball past Plum’s Lucas Pittman on Sept. 27 at Plum High School.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Franklin Regional’s Jake Kimmich to follow brothers to Grove City soccer

November 27, 2022

From the outside, Jake Kimmich’s college decision seemed easy. Maybe even expected.

Belle Vernon head coach Matt Humbert hoists the WPIAL championship trophy with his team after defeating Avonworth in the Class 3A final on Friday, Nov. 25, 2022, at Acrisure Stadium.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin celebrates after defeating Avonworth in the WPIAL Class 3A championship game on Friday, Nov. 25, 2022, at Acrisure Stadium.

Electrifying Quinton Martin sparks Belle Vernon to WPIAL Class 3A title win over Avonworth

November 25, 2022

Attendance at Acrisure Stadium for the WPIAL Class 3A football championship: Quinton Martin … and everyone else.

Norwin girls basketball coach planning to manage team so it peaks at right time

Looking to allow recovery time between the fall season and WPIAL winter season, Norwin’s girls basketball team eased into practice instead of going all out like in previous years.

Norwin head coach Lance Maha talks with Adam Bilinsky during their Section 3-6A game against Hempfield on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022, at Hempfield Area High School.

Despite a two-year run of success that has produced a a pair of section titles, a run to the WPIAL semifinals and its first PIAA playoff berth since 1999, the Latrobe girls basketball team is not expecting any handouts.

Franklin Regional’s Lance Getsy was named Class 5A Big East Conference Coach of the Year.

Hempfield’s Brooke McCoy scores past Canon-McMillan’s Olivia Balch last season.

Hempfield girls look to keep offseason momentum rolling

November 19, 2022

Some offseason success and a taste of victory has the Hempfield girls basketball team beaming with confidence and believing it can win more games than it loses.

Hempfield’s Harrison Sowers celebrates a 3-pointer against Norwin last season.

Greensburg Central Catholic will open boys basketball practice Friday with no starters.

Freedom’s Shaye Bailey scores her second goal of the game past Greensburg Central Catholic’s Jillian Botti during a PIAA Class A semifinal Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2022, at Gateway High School.

PIHL selects October players of the month

November 15, 2022

With the season more than a month old already, the PIHL announced its first batch of players of the month.

PIAA postpones soccer, field hockey semifinals to Wednesday

The PIAA didn’t want teams to deal with the cold temperatures, snow and wintry mix that hit the state Tuesday.

Mt. Pleasant girls soccer coach Rich Garland talks to his players after the WPIAL championship at Highmark Stadium.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Carlo Denis (left), a Grove City commit, led the WPIAL with 52 goals. He also made the all-state team.

Ligonier Valley and Beaver Falls players warm up at Blackhawk Stadium before their WPIAL quarterfinal game Nov. 11, 2022. The game was originally scheduled to be played at Geneva College, but a power outage forced the teams to move to Blackhawk.

Mt. Pleasant’s Marissa Garn heads the ball against Freeport during their WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinal on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, at Mount Pleasant Area High School.

Latrobe lineman Calabrace wins ‘NFL Way to Play Award’ for excellent technique

November 9, 2022

Latrobe senior lineman Daniel Calabrace was the NFL Way to Play Award recipient for Week 8.

Ligonier Valley’s Haden Sierocky celebrates his touchdown with Broderick Schreyer against Apollo-Ridge on Sept. 16.

Norwin’s Madie Kessler hit .362 with five homers and 16 RBIs last season.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Norwin softball standout commits to St. Francis (Pa.)

October 16, 2022

Power-hitting catcher Madie Kessler is a Division I commit.

Greensburg Central Catholic senior Sara Felder

Captains for Jeannette and Greensburg Central Catholic meet at midfield before their game Friday, Oct. 14, 2022.

Ex-Jayhawk leads Greensburg Central Catholic past Jeannette

October 14, 2022

Jaydin Canady likes to play against his former team.

North Catholic’s Alayna Rocco scores against Laurel during a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022, in Cranberry.

North Catholic standout Alayna Rocco commits to Harvard

October 13, 2022

Tribune-Review Terrific 10 basketball player Alayna Rocco of North Catholic is taking her talents to the Ivy League.

Southmoreland quarterback Kadin Keefer looks to throw during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tourmanemt in July.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Keefer-to-Keffer connection sparks Southmoreland

Keefer to Keffer.

Mt. Pleasant prepares to face Southmoreland on Wednesday.

Norwin’s Alex Brown scored the winning goal on a penalty kick as the Knights edged past Mt. Lebanon, 2-1, in overtime Tuesday night in North Huntingdon.

Latrobe’s Regan Reilly (1) celebrates her second goal with Makenna Malone and Ella Bulava (11) during their game against Franklin Regional on Monday, Oct. 10, 2022, at Rossi Field.

Latrobe girls soccer team gets better of Franklin Regional

October 10, 2022

Faster and more physical in the second half, Latrobe seemed to find another gear when it needed to and earned a Section 3-3A girls soccer sweep of visiting Franklin Regional on Monday night with a 2-0 victory before 360-plus fans at Rossi Field.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Jurica, Derry set for WPIAL team golf semifinals

October 9, 2022

Call it a point of validation.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin carries against Thomas Jefferson on Friday, Sept. 23, 2022.

Penn-Trafford boys soccer fights through injuries, stays in playoff chase

Staggered by injuries, Penn-Trafford has managed to stay in the WPIAL boys soccer playoff chase in its first year in Class 3A.

Derry’s Hunter Jurica chips during the WPIAL Class 2A boys championship Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022, at Oakmont Country Club.

The sun sets as Southmoreland visits Yough on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022.

Southmoreland, Yough girls soccer teams battle to draw

October 3, 2022

With such a light bench, Yough is often content playing more defense than offense.

Franklin Regional’s Aiden Bunker competes in the boys 200 individual medley during the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Swimming Championships on Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022, at Derry Area High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Jaydin Canady celebrates a touchdown against Clairton with teammate Samir Crosby (12) on Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, at Greensburg Central Catholic.

GCC uses big plays to upset Clairton, get 1st win over Bears since 2001

September 30, 2022

No Greensburg Central Catholic team had beaten Clairton since 2001.

Coaches and captains get together before Franklin Regional took on Penn-Trafford in boys soccer Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022.

Franklin Regional boys soccer earns tough victory over Penn-Trafford

September 29, 2022

Coming off such a thrilling — and emotionally draining — upset victory against No. 1 Plum, Franklin Regional was hoping Penn-Trafford would not be a “trap game” Thursday night.

Greensburg Central Catholic head coach Marko Thomas instructs his team during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament in July.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: GCC looks to knock off king Clairton

Pieces of paper with “1998” written on them were plastered all over the Greensburg Central Catholic locker room this week.

Springdale’s Brooke Taliani (15) celebrates her game-winning goal with teammates in the final minute of their game against Greensburg Central Catholic on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022, in Springdale.

Franklin Regional’s Danny Christafano (left) celebrates his goal with Billy Christafano and Sam Dawson during their game against Plum on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022, at Plum High School.

Former Jeannette wide receiver Marcus Barnes (2) is a junior football player at William & Mary.

Westmoreland campus clippings: Jeannette grad Marcus Barnes making impact at William & Mary

September 26, 2022

Coming out of Jeannette, Marcus Barnes was known for his glue-like hands and football instincts.

Belle Vernon senior softball player Olivia Kolowitz

Hempfield takes the field to play Penn-Trafford on Friday.

Westmoreland HS football notebook: Hempfield win among program’s best

September 24, 2022

With 5,000-plus sardined into Spartan Stadium, Hempfield pulled off one of its biggest football wins in at least four decades Friday night with a 28-17 victory over defending WPIAL and PIAA Class 5A champion Penn-Trafford, which had just moved into the No. 1 spot in the TribLive HSSN rankings.

Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Week ending Sept. 25, 2022

Rylin Bugosh

Captains meet at midfield before Latrobe faces Laurel Highlands on Friday, Sept. 23, 2022.

Rodney Gallagher uses smarts to lead Laurel Highlands past Latrobe

September 23, 2022

Rodney Gallagher: 4-star prospect, West Virginia commit, clock manager extraordinaire.

Organizers and band members meet at midfield for Senior Night festivities before Greensburg Salem hosted Jeannette in a boys soccer game Thursday, Sept. 22, 2022, at Offutt Field in Greensburg.

Mt. Pleasant and Southmoreland players line up for the national anthem before their game Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022.

Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto celebrates a goal against Mt. Pleasant last season.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto out for season

September 20, 2022

Southmoreland senior standout Olivia Cernuto is done for the season with a right knee injury.

Latrobe’s Robin Reilly brings the ball upfield past Plum’s Cami Collins during their game on Sept. 7, 2022, at Plum High School.

Emily Eutsey was having an ordinary round of golf, during a routine high school match, when the extraordinary happened.

Greensburg Central Catholic junior Izzy Aigner won the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Girls Golf Championship Friday at Champion Lakes Golf Course in Bolivar.

Franklin Regional players and cheerleaders salute the crowd after upsetting Gateway on Friday, Sept. 16, 2022.

Franklin Regional controls ground game, stuns top-ranked Gateway

September 16, 2022

Franklin Regional already had momentum from a strong start. But when the Panthers added a purpose — to play for an injured teammate — nobody was stopping them.

Players and coaches from Belle Vernon (right) and host Mt. Pleasant meet with officials before Thursday night’s WPIAL Section 3-2A boys soccer game at Viking Stadium in Mt. Pleasant.

Belle Vernon boys soccer has a blast, beats Mt. Pleasant to move into 1st-place tie

September 15, 2022

Belle Vernon opened with a quirky kickoff formation with just about every player lined up to one side at the 50-yard line, with a deep kick.

Penn-Trafford quarterback Conlan Greene throws a touchdown pass against Latrobe during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament final July 21 at Latrobe.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Penn-Trafford’s Conlan Greene settles in under center

Conlan Greene was a backup quarterback last year at Penn-Trafford but didn’t truly embrace the position because he was more valuable as a tight end and defensive end.

Latrobe and Franklin Regional meet Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022.

Westmoreland girls soccer notebook: Franklin Regional joins top 5

September 13, 2022

Franklin Regional (5-1) is the newest local team to find a spot in the TribLive HSSN rankings.

Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto battles Mt. Pleasant’s Maddie Barrick in front of the goal during a game last season.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Sara Felder moves the ball upfiled past Southern Columbia’s Jadyn Jankowski during the PIAA Class A championship game on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

GCC girls soccer not hitting panic button, remain No. 1 in Class A

September 6, 2022

Few coaches will argue it is better to lose the first game of the season than the last one.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Community rallies around Rosensteel Classic

More than 600 fans came through the turnstiles at Norwin on Saturday for the inaugural Moe Rosensteel Memorial Kickoff Classic.

Westmoreland high school notebook: WCCA girls golf championship tees off Friday

September 5, 2022

The Westmoreland County Coaches Association will host its girls golf championship Friday at Champion Lakes Golf Course in Bolivar.

Latrobe and Norwin players meet with officials before Saturday’s game in North Huntingdon. The teams met in the third game of the inaugural Moe Rosensteel Memorial Kickoff Classic.

Norwin’s Reagan Casper battles Latrobe’s Maddy Petruzzi for the ball during their game on Sept. 30, 2021, at Norwin High School.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Flickinger stepping down as Derry baseball coach

August 28, 2022

Derry baseball coach John Flickinger is stepping down after 11 years at the position.

Latrobe senior football player Robert Fulton

Captains for Derry and Latrobe meet at midfield before the game Friday, Aug. 26, 2022.

Latrobe dominates Derry in football opener

August 26, 2022

Neighboring rivals Latrobe and Derry had a lot in common heading into their season-opening matchup.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: ‘Huddie’ Kaufman to be honored

The press box at Offutt Field was one of his favorite spots to watch a football game. It was part office, part sanctuary.

WPIAL Class 3A girls soccer just got a lot stronger.

Westmoreland County boys soccer preview: New challenges for Jeannette, Franklin Regional

Jeannette is not necessarily running from anyone by playing up in classification in boys soccer. The way the Jayhawks see it, the move is about perspective and proper placement.

Yough senior wide receiver Gavin Roebuck

Yough has ‘extension of a coach’ in WR Roebuck

When he found out he was moving from quarterback to receiver late last season, Yough’s Gavin Roebuck had mixed emotions.

Howard "Huddie" Kaufman sits in the press box at Offutt Field in Greensburg on Oct. 23, 2019.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: ‘Huddie’ Kaufman to be honored

The press box at Offutt Field was one of his favorite spots to watch a football game. It was part office, part sanctuary.

Ella Bulava is one of three Division I commits on the Latrobe team.

Westmoreland County girls soccer preview: Class 3A field loaded with contenders

WPIAL Class 3A girls soccer just got a lot stronger.

Franklin Regional’s Jake Kimmich battles Seneca Valley’s Nathan Prex for possession last season.

Westmoreland County boys soccer preview: New challenges for Jeannette, Franklin Regional

Jeannette is not necessarily running from anyone by playing up in classification in boys soccer. The way the Jayhawks see it, the move is about perspective and proper placement.

Quarterback Tyree Turner and his Greensburg Central Catholic teammates open with Mt. Pleasant.

Westmoreland County don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week Zero

August 24, 2022

Nonconference

Southmoreland junior wide receiver/safety Ty Keffer

Junior receiver could be Southmoreland’s secret weapon this season

The “X” receiver could be Southmoreland’s X-factor this football season.

Norwin’s Noah Vogel picks up yardage down the sideline during the WCCA 7-on-7 championship game against Franklin Regional on July 15 at Latrobe.

Derry’s Hunter Jurica lines up his putt on Hole 9 during the WPIAL Class 2A boys golf team championship on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2021, at Cedarbrook Golf Course.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Derry golfers off to fast start with narrow wins

August 20, 2022

It’s still early in an early starting high school golf season, but Derry is in mid-season form.

Bishop Canevin quarterback Jason Cross throws during the Willie Thrower quarterback camp in July 16 at Valley High School.

WPIAL Class A football breakdown: Defending champion Bishop Canevin the team to beat

Bishop Canevin does not have a lot of players who might be considered NCAA Division I prospects — at least not according to the feedback from college coaches.

Latrobe quarterback John Wetzel during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament Thursday, July 21, 2022 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Latrobe works toward more victories after move to Class 4A

It is better to be the shark than the minnow, and Latrobe might be ready to raise its fin in a new classification.

Greensburg Central Catholic senior Ryan Kimmel

Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto averaged 12.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.9 assists last season. She recently received a scholarship offer from Seton Hill.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Norwin senior headed to UMBC

August 13, 2022

While she had other interest from NCAA Division I soccer programs, Norwin’s Reagan Casper went with the school that felt right.

Hempfield head coach Mike Brown looks on as quarterback Jake Phillips throws during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament Thursday, July 21, 2022 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Added depth, drop to Class 5A fuel optimism at Hempfield

August 11, 2022

Dropping to Class 5A means little to Hempfield, at least on paper.

Norwin senior quarterback Nick Urey throws during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7on7 passing tourmanemt Thursday, July 21, 2022 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Latrobe’s Emma Blair pulls down a rebound over Hampton’s Sophia Kelly during the girls WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal round playoff game on Friday, March 8, 2021 at Hampton High School. Latrobe’s Emma Blair pulls down a rebound over Hampton’s Sophia Kelly during the girls WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal round playoff game on Friday, March 8, 2021 at Hampton High School.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Transfer to prep school a tough decision for Franklin Regional lineman

July 15, 2022

Andrew Nesler is on the move.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco plays against Hampton during a WPIAL 3A semifinal on Nov. 1, 2021, at Gateway High School.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco nominated for USA Today’s national soccer player of the year

July 14, 2022

One of the best boys soccer players to come out of the WPIAL in recent years also is being mentioned with the top talent in the country.

Latrobe’s Emma Blair (right) averaged 13.6 points and 12.5 rebound last season.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Latrobe’s Blair gets D-I offer

June 27, 2022

Emma Blair has her first NCAA Division I scholarship offer.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin runs against Trinity on Oct. 15, 2021, at Belle Vernon.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin visits Florida State

June 26, 2022

Five-star recruit Quinton Martin is beginning to make his rounds as he starts to think about narrowing his expanding list of college choices.

Penn-Trafford’s Conlan Greene sacks Imhotep Charter quarterback Mikal Davis next to Joe Enick to end the PIAA Class 5A championship game in overtime on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Penn-Trafford’s Joe Enick

Palmer Jackson tees off during the 2021 Frank B. Fuhrer Jr. Invitational at Pittsburgh Field Club in Fox Chapel.

Norwin’s Sebastian Rosado Guindin won the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Sports Most Valuable Player and is eligible for a scholarship.

Using two pitchers wasn’t always in the cards for Southmoreland softball, especially come playoff time.

Penn-Trafford’s Cameron Ponko celebrates her double during the WPIAL Class 5A championship game against Armstrong on Friday, June 3, 2022, at Cal (Pa.).

Armstrong’s Jenna Clontz rounds the bases after hitting a walk-off home run in the bottom of the seventh inning of the WPIAL Class 5A championship game against Penn-Trafford on Friday, June 3, 2022, at Cal (Pa.).

Jenna Clontz belts WPIAL-winning walk-off homer as Armstrong tops Penn-Trafford

June 3, 2022

Moments after the game ended, Armstrong fans lugged a giant boom-box radio onto Lilley Field and turned up the music, bobbing their heads to the thumping beat.

Central Catholic’s Gavin Kelly celebrates his bases-clearing double in the sixth inning against Norwin during their WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal on Monday.

Emma Augustine and her yough teammates will face Montour in the Class 4A quarterfinals Monday.

Westmoreland softball playoff capsules: Games of Monday, May 23, 2022

May 22, 2022

Class 4A quarterfinals

Jake Kendro (left) and his Norwin teammates face Central Catholic in the WPIAL quarterfinals Monday.

Westmoreland baseball playoff capsule: Central Catholic vs. Norwin, Monday, May 23, 2022

Class 6A quarterfinals

The second Tre Cunningham Memorial Basketball Tournament will take place June 9-11 in Jeannette.

Kaden Bizzozero (left) and his Yough teammates face Mt. Pleasant in the first round of the WPIAL playoffs.

WPIAL baseball seedings set up Westmoreland County clash in 1st round

May 13, 2022

When two second-place section teams received better seeds than his section-winning one, Yough baseball coach Craig Spisak didn’t kick up dust.

Franklin Regional’s Jordan Suvak celebrates his two-run homer during the ninth inning against Kiski on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at Kiski Area High School.

Yough softball coach Dutch Harvey yells out instructions to his team during a scrimmage against Latrobe March 22.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Top-5 seeds at stake when WPIAL brackets are released

May 11, 2022

The WPIAL is scheduled to release playoff brackets at 4 p.m. Thursday virtually via the TribLive High School Sports Network.

Mt Pleasant’s Katie Hutter pulls in a ball hit by Mid Valley’s Kaylee Terranella during the PIAA Class 3A Girls Softball Championship on Friday, June18, 2021 at Beard Field in University Park Pa.

East Allegheny’s Jax Jurisic smiles at second base after his RBI double against Greensburg Central Catholic on Thursday at GCC.

Yough’s Emma Augustine bats against Uniontown on April 29, 2022, at Yough.

Power surge on Cougar Mountain boosts Yough softball team

May 4, 2022

Yough plays its home games on Cougar Mountain in Sewickley Township.

Ligonier Valley senior pitcher Maddie Griffin delivers a pitch in a scrimmage March 16 at Hempfield.

The Penn-Trafford softball teams gathers after their 10-0, 5-inning victory over Thomas Jefferson on Friday in Harrison City.

Penn-Trafford softball team makes most out of few hits in odd mercy-rule win over TJ

April 29, 2022

Literally, Penn-Trafford walked away with a first-place softball showdown against Thomas Jefferson.

Penn-Trafford lineman Conlan Greene (17) was offered by St. Francis (Pa.)

Penn-Trafford linemen get college attention

A pair of Penn-Trafford football linemen are beginning to gain traction in the recruiting game.

Hempfiled defeated visiting North Allegheny, 4-2, in a Section 2-6A softball game.

Ligonier Valley senior Maddie Griffin has thrown five career perfect games.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Ligonier Valley specializes in perfection

April 27, 2022

Ligonier Valley has only been in the WPIAL since 2020, but the softball program’s stay has been, in some ways, perfect.

Penn-Trafford senior softball pitcher Mia Smith

West Greene defeated Greensburg Central Catholic, 13-3, in a matchup of top-five softball teams in WPIAL Class A.

No 1. West Greene softball team routs No. 3 Greensburg Central Catholic

April 22, 2022

West Greene players and their coach, Billy Simms, hung out in a dusty gravel parking lot near the Greensburg Central Catholic softball field Friday afternoon waiting for their ride home.

Latrobe’s Josie Straigis (11) is mobbed by teammates after hitting a two-run homer against Thomas Jefferson on Thursday.

Armstrong’s Jenna Clontz is greeted at home plate by teammates after hitting a two-run home run against Franklin Regional on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, in Murrysville.

Norwin’s Luke Passarelli (bottom) will wrestle at Davidson.

High school notebook: Norwin wrestler Passarelli headed to Davidson

April 17, 2022

Luke Passarelli is taking his wrestling talent to the highest level of the NCAA.

Derry’s Ryan Hood “gives the team a sense of confidence,” coach John Flickinger said.

Westmoreland H.S. baseball notebook: Derry not getting comfortable

April 14, 2022

His team bouncing into the TribLive HSSN rankings for the first time this season, Derry baseball coach John Flickinger is excited but far from content.

Latrobe’s Chase Sickenberger celebrates his triple in front of Franklin Regional’s Blake Bertucci in the third inning Tuesday.

Fun-loving Latrobe baseball team fills up toy box, win column

Simplistic and fun, some trinkets around the clubhouse represent Latrobe baseball’s approach to the game.

Ligonier Valley shortstop Cheyenne Piper gets ready to throw out a Hempfield runner on a ground out March 16.

New Hempfield softball coach Tina Madison meets with her players before a recent practice.

New coaches at Jeannette, Hempfield plan to continue their programs’ traditions of winning

April 1, 2022

Tom Paulone watches his players condition in the weight room at Jeannette’s McKee Stadium on a bitter-cold March afternoon.

Westmoreland H.S. baseball notebook: Latrobe enjoys out-of-state opener

March 31, 2022

Latrobe continued a tradition by playing a baseball game against Upper Arlington High School in Ohio.

Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock scores against Hempfield on Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, at Hempfield Area High School.

Boys rosters set for May’s Roundball Classic all-star basketball games

March 30, 2022

The Roundball Classic senior all-star basketball games will return May 19-21 at Geneva College in Beaver Falls.

The Norwin girls bowling team reached the playoff round of the state championships March 19 in Lancaster.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Franklin Regional establishes sports hall of fame

March 26, 2022

From now until April 29, Franklin Regional is taking nominations for its inaugural hall of fame class.

Ligonier Valley’s Miles Higgins placed fourth in the javelin at the PIAA Class AA championships May 28, 2021, at Shippensburg University.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Tyree Turner (right) reacts with teammates Dylan Parsons (10) and Ryan Appleby after his buzzer-beating layup beat Conemaugh Township, 62-60, on Wednesday night in a PIAA first-round playoff game in Davidsville.

Shady Side Academy’s Eli Teslovich celebrates after scoring next to Avonworth’s Rowan Carmichael during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game on Friday, March 4, 2022, at Petersen Events Center.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ryan Abbleby (right) and his teammates face three-time defending WPIAL champion Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games for Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Semifinals

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin returns a kick against Thomas Jefferson on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford football was part of last championship weekend in Hershey

February 26, 2022

It turns out Penn-Trafford was the last Westmoreland County team to celebrate a PIAA football title in Hershey.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Franco Alvarez looks to take a charge against Monessen’s Lorenzo Gardner in a WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinal Friday, Feb. 25, 2022.

Greensburg CC ends Monessen’s winning streak, earns rematch with OLSH in Class 2A

February 25, 2022

Greensburg Central Catholic’s team size has been a problem for opponents all season.

Belle Vernon senior Devin Whitlock is averaging 15 points per game this season.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsule for Feb. 26, 2022

Saturday’s game

Seton LaSalle guard Mallory Daly (2) celebrates with her teammates after the Rebels defeated Greensburg Central Catholic, 47-30, in the WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinals Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022.

Bethel Park first-year coach Sam Loadman gets ready to greet Norwin’s starters before her Black Hawks played the Lady Knights in a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal playoff game in North Huntingdon on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022.

Lincoln Park boys basketball players gather for the starting lineups Friday night in Midland.

Lincoln Park serves notice to WPIAL Class 4A bracket with rout of Yough

February 18, 2022

Defending champion Lincoln Park is getting healthy, and that is bad news for the WPIAL Class 4A bracket.

Yough’s Terek Crosby attempts to block the shot of Belle Vernon’s Daniel Gordon on Dec. 22, 2021.

Delaynie Morvosh sheds unsung label, makes major impact for Southmoreland

February 16, 2022

When teams yell “shooter!” while they’re defending Southmoreland, Delaynie Morvosh is usually surprised when she realizes they mean her.

Latrobe’s Emma Blair (right) has 14 double-doubles in 18 games this season.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Bryce Kurpiel (right) practices drills with teammate Aaron Stasko on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018 during team practice at Greensburg Central Catholic High School.

Fox Chapel and Penn-Trafford tip off in Harrison City on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022.

Fox Chapel boys see big lead slip away before holding off Penn-Trafford

February 4, 2022

Getting defensive stops against Fox Chapel is a task much easier said than done.

Greensburg Central Catholic coach Christian Hyland (third from right) talks to his team after a recent practice.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Local teams join Hoops For a Cure

February 3, 2022

Allen Deep, who orchestrates a number of in-season charity showcases and the annual Roundball Classic after the basketball season, has two more events lined up for this weekend.

Monessen coach Dan Bosnic leads his team against Vincentian Academy during a PIAA Class A boys basketball semifinal March 18, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon.

Deep roster helps Monessen boys basketball go on late-season tear

A winning streak can be euphoric and demanding, enjoyable and stressful.

GCC players celebrate after a 69-54 win over Winchester Thurston on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, in Carbon.

Penn-Trafford’s Nick Turowski holds the flag after carding a birdie on Hole 15, as Central Catholic’s Rocco Salvitti lines up his putt during the WPIAL Class 3A boys golf championship on Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2021, at Nemacolin Country Club.

WPIAL golfers to face true test next fall as championships expand to 2 rounds

January 29, 2022

Two rounds. Thirty-six holes. Two courses?

Norwin basketball players shake hands with Hempfield players after their game Friday night in North Huntingdon. Norwin won 59-49.

Latrobe’s Bailey Watson (20) celebrates with Camille Dominick after scoring against Woodland Hills on Jan. 20, 2022, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Latrobe girls basketball integrates guarded approach

January 26, 2022

Latrobe has gained some attention around WPIAL girls basketball circles because of its height and old-school post play.

Norwin head coach Brian Brozeski talks with Chloe Lukondi (14) and Maggie Race during their game against North Allegheny on Jan. 3, 2022, at North Allegheny High School.

Yough boys basketball team falls flat in 2nd half, loses to Uniontown

January 21, 2022

With a name like Notorious Grooms, there has to be a back story.

Latrobe’s Camille Dominick smiles as time winds down against Woodland Hills on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Notre Dame latest Power 5 school to offer Belle Vernon sophomore Quinton Martin

Colleges are not offering Belle Vernon’s sensational sophomore too early. They’re right on “Q.”

Yough girls basketball coach Mike Gerdich has led his team to a 3-9 record this season, but the team has played numerous close games.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Yough making major strides

January 19, 2022

Scores can be indicative of how far struggling programs have come — a measurement of improvement.

Norwin’s Brianna Zajicek is one of several players to emerge this season with the loss of Savannah Schneck to an ACL injury.

Penn-Trafford’s Nick Crum (5) slaps hands with Tommy Kalkstein after the Warriors held back host Hempfield, 50-48, on Friday, Jan. 14, 2022.

Penn-Trafford’s win over Hempfield has football feel

January 14, 2022

Penn-Trafford figured there would come a time this season when it would need to rely on its football players to win basketball games.

Derry coach Gene Brisbane talks to his players during a 2020 game against Deer Lakes.

Greensburg-Salem’s Kaitlyn Mankins tries to make a pass during a game againt Kiski Area on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021, at Greensburg-Salem.

Westmoreland high school girls basketball notebook: Greensburg Salem’s Mankins is ‘irreplaceable’

January 12, 2022

The Franklin Regional gymnasium fell silent for about 40 minutes Tuesday night when Greensburg Salem sophomore center Kaitlyn Mankins went down with a grim injury.

Belle Vernon’s Viva Kreis tries to drive around Mt. Pleasant’s Hannah Gesinski during a game in December.

Norwin’s Brianna Zajicek drives to the basket against North Allegheny during their Section 1-6A game on Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, at North Allegheny High School.

Penn-Trafford’s Maura Suman drives past Franklin Regional’s Angelina Brush during the Penn-Trafford Holiday Tournament on Wednesday.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Youth no problem for Penn-Trafford

December 31, 2021

Senior night shouldn’t take very long at Penn-Trafford this year.

Derry’s Tiana Moracco goes through drills during practice on Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 at Derry Area High School.

Derry’s Tiana Moracco attracting attention as she nears school scoring record

Derry knows how to apply and play against box-and-one defenses.

Coaches and players meet with the officials before a girls basketball game between Chartiers Valley and Latrobe on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021 at the Latrobe Holiday Hoops Fest.

Chartiers Valley finishes stretch of 4 games in 2 tournaments over 3 days with win at Latrobe

December 30, 2021

Playing four games in three days didn’t seem to bother the Chartiers Valley girls basketball team.

Penn-Trafford boys reach .500 with win vs. Franklin Regional

December 29, 2021

A heavy dose of Noah Wright early was enough to offset a big helping of Caden Smith late as the Penn-Trafford boys basketball team avenged an earlier loss to Franklin Regional.

Greensburg Salem girls pressure Charleroi, extend winning streak

December 28, 2021

Suffocating opponents from the tip has become a calling card for the Greensburg Salem girls basketball team.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Cara Dupilka (33) drives toward the basket against Franklin Regional’s Avery Must on Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021 at Penn-Trafford High School.

Penn-Trafford used a big second half and its 3-point shooting to defeat Hempfield, 63-39.

Kiski Area boys basketball shows killer instinct in win over Franklin Regional

December 17, 2021

Kiski Area guard Isaiah Gonzalez had to leave the game briefly because he cut his lip and some blood dripped onto the court.

Franklin Regional soccer star DiFalco commits to Duquesne

The long-awaited college decision of one of the WPIAL’s best soccer players finally came to light Friday.

Former Jeannette player expected to be named Jayhawks’ new head coach

Jeannette will recommend a former Jayhawks quarterback to be its next head football coach.

Belle Vernon’s Viva Kreis handles the ball as Mt. Pleasant’s Hannah Gesinski defends Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021.

Penn-Trafford’s Ben Myers works against Franklin Regional’s Aidan Carlisle last season.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: P-T hoops standout tears ACL

December 2, 2021

Basketball season tips off a week from Friday, and Penn-Trafford already has been dealt a devastating blow to the lineup.

Pitt-Greensburg men’s basketball coach Chris Klimchock leads the team during the 2021-22 season.

Westmoreland campus clippings: Klimchock picks up 1st UPG win

November 30, 2021

After a slow start to his debut season, Chris Klimchock (Greensburg Salem) picked up his first win as men’s basketball coach at Pitt-Greensburg.

Yough made the WPIAL playoffs in each of the 10 seasons Dann Appolonia was on the sidelines.

Yough girls soccer coach steps down after outstanding 10-year run

Dann Appolonia has four daughters.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco heads the ball toward net while competing against Trinity on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021 at Franklin Regional High School.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco earns 3rd All-America honor; 10 from WPIAL make all-region

November 29, 2021

Franklin Regional senior Anthony DiFalco was hoping to cap his brilliant high school soccer career with another WPIAL championship and a PIAA title.

Senecav Valley’s Jeremiah Laslavic (16) scores on a header next to Nathan Prex and Franklin Regional’s Caleb Lorenz during their game on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, in Murrysville.

Aliquippa head coach Mike Warfield tries to avoid the water cooler as time expires against Belle Vernon in the WPIAL Class 4A championship game Saturday at Heinz Field.

Coaches John Ruane of Penn-Trafford and Matt Humbert of Belle Vernon have built their teams into consistent winners.

Franklin Regional girls head coach Berrnie Pucka during practice Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 at Franklin Regional High School.

Latrobe’s Ella Bulava celebrates her goal against Norwin on Sept. 30.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Big-school soccer standouts honored

November 23, 2021

A number of area soccer players were recognized by the Big 5/6 Conference, which follows the top classifications in WPIAL sports.

Winchester Thurston’s Oliver Daboo (3) celebrates his game-winning goal with Daniel Myers after defeating Faith Christian Academy, 1-0 in overtime, in the PIAA Class A championship game on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Sara Felder takes a shot against Freedom during a PIAA Class A quarterfinal Nov. 13, 2021, at West Allegheny.

Greensburg C.C.-Southern Columbia PIAA soccer championship capsule for Nov. 20, 2021

November 19, 2021

PIAA Class A girls soccer championship

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ward sisters, from left, Sydney, Natalie and Sarah. Natalie is a senior defender and Sarah an assistant coach for the Centurions, who will play for a PIAA championship Saturday in Hershey.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer coach Olivia Kruger and her newborn son, James Thomas Kruger.

Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock passes against New Castle on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, in the WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinals.

Franklin Regional’s Colton Hudson (10) celebrates with Samuel Dawson after scoring against Kiski Area in the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals Oct. 27.

Mt. Pleasant coach Jason Fazekas said his team played fast in its playoff opener against Burrell last week.

Mt. Pleasant motivated to make history in playoff clash with Avonworth

November 10, 2021

Motivation can come in many forms at WPIAL football playoff time.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Sara Felder battles Steel Valley’s Krystal Phouthavong for possession during the WPIAL Class A girls championship game Friday.

Westmoreland County PIAA soccer playoff capsules for Nov. 9, 2021

November 8, 2021

Boys

Southmoreland girls soccer pushes through injuries all the way to state tournament

Southmoreland girls soccer players wore blankets on the sideline Thursday night during the WPIAL consolation game against Shady Side Academy at Norwin.

Franklin Regional and Plum meet in the WPIAL Class 3A boys soccer third-place match Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021.

Greensburg Central Catholic gets wild OT win over Eden Christian

November 2, 2021

Carlo Denis said he heard a defender say, “Oh, no.”

Franklin Regional’s Joey Bayne (23) celebrates his goal with Anthony DiFalco and Colton Hudson during their WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal against Kiski Area on Oct. 27.

Westmoreland County WPIAL soccer playoff capsule for Nov. 3, 2021

Boys

Hampton’s Zach Panza celebratse after scoring against Franklin Regional during their WPIAL Class 3A semifinal on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, at Gateway High School.

Franklin Regional’s Colton Hudson battles Kiski Area’s Aaron Witt for possession during their WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021, at Franklin Regional High School.

Westmoreland WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Nov. 1, 2021

October 31, 2021

Monday’s WPIAL soccer playoff games

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco celebrates with Billy Christafano and Dylan Tomb (22) after Christafano scored against Kiski Area during their WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021, at Franklin Regional High School.

Westmoreland H.S. soccer notebook: Franklin Regional boys winning with offense

With 56 shutouts across the last four seasons, Franklin Regional has developed a reputation as one of the top defensive programs in WPIAL boys soccer.

North Allegheny’s Evan Anderson, celebrating a goal in a playoff game last season, scored the game’s only goal against Norwin on Saturday.

Hempfield and Norwin players take part in the pre-game coin toss Oct. 29, 2021, at Hempfield.

Peters Township and Latrobe line up before their WPIAL Class 4A girls soccer playoff game Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021.

Postseason prowess pays off as Peters Township ousts Latrobe in Class 4A quarters

October 28, 2021

A truck carrying a ladder drifted into the lane occupied by the Peters Township girls soccer bus as the team traveled to its playoff game Thursday night.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Taishaun Jamison is one of five GCC players not eligible for postseason play because of WPIAL transfer rules.

Westmoreland football notebook: GCC will take on different look in WPIAL playoffs

Greensburg Central Catholic has clinched a spot in the WPIAL Class A football playoffs, but the team the Centurions roll out in the opener might be unrecognizable compared to the one fans have seen all season.

Greensburg Central Catholic and Jeannette players meet for the coin toss before their game Friday, Oct. 22, 2021.

Jeannette transfers lead Greensburg Central Catholic to win over Jayhawks

October 22, 2021

Talk about a U-turn.

Sara Felder hopes to be one of the driving forces as the Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer team tries to defend its WPIAL title.

Westmoreland WPIAL soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 23, 2021

Saturday’s games

Southmoreland’s Kory Ansell (left) celebrates as Anthony Govern scores a touchdown Aug. 27 against McGuffey.

Westmoreland County high school football notes: Southmoreland preps for massive game

October 21, 2021

Southmoreland coach Dave Keefer and his staff have prepared for some meaningful games since they took over in 2018.

Yough’s Kendalyn Umbel (right) celebrates her winning goal with Dakota Cross during their game against Mt. Pleasant on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, at Yough High School.

Yough girls soccer team spoils Mt. Pleasant’s night

October 19, 2021

Finally, a one-goal finish Yough can get behind.

State soccer rankings for Oct. 18, 2021

October 18, 2021

Fifteen boys teams and nine girls teams from the WPIAL are among the best in Pennsylvania soccer according to the latest state rankings.

Mt. Pleasant’s Carsyn Rivardo (right) battles Southmoreland’s Tatum Lucero for a loose ball during their match last week.

Mt. Pleasant girls soccer team has eye on 1st section title in 5 years

Mt. Pleasant’s motivation for Tuesday’s 5 p.m. Section 3-2A girls soccer finale comes prepackaged and free of charge.

Morgan Einodshofer and Belle Vernon compete against Ringgold on Oct. 9, 2021, at Belle Vernon.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin rushed for 181 yards and two touchdowns against Trinity.

Franklin Regional quarterback Connor Donnelly passes against Latrobe on Friday, Oct. 15, 2021, at Latrobe Memorial Stadium in downtown Latrobe.

Franklin Regional beats Latrobe with 27 unanswered points

October 15, 2021

It may only take two conference wins to get into the WPIAL Class 5A football playoffs, so Friday’s matchup between Franklin Regional and Latrobe — teams that began the night with one conference win apiece — was soaked in importance.

Fox Chapel’s Max Johnson pumps his fist after securing the victory for the Foxes next to Central Catholic’s Carter Pitcairn during the WPIAL Class 3A boys golf team championship on Thursday, Oct. 14, 2021, at Cedarbrook Golf Course.

Fox Chapel boys, girls sweep Class 3A titles at WPIAL team golf competition

October 14, 2021

Cedarbrook has two 18-hole golf courses: the Red and the Gold.

Greensburg Central Catholic head coach Marko Thomas watches a 7-on-7 game with quarterback Nate Dlugos on July 15, 2021, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Westmoreland County football notebook: No. 4 GCC prepared for test at No. 1 Clairton

Greensburg Central Catholic might be new to the Trib HSSN Class A football rankings this week, but playing Clairton is nothing new to the Centurions.

Norwin and Penn-Trafford prepare for kickoff Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2021.

Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli (5) carries the ball against Gateway on Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Belle Vernon and Greensburg Salem soccer players and coaches meet with officials before their game on Tuesday at Offutt Field in Greensburg.

Belle Vernon girls soccer sees shutout streak end but shows off offense at Greensburg Salem

October 5, 2021

Belle Vernon ran its winning streak to seven, but the Leopards made a rather quick exit after Tuesday’s early evening game in Greensburg.

The Southmoreland girls soccer team warms up before a Section 3-2A game against Yough on Monday, Oct. 4, 2021 in Alverton.

Belle Vernon’s girls soccer team is having a "You’ve Beem Flocked" fundraiser as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Flamingos ‘flock’ to area for Belle Vernon fundraiser

October 3, 2021

Plastic pink flamingos have been showing up in yards around Belle Vernon, but for good reason.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco (center) has 16 goals and 22 assists through 11 games.

High-scoring DiFalco diversifies his game for Franklin Regional boys soccer team

It was like time stopped for a few seconds, and Anthony DiFalco was controlling the dials.

Greensburg Central Catholic coach Marko Thomas became a father Friday morning, and then the Centurions went on to defeat Springdale, 35-0.

Southmoreland’s Ronnie Collins (right) tries to elude Mt. Pleasant tackler Lane Golkosky during Friday’s game at Mt. Pleasant.

Labuda, Reese return to lineup, fuel Mt. Pleasant victory over Southmoreland

September 24, 2021

Teams that won’t give one another the pleasure of using their real names, “Alverton” met “Norvelt” on Friday night in a throwback game that first put down roots in 1964.

The Latrobe girls soccer teams warms up before a game against visiting Norwin on Sept. 14, 2021.

Westmoreland girls soccer notebook: Latrobe ready to ‘exceed expectations’

September 15, 2021

Hello, Latrobe.

Greensburg Central Catholic celebrates following their PIAA semifinal win over Brockway at Norwin High School on Nov. 17, 2020.

Westmoreland boys soccer notebook: Fewer practices makes perfect for Greensburg Central Catholic

Practice doesn’t make perfect. At least that is the case at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Maddie Barrick (71) is one of three freshmen who are regulars in the starting lineup for the Mt. Pleasant girls soccer team.

Freshmen provide spark for emerging Mt. Pleasant girls soccer team

September 13, 2021

A wide-eyed bunch of freshmen are eager to make Mt. Pleasant a WPIAL contender in girls soccer.

Southmoreland’s Amarah McCutcheon tags out Mt Pleasant’s Katie Hutter during a steal attempt on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, at Mt. Pleasant Area High School.

Ligonier Valley’s Nick Beitel runs behind Jude Grzywinski during a nonconference game against Elizabeth Forward earlier this season.

Franklin Regional visits Hempfield on Friday, Sept. 10, 2021.

Hempfield football escapes Franklin Regional rally for win

September 10, 2021

Hempfield made a concerted effort to run the football to open the second half, an impose-your-will mentality driven by junior running back Gino Caesar.

Franklin Regional sophomore football player Ayden Hudock

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Sophomore Hudock stands out for Franklin Regional

September 9, 2021

Ayden Hudock stood in a hallway outside the Franklin Regional football locker room before a practice this week, a half-eaten apple in his hand and an unsatisfied hunger to be a star grumbling in his stomach.

Franklin Regional senior Caroline Tragesser won the 2021 WCCA Girls Golf Championship.

Franklin Regional shocks Greensburg CC for girls county golf title in wild finish

Franklin Regional must have felt like it was stuck in the traffic circle in downtown Ligonier and couldn’t get out.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Meghan Zambruno putts on Hole 18 during the WPIAL Class AA girls golf championship on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, at Allegheny Country Club.

Mt. Pleasant’s Dayton Pitzer points toward the stands after winning the state championship against Montoursville’s Dylan Bennett in the 215-pound final during PIAA wrestling championships on Friday, March 12, 2021 at the Giant Center in Hershey.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Mt. Pleasant helps cancer victims

September 5, 2021

Mt. Pleasant is raising money for charity through a unique fundraiser that is fit for a king — and queen.

Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock scores against Chartiers Valley on Friday night. Whitlock and the Leopards will host Penn-Trafford on Sept. 10.

Penn-Trafford gets set to play Hempfield on Sept. 3, 2021, at Penn-Trafford.

Penn-Trafford jumps out to early lead in rout of Hempfield

September 3, 2021

This scoring on the first play of the game thing is catching on at Penn-Trafford.

Jeannette will wear special helmet decals with the initials "JM" in honor of late Jayhawks football coach Joe Mucci.

The first-year Hempfield girls golf team includes (from left) Raina Jones, Seneca Wagner, Ava Grew, Kylee Grew, Milana Yannascoli, and Mayah Iezzi.

In program’s 1st WPIAL season, Hempfield girls golf comes out of clubhouse firing

September 1, 2021

After playing one season as a club team, Hempfield’s girls golfers were primed to begin their first year as a WPIAL member.

Norwin’s Kylie Arnold battles North Allegheny’s Lucia Wells for a header during the girls WPIAL Class 4A championship game Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019, at Highmark Stadium.

Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto (10) Celebrates her second goal next to Mt. Pleasant’s Alexia Stanek during their game on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2020, at Vikings Stadium.

Penn-Trafford golfer Nick Turowski (right) poses with friend and teammate Bryce Williams, after Turowski shot a course-record 63 Tuesday at Manor Valley Golf Course in Export. He had a school-record 29 on the front nine during Penn-Trafford’s win over Indiana.

Penn-Trafford’s Nick Turowski has record-breaking day at Manor Valley

August 24, 2021

Nick Turowski drove the first green Tuesday, ripping a 300-plus-yard drive to about 20 feet to open his nine-hole high school match.

Clairton’s Brooklyn Cannon beats Jeannette’s Brett Birch for a second-quarter touchdown Sept. 11, 2020.

Jeannette and Monessen have a lot in common.

Latrobe QB Bobby Fetter displays leadership, perspective for Wildcats

August 19, 2021

When Bobby Fetter learned he might not be able to play football again after he separated his left shoulder for a third time and needed surgery, the Latrobe senior gained a measure of perspective.

Sewickley Academy’s Jack Gordon smiles as he is greeted by coach Win Palmer after completing his round during the WPIAL Class AA boys golf championship Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020, at Cedarbrook Golf Club.

2021 WPIAL golf season primer

High school golf season at a glance

No-nonsense lineman helps launch Hempfield into new era

August 17, 2021

If you like no-nonsense, hand-in-the-dirt linemen with impeccable smarts and a mean streak, Dan Sierk is your guy.

Derry football coach Vince Skillings Derry football coach Vince Skillings

High school notebook: Derry football coaches bridging the age gap

Football teams are learning how to read gaps at camp this week so they can open running lanes this season.

Greensburg Central Catholic senior football player Danny Dlugos

Danny Dlugos aims to carry on family football tradition at GCC, get Centurions back to playoffs

August 15, 2021

During a recent heat-week drill, Greensburg Central Catholic first-year football coach Marko Thomas held up a blocking pad to help demonstrate a formation.

Derry’s Zack Revoir throws a pass during practice on Aug. 11, 2021, at Derry Area High School.

New players to step into leadership roles at Derry

Derry lost 14 seniors to commencement but quickly replenished the roster with 14 freshmen. That doesn’t mean the team will get nearly the production of last year’s 12th graders.

Derry sophomore football player Ahmad Ward

Norwin kicker Castle seeing his profile increase nationally

August 12, 2021

Soccer was once the sport that fueled Joey Castle’s adrenaline rush. The thrill of scoring goals and stopping them drove him to compete.

Greensburg Central Catholic football players finish a recent summer workout as they prepare for the 2021 WPIAL season.

Balance rarely has been an issue for Katie Miller Gee.

Chartiers Valley’s Abby Vaites and Perri Page defend onLatrobe’s Anna Rafferty during the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball semifinals on Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at Chartiers Valley High School.

Mars’ Ellie Coffield battles Plum’s Cameron Collins for a header during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, at North Allegheny.

Pitt soccer player Ellie Coffield, former Mars star, donates grant to Moe Rosensteel Foundation

July 27, 2021

When student-athletes are named the Gatorade athlete of the year in their state for their respective sport, they are awarded $1,000 to donate to their entity of choice.

Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca returns an interception to seal the victory in the WPIAL Class 6A championship game against North Allegheny Friday, Nov. 6, 2020, at Martorelli Stadium.

He didn’t plan it, but Vince Skillings literally saw the light in the darkest of dark times.

Hempfield coach Bob Kalp watches Callie Sowers pitch during a 2019 PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal against McDowell.

Southmoreland football players will wear a No. 15 decal on their helmets this season to honor fallen former teammate Brandon Peterson.

Southmoreland to honor late alumnus with football helmet sticker

July 20, 2021

Remembered as a teammate who could lighten the mood when football created tense moments like it can, Brandon Peterson left quite an impression on the Southmoreland football team. He is missed more every day.

Trib HSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Cade Yacamelli, Penn-Trafford

The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized Thursday during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.

Jeannette coach Adrian Batts watches his team play Shenango in a 2020 WPIAL playoff game.

Jeannette basketball coach Adrian Batts adds athletic director duties

July 19, 2021

A familiar face was hired Monday night as the new athletic director at Jeannette.

Yough’s Tristan Waldier has had two consecutive seasons ended by injury. He moves from quarterback to receiver this year.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Waldier on his way back again

Tristan Waldier is back on the field for the Yough football team, medically cleared after season-ending knee injuries two years in a row.

Trib HSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Devin Whitlock, Belle Vernon

July 18, 2021

Norwin alum Metzger expects smooth transition as new coach of girls soccer team

When she begins her new job, Diane Metzger said she will not have to focus on fixing something that isn’t broken.

Southmoreland’s Gracie Spadaro committed to play at IUP earlier this week.

Westmoreland notebook: Southmoreland duo could become IUP teammates

IUP has an eye on two Southmoreland basketball standouts. The Crimson Hawks landed one and hope to get the other.

New Spartans coach Brown eager to turn Hempfield football into winners

July 17, 2021

When he was an assistant at Robert Morris, Mike Brown recruited football players from Hempfield, so he was familiar with the program.

Trib HSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Anthony Speca, Central Catholic

Norwin product Phipps to help coach Seton Hill

Former Norwin and Bucknell wrestling standout Drew Phipps will join the staff at Seton Hill as a graduate assistant.

Penn-Trafford pitcher Trevor Wilson delivers against Norwin on April 9, 2021, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Penn-Trafford’s Trevor Wilson headed for Gardner-Webb

July 16, 2021

Trevor Wilson was born in Charlotte, N.C., and eventually made his way to Penn-Trafford where he developed into a talented baseball pitcher.

Mt. Pleasant rallies past Mid Valley to capture state softball championship

June 18, 2021

UNIVERSITY PARK — Tested for the first time in the postseason, the Mt. Pleasant softball team had to find a higher gear to get around Mid Valley in the state championship game.

Ryan Hayden was named the Jeannette athletic director in July 2019.

Mt. Pleasant’s Courtney Poulich reacts as her team makes a run against Punxsutawney on Monday, June 14, 2021 in the PIAA Class 3A semifinals at St. Francis University.

Mt. Pleasant softball blanks Punxsutawney, advances to PIAA Class 3A title game

June 14, 2021

LORETTO — This must be what they mean at Mt. Pleasant when they say, “Row, Vikes.”

Mt. Pleasant’s Hannah Gbnibus tries to complete the double play after the force play on Avonworth’s Alivia Lantzy during the completion of the PIAA Class 3A Girls Softball quarterfinal on Thursday, June11, 2021 at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Mt. Pleasant’s Courtney Poulich celebrates as she rounds the bases during a PIAA Class 3A first-round playoff game Monday.

Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli (5) rushes the ball tackled by Franklin Regional’s during their game on Oct. 23, 2020.

Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli pulls in offer from Wisconsin

June 3, 2021

Another week, another Division I football offer for Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli.

Ligonier Valley’s Kailey Johnston celebrates her two-run triple during a game against Apollo-Ridge on April 26.

Ligonier Valley softball hits reset button, sets sights on PIAA run

Mark Zimmerman said the chip Ligonier Valley softball had resting firmly on its collective shoulder is all but gone.

Big-hitting Mt. Pleasant blanks Ellwood City for 2nd WPIAL softball championship

June 2, 2021

A fourth-grade student made the Mt. Pleasant softball team a good-luck card before the WPIAL championship, one of several the players received and read.

Ligonier Valley pitcher Maddie Griffin celebrates a strikeout with Haley Boyd (22) and Jordan Hofecker (3) during their game against Apollo-Ridge on Monday, April 26, 2021, in Ligonier.

New Jeannette girls basketball coach admires dedication to program

May 30, 2021

Bill Flow called the Jeannette girls basketball program “a sleeping giant.”

Hempfield’s Phil Fox (right) celebrates with Jayson Jacob during their WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal. Fox had a highlight-reel catch in the semifinals go viral last week.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Fresh girls hoops coaching faces

May 29, 2021

A pair of Westmoreland County girls basketball programs will have new coaches next season.

Franklin Regional’s Jack Kiefer (8) is mobbed by teammates after scoring during overtime of a WPIAL Class 2A first-round playoff game against Shaler on May 17.

Thursday’s game

Jeannette coach Roy Hall is drenched in water after the Jayhawks beat Clairton, 45-14, in November.<span class='IDappliedStyle' title='InDesign: Light'></span>

Hempfield’s Gage Wheaton celebrates his three-run home run against Central Catholic during the fifth inning of a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at West Mifflin High School.

Penn-Trafford pitcher Mia Smith delivers against Connellsville on Wednesday, April 14, 2021, in Harrison City.

Westmoreland WPIAL softball playoff capsules for May 18, 2021

May 17, 2021

Tuesday’s games

Norwin’s Ryan Scavnicky (7) celebrates with Jayden Walker after scoring during their game against Penn-Trafford on Friday, April 9, 2021, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Norwin girls soccer coaches Lauren Karcher (left) and Lesley Kaminski talk to their team before practice Monday, Aug. 27, 2018.

Norwin soccer coach Lauren Karcher resigns after 7 successful seasons

May 14, 2021

Pregnant with her second child who is due to arrive in mid-September, Lauren Karcher knows she won’t be able to dedicate all of her attention to the girls soccer program at Norwin.

Latrobe pitcher Jordan Tallman delivers during a scrimmage at Seneca Valley on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, in Jackson.

Latrobe in lofty spot as Westmoreland County softball squads earn top WPIAL seeds

May 13, 2021

Even though it seemed like it at first glance, there was no clerical error or mix-up on the right side of the WPIAL Class 5A softball playoff bracket when it met public eyes Thursday.

Derry players celebrate after defeating Deer Lakes, 2-1, on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, at Deer Lakes High School.

Westmoreland high school baseball notebook: Area teams set for WPIAL playoffs

The WPIAL will convene Friday to draw up playoff brackets. The pairings will be announced around 3 p.m. on the Trib High School Sports Network.

Mt. Pleasant claws its way to victory over Southmoreland in section softball showdown

May 11, 2021

Haylie Brunson has been one of the toughest outs in the WPIAL this softball season with her .600-something average and 20-plus extra-base hits.

Anna Rafferty (center) and her Latrobe teammates will take part in a YMCA summer league this year.

Greensburg Central Catholic players (top, from left), Zach David, Alex Miller, (front) Ryan Appleby and Max Kallock.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s baseball title hopes renewed

May 6, 2021

Greensburg Central Catholic baseball had serious postseason expectations last year, as in, we can win the WPIAL and PIAA kind of expectations.

Ligonier Valley’s Grant Dowden takes batting practice on March 24, 2021, in Ligonier.

Westmoreland high school baseball notebook: Ligonier Valley closes in on playoff spot

Ligonier Valley is on the verge of securing a playoff spot in its first season playing in the WPIAL.

Penn-Trafford names football hall of fame class

April 27, 2021

Penn-Trafford announced its 2020-21 Warrior Football Hall of Fame class on Tuesday.

Elizabeth Forward ace Kailey Larcinese attacks Yough lineup, throws no-hitter

April 26, 2021

The fin was up in the water early.

New coach Frye will keep bar set high for Franklin Regional girls volleyball

A young coach with enthusiasm to match, Rachel Frye inherits a girls volleyball program at Franklin Regional with a championship past — a very recent past.

Greensburg Central Catholic three-sport athlete Matt Metrosky

Tennis anyone? Future Pitt walk-on offensive lineman Matt Metrosky holds serve for GCC

April 25, 2021

With touch and toughness, Matt Metrosky gently plows through his spring schedule.

Kyle Martin will coach the United States at the Junior Pan American Championships on June 9-13 in Mexico City.

Hempfield softball responds in big way after falling behind early, downs Norwin

April 23, 2021

With its first three hitters, Norwin began the day double, home run, home run in its Section 2-6A softball clash Friday at Hempfield.

Armstrong freshman Jesse Pugh rounds the bases after hitting her second home run of the game against Franklin Regional on Thursday, April 22, 2021, in Murrysville.

Westmoreland softball notes: Hempfield happy to have Sowers back on field

April 21, 2021

Hempfield is glad to have No. 22 back in the circle — and in the batter’s box.

Ligonier Valley senior Kailey Johnston works out on March 24, 2021, in Ligonier.

With the No. 1 ranking in the WPIAL — the No. 4 mark in the state in Class 6A — and enough college-level talent to beat the band, Norwin has earned the right to walk around with bravado.

Ligonier Valley softball still unbeaten, defeats ‘scrappy’ Serra Catholic

April 16, 2021

After craning her neck to watch the softball stay just fair and sail over the left-field fence, Ligonier Valley pitcher Maddie Griffin turned her attention to the baserunner.

Hempfield on track to hire Penn-Trafford grad Mike Brown as football coach

Hempfield will vote Monday to name Mike Brown as its next head football coach.

Norwin pitcher Luke Savage celebrates after getting a strike out to end the sixth inning against Penn-Trafford on Friday, April 9, 2021, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Yough’s Emma Augustine takes part in an early-season 2021 softball game.

Mark Goetz plays a shot at the PA Open at Oakmont Country Club on Monday, Aug. 10, 2020.

WVU senior Mark Goetz runs away with home invitational for first college title

April 13, 2021

Mark Goetz wasn’t playing Hannastown Golf Club, his home course in the summer months, but he sure looked at home at Pete Dye Golf Course in Bridgeport, W.Va.

Controversial call, hot hitting help Franklin Regional baseball rout Latrobe

Franklin Regional was as delighted as Latrobe was dejected after a controversial call in the bottom of the fourth inning Tuesday seemed to flip momentum sharply in the Panthers’ favor and sent them on their way to a 13-3, five-inning victory in the second game of the teams’ Section 1-5A baseball series.

Fundraiser for former Franklin Regional soccer coach Kurt Landsberg at $29,000 and counting

April 12, 2021

Local avid soccer enthusiast and former coach Kurt Landsberg is battling Glioblastoma, an aggressive type of cancer in his brain.

Norwin’s Ty Bilinsky will play one more high school game after missing most of his senior season with health problems.

Pete Maund watches the Penn-Trafford baseball game against Norwin from a bench dedicated in the memory of his son, Mac, after it was unveiled on Friday, April 9, 2021, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Penn-Trafford baseball unveils memorial to the late Maclean Maund

April 9, 2021

With a simple gesture, the raising of their caps, players and coaches from rival teams who stood single file along the first- and third-base lines saluted in unison the life of Maclean Maund.

Norwin’s Eric Chorba (19) celebrates his three-run home run with Ronnie Howard (8), Jacob Kendro (18) and EJ Dunn during their game against Penn-Trafford on Friday, April 9, 2021, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Norwin’s bats wake up in win over Penn-Trafford

Eric Chorba zeroed in on a 1-0 fastball that arrived a touch inside. When it met the business end of his bat and he sent it climbing toward a sun-canvased sky, the Norwin senior was out of his admitted slump and his team was well on its way to another victory.

Norwin pitcher Zach Potthoff delivers during a scrimmage against Yough on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, at Norwin High School.

Hempfield senior outfielder Kelsi Terzolino went 3 for 3, including this first-inning home run, in Wednesday’s win against Penn-Trafford.

Penn State offers Belle Vernon freshman Quinton Martin

April 1, 2021

Things are happening fast for Belle Vernon freshman Quinton Martin. Really fast.

Franklin Regional coach Anthony Kobus watches during practice Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, at Franklin Regional High School.

Franklin Regional girls basketball coach Anthony Kobus resigns

March 31, 2021

Anthony Kobus doesn’t want to blink and miss his two daughters’ youth and high school athletic careers.

Jeannette’s Brad Birch (12) rushes the ball during their game against Clairton on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020.

Jeannette’s Birch brothers planning to transfer to Gateway

Jeannette could be losing two of its best football players.

Mt. Pleasant senior baseball players (back row, from left) include Pete Billey, Jonas King, Asher O’Connor, (front, from left) Jared Yester and Steve Brown.

Mt. Pleasant’s multi-sport seniors bring power, athleticism to diamond

March 29, 2021

Mt. Pleasant’s six-man senior baseball class will likely not be sending anyone to play at the college level. But that doesn’t mean the Vikings will lack talent specific to the sport.

Mt. Pleasant pitcher Mary Smithnosky drives a ball back to home plate on a run during a practice drill with teammates Thursday, March 12, 2020 at softball practice at Mt. Pleasant Area High School.

Field announcer Dennis Nicely introduced “Timmy J. Quinn” as the Franklin Regional senior first baseman came to bat in the bottom of the fourth inning adding, “The J stands for just have fun.”

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin (25) makes a catch in the second quarter against Trinity on Friday, Oct. 16, 2020.

Westmoreland freshmen seeing increased football recruiting attention

March 25, 2021

Say what you want about 7-on-7 football competitions and their merit. College coaches are tuned in to them and are using them to gauge young talent.

Belle Vernon hired Al Yeschenko as its new boys soccer coach.

Franklin Regional senior baseball players, from left, Tim Quinn, Andrew Muraco and Louis Kegerreis.

Franklin Regional baseball set goals beyond WPIAL playoffs

March 21, 2021

Just about every WPIAL team starts a season with goals of winning section and WPIAL titles. What’s the point if that is not the case, right?

Franklin Regional senior softball players Kamaria Kelly and Sara Cowell.

Franklin Regional softball team appreciates perspective

Jim Armstrong remembers the day it all came crashing down.

Jonathan Bass took over the Jeannette girls basketball team after Janine Vertacnik went to Monessen in 2018.

Jeannette coach Jonathan Bass directs his team.

Jeannette opens girls basketball coaching position

March 17, 2021

Jeannette is taking its girls basketball program in a new direction.

The Mt. Pleasant softball team wore T-shirts in their scrimmage Wednesday to honor late State Rep. Mike Reese, a Mt. Pleasant alum who died in January.

Franklin Regional sent a number of swimmers to the medal stand at the WPIAL Class AAA Championships at Upper St. Clair.

Gracie Spadaro (left) is among the many players expected to return to a strong Southmoreland girls basketball lineup next season.

<strong>Greensburg Central Catholic’s Tyree Turner</strong>

In 1st finals since 2014, Greensburg CC to face high-powered OLSH offense

March 12, 2021

Greensburg Central Catholic didn’t get the home-court advantage other No. 2 seeds did in the WPIAL playoffs this year. Its gym was too small to host in the first round, so it had to play on the road, and issues from a water main break forced the Centurions to play quarterfinal and semifinal games at Norwin.

Latrobe’s Lexi Weatherton defends on Chartiers Valley’s Hallie Cowan during the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball semifinals on Thursday, March 11, 2021 at Chartiers Valley High School.

Chartiers Valley scorches nets, beats Latrobe to set up rematch with Trinity

March 11, 2021

Latrobe girls basketball coach Mark Burkhardt looked up at one of the baskets after Thursday night’s playoff game at Chartiers Valley and, half-jokingly, wondered how often the school has to change the nets.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Christian McGowan steals the ball from Sto-Rox’s Jaymont Green-Miller during the boys WPIAL Class 2A semifianll round playoff game on Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at Norwin High School.

‘Iceman’ McGowan leads Greensburg Central Catholic into Class 2A final

His knees encased in twin glaciers, an exhausted Christian McGowan limped out of the Norwin gymnasium Wednesday night after a postgame interview and joined his teammates on the bus.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brevan Williams defends on Sto-Rox’s Jaymont Green-Miller during a WPIAL Class 2A semifinal on Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at Norwin High School.

Quaker Valley’s Bailey Garbee scored 23 points against Southmoreland on Tuesday night.

Penn-Trafford’s Josh Kapcin celebrates a three-pointer during the fourth quarter against Franklin Regional on Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021, in Harrison City.

Latrobe’s Ryan Sickenberger smiles after his buzzer-beating three pointer defeated Franklin Regional on Wednesday.

Penn-Trafford players huddle up during their game with Norwin on Friday, Feb. 12, 2021.

Penn-Trafford boys hold off Norwin charge

February 12, 2021

For a several-minute stretch late in the first half, Penn-Trafford looked nearly unstoppable. The Warriors ran off 14 straight points to take a 14-point lead over Norwin.

Norwin’s Brianna Zajicek scores past Penn-Trafford’s Maura Suman on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021 at Norwin High School.

Hempfield’s Christian Zilli celebrates with Niheim Lewis after Lewis hit back to back three-pointers against Penn Trafford in the second half Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021 at Hempfield Area High School.

‘Hempfield way’ produces impressive win against Penn-Trafford

February 9, 2021

Every time Penn-Trafford picked at Hempfield’s double-digit lead and began to close the gap, the Spartans had an answer.

Latrobe’s Rachel Ridilla makes a late free throw against Gateway on Monday, Feb. 8, 2021.

Freshman sparks Latrobe girls to comeback win over Gateway

February 8, 2021

Latrobe girls basketball gives out “paws” to its players for big performances, a custom akin to helmet stickers in football.

Coach Marko Thomas watches Connellsville football practice on Sept. 2, 2020, in Dunbar.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Christian McGowan dribbles during boys’ basketball practice on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019 at Greensburg Central Catholic High School.

Penn-Trafford boys ride big 1st half to victory over Greensburg Salem

February 2, 2021

Penn-Trafford sent a message to visiting Greensburg Salem early in Tuesday night’s boys basketball game.

Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli leaves Upper St. Clair defenders on the way to a 61-yard touchdown run in the second quarter during WPIAL playoff action Friday, Oct. 30, 2020 at Warrior Stadium.

Navy offers Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli

Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli does not play basketball at his school, yet he has a photo of himself dunking one handed on an outdoor rim as his Twitter background.

Norwin’s Elijah Dunn competes during the 2020 season.

Dunn deal: Norwin baseball player commits to Hartford

January 31, 2021

Norwin continues to churn out college baseball talent. What else is new?

Greensburg Central Catholic celebrates after its PIAA semifinal win over Brockway on Nov. 17, 2020, at Norwin High School.

Hempfield boys attack basket, handle Norwin

January 29, 2021

Joe Fiedor is that player in practice who never slows down. A constant ball of energy.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Metrosky earns walk-on offer from Pitt

Matt Metrosky had a few NCAA Division II options on his plate when he picked up a surprise offer from a familiar Division I program Thursday. It had him saying, “H2P,” with emphasis.

Yough point guard Kaylynn Odelli works out during practice Dec. 3, 2020, in the high school gym.

Hempfield’s Niheim Lewis (left) and Christian Zilli defend a pass by Norwin’s Nick Fleming Friday night.

Top-5 Hempfield boys show they belong with gritty win over Norwin

January 22, 2021

Hempfield is neither shying away nor hiding from the Class 6A boys basketball rankings. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

Norwin lineman Anthony Giasante on Western Carolina: “After learning more about WCU, I liked the school as much as the football program.”

Norwin’s Anthony Giansante commits to Western Carolina

Anthony Giansante could have tapped out.

Belle Vernon coach Kaitlyn Slagus talks with her players during a late timeout Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021, in the Leopards’ 40-22 victory over Mt. Pleasant.

Penn Trafford’s girls basketball coach John Giannikas is 200-139 in his career.

Westmoreland high school basketball notebook: Penn-Trafford’s Giannikas hits 200 wins

January 20, 2021

John Giannikas took over the Penn-Trafford girls basketball program prior to the 2006-07 season. The Warriors were a hit-or-miss playoff team in the years leading up to his start date.

Rob Miele said the adage is true. When it comes to the tail end of coaching stop, you just know.

Penn-Trafford’s Maura Suman fights for the ball with Sto-Rox’s Alicia Young Friday, Dec. 11, 2020 at Penn Trafford High School.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford, Norwin girls to square off

January 17, 2021

Covid-19 can muck up schedules, but it can’t take away rivalries.

Franklin Regional coach Greg Botta talks to his team during workouts Aug. 13, 2020.

Another day, another high-profile Franklin Regional coach heading out the door.

Franklin Regional’s Kadyn Hannah (left) is among several players on the roster who stand at least 6-foot-4.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Franklin Regional adds size to its lineup

January 14, 2021

Franklin Regional has been known to produce good guards under alum and former standout Steve Scorpion. Commanding guards with a handle on the offense who can score and defend.

Franklin Regional head coach Rand Hudson, talks to players at the start of practice, on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017.

Third-ranked Jeannette boys edge Greensburg Central Catholic on late putback

January 12, 2021

That Greensburg Central Catholic had played a game and Jeannette had not heading into the teams’ Section 3-2A boys basketball matchup was mostly irrelevant to the coaches.

Greg Botta announced his retirement Tuesday after 27 years as Franklin Regional coach.

Tried and true, some Norwin athletes were ready when Gov. Tom Wolf put high school sports on pause again for three weeks.

Franklin Regional’s Luke Kimmich drives to the basket past Latrobe’s Nick Rauco on Friday.

Franklin Regional boys give rude Class 5A welcome to Latrobe

January 8, 2021

Latrobe has been in the WPIAL’s largest classification since it began playing basketball decades ago. But the Wildcats got a humbling welcome to Class 5A when the covid-stalled season restarted Friday night.

Norwin boys basketball coach Buddy Valinsky coached in the City League, where games occasionally were sparsely attended, before landing with the Knights.

High school basketball will have much different look — and sound — when it resumes

When Buddy Valinsky coached in the City League, basketball games were played in the afternoon in front of only a few fans.

Westmoreland County Coaches Association president Larry Sellitto welcomes the crowd at the Foothills Classic All-Star Game introduction night in 2017.

Franklin Regional football program, WCCA mourn loss of Larry Sellitto

January 7, 2021

Every head football coach has a right-hand man.

Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock plays against Clearfield in the PIAA Class 4A first round Friday, March 6, 2020.

Yough hopes to be flexing its muscles again soon in the WPIAL — with a little lift from the Black and Gold.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco celebrates his goal with Isaac Gamwo during the WPIAL Class AAA championship.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco works past Mars’ Mason Meyer to score during the first half of the WPIAL Class AAA championship game on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2020, at North Allegheny.

WPIAL standouts named to all-state soccer teams

A number of the WPIAL’s brightest stars were recognized Wednesday morning with the unveiling of the Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association All-State teams.

Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson celebrates a sack Friday, Sept. 18, 2020, at Upper St. Clair.

Pine-Richland DE Miguel Jackson commits to Charlotte after losing scholarship at Liberty

December 8, 2020

Miguel Jackson felt a lot of emotions when he made his college football decision — for the second time.

Franklin Regional’s Aly Kindelberger was named to the Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association Class AAA all-state team this year.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Franklin Regional’s Kindelberger honored

Franklin Regional standout hitter Aly Kindelberger was awarded for an outstanding senior season, one that saw her help the Panthers make team history.

Southmoreland boys basketball coach Frank Muccino will try to nurture a young roster this season.

Megan Zambruno (right) is among the returning starters for Greensburg Central Catholic.

Young, tall team returns for Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball

November 26, 2020

Perspective is a trigger word this season around the Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball program.

Christian McGowan with Greensburg Central Catholic drives between Imani Christian defenders Tyler Allen (11) and Aiden Betsill (left) on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2020 at Greensburg Central Catholic High School.

Major Division I college football schools are expected to take interest in Belle Vernon freshman Quinton Martin over the next few years.

Norwin pitcher Jake Bazala signed with Mercyhurst.

Norwin Star high school notebook: Athletes in wide array of sports sign letters of intent

November 21, 2020

At the start of the NCAA signing period, Norwin had an abundance of college signees who will further their athletic careers in various sports and at various college levels.

Franklin Regional’s Andrew Muraco scores against Cathedral Prep during a PIAA Class 5A first-round state playoff game in 2019.

Murrysville Star high school notebook: Franklin Regional baseball standouts pick colleges

National Letter of Intent Day often brings out the best in high school sports programs.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Mason Fabean kicks on net to pick up an assist to help teammate Carlo Denis score on Rockwood in the first half on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020 in PIAA soccer playoffs at Norwin High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Sara Felder has scored 26 goals this season.

Greensburg CC girls soccer hopes to keep rolling toward state title game

November 15, 2020

Greensburg Central Catholic is 17-0 and sits a victory away from the girls state soccer championship game in Hershey.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ricco Ciccarelli leaps while driving the ball down field against Rockwood on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in the PIAA Class A playoffs at Norwin High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Tatum Gretz shoots and scores in the WPIAL Class A championship game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart on Nov. 5.

PIAA soccer playoff preview: Greensburg Central Catholic boys, girls set for quarterfinals

November 13, 2020

Boys

Norwin’s Katelyn Kauffman helped her team to a 63-11-2 record during her time there.

Greensburg Central Catholic players celebrate after beating Winchester Thurston in the WPIAL Class A championship.

Penn-Trafford’s defense tries to stop Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem as he drives into the end zone as in the first half of their WPIAL Class 5A semifinal Friday, Nov. 6, 2020.

Mars’ Dane Beller (27) celebrates his winning goal with Tyler Nymberg next to Franklin Regional’s Cole Kaforey during overtime of the WPIAL Class 3A championship game on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2020, at North Allegheny.

Dane Beller’s golden goal lifts Mars past Franklin Regional in Class 3A title game

November 5, 2020

Mars and Franklin Regional are very similar teams, both in talent and playing style. They both play deliberate, possession soccer and look to create opportunities in the midfield.

The Penn-Trafford football team prepares to meet Latrobe earlier this season.

No. 1 Pine-Richland will provide stiff test for Penn-Trafford defense

Chase Vecchio plays a hybrid, outside linebacker-cornerback position for Penn-Trafford.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Seth Skowronek (20) celebrates his second goal with Mason Fabean during thesecond half of their WPIAL Class A semifinal against Springdale on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2020, at Norwin.

Plum’s Gina Proviano possesses the ball in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal agaionst Thomas Jefferson on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020.

Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli breaks away from Upper St. Clair defenders on the way to a 61-yard touchdown run in the second quarter during WPIAL playoff action Friday, Oct. 30, 2020, at Warrior Stadium.

North Allegheny goalkeeper Julianna Werner makes a save between Norwin’s Evelyn Moore (21) and Katelyn Kauffman, as Lacey Bernick looks on during their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020, at Norwin.

North Allegheny girls soccer looks sharp in shutout win over Norwin

October 29, 2020

Rain can create rust on untreated metal.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco celebrates his second goal with Billy Christafano during their WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal against Indiana on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020, in Murrysville.

Burrell’s Jordyn Kowalkowski carries past Mt. Pleasant Area’s Breanna Peck during first-round WPIAL Class AA play Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2020, at Vikings Stadium.

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Aris Lamanna makes a leaping save during the Panthers’ WPIAL Class 3A first round playoff game against South Fayette on Monday, Oct. 26, 2020, in Murrysville.

Fearless Franklin Regional edges South Fayette in WPIAL Class 3A girls soccer first round

October 26, 2020

South Fayette pressed Franklin Regional from the start Monday night, but the Panthers tried to overcome the Lions’ push-back speed with patience, waiting for quality scoring opportunities.

WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for games of Tuesday, Oct. 27

Here are WPIAL soccer playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games involving teams from Westmoreland County and the A-K Valley:

The Franklin Regional golf team celebrates after Zach Abdallah made his putt on No. 18 during the WPIAL Class AAA boys golf championship Oct. 15, 2020, at Cedarbrook Golf Club.

Penn-Trafford’s Mason Frye runs between a pair of Franklin Regional defenders during the Warriors’ victory Friday. Penn-Trafford will be home for the first round of the WPIAL playoffs.

Penn-Trafford, Belle Vernon get home games for WPIAL football playoffs

October 24, 2020

When the WPIAL announced higher-seeded teams will get to play at home through the semifinals of the football playoffs, a number of coaches had reason to smile.

Indiana reacts after defeating Belle Vernon in the first round of WPIAL boys soccer playoffs Oct. 24, 2020, at Belle Vernon.

Penalty kick gives Indiana boys soccer 1st-round win over Belle Vernon

Josh Glaser said three words ran through his head as he set up for the final penalty kick.

Penn-Trafford’s Mason Frye is pursued by Franklin Regional’s Caden Smith (26) on Oct. 23, 2020.

Mt. Pleasant’s Robbie Labuda avoids Elizabeth Forward’s DaVontay Brownfield last week.

Westmoreland County don’t miss high school football matchups for Week 7

October 22, 2020

Class 6A

Mars captains hoist the WPIAL championship trophy last season.

Southmoreland’s Taylor Klingensmith (17) battles Mt. Pleasant’s Riley Gesinski for possession during their game on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2020, at Vikings Stadium.

Trib HSSN WPIAL boys and girls soccer rankings for Oct. 19, 2020

October 19, 2020

Here’s a look at this week’s Trib HSSN WPIAL boys and girls soccer rankings. Records are through Saturday’s games.

Franklin Regional’s Luke Kimmich (in green) has won a pair of WPIAL soccer titles and recently added a WPIAL golf title to his haul.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Franklin Regional’s Kimmich has chance for double titles

October 18, 2020

There were days this fall when Luke Kimmich would play in a nine-hole golf match after school, change clothes and be back in time to join the boys soccer team for a practice or game.

Mt. Pleasant tennis players (from left) Haylie Brunson, Mary Smithnosky and Katie Hutter, who also are standouts on the softball team.

Mt. Pleasant tennis standouts double up as softball stars

They are used to singles and doubles … and triples and home runs.

Hempfield’s Mario Perkins runs the ball against Norwin on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020.

Franklin Regional’s Jeffery Downs (10) scores a touchdown during their game against Latrobe on Oct. 16, 2020.

Franklin Regional earns crucial win over Latrobe

October 16, 2020

Franklin Regional isn’t ready for its playoff streak to end.

Derry players take the field before hosting Freeport on Sept. 25.

Derry calls off next week’s football game with Burrell after more positive covid tests

Derry postponed next week’s football game at Burrell over growing covid-19 concerns.

Derry coach Vince Skillings oversees a preseason practice.

Mars’ Ellie Coffield dibbles the ball during the PIAA Class AAA state championship game at Hersheypark Stadium on Saturday Nov. 16, 2019.

A masked official works the Hempfield-Norwin game Sept. 11.

Hempfield, Derry football games called off after positive covid tests

October 12, 2020

Three more WPIAL football games were canceled because of covid-19 cases.

North Allegheny’s Kensly Owns collides with North Hills goalkeeper Blake Nicholas during their game on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020, in McCandless.

Trib HSSN WPIAL boys and girls soccer rankings for Oct. 12, 2020

Here’s a look at this week’s Trib HSSN WPIAL boys and girls soccer rankings. Records are through Saturday’s games.

Logan Divald has helped Norwin to the WPIAL Class AAA tournament semifinals.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Norwin golf shooting for spot in championship

October 11, 2020

The WPIAL boys golf postseason shifts to team competition starting Monday with semifinal tournaments.

Penn Trafford coach John Ruane said the cancellation of Sunday’s game against Gateway is “depressing.”

Southmoreland’s Zach Cernuto (10) runs against Yough on Oct. 9, 2020, at Yough.

Southmoreland defense swarms Yough in shutout

October 9, 2020

Southmoreland turned a potential shootout into a shutout.

The Penn-Trafford football team prepares for opening night against Latrobe on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020, in Harrison City.

Covid cases force Penn-Trafford to cancel game with Gateway

It doesn’t seem like Penn-Trafford and Gateway are meant to play football against each other this season.

Mt. Lebanon’s Lindsey Powanda watches her tee shot on No. 9 during the WPIAL Class AAA girls golf championship on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2020, at Oakmont Country Club.

Mt. Lebanon’s Lindsey Powanda conquers Oakmont, wins school’s first WPIAL girls golf title

October 8, 2020

Her notebook was chock-full of scribbles and arrows, subtle reminders and dos and don’ts of how to play Oakmont Country Club.

Fans are largely absent from the stands before Norwin’s game against Hempfield on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 at Norwin Senior High School.

Penn-Trafford’s Brad Ford (11) rushes the ball for a touchdown during their game against Woodland Hills on Oct. 2, 2020.

Penn-Trafford shuts down Woodland Hills, makes case for elite status in Class 5A

October 2, 2020

Penn-Trafford players and coaches say they aren’t necessarily playing with a chip on their shoulder because they have not been ranked all season.

Quaker Valley’s Eva Bulger putts on the ninth hole during the WPIAL Class AA girls golf championship on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, at Allegheny Country Club.

Franklin Regional’s Blake Cooper (10) and Zach Lorenz battle Plum’s DD Flowers for the ball during their game on Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, in Murrysville.

Plum’s D.D. Flowers celebrates his game-winnng goal with A.J. Koma during their game against Franklin Regional on Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, in Murrysville.

Plum boys soccer takes down top-ranked Franklin Regional

September 28, 2020

Plum senior forward D.D. Flowers thinks his team has as good a chance as anyone to compete for a WPIAL title in Class 3A.

Norwin’s Riley Zimerman celebrates with Brendan Ash after Ash’s goal against Penn-Trafford last week.

Trib HSSN WPIAL boys and girls soccer rankings for Sept. 28, 2020

Through Saturday’s games

Latrobe players break the huddle before playing Mt. Pleasant on Sept. 18, 2020, at Mt. Pleasant.

Greensburg Salem takes the field against Knoch on Friday, Sept. 18, 2020 at Offutt Field in Greensburg.

Chuckie Tragesser of Murrysville putts during the Tri-State Junior PGA Championship Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at Willowbrook Country Club.

Deep, talented Franklin Regional golf team poised to take big step forward

September 14, 2020

For years, Franklin Regional has watched other teams celebrate section, WPIAL and PIAA titles in boys golf.

Mt. Pleasant softball player Katie Hutter committed to Akron.

West Mifflin shortstop Lauren Yuhas makes D-1 commitment

September 9, 2020

Lauren Yuhas led West Mifflin in just about every offensive category in 2019.

Derry’s Cain Latta, bottom, goes through drills with teammates during a heat acclimatization practice on Monday, Aug. 17, 2020 at Derry Area High School.

Under new leadership, Derry looks to maintain run of success

September 8, 2020

A change in leadership does not signal a change in style.

Norwin’s Lacey Bernick scored 16 goals last season.

Westmoreland County girls soccer preview: Good luck keeping up with Norwin

Team speed is a trait often associated with girls soccer at Norwin. Opponents can feel more like track sprinters as they chase the Knights down the field and back.

Elizabeth Forward’s Chase Whatton reaches for a catch during varsity football team drills Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at Elizabeth Forward High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic quarterback David Altimore throws a pass during practice on Aug. 13, 2020, in Carbon.

Greensburg Central Catholic brings size, skill in Eastern Conference race

September 5, 2020

Averaging 6-foot-21⁄2 and 255 pounds, Greensburg Central Catholic’s linemen will cast shadows at the line of scrimmage and give the Centurions room to operate on each side of the football.

Jeannette residents watch from the stadium stands as the Jeannette High School marching band and varsity cheer squad perform for a dedication ceremony for the grand opening of the new field at McKee Stadium on Thursday night, Aug. 29, 2019 in Jeannette.

Jeannette superintendent sends letter to Gov. Wolf concerning fan limitation

Jeannette’s fan base is about as loyal as they come in the WPIAL. Devoted fans follow the Jayhawks wherever they go, especially in football.

Latrobe’s Bobby Fetter runs drills during practice Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2020 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Greensburg Salem quarterback Hayden Teska practices with teammates on Monday, July 27, 2020 at Offut Field in Greensburg.

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher throws during workouts Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020 at Laurel Highlands High school.

Terrelle Pryor, Rodney Gallagher sit down and chat on YouTube show

September 1, 2020

Picture this.

Avella quarterback KJ Rush throws a pass during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020, at Avella High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic quarterback Nate Dlugos throws a pass during practice Aug. 13, 2020, in Carbon.

GCC quarterback finds workout partner in Terrelle Pryor

August 27, 2020

Offseason training has made Nate Dlugos a better quarterback mechanically and has boosted his confidence.

Deer Lakes’ Michael Sullivan (right) works past Devin Murray during a team scrimmage on the first day of WPIAL fall sports practice Monday, Aug. 24, 2020, in West Deer.

Another Westmoreland County school district is looking for an athletic director.

Moon’s Emma Theodorsson drives to the basket against Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm during their game on Jan. 9, 2020, at Moon Area High School.

Western PA Bruins players continue to gather basketball offers

August 19, 2020

An extended “dead” period in NCAA recruiting during the covid-19 shutdown did not stand in the way of the Western PA Bruins girls AAU basketball program.

Ligonier Valley coach Roger Beitel watches from the sidelines against West Shamokin during a game Friday, Sept. 20, 2019, at Ligonier Valley.

Ligonier Valley’s football schedule down to 5 games

Ligonier Valley is set to makes its WPIAL debut for its second stint in the league this fall. The Rams have not played in the WPIAL in 50 years.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer coach Olivia Kruger

New coach takes over successful Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer program

August 18, 2020

Olivia Kruger is new to the Pittsburgh area, but she knows a lot about Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer.

Norwin senior baseball player Nick Fleming committed to Mount St. Mary’s in Emmitsburg, Md.

Norwin’s Nick Fleming commits to Mount St. Mary’s baseball

July 31, 2020

The timing wasn’t exactly precise, not like he had envisioned, but Nick Fleming still was all smiles Friday night after deciding on his baseball future.

Hempfield’s Phil Fox practices at Hempfield Area High School on Monday, March 6, 2020.

Penn-Trafford’s John Robbins is a member of the Class of 2020.

Senior Spotlight: Penn-Trafford’s Robbins finds confidence during ‘miracle’ lacrosse career

May 28, 2020

Editor’s note: Each day, Trib HSSN will spotlight WPIAL spring athletes whose senior years were cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.

H.S. notebook: Baseball, softball sections get new look next spring

May 24, 2020

WPIAL baseball and softball will take on a different look next spring.

Thomas Jefferson’s Bella Bucy compets agianst Yough during the WPIAL softball playoffs May 20, 2019, at Peters Township.

Penn-Trafford coach Jim Rocco calls out a play against Fox Chapel on Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019, at Fox Chapel.

Thomas Jefferson’s Mackenzie Zang competes during the 2019 season.

Senior Spotlight: Thomas Jefferson slugger ‘the epitome of what a team player is’

May 6, 2020

Editor’s note: Each day, Trib HSSN will spotlight WPIAL spring athletes whose senior years were cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.

Derry sophomore Ryan Hood, during baseball practice at Derry Area High School in Derry Township on Thursday, March 6, 2020.

Norwin head football coach Dave Brozeski accepts the champions’ plaque from Westmoreland County Coaches Association president Larry Sellitto after beating Penn-Trafford 24-13 in the WCCA 7-on-7 football tournament championship game on Thursday, July 18, 2019 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Organizers hold off on canceling Westmoreland County 7-on-7 summer football event

May 4, 2020

With schools closing across the state, high school sports also were shut down for the spring by the PIAA.

Albert Gallatin shortstop Annalia Paoli hit .482 last season.

Southmoreland High School cheerleaders anticipate a penalty throw against Freeport in girls WPIAL basketball playoffs on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020 at Penn-Trafford High School.

Fay-West schools team up with rivals for ‘Spirit Week’ event

April 29, 2020

Five schools in the Fay-West slice of Western Pennsylvania are teaming up for a virtual “Spirit Week,” a show of solidarity during the coronavirus shutdown.

Ligonier Valley’s Kyle Silk displays the Heritage Conference boys basketball championship trophy.

Faith Johnston has every intention of zipping fastballs past opposing hitters next year as a pitcher for the Waynesburg softball team. But she is just as focused on clobbering extra-base hits against opposing arms in the Presidents Athletic Conference.

Jeannette standout Terrelle Pryor dunks during a 2007 WPIAL playoff game against Shady Side Academy.

Terrelle Pryor’s rim-rattling, gym-packing hoops career won’t soon be forgotten

April 24, 2020

While he fully intends to play in the NFL next season, Terrelle Pryor, only half-jokingly, said if his pro football career winds down soon he’ll consider getting in touch with some NBA G League teams to see about a tryout.

Editor’s note: Each day, Trib HSSN will spotlight WPIAL spring athletes whose senior years were cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.

Southmoreland coach Brian Pritts reacts to a play against Lancaster Catholic in a second-round PIAA girls basketball playoff game March 11, 2020 at Bedford Senior High School.

Southmoreland girls basketball coach Brian Pritts steps down after banner season

April 21, 2020

Every day during the stay-at-home era, Brian Pritts has seen firsthand why he put space between himself and basketball.

Frazier’s Emi Curcio scores past Brandywine Heights catcher Naomi Fay during the PIAA Class 2A state championship game Friday, June 14, 2019, at Penn State University.

Derry’s Aiden Bushey chips onto the green on the 17th during the PIAA West Region golf championship Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019, at Tom’s Run Golf Course.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Derry’s Bushey to golf at Cal (Pa.)

Derry senior Aidan Bushey did not start playing competitive golf until high school, so in the beginning of his budding career he had no idea the sport would be so beneficial to his future.

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher scored 32 points in a PIAA first-round loss Friday night.

WPIAL champion Laurel Highlands bounced from PIAA tournament in 1st round

March 6, 2020

Laurel Highlands had grown accustomed to winning close games, almost to the point of expecting them to happen.

Southmoreland’s Charity Henderson steals the ball during the first quarter of the WPIAL Class 4A championship game against North Catholic Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, at Petersen Events Center.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball preview capsules for March 7, 2020

Today’s games

Today’s game

Homer-Center’s Ryan Sardone is surrounded by Ligonier Valley’s Isaac Niedbalson (left) and Michael Marinchak during the Heritage Conference championship game Friday, Feb. 7, 2020 at IUP.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Rich Garland lands at Mt. Pleasant

February 22, 2020

When Rich Garland left Franklin Regional, he knew his days of coaching girls soccer in the WPIAL were not over.

Jeannette’s Imani Sanders drives to the basket as Shenango’s Ryan Lenhart defends.

Shenango mans up, knocks off Jeannette in boys Class 2A quarters

February 21, 2020

Shenango had planned to come out in a 3-2 zone defense against Jeannette in the WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball quarterfinals, but coach Bob McQuiston had an 11th hour change of heart.

Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock (4) takes a shot against Monessen on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020.

Westmoreland County basketball playoff preview capsules: Games of Feb. 22, 2020

WPIAL basketball playoff preview

Southmoreland’s Sarah Pisula hugs teammate Charity Henderson after the team won 54-52 against Freeport in girls WPIAL basketball playoffs on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020 at Penn-Trafford High School.

Derry’s Tiana Moracco (left) dribbles around Freedom’s Jules Mohrbacher on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2020 in a WPIAL playoff game at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Christian Hyland has the Greensburg Central Catholic boys in the playoffs in his first season at the helm.

Westmoreland boys basketball playoff capsules: Games for Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020

February 14, 2020

WPIAL boys basketball playoff preview capsules

Southmoreland’s Riley Comforti will lead the Scotties into their WPIAL Class 3A first-round playoff game against Beaver Falls.

Kendelle Weston and Monessen are seeking their first playoff victory since 2012.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Monessen preps for playoff return

February 12, 2020

Janine Vertacnik has coached in numerous WPIAL playoff games over the years, including when she led teams at Jeannette and Greensburg Salem.

Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto (10) looks for a pass to teammates Gracie Spadaro on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020 in WPIAL basketball against Elizabeth Forward at Southmoreland High School.

Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto drives to the basket as Elizabeth Forward’s Haven Briggs defends Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020 in WPIAL basketball at Southmoreland High School.

Unbeaten Southmoreland girls highlights WPIAL playoff field from Westmoreland County

February 8, 2020

Twenty-one up, 21 down.

Southmoreland’s Riley Comforti, during the Westmoreland County Coaches Association annual 7 on 7 tournament, at Greater Latrobe Area High School, in Unity Twp., on Thursday, July 19, 2018.

High school notebook: Southmoreland’s Comforti settles on sport, college

While challenging and often debatable, Riley Comforti finally found comfort in his college decision.

Hempfield’s Mikey Gaffney passes through Latrobe’s defense in WPIAL basketball on Friday, Feb. 7, 2020 at Hempfield Area High School.

Gaffney, playoff-bound Hempfield keep rival Latrobe from WPIAL postseason

February 7, 2020

Mikey Gaffney thought Hempfield had a playoff team last year, but the Spartans fell short of reaching the WPIAL boys basketball postseason. A 25-point loss on the final night of the season to rival Latrobe, a perennial playoff team, only rubbed salt in the wound.

Penn-Trafford’s Maura Suman jumps and shoots the ball against Latrobe on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020, in WPIAL basketball at Greater Latrobe High School.

Southmoreland’s Gracie Spadaro (15) and Maddie Moore celebrate after defeating McKeesport on Monday, Jan. 20, 2020, at Southmoreland High School.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Southmoreland remains perfect

January 29, 2020

There are three teams left in WPIAL girls basketball with perfect records.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Gia Scala drives past Leechburg’s Christine Guo during their game Monday, Jan. 27, 2020, at Leechburg High School.

Senior Scala helps accelerate maturing process for Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball

As one of only three seniors on the Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball team, Gia Scala was well aware of the Centurions’ inexperience coming into the season.

Norwin’s Ty Bilinsky leaps over Fox Chapel defender Shane Susnak after a scramble for a loose balll Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020.

Fox Chapel boys lean on defense for road win over Norwin

January 28, 2020

Defense. Never leave home without it.

Zach Rocco scored 21 points, including the 1,000th of his high school career, to lead Penn-Trafford over Jeannette in the Shootout at Seton Hill on Sunday.

Norwin’s Alex Gabauer jumps over Penn-Trafford’s Bobby Lane during a run-down in the second inning Thursday, April 18, 2019, at Norwin High School.

With realignment, WPIAL football will change again like it does every two years.

Luke Kimmich, defense spark Franklin Regional to win over Hampton

January 17, 2020

Luke Kimmich was starting for Franklin Regional earlier in the basketball season.

Penn-Trafford athletic director Kerry Hetrick received the Pennsylvania State Athletic Directors Association Distinguished Coaching Educator Award.

Penn-Trafford AD Kerry Hetrick wins award

Kerry Hetrick started wearing glasses lately. While he isn’t quite comfortable with the change, his vision for Penn-Trafford athletics remains clear.

Latrobe’s Michael Noonan drives toward a shot on net against Norwin in WPIAL basketball on Friday, Jan. 10, 2020 at Norwin Senior High School.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Latrobe shakes off losses

January 16, 2020

Latrobe is experiencing a down season. Those are words you don’t hear very often coming from the Wildcats’ program.

Brothers Adam Bilinsky (1) and Ty Bilinsky (5) listen to coaching instruction during a time-out against Latrobe in WPIAL basketball on Friday, Jan. 10, 2020 at Norwin Senior High School.

Belle Vernon’s Viva Kreis competes against Brentwood on Dec. 10, 2019, at Belle Vernon.

Westmoreland girls basketball teams get boost from fabulous freshmen

January 8, 2020

Brian Pritts had heard of Olivia Cernuto long before the point guard made her way to the varsity at Southmoreland.

Bailey Kuhns (left) transferred from Southmoreland to Greensburg Central Catholic.

Derry’s Justin Huss attempts to put the ball in the hoop while Freeport’s Jalen Brown (3) defends during WPIAL boys’ basketball on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019 at Derry Area High School.

Injury to teammate gives Derry boys basketball added incentive

December 26, 2019

Derry started the season with one win in its first five games, so the Trojans needed a victory a week ago in their Section 1-4A opener.

Norwin’s Nick Fleming searches for an opening against Hempfield on Friday, Dec. 20, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Penn Hills’ Niya Moore looks for an opening against Latrobe defense on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2019 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Hempfield senior Sarah Liberatore is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

Norwin’s Tyler Bilinsky dribbles around Jeannette defender Keith Rockmore on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2019 at Norwin High School.

Norwin boys use defense to get past Jeannette

December 17, 2019

Unbeaten Norwin probably will have better shooting performances as the season wears on.

Career night for Ashleigh Connor carries Mt. Lebanon past Hempfield

December 16, 2019

Pressure — lots of it — came at Hempfield from all angles early in Monday night’s Section 2-6A girls basketball game.

Hempfield girls basketball players wear special warm-up T-shirts Monday, Dec. 16, 2019 to support Mt. Lebanon junior Lexi Ribstenein, who is battling cancer.

Hempfield girls basketball team raises money for Mt. Lebanon junior battling cancer

Hempfield senior basketball player Sarah Liberatore wanted to surprise two of her AAU teammates and, as an extension, help out a friend of theirs who is battling cancer.

Mt. Pleasant softball standout Mary Smithnosky committed to Western Michigan.

Mt. Pleasant softball standout Smithnosky commits to Western Michigan

December 13, 2019

Junior Mary Smithnosky is a hit with Western Michigan.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Nate Ward accepts his gold medal from head coach Tyler Solis after the Centurions defeated Winchester Thurston in the boys WPIAL Class A championship game Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, at Highmark Stadium.

GCC’s Nate Ward makes most of All-American Game experience

Greensburg Central Catholic senior Nate Ward not only was selected to play in the High School All-American Soccer Game last weekend in Winter Park, Fla., he also made the most of the trip by finding the back of the net.

Hempfield senior lineman Cole Graham (left) on Wednesday committed to St. Francis (Pa.).

Jeannette’s Keith Rockmore looks for an opening against Belle Vernon at the Hempfield tournament Friday, Dec. 6, 2019, at Hempfield Area High School.

Whitlock’s big second half leads Belle Vernon boys over Jeannette

December 6, 2019

With Thomas Hepple visible in the corner of his eye, Devin Whitlock caught ball on the break under the basket and saw the play of the game develop seconds before it happened.

Latrobe’s Lane Ruffner chases after a puck during a matchup with Upper St. Clair, Monday, October 15, at Ice Castle.

Latrobe’s Lane Ruffner signs with Wichita of North American Hockey League

Latrobe senior Lane Ruffner is ready to take the next step in his hockey career.

Penn-Trafford boys basketball coach Jim Rocco prepares his team during practice for the 2019-2020 season Nov. 27, 2019.

Hempfield lineman Cole Graham adds another D-1 offer

December 4, 2019

Hempfield senior football player Cole Graham added his second Division I college opportunity Wednesday, announcing a scholarship offer from Lehigh, a FCS program.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco works against West Allegheny’s Caleb Miller during the boys WPIAL Class AAA championship game against West Allegheny Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, at Highmark Stadium.

Soccer stars Anthony DiFalco, Hannah Stuck earn All-America honors; All-region teams also announced

Anthony DiFalco was in biology class Wednesday morning when his soccer coach at Franklin Regional, Rand Hudson, entered the classroom and interrupted the session.

Southmoreland’s Charity Henderson attempts to dribble around Elizabeth Forward’s Juria Flournoy during girls’ WPIAL basketball on Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019 at Elizabeth Forward High School. Southmoreland lost 44-45.

Norwin’s girls basketball coach Brian Brozeski works with his team during practice Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Playoff losses motivate deep, talented Norwin girls team

November 28, 2019

Jayla Wehner still can see the ball going through the rim — in slow motion, to haunt her dreams even more.

Norwin boys basketball coach Buddy Valinsky works with his team during practice Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Belle Vernon’s Cameron Guess made it all the way to No. 1 in the Kohl’s Kicking Camps national punter rankings last year for the Class of 2020.

Roster out for ESSMC WPIAL Girls Soccer Classic

November 22, 2019

Players have been named for the first East Suburban Sports Medicine Center WPIAL Girls Soccer Classic on Saturday at Franklin Regional’s Panther Stadium in Murrysville.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Shane Stump dives over the pylon to score as time expires in the first half of the WPIAL Class 4A championship game against Belle Vernon Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

Girls soccer showcase coming to Franklin Regional

November 12, 2019

There is a newly sponsored girls soccer showcase and it is open to WPIAL seniors who made all-section or All-WPIAL teams this season.

Franklin Regional’s Garrett Beaver celebrates with Blake Cooper after scoring the winning goal next to West Allegheny’s Brady Christian during the boys WPIAL Class AAA championship game Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, at Highmark Stadium.

Greensburg Central Catholic goalkeeper Lyndsey Szekely makes a save during the Centurions’ PIAA Class A girls state quarterfinal against Freedom Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, at Peters Twp. High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic works to overcome Shady Side Academy intimidation

November 10, 2019

Shady Side Academy represents more to Greensburg Central Catholic than a longtime section and playoff rival. More than its next playoff opponent on the pathway to Hershey. More than ordinary.

The Penn-Trafford defense helped contain Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis (11) and the Panthers’ fast-paced offense in the WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinals.

Central Valley’s Ameer Dudley claps after a play during the WPIAL Class 3A semifinals against Derry on Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, at North Allegheny.

Central Valley shows no weakness, routs Derry

November 8, 2019

Rather matter of factly, Derry football coach Tim Sweeney said Central Valley’s greatest strength is the fact that it doesn’t have a weakness.

Penn-Trafford’s Caleb Lisbon scores against Norwin on Aug. 23.

Westmoreland County football notes: Injured RB Caleb Lisbon inspires Penn-Trafford

November 7, 2019

He may be injured, but Caleb Lisbon still is very much a part of the Penn-Trafford football team.

Penn-Trafford’s Ethan Carr poses for a photo during practice Sept. 30, 2019, at Penn-Trafford.

Penn-Trafford’s Ethan Carr gets 1st Division I football offer

Penn-Trafford’s Ethan Carr, one of the WPIAL’s most versatile football players and a top-tier prospect in the Class of 2021, has his first Division I offer.

Max Malis is a leader on the line for Derry.

Derry celebrates their win over Beaver Falls on Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, for WPIAL 3A playoff football at Derry Area High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ricco Ciccarelli (8) celebrates his goal with teammates during their WPIAL Class A semifinal against Springdale on Oct. 26, 2019, at Hampton High School.

Norwin’s Paloma Swankler controls the ball in front of Fox Chapel’s Kaylee Uribe during their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal on Oct. 24, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls clip No. 1 Freedom in OT to reach WPIAL final

October 28, 2019

Jessica Nemeth said the final play seemed like it was in slow motion.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Nate Ward celebrates his goal against Springdale during a WPIAL Class A semifinal Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, at Hampton High School.

2 from WPIAL picked for HS All-American soccer games

A pair of WPIAL soccer players were selected to play in the High School All-American games set for Dec. 7 in Orlando, Fla.

Belle Vernon’s Jillian Butchki has scored 38 goals for the Leopards, who play Mars in the WPIAL Class AAA semifinals on Monday.

Westmoreland girls soccer preview capsules: Games of Monday, Oct. 28, 2019

October 27, 2019

WPIAL girls soccer playoffs

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Gianni Diacopoulos makes a save on Blackhawk’s Cougar Bouril amid Panther defenders during their WPIAL Class 3A semifinal Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, at Hampton High School.

Penn-Trafford’s Brad Ford carries for some yardage as Franklin Regional’s Justin Johns (1) runs for a tackle during WPIAL football on Friday, Oct. 25, 2019 at Franklin Regional High School.

Yough’s Amber Biros (2) celebrates her goal off a corner kick with teammates during their WPIAL Class AA quarterfinal against Burrell Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Yough girls edge Burrell for spot in soccer semifinals

October 24, 2019

Natalie Vilchek left the game for an extended period of time in the first half Thursday night after she tweaked her right knee.

Franklin Regional’s Zac Gordon (40) rushes the ball against Latrobe on Friday, Sept. 6, 2019.

Westmoreland County football notes: Penn-Trafford, Franklin Regional show mutual respect

Penn-Trafford knows what it is getting with Franklin Regional. But the sentiment is mutual.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ryan Reitler (27) looks to control against Avonworth’s Johnathon Nicolaus (12) during a WPIAL Class A quarterfinal game October 23, 2019 at Fox Chapel High.

Belle Vernon’s Tyler Kovatch competes against Ringgold on Sept. 3, 2019, at Belle Vernon.

Westmoreland boys soccer playoff capsules

October 22, 2019

WPIAL boys soccer playoffs

Appolonia leads Yough past Highlands in WPIAL girls soccer playoffs

October 21, 2019

A lot has been made of the Yough girls soccer team’s high-octane offensive skills.

Hempfield catcher Emma Hoffner picks Ohio

Emma Hoffner is a junior at Hempfield, but she already has been through the college recruiting process twice.

Franklin Regional junior Aly Kindelberger, who has committed to DePaul, has a team-best 336 kills for the section-champion Panthers, who are preparing to begin the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs next week.

No. 1 Thomas Jefferson shows might in win at Greensburg Salem

October 18, 2019

It’s a begrudgingly accepted fact in sports.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Nate Ward celebrates a playoff goal against Vincentian last season.

Westmoreland County boys soccer matchups for the first round of the WPIAL playoffs

Saturday’s games

Greensburg Salem’s Aaron Putt runs the ball as Hempfield defender Guy Lucus (3) attempts to tackle on Friday night, Aug. 23, 2019 at Hempfield Area High School in WPIAL football.

Westmoreland County football notes: Greensburg Salem wary of TJ mystique

October 17, 2019

It’s just a name playing another game.

Norwin’s Matthew Federovich battles Penn-Trafford’s Logan Brinko for the ball during their game Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019, at Norwin.

Penn-Trafford’s Malia Kearns (21) celebrates after scoring against Norwin with Emma Rain (9) October 14, 2019 at Penn-Trafford.

Penn-Trafford draws up plan of attack for girls soccer playoffs

October 15, 2019

Sitting on early leads will not be the strategy that takes Penn-Trafford far in the WPIAL Class AAAA girls soccer playoffs.

Franklin Regional boys make national soccer rankings

Franklin Regional is considered one of the top 50 boys high school soccer teams in the country.

Norwin beats rival Penn-Trafford, clinches girls soccer section title with second-half surge

October 14, 2019

A slow start gave way to a fast finish as the Norwin girls soccer team amped up its play, looking more like a potential WPIAL title contender in the second 40 minutes, and captured its second consecutive Section 3-AAAA championship.

Hempfield’s Blake Remaley runs the ball against Greensburg Salem’s defender Kenneth Shea during WPIAL football at Greensburg Salem’s Offutt Field on Friday, Aug. 24, 2018.

Westmoreland football notebook: Hempfield’s Remaley plays through injury

October 3, 2019

Quarterback Blake Remaley had the option to sit out and let time heal his ailment, but that just wasn’t his style.

Coach Tyler Solis works out with the team during soccer practice at Greensburg Central Catholic on Friday, Aug. 16, 2019.

Fox Chapel’s Scott Bitar watches his tee shot on Hole 13 during the WPIAL Class AAA boys golf championship Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2019, at Fox Chapel Golf Club.

Jeannette senior linebacker Justin Cramer expected the Jayhawks’ defense to be strong, but even he is impressed with the team’s string of three consecutive shutouts.

Norwin’s Riley Zimmerman heads the ball next to Penn-Trafford’s Logan Brinko during their game Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019, at Norwin.

Norwin tight end Tanner Krevokuch hauls in a a pass to score points against Penn Trafford in the championship game of the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7on7 tournament on Thursday July 18, 2019 at Latrobe High School. Norwin defeated Penn Trafford 24-13.

Norwin’s Krevokuch lands FBS offer

September 15, 2019

Norwin football player Tanner Krevokuch has his first Division I-FBS scholarship offer.

Franklin Regional girls volleyball coach Mike Feorene talks to his team during a scrimmage game against Hampton August 27, 2019 at Franklin Regional.

Penn Trafford’s Gabe Dunlap gets past McKeesport’s David LaRotonda.

Penn-Trafford overcomes injuries to top McKeesport

September 13, 2019

What concerned Penn-Trafford most about McKeesport this week was the Tigers’ reputation for being a physical opponent.

Penn-Trafford’s Caleb Lisbon is tackled by McKeesport’s David LaRotonda in last year’s game, a 20-9 Warriors’ victory.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Top-ranked P-T readies for McKeesport

Penn-Trafford football coach John Ruane bristled at the idea McKeesport and Penn-Trafford may have lost some of its shine because his top-ranked Warriors beat Gateway two weeks ago, and McKeesport has one loss.

Franklin Regional goalkeeper Gianni Diacopoulos makes a save in front of Thomas Jefferson’s Luke Giger during their game Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019, in Murrysville.

‘So far, so good’ for Franklin Regional soccer

September 12, 2019

Some of the names have changed in the rotation but the possess-the-ball style of play and heavy dose of talent remains the same at Franklin Regional.

Penn Trafford’s Gabe Dunlap throws a touchdown pass to Ethan Carr in the fourth quarter Friday, Aug. 30, 2019 at Penn Trafford High School.

Penn-Trafford’s football team (far right) and boys soccer team share the field at Warrior Stadium during a practice this week.

Class 6A

The Penn-Trafford softball team celebrates with the state championship trophy after defeating Lampeter-Strasburg in the PIAA Class 5A final Friday, June 14, 2019, at Penn State University.

State champion Penn-Trafford softball team to be honored in Harrisburg

September 3, 2019

The Penn-Trafford softball team will be honored later this month for winning a PIAA championship in June.

Twin sisters Meghan and Ella Zambruno will lead the Greensburg Central Catholic girls golf team in the 2019 season.

Jeannette’s Jackson Pruitt is questionable Friday night with a right shoulder injury.

Quaker Valley’s Dom Reiter participates in drills during soccer practice at the hgih school Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2019.

Belle Vernon’s Izzy Laurita commits to Division I soccer program

August 25, 2019

Belle Vernon junior soccer standout Izzy Laurita had a checklist handy when she began the recruiting process.

Latrobe QB Branden Crosby threw the winning TD pass in overtime against Derry.

Penn-Trafford quarterback Gabe Dunlap passes against Norwin in the championship game of the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7-on-7 tournament on Thursday, July 18, 2019, at Latrobe High School. Norwin defeated Penn-Trafford 24-13.

Southmoreland’s Colt Harper participates in the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7-on-7 tournament on Thursday, July 18, 2019, at Latrobe High School.

Southmoreland believes it is closing in on end of playoff drought

August 19, 2019

As an alum and second-year coach, Dave Keefer is all for recognizing high points in the history of Southmoreland football — even if one such commemoration captures a frustrating and cumbersome streak in full perspective.

Interim coach Bri Guy during soccer practice at Greensburg Central Catholic in Hempfield Township, on Friday, Aug. 16, 2019.

Franklin Regional’s Natalie Ribar, right, and Ryleigh Jack, left, compete with one another during a team scrimmage on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019, at Franklin Regional High School for girls’ soccer practice.

Franklin Regional girls soccer opens season with hat trick

August 17, 2019

Franklin Regional opened preseason camp with a hat trick: three practices a day for the first three days.

Franklin Regional boys soccer wants to pick up where it left off

Before the start of a recent practice, Franklin Regional boys soccer coach Rand Hudson left his car running as it sat parked just outside of Panther Stadium.

Norwin’s Jayla Wehner (right) had three college offers before verbally committing to Marian, a NAIA program in Indianapolis.

High school notebook: Norwin backcourt drawing college interest

Norwin will have one of the top backcourt duos in WPIAL girls basketball next season in senior point guard Jayla Wehner and shooting guard Olivia Gribble.

Penn-Trafford’s Chase Burk intercepts a pass intended for a Southmoreland receiver in the the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7-on-7 tournament on Thursday, July 18, 2019, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Penn-Trafford has championship aspirations

August 16, 2019

Penn-Trafford is a program that never seems to take a heavy hit from graduation losses.

Bri Guy (standing) is filling in for girls soccer coach Ashley Davis at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Westmoreland high school notebook: GCC interim coach Guy breaks ice

Bri Guy met with her Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer players for the first time on a sizzling and muggy Thursday morning in Carbon.

Former Woodland Hills, St. Francis defender Bri Guy filling in as girls soccer coach at GCC

August 15, 2019

Bri Guy met with her Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer players for the first time on a sizzling and muggy Thursday morning in Carbon.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Football tiebreaker tweaked in Class 5A

August 11, 2019

There is a change in the WPIAL Class 5A football tiebreaker for the playoffs. With Albert Gallatin departing the league, 5A has 23 teams competing for 16 playoff spots.

New coach Colbert leans on senior players at Greensburg Central Catholic

Senior leadership should not be a problem this football season at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Penn-Trafford head coach John Ruane watches the action at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7on7 tournament on Thursday July 18, 2019 at Latrobe High School.

Norwin’s Tanner Krevokuch scores on a pass from quarterback Jack Salopek against Penn-Trafford during the WCCA 7-on-7 football tournament championship game on Thursday, July 18, 2019 at Greater Latrobe High School. Norwin beat Penn-Trafford 24-13.

It is no secret: Lineman looks to be the premier position his season in Westmoreland County football.

Jeannette names new soccer coaches: Delaney Cortazzo, Arthur Cicero

July 23, 2019

Jeannette’s boys and girls soccer programs will be under new direction this fall season.

Jeannette approves Ryan Hayden as athletic director

Jeannette this week approved the hiring of Ryan Hayden as the district’s new athletic director.

What will Jeannette’s new football turf field look like?

July 21, 2019

Drier weather — albeit exhaustingly hot weather — has helped the artificial turf project gain momentum at McKee Stadium in Jeannette.

Record number of teams to play in WCCA 7-on-7 passing tournament

In the eight years the Westmoreland County Coaches Association has hosted a seven-on-seven football passing tournament, Penn-Trafford has captured the championship five times, including last year.

Peters’ Makenna Marisa drives past Norwin’s Brianna Zajicek during PIAA second action at Keystone Oaks High School.

Christian Hyland is Greensburg Central Catholic’s new boys basketball coach.

New Greensburg Central Catholic coach Hyland brings youthful energy

July 10, 2019

Christian Hyland’s first memories of NBA basketball consist of postseason journeyman Robert Horry sinking the winning shot for the Los Angeles Lakers against the Sacramento Kings in the 2002 Western Conference Finals and veteran guard Derek Fisher’s walk-off jumper to lift the Lakers past the San Antonio Spurs two years later in the Western semifinals.

Hempfield swimmer Gavin Mayo will compete at the 2019 WPIAL championships Feb. 28-March 1, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Sewickley Academy has set the standard in WPIAL boys golf.

Hempfield Area’s Mackenna Orie wins the shot put during the AAA WPIAL Track and Field Championships at Slippery Rock University.

Hempfield’s Mackenna Orie named Tribune-Review Westmoreland Girls Athlete of the Year

June 29, 2019

Mackenna Orie took up track and field, throwing events in particular, because she watched her sister, Sam, heave heavy objects during meets.

Penn-Trafford’s Emma Armstrong is greeted by teammates at home plate after hitting a solo home run against Lampeter-Strasburg during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game Friday, June 14, 2019, at Penn State University.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford softball to get Capitol treatment

Penn-Trafford softball will get the pageantry it earned by winning the first state championship — in any sport — in school history.

Gateway tight end/linebacker Tui Brown helped to lead the Gators to the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals last season.

Tui Brown returns as 2-way playmaker for Gateway football

The Freedom girls soccer team celebrates after defeating Shady Side Academy in their PIAA Class A state semifinal Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2018, at Mars Stadium.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018 girls soccer season

June 26, 2019

Freedom was fearless — and Sharpless — on the way to a WPIAL girls soccer championship and a PIAA runner-up finish in Class A last fall.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Palmer Jackson clinches win with big putt

Before Franklin Regional senior Palmer Jackson went to bed last Wednesday night, he had a feeling Thursday would be a good day.

Westmoreland notebook: New coach Hyland ready to lead GCC basketball

June 8, 2019

Christian Hyland remembers the encouraging words coming from his coach, Greg Bisignani, during his Greensburg Central Catholic senior banquet in 2014.

Hempfield’s Jessica Persin (11) talks with her sister, Olivia, during their PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal against McDowell Thursday, June 6, 2019, at North Allegheny High School.

Hot-hitting Hempfield softball begins state title defense with mercy-rule win

June 3, 2019

Hempfield’s softball lineup, and the team’s offense in general, has been a steady progression from the start of the season through the state playoffs.

Mount Pleasant’s Abby Swank (6), tries to get something going in the bottom of the 7th inning, during their WPIAL Class 4A softball championship 0-3 loss to Elizabeth Forward, at Latrobe’s Graham-Sobota Field in Unity Township, on Friday, May 31, 2019.

Westmoreland notebook: Belle Vernon’s Baron joins long list of linemen with Division I offers

June 1, 2019

Lineman looks to be the premier position for the upcoming high school football season in Westmoreland County.

Derry’s Emmett Anderson (23) and Jason Geary (8) go for a block during a North Allegheny tournament March 23, 2019 at North Allegheny.

Derry volleyball team staying loose ahead of PIAA quarterfinal match

May 31, 2019

Determination is one thing, a good thing, but Derry may have been playing with too much seriousness as it journeyed through this boys volleyball postseason.

Elizabeth Forward knocks off Mt. Pleasant for 1st WPIAL softball title

Elizabeth Forward softball coach Harry Rutherford didn’t tell his team Mt. Pleasant was ranked No. 13 in the nation by MaxPreps.

Mt. Pleasant vaults to 13th in the nation

May 30, 2019

Mt. Pleasant will go for its second WPIAL softball championship Friday afternoon with it will do so with an even loftier ranking than it had heading into the Class 4A semifinals.

Derry’s Jason Geary (8) competes during a North Allegheny tournament March 23, 2019 at North Allegheny.

From left, Derry’s Damian Morales, Dom Reffo, Justin Huss, Christian Bartlebaugh and Tara Perry will compete at the PIAA track and field championships May 24-25, at Shippensburg.

Huss, mile relayers continue success of Derry’s ‘400 club’

May 23, 2019

Justin Huss said being a part of the “400 Club” at Derry is a significant honor, one that nobody in the track and field program takes lightly.

Connellsville’s Mia Burd kicks up a cloud of dust after pitching a throw against Penn-Trafford during WPIAL softball semifinals Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at Seton Hill University.

Franklin Regional’s Andrew Muraco (center) celebrates his two-run home run with teammates during the third inning of their WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal against South Fayette Tuesday, May 21, 2019, at West Mifflin High School.

Penn-Trafford softball keeps rolling, shuts out Albert Gallatin

May 20, 2019

Penn-Trafford moved its year-end softball banquet to next month for one simple reason: This season isn’t over yet.

Buddy Valinsky coaches Allderdice’s state playoff game against Canon-McMillan Saturday, Mar. 9, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

Buddy Valinsky named boys basketball coach at Norwin

Buddy Valinsky said he would have remained at Allderdice had the school joined the WPIAL in boys basketball.

Carolyn Alincic (right), shown talking with coach Chris Brunson, and undefeated Mt. Pleasant play Ringgold in the WPIAL 4A quarterfinals.

Westmoreland WPIAL and District 6 softball playoff capsules: Games of Monday, May 20

May 19, 2019

Monday’s games

High school notebook: Sections of McKee Stadium sod for sale

How much does Jeannette love its high school football?

Penn-Trafford’s Morgan Hilty pitches out of a bases-loaded jam during the second inning against Franklin Regional Thursday, May 1, 2019, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Westmoreland lookahead for Week of May, 20, 1019

MONDAY

Greensburg Salem’s Jack Oberdorf celebrates his RBI double next to Yough’s Nathaniel Wilkins during their game Wednesday, May 1, 2019, at Greensburg Salem High School.

Westmoreland notebook: Baseball, softball teams reap benefits of extra classifications

May 18, 2019

When the WPIAL went to six classifications three years ago, the idea was to create parity and give more teams a chance to play for championships.

Norwin’s Bailee Bertani dives into second base with a two-run double under Bethel Park’s Reagan Milliken during the second inning of their WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at Gateway High School.

Jarett Bach and second-seeded Yough face 15th-seeded Central Valley at 4 p.m. today in the first round of the WPIAL tournament.

Westmoreland baseball playoff preview capsules: Games of Wednesday, May 15, 2019

May 14, 2019

Wednesday’s games

Laura Fox and Hempfield begin their quest for a fifth consecutive WPIAL softball title today.

Westmoreland softball playoff preview capsules: Games of Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Wednesday’s games

Pitcher Angalee Beall leads sixth-seeded Franklin Regional against No. 11 Montour in the Class 5A playoffs.

Ligonier Valley’s Sullivan Schueltz slides safely to third base as Greensburg Central Catholic’s Thomas Voelker attempts to grab the catch Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Ligonier Valley High School.

District 6 baseball playoff capsule: Ligonier Valley vs. West Shamokin

May 12, 2019

District 6 baseball

Ligonier Valley will go for a double-dip next week.

Franklin Regional’s Tommy Kegerreis crosses home plate after hitting a go-ahead solo home run during the fifth inning against Gateway Wednesday, May 8, 2019, in Murrysville.

Fox Chapel’s Dante DeBaldo steals second base next to Franklin Regional’s Jake Williams during their game Friday, April 5, 2019, at Fox Chapel High School.

Franklin Regional’s Williams commits to Yale baseball

May 7, 2019

Franklin Regional’s standout shortstop and top entrepreneur is heading to the Ivy League.

Penn-Trafford to get new turf at Warrior Stadium, possibly at baseball, softball fields

If all goes according to plan, Penn-Trafford could have artificial turf infields on its baseball and softball diamonds in the near future.

Greensburg Central’s Ava Bailey drives in the winning run in front of Jeannette catcher Taylor-Lynn Finken in an 11-1 victory in five innings Tuesday, May 7, 2019, at Greensburg Central Catholic High School.

GCC softball gets momentum-building win over playoff-bound Jeannette

Greensburg Central Catholic was hoping to take momentum into the WPIAL Class A softball playoffs. To peak at the right time, as the expression goes.

Yough softball hosting Frazier in ‘Strikeout Cancer’ event

Last year, the Yough softball team raised $6,000 for a pair of classmates who were stricken with cancer. The students since have recovered and are doing better.

Franklin Regional coach Bobby Sadlet talks with pitcher Mike Klingensmith and his infielders during their game on April 5, 2019, at Fox Chapel.

Westmoreland teams claim long-coveted section titles

May 6, 2019

The wait is over for a number of Westmoreland County baseball teams.

No. 1 Greensburg Salem baseball edges closer to 1st section title since 2012

Put another ball on the banner.

Hempfield’s Emma Hoffner drives in a run against Penn Trafford in the first inning Friday, April 5, 2019 at Seton Hill University.

Hitters to pave playoff path for Westmoreland County softball teams

Pitchers made all the headlines in the WPIAL and PIAA playoffs in recent years for Westmoreland County teams.

Westmoreland high school week ahead: Week of May 6, 2019

May 5, 2019

MONDAY

From left, Ray Mello, Bob Kalp and Dick Albright, have coached the Hempfield softball team together for 23 years.

Hempfield honors longtime softball coaches Kalp, Albright, Mello

May 3, 2019

Hempfield honored the longtime softball coaching trio of head coach Bob Kalp and assistants Dick Albright and Ray Mello in a pregame ceremony Friday at Robert D. Kalp Field.

No. 4 Norwin sweeps rival Hempfield in Section 2-6A

Continue to prove.

Mt. Pleasant’s Carolyn Alincic no-hits Highlands

May 2, 2019

Mt. Pleasant softball pitcher Carolyn Alincic has been dominant all season.

Penn-Trafford’s Morgan Hilty pitches out of a bases-loaded jam during the first inning against Franklin Regional Thursday, May 2, 2019, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Well-traveled football coach Bob Colbert is joining the staff at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Penn-Trafford’s Maclean Maund high-fives head coach Dan Miller at third base during their game against North Allegheny Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2019, at Seton Hill University.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford has its own Mr. Baseball

April 27, 2019

Dan Miller is Penn-Trafford’s Mr. Baseball. He lives and breathes the game year-round and gets to see it from a number of perspectives.

Belle Vernon third baseman Vanessa Porter tags out McKeesport’s Elisabeth Dansak on a stolen base attempt April 4, 2019.

Belle Vernon softball to play game at football stadium

April 26, 2019

Belle Vernon does not have a turf softball field, but that won’t stop the Leopards from playing a home game on an artificial surface Saturday.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Tatum Gretz fires a shot for one of her goals during a game against Riverview on Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2018, in Carbon.

There was quite a catch made — for a softball player and a heads-up cameraman — across the state on Tuesday.

Penn-Trafford varsity baseball players and seniors, from left, Marrio Disso, Bobby Kusinsky, Connor Bannias, and Luke Fabac pose for a portrait on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at Penn-Trafford High School.

Quartet of ‘pleasant surprises’ helps Penn-Trafford baseball climb to No. 2 ranking in Class 6A

April 23, 2019

Even the best baseball teams don’t completely know what they have until the section schedule gets rolling.

The Westmoreland County Coaches Association will host its seventh annual Underclassmen Football Showcase 9 a.m. May 11 at Hempfield’s Spartan Stadium.

Westmoreland lookahead for Week of April 15, 2019

Highlights of the week ahead in Westmoreland high school sports:

Westmoreland notebook: Yough’s Shoaf lands in football all-star game

April 13, 2019

Two-time WPIAL rushing champion Dustin Shoaf will play in an all-star game after all.

Hempfield’s Emma Hoffner drives in a run against Penn-Trafford in the first inning Friday at Seton Hill.

Strong start lifts Penn-Trafford to rare mercy-rule victory over Hempfield

April 5, 2019

There is something about Penn-Trafford softball and games against Hempfield at Seton Hill.

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski drives past Central Valley’ Kaithlyn Lyons during the 4A girls WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

WPIAL players selected to USA Basketball 3×3 teams

Some of the rising stars in WPIAL basketball that will take the court next season will test their skills against talent from around the country next weekend in Colorado.

Tallman strikes out 18 as No. 2 Latrobe edges Franklin Regional in Section 1-5A

April 4, 2019

Franklin Regional and Latrobe are new opponents in Section 1-5A softball so it took them some time to get used to one another Thursday in Murrysville.

Sophomore Emma Hoffner still plans to play Division I softball and clearly has the talent to do so.

Hempfield’s Hoffner opens recruitment

March 28, 2019

Sophomore Emma Hoffner still plans to play Division I softball, and has the talent to do so.

North Allegheny’s Rachel Martindale hits a grand slam during the fifth inning against Hempfield Thursday, Mar. 28, 2019, at Hempfield Area High School.

Martindale’s grand slam lifts North Allegheny past No. 1 Hempfield

After missing last softball season with a knee injury, Rachel Martindale was anxious to get back on the field.

Penn-Trafford’s Maclean Maund (8) is greeted at the dugout by teammates after scoring during their game against North Allegheny Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2019, at Seton Hill University.

Maund helps Penn-Trafford top North Allegheny on future home field

March 27, 2019

Maclean Maund plans to play college baseball at Seton Hill.

Head coach Matt Regula during basketball practice at Derry Area High School in Derry, on Monday, Nov. 19, 2018.

The Hempfield Area softball team celebrates Emma Hoffner’s walk-off hit after defeating Parkland, 4-3 in 8 innings, in the PIAA Class 6A state final Friday, June 15, 2018, at Penn State University.

Hempfield softball has extended trip home from State Capitol after bus breaks down

March 18, 2019

Stranded but still enjoying the ride, the state softball champions didn’t let a broken down bus dampen their trip to the state capitol.

Boys PIAA playoff preview capsule: Monessen vs. Vincentian

March 17, 2019

PIAA basketball playoffs

Monessen’s Marquell Smith faces Vincentian in the PIAA Class A semifinals Monday.

Westmoreland high school lookahead: Week of March 18, 2019

Highlights of the week ahead in Westmoreland County high school sports:

Peters’ Mackenzie Lehman fights for a rebound with Norwin’s Cassie Cole during PIAA second action at Keystone Oaks High School.

Peters Township girls top Norwin in PIAA basketball quarterfinals

March 15, 2019

Norwin knew if it had a chance against Peters Township, the game would have to resemble a 12-round heavyweight fight. The Knights would have to trade punches with the unbeaten Indians and be able to go back and forth.

Franklin Regional head coach Steve Scorpion works with his team during practice Monday, Nov. 19, 2018, at the high school in Murrysville.

Scorpion admires Groat as grandfather and broadcaster

Dozens of Dick Groat stories have been shared in around Pitt basketball circles in the past few days since word surfaced that the longtime courtside broadcaster and sidekick to Bill Hillgrove was parting ways with the Panthers after 40 years.

Norwin’s Jayla Wehner scores past Altoona’s Caranda Perea (right) during their PIAA playoff game at Hollidaysburg. Wehner had a team-best 13 points.

Norwin’s Jayla Wehner drives past North Allegheny’s Taylor Rowls during their WPIAL Class 6A semifinal at Fox Chapel High School.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball capsules: Games for March 8-9, 2019

March 7, 2019

Boys basketball

Hempfield Area’s Mackenna Orie takes second in the girls shot put Thursday, May 17, 2018 during WPIAL AAA track and field championships at Baldwin High School.

WPIAL athletes garner all-state honors for indoor season

March 6, 2019

Athletes from WPIAL schools were lauded by the Pennsylvania Track & Field Coaches Association with the organization’s all-state teams for the indoor season.

Hempfield’s Brose up to eight Division I offers

Hempfield’s Fintan Brose is pulling in offers in pairs.

Franklin Regional’s Nick Leopold gets around Moon’s Donovan Johnson during WPIAL playoff action Friday, Feb. 22, 2019 at West Allegheny High School.

Jayla Wehner and Norwin will look to put a WPIAL Class 6A semifinals loss in the rear-view mirror in the first round of the PIAA tournament Friday night against District 6 champion Altoona.

Southmoreland coaches and players will be tuned in to the broadcast of the WPIAL Class 4A girls basketball championship Friday night.

Westmoreland PIHL playoff capsule for Feb. 28, 2019

February 27, 2019

PIHL Penguins Cup playoff preview

Burrell’s Megan Malits fights for the ball against Yough’s Justine Appolonia as she directs the ball toward the net on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018 during WPIAL girls’ 2A soccer playoffs at Kiski Area High School.

To Jeannette, it seems like Sewickley Academy is lurking around every corner at boys basketball playoff time. There seems to be no escaping the perennially strong Panthers.

Jeannette to recognize inaugural hall of fame class Friday night

February 7, 2019

Westmoreland soccer notebook: Boys teams take center stage this fall

October 31, 2018

Girls soccer teams from Westmoreland County had turned the WPIAL finals into an annual pilgrimage to Highmark Stadium. The boys, not so much. But times are changing, at least for this season. While no local girls teams made it to the championship games for the first time since 2009, three

Top-seeded Avonworth next challenge for Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer

From Day 1 of preseason conditioning, before uniforms were handed out and starters were named, the goal -- no, make that the mission statement -- for the Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer team, was to bring home a WPIAL championship. The thought of anything less than getting to the final

October 18, 2018

Westmoreland high school notebook: GCC girls going for 4th straight golf title

October 6, 2018

Greensburg Central Catholic girls golf could win as many titles in a row as there have been Zambrunos on the team in recent years: four. The Centurions are in the four-team WPIAL Class AA championship field Thursday at Cedarbrook in Rostraver. If they can get past Elizabeth Forward, Sewickley Academy

Valley's Isiah Mangol (15), drives past Jeanette's Robert Kennedy (1), defends, during the WCCA Shootout on Friday, July 7, 2017, at Hempfield.

Hempfield's Kierstin Schade (18) celebrates a point against Baldwin in a WPIAL Class AAAA quarterfinal match on Tuesday Oct. 31, 2017 at Norwin.

Franklin Regional's Hunter Stonecheck drives to the hoop past Belle Vernon's Cameron Nooser in their game during the Hempfield boys tip-off tournament at Hempfield's Fieldhouse on Friday, Dec 08, 2017. Franklin Regional defeated Belle Vernon 67-55.

Ligonier Valley's Jackson Daugherty (12) is dragged down by the Homer-Center defense after a long gain in the third quarter on Friday Oct. 06, 2017 at Homer-Center.

Westmoreland County football Q&A with Ligonier Valley’s Jackson Daugherty

October 25, 2017

As one of the state's most versatile playmakers, Jackson Daugherty has accounted for 1,284 all-purpose yards and 23 touchdowns, scoring via rush, pass and reception

Mt. Pleasant's Arthur Bartlow (13) jumps for a header against Freeport in the first half on Thursday Oct. 05, 2017 at Mt. Pleasant.

Sewickley Academy, Central Catholic boys, NA, GCC girls repeat as WPIAL golf champions

Dynasties have happened in WPIAL golf before. There's the Upper St. Clair girls, the standard-bearers, who won 12 consecutive titles from 1994-2005. The Panthers have

Norwin's Sam Wexell (1) collects a loose ball from the ground against Penn-Trafford in overtime on Wednesday Oct. 11, 2017 at Norwin.

Norwin, Penn-Trafford girls draw in Section 4-AAAA finale

October 11, 2017

Chants of andquot;overratedandquot; from the Penn-Trafford student section still echoed loudly in the minds of Norwin girls soccer players. It fanned the flames of an

Hempfield sophomore Wiederstein commits to Michigan baseball

October 9, 2017

Tyler Wiederstein went to a college football game over the weekend. Two days later, he took the first step to becoming a college baseball player.

Belle Vernon lineman Blake Zubovic (facing) committed to Pitt and is one of the top returning players in the Class 4A Big 9 Conference.

Westmoreland high school look-ahead: Week of Oct. 9, 2017

October 8, 2017

Penn-Trafford's Will Mayr runs drills at the Penn-Trafford Warrior's Stadium on August 8th, 2017.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Belle Vernon’s Parker Lind shines in opener

An opening day starting pitcher wants quality and control, but he will gladly accept excellence.

Penn-Trafford uses familiar formula to defeat Latrobe in baseball home opener

March 24, 2025

Hard times can’t sink Mt. Pleasant swimming star David Mutter

David Mutter is a free agent, and a resilient one at that.

Norwin softball hungry for another taste of WPIAL success

Norwin softball coach Brian Mesich also is an athletic trainer in the district.

Norwin notebook: Junior sets school record in indoor mile

Annie Czajkowski enjoyed a trip to Boston for the New Balance Nationals track and field meet.

March 19, 2025

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Hempfield wins with pair of aces

It is not often that a WPIAL softball team can say it has two Division I-level pitchers on the same staff.

Latrobe dominates Norwin in its softball season opener

March 18, 2025

Latrobe freshman Natalia Scekeres found out only minutes before her first varsity softball game she would be leading off.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Franklin Regional gets off to hot start in Florida

One Westmoreland County baseball team was in midseason form for spring training.

Westmoreland high school notebook: County dots baseball, softball rankings

With six Division I college commits, Hempfield is primed for another run at WPIAL and PIAA championships.

OLSH girls turn tables on Greensburg Central Catholic, advance to PIAA quarterfinals

March 11, 2025

This was not the same Our Lady of the Sacred Heart team that Greensburg Central Catholic beat to advance to the WPIAL finals 18 days earlier.

Westmoreland County high school basketball notebook: Jeannette not satisfied with 1st-round PIAA win

Jeannette boys basketball coach Adrian Batts said he was concerned Saturday as his team prepared to open the PIAA playoffs.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff preview capsules for Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Boys

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday, March 11, 2025

March 10, 2025

Boys

Jeannette football standout Kymon’e Brown is expected to see increased college recruiting attention as the clock ticks toward his senior season.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls pull away from Cambria Heights after tight 1st half

March 7, 2025

Ask them about the slow start. They’ll tell you how they finished.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys have unfinished business in state playoffs

Greensburg Central Catholic might always wonder what if, but, for now, the boys basketball team is dialed in to what still could be.

Westmoreland County PIAA basketball playoff capsules for March 8, 2025

Boys

Westmoreland County PIAA basketball playoff capsules for March 7, 2025

March 6, 2025

PIAA basketball playoffs

Westmoreland County basketball notebook: Jeannette forwards step up in semifinal win

Jeannette challenged its big men this week. Be more aggressive, go to the basket, look to score.

‘Oh my goodness!’ Dunk propels Jeannette boys past Sewickley in Class 2A semifinals

Section rematches in the first round usually are taboo for the WPIAL basketball steering committee. But they bent the rules slightly this year when building the playoff brackets.

Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 14, 2025

Boys

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Yough seeks elusive playoff win

February 12, 2025

Yough’s motivation for the playoffs lies in its drive to improve, a long-standing goal on Cougar Mountain.

Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 13, 2025

Boys

February 7, 2025

As Max Williams and his senior teammates left the floor with just over a minute to play Friday night, Hempfield interim boys basketball coach Mark Katarski told them to “take your time.”

Penn-Trafford girls leave no doubt in rout of Indiana

February 6, 2025

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: WPIAL playoff field nearly set

The local boys basketball playoff field is just about set.

Playoff-bound Norwin boys can talk the talk under first-year coach, alum Auld

At 26, Cam Auld is one of the WPIAL’s younger coaches, but he admits to having an old-school side.

Penn-Trafford girls still working to improve despite undefeated record

February 5, 2025

Penn-Trafford isn’t getting baited into undefeated talk.

Freshman Anthony Smith’s first NCAA Division I scholarship offer has come in.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Three Norwin players get college offers on same day

St. Francis (Pa.) came to Norwin looking for football talent and left with three potential prospects.

Southmoreland freshman Mickens gets Division I football offer

Jackson Mickens, a freshman defensive end and receiver at Southmoreland, already has a Division I football offer.

Norwin girls pop right back up after rare losing streak

A losing streak can teach a team a lot about itself, especially a team that isn’t used to losing.

Zion Moore leads Belle Vernon past Derry, running winning streak to 7

January 24, 2025

Late in the first half, Zion Moore saw two toddlers wander onto the court and waddle his way.

Shootout at Seton Hill ready to tip off this weekend

January 23, 2025

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Noah Felentzer filling scoring role at Southmoreland

Noah Felentzer expected to get the basketball more this season for Southmoreland.

Jim Render, Charlie Batch, Zack Washington Sr. selected to National H.S. Football Hall of Fame

January 22, 2025

A coaching great and two former star playmakers from the WPIAL are headed for the National High School Football Hall of Fame.

After super start, Franklin Regional girls realize more work lies ahead

Westmoreland County girls basketball teams face challenge of step up in class

January 8, 2025

Every team makes a run. Coaches and players say it all the time not because it’s cliché but because they see it happen on the court.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Hempfield shows resolve in close loss

January 1, 2025

To a coach, a loss can reveal more about his or her team than a win.

Latrobe’s Berk steps into spotlight for girls basketball team

Erica Gribble thought about waiting until later, maybe next summer, to make her college decision.

For years, Brad Wetzel wanted his Latrobe boys team to play on basketball’s hallowed grounds.

The champ is here: Latrobe players rewarded with title belt

December 25, 2024

If you’re wearing the belt at Latrobe, you must have had a big game.

Mt. Pleasant scoring sensation Morgan Gesinski to play at Mercyhurst

The WPIAL’s leading goal scorer during the girls soccer regular season still has next season to defend her title.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Penn-Trafford enjoying undefeated start

One of only five undefeated teams left in WPIAL girls basketball this season, Penn-Trafford took confidence into a seven-day break from competition.

PIHL announces all-star schedule, player selections

December 23, 2024

The five-game schedule and player selections are set for the 2024-2025 PIHL All-Star games set for Jan. 26 at the Robert Morris Island Sports Center on Neville Island.

Ian DeCerb is still developing as a basketball player. But the junior from Latrobe, despite his obvious athleticism and leaping ability, still has room to grow.

Sixteen boys basketball teams will play in the sixth Westmoreland County Coaches Association Shootout on Saturday at two locations, Jeannette and Hempfield.

Senior Kendall Berger steps into starring role for Norwin girls

December 18, 2024

At times, Kendall Berger had the look of a go-to scorer last season when Norwin became a WPIAL champion for a third time.

Norwin notebook: Girls basketball team shakes off loss, picks up impressive wins

Defending WPIAL champion Norwin rebounded from a tough 51-50 season-opening loss to Penn-Trafford with two wins at the State College tournament and another over District 9 power Kennedy Catholic.

Paul Sapotichne said he didn’t sleep a wink the night before Friday’s opening game at the Hempfield tipoff tournament.

Soccer standouts Robin Reilly, Tyler Prex receive All-America recognition

December 11, 2024

Offensive stalwarts who scored goals as effectively as they created them, a pair of WPIAL soccer standouts received elite recognition Wednesday.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Defense paying dividends for Hempfield

Hempfield’s girls know how tough Section 2-6A play is going to be, so they are ramping up by playing the best possible defense they can.

Uniontown survives scare from Penn-Trafford boys

December 10, 2024

Preseason No. 1 Uniontown was relieved to get out of Penn-Trafford with a win in the Section 1-5A boys basketball opener.

Add another postseason honor to Robin Reilly’s resume.

Bentworth’s Ryan Moessner earns 2024 Trib HSSN Boys Soccer Player of the Year honors

Trib HSSN Boys Soccer All-Stars

Peters Township’s Molly Kubistek named 2024 Trib HSSN Girls Soccer Player of the Year

Trib HSSN Girls Soccer All-Stars

Penn-Trafford’s Alexis Brown earns 2024 TribLive Westmoreland Girls Soccer Player of the Year honors

November 30, 2024

2024 Girls Soccer All-Stars

Latrobe’s Roman Agostoni named 2024 TribLive Westmoreland Boys Soccer Player of the Year

2024 Boys Soccer All-Stars

Norwin notebook: Soccer standout headlines all-section list

November 16, 2024

Norwin boys soccer standout Daniel Maddock was named the player of the year in Section 1-4A by the Big 5/6 Conference, an online entity that covers the largest classifications in the WPIAL.

Greensburg Central Catholic won’t get to defend its WPIAL 2A girls basketball championship.

With deep roster, Greensburg Central Catholic boys have WPIAL title hopes

With the most seniors he’s had and what could be his deepest rotation, Greensburg Central Catholic boys basketball coach Christian Hyland expects his team to make another postseason run.

Coaches from variety of backgrounds come together to lead Jeannette on playoff run

Jeannette first-year assistant football coach Dustin Shoaf is a school teacher at Yough, his alma mater and a place where he is the all-time leader in rushing yards.

Strong returning cast sparks optimism in Franklin Regional girls program

November 13, 2024

The thought of hanging a section banner on the wall brings a smile to Bernie Pucka’s face. It almost makes him giddy. He hunts pheasant and deer, but he would love to bag a section.

Upset-minded Jeannette to face toughest task yet in top-seeded Fort Cherry

If Jeannette can turn back Fort Cherry early like it has its past several opponents, the Jayhawks could have a shot at dethroning the top-seeded and defending WPIAL football champion Rangers.

New-look roster to write next chapter for Franklin Regional boys basketball

The word “almost” gets thrown around a lot when people talk about the 2023-24 Franklin Regional boys basketball program.

Rosters set for WCCA all-star volleyball match

November 12, 2024

After they received their silver medals and runner-up trophy, Franklin Regional boys soccer players sat in a circle on the turf at Highmark Stadium.

Franklin Regional’s boys are making a habit out of upsetting teams in the WPIAL playoffs.

Penn-Trafford runs over South Fayette in football playoffs

November 1, 2024

Back-to-back losses to open the WPIAL football playoffs the last two seasons did not sit well with Tasso Whipple and his Penn-Trafford teammates.

Top-seeded Moon expects to get all it can handle from underdog Franklin Regional in 3A boys soccer final

Franklin Regional might be the bottom dog in this matchup, but it is far from moonstruck.

WPSCA announces all-state boys soccer selections

Thirteen players from the WPIAL were named to the Western Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association All-State list.

2024 WPIAL Class 4A boys soccer championship breakdown: Moon vs. Franklin Regional

WPIAL Class 3A boys soccer championship

Westmoreland High School Athletes of the week: Week ending Oct. 20, 2024

The Westmoreland County Athletes of the Week is presented by Smail Kia. Look for the tags and look for the savings at Smail Kia in Greensburg.

Franklin Regional’s Joey Bayne turning heads on football, soccer fields

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Teams close in on playoff berths

The WPIAL playoffs are drawing nearer, with the league set to release seedings and pairings Oct. 26.

Dual-threat quarterbacks give defenses fits in Westmoreland County

If they don’t beat you with their arms, they’ll beat you with their legs.

Latrobe junior Annalyse Bauer has played in various U.S. cities in travel soccer and internationally for a club showcase.

Defending 4A boys champ Norwin expecting similar draw in WPIAL soccer playoffs

October 15, 2024

Scott Schuchert expects his team to get a similar to draw to last season’s playoffs when Norwin ran the table as a No. 8 seed and won its first WPIAL championship in boys soccer.

Plum outlasts Norwin to capture boys soccer section title

October 10, 2024

Plum seemed to have a lot going against it in the Section 1-4A boys soccer finale.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Kickers step into spotlight

In what has been the year of the kicker in the WPIAL, local legs are getting into the act.

Gesinski scores 6 goals, Mt. Pleasant girls cruise past Yough

October 9, 2024

A third straight section crown secured, title contender Mt. Pleasant displayed the offensive muscle and goaltending prowess it will throw at teams in the upcoming WPIAL girls soccer playoffs.

2024 WPIAL team golf championships preview

WPIAL team golf championships

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Derry’s Gabe Gess a triple-threat

Derry four-sport athlete Gabe Gess has been showing what he can do juggling three sports in the same season.

Latrobe boys soccer earns 1st section title with shutout of Franklin Regional

October 8, 2024

Latrobe won’t have to share its first section championship.

Former Hempfield, Serra Catholic football coach Rich Bowen dies at age 60

Rich Bowen was never a fan of attention. Not as a star football player or a championship coach. Not as a good-natured husband and father, handyman or athletic director.

Norwin boys in position to make late-season magic again

Norwin was banged up and flirting with missing the WPIAL boys soccer playoffs last year when everything began to click at just about this same point in the season.

Latrobe will play the rest of the football season without its star running back and linebacker.

Connections can mean a lot in college football recruiting.

‘Best friends’ collide when Jeannette, Greensburg Central Catholic QBs meet

When Kymon’e Brown and Samir Crosby played on the same youth football team with the Jeannette Midgets, they accounted for more than 50 touchdowns in one season.

Hempfield junior chooses James Madison for softball

October 2, 2024

Hempfield junior softball pitcher Julia Varhola can bring it on the radar gun, reaching upwards of 65 mph on her fastest deliveries.

Norwin girls log another shutout, this time beating Latrobe

Momentum continues to build at Norwin as the girls soccer team returns to relevance.

Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2024 Week 6

Here’s a look at the don’t-miss matchups for Westmoreland County in Week 6 of the 2024 season:

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Franklin Regional in the hunt

Four straight section wins and a five-game unbeaten streak overall have Franklin Regional in the hunt for the Section 3-3A title.

Latrobe boys soccer shuts out section foe Belle Vernon

October 1, 2024

If Latrobe is going to live up to the potential and expectations it has set for itself, the team knows it has to handle its business, like winning games it is “supposed” to win.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Injuries can’t derail Penn-Trafford

Penn-Trafford has a unique dynamic going on around the program this season.

Franklin Regional girls soccer forward on the mend after violent gym class collision

It was Aug. 27, the fourth day of school.

Boys

Mt. Pleasant’s Jarett Garn has SportsCenter moment

September 28, 2024

From triple coverage to national attention.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Yough’s Kuroda stands out in loss

Raidon Kuroda is a unique name. You remember it after you hear it.

Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Aubrey Seder and Mt. Pleasant’s Aiden Johnson

The Westmoreland County Athletes of the Week is presented by Smail Kia. Look for the tags and look for the savings at Smail Kia in Greensburg.

Norwin notebook: Cross country teams sweep at Blue Devil Invitational

The Norwin boys and girls cross country teams captured championships at the Blue Devil Invitational at Buhl Park in Sharon.

Mt. Pleasant gets back on top with close win against Yough

September 27, 2024

Another week, another Mt. Pleasant squeaker.

September 23, 2024

Latrobe finally ends scoreless skid, shuts out Armstrong in Big East win

September 20, 2024

Scoreless for nearly 7 1/2 quarters, Latrobe finally found the end zone. It was a good thing: The Wildcats were growing tired of these three-and-out defensive struggles.

Latrobe wants fans from all over town to show their school spirit and turn this football season into one big pep rally.

Norwin notebook: Pair of basketball standouts headed to Clarion

Call it a package deal.

Norwin uses pack mentality to take place among WPIAL cross country contenders

Based on returning athletes, Norwin is the top contender in Class 3A to regular frontrunner North Allegheny in WPIAL boys and girls cross country.

Franklin Regional notebook: Devola brothers team up for Panthers

Franklin Regional senior lineman Andrew Devola experienced a special moment with his two brothers in the second game of the football season at Hempfield.

Jeannette and Ligonier Valley will be down two players each for the next two games because of ejections that happened last Friday night.

Trunzo, Latrobe defense stiffen for tight win over Norwin

September 11, 2024

Several Latrobe girls soccer players sang the national anthem Tuesday night before a boys home soccer game.

Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2024 Week 3

Here’s a look at the don’t-miss matchups for Westmoreland County in Week 3 of the 2024 season:

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Former Monessen standout, 25, takes WPIAL coaching job

California has one of the youngest coaches in the state — and one of the better goal scorers in recent Monessen history.

Latrobe makes 1st-half goal stand up in boys soccer win over Penn-Trafford

September 10, 2024

Latrobe strengthened its lead in Section 3-3A boys soccer with a first-half goal and steady play from its defense.

7 from WPIAL nominated for National High School Football Hall of Fame

Fifty-four players, seven coaches and three teams have been nominated for the third class of the National High School Football Hall of Fame.

Greensburg Central Catholic-Clairton football game to be played Friday at Clairton

Norwin girls volleyball finished 3-11 overall and 1-7 in Section 3-4A, which put the Knights in last place.

Franklin Regional notebook: Boys soccer team opens section schedule with win

Freshman lights fuse for Penn-Trafford girls in win over Latrobe

September 4, 2024

Freshman Tori Yurt said she wanted to be more “useful” to the Penn-Trafford girls soccer team after a slow start to the season.

Hempfield boys soccer revels in streak-snapping win

When Derry scored two goals to pull even with Hempfield, Michael Crowe, Hempfield’s coach, just let it roll.

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Aidan Johnson sparks Mt. Pleasant

Mt. Pleasant is off to a strong start to the season.

Jeannette girls soccer players determined to keep season going despite low numbers

September 3, 2024

When Billy Bryant went to Jeannette, he was the Jayhawk mascot.

Westmoreland girls soccer notebook: Yough lighting up scoreboards

Westmoreland high school notebook: Croushore leaves WPIAL committee

September 2, 2024

Jim Croushore played 18, then went one more.

New coach Santilli well aware of expectations for Greensburg Central Catholic girls golf team

Golf professional Anthony Santilli knew the expectation when he took over as the girls golf coach at Greensburg Central Catholic.

August 30, 2024

Classic ingredients can go a long way on a high school football Friday night.

Franklin Regional boys soccer team tops Penn-Trafford in early season section showdown

August 29, 2024

Chismars put aside sibling rivalry, share QB duties at Greensburg Salem

Sometimes, the Chismar brothers’ car rides home from practice are animated and loud. Other times, post-workout trips back to the crib are quiet.

Norwin boys soccer shuts out Franklin Regional to open season

August 24, 2024

Norwin continues to row in the right direction.

Here’s a look at the don’t-miss matchups for Westmoreland County in Week Zero of the 2024 season:

WPIAL boys soccer preview

Lineman Colin Bruno wants to put signature on final season at Norwin

His football card collection means a lot to him, as does his assortment of professional sports autographs.

Caden Matthews, a junior who was competing with freshman Anthony Smith for the starting quarterback spot at Southmoreland, left the team during the first week of full-padded training camp.

Norwin notebook: Girls basketball standouts catch eye of college coaches

A pair of incoming senior Norwin basketball players are on the radar of NCAA Division II college coaches.

WPIAL girls golf preview: 3A champ Mya Morgan back for Elizabeth Forward

August 15, 2024

WPIAL girls golf preview

WPIAL boys golf preview: Peters Township out to defend WPIAL, PIAA titles

WPIAL boys golf preview

Latrobe lineman knows now’s the time for Wildcats to strike

Hype at Latrobe began with the players long before the community began to stir.

Playmakers abound as Southmoreland continues hunt for elusive playoff win

As a two-time defending WPIAL and PIAA champion, Belle Vernon football must have opened full-contact training camp Monday morning with a sense of entitlement, right?

Westmoreland County high school notebook: With pads on, ‘it’s the start of a new year’

After a week of “heat” practices and noncontact drills, WPIAL football teams can begin hitting in full pads Monday with the official start of practice.

Hempfield QB Dom Detruf hoping to be cleared after checkup by cardiologist

Norwin coach leads title-winning U.S. effort at Fargo nationals

Kyle Martin doesn’t make the annual trek to Fargo, N.D. for the scenery, the Badlands or props from a movie with the town’s namesake.

New coach DeVito eager to build up Norwin girls soccer team

August 8, 2024

While she grasps for similarities between the girls soccer programs at Penn Hills and Norwin, Ashley DeVito continually finds herself recognizing the differences.

A summer paving project caused some temporary parking inconveniences at Norwin Knights Stadium.

Championship softball coach Chris Brunson leaving Mt. Pleasant for Waynesburg University

June 28, 2024

Championship softball coach Chris Brunson is making the jump to the college level as he leaves the Mt. Pleasant high school team to head to Waynesburg University.

Highlands goes with the Flow, finds new boys basketball coach teaching English class

Highlands likes to play fast, up-tempo basketball. It always has, even when a new coach took over.

Fierce QB competition brewing at Southmoreland between Caden Matthews, Anthony Smith

June 27, 2024

Murrysville Star notebook: Franklin Regional grad finds game at WPGA event

After changing his college allegiances, Franklin Regional graduate Chuck Tragesser continues to sharpen his golf game over the summer.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Franklin Regional cornerback pops up on Division I radar

Jaymier Austin transferred to Franklin Regional when he was a freshman, leaving Penn Hills to play at another WPIAL Class 5A program.

4th Tre Cunningham Memorial Basketball Tournament is biggest yet

Tre Cunningham’s memory gleams on in Jeannette, and the summer varsity basketball tournament in his name keeps growing because of it.

GoFundMe posted for former Norwin football player Josiah Pastories, who was killed in auto accident

June 14, 2024

PIAA Class 5A baseball quarterfinals preview: Penn-Trafford vs. Hollidaysburg

June 5, 2024

PIAA baseball playoffs

Penn-Trafford senior catcher Mack Keenan remembers watching the team bus follow a fire truck escort back to Harrison City in 2019 after the Lady Warriors softball team won the PIAA championship.

May 31, 2024

Softball pitchers get all of the credit when they throw no-hitters, while their catchers humbly remove their masks and pads and wander off into obscurity.

Seneca Valley fights off Norwin upset bid to win 4th WPIAL softball championship

Norwin uses additional day to prepare for WPIAL Class 6A softball title game

WPIAL third-place game playoff capsules: Games for Tuesday, May 28, 2024

May 27, 2024

WPIAL softball playoffs

Seniors on Norwin softball team vow not to back down from Seneca Valley in WPIAL final

Norwin has only three seniors, but they weren’t ready to turn in their softball uniforms before they donned their caps and gowns.

Results, top scorers, MVPs from the Roundball Classic

Results and top scorers from the 20th Roundball Classic all-star basketball games held over the weekend at North Allegheny:

WPIAL softball playoffs

20 years later, Roundball Classic continues to evolve

It’s a banner year for the Roundball Classic and Allen Deep couldn’t be more grateful.

Norwin softball grateful for another shot at powerhouse Hempfield

To have another chance — that is all Bailey Snowberger could ask for.

Westmoreland County WPIAL baseball playoff capsule for Tuesday, May 21, 2024

May 20, 2024

WPIAL baseball playoffs

Montour bounces back from rough 1st inning to top Latrobe in wild 4A quarterfinal

When things went sideways for Montour in what would become an excruciatingly long first inning, coach Bob Janeda didn’t fret.

H.S. softball notebook: Section 2-5A teams representing in WPIALs

Section 2-5A, it’s your time to flex.

The Big 5/6 Conference, which covers the top two classifications in WPIAL sports, released its all-section softball and baseball teams.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Piper sizzles for Ligonier Valley softball

Even in the playoffs, teams are paying the Piper.

Westmoreland softball playoff preview capsules: Games for May 16, 2024

WPIAL softball playoffs

Well-prepared Central Valley knocks Mt. Pleasant out of WPIAL softball playoffs

May 14, 2024

As a winning streak began to stretch out like salt water taffy from a preseason trip to Myrtle Beach, Mt. Pleasant baseball coach Chris Firmstone became less surprised.

Hempfield, Seneca Valley softball teams downplay importance of No. 1 seed for WPIALs

May 8, 2024

Neither coach seemed too concerned about it, but they also did not discount the value of getting the top seed.

After 41 years in coaching, Jim Nesser steps down at Yough

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Belle Vernon runner picks Robert Morris

Tessa Rodriguez was over the Moon when she visited Robert Morris.

A three-game losing streak — the product of a Section 2-6A sweep by Mt. Lebanon — stung in the short term, but it did not deter Norwin baseball from its long-range goals.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Mt. Pleasant vaults into 1st place

Mt. Pleasant lost its first three games of the season while playing at the Ripken Experience at Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Hempfield softball team dominates No. 1 Seneca Valley

May 1, 2024

Hempfield went from the wrong end of a no-hitter to the right end of a no-doubter.

Westmoreland County high school softball notebook: Hempfield has pair of aces

Hempfield softball has a number of talented hitters. In fact, 1 though 9 in the batting order can connect at any time.

While he sees it as “just doing his job,” others saw what Dave Snowberger did as a superhuman act.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Franklin Regional star picks Washington & Jefferson

After a season to remember, Franklin Regional senior basketball player Cam Rowell made his college decision.

Norwin completes much-needed sweep of Central Catholic

April 25, 2024

Everything clicking for Penn-Trafford baseball on 9-game winning streak

When Lou Cortazzo decided he wanted the interim tag removed from his name and officially became the coach of the Penn-Trafford baseball team, everything started to click.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Belle Vernon ace has been ‘lights out’

When senior Colton Lee pitches, Belle Vernon baseball fans show up to watch.

Westmoreland softball notebook: Hempfield comes back strong

April 24, 2024

Hempfield put together quite a four-game stretch last week — a positive and productive answer to its first loss of the season.

Franklin Regional fends off Latrobe in section slugfest

Franklin Regional measured up in its latest softball victory.

Jeannette soccer star Jordan Taylor will take his goal-scoring prowess to the NCAA Division II level.

Last week’s bout of rainy weather shined a spotlight on fields that are fully covered with artificial turf.

Southmoreland softball stays unbeaten, tops Yough

April 10, 2024

Yough kept Amarah McCutcheon’s bat quiet, which was an impressive accomplishment.

Westmoreland County high school softball notebook: Penn-Trafford serves notice

With one result, Penn-Trafford put Class 5A on notice.

Norwin senior Abigail Boyer wants to major in fashion design.

Westmoreland County high school athletes of the week: Belle Vernon’s Talia Ross, Hempfield’s Ethan Minerva

Talia Ross

Belle Vernon senior Ross ruptures Achilles in freak accident

April 4, 2024

Belle Vernon standout softball pitcher Talia Ross suffered a freak injury during practice Wednesday and could miss the rest of the season.

Buzzworthy Hempfield baseball team flashing signs of being contender

With a coach whose nickname is “Buzz,” the Hempfield baseball team is beginning to generate some of it in the WPIAL’s largest classification.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Franklin Regional senior dedicates season to brother battling cancer

Truth be told, Blake Bertucci would love to be pitching to his brother, Luca.

Mt. Pleasant picks McKeesport, Clarion grad Eckels as new AD

April 3, 2024

Mt. Pleasant hired James “J.J.” Eckels on Wednesday night to be the district’s full-time athletic director.

Hot start no surprise for Southmoreland softball team, which has big expectations

When he heard one of his games was moved because of a schedule change related to Monday’s solar eclipse, Todd Bunner was surprised.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: With new coach, Greensburg Central Catholic itching to get 1st game in

First-year coach Chelsey Frock will tell you what it’s like to lead the Greensburg Central Catholic softball team on the field, just as soon as the Centurions play a game.

Franklin Regional hockey coach disappointed after being ousted

John Winebrenner holds no ill will toward the Franklin Regional Hockey Club board, but that doesn’t mean he agrees with its decision to open his position.

If there is one promise Ashley DeVito can make to her new Norwin girls soccer players, it is this:

No. 1 Hempfield fends off challenge from hard-hitting Penn-Trafford

March 28, 2024

With the scoreboard on the fritz, a temporary display panel was used Thursday at Hempfield’s Robert D. Kalp Field.

Rosters revealed for Roundball Classic all-star games

Rosters are out for the annual Roundball Classic basketball games, set for May 22-26 at North Allegheny.

In 1st meet of season, Derry junior fires off state’s best javelin throw

After winning a WPIAL Class 2A championship and finishing second in the state last year in the javelin, Derry junior Sophia Mazzoni brought high expectations into this track and field season.

Westmoreland County high school baseball notebook: Latrobe heads west for opener

Tradition never graduates, as the saying goes.

Penn-Trafford baseball avenges tight loss to Fox Chapel by walking it off in rematch

March 27, 2024

One walk-off win deserves another.

The number of Division I colleges interested in adding John Wetzel to their defensive backfield keeps growing.

Franklin Regional players hold heads high despite loss in PIAA title game

HERSHEY — Fin Hutchison was the last basketball player from Franklin Regional to leave Giant Center on Friday night.

Led by senior shortstop, scrappy Norwin softball team ready for season

When she is finished dealing assists and taking charges on the basketball court — fully healed nose or not — Bailey Snowberger will rejoin the Norwin softball team.

Norwin baseball in good position despite having ‘big shoes to fill’

Second-year Norwin baseball coach Craig Spisak admits there are still new things that he is learning while coaching a much larger program at the Class 6A level.

Steve Scorpion probably would not advise anybody to bet against Franklin Regional in Friday night’s PIAA Class 5A championship game.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Franklin Regional pitcher opens with no-hitter

Narayan “NJ” Ramchandran opened the baseball season by closing down Chaminade Prep.

Previewing the 2024 PIHL Penguins Cup championship games

PIHL playoffs

Westmoreland athletes of the week: Greensburg Central Catholic’s Jayla Peterson, Greensburg Salem’s Tristan Gonzales

March 16, 2024

Jayla Peterson

Franklin Regional prepares for grudge match with Moon at PIAAs

Just press play, Jesse.

Fort Cherry takes care of business vs. Jeannette, reaches PIAA semis

Emotions ran high during some tense moments Saturday in a PIAA Class 2A boys basketball quarterfinal, but Fort Cherry didn’t get caught up in the commotion.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Hockey teams join madness

There has been plenty of March Madness around here — on the hardwood and now, on the ice.

Franklin Regional boys sprint past Shaler and into the PIAA semifinals

Jeannette shocks rival Greensburg Central Catholic in PIAA 2nd round

March 13, 2024

The anatomy of this victory started with a game plan and a belief that anything was possible.

Hempfield sets championship goals as Westmoreland County teams open softball season

Hempfield won its eighth WPIAL softball championship last season.

Norwin takes punch from Chartiers Valley, rallies to reach PIAA 6A quarterfinals

March 12, 2024

Trailing by double figures for the first time all season could have sent Norwin into a downward spiral and shut down its hopes of winning a state championship.

Westmoreland County baskeball notebook: Rivals Jeannette, GCC ready for another rematch

Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsule for March 13, 2024

PIAA basketball playoffs

Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for March 12, 2024

March 11, 2024

PIAA basketball playoffs

Westmoreland high school PIHL playoff preview capsules for March 12, 2024

PIHL playoffs

Westmoreland County high school basketball notebook: Coach brings concepts from Penn State football to Norwin girls team

Brian Brozeski remembers the guidance he received from more established teammates when he made the Penn State football team in the mid-1990s.

Westmoreland notebook: Mid Mon Valley hall of fame selects newest class

March 10, 2024

Greensburg Central Catholic boys assert themselves in PIAA win

March 9, 2024

Tyree Turner dribbled into the open court with nothing between himself and the rim but gravity.

Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Mt. Pleasant’s Lily King, Franklin Regional’s Shawn Sinclair

Songs, desserts, family.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: 9 county basketball teams in PIAA field

The PIAA basketball playoff field is set.

Disciplined lifestyle leads Norwin senior to Navy wrestling team

The military lifestyle appears to suit Nate Campbell.

Defense made difference for Franklin Regional in run to WPIAL finals

Franklin Regional boys basketball coach Jesse Reed played in a lot of high-stakes games in his career.

Aliquippa dominates Greensburg Central Catholic to win record-tying 14th WPIAL title

The term competitive balance has grown attached to Aliquippa in football.

Norwin topples North Allegheny to capture 3rd WPIAL girls basketball championship

March 1, 2024

Sweets to the sweet.

2024 WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Greensburg C.C.

WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball championship

WPIAL title worth the wait for Greensburg Central Catholic girls

WPIAL champion Greensburg Central Catholic had concerns it might not be sharp for the district final after sitting idle for four days following a semifinal win.

February 28, 2024

In addition to being a 2,000-point scorer in his basketball career, Ellwood City senior Joe Roth is a high-level swimmer who competes for WPIAL and PIAA titles.

Norwin coach Brozeski brings big-picture perspective to title game

After he left the court to visit with his parents and family on the concourse at Peters Township’s AHN Arena on Monday night, Norwin coach Brian Brozeski was asked a question.

2024 WPIAL Class 2A girls basketball championship breakdown: Serra Catholic vs. Greensburg C.C.

WPIAL Class 2A girls basketball championship

Westmoreland County high school basketball notebook: The Pete to be packed with county teams

Five Westmoreland County teams are headed to Petersen Events Center this weekend to compete for WPIAL basketball championships. That is a county record for finalists in one year.

Oh, baby: Hyland attends birth of daughter, then guides GCC boys to WPIAL title game

February 27, 2024

Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 26, 2024

WPIAL basketball playoffs

February 23, 2024

Westmoreland high school basketball notebook: Franklin Regional boys continue storybook run

Jesse Reed was elated after his Franklin Regional boys flattened Gateway, 53-35, in the quarterfinals to keep their title chase on course.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games of Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Franklin Regional keeps rolling, beats Gateway in quarters

February 22, 2024

Cam Rowell caught the basketball on the wing, squared up and fired.

Top-seeded Norwin girls sharp in playoff-opening rout of Seneca Valley

Norwin girls basketball coach Brian Brozeski said his team played “challenged” basketball late in the regular season.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Friday, Feb. 23, 2024

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Greensburg Central Catholic girls use defense to beat Rochester, move into 2A semifinals

February 21, 2024

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Camp planned to honor late Southmoreland coach

The legacy of “Fred” lives on at Southmoreland.

Drive to improve, helpful mentors lead Franklin Regional grad to Division I football

Gentle giant Max Leven had a goal when he left Franklin Regional, but for him to achieve that goal, he felt he needed some fine-tuning.

With senior guard back from injury, Greensburg Central Catholic girls rout Northgate

February 16, 2024

Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 17, 2024

Girls

PIHL scoring leader Ryan Saginaw among January players of month

February 15, 2024

League scoring leader Ryan Saginaw of undefeated Bishop Canevin was among the four senior forwards selected as the PIHL’s players of the month for January.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Franklin Regional could be headed for rematch

A third meeting between neighboring districts could be on the horizon.

Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 16, 2024

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Latrobe takes playoff plunge

February 14, 2024

Latrobe hopes to make a splash in the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball playoffs, right after the team dries off.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Former East Allegheny football coach joins Penn-Trafford staff

Dom Pecora, who served as the head football coach at East Allegheny for the past 11 seasons, is joining Penn-Trafford’s staff as a volunteer assistant.

Norwin notebook: Wrestlers hit roadblock in WPIAL quarterfinals

Norwin pushed its way into the WPIAL Class 3A team wrestling quarterfinals before running into top-seeded Trinity.

Norwin girls ramp up fun factor while racking up wins

Norwin leads the league in smiles.

Adrian Batts never has missed the WPIAL playoffs as coach of the Jeannette boys basketball team.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Teams plan fundraiser for late referee’s family

Yough and Mt. Pleasant are doing their best to remember late basketball referee Michael Roebuck.

Relentless rebounder flying high for Monessen girls

February 7, 2024

There is something about looking to the sky that fascinates Hailey Johnson.

The Roundball Classic is changing locations.

Yough scoring sensation Terek Crosby’s grand plan includes 2k run

The thought of scoring 2,000 career points brings a smile to Terek Crosby’s face. It makes him daydream and drift off course for a minute before he quickly snaps back to the present.

Norwin notebook: Alex Thomas shines at PIHL all-star game

Alex Thomas delivered two goals and two assists as the Blue team tied the Gold team, 6-6, in the PIHL Class 2A all-star game on Jan. 28 at the Robert Morris Island Sports Center.

Norwin girls soccer coach steps down

Citing personal reasons, Norwin girls soccer coach Diane Metzger resigned after three seasons with the program.

Murrysville Star notebook: Ex-Franklin Regional lineman getting Division I offers

Lineman Max Leven left Franklin Regional last year and decided to play football at Bridgton Academy (Maine) to sharpen his skills and better prepare to play at a higher level.

January 31, 2024

Norwin leads the league in smiles.

January 26, 2024

Norwin girls earn emotional victory over North Allegheny, complete season sweep

January 25, 2024

Norwin could have given the game ball to any number of players after an impressive 64-44 win over rival North Allegheny.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Seton Hill to host weekend showcase

Some good basketball could be in store on “The Hill” this weekend.

Stacking wins nothing new for Monessen boys

It is late January, and the WPIAL basketball regular season is headed for its final two weeks.

Down to 4 healthy players after car crash, Jeannette girls basketball team cancels game

January 24, 2024

When it came time to piece together the boys basketball schedule for this season at Latrobe, veteran coach Brad Wetzel stretched boundaries.

Kiski Area grinds out section win over Penn-Trafford

January 17, 2024

Nail files and sandpaper serve a similar purpose to what Kiski Area’s 3-2 zone can do to teams. And, how the Cavaliers win sometimes.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls weather storm without senior leader Morgan

When a player the caliber of Mya Morgan goes out with an injury, some teams might go into a five-alarm panic.

‘R&R’ duo fills highlight reels, leads Franklin Regional to strong start

Franklin Regional caught the attention of local boys basketball fans with its 10-1 start.

Norwin notebook: Girls wrestling wins 1st dual meet; girls basketball faces tough schedule

With an electric atmosphere to usher in a new era, the Norwin girls wrestling team won its inaugural dual match as WPIAL program by toppling visiting Southmoreland, 45-18, on Jan. 3.

Surging Franklin Regional found its way into the TribLive HSSN Class 5A rankings this week.

Belle Vernon scoring sensation Zion Moore looking to add more elements to his game

Zion Moore doesn’t consider himself one of the best basketball players in WPIAL Class 4A.

Drake D’Angelo set to take reins of Greensburg Salem athletic programs

January 10, 2024

A family man with a positive attitude, familiarity of the area and high expectations is primed to oversee athletics at Greensburg Salem.

3 Jeannette legends to be inducted into National High School Football Hall of Fame

With 10 WPIAL championships and two PIAA titles, Jeannette is renowned as one of the top football programs in Pennsylvania.

Behind ‘defense first and team ball’ mantra, Monessen girls among Class A’s top squads

From Dec. 2-15, Monessen’s girls basketball team scrimmaged each other so much they started to reach low levels of apathy.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Greensburg Central Catholic awaits word on injured star Mya Morgan

Greensburg Central Catholic is awaiting word on the playing status of senior leader Mya Morgan.

Colin Masten breaks out of slump, leads Franklin Regional past Latrobe

January 9, 2024

Colin Masten said he had been in a mini-slump of late. In basketball terms, that means he wasn’t making shots or producing much on the offensive end.

Because of some injuries, first-year boys basketball coach Annie Malkowiak said her Mt. Pleasant team had to take a next-man-up approach.

Belle Vernon boys get off to fast start then hang on to hand Southmoreland its 1st loss

January 3, 2024

From its worst start of the season to nearly its best finish, Southmoreland had an up and down kind of night.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Franklin Regional hoping for good injury news

Franklin Regional girls basketball coach Bernie Pucka and his players are being kept in suspense.

During a WPIAL playoff game last month Quinton Martin hurdled a defender on his way to a first down, but no penalty was called.

Latrobe girls basketball standout Elle Snyder commits to Evansville

December 30, 2023

Sharp-shooting senior basketball player Elle Snyder of Latrobe announced Saturday a verbal commitment to NCAA Division I Evansville.

Westmoreland athletes of the week: Greensburg CC’s Mya Morgan, Norwin’s Nate Campbell

Mya Morgan

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Shootout at Seton Hill expands

The annual Shootout at Seton Hill basketball showcase has expanded. It will include more days, more games and more teams.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys key on Terek Crosby, shut down Yough

December 27, 2023

As Greensburg Central Catholic went through the handshake line opposite Yough, Centurions coach Christian Hyland told Cougars guard Terek Crosby how much he appreciates his game.

Greensburg Salem to honor 2009 boys basketball state finalist

Greensburg Salem is set to honor the team that felt invincible for a couple of weeks in March.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Schedule doesn’t let up for Greensburg Central Catholic

Before the season began, Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball coach Chris Skatell talked almost proudly about his team’s schedule, confident that the Centurions had the talent to handle it.

Penn-Trafford girls ready to face injury challenge head on

Penn-Trafford girls basketball coach John Giannikas is somewhere near the corner of thrilled and concerned.

Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Norwin’s Lauren Palangio, Latrobe’s Luke Willochell

December 23, 2023

Lauren Palangio

December 14, 2023

Greensburg Salem continued to show how much defense is wired into its grid by smothering another opponent in the Section 1-4A girls basketball opener.

Franklin Regional softball’s Ciara Camacho has baseball past, Division I future

A college softball career at Kent State awaits Ciara Camacho, who two years ago was new to the game.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Derry senior filling nets

With four 30-point games this season, Derry’s Nate Papuga is one of the top scorers in the WPIAL.

Franklin Regional boys off to blockbuster start

Franklin Regional’s boys basketball coaches like to take a game film and pick it apart. They dissect it into dozens of short clips for instructional purposes.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Matthews makes a good point for Yough

December 13, 2023

One of the first things new Yough girls coach Brian Znavor did when he joined the team was move senior Autumn Matthews to point guard.

One-and-one free throws always have been a gamble.

North Allegheny’s Abigail Stager, Avonworth’s Fiona Mahan earn All-America honors

November 25, 2023

Hempfield girls basketball wants to push pace this season

November 18, 2023

Bob Madison has been coaching girls athletics long enough to have reached a universal truth, at least one that rings true in his mind.

Hempfield boys ready to reap rewards from growing pains

Last season was a series of gradual improvements interrupted by teaching moments for the Hempfield boys basketball team.

Belle Vernon football turns attention toward WPIAL repeat

Friday was the first official practice date for WPIAL basketball season, but Quinton Martin and some of his teammates are not ready to take the court yet — if at all.

When Greensburg Central Catholic’s girls run their continuation sets on the basketball court, the offense is constantly resetting, coach Chris Skatell said.

With top scorers back, Greensburg Central Catholic boys in position to contend again

With its top two scorers back and four more players who spot-started at times last season joining them, Greensburg Central Catholic is a contender again in WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball.

PIAA: Central Bucks South won’t receive penalty after wearing wrong jerseys vs. Norwin

November 15, 2023

The PIAA said there is no penalty for a team that does not bring the proper colored uniform to a playoff event.

Norwin boys will vie for spot in soccer title match without suspended coach

Finalists announced for Moe Rosensteel award

Three finalists were announced Monday for the Moe Rosensteel Most Outstanding Player of the Year Award, now in its fifth year.

2023 All-WPIAL girls soccer teams released

The All-WPIAL girls soccer list was announced Monday.

Franklin Regional boys soccer hits stride at perfect time

October 29, 2023

Franklin Regional found something, and at just the right time.

Westmoreland soccer preview capsule: Game for Monday, Oct. 30, 2023

WPIAL soccer playoffs

Westmoreland HS notebook: Jeannette’s Taylor named Class 2A player of year

Jeannette soccer player Jordan Taylor had a senior season to remember, as he netted a school-record 54 goals to lead the WPIAL.

Penn State offers Latrobe LB Alex Tatsch after James Franklin’s chopper lands at school’s practice field

Alex Tatsch now has scholarship offers from the region’s Big 3.

Franklin Regional quarterback Chase Lemke and receiver Ayden Hudock were in a rhythm at just the right time as the Panthers pursued a playoff spot.

Clairton pulls it together, routs Jeannette after close 1st quarter

October 27, 2023

October 20, 2023

Sophomore Landon Honick didn’t want his team’s playoff hopes to stretch into Week 9.

October 17, 2023

When Mason and Brandon Yeschenko were younger, they would put on large, red boxing gloves and settle disputes by going a couple of rounds in the basement.

Second place and a playoff spot will be on the line in the Class 5A Big East Conference, and one game will settle it all.

Norwin girls volleyball keeps up the fight

Norwin’s girls volleyball team was fighting for a playoff spot in Section 3-4A as the regular season winded toward a mid-October finish.

Norwin notebook: Knights strive for better starts

While Norwin’s football team has been more resilient and competitive than is has been in a while, the Knights were trying to get off to better starts.

Franklin Regional girls golfers test their mettle in WPIAL postseason

Mark Twain is believed to have said, “Golf is a good walk spoiled.”

Franklin Regional surges past Hempfield for 4th straight victory

October 13, 2023

Latrobe girls soccer picks up pace, ends Franklin Regional win streak

Franklin Regional figured if Norwin was going to play single coverage on its receivers, it would take some shots downfield.

Norwin runner finds perfect pace, shows plenty of potential

While she used to come out sprinting at the start of a cross country race, Annie Czajkowski is more methodical now, pacing herself before a late push to pass.

Recruiting is beginning to ramp up for Peyton Murray.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: When Penn-Trafford, Gateway meet, ‘this game is a big deal’

Fierce rivals Penn-Trafford and Gateway appear to be rounding into form just in time for another encounter.

October 3, 2023

Everything seemed to be going right for Latrobe, until it wasn’t.

It’s quality over quantity as Greensburg Central Catholic girls battle low roster numbers

Greensburg Central Catholic’s girls soccer team will play a game for the first time since Sept. 20 when it visits Seton LaSalle on Wednesday night.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Mt. Pleasant climbs to top of rankings

There is a new No. 1 team in Class 2A.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: P-T golfer Nick Turowski can join exclusive company with win

October 1, 2023

Penn-Trafford senior Nick Turowski is primed to become a two-time WPIAL golf champion.

Once the odds-on favorite most weeks, Jeannette is more dark horse these days as the football team continues to heal from a couple of thin years.

Canon-McMillan boys soccer scores upset of No. 3 Norwin

September 28, 2023

Both boys soccer teams had given up 10 goals coming into their latest Section 2-4A matchup.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Elizabeth Forward coach set to face old pals at Southmoreland

Peering across the field and trying to get a win against his buddies will be an interesting proposition for John DeMarco.

September 26, 2023

Belle Vernon must have noticed when this week’s boys soccer rankings came out — WPIAL and state — and it did not make the cut.

Mt. Pleasant girls use creative, up-tempo style to leave opponents in the dust

In order to play soccer the way the Mt. Pleasant girls play, you have to be ready to run.

Jeannette announced its 2023 Athletic Hall of Fame class that includes seven athletes, a team, a coach and legend and contributor honorees.

Norwin notebook: Seniors make impact in girls soccer win

The Norwin girls soccer team made the most of senior night.

Comeback win gives Norwin football a boost in confidence

Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Jeannette’s Jordan Taylor, Belle Vernon’s Gabriella Dusi

Gabriella Dusi

Penn-Trafford rides Whipple’s record-setting night to win over Hempfield

Jeannette’s Jordan Taylor earns statewide scoring honor

He plays for the highest-scoring boys soccer team in the WPIAL and is one of the highest-scoring players in the country.

Latrobe boys soccer proves it is for real by blanking Franklin Regional

September 19, 2023

Latrobe likes to rely on an overcrowded midfield to control the tempo and produce occasional run-outs for scoring chances.

Abby Paterline putting versatility, knowledge to use for Franklin Regional girls soccer

Because she has grown up in a soccer family, Franklin Regional’s Abby Paterline knows the game inside and out.

WPIAL soccer teams dot latest PSCA state rankings

A rare loss did not affect the Moon girls soccer team’s standing in the state rankings.

Brian Znavor is the new girls basketball coach at Yough.

Westmoreland H.S. athletes of the week: GCC’s Riley Kerr and Latrobe’s P.J. Germano

September 16, 2023

Riley Kerr

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Norwin never doubted

Tristyn Tavares said there wasn’t a lot of chatter or pep talks when Norwin fell behind by 16 points early in the fourth quarter Friday night at Plum.

Norwin notebook: Passing game starting to click for Knights

Mike Brown expected Norwin’s passing offense to flourish once the quarterback and receivers established their timing.

Legendary Jeannette and Greensburg Central Catholic coach Joe Mucci is among 50 nominees — players, coaches and teams included — for the second National High School Football Hall of Fame class.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Top teams ready for prime time

Regional television and radio will feature several Westmoreland County teams Friday night while shining a spotlight on two recent WPIAL and PIAA championship programs.

Latrobe girls soccer team powers past Franklin Regional with 2 first-half goals

September 13, 2023

An airplane flew over Rossi Field early in the girls soccer game Wednesday night, descending slowly toward the nearby airport named after Arnold Palmer.

Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 3

Class 5A Big East Conference

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Latrobe looking part of contender

It is a question coaches in Section 4-3A keep asking: How good is Latrobe?

Junior scorer emerges as game-changer for Norwin boys soccer

When Norwin played Canon-McMillan in a section matchup last boys soccer season, Daniel Maddock moved from outside back, where he had played for three games, to the wing.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Latrobe roster packed with Division I players

September 12, 2023

With junior Robin Reilly giving a verbal commitment to West Virginia, Latrobe continued its recent pipeline to Division I college soccer.

Latrobe junior soccer standout Robin Reilly said last weekend she was close to making a college commitment.

Franklin Regional volleyball boasts young roster with great chemistry

With only three returning starters, the Franklin Regional girls volleyball team will have to build experience match by match.

Norwin cross country builds strong team concept during busy summer

With more than 40 running sessions over the summer that often spanned five days a week, Norwin cross country runners developed a flow.

Norwin notebook: Volleyball team honored to again take part in outdoor game

Mary Ellen Ferragonio knew her team was taking part in an event that was as unique as it was celebratory.

Running game, special teams help Franklin Regional blank Connellsville

September 8, 2023

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Kickers giving teams a leg up

September 7, 2023

Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 2

September 6, 2023

Connellsville (2-0) at Franklin Regional (1-1)

Greensburg C.C. boys soccer gets creative with offensive attack

With an appreciation for possession-style soccer, Ryan Kanner is simplifying the offense in his first season as Greensburg Central Catholic’s boys coach.

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Norwin’s Daniel Maddock showing scoring touch

Norwin is the only Westmoreland County team left in the Trib Live HSSN rankings. Things, of course, could change as the season carries on.

Greensburg C.C. golfer Izzy Aigner to play Pebble Beach event, opting out of WPIAL individual postseason

Wave-crashing scenes from iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links have only been pictures on the web or in golf magazines to Izzy Aigner.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Key injury tests Franklin Regional

September 5, 2023

Franklin Regional is adopting a next-girl-up mentality after losing a key starter to an injury.

Derry did something Friday night it had not done since the disruptive, covid-plagued season of 2020: It won a football game.

Norwin volleyball looks to take ‘baby’ steps forward coming off playoff season

“Don’t drop the baby” has become one of Norwin’s favorite games to play at volleyball practice.

Norwin notebook: Knights show potential in football opener

Norwin showed some fight in its first football game of the season.

Franklin Regional notebook: Panthers pay tribute to late teammate at opener

Franklin Regional will never forget Joe Purdue.

John Jablunovsky and Da’sjon Craggette ran wild in their season openers, each rushing for more than 200 yards as their teams won.

Franklin Regional beats Penn-Trafford in OT in defensive struggle

August 30, 2023

When two defensive-minded girls soccer teams get together, you don’t expect to see much offense. Maybe none at all. At least not in the run of play.

Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 1

Class A No. 2 Bishop Canevin (0-0) at Greensburg Central Catholic (1-0)

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Belle Vernon to host annual kickoff classic

It would not be the start of boys soccer season in the Mon Valley without the Paul Sasko Kickoff Classic at Belle Vernon.

Face of Jeannette boys soccer program sets big-time goals

Jordan Taylor doesn’t just have one goal in mind for soccer season; he has about 100.

Comeback from injury helps Latrobe’s Yurko appreciate soccer

August 29, 2023

When she took the field for the first time in seven months, the feeling was indescribable for Ava Yurko.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Schedule set for Moe Rosensteel Kickoff Classic

The 2nd annual Moe Rosensteel Memorial Kickoff Classic will be Saturday at Norwin Knights Stadium.

Greensburg Salem golfer’s swing is sweeter with new prosthetic arm

As soon as he arrived home from the Hanger Clinic in Greensburg, Ian Smith grabbed a golf club and headed for his backyard.

Westmoreland County boys soccer preview: Trevor Kovatch back to lead young Belle Vernon

Fifteen players accounted for points, and 11 scored goals last season for Belle Vernon’s boys soccer team.

Moe Rosensteel Award watch list for WPIAL’s top girls soccer player announced

August 23, 2023

The 2023 Moe Rosensteel Player of the Year watch list is here, just a few days before the start of the high school season.

Quarterback was not Luke Denny’s bag.

2023 WPIAL boys soccer preview: Rankings, contenders, players to watch

WPIAL boys soccer preview

Jeannette program beginning to regain footing

August 20, 2023

Asked if he was satisfied after a three-win season that saw Jeannette finish fourth in the Eastern Conference and make the WPIAL Class A football playoffs, second-year coach Tommy Paulone paused.

New coach to rely on playmakers at Greensburg Central Catholic

New coaches, who share connections, set to lead prolific Westmoreland County programs

When Mike Brown was coming out of Penn-Trafford, a Division II college program took a particular liking to his skills as a defensive back.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Latrobe girls soccer coaches take on 1st season as husband and wife

August 19, 2023

Jamie Morrison and Ross Campbell will begin their eighth season together as coaches of the Latrobe girls soccer team. This will be their first season, however, as wife and husband.

With typically strong defense, Franklin Regional girls soccer prepares to contend again

Each game it is the same.

Norwin notebook: Former Knights baseball standout wins Palomino World Series

Summer baseball is more fun when it comes with some hardware.

Change is a good thing.

Senior quarterback takes pride in wearing Jeannette uniform

A family vacation to the Outer Banks in North Carolina included some beach football.

Westmoreland County high school notes: Latrobe’s Ella Bulava out with torn ACL

August 15, 2023

Ella Bulava, a senior soccer standout at Latrobe and a Maryland commit, will miss the high school season after having surgery for a torn ACL.

Latrobe’s Maddy Petruzzi commits to Valparaiso

Another Latrobe athlete is set to continue her career at college soccer’s highest level.

After productive summer, Franklin Regional itching to put on pads

August 5, 2023

Third-year Franklin Regional football coach Lance Getsy was in a walking boot at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Larry Sellitto Memorial Passing Tournament at Latrobe.

Like most hopefuls who play the Powerball lottery, Landon Sidun has the right attitude when he goes into a wrestling tournament. A confident, clear-headed attitude.

Monessen’s senior class is looking to give back while remembering a friend and helping another.

Confidence at an all-time high for Norwin grad Jack Salopek at Western Michigan

July 22, 2023

Quarterback Jack Salopek has never been a rah-rah screamer — in the huddle, at practice or otherwise.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Yough welcomes new girls soccer coach

Yough’s girls soccer team will have its third coach in three years with the hiring of Robert Broadwater, a Pennsylvania state trooper and former Yough middle school coach.

Norwin playmaker Jackson Pons prepares for future with new focus on defense

If there is a web video on how to be a better defensive back, Jackson Pons has probably watched it, rewound it and watched it again.

Trading skates for court shoes, Alex Thomas still is faster than many of his opponents and can sling an orange ball past goaltenders with the same zip as a hockey puck.

Former Norwin wrestler headed to Nicaragua on missionary trip

John Altieri has those pre-tournament butterflies and is anxious to see what the competition looks like.

Football is leading Quinton Martin to dollars and scents.

After title game loss, Hempfield vows to ‘come out on fire next year’

June 16, 2023

Hempfield can’t crack North Penn ace in 1-0 PIAA championship game loss

June 15, 2023

UNIVERSITY PARK — Walled off by a gifted pitcher and unable to manufacture offense with runners on base, Hempfield lost a state softball championship for the first time.

Hempfield to face state’s most dominant ace: North Penn lefty Julia Shearer

June 14, 2023

PIAA Class 6A softball championship preview: Hempfield vs. North Penn

PIAA softball playoffs

Hempfield softball notebook: Freshman Lauren Howard scoring runs at record pace

Lauren Howard is as promising a freshman as any Hempfield has put in the starting lineup.

Making the state softball championship would carry special meaning for Hempfield coach Tina Madison, not just because she is a proud alum and former ace pitcher for the Spartans.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: New Hempfield girls soccer coach up for a challenge

New Hempfield girls soccer coach Jim Jones has several goals. His team will settle for one.

Norwin notebook: Ex-Knights standout Jack Whalen wraps up big freshman year at Seton Hill

Not many freshmen in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference had a better debut season than Seton Hill’s Jack Whalen, a Norwin alum.

PIAA softball playoffs

Dan Boring to resign as Southmoreland athletic director

Dan Boring believes the Southmoreland athletic department is in better shape than when he began overseeing Scotties sports in 2020.

WPIAL Class 3A softball championship

‘Smiling snipers’ from Southmoreland eager to take crack at unseating No. 1 Avonworth

The text messages began shortly after the semifinal results came in.

May 29, 2023

Maybe it was his late father Norm’s influence, the way he was raised in the game that made him this way.

Westmoreland WPIAL softball consolation capsule: Game for Tuesday, May 30, 2023

WPIAL Class 2A softball consolation game

2023 WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship preview: Latrobe vs. Hopewell

WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Streak of teams reaching WPIAL finals continues

May 27, 2023

With the Hempfield, Belle Vernon and Southmoreland softball teams, along with the Latrobe baseball team, reaching the WPIAL finals, a local streak continues.

Westmoreland H.S. athletes of the week: Belle Vernon’s Maren Metikosh, Latrobe’s Logan Bradish

Maren Metikosh

Norwin notebook: Bella Brozeski captures WPIAL hurdles gold

Bella Brozeski overcame hurdles, literally, to capture a WPIAL championship.

Latrobe’s Sofia DeCerb named Kaitlyn ‘Moe’ Rosensteel Scholarship award winner

May 25, 2023

Latrobe’s promising playoff run continues with 4A quarterfinal win over Chartiers Valley

May 22, 2023

Dante Basciano was a bat boy on the 2017 Latrobe baseball team that won WPIAL and PIAA Class 5A titles.

Hempfield preps for 3rd clash with Norwin, this time in playoffs

In the first game, Hempfield gambled, and it backfired as Norwin cranked a couple of home runs.

Westmoreland WPIAL softball playoff capsules: Games for Thursday, May 18, 2023

WPIAL softball playoffs

Ligonier Valley softball rallies to upset Hopewell

May 16, 2023

For five-plus innings, it was an old-fashioned pitchers’ duel that seemed to set the game back to a time when the circle was 40 feet away from home plate instead of 43.

Burrell softball team handles Mt. Pleasant in first round

Jeannette’s boys soccer team is under new leadership.

Won at a time.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Playoff picture coming into focus

With a week to play in the regular season, the Westmoreland County baseball playoff field is just about set.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Southmoreland captures elusive section title

May 3, 2023

Southmoreland has been a playoff regular in recent seasons, and the Scotties won a WPIAL championship in 2018.

Jeannette athletic director Adrian Batts thought the softball field behind the high school needed more than bleachers and well-manicured grass for an up-and-coming program.

A perk of winning a state championship in Pennsylvania is the recognition that comes with it from the state government.

Make no mistake, Franklin Regional softball team shuts down Latrobe

April 26, 2023

Backlit by an error-free performance from her defense, senior pitcher Carli Ramchandran put together one of the better outings of her career against a strong lineup.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Greensburg Salem battling through injuries

Greensburg Salem had to play two recent softball games with only 11 players because of a rash of injuries.

Franklin Regional freshman Luke Williams commits to play baseball at Virginia

Luke Williams hits the baseball and makes plays in the field with a maturity beyond his years. His coach, Bobby Saddler, called him “the real deal.”

Gionnah Ruffner

Norwin notebook: Track standouts climb medal stand

The Norwin boys track and field team finished second and the girls were third at the Lady Spartan/Wildcat Invitational at Latrobe.

Murrysville Star notebook: Matchups with rival Armstrong highlight Franklin Regional softball schedule

Franklin Regional softball players might not come out and admit it, but they had two section games circled on their calendars since the start of the season.

Ciara Camacho takes a bite out of Kiski Area in Franklin Regional win

April 21, 2023

After the softball game ended, Ciara Camacho scooped up her puppy, “Chubbs,” and cradled him as she headed for the family vehicle.

Grant slam: Greensburg Salem first baseman Smith drives in 7 runs in bounce-back win

April 20, 2023

Armed with a deep pitching staff, Hempfield thrives in 3-game series

Maybe it has something to do with the fact that he used to be a pitcher, or that he enjoys the chess-match nature of the new three-game series in WPIAL Class 6A baseball.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Hempfield’s Tim Buzzard hits career milestone

There was some “Buzz” around Hempfield last week.

Hempfield softball team rights ship, beats North Allegheny

April 19, 2023

Let’s play … three?

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Franklin Regional off to hot start in Section 1

Only one Westmoreland County baseball team is situated among the top teams in the Trib top-5 rankings.

Hempfield rallies for walk-off win over No. 1 Seneca Valley

April 12, 2023

Early miscues, a nagging struggle to bunt runners over and a pile of strikeouts were an unsavory combination for Hempfield.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Southmoreland riding high after string of shutout wins

Southmoreland picked Easter week to rise into the rankings.

Of the 200-plus players selected for the annual Roundball Classic senior all-star basketball games, 36 hail from Westmoreland County schools.

Norwin boys volleyball has net-front talent to contend

Westmoreland County softball notebook: GCC taking no prisoners

With a number of starters returning in a potent lineup, Greensburg Central Catholic is expected to compete for the WPIAL Class 2A softball title.

With star freshman playing in sister’s memory, Jeannette softball off to brilliant start

Asked what her late sister, Scarlett, would think about the Jeannette softball team winning again, Grace Stein paused and allowed a subtle grin to curl up on her face.

Franklin Regional baseball bounces back to rout Gateway

April 4, 2023

Franklin Regional did not have much time to dwell on its first loss of the WPIAL baseball season.

Rosters revealed for 2023 Roundball Classic

Rosters were revealed this week for the Roundball Classic senior all-star basketball games, set for May 18, 19 and 20 at Geneva College in Beaver Falls.

Southmoreland’s Amarah McCutcheon delivers walk-off homer, spoiling stellar effort by Ligonier Valley ace

Westmoreland athletes of the week: Ligonier Valley’s Haden Sierocky, Franklin Regional’s Toryn Fulton

Haden Sierocky

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Pair of boys volleyball standouts honored

A local pair of boys volleyball players were lauded by the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association for their recent play.

Norwin notebook: Volleyball team takes tournament title

The Norwin boys volleyball team won its 16-team tournament on March 25, holding back Butler in the final for the title.

Norwin girls take pride in long playoff run, 24-win season

Norwin did not make its way through the PIAA girls basketball playoffs like it was touring a museum, pausing to look at others’ accomplishments with an enjoy-the-ride mentality.

Clutch defense helps Hempfield hold off Latrobe

March 30, 2023

Westmoreland baseball notebook: Latrobe keeps tradition going with opening game

Franklin Regional baseball team getting strong hitting, pitching in fast start

Junior Blake Bertucci and his fellow Franklin Regional baseball pitchers are playing with less stress these days.

Latrobe softball has power, ‘talent to win it all’

March 29, 2023

Watching softballs fly over the fence can make some coaches jump around like a child on a trampoline.

The great Willie Thrower was said to have the largest hands in football history. The former Ken High football star’s nickname was “Mitts.”

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Norwin, GCC girls basketball primed for sustained success

Norwin and Greensburg Central Catholic made thrilling runs to the girls basketball state semifinals, both finishing one win shy of a trip to Hershey for the finals.

With strong returning core, Norwin softball has sights set on playoffs

Six out of nine teams in WPIAL Class 6A will make the playoffs this softball season.

Norwin notebook: Fox Chapel ends hockey team’s season

Top-seeded Fox Chapel avenged a loss to Norwin in a semifinal rematch and ended the Knights’ season March 12 with a 7-3 win to advance to the PIHL Class A Penguins Cup final.

Former Yough coach Spisak set for new challenge leading Norwin baseball team

March 23, 2023

He wears navy blue and gold now instead of orange and green, but Craig Spisak still looks the part as a baseball coach preparing for a new season.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff capsules: Games for Monday, March 20, 2023

PIAA girls basketball playoffs

Westmoreland athletes of the week: Greensburg Central Catholic’s Mya Morgan and Latrobe’s Vinny Kilkeary

March 18, 2023

Mya Morgan

Norwin girls celebrate beating North Allegheny, prep for next game

The bench was warned: Don’t stand and celebrate until the game is over.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls want to make the most of year

Norwin and Greensburg Central Catholic will continue their postseason runs in the PIAA girls basketball tournaments Friday night.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff capsules: Games for Friday, March 17, 2023

PIAA basketball playoffs

Boord’s record 3-pointers help McKeesport girls sink Penn-Trafford

March 15, 2023

As each three-pointer splashed down and each smile curled up larger than the last, Malina Boord closed in on a record she had longed to break.

Westmoreland softball preview: Teams infused with young talent

Westmoreland PIHL playoff capsules: Games for March 15, 2023

March 14, 2023

PIHL playoffs

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff capsule: Games for March 15, 2023

PIAA basketball playoffs

Hempfield hires Nick Keefer as football coach

March 13, 2023

From the time he was a pint-sized ball boy in baggy orange sweats helping his dad, Tim Keefer, a former coach at Oliver, Nick Keefer knew he wanted to be a football coach.

Westmoreland PIHL playoff capsules: Games for March 14, 2023

Short-handed Monessen girls keep grinding toward PIAA opponent

March 9, 2023

It’s been an exhausting week for Monessen’s girls basketball team, and it still has a game to play.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff capsules: Games for March 10, 2023

PIAA basketball playoffs

After fighting through consolation bracket, Yough boys set for return to PIAA playoffs

March 8, 2023

The lead for Mohawk was 11 points. The task for Yough was fearsome.

Penn-Trafford’s young girls basketball roster arrives in state playoffs ahead of schedule

Norwin notebook: Adam Bilinsky bids farewell in boys basketball playoff loss

Basketball season ended in the WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinals for the Norwin boys.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Deep 3 helps Burgettstown girls defeat GCC in Class 2A quarterfinals

February 22, 2023

With Greensburg Central Catholic advancing on her team in the fourth quarter and momentum slipping away from Burgettstown, Jillian Frazier decided to take the stress out of the situation.

Westmoreland County high school basketball notebook: Latrobe coach proud of team’s effort in his final game

Call it the last dance.

With boys record broken, Monessen AD quietly holds on to girls WPIAL scoring mark

A basketball used to break the WPIAL girls scoring record sits lonely in a box in Gina Naccarato’s basement.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023

Boys

Penn-Trafford scores in final seconds to beat Shaler for 1st playoff win since 2015

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Monday, Feb. 20. 2023

BOYS

Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Week ending Feb. 19, 2023

February 18, 2023

Melina Stratigos

Fast start lifts No. 5 OLSH to 1st-round win over Mt. Pleasant

Key injuries send Franklin Regional boys to late-season skid

Franklin Regional has been banged up, thrown out of rhythm and backed into a corner.

Westmoreland high school girls basketball notebook: Playoff picture clearing up

February 8, 2023

The WPIAL will announce playoff pairings beginning at 3 p.m. Monday via Trib HSSN, and postseason games could begin as early as next Thursday, according to the league calendar.

A bout of adversity didn’t stop the Norwin hockey team from winning, and it didn’t stop an offensive player from suiting up and playing goaltender.

With just over a week to go in the WPIAL regular season, the Westmoreland County playoff picture is coming into greater focus.

Belle Vernon boys still looking to find groove in season of constant change

A search for continuity is a seemingly ongoing adventure at Belle Vernon this season as the boys basketball team tries to grow into its expectations.

Yough girls charging toward playoffs during breakthrough season

February 1, 2023

Mike Gerdich, walking gingerly in front of his team’s bench, watches a loose basketball roll out of bounds and into the near corner during a home game against Charleroi.

Westmoreland high school notebook: GCC’s Mack catches Maine’s eye

January 22, 2023

Amari Mack caught the attention of college coaches when he received a scholarship offer to play at Sacred Heart as a sophomore.

Norwin’s Jiancristoforo will run for Robert Morris

With a six-days-a-week running schedule that equates to about 40 miles, Emma Jiancristoforo is always on the move.

Seton Hill to host high school basketball showcase

A 14-team, seven-game basketball showcase event will take place this weekend at Seton Hill in Greensburg.

Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Penn-Trafford’s Joe Enick and Belle Vernon’s Jenna Dawson

January 21, 2023

Joe Enick

Greensburg Central Catholic freshman Erica Gribble stays step ahead of competition

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Southmoreland’s Ty Keffer hits 1,000-point mark

Ty Keffer became the ninth male basketball player from Southmoreland to reach the 1,000-point mark Wednesday in the Scotties’ 78-55 victory over visiting Indiana.

Hempfield boys feel lucky to have Harry Sowers in lineup

When a sports reporter first dubbed him “Dirty Harry,” Hempfield’s Harrison Sowers had to do some research.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Yough in playoff hunt

January 18, 2023

Yough? In a section race?

Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Greensburg Central Catholic’s Mya Morgan and Franklin Regional’s Juliano Marion

Mya Morgan

Terek Crosby wasn’t sure how many career points he had earlier this season during a holiday tournament at Greensburg Salem.

Monessen boys keep underdog mentality despite 10-game winning streak

Monessen is going streaking again.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin named a MaxPreps All-American

January 11, 2023

Belle Vernon fans see Quinton Martin as their Captain America.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Franklin Regional focuses on closing out games

Latrobe’s Elle Snyder makes team-record 10 3-pointers

Elle Snyder had a career night for Latrobe.

Hot-shooting North Catholic girls hold back Greensburg Salem

January 5, 2023

Greensburg Salem likes to turn out the lights for its player introductions at home games. The full spotlight effect.

Jeannette girls snap 51-game losing streak

Jeannette had been close.

Greensburg Salem rookie coach learns lessons, brings fresh approach to team

Often, as he coaches his first season at Greensburg Salem, Cam Auld finds himself reverting back to the not-too-distant past when he was a high school basketball player.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Tourette syndrome can’t slow Greensburg Salem leading scorer

At first glance, Ryan Burkart does not look like he would be Greensburg Salem’s leading scorer.

Marko Thomas resigns position as Greensburg Central Catholic football coach

January 4, 2023

With four young sons, including a 1-year-old, and three of them active in multiple sports, Marko Thomas decided it was time to be a dad instead of a coach.

Early loss jolts Greensburg Central Catholic boys into form

Wake-up calls don’t always happen early enough in the season for a team to react and recover.

Yough boys rally in 4th quarter to defeat Jeannette, end losing skid

December 28, 2022

Collectively, Yough exhaled as a five-game losing streak got smaller in the rearview mirror.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Former Latrobe standout makes return

Latrobe welcomed Jenny from the block back to town.

The Norwin girls basketball team sprinted out of the gates to open the season.

Norwin boys basketball grinds out victory against Yough

December 10, 2022

There weren’t any slam dunks, and fast breaks were at a minimum.

Latrobe boys edge Greensburg Central Catholic

You don’t have to lose to learn.

Alonzo Wade always has three words in the back of his mind, whether he is lining up wide for a pass route or posturing to make a play at outside linebacker.

Westmoreland County boys high school basketball notebook: WCCA showcase Saturday

The Westmoreland County Coaches Association will welcome 16 boys basketball teams for its annual showcase Saturday at Hempfield and Jeannette.

Norwin boys sharpen game against wide variety of opponents

Lance Maha wanted to diversify the Norwin boys basketball schedule when he took over the program last year.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Mt. Pleasant’s Zelmore hits 1,000 the hard way

December 7, 2022

Tiffany Zelmore reached 1,000 career points, and the Mt. Pleasant senior did so in fewer games than most who achieve the milestone.

As the offense built from the back, slowly at first and then picking up speed, Sara Felder ran wide like a receiver in football.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Carlo Denis named 2022 Tribune-Review Westmoreland Boys Soccer Player of the Year

When Greensburg Central Catholic needed a goal over the top, it knew whose number to call.

Moon’s Hailey Longwell headlines Trib HSSN Girls Fab 15 Soccer Team

Hailey Longwell had nothing to lose this season.

Seneca Valley’s Beau Lizewski leads Trib HSSN Boys Fab 15 Soccer Team

When Seneca Valley needed to break down a back line, funnel possession to the midfield or counter an attack, the Raiders knew who get the soccer ball to.

Norwin will host a tip-off tournament to open boys basketball season Friday. The two-day event will be more like a reunion for three opposing coaches.

Belle Vernon’s Braden Laux makes impact on both sides of the ball

The more you watch Belle Vernon play, the more logical the question becomes.

Yough girls basketball program continues to gain steam as new section awaits

November 28, 2022

The gymnasium at Yough is squeaking with basketball shoes, and there is energy in the air as girls run laps to open a practice.

A trio of WPIAL girls soccer standouts guided their teams to long postseason runs and now are reaping individual rewards.

WPIAL boys earn All-America, all-region, all-state soccer accolades

Beau Lizewski helped lead Seneca Valley (22-1-1) to a PIAA Class 4A championship and a runner-up finish in the WPIAL.

Norwin notebook: Graduates making impact on women’s college hardwood

Norwin has produced college-level talent before in women’s basketball, but the Lady Knights’ imprint on the game is large this season.

Franklin Regional notebook: Football standouts earn postseason honors

The Big 5/6 Conference, which acknowledges the accomplishments of teams and athletes in the WPIAL’s two largest classifications, announced its all-section teams for football, soccer and volleyball.

Franklin Regional teams win youth football championships

Franklin Regional Youth football was double trouble for opponents in the Big East this season.

Electrifying Quinton Martin sparks Belle Vernon to WPIAL Class 3A title win over Avonworth

November 25, 2022

Attendance at Acrisure Stadium for the WPIAL Class 3A football championship: Quinton Martin … and everyone else.

Norwin girls basketball coach planning to manage team so it peaks at right time

Looking to allow recovery time between the fall season and WPIAL winter season, Norwin’s girls basketball team eased into practice instead of going all out like in previous years.

November 19, 2022

Some offseason success and a taste of victory has the Hempfield girls basketball team beaming with confidence and believing it can win more games than it loses.

Greensburg Central Catholic will open boys basketball practice Friday with no starters.

Shaye Bailey’s hat trick torches Greensburg CC, sends Freedom to Class A state title game

November 16, 2022

Get to know the new site of the PIAA soccer championships

WPIAL’s top linemen named finalists for 4th annual Bill Fralic Memorial Award

As expected, six finalists were announced for the fourth Bill Fralic Memorial Award, which honors the top senior football interior lineman in the WPIAL.

Veteran trio corrals talented young Mt. Pleasant team

November 10, 2022

With only two seniors in the starting 11, one might think Mt. Pleasant lacks veteran leadership. That this team is just a bunch of whiz kids running around aimlessly.

Greensburg C.C. girls soccer gets rival Springdale at Norwin stadium, where Centurions are 9-0 since 2014

Fralic Award finalists to be announced Monday

Finalists for the fourth Bill Fralic Award will be announced Monday at a special press conference.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Sophomore QB sparks Latrobe

When Ron Prady took over the Latrobe football program, he already knew many of the players because he teaches in the district.

Latrobe lineman Calabrace wins ‘NFL Way to Play Award’ for excellent technique

November 9, 2022

Latrobe senior lineman Daniel Calabrace was the NFL Way to Play Award recipient for Week 8.

For one local girls soccer team, the PIAA playoffs are old hat.

Norwin softball standout Snowberger commits to Holy Cross

Bailey Snowberger likes to work in silence.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Girls soccer talent abounds in area

Girls soccer talent is bubbling over in Westmoreland County, as evidenced by postseason playoff runs, career scoring milestones and Division I commitments.

Norwin focuses on youth football players to build program’s foundation

On a cold February night, the high school cafeteria at Norwin buzzed with voices of youngsters who represented the future of varsity football at the school.

Norwin notebook: Youth football teams play in championship games

Norwin had two teams playing for titles at the Western Pennsylvania Youth Football League championships Oct. 30 at Norwin Knights Stadium.

Westmoreland high school athletes of the week for the week ending Nov. 6, 2022

November 5, 2022

Ava Hershberger

October 31, 2022

If any team has been a thorn in Freedom’s side in recent years, it’s Greensburg Central Catholic.

Westmoreland soccer notebook: Third county team gets crack at Mars girls

Westmoreland WPIAL soccer playoff preview capsules: Games for Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

WPIAL soccer playoffs preview

14 boys soccer players from WPIAL garner all-state honors

October 30, 2022

The Western Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association announced its all-state team Sunday night.

Westmoreland soccer playoff preview capsule for games of Oct. 31, 2022

WPIAL soccer playoffs preview

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford girls soccer motivated for ’23 after playoff effort

Rarely does a loss generate this much attention.

October 24, 2022

Breaking down the 2022 WPIAL boys soccer playoffs

Here’s a look at the 2022 WPIAL boys soccer playoffs:

Belle Vernon star junior Quinton Martin plans to narrow his list of college scholarship offers to a top 10 soon.

Keefer to Keffer.

October 11, 2022

Shutouts are nice. But Norwin will take wins any way it can get them.

Hempfield girls soccer team determined to turn program around

Tears begin to well up in Aryn Askin’s eyes and roll down her cheek as she talks about her soccer players.

Westmoreland high school girls soccer notebook: Franklin Regional hangs hat on defense

Junior goalkeeper Aris Lamanna and a tight-laced defense are not giving up the combination to the vault any time soon at Franklin Regional.

Latrobe girls soccer team gets better of Franklin Regional

October 10, 2022

Carlo Denis and Kyler Miller have formed a formidable one-two scoring punch at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Penn-Trafford boys soccer fights through injuries, stays in playoff chase

Staggered by injuries, Penn-Trafford has managed to stay in the WPIAL boys soccer playoff chase in its first year in Class 3A.

Derry’s Hunter Jurica adds WPIAL golf title to list of accomplishments

October 4, 2022

The kid with the bucket hat keeps crossing things off his bucket list.

Despite tiny roster, Yough girls soccer team making plays by the dozen

With substitutions in short supply, Yough tries to conserve and persevere.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Latrobe senior set for international play

Latrobe senior Chloe Boyette plays defender on the Wildcats’ back line, but, come December, she will be lining up as a goalkeeper on a national stage.

WPIAL Class 3A girls golf championship, final round

WPIAL Class 2A boys golf championship preview

WPIAL Class 2A boys golf championship, final round

Pieces of paper with “1998” written on them were plastered all over the Greensburg Central Catholic locker room this week.

Springdale girls soccer team trips Greensburg CC after going a player down in final minute

September 28, 2022

Playing 10-on-11 didn’t sit well with Springdale.

Norwin boys soccer getting its swagger back, getting into thick of Class 4A picture

Call it conditioned experience.

Westmoreland boys soccer notes: GCC not letting up on offense

Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer coach Rob Fabean said before the season he was going to let his players score as many goals as they wanted.

Franklin Regional boys soccer team knocks off top-ranked Plum

September 27, 2022

The Franklin Regional boys are playing their best soccer of the season. Just ask Plum.

Westmoreland girls soccer notebook: Norwin looks for turnaround to keep playoff streak alive

Diane Metzger played for Norwin, so the second-year coach knows about the school’s rich tradition in girls soccer.

WPIAL golfers this week will be part of a significant format change to the individual postseason.

Add volleyball coach to list of duties for busy Southmoreland AD Boring

Dan Boring’s life is anything but, well, boring.

Westmoreland HS football notebook: Hempfield win among program’s best

September 24, 2022

The first 4-0 start in 51 years has made Hempfield football the talk of tailgates and round tables.

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: First-year QBs finding rhythm

First-year quarterbacks have embraced their role behind center and, as a result, some teams have not missed a beat offensively through a few weeks of the WPIAL season.

Gesinski sisters connect to lead Mt. Pleasant girls soccer past Southmoreland

September 21, 2022

Sisters Riley and Morgan Gesinski couldn’t wait to play varsity soccer together so they could make an impact for fast-rising Mt. Pleasant.

‘Essential’ midfielders drive Mt. Pleasant boys soccer team

Opponents sometimes get lost in the triangle. The Mt. Pleasant boys soccer triangle.

Mt. Pleasant swim star Lily King to attend national select camp

Fast-rising Mt. Pleasant sophomore swimmer Lily King will train with other future Olympic hopefuls next month and learn more about how to manage her budding career.

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Returning players boost Jeannette

Jeannette welcomed junior Austin Emery and senior Deyton Conrad back this week.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Southmoreland’s Olivia Cernuto out for season

September 20, 2022

Southmoreland senior standout Olivia Cernuto is done for the season with a right knee injury.

Emily Eutsey was having an ordinary round of golf, during a routine high school match, when the extraordinary happened.

Westmoreland athletes of the week: Greensburg Central Catholic’s Izzy Aigner, Hempfield’s Owen Dzurko

September 17, 2022

Izzy Aigner

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Franklin Regional gets physical

Lance Getsy channeled his inner Greg Botta on Friday night.

Norwin girls volleyball to rely on deep senior class entering Section 3-4A play

Norwin girls volleyball returns most of its rotation from last season’s WPIAL Class 4A playoff team.

Franklin Regional notebook: Girls golf team celebrates WCCA championship

Latrobe girls upset No. 5 Franklin Regional in Section 3-3A soccer match

September 14, 2022

You would have thought Latrobe had just won a championship as the girls soccer team’s bus pulled out of Franklin Regional on Wednesday night.

Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Mt. Pleasant thriving with young roster

Mt. Pleasant might have a bright future in boys soccer. The proof lies in the team’s present lineup.

New alignment gets mostly positive reviews from Westmoreland County boys soccer coaches

WPIAL realignment caused a shake-up in classifications and sections, and boys soccer saw quite a bit of movement in Westmoreland County.

New coach, 24, looks to bring bolt of energy to Greensburg Salem boys basketball

When he played high school basketball at Norwin, Cam Auld was a shooting guard who fired up 3-pointers.

Westmoreland girls soccer notebook: Franklin Regional joins top 5

September 13, 2022

Franklin Regional (5-1) is the newest local team to find a spot in the TribLive HSSN rankings.

GCC girls soccer not hitting panic button, remain No. 1 in Class A

September 6, 2022

Few coaches will argue it is better to lose the first game of the season than the last one.

Look down, and you might miss a play. Go to the concession stand, and you might miss a whole drive — maybe two.

Strength and conditioning coaches, trainers bolster Westmoreland County football programs

With shackles off, expect big goal totals from Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer

One of the first directives Rob Fabean put into place when he took over the Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer team last season was his three-goal rule.

Westmoreland County don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 1

Nonconference

Norwin girls soccer players seek healthier trip through section schedule

August 30, 2022

Injuries took a toll on Norwin last year to the point where the girls soccer team rarely had the same set lineup on the field.

Westmoreland soccer notebook: Norwin set to host Moe Rosensteel Kickoff Classic

Norwin will host the inaugural Moe Rosensteel Memorial Kickoff Classic on Saturday at Knights Stadium.

A bout of injuries plagued Norwin at the wrong times last girls soccer season, leaving the team and fans wondering what could have been.

Franklin Regional’s Morrison plots future with Sprint football

Maddox Morrison is taking a unique path to college football.

Latrobe dominates Derry in football opener

August 26, 2022

Neighboring rivals Latrobe and Derry had a lot in common heading into their season-opening matchup.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: ‘Huddie’ Kaufman to be honored

The press box at Offutt Field was one of his favorite spots to watch a football game. It was part office, part sanctuary.

August 24, 2022

Nonconference

Junior receiver could be Southmoreland’s secret weapon this season

The “X” receiver could be Southmoreland’s X-factor this football season.

August 20, 2022

It’s still early in an early starting high school golf season, but Derry is in mid-season form.

WPIAL Class A football breakdown: Defending champion Bishop Canevin the team to beat

Bishop Canevin does not have a lot of players who might be considered NCAA Division I prospects — at least not according to the feedback from college coaches.

2022 Moe Rosensteel Award watch list for top girls soccer player announced

August 19, 2022

It is becoming a tradition, just like the committee had hoped.

Behind alum Ben Hoffer, Yough aims to turn program around

Two-way lineman a blue ribbon prospect for Latrobe football team

August 18, 2022

He will show lionhead rabbits and work a bottle-rocket contest at the Westmoreland Fair later in the summer.

It is better to be the shark than the minnow, and Latrobe might be ready to raise its fin in a new classification.

Gritty Kimmel happy to be at Greensburg Central Catholic

August 14, 2022

You can keep your entitlement. If you want something, you earn it.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Lukas Petersen takes over Franklin Regional boys soccer

Perennial power Franklin Regional has a new boys soccer coach on the eve of a new season.

Norwin announces 2022 sports hall of fame class

July 26, 2022

Greensburg Salem will fall into line with similar-sized schools in boys basketball again next winter but the team will play in Class 4A without Mark Zahorchak.

Working at Lucky Lottery in Trafford has given Ben Hoffer a greater appreciation for the game of chance. There, anyone can scratch off a winner or prosper with a random combination of numbers.

Tim Bukowski soldiers on in friend’s stead as Southmoreland football coach

July 12, 2022

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Norwin senior wowed by Donald at workout

July 9, 2022

Noah Vogel went to Pitt for what initially looked like an unremarkable football workout. Another day in the blazing summer heat.

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin

July 6, 2022

Westmoreland HS notebook: Special honor for Norwin’s Rosado Guindin

June 11, 2022

Norwin senior Sebastian Rosado Guindin knew he was in the running for a unique award, but he was a little taken aback when his name was called.

Penn-Trafford softball uses fluid lineup to great playoff success

Unsatisfied by his team’s offensive output in the first round of the PIAA playoffs, Penn-Trafford softball coach Denny Little decided to tweak his batting order for the quarterfinals.

Norwin notebook: Paralympian chosen to promote sport of goalball

A dynamic goal scorer and Paralympian, Calahan Young has made his mark in the sport of goalball.

Norwin senior honored as Pittsburgh area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce MVP

Norwin senior Sebastian Rosado Guindin knew he was in the running for a unique award but was a little taken aback when his name was called.

Basketball tournament honoring Tre Cunningham’s memory continues to thrive in Jeannette

June 10, 2022

Dual-powered approach working for Southmoreland softball team

Using two pitchers wasn’t always in the cards for Southmoreland softball, especially come playoff time.

Penn-Trafford not shaken after WPIAL title-game loss, refocuses on PIAA playoffs

June 4, 2022

A mixture of stunned numbness and grace-in-defeat omitting from their faces, Penn-Trafford players and coaches posed for their runner-up photo but didn’t have to force smiles.

Westmoreland notebook: GCC, Penn-Trafford, Southmoreland in PIAA softball playoffs

The PIAA softball playoff field is set and three local teams will begin play Monday.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Marquez plays for late father

A silver, heart-shaped locket dangles from a necklace Isabela Marquez is wearing.

Seneca Valley started partying like it was 1999 — and 1992, for that matter.

WPIAL Class 5A softball championship capsule: Penn-Trafford vs. Armstrong

2-Penn-Trafford (18-2) vs. 1-Armstrong (19-4)

Peters Township’s CeCe Scott wins Rosensteel scholarship

‘Underdog’ Seneca Valley rolls past Hempfield into Class 6A WPIAL finals

May 25, 2022

As Hempfield was making lineup changes late in the game, Seneca Valley players passed the time with a quick round of Rock-Paper-Scissors. The game went around the horn.

WPIAL softball playoff preview capsule for Thursday, May 26, 2022

WPIAL softball playoffs

Penn-Trafford rallies to semifinal win over Chartiers Valley

May 24, 2022

This wasn’t calculated. Nothing about it was based on analytics. And it had nothing to do with what was written on a wrist band.

Westmoreland WPIAL playoff softball capsule: Games for Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Class 6A

Norwin’s Aaron Schmook commits to Kent State

Aaron Schmook did not set out to commit the week of the PIAA track and field championships.

Kelly sparks 5-run inning that carries Central Catholic over Norwin, into Class 6A semis

May 23, 2022

WPIAL softball playoffs

Versatility helps Greensburg Central Catholic overcome injuries to make Class A baseball playoffs

Zach David and Max Kallock appeared to be the ideal one-two pitching punch for Greensburg Central Catholic.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Top-5 seeds at stake when WPIAL brackets are released

May 11, 2022

The WPIAL is scheduled to release playoff brackets at 4 p.m. Thursday virtually via the TribLive High School Sports Network.

There is no offseason for the Norwin wrestling program.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Mt. Pleasant’s Hutter reopens recruitment

Mt. Pleasant softball standout Katie Hutter has changed her college plans.

Ligonier Valley ace Maddie Griffin to throw out 1st pitch at Pirates game

Ligonier Valley senior softball pitcher Maddie Griffin will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Pittsburgh Pirates play the St. Louis Cardinals on May 22 at PNC Park.

East Allegheny tunes up for baseball playoffs with nonsection win over Greensburg CC

May 5, 2022

Fresh off its first section title since 1999, upstart East Allegheny used Thursday’s nonsection baseball game at Greensburg Central Catholic for extra reps.

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Southmoreland takes giant leap into playoffs

Senior shortstop/pitcher Anthony Govern said this season was “playoffs or bust” for Southmoreland.

Stecko taps power potential for Norwin baseball team

Ty Stecko remembers when his baseball bat seemed to weigh more than he did.

Power surge on Cougar Mountain boosts Yough softball team

May 4, 2022

Yough plays its home games on Cougar Mountain in Sewickley Township.

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ seismic move to select Pitt quarterback Kenny Pickett in the first round of the NFL Draft had fans buzzing, debating and reminiscing.

Franklin Regional track teams claim section titles with undefeated records

Westmoreland County baseball notebook: Teams playing 1-run thrillers

Westmoreland County games have not lacked late-inning drama lately.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Ligonier Valley specializes in perfection

April 27, 2022

Ligonier Valley has only been in the WPIAL since 2020, but the softball program’s stay has been, in some ways, perfect.

Amarah McCutcheon

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Offers piling up for Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin

Add two more Power 5 scholarship offers for Belle Vernon sophomore Quinton Martin.

Teams are still adjusting to playing two-game series on back-to-back days, but the WPIAL is switching to a new format next season.

Senior’s return gives energy boost to Hempfield baseball

Joe Fiedor missed most of the basketball season for Hempfield with a mysterious injury he sustained in a home game against Penn-Trafford.

No. 1 Armstrong puts on a show in statement win over Franklin Regional

April 20, 2022

With nicknames like “Camo,” “Smoke” and “Mack Attack,” players on the Armstrong softball team appreciate a good time.

Westmoreland County softball notebook: Realignment to shake up sections

There is plenty of softball left in 2022, but the WPIAL has set the table for next season with its realignment for the new two-year enrollment cycle.

Cheyenne Piper

Norwin high school sports notebook: Knights named county award finalists

A pair of Norwin student-athletes are finalists for the 66th annual Westmoreland County Scholar-Athlete awards. The banquet is set for May 3 at Ferrante’s Lakeview.

Franklin Regional notebook: Aidan Fisch named Gold Standard Teammate at Pitt

Born on a 98-acre horse ranch in Scottdale, Tyler Shafer grew up around colts and fillies.

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Derry volleyball coach reflects after 200th win

Shawn Spencer sees his coaching milestone as one part longevity, two parts personnel.

After school record toss, Norwin’s Schmook targets WPIAL, PIAA success in javelin

Aaron Schmook took up throwing an 8-foot toothpick about four years ago.

Norwin notebook: Knights take part in PIHL all-star game

Five Norwin hockey players suited up for the PIHL Class A All-Star Game on April 3 at Alpha Ice Complex in Pittsburgh.

Piper provides perfect pitching performance for Ligonier Valley softball

April 7, 2022

Emma Blair

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Local players dot rosters for Roundball Classic

The Roundball Classic basketball games return this year, and a number of local players made the all-star rosters.

Norwin sports notebook: Mumpower makes volleyball list

Norwin senior Luke Mumpower was one of three WPIAL players selected as the Class 3A player of the week by the Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Felder will play for Youngstown State

In less than a month’s time, Sara Felder was recruited by a school, visited its campus and made a commitment.

Westmoreland baseball opening day primer: Teams, players, games to watch

March 24, 2022

Friday is opening day for high school baseball in the WPIAL.

Westmoreland softball opening day primer: Teams, players, games to watch

Friday is opening day for high school softball in the WPIAL. Here are some particulars to get you started on a new season.

Senior leadership, sophomore talent helps Norwin reach Pennsylvania Cup final

While the roster lists them by their sweater number and class, Norwin hockey players say they identify as one.

Expectations remain high for Southmoreland softball team

March 23, 2022

Southmoreland softball had some fun with its first week of practices, introducing themes.

All of their players adorned with blond hair, the Peters Township hockey team captured PIHL gold.

Expectations are high for Norwin softball team

Satisfied is not a word you want to associate with the Norwin softball team heading into the 2022 season.

Westmoreland PIHL playoff capsule: Penguins Cup championship, March 22, 2022

Franklin Regional is not ready to loosen its grip on the WPIAL championship trophy just yet.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Greensburg Salem honors coach Snider

Maybe the “Snider Mile” will become a thing in the future.

Franklin Regional softball anticipates making run at section title with talented lineup

Norwin notebook: Wrestler brings home junior high state title

1st-year coaches take lessons from Franklin Regional basketball season

While their teams fell short of the WPIAL postseason, first-year basketball coaches Jesse Reed and Bernie Pucka saw new systems begin to take root and programs take on new personalities this winter.

The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League announced rosters for its annual all-star games.

Bukowski hired as Southmoreland football coach, steps in for late friend Frederick

March 10, 2022

Tim Bukowski had planned to be Ron Frederick’s right-hand man on the Southmoreland football coaching staff.

Westmoreland PIAA playoff capsule: Belle Vernon vs. Quaker Valley, Friday, March 11, 2022

Friday’s game

Westmoreland high school notebook: Belle Vernon’s Martin gets 5-star rating

Belle Vernon sophomore Quinton Martin is now a five-star recruit, at least according to one reputable recruiting website.

Belle Vernon to face monumental challenge in Quaker Valley in PIAA 2nd round

Belle Vernon knows it could be in for its toughest challenge of the season.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys advance on Turner’s buzzer-beating layup

March 9, 2022

Norwin notebook: Loss to Butler ends solid season for boys basketball team

Norwin girls basketball looks to future after abrupt playoff exit

Norwin had momentum, a nine-point halftime lead and its sights on a return to the WPIAL Class 6A girls basketball semifinals.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Belle Vernon resident Eli Teslovich helps Shady Side Academy to WPIAL title

March 5, 2022

Westmoreland County did not produce a WPIAL champion in basketball this season.

Latrobe goalkeeper DeCerb commits to James Madison

Anyone who follows Latrobe girls soccer will not be surprised to hear the news: Sofia DeCerb will stop shots at the NCAA Division I level.

Greensburg Central Catholic ended Monessen’s 16-game winning streak in the semifinals.

Southmoreland girls continue to rely on trademark defense to advance in WPIAL playoffs

February 28, 2022

Teams that have played against Southmoreland the last several seasons rarely have hit their scoring averages.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games for Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Semifinals

Westmoreland high school notebook: Shakeup for football schedules

February 27, 2022

Schedules for the 2022 WPIAL football season came out last week, giving some teams in new classifications, and their fans, a glimpse of what lies ahead.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys get much-anticipated rematch with OLSH in WPIAL semifinals

Greensburg Central Catholic players and coaches watched Our Lady of the Sacred Heart celebrate a WPIAL boys basketball title last year at Peters Township — right in front of them.

Franklin Regional basketball continues fundraising efforts for Clelian Heights

Organizer Kurt Kimmich longs for the return of the Special Needs Awareness Day at Franklin Regional.

Saturday’s game

Daly drives Seton LaSalle past Greensburg CC in Class 2A quarterfinals

February 24, 2022

Mallory Daly knows how to take hits and she knows how to dish them out.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Belle Vernon itching for another crack at Montour

Belle Vernon was short a couple of key pieces when it played Montour the first time this season.

Westmoreland WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games for Friday, Feb. 25, 2022

Friday’s games

Bethel Park girls stage 2nd-half rally to get past Norwin in Class 6A quarterfinals

February 23, 2022

The WPIAL team wrestling championship had already been decided, but that didn’t stop Norwin from beating up on opponents.

Playoff berth breathes new life into Norwin boys basketball program

Norwin players and coaches sprinted toward center court and embraced one another. They soon were joined by some student fans who rushed the court after the final buzzer sounded.

Belle Vernon is miscast sometimes as a two-man basketball team. A two-man show.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Belle Vernon’s Salvino nears victory milestone

Somewhat in jest, Joe Salvino said there are two people who care more about his career win total than he does.

Delaynie Morvosh sheds unsung label, makes major impact for Southmoreland

February 16, 2022

When teams yell “shooter!” while they’re defending Southmoreland, Delaynie Morvosh is usually surprised when she realizes they mean her.

February 12, 2022

Westmoreland high school notebook: Ligonier Valley’s Hollick brings hockey sensibility

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Playoff participants set

February 9, 2022

Westmoreland County’s contributions to the WPIAL girls basketball playoff field are set.

Westmoreland basketball teams welcome chance to start playoffs at home

Southmoreland plans symbolic hiring of late football coach Ron Frederick

Ron Frederick couldn’t wait to begin his dream job as the head football coach at Southmoreland.

Hempfield closes in on WPIAL playoff spot after win at Penn-Trafford

February 8, 2022

Playing with a sense of playoff urgency, Hempfield pieced together a Section 3-6A win and moved a step closer to securing a postseason berth.

The pool is undergoing a remodel at Norwin, but that doesn’t mean swimming talent has dried up.

Norwin notebook: Girls basketball team makes statement with win over North Allegheny

It was a head-turning win if there ever was one.

A winning streak can be euphoric and demanding, enjoyable and stressful.

Well-rounded GCC boys too much for Winchester Thurston, win 14th straight

February 2, 2022

Tyree Turner and Brevan Williams scored inside and out.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Monessen motivated by ‘unfinished business’

Monessen has a unique girls basketball roster.

January 30, 2022

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford football team honored in Harrisburg

Penn-Trafford traveled to Hershey to win a state football championship. The Warriors went to Harrisburg to be recognized for it.

Jeannette boys basketball coach Adrian Batts has never missed the WPIAL playoffs in 12 seasons leading the Jayhawks and he is on pace to reach the postseason again this year.

Remembering Ben Roethlisberger’s remarkable senior season at Findlay High

Ben Roethlisberger walked off into the sunset Thursday, announcing his retirement from pro football after 18 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Penn-Trafford’s Maura Suman breaks school steals record

Penn-Trafford senior point guard Maura Suman can handle the ball and score with some of the better backcourt players in Section 1-6A.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Shootout at Seton Hill returns

January 27, 2022

Basketball showcase events went by the wayside last season as the covid pandemic stretched its long reach over high school and college sports.

Norwin girls easily drop No. 1 North Allegheny

Norwin had a “purple out” Thursday night as part of a fundraiser.

Yough’s rising basketball star Crosby working to expand his game

Terek Crosby is a gifted athlete and a natural scorer on the basketball court.

Latrobe girls basketball integrates guarded approach

January 26, 2022

Latrobe has gained some attention around WPIAL girls basketball circles because of its height and old-school post play.

Now that they have a better idea of what they will be dealing with in their new classification and conference, Norwin and Hempfield can begin to plan out next football season.

Norwin notebook: Chase Kranitz hits 100-victory wrestling milestone

Chase Kranitz checked off a career milestone when the Norwin wrestling team hit the road for a recent tournament.

Like mother, like daughter.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys basketball riding wave of confidence

Greensburg Central Catholic boys basketball players fling up half-court shots as a recent practice draws to a close.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Greensburg Salem welcomes back its Big Ben

Ben Thomas had not played a WPIAL basketball game in nearly a year.

Notre Dame latest Power 5 school to offer Belle Vernon sophomore Quinton Martin

Colleges are not offering Belle Vernon’s sensational sophomore too early. They’re right on “Q.”

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Yough making major strides

January 19, 2022

Scores can be indicative of how far struggling programs have come — a measurement of improvement.

Norwin girls basketball team shows grit, chemistry

Opponents taking notice of Norwin’s ‘Waldo’ Fleming

When Norwin basketball player Michael Fleming went off for 27 points and made five 3-pointers in a game at Penn-Trafford last season, he was introduced to the WPIAL basketball world.

Franklin Regional notebook: FR grad Kadyn Hannah makes quick impact at La Roche

Kadyn Hannah did not need much adjustment time as a freshman on the La Roche men’s basketball team.

Greensburg Central Catholic sat a few starters midway through the first quarter Thursday night, but the move had nothing to do with their conduct or early play.

Westmoreland high school boys basketball notebook: Latrobe goes young

Part necessity, part rising talent, Latrobe is playing four freshmen this season.

Carrying on a family tradition in Latrobe boys basketball? The Butlers did it

The Latrobe basketball roster is like a map of Western Pennsylvania. There is always a Butler.

Westmoreland high school girls basketball notebook: Greensburg Salem’s Mankins is ‘irreplaceable’

January 12, 2022

The Franklin Regional gymnasium fell silent for about 40 minutes Tuesday night when Greensburg Salem sophomore center Kaitlyn Mankins went down with a grim injury.

Basketball has been the center of Nasheed “Nas” Thompson’s universe for a long time.

Westmoreland high school boys basketball notebook: GCC disrupted by covid again

The Greensburg Central Catholic boys basketball team didn’t play a home game in 2020.

Lindeman, Boyd picked for ECNL all-star showcase

A pair of WPIAL girls soccer standouts and Pittsburgh Riverhounds Academy players were selected to play in a national showcase.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Southmoreland-Greensburg Salem lives up to billing

January 5, 2022

It was a girls game played on night when the spotlight shined on the top boys basketball action in the WPIAL.

Southmoreland girls will forge ahead rather than dwell on early section loss

For Southmoreland, it’s not as much about the loss as it is what happens after it.

Brevan Willliams can dunk. Anybody who has followed Greensburg Central Catholic boys basketball knows that.

Norwin Star notebook: Knights special teams duo earns spot at national showcase

Xander Smith and Joey Castle were a one-two special teams punch for Norwin this season. Smith centered long snaps to Castle, who boomed punts into orbit.

Murrysville Star notebook: FR grad closing in on college hockey milestone

Hockey standout Jamie Mauro is on point at IUP.

Kiski Area boys basketball shows killer instinct in win over Franklin Regional

December 17, 2021

Kiski Area guard Isaiah Gonzalez had to leave the game briefly because he cut his lip and some blood dripped onto the court.

Franklin Regional soccer star DiFalco commits to Duquesne

The long-awaited college decision of one of the WPIAL’s best soccer players finally came to light Friday.

Former Jeannette player expected to be named Jayhawks’ new head coach

Jeannette will recommend a former Jayhawks quarterback to be its next head football coach.

Belle Vernon girls defeat Mt. Pleasant in section opener

WPIAL basketball season opens Friday, and big expectations — emphasis on big — are coming out of Latrobe.

Sydney Lindeman takes Tribune-Review Westmoreland Girls Soccer Player of the Year honors

December 4, 2021

Soccer players can get pigeon-holed into a position and the duties that come with it.

Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco again named Tribune-Review Westmoreland Boys Soccer Player of the Year

Special talents such as Anthony DiFalco don’t come along often.

Trib HSSN WPIAL girls soccer all-stars: Steel Valley’s Salopek takes game to next level

TribHSSN Fab 15

Trib HSSN WPIAL boys soccer all-stars: Franklin Regional’s DiFalco caps remarkable career

Trib HSSN Fab 15

Central Valley’s Sean FitzSimmons receives Bill Fralic Memorial Award

Norwin Star notebook: Adam Bilinsky springs into action on hardwood

Adam Bilinsky can fly.

When healthy, Norwin girls basketball tough to beat

December 3, 2021

Norwin has four starters back, but those players rarely formed the same lineup last season because injuries would not allow it.

Ruane, Humbert build Penn-Trafford, Belle Vernon into consistent contenders

November 25, 2021

The local coaches who will try to lead their teams to WPIAL football championships on Saturday at Heinz Field have more in common than a desire to break through.

Westmoreland County football notebook: Penn-Trafford making special plans for Moon matchup

A WPIAL championship would be special to Penn-Trafford.

With 5 starters returning, Greensburg Central Catholic girls in position to contend

Chris Skatell is a practicing attorney.

Tall, talented roster has Greensburg Central Catholic boys talking title

Good luck getting rebounds against Greensburg Central Catholic this season.

Franklin Regional girls basketball team’s young roster to sport new look on defense

November 24, 2021

Bernie Pucka used to be an assistant football coach at Franklin Regional, but now he is the school’s new girls basketball coach.

New coach brings energy boost to Franklin Regional boys basketball

The more time Jesse Reed spends around his Franklin Regional boys basketball team, the more enlivened he gets.

Kelsey Salopek led Steel Valley to its first WPIAL girls soccer championship this season.

Baseball, girls soccer players among Norwin standouts making college commitments

Signing day once again was good to Norwin.

Norwin Star notebook: Hockey team gets back on track

The Norwin hockey team rebounded nicely from its first loss of the 2021-22 season.

Oliver Daboo nets winner in overtime to give Winchester Thurston 1st PIAA boys soccer title

November 20, 2021

HERSHEY — A choice more related to superstition than diet, Winchester Thurston junior defender Oliver Daboo stopped eating chocolate a few weeks ago with the playoffs approaching.

Southern Columbia tops Greensburg C.C. in PIAA Class A final for 2nd straight year

Girls

With state playoff berth on the line, Franklin Regional tops Plum in shootout

November 3, 2021

A quickly scribbled together crib sheet that coaches drew up during the second overtime helped Franklin Regional extend its season.

Westmoreland County don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 10

Class 5A

Westmoreland girls soccer playoff capsule for Nov. 4, 2021

Today’s game

Westmoreland HS notebook: Franklin Regional’s DiFalco to play in All-American game

Franklin Regional soccer standout Anthony DiFalco has had a decorated high school career.

Greensburg Central Catholic gets wild OT win over Eden Christian

November 2, 2021

Carlo Denis said he heard a defender say, “Oh, no.”

Westmoreland County WPIAL soccer playoff capsule for Nov. 3, 2021

Boys

October 31, 2021

Monday’s WPIAL soccer playoff games

Westmoreland H.S. soccer notebook: Franklin Regional boys winning with offense

With 56 shutouts across the last four seasons, Franklin Regional has developed a reputation as one of the top defensive programs in WPIAL boys soccer.

Early goal carries North Allegheny to 1-0 win over Norwin

October 30, 2021

A single goal and sound defense can still carry a tune in the WPIAL soccer playoffs. Always has.

Greensburg Central Catholic blanks Springdale but loses top scorer to red card in quarterfinals

When Greensburg Central Catholic and Springdale meet in the boys soccer playoffs, the teams see red.

Section title provides highlight for Franklin Regional girls volleyball

Despite coming into the season as defending WPIAL champion, the Franklin Regional volleyball team took nothing for granted.

Norwin notebook: Tiebreakers keep Knights out of football playoffs despite big win

WPIAL mathematics when it comes to tiebreakers can make your head spin and your blood pressure rise, especially if you’re a team trying to get into the football playoffs.

Norwin closes season with victory over Hempfield

October 29, 2021

Mathematically, Norwin is out of playoff contention.

Westmoreland WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Oct. 30, 2021

WPIAL soccer playoff capsules

14 WPIAL boys soccer players earn all-state recognition

Fourteen WPIAL players were announced Friday as Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association all-state selections.

Class 6A

Mt. Pleasant girls soccer team ekes out victory over Beaver

October 26, 2021

A driving, sideways rain made it hard for the teams to concentrate on each other Tuesday night at Mt. Pleasant.

Eighth grader Erica Gribble gets Division I basketball offer

Irwin’s Erica Gribble won’t play varsity basketball in the WPIAL until the 2022-23 season.

Westmoreland County WPIAL soccer playoff capsules: Oct. 27, 2021

Wednesday’s games

Franklin Regional blanks pesky West Allegheny in Class 3A girls soccer opener

October 25, 2021

Franklin Regional notebook: Girls golf team wraps up another strong season

Based on the level of competition at the WPIAL Class 3A girls team golf finals, coach Kane Daignault was thrilled to see his Franklin Regional team card a top-five finish.

Jeannette transfers lead Greensburg Central Catholic to win over Jayhawks

October 22, 2021

Talk about a U-turn.

Vince Skillings said he doesn’t believe he did anything to warrant a dismissal, but Derry apparently saw otherwise.

Greensburg CC soccer teams land No. 1 seeds in WPIAL playoffs; Norwin boys, Latrobe girls have a bye

Greensburg Central Catholic’s soccer teams seemed to follow each other around last fall during the WPIAL postseason, figuratively and physically.

Westmoreland County don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 8

Class 6A

Breaking down the 2021 WPIAL girls soccer playoffs

Here’s a look at the 2021 WPIAL girls soccer playoffs:

Mt. Pleasant’s motivation for Tuesday’s 5 p.m. Section 3-2A girls soccer finale comes prepackaged and free of charge.

Area standouts can get caught between high school, club soccer

October 17, 2021

Morgan Einodshofer is piling up goals for the Belle Vernon girls soccer team. She also is piling up frequent flyer miles.

WPIAL soccer rankings: Week of Oct. 18, 2021

Girls

Westmoreland high school notebook: Local soccer teams punch tickets

The local WPIAL soccer playoff field is set.

Penn-Trafford’s Schlessinger brings intensity to multiple sports

Maybe it’s the football player in him. Or the dek hockey player, for that matter.

Westmoreland football notebook: Penn State coaches come to watch Belle Vernon’s Martin

October 16, 2021

Belle Vernon had a couple of special guests on campus Friday.

Improbable comeback something Franklin Regional ‘will always remember’

A couple of key plays led to Franklin Regional’s improbable second-half comeback Friday night at Latrobe, perhaps the greatest rally in the football program’s history.

First he took down the career record for goals. Now, Daniel Sassak has the all-time points mark, too.

Greensburg Central Catholic is climbing the stairway to seven.

WPIAL soccer rankings: Week of Oct. 11, 2021

Girls

Westmoreland H.S. football notebook: P-T still savoring win over Gateway

October 9, 2021

Penn-Trafford’s Warrior Stadium was alive with goings-on Friday night. It was the hub of Harrison City as the stadium lit up a rainy community.

Playoff-bound Jeannette boys soccer setting new standards for program

“Hop in,” Kylie Smith tells her teammates as she picks them up to go to a game.

WPIAL team golf playoffs set

Westmoreland high school notebook: Flamingos ‘flock’ to area for Belle Vernon fundraiser

October 3, 2021

Plastic pink flamingos have been showing up in yards around Belle Vernon, but for good reason.

High-scoring DiFalco diversifies his game for Franklin Regional boys soccer team

It was like time stopped for a few seconds, and Anthony DiFalco was controlling the dials.

Westmoreland H.S. football notebook: GCC coach reflects on ‘all-around great day’

October 2, 2021

Friday will be quite unforgettable for Greensburg Central Catholic first-year coach Marko Thomas.

Southmoreland’s female running back, Lilly Wasmund, scores TD in win over Derry

Devin Whitlock’s thrilling last-second TD ‘most meaningful run he’s ever made’ for Belle Vernon

Norwin tennis team off to strong start behind ‘seasoned’ lineup

With the largest and most experienced team she has since taking over at Norwin in 2018, girls tennis coach Diane Pesarsick has even larger expectations for the Knights this fall.

Norwin notebook: Knights girls soccer rebounds after early loss

Norwin girls soccer coach Diane Metzger isn’t panicking. After all, it’s only one game.

There were people who didn’t think Monessen, with its small roster and overall lack of experience, would score 50 points all season, let alone in one game.

First-year quarterbacks learning the ropes, making plays in Westmoreland County

Westmoreland County girls soccer notes: Southmoreland star sidelined

September 22, 2021

It is unclear how long Southmoreland standout Olivia Cernuto will be sidelined with a right leg injury.

Westmoreland County boys soccer notes: Belle Vernon, TJ to square off on pitch, too

Thomas Jefferson at Belle Vernon is the football game with all the sizzle this week in the WPIAL. But the same teams will play in a key boys soccer game Thursday night at Belle Vernon.

If you have seen Hempfield play this season, then you’ve watched No. 50 blow up opposing plays for the Spartans.

Westmoreland County senior spotlight: Southmoreland’s Taylor Klingensmith

Southmoreland has blossomed into one of the more potent offensive girls soccer teams in the WPIAL.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Norwin girls tennis living up to expectations

September 19, 2021

With the largest and most experienced team she has had since taking over at Norwin in 2018, girls tennis coach Diane Pesarsick has even larger expectations for the Knights this fall.

Season-opening loss sharpens focus for Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer

The first game of the season in any sport is important. But, just the same, it can seem quite meaningless.

Trib HSSN soccer rankings for week of Sept. 19, 2021

Girls

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Southmoreland opens it up

September 18, 2021

Westmoreland County high school football notebook: GCC shuffles quarterbacks

There might be a quarterback competition at Greensburg Central Catholic. Or maybe the Centurions have found another way to attack opponents.

Westmoreland girls soccer notebook: Latrobe ready to ‘exceed expectations’

September 15, 2021

Hello, Latrobe.

WPIAL soccer rankings

Soccer Jordan Taylor gets Jeannette boys soccer to think big

Vanity is not among Jordan Taylor’s chief concerns when he tries to put another goal in the net for the Jeannette soccer team.

Westmoreland H.S. football notebook: Ligonier Valley finding home in WPIAL

September 11, 2021

Ligonier Valley might have a WPIAL membership like all of the other football teams in District 7. Member since: 2020.

New Norwin girls soccer coach Diane Metzger does not plan to have a starting lineup selected until a few days before the season opener.

Norwin boys soccer team has title run in its sights

Riley Zimmerman played only briefly in the WPIAL Class 4A boys soccer championship three years ago at Highmark Stadium, but the experience resonated with him.

Franklin Regional girls soccer has strong base to build on

With nine returning starters, Franklin Regional’s girls soccer team looks like it will have staying power this season.

As he surged through the line and wrapped up a Burrell ball carrier for his first tackle of the game — and season — Casey Shaffer could hear a familiar cheer.

Sasko Classic returns at Belle Vernon to kick off soccer season

You know the WPIAL soccer season is here again when the name Paul Sasko appears on schedules.

Nonconference

Just 1 starter returns for defending WPIAL champion Jeannette

Roy Hall is not sure how this season — his last with the Jayhawks — will play out, but he knows what the main goal is for his football team.

Clairton reloads behind imposing offensive line

It’s a hot July afternoon and Clairton just finished its final 7-on-7 competition of the summer.

With new coach in place, Greensburg CC to rely on strong defense, deep skill group

It could take some time for Greensburg Central Catholic to find its identity early in the football season.

Penn-Trafford’s Nick Turowski has record-breaking day at Manor Valley

August 24, 2021

Nick Turowski drove the first green Tuesday, ripping a 300-plus-yard drive to about 20 feet to open his nine-hole high school match.

Jeannette and Monessen have a lot in common.

Latrobe QB Bobby Fetter displays leadership, perspective for Wildcats

August 19, 2021

When Bobby Fetter learned he might not be able to play football again after he separated his left shoulder for a third time and needed surgery, the Latrobe senior gained a measure of perspective.

2021 WPIAL golf season primer

High school golf season at a glance

10 WPIAL players make All-American games watch list

August 18, 2021

The 2021 High School All-American soccer games will be played Dec. 11 in Orlando, Fla.

Despite defection of teammates, Jeannette’s Justin Shank determined to give his all

Justin Shank often asks himself, “Why me?”

After close calls, Latrobe searching for signature win

Latrobe has made things interesting late in the season the past two years, hanging around teams it wasn’t supposed to get in the ring with and nearly pulling stunners.

No-nonsense lineman helps launch Hempfield into new era

New players to step into leadership roles at Derry

Derry lost 14 seniors to commencement but quickly replenished the roster with 14 freshmen. That doesn’t mean the team will get nearly the production of last year’s 12th graders.

Ahmad Ward hopes to be bigger part of Derry’s offense this season

August 13, 2021

A comic book and collectables enthusiast, Ahmad Ward owns a Funko Pop! Vinyl figure of Marvel character Thanos that he believes is worth $400.

New coach begins program overhaul at Hempfield

Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.

Norwin eager to change program’s image

Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.

Norwin kicker Castle seeing his profile increase nationally

August 12, 2021

Soccer was once the sport that fueled Joey Castle’s adrenaline rush. The thrill of scoring goals and stopping them drove him to compete.

Greensburg Central Catholic football team looking for Week Zero opponent

For Greensburg Central Catholic, Week Zero is living up to its name. As in, zero teams to play.

New Norwin coach sees untapped potential in boys basketball program

Organizer Tim Carney called the inaugural Tre Cunningham Memorial Basketball Tournament “a huge success.”

Hempfield softball team prepares for post-Bob Kalp era

August 1, 2021

With the namesake of Robert D. Kalp Field no longer the softball coach at Hempfield, the program has to take a lonely look into the future.

Westmoreland notebook: WPIAL champs head to PNC Park; lacrosse players hit big stage

July 31, 2021

Franklin Regional boys basketball continues offseason preparation while awaiting coaching hire

Losing a head coach at any time of the year can have a stifling effect on a high school basketball program.

Pitt soccer player Ellie Coffield, former Mars star, donates grant to Moe Rosensteel Foundation

July 27, 2021

When student-athletes are named the Gatorade athlete of the year in their state for their respective sport, they are awarded $1,000 to donate to their entity of choice.

Anthony Speca, Quinton Martin named to MaxPreps sophomore preseason All-America team

MaxPreps announced its preseason All-American football team for the Class of 2024 and a pair of WPIAL standouts made the list.

Southmoreland soccer standout wastes no time making Division I college commitment

July 26, 2021

Westmoreland high school notebook: Hempfield football leaning on strength coach Cortazzo

July 24, 2021

If Hempfield football turns a corner and gets back into playoff contention again this fall, the Spartans might be able to thank their strength coach.

Derry football coach Vince Skillings shares story of his addiction, despair to inspire others

He didn’t plan it, but Vince Skillings literally saw the light in the darkest of dark times.

Legendary Hempfield softball coach Bob Kalp, 7-time WPIAL champ, retires

New Spartans coach Brown eager to turn Hempfield football into winners

July 17, 2021

When he was an assistant at Robert Morris, Mike Brown recruited football players from Hempfield, so he was familiar with the program.

Trib HSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Anthony Speca, Central Catholic

Two-time defending WPIAL Class A boys soccer champion Greensburg Central Catholic is loaded with talent again, but the team will have a new coach this fall.

Jeannette announces latest hall of fame class

July 13, 2021

Jeannette announced its 2021 Jayhawk Athletic Hall of Fame class on Tuesday.

Trib HSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Quinton Martin, Belle Vernon

July 11, 2021

Westmoreland County Girls Athlete of the Year: Olivia Cernuto, Southmoreland

July 10, 2021

Unless she takes a summer vacation or a few random days off, Olivia Cernuto gets little rest during the sports year.

Another state championship in hand, the Mt. Pleasant softball team celebrated some personal accolades Tuesday when the all-state teams came out.

Beaver’s Payton List, Bethel Park’s Reagan Milliken win state player of year honors

One did it with her arm, the other with a heavy bat.

Westmoreland high school notes: Hempfield’s Sierk has smarts

July 3, 2021

Dan Sierk is as much a student of the game as he is a fierce, run-blocking tight end and an edge-turning defensive end.

Behind the scenes, Joe Blahovec could be carving out a path to a Division I football career.

Devin Whitlock reeled in his first Division I football scholarship offer. He hopes it will be the first of many to come.

Norwin notebook: Knights baseball, softball players earn spot on Big 5/6 all-section teams

Norwin was well-represented on the Big 5/6 Conference all-section baseball and softball teams.

PIAA softball preview

Weight-training program powers Mt. Pleasant softball’s run to state finals

Each grapefruit the Mt. Pleasant softball team smashes out of the park seems to go farther than the last.

Mt. Pleasant softball hopes to answer one last call

June 16, 2021

Mt. Pleasant softball coach Chris Brunson has been receiving dozens of phone calls and texts from fellow coaches and colleagues in the area with good luck wishes, salutes and plaudits.

PIAA softball notebook: Mt. Pleasant catcher Shawley battles through pain

Lexis Shawley became such a regular with Allegheny Health Network that the medical system decided to use her in one of its commercials.

Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock gets 1st Division I offer

Devin Whitlock reeled in his first Division I football scholarship offer, and he hopes it will be the first of many to come.

It’s all about the red, white and blue for Lexi Puskar.

Westmoreland PIAA playoff preview capsules for June 14, 2021

PIAA softball playoffs

Westmoreland notebook: Norwin’s Giansante hits right notes on, off track

June 12, 2021

For John Giansante, it is all about rhythm.

Norwin Star notebook: Triple jumper puts a bow on high school career

For John Giansante, it is all about rhythm.

Norwin notebook: Knights baseball, softball teams reflect on seasons

Postseason runs that were expected to last a lot longer ended rather abruptly in the WPIAL semifinals for the Norwin baseball and softball teams.

Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli pulls in offer from Wisconsin

June 3, 2021

Another week, another Division I football offer for Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli.

Catcher Lexis Shawley received an unsolicited compliment from an umpire after a recent playoff game.

WPIAL Class 3A softball championship preview: Mt. Pleasant vs. Ellwood City

Softball

Smithnosky powers top-seeded Mt. Pleasant past Avonworth into Class 3A finals

May 25, 2021

Taking ownership of another WPIAL playoff game, senior Mary Smithnosky propelled Mt. Pleasant into the Class 3A championship with her arm and her bat.

Inspirational soccer standouts honored with ‘Moe’ Rosensteel scholarships

No. 11 Ellwood City tops Southmoreland, continues underdog run to softball finals

Ellwood City coach Gary Rozanski has seen his teams win WPIAL championships before but never has judged them on aesthetics.

Westmoreland WPIAL softball capsules for May 26, 2021

Wednesday’s games

A-K Valley baseball playoff preview capsule: Game Tuesday, May 25, 2021

May 24, 2021

Favorite status doesn’t faze top softball seeds from Westmoreland County

If the softball playoffs come to pass the way the WPIAL committee foresees — “to chalk,” as they say — there are going to be some celebrations in Westmoreland County.

Sophomore Madie Kessler wasn’t aiming for Route 30, but those who witnessed her towering home run against North Allegheny believe the ball might have landed on the highway below Norwin High School.

The WPIAL will convene Friday to draw up playoff brackets. The pairings will be announced around 3 p.m. on the Trib High School Sports Network.

Westmoreland softball notebook: Franklin Regional surges into playoffs

May 12, 2021

After losing its first two games, the Franklin Regional softball has been a model of consistency.

Latrobe softball pitchers prove to be worthy replacements

Latrobe has done just fine without Jordan Tallman, thank you.

Norwin baseball batters Class 5A No. 1 Franklin Regional, 18-2

Norwin had lost two section games in a row and was looking to recharge its battery – and its bats — against Franklin Regional in a nonsection baseball game that had some extra shine to it.

It is Roundball Classic week and Western Pennsylvania’s top all-star senior basketball players will begin gathering at Geneva College.

No. 2-ranked Southmoreland softball sets back-to-back section doubleheaders

With the regular season winding down and no extension in sight, the Southmoreland softball team suddenly is in cram mode.

May 6, 2021

Greensburg Central Catholic baseball had serious postseason expectations last year, as in, we can win the WPIAL and PIAA kind of expectations.

Westmoreland high school baseball notebook: Ligonier Valley closes in on playoff spot

Ligonier Valley is on the verge of securing a playoff spot in its first season playing in the WPIAL.

Fun-loving Norwin softball team blanks Hempfield to clinch section title

May 5, 2021

When Norwin softball players were told by their coach, Brian Mesich, that an umpire wanted them to “tone it down” on the field, they seemed taken aback.

Westmoreland softball notebook: Latrobe’s Tallman sisters flying high

The Tallman sisters, Jordan and Jenna, hope to take the Latrobe softball team to new heights this season, their last together as high school teammates.

Norwin notebook: Track and field athletes shine at Lady Spartan/Wildcat Invitational

Norwin track and field athletes made their presence felt at the recent 29th annual Lady Spartan/18th Annual Wildcat Invitational at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium.

Despite cancellation of annual event, Franklin Regional basketball boosters make donation to Clelian Heights

Penn-Trafford baseball shows flair for the dramatic with early-season wins

Penn-Trafford still is finding its identity as the baseball season nears the halfway mark.

Westmoreland softball notes: Hempfield happy to have Sowers back on field

April 21, 2021

Hempfield is glad to have No. 22 back in the circle — and in the batter’s box.

With the No. 1 ranking in the WPIAL — the No. 4 mark in the state in Class 6A — and enough college-level talent to beat the band, Norwin has earned the right to walk around with bravado.

Ligonier Valley softball still unbeaten, defeats ‘scrappy’ Serra Catholic

April 16, 2021

After craning her neck to watch the softball stay just fair and sail over the left-field fence, Ligonier Valley pitcher Maddie Griffin turned her attention to the baserunner.

Hempfield on track to hire Penn-Trafford grad Mike Brown as football coach

Hempfield will vote Monday to name Mike Brown as its next head football coach.

Westmoreland high school baseball notebook: Jeannette players learning while taking their lumps

April 15, 2021

It has been one wild ride this season for Jeannette baseball, which is enduring a down year but taking it in stride.

Southmoreland baseball taking remarkable resurgence in stride

When Southmoreland upset No. 5 Waynesburg to open the WPIAL baseball season, the Scotties did not have a ticker-tape parade through downtown Scottdale.

Sam Salih resigns as Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball coach

As a behavioral specialist and former pro player, Sam Salih brought a unique combination of mental and physical training methods to Greensburg Central Catholic’s girls basketball program.

Yough softball hitting all the right spots in early going

April 14, 2021

Yough softball coaches and players often talk about their pitchers “hitting spots.”

North Allegheny softball makes short work of Hempfield

Call it stunning. Call it uncharacteristic.

Westmoreland softball notebook: Southmoreland returns to winning ways

Southmoreland is off to its best start in five years and could be a challenger to Mt. Pleasant — a section opponent, it just so happens — in Class 3A.

Westmoreland campus clippings: Greensburg native Goetz cruises to Mountaineer Invitational title

Mark Goetz wasn’t playing Hannastown Golf Club, his home course in the summer months, but he sure looked at home at Pete Dye Golf Course in Bridgeport, W.Va.

WVU senior Mark Goetz runs away with home invitational for first college title

April 13, 2021

Mark Goetz wasn’t playing Hannastown Golf Club, his home course in the summer months, but he sure looked at home at Pete Dye Golf Course in Bridgeport, W.Va.

Controversial call, hot hitting help Franklin Regional baseball rout Latrobe

Norwin track and field to lean on senior depth

A global pandemic put a line through last season, ending playoff streaks for both of the Norwin track and field teams.

Franklin Regional notebook: Panthers hockey reaches PIHL semifinals

The seventh-seeded Franklin Regional hockey team advanced to the PIHL Class AA semifinals with a thrilling upset in the quarterfinals.

April 7, 2021

Hempfield misses its senior starting pitcher, Callie Sowers, who has yet to play a game this season because of a broken thumb.

Greensburg Central Catholic softball off to promising start

While three games is a small sample size, it represents a strong start to the Greensburg Central Catholic softball team, and is perhaps a sign of what’s to come for the program.

April 3, 2021

Tribune-Review Westmoreland Girls Basketball Player of the Year: Latrobe’s Anna Rafferty

Tribune-Review Westmoreland Girls Basketball Player of the Year

Tribune-Review Westmoreland Boys Basketball Player of the Year: GCC’s Brevan Williams

Tribune-Review Westmoreland Boys Basketball Player of the Year

Jeannette could be losing two of its best football players.

Mt. Pleasant stops Yough, sees room for improvement

March 30, 2021

Pete Billey had just finished a 2-for-3 day at the plate. He had two doubles and drove in two runs as the Vikings improved to 2-0.

Norwin baseball team looks like the total package

It looks like a classic case of expectation vs. execution for Norwin this baseball season.

Talented Norwin softball squad still figuring out where pieces fit

This installment of the Norwin softball team has coach Brian Mesich scratching his head — and scratching his lineup card often with an eraser.

Mt. Pleasant’s multi-sport seniors bring power, athleticism to diamond

March 29, 2021

Mt. Pleasant’s six-man senior baseball class will likely not be sending anyone to play at the college level. But that doesn’t mean the Vikings will lack talent specific to the sport.

Large, talented senior class gives rise to optimism for Norwin boys lacrosse

With one of its largest senior classes — and arguably one of its most talented — the Norwin boys lacrosse team is hoping for a season that extends into the WPIAL playoffs.

Jeannette opens girls basketball coaching position

March 17, 2021

Jeannette is taking its girls basketball program in a new direction.

Mt. Pleasant softball team honors late State Rep. Mike Reese by wearing his number

You could not tell the players apart by their roster numbers, but you could tell they were playing collectively for a common purpose.

Belle Vernon freshman Quinton Martin gets 2 more Power-5 offers

March 16, 2021

Quinton Martin had his share of exciting slam dunks this season for the Belle Vernon boys basketball team. He even had a few alley-oops from junior point guard Devin Whitlock.

Norwin notebook: Altieri shakes off slam to wrestle at states

March 15, 2021

Franklin Regional swim team hopes to add to medal haul at PIAAs

Franklin Regional sent a number of swimmers to the medal stand at the WPIAL Class AAA Championships at Upper St. Clair.

Remember all that talk about Southmoreland being the darlings of the WPIAL girls basketball playoffs a year ago?

Norwin freshman emerges as featured playoff performer

Big 2nd half allows Norwin girls to pull away from Butler

March 6, 2021

Halftime speeches and the adjustments that accompany them have helped many a WPIAL basketball team advance in the postseason.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys advance to WPIAL semifinals

Norwin notebook: Bilinsky to be selected for Roundball Classic

The Roundball Classic is returning in full force this spring.

Pine-Richland conquers nerves, Hempfield in advancing to WPIAL Class 6A semifinals

March 5, 2021

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Deep bond for Mt. Pleasant senior, freshman

Derry boys basketball shooting for 1st playoff win in program history

Motivation can come in many forms in basketball.

May tipoff confirmed for Roundball Classic all-star games

The Roundball Classic was canceled last spring due to the onset of the coronavirus outbreak. But the high school basketball all-star event is returning — and in full force.

Penn-Trafford boys pass test against Franklin Regional

Franklin Regional boys basketball doing double duty Saturday

Franklin Regional will pull double-duty Saturday.

Latrobe boys basketball gets thrilling victory vs. Franklin Regional

Bowen resigns after 9 seasons as Hempfield football coach

February 15, 2021

Hempfield football coach Rich Bowen resigned Monday after nine seasons, citing professional reasons for his departure.

A lot of local basketball players are wearing the No. 5 these days.

Norwin notebook: Big day finally arrives for Giansante

Finally, the day of promise arrived for Anthony Giansante.

Brevan Williams never has been transfixed on becoming a go-to scorer. It just sort of happened organically as he found his place on the court at Greensburg Central Catholic.

New coaches putting their stamps on Westmoreland County basketball programs

Doug Kelly is as reflective about life as he is basketball. He takes a deep breath and pauses to mull over moments, both small and large in scope, before he moves on to the next challenge.

Franklin Regional tops Greensburg Salem for 1st section win

February 10, 2021

A few games ago, when Franklin Regional played Latrobe, the Panthers could not make a shot. Inside, outside, layups or putbacks — nothing.

Frontcourt duo gives Latrobe girls a towering presence in paint

It’s picture day at Latrobe. Someone says they should snap a photo of the “twin towers.”

Franklin Regional basketball doing best to push through stop-and-start season

Greensburg Central Catholic names Marko Thomas head football coach

Marko Thomas does not think he has a coaching identity yet. No schematic traits or positions that have given him a reputation.

Transfers provide boost for several top Westmoreland County teams

February 3, 2021

Hunter Schmidt making ‘big’ impact for Jeannette boys basketball

When Hunter Schmidt walks into a room, people take notice.

Greensburg Salem boys basketball coach Mark Zahorchak glared through a doorway as his players ran onto the court.

Franklin Regional’s Brush happy to continue basketball career

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Greensburg Salem, Franklin Regional affected by shutdowns

Greensburg Salem is the only active boys basketball team in the WPIAL that has not played a game this season.

Westmoreland high school girls basketball notebook: Yough revels in snapped streak

January 27, 2021

Yough is showing steady improvement and the proof is in the numbers.

Local basketball freshmen playing beyond their years

Jim Nesser liked what he saw from Terek Crosby from the moment the promising freshman first laced up his basketball shoes and took the court at Yough.

Westmoreland high school basketball notebook: Penn-Trafford’s Giannikas hits 200 wins

January 20, 2021

John Giannikas took over the Penn-Trafford girls basketball program prior to the 2006-07 season. The Warriors were a hit-or-miss playoff team in the years leading up to his start date.

Rob Miele said the adage is true. When it comes to the tail end of coaching stop, you just know.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford, Norwin girls to square off

January 17, 2021

Covid-19 can muck up schedules, but it can’t take away rivalries.

Franklin Regional faces difficult task in replacing Greg Botta, 2 other coaches

WPIAL coaches have mixed feelings about open basketball playoffs

January 16, 2021

Yes, we’re open.

Hempfield rallies from behind then holds off Penn-Trafford late

January 15, 2021

Mt. Pleasant coach Scott Giacobbi is not quite ready to schedule a parade up and down Route 31, but he has enjoyed his team’s quick start.

Covid changes rearrange Greensburg Salem basketball schedules

Greensburg Salem has not played a girls basketball game since Feb. 8 of last year.

Ligonier Valley winter sports teams finally get down to preparing for WPIAL debuts

Ligonier Valley athletes and coaches were getting restless.

Third-ranked Jeannette boys edge Greensburg Central Catholic on late putback

January 12, 2021

That Greensburg Central Catholic had played a game and Jeannette had not heading into the teams’ Section 3-2A boys basketball matchup was mostly irrelevant to the coaches.

High school basketball will have much different look — and sound — when it resumes

When Buddy Valinsky coached in the City League, basketball games were played in the afternoon in front of only a few fans.

Franklin Regional football program, WCCA mourn loss of Larry Sellitto

January 7, 2021

Every head football coach has a right-hand man.

Greensburg Salem is walking back a lengthy pause on winter sports and will now resume practices Monday like most of the WPIAL.

Westmoreland high school notes: GCC girls soccer player Winnor commits to New Hampshire

December 23, 2020

Bethany Winnor, a key player on the girls soccer team at Greensburg Central Catholic that won the WPIAL Class A title and finished runner-up in the PIAA this season, will play NCAA Division I soccer.

New Hampshire gets commitment from GCC soccer’s Bethany Winnor

December 22, 2020

Westmoreland County high school notebook: Football standouts still mulling college offers

December 18, 2020

Mars’ Blair Gerlach wins national coach of year award

Most people will be more than happy to throw away calendars from 2020 and hang a new docket on the wall.

High school basketball teams committed to staying sharp during shutdown

December 17, 2020

Westmoreland high school notebook: FR’s DiFalco awarded again

December 13, 2020

Norwin infielder chosen for exclusive showcase

No high school baseball season last spring only served to motivate players like Alex Gabauer, a slick-fielding, power-hitting shortstop at Norwin.

Hempfield is in somewhat of a unique situation. While its boys basketball team lost six seniors, it returns two of its top three scorers.

Franklin Regional’s DiFalco named Tribune-Review Westmoreland Boys Soccer Player of the Year

Player of the Year

Southmoreland’s Cernuto chosen Tribune-Review Westmoreland Girls Soccer Player of the Year

Player of the Year

With college choice made, Norwin lefty Jayden Walker itching to pitch

Jayden Walker was finally ready to pitch again last spring, nearly a year after shoulder surgery to fix a damaged labrum.

Franklin Regional athletes have unprecedented run of success in fall season

Franklin Regional decided the best way to navigate a pandemic during a sports season was to keep playing — and keep winning.

Young, tall team returns for Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball

November 26, 2020

Perspective is a trigger word this season around the Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball program.

Major Division I college football schools are expected to take interest in Belle Vernon freshman Quinton Martin over the next few years.

Norwin Star high school notebook: Athletes in wide array of sports sign letters of intent

November 21, 2020

At the start of the NCAA signing period, Norwin had an abundance of college signees who will further their athletic careers in various sports and at various college levels.

Murrysville Star high school notebook: Franklin Regional baseball standouts pick colleges

National Letter of Intent Day often brings out the best in high school sports programs.

Pitt extends offer to Belle Vernon freshman Quinton Martin

November 20, 2020

All-WPIAL boys soccer teams released

All four of the All-WPIAL boys soccer teams are out, and they include a number of players who are still competing in the PIAA playoffs.

Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer chasing elusive PIAA title

November 16, 2020

Greensburg Central Catholic has a perennially strong boys soccer program.

Westmoreland PIAA soccer playoffs capsules for Nov. 17, 2020

Tuesday’s games

WPIAL field hockey all-stars announced

Gretz guides GCC girls soccer to early lead, into PIAA Class A semifinals

Some day in the near future, Tatum Gretz hopes to be scoring goals in the Big East for Villanova.

Norwin Star notebook: Payton Wehner on mend from broken leg

Peters Township (8-0) vs. Pine-Richland (8-0)

Finalists announced for Bill Fralic Memorial Award

Six finalists, one from each classification, have been selected for the second Bill Fralic Memorial Award, which honors the best senior football lineman in the WPIAL.

Belle Vernon’s Grace Henderson commits to Akron

Grace Henderson is one of those rare, multi-sport athletes who can impact more than one sport in the same season.

When Olivia Kruger took over the girls soccer team at Greensburg Central Catholic, she wanted to “change the shape” of the Lady Centurions’ attack.

After winning WPIAL title, GCC boys soccer turns focus to condensed state tournament

November 9, 2020

Only district champions make the PIAA soccer playoffs this year, so rematches against other WPIAL teams, practically a staple in the state postseason, is out of the question.

For the third time in six years, Class A heavyweights Clairton and Jeannette will meet for a WPIAL championship.

Norwin AD trying to maintain normalcy during covid crisis

Norwin has encountered covid-19 like a lot of other school districts in Westmoreland County.

Norwin notebook: Knights seniors make college choices

A pair of Norwin seniors made a commitment to Division II schools on the same day.

Pine-Richland aerial attack too much for Penn-Trafford in Class 5A semifinals

November 6, 2020

Pine-Richland may have dropped in classification this season, but the Rams still seem to be in a class by themselves.

WPIAL Class A boys soccer preview: No. 1 Greensburg Central Catholic vs. No. 2 Winchester Thurston

Class A

GCC tightens up on defense heading into boys soccer title match with Winchester Thurston

The Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer team might be dealing with a case of mistaken identity this postseason.

Dane Beller’s golden goal lifts Mars past Franklin Regional in Class 3A title game

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Yough peaking at right time

October 30, 2020

With two high-scoring offenses meeting Friday night at Warrior Stadium, some expected a shootout.

Westmoreland County WPIAL soccer playoff preview capsules: Oct. 31

Boys

Parents of opposing players watched Wednesday night’s WPIAL Class 3A boys soccer playoff game in Murrysville from more than 6,500 miles away — in Kuwait.

WPIAL soccer playoff preview capsules: Oct. 29

A statistics teacher who doubles as the boys golf coach at Franklin Regional, Jeff Traphagen often looks at life through numbers.

Penn-Trafford, Belle Vernon get home games for WPIAL football playoffs

October 24, 2020

When the WPIAL announced higher-seeded teams will get to play at home through the semifinals of the football playoffs, a number of coaches had reason to smile.

Penalty kick gives Indiana boys soccer 1st-round win over Belle Vernon

Josh Glaser said three words ran through his head as he set up for the final penalty kick.

Penn-Trafford scores every which way, routs Franklin Regional

October 23, 2020

Penn-Trafford won’t be recognized as a conference champion but the Warriors sure played like one in their regular-season finale.

Westmoreland WPIAL soccer playoff capsules

WPIAL soccer playoffs preview

Home-field advantage could play a big part in this year’s WPIAL soccer playoffs.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Penn-Trafford focused on rivalry game

Penn-Trafford could finish atop the Class 5A Big East Conference but not be considered a conference champion.

Franklin Regional boys soccer eyes WPIAL 3-peat

Franklin Regional arranged some objectives early in the boys soccer season, like it was laying out a new outfit for the first day of in-person school.

Westmoreland boys soccer notebook: Norwin back to full strength for playoffs

Norwin had two late-season ties in boys soccer, which caught the eye of opposing teams and the people who conjure up the WPIAL rankings.

Norwin girls volleyball, Latrobe boys soccer shut down because of covid-19 concerns

October 20, 2020

The Norwin girls volleyball and Latrobe boys soccer teams have shut down for 14 days because of possible exposure to covid-19.

Jeannette freshman QB Brad Birch is ‘for real’

When he talks in casual conversation or even in interviews, Brad Birch likes to finish a lot of sentences with the words, “for real.”

Ligonier Valley girls soccer team not apologizing for unique path to playoffs

When a clerical error made Apollo-Ridge ineligible for the WPIAL Class A girls soccer playoffs, there was a wide-eyed newcomer waiting to fill the vacancy.

They are used to singles and doubles … and triples and home runs.

Westmoreland H.S. football notebook: Hempfield copes with sudden end to season

October 17, 2020

Hempfield players had no clue they were playing their final football game of the season two Friday nights ago at Baldwin.

Norwin notebook: Trip to WPIAL finals a 1st for Knights golfers

Norwin switched home courses for boys golf this fall.

Underclassmen growing up quickly for Norwin football

Class 6A football can make a team grow up quickly in the WPIAL.

Franklin Regional golfers savor WPIAL championship round at Oakmont

Brooke Horvath and Caroline Tragesser have played numerous rounds of golf together at various courses.

Franklin Regional earns crucial win over Latrobe

October 16, 2020

Franklin Regional isn’t ready for its playoff streak to end.

Derry calls off next week’s football game with Burrell after more positive covid tests

Derry postponed next week’s football game at Burrell over growing covid-19 concerns.

Norwin senior volleyball player Brooke Gast still is adjusting to covid-19 times, where few fans, if any, are permitted in gymnasiums, and rally points hit gym floors with a pronounced echo.

Norwin notebook: Football team puts seven-game skid in rearview mirror

A seven-game losing streak is no more for the Norwin football team.

Franklin Regional’s ‘Super’ Mario Sarnic happy to be back on field

Southmoreland defense swarms Yough in shutout

October 9, 2020

Southmoreland turned a potential shootout into a shutout.

Is that Franklin Regional hiding in the tall grass of the Class 5A Big East Conference?

Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer playing like ‘legitimate’ contender

One mark of a title-contending team is how it responds to playing from behind. How it deals with adversity.

Westmoreland boys soccer notebook: Unbeaten Belle Vernon gets record-setting performances

Belle Vernon’s weekend shutout of rival Ringgold allowed a couple of players to move up in the Belle Vernon record book.

Westmoreland high school girls soccer notebook: Daughter gets best of dad in showdown

October 6, 2020

Izzy Laurita felt a strange type of nervousness last week when Belle Vernon took the field against visiting Hempfield.

Soccer community remembers ‘Moe’ Rosensteel

Westmoreland County don’t miss high school football matchups for Week 4

Class 6A

Jeannette’s defense is starting to reveal its athleticism and potential.

Norwin soccer player tackles challenges presented by cystic fibrosis

September 29, 2020

Franklin Regional girls volleyball embraces No. 1 ranking

H.S. football notebook: Derry’s backup plan working out at QB

When Paul Koontz, a senior who has proven himself as the starting quarterback at Derry, went down with a season-ending knee injury, the Trojans did not panic.

Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Norwin tackling tough section schedule

September 22, 2020

Norwin girls soccer coaches and players were not altogether thrilled when the WPIAL two-year realignment cycle brought some change to their section.

Southmoreland the surprise of WPIAL girls soccer

Southmoreland is by no means a girls soccer powerhouse.

New Westmoreland County athletic directors working to keep high school sports humming

September 21, 2020

WPIAL boys and girls soccer rankings for Sept. 21, 2020

WPIAL soccer rankings

Westmoreland football notebook: Defense driving force for Belle Vernon

September 19, 2020

The stage is set for another clash between Class 4A rivals Belle Vernon and Thomas Jefferson.

Norwin golfers take to hilly layout at Youghiogheny

Norwin moved its boys home golf matches to Youghiogheny Country Club near McKeesport.

Class 6A

Belle Vernon looks to rebound after section streak ends

September 16, 2020

Belle Vernon is not that bad. It remains to be seen if Connellsville is that good.

Westmoreland football notebook: Penn-Trafford’s Brad Ford sets unbreakable record

Senior running back Brad Ford’s 99-yard rushing touchdown last week in the season opener against Latrobe was a Penn-Trafford program record, Warriors football historian Rush Pedder pointed out.

GCC sophomore Amari Mack picks up D-1 football offer after big opener

September 15, 2020

A bedazzling season opener from Amari Mack suddenly has the Greensburg Central Catholic sophomore on the Division I FCS radar.

WPIAL girls soccer preview: Can anyone rocket past state champ Mars in Class 3A?

Class 4A

WPIAL boys soccer preview: Long list of contenders eye up Canon Mac in Class 4A

Class 4A

Deep, talented Franklin Regional golf team poised to take big step forward

September 14, 2020

For years, Franklin Regional has watched other teams celebrate section, WPIAL and PIAA titles in boys golf.

Jeannette will honor former standout Tre Cunningham at its football season opener Friday night against Clairton.

Team speed is a trait often associated with girls soccer at Norwin. Opponents can feel more like track sprinters as they chase the Knights down the field and back.

Chase Whatton set to power Elizabeth Forward attack

September 6, 2020

While he can’t quite predict the future, Chase Whatton has a promise for Elizabeth Forward football fans.

Yough eyes improvement on defense under 1st-year coach

Yough hasn’t exactly built a fence around the end zone in recent seasons.

Westmoreland boys soccer preview: Franklin Regional chasing 3rd straight WPIAL title

Forty-two wins, 33 shutouts, 15 goals allowed.

Greensburg Central Catholic brings size, skill in Eastern Conference race

September 5, 2020

Averaging 6-foot-21⁄2 and 255 pounds, Greensburg Central Catholic’s linemen will cast shadows at the line of scrimmage and give the Centurions room to operate on each side of the football.

Jeannette superintendent sends letter to Gov. Wolf concerning fan limitation

Jeannette’s fan base is about as loyal as they come in the WPIAL. Devoted fans follow the Jayhawks wherever they go, especially in football.

Connellsville’s Marko Thomas does not just sound like a coach giving lip service following a down season.

Greensburg Salem seeks right chemistry in pursuit of 700th win

September 2, 2020

Don’t get too used to the starting lineup Greensburg Salem football coach Dave Keefer rolls out in the opening game.

Belle Vernon linebacker’s name starting to carry weight with college recruiters

Add midfielder Zach Lorenz of Franklin Regional to the watchlist for the 10th High School All-American soccer games.

Running game, defense take precedence at Norwin

With a nonexistent running game, a problem that was compounded by a multitude of injuries to its offensive line, Norwin struggled to move the football last season.

Hempfield looks to stay healthy in 2020

Ninth-year coach Rich Bowen wonders what might have been last year had his Hempfield Spartans not been ravaged by injuries early in the season.

August 27, 2020

Offseason training has made Nate Dlugos a better quarterback mechanically and has boosted his confidence.

Norwin’s Nick Fleming commits to Mount St. Mary’s baseball

July 31, 2020

The timing wasn’t exactly precise, not like he had envisioned, but Nick Fleming still was all smiles Friday night after deciding on his baseball future.

July 18, 2020

Norwin lineman Giansante commits to Western Kentucky

June 29, 2020

With each video clip he posted on social media, bulked-up Anthony Giansante shared another step on his path to Division I football.

Westmoreland County boys athlete of the year: GCC’s Nate Ward showed will to win in 4 sports

June 27, 2020

PIAA’s spring sports cancellation especially tough for new softball, baseball coaches

Travel softball teams returning to action, trying to get used to coronavirus guidelines

June 3, 2020

Travel softball will return to Pennsylvania later this month and players and coaches, particularly those who missed out on the high school season, are bubbling with anticipation to play again.

Former Franklin Regional coach Doug Kelly expected to get Penn-Trafford boys basketball job

Doug Kelly is the recommended candidate to be the next boys basketball coach at Penn-Trafford.

Former assistant Amber Cernuto takes over Southmoreland girls basketball program

June 2, 2020

While taking a year off for personal reasons, Amber Cernuto was able to watch Southmoreland girls basketball from a different vantage point.

WPIAL newcomer Ligonier Valley lands in basketball sections

Each time the WPIAL releases section alignments for 2020-21, Ligonier Valley feels more welcomed to the league.

Virtual games help ease loss of season for Belle Vernon softball

Monday was supposed to mark the start of the WPIAL baseball and softball playoffs.

Penn-Trafford basketball coach Jim Rocco resigns

May 11, 2020

The resignation of Jim Rocco was accepted Monday night at Penn-Trafford, bringing an end to his five-year tenure as boys basketball coach.

Jeannette seniors have winning mentality in athletics, classroom

Editor’s note: This is the ninth in an 18-part series profiling nominees for the Westmoreland County Scholar-Athlete Excellence Awards.

New Southmoreland girls soccer coach couldn’t stay off sidelines long

Josh Pajak thought about taking a break from coaching after he left the Mt. Pleasant girls soccer program. He was set for an extended vacation from the game.

One game to go. One abandoned, unresolved game that was left to stew in the penalty box for something it didn’t do.

Editor’s note: This is the third in an 18-part series profiling nominees for the Westmoreland County Scholar-Athlete Excellence Awards.

Latrobe’s Walker signs NAHL tender with Wichita Falls

Add another Latrobe hockey standout to the Wichita Falls Warriors’ roster.

Organizers hold off on canceling Westmoreland County 7-on-7 summer football event

May 4, 2020

With schools closing across the state, high school sports also were shut down for the spring by the PIAA.

Senior spotlight: Albert Gallatin shortstop hits all the right notes

Editor’s note: Each day, Trib HSSN will spotlight WPIAL spring athletes whose senior years were cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.

Hempfield hoops standout Liberatore picks Marshall

May 3, 2020

Westmoreland County notebook: Soccer star DiFalco sticking with Franklin Regional

May 2, 2020

Franklin Regional boys soccer fans can relax. Anthony DiFalco isn’t going anywhere.

Gateway coach Alvis Rogers squared off with Michael Jordan long before his ‘Last Dance’

Fay-West schools team up with rivals for ‘Spirit Week’ event

April 29, 2020

Five schools in the Fay-West slice of Western Pennsylvania are teaming up for a virtual “Spirit Week,” a show of solidarity during the coronavirus shutdown.

April 25, 2020

Senior Spotlight: Jeannette ace Faith Johnston ‘proud to be a Jayhawk’

Terrelle Pryor’s rim-rattling, gym-packing hoops career won’t soon be forgotten

April 24, 2020

Editor’s note: Each day, Trib HSSN will spotlight WPIAL spring athletes whose senior years were cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.

Southmoreland girls basketball coach Brian Pritts steps down after banner season

April 21, 2020

Every day during the stay-at-home era, Brian Pritts has seen firsthand why he put space between himself and basketball.

Penn-Trafford baseball stays hungry amid uncertainty

March 18, 2020

Derry senior Aidan Bushey did not start playing competitive golf until high school, so in the beginning of his budding career he had no idea the sport would be so beneficial to his future.

WPIAL champion Laurel Highlands bounced from PIAA tournament in 1st round

March 6, 2020

Laurel Highlands had grown accustomed to winning close games, almost to the point of expecting them to happen.

Westmoreland PIAA basketball preview capsules for March 7, 2020

Today’s games

Fresh start for Southmoreland in maiden voyage into PIAA girls basketball playoffs

March 5, 2020

Forgive Southmoreland girls basketball coaches and players for not knowing what to expect in the PIAA playoffs.

Westmoreland County basketball playoff preview capsule: Game of March 6, 2020

Today’s game

Penn-Trafford is renovating its baseball field in Harrison City and the project includes artificial turf for the infield.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Reaching final ‘like no other’ for Belle Vernon’s Hartman

February 27, 2020

Jared Hartman is as grateful as he is delighted as Belle Vernon prepares to play for a WPIAL boys basketball championship.

Undefeated Southmoreland decided underdog against North Catholic

Overcoming the stigma of playing a perennial powerhouse can be just as important as matching baskets with one.

Belle Vernon ends New Castle’s reign, makes first WPIAL finals trip since 1978

February 26, 2020

Belle Vernon coach Joe Salvino did not speak to his players about New Castle’s success in the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs or the Red Hurricanes’ reputation as a storied program.

Today’s game

Jeannette boys, Norwin girls hold out hope for PIAA playoff berths

February 23, 2020

The list might be short, but there are some Westmoreland basketball teams still in the hunt for spots in the PIAA playoffs.

Southmoreland girls basketball spearheads Scotties’ sports turnaround

One observer of Southmoreland athletics put it bluntly.

WPIAL basketball playoff preview

Undefeated Southmoreland girls survive stern test from Freeport

February 20, 2020

Southmoreland made history and continued its perfect season, but the Scotties had to earn every bit of it.

Westmoreland basketball playoff capsules: Friday, Feb. 21, 2020

Today’s WPIAL games

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Franklin Regional looking toward future

Franklin Regional coach Steve Scorpion was frustrated after his team lost in the final seconds to South Fayette on Monday night in the WPIAL Class 5A first round at Peters Township.

Belle Vernon freshman gives talk, meets with NBA’s best at All-Star weekend

Viva Kreis is becoming a regular around the pro basketball scene.

Freedom girls shut down Derry, earn first playoff win since 2015

February 19, 2020

Misfortune has hit the Derry boys basketball team this season in waves.

When Mitchell Pohlot rises to meet the rim for slam dunk, his thought process is simple.

Penn-Trafford’s Zach Rocco accepted into Army

Zach Rocco has been watching his mailbox with increased anticipation just about every day since he applied to Army West Point months ago.

Westmoreland County basketball notebook: Terrelle Pryor buys new Nikes for Jeannette boys

Jeannette will have new shoes for the WPIAL playoffs, thanks to an old friend who made good on a promise.

Here is a breakdown of the 2019-20 WPIAL girls basketball playoffs:

Coaching changes in Penn-Trafford soccer programs

Penn-Trafford’s soccer teams will be under new leadership next season.

Unbeaten Southmoreland girls highlights WPIAL playoff field from Westmoreland County

February 8, 2020

Twenty-one up, 21 down.

High school notebook: Southmoreland’s Comforti settles on sport, college

While challenging and often debatable, Riley Comforti finally found comfort in his college decision.

Gaffney, playoff-bound Hempfield keep rival Latrobe from WPIAL postseason

February 7, 2020

Inspired effort from Maura Suman helps Penn-Trafford top Latrobe, clinch playoff spot

February 6, 2020

Play for pap.

Inspired effort from Maura Suman helps Penn-Trafford top Latrobe, clinch playoff spot

Play for pap.

Fox Chapel, Norwin set off shot-clock debate in high school basketball community

Plenty of people who viewed a short video clip last week of Fox Chapel holding the basketball for nearly a minute against Norwin had a strong opinion of what they had just watched.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Huge game looms for Franklin Regional

At Franklin Regional, the thought of missing the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs is just that, a thought — and a bad one, at that.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notes: Upset win gives Penn-Trafford momentum

February 5, 2020

Penn-Trafford’s versatile Ethan Carr pulls in four Division I offers

Let the Ethan Carr sweepstakes begin.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Southmoreland remains perfect

January 29, 2020

There are three teams left in WPIAL girls basketball with perfect records.

A new PIAA enrollment cycle means realignment of WPIAL sections in all sports. Soccer has not joined the six-classification movement, but there are notable changes that will affect the local scene.

Norwin girls defeat Hempfield in Shootout at Seton Hill

Norwin plans to play in front of big crowds and in potentially foreign gyms with large courts as a season of high expectations continues toward the WPIAL and PIAA postseason.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Norwin baseball loaded again

January 25, 2020

Expectations always are high in the Norwin baseball program, and that’s before the college commitments start rolling in.

With realignment, WPIAL football will change again like it does every two years.

Luke Kimmich, defense spark Franklin Regional to win over Hampton

January 17, 2020

Luke Kimmich was starting for Franklin Regional earlier in the basketball season.

Penn-Trafford AD Kerry Hetrick wins award

Kerry Hetrick started wearing glasses lately. While he isn’t quite comfortable with the change, his vision for Penn-Trafford athletics remains clear.

Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Latrobe shakes off losses

January 16, 2020

Latrobe is experiencing a down season. Those are words you don’t hear very often coming from the Wildcats’ program.

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Home welcome for Greensburg CC

Playing at home has its advantages.

Mt. Pleasant senior Johnson proves to be more than scorer

As Derry attempted to inbound, Jake Johnson patrolled the baseline slyly with his arms up and his eyes locked in.

Westmoreland girls basketball teams get boost from fabulous freshmen

January 8, 2020

Brian Pritts had heard of Olivia Cernuto long before the point guard made her way to the varsity at Southmoreland.

Greensburg Salem saved its best for last, but it wasn’t enough to get around Hempfield, which fended off the Golden Lions’ late surge in the final game of the Greensburg Salem Holiday Classic.

Players from Ligonier Valley, Belle Vernon garner all-state football honors

WPIAL-bound Ligonier Valley’s days of dominating the District 6 Heritage Conference might be over, but the Rams left lasting memories.

Zach Rocco, Penn-Trafford boys hold off Franklin Regional comeback bid

December 27, 2019

As a 15-point lead faded to five midway through the fourth quarter Friday night, Penn-Trafford did not take on the look of a timid team.

Five Westmoreland players make all-state football teams

Jeannette football players and coaches will say they did not reach their full potential as a team this season.

Penn-Trafford girls use fast start to down Franklin Regional

Penn-Trafford junior guard Allie Prady was hoping she and her teammates would get out of the gates faster than they had in recent basketball games.

Injury to teammate gives Derry boys basketball added incentive

December 26, 2019

Derry started the season with one win in its first five games, so the Trojans needed a victory a week ago in their Section 1-4A opener.

It was one of those games where the simplest tasks seemed the most difficult to execute.

Jeannette announces second Jayhawk Athletic Hall of Fame class

Penn Hills girls shut down Latrobe in fourth quarter, earn section win

December 19, 2019

Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Michael Noonan steps into scorer’s role for Latrobe boys

Latrobe began the season looking for a scorer, the next go-to guy who could keep the high-scoring Wildcats in contention for a WPIAL playoff berth and maybe more.

Off to fast start, Norwin boys ready to be tested

Fast starts in basketball are like a big explosion in the first five minutes of a movie.

Hempfield’s Liberatore wrapping up notable career in leadership role

December 18, 2019

Hempfield’s Sarah Liberatore is one of those high school basketball players who seems to have been playing forever.

Elizabeth Forward softball pitcher Kailey Larcinese verbals to Towson

Growing up around the travel softball circuit and coming up in the WPIAL, Kailey Larcinese heard about the intricacies of the recruiting process.

Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Norwin takes tune-up trip

Norwin used a pre-holiday trip south to work out some early kinks in its game.

Hempfield senior basketball player Sarah Liberatore wanted to surprise two of her AAU teammates and, as an extension, help out a friend of theirs who is battling cancer.

Jeannette’s Jackson Pruitt gets first Division I football offer

December 14, 2019

For the past month or so, Jackson Pruitt has been in contact with football coaches at Youngstown State.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Dedo, Kindelberger named to all-state volleyball team

Fast start fuels Hempfield boys to win over Kiski Area

Hempfield had been on the wrong end of fast starts this season.

North Allegheny made it a PIAA Class AAAA three-peat this season in girls volleyball, while North Catholic won its first Class A state title in the sport.

Hempfield lineman Cole Graham commits to St. Francis (Pa.)

December 11, 2019

Cole Graham was a late-bloomer in the recruiting game, but that did not stop the Hempfield football lineman from finding his way to a Division-I program.

Westmoreland girls basketball notebook: Penn-Trafford savors dramatic victory

Penn-Trafford showed a flair for the dramatic Tuesday night against a quality opponent.

Hempfield senior football player Cole Graham added three Division I college opportunities to his suddenly growing list.

Logan Danielson of Thomas Jefferson wins inaugural Bill Fralic Award

Whitlock’s big second half leads Belle Vernon boys over Jeannette

December 6, 2019

With Thomas Hepple visible in the corner of his eye, Devin Whitlock caught ball on the break under the basket and saw the play of the game develop seconds before it happened.

Latrobe’s Lane Ruffner signs with Wichita of North American Hockey League

Latrobe senior Lane Ruffner is ready to take the next step in his hockey career.

December 4, 2019

Hempfield senior football player Cole Graham added his second Division I college opportunity Wednesday, announcing a scholarship offer from Lehigh, a FCS program.

Soccer stars Anthony DiFalco, Hannah Stuck earn All-America honors; All-region teams also announced

Anthony DiFalco was in biology class Wednesday morning when his soccer coach at Franklin Regional, Rand Hudson, entered the classroom and interrupted the session.

November 28, 2019

Jayla Wehner still can see the ball going through the rim — in slow motion, to haunt her dreams even more.

New GCC boys coach, 24, looks to carry on winning tradition at his alma mater

At 24, Christian Hyland will be one of the youngest head basketball coaches in the state — in the country, for that matter.

Belle Vernon’s Cameron Guess commits to Pitt

November 20, 2019

Belle Vernon’s Cam Guess made it all the way to No. 1 in the Kohl’s Kicking Camps national punter rankings last year for the Class of 2020.

Rebuilding ahead after breakthrough season for Franklin Regional girls

Franklin Regional made a rare appearance in the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball quarterfinals last season with a senior-heavy team.

Young Franklin Regional boys roster takes aim at 5th straight playoff berth

When Steve Scorpion took over the Franklin Regional boys basketball program two years ago, he inherited a team loaded with juniors and seniors.

Veteran coach brings new ideas to Derry girls program

November 19, 2019

New coach Gene Brisbane was talking to his players as the first day of girls basketball practice at Derry drew to a close.

Franklin Regional was lauded for its unbeaten regular season and its second straight WPIAL boys soccer championship.

Hempfield lineman Cole Graham gets FBS offer

The offensive line of the Hempfield football team not only had size but it also produced numbers this season.

November 13, 2019

Westmoreland athletes ink with colleges on national signing day

Brenna Springer and Nate Ward had a busy Wednesday.

Ward golden for Greensburg Central Catholic boys in PIAA quarterfinals

It looked like Springdale had rendered Greensburg Central Catholic senior standout Nate Ward powerless for the better part of 82 minutes Saturday afternoon.

Nemeth’s goal the difference as GCC clips Freedom in PIAA Class A quarters

Somehow, Sam Nemeth managed to hoof the ball into the net.

Finalists announced for inaugural Bill Fralic Award

Penn-Trafford’s Ethan Carr, one of the WPIAL’s most versatile football players and a top-tier prospect in the Class of 2021, has his first Division I offer.

Westmoreland County high school football Q&A: Derry’s Max Malis

November 6, 2019

Franklin Regional boys top West Allegheny to successfully defend soccer title

Hit the sweet spot.

Sophomore kicker the difference as Derry beats Beaver Falls in OT

Zac Gordon used to play tight end in youth football, even some center, before coaches thought it would be better to put the ball in his hands.

Westmoreland County don’t-miss football matchups for first week of WPIAL playoffs

Class 5A: FIRST ROUND

Westmoreland County high school soccer notes: GCC’s Nate Ward double-booked for Friday night

Greensburg Central Catholic senior Nate Ward not only is one of the top soccer players in the WPIAL, but he also is the kicker for the Centurions football team.

After temporary coaching change, GCC girls soccer in position to claim 7th WPIAL title

Ashley Davis returned a few weeks ago to resume coaching the Greensburg Central Catholic girls soccer team following a break for maternity leave.

Greensburg Central Catholic girls clip No. 1 Freedom in OT to reach WPIAL final

October 28, 2019

Jessica Nemeth said the final play seemed like it was in slow motion.

Bailee Bertani said she always dreamed of playing softball at the Division I level.

Westmoreland notebook: GCC’s Ward more than soccer standout in fall

When a soccer player joins the football team, he or she usually is the kicker, and that is where their responsibilities end.

Greensburg Central Catholic back in WPIAL football playoffs after 3-year absence

Greensburg Central Catholic was still evolving, still finding its identity, as the WPIAL football regular season wound into its final week.

Penn-Trafford earns Class 5A Big East title with win against Franklin Regional

October 25, 2019

Norwin’s Jack Salopek chasing 6,000 yards

Norwin senior quarterback Jack Salopek is looking to cap his career by reaching the 6,000-yard mark.

Emma Hoffner is a junior at Hempfield, but she already has been through the college recruiting process twice.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Franklin Regional volleyball hitter is smashing success

October 19, 2019

A versatile, 6-foot-1 hitter who can deliver from all three positions on the court, Franklin Regional junior Aly Kindelberger has all the tools and instincts to be a Division I volleyball player.

Norwin shakes off sluggish start, beats Baldwin in first-round game

Ian Brown had a goal waved off just before halftime.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Derry’s Huss records half to remember

Derry fans will remember for some time the game senior running back Justin Huss had Friday night. Or should we say, the half he had.

No. 1 Thomas Jefferson shows might in win at Greensburg Salem

October 18, 2019

It’s a begrudgingly accepted fact in sports.

Whether his Belle Vernon teammates need a pass delivered to them on point or a quick haircut for game day — fades come in different forms — Jared Hartman is their man.

Westmoreland County don’t-miss football matchups for Week 8

Class 6A

Breaking down the 2019 WPIAL girls soccer playoffs

Here’s a look at the WPIAL girls soccer playoffs:

Signature wins can turn football seasons around and change perceptions of programs — from the inside and out.

Justine Appolonia breaks Yough scoring record

Hat tricks are nothing new to Justine Appolonia. But her latest three-goal game carried more meaning.

Defense dominates as Class 5A No. 1 Penn-Trafford beats Latrobe

October 4, 2019

Penn-Trafford was not clicking offensively. The running game was sluggish, passes were off the mark and the sticks weren’t moving with normal rapidity.

No. 1 Jayhawks prepare for rare test from No. 5 OLSH

Zach Crutchman and his Jeannette teammates are aware of the state and WPIAL rankings — and the Jayhawks’ lofty No. 1 position in both.

Penn-Trafford takes road trips on a bus. It scores touchdowns by Carr.

The WPIAL Class AAA boys individual golf championship will be Tuesday at Fox Chapel Golf Club.

Latrobe’s Jordan Tallman makes Division I softball commitment

September 29, 2019

Academics came first when Jordan Tallman went college hunting.

Belle Vernon freshman Viva Kreis gets behind-the-scenes look at WNBA

Viva Kreis fell for basketball at a young age.

Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Golfers set for WPIAL championship

September 28, 2019

The 36-player field is set for the WPIAL Class AAA boys golf championship, and eight Westmoreland players will compete for a title Tuesday at Fox Chapel Golf Club.

Jeannette senior linebacker Justin Cramer expected the Jayhawks’ defense to be strong, but even he is impressed with the team’s string of three consecutive shutouts.

Norwin boys soccer swarms opponents with depth, versatility

September 25, 2019

A dozen turkey vultures make wide circles high above Russ Grimm Field at Southmoreland Stadium.

‘More to life than the game’: Head injuries cause some players to rethink football

Zach Guiser has enjoyed life since he left football in 2017, ending his college career early because of concussions.

Penn-Trafford overcomes injuries to top McKeesport

September 13, 2019

What concerned Penn-Trafford most about McKeesport this week was the Tigers’ reputation for being a physical opponent.

Westmoreland high school football notebook: Top-ranked P-T readies for McKeesport

Westmoreland County high school football don’t-miss matchups for Week 1

Trib HSSN preseason boys soccer rankings

WPIAL soccer season opens Friday. Here are the Tribune-Review boys preseason rankings.

Norwin boys soccer team reloading for another run

Norwin boys soccer coach Scott Schuchert lost 14 seniors from the team that finally broke “the curse.”

New coach Bret Colbert to rely on talented returning roster at Greensburg C.C.

Middle linebacker Justin Cramer has driven a stake through the heart of many opposing offensive plays in his time with the Jeannette football team.

WPIAL boys golf preview: Central Catholic, Sewickley Academy set to defend titles

Jeannette names new soccer coaches: Delaney Cortazzo, Arthur Cicero

July 23, 2019

Jeannette’s boys and girls soccer programs will be under new direction this fall season.

Jeannette approves Ryan Hayden as athletic director

Jeannette this week approved the hiring of Ryan Hayden as the district’s new athletic director.

What will Jeannette’s new football turf field look like?

July 21, 2019

Drier weather — albeit exhaustingly hot weather — has helped the artificial turf project gain momentum at McKee Stadium in Jeannette.

Record number of teams to play in WCCA 7-on-7 passing tournament

In the eight years the Westmoreland County Coaches Association has hosted a seven-on-seven football passing tournament, Penn-Trafford has captured the championship five times, including last year.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 girls basketball season

July 12, 2019

Peters Township and Chartiers Valley championed the cause for perfection.

WCCA Shootout showcases ‘a good day of basketball’

Teams try to get different things out of summer basketball shootouts.

Several WPIAL stadiums undergoing turf renovations

Roll out the green carpet: football season is near.

New Greensburg Central Catholic coach Hyland brings youthful energy

July 10, 2019

The theme during the 2018 girls golf season in the WPIAL was quite similar to that of the boys: Teams and individuals were reluctant to hand over titles.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018 boys golf season

Sewickley Academy has set the standard in WPIAL boys golf.

Hempfield’s Mackenna Orie named Tribune-Review Westmoreland Girls Athlete of the Year

June 29, 2019

Mackenna Orie took up track and field, throwing events in particular, because she watched her sister, Sam, heave heavy objects during meets.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford softball to get Capitol treatment

Penn-Trafford softball will get the pageantry it earned by winning the first state championship — in any sport — in school history.

Tui Brown returns as 2-way playmaker for Gateway football

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018 girls soccer season

June 26, 2019

Freedom was fearless — and Sharpless — on the way to a WPIAL girls soccer championship and a PIAA runner-up finish in Class A last fall.

Westmoreland high school notebook: Palmer Jackson clinches win with big putt

Before Franklin Regional senior Palmer Jackson went to bed last Wednesday night, he had a feeling Thursday would be a good day.

Westmoreland notebook: New coach Hyland ready to lead GCC basketball

June 8, 2019

Christian Hyland remembers the encouraging words coming from his coach, Greg Bisignani, during his Greensburg Central Catholic senior banquet in 2014.

WPIAL Class 6A softball final preview: Hempfield vs. North Allegheny

May 20, 2019

Penn-Trafford moved its year-end softball banquet to next month for one simple reason: This season isn’t over yet.

Buddy Valinsky named boys basketball coach at Norwin

Buddy Valinsky said he would have remained at Allderdice had the school joined the WPIAL in boys basketball.

Westmoreland WPIAL and District 6 softball playoff capsules: Games of Monday, May 20

May 19, 2019

Monday’s games

High school notebook: Sections of McKee Stadium sod for sale

How much does Jeannette love its high school football?

Hempfield softball continues to have a flair for the dramatic.

Norwin QB Jack Salopek commits to Western Michigan

Call it a quarterback sneak.

No. 5 Norwin rolls past Bethel Park in WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinals

May 15, 2019

Slightly perturbed by its WPIAL playoff seeding, Norwin took out its frustration on — and laid the aluminum to — Bethel Park.

Westmoreland baseball playoff preview capsules: Games of May 16, 2019

Heritage Conference baseball final rained out

Monday night’s District 6 Heritage Conference baseball championship between Ligonier Valley and West Shamokin has been postponed due to rain and will now be played 7 p.m. Wednesday at Homer-Center.

Lineman Challenge returning to Norwin

Norwin routinely has drawn dozens of players to its “Norwin Football Lineman Challenge,” which is why the event will return for a fifth year.

District 6 baseball playoff capsule: Ligonier Valley vs. West Shamokin

May 12, 2019

District 6 baseball

Ligonier Valley will go for a double-dip next week.

Franklin Regional baseball completes perfect section season

May 8, 2019

For the first time this season, the scoreboard was up and running at Haymaker Park, adding some ambience to Franklin Regional’s final home game.

Derry’s John Kerr signs with Penn State for volleyball

Derry two-sport standout John Kerr will play Division I college volleyball.

With just 8 teams in playoff field, Class 6A softball tournament to feature familiar matchups

The WPIAL Class 6A softball bracket will be noticeably more compact when the pairings are released Thursday.

Franklin Regional’s Williams commits to Yale baseball

May 7, 2019

Franklin Regional’s standout shortstop and top entrepreneur is heading to the Ivy League.

Penn-Trafford to get new turf at Warrior Stadium, possibly at baseball, softball fields

If all goes according to plan, Penn-Trafford could have artificial turf infields on its baseball and softball diamonds in the near future.

GCC softball gets momentum-building win over playoff-bound Jeannette

Greensburg Central Catholic was hoping to take momentum into the WPIAL Class A softball playoffs. To peak at the right time, as the expression goes.

Yough softball hosting Frazier in ‘Strikeout Cancer’ event

Last year, the Yough softball team raised $6,000 for a pair of classmates who were stricken with cancer. The students since have recovered and are doing better.

Westmoreland teams claim long-coveted section titles

May 6, 2019

The wait is over for a number of Westmoreland County baseball teams.

No. 1 Greensburg Salem baseball edges closer to 1st section title since 2012

Put another ball on the banner.

College interest continues to grow for linemen Fintan Brose, Michael Petrof

April 30, 2019

The college offers keep pouring in for a pair of Westmoreland County linemen who are as proficient in the classroom as they are as pass-blockers.

Quartet of ‘pleasant surprises’ helps Penn-Trafford baseball climb to No. 2 ranking in Class 6A

April 23, 2019

Even the best baseball teams don’t completely know what they have until the section schedule gets rolling.

The Westmoreland County Coaches Association will host its seventh annual Underclassmen Football Showcase 9 a.m. May 11 at Hempfield’s Spartan Stadium.

Foothills Football Classic postponed for 2019

April 19, 2019

Logistical issues left the Foothills Football Classic committee with no choice. So, they punted.

Southmoreland softball team on home run tear

Back up your outfielders, Southmoreland softball has a knack for hitting the long ball.

Yough “strikeout cancer” game set

The Yough softball team will have another “Strike Out Cancer” game May 8 when the Cougars host Frazier in Herminie.

After missing last softball season with a knee injury, Rachel Martindale was anxious to get back on the field.

Maund helps Penn-Trafford top North Allegheny on future home field

March 27, 2019

Maclean Maund plans to play college baseball at Seton Hill.

Southmoreland baseball will be “governed” differently from now on.

Highlights of the week ahead in Westmoreland County high school sports:

Westmoreland notebook: YWCA to honor Hempfield softball

March 16, 2019

When it comes to awards and championships, Hempfield softball wins in bunches.

Tuesday’s games

Big man Paola proud of Ligonier Valley’s accomplishments

March 10, 2019

Westmoreland high school lookahead: Week of March 11, 2019

TUESDAY

Beaver Falls’ pressure, rebounding too much for Ligonier Valley

Hempfield’s Fintan Brose is pulling in offers in pairs.

Franklin Regional boys excited for ‘another chance to play’ in state tournament

March 5, 2019

A sense of finality seemed to wash over Franklin Regional boys basketball players, coaches and fans after the Panthers lost to Moon in the WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinals at West Allegheny.

Penn-Trafford RB Lisbon draws Navy offer

A running back who averaged nearly nine yards a carry last season has his first Division I football offer.

MONDAY

Peters Township girls beat 2-time defending champion North Allegheny in OT to win Class 6A title

March 2, 2019

To Jeannette, it seems like Sewickley Academy is lurking around every corner at boys basketball playoff time. There seems to be no escaping the perennially strong Panthers.

Jeannette to recognize inaugural hall of fame class Friday night

Franklin Regional boys pepper Bellefonte with 54 shots in PIAA 1st-round victory

November 6, 2018

Westmoreland soccer notebook: Boys teams take center stage this fall

Westmoreland lookahead for Week of Oct. 29, 2018

October 28, 2018

Westmoreland boys soccer capsules: Monday’s semifinals

October 27, 2018

High school football notebook: Keeping it simple works for Derry defense

Derry keeps things simple because simple works. The Trojans are about as flashy as a hamburger with no bun, as business-like as a census taker,

AAU basketball has become the perfect matchmaker for Brandon Stone. Six-foot-11 male seeks high-level Division I scholarship. Stone, who left Southmoreland after three years to