Author: Bill Beckner Jr.
Mt. Pleasant boys soccer prepares to move forward after injury to top player Johnson
September 9, 2024
Mt. Pleasant is dealing with the loss of one of its top boys soccer players, but the Vikings are moving forward with an all-hands-on-deck approach.
Westmoreland high school notebook: WCCA boys golf tournament set for Thursday at Latrobe Elks
September 8, 2024
The Westmoreland County Coaches Association will host its annual boys golf championship Thursday at Latrobe Elks Golf Course.
Westmoreland high school football notebook: Tatsch a force in Latrobe’s ground game
September 7, 2024
Alex Tatsch might be heading to Penn State to play linebacker, but the Latrobe senior made it clear this summer he had plenty to give the Wildcats as a running back.
Norwin girls volleyball working to make strides
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
A matchup of first-year coaches in Section 3-3A boys soccer went to Franklin Regional’s Nick White, whose Panthers rang up three second-half goals to pull past Ryan Hankey’s Penn-Trafford team, 3-1, in the section opener Aug. 29.
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.
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.
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.
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
Yough has struggled with low roster numbers in recent seasons, and with standout Youngstown Stat commit Kendalyn Umbel choosing not to play prep soccer this year and in 2023, the Cougars appeared headed for an uphill climb.
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.
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Hempfield’s Dom Detruf shines in return
August 31, 2024
Hempfield took the field Friday night in its home opener with a surprise starter at quarterback.
Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Hempfield’s Jiana Patterson, Latrobe’s Roman Agostoni
Jiana Patterson
Veteran lineup has Franklin Regional girls in position to succeed
Good things can happen when most of your returning starters are seniors.
After productive summer, Franklin Regional boys soccer ready to roll
Franklin Regional boys soccer’s third coach in four years is getting the response he wanted from his players.
Norwin notebook: Junior takes cross country title
Annie, get your run.
With deep roster, Norwin girls soccer sets sights on playoff return
If Norwin gets back to the WPIAL girls soccer playoffs after a two-year hiatus, it will be a group effort.
‘Strongest core of seniors’ has Norwin boys soccer ready for run at repeat
With an experienced group of seniors as a pillar, Norwin has its eyes on a WPIAL Class 4A repeat.
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 boys soccer team tops Penn-Trafford in early season section showdown
August 29, 2024
A matchup of first-year coaches in Section 3-3A boys soccer went to Franklin Regional’s Nick White, whose Panthers rang up three second-half goals to pull past Ryan Hankey’s Penn-Trafford team, 3-1, in the section opener Thursday night in Harrison City.
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Top kickers give their teams a leg up
Kickers rarely get much limelight. Their extra points are often taken for granted, and casual fans don’t give kickoffs that sail out of the end zone a second thought.
Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Super start for Southmoreland
August 28, 2024
Southmoreland picked a fine way to open the boys soccer season: by winning a championship.
Some high school soccer coaches in favor of giving overtime the boot
August 27, 2024
When there was chatter about the PIAA eliminating overtime from regular-season soccer games this offseason, many coaches smiled with optimism.
Westmoreland girls soccer notes: County well represented on Moe Rosensteel award watch list
Twelve of the 49 players on the Moe Rosensteel Most Outstanding Player Award watch list play for Westmoreland County teams.
Plum girls thinking Bigger after shutout win over Franklin Regional
August 26, 2024
Olivia Bigger kicks extra points for the Plum football team.
Former Franklin Regional standout Hudock recovering nicely after scary motorcycle accident
August 25, 2024
He doesn’t remember much from the night he almost died, but Ayden Hudock uses words such as “lucky” and “blessed” a lot more since he wrecked his motorcycle.
Westmoreland high school notebook: Baseball, softball teams on move in realignment
Local baseball and softball teams did some shuffling in WPIAL spring sports realignment for 2025.
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.
Westmoreland County football notebook: GCC’s Samir Crosby accounts for 6 TDs
Samir Crosby had an impressive performance in a wild opener for Greensburg Central Catholic at Shady Side Academy. The Centurions rallied to win 46-40 as the junior quarterback accounted for six touchdowns.
Late TD pass lifts Jeannette past Mt. Pleasant in comeback victory
August 23, 2024
Mt. Pleasant appeared to have Jeannette right where it wanted it. A seven-point lead with three minutes and change remaining and a fresh turnover in their hands.
Watch list announced for Moe Rosensteel girls soccer award
Forty-nine of the top girls soccer players in the district made the Moe Rosensteel Most Outstanding Player Award watch list.
Westmoreland County girls soccer preview: Mt. Pleasant motivated to make title run
August 22, 2024
Mt. Pleasant is going into a new girls soccer season with a mind eraser.
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Small schools make best of bare-bones rosters
Teams in the WPIAL Class A Eastern Conference have something in common on the eve of a new football season: low roster numbers.
Westmoreland boys soccer preview: Belle Vernon ready for challenge of jump to 3A
August 21, 2024
A jump in classification can be less daunting if a team has a lot coming back.
Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2024 Week Zero
Here’s a look at the don’t-miss matchups for Westmoreland County in Week Zero of the 2024 season:
Tackling machine Ethan Shawley brings snarl to Southmoreland defense
Southmoreland’s senior tackling savant makes backyards look nicer in the summer as a landscaper. Come the fall, he demolishes backfields.
WPIAL girls soccer preview: Defending state champ Moon again among teams to beat
August 20, 2024
WPIAL girls soccer preview
Southmoreland’s Tim Bukowski to coach opener with late father in mind
August 19, 2024
Third-year Southmoreland football coach Tim Bukowski will lead the Scotties in their season opener Friday night with a heavy heart after the death of his father.
WPIAL boys soccer preview: Norwin, South Fayette, South Park, Bentworth out to defend titles
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.
Greensburg Central Catholic primed to follow Samir Crosby’s lead
Reaching the quarterfinals of the WPIAL Class A playoffs was a highlight for Greensburg Central Catholic coach JT Thompson in his first season.
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.
Belle Vernon pitcher wowed by Kent State baseball program
August 17, 2024
Parker Lind was on a campus visit when the magic happened. When he saw his baseball future flash before his eyes.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Southmoreland QB situation settled
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
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. Due to a conflict in publishing schedules, the Elizabeth Forward preview will appear next week.
Greensburg Salem aims to stay healthy, use balanced offense
Balance gives Greensburg Salem the best chance to win, second-year coach Ty George said.
Norwin honors soccer stars in hall of fame Class of 2024
August 14, 2024
The 2024 Norwin Athletic Hall of Fame class shines a light on the school’s propensity for producing soccer talent.
After answering call to arms, Hempfield senior develops into difference maker
August 13, 2024
Football found Owen Buchholz. It wasn’t the other way around like most high school players.
New Norwin boys basketball coach happy to give back to his alma mater
August 12, 2024
While he stops short of “dream job” territory, Cam Auld admits the idea of coaching at his high school alma mater crossed his mind before.
Crack of pads, warmth of turf signal start of high school football around Westmoreland County
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?
Dom Rosensteel becomes a leader on offense, defense for Greensburg Salem
Dom Rosensteel is ready to move the sticks.
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.
Norwin grad Cam Auld set to be named boys basketball coach at alma mater
August 10, 2024
It looks like Cam Auld is coming home.
7-on-7 competition goes well for Franklin Regional
Franklin Regional coach Lance Getsy isn’t making any preseason predictions based on his team’s performance in 7-on-7 passing competitions, but he sees progress in the repetitions and value in the effort.
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
Hempfield senior quarterback Dom Detruf will see a cardiologist Tuesday for further evaluation of his acute myocarditis, an inflamed heart condition that could limit his participation in training camp and beyond.
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.
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 baseball player Anthony Grippo commits to Penn State
August 7, 2024
A new NCAA recruiting rule kicked in earlier this month.
Norwin boys soccer team gets to work in defense of WPIAL championship
August 6, 2024
Veteran boys soccer coach Scott Schuchert had a message for his Norwin players when they lined up to run sprints during a conditioning workout this week at the Turner Valley Soccer Complex.
Led by QB Tristyn Tavares, Norwin returns to Class 6A
A summer paving project caused some temporary parking inconveniences at Norwin Knights Stadium.
Hempfield set to take on Class 6A schedule again
Year 2 appears to have greeted Nick Keefer with more structure and the feeling of a greater sense of eagerness among his lot of 80-plus football players.
Norwin softball standout rolls with changes, commits to Maine
August 5, 2024
The build-up to the decision was stressful. The reasoning behind it, though, made perfect sense.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Football season begins with ‘heat week’
August 3, 2024
A PIAA custom since its inception in 2013, “heat week” is the unofficial start to high school football training camp, and it opens Monday around the state.
New Franklin Regional boys soccer coach focuses on building rapport, fitness
July 30, 2024
When Nick White was an assistant boys soccer coach at Fox Chapel, the Foxes took late-summer trips to team camps.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Latrobe’s John Wetzel
July 29, 2024
A team that didn’t have a playoff win for 54 years has two in the past two seasons, and John Wetzel has a lot to do with it.
Westmoreland high school notes: Softball could adopt communication devices
July 27, 2024
A key rule change could alter the way coaches and catchers communicate on the softball field.
Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball ready for new class
July 26, 2024
Greensburg Central Catholic was a class above the competition in WPIAL Class 2A last girls basketball season when it captured its sixth district championship.
Hempfield QB Dom Detruf sidelined with heart condition, vows to return this season
July 23, 2024
As his teammates ran routes, threw and caught passes and defended throws, Dom Detruf looked on with interest.
Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby set to take control of offense
July 22, 2024
Samir Crosby could have a special season in store for the Greensburg Central Catholic football faithful.
Norwin grads climbing college baseball ladder via transfer portal
July 20, 2024
A pair of former Norwin baseball players from the class of 2022 are changing college programs.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Pair of players earn camp honors
Two local football players were named most valuable players at the 2Tenths Speed & Agility Top 150 Camp last weekend at Shady Side Academy.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Latrobe’s Alex Tatsch
July 19, 2024
Alex Tatsch essentially has more stars in his recruiting rating (four) than he does years of high school football.
Penn-Trafford wins WCCA 7-on-7 football tournament
July 18, 2024
The championship plaque and the balance of power at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 football passing tournament are back in the hands of Penn-Trafford.
Franklin Regional designated hitter emerges as all-state performer
July 14, 2024
Surprised wasn’t the right word, but Darren DeRiggi did not fully expect to have all-state honors arrive on his doorstep at the conclusion of high school baseball season.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Steel Valley’s Donald Barksdale
July 13, 2024
Get this.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Hempfield football assembles eclectic coaching staff
Hempfield second-year football coach Nick Keefer has assembled a unique mix of assistants for a new season.
Experienced assistant ready to move into head coaching role with Ligonier Valley boys
July 12, 2024
Ligonier Valley’s new boys basketball coach could feel a magnetic pull, almost a calling to be the loudest voice from the bench.
Belle Vernon braces for life after Quinton Martin
July 11, 2024
Begrudgingly, Belle Vernon braced for the departure of No. 25. When Quinton Martin’s high school playing days were over.
Derry senior doesn’t need high school soccer to earn scholarship to Robert Morris
July 9, 2024
Derry doesn’t have a girls soccer team. But the school has at least one outstanding girls soccer player.
Norwin dual-threat QB Tristyn Tavares is ‘just a gamer,’ coach says
July 7, 2024
Norwin has a new boxed-in monitor to watch replays from its sideline camera during games.
High school notebook: Westmoreland players included in all-state softball, baseball selections
July 6, 2024
Westmoreland County had impressive representation on the Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association All-State teams.
Lance Maha hired as West Mifflin’s athletic director, resigns as Norwin boys basketball coach
July 4, 2024
Lance Maha is as West Mifflin as Kennywood. So, him staying home to be the high school’s athletic director should not come as a surprise.
Mt. Pleasant’s Scott Giacobbi retires after 19 seasons coaching girls basketball
July 2, 2024
A military man, Scott Giacobbi is saluting the Mt. Pleasant girls basketball program one last time.
Franklin Regional notebook: Panthers to move into new-look basketball section
June 30, 2024
The WPIAL announced its winter sports realignment for the next two-year enrollment cycle.
Greenburg Central Catholic competitor Tyree Turner named TribLive Westmoreland boys athlete of the year
June 29, 2024
While he lives in Indiana, Tyree Turner often feels more like a Greensburg kid because he spent so much time in and around the city.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Latrobe girls golf to debut; Terek Crosby picks Saint Vincent
The new fall season will come with a new varsity sport at Latrobe.
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
There is a good old-fashioned quarterback competition brewing in Alverton, and the top preseason storyline for Southmoreland football already has people chewing the fat at gas stations and mini-marts.
Latrobe QB/DB John Wetzel verbally commits to Marshall for football
June 25, 2024
Rising senior John Wetzel has seen first hand the resurgence of the Latrobe football program.
Penn-Trafford soccer goalie Rease Solomon commits to Robert Morris
June 23, 2024
Rease Solomon will be stopping shots in the Horizon League.
Westmoreland H.S. notebook: Latrobe’s Andy Tatsch receives offer from West Virginia
June 22, 2024
College football recruiting has become a perpetual motion machine in the Tatsch household.
Ligonier Valley’s Cheyenne Piper selected Tribune-Review Westmoreland Softball Player of the Year
“Fight, fight, fight!”
Former Norwin star Jenna Lusby hired as Jeannette girls basketball coach
June 17, 2024
When her playing career ended, Jenna Lusby often played pickup to satisfy her basketball needs.
Class of 2024 to be inducted into Franklin Regional Athletic Hall of Fame
June 16, 2024
The Class of 2024 is set for the Franklin Regional Athletic Hall of Fame.
Championships highlight banner school year for Norwin sports
June 15, 2024
It started with a bang in the fall. It ended with a surprise in the spring.
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
A GoFundMe page is set up for the family of Josiah Pastories, a Norwin graduate and former football player and wrestler who was killed in a one-vehicle accident Thursday morning in northern Butler County.
Longtime assistant promoted to 1st head coaching job with Yough boys
June 11, 2024
Yough on Tuesday night promoted junior varsity coach Will “Boo” Sherbondy to head varsity boys basketball coach.
Rosters announced for new Western PA Senior Softball All-Star Game
June 10, 2024
Rosters are set for the inaugural Western PA Senior Softball All-Star Game at 8 p.m. June 18 at Plum.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: WCCA hands out scholarships
June 8, 2024
The Westmoreland County Coaches Association announced its latest scholarship winners.
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.
PIAA Class 5A baseball quarterfinals preview: Penn-Trafford vs. Hollidaysburg
June 5, 2024
PIAA baseball playoffs
Terrelle Pryor, Dick Hoak, Joe Mucci to enter National High School Football Hall of Fame
A hall of fame enshrinement ceremony this weekend one state over will include three Jeannette football legends.
Penn-Trafford baseball team enjoying PIAA playoff ride
June 4, 2024
The Road Warriors are ready for their next excursion.
Penn-Trafford baseball warms up in time to win PIAA opener
June 3, 2024
Maybe Penn-Trafford expected a slow start in the PIAA baseball playoffs.
Westmoreland County PIAA softball playoff capsules: Games for Monday, June 3, 2024
June 2, 2024
PIAA softball playoffs
Penn-Trafford softball team hopes to follow in footsteps of 2019 state champs
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.
Season turns out unforgettable for Bailey Snowberger, Norwin softball team
June 1, 2024
Leadoff hitter Bailey Snowberger doubled to open the WPIAL 6A softball championship Friday at Cal (Pa.).
Return to state playoffs a learning experience for Latrobe softball
There were a lot of empty seats on the Latrobe softball team bus Tuesday after the Wildcats lost to Penn-Trafford in the WPIAL Class 5A third-place game at Gateway.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Southmoreland star picks Pitt-Greensburg
Ty Keffer has been a dynamic, three-sport athlete at Southmoreland.
Westmoreland County high school athletes of the week: Penn-Trafford’s Cam Ponko, Hempfield’s Peyton Murray
Cam Ponko
Norwin notebook: Lacrosse players earn all-section honors
A number of Westmoreland County players were selected for the WPIAL all-section girls lacrosse teams.
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 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 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 regroups, defeats rival Latrobe in Class 5A 3rd-place game
May 28, 2024
While the pressure was far from what Penn-Trafford felt in the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals, the desire to play well in the third-place game and build momentum for a state playoff run was high on the Warriors’ priority list.
Ligonier Valley bounces back with Cheyenne Piper shutout in 3rd-place game vs. Avonworth
With the state playoffs coming up, Mark Zimmerman had his Ligonier Valley softball team practice over the Memorial Day weekend.
Norwin not backing down against Lexie Hames, Seneca Valley in WPIAL 6A softball finals
Norwin did not fear Hempfield in the WPIAL Class 6A softball semifinals, and the Knights claim they will not back down from star pitcher Lexie Hames in the championship, either.
WPIAL Class 5A baseball consolation game capsule: Franklin Regional vs. West Allegheny
WPIAL baseball playoffs
2024 WPIAL Class 6A softball championship preview: Norwin vs. Seneca Valley
2024 WPIAL Class 6A softball championship
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:
Westmoreland high school athlete of the week: Norwin’s Brookelyn Kotch and Penn-Trafford’s Brandon Roher
May 25, 2024
Brookelyn Kotch
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Softball all-star game in the works
An all-star game for the top senior softball players in the WPIAL is in the works.
After prolific career at Allegheny, former Norwin receiver moving up to Division I FCS level
Record-breaking wide receiver Declan O’Brien isn’t done catching passes yet.
Norwin notebook: Football standout earns ‘surprise’ track gold
Norwin senior Luke Denny was a threat in the Knights’ football offense not only because he could catch passes, but also for what he could do after he caught them.
New coach plans to carry on ‘winning mentality’ with Franklin Regional hockey
Brian Bearley understands the assignment.
Norwin stuns defending champion Hempfield in Class 6A softball semifinals
May 22, 2024
To Norwin, the signs were there.
South Park’s Sydney Sekely throws perfect game to win duel with Ligonier Valley’s Cheyenne Piper
May 21, 2024
Make it four consecutive no-hitters for Ligonier Valley. Only the fourth one belongs to the other team.
Westmoreland County WPIAL softball playoff capsules for Wednesday, May 22, 2024
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.
Westmoreland high school softball playoff preview capsules for May 21, 2024
WPIAL softball playoffs
Westmoreland baseball notebook: Section 1-5A provides intrigue
May 19, 2024
Section 1-5A was an anomaly.
Westmoreland high school notebook: Softball tripleheader on tap at Gateway
May 18, 2024
Local softball fans will get a treat Wednesday if they make a trip to Monroeville. There will be a playoff tripleheader at Gateway.
Norwin notebook: Baseball, softball players earn all-section honors
The Big 5/6 Conference, which covers the top two classifications in WPIAL sports, released its all-section softball and baseball teams.
Coach ready to build Franklin Regional boys volleyball program from ground up
It looks like Franklin Regional found the perfect man for the job.
Steelers QB Russell Wilson to speak at Rising Stars underclassmen basketball practice
May 17, 2024
New Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson will be a guest speaker for a large group of boys underclassmen basketball players Tuesday at RIZE Sports in Leetsdale.
Ligonier Valley’s Cheyenne Piper throws 3rd straight no-hitter in quarterfinals vs. Ellwood City
May 16, 2024
She had just thrown her third straight no-hitter — the second in a row in the WPIAL playoffs — and Ligonier Valley senior Cheyenne Piper was just as dumbfounded as her opponents.
Penn-Trafford overcomes early Moon homers to advance into Class 5A quarterfinals
May 15, 2024
Penn-Trafford couldn’t break a tie in a tight, four-team Section 1-5A race for first place.
Clutch pitching key for Franklin Regional in 1st-round win over Connellsville
Connellsville had runners at first and second with one out in the top of the seventh inning, and Franklin Regional pitcher Blake Bertucci quickly fell behind in the count to Matt Firestone. Three balls and no strikes.
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
Like most games, Central Valley softball players knew the assignment.
Jeannette softball advances past Northgate even without the benefit of a hit
No hits, no problem.
Westmoreland softball playoff preview capsules: Games for Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Class 6A
Shaler scores walk-off win over Franklin Regional in WPIAL Class 5A 1st round
May 13, 2024
With one swing and a sharp ping to center, trepidation turned to triumph for Alyssa Schaffold.
Westmoreland high school softball playoff preview capsules for May 14, 2024
WPIAL softball playoffs
Westmoreland high school softball playoff preview capsules for May 13, 2024
May 12, 2024
WPIAL playoffs
Westmoreland high school sports notebook: GCC’s Crosby gets Buffalo’s attention
Samir Crosby has his third Division I scholarship offer for football.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Makayla Etling, Franklin Regional’s Max Bernadowski
May 11, 2024
Makayla Etling
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Belle Vernon junior officially a ‘Rising Star’
One of the WPIAL’s most prolific scorers over the past couple of years will be part of Roundball Classic history.
Roundball Classic’s Rising Stars game to feature some of area’s top juniors, sophomores
May 10, 2024
For the first time officially, the annual Roundball Classic all-star basketball event will feature multiple underclassmen games for juniors and sophomores.
Hempfield softball ‘proud’ to receive No. 1 seed as WPIAL releases brackets
May 9, 2024
Hempfield has won eight WPIAL softball championships.
Mt. Pleasant baseball roars into playoffs on 9-game winning streak
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
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.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Belle Vernon’s Sienna Steeber, Norwin’s Nicholas Puskar
May 4, 2024
Sienna Steeber
Norwin soccer standout Owen Christopher makes dream come true with Pitt commitment
Owen Christopher had college soccer interest from a number of schools at multiple levels.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Belle Vernon runner picks Robert Morris
Tessa Rodriguez was over the Moon when she visited Robert Morris.
Norwin notebook: Knights clean up at county meet
Two team titles. A three-time winner. Five individual champions.
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 wins sloppy game vs. Norwin with walk-off single
May 2, 2024
A cloud of dust settling around him after an exciting finish on his home baseball diamond, Adam Hess was preparing to rake the pitcher’s mound when he was called over for an interview.
Norwin baseball team rides up-and-down regular season into playoffs
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.
Franklin Regional softball gets locked in late in season
As he watched the WPIAL softball regular season wind into its final two weeks, Jim Armstrong saw a change in his team.
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.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Norwin’s Melani Schmidt, Latrobe’s Dom Cararini
April 27, 2024
Melani Schmidt
Norwin notebook: Trainer honored for life-saving efforts
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
In an 8-4 victory over Central Catholic that gave Norwin its first three-game Section 2-6A sweep of the WPIAL baseball season, Nate Silberman may have epitomized the Knights’ push for a playoff spot, maybe even their identity, with one swing of the bat and a mad dash around the bases.
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.
With ace Cheyenne Piper putting up zeroes, Ligonier Valley jumps back into contention
Section 3-3A softball coaches are wary of the movement on Cheyenne Piper’s pitches.
Mt. Lebanon alone in 1st place after wild, sloppy win over Hempfield
April 23, 2024
It was a long day at the ball yard for Mt. Lebanon and Hempfield as the middle game of their Section 2-6A series flirted with dusk.
Penn-Trafford holds on for tight victory over Franklin Regional
April 22, 2024
No matter how up or down the Penn-Trafford softball team is each year — usually up — it has a tendency to play tight games at Franklin Regional.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Amarah McCutcheon and Penn-Trafford’s Matt Sarnowski
April 20, 2024
Amarah McCutcheon
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Jeannette soccer star picks college
Jeannette soccer star Jordan Taylor will take his goal-scoring prowess to the NCAA Division II level.
Norwin notebook: Track team swarms medal stand
Norwin had a number of athletes competing at the Tri-State Coaches Association Championships at West Mifflin.
Norwin lacrosse standout earns spot on Hungarian national team
It is a chance to play the game he loves on a national stage and, at the same time, pay his respects to genealogy.
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.
Draft prospect David Shields shows stuff to MLB scouts in win over Norwin
April 18, 2024
More than a dozen pro scouts crammed together above the brick backstop at Norwin and raised their radar guns in tandem each time Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields kicked up his leg to throw a pitch.
Latrobe baseball takes team-first mentality to heart
The team concept in sports is often overstated and cliche, trendy at times and even hyperbolic.
Westmoreland County high school baseball notebook: Seniors power Jeannette surge
Jeannette took its lumps the last three seasons, which meant the Jayhawks were due to dish out some payback.
Serra Catholic overpowers Greensburg Central Catholic in Section 2-2A softball
April 17, 2024
Kelly Morrisey has been looking to contribute more to the Serra Catholic softball batting order, but the sophomore said she fell into a lull of late.
Freshman, sophomore pitchers make early impact for Westmoreland County teams
Grace Stein acknowledges she had a freshman season to remember for Jeannette softball. She wears a badge of pride.
Westmoreland County softball notebook: Sister act aids area teams
It’s been a sister act this season for several county softball teams.
Fox Chapel comes back from brink of defeat, with some help, to defeat Franklin Regional
April 16, 2024
Everything was going right for Franklin Regional. Until it wasn’t.
Hempfield softball rebounds in big way vs. Norwin
April 15, 2024
The bounceback was better than the fallback.
New Mt. Pleasant athletic director saw something special in district
April 14, 2024
Coaching college football the last decade has taken James “J.J.” Eckels up and down the recruiting trail. Over rivers and through woods just to get that nibble on the line from a potential commit.
Westmoreland high school notebook: Penn-Trafford football to honor newest hall of fame class
April 13, 2024
Penn-Trafford football announced its 2024 hall of fame class, which will be honored in the fall.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Hempfield’s Grace Iwig, Belle Vernon’s Colton Lee
Grace Iwig
After taste of success, Norwin volleyball wants more
After reaching the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals last spring, the Norwin boys volleyball team has a taste of playoff success.
Franklin Regional notebook: Kegerreis brothers find college baseball landing spots
Franklin Regional’s Kegerreis brothers made a lasting impression when they played for the Panthers.
Norwin notebook: Former Knights standout picks Pitt wrestling
Pitt it it for Chase Kranitz.
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.
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 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.
Belle Vernon softball still fighting after injury to top pitcher
Belle Vernon didn’t jump into panic mode when ace pitcher Talia Ross was injured, instead pausing first to let the moment breathe.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Hempfield’s Peyton Murray already breaking records
April 9, 2024
The track and field season is young, but Peyton Murray has the look of a seasoned veteran.
Norwin notebook: Senior wins prestigious caddy scholarship
April 7, 2024
Norwin senior Abigail Boyer was one of this year’s winners of the annual Chick Evans Scholarship, awarded to deserving caddies in the region.
Norwin track teams ready to take on tough section competition
April 6, 2024
After a solid turnout during the indoor season, Norwin track and field is primed to carry the momentum into the spring.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Caddying pays off for Norwin senior
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.
Franklin Regional’s Cam Rowell headlines TribLive Westmoreland boys basketball all-stars
March 30, 2024
Player of the Year
Norwin’s Lauren Palangio tops list of TribLive Westmoreland girls basketball all-stars
Player of the Year
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Curtain call for Norwin stars
The Norwin girls will get the band back together for one last performance.
Westmoreland County high school athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Maddie Brown, Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ian Shipley
Maddie Brown
Norwin notebook: Baseball team wins opener
Jackson Huss went 2 for 3 and drove in four runs to pace the Norwin baseball team to a 9-4 victory on the road at Pine-Richland.
New coach brings energy, ‘tough love’ to Norwin girls soccer program
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.
Westmoreland softball notes: Hempfield receives championship rings
Last season had a nice ring to it for Hempfield.
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.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Latrobe’s Kayla Williams, Mt. Pleasant’s Joseph Gardner
March 23, 2024
Kayla Williams
Westmoreland high school notebook: More Division I offers for Latrobe’s Wetzel
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.
Franklin Regional softball sluggers back for more in ’24
Get your warning tracks ready. Franklin Regional is back for more.
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.
PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship preview: Franklin Regional vs. Imhotep Charter
March 21, 2024
PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship
Westmoreland County high school basketball notebook: Former coach says don’t count out Franklin Regional
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.
Westmoreland County softball notebook: Belle Vernon heats up quickly
Cold weather and unplayable fields have handcuffed softball teams through the first few days of the season.
Against Philly power, Franklin Regional looks to turn Chocolatetown into Upset City
Don’t expect Franklin Regional to put any extra pressure on itself Friday night in Hershey.
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.
Franklin Regional playoff run rekindles memories of ‘perfect storm’ 1997 team
Rob Greenleaf called it a “perfect storm,” his 1997 Franklin Regional boys basketball team that made the state finals in Hershey.
Franklin Regional coach Reed comes full circle with state title game vs. Imhotep Charter
March 19, 2024
Franklin Regional ripped off the band-aid from its WPIAL boys basketball championship loss to Moon and promptly avenged the defeat with a 60-43 win over the Tigers in Monday’s PIAA Class 5A semifinals.
Greensburg Central Catholic runs into Kennedy Catholic roadblock in PIAA semifinals again
March 18, 2024
Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball players came up the stairs at North Allegheny to start the second half wearing their team backpacks.
Greensburg Central Catholic girls get long-awaited rematch with Kennedy Catholic
March 17, 2024
A red light turned to green when the buzzer sounded Friday night at Forest Hills. It finally was all right for Greensburg Central Catholic to talk about Kennedy Catholic.
Westmoreland PIAA basketball playoff capsules: Games for Monday, March 18, 2024
PIAA basketball playoffs
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
March 15, 2024
If Franklin Regional isn’t sprinting up and down the floor, there is a good chance it isn’t winning basketball games.
Westmoreland County high school basketball notebook: Some Roundball Classic games to be televised
High school basketball suddenly will be a part of Memorial Day weekend. And fans will be able to post up on the couch to watch the top players in the district play on TV.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for March 16, 2024
Boys
Westmoreland County high school basketball notebook: Norwin facing somewhat familiar foe
March 14, 2024
Familiarity is only going to take Norwin so far Friday night in the PIAA Class 6A girls basketball quarterfinals. At least that is Lady Knights coach Brian Brozeski’s take on his team’s next matchup.
Jeannette boys team grows up just in time for PIAA upset
Jeannette has a bright future in boys basketball. That much is clear in a talented rotation oozing with athletes and acumen.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for March 15, 2024
PIAA basketball playoffs
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
After Jeannette played at Greensburg Central Catholic late in the boys basketball regular season, Jayhawks coach Adrian Batts leaned in to the handshake line for a respectful exchange with GCC senior forward Franco Alvarez.
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
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 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
Lily King
Norwin notebook: Girls wrestling team crowns 2 regional champs
The Norwin girls wrestling team had two champions at the PIAA Western Regional championship at Canon-McMillan and advanced four to the PIAA championships set for March 7-9 at Giant Center in Hershey.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Stakes high when Norwin, Penn-Trafford hockey teams meet
Norwin and Penn-Trafford are longtime rivals in a number of sports and have stood nose-to-nose on many fields and courts.
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.
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.”
Westmoreland County high school basketball playoff preview capsules for March 8, 2024
Boys
Franklin Regional, Greensburg Central Catholic duos seek redemption in state playoffs
March 6, 2024
A fast break for Franklin Regional can move like a five-lane highway. And it’s usually Cam Rowell or Cooper Rankin finishing at the rim.
No surprises for battle-tested Norwin, Greensburg Central Catholic girls in state playoffs
March 5, 2024
The long bus rides. The offbeat gymnasiums. The unfamiliar opponents and schools no one has ever heard of.
Westmoreland high school notebook: PIAA basketball playoff pairings, schedule set
March 3, 2024
The PIAA basketball playoffs will begin this weekend.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week for the week ending March 3, 2024: Kendall Berger and David Mutter
March 2, 2024
Kendall Berger
WPIAL champion Norwin girls ‘refused to be outworked’ on title run
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.
Erica Gribble sparks Greensburg Central Catholic past Serra Catholic for 6th WPIAL title
February 29, 2024
Erica Gribble had played on the court at Petersen Events Center only one time before, as an innocent third grader.
2024 WPIAL Class 6A girls basketball championship breakdown: Norwin vs. North Allegheny
WPIAL Class 6A girls basketball championship
2024 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Moon vs. Franklin Regional
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship
After semifinal celebration for the ages, Greensburg Central Catholic eyes program’s 1st WPIAL title
Water splashed around the locker room and puddled on the floor at Gateway on Tuesday night as Christian Hyland walked into a dousing after a semifinal victory over Northgate.
For WPIAL finals-bound Franklin Regional, it’s always basketball season
Franklin Regional specializes in basketball. Maybe that best explains why the Panthers will play for their first WPIAL boys basketball championship Friday night at Petersen Events Center.
Ellwood City boys punch ticket to PIAA playoffs by eliminating Yough
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
It was a hectic but incredibly rewarding Tuesday for Greensburg Central Catholic boys basketball coach Christian Hyland.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 28, 2024
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Worthy challenger awaits No. 1 Greensburg Central Catholic in WPIAL finals
Greensburg Central Catholic has won going away in the playoffs. It hasn’t been close.
Norwin girls find 2nd wind, top Chartiers Valley to reach WPIAL 6A final
February 26, 2024
Early on, Chartiers Valley took charges.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 27, 2024
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Westmoreland high school basketball notebook: GCC’s Western PA Bruins connection
February 25, 2024
Mya Morgan can see some similarities between her Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball team and the AAU Western PA Bruins.
Westmoreland high school notebook: Hempfield punter makes all-star roster
Players from Westmoreland County have been selected to the East-West football all-star games before. Quarterbacks, running backs and linebackers are not uncommon picks.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 26, 2024
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Norwin’s Josephine Dollman, Franklin Regional’s Brandon Smith
February 24, 2024
Josephine Dollman
Sophomore Erica Gribble hits milestone as No. 1 Greensburg CC reaches WPIAL finals
She came off a curl and caught the basketball on the wing, in front of her team’s bench, and let it fly with 21.4 seconds left in the third quarter.
Yough’s Terek Crosby scores 2,000th point in playoff loss to Shady Side
Standout senior guard Terek Crosby of Yough scored his 2,000th career point Saturday in a 61-47 loss to Shady Side Academy in a WPIAL Class 3A consolation game at Fox Chapel.
After strong finish, Franklin Regional girls look toward promising future
A couple more games. Maybe another week of section play would have done the trick.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: New challenge awaits Latrobe after WPIAL realignment
The fall sports landscape will look quite different next year with the WPIAL realigning teams in its latest two-year enrollment cycle.
Norwin girls wrestlers shine at 1st WPIAL championship meet
In a year of firsts, Norwin doubled up.
Norwin notebook: Gabby Viola, Xander Eddy earn national kickboxing titles
Hungry for Hungary.
Greensburg Central Catholic rides hot shooting to WPIAL semis
February 23, 2024
With seniors Tyree Turner and Franco Alvarez seeing multiple double teams when they had the basketball in the lane, Liam Gallagher saw an opportunity to bail out his teammates and help keep a promising championship run intact.
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
Rochester players tried repeatedly to drive the lane against Greensburg Central Catholic, but the Rams were met with constant resistance. A block here, a deflection and steal there.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 22, 2024
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Greensburg Central Catholic coaching tree blossoms
Dr. Greg Bisignani stepped down at the conclusion of the 2018-19 season as boys basketball coach at Greensburg Central Catholic after eight seasons.
2nd-seeded Greensburg CC boys shake off rust, rout Frazier in 1st round
February 20, 2024
No matter the seed, no matter the matchup, teams want to be sharp when they open the WPIAL basketball postseason.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 21, 2024
WPIAL basketball playoffs
2nd-seeded Franklin Regional boys end playoff win drought with victory over Mars
February 19, 2024
Senior Colin Masten signed a couple of autographs for some wide-eyed kids.
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 20, 2024
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Westmoreland high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 19, 2024
February 18, 2024
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Norwin notebook: Grads make impact in women’s college basketball
Norwin girls basketball’s thumbprint continues to show up all over the college game.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Mt. Pleasant’s Olivia Kovach, Mt. Pleasant’s Dylan Pitzer
February 17, 2024
Olivia Kovach
South Park advances by beating Mt. Pleasant in WPIAL opener
South Park knew who to turn to when it needed a jolt. When it came time to flip a WPIAL girls basketball playoff game in its favor.
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
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.
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.
Elite Westmoreland County basketball teams to open playoffs with legit title hopes
It is not hyperbole to say a special postseason could be in store for Westmoreland County basketball teams — a lengthy, compelling postseason that generates county-wide interest.
Coach with longtime connection to Penn-Trafford girls volleyball takes over program
February 13, 2024
As a player and coach, Tracy McDonald has been around Penn-Trafford volleyball for the better part of 25 years.
4 Westmoreland teams earn top-2 seeds in WPIAL basketball playoffs
February 12, 2024
When Jesse Reed played Division I college basketball, he and his American University teammates made the NCAA Tournament.
Breaking down the 2024 WPIAL girls basketball playoff brackets
Class 6A
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.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Mt. Pleasant’s Kiersten O’Connor and Franklin Regional’s Troy McClelland
February 10, 2024
Kiersten O’Connor
Westmoreland boys basketball notebook: Gardner moves to top spot in Westmoreland record book
Gardner points are usually reserved for WPIAL football tiebreakers.
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.
Resurgent Franklin Regional girls stay in playoff chase to the end
Franklin Regional picked up a big 45-42 win over Penn Hills on Jan. 26 to stay afloat in the WPIAL Class 5A playoff race.
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 pass test against Seneca Valley to finish unbeaten in section
February 8, 2024
When the fourth quarter came around, upset-hungry Seneca Valley stopped attacking. Norwin, in turn, went into full attack mode and never took its eye off the prize.
Young Jeannette roster climbs toward top of section ahead of schedule
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.
Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Teams keeping playoff hopes alive
Three Westmoreland County girls basketball teams — Franklin Regional, Latrobe and Yough — are on the playoff bubble heading into the final night of section play.
Franklin Regional boys clinch section title with gritty victory over Gateway
February 6, 2024
If Franklin Regional needed a pick-me-up in a section-clinching victory, junior Drew Devola was ready to deliver.
McKeesport girls rout Penn-Trafford to stay unbeaten since coaching change
February 5, 2024
A coaching change has not deterred the McKeesport girls basketball team from its ultimate goal.
Latrobe 4-star linebacker Alex Tatsch commits to Penn State
February 4, 2024
The post on “X” came out just before 6 p.m. Sunday from Penn State football coach James Franklin.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: P-T’s Olivia Pepple, Ligonier Valley’s Parker Hollick
February 3, 2024
Olivia Pepple
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Roundball Classic finds new home
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.
Referee collapses during basketball game at Mt. Pleasant, dies
February 2, 2024
A referee collapsed during halftime of a junior varsity boys basketball game at Mt. Pleasant and died Friday night.
Franklin Regional boys dig deep to beat Latrobe with strong 2nd half
Halftime talks are like sales pitches. Some work, and some don’t.
Mt. Pleasant’s Jackson Hutter makes college decision
An opportunity to play Division I college football has driven Jackson Hutter since he first realized he had the ability to invade opposing backfields and keep teams behind the sticks.
Star tight end among Class of ’24 in Ligonier Valley Athletics Hall of Fame
Former Connecticut tight end Alec Bloom, who went to training camp with the Arizona Cardinals in 2018, is among eight individuals and a team highlighting the 2024 Ligonier Valley Athletics Hall of Fame class.
Norwin’s depth fuels victory over Hempfield as Knights improve to 8-0 in section
February 1, 2024
Norwin didn’t have its best game offensively on senior night and left the door open just enough for cold-shooting Hempfield to get its hopes up.
6-foot-6 Derry freshman’s game still growing
His father stands 6-foot-10, so Derry freshman Stanley Rajkovich may have room to grow.
Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Greensburg Central Catholic savors signature win
Greensburg Central Catholic made a splash at the Shootout at Seton Hill last weekend, posting one of the most impressive regular-season wins in coach Christian Hyland’s five-year tenure.
‘We want it’: Norwin girls basketball players excel during small moments in quest for championships
January 31, 2024
Norwin leads the league in smiles.
Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Franklin Regional back in playoff chase after 1-9 start
Franklin Regional’s girls basketball team picked up a big 45-42 win over Penn Hills on Jan. 26 to stay afloat in the WPIAL Class 5A playoff race.
Yough boys tough out victory over No. 4 Washington, move into tie for 1st
January 30, 2024
Yough could feel the tread on a 15-point advantage wearing thin as Washington crept closer with a third-quarter turnaround.
Greensburg CC girls adjust, top Serra Catholic to clinch share of section title
January 29, 2024
The first four or five minutes of the second half “dictate how it goes,” Greensburg Central Catholic girls basketball coach Chris Skatell tells his players.
McKeesport girls, under new coach, beat Greensburg Central Catholic
January 27, 2024
Matt Miller is used to calling blitzes and cover-2s as the football coach at McKeesport.
McKeesport’s Matt Miller takes over girls basketball team
Matt Miller is the head football coach at McKeesport, but he is also the girls basketball coach — at least for now.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Hempfield’s Amelia Droste, Derry’s Jacob Hauser
Amelia Droste
Derry boys mount comeback to defeat Mt. Pleasant
Derry calls its style of play “Run and Jump.”
Norwin’s Luke Denny commits to Division I Lehigh for football
When his first football scholarship offer came in, Luke Denny was overcome with emotion.
Norwin notebook: Knights runner makes Division I college choice
Rosemary Gaydos became the latest Norwin track and field athlete to commit to a Division I college program.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Norwin runner makes Division I commitment
Rosemary Gaydos became the latest Norwin track and field athlete to commit to a Division I college program.
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 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
Jeannette’s girls basketball team had to cancel Wednesday night’s game at Geibel because it had only four healthy players.
Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Norwin, North Allegheny ready for another high-stakes showdown
Two of the top teams and rivals in WPIAL Class 6A girls basketball will meet for the second time this season Thursday night when North Allegheny visits Norwin in Section 1.
1st-year Latrobe girls coach stresses defense as key to earning playoff spot
It is a point of pride for the first-year coach at Latrobe, and it makes her eyes light up when it shows itself in key moments, when it is executed properly.
Greensburg Central Catholic boys edge Serra Catholic in thriller
January 23, 2024
Braden Riley’s eyes widened as the ball popped loose from Owen Dumbroski’s grasp.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley pays visit to Latrobe linebacker Alex Tatsch
College coaches are flocking to Latrobe to meet with junior football prospect Alex Tatsch.
Nick White approved as Franklin Regional boys soccer coach
January 22, 2024
Nick White was approved Monday as the boys soccer coach at Franklin Regional.
McKeesport fights off upset-minded Latrobe girls
Latrobe sold merchandise in the gym lobby Monday night. Hats, shirts, you name it. There were deals on orange-and-black Wildcats gear everywhere.
Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Franklin Regional’s Juliano Marion, Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Gribble
January 20, 2024
Erica Gribble
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Mt. Pleasant’s Lily King highlights WCCA swim meet
The Westmoreland County Coaches Association will host its final event of the winter with the swimming and diving championships Friday and Saturday at Derry.
Norwin’s goal: ‘Swim fast and be hungry’
Norwin’s swimming teams are hoping to take the momentum of a pre-holiday run into the thick of the season schedule.
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.
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.
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 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.
Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Greensburg Salem to honor Rick Klimchock’s milestone
A blend of basketball knowledge and open-mindedness in an always-changing game, along with dependable people around him and sustained longevity, carried Rick Klimchock to a milestone victory.
Latrobe shocks No. 1 Gateway for program’s ‘biggest (win) in years’
January 16, 2024
Gateway calls its home gymnasium “The Swamp.”
With big 4th quarter, Olivia Pepple hits 1,000 points, leads Penn-Trafford past Latrobe
January 15, 2024
With a steal and a left-handed finish with 1 minute, 30 seconds remaining, Olivia Pepple reached a personal milestone.
Westmoreland HS notebook: Ligonier Valley graduate Haden Sierocky returning to gridiron with Washington & Jefferson
January 14, 2024
The itch to return to the gridiron was too strong for one of the better two-sport athletes to come out of Ligonier Valley in recent years.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Latrobe’s Lauren Bell and Penn-Trafford’s Tyler Funk
January 13, 2024
Lauren Bell
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Franklin Regional honors teammate with leukemia
During a brief pregame observance, senior players Cam Rowell and Cooper Rankin held a corner of the No. 44 Franklin Regional basketball jersey Tuesday night at midcourt as public address announcer Dean Berardinelli briefed fans about Caden Brush.
‘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.
Transfer reunites Bilinsky brothers at Pitt-Johnstown
It wasn’t exactly a brotherly shove, but Adam Bilinsky admits having a chance to play basketball with his older sibling again played a key role in his decision on where to transfer.
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.
Greensburg Central Catholic girls right ship vs. Clairton
January 11, 2024
Down one of their best players and facing the top scorer in the WPIAL, Greensburg Central Catholic was sure not to ignore the signs when Clairton came to town in a 1 vs. 2 girls basketball matchup.
Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Franklin Regional rises in rankings
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.
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.
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.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Latrobe’s Elle Snyder, Derry’s Anthony Mucci
January 6, 2024
Elle Snyder
Norwin notebook: Freshman Landon Sidun bursts onto wrestling scene
The Landon Sidun era is underway at Norwin.
Franklin Regional notebook: Hockey team builds momentum
Franklin Regional hockey took momentum in the form of a two-game winning streak into the holiday break.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Jeannette legends up for national football hall of fame honors
Three Jeannette football legends are among 60 nominees for the National High School Football Hall of Class of 2024. Former coach Joe Mucci and star players Dick Hoak and Terrelle Pryor are on the ballot for the second hall class.
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 wins top-5 showdown with Greensburg Salem
January 4, 2024
“North is North,” Greensburg Salem girls basketball coach Rick Klimchock said in a back hallway at North Catholic after his team fell behind early and dropped a 62-35 decision to the host Trojanettes in a matchup of Class 4A top-five girls basketball teams Thursday night on Barth & Graham Court.
Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Penn-Trafford plays at coach’s alma mater
Doug Kelly was feeling nostalgic and sentimental as he was time-warped back to his high school days at Elkins (W.Va.) during a recent visit to his old stomping grounds.
Groundbreaking coach working to build confidence, culture with Mt. Pleasant boys
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.
Hard-working Hempfield girls buy in on defense, get off to promising start
Girls basketball practice is over — so says the clock — but parents sit idle in their vehicles outside of the Hempfield Spartan Field House, waiting to fill their backseats with tired daughters.
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.
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.
‘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 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
2023 in Westmoreland County sports: Gold rush brings titles in wide array of sports
Football, swimming, wrestling, track and field, softball, golf, tennis, bowling and cheerleading.
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.
GCC girls beat another Class 6A team, defeating Upper St. Clair
December 28, 2023
The basketball went to the near corner. Sophomore point guard Erica Gribble drew a crowd of defenders and alertly fired a pass across the baseline to the far corner.
Role players making a difference in Greensburg Central Catholic’s hot start
If Greensburg Central Catholic is going to live up to its expectations and make another run in the WPIAL and PIAA Class 2A boys basketball playoffs, the steady contributions of role players could be what makes the difference.
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
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 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 girls crank up offense to roll past previously unbeaten McKeesport
December 21, 2023
Norwin senior point guard Bailey Snowberger said her team has not played its best basketball game yet.
Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Former Franklin Regional coach back on sideline
Former Franklin Regional coach Steve Scorpion is back on the sideline.
With more players joining Ty Keffer in scoring column, Southmoreland boys ready to rock
There are times when Ty Keffer feels like he’s playing the drums instead of lead guitar for the Southmoreland basketball team.
Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: Greensburg Salem junior likes wearing stripes
December 20, 2023
Regan Kerr has a good reason for becoming a referee.
Mt. Pleasant girls adapt quickly, find new ways to win
The post-Tiffany Zelmore era could have begun a number of ways at Mt. Pleasant.
‘Wild horse’ scores 28 as Deer Lakes beats Derry for 5th straight win
December 19, 2023
Deer Lakes welcomed reserve forward Nate Moore back to the lineup Tuesday night following a football injury.
Hempfield softball ace Riley Miller picks Kent State
Proximity to home had a little something to do with Riley Miller’s college decision.
High-scoring Avonworth forward headlines PIHL players of month for November
December 18, 2023
Conner Ralston returned from a broken collarbone as if nothing ever happened.
Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin caps brilliant career with state title, TribLive Westmoreland player of the year honors
December 16, 2023
Player of the year
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Rival QBs earn conference honors
A pair of Westmoreland County senior quarterbacks were honored by the coaches of the WPIAL Class A Eastern Conference, one for his play on defense.
Norwin graduate Gianni Rizzo has breakout season on Duquesne’s defense
Gianni Rizzo has been playing college football since 2019 and still has a year to go.
Norwin notebook: Dylan McCullough sparks Knights
Dylan McCullough sank a career-high five 3-pointers for a personal-best 19 points as the Norwin boys basketball team evened its record at 2-2 with a 63-58 win over Latrobe at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Showcase on Dec. 9 at Jeannette.
Brown leads Jeannette boys to win against Serra Catholic
December 15, 2023
Kymone Brown didn’t score in the first quarter Friday night, so coach Adrian Batts pulled the Jeannette sophomore guard aside.
Mt. Pleasant basketball games to benefit Dom Giallonardo scholarships
Mt. Pleasant is hosting a basketball tripleheader Friday night to raise money for a scholarship in the name of late Vikings’ baseball and basketball player Dom Giallonardo.
Recruiting heating up for Latrobe junior John Wetzel
College coaches are turning up the volume to hear the cracking of pads on junior John Wetzel’s highlight film.
Defensive-minded Greensburg Salem dominates Derry in section opener
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.
Girls basketball teams facing crisis of dwindling rosters
She calls them her “Fab 5.”
Franklin Regional uses a little R&R to beat Hempfield
December 12, 2023
Franklin Regional needed a little R&R.
Norwin girls overcome slow start, pull away from Latrobe in 2nd half
December 11, 2023
Kendall Berger said Norwin allowed Latrobe to dictate the tempo early in Monday night’s nonsection girls basketball matchup.
Westmoreland high school notebook: GCC’s Kerr chooses college
December 10, 2023
The recruiting process ended just as quickly as it began for Riley Kerr.
Basketball teams adjust to new free-throw rule in early part of season
One-and-one free throws always have been a gamble.
Norwin boys take the measure of Latrobe at WCCA Showcase
December 9, 2023
He rears back for a corner 3-pointer, stretching his arms high and behind his head, the basketball slightly tilted to the right.
Kiski Area beats host Hempfield at WCCA Showcase
Corey Smith stepped out of the locker room, took a deep breath and came to the realization his team was fortunate to leave Hempfield with a victory.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Yough’s Autumn Matthews, Southmoreland’s Ty Keffer
Autumn Matthews
Franklin Regional notebook: Boys basketball team sprints out of gates
The ball went up in the jump circle and Franklin Regional took off.
With good roster numbers, new girls team, Norwin wrestlers ready to put in work
Life rewards hard.
Norwin notebook: Girls basketball team starts on right foot
The Norwin girls basketball team opened the season with a victory, which could be one of many for the Lady Knights.
Deer Lakes clamps down on Yough in battle of top teams in Class 3A
December 8, 2023
Yough expects to see zone defenses this season. Deer Lakes sure knows how to run them.
Penn-Trafford girls roll over Hempfield
December 7, 2023
Baseline to baseline, Penn-Trafford found a winning mix.
Westmoreland County boys basketball notebook: Penn-Trafford working (double) overtime
In all of his years in coaching, Doug Kelly was almost certain he had never coached a double-overtime game in a season opener.
Westmoreland County girls basketball notebook: New coaches win debuts
December 6, 2023
It didn’t take long for new coaches to get their first win.
High-tech approach helps Belle Vernon get ready for prime time
Belle Vernon packs a lot more than uniforms for football games.
Bigger, stronger Norwin girls outmuscle Penn-Trafford for nonsection win
December 5, 2023
Norwin’s girls looked taller and stronger when they took the court against rival Penn-Trafford.
Belle Vernon players, coaches recall ‘The Stand’ ahead of return to PIAA championship game
He teared up before it happened in person, and he tears up when he watches it again on video.
Terek Crosby helps Yough overtake Derry in Cougar Tip-off Invitational final
December 2, 2023
Terek Crosby let his hair down for Saturday night’s final of the Yough Cougar Tip-off Invitational.
Jeannette girls basketball team nearly wins with 3 players on floor
Jeannette started with five and ended with three, but still almost won.
Westmoreland high school notes: Teams will shift classifications next season
Student totals came out last week, but the next two-year enrollment cycle for high school teams will kick in next fall.
McKeesport’s Courtney Dunn wins Fralic Award as WPIAL’s top lineman
Matt Miller said Courtney Dunn wanted to be a running back several years ago when the senior lineman was coming up in the McKeesport football program.
Spencer Lee tops Nico Megaludis in battle of former Franklin Regional wrestling greats
An all-Franklin Regional matchup in a post-college wrestling match with Olympic-qualifying possibly on the line?
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.
Starting 5: A primer for 2023-24 girls basketball season in Westmoreland County
November 30, 2023
The WPIAL girls basketball season opens Friday. Here are some of the top storylines, teams and players to watch this season in Westmoreland County:
Starting 5: A primer for 2023-24 boys basketball season in Westmoreland County
The WPIAL boys basketball season opens Friday. Here are some of the top storylines, teams and players to watch this season in Westmoreland County:
Checking in on past winners of the Bill Fralic Memorial Award
The Bill Fralic Memorial Award for the top interior lineman in the WPIAL will be presented to this year’s recipient during a pancake breakfast Saturday morning at Longue Vue Club in Verona.
Riverview’s Lola Abraham leads 2023 Trib HSSN girls soccer all-stars
November 28, 2023
Trib HSSN Girls Soccer All-Stars
Norwin’s Owen Christopher headlines 2023 Trib HSSN boys soccer all-stars
Trib HSSN Boys Soccer All-Stars
With experienced lineup, new coach, Yough girls hoping for another playoff season
November 27, 2023
Excuse Brian Znavor as he navigates a return to high school basketball. He’s been out of the loop for a bit.
With top scorer Terek Crosby leading charge, Yough boys pumped up to have strong season
The last whistle of an early afternoon practice gives way to the clang of weights as Yough boys basketball players continue their preseason training.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Hempfield set to host annual tip-off tournament
November 26, 2023
High school basketball season starts Friday.
Franklin Regional notebook: Honors keep coming for former Panthers swimmer
A college freshman now, Aiden Bunker is still reaping the rewards of a terrific career as a student-athlete at Franklin Regional.
Norwin notebook: Knights coach picked for all-star game
Norwin boys soccer coach Scott Schuchert led a banner season for the Knights as they won their first WPIAL championship and advanced to the PIAA Class 4A semifinals.
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 named TribLive Westmoreland girls soccer player of the year
Player of the YearWPIAL champ Owen Christopher of Norwin claims TribLive Westmoreland boys soccer player of year award
Player of the Year
‘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.
Back to back for Belle Vernon: Leopards shut out Avonworth in Class 3A title game
November 24, 2023
It wasn’t dazzling plays or finesse that propelled Belle Vernon to a championship this time.
With talent, experience, Norwin girls aim to be among WPIAL’s top contenders in Class 6A
With four starters and a number of key reserves back from a WPIAL and PIAA semifinal team, Norwin girls basketball is aging well.
Despite heavy graduation loss, Norwin boys basketball reloads to compete in Section 2-6A
With only one player back who saw varsity playing time and a roster scrubbed clean by graduation, the Norwin boys are rebuilding but not panicking.
Replacing Tiffany Zelmore won’t be easy, but cupboard’s not bare for Mt. Pleasant girls
November 23, 2023
It’s not every season a coach has to replace an all-time talent, but Mt. Pleasant girls basketball’s Scott Giacobbi has that challenge in front of him this winter.
With ground broken, new Mt. Pleasant boys coach turns focus to future
What has happened with Annie Malkowiak is a history-making achievement. But for now, she will file it under past history.
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Linebackers lead Leopards
Matt Humbert describes his inside linebackers as having “nonstop motors.”
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 soccer player Ava Yurko chooses Youngstown State
November 21, 2023
Add another Division I college soccer commit to the list at Latrobe.
Dozen from WPIAL named to girls’ soccer all-state list
The Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association announced its girls all-state list Tuesday.
Riverview’s Lola Abraham wins Moe Rosensteel Award as top WPIAL girls soccer player
November 20, 2023
One of the most prolific goal scorers in the state, Lola Abraham of Riverview, was named the recipient of the fifth Moe Rosensteel Award, given to the WPIAL’s best girls soccer player.
Westmoreland high school notebook: Franklin Regional’s Bunker lauded
November 19, 2023
A college freshman now, Aiden Bunker still is reaping the rewards of a terrific career as a student-athlete at Franklin Regional.
Norwin notebook: Senior earns all-star volleyball invitation
Senior outside hitter Jillian Pensenstadler was set to represent Norwin at an all-star volleyball event.
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.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Coach returns to Ligonier Valley girls basketball
Ligonier Valley named a new girls basketball coach four days before the official start of practice.
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.
6 WPIAL linemen named finalists for 5th annual Bill Fralic Award
November 16, 2023
A scratched Atlanta Falcons helmet. A Pitt helmet dotted with reward stickers. A shiny national player of the year trophy. A Penn Hills No. 79 jersey that casts a shadow like the man who wore it.
With loaded roster, long playoff run could await Greensburg Central Catholic girls
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.
For Norwin boys, wild, dramatic playoff ride came to a halt one stop short
CHAMBERSBURG — Unable to produce the tying goal like they had done so many times before, and unable to push for overtime and penalty kicks to fit their calling card, Norwin fell to Central Bucks South on Tuesday night, 1-0, in the PIAA Class 4A semifinals to bring a historic run to an end.
Central Bucks South ends improbably playoff run for Norwin boys soccer team
November 14, 2023
CHAMBERSBURG — Both soccer teams brought their white uniforms Tuesday night, so Central Bucks South wore fluorescent green mesh pinnies over their jerseys.
Rosters set for 2023 Western Pa. Soccer Coaches Association boys all-star games
The Western Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association boys all-star games will be Nov. 25 at Pine-Richland.
PIHL announces October players of the month
November 13, 2023
With 10 goals and six assists in four games last month, Norwin’s Alex Thomas surged to the top spot in the PIHL scoring leaders.
Westmoreland PIAA boys soccer playoff capsule: Games for Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023
PIAA boys soccer playoffs
PKs are OK for Norwin boys soccer team as it marches on in PIAA tournament
November 12, 2023
CHAMBERSBURG — These days, when regulation ends and two overtimes conclude with no result, the Norwin boys soccer team doesn’t clock out and go home.
Westmoreland high school notes: Area players selected to All-WPIAL volleyball lists
The area was well represented on the All-WPIAL lists for girls volleyball.
Norwin boys get another thrilling penalty-kick win in PIAA quarters
November 11, 2023
CHAMBERSBURG — As the pink sky faded into darkness and one overtime gave way to another, Norwin’s confidence grew.
Norwin notebook: Irwin resident wins World Series ring
For the second year in a row, a man with ties to North Huntingdon is bringing home a World Series ring.
Franklin Regional boys soccer will enter next season with new coach, plenty of talent
Franklin Regional has a coaching vacancy with the sudden departure of two-year coach Lukas Petersen, who is moving to Maryland because his wife has a new job there.
South Side lives up to top seed, takes care of Greensburg Central Catholic
November 10, 2023
Have run, will travel.
Ligonier Valley to host 2nd annual WCCA girls volleyball match
The inaugural Westmoreland County Coaches Association girls volleyball match was a rousing success last fall, so it was a no-brainer for organizers to bring the event back.
Westmoreland County boys soccer playoff preview for Nov. 11, 2023
PIAA soccer playoffs
Norwin hockey’s Alex Thomas signs with NAHL’s Colorado Grit
November 9, 2023
Colorado Grit general manager Gaven Bickford said Alex Thomas has quick lateral moves on the ice.
Gritty defense carries Norwin soccer to new heights
“Castle on locks.”
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Veteran QBs lead playoff teams
If there is one thing the three remaining WPIAL football playoff teams from Westmoreland County have in common, it is leadership under center.
Greensburg C.C. prepares for South Side’s vaunted rushing attack
November 8, 2023
In a way, Greensburg Central Catholic can’t entertain the thought of pulling an upset until it can prevent South Side’s football team from pulling its guards.
Clutch goal, tight defense send Norwin boys to 1st state playoff win in 34 years
November 7, 2023
One heightened moment in an otherwise twitchy soccer game gave a Norwin senior the thrill of his prep career and sent the better part of 1,200 screaming fans into a fever pitch.
Westmoreland PIAA soccer playoff capsule: Game for Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023
November 6, 2023
PIAA boys soccer playoffs
Westmoreland high school notebook: Latrobe’s Alex Tatsch draws more college offers
November 5, 2023
Alex Tatsch has more than a handful of Power 5 scholarship offers. The list of interested schools is rising like his recruiting stock.
Preparation, passion lead Norwin to title-game victory
Late Saturday night at Highmark Stadium, with the twinkle of the Pittsburgh skyline reflecting off the Monongahela River, Rick Zappone wasn’t sure if going to penalty kicks favored his Norwin team or North Allegheny more.
Young coaches get their football fix on Norwin staff
Anthony Giansante and Jackson Pruitt were supposed to be playing college football this fall.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Greensburg Central Catholic’s Eva Denis, Greensburg Central Catholic’s Nick Szekely
November 4, 2023
Eva Denis
Norwin claims 1st WPIAL soccer championship with PK shootout win over North Allegheny
When Norwin started a group chat in the preseason, they called it “Road to Highmark.”
Big plays help Greensburg Central Catholic top West Greene, end playoff drought
November 3, 2023
Establishing a running game, hitting some long scoring plays and sending a message early on defense, Greensburg Central Catholic erased a nuisance of a playoff drought.
Norwin, North Allegheny expect physical, high-energy battle for Class 4A championship
North Allegheny and Butler engaged in some chippy final minutes in the WPIAL boys soccer semifinals.
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Playoff win would mean a lot to Greensburg Central Catholic
November 2, 2023
Greensburg Central Catholic versus West Greene.
Norwin goalkeeper returns from injury just in time for brilliant playoff run
Eleven games into his senior season, big-gloved Anthony Scalise was batting away shots, deflecting crosses and spoiling corner kicks with regularity.
Westmoreland County high school soccer notebook: Latrobe’s Robin Reilly up for top award
Robin Reilly was one of the top goal scorers and set-up midfielders in Class 3A this season.
Westmoreland County high school football playoff matchups for 2023 Week 10
November 1, 2023
Class 5A quarterfinals
Coaching conundrum can’t slow Norwin’s run to WPIAL boys soccer finals
A referee saw Carter Breen jogging across the field during pregame warmups Tuesday night at Hampton and stopped him.
Moon keeper Serayah Leech picked for All-American Game
Moon senior goalkeeper Serayah Leech was selected to play in the 11th annual Girls’ Soccer High School All-American Game, set for Dec. 9 at Wando High School in Charleston, S.C.
No. 8 seed Norwin continues playoff surge, beating Fox Chapel to reach WPIAL finals
October 31, 2023
Anyone wearing a Halloween mask was not permitted to enter Hampton’s Fridley Field on Tuesday night.
All-state selections, coaches of year revealed for boys soccer
Fourteen boys soccer players from the WPIAL were named to the Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association All-State list.
Westmoreland WPIAL playoff soccer capsule: Game for Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023
WPIAL soccer playoffs
Hampton boys top Franklin Regional, return to WPIAL Class 3A final
October 30, 2023
Music thumped and blared from the Hampton locker room as Luke Fiscus was about to be interviewed after the game.
Franklin Regional boys soccer coach to step down at end of playoffs
Franklin Regional boys soccer coach Lukas Petersen is stepping down after this season, which isn’t over yet.
Westmoreland WPIAL boys soccer playoff capsule: Game for Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023
WPIAL soccer playoffs
Norwin boys will vie for spot in soccer title match without suspended coach
Norwin will make its first WPIAL boys soccer semifinal appearance since 2020 on Tuesday night, but the Knights will be without coach Scott Schuchert, who has to sit out after receiving two yellow cards — the equivalent of a red card — in the quarterfinal upset of No. 1 seed Seneca Valley.
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.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Amarah McCutcheon, Franklin Regional’s Tyler Pipon
October 28, 2023
Amarah McCutcheon
Burrell girls soccer upsets Mt. Pleasant in OT, reaches WPIAL semifinals for 1st time
With about 10 minutes to play in regulation, Burrell girls soccer coach Frank Nesko had a message for freshman midfielder Mikaya Buchak.
Westmoreland high school football notes: Norwin QB Tavares sets records
Norwin finished in a flourish. A record-setting, big-play flourish for its third win of the season.
Norwin notebook: Forward Lauren Palangio makes college decision
One of the top forwards in WPIAL Class 6A basketball has decided on a college destination.
Tristyn Tavares making impact running Norwin spread offense
Asked if he expected to find his name among the top passers in the WPIAL, Tristyn Tavares didn’t hesitate, like how he doesn’t hesitate when he runs the Norwin offense.
Chase Lemke, Ayden Hudock have become must-watch connection for Franklin Regional
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
Drahcir Jones said Clairton had no intentions of sharing the Eastern Conference title with anyone.
Nick Raymond hired as Derry’s new athletic director
Derry hired Nick Raymond as athletic director Thursday.
Westmoreland County soccer preview capsules: Games of Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023
Boys
Avonworth limits Belle Vernon’s top scorer, sprints into WPIAL semifinals
October 26, 2023
Avonworth didn’t man mark Belle Vernon’s Trevor Kovatch, the second-leading goal scorer in WPIAL boys soccer.
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Jeannette returns to big stage for matchup with Clairton
Players ran the hill next to the bleachers at McKee Stadium to end a practice earlier this week, and coach Tom Paulone joined them on the steep and somewhat muddy ascent.
Westmoreland soccer preview capsules: Games for Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023
October 25, 2023
WPIAL soccer playoffs
2023 All-WPIAL boys soccer teams, players of year, released
Here are the 2023 boys soccer All-WPIAL lists for each classification, as selected by the Western Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association:
South Allegheny girls crash net in overtime, upset Greensburg Central Catholic
October 24, 2023
Laila Chervon’s top priority was to crash the net.
Westmoreland WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Wednesday, Oct. 25
Boys
Fast start leads Latrobe into WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals with win over West Allegheny
October 23, 2023
Latrobe gives out a hard hat for its player of the game, and, new this year for the playoffs, a dog tag for the toughest player of that match.
Westmoreland girls soccer preview capsules: Games for Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023
WPIAL soccer playoffs
Westmoreland WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Oct. 23, 2023
October 22, 2023
Boys
High school notebook: New award to be named after Valley graduate B.B. Flenory
Baron “B.B.” Flenory’s name is woven into the fabric of Western Pennsylvania basketball.
Plasko scores all 4 goals to lead South Fayette past Latrobe in boys soccer playoffs
October 21, 2023
Senior Michael Plasko is one of South Fayette’s best basketball players. A fiery guard who can shoot 3-pointers, he averaged 17 points per game last winter.
Westmoreland high school athletes of the week: Hempfield’s Sarah Podkul and Latrobe’s Brock Pflugh
Sarah Podkul
Westmoreland high school football notes: 3 more teams clinch playoff berths
Three more Westmoreland County teams clinched spots in the WPIAL football playoffs with wins Friday night.
Norwin notebook: Cross country teams sweep at county meet
While it is the time of year to rake leaves, the Norwin cross country teams brought brooms to the county race.
After 2 special seasons, Norwin hockey ready to tackle step up in class
As Norwin discovered, there is a menu of factors for hockey teams to move up in classification in the PIHL.
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.
Westmoreland County high school soccer playoff matchups for Saturday, Oct. 21
Boys
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.
Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 8
October 18, 2023
Class 5A Big East Conference
Norwin boys get another shot at Seneca Valley, Mt. Pleasant girls receive top 3 seed
Norwin will have to wait until next weekend to open the WPIAL boys soccer playoffs.
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL girls soccer playoffs
Here’s a closer look at the 2023 WPIAL girls soccer playoffs:
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL boys soccer playoffs
Here’s a closer look at the 2023 WPIAL boys soccer playoffs:
3 teams chasing 3-peats as WPIAL announces soccer playoff pairings
Three teams will go for three-peats in the WPIAL soccer playoffs.
Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Tournament honors late Mt. Pleasant grad
The late Seth Menart was a three-time all-section player at Mt. Pleasant and went on to win a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference tile at Cal (Pa.) as a walk-on.
Greensburg Central boys soccer enters WPIAL playoffs as intriguing underdog
It’s not often a team can take momentum from a loss, but Greensburg Central Catholic did that in a recent setback.
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.
Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Playoff teams await pairings
The WPIAL will announce playoff pairings Wednesday afternoon, and tournaments could start this weekend.
Hempfield thrower Peyton Murray commits to Notre Dame
October 16, 2023
A GIF of actor Charles S. Dutton, who plays the character Fortune in the film “Rudy,” is popular on the internet.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: WCCA all-star game returning to Ligonier Valley
October 15, 2023
After a successful debut last year, the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Volleyball All-Star Game will return next month.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Latrobe’s Robin Reilly and Belle Vernon’s Rogan Maloney
October 14, 2023
Robin Reilly
Westmoreland high school football notes: Showdown between Franklin Regional, Penn-Trafford looms
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
The more progressions he goes through and the more repetitions he gets, the more Chase Lemke looks the part of Franklin Regional’s starting quarterback.
Yough grad Jim Schaffer named athletic director at alma mater
Longtime volunteer coach and Yough diehard Jim Schaffer is primed to take over as athletic director on Cougar Mountain.
Latrobe boys get past Franklin Regional in OT in chippy match
A soccer game with as many cards as goals wasn’t settled in regulation, so Franklin Regional and Latrobe played overtime in their touchy Section 4-3A rematch.
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.
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.
Lola Abraham’s 4 goals lift Riverview past GCC in Section 1-A showdown
October 11, 2023
Greensburg Central Catholic tried everything against Lola Abraham, marking her with multiple girls in 10-minute intervals as it tried to slow her down.
Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 7
Class 5A Big East Conference
Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Jeannette’s Jordan Taylor climbs WPIAL all-time goals list
The goal came without any fanfare and it came in a loss, so Jordan Taylor didn’t think much of it.
Mt. Pleasant senior thrives after battling through career-threatening hip problem
The thought of ending his soccer career pervaded Luke Domasky’s mind at the start of the season.
Trevor Kovatch’s PK goal lifts Belle Vernon to key win over Mt. Pleasant
October 10, 2023
Mt. Pleasant’s pep band played at halftime Tuesday night at Viking Stadium, a rare occurrence for a high school soccer game, but an addition that was befitting to the ambiance of such a big first-place showdown.
Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Before knee surgery, GCC senior scores one last goal
Senior night could have been a bummer for Ella Machusko, who has a torn ACL and had written off playing the rest of the season.
Despite challenges, Southmoreland girls soccer emerges as perennial playoff program
No matter the roster turnover or how many star players it loses, Southmoreland manages to stay in the thick of the WPIAL girls soccer playoff race.
Sought-after Franklin Regional slugger Toryn Fulton commits to South Florida
October 9, 2023
Franklin Regional standout junior Toryn Fulton announced Monday she has made a verbal commitment to play college softball at South Florida.
Latrobe girls soccer picks up pace, ends Franklin Regional win streak
With its offense moving efficiently and fluidly, Latrobe sped up the pace and created frequent scoring opportunities on the way to a 2-0 victory over Franklin Regional on Monday night in a Section 3-3A girls soccer game in Murrysville.
4 WPIAL players on watch list, Moon’s Pfeifer to coach in HS All-American soccer game
Four girls soccer players from the WPIAL made the watch list for the 2023 High School All-American Game set for Dec. 9 in Charleston, S.C.
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.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Mt. Pleasant’s Morgan Gesinski, Greensburg Salem’s Hunter Webb
October 7, 2023
Morgan Gesinski
Westmoreland high school football notebook: Franklin Regional’s Hudock makes Norwin pay
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.
Defense in peak form for Franklin Regional girls soccer
While the math doesn’t seem to add up, defensive play equates to one-sided play.
Franklin Regional shows grit, staves off furious Norwin rally
October 6, 2023
Franklin Regional remained in the Big East playoff hunt.
Clutch goal lifts Mt. Pleasant boys past McGuffey to run win streak to 6
October 5, 2023
Mt. Pleasant ran its winning streak to six but not before a somewhat painstaking final push at McGuffey.
Pitt, Penn State among schools courting Hempfield thrower Peyton Murray
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.
Jeannette girls soccer team wins for 1st time since 2019
October 4, 2023
The Jeannette girls soccer team did something Wednesday night it had not done since 2019: It won a game.
Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 6
Class 5A Big East Conference
Elizabeth Forward’s Mya Morgan blasts past field to win WPIAL golf championship
Sophomore Mya Morgan had to miss a tryout for a school musical because she was competing in the WPIAL girls golf championship.
Blue-collar approach works wonders for Mt. Pleasant boys soccer
Mt. Pleasant boys soccer players don’t do a lot of trash talking during games. In fact, they don’t do a lot of talking at all.
Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Greensburg Central Catholic junior unleashes ‘screamer’ of a goal
It started with an innocent throw-in by Greensburg Central Catholic deep in Ligonier Valley territory.
Plum boys rally from 2-goal deficit to avoid soccer upset vs. Latrobe
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.
Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Taylor Doppelheuer, Yough’s Isaac Pacacha
Taylor Doppelheuer
Westmoreland high school football notes: Jeannette’s Sanders keeps rolling despite cast
September 30, 2023
Noah Sanders’ stat line Friday night looked like this: Six carries, 151 yards, two touchdowns, one arm.
Jeannette starts fast, wins 4th straight with victory over Riverview
September 29, 2023
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.
Jeannette starts fast, wins 4th straight with victory over Riverview
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.
Franklin Regional girls smother Penn-Trafford
September 27, 2023
Franklin Regional had eight players arrive late for Wednesday night’s warmups because of a National Honor Society event.
Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 5
Class 5A Big East Conference
Greensburg Central Catholic forced to postpone 3rd straight girls soccer game
With only eight or nine girls available to play because of illness and injuries, Greensburg Central Catholic had to postpone its third straight girls soccer game.
Latrobe boys soccer team turning into overnight success
It’s going on 10 p.m., and the lights are still on at Rossi Field.
Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Franklin Regional’s Bayne puts best foot forward in 2 sports
Joey Bayne has tried just about every sport.
Belle Vernon boys break in new formation, roll past section rival Yough
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.
Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Coaching couple extends helping hand to Jayhawks
The Jeannette girls soccer team was missing a coach and on the verge of circling the drain when the district turned to its former leader to get things back on track.
Seneca Valley star pitcher Lexie Hames commits to Clemson
September 25, 2023
No surprises here: Seneca Valley ace softball pitcher Lexie Hames is headed to a top-tier NCAA program.
Westmoreland high school notebook: Norwin’s Guzzie hits hole-in-one at WPIALs
September 24, 2023
Norwin sophomore Lia Guzzie did not qualify for the WPIAL girls golf finals, but she made a lasting memory at the Section 3-3A Tournament.
Westmoreland high school football notebook: Penn-Trafford’s Whipple enjoys breakout
September 23, 2023
Tasso Whipple was a little hesitant to talk to the media after his record-breaking performance Friday night.
7 athletes, state champion team, coach to join Jeannette’s Athletic Hall of Fame
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
Norwin football coach Mike Brown made a special moment out of his team’s first home win of the season, giving the game ball to his father and assistant coach, Bill Brown, for a birthday present on the Saturday after the victory.
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
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.
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.
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 builds state rankings case with 6-0 win over rival Southmoreland
September 20, 2023
Mt. Pleasant could have made a fuss when the coaches’ state girls soccer rankings came out this week, and there was no mention of the Lady Vikings.
Westmoreland County high school football matchups for 2023 Week 4
Class 5A Big East Conference
Westmoreland County boys soccer notebook: Gritty Norwin climbs in standings
Norwin has been one of the hotter teams in the WPIAL of late.
Goals keep coming for ‘relentless’ Belle Vernon junior Trevor Kovatch
When he was about 5 years old, Trevor Kovatch wandered into his neighbor’s backyard and, bang, there it was.
Greensburg Central Catholic’s Izzy Aigner to play with Greensburg native Rocco Mediate at PGA Tour Champions event
It will be an all-Greensburg pairing at the Pure Insurance Championship this week at Pebble Beach Golf Links.
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.
Westmoreland County girls soccer notebook: Greensburg Central Catholic winning with small but mighty roster
Greenburg Central Catholic has to take it easy in practice this season. Like Yough last year, the Centurions have a small roster. Sometimes, they barely have enough for one side.
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 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.
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.
Trio of Kimmich brothers join forces at Grove City
The question swirled around each of them. It made the three brothers tense up momentarily, and then smile an ornery grin.
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 boys soccer holds off Mt. Pleasant, takes over 1st place
September 14, 2023
It took blood and sweat, but first place in Section 3-2A belongs to Belle Vernon — for now.
Legendary Jeannette coach Joe Mucci among national high school hall of fame nominees
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.
Suffocating defense fuels Penn-Trafford girls soccer
When a goal finally found its way into the net during an overtime section opener at Franklin Regional, Penn-Trafford did not descend into girls soccer madness.
Hempfield hires girls basketball, wrestling, girls lacrosse coaches
September 11, 2023
Hempfield hired three varsity head coaches Monday.
Westmoreland County H.S. notebook: GCC’s Sasha Hoffman out to defend section title
September 10, 2023
The WPIAL girls tennis individual postseason begins Wednesday with section tournaments around the district.
Westmoreland high school football notebook: Franklin Regional takes pride in defense
September 9, 2023
Lance Getsy isn’t surprised to see his defense making plays each week. In fact, he will tell you without blinking that he expects it.
Latrobe soccer standout Reilly picks West Virginia
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
With its special teams unit flying to the football and setting field position and its running game in high gear, Franklin Regional handed upstart Connellsville a humbling 38-0 defeat in a nonconference matchup Friday night at Panther Stadium in Murrysville.
Westmoreland County high school football notebook: Kickers giving teams a leg up
September 7, 2023
Kickers often are undervalued, at least by spectators who would rather see big plays and touchdowns. But those special teams leaders could play a key role for Westmoreland County teams as the season moves ahead.
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.
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.
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.
Westmoreland athletes of the week: Penn-Trafford’s Ava Hershberger, Nick Turowski
September 2, 2023
Ava Hershberger
Westmoreland high school football notes: Derry finally shakes long losing streak
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.
Reilly has big return as Latrobe beats Norwin at Moe Rosensteel memorial
Four goals. It wasn’t so much about how they happened, but that they happened.
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 shuts out rival Franklin Regional in early season section showdown
August 31, 2023
Plum is finding different ways to score goals this soccer 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 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.
Belle Vernon girls golf team finally tees off for its inaugural season
As Vittoria Scaramucci pushed a tee into the ground, set her golf ball on it and took aim down the fairway, the intensity of the moment began to set in.
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.
Westmoreland high school football notebook: Soccer recruit delivers in clutch for Jeannette
August 26, 2023
Jeannette football coach Tommy Paulone and his staff were on the lookout for a kicker this offseason.
Hempfield girls soccer snaps 46-game losing streak
The streak is over.
Norwin girls soccer driven to return to playoffs
Norwin girls soccer coach Diane Metzger does not like to get too specific with preseason details about her team.
Franklin Regional boys look to reload, climb WPIAL soccer ladder
Lukas Petersen remembers the empty feeling in his body as he watched Montour celebrate a 2-1 upset of his Franklin Regional Panthers in the WPIAL Class 3A first round late last October.
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.
Westmoreland high school football notebook: Craggette gets comfortable at Southmoreland
August 24, 2023
Da’sjon Craggette looked comfortable during a few training camp drills, making plays and laughing with his new teammates at Southmoreland.
Westmoreland County girls soccer preview: Mt. Pleasant primed for more playoff success
After a WPIAL runner-up season that included a trip to the PIAA Class 2A girls soccer semifinals, Mt. Pleasant is primed for another postseason push.
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.
Senior Kadin Keefer flourishes in Southmoreland’s QB-friendly offense
When Tim Bukowski joined the staff as the offensive coordinator at Southmoreland in 2018, he didn’t just put in a new offense. He made it a priority to develop quarterbacks who could run it.
2023 WPIAL girls soccer preview: Rankings, contenders, players to watch
August 22, 2023
WPIAL girls soccer preview
Norwin’s Bursick verbally commits to play soccer at Duquesne
August 21, 2023
Junior Julia Bursick is done playing soccer at Norwin. For now.
After playing QB out of necessity last season, Norwin’s Denny moves to receiver to take advantage of speed
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
As a former defensive coordinator at Sacred Heart, Mercyhurst and Gannon, and a defensive backs and linebackers coach at St. Francis (Pa.) and Marist, it is clear where JT Thompson’s passion lies in football.
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.
Expect excitement from loaded Norwin boys soccer team
Scott Schuchert is looking at this boys soccer season with eager eyes.
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.
Explosive offense has Southmoreland in position for big year
August 16, 2023
Attend a Southmoreland football game. Stay for the fireworks.
With new coach in charge, top playmaker graduated, change comes to Greensburg Salem
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.
Franklin Regional goalkeeper climbs ranks in Olympic Development program
Aris Lamanna has been on a three-month, practically nonstop speed and strength training mission to be the best goalkeeper in the WPIAL, the state and … the country?
Greensburg Salem’s Julian Stevens mixes personality with athletic ability to lead Golden Lions
August 14, 2023
A mauler with a mean streak, Julian Stevens has a reputation that precedes him.
Latrobe sees uptick in wins, numbers, expectations
August 13, 2023
Growth in roster numbers is a good gauge of a football program’s stability.
Speedy, versatile Samir Crosby puts team first for Greensburg Central Catholic
As he is preparing for a quick photo shoot in the bleachers at Centurions Stadium, Samir Crosby flashes a smile, then shifts to a mean mug, turning to face the camera each time with delight and gravitas.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Official start of football camp right around corner
August 12, 2023
After weeks of noncontact workouts and five days of heat acclimatization, WPIAL football teams finally will open training camp Monday.
Derry quarterback is 1 of 11 on football field, 1 of 10 at home
August 11, 2023
He comes from a big family — we’re talking jumbo package, here — so Mason Beeman is used to being in close quarters with a lot of people.
Awards roll in for Belle Vernon grad Viva Kreis
August 10, 2023
Like a pair of new socks, two more honors rolled in for Belle Vernon alum Viva Kreis.
With new coach at helm, Norwin hungry to return to playoffs
August 9, 2023
If there is a difference between a Norwin kid and a Hempfield kid, Mike Brown is out to find it.
2023 WPIAL golf preview: Graduation losses leave boys, girls titles up for grabs
The WPIAL boys and girls golf season opens Thursday. Here is a breakdown of the top teams and players to follow this fall.
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.
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.
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.
Moon girls soccer ranked 2nd in United Soccer Coaches’ preseason poll
August 2, 2023
Moon dropped to Class 3A last season as part of the latest two-year high school sports enrollment cycle.
Norwin wrestlers help Team PA to strong showing at junior nationals in Fargo
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.
Derry out to break streak, reestablish winning identity
Derry has been living in the shadow of a losing streak that dates to the disruptive covid season of 2020.
Closure of Alderson Broaddus affects a number of athletes with WPIAL ties
August 1, 2023
Rumors swirled around campus. The whispers were brooding.
Westmoreland County softball players offer knowledge, experience to youths during clinics, lessons
July 30, 2023
As Courtney Poulich leans in to give a wide-eyed softball player some hitting advice, she can’t help but get nostalgic.
High school notebook: Belle Vernon’s Martin among those up for vote as best player in the nation
July 29, 2023
Quinton Martin is talented, but will he be the best high school football player in the country this season?
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Norwin’s Jackson Pons
July 28, 2023
When his team was flagged for a hold last week during the championship of the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 Passing Tournament at Latrobe, Norwin’s Jackson Pons showed his frustration.
Monessen powderpuff game to benefit families of Altomore, Madzey
July 25, 2023
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.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Payton Wehner
Lying in a hospital bed about three years ago, Payton Wehner took inventory of his world.
Yough, Hempfield girls basketball coaches resign
July 21, 2023
Hempfield and Yough are looking for girls head basketball coaches.
Latrobe wins WCCA 7-on-7 tourney for 2nd time in row
July 20, 2023
As John Wetzel walked off the field Thursday, he made it clear to his teammates he was far from tired.
Yough’s Kendalyn Umbel commits to play soccer at YSU, won’t play high school season
July 19, 2023
Like a penalty kick in a shootout, Kendalyn Umbel has lined up her Division I college soccer future — with two years left in her high school career.
Longtime Southmoreland coach, teacher Brian Pritts takes on athletic director role
July 18, 2023
It was a promotion Brian Pritts was proud to accept.
Westmoreland Saints youth football program folds as Greensburg Central Catholic starts flag, middle school programs
An ordinary Friday turned into All Saints Day.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin
July 16, 2023
Editor’s note: This is the fifth in a series of 25 profiles of the members of the Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team.
Franklin Regional soccer players join select team for national tournament in Florida
July 15, 2023
A handful of Franklin Regional boys soccer players were set to compete on a national stage.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Latrobe out to defend 7-on-7 title
Route-runners and defensive backs will exchange moves, and quarterbacks will sharpen their downfield throws Thursday when the 12th Westmoreland County Coaches Association Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 Passing Tournament returns to Greater Latrobe High School.
St. Francis (Pa.) extends offer to Central Catholic QB Payton Wehner
July 14, 2023
Central Catholic has more than 100 players signed up for football this season. That includes a rising group of more than 50 freshmen.
Cuthbert, who guided P-T girls to WPIAL title, named girls soccer coach at Greensburg C.C.
July 11, 2023
Championship-winning coach Derek Cuthbert has returned to lead another Westmoreland County school’s soccer team.
Harrigan, trio of Norwin soccer teams head for hall of fame
July 10, 2023
The 2023 Norwin Athletic Hall of Fame class reached into the recent past to reconnect with some girls soccer greatness.
New Penn-Trafford soccer coach Suchko wants to restore tradition
July 9, 2023
Ben Suchko played soccer at Hempfield, and he remembers another local program having a reputation at that time.Westmoreland County high school notebook: Dozen softball standouts earn all-state honors
July 8, 2023
Belle Vernon won a WPIAL Class 4A softball championship, and the Leopards did so with a potent lineup that produced extra-base hits by the boatloads.
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.
Franklin Regional soccer standouts honored with scholarships
A pair of recent graduates who will have the same major in college left a lasting mark on the Franklin Regional soccer programs.
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 state champ Lily King named Tribune-Review Westmoreland Girls Athlete of the Year
July 1, 2023
Expectations can change, even for someone as talented as Lily King.
Norwin’s Alex Thomas trades skates for shoes to play in international ball hockey championships
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.
Allegheny Force FC girls soccer team advances to nationals
A half-dozen girls soccer players from Franklin Regional qualified to play in a national tournament July 7-11, in Wichita, Kan.
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.
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 boys basketball team will have a female head coach next season.Ryan Kanner set to lead Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer team
June 27, 2023
Growing up and attending Aquinas Academy in Greensburg, Ryan Kanner discovered there was a certain aura around Greensburg Central Catholic.
Westmoreland County campus clippings: Ligonier Valley grad Maddie Griffin transfers to IUP
June 26, 2023
Softball pitching in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference already is a grind for hitters, but it just got tougher.
Penn-Trafford’s Tomosovich chooses Army for football future
June 25, 2023
It wasn’t until the scholarship offers started rolling in hot and heavy that Penn-Trafford’s Zach Tomosovich fully realized he was Division I football material.Hempfield ace Riley Miller named Tribune-Review Westmoreland Softball Player of the Year
June 24, 2023
When she took the softball, popped it in her glove and stepped into the chalk-lined circle for the first time, Riley Miller knew she was also entering an elite sisterhood.
Belle Vernon’s Braden Laux commits to Eastern Michigan
As he gets prepared to catch passes next year instead of throwing them, championship quarterback and defensive end Braden Laux is warming up to the idea of playing a new position in college.
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.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: WCCA adds baseball showcase
The Westmoreland County Coaches Association added a new event to its calendar.
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.
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.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin endorses fragrance line
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
UNIVERSITY PARK — As Hempfield players made their way through the outfield and back to their waiting charter bus early Thursday evening, they took one last panorama of Beard Field at Nittany Lion Softball Park.
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
A forbidding challenge awaits Hempfield with unbeaten North Penn (27-0), the District 1 champion that features senior ace pitcher Julia Shearer and her ridiculous numbers: 27-0 record, 0.23 ERA, 346 strikeouts and 13 walks in 159 innings.
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.
Battery power fuels Hempfield softball on electric run to state finals
If Hempfield wins a fifth PIAA softball championship Thursday at Penn State, it will likely happen in an electric atmosphere. But a win will probably be battery powered.
Unflappable Hempfield looks to add to softball program’s championship legacy
June 13, 2023
Tina Madison looked pensive and anxious as her team hit softballs into nets in a light drizzle Monday at St. Francis (Pa.) University.
Hempfield softball surges past Cumberland Valley, advances to Class 6A state final
June 12, 2023
LORETTO — Hempfield asked for the pregame music to be turned off while it took infield practice Monday after a half-hour rain delay.
PIAA softball playoff capsule: Class 6A semifinal, Monday, June 12, 2023
June 11, 2023
PIAA softball playoffs
Hempfield softball team wins with stifling defense
June 10, 2023
In the PIAA softball playoffs, every team can hit. Short game or long, small ball or power shots.
Hempfield coach Madison hopes for return trip to alma mater
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.
Murrysville Star notebook: Franklin Regional standouts earn all-section honors
The Big 56 Conference, a website that recognizes accomplishments of teams and athletes in the WPIAL’s largest classifications, announced its all-section teams.
Hempfield softball team learns PIAA semifinal playoff location
June 9, 2023
Hempfield will continue its march toward a fifth state softball championship with a semifinal matchup against Cumberland Valley at 4 p.m. Monday at St. Francis (Pa.) in Loretto.
Elizabeth Forward avenges WPIAL playoff loss, stops Belle Vernon in PIAA quarters
June 8, 2023
Elizabeth Forward restored the balance of power in its softball rivalry with Belle Vernon, and catcher Alivia Grimm restored confidence in her swing as the Warriors moved on in the state playoffs.
Westmoreland PIAA softball capsules: Games for Thursday, June 8, 2023
June 7, 2023
PIAA softball playoffs
Hempfield freshmen burst into starting lineup, play key roles in playoff run
June 6, 2023
When Tina Madison talked about her team’s prospects and potential strengths at the start of the season, she couldn’t help but mention the emerging talent coming down the pipeline.
Howard sisters lead Hempfield softball past Mifflin County in PIAA opener
June 5, 2023
Sisters Maggie and Lauren Howard are a couple of years apart in age and class, but they look alike, talk alike and, to Hempfield’s delight, play alike.
Westmoreland high school notebook: Coaches want more Class 6A state qualifiers
June 4, 2023
Talk about one and done.
Westmoreland PIAA softball capsules: Games for Monday, June 5, 2023
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.
Southmoreland softball driven to succeed in state playoffs
June 3, 2023
As the only senior on the Southmoreland softball team, second baseman Brynn Charnesky has a voice on the field, in the dugout and on drab bus rides home from championship game losses.
Latrobe looks to shake off WPIAL finals loss before state playoffs
Latrobe players tried to keep their heads up when the Pirate Parrot handed them their WPIAL Class 4A runner-up trophy last Tuesday at Wild Things Park.
Westmoreland County high school notebook: WCCA awards scholarships
The Westmoreland County Coaches Association gives out several scholarships each year with money raised through different means, including entry fees and 50/50 raffles at its events.
Hannah Shaw ends Norwin track career with state medal
Before a jump, Norwin senior Hannah Shaw tells herself, “You know you can do this.”
Softball team leads Norwin in strong spring sports season
Norwin brought contenders to the WPIAL spring sports season, along with plenty of highlights: home runs, goals, spikes and record times and distances.
Hard-hitting lineup helps Franklin Regional have softball season to remember
The crack of the bat and the swell of crowd noise was a regular thing for the Franklin Regional softball team this season.
WPIAL champ Hempfield softball team rewarded with PIAA home game
June 2, 2023
There was more at stake than a WPIAL championship for the Hempfield softball team.
Jeannette star from 1930s chosen for new National High School Football Hall of Fame
A former Jeannette running back will be part of a new football hall of fame. He will represent the high school on a national level.
Hempfield’s Bandieramonte honors memory of late father with WPIAL title-clinching homer
June 1, 2023
The softball sailed high and true, carrying deep into the night sky until gravity finally took over. It clanked off the left-field bleachers some 240 feet from home plate.
Avonworth beats Southmoreland to repeat as WPIAL 3A softball champs
Southmoreland had a sendoff at school Thursday morning for the WPIAL 3A softball championship. Applause and support from teachers and students followed the team to the bus.
8th-inning homer off Seneca Valley ace lifts Hempfield to WPIAL 6A softball championship
May 31, 2023
Hempfield brought in a pitching machine recently to simulate the speed of Seneca Valley pitcher Lexie Hames.
2023 WPIAL Class 3A softball championship preview: Avonworth vs. Southmoreland
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.
14th-seeded Hopewell completes Cinderella run to WPIAL Class 4A crown with win over Latrobe
May 30, 2023
Landon Fox was hurting but hunting.
Hempfield softball team looks to win first title since 2019
Despite its championship pedigree and reoccurring reign at the top — seven WPIAL titles, including five in a row from 2015-19 — Hempfield hasn’t won one in a while.
2023 WPIAL Class 5A consolation game preview: Penn-Trafford vs. Plum
WPIAL Class 5A consolation game
2023 WPIAL Class 6A softball championship preview: Hempfield vs. Seneca Valley
WPIAL Class 6A softball championship
2023 WPIAL Class 4A softball championship preview: Montour vs. Belle Vernon
WPIAL Class 4A softball championship
Coach Basciano instills sense of togetherness that helps Latrobe baseball reach WPIAL final
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 senior Sofia DeCerb, one of the WPIAL’s top goalkeepers the past few years, was the recipient of the Kaitlyn “Moe” Rosensteel Scholarship, presented to a WPIAL female soccer player “who will be advancing into college to further her academic excellence while still playing the game she loves.”
Hempfield puts foot down, rallies past Norwin into Class 6A WPIAL finals
May 24, 2023
When Hempfield fell behind by four runs early under the weight of three Norwin home runs, pitcher Riley Miller had a short but succinct talk with her catcher, Ella Berkebile.
Latrobe baseball knocks off No. 1 Montour, advances to WPIAL Class 4A championship
May 23, 2023
Unshakable and driven, Latrobe pushed on in the WPIAL baseball playoffs with another upset.
Westmoreland WPIAL softball playoff capsules: Games for Wednesday, May 24, 2023
WPIAL softball playoffs
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 capsule: Games for Tuesday, May 23, 2023
WPIAL softball playoffs
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.
Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Southmoreland’s Makayla Etling, Yough’s Gavin Roebuck
May 20, 2023
Makayla Etling
Westmoreland County high school notebook: Memorial basketball tournament returns to Jeannette
The third annual Tre Cunningham Memorial Basketball Tournament will return to Jeannette on June 22-24.
Playoff berth shows Norwin girls lacrosse trending in right direction
The positive comments from opposing coaches lets Norwin girls lacrosse coach Courtney Kloos know she and her team are doing something right.
Norwin girls track carries on proud tradition with strong season
Track and field teams like the Norwin girls do not compete for championships by simply showing up and stretching.
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 scores 7 in 7th in wild win over Yough
The stairway to seven began with a glimmer of hope and a confident approach.
Undefeated Shaler dominates short-handed Franklin Regional
May 17, 2023
Strike out 16, club a couple of home runs and sell the underdog role, and watch any team sprint forward in a playoff bracket.