Author: Bob Orkwis
Bethel Park takes nothing for granted in Class 5A quarterfinal win over Woodland Hills
November 8, 2024
Bethel Park came into a WPIAL quarterfinal matchup at the Wolvarena featuring the top-scoring offense in Class 5A.
Cornell makes big plays in second half to pull away from Leechburg
November 1, 2024
Many playoff matchups featuring the eighth and ninth seeds are close and exciting. Friday night’s WPIAL Class A first-round contest at Leechburg between No. 9 Cornell and the eighth-seeded Blue Devils was certainly that.
Conference champ Woodland Hills holds off Kiski Area in regular-season finale
October 25, 2024
Heading into the regular-season finale, Kiski Area needed a win at the Wolvarena to solidify a chance at one of the three Class 5A wild-card spots in the WPIAL playoffs.
Late field goal gives Kiski Area win over Plum in battle of teams fighting to stay in playoff race
October 18, 2024
Normally, a nonconference matchup in the next-to-last game of the season would not carry much significance. But, with only the top three teams in each Class 5A conference guaranteed a spot in the playoffs, Friday’s game between Plum and Kiski Area took on more importance as the final three playoff spots will be determined by the WPIAL football committee.
Kiski Area keeps playoff hopes alive, beats Armstrong
October 11, 2024
With three weeks remaining in the regular season, and Kiski Area and Armstrong positioned at the bottom of the 5A Big East Conference standings, Friday’s contest presented as a must-win for the Cavaliers or the River Hawks have any postseason aspirations.
Penn-Trafford avenges loss to Hempfield, moves atop section standings
October 9, 2024
In September, the Hempfield girls volleyball team visited Penn-Trafford and came away with a 3-2 victory.
Kiski Area uses big 3rd quarter to pull away from Latrobe
October 4, 2024
Kiski Area traveled to Memorial Stadium in Latrobe on Friday lugging a five-game losing streak and looking for its first Big East Conference victory. The homestanding Wildcats were looking to rebound after losing at home last week to Woodland Hills in conference play.
Franklin Regional answers Kiski Area’s fast start
September 27, 2024
After a four-game homestand that resulted in four losses, Kiski Area came on the road and started fast against Franklin Regional, jumping out to a 17-point lead.
Penn-Trafford runs past Kiski Area in Big East showdown
September 20, 2024
Both Penn-Trafford and Kiski Area came into the contest looking for their first win in 5A Big East Conference play.
Gateway overcomes injuries to defeat Kiski Area
September 13, 2024
Gateway came into the start of Big East Conference play a bit banged up. That trend continued as the Gators lost their returning starting quarterback late in the first quarter Friday.
Hempfield gives up lead then gets dramatic win over Kiski Area on late field goal
September 6, 2024
Hempfield was looking for its first win of 2024, and the Spartans got it in a heart-stopper.
Norwin uses strong ground game to defeat Kiski Area
August 30, 2024
For the second straight week, Kiski Area played out of conference, hosting Class 6A Norwin on Friday night to open a four game homestand.
Mars downs Chartiers Valley to repeat as WPIAL Class 2A girls lacrosse champs
May 23, 2024
Two years ago, Mars lost in the WPIAL championship game to Chartiers Valley when the Colts captured their first title.
In another 1-goal game between rivals, Pine-Richland tops North Allegheny for Penguins Cup title
March 19, 2024
Pine-Richland defeated North Allegheny twice during the regular season in one-goal games, so it was no surprise when the PIHL Class 3A Penguins Cup championship was also decided by one goal.
Armstrong hands 1st loss to No. 1 Oakland Catholic, reaches 1st WPIAL final
February 27, 2024
Oakland Catholic came into the Class 5A tournament the only undefeated team in the entire WPIAL and the top seed in the bracket.
Shaler boys down Fox Chapel to clinch outright section title
February 9, 2024
Shaler came into Friday’s game at Fox Chapel needing a win to clinch the Class 5A Section 2 title outright, and the Foxes needed a victory to tie the Titans for first place.
Hampton hits buzzer-beater to drop Knoch, stand alone atop section
January 12, 2024
Knoch and Hampton came into Friday night’s contest with identical records, with both the Knights and the Talbots carrying unblemished 3-0 records in Section 1-4A.
Kiski Area puts scare into streaking Gateway in Section 3-5A boys basketball showdown
January 9, 2024
Kiski Area and Gateway came into Tuesday night’s contest in Monroeville heading in opposite directions. The Gators had won eight straight games, and the Cavaliers had dropped their last three.
Kiski Area beats Armstrong to clinch playoff spot
October 27, 2023
It was a must-win situation for Kiski Area and Armstrong to claim one of the final playoff spots in the Greater Allegheny Conference. The Cavaliers were in a win-and-in situation. The Riverhawks needed a win and some help.
Mars overcomes quick start by Kiski Area to roll to conference victory
October 6, 2023
It was homecoming for Kiski Area, and the Cavaliers scored first on a 14-play drive.
Explosive 1st quarter leads Woodland Hills past Shaler
September 30, 2023
If any fans heading to the Class 5A Northeast Conference matchup between Woodland Hills and Shaler were stuck in homecoming traffic on Mt. Royal Boulevard and were late arriving in the opening quarter, they missed a lot.
North Catholic stymies Kiski Area for Week 4 win
September 22, 2023
A week after shutting out Highlands in their conference opener, North Catholic came on the road and authored another strong defensive performance in a 28-7 win over Kiski Area.
North Catholic defense shines, shuts out Highlands
September 15, 2023
North Catholic came into its Greater Allegheny Conference opener allowing more than 36 points per game. Highlands had started the season undefeated in large part because of a stingy defense and a great running attack.
Kiski Area victory tempered by injury to Laurel Highlands standout Antwan Black Jr.
September 8, 2023
Kiski Area scored the winning touchdown with less than a minute to play to defeat Laurel Highlands, 28-24, on Friday at Richard A. Dilts Stadium. But the high-intensity contest was marred by a late injury to Laurel Highlands star Antwan Black Jr.
South Fayette comes alive in 2nd half to top old conference rival West Allegheny
September 2, 2023
It was technically a Class 4A vs. 5A nonconference matchup, but it was more like a clash of two old rivals as West Allegheny and South Fayette collided Friday night.
Franzi, Odom lead Plum to victory over Kiski Area
August 25, 2023
For the second straight season, Plum and Kiski locked up in the season opener. Last year at Plum, the score was tied at halftime before the Mustangs pulled away.
Mt. Lebanon finishes strong to defeat Shady Side Academy for WPIAL Class 3A championship
May 26, 2023
In last year’s championship game between Mt. Lebanon and Shady Side Academy, J.P. Henry was the hero in overtime for the Bulldogs.
Pine-Richland gets past Mt. Lebanon in dramatic WPIAL Class 3A girls lacrosse title game
May 25, 2023
In the regular season finale, Pine-Richland defeated Mt. Lebanon, 13-12, a win that most likely gave the Rams the top seed in the WPIAL Class 3A girls lacrosse tournament.
Mars surges past South Fayette to claim 7th straight WPIAL boys lacrosse championship
Undefeated and second-seeded South Fayette was the latest team to step up to try to end the Mars title run, which dates to 2016.
Mars tops Blackhawk for WPIAL girls lacrosse title in OT thriller
May 24, 2023
Mya Cote’s fourth goal of the game 1 minute, 42 seconds into overtime sent Mars to a 10-9 victory over Blackhawk and gave the Fightin’ Planets their second WPIAL Class 2A girls lacrosse title in three seasons.
Second-period surge helps LaSalle College beat Peters Township for Class 3A state hockey title
March 25, 2023
The LaSalle College Explorers broke a 1-1 tie with four second-period goals on their way to a 7-3 victory over Peters Township on Saturday, capturing their seventh state high school hockey championship.
South Fayette shuts out Armstrong to capture 1st Penguins Cup championship
March 21, 2023
Armstrong came into the PIHL Class 2A Penguins Cup championship game as the top-seeded team in the tournament, having scored 19 goals in its two playoff wins.
Peters Township, Upper St. Clair earn trips to PIHL Class 3A Penguins Cup finals
March 14, 2023
Last season, Peters Township won the PIHL Class 3A Penguins Cup. The top-seeded Indians will have a chance to defend that title after a 4-0 win over No. 4 North Allegheny on Monday night at Robert Morris’ Island Sports Center.
Led by Emily Smallwood, Pine-Richland divers have successful WPIAL meet
March 5, 2023
Senior Emily Smallwood and sophomores Kendyll Jerry and Jake Jones advanced to the final round of 16 divers at the WPIAL Class 3A diving championships at North Allegheny High School on Feb. 25.
More records fall, North Allegheny girls win 15th straight team title at WPIAL swimming championships
March 3, 2023
For the second straight day, most of the excitement and drama at the WPIAL swimming championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool happened in Class 2A in the afternoon session.
6 records fall on 1st day of WPIAL swimming championships
March 2, 2023
Being the smaller classification but featuring more schools, Class 2A had the afternoon session Thursday at the WPIAL swimming and diving championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Northgate beats Bishop Canevin, earns 1st WPIAL finals trip since 1988
February 28, 2023
The other three teams still alive in the WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball semifinals Tuesday night had much more storied recent histories than sixth-seeded Northgate.
North Allegheny’s Shi wins 4th straight WPIAL diving gold
February 25, 2023
One day after North Catholic’s Maggie Foley became the first girls diver in eight years to win four straight WPIAL gold medals, North Allegheny senior Christina Shi matched the feat, capturing her fourth with a score of 540.75.
North Catholic’s Maggie Foley goes 4 for 4 at WPIAL Class 2A diving championships
February 24, 2023
Change was afoot at North Allegheny High School for the WPIAL Class 2A diving championships.
Moon fends off Mars again to return to state championship game
November 16, 2022
Just 11 days ago, Mars and Moon met for the WPIAL Class 3A girls soccer championship. The Tigers bested the Planets by a goal that day to capture their fifth title.
North Allegheny tops Peters Township in WPIAL title game shootout
November 3, 2022
All the offense in the WPIAL Class 4A girls soccer championship match between top-seeded North Allegheny and third-seeded Peters Township took place within a span of 22 seconds in the second half, so it was no surprise that the contest went into overtime.
Hampton keeps Mars from clinching playoff spot
October 21, 2022
The playoff scenario for Mars was much easier heading into this game: A win at home, and the Fightin’ Planets would be in. But Hampton had other ideas as the Talbots kept their playoff hopes alive with an exciting 49-42 road victory.
Franklin Regional rides big 2nd half past Plum
September 30, 2022
Franklin Regional suffered a disappointing loss last Saturday in double overtime to Shaler. After the first half Friday in Murrysville, it looked like the Panthers may have been on their way to another disappointment.
Gateway survives scare, beats North Hills on late field goal
September 10, 2022
Gateway is the top-ranked team in 5A and considered one of the favorites in the hunt for a third WPIAL title in 6 years. The Gators started the season 2-0, while their opponent, North Hills, had yet to pick up a win in two tries. None of that seemed to matter as the Indians gave Gateway all it could handle before a field goal by senior Cole Plaskon with 30 seconds remaining gave Gateway a hard-fought 20-17 win.
Hayes scores 4 times as Aliquippa uses pair of 4th-quarter TDs to top Armstrong
September 2, 2022
Aliquippa, the defending Class 4A WPIAL and state champion, chose not to play a Week Zero game, so tonight’s trip to Armstrong marked the Quips’ first step in defending the dual 2021 titles. Step 1 was a good one, as the Quips earned a hard-fought 28-14 victory at Armstrong.
Running game helps propel Plum past Kiski Area in opener
August 26, 2022
In their first meeting since 2017 and the 34th overall between the football teams, Plum scored 21 second-half points to come away with a 35-14 opening-night victory over Kiski Area.
Mars boys lacrosse rolls to 6th straight WPIAL title with another dominant performance
May 26, 2022
Around these parts, “one for the thumb” was a popular rallying cry for a couple of decades. The Mars boys lacrosse team already took care of that last season.
Shady Side Academy boys beat Mt. Lebanon for WPIAL lacrosse title on J.P. Henry highlight-reel goal in OT
Shady Side Academy and Mt. Lebanon came into the WPIAL 3A tournament as the top two seeds. The teams met in the regular season in a tight, one-goal match one by the Bulldogs.
Shady Side Academy girls lacrosse completes WPIAL 3-peat
In 2019, Shady Side Academy needed two overtimes to beat Upper St Clair for its first girls lacrosse championship. Last season, the Bulldogs needed a goal from Jenny Wooding with 26.8 seconds remaining to best Mt. Lebanon.
Chartiers Valley runs past Mars to capture 1st WPIAL girls lacrosse championship
May 25, 2022
If Chartiers Valley raised a few eyebrows with an upset win over top-seeded Blackhawk in the semifinals, the remaining eyebrows are now up.
On night of upsets, Seneca Valley dethrones North Allegheny, Peters Township trips Pine-Richland in Penguins Cup semis
March 15, 2022
Seneca Valley’s Andrew Davis scored off a goal-mouth scramble with under seven minutes remaining in regulation and the Raiders made the goal stand up, defeating the two-time defending Penguins Cup champions North Allegheny, 2-1, in the first of two PIHL Class 3A semifinal games Monday night.
North Allegheny girls win record 14th straight WPIAL swimming championship
March 4, 2022
The North Allegheny girls made history Friday, winning their 14th straight team title at the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships.
North Allegheny girls, Seneca Valley boys get off the blocks quick at WPIAL swim meet
March 3, 2022
The North Allegheny girls swimming team’s quest for a 14th straight WPIAL championship got off to a great start Thursday, as the Tigers netted 212 team points to lead after the first session.
Battle-tested Pine-Richland boys basketball better than record suggests
February 27, 2022
An initial glance at the overall record for the Pine-Richland boys basketball team might not look impressive, but diving into the details can change the perspective.
North Allegheny’s Shi, Schenk sweep WPIAL Class 3A diving titles
February 26, 2022
Diving in her home pool and winning gold medals has become quite the habit for North Allegheny junior Christina Shi, as she captured her third straight gold medal with a score of 481.45 in the WPIAL Class 3A girls championship Saturday.
North Catholic’s Foley, Ligonier Valley’s Roddy win gold at WPIAL Class 2A diving championships
February 25, 2022
Coming in as the two-time defending champion, North Catholic junior Maggie Foley was the obvious favorite at the WPIAL Class 2A diving championships at North Allegheny.
Deontae Williams moves chains, leads Woodland Hills to 5A win over Bethel Park
November 5, 2021
Woodland Hills’ Deontae Williams rarely leaves the field for the Wolverines. So it was fitting that the senior quarterback was able to convert several fourth-down conversions in leading Woodland Hills to a 27-23 win on the road over Bethel Park in the first round of the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs Friday night.
Pine-Richland completes WPIAL Class 3A field hockey 3-peat
October 30, 2021
The Pine-Richland Rams proved once again to be the dominant force in WPIAL Class 3A field hockey, as they defeated North Allegheny, 3-1, to capture a third straight title Saturday night at Washington & Jefferson.
Shady Side Academy captures 4th straight WPIAL field hockey title
Betsy Gorse returned to Shady Side Academy for her second stint as head coach four seasons ago, and the move turned out in the best way for both her and the school, as the Bulldogs won their fourth consecutive WPIAL Class A championship Saturday by defeating Aquinas Academy, 1-0, at Washington & Jefferson’s Cameron Stadium.
Penn-Trafford gets past Fox Chapel to win 6th straight WPIAL field hockey crown
Since WPIAL field hockey moved to three classifications in 2016, Penn-Trafford has had a stranglehold on the 2A championship. That story didn’t change tonight at W&J’s Cameron Stadium on Saturday, as the Warriors defeated Fox Chapel 1-0 to capture their sixth consecutive title.
Hiester’s late-game heroics lead Upper St. Clair past Bethel Park
Upper St. Clair’s abbreviation is USC.
DiFalco’s hat trick leads Franklin Regional past Trinity in 1st round of WPIAL 3A playoffs
October 23, 2021
Franklin Regional appeared in the past three WPIAL Class 3A boys soccer championships and has its sights set on making it four straight.
Bethel Park defeats Peters Township to remain perfect in conference
October 16, 2021
Coming off a winless season and getting off to a slow 1-3 start this year, Bethel Park might have had the gnawing feeling of “here we go again.”
Dugger brothers lead Penn Hills to win at Upper St. Clair
September 24, 2021
After starting the season with two straight losses, Penn Hills traveled to Upper St. Clair in hopes of its second consecutive nonconference victory.
Nijhay Burt’s 5 touchdowns lead Steel Valley past Keystone Oaks
September 18, 2021
NiJhay Burt was one of the WPIAL’s leading rushers in Class 2A last season, so Steel Valley knew what it had in the returning senior running back.
Thomas Jefferson controls line of scrimmage, blanks South Fayette
September 10, 2021
In his 26 years as coach at Thomas Jefferson, it always seems the one constant under Bill Cherpak is dominant play on the interior line. The 2021 edition of the Jaguars is no different, as they held an opponent to negative yards rushing for the second consecutive week and more than doubled up South Fayette in time of possession in a 27-0 win in their home opener.
Alex Tecza, Mt. Lebanon teammates jump on Upper St. Clair to improve to 2-0
September 3, 2021
So far, so good for the Mt. Lebanon Blue Devils in 2021 as they took care of their second straight South Hills rival, defeating Upper St. Clair, 36-13, Friday night at Mt. Lebanon Stadium.
Mt. Lebanon delivers complete performance, shuts out Bethel Park
August 27, 2021
It didn’t take the Mt. Lebanon offense long to get on track in 2021.
Led by a natural hat trick from Tanner Agnello, Indiana captures 1st Penguins Cup crown
April 20, 2021
If the waiting is indeed the hardest part, consider the hard part over for the Indiana Little Indians.
North Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon move on to Penguins Cup finals in Class AAA
April 13, 2021
Connor Chi’s second goal of the game 30 seconds into overtime gave No. 4 North Allegheny a 4-3 win over Peters Township in the first of two PIHL Class AAA semifinal matchups at the RMU Island Sports Center on Neville Island on Monday night.
Neshannock stops undefeated Serra Catholic, wins 2nd WPIAL title in 3 years
March 12, 2021
Serra Catholic finished the regular season at 16-0 as undefeated section champions, so there was some sentiment that the Eagles should have been the top seed in the WPIAL Class 2A tournament.
Upper St. Clair wins WPIAL boys swimming championship at home pool
March 7, 2021
Because of covid-19 protocols, Pitt’s Trees Pool was unable to host the WPIAL swimming championships as usual. Upper St. Clair High School stepped in and hosted the two-day event this weekend.
North Allegheny captures 13th straight WPIAL girls swimming championship
For some it is an unlucky number, but for the North Allegheny girls swimmers, the number 13 was special at Upper St. Clair High School on Sunday as the Tigers captured their 13th straight WPIAL team championship.
Hampton boys win school’s first WPIAL team swimming title in 22 years
March 6, 2021
Everyone knew what to expect from Belle Vernon senior Ian Shahan coming into the WPIAL Class AA swimming championships Saturday. After all, he had previously won five gold medals in his high school career.
Northgate wins 2nd WPIAL girls swimming championship in 3 years
Sparked by two second-place finishes in three relay races at Upper St. Clair High School, Northgate captured its second WPIAL Class 2A girls swimming championship in the past three years.
Mt. Lebanon shows grit, rallies to beat Central Catholic
October 10, 2020
The night might not have started the way Mt. Lebanon wanted, but it sure did finish the way they liked, as the Blue Devils rallied from a 17-point first-half deficit to beat Central Catholic, 37-30, on Friday night in a Class 6A game at Graham Field in Wilkinsburg.
Special teams, defense lead Peters Township past South Fayette
September 25, 2020
When the wins are tallied at the end of the night, style points do not come into play. Peters Township would not want them anyway as it won its Class 5A Allegheny Conference opener 17-3 over South Fayette in a game that was postponed from the opening week.
Mt. Lebanon’s Evan Jones scores five times in win over Seneca Valley
November 1, 2019
Evan Jones has done just about everything for Mt. Lebanon this season. He has run for touchdowns. He has caught touchdown passes. He even threw a touchdown pass.
Pine-Richland wins 2nd WPIAL field hockey title in 3 years
October 28, 2019
Top-seeded Pine-Richland and #No. 4 Peters Township met last season in the WPIAL Class 3A field hockey championship.
Greensburg Central Catholic tops short-handed Springdale to reach WPIAL boys soccer final
October 26, 2019
The WPIAL season ended in heartbreaking fashion for Greensburg Central Catholic last year, losing the championship match to Avonworth on penalty kicks.
Behind Tillman’s 4 TDs, Central Catholic beats Mt. Lebanon, moves into 1st-place tie in Class 6A
October 25, 2019
Central Catholic’s gameplan usually features a stifling defense and a strong running game with Eddy Tillman dominating behind a powerful offensive line.
Deer Lakes boys soccer cruises in playoff opener against Steel Valley
October 19, 2019
After losing in the WPIAL semifinals and the PIAA finals last season, the Deer Lakes boys soccer team adopted the motto “unfinished business” for this year.
North Hills football team defeats Shaler in penalty-filled game
Fortunately for some, the standings only show wins and losses. There is no category for winning ugly.
Mars guts out win over stingy North Hills
October 5, 2019
In its last two conference wins over Armstrong and Shaler, Mars racked up a total of 76 points.
Late field goal, OT turnover carry Bethel Park to thrilling win over Moon
September 27, 2019
Homecoming drew a large and boisterous crowd to Bethel Park on Friday night.
Dom Pieto leads Central Catholic to measuring-stick win over Bethel Park
September 20, 2019
Even though it was a non-conference crossover game between 6A Central Catholic and 5A Bethel Park, both teams looked at the game as a measuring stick for the rest of the season.
Bethel Park picks off 4 passes en route to defeating West Allegheny
September 7, 2019
Bethel Park and West Allegheny came into Friday’s Class 5A Allegheny 8 matchup after wins last week in which both teams ran the football effectively.
Peters Township defeats Upper St. Clair in Allegheny 8 opener
August 31, 2019
Peters Township used a pair of scores from Josh Casilli to knock off Upper St. Clair, 29-21, in the teams’ WPIAL Class 5A Allegheny 8 Conference opener Friday night.
Peters Township tops Mt. Lebanon in double overtime to reach PIHL Class AAA Penguins Cup final
March 14, 2019
Special teams are always important in a hockey game, especially in the playoffs … and most especially in overtime of the PIHL Penguins Cup semifinals.
Bethel Park takes nothing for granted in Class 5A quarterfinal win over Woodland Hills
November 8, 2024
Bethel Park came into a WPIAL quarterfinal matchup at the Wolvarena featuring the top-scoring offense in Class 5A.
Cornell makes big plays in second half to pull away from Leechburg
November 1, 2024
Many playoff matchups featuring the eighth and ninth seeds are close and exciting. Friday night’s WPIAL Class A first-round contest at Leechburg between No. 9 Cornell and the eighth-seeded Blue Devils was certainly that.
Conference champ Woodland Hills holds off Kiski Area in regular-season finale
October 25, 2024
Heading into the regular-season finale, Kiski Area needed a win at the Wolvarena to solidify a chance at one of the three Class 5A wild-card spots in the WPIAL playoffs.
Late field goal gives Kiski Area win over Plum in battle of teams fighting to stay in playoff race
October 18, 2024
Normally, a nonconference matchup in the next-to-last game of the season would not carry much significance. But, with only the top three teams in each Class 5A conference guaranteed a spot in the playoffs, Friday’s game between Plum and Kiski Area took on more importance as the final three playoff spots will be determined by the WPIAL football committee.
Kiski Area keeps playoff hopes alive, beats Armstrong
October 11, 2024
With three weeks remaining in the regular season, and Kiski Area and Armstrong positioned at the bottom of the 5A Big East Conference standings, Friday’s contest presented as a must-win for the Cavaliers or the River Hawks have any postseason aspirations.
Penn-Trafford avenges loss to Hempfield, moves atop section standings
October 9, 2024
In September, the Hempfield girls volleyball team visited Penn-Trafford and came away with a 3-2 victory.
Kiski Area uses big 3rd quarter to pull away from Latrobe
October 4, 2024
Kiski Area traveled to Memorial Stadium in Latrobe on Friday lugging a five-game losing streak and looking for its first Big East Conference victory. The homestanding Wildcats were looking to rebound after losing at home last week to Woodland Hills in conference play.
Franklin Regional answers Kiski Area’s fast start
September 27, 2024
After a four-game homestand that resulted in four losses, Kiski Area came on the road and started fast against Franklin Regional, jumping out to a 17-point lead.
Penn-Trafford runs past Kiski Area in Big East showdown
September 20, 2024
Both Penn-Trafford and Kiski Area came into the contest looking for their first win in 5A Big East Conference play.
Gateway overcomes injuries to defeat Kiski Area
September 13, 2024
Gateway came into the start of Big East Conference play a bit banged up. That trend continued as the Gators lost their returning starting quarterback late in the first quarter Friday.
Hempfield gives up lead then gets dramatic win over Kiski Area on late field goal
September 6, 2024
Hempfield was looking for its first win of 2024, and the Spartans got it in a heart-stopper.
Norwin uses strong ground game to defeat Kiski Area
August 30, 2024
For the second straight week, Kiski Area played out of conference, hosting Class 6A Norwin on Friday night to open a four game homestand.
Mars downs Chartiers Valley to repeat as WPIAL Class 2A girls lacrosse champs
May 23, 2024
Two years ago, Mars lost in the WPIAL championship game to Chartiers Valley when the Colts captured their first title.
In another 1-goal game between rivals, Pine-Richland tops North Allegheny for Penguins Cup title
March 19, 2024
Pine-Richland defeated North Allegheny twice during the regular season in one-goal games, so it was no surprise when the PIHL Class 3A Penguins Cup championship was also decided by one goal.
Armstrong hands 1st loss to No. 1 Oakland Catholic, reaches 1st WPIAL final
February 27, 2024
Oakland Catholic came into the Class 5A tournament the only undefeated team in the entire WPIAL and the top seed in the bracket.
Shaler boys down Fox Chapel to clinch outright section title
February 9, 2024
Shaler came into Friday’s game at Fox Chapel needing a win to clinch the Class 5A Section 2 title outright, and the Foxes needed a victory to tie the Titans for first place.
Hampton hits buzzer-beater to drop Knoch, stand alone atop section
January 12, 2024
Knoch and Hampton came into Friday night’s contest with identical records, with both the Knights and the Talbots carrying unblemished 3-0 records in Section 1-4A.
Kiski Area puts scare into streaking Gateway in Section 3-5A boys basketball showdown
January 9, 2024
Kiski Area and Gateway came into Tuesday night’s contest in Monroeville heading in opposite directions. The Gators had won eight straight games, and the Cavaliers had dropped their last three.
Kiski Area beats Armstrong to clinch playoff spot
October 27, 2023
It was a must-win situation for Kiski Area and Armstrong to claim one of the final playoff spots in the Greater Allegheny Conference. The Cavaliers were in a win-and-in situation. The Riverhawks needed a win and some help.
Mars overcomes quick start by Kiski Area to roll to conference victory
October 6, 2023
It was homecoming for Kiski Area, and the Cavaliers scored first on a 14-play drive.
Explosive 1st quarter leads Woodland Hills past Shaler
September 30, 2023
If any fans heading to the Class 5A Northeast Conference matchup between Woodland Hills and Shaler were stuck in homecoming traffic on Mt. Royal Boulevard and were late arriving in the opening quarter, they missed a lot.
North Catholic stymies Kiski Area for Week 4 win
September 22, 2023
A week after shutting out Highlands in their conference opener, North Catholic came on the road and authored another strong defensive performance in a 28-7 win over Kiski Area.
North Catholic defense shines, shuts out Highlands
September 15, 2023
North Catholic came into its Greater Allegheny Conference opener allowing more than 36 points per game. Highlands had started the season undefeated in large part because of a stingy defense and a great running attack.
Kiski Area victory tempered by injury to Laurel Highlands standout Antwan Black Jr.
September 8, 2023
Kiski Area scored the winning touchdown with less than a minute to play to defeat Laurel Highlands, 28-24, on Friday at Richard A. Dilts Stadium. But the high-intensity contest was marred by a late injury to Laurel Highlands star Antwan Black Jr.
South Fayette comes alive in 2nd half to top old conference rival West Allegheny
September 2, 2023
It was technically a Class 4A vs. 5A nonconference matchup, but it was more like a clash of two old rivals as West Allegheny and South Fayette collided Friday night.
Franzi, Odom lead Plum to victory over Kiski Area
August 25, 2023
For the second straight season, Plum and Kiski locked up in the season opener. Last year at Plum, the score was tied at halftime before the Mustangs pulled away.
Mt. Lebanon finishes strong to defeat Shady Side Academy for WPIAL Class 3A championship
May 26, 2023
In last year’s championship game between Mt. Lebanon and Shady Side Academy, J.P. Henry was the hero in overtime for the Bulldogs.
Pine-Richland gets past Mt. Lebanon in dramatic WPIAL Class 3A girls lacrosse title game
May 25, 2023
In the regular season finale, Pine-Richland defeated Mt. Lebanon, 13-12, a win that most likely gave the Rams the top seed in the WPIAL Class 3A girls lacrosse tournament.
Mars surges past South Fayette to claim 7th straight WPIAL boys lacrosse championship
Undefeated and second-seeded South Fayette was the latest team to step up to try to end the Mars title run, which dates to 2016.
Mars tops Blackhawk for WPIAL girls lacrosse title in OT thriller
May 24, 2023
Mya Cote’s fourth goal of the game 1 minute, 42 seconds into overtime sent Mars to a 10-9 victory over Blackhawk and gave the Fightin’ Planets their second WPIAL Class 2A girls lacrosse title in three seasons.
Second-period surge helps LaSalle College beat Peters Township for Class 3A state hockey title
March 25, 2023
The LaSalle College Explorers broke a 1-1 tie with four second-period goals on their way to a 7-3 victory over Peters Township on Saturday, capturing their seventh state high school hockey championship.
South Fayette shuts out Armstrong to capture 1st Penguins Cup championship
March 21, 2023
Armstrong came into the PIHL Class 2A Penguins Cup championship game as the top-seeded team in the tournament, having scored 19 goals in its two playoff wins.
Peters Township, Upper St. Clair earn trips to PIHL Class 3A Penguins Cup finals
March 14, 2023
Last season, Peters Township won the PIHL Class 3A Penguins Cup. The top-seeded Indians will have a chance to defend that title after a 4-0 win over No. 4 North Allegheny on Monday night at Robert Morris’ Island Sports Center.
Led by Emily Smallwood, Pine-Richland divers have successful WPIAL meet
March 5, 2023
Senior Emily Smallwood and sophomores Kendyll Jerry and Jake Jones advanced to the final round of 16 divers at the WPIAL Class 3A diving championships at North Allegheny High School on Feb. 25.
More records fall, North Allegheny girls win 15th straight team title at WPIAL swimming championships
March 3, 2023
For the second straight day, most of the excitement and drama at the WPIAL swimming championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool happened in Class 2A in the afternoon session.
6 records fall on 1st day of WPIAL swimming championships
March 2, 2023
Being the smaller classification but featuring more schools, Class 2A had the afternoon session Thursday at the WPIAL swimming and diving championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Northgate beats Bishop Canevin, earns 1st WPIAL finals trip since 1988
February 28, 2023
The other three teams still alive in the WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball semifinals Tuesday night had much more storied recent histories than sixth-seeded Northgate.
North Allegheny’s Shi wins 4th straight WPIAL diving gold
February 25, 2023
One day after North Catholic’s Maggie Foley became the first girls diver in eight years to win four straight WPIAL gold medals, North Allegheny senior Christina Shi matched the feat, capturing her fourth with a score of 540.75.
North Catholic’s Maggie Foley goes 4 for 4 at WPIAL Class 2A diving championships
February 24, 2023
Change was afoot at North Allegheny High School for the WPIAL Class 2A diving championships.
Moon fends off Mars again to return to state championship game
November 16, 2022
Just 11 days ago, Mars and Moon met for the WPIAL Class 3A girls soccer championship. The Tigers bested the Planets by a goal that day to capture their fifth title.
North Allegheny tops Peters Township in WPIAL title game shootout
November 3, 2022
All the offense in the WPIAL Class 4A girls soccer championship match between top-seeded North Allegheny and third-seeded Peters Township took place within a span of 22 seconds in the second half, so it was no surprise that the contest went into overtime.
Hampton keeps Mars from clinching playoff spot
October 21, 2022
The playoff scenario for Mars was much easier heading into this game: A win at home, and the Fightin’ Planets would be in. But Hampton had other ideas as the Talbots kept their playoff hopes alive with an exciting 49-42 road victory.
Franklin Regional rides big 2nd half past Plum
September 30, 2022
Franklin Regional suffered a disappointing loss last Saturday in double overtime to Shaler. After the first half Friday in Murrysville, it looked like the Panthers may have been on their way to another disappointment.
Gateway survives scare, beats North Hills on late field goal
September 10, 2022
Gateway is the top-ranked team in 5A and considered one of the favorites in the hunt for a third WPIAL title in 6 years. The Gators started the season 2-0, while their opponent, North Hills, had yet to pick up a win in two tries. None of that seemed to matter as the Indians gave Gateway all it could handle before a field goal by senior Cole Plaskon with 30 seconds remaining gave Gateway a hard-fought 20-17 win.
Hayes scores 4 times as Aliquippa uses pair of 4th-quarter TDs to top Armstrong
September 2, 2022
Aliquippa, the defending Class 4A WPIAL and state champion, chose not to play a Week Zero game, so tonight’s trip to Armstrong marked the Quips’ first step in defending the dual 2021 titles. Step 1 was a good one, as the Quips earned a hard-fought 28-14 victory at Armstrong.
Running game helps propel Plum past Kiski Area in opener
August 26, 2022
In their first meeting since 2017 and the 34th overall between the football teams, Plum scored 21 second-half points to come away with a 35-14 opening-night victory over Kiski Area.
Mars boys lacrosse rolls to 6th straight WPIAL title with another dominant performance
May 26, 2022
Around these parts, “one for the thumb” was a popular rallying cry for a couple of decades. The Mars boys lacrosse team already took care of that last season.
Shady Side Academy boys beat Mt. Lebanon for WPIAL lacrosse title on J.P. Henry highlight-reel goal in OT
Shady Side Academy and Mt. Lebanon came into the WPIAL 3A tournament as the top two seeds. The teams met in the regular season in a tight, one-goal match one by the Bulldogs.
Shady Side Academy girls lacrosse completes WPIAL 3-peat
In 2019, Shady Side Academy needed two overtimes to beat Upper St Clair for its first girls lacrosse championship. Last season, the Bulldogs needed a goal from Jenny Wooding with 26.8 seconds remaining to best Mt. Lebanon.
Chartiers Valley runs past Mars to capture 1st WPIAL girls lacrosse championship
May 25, 2022
If Chartiers Valley raised a few eyebrows with an upset win over top-seeded Blackhawk in the semifinals, the remaining eyebrows are now up.
On night of upsets, Seneca Valley dethrones North Allegheny, Peters Township trips Pine-Richland in Penguins Cup semis
March 15, 2022
Seneca Valley’s Andrew Davis scored off a goal-mouth scramble with under seven minutes remaining in regulation and the Raiders made the goal stand up, defeating the two-time defending Penguins Cup champions North Allegheny, 2-1, in the first of two PIHL Class 3A semifinal games Monday night.
North Allegheny girls win record 14th straight WPIAL swimming championship
March 4, 2022
The North Allegheny girls made history Friday, winning their 14th straight team title at the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships.
North Allegheny girls, Seneca Valley boys get off the blocks quick at WPIAL swim meet
March 3, 2022
The North Allegheny girls swimming team’s quest for a 14th straight WPIAL championship got off to a great start Thursday, as the Tigers netted 212 team points to lead after the first session.
Battle-tested Pine-Richland boys basketball better than record suggests
February 27, 2022
An initial glance at the overall record for the Pine-Richland boys basketball team might not look impressive, but diving into the details can change the perspective.
North Allegheny’s Shi, Schenk sweep WPIAL Class 3A diving titles
February 26, 2022
Diving in her home pool and winning gold medals has become quite the habit for North Allegheny junior Christina Shi, as she captured her third straight gold medal with a score of 481.45 in the WPIAL Class 3A girls championship Saturday.
North Catholic’s Foley, Ligonier Valley’s Roddy win gold at WPIAL Class 2A diving championships
February 25, 2022
Coming in as the two-time defending champion, North Catholic junior Maggie Foley was the obvious favorite at the WPIAL Class 2A diving championships at North Allegheny.
Deontae Williams moves chains, leads Woodland Hills to 5A win over Bethel Park
November 5, 2021
Woodland Hills’ Deontae Williams rarely leaves the field for the Wolverines. So it was fitting that the senior quarterback was able to convert several fourth-down conversions in leading Woodland Hills to a 27-23 win on the road over Bethel Park in the first round of the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs Friday night.
Pine-Richland completes WPIAL Class 3A field hockey 3-peat
October 30, 2021
The Pine-Richland Rams proved once again to be the dominant force in WPIAL Class 3A field hockey, as they defeated North Allegheny, 3-1, to capture a third straight title Saturday night at Washington & Jefferson.
Shady Side Academy captures 4th straight WPIAL field hockey title
Betsy Gorse returned to Shady Side Academy for her second stint as head coach four seasons ago, and the move turned out in the best way for both her and the school, as the Bulldogs won their fourth consecutive WPIAL Class A championship Saturday by defeating Aquinas Academy, 1-0, at Washington & Jefferson’s Cameron Stadium.
Penn-Trafford gets past Fox Chapel to win 6th straight WPIAL field hockey crown
Since WPIAL field hockey moved to three classifications in 2016, Penn-Trafford has had a stranglehold on the 2A championship. That story didn’t change tonight at W&J’s Cameron Stadium on Saturday, as the Warriors defeated Fox Chapel 1-0 to capture their sixth consecutive title.
Hiester’s late-game heroics lead Upper St. Clair past Bethel Park
Upper St. Clair’s abbreviation is USC.
DiFalco’s hat trick leads Franklin Regional past Trinity in 1st round of WPIAL 3A playoffs
October 23, 2021
Franklin Regional appeared in the past three WPIAL Class 3A boys soccer championships and has its sights set on making it four straight.
Bethel Park defeats Peters Township to remain perfect in conference
October 16, 2021
Coming off a winless season and getting off to a slow 1-3 start this year, Bethel Park might have had the gnawing feeling of “here we go again.”
Dugger brothers lead Penn Hills to win at Upper St. Clair
September 24, 2021
After starting the season with two straight losses, Penn Hills traveled to Upper St. Clair in hopes of its second consecutive nonconference victory.
Nijhay Burt’s 5 touchdowns lead Steel Valley past Keystone Oaks
September 18, 2021
NiJhay Burt was one of the WPIAL’s leading rushers in Class 2A last season, so Steel Valley knew what it had in the returning senior running back.
Thomas Jefferson controls line of scrimmage, blanks South Fayette
September 10, 2021
In his 26 years as coach at Thomas Jefferson, it always seems the one constant under Bill Cherpak is dominant play on the interior line. The 2021 edition of the Jaguars is no different, as they held an opponent to negative yards rushing for the second consecutive week and more than doubled up South Fayette in time of possession in a 27-0 win in their home opener.
Alex Tecza, Mt. Lebanon teammates jump on Upper St. Clair to improve to 2-0
September 3, 2021
So far, so good for the Mt. Lebanon Blue Devils in 2021 as they took care of their second straight South Hills rival, defeating Upper St. Clair, 36-13, Friday night at Mt. Lebanon Stadium.
Mt. Lebanon delivers complete performance, shuts out Bethel Park
August 27, 2021
It didn’t take the Mt. Lebanon offense long to get on track in 2021.
Led by a natural hat trick from Tanner Agnello, Indiana captures 1st Penguins Cup crown
April 20, 2021
If the waiting is indeed the hardest part, consider the hard part over for the Indiana Little Indians.
North Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon move on to Penguins Cup finals in Class AAA
April 13, 2021
Connor Chi’s second goal of the game 30 seconds into overtime gave No. 4 North Allegheny a 4-3 win over Peters Township in the first of two PIHL Class AAA semifinal matchups at the RMU Island Sports Center on Neville Island on Monday night.
Neshannock stops undefeated Serra Catholic, wins 2nd WPIAL title in 3 years
March 12, 2021
Serra Catholic finished the regular season at 16-0 as undefeated section champions, so there was some sentiment that the Eagles should have been the top seed in the WPIAL Class 2A tournament.
Upper St. Clair wins WPIAL boys swimming championship at home pool
March 7, 2021
Because of covid-19 protocols, Pitt’s Trees Pool was unable to host the WPIAL swimming championships as usual. Upper St. Clair High School stepped in and hosted the two-day event this weekend.
North Allegheny captures 13th straight WPIAL girls swimming championship
For some it is an unlucky number, but for the North Allegheny girls swimmers, the number 13 was special at Upper St. Clair High School on Sunday as the Tigers captured their 13th straight WPIAL team championship.
Hampton boys win school’s first WPIAL team swimming title in 22 years
March 6, 2021
Everyone knew what to expect from Belle Vernon senior Ian Shahan coming into the WPIAL Class AA swimming championships Saturday. After all, he had previously won five gold medals in his high school career.
Northgate wins 2nd WPIAL girls swimming championship in 3 years
Sparked by two second-place finishes in three relay races at Upper St. Clair High School, Northgate captured its second WPIAL Class 2A girls swimming championship in the past three years.
Mt. Lebanon shows grit, rallies to beat Central Catholic
October 10, 2020
The night might not have started the way Mt. Lebanon wanted, but it sure did finish the way they liked, as the Blue Devils rallied from a 17-point first-half deficit to beat Central Catholic, 37-30, on Friday night in a Class 6A game at Graham Field in Wilkinsburg.
Special teams, defense lead Peters Township past South Fayette
September 25, 2020
When the wins are tallied at the end of the night, style points do not come into play. Peters Township would not want them anyway as it won its Class 5A Allegheny Conference opener 17-3 over South Fayette in a game that was postponed from the opening week.
Mt. Lebanon’s Evan Jones scores five times in win over Seneca Valley
November 1, 2019
Evan Jones has done just about everything for Mt. Lebanon this season. He has run for touchdowns. He has caught touchdown passes. He even threw a touchdown pass.
Pine-Richland wins 2nd WPIAL field hockey title in 3 years
October 28, 2019
Top-seeded Pine-Richland and #No. 4 Peters Township met last season in the WPIAL Class 3A field hockey championship.
Greensburg Central Catholic tops short-handed Springdale to reach WPIAL boys soccer final
October 26, 2019
The WPIAL season ended in heartbreaking fashion for Greensburg Central Catholic last year, losing the championship match to Avonworth on penalty kicks.
Behind Tillman’s 4 TDs, Central Catholic beats Mt. Lebanon, moves into 1st-place tie in Class 6A
October 25, 2019
Central Catholic’s gameplan usually features a stifling defense and a strong running game with Eddy Tillman dominating behind a powerful offensive line.
Deer Lakes boys soccer cruises in playoff opener against Steel Valley
October 19, 2019
After losing in the WPIAL semifinals and the PIAA finals last season, the Deer Lakes boys soccer team adopted the motto “unfinished business” for this year.
North Hills football team defeats Shaler in penalty-filled game
Fortunately for some, the standings only show wins and losses. There is no category for winning ugly.
Mars guts out win over stingy North Hills
October 5, 2019
In its last two conference wins over Armstrong and Shaler, Mars racked up a total of 76 points.
Late field goal, OT turnover carry Bethel Park to thrilling win over Moon
September 27, 2019
Homecoming drew a large and boisterous crowd to Bethel Park on Friday night.
Dom Pieto leads Central Catholic to measuring-stick win over Bethel Park
September 20, 2019
Even though it was a non-conference crossover game between 6A Central Catholic and 5A Bethel Park, both teams looked at the game as a measuring stick for the rest of the season.
Bethel Park picks off 4 passes en route to defeating West Allegheny
September 7, 2019
Bethel Park and West Allegheny came into Friday’s Class 5A Allegheny 8 matchup after wins last week in which both teams ran the football effectively.
Peters Township defeats Upper St. Clair in Allegheny 8 opener
August 31, 2019
Peters Township used a pair of scores from Josh Casilli to knock off Upper St. Clair, 29-21, in the teams’ WPIAL Class 5A Allegheny 8 Conference opener Friday night.
Peters Township tops Mt. Lebanon in double overtime to reach PIHL Class AAA Penguins Cup final
March 14, 2019
Special teams are always important in a hockey game, especially in the playoffs … and most especially in overtime of the PIHL Penguins Cup semifinals.
