Author: Doug Gulasy
Franklin Regional’s Spencer Lee, Penn State win gold at NCAA wrestling championships
March 23, 2019
Jason Nolf cracked a bit of a joke upon taking the podium after winning his latest NCAA championship.
St. Joseph softball seeking 3rd straight WPIAL playoff appearance
March 21, 2019
St. Joseph is coming off the two most successful softball seasons in school history, campaigns that established the Spartans as a high-caliber playoff team in WPIAL Class A, and they come into the spring with an important goal.
St. Joseph baseball team motivated to reach postseason
The smallest margin possible kept St. Joseph from reaching the WPIAL baseball playoffs last season, an excruciating result for a program that last reached the postseason at the turn of the millennium.
Cager Classic All-Star Basketball Game offers final chance for teammates to share court
March 20, 2019
Deer Lakes’ Julia Hollibaugh walked off the floor a few weeks ago after the Lancers’ WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal loss to South Park with her high school basketball career in limbo.
A-K Valley high school notes: Walker to build Leechburg boys soccer team
March 18, 2019
Brad Walker knows about rebuilding. Now he will just be building.
Deer Lakes’ historic PIAA run ends vs. Sharon
March 16, 2019
During its school-record run through the PIAA postseason, Deer Lakes found the right answer at the right time: a big shot, a key stop, a significant scoring run.
Deer Lakes coach Parham continues to instill principles
March 15, 2019
Terence Parham never played in the PIAA basketball playoffs during his standout career at Shady Side Academy, his lone chance getting sunk during his 1993-94 senior season when the Indians bowed out of the postseason after Farrell beat them on a buzzer-beater.
PIAA boys basketball playoff capsule: Deer Lakes vs. Sharon
PIAA basketball playoffs
Clutch performances fuel Deer Lakes’ run to PIAA Class 3A quarterfinals
March 14, 2019
The fourth quarter began poorly for Jared Colton in Deer Lakes’ PIAA Class 3A playoff game Wednesday against Forest Hills. Two quick turnovers, followed by two out-of-rhythm missed shots, spurred a quick meeting between the Lancers’ senior guard and coach Terence Parham.
Kiski Area softball reaps benefits of building foundation
Maggie Nicholas jokes that her win-loss record as Kiski Area’s softball coach doesn’t look impressive on paper. But in a “What have you done for me lately?” world, the Cavaliers’ recent track record jumps off the page.
New coach, new goals for playoff-minded Kiski Area baseball
Kiski Area’s baseball players got a bit of a history lesson in one of their winter workouts with first-year coach Aaron Albert. A former Knoch baseball player, Albert pointed out a banner for the Cavaliers’ 2002 section title, which they won after beating Albert’s team by one game in the standings.
Deer Lakes boys basketball hopes to extend state playoff run
March 12, 2019
The playoffs tend to present adverse situations, and finding the right response can prove to be the difference in the outcome.
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: Canon-McMillan’s Gerrit Nijenhuis
Wrestler of the week: Gerrit Nijenhuis, jr., Canon-McMillan
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Franklin Regional
Team of the week: Franklin Regional
PIAA basketball preview capsule: Deer Lakes vs. Forest Hills
PIAA basketball playoffs
Rosters released for 23rd annual Cager Classic
March 11, 2019
Organizers for the Cager Classic All-Star basketball game released the rosters for the 23rd annual event, which will take place March 22-23 at Highlands High School.
Hopewell’s Ealy, Kiski Area’s Miller picked for PA All-Stars at Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic
Fresh off winning their first PIAA championships over the weekend, Hopewell’s Jacob Ealy and Kiski Area’s Darren Miller were picked to represent the PA All-Star team at the upcoming Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic.
A-K Valley athletes dot rosters for Roundball Classic
March 10, 2019
The Alle-Kiski Valley will be well-represented at the Roundball Classic.A-K Valley high school lookahead: Week of March 11, 2019
Monday
Burrell, Valley wrestlers end season on high note
March 9, 2019
HERSHEY — When their Friday night didn’t go as planned, Burrell sophomores A.J. Corrado and Ian Oswalt and Valley senior Noah Hutcherson awoke Saturday with one goal: win their final wrestling match of the season.
Kiski Area’s Miller finishes decorated career with state wrestling title
HERSHEY — Darren Miller brought a companion to the top of the podium Saturday night: a 5-pound Hershey’s milk chocolate bar.
Burrell softball motivated for final run under coach Brian Eshbaugh
Evidence of the Burrell softball team’s motivation — and its persistent practice — lies in some beyond-battered equipment.
Hopewell’s Ealy among 3 WPIAL wrestlers to capture PIAA Class AA championships
HERSHEY — Jacob Ealy was hunting history in Hershey, and he didn’t let the opportunity pass him by.
Deep, experienced pitching staff has Burrell baseball optimistic
Success in high school baseball can become an arms race, and Burrell believes it has plenty of firepower.
PIAA Class AAA wrestling finals to feature 3 all-WPIAL matchups
HERSHEY — The state wrestling finals will feature some WPIAL tournament reprisals.
Burrell, Valley wrestlers to compete in Saturday’s PIAA Class AA medal rounds
March 8, 2019
HERSHEY — There won’t be a golden ticket in Chocolate Town for Burrell or Valley wrestlers, but they will come home from Pennsylvania’s biggest high school wrestling tournament with a consolation prize.
Kiski Area’s Miller, Connor earn spots in PIAA Class AAA semifinals
HERSHEY — Darren Miller didn’t make it to the Giant Center last March, the victim of an upset in the WPIAL Class AAA tournament. So the Kiski Area senior appreciates the value of even wrestling in the state wrestling championship, let alone earning a medal.
WPIAL sends 17 wrestlers to PIAA Class AAA semifinals
HERSHEY — The WPIAL is proving itself a heavyweight in the state’s lighter weights.
15 WPIAL wrestlers advance to PIAA Class AA semifinals
HERSHEY — Even as the fate of his state wrestling quarterfinal match hung in the balance, Joey Fischer felt confident. And eventually the South Park sophomore was proven correct.
16 WPIAL wrestlers advance to PIAA Class AA quarterfinals
March 7, 2019
HERSHEY — It was a sweet first day for WPIAL wrestlers at the PIAA Class AA championships.
A-K Valley wrestling notebook: Burrell’s Oswalt, Kiski Area’s Connor have targets on their backs
March 6, 2019
Burrell’s Ian Oswalt and Kiski Area’s Cam Connor didn’t have to look far to find their names in their respective brackets for the PIAA wrestling championships: They were right there, smack-dab at the top.
Kiski Area quartet advances to PIAA Class AAA wrestling quarterfinals
HERSHEY — No victory at the PIAA wrestling championships comes easily, and Cam Connor’s face bore the evidence of that Thursday.
Alle-Kiski Valley PIAA basketball capsules: Games for March 8-9, 2019
Boys basketball
Valley’s Hutcherson advances to PIAA Class AA quarterfinals with overtime decision
HERSHEY — Noah Hutcherson needed some extra effort on his first day at the PIAA wrestling championships.
Wrestlers are creatures of habit when preparing for PIAA tournament
March 5, 2019
Like many people, Austin Mele looks at his phone almost immediately upon waking up in the morning. The Burrell senior checks his texts and SnapChat account before plugging it back in, making sure it’s got a full charge. Then it’s time to brush his teeth, followed by checking his weight and drinking a glass of apple juice.
Kiski Area wrestlers to rely on experience at PIAA tournament
With top-three finishes at the PIAA Class AAA team championships each of the past three seasons, Kiski Area knows the feeling of wrestling in Hershey’s Giant Center.
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: North Hills’ Sam Hillegas
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK: Sam Hillegas, jr., North Hills
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Kiski Area
TEAM OF THE WEEK: Kiski Area
A-K Valley wrestlers took different paths to PIAA Class AA tournament
March 4, 2019
Ian Oswalt noticed the lights of the Giant Center when he stepped in to the arena as a first-time competitor at the PIAA Class AA wrestling tournament last year.
Kiski Area’s Connor, Blumer defend WPIAL wrestling titles
March 2, 2019
Cam Connor flashed what in most scenarios constitutes the peace sign to the crowd at Canon-McMillan, but the gesture held a different meaning for the Kiski Area senior.
A-K Valley notebook: Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Parham sees progress
Terence Parham saw a different feeling in the Deer Lakes locker room after the Lancers’ loss to North Catholic in the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals.
Connor, Kiski Area roll through WPIAL wrestling Day 1
March 1, 2019
Cam Connor critiqued his minimal mat time Friday. Then again, that proved a pretty optimal outcome for the Kiski Area senior.
Seneca Valley, Hempfield send five wrestlers to WPIAL semifinals
Seneca Valley and Hempfield shared a high five Friday on the opening day of the WPIAL Class AAA individual wrestling championships.
A-K Valley wrestling notebook: Apollo-Ridge’s Harmon finds home with Armstrong
February 28, 2019
Logan Harmon had no wrestling home last season, but he is finding a comfortable spot this season and is seeking a vacation in Hershey.
2-time defending champion New Castle holds off Highlands in WPIAL Class 4A semifinals
February 27, 2019
Even as his team created what looked like an insurmountable lead, New Castle’s Ralph Blundo expected a Highlands run.
A-K Valley PIHL playoff capsule: Game for Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019
PIHL Penguins Cup playoff preview
Miller’s time: Kiski Area senior aims for WPIAL Class AAA wrestling title
Darren Miller knows the challenges that await him at the WPIAL Class AAA wrestling championships. Little can surprise him after three prior trips to the tournament.Charitable camp featuring USA Volleyball players coming to Moon in August
The top women’s college volleyball teams in the country are coming to Pittsburgh in December, and a few months before that, past and present members of the U.S. Olympic team will bring their charitable camp to the area as well.
Alle-Kiski Valley area basketball playoff capsule for Feb. 27, 2019
February 26, 2019
Boys
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Freedom
TEAM OF THE WEEK: Freedom
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: Mt. Pleasant’s Dayton Pitzer
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK: Dayton Pitzer, Mt. Pleasant, fr.
6 Alle-Kiski Valley basketball teams play waiting game for PIAA playoff spots
February 24, 2019
A rubber match of sorts between Section 3-A rivals Leechburg and St. Joseph takes place in Monday’s WPIAL Class A boys basketball semifinals. One team will advance, the other will see its season end.
DeGregorio, Paschall combine for 64 points to lead North Catholic past Deer Lakes
February 21, 2019
North Catholic knew it needed to adjust to the physicality of Deer Lakes after getting hit hard early by the Lancers’ offensive rebounding.
Alle-Kiski Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games of Friday, Feb. 23, 2019
Girls
Alle-Kiski Valley wrestling notebook: Class AAA steps into spotlight
The WPIAL’s top Class AA wrestlers took the stage last weekend. Now the Class AAA competitors will join them.
Highlands holds off Belle Vernon in Class 4A 1st-round victory
February 20, 2019
Highlands saw its playoff life flashing before its eyes against an unafraid underdog Belle Vernon.
‘Squirrelly’ Burrell wrestler Salerno reaps benefits of joining Bucs
Nick Salerno earned his nickname in his earliest days as a wrestler, when he drove a hard bargain with his mother before going to a camp.Southmoreland playoffs preview
No. 6 Southmoreland (18-5) vs. No. 3 Blackhawk (18-4)
Burrell’s Mele to wrestle at PIAA Southwest Regionals despite injury
Austin Mele ran into the dreaded “Mr. Murphy” at the WPIAL Class AA championships, but the Burrell senior believes he’ll get the best of the opponent beginning this weekend.A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games of Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019
February 19, 2019
Boys
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Derry Trojans
TEAM OF THE WEEK: Derry
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: Frazier’s Thayne Lawrence
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK
Southmoreland girls lean on defense to hold off Apollo-Ridge
February 18, 2019
All conscious thought left Bailey Kuhns’ mind as she saw Apollo-Ridge’s Rylee Eaton break into the clear for a potential go-ahead layup in the final minute of Southmoreland’s first playoff game in more than a decade.
A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules for games of Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019
Boys
Canon-McMillan wrestler Gerrit Nijenhuis commits to Purdue
Gerrit Nijenhuis is ramping up for the upcoming individual wrestling postseason, but first he made his college decision.
A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games of Monday, Feb. 18, 2019
Class 4A
A-K Valley high school notebook: Deer Lakes boys basketball eager to continue run
Deer Lakes is no longer preoccupied with 1985.
Deer Lakes basketball coach awaits baby, WPIAL quarterfinal game on same day
Maybe there’s something in the water when it comes to basketball coaches, babies and big games.
Burrell sophomore Oswalt claims 2nd WPIAL wrestling championship
February 16, 2019
Ian Oswalt didn’t think he wrestled his best in his final match at the WPIAL Class AA championships, but even a “B” performance earned him an “A” result.
Valley’s Hutcherson, Schuffert secure Section 3-AA wrestling titles
February 14, 2019
Noah Hutcherson has a pretty simple goal for the individual wrestling postseason.
Fatigue worth it for A-K Valley wrestlers during sectionals, WPIAL 1st round
Austin Mele sported a split lip and a sore elbow late Friday night at Canon-McMillan. He also had a smile.
Greensburg Central Catholic boys hold off Leechburg in key Section 3-A game
January 29, 2019
Greensburg Central Catholic heard Leechburg's crowd, loud and clear. And then the Centurions quieted it down. Visiting GCC took the air out of Leechburg's rowdy andquot;Devils' Denandquot; with a dominant second quarter, then weathered a second-half rally from the home team, holding on for a 68-57 win in a crucialA-K Valley wrestling notebook: Valley aims to dethrone Burrell for section title
January 15, 2019
Part of Burrell's enormous WPIAL success over the past decade-plus includes a dominance of its section opponents. To wit: The Bucs have won 107 consecutive section matches since the 2002-03 season, claiming the regular-season championship every year since 2004. Although a long line of teams would enjoy the opportunity to
A-K Valley notebook: Fox Chapel boys flash early potential
December 9, 2018
Zach Skrinjar said Saturday night he pays more attention to the numbers directly after a team's name than the ones directly in front. By that criteria and more, the Fox Chapel boys basketball coach came away pretty pleased with his team's showing at the season-opening Plum tournament. Fox Chapel upended
PIAA boys soccer preview capsule: Deer Lakes vs. Fleetwood
November 16, 2018
PIAA soccer playoffs Class AA Championship Deer Lakes (21-1-1) vs. Fleetwood (19-6-1) 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Hersheypark Stadium Coaches: Jordan Wiegand, Deer Lakes; Keith Schlegel, Fleetwood Players to watch: Michael Sullivan, Deer Lakes; Haydyn Zagorski, Fleetwood Corner kicks: Deer Lakes makes its first PIAA championship game appearance, looking to become the
Deer Lakes claws to double-OT win in school’s 1st PIAA playoff game
November 6, 2018
ERIE -- A.J. Dorman saw his shot, and he took it. Deer Lakes still is dancing as a result. Dorman scored with 10 minutes, 54 seconds remaining in double overtime, giving Deer Lakes a 1-0 victory over District 10 champion Fairview in a PIAA Class AA first-round thriller at Erie's
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff preview capsules for Nov. 1, 2018
October 31, 2018
Class AA Consolation game No. 2 Deer Lakes (17-1-1) vs. No. 4 Charleroi (18-1) 6 p.m. Thursday at Moon Coaches: Jordan Wiegand, Deer Lakes; Jon Ducoli, Charleroi Players to watch: A.J. Dorman, Deer Lakes; Cullin Woytovich, Charleroi Corner kicks: The winner advances to the PIAA Class AA playoffs, which begin
No. 8-seeded Freeport quite familiar with opening-round opponent, No. 1 Aliquippa
Austin Romanchak remembers the first time he started a game against Aliquippa. It came three weeks into his sophomore year, at the brand-new Freeport Area Athletic Stadium, with an almost entirely brand-new Freeport starting lineup. Still, the green Yellowjackets more than held their own against the perennially powerful Quips, even
A-K Valley lookahead for Week of Oct. 29, 2018
October 28, 2018
Monday Boys soccer: Deer Lakes will attempt to make it to Highmark Stadium for the first time as it takes on Section 2-AA rival Shady Side Academy in the WPIAL semifinals. The Lancers went 1-0-1 against the defending WPIAL champions during the regular season, but the 11th-seeded Indians upset North
A-K valley soccer teams take respective styles to postseason
October 18, 2018
Springdale made a run in the 2017 WPIAL boys soccer playoffs thanks in large part to the Dynamos' ability to make runs. With talented scorers like Jared Demore and Nick Taliani, Springdale knew it could count on its offense to win games, and the Dynamos won plenty, advancing to the
WPIAL girls soccer rankings for week of Oct. 16, 2018
October 16, 2018
Here's a look at the latest WPIAL girls soccer rankings for the week of Oct. 15, 2018: Class 4A Team, record, previous 1. Norwin, 14-2, 1 2. Peters Township, 13-3, 3 3. Seneca Valley, 13-2, 2 4. Upper St. Clair, 12-3, 4 5. Pine-Richland, 13-3, 5 Out: None Class 3A
Springdale soccer leans on defense as playoffs approach
October 15, 2018
Springdale started slowly in its Section 1-A boys soccer finale over the weekend, a not-uncommon occurrence and one rendered moot by a dominant second half in a 4-0 victory over Vincentian. What made the game unique was the location: the artificial surface at Valley's Memorial Stadium. And once the Dynamos
A-K Valley lookahead for Week of Oct. 15, 2018
October 14, 2018
Monday Boys golf Burrell's Tiger Hubbard will aim for a top-22 finish and a trip to the state finals when he tees off at the PIAA Class AA Western Regional at Toms Run Golf Course. Hubbard, a senior, competed at the regionals as a sophomore and is coming off an
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Burrell’s Hubbard eyes PIAAs
October 13, 2018
Tiger Hubbard's first trip to the PIAA Western Regional boys golf championship ended with the Burrell golfer two shots shy of a trip to the state finals, and the senior thinks he can pinpoint the holes where it happened. andquot;The main issue I had was with my driver where the
North Allegheny, three others advance to WPIAL Class AAA girls golf finals
October 8, 2018
Three-time defending champion North Allegheny led a quartet of teams that advanced to Thursday's WPIAL Class AAA girls golf championships at Cedarbrook Golf Course in Belle Vernon. The Tigers topped the field of 10 teams at Monday's team semifinals at Rolling Hills Golf Course. Caroline Wrigley's 3-under 70 and BellaAlle-Kiski Valley notebook: Race to playoffs gets interesting
September 30, 2018
With the second half of the season underway in soccer and girls volleyball, playoff races are beginning to heat up. The Deer Lakes boys soccer
Kevin Stevens to speak to WPIAL players at summit on dangers of addiction
September 24, 2018
Former Pittsburgh Penguins player Kevin Stevens will be the featured speaker at a leadership summit for WPIAL athletes, coaches, athletic directors and principals that will
A-K Valley football notebook: Riverview, Leechburg keep positive attitude amid rough start
September 20, 2018
Todd Massack knows what the record says next to Riverview's name in the Class A Eastern Conference standings, but it doesn't match what he seesAlle-Kiski high school lookahead: Week of Aug. 27-Sept. 1
August 26, 2018
MondayFreeport has won at least a share of the Section 1-AA championship for three consecutive seasons, and the Yellowjackets are on a six-year run of
WPIAL football coaches know the value of a good training camp meal
August 13, 2018
Tim Burk has been through a training camp or 10 during his time as an assistant at Carlynton, Deer Lakes and Springdale, so he knows
Burk hopes to guide alma mater Deer Lakes back to WPIAL playoffs
August 1, 2018
It took one year of coaching at Carlynton, miles away from his hometown and alma mater, before Tim Burk realized he wanted to work closerDeer Lakes to hold special meeting to hire new football coach
July 23, 2018
Deer Lakes should have a new football coach by the end of the month. The district called a special board meeting for 7 p.m. July
Burrell, Valley boys basketball teams try to work out kinks in summer
July 8, 2018
Burrell and Valley played in Friday's Westmoreland County Coaches Association boys basketball showcase without their normal coaches, giving the neighboring rivals at least one thing
Leechburg’s Mikayla Lovelace named Valley News Dispatch Girls Athlete of the Year
July 7, 2018
It took just one game for Mikayla Lovelace to make an impact on Leechburg's girls basketball program — a 51-28 victory over Aquinas Academy in
Springdale’s Zolnierczyk on radar for Division I coaches
June 25, 2018
Mike Zolnierczyk didn't really expect to play college soccer until a few years ago. A multi-sport athlete, he got a late start into the world
A-K Valley notebook: Springdale’s Zolnierczyk trains at D.C. United Academy
June 14, 2018
Mike Zolnierczyk's last name isn't andquot;Smith,andquot; but he went to Washington just the same. Zolnierczyk, a rising senior goalkeeper at Springdale, received an opportunity to
PIAA moves Monday’s baseball semifinal games from Slippery Rock to Neshannock
June 10, 2018
A pair of WPIAL baseball teams will play their PIAA semifinal games at a different site Monday because of rain over the weekend. The PIAA
Alle-Kiski Valley H.S. notebook: Positive vibes for area foursome
It will be a positive night for a quartet of Alle-Kiski Valley athletes Tuesday at the Sen. John Heinz History Center. Springdale's Moriah Becker (track
Southmoreland rallies past Central for program’s 1st PIAA victory
June 4, 2018
Southmoreland worked hard enough to earn a spot in the state softball playoffs for the first time. The Scotties weren't about to let their run
West Allegheny beats TJ to defend WPIAL Class 5A softball title
May 31, 2018
West Allegheny knew better than to overlook Thomas Jefferson. The Indians experienced the disappointment of losing to an underdog team in the WPIAL championship inNo. 1 Mars routs Freeport to reach lacrosse semifinals
May 18, 2018
Freeport's school history-making lacrosse season ended against a familiar opponent. No. 1 Mars jumped out to a seven-goal lead after the first quarter and never
Burrell softball catches a break, tops McGuffey in Class 3A 1st round
May 15, 2018
At long last, a break went Burrell's way. The team that experienced postseason misfortune each of the past two years saw life from the other
Burrell offense does just enough to back strong pitching, defense in key win over Steel Valley
May 7, 2018
Burrell didn't see many scoring opportunities in its crucial Section 1-3A baseball game Monday, not with the way Steel Valley's Nick Harhai was pitching. ItKiski Valley rugby back to state playoffs
April 29, 2018
Kiski Valley is heading back to the state rugby playoffs. The Titans claimed their division title, beating Blair United/Hollidaysburg Rugby Club, 29-12, on Sunday afternoon
Offense sparks St. Joseph baseball to first win of season; Springdale still winless
April 20, 2018
Tyler Wood didn't need much run support Friday, but his St. Joseph baseball teammates gave him plenty — and then more on top of it.Freeport hockey coach resigns
April 19, 2018
Freeport hockey coach Ryan Cooper resigned Thursday after two seasons with the team. The Yellowjackets went 12-27 in the past two seasons, with one playoff
St. Joseph softball finds cure for ‘cabin fever’ in victory over Riverview
April 10, 2018
A growing number of postponements kept St. Joseph mostly in its gymnasium this spring. But the numerous dark clouds over Western Pennsylvania provided one silver
Deer Lakes boys volleyball motivated by trip to WPIAL title game
April 2, 2018
Deer Lakes boys volleyball has progressed further in each year of Tyler Osselborn's high school career. Only one step remains — the biggest one of
Kiski Area’s Reid named Valley News Dispatch’s 2018 Wrestler of the Year
March 31, 2018
Less than three months ago, Isaac Reid wondered if he would ever wrestle again. A pulmonary embolism settled in the Kiski Area senior's lung, doingKiski Area wrestlers dominate at opening day at Southwest Regionals
March 2, 2018
Darren Miller's headgear popped off in the early seconds of his match against Connellsville's Dylan Keefer on Friday, crashing to the mat as the Kiski
A-K Valley basketball playoff preview capsules for Friday
February 23, 2018
WPIAL basketball playoff capsules Boys Class 5A quarterfinals No. 2 Highlands (17-4) vs. No. 7 West Allegheny (11-11) 8 p.m. Friday at Fox Chapel Winner
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball preview playoff capsule for Thursday’s game
February 21, 2018
Girls Class 2A Quarterfinals No. 6 Leechburg (19-4) vs. No. 3 Chartiers-Houston (17-5) 6:30 p.m. Thursday at West Allegheny On the air: TribHSSN.triblive.com Winner plays:
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games
February 19, 2018
Boys basketball Class 2A First round No. 8 Leechburg (14-7) vs. No. 9 Fort Cherry (9-13) 8 p.m. Tuesday at North Hills On air: TribHSSN.triblive.com
Alle-Kiski Valley lookahead: Feb. 19-24, 2018
February 18, 2018
Monday • Deer Lakes hosts Kiski Area in a PIHL Class A game with major postseason implications. Kiski Area (9-10) entered the week holding on
Springdale boys basketball on cusp on WPIAL playoff berth
February 5, 2018
andquot;Opportunityandquot; became a buzzword at Springdale before the boys basketball season even started, and the Dynamos held fast to that focus as they navigated their
Kiski Area’s Connor, McGuffey’s Shingle join 100-win club
Kiski Area won the WPIAL Class AAA team championship on Saturday, and Cam Connor picked up an individual accomplishment along the way. The junior 145-pounder
A-K Valley high school basketball notebook: Deer Lakes girls break through
February 1, 2018
Deer Lakes exorcised some of its demons from its girls basketball rivalry with Burrell last season. But one white whale still remained for the Lancers.
Smaller lineups prove to be problem for WPIAL wrestling programs
January 31, 2018
As Burrell recognized its 2008 PIAA championship wrestling team after a recent match, current coach Josh Shields noted one particular fact about the only state
‘Battle of the Bypass’ between Burrell, Valley football teams will continue with Week Zero matchup
January 30, 2018
andquot;The Battle of the Bypassandquot; will live on in Week Zero. Although separated by PIAA realignment, Burrell and Valley will renew their football rivalry for
Burrell offense ignites in win over Apollo-Ridge
January 26, 2018
Burrell's defense carried the load during much of the first half of the season, but the Bucs offense had its day Thursday. Logan Bitar scored
Highlands boys upend Franklin Regional for 1st-place tie
January 24, 2018
Highlands coach Tyler Stoczynski thought his team got andquot;out-toughedandquot; in its first meeting with Franklin Regional. That wasn't a problem for either team in the
Burrell takes positives out of ‘Ultimate Duals’
January 23, 2018
Burrell glimpsed some of its top competition from the WPIAL and state at Saturday's andquot;Ultimate Dualsandquot; at Brookville High School, and coach Josh Shields said
Valley boys getting close to full strength
January 22, 2018
Valley spent the first six weeks of boys basketball season at less than full strength with some of its most important players sidelined because of
Lovelace keeps setting records at Leechburg
January 17, 2018
Mikayla Lovelace keeps breaking her own records. Leechburg's star senior set a new school single-game record with 44 points in the Blue Devils' 70-59 win
A-K Valley wrestling notebook: Valley aims to end rival Burrell’s winning streak
The rivalry between Burrell and Valley encompasses seemingly every sport where the teams square off against each other, understandable given the schools' geographic closeness and
Norwin boys weather Plum as leaky roof moves game to auxiliary gym
January 12, 2018
Norwin's game against Plum on Friday featured elements seemingly out of the theater of the absurd: A changed time because of the weather. A differentHighlands boys adapt in win over Armstrong
January 11, 2018
The running Rams looked more like the rugged Rams on Thursday night. Forced to play at a slower pace than usual by Armstrong, Highlands showed
Kiski Area’s Miller reaches 100 career wins
January 8, 2018
Darren Miller crossed off a pair of significant accomplishments in the first week of the new year. The Kiski Area junior 120-pounder picked up his
Burrell wrestler Corey Christie named MVP of WCCA tournament; Kiski Area takes team title
January 7, 2018
Burrell's Corey Christie believed he could escape from Ty Griffiths' grip in the ultimate tiebreaker period of their 152-pound championship bout at the Westmoreland County
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Kiski Area swimmer Naomee Miller excelling
January 3, 2018
Naomee Miller has plenty of experience at Pitt's Trees Pool, and it showed in her most recent competition. The Kiski Area sophomore won the 100-yardThree WPIAL wrestlers earn No. 1 seeds for Powerade
December 27, 2017
A trio of WPIAL wrestlers earned top seeds for this weekend's heralded Powerade Christmas Tournament at Canon-McMillan High School. Norwin sophomore Kurtis Phipps (106 pounds),
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Fox Chapel’s Jesse Cohen signs with Bryant
December 20, 2017
Jesse Cohen had the location planned for his signing day celebration but not the specific cut of meat. Perhaps he wanted to wait to commit
Valley boys overcome late lapses to defeat rival Burrell
December 18, 2017
Mark Faulx saw some of the tell-tale fourth-quarter problems that cost Valley games in previous seasons crop up again Monday night. Forced, missed shots. Turnovers.
Alle-Kiski Valley high school lookahead: Week of Dec. 18, 2017
December 17, 2017
MONDAY • Kiski Area's girls basketball team is seeking an end to its 26-game section losing streak, which dates to the 2014-15 season, and the
Basketball coaches use early-season games to build toward section competition
December 11, 2017
Tyler Stoczynski believes in the importance of compiling a difficult nonsection schedule, but Highlands' boys basketball coach took it to another level this season. SoAlle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Various programs face WPIAL alignment shakeups
November 18, 2017
The impact of the PIAA's new enrollment figures and classification breakdowns will reverberate throughout the WPIAL and locally in the Alle-Kiski Valley. With the new
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Fox Chapel’s Tom Loughran named coach of year
November 13, 2017
Tom Loughran led the Fox Chapel football team from a 1-4 start to a WPIAL Class 5A playoff berth, and the Allegheny Nine conference rewardedGateway survives McKeesport, advances to WPIAL final
November 10, 2017
Don Holl said he suffered no flashbacks to last season's WPIAL semifinal against McKeesport as the Tigers converted a hook-and-lateral on a last-gasp drive. His
Freeport draws conference rival Seton LaSalle in 1st round
October 30, 2017
All season, Freeport preached the importance of treating every Allegheny Conference opponent as another playoff game. The Yellowjackets can experience that in a literal fashion
Playoff-tested Freeport ready for WPIAL girls soccer semifinals
October 29, 2017
It took Freeport about five minutes into its WPIAL Class AA quarterfinal game against Quaker Valley to establish a major difference between the 2016 postseasonVIDEO: Playoff-bound Springdale wears down Greensburg Central Catholic
October 28, 2017
Springdale seniors Josh Harmon and Parker Kline discuss the Dynamos' playoff-clinching victory over Greensburg Central Catholic.
Video: Reactions from Yough’s overtime girls soccer win against Burrell in the WPIAL playoffs
October 27, 2017
The Yough girls soccer team topped Burrell in the WPIAL playoffs Friday. Justine Appolonia scored twice, including the winner in overtime; here she discusses the
Second straight upset bid falls short for Riverview boys against Seton LaSalle
October 25, 2017
Riverview's chances came frequently in the first half, but none of them found the back of the net. Neither did the shot that ultimately ended
Springdale, Greensburg Central Catholic to battle for WPIAL playoff berth
For all the mathematical calculations that can come into play when determining WPIAL playoff berths, Springdale faces one certainty: A win puts the Dynamos in
Alle-Kiski Valley week ahead: Oct. 23-29
October 22, 2017
Monday • Burrell and Charleroi's 2016 WPIAL Class AA first-round girls soccer playoff game came down to the wire, with Charleroi scoring the winning goal
A-K Valley high school notebook: Freeport girls volleyball likely to receive top seed
Freeport hopes to end the WPIAL Class AA girls volleyball playoffs on top, and it seems all but certain the Yellowjackets will begin the postseason
Springdale boys shake off early injury to shut out Serra Catholic
October 21, 2017
Springdale's boys soccer playoff opener began ominously, with leading scorer Jared Demore suffering a leg injury less than two minutes into the game. The Dynamos,Alle-Kiski Valley week ahead: Oct. 16-22
October 15, 2017
MONDAY Freeport and Deer Lakes played an entertaining game in their first meeting, with Deer Lakes rallying from a three-goal deficit before Freeport scored late
Fox Chapel girls hunting for elusive WPIAL title
October 10, 2017
Katie Livingston made no bones about Fox Chapel's intentions for some of the highest-seeded teams in the upcoming WPIAL Class AAAA girls soccer playoffs. Fittingly
A-K Valley high school notebook: Shady Side Academy’s Moore to face familiar foes
October 5, 2017
As part of Shady Side Academy's homecoming festivities on Saturday, Skyy Moore also will experience a reunion. The Indians' junior quarterback, a New Kensington native,Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Two area teams post signature victories
October 2, 2017
A pair of Alle-Kiski Valley teams with postseason hopes posted signature wins last week. The Leechburg girls volleyball team, seeking its first playoff appearance since
A-K Valley local sports notebook: Burrell cross country coach plans Color Run to benefit team, girls tennis
September 18, 2017
After Chris Legters participated in a Kiski Area-hosted Color Run with his daughters last year, a thought struck the Burrell cross country coach: Why not
Freeport ‘just amazing’ in victory over rival Deer Lakes
September 8, 2017
Deer Lakes challenged Freeport's defense Friday night, continually pounding away at the Yellowjackets with runs up the middle. But the Lancers' hammer couldn't break through
After bye week, Freeport ready to face rival Deer Lakes
September 6, 2017
As Freeport went through an unusual bye week in Week 1, one nagging worry cropped up in the back of coach John Gaillot's mind. andquot;I'm
Plum kicker Jackson Gildea boots winning field goal in waning seconds to beat Kiski Area
September 1, 2017
Jackson Gildea faced some self-doubt before attempting the biggest kick of his high school football career, and Kiski Area tried to get in his head
Senior-heavy Riverview boys build for playoff run
August 28, 2017
There's good news and bad news for Riverview's boys soccer team this fall. The good news With eight senior starters, several of whom began playing
Converted tailback Tatrn stars in debut at QB in Burrell victory
August 26, 2017
Burrell welcomed home an old quarterback named Seth on Friday night, and a first-year signal-caller by the same name announced his arrival. Senior Seth Tatrn,
Fox Chapel baseball gets its guy in new coach Hastings
August 16, 2017
Jim Hastings went without a baseball coaching job for a couple of months when he resigned from Springdale shortly after the Dynamos' season ended in
A-K Valley football teams looking to snap WPIAL title drought
August 12, 2017
One game from Springdale's 2003 WPIAL football championship season sticks out for Don andquot;Pappyandquot; Boulton, and it's not the Dynamos' Class A title-game win over
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Football teams ready to feel heat
August 5, 2017
High school football players have spent much of the summer going through non-mandatory workouts, seven-on-seven competitions and strength and conditioning sessions, but the season's official
Franklin Regional’s Spencer Lee, Penn State win gold at NCAA wrestling championships
March 23, 2019
Jason Nolf cracked a bit of a joke upon taking the podium after winning his latest NCAA championship.
St. Joseph softball seeking 3rd straight WPIAL playoff appearance
March 21, 2019
St. Joseph is coming off the two most successful softball seasons in school history, campaigns that established the Spartans as a high-caliber playoff team in WPIAL Class A, and they come into the spring with an important goal.
St. Joseph baseball team motivated to reach postseason
The smallest margin possible kept St. Joseph from reaching the WPIAL baseball playoffs last season, an excruciating result for a program that last reached the postseason at the turn of the millennium.
Cager Classic All-Star Basketball Game offers final chance for teammates to share court
March 20, 2019
Deer Lakes’ Julia Hollibaugh walked off the floor a few weeks ago after the Lancers’ WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal loss to South Park with her high school basketball career in limbo.
A-K Valley high school notes: Walker to build Leechburg boys soccer team
March 18, 2019
Brad Walker knows about rebuilding. Now he will just be building.
Deer Lakes’ historic PIAA run ends vs. Sharon
March 16, 2019
During its school-record run through the PIAA postseason, Deer Lakes found the right answer at the right time: a big shot, a key stop, a significant scoring run.
Deer Lakes coach Parham continues to instill principles
March 15, 2019
Terence Parham never played in the PIAA basketball playoffs during his standout career at Shady Side Academy, his lone chance getting sunk during his 1993-94 senior season when the Indians bowed out of the postseason after Farrell beat them on a buzzer-beater.
PIAA boys basketball playoff capsule: Deer Lakes vs. Sharon
PIAA basketball playoffs
Clutch performances fuel Deer Lakes’ run to PIAA Class 3A quarterfinals
March 14, 2019
The fourth quarter began poorly for Jared Colton in Deer Lakes’ PIAA Class 3A playoff game Wednesday against Forest Hills. Two quick turnovers, followed by two out-of-rhythm missed shots, spurred a quick meeting between the Lancers’ senior guard and coach Terence Parham.
Kiski Area softball reaps benefits of building foundation
Maggie Nicholas jokes that her win-loss record as Kiski Area’s softball coach doesn’t look impressive on paper. But in a “What have you done for me lately?” world, the Cavaliers’ recent track record jumps off the page.
New coach, new goals for playoff-minded Kiski Area baseball
Kiski Area’s baseball players got a bit of a history lesson in one of their winter workouts with first-year coach Aaron Albert. A former Knoch baseball player, Albert pointed out a banner for the Cavaliers’ 2002 section title, which they won after beating Albert’s team by one game in the standings.
Deer Lakes boys basketball hopes to extend state playoff run
March 12, 2019
The playoffs tend to present adverse situations, and finding the right response can prove to be the difference in the outcome.
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: Canon-McMillan’s Gerrit Nijenhuis
Wrestler of the week: Gerrit Nijenhuis, jr., Canon-McMillan
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Franklin Regional
Team of the week: Franklin Regional
PIAA basketball preview capsule: Deer Lakes vs. Forest Hills
PIAA basketball playoffs
Rosters released for 23rd annual Cager Classic
March 11, 2019
Organizers for the Cager Classic All-Star basketball game released the rosters for the 23rd annual event, which will take place March 22-23 at Highlands High School.
Hopewell’s Ealy, Kiski Area’s Miller picked for PA All-Stars at Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic
Fresh off winning their first PIAA championships over the weekend, Hopewell’s Jacob Ealy and Kiski Area’s Darren Miller were picked to represent the PA All-Star team at the upcoming Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic.
A-K Valley athletes dot rosters for Roundball Classic
March 10, 2019
The Alle-Kiski Valley will be well-represented at the Roundball Classic.A-K Valley high school lookahead: Week of March 11, 2019
Monday
Burrell, Valley wrestlers end season on high note
March 9, 2019
HERSHEY — When their Friday night didn’t go as planned, Burrell sophomores A.J. Corrado and Ian Oswalt and Valley senior Noah Hutcherson awoke Saturday with one goal: win their final wrestling match of the season.
Kiski Area’s Miller finishes decorated career with state wrestling title
HERSHEY — Darren Miller brought a companion to the top of the podium Saturday night: a 5-pound Hershey’s milk chocolate bar.
Burrell softball motivated for final run under coach Brian Eshbaugh
Evidence of the Burrell softball team’s motivation — and its persistent practice — lies in some beyond-battered equipment.
Hopewell’s Ealy among 3 WPIAL wrestlers to capture PIAA Class AA championships
HERSHEY — Jacob Ealy was hunting history in Hershey, and he didn’t let the opportunity pass him by.
Deep, experienced pitching staff has Burrell baseball optimistic
Success in high school baseball can become an arms race, and Burrell believes it has plenty of firepower.
PIAA Class AAA wrestling finals to feature 3 all-WPIAL matchups
HERSHEY — The state wrestling finals will feature some WPIAL tournament reprisals.
Burrell, Valley wrestlers to compete in Saturday’s PIAA Class AA medal rounds
March 8, 2019
HERSHEY — There won’t be a golden ticket in Chocolate Town for Burrell or Valley wrestlers, but they will come home from Pennsylvania’s biggest high school wrestling tournament with a consolation prize.
Kiski Area’s Miller, Connor earn spots in PIAA Class AAA semifinals
HERSHEY — Darren Miller didn’t make it to the Giant Center last March, the victim of an upset in the WPIAL Class AAA tournament. So the Kiski Area senior appreciates the value of even wrestling in the state wrestling championship, let alone earning a medal.
WPIAL sends 17 wrestlers to PIAA Class AAA semifinals
HERSHEY — The WPIAL is proving itself a heavyweight in the state’s lighter weights.
15 WPIAL wrestlers advance to PIAA Class AA semifinals
HERSHEY — Even as the fate of his state wrestling quarterfinal match hung in the balance, Joey Fischer felt confident. And eventually the South Park sophomore was proven correct.
16 WPIAL wrestlers advance to PIAA Class AA quarterfinals
March 7, 2019
HERSHEY — It was a sweet first day for WPIAL wrestlers at the PIAA Class AA championships.
A-K Valley wrestling notebook: Burrell’s Oswalt, Kiski Area’s Connor have targets on their backs
March 6, 2019
Burrell’s Ian Oswalt and Kiski Area’s Cam Connor didn’t have to look far to find their names in their respective brackets for the PIAA wrestling championships: They were right there, smack-dab at the top.
Kiski Area quartet advances to PIAA Class AAA wrestling quarterfinals
HERSHEY — No victory at the PIAA wrestling championships comes easily, and Cam Connor’s face bore the evidence of that Thursday.
Alle-Kiski Valley PIAA basketball capsules: Games for March 8-9, 2019
Boys basketball
Valley’s Hutcherson advances to PIAA Class AA quarterfinals with overtime decision
HERSHEY — Noah Hutcherson needed some extra effort on his first day at the PIAA wrestling championships.
Wrestlers are creatures of habit when preparing for PIAA tournament
March 5, 2019
Like many people, Austin Mele looks at his phone almost immediately upon waking up in the morning. The Burrell senior checks his texts and SnapChat account before plugging it back in, making sure it’s got a full charge. Then it’s time to brush his teeth, followed by checking his weight and drinking a glass of apple juice.
Kiski Area wrestlers to rely on experience at PIAA tournament
With top-three finishes at the PIAA Class AAA team championships each of the past three seasons, Kiski Area knows the feeling of wrestling in Hershey’s Giant Center.
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: North Hills’ Sam Hillegas
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK: Sam Hillegas, jr., North Hills
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Kiski Area
TEAM OF THE WEEK: Kiski Area
A-K Valley wrestlers took different paths to PIAA Class AA tournament
March 4, 2019
Ian Oswalt noticed the lights of the Giant Center when he stepped in to the arena as a first-time competitor at the PIAA Class AA wrestling tournament last year.
Kiski Area’s Connor, Blumer defend WPIAL wrestling titles
March 2, 2019
Cam Connor flashed what in most scenarios constitutes the peace sign to the crowd at Canon-McMillan, but the gesture held a different meaning for the Kiski Area senior.
A-K Valley notebook: Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Parham sees progress
Terence Parham saw a different feeling in the Deer Lakes locker room after the Lancers’ loss to North Catholic in the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals.
Connor, Kiski Area roll through WPIAL wrestling Day 1
March 1, 2019
Cam Connor critiqued his minimal mat time Friday. Then again, that proved a pretty optimal outcome for the Kiski Area senior.
Seneca Valley, Hempfield send five wrestlers to WPIAL semifinals
Seneca Valley and Hempfield shared a high five Friday on the opening day of the WPIAL Class AAA individual wrestling championships.
A-K Valley wrestling notebook: Apollo-Ridge’s Harmon finds home with Armstrong
February 28, 2019
Logan Harmon had no wrestling home last season, but he is finding a comfortable spot this season and is seeking a vacation in Hershey.
2-time defending champion New Castle holds off Highlands in WPIAL Class 4A semifinals
February 27, 2019
Even as his team created what looked like an insurmountable lead, New Castle’s Ralph Blundo expected a Highlands run.
A-K Valley PIHL playoff capsule: Game for Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019
PIHL Penguins Cup playoff preview
Miller’s time: Kiski Area senior aims for WPIAL Class AAA wrestling title
Darren Miller knows the challenges that await him at the WPIAL Class AAA wrestling championships. Little can surprise him after three prior trips to the tournament.Charitable camp featuring USA Volleyball players coming to Moon in August
The top women’s college volleyball teams in the country are coming to Pittsburgh in December, and a few months before that, past and present members of the U.S. Olympic team will bring their charitable camp to the area as well.
Alle-Kiski Valley area basketball playoff capsule for Feb. 27, 2019
February 26, 2019
Boys
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Freedom
TEAM OF THE WEEK: Freedom
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: Mt. Pleasant’s Dayton Pitzer
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK: Dayton Pitzer, Mt. Pleasant, fr.
6 Alle-Kiski Valley basketball teams play waiting game for PIAA playoff spots
February 24, 2019
A rubber match of sorts between Section 3-A rivals Leechburg and St. Joseph takes place in Monday’s WPIAL Class A boys basketball semifinals. One team will advance, the other will see its season end.
DeGregorio, Paschall combine for 64 points to lead North Catholic past Deer Lakes
February 21, 2019
North Catholic knew it needed to adjust to the physicality of Deer Lakes after getting hit hard early by the Lancers’ offensive rebounding.
Alle-Kiski Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games of Friday, Feb. 23, 2019
Girls
Alle-Kiski Valley wrestling notebook: Class AAA steps into spotlight
The WPIAL’s top Class AA wrestlers took the stage last weekend. Now the Class AAA competitors will join them.
Highlands holds off Belle Vernon in Class 4A 1st-round victory
February 20, 2019
Highlands saw its playoff life flashing before its eyes against an unafraid underdog Belle Vernon.
‘Squirrelly’ Burrell wrestler Salerno reaps benefits of joining Bucs
Nick Salerno earned his nickname in his earliest days as a wrestler, when he drove a hard bargain with his mother before going to a camp.Southmoreland playoffs preview
No. 6 Southmoreland (18-5) vs. No. 3 Blackhawk (18-4)
Burrell’s Mele to wrestle at PIAA Southwest Regionals despite injury
Austin Mele ran into the dreaded “Mr. Murphy” at the WPIAL Class AA championships, but the Burrell senior believes he’ll get the best of the opponent beginning this weekend.A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games of Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019
February 19, 2019
Boys
Trib HSSN Wrestling Team of the Week: Derry Trojans
TEAM OF THE WEEK: Derry
Trib HSSN Wrestler of the Week: Frazier’s Thayne Lawrence
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK
Southmoreland girls lean on defense to hold off Apollo-Ridge
February 18, 2019
All conscious thought left Bailey Kuhns’ mind as she saw Apollo-Ridge’s Rylee Eaton break into the clear for a potential go-ahead layup in the final minute of Southmoreland’s first playoff game in more than a decade.
A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules for games of Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019
Boys
Canon-McMillan wrestler Gerrit Nijenhuis commits to Purdue
Gerrit Nijenhuis is ramping up for the upcoming individual wrestling postseason, but first he made his college decision.
A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games of Monday, Feb. 18, 2019
Class 4A
A-K Valley high school notebook: Deer Lakes boys basketball eager to continue run
Deer Lakes is no longer preoccupied with 1985.
Deer Lakes basketball coach awaits baby, WPIAL quarterfinal game on same day
Maybe there’s something in the water when it comes to basketball coaches, babies and big games.
Burrell sophomore Oswalt claims 2nd WPIAL wrestling championship
February 16, 2019
Ian Oswalt didn’t think he wrestled his best in his final match at the WPIAL Class AA championships, but even a “B” performance earned him an “A” result.
Valley’s Hutcherson, Schuffert secure Section 3-AA wrestling titles
February 14, 2019
Noah Hutcherson has a pretty simple goal for the individual wrestling postseason.
Fatigue worth it for A-K Valley wrestlers during sectionals, WPIAL 1st round
Austin Mele sported a split lip and a sore elbow late Friday night at Canon-McMillan. He also had a smile.
Greensburg Central Catholic boys hold off Leechburg in key Section 3-A game
January 29, 2019
Greensburg Central Catholic heard Leechburg's crowd, loud and clear. And then the Centurions quieted it down. Visiting GCC took the air out of Leechburg's rowdy andquot;Devils' Denandquot; with a dominant second quarter, then weathered a second-half rally from the home team, holding on for a 68-57 win in a crucialA-K Valley wrestling notebook: Valley aims to dethrone Burrell for section title
January 15, 2019
Part of Burrell's enormous WPIAL success over the past decade-plus includes a dominance of its section opponents. To wit: The Bucs have won 107 consecutive section matches since the 2002-03 season, claiming the regular-season championship every year since 2004. Although a long line of teams would enjoy the opportunity to
A-K Valley notebook: Fox Chapel boys flash early potential
December 9, 2018
Zach Skrinjar said Saturday night he pays more attention to the numbers directly after a team's name than the ones directly in front. By that criteria and more, the Fox Chapel boys basketball coach came away pretty pleased with his team's showing at the season-opening Plum tournament. Fox Chapel upended
PIAA boys soccer preview capsule: Deer Lakes vs. Fleetwood
November 16, 2018
PIAA soccer playoffs Class AA Championship Deer Lakes (21-1-1) vs. Fleetwood (19-6-1) 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Hersheypark Stadium Coaches: Jordan Wiegand, Deer Lakes; Keith Schlegel, Fleetwood Players to watch: Michael Sullivan, Deer Lakes; Haydyn Zagorski, Fleetwood Corner kicks: Deer Lakes makes its first PIAA championship game appearance, looking to become the
Deer Lakes claws to double-OT win in school’s 1st PIAA playoff game
November 6, 2018
ERIE -- A.J. Dorman saw his shot, and he took it. Deer Lakes still is dancing as a result. Dorman scored with 10 minutes, 54 seconds remaining in double overtime, giving Deer Lakes a 1-0 victory over District 10 champion Fairview in a PIAA Class AA first-round thriller at Erie's
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff preview capsules for Nov. 1, 2018
October 31, 2018
Class AA Consolation game No. 2 Deer Lakes (17-1-1) vs. No. 4 Charleroi (18-1) 6 p.m. Thursday at Moon Coaches: Jordan Wiegand, Deer Lakes; Jon Ducoli, Charleroi Players to watch: A.J. Dorman, Deer Lakes; Cullin Woytovich, Charleroi Corner kicks: The winner advances to the PIAA Class AA playoffs, which begin
No. 8-seeded Freeport quite familiar with opening-round opponent, No. 1 Aliquippa
Austin Romanchak remembers the first time he started a game against Aliquippa. It came three weeks into his sophomore year, at the brand-new Freeport Area Athletic Stadium, with an almost entirely brand-new Freeport starting lineup. Still, the green Yellowjackets more than held their own against the perennially powerful Quips, even
A-K Valley lookahead for Week of Oct. 29, 2018
October 28, 2018
Monday Boys soccer: Deer Lakes will attempt to make it to Highmark Stadium for the first time as it takes on Section 2-AA rival Shady Side Academy in the WPIAL semifinals. The Lancers went 1-0-1 against the defending WPIAL champions during the regular season, but the 11th-seeded Indians upset North
A-K valley soccer teams take respective styles to postseason
October 18, 2018
Springdale made a run in the 2017 WPIAL boys soccer playoffs thanks in large part to the Dynamos' ability to make runs. With talented scorers like Jared Demore and Nick Taliani, Springdale knew it could count on its offense to win games, and the Dynamos won plenty, advancing to the
WPIAL girls soccer rankings for week of Oct. 16, 2018
October 16, 2018
Here's a look at the latest WPIAL girls soccer rankings for the week of Oct. 15, 2018: Class 4A Team, record, previous 1. Norwin, 14-2, 1 2. Peters Township, 13-3, 3 3. Seneca Valley, 13-2, 2 4. Upper St. Clair, 12-3, 4 5. Pine-Richland, 13-3, 5 Out: None Class 3A
Springdale soccer leans on defense as playoffs approach
October 15, 2018
Springdale started slowly in its Section 1-A boys soccer finale over the weekend, a not-uncommon occurrence and one rendered moot by a dominant second half in a 4-0 victory over Vincentian. What made the game unique was the location: the artificial surface at Valley's Memorial Stadium. And once the Dynamos
A-K Valley lookahead for Week of Oct. 15, 2018
October 14, 2018
Monday Boys golf Burrell's Tiger Hubbard will aim for a top-22 finish and a trip to the state finals when he tees off at the PIAA Class AA Western Regional at Toms Run Golf Course. Hubbard, a senior, competed at the regionals as a sophomore and is coming off an
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Burrell’s Hubbard eyes PIAAs
October 13, 2018
Tiger Hubbard's first trip to the PIAA Western Regional boys golf championship ended with the Burrell golfer two shots shy of a trip to the state finals, and the senior thinks he can pinpoint the holes where it happened. andquot;The main issue I had was with my driver where the
North Allegheny, three others advance to WPIAL Class AAA girls golf finals
October 8, 2018
Three-time defending champion North Allegheny led a quartet of teams that advanced to Thursday's WPIAL Class AAA girls golf championships at Cedarbrook Golf Course in Belle Vernon. The Tigers topped the field of 10 teams at Monday's team semifinals at Rolling Hills Golf Course. Caroline Wrigley's 3-under 70 and BellaAlle-Kiski Valley notebook: Race to playoffs gets interesting
September 30, 2018
With the second half of the season underway in soccer and girls volleyball, playoff races are beginning to heat up. The Deer Lakes boys soccer
Kevin Stevens to speak to WPIAL players at summit on dangers of addiction
September 24, 2018
Former Pittsburgh Penguins player Kevin Stevens will be the featured speaker at a leadership summit for WPIAL athletes, coaches, athletic directors and principals that will
A-K Valley football notebook: Riverview, Leechburg keep positive attitude amid rough start
September 20, 2018
Todd Massack knows what the record says next to Riverview's name in the Class A Eastern Conference standings, but it doesn't match what he seesAlle-Kiski high school lookahead: Week of Aug. 27-Sept. 1
August 26, 2018
MondayFreeport has won at least a share of the Section 1-AA championship for three consecutive seasons, and the Yellowjackets are on a six-year run of
WPIAL football coaches know the value of a good training camp meal
August 13, 2018
Tim Burk has been through a training camp or 10 during his time as an assistant at Carlynton, Deer Lakes and Springdale, so he knows
Burk hopes to guide alma mater Deer Lakes back to WPIAL playoffs
August 1, 2018
It took one year of coaching at Carlynton, miles away from his hometown and alma mater, before Tim Burk realized he wanted to work closerDeer Lakes to hold special meeting to hire new football coach
July 23, 2018
Deer Lakes should have a new football coach by the end of the month. The district called a special board meeting for 7 p.m. July
Burrell, Valley boys basketball teams try to work out kinks in summer
July 8, 2018
Burrell and Valley played in Friday's Westmoreland County Coaches Association boys basketball showcase without their normal coaches, giving the neighboring rivals at least one thing
Leechburg’s Mikayla Lovelace named Valley News Dispatch Girls Athlete of the Year
July 7, 2018
It took just one game for Mikayla Lovelace to make an impact on Leechburg's girls basketball program — a 51-28 victory over Aquinas Academy in
Springdale’s Zolnierczyk on radar for Division I coaches
June 25, 2018
Mike Zolnierczyk didn't really expect to play college soccer until a few years ago. A multi-sport athlete, he got a late start into the world
A-K Valley notebook: Springdale’s Zolnierczyk trains at D.C. United Academy
June 14, 2018
Mike Zolnierczyk's last name isn't andquot;Smith,andquot; but he went to Washington just the same. Zolnierczyk, a rising senior goalkeeper at Springdale, received an opportunity to
PIAA moves Monday’s baseball semifinal games from Slippery Rock to Neshannock
June 10, 2018
A pair of WPIAL baseball teams will play their PIAA semifinal games at a different site Monday because of rain over the weekend. The PIAA
Alle-Kiski Valley H.S. notebook: Positive vibes for area foursome
It will be a positive night for a quartet of Alle-Kiski Valley athletes Tuesday at the Sen. John Heinz History Center. Springdale's Moriah Becker (track
Southmoreland rallies past Central for program’s 1st PIAA victory
June 4, 2018
Southmoreland worked hard enough to earn a spot in the state softball playoffs for the first time. The Scotties weren't about to let their run
West Allegheny beats TJ to defend WPIAL Class 5A softball title
May 31, 2018
West Allegheny knew better than to overlook Thomas Jefferson. The Indians experienced the disappointment of losing to an underdog team in the WPIAL championship inNo. 1 Mars routs Freeport to reach lacrosse semifinals
May 18, 2018
Freeport's school history-making lacrosse season ended against a familiar opponent. No. 1 Mars jumped out to a seven-goal lead after the first quarter and never
Burrell softball catches a break, tops McGuffey in Class 3A 1st round
May 15, 2018
At long last, a break went Burrell's way. The team that experienced postseason misfortune each of the past two years saw life from the other
Burrell offense does just enough to back strong pitching, defense in key win over Steel Valley
May 7, 2018
Burrell didn't see many scoring opportunities in its crucial Section 1-3A baseball game Monday, not with the way Steel Valley's Nick Harhai was pitching. ItKiski Valley rugby back to state playoffs
April 29, 2018
Kiski Valley is heading back to the state rugby playoffs. The Titans claimed their division title, beating Blair United/Hollidaysburg Rugby Club, 29-12, on Sunday afternoon
Offense sparks St. Joseph baseball to first win of season; Springdale still winless
April 20, 2018
Tyler Wood didn't need much run support Friday, but his St. Joseph baseball teammates gave him plenty — and then more on top of it.Freeport hockey coach resigns
April 19, 2018
Freeport hockey coach Ryan Cooper resigned Thursday after two seasons with the team. The Yellowjackets went 12-27 in the past two seasons, with one playoff
St. Joseph softball finds cure for ‘cabin fever’ in victory over Riverview
April 10, 2018
A growing number of postponements kept St. Joseph mostly in its gymnasium this spring. But the numerous dark clouds over Western Pennsylvania provided one silver
Deer Lakes boys volleyball motivated by trip to WPIAL title game
April 2, 2018
Deer Lakes boys volleyball has progressed further in each year of Tyler Osselborn's high school career. Only one step remains — the biggest one of
Kiski Area’s Reid named Valley News Dispatch’s 2018 Wrestler of the Year
March 31, 2018
Less than three months ago, Isaac Reid wondered if he would ever wrestle again. A pulmonary embolism settled in the Kiski Area senior's lung, doingKiski Area wrestlers dominate at opening day at Southwest Regionals
March 2, 2018
Darren Miller's headgear popped off in the early seconds of his match against Connellsville's Dylan Keefer on Friday, crashing to the mat as the Kiski
A-K Valley basketball playoff preview capsules for Friday
February 23, 2018
WPIAL basketball playoff capsules Boys Class 5A quarterfinals No. 2 Highlands (17-4) vs. No. 7 West Allegheny (11-11) 8 p.m. Friday at Fox Chapel Winner
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball preview playoff capsule for Thursday’s game
February 21, 2018
Girls Class 2A Quarterfinals No. 6 Leechburg (19-4) vs. No. 3 Chartiers-Houston (17-5) 6:30 p.m. Thursday at West Allegheny On the air: TribHSSN.triblive.com Winner plays:
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games
February 19, 2018
Boys basketball Class 2A First round No. 8 Leechburg (14-7) vs. No. 9 Fort Cherry (9-13) 8 p.m. Tuesday at North Hills On air: TribHSSN.triblive.com
Alle-Kiski Valley lookahead: Feb. 19-24, 2018
February 18, 2018
Monday • Deer Lakes hosts Kiski Area in a PIHL Class A game with major postseason implications. Kiski Area (9-10) entered the week holding on
Springdale boys basketball on cusp on WPIAL playoff berth
February 5, 2018
andquot;Opportunityandquot; became a buzzword at Springdale before the boys basketball season even started, and the Dynamos held fast to that focus as they navigated their
Kiski Area’s Connor, McGuffey’s Shingle join 100-win club
Kiski Area won the WPIAL Class AAA team championship on Saturday, and Cam Connor picked up an individual accomplishment along the way. The junior 145-pounder
A-K Valley high school basketball notebook: Deer Lakes girls break through
February 1, 2018
Deer Lakes exorcised some of its demons from its girls basketball rivalry with Burrell last season. But one white whale still remained for the Lancers.
Smaller lineups prove to be problem for WPIAL wrestling programs
January 31, 2018
As Burrell recognized its 2008 PIAA championship wrestling team after a recent match, current coach Josh Shields noted one particular fact about the only state
‘Battle of the Bypass’ between Burrell, Valley football teams will continue with Week Zero matchup
January 30, 2018
andquot;The Battle of the Bypassandquot; will live on in Week Zero. Although separated by PIAA realignment, Burrell and Valley will renew their football rivalry for
Burrell offense ignites in win over Apollo-Ridge
January 26, 2018
Burrell's defense carried the load during much of the first half of the season, but the Bucs offense had its day Thursday. Logan Bitar scored
Highlands boys upend Franklin Regional for 1st-place tie
January 24, 2018
Highlands coach Tyler Stoczynski thought his team got andquot;out-toughedandquot; in its first meeting with Franklin Regional. That wasn't a problem for either team in the
Burrell takes positives out of ‘Ultimate Duals’
January 23, 2018
Burrell glimpsed some of its top competition from the WPIAL and state at Saturday's andquot;Ultimate Dualsandquot; at Brookville High School, and coach Josh Shields said
Valley boys getting close to full strength
January 22, 2018
Valley spent the first six weeks of boys basketball season at less than full strength with some of its most important players sidelined because of
Lovelace keeps setting records at Leechburg
January 17, 2018
Mikayla Lovelace keeps breaking her own records. Leechburg's star senior set a new school single-game record with 44 points in the Blue Devils' 70-59 win
A-K Valley wrestling notebook: Valley aims to end rival Burrell’s winning streak
The rivalry between Burrell and Valley encompasses seemingly every sport where the teams square off against each other, understandable given the schools' geographic closeness and
Norwin boys weather Plum as leaky roof moves game to auxiliary gym
January 12, 2018
Norwin's game against Plum on Friday featured elements seemingly out of the theater of the absurd: A changed time because of the weather. A differentHighlands boys adapt in win over Armstrong
January 11, 2018
The running Rams looked more like the rugged Rams on Thursday night. Forced to play at a slower pace than usual by Armstrong, Highlands showed
Kiski Area’s Miller reaches 100 career wins
January 8, 2018
Darren Miller crossed off a pair of significant accomplishments in the first week of the new year. The Kiski Area junior 120-pounder picked up his
Burrell wrestler Corey Christie named MVP of WCCA tournament; Kiski Area takes team title
January 7, 2018
Burrell's Corey Christie believed he could escape from Ty Griffiths' grip in the ultimate tiebreaker period of their 152-pound championship bout at the Westmoreland County
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Kiski Area swimmer Naomee Miller excelling
January 3, 2018
Naomee Miller has plenty of experience at Pitt's Trees Pool, and it showed in her most recent competition. The Kiski Area sophomore won the 100-yardThree WPIAL wrestlers earn No. 1 seeds for Powerade
December 27, 2017
A trio of WPIAL wrestlers earned top seeds for this weekend's heralded Powerade Christmas Tournament at Canon-McMillan High School. Norwin sophomore Kurtis Phipps (106 pounds),
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Fox Chapel’s Jesse Cohen signs with Bryant
December 20, 2017
Jesse Cohen had the location planned for his signing day celebration but not the specific cut of meat. Perhaps he wanted to wait to commit
Valley boys overcome late lapses to defeat rival Burrell
December 18, 2017
Mark Faulx saw some of the tell-tale fourth-quarter problems that cost Valley games in previous seasons crop up again Monday night. Forced, missed shots. Turnovers.
Alle-Kiski Valley high school lookahead: Week of Dec. 18, 2017
December 17, 2017
MONDAY • Kiski Area's girls basketball team is seeking an end to its 26-game section losing streak, which dates to the 2014-15 season, and the
Basketball coaches use early-season games to build toward section competition
December 11, 2017
Tyler Stoczynski believes in the importance of compiling a difficult nonsection schedule, but Highlands' boys basketball coach took it to another level this season. SoAlle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Various programs face WPIAL alignment shakeups
November 18, 2017
The impact of the PIAA's new enrollment figures and classification breakdowns will reverberate throughout the WPIAL and locally in the Alle-Kiski Valley. With the new
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Fox Chapel’s Tom Loughran named coach of year
November 13, 2017
Tom Loughran led the Fox Chapel football team from a 1-4 start to a WPIAL Class 5A playoff berth, and the Allegheny Nine conference rewardedGateway survives McKeesport, advances to WPIAL final
November 10, 2017
Don Holl said he suffered no flashbacks to last season's WPIAL semifinal against McKeesport as the Tigers converted a hook-and-lateral on a last-gasp drive. His
Freeport draws conference rival Seton LaSalle in 1st round
October 30, 2017
All season, Freeport preached the importance of treating every Allegheny Conference opponent as another playoff game. The Yellowjackets can experience that in a literal fashion
Playoff-tested Freeport ready for WPIAL girls soccer semifinals
October 29, 2017
It took Freeport about five minutes into its WPIAL Class AA quarterfinal game against Quaker Valley to establish a major difference between the 2016 postseasonVIDEO: Playoff-bound Springdale wears down Greensburg Central Catholic
October 28, 2017
Springdale seniors Josh Harmon and Parker Kline discuss the Dynamos' playoff-clinching victory over Greensburg Central Catholic.
Video: Reactions from Yough’s overtime girls soccer win against Burrell in the WPIAL playoffs
October 27, 2017
The Yough girls soccer team topped Burrell in the WPIAL playoffs Friday. Justine Appolonia scored twice, including the winner in overtime; here she discusses the
Second straight upset bid falls short for Riverview boys against Seton LaSalle
October 25, 2017
Riverview's chances came frequently in the first half, but none of them found the back of the net. Neither did the shot that ultimately ended
Springdale, Greensburg Central Catholic to battle for WPIAL playoff berth
For all the mathematical calculations that can come into play when determining WPIAL playoff berths, Springdale faces one certainty: A win puts the Dynamos in
Alle-Kiski Valley week ahead: Oct. 23-29
October 22, 2017
Monday • Burrell and Charleroi's 2016 WPIAL Class AA first-round girls soccer playoff game came down to the wire, with Charleroi scoring the winning goal
A-K Valley high school notebook: Freeport girls volleyball likely to receive top seed
Freeport hopes to end the WPIAL Class AA girls volleyball playoffs on top, and it seems all but certain the Yellowjackets will begin the postseason
Springdale boys shake off early injury to shut out Serra Catholic
October 21, 2017
Springdale's boys soccer playoff opener began ominously, with leading scorer Jared Demore suffering a leg injury less than two minutes into the game. The Dynamos,Alle-Kiski Valley week ahead: Oct. 16-22
October 15, 2017
MONDAY Freeport and Deer Lakes played an entertaining game in their first meeting, with Deer Lakes rallying from a three-goal deficit before Freeport scored late
Fox Chapel girls hunting for elusive WPIAL title
October 10, 2017
Katie Livingston made no bones about Fox Chapel's intentions for some of the highest-seeded teams in the upcoming WPIAL Class AAAA girls soccer playoffs. Fittingly
A-K Valley high school notebook: Shady Side Academy’s Moore to face familiar foes
October 5, 2017
As part of Shady Side Academy's homecoming festivities on Saturday, Skyy Moore also will experience a reunion. The Indians' junior quarterback, a New Kensington native,Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Two area teams post signature victories
October 2, 2017
A pair of Alle-Kiski Valley teams with postseason hopes posted signature wins last week. The Leechburg girls volleyball team, seeking its first playoff appearance since
A-K Valley local sports notebook: Burrell cross country coach plans Color Run to benefit team, girls tennis
September 18, 2017
After Chris Legters participated in a Kiski Area-hosted Color Run with his daughters last year, a thought struck the Burrell cross country coach: Why not
Freeport ‘just amazing’ in victory over rival Deer Lakes
September 8, 2017
Deer Lakes challenged Freeport's defense Friday night, continually pounding away at the Yellowjackets with runs up the middle. But the Lancers' hammer couldn't break through
After bye week, Freeport ready to face rival Deer Lakes
September 6, 2017
As Freeport went through an unusual bye week in Week 1, one nagging worry cropped up in the back of coach John Gaillot's mind. andquot;I'm
Plum kicker Jackson Gildea boots winning field goal in waning seconds to beat Kiski Area
September 1, 2017
Jackson Gildea faced some self-doubt before attempting the biggest kick of his high school football career, and Kiski Area tried to get in his head
Senior-heavy Riverview boys build for playoff run
August 28, 2017
There's good news and bad news for Riverview's boys soccer team this fall. The good news With eight senior starters, several of whom began playing
Converted tailback Tatrn stars in debut at QB in Burrell victory
August 26, 2017
Burrell welcomed home an old quarterback named Seth on Friday night, and a first-year signal-caller by the same name announced his arrival. Senior Seth Tatrn,
Fox Chapel baseball gets its guy in new coach Hastings
August 16, 2017
Jim Hastings went without a baseball coaching job for a couple of months when he resigned from Springdale shortly after the Dynamos' season ended in
A-K Valley football teams looking to snap WPIAL title drought
August 12, 2017
One game from Springdale's 2003 WPIAL football championship season sticks out for Don andquot;Pappyandquot; Boulton, and it's not the Dynamos' Class A title-game win over
Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Football teams ready to feel heat
August 5, 2017
High school football players have spent much of the summer going through non-mandatory workouts, seven-on-seven competitions and strength and conditioning sessions, but the season's officialRecent Videos
WPIAL Wrestling AAA-1 Team Sectionals – Hemp vs Nor and GSalem vs Kiski followed by Finals and Conso
WPIAL Wrestling AAA-1 Team Sectionals – Hemp vs Nor and GSalem vs Kiski followed by Finals and Conso
