Author: Jerin Steele
Pine-Richland teams turn in playoff seasons in 4 spring sports
May 15, 2022
Four Pine-Richland spring sports teams earned spots in the WPIAL playoffs.
Pine-Richland grad Johnson leads Kent State batters
Josh Johnson sticks to the same regimen before every game.
After slow start, Pine-Richland boys lacrosse gaining ground
May 8, 2022
The Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team installed new offensive and defensive philosophies this season and did so against an ambitious early season schedule.
Breakthrough season nets share of section title for Pine-Richland baseball
Prior to a high-stakes game against North Allegheny on May 4, Pine-Richland baseball coach Kurt Wolfe told his team there would be a playoff-type feel.
Pine-Richland notebook: Junior among top 1,600 runners in WPIAL
May 1, 2022
The Butler Invitational is the largest regular season track meet in the district and is often a good judge of who will be a threat at the WPIAL championships.
Clutch efforts in close games help Pine-Richland softball to 5-1 start
April 23, 2022
Natalie Zentz and Alexia Brown both pointed to the bond within the Pine-Richland softball team as one of the factors to their early season success.
Pine-Richland baseball team builds confidence after sweeping Seneca Valley
Pine-Richland baseball has a bunch of underclassmen in the lineup, but the Rams also have a lot of fight.
Pine-Richland’s Reid Duncan ready to make jump to high-level ultimate with Pittsburgh Thunderbirds
April 17, 2022
About a month ago Reid Duncan found out that he had made the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds roster, which was a dream come true for the ultimate disc player, but he had to keep it a secret.
Pine-Richland track and field team off to strong start
Through wind, rain, sleet, snow and cold temperatures, Pine-Richland track and field has powered through the dreadful early spring weather.
Challenges aplenty for Pine-Richland boys tennis team
April 10, 2022
A brief summary of the Pine-Richland boys tennis team’s season so far is that it has been a challenge.
New coach Hodowanec hopes to continue success with Pine-Richland girls lacrosse
Alex Hodowanec was close to applying as an assistant for the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team last season but ended up taking a job coaching club volleyball.
Pine-Richland notebook: Brandon Saad finding good fit in St. Louis
April 3, 2022
Former Pine-Richland standout Brandon Saad signed a five-year, $22.5 million dollar contract with the St. Louis Blues over the summer and has immediately found his new surroundings to his liking.
Seamless coaching transition for Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team
Dave Offner was an assistant coach for the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team for six years, so moving to the head coaching position in 2022 has been fairly seamless.
Chris Rotelli takes over Pine-Richland boys volleyball program
March 27, 2022
Chris Rotelli has been coaching for 25 years and in previous spots he’s had to build a program from the ground up.
Pine-Richland notebook: Fourth grade girls basketball team wins state title
The fourth-grade Pine-Richland girls basketball team is a state champion.
Valley softball team wants to build on playoff berth
March 24, 2022
Without a senior on the roster, Valley softball managed to break into the playoffs last year for the first time since 2012.
Valley baseball team confident it can compete for section title
Valley baseball coach Jim Basilone expects the Section 3-3A race to be exciting, and he is confident his team will be among those competing for the title.
New coach set to lead Pine-Richland softball team
March 20, 2022
Sam Hartsberg has coached travel softball for close to a decade and always had an interest in coaching at the high school level. But first he wanted to watch his daughter, Leah, play at Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland baseball team remains young but expects to compete
A rash of injuries to a large senior class last year contributed to a rare playoff absence for the Pine-Richland baseball team.
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan captures state bowling title
March 18, 2022
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan found a groove and rolled to a state title Friday.
With solid underclassmen group, Kiski Area baseball team builds toward future
March 17, 2022
When Aaron Albert started coaching at Beaver six years ago, he had a lineup featuring eight sophomores.
‘Good nucleus’ to keep Kiski Area softball team competitive in tough section
John Kinnamon led Apollo-Ridge softball to four consecutive WPIAL playoff appearances, but this year he moved up the Kiskiminetas River a few miles to coach Kiski Area.
Freeport softball team has designs on keeping up its playoff streak
March 15, 2022
Freeport softball has been in the playoffs 12 consecutive times, and with an experienced core returning along with younger talent, it will look to continue the streak.
After rebuilding year, Freeport baseball ready to contend again
Freeport baseball started from scratch last year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Girls youth basketball teams make state tournament
March 13, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland girls youth basketball teams will have a chance to take on some of the top competition in the state.
Captain checks all the boxes for Pine-Richland hockey team
Tales of hockey players and their superstitions have been told since skates first hit ice, but Pine-Richland captain Alex Erlain wants nothing to do with them.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Kira Schrecengost, Fox Chapel’s Tommy Healy
March 12, 2022
Kira Schrecengost
Pine-Richland 1st-year diver claims WPIAL medal
March 6, 2022
A few months ago, Kendyll Jerry never had been on a diving board, so leaving the WPIAL championships with a podium finish and a medal was quite a feat.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Knoch’s Nina Shaw
Nina Shaw
South Fayette dethrones No. 1 Chartiers Valley in WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball
March 5, 2022
Maddie Webber sensed early on that the third meeting between South Fayette and Chartiers Valley this season was going to be different.
Pine-Richland girls end season on high note
February 27, 2022
The Pine-Richland girls basketball team fell short of reaching the playoffs, but it ended the season on a high note with a pair of victories.
Valley News Dispatch H.S. athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook, Plum’s Nicholas Daniels
February 26, 2022
Anna Kreinbrook
Markus Frank’s school-record 45 points leads Quaker Valley past Deer Lakes in Class 4A quarterfinals
February 23, 2022
Markus Frank is quiet and modest off the court, but in between the lines, he is a monster.
Sto-Rox pulls away from Springdale in 2nd quarter, advances to WPIAL 2A quarterfinals
February 22, 2022
A big second quarter was more than enough to push Sto-Rox along further in the playoffs.
Pine-Richland wrestling primed to peak for postseason
February 20, 2022
It’s already been a strong year for Pine-Richland wrestling, going 12-3 with a trip to the WPIAL team tournament, and with individual season approaching, a group of Rams have positioned themselves to make more noise.
Pine-Richland looks to make another playoff run
The regular season didn’t go quite the way the Pine-Richland boys basketball team would’ve wanted, but it finds itself in a similar position to last year.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Lexi Colaianni, St. Joseph’s Jimmy Giannetta
February 19, 2022
Lexi Colaianni
Ellis School girls bounce back in 2nd half, oust Springdale in WPIAL Class 2A
February 18, 2022
Going into halftime, the Springdale girls basketball team positioned itself to break a long postseason victory drought, but Ellis School had other ideas.
Shaler high school hockey player suspended after fight with fans in stands
February 14, 2022
A Shaler high school hockey player is suspended indefinitely pending a hearing after an altercation with fans in the stands after a game Thursday against Latrobe at Alpha Ice Complex in Harmar Township.
Pine-Richland swimmer driven to make name for himself in breaststroke
February 13, 2022
Athletes find motivation in many different forms, and Pine-Richland swimmer Matthew Carper’s stems from a former competitor.
Pine-Richland notebook: Ty Voit having big season in junior hockey
The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Pine resident Ty Voit in the fifth round of the NHL Entry Draft in July and he’s shown this season why he was considered a pro prospect.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Riley Sterlitz, Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan
February 12, 2022
Riley Sterlitz
Gateway boys knock Franklin Regional out of playoffs
February 11, 2022
Gateway came to Murrysville on Friday night and spoiled Franklin Regional’s night on multiple levels.
Pine-Richland notebook: 3 more football players make college choices
February 6, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland football players made their college commitments official on National Signing Day on Feb. 2.
Pine-Richland hockey team thrives in pressure situations
Pine-Richland hockey enters the final month of the regular season in a tight race for playoff positioning with only nine points separating second place from seventh in the PIHL Class 3A standings.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Melaina DeZort, Riverview’s Micah Black
February 5, 2022
Melaina DeZort
Hempfield, Neshannock win competitive spirit state championships
January 29, 2022
Hempfield competitive spirit coach Suzannah Mayer could sense the nerves in her team Friday at Day 1 of the PIAA championships and it impacted their routine, but the Spartans were still able to finish third in the preliminaries and advance to the finals.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, Burrell’s Luke Rose
Reese Hasley
Offseason work pays off for Pine-Richland heavyweight Joey Schneck
Joey Schneck pinned his way to the 285-pound Allegheny County Wrestling Tournament title recently, but that title wasn’t just won in the two days he spent at Fox Chapel High School.
Bond between swimming Shaffer sisters grows deeper in Pine-Richland pool
Sarah Anne and Elizabeth Shaffer’s times are pretty close in the pool.
Last-second 3-pointer lifts Freeport over Burrell
January 28, 2022
Vinnie Clark had a senior night to remember forever.
Zavasky displays shooting touch off the bench for Pine-Richland boys basketball
January 23, 2022
When Nate Zavasky has an open look, Pine-Richland boys basketball coach Bob Petcash is typically yelling “shoot it.”
Pine-Richland’s Ava Boyd turns heads at soccer showcase
Ava Boyd boarded a plane to Florida knowing she was going to play in a soccer game with some of the best girls in the country.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Springdale’s Ryan Reinsfelder, Apollo-Ridge’s Sydney McCray
January 22, 2022
Ryan Reinsfelder
No. 1 North Hills rolls on with win over No. 4 Pine-Richland
January 21, 2022
With every win, the North Hills boys basketball team has seen the target grow on its back as an emerging favorite in Class 6A, but it hasn’t been a deterrent.
Brotherly bonds power Highlands wrestling team
January 17, 2022
Grant Walters has seen a lot during his 32 years in wrestling, but his Highlands team has shown the coach something unique.
Pine-Richland spirit team wins WPIAL small squad division, makes return to state competition
January 16, 2022
Last year, the Pine-Richland competitive spirit team did not qualify for the state championship for the first time in school history, so the 2021-22 season was a mission to return to form.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Vinnie Clark, Cheswick Christian’s Olivia Rochkind
January 15, 2022
Vinnie Clark
Confidence soars for Pine-Richland wrestler after strong Powerade showing
January 9, 2022
A major focus for Kelin Laffey lately has been the mental side of wrestling.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Brandon Coury, Kiski Area’s Abbie Johns
January 8, 2022
Brandon Coury
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Rylen Campbell and Madilyn Boyer
January 1, 2022
Rylen Campbell
Tweak to defense puts Deer Lakes boys basketball team in the zone
December 31, 2021
For the majority of his coaching career, Terence Parham has favored a stack 2-3 zone defense, but this summer, he and his assistant Albie Fletcher made a change to their tactics.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Apollo-Ridge’s Gage Johnston, Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone
December 25, 2021
Gage Johnston
Burrell hockey displays potential during strong start to season
December 21, 2021
The Burrell hockey team already has exceeded its win total from last year, which is a sign of the progression since the PIHL season started in October.
Pine-Richland swim teams poised for another record-breaking season
December 19, 2021
The record boards at the Pine-Richland natatorium had plenty of changes after last year with several new school marks set.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Football stars put pen to paper
A pair of Pine-Richland football players, Jalen Klemm and Jeremiah Hasley, made their college commitments official during the early national signing day Wednesday.
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Week ending Dec. 18, 2021
December 18, 2021
Ryan Lang
Veteran core ready to lead Pine-Richland wrestlers
December 12, 2021
When mats need to be cleaned before practice, Pine-Richland wrestling coach Caleb Kolb doesn’t have to seek out a volunteer to get the mop out and start scrubbing.
Injuries present early season speed bump for veteran Pine-Richland girls basketball team
As Pine-Richland girls basketball enters a new season, it has a bit of a good-news, bad-news situation.
Springdale football coach Seth Napierkowski resigns after 5 seasons
December 10, 2021
It wasn’t an easy decision, but with family and work obligations increasing, Seth Napierkowski decided to step down as the Springdale football coach.
Burrell must retool to keep streak of 15 straight WPIAL Class 2A championships going
December 8, 2021
Burrell wrestling is looking to celebrate a “Sweet 16” this winter.
A-K Valley Class 3A wrestling preview: Led by Lehigh recruit, Kiski Area reloads
December 7, 2021
The Kiski Area wrestling team had some youth in its lineup last year, but it still was able to win the Section 1-3A title.
St. Joseph girls basketball team on the upswing
December 5, 2021
A good word to describe the St. Joseph girls basketball team is potential.
St. Joseph boys target return to playoffs despite loss of top scorer
Those who followed St. Joseph boys basketball the past four years were treated by Andrew Sullivan to some high-scoring performances, but his 1,000-plus point career ended last season.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: 6 football players make 1st team all-conference
December 4, 2021
The Pine-Richland Rams football team was well represented on the Class 5A Northeast Conference teams.
WPIAL championship near-miss drives Pine-Richland boys basketball
There are two major themes for the Pine-Richland boys basketball team this winter: They’re experienced and they won’t lack for motivation.
Redbank Valley steals momentum, stops Bishop Canevin short of state finals
December 3, 2021
In one moment, Bishop Canevin went from potentially going up two scores to seeing Redbank Valley tie the game. It was a momentum stealer the Crusaders could not recover from.
Promising Kiski Area girls team coming together
November 29, 2021
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon likened his team learning and growing to building a puzzle.
New Kiski Area boys coach has visions of turnaround
The excitement of his first season as the Kiski Area boys basketball coach hasn’t waned an ounce for Corey Smith since the day he was hired back in April.
Injury woes changed course of Pine-Richland football season
November 28, 2021
Coaches never want to use injuries as an excuse, and Pine-Richland football coach Steve Campos is no different in that regard.
Junior goalie stands tall for Pine-Richland hockey team
Most days after arriving home from elementary school, Dan Mooney would hop off the bus, drop his backpack and jump right into the middle of a pickup hockey game.
Cheswick Christian boys basketball team motivated to make mark
November 24, 2021
At the elementary and middle school levels, the current group of Cheswick Christian basketball players experienced success, which has given them some confidence coming into the season.
Full schedule breeds enthusiasm inside Cheswick Christian girls basketball program
After a covid-shortened 2020-21 season in which the Cheswick Christian girls basketball team played only nine games, signs are pointing towards a return to a more normal slate this winter.
Senior class built winning culture for Pine-Richland field hockey
November 21, 2021
A few nights after Pine-Richland field hockey’s season came to an end, Rams coach Donna Stephenson said it felt weird sitting at home because she felt like she should be out at practice with her team.
No. 3 Bishop Canevin takes down Cornell to reach 1st WPIAL title game since 1990
November 19, 2021
There have been times Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson has gone with his gut when deciding his quarterback.
Kiski Area hockey team proving itself in early part of season
November 17, 2021
The Kiski Area hockey team lost several key players, including Michael Rayburg and Jonathan Ayres, from a team that made back-to-back PIHL Class A semifinals appearances.
Clutch goalkeeping sends Hampton past West Allegheny, into state finals
When Zach Panza’s attempt hit the crossbar and put Hampton on the brink of elimination in round four of penalty kicks, Talbots goalkeeper Thomas Bradfield admitted he thought his high school career was over.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Ava Weleski
Ava Weleski
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Burrell’s Joe Scolaro
November 16, 2021
Joe Scolaro
Freeport, Hampton clash for 4th time this season — in PIAAs
November 15, 2021
The final hurdle between Freeport girls volleyball and returning to a state championship game is a very familiar foe.
Before heading west, Pine-Richland runner caps decorated high school cross country career
November 14, 2021
On Nov. 10, Meredith Price signed a letter of intent for track and cross country at Utah State, so this coming fall she’ll be running in the Rocky Mountains.
Pine-Richland’s Hasley shows worth on both sides of the ball
Jeremiah Hasley ran gassers every day he could during the summer and even worked with a personal trainer to get into the best shape possible, because he wanted to be on the field for every snap of Pine-Richland football this season.
Hampton defense stops another foe, dropping Franklin Regional in state quarterfinals
November 13, 2021
The Franklin Regional boys soccer team suffered the same fate Saturday as every team Hampton has faced thus far in the postseason.
Play from deep in playbook helps Penn Hills get past Gateway
November 12, 2021
With less than a minute remaining and facing third-and-goal, Penn Hills quarterback Julian Dugger was sent off the field for a play because of an equipment issue, so the Indians had to dial up something they hadn’t done all season.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Freeport’s Erica Lampus
November 10, 2021
Erica Lampus
Freeport volleyball avoids WPIAL title hangover, beats Plum in PIAA 1st-round match
November 9, 2021
Freeport girls volleyball coach Tom Phillips has always worried about the potential for a “hangover” from winning a WPIAL championship going into the first round of the state tournament.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Freeport’s Marcus Trask
Marcus Trask
Pine-Richland volleyball team makes strong statement in playoff loss
November 7, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls volleyball team certainly did not go down without a fight.
Clutch plays from Zach Panza lift Hampton past West Allegheny in Class 3A WPIAL finals
November 6, 2021
It’s not often that a player scores the game-winning goal and makes a huge save in the same game, but Zach Panza managed to pull off both accomplishments Saturday.
Quick-strike offense, airtight defense carry Moon to WPIAL title win over Seneca Valley
November 4, 2021
The Moon girls soccer team got off to a quick start and didn’t slow down.
Keller Chamovitz one-ups dad, leads Quaker Valley past North Catholic in WPIAL finals
Keller Chamovitz has some bragging rights in his household.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Camryn Rogers
November 3, 2021
Camryn Rogers
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy
November 2, 2021
Carson McCoy
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Nov. 1, 2021
October 31, 2021
WPIAL soccer preview capsules
Pine-Richland boys soccer team misses playoffs but makes major strides
As his third season as the Pine-Richland boys soccer coach wrapped up, Jordan Wiegand could sense his players fully bought into the family-like culture he’s been trying to build.
Janeda’s 4th-quarter plays help Montour get past Chartiers Valley, into WPIAL playoffs
October 29, 2021
Brock Janeda is a catcher on the Montour baseball team, but Friday night he was the closer on the football field.
A-K Valley WPIAL boys soccer playoff capsules for Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021
Saturday’s games
Seneca Valley girls rally to edge Norwin in OT in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 28, 2021
When Emma Rigone converted a penalty kick to give Norwin the lead in the second half, it looked like the Knights might sneak out of NexTier Stadium with their second victory there this season, but Zoe Simpson made sure Seneca Valley defended its home turf.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Nash Wedner, Fox Chapel
Nash Wedner
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ashley McAdams
October 27, 2021
Ashley McAdams
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Oct. 25, 2021
October 24, 2021
Monday’s games
Pine-Richland captains aim to be ‘ultimate’ teammates
As co-captains for the Pine-Richland ultimate team, Reid Duncan and Matt Farmar have made it their mission to make everyone who joins the team feel at home.
After 17th straight playoff appearance, Pine-Richland girls tennis looks forward to next season
With a young team this fall, Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Jirakorn “Dang” Siraprasert wasn’t sure how the season would go.
Ligonier Valley pulls out thrilling win vs. Shady Side Academy
October 22, 2021
Ligonier Valley coach Roger Beitel joked he will need to visit his cardiologist after watching the last 24 seconds of Friday’s game against Shady Side Academy.
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 23, 2021
Saturday’s games
Alle-Kiski Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger
October 20, 2021
Kaitlyn Killinger
Alle-Kiski Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ryan Hanes
October 19, 2021
Ryan Hanes
Pine-Richland girls cross country team rounds into form after spate of injuries
October 17, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team has faced some adversity this year with injuries, but it hasn’t dampened the dream of winning WPIAL gold.
Pine-Richland girls volleyball team, coach Seman dedicate match to helping youngster in need of kidney transplant
First-year Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman is a huge believer in giving back to the community and wants to pass that trait on to her players.
Leechburg clinches 1st winning football season in 30 years
October 16, 2021
Leechburg football crossed a major goal off its list Saturday and did so in dominant fashion.
Greensburg Central Catholic comes up short in upset bid vs. No. 1 Clairton
October 15, 2021
It’s not often that a team has a chance to win or tie the game late in the fourth quarter on the road at Neil C. Brown Stadium, but that’s the situation Greensburg Central Catholic had Friday night.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller
October 13, 2021
Eliza Miller
Burrell hockey team features deeper roster for 1st-year head coach
When Burrell hockey president Dave Burkett approached Luke Kopchak this summer about becoming the next coach of the Bucs, it didn’t take long for him to decide to jump on the opportunity.
Freeport enters PIHL season with small roster but high expectations
October 12, 2021
To put in perspective how young the Freeport hockey team is, consider it will dress more freshmen than seniors every time it takes the ice this season.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Leechburg’s Gavin Cole
Gavin Cole
Pine-Richland girls volleyball navigates tough schedule, remains in playoff hunt
October 10, 2021
Angela Seman played for four years in Section 1-4A with Seneca Valley, and now as the coach at Pine-Richland, she is getting a different perspective.
Senior captains help Pine-Richland field hockey adjust to pressure of favorite status
When describing how Pine-Richland field hockey was able to grind out a 1-0 win over Peters Township earlier this year, midfielder Fiona Kortyna said her team has the ability to keep going no matter what.
Kiski Area boys soccer team taking strides toward what it hopes will be a favorable playoff seed
October 5, 2021
Missions to Mars had not been successful for the Kiski Area boys soccer team in recent years.
AK Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Isaac Wetzel, Freeport soccer
Isaac Wetzel
Early competition helps Knoch boys soccer prepare for playoff push
October 4, 2021
The Knoch boys soccer team entered this season as a rather inexperienced group, but what they lack in seasoning they have made up for with effort.
Pine-Richland hockey team ready to join crowded chase for Penguins Cup
October 3, 2021
Last year, PIHL Class 3A featured a lot of parity with the top five teams separated by four points at the end of the regular season and No. 7 seed Mt. Lebanon making a run in the playoffs to the championship game.
Pine-Richland pair showing chemistry, having breakout seasons
Dating to their youth football days, Cole Boyd and Alex Gochis said they’ve always had chemistry as a quarterback and receiver combo.
Central Catholic defense dominates in victory over Seneca Valley
October 1, 2021
There is a litany of players with NCAA Division I offers on the Central Catholic defense, and those players showed why they are going to play at that level Friday night.
Highlands girls volleyball nets long-awaited victory
September 29, 2021
Over the last couple of weeks Highlands girls volleyball coach Caroline Bain could sense her team was on the cusp of breaking through.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Riverview’s Lola Abraham
Lola Abraham
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Highlands’ Cam Reigard
September 28, 2021
Cam Reigard
Pine-Richland grad making stops as starting linebacker for Stony Brook
September 26, 2021
As Tyler King was going through his recruiting process, the thing that stood out about Stony Brook was the coaching staff’s transparency.
Kiski Area off to best start since 1986 after edging West Allegheny
September 24, 2021
The sixth time turned out to be the charm for Kiski Area.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Valley’s Eden Richey
September 22, 2021
Eden Richey
Knoch girls volleyball relying on young hitters in early going
Now in her 36th year at Knoch, Diane Geist is the longest tenured girls volleyball coach in the WPIAL.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Plum’s Lucas Pittman
September 21, 2021
Lucas Pittman
Rolling Fields PGA Junior League team takes 3rd at U.S. Regional event
September 20, 2021
In Dick Logan’s 28 years as a PGA professional, this summer coaching the Rolling Fields Golf Course 17-and-under PGA Junior League team was the best experience of his entire career.
Junior striker brings joy of scoring goals to Pine-Richland boys soccer
September 19, 2021
Colin Zvejnieks’ parents told him that he has always been a runner.
Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Siriprasert focuses on process to build success
As a tennis coach, Jirakorn “Dang” Siriprasert concentrates more on the process than the result.
McCoy’s kick return sparks run of 29 unanswered points for Laurel in win over Beaver Falls
September 17, 2021
Laurel needed a spark, and Luke McCoy provided it.
A-K Valley Girls High School Athlete of the Week, Sept. 15, 2021: Grace Gent, Springdale
September 15, 2021
Grace Gent
Kiski Area girls volleyball willing to work overtime for section title
September 14, 2021
On the eve of the first match, Kiski Area girls volleyball coach Jodie McCartney told her team that every time it takes the court in section play there is potential for a five-set match.
Small numbers don’t dampen enthusiasm, energy for Highlands soccer teams
The Highlands boys soccer team opened camp with 15 players, but that number became smaller heading into the season-opening tournament at home.
A-K Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Fox Chapel’s Jack Lorence
Jack Lorence
Former Pitt volleyball standout brings new ideas to Pine-Richland program
September 12, 2021
Angela Seman was a big part of Pitt volleyball’s resurgence, helping the Panthers win back-to-back ACC titles in 2017 and ’18 as the starting libero.
Pine-Richland field hockey comfortable as favorites to take 3rd straight WPIAL crown
Donna Stephenson started the Pine-Richland field hockey program in 2004, literally from scratch.
Big plays from Ross help Seneca Valley get past North Hills
September 10, 2021
A week ago, Brandon Ross said Seneca Valley can’t win every game on the last play.
Leechburg’s Grine relies on height, skills, confidence for promising senior season
Kalli Grine has been the tallest girl in her class dating to elementary school, so she always has been an intimidating presence on the volleyball court.
3 sets of sisters help bolster lineup for Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball
September 9, 2021
The Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball team will be a sister act this fall.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Fox Chapel’s Nina Busch
Nina Busch
Young St. Joseph girls volleyball team building toward future
September 6, 2021
Because the covid-19 pandemic delayed fall sports in 2020, the St. Joseph girls volleyball team had one practice and went right into games. Needless to say, a more normal schedule this year was welcomed.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Campbell Curry
Campbell Curry
Leechburg plugs away in decisive win vs. Summit Academy
September 4, 2021
It wasn’t the start the Leechburg football team hoped for Saturday afternoon, with three turnovers in the first quarter, but once it settled down, it found a rhythm.
Loaded lineup has Pine-Richland cross country team thinking big
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team is hoping to set a gold standard this fall.
Seneca Valley stuns Pine-Richland with late touchdown pass
September 3, 2021
The adrenaline still was running at maximum for Brandon Ross moments after catching the winning touchdown pass in the final 10 seconds to propel his Seneca Valley Raiders to a 24-20 win over Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland boys soccer looks to build with experienced lineup
August 29, 2021
When Jordan Wiegand took the Pine-Richland boys soccer coaching job in 2019 he came to a program that had graduated 16 seniors who were major contributors since their sophomore season.
Young players stepping into new roles for Pine-Richland girls soccer
Entering her second season as the Pine-Richland girls soccer coach, Rachelle Dixon has some spots to fill in the lineup.
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: New coach leading Deer Lakes
August 28, 2021
Aaron Smith felt some nerves heading into training camp, and at the first practice he could sense his Deer Lakes boys soccer players had some, too.
Dickerson, Tracey score 2 TDs each; defense stout as North Hills blanks Mars
August 27, 2021
Moments after shaking hands with their opponents from Mars, the North Hills players raced over to their sideline to greet a packed and raucous student section waiting for them in the visitor’s grandstand.
Breakout players back to power West Greene
August 26, 2021
For West Greene, the 2020 season was a mission to forge an identity after the Ben Jackson and Kolin Walker era of running through opponents.
Avella looks to keep ball rolling after breakthrough season
For Avella coach Ryan Cecchini, last year’s run to the playoffs showed that even if his program doesn’t always have the biggest roster, it can compete in the WPIAL.
‘Underrated’ senior aims to keep Plum among elite
August 23, 2021
When asked about senior wide receiver/defensive back Logan Brooks, Plum coach Matt Morgan said that he is one of the most underrated players in all of the WPIAL.
New Castle ready for playoff return after year to forget
After a rare down year in which New Castle saw its seven-year playoff streak snapped, Red Hurricanes coach Joe Cowart said his players better have a chip on their shoulder and a desire to get back on the right track.
Larger roster a boost for Pine-Richland girls golf
August 22, 2021
There were 14 girls who came to tryouts for the Pine-Richland girls golf team, and each one had a varying degree of experience.
Plum plans encore after historic season
August 20, 2021
Plum football enters this fall in a position it hasn’t been in since 1983: defending conference champion.
WPIAL’s leading passer makes Armstrong dangerous
Cadin Olsen burst onto the WPIAL football scene last year by throwing for more than 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns in his debut season as the Armstrong quarterback.
Moon plans to follow championship formula
August 17, 2021
When Moon won a conference championship two seasons ago, its formula for success was controlling the line of scrimmage, running the ball effectively and winning the time-of-possession battle.
Young Pine-Richland golf team looks to keep championship streak going
August 14, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys golf team has been section champ the last five years, and the Rams are hopeful to keep the streak going this fall.
Quaker Valley out to snap skid with experienced roster
Quaker Valley went through the growing pains of being extremely young last year, and combined with a covid-19 situation at the school that forced a cancellation of the final two games, it made for a difficult season.
Shady Side Academy rower wins youth national title
July 25, 2021
As Lauren Jochims crossed the finish line with her teammate, Audrey Lyda, to win the women’s 2x at the US Youth Rowing Nationals, she didn’t know how to react.
Quaker Valley boys basketball makes most of summer competition
July 24, 2021
The Quaker Valley boys basketball team returns four starters, but with each new year, there can be a tweak in how each player’s role is defined.
Behun, Loudermilk to lead Quaker Valley girls soccer as co-head coaches
July 18, 2021
Former Quaker Valley girls soccer coach Jamie Birmingham knew he was going to step down at the end of last season, so he approached assistants Maggie Behun and Rachel Loudermilk and asked them if they wanted to step up into the role.
Quaker Valley Hall of Famer takes reins of school’s girls basketball program
July 11, 2021
Quaker Valley has been a focal point in many chapters of Ken Johns’ life.
Fox Chapel basketball gets boost from summer competitions
July 10, 2021
Fox Chapel boys basketball coach Zach Skrinjar looks at summer team camps as a good way to self scout and grow as a unit in a more relaxed environment compared to the grind of a WPIAL basketball season.
Young Township jumps on Murrysville in American Legion playoffs
July 8, 2021
Young Township struck for seven runs in the fourth inning, and then lightning struck.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Jeremiah Hasley, Pine-Richland
July 6, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Fox Chapel’s Zoe Skirboll competes with nation’s best swimmers at Olympic qualifiers
June 29, 2021
Zoe Skirboll went into this year’s Olympic swimming trials with the attitude of enjoying the moment and gaining experience for the future.
Pine-Richland’s Jeremiah Hasley commits to Duke
June 28, 2021
Like many local athletes, Jeremiah Hasley’s recruiting process started with phone calls and Zoom meetings with college coaches last year with campus visits restricted due to the covid-19 pandemic.
Quaker Valley 6th grader excels at Junior Olympics swim meet
June 27, 2021
At age 5, Amelia Suhayda started swimming just for fun.
Pine-Richland crew team closes season with strong results
June 20, 2021
The Pine-Richland crew team had to navigate plenty of obstacles that came with the covid-19 pandemic like mandated shut downs and having athletes train individually at home, but at the end of the year they finished with some strong results.
Pine-Richland softball program builds on playoff victory
June 13, 2021
With a 6-1 win over Mt. Lebanon in the quarterfinals, the Pine-Richland softball team scored a historic achievement.
After long wait, North Allegheny volleyball ready for shot at 3rd straight state title
June 10, 2021
North Allegheny boys volleyball coach Dan Schall described this season as “a journey without a road map.”
North Allegheny boys volleyball wins another Seneca Valley showdown, makes state finals
June 8, 2021
Before the PIAA tournament started, Michael Mosbacher and his North Allegheny boys volleyball teammates knew if they were going to play for a third consecutive state championship, they would likely have to beat Seneca Valley for a fourth time.
Pine-Richland teen Carson Verszyla goes viral with highlight-reel hockey goal
June 7, 2021
Carson Verszyla got an early birthday present Monday morning when he saw himself on “SportsCenter.”
Sewickley Academy breaks tie with 4 seconds left to top Mt. Lebanon, advance to PIAA girls lacrosse semis
June 5, 2021
Sewickley Academy led for only 4 seconds Saturday, but it was the last four.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse standouts play in national tournament
A quartet of Pine-Richland girls lacrosse players spent Memorial Day weekend playing alongside some of the best high school players in the country and came home with an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.
Rotelli’s WPIAL runner-up finish among several meet highlights for Pine-Richland track team
May 30, 2021
Because of her small stature, Gianna Rotelli feels she is overlooked sometimes when she enters track and field events.
Ligonier Valley’s Griffin throws 11th no-hitter, but Shenango prevails in Class 2A semifinals
May 27, 2021
Maddie Griffin threw her 11th no-hitter of the season Thursday, but it wasn’t enough to keep Shenango from making history.
Underclassmen gain valuable experience for Pine-Richland baseball
May 23, 2021
Coming into the season, Pine-Richland baseball had injuries to its top two starting pitchers in West Virginia recruit Tommy Beam and Gabe Mustovic and added a couple more to the injured list just a few games in with shortstop Kyle Kimoto and first baseman Chase Vrabel going down against Seneca Valley.
Franklin Regional-Mars game suspended when lights go out at North Allegheny
May 21, 2021
A power failure in the left field light tower at North Allegheny’s baseball field forced Friday’s Class 5A WPIAL quarterfinal between top-seeded Franklin Regional and No. 8 Mars to be suspended with the score tied 5-5 with two outs in the top of the fifth inning.
Kiefer’s clutch goals lift Franklin Regional over Shaler in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
May 17, 2021
Jack Kiefer never saw his golden goal hit the back of the net.
Racing each other lifts Pine-Richland’s Hunkele sisters to top performances
May 16, 2021
Angelina and Elizabeth Hunkele love to compete.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse leans on consistent defense, balanced attack
May 9, 2021
Members of the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team knew they had built something special during a seven-game winning streak in April and they wanted to prove it in their much anticipated showdown with Fox Chapel on May 4.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team battle-tested for postseason
Coming into this season Pine-Richland boys lacrosse coach Kevin Welty budgeted for adversity.
Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame honors athletes with luncheon
May 8, 2021
For the second consecutive year the Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame banquet had to be cancelled because of the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, but board members wanted to organize an event to honor local athletes for their accomplishments.
Pine-Richland softball looking for more consistency at the plate
May 2, 2021
As Pine-Richland softball geared up for the stretch run in the regular season coach Gary Shepard was looking for was consistency at the plate.
Indiana falls to West Chester East in Class A state hockey final
April 24, 2021
For two periods Indiana kept West Chester East’s powerful offense at bay and had the lead with 17 minutes to play.
Pine-Richland’s Rottinghaus sprinting to success in 400, relays
The Pine-Richland track and field coaches had a premonition that senior Ella Rottinghaus was going to set a new school record in the 400-meter run prior to the Rams’ April 14 meet with Seneca Valley, but she didn’t share the same belief.
Young Pine-Richland gymnast Lavezoli quickly developing into standout
A few years ago Chase Lavezoli taught himself how to do a front flip by using a trampoline.
Ace’s secret weapon helps Pine-Richland softball to signature early season win
April 17, 2021
Gabriella Aughton showed up to Pine-Richland’s game at Hempfield on April 9 with a secret weapon.
Pugh, Faber leading the way for Pine-Richland boys volleyball
April 10, 2021
When the 2020 spring sports season was canceled because of the covid-19 pandemic, it brought a sudden end to the careers of a dozen Pine-Richland boys volleyball players.
Sophomore McGuire off to impressive start for Pine-Richland baseball
Jacob McGuire walked off the mound after the final out of Pine-Richland’s 11-0 win in five innings in the season opener against North Catholic happy with his performance.
Multi-sport athletes bring spark to Gateway volleyball
April 4, 2021
Gateway boys volleyball coach Phil Randolph has plenty of fresh faces on his team this season who bring athleticism from playing other sports.
Intrigue surrounds 2021 PIHL Penguins Cup playoffs
After the 2020 playoffs were suspended and eventually canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, the PIHL is ready to crown Penguins Cup champions once again.
Pine-Richland track team boasts large crop of WPIAL, PIAA contenders
April 3, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys and girls track teams are looking to go the distance this spring.
Pine-Richland hockey team solidly in Class AAA mix
A glance at the PIHL Class AAA standings shows the field is wide open with the top five teams separated by four points.
Young Pine-Richland roster ready to contend during chaotic WPIAL lacrosse season
March 27, 2021
On paper, the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team is still the defending WPIAL Class AAA champion, but there’s been plenty of change in the two-year span since they last took the field.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse looking to ‘bounce back’ in ’21
Every year Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Brittany Adams asks the team’s seniors to come up with a motto for the season. For 2021, they chose “bounce back.”
Competition for lineup spots fierce on Latrobe softball team
March 26, 2021
Latrobe softball coach Bob Kovalcin has seven seniors on his roster, and during the preseason, he told each of them they had first crack at their position.
Latrobe baseball coming together as players find roles
A big part of Latrobe coach Matt Basciano’s message every year is playing team baseball.
Jake DiMichele carries OLSH past Portage into state championship game
March 23, 2021
Jake DiMichele can still remember the exact day OLSH was eliminated the last time they made the state semifinals.
Greensburg Salem baseball team sets sights on another playoff run
In the first week of practice, Greensburg Salem baseball coach Bill Wisniewski told his players to unwind, be kids and have fun in a return to normalcy after last season was wiped out because of the covid-19 pandemic.
Greensburg Salem softball has rare commodity in this unique season — experience
Alyssa Bates has waited nearly 16 months to fill out her first lineup card as the head coach of the Greensburg Salem softball team, so she’s more than ready to get the season going.
Pine-Richland softball gearing season toward section race
March 21, 2021
Pine-Richland softball coach Gary Shepard feels he has the right mix of returning players and newcomers to field a competitive team this spring.
Defending WPIAL champion Pine-Richland baseball team to start season shorthanded
When Pine-Richland takes the field this spring, it will be without a few key players at the start, but that isn’t slowing the Rams’ hunger to defend their WPIAL Class 6A title.
Brookville ousts WPIAL champion Ellwood City from PIAA playoffs
March 20, 2021
Jace Miner stole the ball on an inbounds play and scored on a layup with 10 seconds remaining, and in the blink of an eye Ellwood City’s magical run came to an end.
Neshannock girls fend off Windber, make PIAA Class 2A semifinals
March 19, 2021
Moments after coming out of the locker room after Friday night’s game, Neshannock girls basketball coach Luann Grybowski breathed a sigh of relief.
11th-seeded Ellwood City knocks off No. 1 South Allegheny in WPIAL championship shocker
March 15, 2021
Joe Roth described his feelings succinctly.
Pine-Richland swimmers look ahead to bright future after WPIAL performance
A trio of young Pine-Richland swimmers traveled to Upper St. Clair on March 7 to test themselves against the best in the WPIAL and came home with some solid results to cap off a year in which six new school records were set.
Balanced offense carries Pine-Richland boys on playoff run
During Pine-Richland’s boys basketball playoff run, multiple players saw their name with a large point total beside it on the stat sheet.
11th-seeded Ellwood City stuns Neshannock, makes 1st WPIAL final since 1986
March 11, 2021
From the opening tip, Ellwood City coach Steve Antuono Sr. paced the sidelines watching the game with intensity, while wearing his emotions on his sleeve.
Defending champion Mohawk puts down upstart Beaver Falls
March 10, 2021
All season, Mohawk coach Mike O’Lare has talked to his team about creating a new story to be remembered to go along with winning the school’s first WPIAL girls basketball title a year ago.
Second WPIAL wrestling title gives Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer reason to smile
March 6, 2021
In the middle of the second period of the WPIAL Class AAA 160-pound wrestling final, Cole Spencer took an accidental shot from Norwin’s Chase Kranitz and realized one of his teeth was broken.
5 Pine-Richland runners test themselves at indoor nationals
Five distance runners from Pine-Richland traveled to Virginia last month to test themselves against some of the best high school competition in the country and came home with solid results.
Leechburg rallies for double-overtime win over Eden Christian
March 5, 2021
In a double overtime thriller, No. 6 Leechburg upset No. 3 Eden Christian 45-40 in the WPIAL Class A quarterfinals Friday night at Sewickley Academy.
Sewickley Academy shuts down Greensburg Central Catholic
Sewickley Academy made 19 of 28 free throws and eventually pulled away for a 38-21 victory over Greensburg Central Catholic in the WPIAL Class 2A girls basketball quarterfinals Friday night.
Fox Chapel’s Manelis, North Allegheny’s Shi repeat as WPIAL diving champs
February 27, 2021
The 2021 WPIAL Class AAA diving championships were full of repeats.
Pine-Richland hockey team riding prolific offense
With the volatility that comes with playing during a pandemic, Pine-Richland hockey coach Jordan Yoklic told his players to embrace each opportunity and not take it for granted.
Pine-Richland boys basketball team jells in coach’s 1st season
The last time the WPIAL had an open basketball tournament in 1984 Bob Petcash was a senior at Ambridge and played for a Bridgers team that made the Class 4A final, where it lost to Farrell.
South Park’s O’Connor, North Catholic’s Foley capture WPIAL Class AA diving titles
February 26, 2021
Cole O’Connor saved his toughest dive for last and it paid off.
Spencer leads way for Pine-Richland wrestling team
February 20, 2021
Pine-Richland wrestling made some big strides during the team portion of the season, and now the hope is it has set it up for success in an expanded individual season.
New coach DeGregorio seeing good signs with Pine-Richland girls basketball team
When Kyle DeGregorio took over as coach of the Pine-Richland girls basketball team before this season, his first objective was establishing a culture.
After setting school record, Pine-Richland’s Allen turns focus toward WPIAL success
February 13, 2021
Delaney Allen was exhausted as she climbed out of the pool after swimming her hardest in the 50-yard freestyle on Jan. 28 against North Allegheny when she started hearing screams of joy coming from her teammates.
4 players from Pine-Richland state title football team accept walk-on offers
Pine-Richland football had four players accept preferred walk-on offers on Feb. 3, and each one has a unique story.
Mt. Pleasant girls hope to benefit from experience this season
December 3, 2020
At the high school level it’s a rarity for a team to have its entire roster back from the previous season, but it’s a welcomed reality for longtime Mt. Pleasant girls basketball coach Scott Giacobbi.
Mt. Pleasant boys basketball enters season under new leadership
T.J. Kravits had just finished his season coaching at Marion Center. Being a basketball fan, he looked at the schedule and decided to take a trip to Mt. Pleasant to see a game against Geibel.
Gateway hockey program focused on development
November 29, 2020
Gateway hockey coach Shawn Jesih sees a lot of potential in the freshmen and sophomores who make up the majority of the roster.
Girls basketball preview: Senior trio set to lead Franklin Regional into new section
November 25, 2020
When reflecting on last season, Franklin Regional girls basketball coach Anthony Kobus pointed out five losses in section play by seven points or less.
Boys basketball preview: Franklin Regional to rely on deep group of returning guards
On paper, the 2019-20 Franklin Regional boys basketball season looked like a tale of two halves with a 7-2 run down the stretch to get into the postseason after 5-9 start, but it was more of a yearlong journey of growing up.
Weather’s no problem for Mars boys soccer in PIAA semifinal victory
November 17, 2020
Mars boys soccer coach Chris Knauff said the ground was clear at his home five miles from the Mars Athletic Complex, so he was quite shocked to see a snow-covered field upon arrival.
Pine-Richland routs Peters Township, wins WPIAL championship in 5th classification
November 14, 2020
Pine-Richland already had WPIAL football titles in Class 2A, 3A, 4A and 6A, and after a dominant performance on Saturday, the Rams added 5A to the list.
Clutch goal from Jayden Sharpless lifts North Catholic past Avonworth in Class 2A title game
November 7, 2020
In the early portion of Saturday’s WPIAL Class 2A championship game, North Catholic standout junior Jayden Sharpless said she was a little too amped up when she fired a free kick well over the goal from 30 yards out.
Greensburg Central Catholic boys fight off Eden Christian upset bid in Class A quarterfinals
October 31, 2020
Ricco Ciccarelli could hear Greensburg Central Catholic coach Tyler Solis say, “I think you got it,” as his attempted cross kept curling closer and closer to the net.
North Catholic punishes Mt. Pleasant for mistakes in Class 2A matchup
October 30, 2020
As the clock was winding down late in the fourth quarter, Mt. Pleasant coach Jason Fazekas said to his assistants he felt like the score was a lot closer than the scoreboard indicated.
Forced into starring role, Brock Wilkins carries Kiski Area past Shaler
October 16, 2020
After two successful weeks of filling in for standout Kenny Blake at running back, Brock Wilkins was ready to go back to his role as a lead blocker Friday night. When Blake went down with an injury on his first carry, Wilkins was thrust right back into the spotlight.
North Hills pulls away from Kiski Area
October 2, 2020
In three plays, Kiski Area went from looking like it was going to be right back into its game with North Hills to having the momentum completely flipped.
Avonworth makes smooth transition to Class 3A, blanks Quaker Valley
September 11, 2020
Coming off a historic season that culminated in a WPIAL Class 2A championship, Avonworth had a lot of great players to replace, including a 2,500-yard passer and a 2,300-yard rusher, as it moved up to Class 3A this fall.
North Catholic girls fight off challenge from Central Valley in 4A second round
March 11, 2020
There’s an understanding among the North Catholic Trojanettes that they are going to get everyone’s best.
Freeport confident heading into softball season with small but talented roster
March 10, 2020
When Freeport softball takes the field this year, there’s a good chance there will only be 11 players on the team.
With Heilman on hill, Freeport has shot at another special season
Last season, Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr watched a team that consisted mainly of juniors grow up on the fly and exceed expectations.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Julia Cummings and Kiski Area’s Jack Blumer
Julia Cummings
Fox Chapel baseball optimistic despite heavy turnover from last season
March 9, 2020
Fox Chapel will have to replace 11 seniors, six of their starting nine and most of the pitching staff from a team that went 10-8 and made the WPIAL playoffs, but Foxes coach Jim Hastings has some pieces returning and others coming through the pipeline to help offset the losses.
Bigger roster gives new Fox Chapel softball coach Olbrich cause for optimism
During offseason training, first-year Fox Chapel softball coach Chris Olbrich kept seeing more and more girls show up to work out.
Kiski Area hockey continues remarkable turnaround
March 8, 2020
Kiski Area sophomore defenseman Aiden Sites said if he was told before the season the Cavaliers would be in the PIHL Class A semifinals he wouldn’t have believed it.
Playing without star center Michael Carmody, Mars falls short in PIAA 1st-round game
March 6, 2020
After his team lost in overtime, battling without standout senior Michael Carmody, who was serving a one-game suspension, Mars boys basketball coach Rob Carmody told his players he was obviously disappointed, but he was glad they lost on a play made by a “winning player.”
Norwin hockey focuses on positives after abrupt exit from playoffs
March 4, 2020
Norwin hockey’s season ended Tuesday night when the Knights fell 3-2 to Kiski Area in the first round of the PIHL Class A Penguins Cup playoffs.
Kiski Area edges Norwin to reach Penguins Cup semifinals
In one season, Kiski Area hockey has gone from a one-win team to being a victory away from playing for a Penguins Cup championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao
March 3, 2020
Johnny Crise
Kiski Area, Plum hockey teams surge into playoffs
March 1, 2020
A couple of weeks ago, Kiski Area and Plum completed two of the more remarkable rebounds in the PIHL.
Chartiers Valley defends WPIAL title, wins 55th consecutive game
February 29, 2020
Chartiers Valley girls basketball coach Tim McConnell said he told his younger sister, Trinity coach Kathy McConnell-Miller, that the only good thing about facing each other in a WPIAL final was that a McConnell was guaranteed to win.
Led by singles champ Small, Plum bowling team has postseason to remember
February 28, 2020
Plum bowling coach Darryl Pilyih said coaching senior standout Shannon Small has become a pretty easy task because she rarely makes a mistake.
Shutdown defenses to meet when North Allegheny, Bethel Park tangle for girls 6A title
When Bethel Park and North Allegheny take the floor at Petersen Events Center on Saturday for the Class 6A girls basketball championship, expect a defensive chess match to unfold.
Chartiers Valley uses bulletin-board material to top TJ, return to Class 5A finals
February 26, 2020
Moments after Chartiers Valley finished off a 65-43 win over Thomas Jefferson in the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals Wednesday night at Mt. Lebanon, Colts coach Tim McConnell offered an open dinner invitation to who ever made shirts for the Jaguars that read, “3.1 doesn’t equal 4.4.”
North Allegheny girls shut down Upper St. Clair, get back to WPIAL Class 6A finals
February 25, 2020
On the bus ride to North Hills, members of the North Allegheny girls basketball team chatted back and forth about what their keys were going to be defensively.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Shannon Small and Korry Myers
Shannon Small
Belle Vernon boys basketball upsets Quaker Valley, clinches PIAA spot
February 22, 2020
Listed at 5-foot-9, Devin Whitlock was the shortest player on the floor in Saturday’s game between Quaker Valley and Belle Vernon, but what he lacks in size he makes up for in many other areas.
Brayden Reynolds’ clutch shot sparks Chartiers Valley past Shaler
February 21, 2020
Chartiers Valley coach Brandon Sensor thought Shaler did a pretty good job on his standout guard Brayden Reynolds through the first three quarters of Friday’s WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal game.
Penn-Trafford gymnast Adamik balances fun, competition at high school level
A couple of years ago, Lacey Adamik gave up the everyday grind of training for competitive USA gymnastics, but as time went on, she started to miss the sport.
Elliott handles pressure, shoots Bishop Canevin boys past Union
February 20, 2020
Dom Elliott was honest about what was going through his mind in as he toed the line for two foul shots with five seconds remaining and Bishop Canevin trailing by one.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Samantha Coleman and A.J. Corrado
February 18, 2020
Samantha Coleman
After scholarship from Hines Ward, Valley’s Guzzo to be featured in book
February 16, 2020
Greg Guzzo was checking his email randomly last year when he saw a message titled “Positive Athlete.”
Pine-Richland’s Alexander, Thomas Jefferson’s Kameg big winners at WPIAL gymnastics meet
February 15, 2020
Pine-Richland’s Samantha Alexander went into WPIAL individual gymnastics championships wanting to stay on her feet.
Q&A with Plum’s Connor Moss
February 14, 2020
Plum’s Connor Moss eclipsed 1,000 career points Feb. 5 after scoring 25 in a 52-51 nonconference win over Baldwin. Moss joins another junior, the girls team’s Kennedie Montue, in hitting the milestone. Moss scored more than 20 points 13 times this season and had more than 30 points four times.
Iron sharpens iron for Franklin Regional state title hopefuls Dibert, Solomon
At every practice in the Franklin Regional wrestling room, Finn Solomon and Carter Dibert are paired. When they wrestle, it typically becomes a spectacle.
Burrell gymnastics team beaming at chance to compete at WPIAL championships
February 13, 2020
For a long time, Burrell has been represented at the WPIAL individual gymnastics championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Sarah Sawhook and Leechburg’s Dylan Cook
February 11, 2020
Sarah Sawhook
Fox Chapel hockey hopes to ride momentum into postseason
February 9, 2020
In 20 years of being involved in hockey, Fox Chapel coach Cam Raidna never experienced anything like what his team pulled off Thursday night against Kiski Area.
Recruiting interest ramping up for Plum lineman Evan Azzara
February 7, 2020
Plum junior Evan Azzara has visited almost every Mid-American Conference school in Ohio, but the one he went to the most has been Miami (Ohio).
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Madilyn Boyer, Burrell’s Ian Oswalt
February 4, 2020
Madilyn Boyer
Knoch girls finally slay rival Freeport
February 3, 2020
Moments after Lauren Cihonski hit a game-winning basket with four seconds remaining to help Knoch beat Freeport 53-52, the magnitude of what transpired hit her.
Plum hockey gets healthy in time for PIHL playoffs push
January 31, 2020
Every hockey team deals with bumps and bruises, but, in January, Plum could have used a M.A.S.H. unit.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athetes of the Week: Plum’s Kennedie Montue, Leechburg’s Jake Blumer
January 28, 2020
Kennedie Montue
No. 1 North Catholic fights off serious challenge from Freeport
January 27, 2020
Coming into Monday’s game, North Catholic girls basketball had won 54 section games in a row — all but one of them by double digits — so when Freeport tied the game with five minutes remaining, it presented a situation that hadn’t come up in a while.
Thomas Jefferson’s Pazo, North Catholic’s Shaffer lift Team Blue to PIHL Class A All-Star Game win
January 26, 2020
Thomas Jefferson junior Eddie Pazo and North Catholic junior Quinten Shaffer had a hat trick each to lead Team Blue to a 9-5 win over Team Gold in the PIHL Class A All-Star Game Sunday at RMU Island Sports Center.
Ringgold’s Budjos nets hat trick to lead Team Blue to victory in PIHL Class B All-Star Game
Typically going on the penalty kill late in a game down by two goals is not a successful strategy, but in the PIHL Class B All-Star Game, Team Blue made being down a player work in a major way.
Surging Norwin girls basketball team finds right balance
January 24, 2020
The Norwin girls basketball team was the top scoring offense in WPIAL Class 6A through 14 games, and the Knights ranked second in scoring average against.
Gateway girls grind out win over Armstrong
January 23, 2020
Armstrong girls basketball coach Kirk Lorigan joked that he started looking in the stands for James Naismith, because it felt like the cylinder hoops at Gateway’s gymnasium were replaced with peach baskets.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Maddie Clark, Highlands’ Jrake Burford
January 21, 2020
Maddie Clark
Kiski Area goalie Petika leads A-K Valley contingent in PIHL All-Star games
January 19, 2020
Kiski Area goalie Eric Petika got a nice wakeup call from his dad the morning after the PIHL All-Star teams were released a couple of weeks ago.
Steel Valley’s Camden Polak likes making noise in the library
January 15, 2020
Many high school students go to the library to check out a book for their next homework assignment, but Steel Valley senior Camden Polak goes there for a different reason.
Jeannette puts together complete effort in routing Serra Catholic
January 14, 2020
Even though Jeannette coach Adrian Batts was hoarse from imploring his team all game, it wasn’t going to stop him from talking about the enjoyment he got from watching his team execute Tuesday night.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Riverview’s Sydney McDonough, Knoch’s Ryan Lang
Sydney McDonough
Burrell standout Stewart surprises with return to varsity hockey team
January 12, 2020
After spending some time in the junior hockey ranks this season, Tyler Stewart made a surprise return to the ice for Burrell hockey last Monday.
Plum spirit squad shows competitive drive
Every Saturday in the fall, the Plum competitive spirit team met in the gym for a 7 a.m. practice after cheering the night before at football games with a determination to get stronger.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Trinity Lockwood-Morris and Plum’s Connor Moss
January 7, 2020
Trinity Lockwood-Morris
Blackhawk defense shuts down Central Valley in Class 4A showdown
January 6, 2020
Blackhawk girls basketball coach Steve Lodovico loves to run a press and trap defense with the goal of creating turnovers and racking up points off them. Facing a familiar foe in Central Valley on the road, he decided to adjust the gameplan.
Fox Chapel hockey hopes experience in close games helps with playoff push
January 5, 2020
The Fox Chapel hockey team has played its share of close games this season.
Plum girls improving in quest for Section 2 championship
January 4, 2020
About an hour removed from a 41-31 victory over Armstrong on Thursday, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier provided a list of reasons it was their best performance to date.
Plum bowler Shannon Small sets big goals
Nesbit’s Lanes has pretty much become a second home for Shannon Small.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, St. Joseph’s Andrew Sullivan
December 31, 2019
Andrew Sullivan
New-look Burrell hockey team finds stability
December 29, 2019
Entering the season, perhaps no team in the PIHL lost more key pieces than Burrell.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Knoch’s Nevaeh Ewing, Apollo-Ridge’s Keighton Reese
December 24, 2019
Nevaeh Ewing
‘Building year’ for youthful Freeport hockey
December 22, 2019
Jack Mason can still remember the nervousness he felt playing varsity hockey as a freshman.
Plum boys basketball seeks secret to closing out games
December 20, 2019
First-year Plum boys basketball coach Mark Marino has been happy with the buy-in level from his players in the early part of the season.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Morgan Gamble and Demitri Fritch
December 17, 2019
Demitri
Plum in prime position midway through hockey season
December 15, 2019
As Plum hockey reached the midpoint of the PIHL Class AA season, it found itself tied atop the Northeast Division standings with Armstrong with a pair of games in hand.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Valley’s Tori Johnson, Fox Chapel’s Arnold Vento
December 10, 2019
Tori Johnson
Phipps, Norwin wrestling ready to take next step
December 7, 2019
Kurtis Phipps showed his toughness by battling through a foot injury in last year’s PIAA Class AAA championship match. He suffered the injury a day earlier in his semifinal win.
Franklin Regional wrestlers look to add to program’s Hershey history
Franklin Regional coach Matt Lebe had to stop for a moment and count back through the years to figure out how many seasons in a row the Panthers have had a representative in the PIAA wrestling finals.
Central Valley dominates Bald Eagle Area to earn trip to Hershey
November 29, 2019
One thing in particular that stands out from the many things that Central Valley coach Mark Lyons loves about his football team is that they enjoy playing together and not one player believes he is above another.
With three top starters returning, Plum girls planning banner season
November 28, 2019
In his opening remarks at the first practice of the season, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier challenged his team.
Unusual Plum boys roster packed with senior leadership but lacking experience
With plenty of seniors on the roster, it might look like the Plum boys basketball team has a lot of experience. In reality, almost everyone will be new to varsity this winter.
Kiski Area girls hope experience, work ethic lead to growth
November 25, 2019
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon couldn’t have been happier with the work his group put into its offseason.
Kiski Area boys plan to pick up the pace
Entering year two of his tenure at Kiski Area, Will Saunders is ready to let his team run.
Successful season falls short of ultimate goal for Penn-Trafford
November 23, 2019
The Penn-Trafford football team has high standards, and with that comes championship aspirations.
Fox Chapel boys basketball team rallies around defense
November 22, 2019
At the end of practice, most teams come together in a circle, put their hands in and say one, two, three and then their team name.
New coach works to instill confidence in talented Fox Chapel girls roster
When Marty Matvey arrived to take over the Fox Chapel girls basketball program this summer, he quickly realized there was talent from top to bottom in the lineup.
Rebuilding plan has Cheswick Christian boys ready to contend again
November 20, 2019
When 6-foot-10 Ben Pollock finished his Cheswick Christian Academy boys basketball career in 2016-17 after rewriting much of the school’s record book, longtime Chargers coach Todd Rosio had a three-year plan to build the team back up to contending status.
Cheswick Christian girls dedicate season to former coach in need of heart transplant
Jacque Willis thought she might become a basketball coach someday, but she never expected it to be just a few months after she graduated college.
Central Valley stops Aliquippa in overtime in tense WPIAL title game
November 16, 2019
On the first play of overtime, Michael Barbuto was pushing toward the goal line when he felt something strange happen.
Washington leans on Zahmere Robinson to stop upset-minded Brentwood
November 15, 2019
After Washington’s Zahmere Robinson fumbled for the first time this year in a third quarter that saw Brentwood surging, he went to the sidelines and told his teammates he’d make up for it.
Franklin Regional not satisfied with first-round playoff exit
There wasn’t another team in the WPIAL that played a schedule like Franklin Regional did this season.
North Catholic volleyball gets vengeance, defeats Freeport in PIAAs
November 12, 2019
The day after North Catholic girls volleyball lost to Freeport in the WPIAL Class AA finals by surrendering a 2-0 lead, coach Amanda Fetter told her players they deserved to have a banner hanging in the gymnasium, and the only one left to get was a PIAA banner.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Knoch’s Skylar Burkett and Fox Chapel’s Colby Zmenkowski
Skylar Burkett
Playing through injuries solidified Knoch volleyball team’s depth
November 11, 2019
At practice Monday, Knoch girls volleyball players sat on the gym floor in a circle around coach Diane Geist as they prepared for their state semifinal opponent, District 3 champion Palmyra.
Mars girls soccer team rolls past West Allegheny in PIAA playoffs
November 9, 2019
The Mars girls soccer team has been dominant against WPIAL opponents all season, and in its final meeting against a district foe this season, it wasted little time establishing the tone.
Pine-Richland easily handles North Allegheny on way to WPIAL final
November 8, 2019
As Pine-Richland coach Eric Kasperowicz was giving his postgame speech with his players surrounding him on a knee, the assistant coaches started tossing Heinz ketchup packets into the huddle.
Knoch volleyball back to full strength in first-round PIAA win over South Fayette
November 5, 2019
The last time Kennedy Christy was in the Shaler gym, she was injured on the final night of the regular season in a nonsection match against the Titans and it caused her to miss Knoch’s entire WPIAL playoff run.
Freeport volleyball shakes off ‘WPIAL hangover,’ cruises in first-round PIAA match
After having to come back from two-set deficits to win in the WPIAL semifinals and finals last week,the Freeport girls volleyball team had a much less stressful opening to the state playoffs.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Freeport’s Isabella Russo, Riverview’s Mason Ochs
Isabella Russo
Knoch girls volleyball beats Thomas Jefferson for 3rd straight WPIAL title
November 2, 2019
In its playoff run, Knoch girls volleyball proved how strong a team it is by grinding out wins without standout hitters Kennedy Christy and Hannah Rowe.
Plum soccer reached goals despite dramatic playoff loss
November 1, 2019
If someone had told Plum boys soccer coach Raf Kolankowski before the season that his team would have been leading in a WPIAL Class AAAA semifinal with five-plus minutes remaining, he would’ve taken it in a heartbeat.
Joey Fonagy’s overtime goal lifts Canon-McMillan to WPIAL boys soccer title
October 31, 2019
The Big Macs had one more comeback in them and it was one that they’ll remember for a long time.
AK Valley high school athletes of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger and Deer Lakes’ Michael Sullivan
October 29, 2019
Kaitlyn Killinger
Hat trick lifts Deer Lakes boys soccer past South Park in Class AA semis
October 26, 2019
Deer Lakes boys soccer has used “unfinished business” as its mantra after narrow misses on the road to a WPIAL championship appearance the last few years.
Canon-McMillan boys score 2 late goals, edge Plum in Class AAAA semis
A few minutes after the Plum boys soccer team’s magical season ended Saturday with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss in the WPIAL Class AAAA semifinals that saw Canon-McMillan score twice in the final six minutes, Mustangs coach Raf Kolankowski used the moment as a teaching tool.
Westmoreland girls soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 24, 2019
October 23, 2019
Class AAAA
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Burrell’s Sara Novak and Springdale’s Mike Mitchell
October 22, 2019
Sara Novak
Senior-led Leechburg girls volleyball turns focus to playoffs
October 20, 2019
The best word to describe Leechburg girls volleyball in matches against the two teams in front of them in the Section 4-A standings is “close.”
Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer shakes off slow start, advances in playoffs
October 19, 2019
For Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer coach Tyler Solis, Saturday’s first-round playoff game had several elements that his team needed to get through.
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio, who has Down syndrome, scores touchdown on senior night
October 18, 2019
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio had a senior night to remember on Friday.
Neshannock shuts down Western Beaver, secures playoff berth
There were a lot of playoff scenarios in a crowded Midwestern Athletic Conference entering Friday night, but the easiest way for Neshannock to secure a postseason berth was to go out and get a win.
With Mohrbacher sisters filling the net, Freedom girls soccer doesn’t skip a beat
October 17, 2019
Freedom girls soccer has a bit of a different look from the 2018 WPIAL championship team after the graduation of some key seniors and standout Jayden Sharpless transferring to North Catholic, but the results have been the same.
Knoch girls volleyball team doesn’t let success become distraction
October 13, 2019
The last few seasons for the Knoch girls volleyball team has been a special ride, with two WPIAL titles and a PIAA title. So as the postseason approaches, it is natural for the seniors to dream of finishing their careers with winning a third district title.
Hughes-Sciarro connection leads Riverside past rival Ellwood City
October 11, 2019
Riverside quarterback Ben Hughes and wide receiver Nathan Sciarro started working on their connection in May, going down to the football field after school and running routes with the goal of getting better timing.
Plum boys soccer team ready to make history
Plum boys soccer captains Cole Kelly, Luke Gildea and Tyler Kolankowski are well versed in the history of the program.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Maddie Ancosky, Scott Bitar
October 8, 2019
Maddie Ancosky
Kiski Area volleyball making steady climb in Section 1-AAA
October 6, 2019
The day before Thursday’s crucial Section 1-AAA match with Armstrong, Kiski Area libero Rebekah Fowler didn’t want to give too much away.
Plum’s captains bringing optimism back to ice
October 4, 2019
Prior to the season, Plum hockey coach Phil Mains told his leadership group of captain Dan Baranowski and alternate captains Logan Schlegel and Nic Pushic that the team would go as they go.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Will Meyer, Kiski Area’s Sidney Palla
October 1, 2019
Will Meyer
Deer Lakes volleyball encouraged by performance in tough tests
September 29, 2019
Deer Lakes girls volleyball coach Terry Gaston always tells his team if it can get 20 points in a set against an opponent, it can win.
QB Jay Pearson keeps his word, helps OLSH torch Laurel
September 27, 2019
Prior to Friday’s game with Laurel, Jay Pearson told OLSH coach Dan Bradley that he was going to score on the first play.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Kenzie Kerkan, Freeport’s Isaac Wetzel
September 24, 2019
Kenzie Kerkan
Freeport volleyball seniors determined to return to top
September 22, 2019
Freeport setter Madeline Clark can still recall the feeling of walking off the floor after last year’s WPIAL semifinal loss to Frazier that ended the Yellowjackets’ 3-year run of making the district title game.
Plum girls soccer uses team-first approach to climb standings
September 20, 2019
From the first meeting with his players, first-year Plum girls soccer coach Jamie Stewart’s message has been “team first.”
AK Valley H.S. Athletes of the Week: Burrell’s Allie Vescio and Leechburg’s Cole Villa
September 17, 2019
Allie Vescio
Fox Chapel girls volleyball hopes aggressive approach works
September 15, 2019
When describing how aggressive to be when spiking a volleyball, Fox Chapel coach Phil O’Keeffe likes to use a baseball analogy.
Plum boys golfers focus on shaving strokes
September 13, 2019
It’s been a tough season in the win-loss department for the Plum boys golf team, going up against section rivals and perennial powers Fox Chapel, Central Catholic and Franklin Regional. In golf, though, success can be measured in different ways.
A-K Valley H.S. athletes of the week: Fox Chapel’s Lucy Ream and Plum’s Darius Flowers
September 10, 2019
Lucy Ream
Percise Colon scores clutch touchdown to carry NA past Central Catholic
September 6, 2019
North Allegheny coach Art Walker earned his 200th win Friday night, but he won’t remember the game, because of the milestone number.Junior duo goes low for Franklin Regional golf team
Franklin Regional’s Chuck Tragesser and Michael Wareham spend a lot of their free time playing golf together at Willowbrook Country Club in Apollo. On match days, they are paired.
Franklin Regional girls volleyball looks to build off historic 2018 season
August 30, 2019
The Franklin Regional girls volleyball team was one of the feel-good stories of the WPIAL last season.
Competition to bring out best in Knoch boys soccer
August 24, 2019
When Knoch boys soccer coach Malcolm Cook looked back at last season, the overarching theme was that there were too many holes in the lineup to find the right combination to be competitive.
Small roster not dimming enthusiasm for Knoch girls soccer
Knoch girls soccer already was low on players, but three season-ending injuries before the first practice made the roster even thinner.
Plum gains momentum with Week Zero win over Highlands
August 23, 2019
Plum went into its Week Zero matchup at Highlands hoping to take some positive momentum into Class 5A Foothills Conference play and the Mustangs got it in all three phases of the game.
Freeport boys soccer confident it can compete in tough section
August 21, 2019
There have been plenty of good on-field moments the last few years for Freeport boys soccer, but one thing that always has stuck out for coach Dave Teorsky didn’t happen in a game.
Sidney Shemanski hopes to guide young Freeport girls soccer to section title
Sidney Shemanski will begin the first leg of the three-part finale to her Freeport athletic career this fall with the girls soccer team.
South Park ready to rebound with experienced group
August 18, 2019
South Park football coach Marty Rieck isn’t one to make excuses for shortcomings, but the fact of the matter is that his team was young last season.
Deer Lakes adopts ‘why not us?’ mantra in quest for playoff berth
Tim Burk is a Deer Lakes guy through and through, so he took great pride in watching the Lancers’ boys soccer team make a run to the state championship game and the boys basketball team win the first PIAA playoff game in school history and advance to the quarterfinals.
After near misses, North Catholic focused reaching championship game
When you come as close to playing for a championship as North Catholic football has only to see it slip away, it’s hard not to look back at the small moments that swayed the game.
Armstrong looks to gain experience early on with young roster
August 16, 2019
It took only two weeks for Frank Fabian to realize he made a mistake after resigning as Armstrong’s coach.
Always one to lighten mood, Deer Lakes’ Hollibaugh got lighter to improve his play
August 12, 2019
Deer Lakes football coach Tim Burk is never exactly sure what his tight end Jack Hollibaugh is going to say when he enters the locker room, but he knows it likely will be something funny.
Plum’s Kelly balances sports, music as key cog on soccer team
August 9, 2019
Cole Kelly does his best to split his time for his two passions — soccer and music — because he loves them equally.
Youth camp helps fund Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team
July 17, 2019
Last week, the Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team held its fifth annual youth skills camp, which has become a benefit not only for the future of the program, but the present, as well.
Plum’s Linhart displays virtues of multisport athletes
June 8, 2019
The three-sport athlete has become a rare breed with many specializing in one sport to try to make it to college, but Hunter Linhart saw the benefits of diversifying.
Brennan powers Serra Catholic past Neshannock in PIAA quarterfinals
June 6, 2019
With teams intentionally walking standout catcher Mark Black regularly in the playoffs, Serra Catholic baseball coach Brian Dzurenda decided to move him from third in the order to the leadoff spot, which put Pat Brennan in Black’s old spot.
Franklin Regional ‘revved up’ for PIAA quarterfinal matchup
June 5, 2019
Michael Klingensmith led off first base after drawing a walk in the top of the first inning in Monday’s PIAA first- round game when Cathedral Prep pitcher Colin Kelly made a pick-off throw to first.
Franklin Regional baseball advances with win over Cathedral Prep
June 3, 2019
It often has been said good things come to those who wait, and Franklin Regional baseball proved that in a couple of ways Monday.
With school out, Leechburg turns complete focus on PIAA softball playoffs
June 1, 2019
Kristen Knapp, Aubry Skeel and Kiera Jones left Leechburg on Thursday night as graduates.
Boehme hits for cycle as Seton LaSalle takes down Serra Catholic in WPIAL Class 2A final
May 29, 2019
Seton LaSalle first baseman Dan Boehme knew he had a good day, but he was unaware it was a historic one until he got back into the dugout after crushing a two-run homer over the left field fence.
Westmoreland baseball/softball preview capsules: Games of Tuesday, May 28
May 27, 2019
Tuesday’s games
Leechburg softball focused on consolation prize
May 26, 2019
Leechburg softball coach Debbi Young has found it can be tough at times to get a team energized for a consolation game after a difficult loss in the semifinals, but she doesn’t foresee that being a problem with her current group.
WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final suspended by inclement weather
May 23, 2019
With the score tied 11-11 in the final minute of the WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final between Upper St. Clair and Shady Side Academy, Mother Nature decided to put a halt on the night and add some suspense.
Oakland Catholic captures WPIAL Class AA girls lacrosse title
Natalie Cyterski was bloodied, battered and exhausted, but she wasn’t going to be denied.
Maley’s walk-off single lifts No. 2 Pine-Richland past Norwin in WPIAL quarterfinals
May 21, 2019
Jake Maley hit a walk-off single in the bottom of the sixth inning to propel No. 2 Pine-Richland to a 2-1 victory over No. 7 Norwin in a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal baseball game Tuesday night at Upper St. Clair’s Boyce-Mayview Park.
Westmoreland H.S. baseball capsules for games of Monday, May 20, 2019
May 19, 2019
WPIAL baseball playoffs
Kiski Valley rugby teams advance to state championship games
May 18, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby advanced to the Rugby PA Club Division II championship game for the second consecutive season with a 32-5 win over North Penn on Saturday at Penn State Berks.
Mars baseball shuts out Fox Chapel in 1st round
May 16, 2019
Fox Chapel coach Jim Hastings summed up how things went for his team Thursday with five words.
Kiski Valley rugby teams vying for state championships
May 13, 2019
In the last five years, Kiski Valley rugby has built its program to be on par with some of best in the state and last week reflected that when the girls and boys teams were awarded top seeds in their respective brackets.
Plum softball not caught up in numbers game
May 10, 2019
Nearly half of the players in Plum softball’s lineup have batting averages at .400 or above, but none of them know it.
Kiski Valley girls rugby team hoping for breakthrough
April 27, 2019
After three years of seeing the Kiski Valley girls rugby team finish as the state runner-up, Rilee Roach is ready to break through.
All systems rolling for Franklin Regional baseball
April 26, 2019
Franklin Regional baseball coach Bobby Sadler laughed and then paused for a few seconds when deciding if pitching or hitting was going better for his team.
Tough nonsection slate paying off for Greensburg Central Catholic baseball
April 23, 2019
Going into the season with seven new starters, Greensburg Central Catholic baseball coach Dennis Reist beefed up the schedule with an early run of difficult nonsection opponents and hoped Mother Nature would cooperate.
Shorthanded Penn-Trafford track teams eye individual success
April 5, 2019
For the second year in a row the Penn-Trafford boys and girls track teams have small rosters, but that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of talent.
Penn-Trafford boys volleyball aims for another section title
March 29, 2019
The Penn-Trafford boys volleyball team jumped right into the thick of an intense battle in its season opener Tuesday night, and that was exactly what Warriors coach Jim Schall wanted to see to get a better handle on his team.
Kiski Valley rugby gets boost from Buckheads transfers
March 28, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby coach Seth Erwin was already excited about the group he had returning from a team that was the state runner-up last year, and then he received some news in the offseason that made his roster even stronger.
New-look Deer Lakes boys volleyball team looks to maintain high standard of success
March 25, 2019
Deer Lakes boys volleyball coach Brady Schuller said he had a couple of curveballs thrown his way last year with some injuries to key players in a season that ended one win short of a second consecutive PIAA playoff berth.
La Salle takes down North Allegheny in Class AAA Pennsylvania Cup championship
March 23, 2019
North Allegheny rolled into the second intermission break on the back of two late goals that got the Tigers tied with La Salle and looked to continue the momentum when they received a power play early in the third.
Freeport’s Brown follows in mother’s footsteps with selection to Cager Classic
March 22, 2019
Jalen Brown paused a moment before describing the impact his mother, Eve VanDyke, has had on his life and his basketball career.
Freshmen, sophomores to make quick impact for Springdale softball team
March 19, 2019
Springdale softball coach Anthony Pototo pointed to a few factors that went against his team last season: poor weather, a lack of pitching depth and a young team.
Springdale baseball to lean on young lineup during rebuilding season
After each practice, Springdale baseball coach Brett Burger tells his team to “be better tomorrow than they were today.”
Cook, Ringgold edge No. 1 Burrell to claim PIHL Division II championship
March 18, 2019
With the score tied in the third period, Burrell had the ice tilted in its favor and fired a bunch of shots on goal, but Ringgold goalie Evan Cook answered each time.
Penn-Trafford baseball sets sights on winning section championship
There isn’t any question that Penn-Trafford baseball lost some talented players to graduation with all five departed seniors going on to play in college.
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA finals preview: Peters Township vs. North Allegheny
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA Championship
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A finals preview: Montour vs. South Fayette
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A championship
Penn-Trafford softball prepares for tough section slate in Class 5A
When new alignments came out, Penn-Trafford softball coach Denny Little looked at who was going to be in the Warriors’ section and came to a quick conclusion.
PIHL playoff capsule: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair
March 17, 2019
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AA Championship
Tshiebwe, Kennedy Catholic use 2nd-half surge to oust Pine-Richland in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2019
For a half, Pine-Richland controlled the pace with a slow down offense and shot well enough from beyond the arc to go into halftime down only five to Class 6A’s No. 1 team, Kennedy Catholic.
PIHL Class AA Penguins Cup semifinals preview capsules
March 12, 2019
Class AA semifinals
Gateway’s Whiteside, Hanisak gain experience at WPIAL championships
March 8, 2019
Gateway coach Ryan Sula saw improvement from Evan Whiteside in every area of his wrestling, but the one thing that stood out the most was the growing confidence in his 113-pound junior.
Plum’s Citrano, Stecik cap season at WPIAL wrestling championships
As a freshman this year, Plum’s Vinny Citrano believed in himself every time he stepped on a mat, and it showed in his results. But before his first match at the WPIAL individual championships Feb. 28, the magnitude of the event set in.
Stewart’s 7 points lead Burrell to PIHL Division II 1st-round victory over Trinity
March 4, 2019
After Tyler Stewart skated around three Trinity players before depositing the puck into the back of the net for his fifth goal of the game midway through the third period, Burrell hockey coach Max Rickard said he looked at one of his assistant coaches and just shook his head.
Chartiers Valley’s McConnells combine for another WPIAL title — this time girls
March 2, 2019
Tim McConnell thought back to eight years ago when he said someone made a comment to him that one day he’d coach his daughter, Megan.
Spirnak lifts No. 5 Elizabeth Forward past upset-minded Quaker Valley in quarterfinals
February 21, 2019
With Quaker Valley pushing Elizabeth Forward to the edge late in the fourth quarter, Bri Spirnak did what she had been doing all game: She stayed tough and found a way to score.
Knoch displays versatility, rolls past South Park in 1st round
February 20, 2019
Knoch has displayed an ability and willingness to get out and run the floor a little more than it has in the past, and that continued in a big way in the playoffs Wednesday night.
Westmoreland basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games
February 15, 2019
Tuesday’s games
TJ’s Galioto, Moon’s Hoff headline WPIAL gymnast champs
Thomas Jefferson gymnast Natalie Galioto and her coaches did some quick calculations after she got finished with her final event, and the math showed she had put together her highest score all season.
South Side girls use 3rd-quarter surge to take down Riverview in 1st round
February 14, 2019
Riverview did pretty much everything a lower-seeded team would want to do in the first half.
Pine-Richland teams turn in playoff seasons in 4 spring sports
May 15, 2022
Four Pine-Richland spring sports teams earned spots in the WPIAL playoffs.
Pine-Richland grad Johnson leads Kent State batters
Josh Johnson sticks to the same regimen before every game.
After slow start, Pine-Richland boys lacrosse gaining ground
May 8, 2022
The Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team installed new offensive and defensive philosophies this season and did so against an ambitious early season schedule.
Breakthrough season nets share of section title for Pine-Richland baseball
Prior to a high-stakes game against North Allegheny on May 4, Pine-Richland baseball coach Kurt Wolfe told his team there would be a playoff-type feel.
Pine-Richland notebook: Junior among top 1,600 runners in WPIAL
May 1, 2022
The Butler Invitational is the largest regular season track meet in the district and is often a good judge of who will be a threat at the WPIAL championships.
Clutch efforts in close games help Pine-Richland softball to 5-1 start
April 23, 2022
Natalie Zentz and Alexia Brown both pointed to the bond within the Pine-Richland softball team as one of the factors to their early season success.
Pine-Richland baseball team builds confidence after sweeping Seneca Valley
Pine-Richland baseball has a bunch of underclassmen in the lineup, but the Rams also have a lot of fight.
Pine-Richland’s Reid Duncan ready to make jump to high-level ultimate with Pittsburgh Thunderbirds
April 17, 2022
About a month ago Reid Duncan found out that he had made the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds roster, which was a dream come true for the ultimate disc player, but he had to keep it a secret.
Pine-Richland track and field team off to strong start
Through wind, rain, sleet, snow and cold temperatures, Pine-Richland track and field has powered through the dreadful early spring weather.
Challenges aplenty for Pine-Richland boys tennis team
April 10, 2022
A brief summary of the Pine-Richland boys tennis team’s season so far is that it has been a challenge.
New coach Hodowanec hopes to continue success with Pine-Richland girls lacrosse
Alex Hodowanec was close to applying as an assistant for the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team last season but ended up taking a job coaching club volleyball.
Pine-Richland notebook: Brandon Saad finding good fit in St. Louis
April 3, 2022
Former Pine-Richland standout Brandon Saad signed a five-year, $22.5 million dollar contract with the St. Louis Blues over the summer and has immediately found his new surroundings to his liking.
Seamless coaching transition for Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team
Dave Offner was an assistant coach for the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team for six years, so moving to the head coaching position in 2022 has been fairly seamless.
Chris Rotelli takes over Pine-Richland boys volleyball program
March 27, 2022
Chris Rotelli has been coaching for 25 years and in previous spots he’s had to build a program from the ground up.
Pine-Richland notebook: Fourth grade girls basketball team wins state title
The fourth-grade Pine-Richland girls basketball team is a state champion.
Valley softball team wants to build on playoff berth
March 24, 2022
Without a senior on the roster, Valley softball managed to break into the playoffs last year for the first time since 2012.
Valley baseball team confident it can compete for section title
Valley baseball coach Jim Basilone expects the Section 3-3A race to be exciting, and he is confident his team will be among those competing for the title.
New coach set to lead Pine-Richland softball team
March 20, 2022
Sam Hartsberg has coached travel softball for close to a decade and always had an interest in coaching at the high school level. But first he wanted to watch his daughter, Leah, play at Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland baseball team remains young but expects to compete
A rash of injuries to a large senior class last year contributed to a rare playoff absence for the Pine-Richland baseball team.
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan captures state bowling title
March 18, 2022
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan found a groove and rolled to a state title Friday.
With solid underclassmen group, Kiski Area baseball team builds toward future
March 17, 2022
When Aaron Albert started coaching at Beaver six years ago, he had a lineup featuring eight sophomores.
‘Good nucleus’ to keep Kiski Area softball team competitive in tough section
John Kinnamon led Apollo-Ridge softball to four consecutive WPIAL playoff appearances, but this year he moved up the Kiskiminetas River a few miles to coach Kiski Area.
Freeport softball team has designs on keeping up its playoff streak
March 15, 2022
Freeport softball has been in the playoffs 12 consecutive times, and with an experienced core returning along with younger talent, it will look to continue the streak.
After rebuilding year, Freeport baseball ready to contend again
Freeport baseball started from scratch last year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Girls youth basketball teams make state tournament
March 13, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland girls youth basketball teams will have a chance to take on some of the top competition in the state.
Captain checks all the boxes for Pine-Richland hockey team
Tales of hockey players and their superstitions have been told since skates first hit ice, but Pine-Richland captain Alex Erlain wants nothing to do with them.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Kira Schrecengost, Fox Chapel’s Tommy Healy
March 12, 2022
Kira Schrecengost
Pine-Richland 1st-year diver claims WPIAL medal
March 6, 2022
A few months ago, Kendyll Jerry never had been on a diving board, so leaving the WPIAL championships with a podium finish and a medal was quite a feat.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Knoch’s Nina Shaw
Nina Shaw
South Fayette dethrones No. 1 Chartiers Valley in WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball
March 5, 2022
Maddie Webber sensed early on that the third meeting between South Fayette and Chartiers Valley this season was going to be different.
Pine-Richland girls end season on high note
February 27, 2022
The Pine-Richland girls basketball team fell short of reaching the playoffs, but it ended the season on a high note with a pair of victories.
Valley News Dispatch H.S. athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook, Plum’s Nicholas Daniels
February 26, 2022
Anna Kreinbrook
Markus Frank’s school-record 45 points leads Quaker Valley past Deer Lakes in Class 4A quarterfinals
February 23, 2022
Markus Frank is quiet and modest off the court, but in between the lines, he is a monster.
Sto-Rox pulls away from Springdale in 2nd quarter, advances to WPIAL 2A quarterfinals
February 22, 2022
A big second quarter was more than enough to push Sto-Rox along further in the playoffs.
Pine-Richland wrestling primed to peak for postseason
February 20, 2022
It’s already been a strong year for Pine-Richland wrestling, going 12-3 with a trip to the WPIAL team tournament, and with individual season approaching, a group of Rams have positioned themselves to make more noise.
Pine-Richland looks to make another playoff run
The regular season didn’t go quite the way the Pine-Richland boys basketball team would’ve wanted, but it finds itself in a similar position to last year.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Lexi Colaianni, St. Joseph’s Jimmy Giannetta
February 19, 2022
Lexi Colaianni
Ellis School girls bounce back in 2nd half, oust Springdale in WPIAL Class 2A
February 18, 2022
Going into halftime, the Springdale girls basketball team positioned itself to break a long postseason victory drought, but Ellis School had other ideas.
Shaler high school hockey player suspended after fight with fans in stands
February 14, 2022
A Shaler high school hockey player is suspended indefinitely pending a hearing after an altercation with fans in the stands after a game Thursday against Latrobe at Alpha Ice Complex in Harmar Township.
Pine-Richland swimmer driven to make name for himself in breaststroke
February 13, 2022
Athletes find motivation in many different forms, and Pine-Richland swimmer Matthew Carper’s stems from a former competitor.
Pine-Richland notebook: Ty Voit having big season in junior hockey
The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Pine resident Ty Voit in the fifth round of the NHL Entry Draft in July and he’s shown this season why he was considered a pro prospect.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Riley Sterlitz, Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan
February 12, 2022
Riley Sterlitz
Gateway boys knock Franklin Regional out of playoffs
February 11, 2022
Gateway came to Murrysville on Friday night and spoiled Franklin Regional’s night on multiple levels.
Pine-Richland notebook: 3 more football players make college choices
February 6, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland football players made their college commitments official on National Signing Day on Feb. 2.
Pine-Richland hockey team thrives in pressure situations
Pine-Richland hockey enters the final month of the regular season in a tight race for playoff positioning with only nine points separating second place from seventh in the PIHL Class 3A standings.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Melaina DeZort, Riverview’s Micah Black
February 5, 2022
Melaina DeZort
Hempfield, Neshannock win competitive spirit state championships
January 29, 2022
Hempfield competitive spirit coach Suzannah Mayer could sense the nerves in her team Friday at Day 1 of the PIAA championships and it impacted their routine, but the Spartans were still able to finish third in the preliminaries and advance to the finals.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, Burrell’s Luke Rose
Reese Hasley
Offseason work pays off for Pine-Richland heavyweight Joey Schneck
Joey Schneck pinned his way to the 285-pound Allegheny County Wrestling Tournament title recently, but that title wasn’t just won in the two days he spent at Fox Chapel High School.
Bond between swimming Shaffer sisters grows deeper in Pine-Richland pool
Sarah Anne and Elizabeth Shaffer’s times are pretty close in the pool.
Last-second 3-pointer lifts Freeport over Burrell
January 28, 2022
Vinnie Clark had a senior night to remember forever.
Zavasky displays shooting touch off the bench for Pine-Richland boys basketball
January 23, 2022
When Nate Zavasky has an open look, Pine-Richland boys basketball coach Bob Petcash is typically yelling “shoot it.”
Pine-Richland’s Ava Boyd turns heads at soccer showcase
Ava Boyd boarded a plane to Florida knowing she was going to play in a soccer game with some of the best girls in the country.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Springdale’s Ryan Reinsfelder, Apollo-Ridge’s Sydney McCray
January 22, 2022
Ryan Reinsfelder
No. 1 North Hills rolls on with win over No. 4 Pine-Richland
January 21, 2022
With every win, the North Hills boys basketball team has seen the target grow on its back as an emerging favorite in Class 6A, but it hasn’t been a deterrent.
Brotherly bonds power Highlands wrestling team
January 17, 2022
Grant Walters has seen a lot during his 32 years in wrestling, but his Highlands team has shown the coach something unique.
Pine-Richland spirit team wins WPIAL small squad division, makes return to state competition
January 16, 2022
Last year, the Pine-Richland competitive spirit team did not qualify for the state championship for the first time in school history, so the 2021-22 season was a mission to return to form.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Vinnie Clark, Cheswick Christian’s Olivia Rochkind
January 15, 2022
Vinnie Clark
Confidence soars for Pine-Richland wrestler after strong Powerade showing
January 9, 2022
A major focus for Kelin Laffey lately has been the mental side of wrestling.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Brandon Coury, Kiski Area’s Abbie Johns
January 8, 2022
Brandon Coury
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Rylen Campbell and Madilyn Boyer
January 1, 2022
Rylen Campbell
Tweak to defense puts Deer Lakes boys basketball team in the zone
December 31, 2021
For the majority of his coaching career, Terence Parham has favored a stack 2-3 zone defense, but this summer, he and his assistant Albie Fletcher made a change to their tactics.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Apollo-Ridge’s Gage Johnston, Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone
December 25, 2021
Gage Johnston
Burrell hockey displays potential during strong start to season
December 21, 2021
The Burrell hockey team already has exceeded its win total from last year, which is a sign of the progression since the PIHL season started in October.
Pine-Richland swim teams poised for another record-breaking season
December 19, 2021
The record boards at the Pine-Richland natatorium had plenty of changes after last year with several new school marks set.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Football stars put pen to paper
A pair of Pine-Richland football players, Jalen Klemm and Jeremiah Hasley, made their college commitments official during the early national signing day Wednesday.
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Week ending Dec. 18, 2021
December 18, 2021
Ryan Lang
Veteran core ready to lead Pine-Richland wrestlers
December 12, 2021
When mats need to be cleaned before practice, Pine-Richland wrestling coach Caleb Kolb doesn’t have to seek out a volunteer to get the mop out and start scrubbing.
Injuries present early season speed bump for veteran Pine-Richland girls basketball team
As Pine-Richland girls basketball enters a new season, it has a bit of a good-news, bad-news situation.
Springdale football coach Seth Napierkowski resigns after 5 seasons
December 10, 2021
It wasn’t an easy decision, but with family and work obligations increasing, Seth Napierkowski decided to step down as the Springdale football coach.
Burrell must retool to keep streak of 15 straight WPIAL Class 2A championships going
December 8, 2021
Burrell wrestling is looking to celebrate a “Sweet 16” this winter.
A-K Valley Class 3A wrestling preview: Led by Lehigh recruit, Kiski Area reloads
December 7, 2021
The Kiski Area wrestling team had some youth in its lineup last year, but it still was able to win the Section 1-3A title.
St. Joseph girls basketball team on the upswing
December 5, 2021
A good word to describe the St. Joseph girls basketball team is potential.
St. Joseph boys target return to playoffs despite loss of top scorer
Those who followed St. Joseph boys basketball the past four years were treated by Andrew Sullivan to some high-scoring performances, but his 1,000-plus point career ended last season.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: 6 football players make 1st team all-conference
December 4, 2021
The Pine-Richland Rams football team was well represented on the Class 5A Northeast Conference teams.
WPIAL championship near-miss drives Pine-Richland boys basketball
There are two major themes for the Pine-Richland boys basketball team this winter: They’re experienced and they won’t lack for motivation.
Redbank Valley steals momentum, stops Bishop Canevin short of state finals
December 3, 2021
In one moment, Bishop Canevin went from potentially going up two scores to seeing Redbank Valley tie the game. It was a momentum stealer the Crusaders could not recover from.
Promising Kiski Area girls team coming together
November 29, 2021
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon likened his team learning and growing to building a puzzle.
New Kiski Area boys coach has visions of turnaround
The excitement of his first season as the Kiski Area boys basketball coach hasn’t waned an ounce for Corey Smith since the day he was hired back in April.
Injury woes changed course of Pine-Richland football season
November 28, 2021
Coaches never want to use injuries as an excuse, and Pine-Richland football coach Steve Campos is no different in that regard.
Junior goalie stands tall for Pine-Richland hockey team
Most days after arriving home from elementary school, Dan Mooney would hop off the bus, drop his backpack and jump right into the middle of a pickup hockey game.
Cheswick Christian boys basketball team motivated to make mark
November 24, 2021
At the elementary and middle school levels, the current group of Cheswick Christian basketball players experienced success, which has given them some confidence coming into the season.
Full schedule breeds enthusiasm inside Cheswick Christian girls basketball program
After a covid-shortened 2020-21 season in which the Cheswick Christian girls basketball team played only nine games, signs are pointing towards a return to a more normal slate this winter.
Senior class built winning culture for Pine-Richland field hockey
November 21, 2021
A few nights after Pine-Richland field hockey’s season came to an end, Rams coach Donna Stephenson said it felt weird sitting at home because she felt like she should be out at practice with her team.
No. 3 Bishop Canevin takes down Cornell to reach 1st WPIAL title game since 1990
November 19, 2021
There have been times Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson has gone with his gut when deciding his quarterback.
Kiski Area hockey team proving itself in early part of season
November 17, 2021
The Kiski Area hockey team lost several key players, including Michael Rayburg and Jonathan Ayres, from a team that made back-to-back PIHL Class A semifinals appearances.
Clutch goalkeeping sends Hampton past West Allegheny, into state finals
When Zach Panza’s attempt hit the crossbar and put Hampton on the brink of elimination in round four of penalty kicks, Talbots goalkeeper Thomas Bradfield admitted he thought his high school career was over.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Ava Weleski
Ava Weleski
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Burrell’s Joe Scolaro
November 16, 2021
Joe Scolaro
Freeport, Hampton clash for 4th time this season — in PIAAs
November 15, 2021
The final hurdle between Freeport girls volleyball and returning to a state championship game is a very familiar foe.
Before heading west, Pine-Richland runner caps decorated high school cross country career
November 14, 2021
On Nov. 10, Meredith Price signed a letter of intent for track and cross country at Utah State, so this coming fall she’ll be running in the Rocky Mountains.
Pine-Richland’s Hasley shows worth on both sides of the ball
Jeremiah Hasley ran gassers every day he could during the summer and even worked with a personal trainer to get into the best shape possible, because he wanted to be on the field for every snap of Pine-Richland football this season.
Hampton defense stops another foe, dropping Franklin Regional in state quarterfinals
November 13, 2021
The Franklin Regional boys soccer team suffered the same fate Saturday as every team Hampton has faced thus far in the postseason.
Play from deep in playbook helps Penn Hills get past Gateway
November 12, 2021
With less than a minute remaining and facing third-and-goal, Penn Hills quarterback Julian Dugger was sent off the field for a play because of an equipment issue, so the Indians had to dial up something they hadn’t done all season.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Freeport’s Erica Lampus
November 10, 2021
Erica Lampus
Freeport volleyball avoids WPIAL title hangover, beats Plum in PIAA 1st-round match
November 9, 2021
Freeport girls volleyball coach Tom Phillips has always worried about the potential for a “hangover” from winning a WPIAL championship going into the first round of the state tournament.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Freeport’s Marcus Trask
Marcus Trask
Pine-Richland volleyball team makes strong statement in playoff loss
November 7, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls volleyball team certainly did not go down without a fight.
Clutch plays from Zach Panza lift Hampton past West Allegheny in Class 3A WPIAL finals
November 6, 2021
It’s not often that a player scores the game-winning goal and makes a huge save in the same game, but Zach Panza managed to pull off both accomplishments Saturday.
Quick-strike offense, airtight defense carry Moon to WPIAL title win over Seneca Valley
November 4, 2021
The Moon girls soccer team got off to a quick start and didn’t slow down.
Keller Chamovitz one-ups dad, leads Quaker Valley past North Catholic in WPIAL finals
Keller Chamovitz has some bragging rights in his household.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Camryn Rogers
November 3, 2021
Camryn Rogers
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy
November 2, 2021
Carson McCoy
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Nov. 1, 2021
October 31, 2021
WPIAL soccer preview capsules
Pine-Richland boys soccer team misses playoffs but makes major strides
As his third season as the Pine-Richland boys soccer coach wrapped up, Jordan Wiegand could sense his players fully bought into the family-like culture he’s been trying to build.
Janeda’s 4th-quarter plays help Montour get past Chartiers Valley, into WPIAL playoffs
October 29, 2021
Brock Janeda is a catcher on the Montour baseball team, but Friday night he was the closer on the football field.
A-K Valley WPIAL boys soccer playoff capsules for Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021
Saturday’s games
Seneca Valley girls rally to edge Norwin in OT in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 28, 2021
When Emma Rigone converted a penalty kick to give Norwin the lead in the second half, it looked like the Knights might sneak out of NexTier Stadium with their second victory there this season, but Zoe Simpson made sure Seneca Valley defended its home turf.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Nash Wedner, Fox Chapel
Nash Wedner
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ashley McAdams
October 27, 2021
Ashley McAdams
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Oct. 25, 2021
October 24, 2021
Monday’s games
Pine-Richland captains aim to be ‘ultimate’ teammates
As co-captains for the Pine-Richland ultimate team, Reid Duncan and Matt Farmar have made it their mission to make everyone who joins the team feel at home.
After 17th straight playoff appearance, Pine-Richland girls tennis looks forward to next season
With a young team this fall, Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Jirakorn “Dang” Siraprasert wasn’t sure how the season would go.
Ligonier Valley pulls out thrilling win vs. Shady Side Academy
October 22, 2021
Ligonier Valley coach Roger Beitel joked he will need to visit his cardiologist after watching the last 24 seconds of Friday’s game against Shady Side Academy.
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 23, 2021
Saturday’s games
Alle-Kiski Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger
October 20, 2021
Kaitlyn Killinger
Alle-Kiski Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ryan Hanes
October 19, 2021
Ryan Hanes
Pine-Richland girls cross country team rounds into form after spate of injuries
October 17, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team has faced some adversity this year with injuries, but it hasn’t dampened the dream of winning WPIAL gold.
Pine-Richland girls volleyball team, coach Seman dedicate match to helping youngster in need of kidney transplant
First-year Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman is a huge believer in giving back to the community and wants to pass that trait on to her players.
Leechburg clinches 1st winning football season in 30 years
October 16, 2021
Leechburg football crossed a major goal off its list Saturday and did so in dominant fashion.
Greensburg Central Catholic comes up short in upset bid vs. No. 1 Clairton
October 15, 2021
It’s not often that a team has a chance to win or tie the game late in the fourth quarter on the road at Neil C. Brown Stadium, but that’s the situation Greensburg Central Catholic had Friday night.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller
October 13, 2021
Eliza Miller
Burrell hockey team features deeper roster for 1st-year head coach
When Burrell hockey president Dave Burkett approached Luke Kopchak this summer about becoming the next coach of the Bucs, it didn’t take long for him to decide to jump on the opportunity.
Freeport enters PIHL season with small roster but high expectations
October 12, 2021
To put in perspective how young the Freeport hockey team is, consider it will dress more freshmen than seniors every time it takes the ice this season.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Leechburg’s Gavin Cole
Gavin Cole
Pine-Richland girls volleyball navigates tough schedule, remains in playoff hunt
October 10, 2021
Angela Seman played for four years in Section 1-4A with Seneca Valley, and now as the coach at Pine-Richland, she is getting a different perspective.
Senior captains help Pine-Richland field hockey adjust to pressure of favorite status
When describing how Pine-Richland field hockey was able to grind out a 1-0 win over Peters Township earlier this year, midfielder Fiona Kortyna said her team has the ability to keep going no matter what.
Kiski Area boys soccer team taking strides toward what it hopes will be a favorable playoff seed
October 5, 2021
Missions to Mars had not been successful for the Kiski Area boys soccer team in recent years.
AK Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Isaac Wetzel, Freeport soccer
Isaac Wetzel
Early competition helps Knoch boys soccer prepare for playoff push
October 4, 2021
The Knoch boys soccer team entered this season as a rather inexperienced group, but what they lack in seasoning they have made up for with effort.
Pine-Richland hockey team ready to join crowded chase for Penguins Cup
October 3, 2021
Last year, PIHL Class 3A featured a lot of parity with the top five teams separated by four points at the end of the regular season and No. 7 seed Mt. Lebanon making a run in the playoffs to the championship game.
Pine-Richland pair showing chemistry, having breakout seasons
Dating to their youth football days, Cole Boyd and Alex Gochis said they’ve always had chemistry as a quarterback and receiver combo.
Central Catholic defense dominates in victory over Seneca Valley
October 1, 2021
There is a litany of players with NCAA Division I offers on the Central Catholic defense, and those players showed why they are going to play at that level Friday night.
Highlands girls volleyball nets long-awaited victory
September 29, 2021
Over the last couple of weeks Highlands girls volleyball coach Caroline Bain could sense her team was on the cusp of breaking through.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Riverview’s Lola Abraham
Lola Abraham
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Highlands’ Cam Reigard
September 28, 2021
Cam Reigard
Pine-Richland grad making stops as starting linebacker for Stony Brook
September 26, 2021
As Tyler King was going through his recruiting process, the thing that stood out about Stony Brook was the coaching staff’s transparency.
Kiski Area off to best start since 1986 after edging West Allegheny
September 24, 2021
The sixth time turned out to be the charm for Kiski Area.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Valley’s Eden Richey
September 22, 2021
Eden Richey
Knoch girls volleyball relying on young hitters in early going
Now in her 36th year at Knoch, Diane Geist is the longest tenured girls volleyball coach in the WPIAL.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Plum’s Lucas Pittman
September 21, 2021
Lucas Pittman
Rolling Fields PGA Junior League team takes 3rd at U.S. Regional event
September 20, 2021
In Dick Logan’s 28 years as a PGA professional, this summer coaching the Rolling Fields Golf Course 17-and-under PGA Junior League team was the best experience of his entire career.
Junior striker brings joy of scoring goals to Pine-Richland boys soccer
September 19, 2021
Colin Zvejnieks’ parents told him that he has always been a runner.
Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Siriprasert focuses on process to build success
As a tennis coach, Jirakorn “Dang” Siriprasert concentrates more on the process than the result.
McCoy’s kick return sparks run of 29 unanswered points for Laurel in win over Beaver Falls
September 17, 2021
Laurel needed a spark, and Luke McCoy provided it.
A-K Valley Girls High School Athlete of the Week, Sept. 15, 2021: Grace Gent, Springdale
September 15, 2021
Grace Gent
Kiski Area girls volleyball willing to work overtime for section title
September 14, 2021
On the eve of the first match, Kiski Area girls volleyball coach Jodie McCartney told her team that every time it takes the court in section play there is potential for a five-set match.
Small numbers don’t dampen enthusiasm, energy for Highlands soccer teams
The Highlands boys soccer team opened camp with 15 players, but that number became smaller heading into the season-opening tournament at home.
A-K Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Fox Chapel’s Jack Lorence
Jack Lorence
Former Pitt volleyball standout brings new ideas to Pine-Richland program
September 12, 2021
Angela Seman was a big part of Pitt volleyball’s resurgence, helping the Panthers win back-to-back ACC titles in 2017 and ’18 as the starting libero.
Pine-Richland field hockey comfortable as favorites to take 3rd straight WPIAL crown
Donna Stephenson started the Pine-Richland field hockey program in 2004, literally from scratch.
Big plays from Ross help Seneca Valley get past North Hills
September 10, 2021
A week ago, Brandon Ross said Seneca Valley can’t win every game on the last play.
Leechburg’s Grine relies on height, skills, confidence for promising senior season
Kalli Grine has been the tallest girl in her class dating to elementary school, so she always has been an intimidating presence on the volleyball court.
3 sets of sisters help bolster lineup for Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball
September 9, 2021
The Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball team will be a sister act this fall.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Fox Chapel’s Nina Busch
Nina Busch
Young St. Joseph girls volleyball team building toward future
September 6, 2021
Because the covid-19 pandemic delayed fall sports in 2020, the St. Joseph girls volleyball team had one practice and went right into games. Needless to say, a more normal schedule this year was welcomed.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Campbell Curry
Campbell Curry
Leechburg plugs away in decisive win vs. Summit Academy
September 4, 2021
It wasn’t the start the Leechburg football team hoped for Saturday afternoon, with three turnovers in the first quarter, but once it settled down, it found a rhythm.
Loaded lineup has Pine-Richland cross country team thinking big
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team is hoping to set a gold standard this fall.
Seneca Valley stuns Pine-Richland with late touchdown pass
September 3, 2021
The adrenaline still was running at maximum for Brandon Ross moments after catching the winning touchdown pass in the final 10 seconds to propel his Seneca Valley Raiders to a 24-20 win over Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland boys soccer looks to build with experienced lineup
August 29, 2021
When Jordan Wiegand took the Pine-Richland boys soccer coaching job in 2019 he came to a program that had graduated 16 seniors who were major contributors since their sophomore season.
Young players stepping into new roles for Pine-Richland girls soccer
Entering her second season as the Pine-Richland girls soccer coach, Rachelle Dixon has some spots to fill in the lineup.
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: New coach leading Deer Lakes
August 28, 2021
Aaron Smith felt some nerves heading into training camp, and at the first practice he could sense his Deer Lakes boys soccer players had some, too.
Dickerson, Tracey score 2 TDs each; defense stout as North Hills blanks Mars
August 27, 2021
Moments after shaking hands with their opponents from Mars, the North Hills players raced over to their sideline to greet a packed and raucous student section waiting for them in the visitor’s grandstand.
Breakout players back to power West Greene
August 26, 2021
For West Greene, the 2020 season was a mission to forge an identity after the Ben Jackson and Kolin Walker era of running through opponents.
Avella looks to keep ball rolling after breakthrough season
For Avella coach Ryan Cecchini, last year’s run to the playoffs showed that even if his program doesn’t always have the biggest roster, it can compete in the WPIAL.
‘Underrated’ senior aims to keep Plum among elite
August 23, 2021
When asked about senior wide receiver/defensive back Logan Brooks, Plum coach Matt Morgan said that he is one of the most underrated players in all of the WPIAL.
New Castle ready for playoff return after year to forget
After a rare down year in which New Castle saw its seven-year playoff streak snapped, Red Hurricanes coach Joe Cowart said his players better have a chip on their shoulder and a desire to get back on the right track.
Larger roster a boost for Pine-Richland girls golf
August 22, 2021
There were 14 girls who came to tryouts for the Pine-Richland girls golf team, and each one had a varying degree of experience.
Plum plans encore after historic season
August 20, 2021
Plum football enters this fall in a position it hasn’t been in since 1983: defending conference champion.
WPIAL’s leading passer makes Armstrong dangerous
Cadin Olsen burst onto the WPIAL football scene last year by throwing for more than 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns in his debut season as the Armstrong quarterback.
Moon plans to follow championship formula
August 17, 2021
When Moon won a conference championship two seasons ago, its formula for success was controlling the line of scrimmage, running the ball effectively and winning the time-of-possession battle.
Young Pine-Richland golf team looks to keep championship streak going
August 14, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys golf team has been section champ the last five years, and the Rams are hopeful to keep the streak going this fall.
Quaker Valley out to snap skid with experienced roster
Quaker Valley went through the growing pains of being extremely young last year, and combined with a covid-19 situation at the school that forced a cancellation of the final two games, it made for a difficult season.
Shady Side Academy rower wins youth national title
July 25, 2021
As Lauren Jochims crossed the finish line with her teammate, Audrey Lyda, to win the women’s 2x at the US Youth Rowing Nationals, she didn’t know how to react.
Quaker Valley boys basketball makes most of summer competition
July 24, 2021
The Quaker Valley boys basketball team returns four starters, but with each new year, there can be a tweak in how each player’s role is defined.
Behun, Loudermilk to lead Quaker Valley girls soccer as co-head coaches
July 18, 2021
Former Quaker Valley girls soccer coach Jamie Birmingham knew he was going to step down at the end of last season, so he approached assistants Maggie Behun and Rachel Loudermilk and asked them if they wanted to step up into the role.
Quaker Valley Hall of Famer takes reins of school’s girls basketball program
July 11, 2021
Quaker Valley has been a focal point in many chapters of Ken Johns’ life.
Fox Chapel basketball gets boost from summer competitions
July 10, 2021
Fox Chapel boys basketball coach Zach Skrinjar looks at summer team camps as a good way to self scout and grow as a unit in a more relaxed environment compared to the grind of a WPIAL basketball season.
Young Township jumps on Murrysville in American Legion playoffs
July 8, 2021
Young Township struck for seven runs in the fourth inning, and then lightning struck.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Jeremiah Hasley, Pine-Richland
July 6, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Fox Chapel’s Zoe Skirboll competes with nation’s best swimmers at Olympic qualifiers
June 29, 2021
Zoe Skirboll went into this year’s Olympic swimming trials with the attitude of enjoying the moment and gaining experience for the future.
Pine-Richland’s Jeremiah Hasley commits to Duke
June 28, 2021
Like many local athletes, Jeremiah Hasley’s recruiting process started with phone calls and Zoom meetings with college coaches last year with campus visits restricted due to the covid-19 pandemic.
Quaker Valley 6th grader excels at Junior Olympics swim meet
June 27, 2021
At age 5, Amelia Suhayda started swimming just for fun.
Pine-Richland crew team closes season with strong results
June 20, 2021
The Pine-Richland crew team had to navigate plenty of obstacles that came with the covid-19 pandemic like mandated shut downs and having athletes train individually at home, but at the end of the year they finished with some strong results.
Pine-Richland softball program builds on playoff victory
June 13, 2021
With a 6-1 win over Mt. Lebanon in the quarterfinals, the Pine-Richland softball team scored a historic achievement.
After long wait, North Allegheny volleyball ready for shot at 3rd straight state title
June 10, 2021
North Allegheny boys volleyball coach Dan Schall described this season as “a journey without a road map.”
North Allegheny boys volleyball wins another Seneca Valley showdown, makes state finals
June 8, 2021
Before the PIAA tournament started, Michael Mosbacher and his North Allegheny boys volleyball teammates knew if they were going to play for a third consecutive state championship, they would likely have to beat Seneca Valley for a fourth time.
Pine-Richland teen Carson Verszyla goes viral with highlight-reel hockey goal
June 7, 2021
Carson Verszyla got an early birthday present Monday morning when he saw himself on “SportsCenter.”
Sewickley Academy breaks tie with 4 seconds left to top Mt. Lebanon, advance to PIAA girls lacrosse semis
June 5, 2021
Sewickley Academy led for only 4 seconds Saturday, but it was the last four.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse standouts play in national tournament
A quartet of Pine-Richland girls lacrosse players spent Memorial Day weekend playing alongside some of the best high school players in the country and came home with an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.
Rotelli’s WPIAL runner-up finish among several meet highlights for Pine-Richland track team
May 30, 2021
Because of her small stature, Gianna Rotelli feels she is overlooked sometimes when she enters track and field events.
Ligonier Valley’s Griffin throws 11th no-hitter, but Shenango prevails in Class 2A semifinals
May 27, 2021
Maddie Griffin threw her 11th no-hitter of the season Thursday, but it wasn’t enough to keep Shenango from making history.
Underclassmen gain valuable experience for Pine-Richland baseball
May 23, 2021
Coming into the season, Pine-Richland baseball had injuries to its top two starting pitchers in West Virginia recruit Tommy Beam and Gabe Mustovic and added a couple more to the injured list just a few games in with shortstop Kyle Kimoto and first baseman Chase Vrabel going down against Seneca Valley.
Franklin Regional-Mars game suspended when lights go out at North Allegheny
May 21, 2021
A power failure in the left field light tower at North Allegheny’s baseball field forced Friday’s Class 5A WPIAL quarterfinal between top-seeded Franklin Regional and No. 8 Mars to be suspended with the score tied 5-5 with two outs in the top of the fifth inning.
Kiefer’s clutch goals lift Franklin Regional over Shaler in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
May 17, 2021
Jack Kiefer never saw his golden goal hit the back of the net.
Racing each other lifts Pine-Richland’s Hunkele sisters to top performances
May 16, 2021
Angelina and Elizabeth Hunkele love to compete.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse leans on consistent defense, balanced attack
May 9, 2021
Members of the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team knew they had built something special during a seven-game winning streak in April and they wanted to prove it in their much anticipated showdown with Fox Chapel on May 4.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team battle-tested for postseason
Coming into this season Pine-Richland boys lacrosse coach Kevin Welty budgeted for adversity.
Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame honors athletes with luncheon
May 8, 2021
For the second consecutive year the Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame banquet had to be cancelled because of the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, but board members wanted to organize an event to honor local athletes for their accomplishments.
Pine-Richland softball looking for more consistency at the plate
May 2, 2021
As Pine-Richland softball geared up for the stretch run in the regular season coach Gary Shepard was looking for was consistency at the plate.
Indiana falls to West Chester East in Class A state hockey final
April 24, 2021
For two periods Indiana kept West Chester East’s powerful offense at bay and had the lead with 17 minutes to play.
Pine-Richland’s Rottinghaus sprinting to success in 400, relays
The Pine-Richland track and field coaches had a premonition that senior Ella Rottinghaus was going to set a new school record in the 400-meter run prior to the Rams’ April 14 meet with Seneca Valley, but she didn’t share the same belief.
Young Pine-Richland gymnast Lavezoli quickly developing into standout
A few years ago Chase Lavezoli taught himself how to do a front flip by using a trampoline.
Ace’s secret weapon helps Pine-Richland softball to signature early season win
April 17, 2021
Gabriella Aughton showed up to Pine-Richland’s game at Hempfield on April 9 with a secret weapon.
Pugh, Faber leading the way for Pine-Richland boys volleyball
April 10, 2021
When the 2020 spring sports season was canceled because of the covid-19 pandemic, it brought a sudden end to the careers of a dozen Pine-Richland boys volleyball players.
Sophomore McGuire off to impressive start for Pine-Richland baseball
Jacob McGuire walked off the mound after the final out of Pine-Richland’s 11-0 win in five innings in the season opener against North Catholic happy with his performance.
Multi-sport athletes bring spark to Gateway volleyball
April 4, 2021
Gateway boys volleyball coach Phil Randolph has plenty of fresh faces on his team this season who bring athleticism from playing other sports.
Intrigue surrounds 2021 PIHL Penguins Cup playoffs
After the 2020 playoffs were suspended and eventually canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, the PIHL is ready to crown Penguins Cup champions once again.
Pine-Richland track team boasts large crop of WPIAL, PIAA contenders
April 3, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys and girls track teams are looking to go the distance this spring.
Pine-Richland hockey team solidly in Class AAA mix
A glance at the PIHL Class AAA standings shows the field is wide open with the top five teams separated by four points.
Young Pine-Richland roster ready to contend during chaotic WPIAL lacrosse season
March 27, 2021
On paper, the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team is still the defending WPIAL Class AAA champion, but there’s been plenty of change in the two-year span since they last took the field.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse looking to ‘bounce back’ in ’21
Every year Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Brittany Adams asks the team’s seniors to come up with a motto for the season. For 2021, they chose “bounce back.”
Competition for lineup spots fierce on Latrobe softball team
March 26, 2021
Latrobe softball coach Bob Kovalcin has seven seniors on his roster, and during the preseason, he told each of them they had first crack at their position.
Latrobe baseball coming together as players find roles
A big part of Latrobe coach Matt Basciano’s message every year is playing team baseball.
Jake DiMichele carries OLSH past Portage into state championship game
March 23, 2021
Jake DiMichele can still remember the exact day OLSH was eliminated the last time they made the state semifinals.
Greensburg Salem baseball team sets sights on another playoff run
In the first week of practice, Greensburg Salem baseball coach Bill Wisniewski told his players to unwind, be kids and have fun in a return to normalcy after last season was wiped out because of the covid-19 pandemic.
Greensburg Salem softball has rare commodity in this unique season — experience
Alyssa Bates has waited nearly 16 months to fill out her first lineup card as the head coach of the Greensburg Salem softball team, so she’s more than ready to get the season going.
Pine-Richland softball gearing season toward section race
March 21, 2021
Pine-Richland softball coach Gary Shepard feels he has the right mix of returning players and newcomers to field a competitive team this spring.
Defending WPIAL champion Pine-Richland baseball team to start season shorthanded
When Pine-Richland takes the field this spring, it will be without a few key players at the start, but that isn’t slowing the Rams’ hunger to defend their WPIAL Class 6A title.
Brookville ousts WPIAL champion Ellwood City from PIAA playoffs
March 20, 2021
Jace Miner stole the ball on an inbounds play and scored on a layup with 10 seconds remaining, and in the blink of an eye Ellwood City’s magical run came to an end.
Neshannock girls fend off Windber, make PIAA Class 2A semifinals
March 19, 2021
Moments after coming out of the locker room after Friday night’s game, Neshannock girls basketball coach Luann Grybowski breathed a sigh of relief.
11th-seeded Ellwood City knocks off No. 1 South Allegheny in WPIAL championship shocker
March 15, 2021
Joe Roth described his feelings succinctly.
Pine-Richland swimmers look ahead to bright future after WPIAL performance
A trio of young Pine-Richland swimmers traveled to Upper St. Clair on March 7 to test themselves against the best in the WPIAL and came home with some solid results to cap off a year in which six new school records were set.
Balanced offense carries Pine-Richland boys on playoff run
During Pine-Richland’s boys basketball playoff run, multiple players saw their name with a large point total beside it on the stat sheet.
11th-seeded Ellwood City stuns Neshannock, makes 1st WPIAL final since 1986
March 11, 2021
From the opening tip, Ellwood City coach Steve Antuono Sr. paced the sidelines watching the game with intensity, while wearing his emotions on his sleeve.
Defending champion Mohawk puts down upstart Beaver Falls
March 10, 2021
All season, Mohawk coach Mike O’Lare has talked to his team about creating a new story to be remembered to go along with winning the school’s first WPIAL girls basketball title a year ago.
Second WPIAL wrestling title gives Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer reason to smile
March 6, 2021
In the middle of the second period of the WPIAL Class AAA 160-pound wrestling final, Cole Spencer took an accidental shot from Norwin’s Chase Kranitz and realized one of his teeth was broken.
5 Pine-Richland runners test themselves at indoor nationals
Five distance runners from Pine-Richland traveled to Virginia last month to test themselves against some of the best high school competition in the country and came home with solid results.
Leechburg rallies for double-overtime win over Eden Christian
March 5, 2021
In a double overtime thriller, No. 6 Leechburg upset No. 3 Eden Christian 45-40 in the WPIAL Class A quarterfinals Friday night at Sewickley Academy.
Sewickley Academy shuts down Greensburg Central Catholic
Sewickley Academy made 19 of 28 free throws and eventually pulled away for a 38-21 victory over Greensburg Central Catholic in the WPIAL Class 2A girls basketball quarterfinals Friday night.
Fox Chapel’s Manelis, North Allegheny’s Shi repeat as WPIAL diving champs
February 27, 2021
The 2021 WPIAL Class AAA diving championships were full of repeats.
Pine-Richland hockey team riding prolific offense
With the volatility that comes with playing during a pandemic, Pine-Richland hockey coach Jordan Yoklic told his players to embrace each opportunity and not take it for granted.
Pine-Richland boys basketball team jells in coach’s 1st season
The last time the WPIAL had an open basketball tournament in 1984 Bob Petcash was a senior at Ambridge and played for a Bridgers team that made the Class 4A final, where it lost to Farrell.
South Park’s O’Connor, North Catholic’s Foley capture WPIAL Class AA diving titles
February 26, 2021
Cole O’Connor saved his toughest dive for last and it paid off.
Spencer leads way for Pine-Richland wrestling team
February 20, 2021
Pine-Richland wrestling made some big strides during the team portion of the season, and now the hope is it has set it up for success in an expanded individual season.
New coach DeGregorio seeing good signs with Pine-Richland girls basketball team
When Kyle DeGregorio took over as coach of the Pine-Richland girls basketball team before this season, his first objective was establishing a culture.
After setting school record, Pine-Richland’s Allen turns focus toward WPIAL success
February 13, 2021
Delaney Allen was exhausted as she climbed out of the pool after swimming her hardest in the 50-yard freestyle on Jan. 28 against North Allegheny when she started hearing screams of joy coming from her teammates.
4 players from Pine-Richland state title football team accept walk-on offers
Pine-Richland football had four players accept preferred walk-on offers on Feb. 3, and each one has a unique story.
Mt. Pleasant girls hope to benefit from experience this season
December 3, 2020
At the high school level it’s a rarity for a team to have its entire roster back from the previous season, but it’s a welcomed reality for longtime Mt. Pleasant girls basketball coach Scott Giacobbi.
Mt. Pleasant boys basketball enters season under new leadership
T.J. Kravits had just finished his season coaching at Marion Center. Being a basketball fan, he looked at the schedule and decided to take a trip to Mt. Pleasant to see a game against Geibel.
Gateway hockey program focused on development
November 29, 2020
Gateway hockey coach Shawn Jesih sees a lot of potential in the freshmen and sophomores who make up the majority of the roster.
Girls basketball preview: Senior trio set to lead Franklin Regional into new section
November 25, 2020
When reflecting on last season, Franklin Regional girls basketball coach Anthony Kobus pointed out five losses in section play by seven points or less.
Boys basketball preview: Franklin Regional to rely on deep group of returning guards
On paper, the 2019-20 Franklin Regional boys basketball season looked like a tale of two halves with a 7-2 run down the stretch to get into the postseason after 5-9 start, but it was more of a yearlong journey of growing up.
Weather’s no problem for Mars boys soccer in PIAA semifinal victory
November 17, 2020
Mars boys soccer coach Chris Knauff said the ground was clear at his home five miles from the Mars Athletic Complex, so he was quite shocked to see a snow-covered field upon arrival.
Pine-Richland routs Peters Township, wins WPIAL championship in 5th classification
November 14, 2020
Pine-Richland already had WPIAL football titles in Class 2A, 3A, 4A and 6A, and after a dominant performance on Saturday, the Rams added 5A to the list.
Clutch goal from Jayden Sharpless lifts North Catholic past Avonworth in Class 2A title game
November 7, 2020
In the early portion of Saturday’s WPIAL Class 2A championship game, North Catholic standout junior Jayden Sharpless said she was a little too amped up when she fired a free kick well over the goal from 30 yards out.
Greensburg Central Catholic boys fight off Eden Christian upset bid in Class A quarterfinals
October 31, 2020
Ricco Ciccarelli could hear Greensburg Central Catholic coach Tyler Solis say, “I think you got it,” as his attempted cross kept curling closer and closer to the net.
North Catholic punishes Mt. Pleasant for mistakes in Class 2A matchup
October 30, 2020
As the clock was winding down late in the fourth quarter, Mt. Pleasant coach Jason Fazekas said to his assistants he felt like the score was a lot closer than the scoreboard indicated.
Forced into starring role, Brock Wilkins carries Kiski Area past Shaler
October 16, 2020
After two successful weeks of filling in for standout Kenny Blake at running back, Brock Wilkins was ready to go back to his role as a lead blocker Friday night. When Blake went down with an injury on his first carry, Wilkins was thrust right back into the spotlight.
North Hills pulls away from Kiski Area
October 2, 2020
In three plays, Kiski Area went from looking like it was going to be right back into its game with North Hills to having the momentum completely flipped.
Avonworth makes smooth transition to Class 3A, blanks Quaker Valley
September 11, 2020
Coming off a historic season that culminated in a WPIAL Class 2A championship, Avonworth had a lot of great players to replace, including a 2,500-yard passer and a 2,300-yard rusher, as it moved up to Class 3A this fall.
North Catholic girls fight off challenge from Central Valley in 4A second round
March 11, 2020
There’s an understanding among the North Catholic Trojanettes that they are going to get everyone’s best.
Freeport confident heading into softball season with small but talented roster
March 10, 2020
When Freeport softball takes the field this year, there’s a good chance there will only be 11 players on the team.
With Heilman on hill, Freeport has shot at another special season
Last season, Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr watched a team that consisted mainly of juniors grow up on the fly and exceed expectations.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Julia Cummings and Kiski Area’s Jack Blumer
Julia Cummings
Fox Chapel baseball optimistic despite heavy turnover from last season
March 9, 2020
Fox Chapel will have to replace 11 seniors, six of their starting nine and most of the pitching staff from a team that went 10-8 and made the WPIAL playoffs, but Foxes coach Jim Hastings has some pieces returning and others coming through the pipeline to help offset the losses.
Bigger roster gives new Fox Chapel softball coach Olbrich cause for optimism
During offseason training, first-year Fox Chapel softball coach Chris Olbrich kept seeing more and more girls show up to work out.
Kiski Area hockey continues remarkable turnaround
March 8, 2020
Kiski Area sophomore defenseman Aiden Sites said if he was told before the season the Cavaliers would be in the PIHL Class A semifinals he wouldn’t have believed it.
Playing without star center Michael Carmody, Mars falls short in PIAA 1st-round game
March 6, 2020
After his team lost in overtime, battling without standout senior Michael Carmody, who was serving a one-game suspension, Mars boys basketball coach Rob Carmody told his players he was obviously disappointed, but he was glad they lost on a play made by a “winning player.”
Norwin hockey focuses on positives after abrupt exit from playoffs
March 4, 2020
Norwin hockey’s season ended Tuesday night when the Knights fell 3-2 to Kiski Area in the first round of the PIHL Class A Penguins Cup playoffs.
Kiski Area edges Norwin to reach Penguins Cup semifinals
In one season, Kiski Area hockey has gone from a one-win team to being a victory away from playing for a Penguins Cup championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao
March 3, 2020
Johnny Crise
Kiski Area, Plum hockey teams surge into playoffs
March 1, 2020
A couple of weeks ago, Kiski Area and Plum completed two of the more remarkable rebounds in the PIHL.
Chartiers Valley defends WPIAL title, wins 55th consecutive game
February 29, 2020
Chartiers Valley girls basketball coach Tim McConnell said he told his younger sister, Trinity coach Kathy McConnell-Miller, that the only good thing about facing each other in a WPIAL final was that a McConnell was guaranteed to win.
Led by singles champ Small, Plum bowling team has postseason to remember
February 28, 2020
Plum bowling coach Darryl Pilyih said coaching senior standout Shannon Small has become a pretty easy task because she rarely makes a mistake.
Shutdown defenses to meet when North Allegheny, Bethel Park tangle for girls 6A title
When Bethel Park and North Allegheny take the floor at Petersen Events Center on Saturday for the Class 6A girls basketball championship, expect a defensive chess match to unfold.
Chartiers Valley uses bulletin-board material to top TJ, return to Class 5A finals
February 26, 2020
Moments after Chartiers Valley finished off a 65-43 win over Thomas Jefferson in the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals Wednesday night at Mt. Lebanon, Colts coach Tim McConnell offered an open dinner invitation to who ever made shirts for the Jaguars that read, “3.1 doesn’t equal 4.4.”
North Allegheny girls shut down Upper St. Clair, get back to WPIAL Class 6A finals
February 25, 2020
On the bus ride to North Hills, members of the North Allegheny girls basketball team chatted back and forth about what their keys were going to be defensively.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Shannon Small and Korry Myers
Shannon Small
Belle Vernon boys basketball upsets Quaker Valley, clinches PIAA spot
February 22, 2020
Listed at 5-foot-9, Devin Whitlock was the shortest player on the floor in Saturday’s game between Quaker Valley and Belle Vernon, but what he lacks in size he makes up for in many other areas.
Brayden Reynolds’ clutch shot sparks Chartiers Valley past Shaler
February 21, 2020
Chartiers Valley coach Brandon Sensor thought Shaler did a pretty good job on his standout guard Brayden Reynolds through the first three quarters of Friday’s WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal game.
Penn-Trafford gymnast Adamik balances fun, competition at high school level
A couple of years ago, Lacey Adamik gave up the everyday grind of training for competitive USA gymnastics, but as time went on, she started to miss the sport.
Elliott handles pressure, shoots Bishop Canevin boys past Union
February 20, 2020
Dom Elliott was honest about what was going through his mind in as he toed the line for two foul shots with five seconds remaining and Bishop Canevin trailing by one.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Samantha Coleman and A.J. Corrado
February 18, 2020
Samantha Coleman
After scholarship from Hines Ward, Valley’s Guzzo to be featured in book
February 16, 2020
Greg Guzzo was checking his email randomly last year when he saw a message titled “Positive Athlete.”
Pine-Richland’s Alexander, Thomas Jefferson’s Kameg big winners at WPIAL gymnastics meet
February 15, 2020
Pine-Richland’s Samantha Alexander went into WPIAL individual gymnastics championships wanting to stay on her feet.
Q&A with Plum’s Connor Moss
February 14, 2020
Plum’s Connor Moss eclipsed 1,000 career points Feb. 5 after scoring 25 in a 52-51 nonconference win over Baldwin. Moss joins another junior, the girls team’s Kennedie Montue, in hitting the milestone. Moss scored more than 20 points 13 times this season and had more than 30 points four times.
Iron sharpens iron for Franklin Regional state title hopefuls Dibert, Solomon
At every practice in the Franklin Regional wrestling room, Finn Solomon and Carter Dibert are paired. When they wrestle, it typically becomes a spectacle.
Burrell gymnastics team beaming at chance to compete at WPIAL championships
February 13, 2020
For a long time, Burrell has been represented at the WPIAL individual gymnastics championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Sarah Sawhook and Leechburg’s Dylan Cook
February 11, 2020
Sarah Sawhook
Fox Chapel hockey hopes to ride momentum into postseason
February 9, 2020
In 20 years of being involved in hockey, Fox Chapel coach Cam Raidna never experienced anything like what his team pulled off Thursday night against Kiski Area.
Recruiting interest ramping up for Plum lineman Evan Azzara
February 7, 2020
Plum junior Evan Azzara has visited almost every Mid-American Conference school in Ohio, but the one he went to the most has been Miami (Ohio).
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Madilyn Boyer, Burrell’s Ian Oswalt
February 4, 2020
Madilyn Boyer
Knoch girls finally slay rival Freeport
February 3, 2020
Moments after Lauren Cihonski hit a game-winning basket with four seconds remaining to help Knoch beat Freeport 53-52, the magnitude of what transpired hit her.
Plum hockey gets healthy in time for PIHL playoffs push
January 31, 2020
Every hockey team deals with bumps and bruises, but, in January, Plum could have used a M.A.S.H. unit.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athetes of the Week: Plum’s Kennedie Montue, Leechburg’s Jake Blumer
January 28, 2020
Kennedie Montue
No. 1 North Catholic fights off serious challenge from Freeport
January 27, 2020
Coming into Monday’s game, North Catholic girls basketball had won 54 section games in a row — all but one of them by double digits — so when Freeport tied the game with five minutes remaining, it presented a situation that hadn’t come up in a while.
Thomas Jefferson’s Pazo, North Catholic’s Shaffer lift Team Blue to PIHL Class A All-Star Game win
January 26, 2020
Thomas Jefferson junior Eddie Pazo and North Catholic junior Quinten Shaffer had a hat trick each to lead Team Blue to a 9-5 win over Team Gold in the PIHL Class A All-Star Game Sunday at RMU Island Sports Center.
Ringgold’s Budjos nets hat trick to lead Team Blue to victory in PIHL Class B All-Star Game
Typically going on the penalty kill late in a game down by two goals is not a successful strategy, but in the PIHL Class B All-Star Game, Team Blue made being down a player work in a major way.
Surging Norwin girls basketball team finds right balance
January 24, 2020
The Norwin girls basketball team was the top scoring offense in WPIAL Class 6A through 14 games, and the Knights ranked second in scoring average against.
Gateway girls grind out win over Armstrong
January 23, 2020
Armstrong girls basketball coach Kirk Lorigan joked that he started looking in the stands for James Naismith, because it felt like the cylinder hoops at Gateway’s gymnasium were replaced with peach baskets.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Maddie Clark, Highlands’ Jrake Burford
January 21, 2020
Maddie Clark
Kiski Area goalie Petika leads A-K Valley contingent in PIHL All-Star games
January 19, 2020
Kiski Area goalie Eric Petika got a nice wakeup call from his dad the morning after the PIHL All-Star teams were released a couple of weeks ago.
Steel Valley’s Camden Polak likes making noise in the library
January 15, 2020
Many high school students go to the library to check out a book for their next homework assignment, but Steel Valley senior Camden Polak goes there for a different reason.
Jeannette puts together complete effort in routing Serra Catholic
January 14, 2020
Even though Jeannette coach Adrian Batts was hoarse from imploring his team all game, it wasn’t going to stop him from talking about the enjoyment he got from watching his team execute Tuesday night.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Riverview’s Sydney McDonough, Knoch’s Ryan Lang
Sydney McDonough
Burrell standout Stewart surprises with return to varsity hockey team
January 12, 2020
After spending some time in the junior hockey ranks this season, Tyler Stewart made a surprise return to the ice for Burrell hockey last Monday.
Plum spirit squad shows competitive drive
Every Saturday in the fall, the Plum competitive spirit team met in the gym for a 7 a.m. practice after cheering the night before at football games with a determination to get stronger.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Trinity Lockwood-Morris and Plum’s Connor Moss
January 7, 2020
Trinity Lockwood-Morris
Blackhawk defense shuts down Central Valley in Class 4A showdown
January 6, 2020
Blackhawk girls basketball coach Steve Lodovico loves to run a press and trap defense with the goal of creating turnovers and racking up points off them. Facing a familiar foe in Central Valley on the road, he decided to adjust the gameplan.
Fox Chapel hockey hopes experience in close games helps with playoff push
January 5, 2020
The Fox Chapel hockey team has played its share of close games this season.
Plum girls improving in quest for Section 2 championship
January 4, 2020
About an hour removed from a 41-31 victory over Armstrong on Thursday, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier provided a list of reasons it was their best performance to date.
Plum bowler Shannon Small sets big goals
Nesbit’s Lanes has pretty much become a second home for Shannon Small.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, St. Joseph’s Andrew Sullivan
December 31, 2019
Andrew Sullivan
New-look Burrell hockey team finds stability
December 29, 2019
Entering the season, perhaps no team in the PIHL lost more key pieces than Burrell.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Knoch’s Nevaeh Ewing, Apollo-Ridge’s Keighton Reese
December 24, 2019
Nevaeh Ewing
‘Building year’ for youthful Freeport hockey
December 22, 2019
Jack Mason can still remember the nervousness he felt playing varsity hockey as a freshman.
Plum boys basketball seeks secret to closing out games
December 20, 2019
First-year Plum boys basketball coach Mark Marino has been happy with the buy-in level from his players in the early part of the season.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Morgan Gamble and Demitri Fritch
December 17, 2019
Demitri
Plum in prime position midway through hockey season
December 15, 2019
As Plum hockey reached the midpoint of the PIHL Class AA season, it found itself tied atop the Northeast Division standings with Armstrong with a pair of games in hand.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Valley’s Tori Johnson, Fox Chapel’s Arnold Vento
December 10, 2019
Tori Johnson
Phipps, Norwin wrestling ready to take next step
December 7, 2019
Kurtis Phipps showed his toughness by battling through a foot injury in last year’s PIAA Class AAA championship match. He suffered the injury a day earlier in his semifinal win.
Franklin Regional wrestlers look to add to program’s Hershey history
Franklin Regional coach Matt Lebe had to stop for a moment and count back through the years to figure out how many seasons in a row the Panthers have had a representative in the PIAA wrestling finals.
Central Valley dominates Bald Eagle Area to earn trip to Hershey
November 29, 2019
One thing in particular that stands out from the many things that Central Valley coach Mark Lyons loves about his football team is that they enjoy playing together and not one player believes he is above another.
With three top starters returning, Plum girls planning banner season
November 28, 2019
In his opening remarks at the first practice of the season, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier challenged his team.
Unusual Plum boys roster packed with senior leadership but lacking experience
With plenty of seniors on the roster, it might look like the Plum boys basketball team has a lot of experience. In reality, almost everyone will be new to varsity this winter.
Kiski Area girls hope experience, work ethic lead to growth
November 25, 2019
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon couldn’t have been happier with the work his group put into its offseason.
Kiski Area boys plan to pick up the pace
Entering year two of his tenure at Kiski Area, Will Saunders is ready to let his team run.
Successful season falls short of ultimate goal for Penn-Trafford
November 23, 2019
The Penn-Trafford football team has high standards, and with that comes championship aspirations.
Fox Chapel boys basketball team rallies around defense
November 22, 2019
At the end of practice, most teams come together in a circle, put their hands in and say one, two, three and then their team name.
New coach works to instill confidence in talented Fox Chapel girls roster
When Marty Matvey arrived to take over the Fox Chapel girls basketball program this summer, he quickly realized there was talent from top to bottom in the lineup.
Rebuilding plan has Cheswick Christian boys ready to contend again
November 20, 2019
When 6-foot-10 Ben Pollock finished his Cheswick Christian Academy boys basketball career in 2016-17 after rewriting much of the school’s record book, longtime Chargers coach Todd Rosio had a three-year plan to build the team back up to contending status.
Cheswick Christian girls dedicate season to former coach in need of heart transplant
Jacque Willis thought she might become a basketball coach someday, but she never expected it to be just a few months after she graduated college.
Central Valley stops Aliquippa in overtime in tense WPIAL title game
November 16, 2019
On the first play of overtime, Michael Barbuto was pushing toward the goal line when he felt something strange happen.
Washington leans on Zahmere Robinson to stop upset-minded Brentwood
November 15, 2019
After Washington’s Zahmere Robinson fumbled for the first time this year in a third quarter that saw Brentwood surging, he went to the sidelines and told his teammates he’d make up for it.
Franklin Regional not satisfied with first-round playoff exit
There wasn’t another team in the WPIAL that played a schedule like Franklin Regional did this season.
North Catholic volleyball gets vengeance, defeats Freeport in PIAAs
November 12, 2019
The day after North Catholic girls volleyball lost to Freeport in the WPIAL Class AA finals by surrendering a 2-0 lead, coach Amanda Fetter told her players they deserved to have a banner hanging in the gymnasium, and the only one left to get was a PIAA banner.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Knoch’s Skylar Burkett and Fox Chapel’s Colby Zmenkowski
Skylar Burkett
Playing through injuries solidified Knoch volleyball team’s depth
November 11, 2019
At practice Monday, Knoch girls volleyball players sat on the gym floor in a circle around coach Diane Geist as they prepared for their state semifinal opponent, District 3 champion Palmyra.
Mars girls soccer team rolls past West Allegheny in PIAA playoffs
November 9, 2019
The Mars girls soccer team has been dominant against WPIAL opponents all season, and in its final meeting against a district foe this season, it wasted little time establishing the tone.
Pine-Richland easily handles North Allegheny on way to WPIAL final
November 8, 2019
As Pine-Richland coach Eric Kasperowicz was giving his postgame speech with his players surrounding him on a knee, the assistant coaches started tossing Heinz ketchup packets into the huddle.
Knoch volleyball back to full strength in first-round PIAA win over South Fayette
November 5, 2019
The last time Kennedy Christy was in the Shaler gym, she was injured on the final night of the regular season in a nonsection match against the Titans and it caused her to miss Knoch’s entire WPIAL playoff run.
Freeport volleyball shakes off ‘WPIAL hangover,’ cruises in first-round PIAA match
After having to come back from two-set deficits to win in the WPIAL semifinals and finals last week,the Freeport girls volleyball team had a much less stressful opening to the state playoffs.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Freeport’s Isabella Russo, Riverview’s Mason Ochs
Isabella Russo
Knoch girls volleyball beats Thomas Jefferson for 3rd straight WPIAL title
November 2, 2019
In its playoff run, Knoch girls volleyball proved how strong a team it is by grinding out wins without standout hitters Kennedy Christy and Hannah Rowe.
Plum soccer reached goals despite dramatic playoff loss
November 1, 2019
If someone had told Plum boys soccer coach Raf Kolankowski before the season that his team would have been leading in a WPIAL Class AAAA semifinal with five-plus minutes remaining, he would’ve taken it in a heartbeat.
Joey Fonagy’s overtime goal lifts Canon-McMillan to WPIAL boys soccer title
October 31, 2019
The Big Macs had one more comeback in them and it was one that they’ll remember for a long time.
AK Valley high school athletes of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger and Deer Lakes’ Michael Sullivan
October 29, 2019
Kaitlyn Killinger
Hat trick lifts Deer Lakes boys soccer past South Park in Class AA semis
October 26, 2019
Deer Lakes boys soccer has used “unfinished business” as its mantra after narrow misses on the road to a WPIAL championship appearance the last few years.
Canon-McMillan boys score 2 late goals, edge Plum in Class AAAA semis
A few minutes after the Plum boys soccer team’s magical season ended Saturday with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss in the WPIAL Class AAAA semifinals that saw Canon-McMillan score twice in the final six minutes, Mustangs coach Raf Kolankowski used the moment as a teaching tool.
Westmoreland girls soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 24, 2019
October 23, 2019
Class AAAA
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Burrell’s Sara Novak and Springdale’s Mike Mitchell
October 22, 2019
Sara Novak
Senior-led Leechburg girls volleyball turns focus to playoffs
October 20, 2019
The best word to describe Leechburg girls volleyball in matches against the two teams in front of them in the Section 4-A standings is “close.”
Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer shakes off slow start, advances in playoffs
October 19, 2019
For Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer coach Tyler Solis, Saturday’s first-round playoff game had several elements that his team needed to get through.
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio, who has Down syndrome, scores touchdown on senior night
October 18, 2019
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio had a senior night to remember on Friday.
Neshannock shuts down Western Beaver, secures playoff berth
There were a lot of playoff scenarios in a crowded Midwestern Athletic Conference entering Friday night, but the easiest way for Neshannock to secure a postseason berth was to go out and get a win.
With Mohrbacher sisters filling the net, Freedom girls soccer doesn’t skip a beat
October 17, 2019
Freedom girls soccer has a bit of a different look from the 2018 WPIAL championship team after the graduation of some key seniors and standout Jayden Sharpless transferring to North Catholic, but the results have been the same.
Knoch girls volleyball team doesn’t let success become distraction
October 13, 2019
The last few seasons for the Knoch girls volleyball team has been a special ride, with two WPIAL titles and a PIAA title. So as the postseason approaches, it is natural for the seniors to dream of finishing their careers with winning a third district title.
Hughes-Sciarro connection leads Riverside past rival Ellwood City
October 11, 2019
Riverside quarterback Ben Hughes and wide receiver Nathan Sciarro started working on their connection in May, going down to the football field after school and running routes with the goal of getting better timing.
Plum boys soccer team ready to make history
Plum boys soccer captains Cole Kelly, Luke Gildea and Tyler Kolankowski are well versed in the history of the program.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Maddie Ancosky, Scott Bitar
October 8, 2019
Maddie Ancosky
Kiski Area volleyball making steady climb in Section 1-AAA
October 6, 2019
The day before Thursday’s crucial Section 1-AAA match with Armstrong, Kiski Area libero Rebekah Fowler didn’t want to give too much away.
Plum’s captains bringing optimism back to ice
October 4, 2019
Prior to the season, Plum hockey coach Phil Mains told his leadership group of captain Dan Baranowski and alternate captains Logan Schlegel and Nic Pushic that the team would go as they go.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Will Meyer, Kiski Area’s Sidney Palla
October 1, 2019
Will Meyer
Deer Lakes volleyball encouraged by performance in tough tests
September 29, 2019
Deer Lakes girls volleyball coach Terry Gaston always tells his team if it can get 20 points in a set against an opponent, it can win.
QB Jay Pearson keeps his word, helps OLSH torch Laurel
September 27, 2019
Prior to Friday’s game with Laurel, Jay Pearson told OLSH coach Dan Bradley that he was going to score on the first play.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Kenzie Kerkan, Freeport’s Isaac Wetzel
September 24, 2019
Kenzie Kerkan
Freeport volleyball seniors determined to return to top
September 22, 2019
Freeport setter Madeline Clark can still recall the feeling of walking off the floor after last year’s WPIAL semifinal loss to Frazier that ended the Yellowjackets’ 3-year run of making the district title game.
Plum girls soccer uses team-first approach to climb standings
September 20, 2019
From the first meeting with his players, first-year Plum girls soccer coach Jamie Stewart’s message has been “team first.”
AK Valley H.S. Athletes of the Week: Burrell’s Allie Vescio and Leechburg’s Cole Villa
September 17, 2019
Allie Vescio
Fox Chapel girls volleyball hopes aggressive approach works
September 15, 2019
When describing how aggressive to be when spiking a volleyball, Fox Chapel coach Phil O’Keeffe likes to use a baseball analogy.
Plum boys golfers focus on shaving strokes
September 13, 2019
It’s been a tough season in the win-loss department for the Plum boys golf team, going up against section rivals and perennial powers Fox Chapel, Central Catholic and Franklin Regional. In golf, though, success can be measured in different ways.
A-K Valley H.S. athletes of the week: Fox Chapel’s Lucy Ream and Plum’s Darius Flowers
September 10, 2019
Lucy Ream
Percise Colon scores clutch touchdown to carry NA past Central Catholic
September 6, 2019
North Allegheny coach Art Walker earned his 200th win Friday night, but he won’t remember the game, because of the milestone number.Junior duo goes low for Franklin Regional golf team
Franklin Regional’s Chuck Tragesser and Michael Wareham spend a lot of their free time playing golf together at Willowbrook Country Club in Apollo. On match days, they are paired.
Franklin Regional girls volleyball looks to build off historic 2018 season
August 30, 2019
The Franklin Regional girls volleyball team was one of the feel-good stories of the WPIAL last season.
Competition to bring out best in Knoch boys soccer
August 24, 2019
When Knoch boys soccer coach Malcolm Cook looked back at last season, the overarching theme was that there were too many holes in the lineup to find the right combination to be competitive.
Small roster not dimming enthusiasm for Knoch girls soccer
Knoch girls soccer already was low on players, but three season-ending injuries before the first practice made the roster even thinner.
Plum gains momentum with Week Zero win over Highlands
August 23, 2019
Plum went into its Week Zero matchup at Highlands hoping to take some positive momentum into Class 5A Foothills Conference play and the Mustangs got it in all three phases of the game.
Freeport boys soccer confident it can compete in tough section
August 21, 2019
There have been plenty of good on-field moments the last few years for Freeport boys soccer, but one thing that always has stuck out for coach Dave Teorsky didn’t happen in a game.
Sidney Shemanski hopes to guide young Freeport girls soccer to section title
Sidney Shemanski will begin the first leg of the three-part finale to her Freeport athletic career this fall with the girls soccer team.
South Park ready to rebound with experienced group
August 18, 2019
South Park football coach Marty Rieck isn’t one to make excuses for shortcomings, but the fact of the matter is that his team was young last season.
Deer Lakes adopts ‘why not us?’ mantra in quest for playoff berth
Tim Burk is a Deer Lakes guy through and through, so he took great pride in watching the Lancers’ boys soccer team make a run to the state championship game and the boys basketball team win the first PIAA playoff game in school history and advance to the quarterfinals.
After near misses, North Catholic focused reaching championship game
When you come as close to playing for a championship as North Catholic football has only to see it slip away, it’s hard not to look back at the small moments that swayed the game.
Armstrong looks to gain experience early on with young roster
August 16, 2019
It took only two weeks for Frank Fabian to realize he made a mistake after resigning as Armstrong’s coach.
Always one to lighten mood, Deer Lakes’ Hollibaugh got lighter to improve his play
August 12, 2019
Deer Lakes football coach Tim Burk is never exactly sure what his tight end Jack Hollibaugh is going to say when he enters the locker room, but he knows it likely will be something funny.
Plum’s Kelly balances sports, music as key cog on soccer team
August 9, 2019
Cole Kelly does his best to split his time for his two passions — soccer and music — because he loves them equally.
Youth camp helps fund Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team
July 17, 2019
Last week, the Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team held its fifth annual youth skills camp, which has become a benefit not only for the future of the program, but the present, as well.
Plum’s Linhart displays virtues of multisport athletes
June 8, 2019
The three-sport athlete has become a rare breed with many specializing in one sport to try to make it to college, but Hunter Linhart saw the benefits of diversifying.
Brennan powers Serra Catholic past Neshannock in PIAA quarterfinals
June 6, 2019
With teams intentionally walking standout catcher Mark Black regularly in the playoffs, Serra Catholic baseball coach Brian Dzurenda decided to move him from third in the order to the leadoff spot, which put Pat Brennan in Black’s old spot.
Franklin Regional ‘revved up’ for PIAA quarterfinal matchup
June 5, 2019
Michael Klingensmith led off first base after drawing a walk in the top of the first inning in Monday’s PIAA first- round game when Cathedral Prep pitcher Colin Kelly made a pick-off throw to first.
Franklin Regional baseball advances with win over Cathedral Prep
June 3, 2019
It often has been said good things come to those who wait, and Franklin Regional baseball proved that in a couple of ways Monday.
With school out, Leechburg turns complete focus on PIAA softball playoffs
June 1, 2019
Kristen Knapp, Aubry Skeel and Kiera Jones left Leechburg on Thursday night as graduates.
Boehme hits for cycle as Seton LaSalle takes down Serra Catholic in WPIAL Class 2A final
May 29, 2019
Seton LaSalle first baseman Dan Boehme knew he had a good day, but he was unaware it was a historic one until he got back into the dugout after crushing a two-run homer over the left field fence.
Westmoreland baseball/softball preview capsules: Games of Tuesday, May 28
May 27, 2019
Tuesday’s games
Leechburg softball focused on consolation prize
May 26, 2019
Leechburg softball coach Debbi Young has found it can be tough at times to get a team energized for a consolation game after a difficult loss in the semifinals, but she doesn’t foresee that being a problem with her current group.
WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final suspended by inclement weather
May 23, 2019
With the score tied 11-11 in the final minute of the WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final between Upper St. Clair and Shady Side Academy, Mother Nature decided to put a halt on the night and add some suspense.
Oakland Catholic captures WPIAL Class AA girls lacrosse title
Natalie Cyterski was bloodied, battered and exhausted, but she wasn’t going to be denied.
Maley’s walk-off single lifts No. 2 Pine-Richland past Norwin in WPIAL quarterfinals
May 21, 2019
Jake Maley hit a walk-off single in the bottom of the sixth inning to propel No. 2 Pine-Richland to a 2-1 victory over No. 7 Norwin in a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal baseball game Tuesday night at Upper St. Clair’s Boyce-Mayview Park.
Westmoreland H.S. baseball capsules for games of Monday, May 20, 2019
May 19, 2019
WPIAL baseball playoffs
Kiski Valley rugby teams advance to state championship games
May 18, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby advanced to the Rugby PA Club Division II championship game for the second consecutive season with a 32-5 win over North Penn on Saturday at Penn State Berks.
Mars baseball shuts out Fox Chapel in 1st round
May 16, 2019
Fox Chapel coach Jim Hastings summed up how things went for his team Thursday with five words.
Kiski Valley rugby teams vying for state championships
May 13, 2019
In the last five years, Kiski Valley rugby has built its program to be on par with some of best in the state and last week reflected that when the girls and boys teams were awarded top seeds in their respective brackets.
Plum softball not caught up in numbers game
May 10, 2019
Nearly half of the players in Plum softball’s lineup have batting averages at .400 or above, but none of them know it.
Kiski Valley girls rugby team hoping for breakthrough
April 27, 2019
After three years of seeing the Kiski Valley girls rugby team finish as the state runner-up, Rilee Roach is ready to break through.
All systems rolling for Franklin Regional baseball
April 26, 2019
Franklin Regional baseball coach Bobby Sadler laughed and then paused for a few seconds when deciding if pitching or hitting was going better for his team.
Tough nonsection slate paying off for Greensburg Central Catholic baseball
April 23, 2019
Going into the season with seven new starters, Greensburg Central Catholic baseball coach Dennis Reist beefed up the schedule with an early run of difficult nonsection opponents and hoped Mother Nature would cooperate.
Shorthanded Penn-Trafford track teams eye individual success
April 5, 2019
For the second year in a row the Penn-Trafford boys and girls track teams have small rosters, but that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of talent.
Penn-Trafford boys volleyball aims for another section title
March 29, 2019
The Penn-Trafford boys volleyball team jumped right into the thick of an intense battle in its season opener Tuesday night, and that was exactly what Warriors coach Jim Schall wanted to see to get a better handle on his team.
Kiski Valley rugby gets boost from Buckheads transfers
March 28, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby coach Seth Erwin was already excited about the group he had returning from a team that was the state runner-up last year, and then he received some news in the offseason that made his roster even stronger.
New-look Deer Lakes boys volleyball team looks to maintain high standard of success
March 25, 2019
Deer Lakes boys volleyball coach Brady Schuller said he had a couple of curveballs thrown his way last year with some injuries to key players in a season that ended one win short of a second consecutive PIAA playoff berth.
La Salle takes down North Allegheny in Class AAA Pennsylvania Cup championship
March 23, 2019
North Allegheny rolled into the second intermission break on the back of two late goals that got the Tigers tied with La Salle and looked to continue the momentum when they received a power play early in the third.
Freeport’s Brown follows in mother’s footsteps with selection to Cager Classic
March 22, 2019
Jalen Brown paused a moment before describing the impact his mother, Eve VanDyke, has had on his life and his basketball career.
Freshmen, sophomores to make quick impact for Springdale softball team
March 19, 2019
Springdale softball coach Anthony Pototo pointed to a few factors that went against his team last season: poor weather, a lack of pitching depth and a young team.
Springdale baseball to lean on young lineup during rebuilding season
After each practice, Springdale baseball coach Brett Burger tells his team to “be better tomorrow than they were today.”
Cook, Ringgold edge No. 1 Burrell to claim PIHL Division II championship
March 18, 2019
With the score tied in the third period, Burrell had the ice tilted in its favor and fired a bunch of shots on goal, but Ringgold goalie Evan Cook answered each time.
Penn-Trafford baseball sets sights on winning section championship
There isn’t any question that Penn-Trafford baseball lost some talented players to graduation with all five departed seniors going on to play in college.
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA finals preview: Peters Township vs. North Allegheny
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA Championship
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A finals preview: Montour vs. South Fayette
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A championship
Penn-Trafford softball prepares for tough section slate in Class 5A
When new alignments came out, Penn-Trafford softball coach Denny Little looked at who was going to be in the Warriors’ section and came to a quick conclusion.
PIHL playoff capsule: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair
March 17, 2019
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AA Championship
Tshiebwe, Kennedy Catholic use 2nd-half surge to oust Pine-Richland in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2019
For a half, Pine-Richland controlled the pace with a slow down offense and shot well enough from beyond the arc to go into halftime down only five to Class 6A’s No. 1 team, Kennedy Catholic.
PIHL Class AA Penguins Cup semifinals preview capsules
March 12, 2019
Class AA semifinals
Gateway’s Whiteside, Hanisak gain experience at WPIAL championships
March 8, 2019
Gateway coach Ryan Sula saw improvement from Evan Whiteside in every area of his wrestling, but the one thing that stood out the most was the growing confidence in his 113-pound junior.
Plum’s Citrano, Stecik cap season at WPIAL wrestling championships
As a freshman this year, Plum’s Vinny Citrano believed in himself every time he stepped on a mat, and it showed in his results. But before his first match at the WPIAL individual championships Feb. 28, the magnitude of the event set in.
Stewart’s 7 points lead Burrell to PIHL Division II 1st-round victory over Trinity
March 4, 2019
After Tyler Stewart skated around three Trinity players before depositing the puck into the back of the net for his fifth goal of the game midway through the third period, Burrell hockey coach Max Rickard said he looked at one of his assistant coaches and just shook his head.
Chartiers Valley’s McConnells combine for another WPIAL title — this time girls
March 2, 2019
Tim McConnell thought back to eight years ago when he said someone made a comment to him that one day he’d coach his daughter, Megan.
Spirnak lifts No. 5 Elizabeth Forward past upset-minded Quaker Valley in quarterfinals
February 21, 2019
With Quaker Valley pushing Elizabeth Forward to the edge late in the fourth quarter, Bri Spirnak did what she had been doing all game: She stayed tough and found a way to score.
Knoch displays versatility, rolls past South Park in 1st round
February 20, 2019
Knoch has displayed an ability and willingness to get out and run the floor a little more than it has in the past, and that continued in a big way in the playoffs Wednesday night.
Westmoreland basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games
February 15, 2019
Tuesday’s games
TJ’s Galioto, Moon’s Hoff headline WPIAL gymnast champs
Thomas Jefferson gymnast Natalie Galioto and her coaches did some quick calculations after she got finished with her final event, and the math showed she had put together her highest score all season.
South Side girls use 3rd-quarter surge to take down Riverview in 1st round
February 14, 2019
Riverview did pretty much everything a lower-seeded team would want to do in the first half.
