Author: Jerin Steele

making a statement
Pine-Richland’s Joey Schneck celebrates victory over Keystone Oaks’ Christian Flaherty in the heavyweight finals of the Allegheny County wrestling championships Jan. 21 at Fox Chapel High School. Pine-Richland wrestling left the Allegheny County wrestling championships with some gold, silver and more proof of a program on the rise. The Rams had three county champions, a pair of runners-up and placed second overall in the team standings at the annual tournament at Fox Chapel.
<strong>Story, Page 8</strong>
Andrew Palla | For the Tribune-Review

Pine-Richland makes statement at Allegheny County wrestling tournament

January 29, 2023

Pine-Richland wrestling left the Allegheny County wrestling championships with some gold, silver and more proof of a program on the rise.

Mars’ Tasso Sfanos shoots a 3-pointer against Chartiers Valley on Jan. 13.

Mars outduels North Hills on Tasso Sfanos buzzer-beating 3-pointer

January 28, 2023

Tasso Sfanos knew it was in as soon as the ball left his hand.

Kiski Area’s Lebryn Smith drives to the basket against Mars on Dec. 15, 2022, at Kiski Area High School.

Sharpened by tough early schedule, Kiski Area boys heating up

January 26, 2023

Kiski Area boys basketball coach Corey Smith senses that everything is coming together.

Plum girls mount double-digit 4th-quarter rally to beat Franklin Regional

January 23, 2023

It’s rare a team wins a basketball game after making one field goal in an entire half.

Kiski Area’s Ethan George will compete in the PHIL All-Star games Jan. 29 at RMU Island Sports Center.

After sweeping defending champion Norwin, Kiski Area hockey team continues rise in standings

The Kiski Area hockey team already was trending in the right direction, but after the heist pulled off against Norwin on Jan. 10, the group should galvanize even more.

Pine-Richland senior Max Heckert drags down Cathedral Prep quarterback Luke Costello during the Rams’ victory in the PIAA Class 5A quarterfinals Nov. 25, 2022.

Pine-Richland linebacker Max Heckert gets green light to commit to Slippery Rock

January 22, 2023

Max Heckert got a look at the rings in the Slippery Rock trophy case during his visit to the school and it reminded him of what he accomplished at Pine-Richland, winning two WPIAL and state championships in four years.

After battling multiple injuries, Pine-Richland wrestler ready to ‘break some brackets’

January 21, 2023

Vaughn Spencer soaked in the moment after recording a pin in his first varsity match last week.

Burrell guard Tucker Bitar (left) fights for a loose ball during the second half against Shady Side Academy on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023, at Burrell High School.

Shady Side boys rally past Burrell in matchup of Section 3-3A leaders

January 20, 2023

At halftime, Shady Side Academy coach David Vadnais told his team it was a gift that they were still within striking distance after only scoring 12 points in the first half.

Burrell’s Macky Bennis drives past Plum’s Nathaniel Yohman on Dec. 28, 2022 at North Allegheny.

In middle of breakthrough season, Burrell boys get ready for key section showdown

January 19, 2023

At the halfway point of the season, Burrell boys basketball finds itself in a first-place tie in Section 3-3A with Deer Lakes and Shady Side Academy.

Highlands wrestlers finished third at the Bo Wood tournament last week.

New practice room, strong start have Highlands wrestlers optimistic for rest of 2022-23 season

January 16, 2023

There’s plenty of positivity surrounding the Highlands wrestling program.

Pine-Richland girls swimmers compete in the 200 freestyle relay during the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships March 3, 2022, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Pine-Richland swimmers look to build on last season’s success

January 15, 2023

Pine-Richland girls swimming reached plenty of goals with a young team last year.

Zach Howard is one of three PIHL all-stars on the Pine-Richland hockey roster.

All-stars help Pine-Richland hockey put slow start in rearview mirror

Josh Folmer was in the middle of his school day when he got a text message from his parents that told him he had made the PIHL All-Star game.

Submitted | Gabby Baldasare
Pine-Richland junior Madison Zavasky averaged 20.5 points per game over the first eight games of the 2022-23 season.

Pine-Richland girls, junior Madison Zavasky enjoying breakout season

January 8, 2023

Madison Zavasky made the tough decision to end her soccer career and put her full sports focus into basketball.

Obama Academy guard Naron Jackson (4) rises up for a jump shot as Freeport’s Dean Furer (0) and Gavin Glista defend during the first half of the Eagles’ loss to Freeport on Dec. 29, 2022, at Freeport Middle School.

After solid start, Freeport boys look to tighten up defensively for section games ahead

January 5, 2023

As the Freeport boys basketball team gets ready to dive into the heart of section play, second-year coach Sean Devinney is looking for a more consistent commitment to defense.

North Catholic’s Max Hurray drives to the basket past Plum’s Max Grice during their game on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022, in Cranberry.

North Catholic runs away from Plum in victory

December 22, 2022

Max Hurray and North Catholic got off to a sizzling start and didn’t slow down.

Pine-Richland team captains Katie Yanni (left) and Kaili Doctor celebrate beating North Allegheny in the WPIAL Class 4A girls volleyball championship Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022, at UPMC Events Center.

Banner fall season for Pine-Richland athletics

December 18, 2022

There will be quite a few updates to the banners in the Pine-Richland gym.

Burrell’s Julian Bertucci works to pin Kiski Area’s Amari McNeil at 121 pounds during their match on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022, at Kiski Area High School.

Burrell wrestling team snaps Kiski Area’s winning streak

December 14, 2022

In a sense, it was a welcome-to-varsity-wrestling moment for Julian Bertucci.

Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
Pine-Richland’s Owen Luellen shoots over Butler’s Raine Gratzmiller last season.

New-look Pine-Richland boys basketball team learning ropes

December 11, 2022

The Pine-Richland boys basketball has a much different look this season.

Pine-Richland quarterback Ryan Palmieri scrambles for first-down yardage during the second half of the Rams’ victory over Cathedral Prep in the PIAA Class 5A quarterfinals Friday, Nov. 25, 2022.

Pine-Richland seniors aim to cap careers as state champions

December 7, 2022

The seniors on the Pine-Richland football team have an opportunity to complete their story arc in grand style.

Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
Pine-Richland’s Madison Zavasky defends North Allegheny’s Lydia Betz last season.

New coach excited to see how Pine-Richland girls progress

December 3, 2022

The first goal Gabby Baldasare wanted to achieve after taking the Pine-Richland girls basketball job in May was to establish what she wants the culture to be in the program.

Burrell’s Cooper Hornack (left) works against Niko Ferra during practice on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022, at Burrell High School.

Burrell wrestling team aims to start new streak of WPIAL titles

November 30, 2022

The Burrell wrestling team is determined to get back on the top step of the podium.

Kiski Area’s Ryan Klingensmith works against Logan Bechtold during practice on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022, at Kiski Area High School.

Kiski Area, A-K Valley Class 3A teams look to add to wrestling trophy cases

November 29, 2022

The road will be a bit different, but the goal remains the same for Kiski Area wrestling.

Julie Spinelli is one of four returning starters this season for St. Joseph.

Excitement builds for St. Joseph girls after playoff stunner

November 27, 2022

The St. Joseph girls basketball team pulled off one of the most stunning upsets across all sports in the WPIAL last season when it knocked off three-time defending Class A champion Rochester in the quarterfinals.

St. Joseph’s Jimmy Giannetta takes a pass during practice on Thursday, Dec. 2, 2021, at the high school in Natrona Heights.

St. Joseph boys motivated by last year’s brush with playoffs

St. Joseph coach Hart Coleman doesn’t have to look too far to find a way to motivate his group.

Ben DiNucci warms up before a preseason game with the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 24.

Pine-Richland notebook: XFL comes calling for Ben DiNucci

November 26, 2022

Former Pine-Richland quarterback Ben DiNucci is getting another shot at pro football.

Latrobe goalkeeper Sofia DeCerb plays against Franklin Regional during an October match.

From 2 wins to reaching the state playoffs, Latrobe girls soccer team reflects on success

November 20, 2022

The Latrobe girls soccer team had a historic season, winning the first two WPIAL playoff games in program history and qualifying for the state tournament for the first time.

Submitted
“It was really surreal crossing the finish line. I was really tired afterwards, but after it all set in, it was an amazing feeling,” Pine-Richland’s Natalie McLean said.

Pine-Richland’s Natalie McLean follows PIAA title with Georgetown commitment

A few weeks ago Natalie McLean realized a dream that was four years in the making and made Pine-Richland history.

Freeport’s Ava Soilis drives to the basket past Highland’s Jocelyn Luzier last season.

Freeport girls basketball looks to follow in footsteps of volleyball team

November 19, 2022

Freeport girls basketball coach Fred Soilis has had a front row seat for the Yellowjackets’ volleyball team’s run to the PIAA championship game while watching his daughter Ava play libero.

Ben Lane is one of 10 seniors on Freeport’s roster this season.

Deep, experienced roster has Freeport boys ready to build on last year’s success

The Freeport boys basketball team has plenty to build on after getting a playoff win and achieving a winning record for the first time in three years.

Union players earm up before facing Rochester in the WPIAL Class A semifinals Friday., Nov. 18, 2022.

Union gets past Rochester in battle of Cinderellas in WPIAL Class A semifinals

November 18, 2022

It’s a run that the Union Scotties faithful will remember forever.

North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman plays the ball in a match against Freeport earlier this season.

North Allegheny volleyball avenges WPIAL loss, beats Pine-Richland in state semis

November 15, 2022

Two weeks ago, North Allegheny left the WPIAL girls volleyball championships disappointed, but one positive that came from the loss to Pine-Richland was a lesson about where the Tigers needed to improve.

Freeport cross country coach Missy (Baustert) Schaeffer was inducted into the Carnegie Mellon Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2021.

Freeport cross country coach Melissa Schaeffer inducted into Carnegie Mellon Hall of Fame

November 14, 2022

Melissa Schaeffer had to wait a year to be officially inducted into Carnegie Mellon’s sports Hall of Fame, but it was well worth it.

Dominant Freeport sweeps Quaker Valley, moves one step closer to state title

November 12, 2022

The Freeport girls volleyball team took one step closer to its ultimate goal of winning the program’s second state title with a dominant performance in the quarterfinals.

Aliquippa head coach Mike Warfield works with his team during practice on Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022, in Aliquippa.

Aliquippa capitalizes on mistakes to take down Montour in Class 4A quarterfinals

November 11, 2022

It was wet at Freedom Friday night, but there wasn’t any rust on Aliquippa following a bye week.

Harbor Creek goalkeeper Ryan Humphreys celebrates after making the final save in a shootout against Deer Lakes during a PIAA Class 2A state playoff game on Tuesday.

Harbor Creek executes game plan, knocks out WPIAL champion Deer Lakes

November 8, 2022

Harbor Creek came into a matchup with Deer Lakes with a plan to sit back and counter.

AP
Portland Thorns FC defender Meghan Klingenberg reacts after winning the NWSL championship match against the Kansas City Current on Oct. 29.

Pine-Richland notebook: Meghan Klingenberg wins another NWSL title with Portland

November 6, 2022

Pine-Richland grad Meghan Klingenberg added another accomplishment to her resume recently by becoming a two-time National Women’s Soccer League Champion.

The Pine-Richland boys soccer team celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Seneca Valley in the Class 4A final on Saturday at Highmark Stadium.

Pine-Richland shocks defending champion Seneca Valley in Class 4A boys WPIAL final

November 5, 2022

In preparation for the WPIAL Class 4A boys soccer final, Pine-Richland coach Jordan Weigand kept telling his players, “Somebody has to beat them,” referring to two-time defending champion Seneca Valley.

Keystone Oaks players warm up before their game against Apollo-Ridge on Nov. 4, 2022, at Dormont Stadium.

Keystone Oaks dispatches Apollo-Ridge in WPIAL opening round

November 4, 2022

Apollo-Ridge did its best to keep the ball away from Keystone Oaks’ standout junior receiver Clinton Robinson.

Freeport’s Cassidy Dell hits against North Allegheny in an Aug. 29 match.

Powerful Freeport volleyball team out to finish job against Shenango in WPIAL finals

More often than not in the last 15 years, the Freeport girls volleyball team has had plans the first Saturday in November.

Deer Lakes hoists the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Beaver in the Class 2A final on Thursday at Highmark Stadium.

Freshman connection leads Deer Lakes to WPIAL Class 2A soccer championship

November 3, 2022

Members of the Deer Lakes boys soccer team have described the culture in the program to be a family-like atmosphere.

Freeport withstands Quaker Valley rally, reaches WPIAL Class 2A girls volleyball final

November 1, 2022

Quaker Valley pushed Freeport as hard as a Class 2A team has this season in the second set of Tuesday’s WPIAL semifinal match, and the Yellowjackets responded like a team with championship pedigree.

Ambridge hands Plum boys another heartbreaking loss in WPIAL soccer playoffs

October 31, 2022

JJ Simms saw the ball floating high in the air right in front of the goal and just had to be patient.

Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
Pine-Richland’s Max Heckert sack Harrisburg quarterback Shawn Lee last season.

Max Heckert carries on rich tradition of Pine-Richland linebackers

October 30, 2022

Max Heckert spent the last few years studying future NCAA Division I linebackers Jeremiah Hasley and Luke Miller while playing alongside them at Pine-Richland.

Pine-Richland players celebrate their WPIAL Class 3A field hockey championship Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022 at Washington & Jefferson College.

Pine-Richland makes it 4 in a row in WPIAL Class 3A field hockey championship game

October 29, 2022

The Pine-Richland field hockey team finished off its four-peat in style.

Mars gets past North Catholic, grabs playoff spot

October 28, 2022

Mars needed a victory Friday against North Catholic, and it also needed to secure the proper amount of Gardner points.

Deer Lakes boys come up big, get past West Mifflin in Class 3A quarterfinals

October 27, 2022

At one point in his career, Nate Litrun wasn’t interested in scoring goals.

Springdale’s Grace Gent (24) celebrates her goal next to Carissa Walsh during their WPIAL Class A quarterfinal against Mohawk on Wednesday.

Springdale girls soccer team doesn’t let opponent get too close this time, advances to semifinals

October 26, 2022

In Springdale’s first-round win over Sewickley Academy, the game got a little too close for comfort after the Dynamos yielded a couple of late goals.

Springdale’s Billy Lawrence celebrates his hat-trick goal against Carlynton during their WPIAL Class A playoff game on Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022, at Burrell High School.

Billy Lawrence records hat trick as Springdale rolls past Carlynton in WPIAL Class A 1st round

October 25, 2022

Springdale coach Paul Palo credits a good portion of his team’s attack to the instincts and natural talent among an experienced group of midfielders and forwards.

Pine-Richland
Pine-Richland players huddle up during a match against North Allegheny on Sept. 14.

Resilient Pine-Richland volleyball team marches into playoffs with confidence

October 23, 2022

The last time Pine-Richland played for a WPIAL girls volleyball championship, Angela Seman was on the other side playing defensive specialist/libero for Seneca Valley.

Pine-Richland players celebrate their 2021 WPIAL Class 3A field hockey title.

Pine-Richland field hockey turns focus to WPIAL championship 4-peat

Pine-Richland field hockey coach Donna Stephenson doesn’t have to say much as her team gets ready to try to win a fourth consecutive WPIAL championship.

Kiski Area goalkeeper Maddox Anderson makes a diving save on Mars’ Landon Rocke during their game Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022, in Adams.

Kiski Area battle-tested heading into WPIAL boys soccer playoffs

October 17, 2022

Kiski Area boys soccer coach Sean Arnold knew his team had the experience and talent to have a special fall.

Pine-Richland boys soccer sees hard work rewarded with playoff berth

October 16, 2022

After a long road, the Pine-Richland boys soccer team got its moment.

Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
Pine-Richland’s Blaise Masciantonio watches his tee shot on No. 16 during the WPIAL Class 3A boys golf championship Oct. 6 at Allegheny Country Club in Sewickley Heights.

Pine-Richland notebook: Senior golfer makes states

With an 11th-place finish at the WPIAL Class 3A boys golf championship, Pine-Richland senior Blaise Masciantonio qualified for the state tournament.

East Allegheny’s Prince Tarrant stiff-arms Deer Lakes’ Zach Grant as he tries for extra yards at the end of the first half Friday.

East Allegheny denies Deer Lakes chance to clinch playoff spot with runaway win

October 14, 2022

A large crowd lined the streets for the annual homecoming parade and then filed into Lancer Stadium hoping to watch the Deer Lakes football team clinch a playoff berth for the third time in program history.

Submitted
The Rams defeated Fox Chapel, 1-0, in overtime on a game-winning goal by St. John’s recruit Stephanie Cornelius.

Pine-Richland notebook: After big win, girls soccer team in thick of playoff race

October 9, 2022

The Pine-Richland girls soccer team finds itself in an intense playoff race in Section 1-4A and scored a big win on Oct. 3 that will help its cause.

Pine-Richland’s Jordan Spear skates with the puck against Central Catholic’s Mario Misiti during a PIHL playoff game last season.
Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review

Revamped Pine-Richland hockey roster looks to get up to speed

When last season ended, the Pine-Richland hockey team said goodbye to its top four point-getters in standout forwards Alex Erlain, Carson Kalpakis and Michael Megine and defenseman Esai Morse.

Ligonier Valley’s Haden Sierocky celebrates in the end zone late in the forth quarter against Burrell on Friday, Oct. 7, 2022, at Burrell.

Haden Sierocky’s big plays help Ligonier Valley defeat Burrell

October 7, 2022

Haden Sierocky’s teammates have given him the nickname “Mr. Big Play.”

Pine-Richland’s Ryan Palmieri carries for his first touchdown against Penn Hills on Sept. 9, 2022, at Penn Hills.

Ryan Palmieri boosts Pine-Richland with whatever-it-takes attitude

October 2, 2022

Ryan Palmieri’s mindset is doing everything he can to help the team win.

Pine-Richland’s Jessica Albertson poses with her sister Rebekah after a game.

Pine-Richland’s Jessica Albertson presses fast forward on field hockey career

Four years ago, Jessica Albertson found her passion with field hockey.

Avonworth players gather after defeating West Mifflin on Friday, Sept. 30, 2022.

Key goal-line stand highlights Avonworth’s hard-fought win over West Mifflin

September 30, 2022

It wasn’t a pretty start for Avonworth, but it turned into a beautiful ending.

Pine-Richland’s Kendall Kirkland is a member of the 2022 tennis team.
Submitted by Kendall Kirkland

Pine-Richland sophomore Kendall Kirkland finds success in singles tennis

September 25, 2022

Kendall Kirkland played second doubles for Pine-Richland as a freshman, and after getting a feel for varsity tennis she spent the offseason trying to improve her game.

Pine-Richland golfer makes clutch putt to qualify for WPIALs, erase bad memory

Toby Kitay stood over a 10-foot putt needing to sink it to qualify for the WPIAL tournament.

Seneca Valley excels on offense, defense to defeat Mt. Lebanon

September 23, 2022

It was the performance Seneca Valley coach Ron Bustchle has been waiting for.

Deer Lakes’ Nate Litrun (29) celebrates his goal with Collin Rodgers and Ryan Hanes after scoring in the final seconds of double overtime against Shady Side Academy on Sept. 6 in Fox Chapel.

Buzzer-beating goal highlights strong start for Deer Lakes boys soccer

September 20, 2022

For a high school athlete who plays both soccer and basketball the first buzzer-beater typically comes on the hardwood.

Pine-Richland girls volleyball hosted the "Spike Out Cancer" event Sept. 14, 2022, at Pine-Richland High School.

Pine-Richland girls volleyball raises funds, awareness during ‘Spike Out Cancer’ event

September 18, 2022

Angela Seman coached nine individuals affected by cancer.

Submitted by Chatree Sangpachata
Captains guide rams
Pine-Richland’s Cale Klaff competes against Seneca Valley on Sept. 8 at Pine-Richland. Along with fellow senior and friend Colin Zvejnieks, Klaff and Ben Rishel captain a Pine-Richland team that has made waves in the early portion of the season. The Rams were 5-1-1 and 3-1-1 overall through Sept. 14 and just behind two-time defending WPIAL champion Seneca Valley in the Section 1-4A standings. <strong>Story, 17</strong>

Team captains guide Pine-Richland boys soccer toward playoff berth

In seventh grade, Ben Rishel took a year off from playing for the Pine-Richland middle school boys soccer team, but he caught wind of a new player who was turning heads.

Highlands’ Daniel Long celebrates his sack of North Catholic quarterback Jason Siket in the second quarter Friday, Sept. 16, 2022, at Highlands High School.

Highlands stifles North Catholic, ends Trojans’ conference winning streak

September 16, 2022

All week, Highlands coach Matt Bonislawski told his team the Greater Allegheny Conference opener with North Catholic was a statement game.

Submitted by Natalie McLean
Pine-Richland’s Natalie McLean earned a pair of medals at the PIAA track and field championships May 27-28 at Shippensburg.

Returning runners step into key roles for Pine-Richland cross country team

September 11, 2022

The Pine-Richland girls cross country team graduated two runners who are now competing at NCAA Division I schools, but there’s still a wealth of talent in the program.

Burrell’s Devin Beattie carries the ball for a touchdown during a game against Valley on Friday.

Burrell tops Valley on fourth-quarter field goal in rivalry thriller

September 9, 2022

Burrell coach Shawn Liotta had no doubts about calling upon his junior kicker Ryan Croushore with a potential game-winning field goal late in the fourth quarter.

Pine-Richland’s Kaili Doctor is a North Carolina A&T recruit.

Pine-Richland volleyball ready to return to title contention

September 4, 2022

Pine-Richland girls volleyball has a unique mix, and it’s one that could be very dangerous.

Bob Orkwis | For the Tribune-Review
Pine-Richland players celebrate after winning the WPIAL Class 3A field hockey title Oct. 31, 2021, at Washington & Jefferson.

3-time defending champion Pine-Richland field hockey team determined to maintain winning culture

The Pine-Richland field hockey team is still hungry for more.

Pine-Richland golf team looking to get back to top of section

August 28, 2022

The Pine-Richland boys golf team was a young group last year, and the Rams saw their streak of five consecutive section titles come to an end.

Submitted
Colin Zvejnieks led Pine-Richland in scoring last season.

Pine-Richland boys soccer has pieces in place to end playoff drought

The Pine-Richland boys soccer team has the right ingredients for a promising fall.

A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Plum sets sights on breakthrough season

August 25, 2022

The Plum boys soccer team has been agonizingly close to breaking through the last few seasons.

A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Plum sets sights on breakthrough season

The Plum boys soccer team has been agonizingly close to breaking through the last few seasons.

Plum’s Tristan Ralph goes through drills during practice Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022 at Plum High School.

A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Plum sets sights on breakthrough season

The Plum boys soccer team has been agonizingly close to breaking through the last few seasons.

Jefferson Morgan head coach Shane Ziants works with his team during practice on Monday, Aug. 22, 2022, in Jefferson.

New Jefferson-Morgan coach focused on creating competitive culture

August 23, 2022

Shane Ziats will be tasked with trying to turn around a Jefferson-Morgan football program that has won three or fewer games the last six seasons and hasn’t qualified for the playoffs in a decade.

Carmichaels’ Alec Anderson works out on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022, in Carmichaels.

Despite graduation losses, Carmichaels expects to be right in thick of Tri-County South race

Losing a quarterback who passed and rushed for more than 1,000 yards and a player who set the program’s all-time scoring record to graduation would be a lot for any high school team, let alone one in Class A.

Experienced lineup returns for Pine-Richland girls golf

August 20, 2022

Two years ago the Pine-Richland girls golf team had only six players and Jared Slimm was worried about the program’s future.

Plum running back Eryck Moore carries the ball during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, in Plum.

Eryck Moore eyes rushing record for confident Plum football team

Eryck Moore has lived in a few places in his life, including overseas in Spain, but he’s certainly found a home in the backfield for Plum.

Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen throws during the Willie Thrower quarterbacks camp Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Valley High School.

Cadin Olsen, Armstrong aim to build off 1st WPIAL playoff victory

August 14, 2022

The Armstrong River Hawks are ready for one last ride with their standout quarterback Cadin Olsen at the helm.

Pine Richland linebacker Max Heckert runs during drills on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022.

New Pine-Richland coach wants to play ‘Western Pa. football’

August 12, 2022

As the Jon LeDonne era begins at Pine-Richland, one element that he wants to add into the program is more physicality.

Plum hoping to carry momentum from strong finish into new season

August 11, 2022

Plum football coach Matt Morgan watched a young group of players mature on the fly to win three of their last five games and earn a playoff berth last season.

Submitted
Pine-Richland’s Stephanie Cornelius committed to St. John’s on July 9.

St. John’s checks all boxes for Pine-Richland soccer standout Stephanie Cornelius

July 31, 2022

A couple of years ago, the coaching staff at Beadling SC told Stephanie Cornelius and her parents that she had the potential to be a future NCAA Division I soccer player.

Pine-Richland grad Kristen Vigna helped Embry-Riddle’s 4-boat to a second-place finish at the NCAA Division II rowing championships.

Pine-Richland grad reaches for the stars on Embry-Riddle rowing team

July 17, 2022

Kristen Vigna wanted to do two things in college: study astronomy and astrophysics and be on a rowing team.

Pine-Richland players take to the field to play against Penn-Trafford last season.

Pitt offer adds to excitement of recruiting frenzy for Pine-Richland lineman Ryan Cory

July 3, 2022

In the last few months, Ryan Cory has received scholarship offers from schools all over the country, and now he’s getting some interest closer to home.

Coach Caroline Nelson-Nichols of the United States looks on prior to the FIH Pro League match between New Zealand and the USA at Nga Puna Wai on Feb. 15, 2020, in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Pine-Richland hosting Future College Athlete field hockey clinic

June 26, 2022

For years it has been Donna Stephenson’s mission to grow the game of field hockey in Western Pennsylvania.

Central goaltender Braidee Blackburn makes a save on East’s Cora Williams during the inaugural PIHL girls championship game June 11 at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry.

‘Hockey is awesome:’ Inaugural PIHL girls season gets rave reviews

June 19, 2022

After the inaugural PIHL girls hockey championship concluded, a young girl with a homemade sign and a pen waited patiently just down the hall from the locker rooms.

Pine-Richland’s Owen Luellen shoots over Butler’s Raine Gratzmiller last season.

Pine-Richland notebook: Sections overhauled for Rams basketball teams

A new opponent with a rich history will be joining Pine-Richland boys basketball for the next two seasons.

Pine-Richland’s Connor Lenz, intercepting a tipped pass in front of Upper St. Clair’s Timothy Pollock in 2020, played in the 2022 PSFCA Big School East/West Game.

Pine-Richland notebook: Girls lacrosse team finishes 4th in WPIAL

June 12, 2022

The Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team came within one goal of advancing to the PIAA playoffs, but ultimately, Upper St. Clair continued to be a thorn in its side.

Pine-Richland pitcher Jacob McGuire delivers against North Allegheny on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, in McCandless.

After winning share of section title, Pine-Richland looks forward to promising future

The 2022 season for Pine-Richland baseball culminated with a shared Section 1-6A title with North Allegheny for the Rams after a rare postseason miss in 2021.

Penn-Trafford sophomore makes history with OT winner in 1st PIHL girls championship game

June 11, 2022

Kylie McKenzie found the puck and some open ice.

Pine-Richland’s Natalie McLean competed at the PIAA track and field championsihps May 27-28, 2022, at Shippensburg.

Pine-Richland distance runner comes home from states with personal bests, medals

June 5, 2022

Natalie McLean went to the PIAA track and field championships last year for the first time as a sophomore and took home plenty of lessons.

Gabby Baldasare is the new girls basketball coach at Pine-Richland.

Gabby Baldasare takes over Pine-Richland girls basketball program

It’s been a couple weeks since Gabby Baldasare learned she was hired to take over the Pine-Richland girls basketball team, and she has the same emotions as when she first heard the news.

Pine-Richland’s Jacob McGuire was an all-section honorable mention selection.

Pine-Richland notebook: Baseball team stopped by Butler ace

May 29, 2022

After sharing the Section 1-6A title with North Allegheny, Pine-Richland baseball ran into a buzzsaw in the first round of the WPIAL playoffs.

North Allegheny’ pitcher Anne Melle delivers during a WPIAL Class 6A first-round playoff game against Peters Township on May 16.

North Allegheny plays near-perfect game to knock off Pine-Richland in 6A semifinals

May 25, 2022

North Allegheny softball coach Morgan Vescovi made a list of five goals for her team to accomplish in Wednesday’s Class 6A semifinal against Pine-Richland.

Mt. Lebanon pitcher David Shields celebrates after defeating Central Catholic, 2-1, in their WPIAL Class 6A semifinal on Tuesday at West Mifflin High School.

Shields brothers pitch Mt. Lebanon past Central Catholic, into WPIAL title game

May 24, 2022

From one brother to another, Derrick and David Shields made sure that Mt. Lebanon would play for a WPIAL baseball title.

Pine-Richland’s Owen Luellen gets past Penn-Trafford’s Dylan Militzer during first-round WPIAL Class 3A boys lacrosse playoff action Monday, May 16, 2022 at Pine-Richland High School.

First-round playoff loss ends Pine-Richland boys lacrosse season

May 22, 2022

The Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team clawed out of an early hole after dropping seven of its first eight games to finish third in Section 2-3A and earn the right to host a playoff game.

Penn-Trafford’s Jackson Kerrigan (14) celebrates with Braedan Mastine after Mastine’s goal against Pine-Richland during first-round WPIAL Class 3A boys lacrosse playoff action Monday, May 16, 2022 at Pine-Richland High School.

Penn-Trafford savors 1st boys lacrosse playoff victory

Nothing was going to stop the Penn-Trafford boys lacrosse team from making history May 16.

Peters Twp.’s Sam Miller celebrates his double in the bottom of the seventh inning against Penn-Trafford during their WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal on Thursday at West Mifflin High School.

Peters Township escapes Penn-Trafford upset bid with walk-off single

May 19, 2022

Wes Parker said he didn’t pay too much attention to Penn-Trafford reliever Evan Del Signore as he was warming up with the winning run on third.

Pine-Richland’s Jacob McGuire scores against North Allegheny on May 4.

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.

christopher horner | tribune-Review
Pine-Richland sophomore Marissa DeLuca has been a key contributor this season for the Rams.

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 senior Reid Duncan (above and diving at left) has been rostered on the 2022 Pittsburgh Thunderbirds professional ultimate disc team.

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’s Gianna Rotelli competes at the WPIAL championships last May at Slippery Rock.

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.

St. Louis Blues left wing Brandon Saad, left, celebrates a goal with defenseman Torey Krug on March 19 in Columbus, Ohio.

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’s fourth-grade girls basketball team won a state championship March 20, 2022 in State College.

Pine-Richland notebook: Fourth grade girls basketball team wins state title

The fourth-grade Pine-Richland girls basketball team is a state champion.

Tori Johnson will play center field again this season for Valley.

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.

Pitcher Gabriella Aughton returns after helping the Rams to their first playoff win in 25 years.

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.

Jacob McGuire will be Pine-Richland’s No. 1 pitcher this season.

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, who captured the regional title earlier this month, won the state bowling title Friday.

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.

Kiski Area’s Hannah Simpson committed to Division II Seton Hill.

‘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.

Autumn Powell returns after leading the Freeport softball team with a .459 batting average last season.

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.

Freeport’s Matt Corfield throws a pitch against Burrell last season.

After rebuilding year, Freeport baseball ready to contend again

Freeport baseball started from scratch last year.

Pine-Richland 5th-grade girls team
Pine-Richland fifth-grade girls basketball team members in the front row, from left, are Addi Buches, Scarlett Edgerly, Kendall Hughey and Calli DeHart. In the back are Frankie Holderman-Berger, Jael Smith, Maddie Gregorio, Mckenna Stokes and Brynn Ribar. Raina Murcko is also on the team.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Carson Kalpakis (right) and Jack Breisinger (left) celebrate with Alex Erlain after Erlain’s first goal against Central Catholic during PIHL first-round playoff action March 7 at Baierl Ice Center.

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.

Fox Chapel’s Tommy Healy is a member of the 2021-22 hockey team.

Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Kira Schrecengost, Fox Chapel’s Tommy Healy

March 12, 2022

Kira Schrecengost

Pine-Richland’s Kendyll Jerry poses with coach Maria Misenhelter at the WPIAL Class 3A diving championships.

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’s Maddie Webber (34) celebrates with Giuliana Gaetano after defeating Chartiers Valley in the WPIAL Class 5A championship game on Saturday, March 5, 2022, at Petersen Events Center.

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.

North Allegheny’s Caroline Henderson battles Pine-Richland’s Madison Zavasky for a rebound during their game on Friday, Dec. 17, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

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.

St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook is a member of the 2021-22 girls basketball team.

Valley News Dispatch H.S. athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook, Plum’s Nicholas Daniels

February 26, 2022

Anna Kreinbrook

Quaker Valley’s Markus Frank celebrates after scoring against Lincoln Park during their Section 2-4A game on Jan. 21, 2022, in Midland.

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’s Corey Simmons (right) fights for a loose ball with Springdale’s Andrew Harmon during a WPIAL Class 2A first-round playoff game Tuesday, Feb 22, 2022, at Springdale High School.

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’s Kelin Laffey wrestles Dylan Evans of Chartiers Valley during the 152-pound final during the 2022 Allegheny County Wrestling Tournament on Jan. 15, 2022 at Fox Chapel Area High School.

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.

Butler’s Braylon Littlejohn drives against Pine-Richland’s Andrew Alexander during their game on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, in Pine.

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.

Kiski Area’s Lexi Colaianni is a member of the 2021-22 girls basketball team.

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.

Ty Voit is the leading scorer for the Sarnia Sting of the OHL.

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.

Burrell’s Riley Sterlitz is a member of the 2021-22 girls basketball team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Riley Sterlitz, Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan

February 12, 2022

Riley Sterlitz

Gateway’s William Kromka blocks the shot of Franklin Regional’s Cameron Rowell on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at Franklin Regional High School.

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’s Alex Gochis catches a touchdown pass last year against Harrisburg.

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’s Carson Kalpakis celebrates a goal against Canon-McMillan.

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.

Riverview’s Micah Black is a member of the 2021-22 boys basketball team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Melaina DeZort, Riverview’s Micah Black

February 5, 2022

Melaina DeZort

Hempfield celebrates at the WPIAL competitive spirit championships Jan. 8.

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

Pine-Richland’s Joey Schneck celebrates winning the 285-pound final against opponent Christian Flaherty of Keystone Oaks on Jan. 15 during the 2022 Allegheny County Wrestling Tournament at Fox Chapel Area High School.

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.

Pine-Richland sisters Elizabeth (right) and Sarah Anne Shaffer pose after a swim meet during the summer of 2021.

Bond between swimming Shaffer sisters grows deeper in Pine-Richland pool

Sarah Anne and Elizabeth Shaffer’s times are pretty close in the pool.

Freeport’s Vinnie Clark hit the game-winning 3-pointer Friday night.

Last-second 3-pointer lifts Freeport over Burrell

January 28, 2022

Vinnie Clark had a senior night to remember forever.

Pine-Richland’s Nate Zavasky drives to the basket against North Allegheny on Dec. 17, 2021, in McCandless.

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.

Springdale’s Ryan Reinsfelder is a member of the 2021-22 boys basketball team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Springdale’s Ryan Reinsfelder, Apollo-Ridge’s Sydney McCray

January 22, 2022

Ryan Reinsfelder

North Hills’ Matt Seidl hit a key 3-pointer at the end of the third quarter against Pine-Richland on Friday night.

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.

Highlands’ Brayden White works against Hampton’s Alan Danner at 138 pounds during their Section 1-3A match on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022, at Highlands.

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.

Members of the Pine-Richland spirit team compete at the WPIAL spirit championships Jan. 8 at Hempfield.

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.

Cheswick Christian’s Olivia Rochkind is a member of the 2021-22 girls basketball team.

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.

Burrell’s Brandon Coury is a member of the 2021-22 boys basketball team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Brandon Coury, Kiski Area’s Abbie Johns

January 8, 2022

Brandon Coury

Plum’s Rylen Campbell is a member of the 2021-22 wrestling team.

A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Rylen Campbell and Madilyn Boyer

January 1, 2022

Rylen Campbell

Lucas Tiglio (right) and Deer Lakes are off to a 6-1 start, partly thanks to playing a 1-3-1 zone defense.

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.

Apollo-Ridge’s Gage Johnston is a member of the 2021-22 boys basketball team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Apollo-Ridge’s Gage Johnston, Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone

December 25, 2021

Gage Johnston

Burrell goalie Zach Stewart makes a save against Ringgold on Nov. 15 at Pittsburgh Ice Arena.

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’s Delaney Allen competes in the girls 100 freestyle during the 2020 Class 3A WPIAL Swimming and Diving Championship at Trees Pool.

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-Richland’s Jeremiah Hasley catches a pass in practice.

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.

Knoch’s Ryan Lang recently surpassed 1,000 points for his high school career.

A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Week ending Dec. 18, 2021

December 18, 2021

Ryan Lang

Jon Kolb, background, coaches Kelin Laffey, a Pine-Richland senior wrestler, during a weight training session on Monday, Nov. 8, 2021 at Adventures in Training in Wexford.

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.

Kyle DeGregorio is entering his second season at Pine-Richland girls basketball coach.

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 made the playoffs in three of coach Seth Napierkowski’s five seasons.

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 coach Josh Shields works with Shawn Szymanski during practice on Monday, Dec. 7, 2021, at Burrell High School.

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.

Kiski Area Enzo Morlacci wrestler works out during a recent practice at Kiski Area High School, Monday, Dec. 6, 2021.

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’s Trinity Lockwood-Morris is pressured by Neshannock’s Addi Watts in the first half at St. Joseph High School Friday, Dec. 11, 2020.

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-Richland’s Alex Gochis catches a touchdown pass during the fourth quarter against Harrisburg on Aug. 28.

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.

Pine Richland’s Andy Swartout drives through the lane against Fox Chapel last season.

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’s Aiden Ortz pulls in a catch in front of Bishop Canevin’s Lesae Lacks during a PIAA Class A semifinal on Friday, Dec. 3, 2021 at Martorelli Stadium.

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.

Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon works with his team during a recent practice Monday Nov 29, 2021.

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.

Kiski Area’s James Pearson is one of a handful of returning Cavaliers with playing experience.

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.

Pine-Richland players take to the field to play against Penn-Trafford on Nov. 19 at Gateway Senior High School.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Dan Mooney is a member of the 2021 hockey team.

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’s Jude Vargo (44), Zooky Malloy (30) and Sean Louis celebrate a score during a scrimmage against Redeeemer School on Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2021, in Penn Hills.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Laura Krill plays against Hempfield on Sept. 7.

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.

Bishop Canevin’s Brandon Travis (44) celebrates with Lesae Lacks during a game earlier this season. The Crusaders advanced to the WPIAL final with a win over Cornell on Friday.

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’s Ethan George celebrates after scoring against Fox Chapel on Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021, in Harmar.

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.

Hampton goalkeeper Thomas Bradfield celebrates after defeating West Allegheny in a shootout in a PIAA Class 3A semifinal on Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2021, at North Allegheny.

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

Burrell’s Joe Scolaro is a member of the 2021-22 hockey team.

A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Burrell’s Joe Scolaro

November 16, 2021

Joe Scolaro

Freeport’s Sydney Selker spikes against Hampton’s Claudia Braun during the WPIAL Class 3A championship Nov. 6.

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.

Audrey DeKunder, Natalie McLean and Meredith Price are top competitors for the Pine-Richland girls cross country team.

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 Jeremiah Hasley catches a pass during practice on Aug. 17, 2021, in Pine.

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’s Zach Panza celebrates a goal against Franklin Regional in the WPIAL semifinals. The Talbot beat the Panthers again Saturday in the PIAA quarterfinals.

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.

Penn Hills’ Julian Dugger scores a second-quarter touchdown against Gateway during the WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinals Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at Antimarino Stadium.

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.

Freeport’s Erica Lampus is a member of the 2021 girls volleyball team.

A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Freeport’s Erica Lampus

November 10, 2021

Erica Lampus

Freeport’s Josie Russo (left) celebrates with Sydney Selker after a kill during their PIAA Class 3A first round playoff match against Plum on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021, at Freeport.

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’s Bri Gathers plays against North Hills on Sept. 7.

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.

Hampton’s Zach Panza celebrates as time expires in the WPIAL Class 3A championship game against West Allegheny on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021, at Highmark Stadium.

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.

Moon head coach Bill Pfeifer celebrates with goalkeeper Serayah Leech after defeating Seneca Valley, 4-0, in the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021, at Highmark Stadium.

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.

Quaker Valley’s Keller Chamovitz celebrates his hat-trick goal against North Catholic during the WPIAL Class 2A championship game on Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021, at Highmark Stadium.

Keller Chamovitz one-ups dad, leads Quaker Valley past North Catholic in WPIAL finals

Keller Chamovitz has some bragging rights in his household.

Plum’s Camryn Rogers is a member of the 2021 girls soccer team.

A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Camryn Rogers

November 3, 2021

Camryn Rogers

Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy is a member of the 2021 cross country team.

A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy

November 2, 2021

Carson McCoy

Fox Chapel goalkeeper Molly McNaughton is mobbed by teammates after making the winning save in penalty kicks to defeat North Allegheny in their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal on Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Nov. 1, 2021

October 31, 2021

WPIAL soccer preview capsules

Pine-Richland’s Colin Zvejnieks celebrates a goal against North Allegheny.

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.

Montour’s Jake Wolfe (11) and Kaleb Platz celebrate their win as Chartiers Valley’s Austin Efthimiades walks by Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, at Chartiers Valley.

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.

Saidi Issa and Fox Chapel defeated Canon-McMillan, 3-0, earlier in the season. The Foxes and Big Macs meet Saturday in the WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinals.

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

Deer Lakes’ Ashley McAdams is a member of the 2021 soccer team.

A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ashley McAdams

October 27, 2021

Ashley McAdams

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger (center) celebrates her second goal with teammates during their game against Oakland Catholic on Thursday, Oct. 14, 2021, at Plum High School.

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 players take the field for their game against Shady Side Academy on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021.

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.

Hampton’s Zach Panza (7) battles Kiski Area’s Owen Zimmerman for possession Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021, at Fridley Field in Hampton.

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.

The 2021 Pine-Richland girls varsity volleyball team.

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 huddles after its win against Riverview on Saturday, Oct. 16, 2021.

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’s Taishaun Jamison tries to break free from Clairton’s Capone Jones on Friday.

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.

Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller is a member of the 2021 cross country team.

A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller

October 13, 2021

Eliza Miller

Goalie Zach Stewart is among the players returning for the Burrell hockey team this season.

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 senior Marcus Trask (center) is the team captain and leading returning scorer. He is one of three Yellowjackets seniors.

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 senior right side/outside hitter Sophie Catalano plays against North Hills last month.

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.

Pine-Richland celebrates Rylie Wollerton’s goal against Hempfield Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021 at Pine-Richland High School.

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.

A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Knoch’s Yumiko Kuo

October 6, 2021

Yumiko Kuo

Kiski Area junior Anders Bordoy is one of 13 Cavaliers who have scored this season.

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

Knoch’s Samuel Caldwell plays against Armstrong on Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2021 at Armstrong Stadium.

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’s Carson Kalpakis celebrates his goal against Canon-McMillan last season.

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 quarterback Cole Boyd throws a pass during practice on Aug. 17.

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 head coach Terry Totten watches his team before a game against NA on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

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’ Cassadi Zawart plays against Freeport on Sept. 9, 2021 at Highlands High School.

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

Highlands’ Cam Reigard is a member of the 2021 soccer team.

A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Highlands’ Cam Reigard

September 28, 2021

Cam Reigard

Stony Brook linebacker Tyler King, a Pine-Richland grad, awaits the snap against Oregon on Sept. 18.

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 players warm up before facing West Allegheny on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021.

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.

Valley’s Eden Richey won the 2021 section singles title in Section 1-AA on Sept. 17, 2021.

A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Valley’s Eden Richey

September 22, 2021

Eden Richey

Knock’s Karlee Buterbaugh hits against Burrell’s Karlee Thimons on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, at Knoch High School.

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.

Plum’s Lucas Pittman is a junior on the 2021 boys soccer team.

A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Plum’s Lucas Pittman

September 21, 2021

Lucas Pittman

The first-place finishers at the 2021 PGA Junior League were the Rolling Fields Golf Course team of, from left, Justin Gross, Caden Witt, Liam Patton, assistant coach Crawford Berthold, coach Dick Logan, Dylan Matenkosky, Trey Roberts and Luke Patton.

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.

Colin Zvejnieks has emerged as a dangerous goal scorer for Pine-Richland.

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.

Laurel players warm up before taking on Beaver Falls on Sept. 17, 2021, at Laurel.

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.

Grace Gent is a member of the 2021 Springdale soccer team.

A-K Valley Girls High School Athlete of the Week, Sept. 15, 2021: Grace Gent, Springdale

September 15, 2021

Grace Gent

Kiski Area’s Cora Coleman swings against Norwin’s Alyssa Laukus on Monday at the Ellen Toy Grass Outdoor Court in Kennedy Park.

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

Pine-Richland’s Sophie Catalano and Sarah Faber (11) play against North Hills Sept. 7 at Pine-Richland High School.

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 celebrates Rylie Wollerton’s goal against Hempfield on Sept. 7 at Pine-Richland High School.

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.

Seneca Valley’s Brandon Ross takes it to the house against North Hills in the fourth quarter Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, at Martorelli Stadium.

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 Kalli Grine returns for the 2021 season.

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.

Sisters on the Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball team are (from left) Maeggie Wysocki, Morghan Wysocki, Brinley Toland, Kylar Toland, Cheryl Gerheim and Isabel Gerheim.

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.

From left, Audrey DeKunder, Natalie McLean and Meredith Price are top competitors for the Pine-Richland girls cross country team.

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 players wam up before playing Pine-Richland on Sept. 3, 2021, at Seneca Valley.

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.

Deer Lakes’ Ruger Beer (14) and Karns City’s Owen Collwell (30) battle for the ball during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinal boys soccer game on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, at Deer Lakes.

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.

North Hills players warm up before playing Mars on Aug. 27, 2021, at Mars.

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.

West Greene quarterback Wes Whipkey works out.

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 quarterback KJ Rush (5) works out with Noah Markle during practice on Aug. 17, 2021, in Avella.

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.

Plum’s Logan Brooks averaged 21.6 yards per catch last season.

‘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’s Chris Hood works with head coach Joe Cowart during practice on Aug. 4, 2021, in New Castle.

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’s Logan Brooks during practice Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021 at Riverside Park.

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.

Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen throws during 7 on 7 completion on July 7, 2021 at Freeport Area High School.

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 lineman Trent Fraley works out with teammates during practice on Aug. 3, 2021, in Moon.

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’s Patrick Cutchember catches a pass during practice on Aug. 9, 2021, in Leetsdale.

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.

Three Rivers Rowing Association head coach Matt Grau, Lauren Jochims and Audrey Lyda pose after winning at the US Youth Rowing Nationals.

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’s Ian Herring drives past North Catholic’s Kyle Tipinski during the WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinals last season.

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.

Maggie Behun and Rachel Loudermilk will be co-head coaches for the Quaker Valley girls soccer team for the 2021 season. From left are Anna Licastro, Loudermilk, Behun, Chase Kriebel, Eleanore Burns and Clare Elste.

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.

New Quaker Valley girls basketball coach Ken Johns

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.

From left, Fox Chapel assistant coach Josh Randall, Erik Wilson, JP Dockey, Will Siegel, Jefferson Moorefield-Brown, Jimmy Hanna, Kam Griel, Eli Yofan, Russell Fenton, Jake DeMotte, Mert Yanar, assistant coach Gabe Skrinjar, head coach Zach Skrinjar, assistant coach Tom Reighard

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’s Ethan Prugh swings at a pitch during the American Legion Baseball District 31 playoff game against Murrysville at Haymaker Park in Murrysville on July 8, 2021.

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 set three personal bests at the Olympic qualifiers.

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 attempts to break the tackle of Penn Trafford’s Ethan Carr after a pass reception last season.

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.

Sewickley Valley YMCA Sea Dragons swimmer Amelia Suhayda qualified for seven events in the Middle Atlantic Short Course Junior Olympics swim meet.

Quaker Valley 6th grader excels at Junior Olympics swim meet

June 27, 2021

At age 5, Amelia Suhayda started swimming just for fun.

Members of the 2021 Pine-Richland crew team include, from left, Danny Molter, Jordan Arthur, Ben Pickels, Ethan Yoon and Alex Catalano.

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 pitcher Gabriella Aughton delivers during the Rams’ WPIAL Class 6A semifinal against Canon-McMillan on May 26 at West Mifflin High School.

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.

North Allegheny’s Caleb Schall and David Sanfilippo block Seneca Valley’s Michael Devlin during the PIAA Class 3A boys volleyball semifinals on Tuesday.

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 sixth grader Carson Verszyla scored a highlight reel goal that was featured on SportsCenter.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Gianna Rotelli competes at the WPIAL championships May 19, 2021, at Slippery Rock.

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.

Shenango pitcher Mia Edwards pumps her fist after getting a strikeout to strand a runner on third base during a WPIAL Class 2A consolation playoff game against Ligonier Valley on Thursday, May 27, 2021, at Mars.

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.

Franklin Regional’s Jack Kiefer (8) is mobbed by teammates after scoring during overtime of their WPIAL Class 2A first-round playoff game against Shaler on Monday.<span class='IDappliedStyle' title='InDesign: Light'></span>

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.

Pine-Richland runners, from left, Angelina Hunkele and Elizabeth Hunkele competed at indoor nationals Feb. 27-28, 2021, in Virginia.

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 sophomore Leah Hartzberg has hit four home runs this season.

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’s Korbin Wilson works against West Chester East’s Ethan Fredericks in front of goaltender Jake Godshall during the Class A state championship game on Saturday, April 24, 2021, at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry.

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 Ella Rottinghaus is a senior on the 2021 track and field team.

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.

Chase Lavezoli, an eighth grader at Pine-Richland Middle School, won the All-Around title in the 11-14 year old division at the Region 7 Gymnastics Championship, April 9, at Liberty Bell Athletics in Harleysville.

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.

Pine-Richland pitcher Gabbie Aughton competes during practice March 20, 2019 at Pine-Richland.

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.

Jacob McGuire is a sophomore on the 2021 Pine-Richland baseball team.

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.

Freeport’s Addison Stewart celebrates a goal against North Catholic on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry. Freeport won, 4-3.

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’s Danielle Bryant competes at the 2019 PIAA championship meet.

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’s Alex Erlain and Dominic Desjardins helped the Rams finish third in the Class AAA standings.

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.

The Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team celebrates after winning the 2019 WPIAL Class AAA title.

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.”

Latrobe pitcher Jordan Tallman delivers during a scrimmage at Seneca Valley on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, in Jackson.

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’s Hayden Teska fields a ball March 23, 2021, at Gateway High School.

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.

The Pine-Richland baseball team celebrates after defeating Penn-Trafford in the 2019 WPIAL Class 6A title game.

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.

Ellwood City’s Joseph Roth shoots a 3-pointer during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game against South Allegheny on Monday, March 15, 2021, at North Allegheny High School. Roth had 22 points in Saturday’s PIAA quarterfinal loss.

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’s Aaralyn Nogay celebrates with Addi Watts during the WPIAL Class 2A finals on March 10.

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.

Ellwood City’s Alexander Roth (1) celebrates with Steve Antuono as time expires in the WPIAL Class 3A championship game against Southy Allegheny on Monday, March 15, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

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’s Delaney Allen competes in the 100-yard freestyle at the WPIAL Class AAA girls swimming championships March 6, 2021, at Upper St. Clair High School.

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.

Pine Richland’s Andy Swartout drives through the lane against Fox Chapel on March 9.

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.

Mohawk coach Mike O’Lare talks with Hannah McDanel during a game at North Catholic on Jan. 28. McDanel scored 20 points against Beaver Falls on Wednesday night.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer works against Norwin’s Chase Kranitz at 160 pounds during the WPIAL Class AAA wrestling championship.

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.

From left, Pine-Richland’s Angelina Hunkele, Elizabeth Hunkele, Audrey DeKunder, Natalie McLean and Meredith Price ran at indoor nationals last month in Virginia.

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’s Eli Rich scored 17 points against Eden Christian on Friday night.

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’s Bre Warner scored 19 points Friday night.

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 David Manelis competes in the WPIAL Class AAA boys diving championships Feb. 27, 2021, at North Allegheny Senior High School.

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’s Alex Erlain (21) celebrates his first goal with Dominic Desjardins during their game against Canon-McMillan on Dec. 8 at Southpointe.

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’s Joey Petcash competes during practice for the 2019-2020 season Nov. 22, 2019.

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 Cole O’Connor competes during the WPIAL Class AA boys diving championships on Friday, Feb. 26, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer won a WPIAL title last season.

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.

Kyle DeGregorio is in his first season as the Pine-Richland girls basketball coach.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Delaney Allen competes in the girls 100 freestyle during the 2020 WPIAL Class AAA swimming and diving championship at Trees Pool on Friday, Feb. 28, 2020.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem celebrates his touchdown during the third quarter of the PIAA Class 3A state championship game against Cathedral Prep on Nov. 27, 2020, at Hersheypark Stadium.

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’s Lexi Stanek is one of the returning starters for the 2020 Vikings.

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’s Lucas Toohey (4) competes against New Castle during a 4A WPIAL first round game Feb. 19, 2020 at North Allegheny High.

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.

Penn-Trafford’s Maura Suman looks for an opening on net as Franklin Regional’s Angel Kelly defends Friday, Dec. 27, 2019 at Penn-Trafford Holiday Tournament at Penn-Trafford High School.

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.

Franklin Regional’s Caden Smith (3) drives toward the net beside Mars’ defender Mihali Sfanos (33) as Franklin Regional’s Johnny O’Toole and Mars’ Michael Carmody, far left, anticipate the ball Friday, Jan. 24, 2020 in WPIAL basketball at Franklin Regional High School.

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.

Mars’ Nabil Lahlou had a goal and an assist Tuesday night.

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.

The Pine-Richland football team celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Peters Township in the Class 5A final on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, at North Allegheny.

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.

North Catholic players celebrate defeating Avonworth in the WPIAL Class 2A girls soccer championship game Nov. 7, 2020.

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’s Ricco Ciccarelli (8), celebrating a goal during a playoff game last season, scored the Centurions’ lone goal against Eden Christian on Saturday.

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 players warm up prior to thier game against Mt. Pleasant on Oct. 30, 2020, at Mars.

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.

Kiski Area and Shaler players warm up before their game Oct. 16, 2020, at Kiski Area.

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 quarterback Ethan Marker threw fourth touchdown passes against Kiski Area on Friday night.

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 players warm up before taking on Quaker Valley on Sept. 11, 2020, at Avonworth.

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’s Sara Beradelli goes up for a layup against CEntral Valley during their PIAA second round matchup on Wednesday at North Hills Middle School.

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’s Savana Urik competes during practice for the 2020 season March 7, 2020.

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.

Freeport’s Jarrett Heilman puts a tag down during practice for the 2020 season March 5, 2020.

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 pitcher Dante DiMatteo delivers during a scrimmage against Moon Monday, Mar. 9, 2020, at Fox Chapel High School.

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.

Fox Chapel pitcher Mackenzie Borkovich delivers during a scrimmage against Baldwin Monday, Mar. 9, 2020, at Fox Chapel High School.

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’s Matthew Drahos (12) is congratulted after scoring against Norwin during a PIHL class A first-round game Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at Center Ice Arena.

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.

Mars head coach Rob Carmody talks with an official after an intentional foul was called on Michael Carmody during the fourth quarter of the WPIAL Class 5A championship game against Laurel Highlands Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, at Petersen Events Center.

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.”

Kiski Area’s Ethan George (17) and Norwin’s Jacob Meier compete during their PIHL Class A first-round game Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at Center Ice Arena.

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’s Nicolas Slomka (right) and Norwin’s Jacob Meier collide during a PIHL class A first-round game Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at Center Ice Arena.

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.

Highlands’ Johnny Crise is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao

March 3, 2020

Johnny Crise

Plum defender Parker Gable (95) clears Shaler’s Joey Laquatra (16) for goalie Sam Pine on Oct. 1, 2019, at Alpha Ice Center.

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’s Megan McConnell presents her dad, coach Tim McConnell, with his gold medal after the Lady Colts defeated Trinity in the WPIAL Class 5A championship game Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, at Petersen Events Center.

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.

Plum’s Shannon Small is the 2020 WPIBL girls singles champion.

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.

Bethel Park’s Maddie Dzeizgowski (13) pulls down a rebound against Fox Chapel during a Class 6A WPIAL quarterfinal game Feb. 21, 2020 at North Hills.

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’s Megan McConnell celebrates with teammates after defeating Thomas Jefferson in a WPIAL Class 5A semifinal Feb. 26, 2020.

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’s Paige Morningstar (25) blocks Upper St. Clair’s Alexandra Pantelis (4) during a Class 6A WPIAL semifinal game Feb. 25, 2020 at North Hills.

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’s Devin Whitlock powers to the net as Quaker Valley’s James Davis (23) attempts to block Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020, in the WPIAL quarterfinals.

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 scored 19 points for Chartiers Valley on Friday night.

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’s Lacey Adamik won a gold medal in beam at the WPIAL gymnastics championships Feb. 15, 2020, at Moon.

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.

Bishop Canevin’s Dom Elliott, taking a shot in practice, hit the game-winning free throws Thursday night.

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.

Kiski Area’s Samantha Coleman is a member of the 2019-20 gymnastics team.

A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Samantha Coleman and A.J. Corrado

February 18, 2020

Samantha Coleman

Five Alle-Kiski Valley student-athletes were recognized by former Pittsburgh Steelers player Hines Ward and the Positive Athlete Pittsburgh program Monday, June 17, 2019, at the Sen. John Heinz History Center and Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. From left are Fox Chapel’s Brent Brewster, Kiski Area’s Kierra Shreffler, Fox Chapel’s Kate Carnevale, Valley’s Greg Guzzo, Plum’s Isabella Stoll and Ward.

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 gymnast Samantha Alexander

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.

Plum’s Connor Moss looks for an open pass against Armstrong on Friday, Jan. 17, 2020.

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.

Franklin Regional’s Carter Dibert celebrates his state championship last season.

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 gymnasts, from left, Lexi Daniels, Layia Jefferies, Chloe Werner, Georgia Brothers, Raquel Ruggeri and Kelsey Arabia pose for a picture while competing Jan. 23, 2020 at Jewarts Gymnastics.

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.

Leechburg’s Dylan Cook is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

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).

Knoch’s Maddie Boyer is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Madilyn Boyer, Burrell’s Ian Oswalt

February 4, 2020

Madilyn Boyer

Knoch’s Lauren Cihonski celebrates after her game-winning layup in the final seconds against Freeport Monday, Feb. 3, 2020, at Knoch High School.

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’s Logan Schlegel (right) during practice Nov. 19, 2019.

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.

Plum’s Kennedie Montue is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

Alle-Kiski Valley Athetes of the Week: Plum’s Kennedie Montue, Leechburg’s Jake Blumer

January 28, 2020

Kennedie Montue

North Catholic’s Tess Myers drives to the basket past Freeport’s Samantha Clark during their game Monday, Jan. 27, 2020, at Freeport Middle School.

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 Eddie Pazo scored a hat trick in the PIHL Class A all-star game Jan. 26, 2020, at RMU Island Sports Center.

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 Bradley Bujdos scored a hat trick in the PIHL Class B all-star game Jan. 26, 2020, at RMU Island Sports Centerl

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.

Norwin players cheer on their teammates during the Knights’ victory over North Allegheny on Thursday. Norwin is ranked No. 2 in Class 6A.

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’s Lexi Jackson scores over Armstrong’s Sophia Dobransky during their game Thursday, Jan. 23, 2020, at Gateway High School.

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.

Freeport’s Maddie Clark is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Maddie Clark, Highlands’ Jrake Burford

January 21, 2020

Maddie Clark

Kiski Area goaltender Eric Petika gets set to make a save during a game against North Catholic on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019 at Center Ice Arena.

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 scores past Clairton’s Wayne Wade III during their game Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020, at Clairton High School.

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’s Imani Sanders goes to the basket against Serra Catholic during their game Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020, at Jeannette High School.

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.

Knoch’s Ryan Lang is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Riverview’s Sydney McDonough, Knoch’s Ryan Lang

Sydney McDonough

Burrell’s Tyler Stewart celebrates his first goal against Connellsville during the second period of a Penguins Cup Division 2 semifinal Monday, Mar. 11, 2019, at RMU Island Sports Center.

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.

The Plum competitive spirit team competed at the WPIAL championships Jan. 4, 2020, at Hempfield.

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.

Plum’s Connor Moss is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

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’s Jolie Strati pressures Central Valley’s Allyson Kirby during their game Monday, Jan. 6, 2020, at Central Valley.

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’s Kai Johnson (right) competes during practice for the 2019-2020 season Nov. 20, 2019.

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.

Andrew Sullivan, St. Joseph boys basketball

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, St. Joseph’s Andrew Sullivan

December 31, 2019

Andrew Sullivan

Burrell’s Gio Palombo has seven goals in three games this season.

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

Freeport’s Joe Liput (87) looks to score against Westmont goalie Ian Amaranto (35) Dec. 19, 2019 at Belmont Complex.

‘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’s Connor Moss (2) goes up for a shot between Kiski Area’s Kyrell Hutcherson (5) and Nick Smith (35) Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019 at Plum.

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.

Apollo-Ridge’s Morgan Gamble is a member of the 2019-20 basketball team.

A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Morgan Gamble and Demitri Fritch

December 17, 2019

Demitri

Plum’s Logan Schlegel (left) has 17 points. He has been out with an injury but is expected back in January.

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.

Fox Chapel’s Arnold Vento is a member of the 2019 basketball team.

Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Valley’s Tori Johnson, Fox Chapel’s Arnold Vento

December 10, 2019

Tori Johnson

Norwin’s Kurtis Phipps wrestles Stroudsburg’s Cameron Enriquez in the 120-pound class AAA quarterfinal during the PIAA wrestling tournament on Friday, March 8, 2019 at the Giant Center in Hershey.

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’s Garrett Thompson competes in the Eastern Area Invitational Wrestling Tournament Dec. 6, 2019, at Gateway.

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’s Ameer Dudley applauds a touchdown earlier this season.

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.

Plum junior Kennedie Montue competes during practice for the 2019-2020 season Nov. 20, 2019.

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.

Plum senior Tyler Kolankowski competes during practice for the 2019-2020 season Nov. 20, 2019.

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’s Dejah Burnett (left) competes during practice Nov. 19, 2019.

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 junior Jason Baker competes during practice Nov. 19, 2019.

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.

Junior Ethan Carr will be back next season for the Penn-Trafford football team.

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 head coach Zach Skrinjar works with Eli Yofan during practice Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, at Fox Chapel High School.

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.

Fox Chapel’s Domenica Delaney brings the ball upcourt during practice Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, at Fox Chapel High School.

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.

Cheswick Christian Academy’s Jesse Raddansky goes through drills during practice Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, at Cheswick Christian Academy.

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.

Clinton Blazevich talks to the Cheswick Christian Academy girls basketball team at practice last season.

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’s Stephon Hall (25) and Hunter Mitchell celebrate after stopping Aliquippa on a two-point conversion in overtime during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

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 receiver Zahmere Robinson makes a catch during practice.

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’s Trevor Brncic (13) passes the ball against Latrobe during a Sept. 6 game.

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 celebrates after scoring against Freeport during a PIAA Class AA semifinal game Nov. 12, 2019, at North Allegheny.

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.

Fox Chapel’s Colby Zmenkowski is a member of the 2019 hockey team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Knoch’s Skylar Burkett and Fox Chapel’s Colby Zmenkowski

Skylar Burkett

Knoch celebrates after winning a point against South Fayette during a PIAA Class AAA volleyball first-round match Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019, at Shaler Area High School.

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 players celebrate during their PIAA playoff win over West Allegheny on Nov. 9, 2019, at Chartiers Valley.

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’s Luke Meckler (2) runs for a touchdown against North Allegheny during a WPIAL Class 6A semifinal game Nov. 8, 2019 at Pine-Richland.

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 celebrates after winning a point against South Fayette during girls 3-A PIAA volleyball first round action Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019 at Shaler Area High School.

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’s Mackensey Jack with a kill past Brookville’s Maggie Mackins during girls 2-A PIAA volleyball first round action Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019 at Shaler Area High School.

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’s Hannah Rowe holds the championship trophy after beating Thomas Jefferson during the WPIAL Class AAA girls volleyball championships Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019 at Fox Chapel Area High School.

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’s DD Flowers controls the ball in front of Knoch’s Adam Walker on Aug. 22, 2019.

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.

Canon-McMillan’s Joey Fonagy (7) celebrates after scoring the winning goal in overtime during the boys WPIAL Class 4A championship game against Mt. Lebanon Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019, at Highmark Stadium.

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.

Plum’s Kaitln Killinger is a member of the 2019 soccer team.

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

Burrell’s Sara Novak is a member of the 2019 girls volleyball team.

A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Burrell’s Sara Novak and Springdale’s Mike Mitchell

October 22, 2019

Sara Novak

Middle hitter Ashley Grine (left) and libero Gracie Heinke are part of a senior-filled lineup for Leechburg.

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, a senior with Down syndrome, scores a touchdown against Western Beaver on Oct. 18, 2019, at Neshannock.

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.

Freedom’s Renae Mohrbacher (11) celebrates a goal with her sister, Jules, during their game against Quigley Monday, Oct. 14, 2019, at Freedom Area High School.

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’s Quinn Hughes (left) and Kennedy Christy compete during a scrimmage game August 24, 2019 at Freeport.

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’s Cole Kelly competes during a game in the 2019 boys soccer campaign.

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.

Leechburg’s Maddie Ancosky is a member of the 2019 girls volleyball team.

A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Maddie Ancosky, Scott Bitar

October 8, 2019

Maddie Ancosky

Kiski Area celebrates after scoring against Franklin Regional Oct. 1, 2019 at Franklin Regional.

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 Logan Schlegel (14) competes against Shaler October 1, 2019 at Alpha Ice Center.

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.

Deer Lakes’ Will Meyer is competing for the Lancers during the 2019 season.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Will Meyer, Kiski Area’s Sidney Palla

October 1, 2019

Will Meyer

Deer Lakes’ Bryson Hazlett sets up a kill during the Lancers’ match against Valley Thursday, Sept. 5, 2019, at Deer Lakes High School.

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.

Knoch’s Kenzie Kerkan returns for the 2019 season.

A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Kenzie Kerkan, Freeport’s Isaac Wetzel

September 24, 2019

Kenzie Kerkan

Freeport senior Lauren Lampus (14) is introduced before their game against East Allegheny September 12, 2019.

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’s Marissa Liberto (33) competes against West Mifflin September 18, 2019.

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.”

Burrell’s Allie Vescio had a hat trick against Deer Lakes on Sept. 9, 2019.

AK Valley H.S. Athletes of the Week: Burrell’s Allie Vescio and Leechburg’s Cole Villa

September 17, 2019

Allie Vescio

Fox Chapel’s Lauren Himmel (25) returns serve against Pine-Richland Sept. 5, 2019 at Fox Chapel.

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.

Fox Chapel’s Lucy Ream returns for the 2019 season.

A-K Valley H.S. athletes of the week: Fox Chapel’s Lucy Ream and Plum’s Darius Flowers

September 10, 2019

Lucy Ream

North Allegheny head coach Art Walker Jr. talks with Percise Colon during practice Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2019, in McCandless.

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’s Ashley Feorene (2) and Aly Kindelberger (9) compete against Hampton during a scrimmage game August 27, 2019 at Franklin Regional.

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.

Knoch’s Andrew Fanton celebrates after scoring during a scrimmage against Plum on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019.

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.

Freeport’s Sidney Shemanski scores next to Highlands’ Madison Faas during their game Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2018, in Brackenridge.

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’s Eagle Stadium was renovated in 2017.

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’ Aris Hasley works out on Monday, Aug. 5, 2019, at the high school.

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.

North Catholic quarterback Zack Rocco reacts after a touchdown pass during a game against Freeport on Friday, Sept. 7, 2018 at Mars High School stadium.

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’s Isaac Ridinger finds a hole to run through against Kiski Area in the first half at Armstrong’s ESS Nextiers Athletic Complex on Friday, Oct 26, 2018.

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.

Deer Lakes’ Jack Hollibaugh (left) works out with teammates on Monday, Aug. 5, 2019, at the high school.

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 soccer players took part in a camp at Apollo-Ridge July 8-12, 2019.

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 Hunter Linhart takes part in the discus throw Tuesday, April 16, 2019, at Gateway.

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’s Zach Seaman (17) high-fives Mathew Fitzmaurice after they scored against Cathedral Prep during their PIAA Class 5A first round state playoff game Monday, June 3, 2019, at Neshannock High School. Franklin Regional won, 13-4.

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’s Mike Klingensmith is greeted by teammates at the dugout after scoring against Cathedral Prep during their PIAA Class 5A first round state playoff game Monday, June 3, 2019, at Neshannock High School. Franklin Regional won, 13-4.

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.

Leechburg pitcher Emma Ritchie (right) high-fives Aubry Skeel during their WPIAL Class A playoff game against Jeannette Monday, May 20, 2019, at Fox Chapel High School.

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.

Seton LaSalle’s Dan Boehme celebrates his RBI triple with head coach Mike Wagner during the WPIAL Class 2A championship game against Serra Catholic Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

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.

Franklin Regional’s Andrew Muraco (center) celebrates his two-run home run with teammates during the third inning of their WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal against South Fayette Tuesday, May 21, 2019, at West Mifflin High School.

Westmoreland baseball/softball preview capsules: Games of Tuesday, May 28

May 27, 2019

Tuesday’s games

Leechburg Area starting pitcher Emma Ritchie throws against Union Area Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at Hampton Coummnity Park.

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.

The Oakland Catholic girls lacrosse team celebrates after winning the WPIAL Class AA title May 23, 2019, at Robert Morris.

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.

Greensburg Salem pitcher Matt Wicker delivers against Yough on Wednesday, May 1, 2019, at Greensburg Salem High School.

Westmoreland H.S. baseball capsules for games of Monday, May 20, 2019

May 19, 2019

WPIAL baseball playoffs

Sophia Beining works out with the Kiski Valley rugby team Friday, April 26, 2019, in Vandergrift.

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.

Autumn Trempus works with coach Keith Erwin during the Kiski Valley rugby team’s practice Friday, April 26, 2019, in Vandergrift.

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.

Alyssa Schofield is one of Plum’s top offensive players.

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.

Senior Sophia Beining is part of an experienced core for the the Kiski Valley rugby team.

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.

Franklin Regional pitcher Mike Klingensmith talks with catcher Bryce Harper on the mound during their game on April 5, 2019, at Fox Chapel.

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.

Greensburg Central Catholic pitcher Thomas Salley throws against Ligonier Valley on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Ligonier Valley High School.

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’s Ethan Good (35) goes to block during a North Allegheny tournament March 23, 2019 at North Allegheny.

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’s Cam Taylor (left) works out with Andrew Bigler Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2019, at Davis Field in Vandergrift.

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.

The North Allegheny hockey team shakes hands with La Salle College players after falling in the Class AAA Pennsylvania Cup championship game March 23, 2019, at RMU Island Sports Center.

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 Jalen Brown (right) competes during practice for the annual Cager Classic March 23, 2019 at Highlands High School.

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’s Isaac Kern connects on a pitch during a scrimmage against Quigley Catholic Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at Springdale High School.

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 pitcher Tyler Horvat prepares for the 2019 season March 18, 2019 at Penn-Trafford.

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.

North Allegheny goaltender Richard Karapandi makes a save in front of Bethel Park’s Luke McLinden during their Penguins Cup Class AAA semifinal Thursday, Mar. 14, 2019, at RMU Island Sports Center.

PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA finals preview: Peters Township vs. North Allegheny

PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA Championship

Freeport’s Nico DiSanti collides with Montour’s Ethan Diffendal during their game Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018, at Belmont Ice Complex.

PIHL Penguins Cup Class A finals preview: Montour vs. South Fayette

PIHL Penguins Cup Class A championship

Penn-Trafford’s senior Madison Forsythe runs base drills during team softball practice at Penn-Trafford High School on Friday, March 15, 2019.

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.

Pine-Richland’s Brandon Kushar uts a shot on Greater Latrobe goaltender Gage Handwork during the second period of their Penguins Cup Class AA semifinal Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2019, at RMU Island Sports Center.

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.

Latrobe’s Alex Walker fires a shot between Hampton defenders during their PIHL first round playoff game Monday, Mar. 4, 2019, at Kirk S. Nevin Arena.

PIHL Class AA Penguins Cup semifinals preview capsules

March 12, 2019

Class AA semifinals

Gateway’s Evan Whiteside, junior, weight class 113. Lillian DeDomenic | For The Tribune Review

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 Vinny Citrano competes against Central Catholic Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018 at Plum.

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.

Burrell’s Tyler Stewart celebrates his second goal of the game during a PIHL first round playoff against Trinity Monday, Mar. 4, 2019, at Pittsburgh Ice Arena.

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 Megan McConnell celebrates with her dad, coach Tim McConnell, after defeating Thomas Jefferson in the WPIAL Class 5A championship game Saturday, Mar. 2, 2019, at Petersen Events Center.

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.

Penn-Trafford’s Kevin Stinelli (1) goes up for a shot against Fox Chapel’s Arnold Vento (33) Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019 at Fox Chapel.

Westmoreland basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games

February 15, 2019

Tuesday’s games

Thomas Jefferson gymnast Natalie Galioto won her first advanced division all-around WPIAL individual gymnastics championship Saturday, Feb. 16, 2019, at Moon.

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.

Riverview’s Annie Betler (right) pressures South Side’s Emily Bailey during their WPIAL Class 2A playoff game.

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 makes statement at Allegheny County wrestling tournament

January 29, 2023

Pine-Richland wrestling left the Allegheny County wrestling championships with some gold, silver and more proof of a program on the rise.

Mars outduels North Hills on Tasso Sfanos buzzer-beating 3-pointer

January 28, 2023

Tasso Sfanos knew it was in as soon as the ball left his hand.

Sharpened by tough early schedule, Kiski Area boys heating up

January 26, 2023

Kiski Area boys basketball coach Corey Smith senses that everything is coming together.

Plum girls mount double-digit 4th-quarter rally to beat Franklin Regional

January 23, 2023

It’s rare a team wins a basketball game after making one field goal in an entire half.

After sweeping defending champion Norwin, Kiski Area hockey team continues rise in standings

The Kiski Area hockey team already was trending in the right direction, but after the heist pulled off against Norwin on Jan. 10, the group should galvanize even more.

Pine-Richland linebacker Max Heckert gets green light to commit to Slippery Rock

January 22, 2023

After battling multiple injuries, Pine-Richland wrestler ready to ‘break some brackets’

January 21, 2023

Vaughn Spencer soaked in the moment after recording a pin in his first varsity match last week.

Shady Side boys rally past Burrell in matchup of Section 3-3A leaders

January 20, 2023

At halftime, Shady Side Academy coach David Vadnais told his team it was a gift that they were still within striking distance after only scoring 12 points in the first half.

In middle of breakthrough season, Burrell boys get ready for key section showdown

January 19, 2023

At the halfway point of the season, Burrell boys basketball finds itself in a first-place tie in Section 3-3A with Deer Lakes and Shady Side Academy.

New practice room, strong start have Highlands wrestlers optimistic for rest of 2022-23 season

January 16, 2023

There’s plenty of positivity surrounding the Highlands wrestling program.

Pine-Richland swimmers look to build on last season’s success

January 15, 2023

Pine-Richland girls swimming reached plenty of goals with a young team last year.

All-stars help Pine-Richland hockey put slow start in rearview mirror

Josh Folmer was in the middle of his school day when he got a text message from his parents that told him he had made the PIHL All-Star game.

Pine-Richland girls, junior Madison Zavasky enjoying breakout season

January 8, 2023

Madison Zavasky made the tough decision to end her soccer career and put her full sports focus into basketball.

After solid start, Freeport boys look to tighten up defensively for section games ahead

January 5, 2023

As the Freeport boys basketball team gets ready to dive into the heart of section play, second-year coach Sean Devinney is looking for a more consistent commitment to defense.

North Catholic runs away from Plum in victory

December 22, 2022

Max Hurray and North Catholic got off to a sizzling start and didn’t slow down.

Banner fall season for Pine-Richland athletics

December 18, 2022

There will be quite a few updates to the banners in the Pine-Richland gym.

Burrell wrestling team snaps Kiski Area’s winning streak

December 14, 2022

In a sense, it was a welcome-to-varsity-wrestling moment for Julian Bertucci.

New-look Pine-Richland boys basketball team learning ropes

December 11, 2022

The Pine-Richland boys basketball has a much different look this season.

Pine-Richland seniors aim to cap careers as state champions

December 7, 2022

The seniors on the Pine-Richland football team have an opportunity to complete their story arc in grand style.

New coach excited to see how Pine-Richland girls progress

December 3, 2022

The first goal Gabby Baldasare wanted to achieve after taking the Pine-Richland girls basketball job in May was to establish what she wants the culture to be in the program.

Burrell wrestling team aims to start new streak of WPIAL titles

November 30, 2022

The Burrell wrestling team is determined to get back on the top step of the podium.

Kiski Area, A-K Valley Class 3A teams look to add to wrestling trophy cases

November 29, 2022

The road will be a bit different, but the goal remains the same for Kiski Area wrestling.

Excitement builds for St. Joseph girls after playoff stunner

November 27, 2022

St. Joseph boys motivated by last year’s brush with playoffs

St. Joseph coach Hart Coleman doesn’t have to look too far to find a way to motivate his group.

Pine-Richland notebook: XFL comes calling for Ben DiNucci

November 26, 2022

Former Pine-Richland quarterback Ben DiNucci is getting another shot at pro football.

From 2 wins to reaching the state playoffs, Latrobe girls soccer team reflects on success

November 20, 2022

The Latrobe girls soccer team had a historic season, winning the first two WPIAL playoff games in program history and qualifying for the state tournament for the first time.

Pine-Richland’s Natalie McLean follows PIAA title with Georgetown commitment

A few weeks ago Natalie McLean realized a dream that was four years in the making and made Pine-Richland history.

Freeport girls basketball looks to follow in footsteps of volleyball team

November 19, 2022

Freeport girls basketball coach Fred Soilis has had a front row seat for the Yellowjackets’ volleyball team’s run to the PIAA championship game while watching his daughter Ava play libero.

Deep, experienced roster has Freeport boys ready to build on last year’s success

The Freeport boys basketball team has plenty to build on after getting a playoff win and achieving a winning record for the first time in three years.

Union gets past Rochester in battle of Cinderellas in WPIAL Class A semifinals

November 18, 2022

It’s a run that the Union Scotties faithful will remember forever.

North Allegheny volleyball avenges WPIAL loss, beats Pine-Richland in state semis

November 15, 2022

Freeport cross country coach Melissa Schaeffer inducted into Carnegie Mellon Hall of Fame

November 14, 2022

Melissa Schaeffer had to wait a year to be officially inducted into Carnegie Mellon’s sports Hall of Fame, but it was well worth it.

Dominant Freeport sweeps Quaker Valley, moves one step closer to state title

November 12, 2022

The Freeport girls volleyball team took one step closer to its ultimate goal of winning the program’s second state title with a dominant performance in the quarterfinals.

Aliquippa capitalizes on mistakes to take down Montour in Class 4A quarterfinals

November 11, 2022

It was wet at Freedom Friday night, but there wasn’t any rust on Aliquippa following a bye week.

Harbor Creek executes game plan, knocks out WPIAL champion Deer Lakes

November 8, 2022

Harbor Creek came into a matchup with Deer Lakes with a plan to sit back and counter.

Pine-Richland notebook: Meghan Klingenberg wins another NWSL title with Portland

November 6, 2022

Pine-Richland grad Meghan Klingenberg added another accomplishment to her resume recently by becoming a two-time National Women’s Soccer League Champion.

Pine-Richland shocks defending champion Seneca Valley in Class 4A boys WPIAL final

November 5, 2022

Keystone Oaks dispatches Apollo-Ridge in WPIAL opening round

November 4, 2022

Apollo-Ridge did its best to keep the ball away from Keystone Oaks’ standout junior receiver Clinton Robinson.

Powerful Freeport volleyball team out to finish job against Shenango in WPIAL finals

More often than not in the last 15 years, the Freeport girls volleyball team has had plans the first Saturday in November.

Freshman connection leads Deer Lakes to WPIAL Class 2A soccer championship

November 3, 2022

Members of the Deer Lakes boys soccer team have described the culture in the program to be a family-like atmosphere.

Freeport withstands Quaker Valley rally, reaches WPIAL Class 2A girls volleyball final

November 1, 2022

Ambridge hands Plum boys another heartbreaking loss in WPIAL soccer playoffs

October 31, 2022

JJ Simms saw the ball floating high in the air right in front of the goal and just had to be patient.

Max Heckert carries on rich tradition of Pine-Richland linebackers

October 30, 2022

Max Heckert spent the last few years studying future NCAA Division I linebackers Jeremiah Hasley and Luke Miller while playing alongside them at Pine-Richland.

Pine-Richland makes it 4 in a row in WPIAL Class 3A field hockey championship game

October 29, 2022

The Pine-Richland field hockey team finished off its four-peat in style.

Mars gets past North Catholic, grabs playoff spot

October 28, 2022

Mars needed a victory Friday against North Catholic, and it also needed to secure the proper amount of Gardner points.

Deer Lakes boys come up big, get past West Mifflin in Class 3A quarterfinals

October 27, 2022

At one point in his career, Nate Litrun wasn’t interested in scoring goals.

Springdale girls soccer team doesn’t let opponent get too close this time, advances to semifinals

October 26, 2022

In Springdale’s first-round win over Sewickley Academy, the game got a little too close for comfort after the Dynamos yielded a couple of late goals.

Billy Lawrence records hat trick as Springdale rolls past Carlynton in WPIAL Class A 1st round

October 25, 2022

Springdale coach Paul Palo credits a good portion of his team’s attack to the instincts and natural talent among an experienced group of midfielders and forwards.

Resilient Pine-Richland volleyball team marches into playoffs with confidence

October 23, 2022

The last time Pine-Richland played for a WPIAL girls volleyball championship, Angela Seman was on the other side playing defensive specialist/libero for Seneca Valley.

Pine-Richland field hockey turns focus to WPIAL championship 4-peat

Pine-Richland field hockey coach Donna Stephenson doesn’t have to say much as her team gets ready to try to win a fourth consecutive WPIAL championship.

Kiski Area battle-tested heading into WPIAL boys soccer playoffs

October 17, 2022

Kiski Area boys soccer coach Sean Arnold knew his team had the experience and talent to have a special fall.

Pine-Richland boys soccer sees hard work rewarded with playoff berth

October 16, 2022

After a long road, the Pine-Richland boys soccer team got its moment.

Pine-Richland notebook: Senior golfer makes states

With an 11th-place finish at the WPIAL Class 3A boys golf championship, Pine-Richland senior Blaise Masciantonio qualified for the state tournament.

East Allegheny denies Deer Lakes chance to clinch playoff spot with runaway win

October 14, 2022

Pine-Richland notebook: After big win, girls soccer team in thick of playoff race

October 9, 2022

The Pine-Richland girls soccer team finds itself in an intense playoff race in Section 1-4A and scored a big win on Oct. 3 that will help its cause.

Revamped Pine-Richland hockey roster looks to get up to speed

When last season ended, the Pine-Richland hockey team said goodbye to its top four point-getters in standout forwards Alex Erlain, Carson Kalpakis and Michael Megine and defenseman Esai Morse.

Haden Sierocky’s big plays help Ligonier Valley defeat Burrell

October 7, 2022

Haden Sierocky’s teammates have given him the nickname “Mr. Big Play.”

Ryan Palmieri boosts Pine-Richland with whatever-it-takes attitude

October 2, 2022

Ryan Palmieri’s mindset is doing everything he can to help the team win.

Pine-Richland’s Jessica Albertson presses fast forward on field hockey career

Four years ago, Jessica Albertson found her passion with field hockey.

Key goal-line stand highlights Avonworth’s hard-fought win over West Mifflin

September 30, 2022

It wasn’t a pretty start for Avonworth, but it turned into a beautiful ending.

Pine-Richland sophomore Kendall Kirkland finds success in singles tennis

September 25, 2022

Kendall Kirkland played second doubles for Pine-Richland as a freshman, and after getting a feel for varsity tennis she spent the offseason trying to improve her game.

Pine-Richland golfer makes clutch putt to qualify for WPIALs, erase bad memory

Toby Kitay stood over a 10-foot putt needing to sink it to qualify for the WPIAL tournament.

Seneca Valley excels on offense, defense to defeat Mt. Lebanon

September 23, 2022

It was the performance Seneca Valley coach Ron Bustchle has been waiting for.

Buzzer-beating goal highlights strong start for Deer Lakes boys soccer

September 20, 2022

For a high school athlete who plays both soccer and basketball the first buzzer-beater typically comes on the hardwood.

Pine-Richland girls volleyball raises funds, awareness during ‘Spike Out Cancer’ event

September 18, 2022

Angela Seman coached nine individuals affected by cancer.

Team captains guide Pine-Richland boys soccer toward playoff berth

In seventh grade, Ben Rishel took a year off from playing for the Pine-Richland middle school boys soccer team, but he caught wind of a new player who was turning heads.

Highlands stifles North Catholic, ends Trojans’ conference winning streak

September 16, 2022

All week, Highlands coach Matt Bonislawski told his team the Greater Allegheny Conference opener with North Catholic was a statement game.

Returning runners step into key roles for Pine-Richland cross country team

September 11, 2022

The Pine-Richland girls cross country team graduated two runners who are now competing at NCAA Division I schools, but there’s still a wealth of talent in the program.

Burrell tops Valley on fourth-quarter field goal in rivalry thriller

September 9, 2022

Burrell coach Shawn Liotta had no doubts about calling upon his junior kicker Ryan Croushore with a potential game-winning field goal late in the fourth quarter.

Pine-Richland volleyball ready to return to title contention

September 4, 2022

Pine-Richland girls volleyball has a unique mix, and it’s one that could be very dangerous.

3-time defending champion Pine-Richland field hockey team determined to maintain winning culture

The Pine-Richland field hockey team is still hungry for more.

Pine-Richland golf team looking to get back to top of section

August 28, 2022

The Pine-Richland boys golf team was a young group last year, and the Rams saw their streak of five consecutive section titles come to an end.

Pine-Richland boys soccer has pieces in place to end playoff drought

The Pine-Richland boys soccer team has the right ingredients for a promising fall.

A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Plum sets sights on breakthrough season

August 25, 2022

The Plum boys soccer team has been agonizingly close to breaking through the last few seasons.

A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Plum sets sights on breakthrough season

The Plum boys soccer team has been agonizingly close to breaking through the last few seasons.

A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Plum sets sights on breakthrough season

The Plum boys soccer team has been agonizingly close to breaking through the last few seasons.

New Jefferson-Morgan coach focused on creating competitive culture

August 23, 2022

Shane Ziats will be tasked with trying to turn around a Jefferson-Morgan football program that has won three or fewer games the last six seasons and hasn’t qualified for the playoffs in a decade.

Despite graduation losses, Carmichaels expects to be right in thick of Tri-County South race

Experienced lineup returns for Pine-Richland girls golf

August 20, 2022

Two years ago the Pine-Richland girls golf team had only six players and Jared Slimm was worried about the program’s future.

Eryck Moore eyes rushing record for confident Plum football team

Eryck Moore has lived in a few places in his life, including overseas in Spain, but he’s certainly found a home in the backfield for Plum.

Cadin Olsen, Armstrong aim to build off 1st WPIAL playoff victory

August 14, 2022

The Armstrong River Hawks are ready for one last ride with their standout quarterback Cadin Olsen at the helm.

New Pine-Richland coach wants to play ‘Western Pa. football’

August 12, 2022

As the Jon LeDonne era begins at Pine-Richland, one element that he wants to add into the program is more physicality.

Plum hoping to carry momentum from strong finish into new season

August 11, 2022

Plum football coach Matt Morgan watched a young group of players mature on the fly to win three of their last five games and earn a playoff berth last season.

St. John’s checks all boxes for Pine-Richland soccer standout Stephanie Cornelius

July 31, 2022

A couple of years ago, the coaching staff at Beadling SC told Stephanie Cornelius and her parents that she had the potential to be a future NCAA Division I soccer player.

Pine-Richland grad reaches for the stars on Embry-Riddle rowing team

July 17, 2022

Kristen Vigna wanted to do two things in college: study astronomy and astrophysics and be on a rowing team.

Pitt offer adds to excitement of recruiting frenzy for Pine-Richland lineman Ryan Cory

July 3, 2022

In the last few months, Ryan Cory has received scholarship offers from schools all over the country, and now he’s getting some interest closer to home.

Pine-Richland hosting Future College Athlete field hockey clinic

June 26, 2022

For years it has been Donna Stephenson’s mission to grow the game of field hockey in Western Pennsylvania.

‘Hockey is awesome:’ Inaugural PIHL girls season gets rave reviews

June 19, 2022

After the inaugural PIHL girls hockey championship concluded, a young girl with a homemade sign and a pen waited patiently just down the hall from the locker rooms.

Pine-Richland notebook: Sections overhauled for Rams basketball teams

A new opponent with a rich history will be joining Pine-Richland boys basketball for the next two seasons.

Pine-Richland notebook: Girls lacrosse team finishes 4th in WPIAL

June 12, 2022

The Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team came within one goal of advancing to the PIAA playoffs, but ultimately, Upper St. Clair continued to be a thorn in its side.

After winning share of section title, Pine-Richland looks forward to promising future

The 2022 season for Pine-Richland baseball culminated with a shared Section 1-6A title with North Allegheny for the Rams after a rare postseason miss in 2021.

Penn-Trafford sophomore makes history with OT winner in 1st PIHL girls championship game

June 11, 2022

Kylie McKenzie found the puck and some open ice.

Pine-Richland distance runner comes home from states with personal bests, medals

June 5, 2022

Natalie McLean went to the PIAA track and field championships last year for the first time as a sophomore and took home plenty of lessons.

Gabby Baldasare takes over Pine-Richland girls basketball program

It’s been a couple weeks since Gabby Baldasare learned she was hired to take over the Pine-Richland girls basketball team, and she has the same emotions as when she first heard the news.

Pine-Richland notebook: Baseball team stopped by Butler ace

May 29, 2022

After sharing the Section 1-6A title with North Allegheny, Pine-Richland baseball ran into a buzzsaw in the first round of the WPIAL playoffs.

North Allegheny plays near-perfect game to knock off Pine-Richland in 6A semifinals

May 25, 2022

North Allegheny softball coach Morgan Vescovi made a list of five goals for her team to accomplish in Wednesday’s Class 6A semifinal against Pine-Richland.

Shields brothers pitch Mt. Lebanon past Central Catholic, into WPIAL title game

May 24, 2022

From one brother to another, Derrick and David Shields made sure that Mt. Lebanon would play for a WPIAL baseball title.

First-round playoff loss ends Pine-Richland boys lacrosse season

May 22, 2022

The Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team clawed out of an early hole after dropping seven of its first eight games to finish third in Section 2-3A and earn the right to host a playoff game.

Penn-Trafford savors 1st boys lacrosse playoff victory

Nothing was going to stop the Penn-Trafford boys lacrosse team from making history May 16.

Peters Township escapes Penn-Trafford upset bid with walk-off single

May 19, 2022

Wes Parker said he didn’t pay too much attention to Penn-Trafford reliever Evan Del Signore as he was warming up with the winning run on third.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Knoch’s Yumiko Kuo

October 6, 2021

Yumiko Kuo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Franklin Regional-Mars game suspended when lights go out at North Allegheny

May 21, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.