Author: Jerin Steele
Defending WPIAL champion Shady Side Academy girls ready for ‘new journey’
November 23, 2024
After a historic season where the Shady Side Academy girls basketball team won the first WPIAL title in program history, there will be some change, but a solid core returns.
Fox Chapel wrestling expects to show dual meet prowess again
Wrestling often is viewed as an individual sport, and understandably so, because it’s one on one on the mat every match.
Knoch girls look to keep meeting program’s high standards
November 19, 2024
In the last seven years, the Knoch girls basketball program has built itself into a consistent contender.
Knoch boys bring back 5 starters, look to keep building process rolling
At times last season, a young Knoch boys basketball team showed how dangerous it could be.
Thomas Jefferson tops McKeesport for WPIAL Class 4A championship, giving Bill Cherpak 10th title
November 16, 2024
Bill Cherpak has never been one to tout his own stats or accolades and that remained the case after becoming the first WPIAL coach to reach double-digit championships in football on Saturday.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams start fast, win big in WPIAL quarterfinals
Led by stellar performances from juniors Mac Miller and Lawrence “Jay” Timmons, the Pine-Richland football team secured a 42-0 win over Franklin Regional in the WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinals Nov. 8.
Nick McCullough’s 97-yard kick return touchdown sends Peters Township back to WPIAL finals
November 15, 2024
Nick McCullough knew he needed to make amends.
Fox Chapel girls focus on camaraderie in bid to clear playoff hurdle
Several ill-timed injuries over the last two seasons have hindered the Fox Chapel girls basketball team in their pursuit of making the playoffs.
Fox Chapel boys looking for right combination to compete in Class 6A
Last year, Fox Chapel put several different combinations on the court. That has led to six players returning with starting experience this year.
Veteran coach aims to get most out of Deer Lakes girls
November 14, 2024
Dana Petruska feels back at home for a couple of reasons.
2-time defending WPIAL champion Deer Lakes hopes to keep train rolling
Winning consecutive WPIAL championships not only adds to the trophy case at the high school, but it also creates the potential for a self-sustaining foundation.
Mars girls volleyball wins WPIAL rematch with Beaver to reach state finals for 1st time
November 12, 2024
Before the season started, Mars libero Alaina Graham said coach Tamara Caraway told the team they were going to play for the state championship.
Neal brothers carry No. 5 Avonworth to quarterfinal win over No. 4 Beaver
November 8, 2024
Antelopes became Wildcats and then became dominant.
Freeport brings momentum into clash with 2nd-seeded Central Valley
November 6, 2024
Given how many times Freeport and Central Valley have made the WPIAL playoffs in the past decade, it’s fairly surprising that the two teams have never met.
Fox Chapel makes early goals stand up in PIAA boys soccer 1st-round victory
November 5, 2024
With near record temperatures for early November on Tuesday, the Fox Chapel boys soccer team decided to add its own heat to the equation.
Mars takes down No. 1 Beaver to win WPIAL Class 3A girls volleyball title
November 2, 2024
About a month ago, Mars traveled to Beaver for a nonsection match and lost in straight sets, but coach Tamara Caraway said her players left with valuable lessons about their opponent and maybe more importantly themselves.
North Catholic holds on to beat Deer Lakes in 1st round
November 1, 2024
Listed at 5-foot-4, Will Waskiewicz is the smallest player on North Catholic’s roster, but he made the biggest play of the night.
With painful losses in rearview mirror, Plum, Fox Chapel ready to duke it out in WPIAL finals
October 31, 2024
Plum and Fox Chapel have a similar story entering the WPIAL boys soccer championship game.
Mars earns spot in 2nd WPIAL volleyball final with 5-set win over Freeport
October 30, 2024
Before the beginning of the fifth set, the Mars girls volleyball players looked into a packed grandstands and started waving their arms up and down to pump up the crowd.
Fox Chapel boys gets past Peters Township to finally clear semifinal hurdle
October 29, 2024
After four consecutive years of semifinal heartbreak, the Fox Chapel boys soccer team finally exorcised the demon.
Top-seeded Plum boys soccer team headed to 1st WPIAL final in 19 years
For years, Plum boys soccer coach Raf Kolankowski has talked about how the soccer gods haven’t shined on his group in the postseason.
Player of the year Danny Battista, South Park teammates beat Burrell to return to WPIAL finals
October 28, 2024
On Monday afternoon, Danny Battista was named the WPIAL Class 2A boys soccer player of the year, and a few hours later, he helped make sure South Park would defend its title.
Shady Side Academy doubles team finds instant chemistry
October 26, 2024
Brooke Henderson and Alex Merkel met for the first time in the summer when they both joined the Shady Side Academy girls tennis team.
After claiming Northeast Conference title, Pine-Richland turns attention toward WPIAL playoffs
The road to a third consecutive appearance in the WPIAL Class 5A championship started with another conference title for the Pine-Richland football team.
Imani Christian routs Freeport in regular-season finale
October 25, 2024
Using some explosive plays on both offense and defense, Imani Christian cemented an outright Allegheny 7 Conference championship and likely the top seed in the Class 3A playoffs.
Freshman’s goal in final minutes of overtime sends Plum past Moon in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 24, 2024
Keirstin Curry said she couldn’t have hit a better shot.
Freeport volleyball takes care of business vs. Ringgold
October 23, 2024
The Freeport girls volleyball team saw its 19-year run as a section champion come to an end this year, but it quickly turned the page.
Pine-Richland girls hold off Latrobe to win 1st playoff game since 2018
October 21, 2024
It got a little tense at the end, but the Pine-Richland girls soccer team broke a six-year playoff victory drought.
Young roster drives Shady Side Academy boys soccer to another playoff season
October 19, 2024
When the calendar gets to the end of October and the WPIAL playoff brackets are released, it seems every year the Shady Side Academy boys soccer team answers the bell.
New coach, 25, looks to keep Fox Chapel hockey program humming
Seven years ago, Ryan Loebig was a key member of the Plum hockey team that won the 2017 Class 2A Penguins Cup.
Backup QB leads Woodland Hills to win over Franklin Regional, 1st section title since 2009
October 18, 2024
Woodland Hills coach Brian Tarrant had tears in his eyes as he hugged his players and assistant coaches. They were tears of joy, because a vision he had for the program was completed.
St. Joseph volleyball tops Apollo-Ridge, caps historic regular season with unbeaten section record
October 17, 2024
The St. Joseph girls volleyball team already knew it had won its first section championship before taking the floor Thursday night.
Freshman WPIAL champ, improving veteran players form backbone of Shady Side Academy girls golf team
October 12, 2024
There were many proud moments this year for Shady Side Academy girls golf coach Betsy Thompson.
Senior leaders set Shady Side Academy boys golf on right course for big season
It has been a season of success, both individually and as a team, for Shady Side Academy boys golf.
Freeport spoils Highlands homecoming with conference win
October 4, 2024
A few weeks ago, Freeport coach John Gaillot started seeing his defense hit like the team a couple years ago that won a conference championship.
Freeport boys fight through injuries to stay in playoff hunt
October 3, 2024
The phrase “next man up” is used by many teams as a rallying cry, but the Freeport boys soccer team has had to manage more bumps and bruises than most.
Pine-Richland senior finds scoring touch, leads boys soccer team into playoff contention
September 29, 2024
Being a senior, Finn Kichi knew this season at Pine-Richland was his final opportunity to prove what he can do on a soccer field.
Pine-Richland girls golfers celebrate section title after win in finale
Before the season started, Jared Slimm took a picture of the Pine-Richland girls golf banner in the gymnasium and shared it with his players.
Unbeaten Deer Lakes continues historic start with comeback victory over Highlands
September 27, 2024
Deer Lakes keeps making history.
Despite bump up to Class 4A, Plum boys soccer again among title contenders
September 26, 2024
With only three returning starters and a move up from Class 3A to 4A, it was a bit unknown coming into the season how the Plum boys soccer team would adjust.
Mars girls volleyball sweeps stalwart Freeport
September 24, 2024
A program on the rise was up against one of the established favorites in girls volleyball when Mars hosted Freeport on Tuesday night, and the Fightin’ Planets showed they are a force with which to be reckoned.
Shady Side Academy outscores young, penalty-prone Apollo-Ridge
September 21, 2024
A week that started with the coach resigning ended with a victory for the Shady Side Academy football team.
Georgia Rottinghaus carries on family’s championship tradition at Pine-Richland
Georgia Rottinghaus has two older sisters, Molly and Ella, that she looked up to growing up and that included watching them play field hockey.
Pine-Richland notebook: Volleyball team plans annual cancer benefit
The Pine-Richland girls volleyball team will host its annual “Spike Out Cancer” event Oct. 3 during a home match against North Allegheny.
Central Catholic’s Xxavier Thomas puts on a show in win over Hempfield
September 20, 2024
With Penn State football coach James Franklin in attendance, future Nittany Lion Xxavier Thomas showed he can make an impact in every aspect of the game
A-K Valley soccer notebook: Deer Lakes boys pushing for another section title
September 19, 2024
Another year and another opportunity for Deer Lakes boys soccer to win a section title.
Pine-Richland girls tennis thriving without top player
September 15, 2024
It’s been another superb season thus far for Pine-Richland girls tennis, and for the most part, it’s been without the team’s strongest player.
For Pine-Richland’s Emme Kline, hard work pays off with commitment to Cincinnati
Emme Kline has been playing soccer since she was 3 years old, and she’s always wanted to play college soccer, but that dream came into focus in 2020.
Late defensive stand lifts Deer Lakes past Freeport, gives coach win on birthday
September 13, 2024
Deer Lakes football coach Tim Burk got his birthday wish.
Despite young roster, bump up to Class 2A, Burrell boys feel they ‘can play with anybody’
September 12, 2024
Coming off a state quarterfinal appearance in Class A, the Burrell boys soccer team moved to 2A this fall.
Pine-Richland girls volleyball ready to walk tough road to playoffs
September 7, 2024
The road to the playoffs in Section 1-4A girls volleyball has always been tough, but the addition of North Catholic for 2024 has made the group even stronger.
Young linemen, skill players vault Pine-Richland to strong start
The pair of victories the Pine-Richland football team earned to start the season were welcomed results, but it’s the development that has occurred during them that has Jon LeDonne and his coaching staff excited.
Under new coach, Springdale boys in position to add to program’s storied history
September 5, 2024
It wasn’t that long ago that Mario Liberati played for the Springdale boys soccer team.
Pine-Richland notebook: Mac Miller off to fast start as lead runner
September 1, 2024
Mac Miller has been a strong wrestler at Pine-Richland with a 69-17 record in two years, and in his varsity debut as the featured running back on the football team, he showed he can be a force on the gridiron as well.
Experienced roster has Pine-Richland in position for 6th straight WPIAL field hockey title
Pine-Richland’s incredible run in WPIAL field hockey continued last year with a fifth straight Class 3A title.
Valley boys soccer dives back into WPIAL competition
August 30, 2024
Erik Kidwell’s journey to coaching started with trying to sign up his son Hayden for the Valley boys soccer team.
New coach sees potential to reach new heights in Pine-Richland girls soccer
August 25, 2024
After four years at the helm of the Pine-Richland boys soccer program, Jordan Wiegand has decided to pull double duty this fall and coach the Rams’ girls program as well.
Pine-Richland boys counting soccer savvy to get back to playoffs
After reaching the summit of WPIAL Class 4A boys soccer in 2022, Pine-Richland went into its title defense with a much younger group and narrowly missed out on the postseason.
Bethel Park opens season with breezy win vs. Seneca Valley
August 23, 2024
One pick-6 in a quarter is a momentum shifter, but two?
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Deer Lakes opens season with chip on its shoulder
August 21, 2024
It was another strong regular season for the Deer Lakes boys soccer team that concluded with a section title, but its reign as defending WPIAL champs didn’t last as long as they wanted.
Plum’s Darian Nelson offers all-around talent, leadership in senior season
August 19, 2024
At the beginning of Plum’s football practices, Darian Nelson is one of the vocal leaders, counting out with a booming voice while everyone stretches.
Knoch welcomes new quarterback with open arms
August 17, 2024
Colt Sprankle is probably the only current WPIAL quarterback to appear on a nationally televised game show.
Pitt national champion John Falvo gets call from Pine-Richland hall of fame
The announcement for the 2024 Pine-Richland Sports Hall of Fame class was made a few weeks earlier, but John Falvo had no idea he was included.
Senior LB Sean Selinger ready to step up, get Freeport back to playoffs
August 14, 2024
Sean Selinger is a lead-by-example type, which is a trait that runs in the family.
Freeport aims to rebound after missing out on postseason
A young Freeport football team took its lumps last year in a season that ended with a 3-7 record and a rare playoff miss.
Burrell’s roster deep but young in quest for 4th straight playoff bid
In coach Shawn Liotta’s first season at Burrell in 2018, he had 18 players come out for the team.
Burrell’s Steve Hasson battling back from injury to lead Bucs offense
August 11, 2024
As the quarterback in Burrell’s Slot-T offense, Steve Hasson is the conductor.
Knoch hopes to build on breakthrough season
Knoch football experienced a renaissance last season.
Volleyball star, WPIAL championship team headline Pine-Richland hall of fame class
August 10, 2024
Jamel (Nicholas) Debri hasn’t been back to Pine-Richland since she graduated nearly two decades ago, but before going to Notre Dame, she left her imprint on the Rams’ volleyball program.
Pieces in place for another strong season at Pine-Richland
August 7, 2024
Editor’s note: Trib HSSN will publish team-by-team previews for one conference per day until the start of the high school football season Aug. 23.
Plum football again adjusts to new set of conference opponents
The last three realignment cycles have brought change for the Plum football team.
Baseball standout Dale Mollenhauer set to join Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame
August 1, 2024
Dale Mollenhauer lived a childhood dream by playing professional baseball for five years, but before that he helped build the foundation at Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland wrestlers help teach sport to the visually impaired
July 20, 2024
Owen Long loves wrestling and appreciates any opportunity he can to share his passion with others.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams welcome new boys basketball section opponents
July 6, 2024
A new two-year cycle for WPIAL and PIAA sports brings some changes in section opponents for the winter athletics teams at Pine-Richland.
Big summer for Pine-Richland volleyball ace includes Pitt commitment, spot on national team
June 30, 2024
The month of June has been pretty exciting for Isabelle Hoppe.
Kiski Area 3-sport star Eliza Miller 3-peats as Valley News Dispatch girls athlete of the year
June 29, 2024
Reflecting on her time at Kiski Area brought a realization of the rapid pace the high school years went by for Eliza Miller.
Freeport runner Michael Braun named Valley News Dispatch boys athlete of the year
Michael Braun had a couple of major goals he set for his junior year at Freeport.
Springdale’s John Hughes again named Valley News Dispatch Baseball Player of Year
June 22, 2024
John Hughes had a season to remember at Springdale in 2023, winning the WPIAL batting title to go with 78 strikeouts on the mound.
Pine-Richland soccer coach Wiegand doubles up with girls gig
There’s little doubt Jordan Wiegand loves soccer.
Passion for WPIAL basketball leads North Allegheny grad Hailey Zeise to Pine-Richland job
June 16, 2024
Hailey Zeise spent the last year coaching in college at George Washington, but in her heart, she knew high school basketball was where she wanted to be.
Mars boys lacrosse weathers early South Fayette storm, advances to 4th straight state title game
June 11, 2024
South Fayette couldn’t have dreamed of a better start to Tuesday’s PIAA Class 2A boys lacrosse semifinal, but Mars got the ending it wanted.
After solid season, Pine-Richland boys volleyball looks ahead to exciting future
June 9, 2024
Four wins in Section 2-3A might not seem like a lot to those that do not follow WPIAL boys volleyball closely, but for Pine-Richland, it signaled a gigantic leap in the right direction.
Armstrong’s early offensive outburst too much for Latrobe to overcome in PIAA softball playoffs
June 3, 2024
Calise Czekanski brings a boombox to the field so she and her Armstrong softball teammates can listen to music and get pumped up before every game.
Top-seeded Elizabeth Forward flexes muscles in WPIAL Class 4A final win over Hampton
May 30, 2024
There’s been plenty of heartbreak over the last three years, but this time, Shelby Telegdy and the Elizabeth Forward softball team were not going to be denied.
North Catholic surges past Indiana to claim WPIAL Class 4A baseball crown
May 29, 2024
After hitting a one-out triple in the second inning, North Catholic’s Josef Safar flexed his right bicep and pointed at it while staring at his teammates in the dugout.
Pine-Richland grads on both sides of Pitt-Penn State rivalry at ultimate frisbee nationals
May 26, 2024
Eliot and Reid Duncan are brothers who play on the Pitt ultimate frisbee team, where they are joined by former Pine-Richland teammate Aiden Landis.
‘Magic’ Miles Halter lifts Mt. Lebanon to back-to-back WPIAL Class 3A boys lacrosse titles
May 23, 2024
Miles Halter broke his stick in the first quarter, so he had to borrow one from Mt. Lebanon assistant coach Connor Brumfield.
After 3 straight near misses, Mt. Lebanon girls capture WPIAL Class 3A lacrosse crown
Mt. Lebanon girls lacrosse coach Brian Kattan joked he didn’t want his team to become the Buffalo Bills.
Burrell baseball team seeks another playoff upset
May 19, 2024
Being a double-digit seed and winning in the playoffs has become a theme for Burrell this school year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Lacrosse teams pick up playoff wins
The Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team got a step closer to defending its WPIAL Class 3A title with a 17-7 win over Canon-McMillan in the quarterfinals May 15.
Alivia Lantzy hits 600K milestone, helps Avonworth bounce Yough from playoffs
May 16, 2024
Almost every time Avonworth pitcher Alivia Lantzy received the ball from catcher Rylee Gray, she bounced it three or four times before returning to the circle.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse carries momentum into playoffs
May 11, 2024
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Shannen Drennon said her team is firing on all cylinders.
Red-hot Valley learns playoff seed, gets ready for ‘whole new season’
May 10, 2024
Boasting an 11-game winning streak, the Valley baseball team certainly is rolling at the right time.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse bringing ‘toughness and fortitude’ to playoff run
May 4, 2024
The stretch run has arrived for the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team, and it’s something they’ve been waiting for.
Pine-Richland’s Grant Argiro eyes future as college kicker
Grant Argiro has been the kicker on the Pine-Richland football team since he was a sophomore, but he also played junior varsity linebacker.
Fox Chapel, Plum baseball teams meet again with high stakes
May 2, 2024
It is becoming an annual tradition that the Fox Chapel and Plum baseball teams meet in the final section series with something on the line.
Pine-Richland notebook: Baseball team shows mettle with 5 wins in 5 days
April 27, 2024
Five section games in five days?
Pine-Richland softball hoping potent offense leads to playoff berth
With a couple of weeks left in the regular season, the Pine-Richland softball team finds itself in a similar situation to last year.
Youthful lineup delivering for Leechburg baseball team
April 25, 2024
Leechburg baseball coach Heath Shimer never has had a roster with no seniors before this season, but he didn’t change the goals he had for his team.
Pine-Richland baseball makes right adjustments to get off to strong start
April 20, 2024
Peyton Ford said Pine-Richland baseball coach Kurt Wolfe has a consistent message.
After hitting 100 mark, Pine-Richland lacrosse standout looks to next goal
Madeline Mill had a lot of family members in the stands April 9 hoping to see her score the 100th goal of her Pine-Richland girls lacrosse career.
Arrow pointing up for Freeport baseball as team pushes toward playoffs
April 18, 2024
Looking back through the results so far this year, Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr felt his team had a chance to win nearly every game it has played.
Pine-Richland notebook: Weather postponements force teams to compact schedules
April 14, 2024
April showers bring May flowers, but they also bring headaches for local spring sports coaches.
Signature win shows progress being made by Pine-Richland boys volleyball
Going into the season, first-year Pine-Richland boys volleyball coach Tyler Trimbath was confident his team was going to surprise some people after going winless in section play in 2023.
Burrell gets back to fundamental baseball to get back to winning
April 11, 2024
On the heels of his team being swept by Shady Side Academy last week, first-year Burrell coach Jay Miller focused on executing fundamentals in situational baseball with his team.
Championship culture helps Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team reload
April 7, 2024
Some of the faces have changed, but the goal remains the same for the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team.
Quick start could mean special season for Pine-Richland boys lacrosse
The past couple of years, the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team took its lumps early before gaining momentum with late-season winning streaks prior to the playoffs.
Pine-Richland hockey caps special season with 4th state championship
March 31, 2024
Winning a state championship is obviously special on its own, but the way the Pine-Richland hockey team did so will be retold over and over again.
Deep, experienced Pine-Richland baseball roster hunting another section title
The last couple of years, a young core of Pine-Richland baseball players helped contribute to back-to-back section championships.
Deer Lakes’ Billy Schaeffer leads Valley News Dispatch boys basketball all-stars
March 30, 2024
Player of the Year
Experienced Valley baseball team ready to bloom
March 28, 2024
It’s a season that Valley baseball coach Jim Basilone and his players have been building for.
With every starter back, Pine-Richland softball expects good chemistry, big season
March 23, 2024
Vibes are high for the Pine-Richland softball team and for good reason.
Springdale hires Chad Walsh as football coach hoping he can change team’s fortunes
March 22, 2024
Chad Walsh has experience turning around struggling football programs.
Aliquippa tops Fort Cherry to earn another shot at a state title in Hershey
March 19, 2024
Cameron Lindsey doesn’t eat much chocolate, but he sure loves making trips to Hershey.
Tough loss ends special season for Burrell hockey
Burrell’s run in the PIHL Division 2 playoffs ended in heartbreaking fashion Monday night with a 6-5 loss to Neshannock in the championship game at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry, but it wasn’t hard for the Bucs to find highlights from a stellar season.
After wild 3rd period, waved-off goal, Neshannock wins 3rd PIHL D2 title in 4 years
March 18, 2024
Burrell thought it had the potential game-winning goal late in the third period until it was waved off.
Burrell hockey team out to make program history in championship game
March 17, 2024
Burrell finished one spot ahead of Neshannock in the PIHL Division 2 standings, but the Lancers have loads of championship experience.
Timing right for Pine-Richland boys volleyball to take step forward
March 16, 2024
As a young team of freshmen and sophomores, the Pine-Richland boys volleyball team took their lumps last season.
Pine-Richland’s Vaughn Spencer finally slays injury bug to win state wrestling title
The morning of his state championship wrestling match, Vaughn Spencer was sitting in his hotel room, rubbing Icy Hot on his knee.
Expectations remain high for new-look Plum baseball team
It was another banner year in 2023 for the Plum baseball team.
Fervent community support grows for Deer Lakes during playoff run
March 15, 2024
Deer Lakes and Forest Hills both wear green and gold, so Lancers coach Albie Fletcher wasn’t exactly sure what the supporter breakdown was when he first walked into the gym Wednesday night at Armstrong.
Burrell stops rival Deer Lakes, earns date with Neshannock in PIHL Division 2 finals
March 14, 2024
Deer Lakes had a five-on-three power play late in the second period and a chance to get back into the game, but Aidan Petroff was having none of it.
Alle-Kiski Valley baseball preview: Plum reloads for another run
It was another banner year in 2023 for the Plum baseball team.
Billy Schaeffer’s grand night helps Deer Lakes boys down Forest Hills in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2024
Billy Schaeffer has been dreaming of reaching 1,000 points since he began his high school career.
Bethel Park rallies in 2nd half to defeat Fox Chapel, reach PIAA 5A quarterfinals
March 12, 2024
After a half in which his team made five shots and scored 13 points, Bethel Park coach Dante Calabria said he kept his message brief.
Father-son duos bring competitive fire to Deer Lakes basketball
March 11, 2024
When Albie Fletcher got the Deer Lakes boys basketball coaching job two years ago, he asked Todd Rodgers to join his staff.
Pine-Richland notebook: Vaughn Spencer captures 2nd WPIAL wrestling title
March 10, 2024
Vaughn Spencer became a two-time WPIAL wrestling champion in style March 2, at Canon-McMillan.
Pine-Richland hockey finds recipe for success with power play, defense
There wasn’t much separation in PIHL Class 3A with four teams finishing within one point of each other, but Pine-Richland has a couple traits that helped them eke into the top seed in the Penguins Cup playoffs.
Deer Lakes relies on inside game to defeat Mercyhurst Prep in PIAA 1st round
March 9, 2024
In the last couple of seasons, Deer Lakes has won playoff games in a variety of ways, and Saturday they turned to their inside game.
Franklin Regional hits key shots in 4th quarter, takes care of Warwick in PIAA 1st round
March 8, 2024
Fin Hutchison knows his teammates believe in him every time he takes a shot.
Pine-Richland notebook: Realignment puts Rams in conference with Aliquippa
March 3, 2024
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne will face his alma mater, Aliquippa, next fall.
After WPIAL title, Deer Lakes boys set sights on run to state championship
March 2, 2024
The Deer Lakes boys basketball team had three goals at the beginning of the season: win a section title, repeat as WPIAL champs and get back to Hershey for the state finals.
Deer Lakes tops rival Burrell to win 2nd straight WPIAL Class 3A title
March 1, 2024
Billy Schaeffer couldn’t quite put into words what it meant for Deer Lakes to win back-to-back WPIAL boys basketball titles and this time do so against rival Burrell.
Neighborhood rival Burrell aims to dethrone defending champion Deer Lakes in WPIAL final
February 29, 2024
At the beginning of section play, Deer Lakes and Burrell were the top two teams in the Trib HSSN Class 3A boys basketball rankings.
Pine-Richland swimmers hoping for medal haul at WPIAL meet
February 25, 2024
The most exciting time of the year is nearing for local high school swimmers with the WPIAL championships kicking off and Pine-Richland will be well represented.
Pine-Richland girls wrestlers take their place in history with WPIAL medals
As the public address announcer at North Allegheny was reading the names of the winners at the inaugural WPIAL girls wrestling tournament, Pine-Richland junior Tiffany Gathers heard a phrase that put the day in perspective.
Deer Lakes fends off Ellwood City in chaotic final seconds of overtime
February 22, 2024
With a last-second shot, Collin Rodgers kept Deer Lakes’ hopes of defending its WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship alive.
Lincoln Park duo of Brandin Cummings, Meleek Thomas too much for young Knoch
February 21, 2024
Knoch became the latest in a long line of WPIAL basketball opponents the last couple of years to try to stop the titan that is Lincoln Park.
North Hills girls beat Plum to end 45-year playoff win drought
February 20, 2024
Every player who took the floor for North Hills on Tuesday night was playing in her first playoff game.
No. 1 Deer Lakes ramps up defensive pressure, rolls past Sto-Rox in Class 3A 1st round
February 19, 2024
Leading up to Monday’s first-round playoff game, the past week was all about defense for Deer Lakes coach Albie Fletcher.
Deer Lakes aims to contend in PIHL Division 2 playoffs
With a 12-1 win over Trinity on Feb. 8, Deer Lakes officially clinched a spot in the PIHL Division 2 playoffs.
Pine-Richland notebook: Basketball teams set for playoff openers
February 18, 2024
The Pine-Richland boys basketball team needed a tiebreaker, but the Rams will return to the playoffs after a one-year absence.
Pine-Richland celebrates winning 4th WPIAL gymnastics championship
The Pine-Richland gymnastics team brought little green foam fingers with “We’re No. 1” written on them to the WPIAL championships.
After close calls past 2 years, Kiski Area boys seeking elusive playoff victory
February 15, 2024
The bitter disappointment of the heartbreaking first-round loss to North Hills last season is something Isaiah Gonzalez and the rest of his Kiski Area boys basketball teammates have not forgotten.
Championship experience valuable for Pine-Richland swimmer, teammates
February 11, 2024
Sarah Anne Shaffer has been fielding questions from her younger teammates about different aspects of the WPIAL swimming championships.
Playoff-bound Pine-Richland girls embrace underdog role
Heading into the playoffs, the Pine-Richland girls basketball team has embraced an underdog mentality.
Sullivan leads Freeport boys to playoff berth with win over Indiana
February 9, 2024
Brady Sullivan said his favorite spot to shoot from is the right wing but admitted he likes to put up shots from everywhere.
A-K Valley boys basketball teams heading for thrilling conclusion on season’s final Friday
February 8, 2024
The final night of WPIAL boys basketball section play could provide a wide array of outcomes for Alle-Kiski Valley teams.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams wrestlers earn postseason win
February 4, 2024
Mac Miller and Vaughn Spencer took the final two bouts as Pine-Richland wrestling rallied to win its first playoff dual meet since 2020 with a 38-35 win over Hempfield in a WPIAL Class 3A preliminary round match Jan. 29.
Knoch withstands test in victory against Indiana
February 2, 2024
On this Groundhog Day, the Knoch boys basketball team was looking to avoid a repeat of last Friday, when it was upset at home by Freeport.
Improvement during season’s 2nd half has Freeport in playoff hunt in Section 1-4A
February 1, 2024
When reading through the local boys basketball results last weekend, seeing Freeport 61, Knoch 55 might have been a surprise to some.
Serra Catholic staves off Springdale comeback bid to score key section win
January 30, 2024
The Donald McGhee Fieldhouse was rocking late as the Springdale boys basketball team was attempting a dramatic comeback from down double digits in the fourth quarter.
Pine-Richland’s Dom Ferraro, Vaughn Spencer claim county titles, look forward to postseason
January 27, 2024
For Dom Ferraro, the Allegheny County wrestling tournament was about getting over the hump.
Pine-Richland’s James Cardinali to play football at Navy
As a junior, James Cardinali was a 210-pound lineman on the Pine-Richland junior varsity football team who seemed like a longshot to play in college.
Peter Kramer hits winner as Hampton holds off Highlands in OT
January 26, 2024
Highlands gave Hampton its best shot, but it was Peter Kramer who landed the final blow.
Highlands’ Bradyn Foster rises to occasion for boys basketball team
January 25, 2024
Bradyn Foster has heard some trash talk on the court this season, but he welcomes it.
Deer Lakes squeaks past upset-minded Derry
January 23, 2024
It wasn’t exactly the way Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Albie Fletcher drew it up, but down a pair of players from the starting lineup, he’ll certainly take it.
Burrell hockey team buzzing in 2nd half of PIHL season
January 22, 2024
Aidan Petroff said the Burrell hockey team came out buzzing when the Bucs faced Deer Lakes on Jan. 11.
Shady Side Academy boys take section showdown with Burrell
January 20, 2024
All Saturday afternoon the intensity was palpable between the Shady Side Academy and Burrell boys basketball teams, and it nearly boiled over after the buzzer.
Rupert siblings maintain family’s swimming tradition at Pine-Richland
There are five siblings in the Rupert family, and each one shares a connection that goes beyond growing up in the same household.
Pine-Richland notebook: Madison Zavasky hits 1,000-point mark
Madison Zavasky joined elite company Jan. 8, becoming just the fourth player in Pine-Richland girls basketball history to reach 1,000 points.
Short-handed Deer Lakes boys down Shady Side, stay perfect in section
January 17, 2024
Nathaniel Moore found out Tuesday night he’d be in the starting lineup for the first time this season.
Finucan brothers lead Knoch to overtime win over Highlands
January 16, 2024
Zarian Finucan sat on the bench and watched his younger brother, Teegan, hit shot after shot Tuesday night.
Pine-Richland competitive spirit team continues tradition of WPIAL success
January 14, 2024
It was another successful trip to the WPIAL meet for the Pine-Richland competitive spirit team.
Pine-Richland sends 4 to PIHL All-Star game
Zach Howard often picks up Cullen Campbell and drives him to Pine-Richland hockey practices and games.
Supporting cast comes up big for Highlands girls in win over Greensburg Salem
January 11, 2024
The majority of Highlands girls basketball’s opponents have focused their attention defensively on Kate Myers.
With young lineup stacking wins, Knoch boys ready to face season’s toughest tests
Alan Bauman and his coaching staff at Knoch knew they had the talent.
Pine-Richland notebook: Ryan Cory officially joins long list of Rams linemen in D-I football
January 6, 2024
Ryan Cory officially signed his letter of intent with Wisconsin on Dec. 20, becoming the latest NCAA Division I offensive line prospect to come out of Pine-Richland.
Former Pine-Richland girls soccer coach breaks new ground with Pa. hall of fame induction
In 1998, Jodi Chmielewski was one of only a few women in Western Pennsylvania coaching high school soccer and over two decades later, she’s still making history.
No. 1 Deer Lakes boys frustrate No. 2 Burrell as all 5 Bucs starters foul out
January 5, 2024
All week, Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Albie Fletcher used the phrase “up tempo” when preparing his players for their matchup with Burrell.
Shady Side Academy’s pressure defense too much for Burrell girls
January 4, 2024
Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke said her team is at its best when it plays good defense and turns that into offense.
Rivalry matchup between Deer Lakes, Burrell to test Class 3A’s top-ranked teams
Burrell and Deer Lakes are separated by 12 miles. They are even closer in the Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings.
Springdale boys riding high at 7-1, but Dynamos more concerned with strong finish
December 28, 2023
With two wins this weekend at the Aquinas Academy holiday tournament, the Springdale boys basketball team can equal its win total from last season at nine before ringing in the new year.
Kiski Area boys basketball team proving it will be force when section play starts
December 21, 2023
Corey Smith always has believed in making the nonsection schedule as difficult as possible, and that’s what he has done at Kiski Area.
Enthusiasm sky high for Pine-Richland girls wrestling team
December 17, 2023
For Tommy Campanella and Ellisyn Mularski, watching the Pine-Richland girls wrestling team make their debut at the Butler tournament Dec. 9 invoked some emotion and pride.
Defending WPIAL champ leads way for Pine-Richland swim teams
Pine-Richland swimming coach Pete Barry can see the fire inside Sarah Anne Shaffer.
Burrell boys ride wave of confidence into section schedule
December 14, 2023
For the current, senior-laden group of Burrell boys basketball players, this is the last ride.
Butler’s Drew Griffith tops Ringgold’s Ryan Pajak to win cross country national championship
December 9, 2023
Drew Griffith is a multi-time WPIAL and state champion and the Pennsylvania cross country record holder for fastest time, but even with all of those accolades, he still has times when he doubts himself.
Pine-Richland grad catches on as receiver at Albany
Levi Wentz has found his home in more ways than one.
Defending WPIAL champ highlights talented lineup for Pine-Richland wrestling
Vaughn Spencer went undefeated through the first 28 matches of his varsity career until an injury derailed his shot at his first state title last year.
Madison Zavasky, Cate Gentile return to lead Pine-Richland girls in quest for playoff success
December 2, 2023
Positive progress was the theme for Pine-Richland girls basketball in Gabby Baldasare’s first season as coach.
Pine-Richland boys hoping to sneak up on Class 6A competition
The Pine-Richland boys basketball team is in a position to surprise some people, and it’s an opportunity that’s being embraced.
Burrell’s Cooper Hornack sets championship goals for senior season
November 29, 2023
There’s a fresh, new banner in the Burrell gymnasium for Cooper Hornack’s state championship last year.
Plum wrestling team trying to build off breakthrough season
November 28, 2023
It was a banner year for Plum wrestling, literally.
With top line clicking, Pine-Richland hockey gets off to strong start
November 26, 2023
There’s a lot to like about Pine-Richland hockey’s start to the season.
Springdale’s Billy Lawrence wins Valley News Dispatch boys soccer player of year honors
November 25, 2023
Player of the year
Riverview boys put focus on winning close games in Section 3-2A
November 24, 2023
Riverview boys basketball’s fortunes came down to a few possessions last year.
Bolstered by soccer team’s success, Riverview girls basketball team has high expectations
One day after playing in a state championship, several members of the Riverview girls soccer team showed up to basketball practice.
After dramatic turnaround last season, Leechburg girls plan to keep climbing
November 22, 2023
If the WPIAL gave out a most improved award, the Leechburg girls basketball team might have won it last year.
Leechburg boys prepare for season of change with new coach, new-look roster
There is a lot of newness around the Leechburg boys basketball team.
Highlands boys basketball well stocked for another run
November 19, 2023
The Highlands boys basketball program has been among the elite programs in whatever classification it’s been in 10 years, and the expectation is to be a force again among an elite Class 4A crop.
Highlands girls basketball team looks to build off trip to state playoffs
It was quite the season for Highlands girls basketball last year.
Pine-Richland notebook: 6 Rams make college choices official
A half dozen Pine-Richland athletes made their college choices official during the early national signing day Nov. 8.
Freeport boys establishing culture under new coach after losing 10 seniors
November 18, 2023
Rich Macura basically has been involved with Freeport basketball his entire life.
Experienced Freeport girls rally around new coach Mallory Ketterer
It’s been a year of positive transition for Mallory Ketterer.
QB Matt Sieg comes up big in 4th quarter as Fort Cherry beats Bishop Canevin
November 17, 2023
Matt Sieg stood on the field after the game with friends, family and Fort Cherry fans asking him to take a picture with them.
Moon scores in final minutes to slip past Mars in PIAA battle of WPIAL girls soccer titans
November 14, 2023
On a night where, not surprisingly, a tight defensive battle raged on, Sydney Felton found her moment to make an impact.
Plan comes together for Pine-Richland sophomore in cross country postseason
November 12, 2023
Lucas Thompson left last year’s WPIAL cross country meet with the mindset that he was going to qualify for states in 2023.
Bentworth drops Burrell in playoffs for 2nd time this season
November 11, 2023
Burrell found itself in the same position Saturday as it was 12 days ago against Bentworth.
Riverview girls advance to 1st PIAA semifinal after another win over rival Springdale
In Lola Abraham’s freshman year at Riverview, there weren’t enough girls to field a soccer team, and in her sophomore and junior years, the team didn’t get a win against neighboring rival Springdale.
Clairton rights ship in 2nd half of win vs. Union
November 10, 2023
Clairton went to the locker room down a touchdown at halftime, but Wayne Wade thought his team was controlling the game.
Burrell eager for another crack at WPIAL champion Bentworth in state playoffs
With a trip to Highmark Stadium for the WPIAL championship on the line last week, Burrell and Bentworth put on an entertaining match that the Bearcats won 2-1 in overtime.
Fox Chapel’s girls soccer playoff run continues with PIAA 1st-round win
November 7, 2023
Two weeks ago, the Fox Chapel girls soccer team was the sixth seed in the WPIAL bracket.
Pine-Richland notebook: Dominant run continues for field hockey team
November 5, 2023
Led by a pair of goals by Jessica Albertson, Pine-Richland field hockey advanced to another Class 3A field hockey championship with a 3-0 win over North Allegheny in the Class 3A semifinals Oct. 28.
Beaver again thwarts Freeport’s bid for WPIAL volleyball 3-peat
November 4, 2023
The last time Freeport had a chance for three girls volleyball titles in a row was in 2017 and Beaver ended up thwarting that attempt.
South Park dispatches Knoch in WPIAL 1st round
November 3, 2023
South Park came to Saxonburg Friday night with a clear objective to run the ball and got a special performance from running back Eric Doerue.
Chance at WPIAL 3-peat gives Freeport girls volleyball team new goal
November 2, 2023
With as dominant as Freeport volleyball has been in recent years, including seven titles since 2010, it may be hard to find areas to make history.
North Allegheny answers challenge from Pine-Richland, rolls into WPIAL volleyball finals
November 1, 2023
Pine-Richland gave North Allegheny a stern test in the second set of Wednesday’s WPIAL Class 4A girls volleyball semifinal and the Tigers responded like six-time defending state champions.
Freeport girls sweep past Avonworth into WPIAL Class 2A volleyball title game
October 31, 2023
There weren’t any tricks needed for the Freeport girls volleyball team on this Halloween night.
Bentworth nets OT winner to beat Burrell, reach WPIAL finals for 1st time
October 30, 2023
Burrell threw everything it had at Bentworth in the final 15 minutes of regulation and Luke Postupack delivered a tying goal.
After sluggish start, Pine-Richland found grove to make playoff push
October 29, 2023
It’s important for coaches to have the pulse of their team, and Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman could sense something wasn’t quite right.
New gym worth wait for Pine-Richland athletes
Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman kept hearing that it would be worth the wait as her team waited for their opportunity to play in its newly renovated gym.
South Park scores 5 unanswered goals to top Freeport in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 28, 2023
What started out as a chance for Freeport to increase its lead turned into the spark South Park needed to catch fire.
Montour knocks off unbeaten Plum to earn spot in WPIAL semifinals
October 26, 2023
Montour was the only team that didn’t lose to Plum in the regular season.
Rare call helps South Fayette boys upset Plum in boys soccer playoffs
October 25, 2023
It was one of the rarer calls rarely seen in a soccer match.
Montour girls finally solve Franklin Regional with seconds left in overtime
October 23, 2023
Between overtimes, Montour girls soccer coach Alex Hobbs told his players to imagine the moment they would be celebrating.
Pine-Richland notebook: Basketball standout Madison Zavasky picks IUP
October 22, 2023
Pine-Richland standout basketball player Madison Zavasky has made her college decision.
Pine-Richland grad jumps into Slippery Rock starting lineup as freshman
Slippery Rock football coach Shawn Lutz has seen the landscape of college recruiting change over the last few years with the transfer portal and NIL becoming prominent parts of the process.
East Allegheny blocks extra-point attempt in OT, edges Knoch to clinch conference title
October 20, 2023
East Allegheny football coach Dom Pecora admitted he wasn’t sure it would ever happen.
Burrell boys soccer ready for shot at playoff redemption
October 19, 2023
The Burrell boys soccer team has had to wait a full year for a chance to erase the sting of last year’s first-round playoff loss at home.
Deer Lakes hockey aims to take next step after reaching PIHL semifinals
October 16, 2023
The excitement in Deer Lakes hockey coach Jonathan Merlo’s voice for the upcoming season was easy to discern.
Pine-Richland girls cross country looks to return to states … and bring the boys team along this time
October 15, 2023
Every year, the Pine-Richland cross country teams ramp up to be in peak condition for the WPIAL championships.
Buzzatto runs for 400 yards, but Leechburg tops Riverview
October 14, 2023
It was a sight Sebastian Mason and the Leechburg defense had seen all afternoon.
East Allegheny holds off Deer Lakes in 2nd half to preserve 17-13 win
October 13, 2023
Dom Pecora said when you turn on the film to watch his East Allegheny football team, it won’t be the prettiest footage, but it will show toughness.
Knoch boys soccer hopes to create another memory in postseason
October 12, 2023
At Knoch boys soccer’s senior night Tuesday, a popular choice for most memorable moment was the most recent one.
Pine-Richland hockey heads into season with soaring confidence after tournament win
October 8, 2023
Coach Jordan Yoklic enters his team in the St. Margaret’s tournament every year because it gives Pine-Richland an opportunity to play some good competition in the preseason.
Pine-Richland junior finishes WPIAL tournament strong to qualify for states
Walking to the 18th tee box, Will Hilton knew he was in position to qualify for the state tournament and some nerves started to set in.
Michael Cahill, Brennen Rutledge combine to lead East Allegheny over Freeport
October 6, 2023
Michael Cahill threw high-arching spirals, and Brennen Rutledge was there to make over-the-shoulder catches.
Pine-Richland notebook: Jon LeDonne gets call to Robert Morris Athletic Hall of Fame
September 30, 2023
Before Jon LeDonne became a two-time state champion high school football coach, he had quite a playing career at Robert Morris.
Pine-Richland freshman powers through postseason to earn spot at states
When asked what traits a tennis player needs, Caroline Prisk gave a detailed answer and never mentioned anything about hitting a ball.
Knoch finds winning formula in conference victory over Deer Lakes
September 29, 2023
Sometimes when things are working, there isn’t a need to change anything.
Plum’s Aldi Flowers chasing professional dream with FC Cincinnati development academy
September 28, 2023
Aldi Flowers’ story is a case study in a phrase that has been told to young athletes over and over again.
Pine-Richland boys soccer ramps up defense, gets back in playoff chase
September 23, 2023
In the last couple weeks, the Pine-Richland boys soccer team put itself back into the conversation for a playoff spot with three consecutive shutouts.
Pine-Richland’s Ethan Pillar picks up where he left off for PIAA champions
Ethan Pillar is a lifelong Cleveland Browns fan, which he knows isn’t a normal occurrence for someone living in the Pittsburgh area.
Wild play lifts Highlands to victory over Indiana
September 22, 2023
It was a play that came from utter desperation and ended in jubilation.
Tight-knit Burrell boys soccer team embracing big moments
September 21, 2023
Andrew Kariotis has the smallest roster in his time coaching Burrell boys soccer, but his group is proving they have quality over quantity.
Freshman’s smashing debut sparks Pine-Richland tennis team
September 17, 2023
The Pine-Richland girls tennis team is in position for a 22nd consecutive playoff berth, and there’s a freshman that’s leading the charge.
Pine-Richland senior recovers from injury, rekindles passion for field hockey
Most athletes love the sport they play, but Khushi Saini’s connection with field hockey is special.
Strong sophomore class acing every test so far for Deer Lakes boys soccer
September 14, 2023
Anyone who followed Deer Lakes’ run to the WPIAL Class 2A boys soccer championship last season knew the future of the program was bright.
Pine-Richland notebook: Former Rams make mark on college gridiron
September 10, 2023
Phil Jurkovec took the headlines earlier this month by coming back to his hometown and making his debut as the Pitt quarterback, but there were plenty of other former Pine-Richland football players who suited up around the country.
Devin Beattie’s big game helps Burrell beat Valley for 300th win in program history
September 8, 2023
Burrell’s Devin Beattie wasn’t going to miss his final chance to play Valley.
Puzzle pieces fit as Springdale boys soccer gets off to strong start
September 7, 2023
The biggest unknown for the Springdale boys soccer team coming into the season was how quickly a fairly inexperienced midfield and forward group would jell.
Repeat bid begins for WPIAL champion Pine-Richland girls volleyball
September 3, 2023
Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman told the Rams they should be happy and proud of themselves for winning the WPIAL championship last year, but now they need to move forward.
Drive for 5 underway for Pine-Richland field hockey
The drive for five is on for Pine-Richland field hockey.
Freeport jumps out of gate in rout of South Allegheny
September 1, 2023
Freeport coach John Gaillot wasn’t going to kick to South Allegheny standout Cameron Epps under any circumstances.
New coach takes over Pine-Richland girls soccer team with young, talented roster
August 27, 2023
Alessandro Moreira knows the Pine-Richland/North Allegheny rivalry quite well.
Defending WPIAL boys soccer champion Pine-Richland ready for challenges ahead
For the first time, Pine-Richland boys soccer will go into a season with the distinction of being defending WPIAL champions.
Highlands football recovers to rout Ambridge in opener
August 25, 2023
The second quarter of Friday’s season opener against Ambridge didn’t go quite as planned for Highlands.
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Deer Lakes planning encore after ‘special year’
August 24, 2023
The most successful boys sports year in Deer Lakes history began with the boys soccer team’s run to its second WPIAL title in three years last fall.
Valley playmaker Darnell Coaston grows into leadership role
Darnell Coaston proudly wears blue and white Penn State receiver gloves during Valley football practices.
South Side ready to take next step toward championship berth
August 21, 2023
One win separated South Side from the chance to play at Acrisure Stadium for a WPIAL championship.
Plum quarterback Franzi will benefit from having most of last season’s offense back
Plum coach Matt Morgan called Sean Franzi one of most underrated players in the WPIAL.
Leechburg aims to maintain new standard of success
August 20, 2023
The last two years of Leechburg football have been the program’s best in four decades.
Junior QB Floyd ready to take up leadership role for Leechburg football team
Behind one of the end zones of Leechburg’s Veterans Memorial Field sits a garage with a gigantic Blue Devil logo painted on it.
Top scorer on soccer field, hockey rink takes place in Pine-Richland hall of fame
August 19, 2023
Matt Crummy was an all-around athlete in his high school days at Pine-Richland. He was also an all-terrain athlete.
Record-holder Codi Mullen seeks more yardage, team success for Knoch
Codi Mullen has a unique opportunity this fall.
Valley puts focus on a ‘winning mentality’
August 15, 2023
At the first meeting new Valley football coach Mark Adams had with his team, the theme of his message was change.
Near-misses have Knoch optimistic for 2nd year in Allegheny 6
Last year, Knoch football had one win, but essentially was one point away from qualifying for the playoffs.
Cadin Olsen era over, but Armstrong’s next chapter looks promising
August 12, 2023
Armstrong has had some standout athletes come through the program since its inception in 2015, including Zane Dudek and Dawson Porter, and the graduation of Cadin Olsen leaves another huge void to fill.
New Pine-Richland hall of famer Bill Colpo shined on mat, gridiron in late ’60s
Bill Colpo was on a golf course in Idaho when he got a call that he’d be part of the 2023 Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame class.
Armed with championship lessons, Pine-Richland ready for another run
August 10, 2023
It was a storybook ending for Pine-Richland football in Jon LeDonne’s first year at the helm.
Plum carries experienced roster into 2nd season in Class 5A Big East Conference
August 9, 2023
Plum had one of the youngest teams in Class 5A last season with only a handful of seniors, but showed plenty of promise.
WPIAL champion Richland QB earns posthumous Hall of Fame induction
July 15, 2023
Keith Buterbaugh can still remember running routes in the backyard while his brother Mike threw him the ball.
Hall of Fame induction ‘means a lot’ to Pine-Richland swimming standout
July 8, 2023
Kristen Murslack kept a busy schedule in her high school years at Pine-Richland.
Former pro player in Florida takes over Leechburg boys soccer program
July 6, 2023
Justin Grubb recently moved back to Western Pennsylvania after wrapping up a five-year career playing professional soccer in Florida.
5 athletes, 1960 football team selected for Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame’s Class of ’23
July 2, 2023
The Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame announced its 2023 class last week.
Leechburg alum Andrew McDermott takes over as boys basketball coach at alma mater
June 30, 2023
Andrew McDermott has had plenty of coaching influences in his life.
Kiski Area QB Heinle reaps benefits of Manning Passing Academy
June 28, 2023
Kiski Area quarterback Carson Heinle has heard “good ball” before when he has thrown a pass.
Pine-Richland notebook: Former Rams golfer contends at West Penn Open
June 25, 2023
Mike Van Sickle was in contention for the win at the 120th WPGA Open Championship but settled for a third-place finish.
Springdale’s John Hughes earns Valley News Dispatch Baseball Player of Year award
June 24, 2023
John Hughes produced some eye-popping statistics this spring.
Pine-Richland teams filled trophy case during memorable 2022-23 school year
June 18, 2023
What a year it was for Pine-Richland athletics. Five Rams teams won WPIAL championships, the football team returned to state champion glory, and there were several individuals that won district and state championships.
Seniors play key role in Pine-Richland girls lacrosse’s return to championship form
The Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team received a pretty tough draw in the Class 3A state quarterfinals.
After building Leechburg boys soccer program, coach moves on to Freeport
June 17, 2023
Brad Walker admitted it was difficult to part with a Leechburg boys soccer program he had built from the ground up, but, at the same time, he is excited for a new opportunity.
Riverside stays unbeaten, reaches PIAA baseball finals
June 12, 2023
Riverside baseball coach Dan Oliastro said his group has been a “big-inning team” all year, and he was hoping they could do it one more time.
By working together, Pine-Richland girls lacrosse earns state playoff win
June 11, 2023
Throughout the season, first-year Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Shannen Drennon said the team is at its best when it is creating assisted goals.
Pine-Richland grad finds immediate success as self-taught bodybuilder
Garrett Krieger entered his first bodybuilding competition over Memorial Day weekend and going into it, he didn’t know what to expect.
Pine-Richland notebook: Heavyweight wrestler among Rams signing with colleges
June 4, 2023
Five Pine-Richland senior athletes made their college choices official during the May national signing day.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams collect WPIAL track medals
May 27, 2023
Pine-Richland athletes earned medals in 17 events at the WPIAL Class 3A track and field championships May 17, at Slippery Rock.
Surging Mt. Lebanon tops Pine-Richland behind gutsy shutout from Matt Delvaux
May 23, 2023
The first week of the season, Matt Delvaux injured his hamstring while playing shortstop for Mt. Lebanon, an injury that sidelined him in the field for the year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Spring sports teams win playoff openers
May 21, 2023
It was a successful first week of the postseason for the Pine-Richland spring sports teams.
Fox Chapel baseball breaks through with playoff win over Mars
May 17, 2023
The Fox Chapel baseball team has been close in recent years, and after six seasons a breakthrough in the WPIAL postseason happened Wednesday night.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams top podium on home track
May 14, 2023
With its spot on the calendar fairly close to the WPIAL individual track and field championships, the Pine-Richland Invitational serves as a good tune-up for the biggest events of the season.
Rally against rival keyed Pine-Richland baseball’s section title defense
Pine-Richland baseball successfully defended its section crown by taking two out of three in a series with North Allegheny.
Leechburg rewarded for strong season, gets Class A’s No. 3 seed in WPIAL baseball playoffs
May 12, 2023
In the regular season Leechburg was the lone Class A team to push two-time defending champion Union to the limit.
Lexie Hames dominates as Seneca Valley beats Hempfield for section title, top seed
May 11, 2023
Seneca Valley softball coach Marleese Hames said she sometimes has to remind herself that her daughter, standout pitcher Lexie Hames, is only a sophomore.
Burrell softball strolls to section rout of Freeport
May 6, 2023
The last couple senior days hadn’t gone as planned for the Burrell softball team, so it wanted to change that trend Saturday.
High-octane offense carries Pine-Richland girls lacrosse to section title
With an 18-0 win over Freeport on May 1, the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team secured its first section title since 2018.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse building toward playoff run
The Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team’s season has paralleled last year as far as results go.
Freeport baseball takes series vs. East Allegheny seriously
May 4, 2023
Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr said he and his team are looking at Monday’s series opener with East Allegheny like an MLB team would treat Game 6 in a playoff series.
West Mifflin softball freezes out Highlands
May 1, 2023
West Mifflin and Highlands faced off Monday in a key Section 1-4A softball game, but there was an extra opponent each team had to navigate.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Doubles teams make run to WPIAL tournament
April 30, 2023
Both of Pine-Richland’s boys tennis doubles teams qualified for the WPIAL tournament April 25-26, and they even crossed paths along the way.
Pine-Richland baseball embraces the grind, thrives in tight games
The Pine-Richland baseball team doesn’t mind playing in tight games.
Plum baseball gearing up for season’s defining stretch
April 27, 2023
The Plum baseball team has everything right in front of it.
Now recovered from knee injury, Louisville recruit Gianna Rotelli ready to finish Pine-Richland career strong
April 23, 2023
Gianna Rotelli was excited going into her junior season, because she was the top ranked javelin thrower in the WPIAL after a second-place finish as a sophomore, but she never got the opportunity to showcase her talent.
6-foot-6 freshman sparks Pine-Richland boys volleyball
Doolin Stober has a unique name and an equally distinct skill set on the volleyball court.
Bats lead the way in Pine-Richland softball’s playoff quest
April 16, 2023
As the halfway point of a 16-game Section 1-6A slate neared, the Pine-Richland softball team put itself in the mix for a top-six section finish and a spot in the playoffs.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Pine native Ty Voit lighting it up in Ontario Hockey League
Pine native Ty Voit has gained a reputation as the best passer in the Ontario Hockey League, tallying a league-leading 81 assists in 56 regular season games.
Leechburg baseball team making presence felt loud and clear
April 13, 2023
Leechburg baseball coach Heath Shimer looked at his roster coming into the season and knew the potential was there for success.
Pine-Richland track sets sights on WPIAL team playoffs
April 9, 2023
The Pine-Richland track teams have accomplished plenty of goals over the last few years, but one thing they’ve been chasing is a berth in the WPIAL team playoffs.
With new team-first focus, Pine-Richland girls lacrosse off to strong start
Shannen Drennon’s first goal after moving from an assistant to varsity head coach of the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team this season was to create a team-centric environment.
With strong 1-2 punch at top of rotation, Kiski Area baseball gets off to solid start
April 6, 2023
First-year Kiski Area baseball coach Michael Manning’s initial impression of his players was they were ready and willing to learn.
Roster filled with freshman, sophomores show promise for Pine-Richland volleyball
April 2, 2023
Youth will be serving for the Pine-Richland boys volleyball team this spring.
Lessons learned last season have Pine-Richland boys lacrosse poised for success
It took a bit for the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team to achieve results last year, but once the Rams got going, they went on a heater before ultimately falling in the first round of the playoffs to Penn-Trafford.
Valley News Dispatch boys basketball all-stars: Deer Lakes’ Bryce Robson strikes gold
April 1, 2023
Here are the 2022-23 Valley News Dispatch boys basketball all-stars:
Freeport baseball team returns to winning ways
March 30, 2023
Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr sensed this could be the year the program bounced back.
Kiski Area senior Anders Bordoy joins Pittsburgh Riverhounds for on-the-job training
March 27, 2023
In 2015, Anders Bordoy served as a ball boy on the sidelines of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds’ US Open Cup match with DC United.
Freeport girls coach goes out with a win as West sweeps East at Cager Classic
March 25, 2023
Melaina DeZort’s favorite spot on the basketball court to shoot is the corners.
New-look Pine-Richland softball team looking to put it all together
Pine-Richland softball coach Sam Hartzberg was looking out at the field during Monday’s season opener against Chartiers Valley and it hit him how different the team looks this season.
After ‘magical year,’ Pine-Richland baseball embraces ramped-up expectations
When Pine-Richland baseball coach Kurt Wolfe reminisced about the 2022 season and earning a share of the Section 1-6A title, what stood out to him most was how the team did it.
26th Cager Classic gives players fun, no-pressure atmosphere for high school finales
March 22, 2023
Butler girls basketball coach Mark Maier got a taste of the Cager Classic when his oldest daughter, Makenna, played in the event last year.
Blackhawk avenges WPIAL finals loss, upends North Catholic to reach state title game
March 21, 2023
Kassie Potts is listed at 5-foot-4 on the Blackhawk roster, but Cougars coach Steve Lodovico said she plays with the heart of a 7-footer.
Deer Lakes boys basketball ready for hot-shooting PIAA foe
March 20, 2023
Following Saturday’s quarterfinal win over Neshannock, Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Albie Fletcher got in his car and drove to Armstrong to scout the two potential opponents in the semifinals.
Soilis enjoyed run as coach of Freeport girls basketball team
March 19, 2023
When Fred Soilis first was approached about becoming the Freeport girls basketball coach, he wasn’t sure if he would apply for the job.
Deer Lakes boys reach first state semifinal after comeback win vs. Neshannock
March 18, 2023
All season, the Deer Lakes boys basketball team has prided itself on how deep its bench is.
Top scorer carries Ringgold into PIHL Division 2 finals matchup with Bishop Canevin
March 16, 2023
There were times in the regular season where it seemed like Ringgold forward Kenneth Cadwallader was scoring goals for fun.
Knoch girls keep Blackhawk offense in check, but Cougars prevail in PIAA 2nd round
March 15, 2023
For three quarters Knoch scrapped, clawed and hounded Blackhawk on defense while making enough shots to keep a lead.
Hard work pays off in WPIAL gold for Pine-Richland swimmer
March 12, 2023
Sarah Anne Shaffer realized a dream at the WPIAL swim meet when she crossed the finish line first at Pitt’s Trees Pool to win her first individual title.
From Sidney Crosby’s youth program to PIHL playoffs, Peacocks make Pine-Richland proud
Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has had a major impact on many youth hockey players in Western Pennsylvania and a couple of good examples are Pine-Richland seniors Ryan and Shawn Peacock.
Armstrong puts pedal down on Hempfield to reach PIHL Class 2A semifinals
March 7, 2023
There were a few major upsets during the first night of the PIHL Penguins Cup quarterfinals Monday, but Armstrong made sure early on it wouldn’t be the next victim.
Season-ending win, young roster leave Pine-Richland boys hopeful about future
March 5, 2023
It wasn’t the season that the Pine-Richland boys basketball team hoped for, but it did end on a high note.
In battle of defending champs, North Catholic tops Blackhawk for 22nd WPIAL title
March 4, 2023
Dacia Lewandowski said she and her North Catholic girls basketball teammates ask themselves “What’s their why?” going into every game.
Deer Lakes boys look for repeat performance against powerful OLSH in Class 3A final
March 2, 2023
Right before Christmas, Deer Lakes ended the longest winning streak in Pennsylvania boys basketball history at 74 when it traveled to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and won 70-55.
Blackhawk steps up, drops rival Quaker Valley to return to WPIAL championship game
February 28, 2023
The last time Blackhawk played Quaker Valley, Quinn Borroni went off for 23 points, so with her out for the season due to injury, everyone else knew they had to step up if they were going to beat their rivals for a third time Tuesday night.
‘Power 5 guys’ help Lincoln Park boys race past Highlands and into Class 4A title game
February 27, 2023
Meleek Thomas is rated by several scouting services as one of the top sophomore boys basketball players in the country.
Early-season opponents Highlands, Deer Lakes boys now face same task of toppling No. 1s
February 26, 2023
Highlands and Deer Lakes met the first weekend of the 2022-23 season, and though the Golden Rams ended up pulling away for an 88-74 victory, the final score wasn’t indicative of how tight the game was.
Pine-Richland notebook: Heckert, Kerns picked for Big 33
Pine-Richland seniors Max Heckert and Isaiah Kerns will get one last game on the football field together and take part in a prestigious event.
Avonworth knocks off top-seeded Shady Side Academy to reach Class 3A finals
February 25, 2023
Greta O’Brien has had dreams of playing at the Petersen Events Center since watching her older sister Olivia play there with Vincentian in 2018.
Highlands dominates Elizabeth Forward in Class 4A first round
February 20, 2023
The WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball playoffs are chock-full of contenders, and Highlands showed why it is one of them in its first-round game Monday night.
Pine-Richland sophomore makes name for herself at WPIAL gymnastics meet
February 19, 2023
Annamaria Samuels has a unique first name and sometimes it’s accidentally misspelled, which was the case on the WPIAL championship results sheet.
Breakout regular season leads Pine-Richland girls into playoff matchup with rival North Allegheny
The first two meetings with North Allegheny provided lessons for the Pine-Richland girls basketball team.
North Hills fends off first-round challenge from Kiski Area
February 17, 2023
Kiski Area’s valiant effort to pull a major upset ultimately fell short Friday night at North Hills.
Freeport boys ready for tall task vs. No. 2 Laurel Highlands
February 16, 2023
On their senior spotlight questionnaire, most of the Freeport basketball seniors said their favorite moment in their career was going to Uniontown last year and earning a playoff win.
After slow start, Pine-Richland hockey team rights ship, roars into playoffs
February 12, 2023
Every year there are teams that surge late in the season and are dubbed a team nobody wants to meet in the playoffs.
Pine-Richland’s Joey Perry catches on with Seton Hall
Joey Perry has had a connection with former Pittsburgh Pirates closer Jason Grilli, and that helped him find the right college to continue his baseball career.
Deer Lakes boys must beat rival to win title outright
February 9, 2023
As the Deer Lakes boys basketball team was celebrating senior night following its game Tuesday, word came in that Shady Side Academy had been upset by Derry.
Riverview slows Cleveland to top Leechburg but loses out on playoff spot
February 7, 2023
Riverview coach Phil McGivney said when his team is balanced on the score sheet, it normally comes out on the right side.
Freeport pitcher Rape uses showcase to catch eye of Penn State, commits to Nittany Lions
February 5, 2023
A showcase in New Jersey in July changed the landscape of Freeport sophomore Dustin Rape’s baseball career.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams wrestlers gear up for postseason tournaments
The Pine-Richland wrestling team was eliminated in the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A tournament, falling 44-19 to West Allegheny on Wednesday night.
Pine-Richland’s Ryan Palmieri joins teammate in committing to Sacred Heart
The majority of high school athletes post their college commitment on social media as a way to celebrate the accomplishment and let everyone know where they are headed.
Penn Hills girls use strong defense to complete section sweep of Plum
February 2, 2023
Penn Hills girls basketball coach Robert Cash didn’t tell his team that a win would keep them alive in the postseason race.
Highlands boys battling to be among contenders for WPIAL Class 4A title
Highlands boys basketball coach Corey Dotchin sensed that Class 4A was going to be a dogfight when he first got a look at the new section alignments in July.
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
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.
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
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 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
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 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
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 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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
Sam Hartsberg has coached travel softball for close to a decade and always had an interest in coaching at the high school level. But first he wanted to watch his daughter, Leah, play at Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland baseball team remains young but expects to compete
A rash of injuries to a large senior class last year contributed to a rare playoff absence for the Pine-Richland baseball team.
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan captures state bowling title
March 18, 2022
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan found a groove and rolled to a state title Friday.
With solid underclassmen group, Kiski Area baseball team builds toward future
March 17, 2022
When Aaron Albert started coaching at Beaver six years ago, he had a lineup featuring eight sophomores.
‘Good nucleus’ to keep Kiski Area softball team competitive in tough section
John Kinnamon led Apollo-Ridge softball to four consecutive WPIAL playoff appearances, but this year he moved up the Kiskiminetas River a few miles to coach Kiski Area.
Freeport softball team has designs on keeping up its playoff streak
March 15, 2022
Freeport softball has been in the playoffs 12 consecutive times, and with an experienced core returning along with younger talent, it will look to continue the streak.
After rebuilding year, Freeport baseball ready to contend again
Freeport baseball started from scratch last year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Girls youth basketball teams make state tournament
March 13, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland girls youth basketball teams will have a chance to take on some of the top competition in the state.
Captain checks all the boxes for Pine-Richland hockey team
Tales of hockey players and their superstitions have been told since skates first hit ice, but Pine-Richland captain Alex Erlain wants nothing to do with them.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Kira Schrecengost, Fox Chapel’s Tommy Healy
March 12, 2022
Kira Schrecengost
Pine-Richland 1st-year diver claims WPIAL medal
March 6, 2022
A few months ago, Kendyll Jerry never had been on a diving board, so leaving the WPIAL championships with a podium finish and a medal was quite a feat.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Knoch’s Nina Shaw
Nina Shaw
South Fayette dethrones No. 1 Chartiers Valley in WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball
March 5, 2022
Maddie Webber sensed early on that the third meeting between South Fayette and Chartiers Valley this season was going to be different.
Pine-Richland girls end season on high note
February 27, 2022
The Pine-Richland girls basketball team fell short of reaching the playoffs, but it ended the season on a high note with a pair of victories.
Valley News Dispatch H.S. athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook, Plum’s Nicholas Daniels
February 26, 2022
Anna Kreinbrook
Markus Frank’s school-record 45 points leads Quaker Valley past Deer Lakes in Class 4A quarterfinals
February 23, 2022
Markus Frank is quiet and modest off the court, but in between the lines, he is a monster.
Sto-Rox pulls away from Springdale in 2nd quarter, advances to WPIAL 2A quarterfinals
February 22, 2022
A big second quarter was more than enough to push Sto-Rox along further in the playoffs.
Pine-Richland wrestling primed to peak for postseason
February 20, 2022
It’s already been a strong year for Pine-Richland wrestling, going 12-3 with a trip to the WPIAL team tournament, and with individual season approaching, a group of Rams have positioned themselves to make more noise.
Pine-Richland looks to make another playoff run
The regular season didn’t go quite the way the Pine-Richland boys basketball team would’ve wanted, but it finds itself in a similar position to last year.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Lexi Colaianni, St. Joseph’s Jimmy Giannetta
February 19, 2022
Lexi Colaianni
Ellis School girls bounce back in 2nd half, oust Springdale in WPIAL Class 2A
February 18, 2022
Going into halftime, the Springdale girls basketball team positioned itself to break a long postseason victory drought, but Ellis School had other ideas.
Shaler high school hockey player suspended after fight with fans in stands
February 14, 2022
A Shaler high school hockey player is suspended indefinitely pending a hearing after an altercation with fans in the stands after a game Thursday against Latrobe at Alpha Ice Complex in Harmar Township.
Pine-Richland swimmer driven to make name for himself in breaststroke
February 13, 2022
Athletes find motivation in many different forms, and Pine-Richland swimmer Matthew Carper’s stems from a former competitor.
Pine-Richland notebook: Ty Voit having big season in junior hockey
The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Pine resident Ty Voit in the fifth round of the NHL Entry Draft in July and he’s shown this season why he was considered a pro prospect.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Riley Sterlitz, Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan
February 12, 2022
Riley Sterlitz
Gateway boys knock Franklin Regional out of playoffs
February 11, 2022
Gateway came to Murrysville on Friday night and spoiled Franklin Regional’s night on multiple levels.
Pine-Richland notebook: 3 more football players make college choices
February 6, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland football players made their college commitments official on National Signing Day on Feb. 2.
Pine-Richland hockey team thrives in pressure situations
Pine-Richland hockey enters the final month of the regular season in a tight race for playoff positioning with only nine points separating second place from seventh in the PIHL Class 3A standings.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Melaina DeZort, Riverview’s Micah Black
February 5, 2022
Melaina DeZort
Hempfield, Neshannock win competitive spirit state championships
January 29, 2022
Hempfield competitive spirit coach Suzannah Mayer could sense the nerves in her team Friday at Day 1 of the PIAA championships and it impacted their routine, but the Spartans were still able to finish third in the preliminaries and advance to the finals.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, Burrell’s Luke Rose
Reese Hasley
Offseason work pays off for Pine-Richland heavyweight Joey Schneck
Joey Schneck pinned his way to the 285-pound Allegheny County Wrestling Tournament title recently, but that title wasn’t just won in the two days he spent at Fox Chapel High School.
Bond between swimming Shaffer sisters grows deeper in Pine-Richland pool
Sarah Anne and Elizabeth Shaffer’s times are pretty close in the pool.
Last-second 3-pointer lifts Freeport over Burrell
January 28, 2022
Vinnie Clark had a senior night to remember forever.
Zavasky displays shooting touch off the bench for Pine-Richland boys basketball
January 23, 2022
When Nate Zavasky has an open look, Pine-Richland boys basketball coach Bob Petcash is typically yelling “shoot it.”
Pine-Richland’s Ava Boyd turns heads at soccer showcase
Ava Boyd boarded a plane to Florida knowing she was going to play in a soccer game with some of the best girls in the country.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Springdale’s Ryan Reinsfelder, Apollo-Ridge’s Sydney McCray
January 22, 2022
Ryan Reinsfelder
No. 1 North Hills rolls on with win over No. 4 Pine-Richland
January 21, 2022
With every win, the North Hills boys basketball team has seen the target grow on its back as an emerging favorite in Class 6A, but it hasn’t been a deterrent.
Brotherly bonds power Highlands wrestling team
January 17, 2022
Grant Walters has seen a lot during his 32 years in wrestling, but his Highlands team has shown the coach something unique.
Pine-Richland spirit team wins WPIAL small squad division, makes return to state competition
January 16, 2022
Last year, the Pine-Richland competitive spirit team did not qualify for the state championship for the first time in school history, so the 2021-22 season was a mission to return to form.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Vinnie Clark, Cheswick Christian’s Olivia Rochkind
January 15, 2022
Vinnie Clark
Confidence soars for Pine-Richland wrestler after strong Powerade showing
January 9, 2022
A major focus for Kelin Laffey lately has been the mental side of wrestling.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Brandon Coury, Kiski Area’s Abbie Johns
January 8, 2022
Brandon Coury
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Rylen Campbell and Madilyn Boyer
January 1, 2022
Rylen Campbell
Tweak to defense puts Deer Lakes boys basketball team in the zone
December 31, 2021
For the majority of his coaching career, Terence Parham has favored a stack 2-3 zone defense, but this summer, he and his assistant Albie Fletcher made a change to their tactics.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Apollo-Ridge’s Gage Johnston, Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone
December 25, 2021
Gage Johnston
Burrell hockey displays potential during strong start to season
December 21, 2021
The Burrell hockey team already has exceeded its win total from last year, which is a sign of the progression since the PIHL season started in October.
Pine-Richland swim teams poised for another record-breaking season
December 19, 2021
The record boards at the Pine-Richland natatorium had plenty of changes after last year with several new school marks set.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Football stars put pen to paper
A pair of Pine-Richland football players, Jalen Klemm and Jeremiah Hasley, made their college commitments official during the early national signing day Wednesday.
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Week ending Dec. 18, 2021
December 18, 2021
Ryan Lang
Veteran core ready to lead Pine-Richland wrestlers
December 12, 2021
When mats need to be cleaned before practice, Pine-Richland wrestling coach Caleb Kolb doesn’t have to seek out a volunteer to get the mop out and start scrubbing.
Injuries present early season speed bump for veteran Pine-Richland girls basketball team
As Pine-Richland girls basketball enters a new season, it has a bit of a good-news, bad-news situation.
Springdale football coach Seth Napierkowski resigns after 5 seasons
December 10, 2021
It wasn’t an easy decision, but with family and work obligations increasing, Seth Napierkowski decided to step down as the Springdale football coach.
Burrell must retool to keep streak of 15 straight WPIAL Class 2A championships going
December 8, 2021
Burrell wrestling is looking to celebrate a “Sweet 16” this winter.
A-K Valley Class 3A wrestling preview: Led by Lehigh recruit, Kiski Area reloads
December 7, 2021
The Kiski Area wrestling team had some youth in its lineup last year, but it still was able to win the Section 1-3A title.
St. Joseph girls basketball team on the upswing
December 5, 2021
A good word to describe the St. Joseph girls basketball team is potential.
St. Joseph boys target return to playoffs despite loss of top scorer
Those who followed St. Joseph boys basketball the past four years were treated by Andrew Sullivan to some high-scoring performances, but his 1,000-plus point career ended last season.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: 6 football players make 1st team all-conference
December 4, 2021
The Pine-Richland Rams football team was well represented on the Class 5A Northeast Conference teams.
WPIAL championship near-miss drives Pine-Richland boys basketball
There are two major themes for the Pine-Richland boys basketball team this winter: They’re experienced and they won’t lack for motivation.
Redbank Valley steals momentum, stops Bishop Canevin short of state finals
December 3, 2021
In one moment, Bishop Canevin went from potentially going up two scores to seeing Redbank Valley tie the game. It was a momentum stealer the Crusaders could not recover from.
Promising Kiski Area girls team coming together
November 29, 2021
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon likened his team learning and growing to building a puzzle.
New Kiski Area boys coach has visions of turnaround
The excitement of his first season as the Kiski Area boys basketball coach hasn’t waned an ounce for Corey Smith since the day he was hired back in April.
Injury woes changed course of Pine-Richland football season
November 28, 2021
Coaches never want to use injuries as an excuse, and Pine-Richland football coach Steve Campos is no different in that regard.
Junior goalie stands tall for Pine-Richland hockey team
Most days after arriving home from elementary school, Dan Mooney would hop off the bus, drop his backpack and jump right into the middle of a pickup hockey game.
Cheswick Christian boys basketball team motivated to make mark
November 24, 2021
At the elementary and middle school levels, the current group of Cheswick Christian basketball players experienced success, which has given them some confidence coming into the season.
Full schedule breeds enthusiasm inside Cheswick Christian girls basketball program
After a covid-shortened 2020-21 season in which the Cheswick Christian girls basketball team played only nine games, signs are pointing towards a return to a more normal slate this winter.
Senior class built winning culture for Pine-Richland field hockey
November 21, 2021
A few nights after Pine-Richland field hockey’s season came to an end, Rams coach Donna Stephenson said it felt weird sitting at home because she felt like she should be out at practice with her team.
No. 3 Bishop Canevin takes down Cornell to reach 1st WPIAL title game since 1990
November 19, 2021
There have been times Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson has gone with his gut when deciding his quarterback.
Kiski Area hockey team proving itself in early part of season
November 17, 2021
The Kiski Area hockey team lost several key players, including Michael Rayburg and Jonathan Ayres, from a team that made back-to-back PIHL Class A semifinals appearances.
Clutch goalkeeping sends Hampton past West Allegheny, into state finals
When Zach Panza’s attempt hit the crossbar and put Hampton on the brink of elimination in round four of penalty kicks, Talbots goalkeeper Thomas Bradfield admitted he thought his high school career was over.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Ava Weleski
Ava Weleski
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Burrell’s Joe Scolaro
November 16, 2021
Joe Scolaro
Freeport, Hampton clash for 4th time this season — in PIAAs
November 15, 2021
The final hurdle between Freeport girls volleyball and returning to a state championship game is a very familiar foe.
Before heading west, Pine-Richland runner caps decorated high school cross country career
November 14, 2021
On Nov. 10, Meredith Price signed a letter of intent for track and cross country at Utah State, so this coming fall she’ll be running in the Rocky Mountains.
Pine-Richland’s Hasley shows worth on both sides of the ball
Jeremiah Hasley ran gassers every day he could during the summer and even worked with a personal trainer to get into the best shape possible, because he wanted to be on the field for every snap of Pine-Richland football this season.
Hampton defense stops another foe, dropping Franklin Regional in state quarterfinals
November 13, 2021
The Franklin Regional boys soccer team suffered the same fate Saturday as every team Hampton has faced thus far in the postseason.
Play from deep in playbook helps Penn Hills get past Gateway
November 12, 2021
With less than a minute remaining and facing third-and-goal, Penn Hills quarterback Julian Dugger was sent off the field for a play because of an equipment issue, so the Indians had to dial up something they hadn’t done all season.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Freeport’s Erica Lampus
November 10, 2021
Erica Lampus
Freeport volleyball avoids WPIAL title hangover, beats Plum in PIAA 1st-round match
November 9, 2021
Freeport girls volleyball coach Tom Phillips has always worried about the potential for a “hangover” from winning a WPIAL championship going into the first round of the state tournament.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Freeport’s Marcus Trask
Marcus Trask
Pine-Richland volleyball team makes strong statement in playoff loss
November 7, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls volleyball team certainly did not go down without a fight.
Clutch plays from Zach Panza lift Hampton past West Allegheny in Class 3A WPIAL finals
November 6, 2021
It’s not often that a player scores the game-winning goal and makes a huge save in the same game, but Zach Panza managed to pull off both accomplishments Saturday.
Quick-strike offense, airtight defense carry Moon to WPIAL title win over Seneca Valley
November 4, 2021
The Moon girls soccer team got off to a quick start and didn’t slow down.
Keller Chamovitz one-ups dad, leads Quaker Valley past North Catholic in WPIAL finals
Keller Chamovitz has some bragging rights in his household.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Camryn Rogers
November 3, 2021
Camryn Rogers
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy
November 2, 2021
Carson McCoy
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Nov. 1, 2021
October 31, 2021
WPIAL soccer preview capsules
Pine-Richland boys soccer team misses playoffs but makes major strides
As his third season as the Pine-Richland boys soccer coach wrapped up, Jordan Wiegand could sense his players fully bought into the family-like culture he’s been trying to build.
Janeda’s 4th-quarter plays help Montour get past Chartiers Valley, into WPIAL playoffs
October 29, 2021
Brock Janeda is a catcher on the Montour baseball team, but Friday night he was the closer on the football field.
A-K Valley WPIAL boys soccer playoff capsules for Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021
Saturday’s games
Seneca Valley girls rally to edge Norwin in OT in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 28, 2021
When Emma Rigone converted a penalty kick to give Norwin the lead in the second half, it looked like the Knights might sneak out of NexTier Stadium with their second victory there this season, but Zoe Simpson made sure Seneca Valley defended its home turf.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Nash Wedner, Fox Chapel
Nash Wedner
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ashley McAdams
October 27, 2021
Ashley McAdams
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Oct. 25, 2021
October 24, 2021
Monday’s games
Pine-Richland captains aim to be ‘ultimate’ teammates
As co-captains for the Pine-Richland ultimate team, Reid Duncan and Matt Farmar have made it their mission to make everyone who joins the team feel at home.
After 17th straight playoff appearance, Pine-Richland girls tennis looks forward to next season
With a young team this fall, Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Jirakorn “Dang” Siraprasert wasn’t sure how the season would go.
Ligonier Valley pulls out thrilling win vs. Shady Side Academy
October 22, 2021
Ligonier Valley coach Roger Beitel joked he will need to visit his cardiologist after watching the last 24 seconds of Friday’s game against Shady Side Academy.
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 23, 2021
Saturday’s games
Alle-Kiski Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger
October 20, 2021
Kaitlyn Killinger
Alle-Kiski Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ryan Hanes
October 19, 2021
Ryan Hanes
Pine-Richland girls cross country team rounds into form after spate of injuries
October 17, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team has faced some adversity this year with injuries, but it hasn’t dampened the dream of winning WPIAL gold.
Pine-Richland girls volleyball team, coach Seman dedicate match to helping youngster in need of kidney transplant
First-year Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman is a huge believer in giving back to the community and wants to pass that trait on to her players.
Leechburg clinches 1st winning football season in 30 years
October 16, 2021
Leechburg football crossed a major goal off its list Saturday and did so in dominant fashion.
Greensburg Central Catholic comes up short in upset bid vs. No. 1 Clairton
October 15, 2021
It’s not often that a team has a chance to win or tie the game late in the fourth quarter on the road at Neil C. Brown Stadium, but that’s the situation Greensburg Central Catholic had Friday night.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller
October 13, 2021
Eliza Miller
Burrell hockey team features deeper roster for 1st-year head coach
When Burrell hockey president Dave Burkett approached Luke Kopchak this summer about becoming the next coach of the Bucs, it didn’t take long for him to decide to jump on the opportunity.
Freeport enters PIHL season with small roster but high expectations
October 12, 2021
To put in perspective how young the Freeport hockey team is, consider it will dress more freshmen than seniors every time it takes the ice this season.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Leechburg’s Gavin Cole
Gavin Cole
Pine-Richland girls volleyball navigates tough schedule, remains in playoff hunt
October 10, 2021
Angela Seman played for four years in Section 1-4A with Seneca Valley, and now as the coach at Pine-Richland, she is getting a different perspective.
Senior captains help Pine-Richland field hockey adjust to pressure of favorite status
When describing how Pine-Richland field hockey was able to grind out a 1-0 win over Peters Township earlier this year, midfielder Fiona Kortyna said her team has the ability to keep going no matter what.
Kiski Area boys soccer team taking strides toward what it hopes will be a favorable playoff seed
October 5, 2021
Missions to Mars had not been successful for the Kiski Area boys soccer team in recent years.
AK Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Isaac Wetzel, Freeport soccer
Isaac Wetzel
Early competition helps Knoch boys soccer prepare for playoff push
October 4, 2021
The Knoch boys soccer team entered this season as a rather inexperienced group, but what they lack in seasoning they have made up for with effort.
Pine-Richland hockey team ready to join crowded chase for Penguins Cup
October 3, 2021
Last year, PIHL Class 3A featured a lot of parity with the top five teams separated by four points at the end of the regular season and No. 7 seed Mt. Lebanon making a run in the playoffs to the championship game.
Pine-Richland pair showing chemistry, having breakout seasons
Dating to their youth football days, Cole Boyd and Alex Gochis said they’ve always had chemistry as a quarterback and receiver combo.
Central Catholic defense dominates in victory over Seneca Valley
October 1, 2021
There is a litany of players with NCAA Division I offers on the Central Catholic defense, and those players showed why they are going to play at that level Friday night.
Highlands girls volleyball nets long-awaited victory
September 29, 2021
Over the last couple of weeks Highlands girls volleyball coach Caroline Bain could sense her team was on the cusp of breaking through.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Riverview’s Lola Abraham
Lola Abraham
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Highlands’ Cam Reigard
September 28, 2021
Cam Reigard
Pine-Richland grad making stops as starting linebacker for Stony Brook
September 26, 2021
As Tyler King was going through his recruiting process, the thing that stood out about Stony Brook was the coaching staff’s transparency.
Kiski Area off to best start since 1986 after edging West Allegheny
September 24, 2021
The sixth time turned out to be the charm for Kiski Area.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Valley’s Eden Richey
September 22, 2021
Eden Richey
Knoch girls volleyball relying on young hitters in early going
Now in her 36th year at Knoch, Diane Geist is the longest tenured girls volleyball coach in the WPIAL.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Plum’s Lucas Pittman
September 21, 2021
Lucas Pittman
Rolling Fields PGA Junior League team takes 3rd at U.S. Regional event
September 20, 2021
In Dick Logan’s 28 years as a PGA professional, this summer coaching the Rolling Fields Golf Course 17-and-under PGA Junior League team was the best experience of his entire career.
Junior striker brings joy of scoring goals to Pine-Richland boys soccer
September 19, 2021
Colin Zvejnieks’ parents told him that he has always been a runner.
Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Siriprasert focuses on process to build success
As a tennis coach, Jirakorn “Dang” Siriprasert concentrates more on the process than the result.
McCoy’s kick return sparks run of 29 unanswered points for Laurel in win over Beaver Falls
September 17, 2021
Laurel needed a spark, and Luke McCoy provided it.
A-K Valley Girls High School Athlete of the Week, Sept. 15, 2021: Grace Gent, Springdale
September 15, 2021
Grace Gent
Kiski Area girls volleyball willing to work overtime for section title
September 14, 2021
On the eve of the first match, Kiski Area girls volleyball coach Jodie McCartney told her team that every time it takes the court in section play there is potential for a five-set match.
Small numbers don’t dampen enthusiasm, energy for Highlands soccer teams
The Highlands boys soccer team opened camp with 15 players, but that number became smaller heading into the season-opening tournament at home.
A-K Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Fox Chapel’s Jack Lorence
Jack Lorence
Former Pitt volleyball standout brings new ideas to Pine-Richland program
September 12, 2021
Angela Seman was a big part of Pitt volleyball’s resurgence, helping the Panthers win back-to-back ACC titles in 2017 and ’18 as the starting libero.
Pine-Richland field hockey comfortable as favorites to take 3rd straight WPIAL crown
Donna Stephenson started the Pine-Richland field hockey program in 2004, literally from scratch.
Big plays from Ross help Seneca Valley get past North Hills
September 10, 2021
A week ago, Brandon Ross said Seneca Valley can’t win every game on the last play.
Leechburg’s Grine relies on height, skills, confidence for promising senior season
Kalli Grine has been the tallest girl in her class dating to elementary school, so she always has been an intimidating presence on the volleyball court.
3 sets of sisters help bolster lineup for Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball
September 9, 2021
The Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball team will be a sister act this fall.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Fox Chapel’s Nina Busch
Nina Busch
Young St. Joseph girls volleyball team building toward future
September 6, 2021
Because the covid-19 pandemic delayed fall sports in 2020, the St. Joseph girls volleyball team had one practice and went right into games. Needless to say, a more normal schedule this year was welcomed.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Campbell Curry
Campbell Curry
Leechburg plugs away in decisive win vs. Summit Academy
September 4, 2021
It wasn’t the start the Leechburg football team hoped for Saturday afternoon, with three turnovers in the first quarter, but once it settled down, it found a rhythm.
Loaded lineup has Pine-Richland cross country team thinking big
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team is hoping to set a gold standard this fall.
Seneca Valley stuns Pine-Richland with late touchdown pass
September 3, 2021
The adrenaline still was running at maximum for Brandon Ross moments after catching the winning touchdown pass in the final 10 seconds to propel his Seneca Valley Raiders to a 24-20 win over Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland boys soccer looks to build with experienced lineup
August 29, 2021
When Jordan Wiegand took the Pine-Richland boys soccer coaching job in 2019 he came to a program that had graduated 16 seniors who were major contributors since their sophomore season.
Young players stepping into new roles for Pine-Richland girls soccer
Entering her second season as the Pine-Richland girls soccer coach, Rachelle Dixon has some spots to fill in the lineup.
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: New coach leading Deer Lakes
August 28, 2021
Aaron Smith felt some nerves heading into training camp, and at the first practice he could sense his Deer Lakes boys soccer players had some, too.
Dickerson, Tracey score 2 TDs each; defense stout as North Hills blanks Mars
August 27, 2021
Moments after shaking hands with their opponents from Mars, the North Hills players raced over to their sideline to greet a packed and raucous student section waiting for them in the visitor’s grandstand.
Breakout players back to power West Greene
August 26, 2021
For West Greene, the 2020 season was a mission to forge an identity after the Ben Jackson and Kolin Walker era of running through opponents.
Avella looks to keep ball rolling after breakthrough season
For Avella coach Ryan Cecchini, last year’s run to the playoffs showed that even if his program doesn’t always have the biggest roster, it can compete in the WPIAL.
‘Underrated’ senior aims to keep Plum among elite
August 23, 2021
When asked about senior wide receiver/defensive back Logan Brooks, Plum coach Matt Morgan said that he is one of the most underrated players in all of the WPIAL.
New Castle ready for playoff return after year to forget
After a rare down year in which New Castle saw its seven-year playoff streak snapped, Red Hurricanes coach Joe Cowart said his players better have a chip on their shoulder and a desire to get back on the right track.
Larger roster a boost for Pine-Richland girls golf
August 22, 2021
There were 14 girls who came to tryouts for the Pine-Richland girls golf team, and each one had a varying degree of experience.
Plum plans encore after historic season
August 20, 2021
Plum football enters this fall in a position it hasn’t been in since 1983: defending conference champion.
WPIAL’s leading passer makes Armstrong dangerous
Cadin Olsen burst onto the WPIAL football scene last year by throwing for more than 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns in his debut season as the Armstrong quarterback.
Moon plans to follow championship formula
August 17, 2021
When Moon won a conference championship two seasons ago, its formula for success was controlling the line of scrimmage, running the ball effectively and winning the time-of-possession battle.
Young Pine-Richland golf team looks to keep championship streak going
August 14, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys golf team has been section champ the last five years, and the Rams are hopeful to keep the streak going this fall.
Quaker Valley out to snap skid with experienced roster
Quaker Valley went through the growing pains of being extremely young last year, and combined with a covid-19 situation at the school that forced a cancellation of the final two games, it made for a difficult season.
Shady Side Academy rower wins youth national title
July 25, 2021
As Lauren Jochims crossed the finish line with her teammate, Audrey Lyda, to win the women’s 2x at the US Youth Rowing Nationals, she didn’t know how to react.
Quaker Valley boys basketball makes most of summer competition
July 24, 2021
The Quaker Valley boys basketball team returns four starters, but with each new year, there can be a tweak in how each player’s role is defined.
Behun, Loudermilk to lead Quaker Valley girls soccer as co-head coaches
July 18, 2021
Former Quaker Valley girls soccer coach Jamie Birmingham knew he was going to step down at the end of last season, so he approached assistants Maggie Behun and Rachel Loudermilk and asked them if they wanted to step up into the role.
Quaker Valley Hall of Famer takes reins of school’s girls basketball program
July 11, 2021
Quaker Valley has been a focal point in many chapters of Ken Johns’ life.
Fox Chapel basketball gets boost from summer competitions
July 10, 2021
Fox Chapel boys basketball coach Zach Skrinjar looks at summer team camps as a good way to self scout and grow as a unit in a more relaxed environment compared to the grind of a WPIAL basketball season.
Young Township jumps on Murrysville in American Legion playoffs
July 8, 2021
Young Township struck for seven runs in the fourth inning, and then lightning struck.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Jeremiah Hasley, Pine-Richland
July 6, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Fox Chapel’s Zoe Skirboll competes with nation’s best swimmers at Olympic qualifiers
June 29, 2021
Zoe Skirboll went into this year’s Olympic swimming trials with the attitude of enjoying the moment and gaining experience for the future.
Pine-Richland’s Jeremiah Hasley commits to Duke
June 28, 2021
Like many local athletes, Jeremiah Hasley’s recruiting process started with phone calls and Zoom meetings with college coaches last year with campus visits restricted due to the covid-19 pandemic.
Quaker Valley 6th grader excels at Junior Olympics swim meet
June 27, 2021
At age 5, Amelia Suhayda started swimming just for fun.
Pine-Richland crew team closes season with strong results
June 20, 2021
The Pine-Richland crew team had to navigate plenty of obstacles that came with the covid-19 pandemic like mandated shut downs and having athletes train individually at home, but at the end of the year they finished with some strong results.
Pine-Richland softball program builds on playoff victory
June 13, 2021
With a 6-1 win over Mt. Lebanon in the quarterfinals, the Pine-Richland softball team scored a historic achievement.
After long wait, North Allegheny volleyball ready for shot at 3rd straight state title
June 10, 2021
North Allegheny boys volleyball coach Dan Schall described this season as “a journey without a road map.”
North Allegheny boys volleyball wins another Seneca Valley showdown, makes state finals
June 8, 2021
Before the PIAA tournament started, Michael Mosbacher and his North Allegheny boys volleyball teammates knew if they were going to play for a third consecutive state championship, they would likely have to beat Seneca Valley for a fourth time.
Pine-Richland teen Carson Verszyla goes viral with highlight-reel hockey goal
June 7, 2021
Carson Verszyla got an early birthday present Monday morning when he saw himself on “SportsCenter.”
Sewickley Academy breaks tie with 4 seconds left to top Mt. Lebanon, advance to PIAA girls lacrosse semis
June 5, 2021
Sewickley Academy led for only 4 seconds Saturday, but it was the last four.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse standouts play in national tournament
A quartet of Pine-Richland girls lacrosse players spent Memorial Day weekend playing alongside some of the best high school players in the country and came home with an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.
Rotelli’s WPIAL runner-up finish among several meet highlights for Pine-Richland track team
May 30, 2021
Because of her small stature, Gianna Rotelli feels she is overlooked sometimes when she enters track and field events.
Ligonier Valley’s Griffin throws 11th no-hitter, but Shenango prevails in Class 2A semifinals
May 27, 2021
Maddie Griffin threw her 11th no-hitter of the season Thursday, but it wasn’t enough to keep Shenango from making history.
Underclassmen gain valuable experience for Pine-Richland baseball
May 23, 2021
Coming into the season, Pine-Richland baseball had injuries to its top two starting pitchers in West Virginia recruit Tommy Beam and Gabe Mustovic and added a couple more to the injured list just a few games in with shortstop Kyle Kimoto and first baseman Chase Vrabel going down against Seneca Valley.
Franklin Regional-Mars game suspended when lights go out at North Allegheny
May 21, 2021
A power failure in the left field light tower at North Allegheny’s baseball field forced Friday’s Class 5A WPIAL quarterfinal between top-seeded Franklin Regional and No. 8 Mars to be suspended with the score tied 5-5 with two outs in the top of the fifth inning.
Kiefer’s clutch goals lift Franklin Regional over Shaler in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
May 17, 2021
Jack Kiefer never saw his golden goal hit the back of the net.
Racing each other lifts Pine-Richland’s Hunkele sisters to top performances
May 16, 2021
Angelina and Elizabeth Hunkele love to compete.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse leans on consistent defense, balanced attack
May 9, 2021
Members of the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team knew they had built something special during a seven-game winning streak in April and they wanted to prove it in their much anticipated showdown with Fox Chapel on May 4.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team battle-tested for postseason
Coming into this season Pine-Richland boys lacrosse coach Kevin Welty budgeted for adversity.
Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame honors athletes with luncheon
May 8, 2021
For the second consecutive year the Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame banquet had to be cancelled because of the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, but board members wanted to organize an event to honor local athletes for their accomplishments.
Pine-Richland softball looking for more consistency at the plate
May 2, 2021
As Pine-Richland softball geared up for the stretch run in the regular season coach Gary Shepard was looking for was consistency at the plate.
Indiana falls to West Chester East in Class A state hockey final
April 24, 2021
For two periods Indiana kept West Chester East’s powerful offense at bay and had the lead with 17 minutes to play.
Pine-Richland’s Rottinghaus sprinting to success in 400, relays
The Pine-Richland track and field coaches had a premonition that senior Ella Rottinghaus was going to set a new school record in the 400-meter run prior to the Rams’ April 14 meet with Seneca Valley, but she didn’t share the same belief.
Young Pine-Richland gymnast Lavezoli quickly developing into standout
A few years ago Chase Lavezoli taught himself how to do a front flip by using a trampoline.
Ace’s secret weapon helps Pine-Richland softball to signature early season win
April 17, 2021
Gabriella Aughton showed up to Pine-Richland’s game at Hempfield on April 9 with a secret weapon.
Pugh, Faber leading the way for Pine-Richland boys volleyball
April 10, 2021
When the 2020 spring sports season was canceled because of the covid-19 pandemic, it brought a sudden end to the careers of a dozen Pine-Richland boys volleyball players.
Sophomore McGuire off to impressive start for Pine-Richland baseball
Jacob McGuire walked off the mound after the final out of Pine-Richland’s 11-0 win in five innings in the season opener against North Catholic happy with his performance.
Multi-sport athletes bring spark to Gateway volleyball
April 4, 2021
Gateway boys volleyball coach Phil Randolph has plenty of fresh faces on his team this season who bring athleticism from playing other sports.
Intrigue surrounds 2021 PIHL Penguins Cup playoffs
After the 2020 playoffs were suspended and eventually canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, the PIHL is ready to crown Penguins Cup champions once again.
Pine-Richland track team boasts large crop of WPIAL, PIAA contenders
April 3, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys and girls track teams are looking to go the distance this spring.
Pine-Richland hockey team solidly in Class AAA mix
A glance at the PIHL Class AAA standings shows the field is wide open with the top five teams separated by four points.
Young Pine-Richland roster ready to contend during chaotic WPIAL lacrosse season
March 27, 2021
On paper, the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team is still the defending WPIAL Class AAA champion, but there’s been plenty of change in the two-year span since they last took the field.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse looking to ‘bounce back’ in ’21
Every year Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Brittany Adams asks the team’s seniors to come up with a motto for the season. For 2021, they chose “bounce back.”
Competition for lineup spots fierce on Latrobe softball team
March 26, 2021
Latrobe softball coach Bob Kovalcin has seven seniors on his roster, and during the preseason, he told each of them they had first crack at their position.
Latrobe baseball coming together as players find roles
A big part of Latrobe coach Matt Basciano’s message every year is playing team baseball.
Jake DiMichele carries OLSH past Portage into state championship game
March 23, 2021
Jake DiMichele can still remember the exact day OLSH was eliminated the last time they made the state semifinals.
Greensburg Salem baseball team sets sights on another playoff run
In the first week of practice, Greensburg Salem baseball coach Bill Wisniewski told his players to unwind, be kids and have fun in a return to normalcy after last season was wiped out because of the covid-19 pandemic.
Greensburg Salem softball has rare commodity in this unique season — experience
Alyssa Bates has waited nearly 16 months to fill out her first lineup card as the head coach of the Greensburg Salem softball team, so she’s more than ready to get the season going.
Pine-Richland softball gearing season toward section race
March 21, 2021
Pine-Richland softball coach Gary Shepard feels he has the right mix of returning players and newcomers to field a competitive team this spring.
Defending WPIAL champion Pine-Richland baseball team to start season shorthanded
When Pine-Richland takes the field this spring, it will be without a few key players at the start, but that isn’t slowing the Rams’ hunger to defend their WPIAL Class 6A title.
Brookville ousts WPIAL champion Ellwood City from PIAA playoffs
March 20, 2021
Jace Miner stole the ball on an inbounds play and scored on a layup with 10 seconds remaining, and in the blink of an eye Ellwood City’s magical run came to an end.
Neshannock girls fend off Windber, make PIAA Class 2A semifinals
March 19, 2021
Moments after coming out of the locker room after Friday night’s game, Neshannock girls basketball coach Luann Grybowski breathed a sigh of relief.
11th-seeded Ellwood City knocks off No. 1 South Allegheny in WPIAL championship shocker
March 15, 2021
Joe Roth described his feelings succinctly.
Pine-Richland swimmers look ahead to bright future after WPIAL performance
A trio of young Pine-Richland swimmers traveled to Upper St. Clair on March 7 to test themselves against the best in the WPIAL and came home with some solid results to cap off a year in which six new school records were set.
Balanced offense carries Pine-Richland boys on playoff run
During Pine-Richland’s boys basketball playoff run, multiple players saw their name with a large point total beside it on the stat sheet.
11th-seeded Ellwood City stuns Neshannock, makes 1st WPIAL final since 1986
March 11, 2021
From the opening tip, Ellwood City coach Steve Antuono Sr. paced the sidelines watching the game with intensity, while wearing his emotions on his sleeve.
Defending champion Mohawk puts down upstart Beaver Falls
March 10, 2021
All season, Mohawk coach Mike O’Lare has talked to his team about creating a new story to be remembered to go along with winning the school’s first WPIAL girls basketball title a year ago.
Second WPIAL wrestling title gives Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer reason to smile
March 6, 2021
In the middle of the second period of the WPIAL Class AAA 160-pound wrestling final, Cole Spencer took an accidental shot from Norwin’s Chase Kranitz and realized one of his teeth was broken.
5 Pine-Richland runners test themselves at indoor nationals
Five distance runners from Pine-Richland traveled to Virginia last month to test themselves against some of the best high school competition in the country and came home with solid results.
Leechburg rallies for double-overtime win over Eden Christian
March 5, 2021
In a double overtime thriller, No. 6 Leechburg upset No. 3 Eden Christian 45-40 in the WPIAL Class A quarterfinals Friday night at Sewickley Academy.
Sewickley Academy shuts down Greensburg Central Catholic
Sewickley Academy made 19 of 28 free throws and eventually pulled away for a 38-21 victory over Greensburg Central Catholic in the WPIAL Class 2A girls basketball quarterfinals Friday night.
Fox Chapel’s Manelis, North Allegheny’s Shi repeat as WPIAL diving champs
February 27, 2021
The 2021 WPIAL Class AAA diving championships were full of repeats.
Pine-Richland hockey team riding prolific offense
With the volatility that comes with playing during a pandemic, Pine-Richland hockey coach Jordan Yoklic told his players to embrace each opportunity and not take it for granted.
Pine-Richland boys basketball team jells in coach’s 1st season
The last time the WPIAL had an open basketball tournament in 1984 Bob Petcash was a senior at Ambridge and played for a Bridgers team that made the Class 4A final, where it lost to Farrell.
South Park’s O’Connor, North Catholic’s Foley capture WPIAL Class AA diving titles
February 26, 2021
Cole O’Connor saved his toughest dive for last and it paid off.
Spencer leads way for Pine-Richland wrestling team
February 20, 2021
Pine-Richland wrestling made some big strides during the team portion of the season, and now the hope is it has set it up for success in an expanded individual season.
New coach DeGregorio seeing good signs with Pine-Richland girls basketball team
When Kyle DeGregorio took over as coach of the Pine-Richland girls basketball team before this season, his first objective was establishing a culture.
After setting school record, Pine-Richland’s Allen turns focus toward WPIAL success
February 13, 2021
Delaney Allen was exhausted as she climbed out of the pool after swimming her hardest in the 50-yard freestyle on Jan. 28 against North Allegheny when she started hearing screams of joy coming from her teammates.
4 players from Pine-Richland state title football team accept walk-on offers
Pine-Richland football had four players accept preferred walk-on offers on Feb. 3, and each one has a unique story.
Mt. Pleasant girls hope to benefit from experience this season
December 3, 2020
At the high school level it’s a rarity for a team to have its entire roster back from the previous season, but it’s a welcomed reality for longtime Mt. Pleasant girls basketball coach Scott Giacobbi.
Mt. Pleasant boys basketball enters season under new leadership
T.J. Kravits had just finished his season coaching at Marion Center. Being a basketball fan, he looked at the schedule and decided to take a trip to Mt. Pleasant to see a game against Geibel.
Gateway hockey program focused on development
November 29, 2020
Gateway hockey coach Shawn Jesih sees a lot of potential in the freshmen and sophomores who make up the majority of the roster.
Girls basketball preview: Senior trio set to lead Franklin Regional into new section
November 25, 2020
When reflecting on last season, Franklin Regional girls basketball coach Anthony Kobus pointed out five losses in section play by seven points or less.
Boys basketball preview: Franklin Regional to rely on deep group of returning guards
On paper, the 2019-20 Franklin Regional boys basketball season looked like a tale of two halves with a 7-2 run down the stretch to get into the postseason after 5-9 start, but it was more of a yearlong journey of growing up.
Weather’s no problem for Mars boys soccer in PIAA semifinal victory
November 17, 2020
Mars boys soccer coach Chris Knauff said the ground was clear at his home five miles from the Mars Athletic Complex, so he was quite shocked to see a snow-covered field upon arrival.
Pine-Richland routs Peters Township, wins WPIAL championship in 5th classification
November 14, 2020
Pine-Richland already had WPIAL football titles in Class 2A, 3A, 4A and 6A, and after a dominant performance on Saturday, the Rams added 5A to the list.
Clutch goal from Jayden Sharpless lifts North Catholic past Avonworth in Class 2A title game
November 7, 2020
In the early portion of Saturday’s WPIAL Class 2A championship game, North Catholic standout junior Jayden Sharpless said she was a little too amped up when she fired a free kick well over the goal from 30 yards out.
Greensburg Central Catholic boys fight off Eden Christian upset bid in Class A quarterfinals
October 31, 2020
Ricco Ciccarelli could hear Greensburg Central Catholic coach Tyler Solis say, “I think you got it,” as his attempted cross kept curling closer and closer to the net.
North Catholic punishes Mt. Pleasant for mistakes in Class 2A matchup
October 30, 2020
As the clock was winding down late in the fourth quarter, Mt. Pleasant coach Jason Fazekas said to his assistants he felt like the score was a lot closer than the scoreboard indicated.
Forced into starring role, Brock Wilkins carries Kiski Area past Shaler
October 16, 2020
After two successful weeks of filling in for standout Kenny Blake at running back, Brock Wilkins was ready to go back to his role as a lead blocker Friday night. When Blake went down with an injury on his first carry, Wilkins was thrust right back into the spotlight.
North Hills pulls away from Kiski Area
October 2, 2020
In three plays, Kiski Area went from looking like it was going to be right back into its game with North Hills to having the momentum completely flipped.
Avonworth makes smooth transition to Class 3A, blanks Quaker Valley
September 11, 2020
Coming off a historic season that culminated in a WPIAL Class 2A championship, Avonworth had a lot of great players to replace, including a 2,500-yard passer and a 2,300-yard rusher, as it moved up to Class 3A this fall.
North Catholic girls fight off challenge from Central Valley in 4A second round
March 11, 2020
There’s an understanding among the North Catholic Trojanettes that they are going to get everyone’s best.
Freeport confident heading into softball season with small but talented roster
March 10, 2020
When Freeport softball takes the field this year, there’s a good chance there will only be 11 players on the team.
With Heilman on hill, Freeport has shot at another special season
Last season, Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr watched a team that consisted mainly of juniors grow up on the fly and exceed expectations.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Julia Cummings and Kiski Area’s Jack Blumer
Julia Cummings
Fox Chapel baseball optimistic despite heavy turnover from last season
March 9, 2020
Fox Chapel will have to replace 11 seniors, six of their starting nine and most of the pitching staff from a team that went 10-8 and made the WPIAL playoffs, but Foxes coach Jim Hastings has some pieces returning and others coming through the pipeline to help offset the losses.
Bigger roster gives new Fox Chapel softball coach Olbrich cause for optimism
During offseason training, first-year Fox Chapel softball coach Chris Olbrich kept seeing more and more girls show up to work out.
Kiski Area hockey continues remarkable turnaround
March 8, 2020
Kiski Area sophomore defenseman Aiden Sites said if he was told before the season the Cavaliers would be in the PIHL Class A semifinals he wouldn’t have believed it.
Playing without star center Michael Carmody, Mars falls short in PIAA 1st-round game
March 6, 2020
After his team lost in overtime, battling without standout senior Michael Carmody, who was serving a one-game suspension, Mars boys basketball coach Rob Carmody told his players he was obviously disappointed, but he was glad they lost on a play made by a “winning player.”
Norwin hockey focuses on positives after abrupt exit from playoffs
March 4, 2020
Norwin hockey’s season ended Tuesday night when the Knights fell 3-2 to Kiski Area in the first round of the PIHL Class A Penguins Cup playoffs.
Kiski Area edges Norwin to reach Penguins Cup semifinals
In one season, Kiski Area hockey has gone from a one-win team to being a victory away from playing for a Penguins Cup championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao
March 3, 2020
Johnny Crise
Kiski Area, Plum hockey teams surge into playoffs
March 1, 2020
A couple of weeks ago, Kiski Area and Plum completed two of the more remarkable rebounds in the PIHL.
Chartiers Valley defends WPIAL title, wins 55th consecutive game
February 29, 2020
Chartiers Valley girls basketball coach Tim McConnell said he told his younger sister, Trinity coach Kathy McConnell-Miller, that the only good thing about facing each other in a WPIAL final was that a McConnell was guaranteed to win.
Led by singles champ Small, Plum bowling team has postseason to remember
February 28, 2020
Plum bowling coach Darryl Pilyih said coaching senior standout Shannon Small has become a pretty easy task because she rarely makes a mistake.
Shutdown defenses to meet when North Allegheny, Bethel Park tangle for girls 6A title
When Bethel Park and North Allegheny take the floor at Petersen Events Center on Saturday for the Class 6A girls basketball championship, expect a defensive chess match to unfold.
Chartiers Valley uses bulletin-board material to top TJ, return to Class 5A finals
February 26, 2020
Moments after Chartiers Valley finished off a 65-43 win over Thomas Jefferson in the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals Wednesday night at Mt. Lebanon, Colts coach Tim McConnell offered an open dinner invitation to who ever made shirts for the Jaguars that read, “3.1 doesn’t equal 4.4.”
North Allegheny girls shut down Upper St. Clair, get back to WPIAL Class 6A finals
February 25, 2020
On the bus ride to North Hills, members of the North Allegheny girls basketball team chatted back and forth about what their keys were going to be defensively.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Shannon Small and Korry Myers
Shannon Small
Belle Vernon boys basketball upsets Quaker Valley, clinches PIAA spot
February 22, 2020
Listed at 5-foot-9, Devin Whitlock was the shortest player on the floor in Saturday’s game between Quaker Valley and Belle Vernon, but what he lacks in size he makes up for in many other areas.
Brayden Reynolds’ clutch shot sparks Chartiers Valley past Shaler
February 21, 2020
Chartiers Valley coach Brandon Sensor thought Shaler did a pretty good job on his standout guard Brayden Reynolds through the first three quarters of Friday’s WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal game.
Penn-Trafford gymnast Adamik balances fun, competition at high school level
A couple of years ago, Lacey Adamik gave up the everyday grind of training for competitive USA gymnastics, but as time went on, she started to miss the sport.
Elliott handles pressure, shoots Bishop Canevin boys past Union
February 20, 2020
Dom Elliott was honest about what was going through his mind in as he toed the line for two foul shots with five seconds remaining and Bishop Canevin trailing by one.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Samantha Coleman and A.J. Corrado
February 18, 2020
Samantha Coleman
After scholarship from Hines Ward, Valley’s Guzzo to be featured in book
February 16, 2020
Greg Guzzo was checking his email randomly last year when he saw a message titled “Positive Athlete.”
Pine-Richland’s Alexander, Thomas Jefferson’s Kameg big winners at WPIAL gymnastics meet
February 15, 2020
Pine-Richland’s Samantha Alexander went into WPIAL individual gymnastics championships wanting to stay on her feet.
Q&A with Plum’s Connor Moss
February 14, 2020
Plum’s Connor Moss eclipsed 1,000 career points Feb. 5 after scoring 25 in a 52-51 nonconference win over Baldwin. Moss joins another junior, the girls team’s Kennedie Montue, in hitting the milestone. Moss scored more than 20 points 13 times this season and had more than 30 points four times.
Iron sharpens iron for Franklin Regional state title hopefuls Dibert, Solomon
At every practice in the Franklin Regional wrestling room, Finn Solomon and Carter Dibert are paired. When they wrestle, it typically becomes a spectacle.
Burrell gymnastics team beaming at chance to compete at WPIAL championships
February 13, 2020
For a long time, Burrell has been represented at the WPIAL individual gymnastics championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Sarah Sawhook and Leechburg’s Dylan Cook
February 11, 2020
Sarah Sawhook
Fox Chapel hockey hopes to ride momentum into postseason
February 9, 2020
In 20 years of being involved in hockey, Fox Chapel coach Cam Raidna never experienced anything like what his team pulled off Thursday night against Kiski Area.
Recruiting interest ramping up for Plum lineman Evan Azzara
February 7, 2020
Plum junior Evan Azzara has visited almost every Mid-American Conference school in Ohio, but the one he went to the most has been Miami (Ohio).
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Madilyn Boyer, Burrell’s Ian Oswalt
February 4, 2020
Madilyn Boyer
Knoch girls finally slay rival Freeport
February 3, 2020
Moments after Lauren Cihonski hit a game-winning basket with four seconds remaining to help Knoch beat Freeport 53-52, the magnitude of what transpired hit her.
Plum hockey gets healthy in time for PIHL playoffs push
January 31, 2020
Every hockey team deals with bumps and bruises, but, in January, Plum could have used a M.A.S.H. unit.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athetes of the Week: Plum’s Kennedie Montue, Leechburg’s Jake Blumer
January 28, 2020
Kennedie Montue
No. 1 North Catholic fights off serious challenge from Freeport
January 27, 2020
Coming into Monday’s game, North Catholic girls basketball had won 54 section games in a row — all but one of them by double digits — so when Freeport tied the game with five minutes remaining, it presented a situation that hadn’t come up in a while.
Thomas Jefferson’s Pazo, North Catholic’s Shaffer lift Team Blue to PIHL Class A All-Star Game win
January 26, 2020
Thomas Jefferson junior Eddie Pazo and North Catholic junior Quinten Shaffer had a hat trick each to lead Team Blue to a 9-5 win over Team Gold in the PIHL Class A All-Star Game Sunday at RMU Island Sports Center.
Ringgold’s Budjos nets hat trick to lead Team Blue to victory in PIHL Class B All-Star Game
Typically going on the penalty kill late in a game down by two goals is not a successful strategy, but in the PIHL Class B All-Star Game, Team Blue made being down a player work in a major way.
Surging Norwin girls basketball team finds right balance
January 24, 2020
The Norwin girls basketball team was the top scoring offense in WPIAL Class 6A through 14 games, and the Knights ranked second in scoring average against.
Gateway girls grind out win over Armstrong
January 23, 2020
Armstrong girls basketball coach Kirk Lorigan joked that he started looking in the stands for James Naismith, because it felt like the cylinder hoops at Gateway’s gymnasium were replaced with peach baskets.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Maddie Clark, Highlands’ Jrake Burford
January 21, 2020
Maddie Clark
Kiski Area goalie Petika leads A-K Valley contingent in PIHL All-Star games
January 19, 2020
Kiski Area goalie Eric Petika got a nice wakeup call from his dad the morning after the PIHL All-Star teams were released a couple of weeks ago.
Steel Valley’s Camden Polak likes making noise in the library
January 15, 2020
Many high school students go to the library to check out a book for their next homework assignment, but Steel Valley senior Camden Polak goes there for a different reason.
Jeannette puts together complete effort in routing Serra Catholic
January 14, 2020
Even though Jeannette coach Adrian Batts was hoarse from imploring his team all game, it wasn’t going to stop him from talking about the enjoyment he got from watching his team execute Tuesday night.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Riverview’s Sydney McDonough, Knoch’s Ryan Lang
Sydney McDonough
Burrell standout Stewart surprises with return to varsity hockey team
January 12, 2020
After spending some time in the junior hockey ranks this season, Tyler Stewart made a surprise return to the ice for Burrell hockey last Monday.
Plum spirit squad shows competitive drive
Every Saturday in the fall, the Plum competitive spirit team met in the gym for a 7 a.m. practice after cheering the night before at football games with a determination to get stronger.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Trinity Lockwood-Morris and Plum’s Connor Moss
January 7, 2020
Trinity Lockwood-Morris
Blackhawk defense shuts down Central Valley in Class 4A showdown
January 6, 2020
Blackhawk girls basketball coach Steve Lodovico loves to run a press and trap defense with the goal of creating turnovers and racking up points off them. Facing a familiar foe in Central Valley on the road, he decided to adjust the gameplan.
Fox Chapel hockey hopes experience in close games helps with playoff push
January 5, 2020
The Fox Chapel hockey team has played its share of close games this season.
Plum girls improving in quest for Section 2 championship
January 4, 2020
About an hour removed from a 41-31 victory over Armstrong on Thursday, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier provided a list of reasons it was their best performance to date.
Plum bowler Shannon Small sets big goals
Nesbit’s Lanes has pretty much become a second home for Shannon Small.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, St. Joseph’s Andrew Sullivan
December 31, 2019
Andrew Sullivan
New-look Burrell hockey team finds stability
December 29, 2019
Entering the season, perhaps no team in the PIHL lost more key pieces than Burrell.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Knoch’s Nevaeh Ewing, Apollo-Ridge’s Keighton Reese
December 24, 2019
Nevaeh Ewing
‘Building year’ for youthful Freeport hockey
December 22, 2019
Jack Mason can still remember the nervousness he felt playing varsity hockey as a freshman.
Plum boys basketball seeks secret to closing out games
December 20, 2019
First-year Plum boys basketball coach Mark Marino has been happy with the buy-in level from his players in the early part of the season.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Morgan Gamble and Demitri Fritch
December 17, 2019
Demitri
Plum in prime position midway through hockey season
December 15, 2019
As Plum hockey reached the midpoint of the PIHL Class AA season, it found itself tied atop the Northeast Division standings with Armstrong with a pair of games in hand.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Valley’s Tori Johnson, Fox Chapel’s Arnold Vento
December 10, 2019
Tori Johnson
Phipps, Norwin wrestling ready to take next step
December 7, 2019
Kurtis Phipps showed his toughness by battling through a foot injury in last year’s PIAA Class AAA championship match. He suffered the injury a day earlier in his semifinal win.
Franklin Regional wrestlers look to add to program’s Hershey history
Franklin Regional coach Matt Lebe had to stop for a moment and count back through the years to figure out how many seasons in a row the Panthers have had a representative in the PIAA wrestling finals.
Central Valley dominates Bald Eagle Area to earn trip to Hershey
November 29, 2019
One thing in particular that stands out from the many things that Central Valley coach Mark Lyons loves about his football team is that they enjoy playing together and not one player believes he is above another.
With three top starters returning, Plum girls planning banner season
November 28, 2019
In his opening remarks at the first practice of the season, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier challenged his team.
Unusual Plum boys roster packed with senior leadership but lacking experience
With plenty of seniors on the roster, it might look like the Plum boys basketball team has a lot of experience. In reality, almost everyone will be new to varsity this winter.
Kiski Area girls hope experience, work ethic lead to growth
November 25, 2019
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon couldn’t have been happier with the work his group put into its offseason.
Kiski Area boys plan to pick up the pace
Entering year two of his tenure at Kiski Area, Will Saunders is ready to let his team run.
Successful season falls short of ultimate goal for Penn-Trafford
November 23, 2019
The Penn-Trafford football team has high standards, and with that comes championship aspirations.
Fox Chapel boys basketball team rallies around defense
November 22, 2019
At the end of practice, most teams come together in a circle, put their hands in and say one, two, three and then their team name.
New coach works to instill confidence in talented Fox Chapel girls roster
When Marty Matvey arrived to take over the Fox Chapel girls basketball program this summer, he quickly realized there was talent from top to bottom in the lineup.
Rebuilding plan has Cheswick Christian boys ready to contend again
November 20, 2019
When 6-foot-10 Ben Pollock finished his Cheswick Christian Academy boys basketball career in 2016-17 after rewriting much of the school’s record book, longtime Chargers coach Todd Rosio had a three-year plan to build the team back up to contending status.
Cheswick Christian girls dedicate season to former coach in need of heart transplant
Jacque Willis thought she might become a basketball coach someday, but she never expected it to be just a few months after she graduated college.
Central Valley stops Aliquippa in overtime in tense WPIAL title game
November 16, 2019
On the first play of overtime, Michael Barbuto was pushing toward the goal line when he felt something strange happen.
Washington leans on Zahmere Robinson to stop upset-minded Brentwood
November 15, 2019
After Washington’s Zahmere Robinson fumbled for the first time this year in a third quarter that saw Brentwood surging, he went to the sidelines and told his teammates he’d make up for it.
Franklin Regional not satisfied with first-round playoff exit
There wasn’t another team in the WPIAL that played a schedule like Franklin Regional did this season.
North Catholic volleyball gets vengeance, defeats Freeport in PIAAs
November 12, 2019
The day after North Catholic girls volleyball lost to Freeport in the WPIAL Class AA finals by surrendering a 2-0 lead, coach Amanda Fetter told her players they deserved to have a banner hanging in the gymnasium, and the only one left to get was a PIAA banner.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Knoch’s Skylar Burkett and Fox Chapel’s Colby Zmenkowski
Skylar Burkett
Playing through injuries solidified Knoch volleyball team’s depth
November 11, 2019
At practice Monday, Knoch girls volleyball players sat on the gym floor in a circle around coach Diane Geist as they prepared for their state semifinal opponent, District 3 champion Palmyra.
Mars girls soccer team rolls past West Allegheny in PIAA playoffs
November 9, 2019
The Mars girls soccer team has been dominant against WPIAL opponents all season, and in its final meeting against a district foe this season, it wasted little time establishing the tone.
Pine-Richland easily handles North Allegheny on way to WPIAL final
November 8, 2019
As Pine-Richland coach Eric Kasperowicz was giving his postgame speech with his players surrounding him on a knee, the assistant coaches started tossing Heinz ketchup packets into the huddle.
Knoch volleyball back to full strength in first-round PIAA win over South Fayette
November 5, 2019
The last time Kennedy Christy was in the Shaler gym, she was injured on the final night of the regular season in a nonsection match against the Titans and it caused her to miss Knoch’s entire WPIAL playoff run.
Freeport volleyball shakes off ‘WPIAL hangover,’ cruises in first-round PIAA match
After having to come back from two-set deficits to win in the WPIAL semifinals and finals last week,the Freeport girls volleyball team had a much less stressful opening to the state playoffs.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Freeport’s Isabella Russo, Riverview’s Mason Ochs
Isabella Russo
Knoch girls volleyball beats Thomas Jefferson for 3rd straight WPIAL title
November 2, 2019
In its playoff run, Knoch girls volleyball proved how strong a team it is by grinding out wins without standout hitters Kennedy Christy and Hannah Rowe.
Plum soccer reached goals despite dramatic playoff loss
November 1, 2019
If someone had told Plum boys soccer coach Raf Kolankowski before the season that his team would have been leading in a WPIAL Class AAAA semifinal with five-plus minutes remaining, he would’ve taken it in a heartbeat.
Joey Fonagy’s overtime goal lifts Canon-McMillan to WPIAL boys soccer title
October 31, 2019
The Big Macs had one more comeback in them and it was one that they’ll remember for a long time.
AK Valley high school athletes of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger and Deer Lakes’ Michael Sullivan
October 29, 2019
Kaitlyn Killinger
Hat trick lifts Deer Lakes boys soccer past South Park in Class AA semis
October 26, 2019
Deer Lakes boys soccer has used “unfinished business” as its mantra after narrow misses on the road to a WPIAL championship appearance the last few years.
Canon-McMillan boys score 2 late goals, edge Plum in Class AAAA semis
A few minutes after the Plum boys soccer team’s magical season ended Saturday with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss in the WPIAL Class AAAA semifinals that saw Canon-McMillan score twice in the final six minutes, Mustangs coach Raf Kolankowski used the moment as a teaching tool.
Westmoreland girls soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 24, 2019
October 23, 2019
Class AAAA
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Burrell’s Sara Novak and Springdale’s Mike Mitchell
October 22, 2019
Sara Novak
Senior-led Leechburg girls volleyball turns focus to playoffs
October 20, 2019
The best word to describe Leechburg girls volleyball in matches against the two teams in front of them in the Section 4-A standings is “close.”
Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer shakes off slow start, advances in playoffs
October 19, 2019
For Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer coach Tyler Solis, Saturday’s first-round playoff game had several elements that his team needed to get through.
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio, who has Down syndrome, scores touchdown on senior night
October 18, 2019
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio had a senior night to remember on Friday.
Neshannock shuts down Western Beaver, secures playoff berth
There were a lot of playoff scenarios in a crowded Midwestern Athletic Conference entering Friday night, but the easiest way for Neshannock to secure a postseason berth was to go out and get a win.
With Mohrbacher sisters filling the net, Freedom girls soccer doesn’t skip a beat
October 17, 2019
Freedom girls soccer has a bit of a different look from the 2018 WPIAL championship team after the graduation of some key seniors and standout Jayden Sharpless transferring to North Catholic, but the results have been the same.
Knoch girls volleyball team doesn’t let success become distraction
October 13, 2019
The last few seasons for the Knoch girls volleyball team has been a special ride, with two WPIAL titles and a PIAA title. So as the postseason approaches, it is natural for the seniors to dream of finishing their careers with winning a third district title.
Hughes-Sciarro connection leads Riverside past rival Ellwood City
October 11, 2019
Riverside quarterback Ben Hughes and wide receiver Nathan Sciarro started working on their connection in May, going down to the football field after school and running routes with the goal of getting better timing.
Plum boys soccer team ready to make history
Plum boys soccer captains Cole Kelly, Luke Gildea and Tyler Kolankowski are well versed in the history of the program.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Maddie Ancosky, Scott Bitar
October 8, 2019
Maddie Ancosky
Kiski Area volleyball making steady climb in Section 1-AAA
October 6, 2019
The day before Thursday’s crucial Section 1-AAA match with Armstrong, Kiski Area libero Rebekah Fowler didn’t want to give too much away.
Plum’s captains bringing optimism back to ice
October 4, 2019
Prior to the season, Plum hockey coach Phil Mains told his leadership group of captain Dan Baranowski and alternate captains Logan Schlegel and Nic Pushic that the team would go as they go.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Will Meyer, Kiski Area’s Sidney Palla
October 1, 2019
Will Meyer
Deer Lakes volleyball encouraged by performance in tough tests
September 29, 2019
Deer Lakes girls volleyball coach Terry Gaston always tells his team if it can get 20 points in a set against an opponent, it can win.
QB Jay Pearson keeps his word, helps OLSH torch Laurel
September 27, 2019
Prior to Friday’s game with Laurel, Jay Pearson told OLSH coach Dan Bradley that he was going to score on the first play.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Kenzie Kerkan, Freeport’s Isaac Wetzel
September 24, 2019
Kenzie Kerkan
Freeport volleyball seniors determined to return to top
September 22, 2019
Freeport setter Madeline Clark can still recall the feeling of walking off the floor after last year’s WPIAL semifinal loss to Frazier that ended the Yellowjackets’ 3-year run of making the district title game.
Plum girls soccer uses team-first approach to climb standings
September 20, 2019
From the first meeting with his players, first-year Plum girls soccer coach Jamie Stewart’s message has been “team first.”
AK Valley H.S. Athletes of the Week: Burrell’s Allie Vescio and Leechburg’s Cole Villa
September 17, 2019
Allie Vescio
Fox Chapel girls volleyball hopes aggressive approach works
September 15, 2019
When describing how aggressive to be when spiking a volleyball, Fox Chapel coach Phil O’Keeffe likes to use a baseball analogy.
Plum boys golfers focus on shaving strokes
September 13, 2019
It’s been a tough season in the win-loss department for the Plum boys golf team, going up against section rivals and perennial powers Fox Chapel, Central Catholic and Franklin Regional. In golf, though, success can be measured in different ways.
A-K Valley H.S. athletes of the week: Fox Chapel’s Lucy Ream and Plum’s Darius Flowers
September 10, 2019
Lucy Ream
Percise Colon scores clutch touchdown to carry NA past Central Catholic
September 6, 2019
North Allegheny coach Art Walker earned his 200th win Friday night, but he won’t remember the game, because of the milestone number.Junior duo goes low for Franklin Regional golf team
Franklin Regional’s Chuck Tragesser and Michael Wareham spend a lot of their free time playing golf together at Willowbrook Country Club in Apollo. On match days, they are paired.
Franklin Regional girls volleyball looks to build off historic 2018 season
August 30, 2019
The Franklin Regional girls volleyball team was one of the feel-good stories of the WPIAL last season.
Competition to bring out best in Knoch boys soccer
August 24, 2019
When Knoch boys soccer coach Malcolm Cook looked back at last season, the overarching theme was that there were too many holes in the lineup to find the right combination to be competitive.
Small roster not dimming enthusiasm for Knoch girls soccer
Knoch girls soccer already was low on players, but three season-ending injuries before the first practice made the roster even thinner.
Plum gains momentum with Week Zero win over Highlands
August 23, 2019
Plum went into its Week Zero matchup at Highlands hoping to take some positive momentum into Class 5A Foothills Conference play and the Mustangs got it in all three phases of the game.
Freeport boys soccer confident it can compete in tough section
August 21, 2019
There have been plenty of good on-field moments the last few years for Freeport boys soccer, but one thing that always has stuck out for coach Dave Teorsky didn’t happen in a game.
Sidney Shemanski hopes to guide young Freeport girls soccer to section title
Sidney Shemanski will begin the first leg of the three-part finale to her Freeport athletic career this fall with the girls soccer team.
South Park ready to rebound with experienced group
August 18, 2019
South Park football coach Marty Rieck isn’t one to make excuses for shortcomings, but the fact of the matter is that his team was young last season.
Deer Lakes adopts ‘why not us?’ mantra in quest for playoff berth
Tim Burk is a Deer Lakes guy through and through, so he took great pride in watching the Lancers’ boys soccer team make a run to the state championship game and the boys basketball team win the first PIAA playoff game in school history and advance to the quarterfinals.
After near misses, North Catholic focused reaching championship game
When you come as close to playing for a championship as North Catholic football has only to see it slip away, it’s hard not to look back at the small moments that swayed the game.
Armstrong looks to gain experience early on with young roster
August 16, 2019
It took only two weeks for Frank Fabian to realize he made a mistake after resigning as Armstrong’s coach.
Always one to lighten mood, Deer Lakes’ Hollibaugh got lighter to improve his play
August 12, 2019
Deer Lakes football coach Tim Burk is never exactly sure what his tight end Jack Hollibaugh is going to say when he enters the locker room, but he knows it likely will be something funny.
Plum’s Kelly balances sports, music as key cog on soccer team
August 9, 2019
Cole Kelly does his best to split his time for his two passions — soccer and music — because he loves them equally.
Youth camp helps fund Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team
July 17, 2019
Last week, the Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team held its fifth annual youth skills camp, which has become a benefit not only for the future of the program, but the present, as well.
Plum’s Linhart displays virtues of multisport athletes
June 8, 2019
The three-sport athlete has become a rare breed with many specializing in one sport to try to make it to college, but Hunter Linhart saw the benefits of diversifying.
Brennan powers Serra Catholic past Neshannock in PIAA quarterfinals
June 6, 2019
With teams intentionally walking standout catcher Mark Black regularly in the playoffs, Serra Catholic baseball coach Brian Dzurenda decided to move him from third in the order to the leadoff spot, which put Pat Brennan in Black’s old spot.
Franklin Regional ‘revved up’ for PIAA quarterfinal matchup
June 5, 2019
Michael Klingensmith led off first base after drawing a walk in the top of the first inning in Monday’s PIAA first- round game when Cathedral Prep pitcher Colin Kelly made a pick-off throw to first.
Franklin Regional baseball advances with win over Cathedral Prep
June 3, 2019
It often has been said good things come to those who wait, and Franklin Regional baseball proved that in a couple of ways Monday.
With school out, Leechburg turns complete focus on PIAA softball playoffs
June 1, 2019
Kristen Knapp, Aubry Skeel and Kiera Jones left Leechburg on Thursday night as graduates.
Boehme hits for cycle as Seton LaSalle takes down Serra Catholic in WPIAL Class 2A final
May 29, 2019
Seton LaSalle first baseman Dan Boehme knew he had a good day, but he was unaware it was a historic one until he got back into the dugout after crushing a two-run homer over the left field fence.
Westmoreland baseball/softball preview capsules: Games of Tuesday, May 28
May 27, 2019
Tuesday’s games
Leechburg softball focused on consolation prize
May 26, 2019
Leechburg softball coach Debbi Young has found it can be tough at times to get a team energized for a consolation game after a difficult loss in the semifinals, but she doesn’t foresee that being a problem with her current group.
WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final suspended by inclement weather
May 23, 2019
With the score tied 11-11 in the final minute of the WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final between Upper St. Clair and Shady Side Academy, Mother Nature decided to put a halt on the night and add some suspense.
Oakland Catholic captures WPIAL Class AA girls lacrosse title
Natalie Cyterski was bloodied, battered and exhausted, but she wasn’t going to be denied.
Maley’s walk-off single lifts No. 2 Pine-Richland past Norwin in WPIAL quarterfinals
May 21, 2019
Jake Maley hit a walk-off single in the bottom of the sixth inning to propel No. 2 Pine-Richland to a 2-1 victory over No. 7 Norwin in a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal baseball game Tuesday night at Upper St. Clair’s Boyce-Mayview Park.
Westmoreland H.S. baseball capsules for games of Monday, May 20, 2019
May 19, 2019
WPIAL baseball playoffs
Kiski Valley rugby teams advance to state championship games
May 18, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby advanced to the Rugby PA Club Division II championship game for the second consecutive season with a 32-5 win over North Penn on Saturday at Penn State Berks.
Mars baseball shuts out Fox Chapel in 1st round
May 16, 2019
Fox Chapel coach Jim Hastings summed up how things went for his team Thursday with five words.
Kiski Valley rugby teams vying for state championships
May 13, 2019
In the last five years, Kiski Valley rugby has built its program to be on par with some of best in the state and last week reflected that when the girls and boys teams were awarded top seeds in their respective brackets.
Plum softball not caught up in numbers game
May 10, 2019
Nearly half of the players in Plum softball’s lineup have batting averages at .400 or above, but none of them know it.
Kiski Valley girls rugby team hoping for breakthrough
April 27, 2019
After three years of seeing the Kiski Valley girls rugby team finish as the state runner-up, Rilee Roach is ready to break through.
All systems rolling for Franklin Regional baseball
April 26, 2019
Franklin Regional baseball coach Bobby Sadler laughed and then paused for a few seconds when deciding if pitching or hitting was going better for his team.
Tough nonsection slate paying off for Greensburg Central Catholic baseball
April 23, 2019
Going into the season with seven new starters, Greensburg Central Catholic baseball coach Dennis Reist beefed up the schedule with an early run of difficult nonsection opponents and hoped Mother Nature would cooperate.
Shorthanded Penn-Trafford track teams eye individual success
April 5, 2019
For the second year in a row the Penn-Trafford boys and girls track teams have small rosters, but that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of talent.
Penn-Trafford boys volleyball aims for another section title
March 29, 2019
The Penn-Trafford boys volleyball team jumped right into the thick of an intense battle in its season opener Tuesday night, and that was exactly what Warriors coach Jim Schall wanted to see to get a better handle on his team.
Kiski Valley rugby gets boost from Buckheads transfers
March 28, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby coach Seth Erwin was already excited about the group he had returning from a team that was the state runner-up last year, and then he received some news in the offseason that made his roster even stronger.
New-look Deer Lakes boys volleyball team looks to maintain high standard of success
March 25, 2019
Deer Lakes boys volleyball coach Brady Schuller said he had a couple of curveballs thrown his way last year with some injuries to key players in a season that ended one win short of a second consecutive PIAA playoff berth.
La Salle takes down North Allegheny in Class AAA Pennsylvania Cup championship
March 23, 2019
North Allegheny rolled into the second intermission break on the back of two late goals that got the Tigers tied with La Salle and looked to continue the momentum when they received a power play early in the third.
Freeport’s Brown follows in mother’s footsteps with selection to Cager Classic
March 22, 2019
Jalen Brown paused a moment before describing the impact his mother, Eve VanDyke, has had on his life and his basketball career.
Freshmen, sophomores to make quick impact for Springdale softball team
March 19, 2019
Springdale softball coach Anthony Pototo pointed to a few factors that went against his team last season: poor weather, a lack of pitching depth and a young team.
Springdale baseball to lean on young lineup during rebuilding season
After each practice, Springdale baseball coach Brett Burger tells his team to “be better tomorrow than they were today.”
Cook, Ringgold edge No. 1 Burrell to claim PIHL Division II championship
March 18, 2019
With the score tied in the third period, Burrell had the ice tilted in its favor and fired a bunch of shots on goal, but Ringgold goalie Evan Cook answered each time.
Penn-Trafford baseball sets sights on winning section championship
There isn’t any question that Penn-Trafford baseball lost some talented players to graduation with all five departed seniors going on to play in college.
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA finals preview: Peters Township vs. North Allegheny
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA Championship
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A finals preview: Montour vs. South Fayette
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A championship
Penn-Trafford softball prepares for tough section slate in Class 5A
When new alignments came out, Penn-Trafford softball coach Denny Little looked at who was going to be in the Warriors’ section and came to a quick conclusion.
PIHL playoff capsule: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair
March 17, 2019
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AA Championship
Tshiebwe, Kennedy Catholic use 2nd-half surge to oust Pine-Richland in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2019
For a half, Pine-Richland controlled the pace with a slow down offense and shot well enough from beyond the arc to go into halftime down only five to Class 6A’s No. 1 team, Kennedy Catholic.
PIHL Class AA Penguins Cup semifinals preview capsules
March 12, 2019
Class AA semifinals
Gateway’s Whiteside, Hanisak gain experience at WPIAL championships
March 8, 2019
Gateway coach Ryan Sula saw improvement from Evan Whiteside in every area of his wrestling, but the one thing that stood out the most was the growing confidence in his 113-pound junior.
Plum’s Citrano, Stecik cap season at WPIAL wrestling championships
As a freshman this year, Plum’s Vinny Citrano believed in himself every time he stepped on a mat, and it showed in his results. But before his first match at the WPIAL individual championships Feb. 28, the magnitude of the event set in.
Stewart’s 7 points lead Burrell to PIHL Division II 1st-round victory over Trinity
March 4, 2019
After Tyler Stewart skated around three Trinity players before depositing the puck into the back of the net for his fifth goal of the game midway through the third period, Burrell hockey coach Max Rickard said he looked at one of his assistant coaches and just shook his head.
Chartiers Valley’s McConnells combine for another WPIAL title — this time girls
March 2, 2019
Tim McConnell thought back to eight years ago when he said someone made a comment to him that one day he’d coach his daughter, Megan.
Spirnak lifts No. 5 Elizabeth Forward past upset-minded Quaker Valley in quarterfinals
February 21, 2019
With Quaker Valley pushing Elizabeth Forward to the edge late in the fourth quarter, Bri Spirnak did what she had been doing all game: She stayed tough and found a way to score.
Knoch displays versatility, rolls past South Park in 1st round
February 20, 2019
Knoch has displayed an ability and willingness to get out and run the floor a little more than it has in the past, and that continued in a big way in the playoffs Wednesday night.
TJ’s Galioto, Moon’s Hoff headline WPIAL gymnast champs
February 15, 2019
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.
Westmoreland basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games
Tuesday’s games
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.
Defending WPIAL champion Shady Side Academy girls ready for ‘new journey’
November 23, 2024
After a historic season where the Shady Side Academy girls basketball team won the first WPIAL title in program history, there will be some change, but a solid core returns.
Fox Chapel wrestling expects to show dual meet prowess again
Wrestling often is viewed as an individual sport, and understandably so, because it’s one on one on the mat every match.
Knoch girls look to keep meeting program’s high standards
November 19, 2024
In the last seven years, the Knoch girls basketball program has built itself into a consistent contender.
Knoch boys bring back 5 starters, look to keep building process rolling
At times last season, a young Knoch boys basketball team showed how dangerous it could be.
Thomas Jefferson tops McKeesport for WPIAL Class 4A championship, giving Bill Cherpak 10th title
November 16, 2024
Bill Cherpak has never been one to tout his own stats or accolades and that remained the case after becoming the first WPIAL coach to reach double-digit championships in football on Saturday.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams start fast, win big in WPIAL quarterfinals
Led by stellar performances from juniors Mac Miller and Lawrence “Jay” Timmons, the Pine-Richland football team secured a 42-0 win over Franklin Regional in the WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinals Nov. 8.
Nick McCullough’s 97-yard kick return touchdown sends Peters Township back to WPIAL finals
November 15, 2024
Nick McCullough knew he needed to make amends.
Fox Chapel girls focus on camaraderie in bid to clear playoff hurdle
Several ill-timed injuries over the last two seasons have hindered the Fox Chapel girls basketball team in their pursuit of making the playoffs.
Fox Chapel boys looking for right combination to compete in Class 6A
Last year, Fox Chapel put several different combinations on the court. That has led to six players returning with starting experience this year.
Veteran coach aims to get most out of Deer Lakes girls
November 14, 2024
Dana Petruska feels back at home for a couple of reasons.
2-time defending WPIAL champion Deer Lakes hopes to keep train rolling
Winning consecutive WPIAL championships not only adds to the trophy case at the high school, but it also creates the potential for a self-sustaining foundation.
Mars girls volleyball wins WPIAL rematch with Beaver to reach state finals for 1st time
November 12, 2024
Before the season started, Mars libero Alaina Graham said coach Tamara Caraway told the team they were going to play for the state championship.
Neal brothers carry No. 5 Avonworth to quarterfinal win over No. 4 Beaver
November 8, 2024
Antelopes became Wildcats and then became dominant.
Freeport brings momentum into clash with 2nd-seeded Central Valley
November 6, 2024
Given how many times Freeport and Central Valley have made the WPIAL playoffs in the past decade, it’s fairly surprising that the two teams have never met.
Fox Chapel makes early goals stand up in PIAA boys soccer 1st-round victory
November 5, 2024
With near record temperatures for early November on Tuesday, the Fox Chapel boys soccer team decided to add its own heat to the equation.
Mars takes down No. 1 Beaver to win WPIAL Class 3A girls volleyball title
November 2, 2024
About a month ago, Mars traveled to Beaver for a nonsection match and lost in straight sets, but coach Tamara Caraway said her players left with valuable lessons about their opponent and maybe more importantly themselves.
North Catholic holds on to beat Deer Lakes in 1st round
November 1, 2024
Listed at 5-foot-4, Will Waskiewicz is the smallest player on North Catholic’s roster, but he made the biggest play of the night.
With painful losses in rearview mirror, Plum, Fox Chapel ready to duke it out in WPIAL finals
October 31, 2024
Plum and Fox Chapel have a similar story entering the WPIAL boys soccer championship game.
Mars earns spot in 2nd WPIAL volleyball final with 5-set win over Freeport
October 30, 2024
Before the beginning of the fifth set, the Mars girls volleyball players looked into a packed grandstands and started waving their arms up and down to pump up the crowd.
Fox Chapel boys gets past Peters Township to finally clear semifinal hurdle
October 29, 2024
After four consecutive years of semifinal heartbreak, the Fox Chapel boys soccer team finally exorcised the demon.
Top-seeded Plum boys soccer team headed to 1st WPIAL final in 19 years
For years, Plum boys soccer coach Raf Kolankowski has talked about how the soccer gods haven’t shined on his group in the postseason.
Player of the year Danny Battista, South Park teammates beat Burrell to return to WPIAL finals
October 28, 2024
On Monday afternoon, Danny Battista was named the WPIAL Class 2A boys soccer player of the year, and a few hours later, he helped make sure South Park would defend its title.
Shady Side Academy doubles team finds instant chemistry
October 26, 2024
Brooke Henderson and Alex Merkel met for the first time in the summer when they both joined the Shady Side Academy girls tennis team.
After claiming Northeast Conference title, Pine-Richland turns attention toward WPIAL playoffs
The road to a third consecutive appearance in the WPIAL Class 5A championship started with another conference title for the Pine-Richland football team.
Imani Christian routs Freeport in regular-season finale
October 25, 2024
Using some explosive plays on both offense and defense, Imani Christian cemented an outright Allegheny 7 Conference championship and likely the top seed in the Class 3A playoffs.
Freshman’s goal in final minutes of overtime sends Plum past Moon in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 24, 2024
Keirstin Curry said she couldn’t have hit a better shot.
Freeport volleyball takes care of business vs. Ringgold
October 23, 2024
The Freeport girls volleyball team saw its 19-year run as a section champion come to an end this year, but it quickly turned the page.
Pine-Richland girls hold off Latrobe to win 1st playoff game since 2018
October 21, 2024
It got a little tense at the end, but the Pine-Richland girls soccer team broke a six-year playoff victory drought.
Young roster drives Shady Side Academy boys soccer to another playoff season
October 19, 2024
When the calendar gets to the end of October and the WPIAL playoff brackets are released, it seems every year the Shady Side Academy boys soccer team answers the bell.
New coach, 25, looks to keep Fox Chapel hockey program humming
Seven years ago, Ryan Loebig was a key member of the Plum hockey team that won the 2017 Class 2A Penguins Cup.
Backup QB leads Woodland Hills to win over Franklin Regional, 1st section title since 2009
October 18, 2024
Woodland Hills coach Brian Tarrant had tears in his eyes as he hugged his players and assistant coaches. They were tears of joy, because a vision he had for the program was completed.
St. Joseph volleyball tops Apollo-Ridge, caps historic regular season with unbeaten section record
October 17, 2024
The St. Joseph girls volleyball team already knew it had won its first section championship before taking the floor Thursday night.
Freshman WPIAL champ, improving veteran players form backbone of Shady Side Academy girls golf team
October 12, 2024
There were many proud moments this year for Shady Side Academy girls golf coach Betsy Thompson.
Senior leaders set Shady Side Academy boys golf on right course for big season
It has been a season of success, both individually and as a team, for Shady Side Academy boys golf.
Freeport spoils Highlands homecoming with conference win
October 4, 2024
A few weeks ago, Freeport coach John Gaillot started seeing his defense hit like the team a couple years ago that won a conference championship.
Freeport boys fight through injuries to stay in playoff hunt
October 3, 2024
The phrase “next man up” is used by many teams as a rallying cry, but the Freeport boys soccer team has had to manage more bumps and bruises than most.
Pine-Richland senior finds scoring touch, leads boys soccer team into playoff contention
September 29, 2024
Being a senior, Finn Kichi knew this season at Pine-Richland was his final opportunity to prove what he can do on a soccer field.
Pine-Richland girls golfers celebrate section title after win in finale
Before the season started, Jared Slimm took a picture of the Pine-Richland girls golf banner in the gymnasium and shared it with his players.
Unbeaten Deer Lakes continues historic start with comeback victory over Highlands
September 27, 2024
Deer Lakes keeps making history.
Despite bump up to Class 4A, Plum boys soccer again among title contenders
September 26, 2024
With only three returning starters and a move up from Class 3A to 4A, it was a bit unknown coming into the season how the Plum boys soccer team would adjust.
Mars girls volleyball sweeps stalwart Freeport
September 24, 2024
A program on the rise was up against one of the established favorites in girls volleyball when Mars hosted Freeport on Tuesday night, and the Fightin’ Planets showed they are a force with which to be reckoned.
Shady Side Academy outscores young, penalty-prone Apollo-Ridge
September 21, 2024
A week that started with the coach resigning ended with a victory for the Shady Side Academy football team.
Georgia Rottinghaus carries on family’s championship tradition at Pine-Richland
Georgia Rottinghaus has two older sisters, Molly and Ella, that she looked up to growing up and that included watching them play field hockey.
Pine-Richland notebook: Volleyball team plans annual cancer benefit
The Pine-Richland girls volleyball team will host its annual “Spike Out Cancer” event Oct. 3 during a home match against North Allegheny.
Central Catholic’s Xxavier Thomas puts on a show in win over Hempfield
September 20, 2024
With Penn State football coach James Franklin in attendance, future Nittany Lion Xxavier Thomas showed he can make an impact in every aspect of the game
A-K Valley soccer notebook: Deer Lakes boys pushing for another section title
September 19, 2024
Another year and another opportunity for Deer Lakes boys soccer to win a section title.
Pine-Richland girls tennis thriving without top player
September 15, 2024
It’s been another superb season thus far for Pine-Richland girls tennis, and for the most part, it’s been without the team’s strongest player.
For Pine-Richland’s Emme Kline, hard work pays off with commitment to Cincinnati
Emme Kline has been playing soccer since she was 3 years old, and she’s always wanted to play college soccer, but that dream came into focus in 2020.
Late defensive stand lifts Deer Lakes past Freeport, gives coach win on birthday
September 13, 2024
Deer Lakes football coach Tim Burk got his birthday wish.
Despite young roster, bump up to Class 2A, Burrell boys feel they ‘can play with anybody’
September 12, 2024
Coming off a state quarterfinal appearance in Class A, the Burrell boys soccer team moved to 2A this fall.
Pine-Richland girls volleyball ready to walk tough road to playoffs
September 7, 2024
The road to the playoffs in Section 1-4A girls volleyball has always been tough, but the addition of North Catholic for 2024 has made the group even stronger.
Young linemen, skill players vault Pine-Richland to strong start
The pair of victories the Pine-Richland football team earned to start the season were welcomed results, but it’s the development that has occurred during them that has Jon LeDonne and his coaching staff excited.
Under new coach, Springdale boys in position to add to program’s storied history
September 5, 2024
It wasn’t that long ago that Mario Liberati played for the Springdale boys soccer team.
Pine-Richland notebook: Mac Miller off to fast start as lead runner
September 1, 2024
Mac Miller has been a strong wrestler at Pine-Richland with a 69-17 record in two years, and in his varsity debut as the featured running back on the football team, he showed he can be a force on the gridiron as well.
Experienced roster has Pine-Richland in position for 6th straight WPIAL field hockey title
Pine-Richland’s incredible run in WPIAL field hockey continued last year with a fifth straight Class 3A title.
Valley boys soccer dives back into WPIAL competition
August 30, 2024
Erik Kidwell’s journey to coaching started with trying to sign up his son Hayden for the Valley boys soccer team.
New coach sees potential to reach new heights in Pine-Richland girls soccer
August 25, 2024
After four years at the helm of the Pine-Richland boys soccer program, Jordan Wiegand has decided to pull double duty this fall and coach the Rams’ girls program as well.
Pine-Richland boys counting soccer savvy to get back to playoffs
After reaching the summit of WPIAL Class 4A boys soccer in 2022, Pine-Richland went into its title defense with a much younger group and narrowly missed out on the postseason.
Bethel Park opens season with breezy win vs. Seneca Valley
August 23, 2024
One pick-6 in a quarter is a momentum shifter, but two?
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Deer Lakes opens season with chip on its shoulder
August 21, 2024
It was another strong regular season for the Deer Lakes boys soccer team that concluded with a section title, but its reign as defending WPIAL champs didn’t last as long as they wanted.
Plum’s Darian Nelson offers all-around talent, leadership in senior season
August 19, 2024
At the beginning of Plum’s football practices, Darian Nelson is one of the vocal leaders, counting out with a booming voice while everyone stretches.
Knoch welcomes new quarterback with open arms
August 17, 2024
Colt Sprankle is probably the only current WPIAL quarterback to appear on a nationally televised game show.
Pitt national champion John Falvo gets call from Pine-Richland hall of fame
The announcement for the 2024 Pine-Richland Sports Hall of Fame class was made a few weeks earlier, but John Falvo had no idea he was included.
Senior LB Sean Selinger ready to step up, get Freeport back to playoffs
August 14, 2024
Sean Selinger is a lead-by-example type, which is a trait that runs in the family.
Freeport aims to rebound after missing out on postseason
A young Freeport football team took its lumps last year in a season that ended with a 3-7 record and a rare playoff miss.
Burrell’s roster deep but young in quest for 4th straight playoff bid
In coach Shawn Liotta’s first season at Burrell in 2018, he had 18 players come out for the team.
Burrell’s Steve Hasson battling back from injury to lead Bucs offense
August 11, 2024
As the quarterback in Burrell’s Slot-T offense, Steve Hasson is the conductor.
Knoch hopes to build on breakthrough season
Knoch football experienced a renaissance last season.
Volleyball star, WPIAL championship team headline Pine-Richland hall of fame class
August 10, 2024
Jamel (Nicholas) Debri hasn’t been back to Pine-Richland since she graduated nearly two decades ago, but before going to Notre Dame, she left her imprint on the Rams’ volleyball program.
Pieces in place for another strong season at Pine-Richland
August 7, 2024
Editor’s note: Trib HSSN will publish team-by-team previews for one conference per day until the start of the high school football season Aug. 23.
Plum football again adjusts to new set of conference opponents
The last three realignment cycles have brought change for the Plum football team.
Baseball standout Dale Mollenhauer set to join Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame
August 1, 2024
Dale Mollenhauer lived a childhood dream by playing professional baseball for five years, but before that he helped build the foundation at Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland wrestlers help teach sport to the visually impaired
July 20, 2024
Owen Long loves wrestling and appreciates any opportunity he can to share his passion with others.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams welcome new boys basketball section opponents
July 6, 2024
A new two-year cycle for WPIAL and PIAA sports brings some changes in section opponents for the winter athletics teams at Pine-Richland.
Big summer for Pine-Richland volleyball ace includes Pitt commitment, spot on national team
June 30, 2024
The month of June has been pretty exciting for Isabelle Hoppe.
Kiski Area 3-sport star Eliza Miller 3-peats as Valley News Dispatch girls athlete of the year
June 29, 2024
Reflecting on her time at Kiski Area brought a realization of the rapid pace the high school years went by for Eliza Miller.
Freeport runner Michael Braun named Valley News Dispatch boys athlete of the year
Michael Braun had a couple of major goals he set for his junior year at Freeport.
Springdale’s John Hughes again named Valley News Dispatch Baseball Player of Year
June 22, 2024
John Hughes had a season to remember at Springdale in 2023, winning the WPIAL batting title to go with 78 strikeouts on the mound.
Pine-Richland soccer coach Wiegand doubles up with girls gig
There’s little doubt Jordan Wiegand loves soccer.
Passion for WPIAL basketball leads North Allegheny grad Hailey Zeise to Pine-Richland job
June 16, 2024
Hailey Zeise spent the last year coaching in college at George Washington, but in her heart, she knew high school basketball was where she wanted to be.
Mars boys lacrosse weathers early South Fayette storm, advances to 4th straight state title game
June 11, 2024
South Fayette couldn’t have dreamed of a better start to Tuesday’s PIAA Class 2A boys lacrosse semifinal, but Mars got the ending it wanted.
After solid season, Pine-Richland boys volleyball looks ahead to exciting future
June 9, 2024
Four wins in Section 2-3A might not seem like a lot to those that do not follow WPIAL boys volleyball closely, but for Pine-Richland, it signaled a gigantic leap in the right direction.
Armstrong’s early offensive outburst too much for Latrobe to overcome in PIAA softball playoffs
June 3, 2024
Calise Czekanski brings a boombox to the field so she and her Armstrong softball teammates can listen to music and get pumped up before every game.
Top-seeded Elizabeth Forward flexes muscles in WPIAL Class 4A final win over Hampton
May 30, 2024
There’s been plenty of heartbreak over the last three years, but this time, Shelby Telegdy and the Elizabeth Forward softball team were not going to be denied.
North Catholic surges past Indiana to claim WPIAL Class 4A baseball crown
May 29, 2024
After hitting a one-out triple in the second inning, North Catholic’s Josef Safar flexed his right bicep and pointed at it while staring at his teammates in the dugout.
Pine-Richland grads on both sides of Pitt-Penn State rivalry at ultimate frisbee nationals
May 26, 2024
Eliot and Reid Duncan are brothers who play on the Pitt ultimate frisbee team, where they are joined by former Pine-Richland teammate Aiden Landis.
‘Magic’ Miles Halter lifts Mt. Lebanon to back-to-back WPIAL Class 3A boys lacrosse titles
May 23, 2024
Miles Halter broke his stick in the first quarter, so he had to borrow one from Mt. Lebanon assistant coach Connor Brumfield.
After 3 straight near misses, Mt. Lebanon girls capture WPIAL Class 3A lacrosse crown
Mt. Lebanon girls lacrosse coach Brian Kattan joked he didn’t want his team to become the Buffalo Bills.
Burrell baseball team seeks another playoff upset
May 19, 2024
Being a double-digit seed and winning in the playoffs has become a theme for Burrell this school year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Lacrosse teams pick up playoff wins
The Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team got a step closer to defending its WPIAL Class 3A title with a 17-7 win over Canon-McMillan in the quarterfinals May 15.
Alivia Lantzy hits 600K milestone, helps Avonworth bounce Yough from playoffs
May 16, 2024
Almost every time Avonworth pitcher Alivia Lantzy received the ball from catcher Rylee Gray, she bounced it three or four times before returning to the circle.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse carries momentum into playoffs
May 11, 2024
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Shannen Drennon said her team is firing on all cylinders.
Red-hot Valley learns playoff seed, gets ready for ‘whole new season’
May 10, 2024
Boasting an 11-game winning streak, the Valley baseball team certainly is rolling at the right time.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse bringing ‘toughness and fortitude’ to playoff run
May 4, 2024
The stretch run has arrived for the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team, and it’s something they’ve been waiting for.
Pine-Richland’s Grant Argiro eyes future as college kicker
Grant Argiro has been the kicker on the Pine-Richland football team since he was a sophomore, but he also played junior varsity linebacker.
Fox Chapel, Plum baseball teams meet again with high stakes
May 2, 2024
It is becoming an annual tradition that the Fox Chapel and Plum baseball teams meet in the final section series with something on the line.
Pine-Richland notebook: Baseball team shows mettle with 5 wins in 5 days
April 27, 2024
Five section games in five days?
Pine-Richland softball hoping potent offense leads to playoff berth
With a couple of weeks left in the regular season, the Pine-Richland softball team finds itself in a similar situation to last year.
Youthful lineup delivering for Leechburg baseball team
April 25, 2024
Leechburg baseball coach Heath Shimer never has had a roster with no seniors before this season, but he didn’t change the goals he had for his team.
Pine-Richland baseball makes right adjustments to get off to strong start
April 20, 2024
Peyton Ford said Pine-Richland baseball coach Kurt Wolfe has a consistent message.
After hitting 100 mark, Pine-Richland lacrosse standout looks to next goal
Madeline Mill had a lot of family members in the stands April 9 hoping to see her score the 100th goal of her Pine-Richland girls lacrosse career.
Arrow pointing up for Freeport baseball as team pushes toward playoffs
April 18, 2024
Looking back through the results so far this year, Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr felt his team had a chance to win nearly every game it has played.
Pine-Richland notebook: Weather postponements force teams to compact schedules
April 14, 2024
April showers bring May flowers, but they also bring headaches for local spring sports coaches.
Signature win shows progress being made by Pine-Richland boys volleyball
Going into the season, first-year Pine-Richland boys volleyball coach Tyler Trimbath was confident his team was going to surprise some people after going winless in section play in 2023.
Burrell gets back to fundamental baseball to get back to winning
April 11, 2024
On the heels of his team being swept by Shady Side Academy last week, first-year Burrell coach Jay Miller focused on executing fundamentals in situational baseball with his team.
Championship culture helps Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team reload
April 7, 2024
Some of the faces have changed, but the goal remains the same for the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team.
Quick start could mean special season for Pine-Richland boys lacrosse
The past couple of years, the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team took its lumps early before gaining momentum with late-season winning streaks prior to the playoffs.
Pine-Richland hockey caps special season with 4th state championship
March 31, 2024
Winning a state championship is obviously special on its own, but the way the Pine-Richland hockey team did so will be retold over and over again.
Deep, experienced Pine-Richland baseball roster hunting another section title
The last couple of years, a young core of Pine-Richland baseball players helped contribute to back-to-back section championships.
Deer Lakes’ Billy Schaeffer leads Valley News Dispatch boys basketball all-stars
March 30, 2024
Player of the Year
Experienced Valley baseball team ready to bloom
March 28, 2024
It’s a season that Valley baseball coach Jim Basilone and his players have been building for.
With every starter back, Pine-Richland softball expects good chemistry, big season
March 23, 2024
Vibes are high for the Pine-Richland softball team and for good reason.
Springdale hires Chad Walsh as football coach hoping he can change team’s fortunes
March 22, 2024
Chad Walsh has experience turning around struggling football programs.
Aliquippa tops Fort Cherry to earn another shot at a state title in Hershey
March 19, 2024
Cameron Lindsey doesn’t eat much chocolate, but he sure loves making trips to Hershey.
Tough loss ends special season for Burrell hockey
Burrell’s run in the PIHL Division 2 playoffs ended in heartbreaking fashion Monday night with a 6-5 loss to Neshannock in the championship game at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry, but it wasn’t hard for the Bucs to find highlights from a stellar season.
After wild 3rd period, waved-off goal, Neshannock wins 3rd PIHL D2 title in 4 years
March 18, 2024
Burrell thought it had the potential game-winning goal late in the third period until it was waved off.
Burrell hockey team out to make program history in championship game
March 17, 2024
Burrell finished one spot ahead of Neshannock in the PIHL Division 2 standings, but the Lancers have loads of championship experience.
Timing right for Pine-Richland boys volleyball to take step forward
March 16, 2024
As a young team of freshmen and sophomores, the Pine-Richland boys volleyball team took their lumps last season.
Pine-Richland’s Vaughn Spencer finally slays injury bug to win state wrestling title
The morning of his state championship wrestling match, Vaughn Spencer was sitting in his hotel room, rubbing Icy Hot on his knee.
Expectations remain high for new-look Plum baseball team
It was another banner year in 2023 for the Plum baseball team.
Fervent community support grows for Deer Lakes during playoff run
March 15, 2024
Deer Lakes and Forest Hills both wear green and gold, so Lancers coach Albie Fletcher wasn’t exactly sure what the supporter breakdown was when he first walked into the gym Wednesday night at Armstrong.
Burrell stops rival Deer Lakes, earns date with Neshannock in PIHL Division 2 finals
March 14, 2024
Deer Lakes had a five-on-three power play late in the second period and a chance to get back into the game, but Aidan Petroff was having none of it.
Alle-Kiski Valley baseball preview: Plum reloads for another run
It was another banner year in 2023 for the Plum baseball team.
Billy Schaeffer’s grand night helps Deer Lakes boys down Forest Hills in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2024
Billy Schaeffer has been dreaming of reaching 1,000 points since he began his high school career.
Bethel Park rallies in 2nd half to defeat Fox Chapel, reach PIAA 5A quarterfinals
March 12, 2024
After a half in which his team made five shots and scored 13 points, Bethel Park coach Dante Calabria said he kept his message brief.
Father-son duos bring competitive fire to Deer Lakes basketball
March 11, 2024
When Albie Fletcher got the Deer Lakes boys basketball coaching job two years ago, he asked Todd Rodgers to join his staff.
Pine-Richland notebook: Vaughn Spencer captures 2nd WPIAL wrestling title
March 10, 2024
Vaughn Spencer became a two-time WPIAL wrestling champion in style March 2, at Canon-McMillan.
Pine-Richland hockey finds recipe for success with power play, defense
There wasn’t much separation in PIHL Class 3A with four teams finishing within one point of each other, but Pine-Richland has a couple traits that helped them eke into the top seed in the Penguins Cup playoffs.
Deer Lakes relies on inside game to defeat Mercyhurst Prep in PIAA 1st round
March 9, 2024
In the last couple of seasons, Deer Lakes has won playoff games in a variety of ways, and Saturday they turned to their inside game.
Franklin Regional hits key shots in 4th quarter, takes care of Warwick in PIAA 1st round
March 8, 2024
Fin Hutchison knows his teammates believe in him every time he takes a shot.
Pine-Richland notebook: Realignment puts Rams in conference with Aliquippa
March 3, 2024
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne will face his alma mater, Aliquippa, next fall.
After WPIAL title, Deer Lakes boys set sights on run to state championship
March 2, 2024
The Deer Lakes boys basketball team had three goals at the beginning of the season: win a section title, repeat as WPIAL champs and get back to Hershey for the state finals.
Deer Lakes tops rival Burrell to win 2nd straight WPIAL Class 3A title
March 1, 2024
Billy Schaeffer couldn’t quite put into words what it meant for Deer Lakes to win back-to-back WPIAL boys basketball titles and this time do so against rival Burrell.
Neighborhood rival Burrell aims to dethrone defending champion Deer Lakes in WPIAL final
February 29, 2024
At the beginning of section play, Deer Lakes and Burrell were the top two teams in the Trib HSSN Class 3A boys basketball rankings.
Pine-Richland swimmers hoping for medal haul at WPIAL meet
February 25, 2024
The most exciting time of the year is nearing for local high school swimmers with the WPIAL championships kicking off and Pine-Richland will be well represented.
Pine-Richland girls wrestlers take their place in history with WPIAL medals
As the public address announcer at North Allegheny was reading the names of the winners at the inaugural WPIAL girls wrestling tournament, Pine-Richland junior Tiffany Gathers heard a phrase that put the day in perspective.
Deer Lakes fends off Ellwood City in chaotic final seconds of overtime
February 22, 2024
With a last-second shot, Collin Rodgers kept Deer Lakes’ hopes of defending its WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship alive.
Lincoln Park duo of Brandin Cummings, Meleek Thomas too much for young Knoch
February 21, 2024
Knoch became the latest in a long line of WPIAL basketball opponents the last couple of years to try to stop the titan that is Lincoln Park.
North Hills girls beat Plum to end 45-year playoff win drought
February 20, 2024
Every player who took the floor for North Hills on Tuesday night was playing in her first playoff game.
No. 1 Deer Lakes ramps up defensive pressure, rolls past Sto-Rox in Class 3A 1st round
February 19, 2024
Leading up to Monday’s first-round playoff game, the past week was all about defense for Deer Lakes coach Albie Fletcher.
Deer Lakes aims to contend in PIHL Division 2 playoffs
With a 12-1 win over Trinity on Feb. 8, Deer Lakes officially clinched a spot in the PIHL Division 2 playoffs.
Pine-Richland notebook: Basketball teams set for playoff openers
February 18, 2024
The Pine-Richland boys basketball team needed a tiebreaker, but the Rams will return to the playoffs after a one-year absence.
Pine-Richland celebrates winning 4th WPIAL gymnastics championship
The Pine-Richland gymnastics team brought little green foam fingers with “We’re No. 1” written on them to the WPIAL championships.
After close calls past 2 years, Kiski Area boys seeking elusive playoff victory
February 15, 2024
The bitter disappointment of the heartbreaking first-round loss to North Hills last season is something Isaiah Gonzalez and the rest of his Kiski Area boys basketball teammates have not forgotten.
Championship experience valuable for Pine-Richland swimmer, teammates
February 11, 2024
Sarah Anne Shaffer has been fielding questions from her younger teammates about different aspects of the WPIAL swimming championships.
Playoff-bound Pine-Richland girls embrace underdog role
Heading into the playoffs, the Pine-Richland girls basketball team has embraced an underdog mentality.
Sullivan leads Freeport boys to playoff berth with win over Indiana
February 9, 2024
Brady Sullivan said his favorite spot to shoot from is the right wing but admitted he likes to put up shots from everywhere.
A-K Valley boys basketball teams heading for thrilling conclusion on season’s final Friday
February 8, 2024
The final night of WPIAL boys basketball section play could provide a wide array of outcomes for Alle-Kiski Valley teams.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams wrestlers earn postseason win
February 4, 2024
Mac Miller and Vaughn Spencer took the final two bouts as Pine-Richland wrestling rallied to win its first playoff dual meet since 2020 with a 38-35 win over Hempfield in a WPIAL Class 3A preliminary round match Jan. 29.
Knoch withstands test in victory against Indiana
February 2, 2024
On this Groundhog Day, the Knoch boys basketball team was looking to avoid a repeat of last Friday, when it was upset at home by Freeport.
Improvement during season’s 2nd half has Freeport in playoff hunt in Section 1-4A
February 1, 2024
When reading through the local boys basketball results last weekend, seeing Freeport 61, Knoch 55 might have been a surprise to some.
Serra Catholic staves off Springdale comeback bid to score key section win
January 30, 2024
The Donald McGhee Fieldhouse was rocking late as the Springdale boys basketball team was attempting a dramatic comeback from down double digits in the fourth quarter.
Pine-Richland’s Dom Ferraro, Vaughn Spencer claim county titles, look forward to postseason
January 27, 2024
For Dom Ferraro, the Allegheny County wrestling tournament was about getting over the hump.
Pine-Richland’s James Cardinali to play football at Navy
As a junior, James Cardinali was a 210-pound lineman on the Pine-Richland junior varsity football team who seemed like a longshot to play in college.
Peter Kramer hits winner as Hampton holds off Highlands in OT
January 26, 2024
Highlands gave Hampton its best shot, but it was Peter Kramer who landed the final blow.
Highlands’ Bradyn Foster rises to occasion for boys basketball team
January 25, 2024
Bradyn Foster has heard some trash talk on the court this season, but he welcomes it.
Deer Lakes squeaks past upset-minded Derry
January 23, 2024
It wasn’t exactly the way Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Albie Fletcher drew it up, but down a pair of players from the starting lineup, he’ll certainly take it.
Burrell hockey team buzzing in 2nd half of PIHL season
January 22, 2024
Aidan Petroff said the Burrell hockey team came out buzzing when the Bucs faced Deer Lakes on Jan. 11.
Shady Side Academy boys take section showdown with Burrell
January 20, 2024
All Saturday afternoon the intensity was palpable between the Shady Side Academy and Burrell boys basketball teams, and it nearly boiled over after the buzzer.
Rupert siblings maintain family’s swimming tradition at Pine-Richland
There are five siblings in the Rupert family, and each one shares a connection that goes beyond growing up in the same household.
Pine-Richland notebook: Madison Zavasky hits 1,000-point mark
Madison Zavasky joined elite company Jan. 8, becoming just the fourth player in Pine-Richland girls basketball history to reach 1,000 points.
Short-handed Deer Lakes boys down Shady Side, stay perfect in section
January 17, 2024
Nathaniel Moore found out Tuesday night he’d be in the starting lineup for the first time this season.
Finucan brothers lead Knoch to overtime win over Highlands
January 16, 2024
Zarian Finucan sat on the bench and watched his younger brother, Teegan, hit shot after shot Tuesday night.
Pine-Richland competitive spirit team continues tradition of WPIAL success
January 14, 2024
It was another successful trip to the WPIAL meet for the Pine-Richland competitive spirit team.
Pine-Richland sends 4 to PIHL All-Star game
Zach Howard often picks up Cullen Campbell and drives him to Pine-Richland hockey practices and games.
Supporting cast comes up big for Highlands girls in win over Greensburg Salem
January 11, 2024
The majority of Highlands girls basketball’s opponents have focused their attention defensively on Kate Myers.
With young lineup stacking wins, Knoch boys ready to face season’s toughest tests
Alan Bauman and his coaching staff at Knoch knew they had the talent.
Pine-Richland notebook: Ryan Cory officially joins long list of Rams linemen in D-I football
January 6, 2024
Ryan Cory officially signed his letter of intent with Wisconsin on Dec. 20, becoming the latest NCAA Division I offensive line prospect to come out of Pine-Richland.
Former Pine-Richland girls soccer coach breaks new ground with Pa. hall of fame induction
In 1998, Jodi Chmielewski was one of only a few women in Western Pennsylvania coaching high school soccer and over two decades later, she’s still making history.
No. 1 Deer Lakes boys frustrate No. 2 Burrell as all 5 Bucs starters foul out
January 5, 2024
All week, Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Albie Fletcher used the phrase “up tempo” when preparing his players for their matchup with Burrell.
Shady Side Academy’s pressure defense too much for Burrell girls
January 4, 2024
Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke said her team is at its best when it plays good defense and turns that into offense.
Rivalry matchup between Deer Lakes, Burrell to test Class 3A’s top-ranked teams
Burrell and Deer Lakes are separated by 12 miles. They are even closer in the Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings.
Springdale boys riding high at 7-1, but Dynamos more concerned with strong finish
December 28, 2023
With two wins this weekend at the Aquinas Academy holiday tournament, the Springdale boys basketball team can equal its win total from last season at nine before ringing in the new year.
Kiski Area boys basketball team proving it will be force when section play starts
December 21, 2023
Corey Smith always has believed in making the nonsection schedule as difficult as possible, and that’s what he has done at Kiski Area.
Enthusiasm sky high for Pine-Richland girls wrestling team
December 17, 2023
For Tommy Campanella and Ellisyn Mularski, watching the Pine-Richland girls wrestling team make their debut at the Butler tournament Dec. 9 invoked some emotion and pride.
Defending WPIAL champ leads way for Pine-Richland swim teams
Pine-Richland swimming coach Pete Barry can see the fire inside Sarah Anne Shaffer.
Burrell boys ride wave of confidence into section schedule
December 14, 2023
For the current, senior-laden group of Burrell boys basketball players, this is the last ride.
Butler’s Drew Griffith tops Ringgold’s Ryan Pajak to win cross country national championship
December 9, 2023
Drew Griffith is a multi-time WPIAL and state champion and the Pennsylvania cross country record holder for fastest time, but even with all of those accolades, he still has times when he doubts himself.
Pine-Richland grad catches on as receiver at Albany
Levi Wentz has found his home in more ways than one.
Defending WPIAL champ highlights talented lineup for Pine-Richland wrestling
Vaughn Spencer went undefeated through the first 28 matches of his varsity career until an injury derailed his shot at his first state title last year.
Madison Zavasky, Cate Gentile return to lead Pine-Richland girls in quest for playoff success
December 2, 2023
Positive progress was the theme for Pine-Richland girls basketball in Gabby Baldasare’s first season as coach.
Pine-Richland boys hoping to sneak up on Class 6A competition
The Pine-Richland boys basketball team is in a position to surprise some people, and it’s an opportunity that’s being embraced.
Burrell’s Cooper Hornack sets championship goals for senior season
November 29, 2023
There’s a fresh, new banner in the Burrell gymnasium for Cooper Hornack’s state championship last year.
Plum wrestling team trying to build off breakthrough season
November 28, 2023
It was a banner year for Plum wrestling, literally.
With top line clicking, Pine-Richland hockey gets off to strong start
November 26, 2023
There’s a lot to like about Pine-Richland hockey’s start to the season.
Springdale’s Billy Lawrence wins Valley News Dispatch boys soccer player of year honors
November 25, 2023
Player of the year
Riverview boys put focus on winning close games in Section 3-2A
November 24, 2023
Riverview boys basketball’s fortunes came down to a few possessions last year.
Bolstered by soccer team’s success, Riverview girls basketball team has high expectations
One day after playing in a state championship, several members of the Riverview girls soccer team showed up to basketball practice.
After dramatic turnaround last season, Leechburg girls plan to keep climbing
November 22, 2023
If the WPIAL gave out a most improved award, the Leechburg girls basketball team might have won it last year.
Leechburg boys prepare for season of change with new coach, new-look roster
There is a lot of newness around the Leechburg boys basketball team.
Highlands boys basketball well stocked for another run
November 19, 2023
The Highlands boys basketball program has been among the elite programs in whatever classification it’s been in 10 years, and the expectation is to be a force again among an elite Class 4A crop.
Highlands girls basketball team looks to build off trip to state playoffs
It was quite the season for Highlands girls basketball last year.
Pine-Richland notebook: 6 Rams make college choices official
A half dozen Pine-Richland athletes made their college choices official during the early national signing day Nov. 8.
Freeport boys establishing culture under new coach after losing 10 seniors
November 18, 2023
Rich Macura basically has been involved with Freeport basketball his entire life.
Experienced Freeport girls rally around new coach Mallory Ketterer
It’s been a year of positive transition for Mallory Ketterer.
QB Matt Sieg comes up big in 4th quarter as Fort Cherry beats Bishop Canevin
November 17, 2023
Matt Sieg stood on the field after the game with friends, family and Fort Cherry fans asking him to take a picture with them.
Moon scores in final minutes to slip past Mars in PIAA battle of WPIAL girls soccer titans
November 14, 2023
On a night where, not surprisingly, a tight defensive battle raged on, Sydney Felton found her moment to make an impact.
Plan comes together for Pine-Richland sophomore in cross country postseason
November 12, 2023
Lucas Thompson left last year’s WPIAL cross country meet with the mindset that he was going to qualify for states in 2023.
Bentworth drops Burrell in playoffs for 2nd time this season
November 11, 2023
Burrell found itself in the same position Saturday as it was 12 days ago against Bentworth.
Riverview girls advance to 1st PIAA semifinal after another win over rival Springdale
In Lola Abraham’s freshman year at Riverview, there weren’t enough girls to field a soccer team, and in her sophomore and junior years, the team didn’t get a win against neighboring rival Springdale.
Clairton rights ship in 2nd half of win vs. Union
November 10, 2023
Clairton went to the locker room down a touchdown at halftime, but Wayne Wade thought his team was controlling the game.
Burrell eager for another crack at WPIAL champion Bentworth in state playoffs
With a trip to Highmark Stadium for the WPIAL championship on the line last week, Burrell and Bentworth put on an entertaining match that the Bearcats won 2-1 in overtime.
Fox Chapel’s girls soccer playoff run continues with PIAA 1st-round win
November 7, 2023
Two weeks ago, the Fox Chapel girls soccer team was the sixth seed in the WPIAL bracket.
Pine-Richland notebook: Dominant run continues for field hockey team
November 5, 2023
Led by a pair of goals by Jessica Albertson, Pine-Richland field hockey advanced to another Class 3A field hockey championship with a 3-0 win over North Allegheny in the Class 3A semifinals Oct. 28.
Beaver again thwarts Freeport’s bid for WPIAL volleyball 3-peat
November 4, 2023
The last time Freeport had a chance for three girls volleyball titles in a row was in 2017 and Beaver ended up thwarting that attempt.
South Park dispatches Knoch in WPIAL 1st round
November 3, 2023
South Park came to Saxonburg Friday night with a clear objective to run the ball and got a special performance from running back Eric Doerue.
Chance at WPIAL 3-peat gives Freeport girls volleyball team new goal
November 2, 2023
With as dominant as Freeport volleyball has been in recent years, including seven titles since 2010, it may be hard to find areas to make history.
North Allegheny answers challenge from Pine-Richland, rolls into WPIAL volleyball finals
November 1, 2023
Pine-Richland gave North Allegheny a stern test in the second set of Wednesday’s WPIAL Class 4A girls volleyball semifinal and the Tigers responded like six-time defending state champions.
Freeport girls sweep past Avonworth into WPIAL Class 2A volleyball title game
October 31, 2023
There weren’t any tricks needed for the Freeport girls volleyball team on this Halloween night.
Bentworth nets OT winner to beat Burrell, reach WPIAL finals for 1st time
October 30, 2023
Burrell threw everything it had at Bentworth in the final 15 minutes of regulation and Luke Postupack delivered a tying goal.
After sluggish start, Pine-Richland found grove to make playoff push
October 29, 2023
It’s important for coaches to have the pulse of their team, and Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman could sense something wasn’t quite right.
New gym worth wait for Pine-Richland athletes
Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman kept hearing that it would be worth the wait as her team waited for their opportunity to play in its newly renovated gym.
South Park scores 5 unanswered goals to top Freeport in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 28, 2023
What started out as a chance for Freeport to increase its lead turned into the spark South Park needed to catch fire.
Montour knocks off unbeaten Plum to earn spot in WPIAL semifinals
October 26, 2023
Montour was the only team that didn’t lose to Plum in the regular season.
Rare call helps South Fayette boys upset Plum in boys soccer playoffs
October 25, 2023
It was one of the rarer calls rarely seen in a soccer match.
Montour girls finally solve Franklin Regional with seconds left in overtime
October 23, 2023
Between overtimes, Montour girls soccer coach Alex Hobbs told his players to imagine the moment they would be celebrating.
Pine-Richland notebook: Basketball standout Madison Zavasky picks IUP
October 22, 2023
Pine-Richland standout basketball player Madison Zavasky has made her college decision.
Pine-Richland grad jumps into Slippery Rock starting lineup as freshman
Slippery Rock football coach Shawn Lutz has seen the landscape of college recruiting change over the last few years with the transfer portal and NIL becoming prominent parts of the process.
East Allegheny blocks extra-point attempt in OT, edges Knoch to clinch conference title
October 20, 2023
East Allegheny football coach Dom Pecora admitted he wasn’t sure it would ever happen.
Burrell boys soccer ready for shot at playoff redemption
October 19, 2023
The Burrell boys soccer team has had to wait a full year for a chance to erase the sting of last year’s first-round playoff loss at home.
Deer Lakes hockey aims to take next step after reaching PIHL semifinals
October 16, 2023
The excitement in Deer Lakes hockey coach Jonathan Merlo’s voice for the upcoming season was easy to discern.
Pine-Richland girls cross country looks to return to states … and bring the boys team along this time
October 15, 2023
Every year, the Pine-Richland cross country teams ramp up to be in peak condition for the WPIAL championships.
Buzzatto runs for 400 yards, but Leechburg tops Riverview
October 14, 2023
It was a sight Sebastian Mason and the Leechburg defense had seen all afternoon.
East Allegheny holds off Deer Lakes in 2nd half to preserve 17-13 win
October 13, 2023
Dom Pecora said when you turn on the film to watch his East Allegheny football team, it won’t be the prettiest footage, but it will show toughness.
Knoch boys soccer hopes to create another memory in postseason
October 12, 2023
At Knoch boys soccer’s senior night Tuesday, a popular choice for most memorable moment was the most recent one.
Pine-Richland hockey heads into season with soaring confidence after tournament win
October 8, 2023
Coach Jordan Yoklic enters his team in the St. Margaret’s tournament every year because it gives Pine-Richland an opportunity to play some good competition in the preseason.
Pine-Richland junior finishes WPIAL tournament strong to qualify for states
Walking to the 18th tee box, Will Hilton knew he was in position to qualify for the state tournament and some nerves started to set in.
Michael Cahill, Brennen Rutledge combine to lead East Allegheny over Freeport
October 6, 2023
Michael Cahill threw high-arching spirals, and Brennen Rutledge was there to make over-the-shoulder catches.
Pine-Richland notebook: Jon LeDonne gets call to Robert Morris Athletic Hall of Fame
September 30, 2023
Before Jon LeDonne became a two-time state champion high school football coach, he had quite a playing career at Robert Morris.
Pine-Richland freshman powers through postseason to earn spot at states
When asked what traits a tennis player needs, Caroline Prisk gave a detailed answer and never mentioned anything about hitting a ball.
Knoch finds winning formula in conference victory over Deer Lakes
September 29, 2023
Sometimes when things are working, there isn’t a need to change anything.
Plum’s Aldi Flowers chasing professional dream with FC Cincinnati development academy
September 28, 2023
Aldi Flowers’ story is a case study in a phrase that has been told to young athletes over and over again.
Pine-Richland boys soccer ramps up defense, gets back in playoff chase
September 23, 2023
In the last couple weeks, the Pine-Richland boys soccer team put itself back into the conversation for a playoff spot with three consecutive shutouts.
Pine-Richland’s Ethan Pillar picks up where he left off for PIAA champions
Ethan Pillar is a lifelong Cleveland Browns fan, which he knows isn’t a normal occurrence for someone living in the Pittsburgh area.
Wild play lifts Highlands to victory over Indiana
September 22, 2023
It was a play that came from utter desperation and ended in jubilation.
Tight-knit Burrell boys soccer team embracing big moments
September 21, 2023
Andrew Kariotis has the smallest roster in his time coaching Burrell boys soccer, but his group is proving they have quality over quantity.
Freshman’s smashing debut sparks Pine-Richland tennis team
September 17, 2023
The Pine-Richland girls tennis team is in position for a 22nd consecutive playoff berth, and there’s a freshman that’s leading the charge.
Pine-Richland senior recovers from injury, rekindles passion for field hockey
Most athletes love the sport they play, but Khushi Saini’s connection with field hockey is special.
Strong sophomore class acing every test so far for Deer Lakes boys soccer
September 14, 2023
Anyone who followed Deer Lakes’ run to the WPIAL Class 2A boys soccer championship last season knew the future of the program was bright.
Pine-Richland notebook: Former Rams make mark on college gridiron
September 10, 2023
Phil Jurkovec took the headlines earlier this month by coming back to his hometown and making his debut as the Pitt quarterback, but there were plenty of other former Pine-Richland football players who suited up around the country.
Devin Beattie’s big game helps Burrell beat Valley for 300th win in program history
September 8, 2023
Burrell’s Devin Beattie wasn’t going to miss his final chance to play Valley.
Puzzle pieces fit as Springdale boys soccer gets off to strong start
September 7, 2023
The biggest unknown for the Springdale boys soccer team coming into the season was how quickly a fairly inexperienced midfield and forward group would jell.
Repeat bid begins for WPIAL champion Pine-Richland girls volleyball
September 3, 2023
Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman told the Rams they should be happy and proud of themselves for winning the WPIAL championship last year, but now they need to move forward.
Drive for 5 underway for Pine-Richland field hockey
The drive for five is on for Pine-Richland field hockey.
Freeport jumps out of gate in rout of South Allegheny
September 1, 2023
Freeport coach John Gaillot wasn’t going to kick to South Allegheny standout Cameron Epps under any circumstances.
New coach takes over Pine-Richland girls soccer team with young, talented roster
August 27, 2023
Alessandro Moreira knows the Pine-Richland/North Allegheny rivalry quite well.
Defending WPIAL boys soccer champion Pine-Richland ready for challenges ahead
For the first time, Pine-Richland boys soccer will go into a season with the distinction of being defending WPIAL champions.
Highlands football recovers to rout Ambridge in opener
August 25, 2023
The second quarter of Friday’s season opener against Ambridge didn’t go quite as planned for Highlands.
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: Deer Lakes planning encore after ‘special year’
August 24, 2023
The most successful boys sports year in Deer Lakes history began with the boys soccer team’s run to its second WPIAL title in three years last fall.
Valley playmaker Darnell Coaston grows into leadership role
Darnell Coaston proudly wears blue and white Penn State receiver gloves during Valley football practices.
South Side ready to take next step toward championship berth
August 21, 2023
One win separated South Side from the chance to play at Acrisure Stadium for a WPIAL championship.
Plum quarterback Franzi will benefit from having most of last season’s offense back
Plum coach Matt Morgan called Sean Franzi one of most underrated players in the WPIAL.
Leechburg aims to maintain new standard of success
August 20, 2023
The last two years of Leechburg football have been the program’s best in four decades.
Junior QB Floyd ready to take up leadership role for Leechburg football team
Behind one of the end zones of Leechburg’s Veterans Memorial Field sits a garage with a gigantic Blue Devil logo painted on it.
Top scorer on soccer field, hockey rink takes place in Pine-Richland hall of fame
August 19, 2023
Matt Crummy was an all-around athlete in his high school days at Pine-Richland. He was also an all-terrain athlete.
Record-holder Codi Mullen seeks more yardage, team success for Knoch
Codi Mullen has a unique opportunity this fall.
Valley puts focus on a ‘winning mentality’
August 15, 2023
At the first meeting new Valley football coach Mark Adams had with his team, the theme of his message was change.
Near-misses have Knoch optimistic for 2nd year in Allegheny 6
Last year, Knoch football had one win, but essentially was one point away from qualifying for the playoffs.
Cadin Olsen era over, but Armstrong’s next chapter looks promising
August 12, 2023
Armstrong has had some standout athletes come through the program since its inception in 2015, including Zane Dudek and Dawson Porter, and the graduation of Cadin Olsen leaves another huge void to fill.
New Pine-Richland hall of famer Bill Colpo shined on mat, gridiron in late ’60s
Bill Colpo was on a golf course in Idaho when he got a call that he’d be part of the 2023 Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame class.
Armed with championship lessons, Pine-Richland ready for another run
August 10, 2023
It was a storybook ending for Pine-Richland football in Jon LeDonne’s first year at the helm.
Plum carries experienced roster into 2nd season in Class 5A Big East Conference
August 9, 2023
Plum had one of the youngest teams in Class 5A last season with only a handful of seniors, but showed plenty of promise.
WPIAL champion Richland QB earns posthumous Hall of Fame induction
July 15, 2023
Keith Buterbaugh can still remember running routes in the backyard while his brother Mike threw him the ball.
Hall of Fame induction ‘means a lot’ to Pine-Richland swimming standout
July 8, 2023
Kristen Murslack kept a busy schedule in her high school years at Pine-Richland.
Former pro player in Florida takes over Leechburg boys soccer program
July 6, 2023
Justin Grubb recently moved back to Western Pennsylvania after wrapping up a five-year career playing professional soccer in Florida.
5 athletes, 1960 football team selected for Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame’s Class of ’23
July 2, 2023
The Pine-Richland Athletic Hall of Fame announced its 2023 class last week.
Leechburg alum Andrew McDermott takes over as boys basketball coach at alma mater
June 30, 2023
Andrew McDermott has had plenty of coaching influences in his life.
Kiski Area QB Heinle reaps benefits of Manning Passing Academy
June 28, 2023
Kiski Area quarterback Carson Heinle has heard “good ball” before when he has thrown a pass.
Pine-Richland notebook: Former Rams golfer contends at West Penn Open
June 25, 2023
Mike Van Sickle was in contention for the win at the 120th WPGA Open Championship but settled for a third-place finish.
Springdale’s John Hughes earns Valley News Dispatch Baseball Player of Year award
June 24, 2023
John Hughes produced some eye-popping statistics this spring.
Pine-Richland teams filled trophy case during memorable 2022-23 school year
June 18, 2023
What a year it was for Pine-Richland athletics. Five Rams teams won WPIAL championships, the football team returned to state champion glory, and there were several individuals that won district and state championships.
Seniors play key role in Pine-Richland girls lacrosse’s return to championship form
The Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team received a pretty tough draw in the Class 3A state quarterfinals.
After building Leechburg boys soccer program, coach moves on to Freeport
June 17, 2023
Brad Walker admitted it was difficult to part with a Leechburg boys soccer program he had built from the ground up, but, at the same time, he is excited for a new opportunity.
Riverside stays unbeaten, reaches PIAA baseball finals
June 12, 2023
Riverside baseball coach Dan Oliastro said his group has been a “big-inning team” all year, and he was hoping they could do it one more time.
By working together, Pine-Richland girls lacrosse earns state playoff win
June 11, 2023
Throughout the season, first-year Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Shannen Drennon said the team is at its best when it is creating assisted goals.
Pine-Richland grad finds immediate success as self-taught bodybuilder
Garrett Krieger entered his first bodybuilding competition over Memorial Day weekend and going into it, he didn’t know what to expect.
Pine-Richland notebook: Heavyweight wrestler among Rams signing with colleges
June 4, 2023
Five Pine-Richland senior athletes made their college choices official during the May national signing day.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams collect WPIAL track medals
May 27, 2023
Pine-Richland athletes earned medals in 17 events at the WPIAL Class 3A track and field championships May 17, at Slippery Rock.
Surging Mt. Lebanon tops Pine-Richland behind gutsy shutout from Matt Delvaux
May 23, 2023
The first week of the season, Matt Delvaux injured his hamstring while playing shortstop for Mt. Lebanon, an injury that sidelined him in the field for the year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Spring sports teams win playoff openers
May 21, 2023
It was a successful first week of the postseason for the Pine-Richland spring sports teams.
Fox Chapel baseball breaks through with playoff win over Mars
May 17, 2023
The Fox Chapel baseball team has been close in recent years, and after six seasons a breakthrough in the WPIAL postseason happened Wednesday night.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams top podium on home track
May 14, 2023
With its spot on the calendar fairly close to the WPIAL individual track and field championships, the Pine-Richland Invitational serves as a good tune-up for the biggest events of the season.
Rally against rival keyed Pine-Richland baseball’s section title defense
Pine-Richland baseball successfully defended its section crown by taking two out of three in a series with North Allegheny.
Leechburg rewarded for strong season, gets Class A’s No. 3 seed in WPIAL baseball playoffs
May 12, 2023
In the regular season Leechburg was the lone Class A team to push two-time defending champion Union to the limit.
Lexie Hames dominates as Seneca Valley beats Hempfield for section title, top seed
May 11, 2023
Seneca Valley softball coach Marleese Hames said she sometimes has to remind herself that her daughter, standout pitcher Lexie Hames, is only a sophomore.
Burrell softball strolls to section rout of Freeport
May 6, 2023
The last couple senior days hadn’t gone as planned for the Burrell softball team, so it wanted to change that trend Saturday.
High-octane offense carries Pine-Richland girls lacrosse to section title
With an 18-0 win over Freeport on May 1, the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team secured its first section title since 2018.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse building toward playoff run
The Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team’s season has paralleled last year as far as results go.
Freeport baseball takes series vs. East Allegheny seriously
May 4, 2023
Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr said he and his team are looking at Monday’s series opener with East Allegheny like an MLB team would treat Game 6 in a playoff series.
West Mifflin softball freezes out Highlands
May 1, 2023
West Mifflin and Highlands faced off Monday in a key Section 1-4A softball game, but there was an extra opponent each team had to navigate.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Doubles teams make run to WPIAL tournament
April 30, 2023
Both of Pine-Richland’s boys tennis doubles teams qualified for the WPIAL tournament April 25-26, and they even crossed paths along the way.
Pine-Richland baseball embraces the grind, thrives in tight games
The Pine-Richland baseball team doesn’t mind playing in tight games.
Plum baseball gearing up for season’s defining stretch
April 27, 2023
The Plum baseball team has everything right in front of it.
Now recovered from knee injury, Louisville recruit Gianna Rotelli ready to finish Pine-Richland career strong
April 23, 2023
Gianna Rotelli was excited going into her junior season, because she was the top ranked javelin thrower in the WPIAL after a second-place finish as a sophomore, but she never got the opportunity to showcase her talent.
6-foot-6 freshman sparks Pine-Richland boys volleyball
Doolin Stober has a unique name and an equally distinct skill set on the volleyball court.
Bats lead the way in Pine-Richland softball’s playoff quest
April 16, 2023
As the halfway point of a 16-game Section 1-6A slate neared, the Pine-Richland softball team put itself in the mix for a top-six section finish and a spot in the playoffs.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Pine native Ty Voit lighting it up in Ontario Hockey League
Pine native Ty Voit has gained a reputation as the best passer in the Ontario Hockey League, tallying a league-leading 81 assists in 56 regular season games.
Leechburg baseball team making presence felt loud and clear
April 13, 2023
Leechburg baseball coach Heath Shimer looked at his roster coming into the season and knew the potential was there for success.
Pine-Richland track sets sights on WPIAL team playoffs
April 9, 2023
The Pine-Richland track teams have accomplished plenty of goals over the last few years, but one thing they’ve been chasing is a berth in the WPIAL team playoffs.
With new team-first focus, Pine-Richland girls lacrosse off to strong start
Shannen Drennon’s first goal after moving from an assistant to varsity head coach of the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team this season was to create a team-centric environment.
With strong 1-2 punch at top of rotation, Kiski Area baseball gets off to solid start
April 6, 2023
First-year Kiski Area baseball coach Michael Manning’s initial impression of his players was they were ready and willing to learn.
Roster filled with freshman, sophomores show promise for Pine-Richland volleyball
April 2, 2023
Youth will be serving for the Pine-Richland boys volleyball team this spring.
Lessons learned last season have Pine-Richland boys lacrosse poised for success
It took a bit for the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team to achieve results last year, but once the Rams got going, they went on a heater before ultimately falling in the first round of the playoffs to Penn-Trafford.
Valley News Dispatch boys basketball all-stars: Deer Lakes’ Bryce Robson strikes gold
April 1, 2023
Here are the 2022-23 Valley News Dispatch boys basketball all-stars:
Freeport baseball team returns to winning ways
March 30, 2023
Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr sensed this could be the year the program bounced back.
Kiski Area senior Anders Bordoy joins Pittsburgh Riverhounds for on-the-job training
March 27, 2023
In 2015, Anders Bordoy served as a ball boy on the sidelines of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds’ US Open Cup match with DC United.
Freeport girls coach goes out with a win as West sweeps East at Cager Classic
March 25, 2023
Melaina DeZort’s favorite spot on the basketball court to shoot is the corners.
New-look Pine-Richland softball team looking to put it all together
Pine-Richland softball coach Sam Hartzberg was looking out at the field during Monday’s season opener against Chartiers Valley and it hit him how different the team looks this season.
After ‘magical year,’ Pine-Richland baseball embraces ramped-up expectations
When Pine-Richland baseball coach Kurt Wolfe reminisced about the 2022 season and earning a share of the Section 1-6A title, what stood out to him most was how the team did it.
26th Cager Classic gives players fun, no-pressure atmosphere for high school finales
March 22, 2023
Butler girls basketball coach Mark Maier got a taste of the Cager Classic when his oldest daughter, Makenna, played in the event last year.
Blackhawk avenges WPIAL finals loss, upends North Catholic to reach state title game
March 21, 2023
Kassie Potts is listed at 5-foot-4 on the Blackhawk roster, but Cougars coach Steve Lodovico said she plays with the heart of a 7-footer.
Deer Lakes boys basketball ready for hot-shooting PIAA foe
March 20, 2023
Following Saturday’s quarterfinal win over Neshannock, Deer Lakes boys basketball coach Albie Fletcher got in his car and drove to Armstrong to scout the two potential opponents in the semifinals.
Soilis enjoyed run as coach of Freeport girls basketball team
March 19, 2023
When Fred Soilis first was approached about becoming the Freeport girls basketball coach, he wasn’t sure if he would apply for the job.
Deer Lakes boys reach first state semifinal after comeback win vs. Neshannock
March 18, 2023
All season, the Deer Lakes boys basketball team has prided itself on how deep its bench is.
Top scorer carries Ringgold into PIHL Division 2 finals matchup with Bishop Canevin
March 16, 2023
There were times in the regular season where it seemed like Ringgold forward Kenneth Cadwallader was scoring goals for fun.
Knoch girls keep Blackhawk offense in check, but Cougars prevail in PIAA 2nd round
March 15, 2023
For three quarters Knoch scrapped, clawed and hounded Blackhawk on defense while making enough shots to keep a lead.
Hard work pays off in WPIAL gold for Pine-Richland swimmer
March 12, 2023
Sarah Anne Shaffer realized a dream at the WPIAL swim meet when she crossed the finish line first at Pitt’s Trees Pool to win her first individual title.
From Sidney Crosby’s youth program to PIHL playoffs, Peacocks make Pine-Richland proud
Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has had a major impact on many youth hockey players in Western Pennsylvania and a couple of good examples are Pine-Richland seniors Ryan and Shawn Peacock.
Armstrong puts pedal down on Hempfield to reach PIHL Class 2A semifinals
March 7, 2023
There were a few major upsets during the first night of the PIHL Penguins Cup quarterfinals Monday, but Armstrong made sure early on it wouldn’t be the next victim.
Season-ending win, young roster leave Pine-Richland boys hopeful about future
March 5, 2023
It wasn’t the season that the Pine-Richland boys basketball team hoped for, but it did end on a high note.
In battle of defending champs, North Catholic tops Blackhawk for 22nd WPIAL title
March 4, 2023
Dacia Lewandowski said she and her North Catholic girls basketball teammates ask themselves “What’s their why?” going into every game.
Deer Lakes boys look for repeat performance against powerful OLSH in Class 3A final
March 2, 2023
Right before Christmas, Deer Lakes ended the longest winning streak in Pennsylvania boys basketball history at 74 when it traveled to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and won 70-55.
Blackhawk steps up, drops rival Quaker Valley to return to WPIAL championship game
February 28, 2023
The last time Blackhawk played Quaker Valley, Quinn Borroni went off for 23 points, so with her out for the season due to injury, everyone else knew they had to step up if they were going to beat their rivals for a third time Tuesday night.
‘Power 5 guys’ help Lincoln Park boys race past Highlands and into Class 4A title game
February 27, 2023
Meleek Thomas is rated by several scouting services as one of the top sophomore boys basketball players in the country.
Early-season opponents Highlands, Deer Lakes boys now face same task of toppling No. 1s
February 26, 2023
Highlands and Deer Lakes met the first weekend of the 2022-23 season, and though the Golden Rams ended up pulling away for an 88-74 victory, the final score wasn’t indicative of how tight the game was.
Pine-Richland notebook: Heckert, Kerns picked for Big 33
Pine-Richland seniors Max Heckert and Isaiah Kerns will get one last game on the football field together and take part in a prestigious event.
Avonworth knocks off top-seeded Shady Side Academy to reach Class 3A finals
February 25, 2023
Greta O’Brien has had dreams of playing at the Petersen Events Center since watching her older sister Olivia play there with Vincentian in 2018.
Highlands dominates Elizabeth Forward in Class 4A first round
February 20, 2023
The WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball playoffs are chock-full of contenders, and Highlands showed why it is one of them in its first-round game Monday night.
Pine-Richland sophomore makes name for herself at WPIAL gymnastics meet
February 19, 2023
Annamaria Samuels has a unique first name and sometimes it’s accidentally misspelled, which was the case on the WPIAL championship results sheet.
Breakout regular season leads Pine-Richland girls into playoff matchup with rival North Allegheny
The first two meetings with North Allegheny provided lessons for the Pine-Richland girls basketball team.
North Hills fends off first-round challenge from Kiski Area
February 17, 2023
Kiski Area’s valiant effort to pull a major upset ultimately fell short Friday night at North Hills.
Freeport boys ready for tall task vs. No. 2 Laurel Highlands
February 16, 2023
On their senior spotlight questionnaire, most of the Freeport basketball seniors said their favorite moment in their career was going to Uniontown last year and earning a playoff win.
After slow start, Pine-Richland hockey team rights ship, roars into playoffs
February 12, 2023
Every year there are teams that surge late in the season and are dubbed a team nobody wants to meet in the playoffs.
Pine-Richland’s Joey Perry catches on with Seton Hall
Joey Perry has had a connection with former Pittsburgh Pirates closer Jason Grilli, and that helped him find the right college to continue his baseball career.
Deer Lakes boys must beat rival to win title outright
February 9, 2023
As the Deer Lakes boys basketball team was celebrating senior night following its game Tuesday, word came in that Shady Side Academy had been upset by Derry.
Riverview slows Cleveland to top Leechburg but loses out on playoff spot
February 7, 2023
Riverview coach Phil McGivney said when his team is balanced on the score sheet, it normally comes out on the right side.
Freeport pitcher Rape uses showcase to catch eye of Penn State, commits to Nittany Lions
February 5, 2023
A showcase in New Jersey in July changed the landscape of Freeport sophomore Dustin Rape’s baseball career.
Pine-Richland notebook: Rams wrestlers gear up for postseason tournaments
The Pine-Richland wrestling team was eliminated in the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A tournament, falling 44-19 to West Allegheny on Wednesday night.
Pine-Richland’s Ryan Palmieri joins teammate in committing to Sacred Heart
The majority of high school athletes post their college commitment on social media as a way to celebrate the accomplishment and let everyone know where they are headed.
Penn Hills girls use strong defense to complete section sweep of Plum
February 2, 2023
Penn Hills girls basketball coach Robert Cash didn’t tell his team that a win would keep them alive in the postseason race.
Highlands boys battling to be among contenders for WPIAL Class 4A title
Highlands boys basketball coach Corey Dotchin sensed that Class 4A was going to be a dogfight when he first got a look at the new section alignments in July.
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
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.
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
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 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
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 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
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 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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
Sam Hartsberg has coached travel softball for close to a decade and always had an interest in coaching at the high school level. But first he wanted to watch his daughter, Leah, play at Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland baseball team remains young but expects to compete
A rash of injuries to a large senior class last year contributed to a rare playoff absence for the Pine-Richland baseball team.
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan captures state bowling title
March 18, 2022
Burrell’s Lydia Flanagan found a groove and rolled to a state title Friday.
With solid underclassmen group, Kiski Area baseball team builds toward future
March 17, 2022
When Aaron Albert started coaching at Beaver six years ago, he had a lineup featuring eight sophomores.
‘Good nucleus’ to keep Kiski Area softball team competitive in tough section
John Kinnamon led Apollo-Ridge softball to four consecutive WPIAL playoff appearances, but this year he moved up the Kiskiminetas River a few miles to coach Kiski Area.
Freeport softball team has designs on keeping up its playoff streak
March 15, 2022
Freeport softball has been in the playoffs 12 consecutive times, and with an experienced core returning along with younger talent, it will look to continue the streak.
After rebuilding year, Freeport baseball ready to contend again
Freeport baseball started from scratch last year.
Pine-Richland notebook: Girls youth basketball teams make state tournament
March 13, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland girls youth basketball teams will have a chance to take on some of the top competition in the state.
Captain checks all the boxes for Pine-Richland hockey team
Tales of hockey players and their superstitions have been told since skates first hit ice, but Pine-Richland captain Alex Erlain wants nothing to do with them.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Kira Schrecengost, Fox Chapel’s Tommy Healy
March 12, 2022
Kira Schrecengost
Pine-Richland 1st-year diver claims WPIAL medal
March 6, 2022
A few months ago, Kendyll Jerry never had been on a diving board, so leaving the WPIAL championships with a podium finish and a medal was quite a feat.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Knoch’s Nina Shaw
Nina Shaw
South Fayette dethrones No. 1 Chartiers Valley in WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball
March 5, 2022
Maddie Webber sensed early on that the third meeting between South Fayette and Chartiers Valley this season was going to be different.
Pine-Richland girls end season on high note
February 27, 2022
The Pine-Richland girls basketball team fell short of reaching the playoffs, but it ended the season on a high note with a pair of victories.
Valley News Dispatch H.S. athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook, Plum’s Nicholas Daniels
February 26, 2022
Anna Kreinbrook
Markus Frank’s school-record 45 points leads Quaker Valley past Deer Lakes in Class 4A quarterfinals
February 23, 2022
Markus Frank is quiet and modest off the court, but in between the lines, he is a monster.
Sto-Rox pulls away from Springdale in 2nd quarter, advances to WPIAL 2A quarterfinals
February 22, 2022
A big second quarter was more than enough to push Sto-Rox along further in the playoffs.
Pine-Richland wrestling primed to peak for postseason
February 20, 2022
It’s already been a strong year for Pine-Richland wrestling, going 12-3 with a trip to the WPIAL team tournament, and with individual season approaching, a group of Rams have positioned themselves to make more noise.
Pine-Richland looks to make another playoff run
The regular season didn’t go quite the way the Pine-Richland boys basketball team would’ve wanted, but it finds itself in a similar position to last year.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Lexi Colaianni, St. Joseph’s Jimmy Giannetta
February 19, 2022
Lexi Colaianni
Ellis School girls bounce back in 2nd half, oust Springdale in WPIAL Class 2A
February 18, 2022
Going into halftime, the Springdale girls basketball team positioned itself to break a long postseason victory drought, but Ellis School had other ideas.
Shaler high school hockey player suspended after fight with fans in stands
February 14, 2022
A Shaler high school hockey player is suspended indefinitely pending a hearing after an altercation with fans in the stands after a game Thursday against Latrobe at Alpha Ice Complex in Harmar Township.
Pine-Richland swimmer driven to make name for himself in breaststroke
February 13, 2022
Athletes find motivation in many different forms, and Pine-Richland swimmer Matthew Carper’s stems from a former competitor.
Pine-Richland notebook: Ty Voit having big season in junior hockey
The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Pine resident Ty Voit in the fifth round of the NHL Entry Draft in July and he’s shown this season why he was considered a pro prospect.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Riley Sterlitz, Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan
February 12, 2022
Riley Sterlitz
Gateway boys knock Franklin Regional out of playoffs
February 11, 2022
Gateway came to Murrysville on Friday night and spoiled Franklin Regional’s night on multiple levels.
Pine-Richland notebook: 3 more football players make college choices
February 6, 2022
A trio of Pine-Richland football players made their college commitments official on National Signing Day on Feb. 2.
Pine-Richland hockey team thrives in pressure situations
Pine-Richland hockey enters the final month of the regular season in a tight race for playoff positioning with only nine points separating second place from seventh in the PIHL Class 3A standings.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Melaina DeZort, Riverview’s Micah Black
February 5, 2022
Melaina DeZort
Hempfield, Neshannock win competitive spirit state championships
January 29, 2022
Hempfield competitive spirit coach Suzannah Mayer could sense the nerves in her team Friday at Day 1 of the PIAA championships and it impacted their routine, but the Spartans were still able to finish third in the preliminaries and advance to the finals.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, Burrell’s Luke Rose
Reese Hasley
Offseason work pays off for Pine-Richland heavyweight Joey Schneck
Joey Schneck pinned his way to the 285-pound Allegheny County Wrestling Tournament title recently, but that title wasn’t just won in the two days he spent at Fox Chapel High School.
Bond between swimming Shaffer sisters grows deeper in Pine-Richland pool
Sarah Anne and Elizabeth Shaffer’s times are pretty close in the pool.
Last-second 3-pointer lifts Freeport over Burrell
January 28, 2022
Vinnie Clark had a senior night to remember forever.
Zavasky displays shooting touch off the bench for Pine-Richland boys basketball
January 23, 2022
When Nate Zavasky has an open look, Pine-Richland boys basketball coach Bob Petcash is typically yelling “shoot it.”
Pine-Richland’s Ava Boyd turns heads at soccer showcase
Ava Boyd boarded a plane to Florida knowing she was going to play in a soccer game with some of the best girls in the country.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Springdale’s Ryan Reinsfelder, Apollo-Ridge’s Sydney McCray
January 22, 2022
Ryan Reinsfelder
No. 1 North Hills rolls on with win over No. 4 Pine-Richland
January 21, 2022
With every win, the North Hills boys basketball team has seen the target grow on its back as an emerging favorite in Class 6A, but it hasn’t been a deterrent.
Brotherly bonds power Highlands wrestling team
January 17, 2022
Grant Walters has seen a lot during his 32 years in wrestling, but his Highlands team has shown the coach something unique.
Pine-Richland spirit team wins WPIAL small squad division, makes return to state competition
January 16, 2022
Last year, the Pine-Richland competitive spirit team did not qualify for the state championship for the first time in school history, so the 2021-22 season was a mission to return to form.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Vinnie Clark, Cheswick Christian’s Olivia Rochkind
January 15, 2022
Vinnie Clark
Confidence soars for Pine-Richland wrestler after strong Powerade showing
January 9, 2022
A major focus for Kelin Laffey lately has been the mental side of wrestling.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Brandon Coury, Kiski Area’s Abbie Johns
January 8, 2022
Brandon Coury
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Rylen Campbell and Madilyn Boyer
January 1, 2022
Rylen Campbell
Tweak to defense puts Deer Lakes boys basketball team in the zone
December 31, 2021
For the majority of his coaching career, Terence Parham has favored a stack 2-3 zone defense, but this summer, he and his assistant Albie Fletcher made a change to their tactics.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Apollo-Ridge’s Gage Johnston, Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone
December 25, 2021
Gage Johnston
Burrell hockey displays potential during strong start to season
December 21, 2021
The Burrell hockey team already has exceeded its win total from last year, which is a sign of the progression since the PIHL season started in October.
Pine-Richland swim teams poised for another record-breaking season
December 19, 2021
The record boards at the Pine-Richland natatorium had plenty of changes after last year with several new school marks set.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: Football stars put pen to paper
A pair of Pine-Richland football players, Jalen Klemm and Jeremiah Hasley, made their college commitments official during the early national signing day Wednesday.
A-K Valley High School Athletes of the Week: Week ending Dec. 18, 2021
December 18, 2021
Ryan Lang
Veteran core ready to lead Pine-Richland wrestlers
December 12, 2021
When mats need to be cleaned before practice, Pine-Richland wrestling coach Caleb Kolb doesn’t have to seek out a volunteer to get the mop out and start scrubbing.
Injuries present early season speed bump for veteran Pine-Richland girls basketball team
As Pine-Richland girls basketball enters a new season, it has a bit of a good-news, bad-news situation.
Springdale football coach Seth Napierkowski resigns after 5 seasons
December 10, 2021
It wasn’t an easy decision, but with family and work obligations increasing, Seth Napierkowski decided to step down as the Springdale football coach.
Burrell must retool to keep streak of 15 straight WPIAL Class 2A championships going
December 8, 2021
Burrell wrestling is looking to celebrate a “Sweet 16” this winter.
A-K Valley Class 3A wrestling preview: Led by Lehigh recruit, Kiski Area reloads
December 7, 2021
The Kiski Area wrestling team had some youth in its lineup last year, but it still was able to win the Section 1-3A title.
St. Joseph girls basketball team on the upswing
December 5, 2021
A good word to describe the St. Joseph girls basketball team is potential.
St. Joseph boys target return to playoffs despite loss of top scorer
Those who followed St. Joseph boys basketball the past four years were treated by Andrew Sullivan to some high-scoring performances, but his 1,000-plus point career ended last season.
Pine Creek Journal notebook: 6 football players make 1st team all-conference
December 4, 2021
The Pine-Richland Rams football team was well represented on the Class 5A Northeast Conference teams.
WPIAL championship near-miss drives Pine-Richland boys basketball
There are two major themes for the Pine-Richland boys basketball team this winter: They’re experienced and they won’t lack for motivation.
Redbank Valley steals momentum, stops Bishop Canevin short of state finals
December 3, 2021
In one moment, Bishop Canevin went from potentially going up two scores to seeing Redbank Valley tie the game. It was a momentum stealer the Crusaders could not recover from.
Promising Kiski Area girls team coming together
November 29, 2021
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon likened his team learning and growing to building a puzzle.
New Kiski Area boys coach has visions of turnaround
The excitement of his first season as the Kiski Area boys basketball coach hasn’t waned an ounce for Corey Smith since the day he was hired back in April.
Injury woes changed course of Pine-Richland football season
November 28, 2021
Coaches never want to use injuries as an excuse, and Pine-Richland football coach Steve Campos is no different in that regard.
Junior goalie stands tall for Pine-Richland hockey team
Most days after arriving home from elementary school, Dan Mooney would hop off the bus, drop his backpack and jump right into the middle of a pickup hockey game.
Cheswick Christian boys basketball team motivated to make mark
November 24, 2021
At the elementary and middle school levels, the current group of Cheswick Christian basketball players experienced success, which has given them some confidence coming into the season.
Full schedule breeds enthusiasm inside Cheswick Christian girls basketball program
After a covid-shortened 2020-21 season in which the Cheswick Christian girls basketball team played only nine games, signs are pointing towards a return to a more normal slate this winter.
Senior class built winning culture for Pine-Richland field hockey
November 21, 2021
A few nights after Pine-Richland field hockey’s season came to an end, Rams coach Donna Stephenson said it felt weird sitting at home because she felt like she should be out at practice with her team.
No. 3 Bishop Canevin takes down Cornell to reach 1st WPIAL title game since 1990
November 19, 2021
There have been times Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson has gone with his gut when deciding his quarterback.
Kiski Area hockey team proving itself in early part of season
November 17, 2021
The Kiski Area hockey team lost several key players, including Michael Rayburg and Jonathan Ayres, from a team that made back-to-back PIHL Class A semifinals appearances.
Clutch goalkeeping sends Hampton past West Allegheny, into state finals
When Zach Panza’s attempt hit the crossbar and put Hampton on the brink of elimination in round four of penalty kicks, Talbots goalkeeper Thomas Bradfield admitted he thought his high school career was over.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Ava Weleski
Ava Weleski
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Burrell’s Joe Scolaro
November 16, 2021
Joe Scolaro
Freeport, Hampton clash for 4th time this season — in PIAAs
November 15, 2021
The final hurdle between Freeport girls volleyball and returning to a state championship game is a very familiar foe.
Before heading west, Pine-Richland runner caps decorated high school cross country career
November 14, 2021
On Nov. 10, Meredith Price signed a letter of intent for track and cross country at Utah State, so this coming fall she’ll be running in the Rocky Mountains.
Pine-Richland’s Hasley shows worth on both sides of the ball
Jeremiah Hasley ran gassers every day he could during the summer and even worked with a personal trainer to get into the best shape possible, because he wanted to be on the field for every snap of Pine-Richland football this season.
Hampton defense stops another foe, dropping Franklin Regional in state quarterfinals
November 13, 2021
The Franklin Regional boys soccer team suffered the same fate Saturday as every team Hampton has faced thus far in the postseason.
Play from deep in playbook helps Penn Hills get past Gateway
November 12, 2021
With less than a minute remaining and facing third-and-goal, Penn Hills quarterback Julian Dugger was sent off the field for a play because of an equipment issue, so the Indians had to dial up something they hadn’t done all season.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Freeport’s Erica Lampus
November 10, 2021
Erica Lampus
Freeport volleyball avoids WPIAL title hangover, beats Plum in PIAA 1st-round match
November 9, 2021
Freeport girls volleyball coach Tom Phillips has always worried about the potential for a “hangover” from winning a WPIAL championship going into the first round of the state tournament.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Freeport’s Marcus Trask
Marcus Trask
Pine-Richland volleyball team makes strong statement in playoff loss
November 7, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls volleyball team certainly did not go down without a fight.
Clutch plays from Zach Panza lift Hampton past West Allegheny in Class 3A WPIAL finals
November 6, 2021
It’s not often that a player scores the game-winning goal and makes a huge save in the same game, but Zach Panza managed to pull off both accomplishments Saturday.
Quick-strike offense, airtight defense carry Moon to WPIAL title win over Seneca Valley
November 4, 2021
The Moon girls soccer team got off to a quick start and didn’t slow down.
Keller Chamovitz one-ups dad, leads Quaker Valley past North Catholic in WPIAL finals
Keller Chamovitz has some bragging rights in his household.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Camryn Rogers
November 3, 2021
Camryn Rogers
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy
November 2, 2021
Carson McCoy
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Nov. 1, 2021
October 31, 2021
WPIAL soccer preview capsules
Pine-Richland boys soccer team misses playoffs but makes major strides
As his third season as the Pine-Richland boys soccer coach wrapped up, Jordan Wiegand could sense his players fully bought into the family-like culture he’s been trying to build.
Janeda’s 4th-quarter plays help Montour get past Chartiers Valley, into WPIAL playoffs
October 29, 2021
Brock Janeda is a catcher on the Montour baseball team, but Friday night he was the closer on the football field.
A-K Valley WPIAL boys soccer playoff capsules for Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021
Saturday’s games
Seneca Valley girls rally to edge Norwin in OT in WPIAL quarterfinals
October 28, 2021
When Emma Rigone converted a penalty kick to give Norwin the lead in the second half, it looked like the Knights might sneak out of NexTier Stadium with their second victory there this season, but Zoe Simpson made sure Seneca Valley defended its home turf.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Nash Wedner, Fox Chapel
Nash Wedner
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ashley McAdams
October 27, 2021
Ashley McAdams
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Monday, Oct. 25, 2021
October 24, 2021
Monday’s games
Pine-Richland captains aim to be ‘ultimate’ teammates
As co-captains for the Pine-Richland ultimate team, Reid Duncan and Matt Farmar have made it their mission to make everyone who joins the team feel at home.
After 17th straight playoff appearance, Pine-Richland girls tennis looks forward to next season
With a young team this fall, Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Jirakorn “Dang” Siraprasert wasn’t sure how the season would go.
Ligonier Valley pulls out thrilling win vs. Shady Side Academy
October 22, 2021
Ligonier Valley coach Roger Beitel joked he will need to visit his cardiologist after watching the last 24 seconds of Friday’s game against Shady Side Academy.
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 23, 2021
Saturday’s games
Alle-Kiski Valley girls athlete of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger
October 20, 2021
Kaitlyn Killinger
Alle-Kiski Valley boys athlete of the week: Deer Lakes’ Ryan Hanes
October 19, 2021
Ryan Hanes
Pine-Richland girls cross country team rounds into form after spate of injuries
October 17, 2021
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team has faced some adversity this year with injuries, but it hasn’t dampened the dream of winning WPIAL gold.
Pine-Richland girls volleyball team, coach Seman dedicate match to helping youngster in need of kidney transplant
First-year Pine-Richland girls volleyball coach Angela Seman is a huge believer in giving back to the community and wants to pass that trait on to her players.
Leechburg clinches 1st winning football season in 30 years
October 16, 2021
Leechburg football crossed a major goal off its list Saturday and did so in dominant fashion.
Greensburg Central Catholic comes up short in upset bid vs. No. 1 Clairton
October 15, 2021
It’s not often that a team has a chance to win or tie the game late in the fourth quarter on the road at Neil C. Brown Stadium, but that’s the situation Greensburg Central Catholic had Friday night.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller
October 13, 2021
Eliza Miller
Burrell hockey team features deeper roster for 1st-year head coach
When Burrell hockey president Dave Burkett approached Luke Kopchak this summer about becoming the next coach of the Bucs, it didn’t take long for him to decide to jump on the opportunity.
Freeport enters PIHL season with small roster but high expectations
October 12, 2021
To put in perspective how young the Freeport hockey team is, consider it will dress more freshmen than seniors every time it takes the ice this season.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Leechburg’s Gavin Cole
Gavin Cole
Pine-Richland girls volleyball navigates tough schedule, remains in playoff hunt
October 10, 2021
Angela Seman played for four years in Section 1-4A with Seneca Valley, and now as the coach at Pine-Richland, she is getting a different perspective.
Senior captains help Pine-Richland field hockey adjust to pressure of favorite status
When describing how Pine-Richland field hockey was able to grind out a 1-0 win over Peters Township earlier this year, midfielder Fiona Kortyna said her team has the ability to keep going no matter what.
Kiski Area boys soccer team taking strides toward what it hopes will be a favorable playoff seed
October 5, 2021
Missions to Mars had not been successful for the Kiski Area boys soccer team in recent years.
AK Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Isaac Wetzel, Freeport soccer
Isaac Wetzel
Early competition helps Knoch boys soccer prepare for playoff push
October 4, 2021
The Knoch boys soccer team entered this season as a rather inexperienced group, but what they lack in seasoning they have made up for with effort.
Pine-Richland hockey team ready to join crowded chase for Penguins Cup
October 3, 2021
Last year, PIHL Class 3A featured a lot of parity with the top five teams separated by four points at the end of the regular season and No. 7 seed Mt. Lebanon making a run in the playoffs to the championship game.
Pine-Richland pair showing chemistry, having breakout seasons
Dating to their youth football days, Cole Boyd and Alex Gochis said they’ve always had chemistry as a quarterback and receiver combo.
Central Catholic defense dominates in victory over Seneca Valley
October 1, 2021
There is a litany of players with NCAA Division I offers on the Central Catholic defense, and those players showed why they are going to play at that level Friday night.
Highlands girls volleyball nets long-awaited victory
September 29, 2021
Over the last couple of weeks Highlands girls volleyball coach Caroline Bain could sense her team was on the cusp of breaking through.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Riverview’s Lola Abraham
Lola Abraham
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Highlands’ Cam Reigard
September 28, 2021
Cam Reigard
Pine-Richland grad making stops as starting linebacker for Stony Brook
September 26, 2021
As Tyler King was going through his recruiting process, the thing that stood out about Stony Brook was the coaching staff’s transparency.
Kiski Area off to best start since 1986 after edging West Allegheny
September 24, 2021
The sixth time turned out to be the charm for Kiski Area.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Valley’s Eden Richey
September 22, 2021
Eden Richey
Knoch girls volleyball relying on young hitters in early going
Now in her 36th year at Knoch, Diane Geist is the longest tenured girls volleyball coach in the WPIAL.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Plum’s Lucas Pittman
September 21, 2021
Lucas Pittman
Rolling Fields PGA Junior League team takes 3rd at U.S. Regional event
September 20, 2021
In Dick Logan’s 28 years as a PGA professional, this summer coaching the Rolling Fields Golf Course 17-and-under PGA Junior League team was the best experience of his entire career.
Junior striker brings joy of scoring goals to Pine-Richland boys soccer
September 19, 2021
Colin Zvejnieks’ parents told him that he has always been a runner.
Pine-Richland girls tennis coach Siriprasert focuses on process to build success
As a tennis coach, Jirakorn “Dang” Siriprasert concentrates more on the process than the result.
McCoy’s kick return sparks run of 29 unanswered points for Laurel in win over Beaver Falls
September 17, 2021
Laurel needed a spark, and Luke McCoy provided it.
A-K Valley Girls High School Athlete of the Week, Sept. 15, 2021: Grace Gent, Springdale
September 15, 2021
Grace Gent
Kiski Area girls volleyball willing to work overtime for section title
September 14, 2021
On the eve of the first match, Kiski Area girls volleyball coach Jodie McCartney told her team that every time it takes the court in section play there is potential for a five-set match.
Small numbers don’t dampen enthusiasm, energy for Highlands soccer teams
The Highlands boys soccer team opened camp with 15 players, but that number became smaller heading into the season-opening tournament at home.
A-K Valley Boys Athlete of the Week: Fox Chapel’s Jack Lorence
Jack Lorence
Former Pitt volleyball standout brings new ideas to Pine-Richland program
September 12, 2021
Angela Seman was a big part of Pitt volleyball’s resurgence, helping the Panthers win back-to-back ACC titles in 2017 and ’18 as the starting libero.
Pine-Richland field hockey comfortable as favorites to take 3rd straight WPIAL crown
Donna Stephenson started the Pine-Richland field hockey program in 2004, literally from scratch.
Big plays from Ross help Seneca Valley get past North Hills
September 10, 2021
A week ago, Brandon Ross said Seneca Valley can’t win every game on the last play.
Leechburg’s Grine relies on height, skills, confidence for promising senior season
Kalli Grine has been the tallest girl in her class dating to elementary school, so she always has been an intimidating presence on the volleyball court.
3 sets of sisters help bolster lineup for Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball
September 9, 2021
The Apollo-Ridge girls volleyball team will be a sister act this fall.
A-K Valley girls athlete of the week: Fox Chapel’s Nina Busch
Nina Busch
Young St. Joseph girls volleyball team building toward future
September 6, 2021
Because the covid-19 pandemic delayed fall sports in 2020, the St. Joseph girls volleyball team had one practice and went right into games. Needless to say, a more normal schedule this year was welcomed.
A-K Valley boys athlete of the week: Kiski Area’s Campbell Curry
Campbell Curry
Leechburg plugs away in decisive win vs. Summit Academy
September 4, 2021
It wasn’t the start the Leechburg football team hoped for Saturday afternoon, with three turnovers in the first quarter, but once it settled down, it found a rhythm.
Loaded lineup has Pine-Richland cross country team thinking big
The Pine-Richland girls cross country team is hoping to set a gold standard this fall.
Seneca Valley stuns Pine-Richland with late touchdown pass
September 3, 2021
The adrenaline still was running at maximum for Brandon Ross moments after catching the winning touchdown pass in the final 10 seconds to propel his Seneca Valley Raiders to a 24-20 win over Pine-Richland.
Pine-Richland boys soccer looks to build with experienced lineup
August 29, 2021
When Jordan Wiegand took the Pine-Richland boys soccer coaching job in 2019 he came to a program that had graduated 16 seniors who were major contributors since their sophomore season.
Young players stepping into new roles for Pine-Richland girls soccer
Entering her second season as the Pine-Richland girls soccer coach, Rachelle Dixon has some spots to fill in the lineup.
A-K Valley boys soccer preview: New coach leading Deer Lakes
August 28, 2021
Aaron Smith felt some nerves heading into training camp, and at the first practice he could sense his Deer Lakes boys soccer players had some, too.
Dickerson, Tracey score 2 TDs each; defense stout as North Hills blanks Mars
August 27, 2021
Moments after shaking hands with their opponents from Mars, the North Hills players raced over to their sideline to greet a packed and raucous student section waiting for them in the visitor’s grandstand.
Breakout players back to power West Greene
August 26, 2021
For West Greene, the 2020 season was a mission to forge an identity after the Ben Jackson and Kolin Walker era of running through opponents.
Avella looks to keep ball rolling after breakthrough season
For Avella coach Ryan Cecchini, last year’s run to the playoffs showed that even if his program doesn’t always have the biggest roster, it can compete in the WPIAL.
‘Underrated’ senior aims to keep Plum among elite
August 23, 2021
When asked about senior wide receiver/defensive back Logan Brooks, Plum coach Matt Morgan said that he is one of the most underrated players in all of the WPIAL.
New Castle ready for playoff return after year to forget
After a rare down year in which New Castle saw its seven-year playoff streak snapped, Red Hurricanes coach Joe Cowart said his players better have a chip on their shoulder and a desire to get back on the right track.
Larger roster a boost for Pine-Richland girls golf
August 22, 2021
There were 14 girls who came to tryouts for the Pine-Richland girls golf team, and each one had a varying degree of experience.
Plum plans encore after historic season
August 20, 2021
Plum football enters this fall in a position it hasn’t been in since 1983: defending conference champion.
WPIAL’s leading passer makes Armstrong dangerous
Cadin Olsen burst onto the WPIAL football scene last year by throwing for more than 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns in his debut season as the Armstrong quarterback.
Moon plans to follow championship formula
August 17, 2021
When Moon won a conference championship two seasons ago, its formula for success was controlling the line of scrimmage, running the ball effectively and winning the time-of-possession battle.
Young Pine-Richland golf team looks to keep championship streak going
August 14, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys golf team has been section champ the last five years, and the Rams are hopeful to keep the streak going this fall.
Quaker Valley out to snap skid with experienced roster
Quaker Valley went through the growing pains of being extremely young last year, and combined with a covid-19 situation at the school that forced a cancellation of the final two games, it made for a difficult season.
Shady Side Academy rower wins youth national title
July 25, 2021
As Lauren Jochims crossed the finish line with her teammate, Audrey Lyda, to win the women’s 2x at the US Youth Rowing Nationals, she didn’t know how to react.
Quaker Valley boys basketball makes most of summer competition
July 24, 2021
The Quaker Valley boys basketball team returns four starters, but with each new year, there can be a tweak in how each player’s role is defined.
Behun, Loudermilk to lead Quaker Valley girls soccer as co-head coaches
July 18, 2021
Former Quaker Valley girls soccer coach Jamie Birmingham knew he was going to step down at the end of last season, so he approached assistants Maggie Behun and Rachel Loudermilk and asked them if they wanted to step up into the role.
Quaker Valley Hall of Famer takes reins of school’s girls basketball program
July 11, 2021
Quaker Valley has been a focal point in many chapters of Ken Johns’ life.
Fox Chapel basketball gets boost from summer competitions
July 10, 2021
Fox Chapel boys basketball coach Zach Skrinjar looks at summer team camps as a good way to self scout and grow as a unit in a more relaxed environment compared to the grind of a WPIAL basketball season.
Young Township jumps on Murrysville in American Legion playoffs
July 8, 2021
Young Township struck for seven runs in the fourth inning, and then lightning struck.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Jeremiah Hasley, Pine-Richland
July 6, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Fox Chapel’s Zoe Skirboll competes with nation’s best swimmers at Olympic qualifiers
June 29, 2021
Zoe Skirboll went into this year’s Olympic swimming trials with the attitude of enjoying the moment and gaining experience for the future.
Pine-Richland’s Jeremiah Hasley commits to Duke
June 28, 2021
Like many local athletes, Jeremiah Hasley’s recruiting process started with phone calls and Zoom meetings with college coaches last year with campus visits restricted due to the covid-19 pandemic.
Quaker Valley 6th grader excels at Junior Olympics swim meet
June 27, 2021
At age 5, Amelia Suhayda started swimming just for fun.
Pine-Richland crew team closes season with strong results
June 20, 2021
The Pine-Richland crew team had to navigate plenty of obstacles that came with the covid-19 pandemic like mandated shut downs and having athletes train individually at home, but at the end of the year they finished with some strong results.
Pine-Richland softball program builds on playoff victory
June 13, 2021
With a 6-1 win over Mt. Lebanon in the quarterfinals, the Pine-Richland softball team scored a historic achievement.
After long wait, North Allegheny volleyball ready for shot at 3rd straight state title
June 10, 2021
North Allegheny boys volleyball coach Dan Schall described this season as “a journey without a road map.”
North Allegheny boys volleyball wins another Seneca Valley showdown, makes state finals
June 8, 2021
Before the PIAA tournament started, Michael Mosbacher and his North Allegheny boys volleyball teammates knew if they were going to play for a third consecutive state championship, they would likely have to beat Seneca Valley for a fourth time.
Pine-Richland teen Carson Verszyla goes viral with highlight-reel hockey goal
June 7, 2021
Carson Verszyla got an early birthday present Monday morning when he saw himself on “SportsCenter.”
Sewickley Academy breaks tie with 4 seconds left to top Mt. Lebanon, advance to PIAA girls lacrosse semis
June 5, 2021
Sewickley Academy led for only 4 seconds Saturday, but it was the last four.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse standouts play in national tournament
A quartet of Pine-Richland girls lacrosse players spent Memorial Day weekend playing alongside some of the best high school players in the country and came home with an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.
Rotelli’s WPIAL runner-up finish among several meet highlights for Pine-Richland track team
May 30, 2021
Because of her small stature, Gianna Rotelli feels she is overlooked sometimes when she enters track and field events.
Ligonier Valley’s Griffin throws 11th no-hitter, but Shenango prevails in Class 2A semifinals
May 27, 2021
Maddie Griffin threw her 11th no-hitter of the season Thursday, but it wasn’t enough to keep Shenango from making history.
Underclassmen gain valuable experience for Pine-Richland baseball
May 23, 2021
Coming into the season, Pine-Richland baseball had injuries to its top two starting pitchers in West Virginia recruit Tommy Beam and Gabe Mustovic and added a couple more to the injured list just a few games in with shortstop Kyle Kimoto and first baseman Chase Vrabel going down against Seneca Valley.
Franklin Regional-Mars game suspended when lights go out at North Allegheny
May 21, 2021
A power failure in the left field light tower at North Allegheny’s baseball field forced Friday’s Class 5A WPIAL quarterfinal between top-seeded Franklin Regional and No. 8 Mars to be suspended with the score tied 5-5 with two outs in the top of the fifth inning.
Kiefer’s clutch goals lift Franklin Regional over Shaler in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
May 17, 2021
Jack Kiefer never saw his golden goal hit the back of the net.
Racing each other lifts Pine-Richland’s Hunkele sisters to top performances
May 16, 2021
Angelina and Elizabeth Hunkele love to compete.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse leans on consistent defense, balanced attack
May 9, 2021
Members of the Pine-Richland girls lacrosse team knew they had built something special during a seven-game winning streak in April and they wanted to prove it in their much anticipated showdown with Fox Chapel on May 4.
Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team battle-tested for postseason
Coming into this season Pine-Richland boys lacrosse coach Kevin Welty budgeted for adversity.
Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame honors athletes with luncheon
May 8, 2021
For the second consecutive year the Alle-Kiski Sports Hall of Fame banquet had to be cancelled because of the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, but board members wanted to organize an event to honor local athletes for their accomplishments.
Pine-Richland softball looking for more consistency at the plate
May 2, 2021
As Pine-Richland softball geared up for the stretch run in the regular season coach Gary Shepard was looking for was consistency at the plate.
Indiana falls to West Chester East in Class A state hockey final
April 24, 2021
For two periods Indiana kept West Chester East’s powerful offense at bay and had the lead with 17 minutes to play.
Pine-Richland’s Rottinghaus sprinting to success in 400, relays
The Pine-Richland track and field coaches had a premonition that senior Ella Rottinghaus was going to set a new school record in the 400-meter run prior to the Rams’ April 14 meet with Seneca Valley, but she didn’t share the same belief.
Young Pine-Richland gymnast Lavezoli quickly developing into standout
A few years ago Chase Lavezoli taught himself how to do a front flip by using a trampoline.
Ace’s secret weapon helps Pine-Richland softball to signature early season win
April 17, 2021
Gabriella Aughton showed up to Pine-Richland’s game at Hempfield on April 9 with a secret weapon.
Pugh, Faber leading the way for Pine-Richland boys volleyball
April 10, 2021
When the 2020 spring sports season was canceled because of the covid-19 pandemic, it brought a sudden end to the careers of a dozen Pine-Richland boys volleyball players.
Sophomore McGuire off to impressive start for Pine-Richland baseball
Jacob McGuire walked off the mound after the final out of Pine-Richland’s 11-0 win in five innings in the season opener against North Catholic happy with his performance.
Multi-sport athletes bring spark to Gateway volleyball
April 4, 2021
Gateway boys volleyball coach Phil Randolph has plenty of fresh faces on his team this season who bring athleticism from playing other sports.
Intrigue surrounds 2021 PIHL Penguins Cup playoffs
After the 2020 playoffs were suspended and eventually canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, the PIHL is ready to crown Penguins Cup champions once again.
Pine-Richland track team boasts large crop of WPIAL, PIAA contenders
April 3, 2021
The Pine-Richland boys and girls track teams are looking to go the distance this spring.
Pine-Richland hockey team solidly in Class AAA mix
A glance at the PIHL Class AAA standings shows the field is wide open with the top five teams separated by four points.
Young Pine-Richland roster ready to contend during chaotic WPIAL lacrosse season
March 27, 2021
On paper, the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team is still the defending WPIAL Class AAA champion, but there’s been plenty of change in the two-year span since they last took the field.
Pine-Richland girls lacrosse looking to ‘bounce back’ in ’21
Every year Pine-Richland girls lacrosse coach Brittany Adams asks the team’s seniors to come up with a motto for the season. For 2021, they chose “bounce back.”
Competition for lineup spots fierce on Latrobe softball team
March 26, 2021
Latrobe softball coach Bob Kovalcin has seven seniors on his roster, and during the preseason, he told each of them they had first crack at their position.
Latrobe baseball coming together as players find roles
A big part of Latrobe coach Matt Basciano’s message every year is playing team baseball.
Jake DiMichele carries OLSH past Portage into state championship game
March 23, 2021
Jake DiMichele can still remember the exact day OLSH was eliminated the last time they made the state semifinals.
Greensburg Salem baseball team sets sights on another playoff run
In the first week of practice, Greensburg Salem baseball coach Bill Wisniewski told his players to unwind, be kids and have fun in a return to normalcy after last season was wiped out because of the covid-19 pandemic.
Greensburg Salem softball has rare commodity in this unique season — experience
Alyssa Bates has waited nearly 16 months to fill out her first lineup card as the head coach of the Greensburg Salem softball team, so she’s more than ready to get the season going.
Pine-Richland softball gearing season toward section race
March 21, 2021
Pine-Richland softball coach Gary Shepard feels he has the right mix of returning players and newcomers to field a competitive team this spring.
Defending WPIAL champion Pine-Richland baseball team to start season shorthanded
When Pine-Richland takes the field this spring, it will be without a few key players at the start, but that isn’t slowing the Rams’ hunger to defend their WPIAL Class 6A title.
Brookville ousts WPIAL champion Ellwood City from PIAA playoffs
March 20, 2021
Jace Miner stole the ball on an inbounds play and scored on a layup with 10 seconds remaining, and in the blink of an eye Ellwood City’s magical run came to an end.
Neshannock girls fend off Windber, make PIAA Class 2A semifinals
March 19, 2021
Moments after coming out of the locker room after Friday night’s game, Neshannock girls basketball coach Luann Grybowski breathed a sigh of relief.
11th-seeded Ellwood City knocks off No. 1 South Allegheny in WPIAL championship shocker
March 15, 2021
Joe Roth described his feelings succinctly.
Pine-Richland swimmers look ahead to bright future after WPIAL performance
A trio of young Pine-Richland swimmers traveled to Upper St. Clair on March 7 to test themselves against the best in the WPIAL and came home with some solid results to cap off a year in which six new school records were set.
Balanced offense carries Pine-Richland boys on playoff run
During Pine-Richland’s boys basketball playoff run, multiple players saw their name with a large point total beside it on the stat sheet.
11th-seeded Ellwood City stuns Neshannock, makes 1st WPIAL final since 1986
March 11, 2021
From the opening tip, Ellwood City coach Steve Antuono Sr. paced the sidelines watching the game with intensity, while wearing his emotions on his sleeve.
Defending champion Mohawk puts down upstart Beaver Falls
March 10, 2021
All season, Mohawk coach Mike O’Lare has talked to his team about creating a new story to be remembered to go along with winning the school’s first WPIAL girls basketball title a year ago.
Second WPIAL wrestling title gives Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer reason to smile
March 6, 2021
In the middle of the second period of the WPIAL Class AAA 160-pound wrestling final, Cole Spencer took an accidental shot from Norwin’s Chase Kranitz and realized one of his teeth was broken.
5 Pine-Richland runners test themselves at indoor nationals
Five distance runners from Pine-Richland traveled to Virginia last month to test themselves against some of the best high school competition in the country and came home with solid results.
Leechburg rallies for double-overtime win over Eden Christian
March 5, 2021
In a double overtime thriller, No. 6 Leechburg upset No. 3 Eden Christian 45-40 in the WPIAL Class A quarterfinals Friday night at Sewickley Academy.
Sewickley Academy shuts down Greensburg Central Catholic
Sewickley Academy made 19 of 28 free throws and eventually pulled away for a 38-21 victory over Greensburg Central Catholic in the WPIAL Class 2A girls basketball quarterfinals Friday night.
Fox Chapel’s Manelis, North Allegheny’s Shi repeat as WPIAL diving champs
February 27, 2021
The 2021 WPIAL Class AAA diving championships were full of repeats.
Pine-Richland hockey team riding prolific offense
With the volatility that comes with playing during a pandemic, Pine-Richland hockey coach Jordan Yoklic told his players to embrace each opportunity and not take it for granted.
Pine-Richland boys basketball team jells in coach’s 1st season
The last time the WPIAL had an open basketball tournament in 1984 Bob Petcash was a senior at Ambridge and played for a Bridgers team that made the Class 4A final, where it lost to Farrell.
South Park’s O’Connor, North Catholic’s Foley capture WPIAL Class AA diving titles
February 26, 2021
Cole O’Connor saved his toughest dive for last and it paid off.
Spencer leads way for Pine-Richland wrestling team
February 20, 2021
Pine-Richland wrestling made some big strides during the team portion of the season, and now the hope is it has set it up for success in an expanded individual season.
New coach DeGregorio seeing good signs with Pine-Richland girls basketball team
When Kyle DeGregorio took over as coach of the Pine-Richland girls basketball team before this season, his first objective was establishing a culture.
After setting school record, Pine-Richland’s Allen turns focus toward WPIAL success
February 13, 2021
Delaney Allen was exhausted as she climbed out of the pool after swimming her hardest in the 50-yard freestyle on Jan. 28 against North Allegheny when she started hearing screams of joy coming from her teammates.
4 players from Pine-Richland state title football team accept walk-on offers
Pine-Richland football had four players accept preferred walk-on offers on Feb. 3, and each one has a unique story.
Mt. Pleasant girls hope to benefit from experience this season
December 3, 2020
At the high school level it’s a rarity for a team to have its entire roster back from the previous season, but it’s a welcomed reality for longtime Mt. Pleasant girls basketball coach Scott Giacobbi.
Mt. Pleasant boys basketball enters season under new leadership
T.J. Kravits had just finished his season coaching at Marion Center. Being a basketball fan, he looked at the schedule and decided to take a trip to Mt. Pleasant to see a game against Geibel.
Gateway hockey program focused on development
November 29, 2020
Gateway hockey coach Shawn Jesih sees a lot of potential in the freshmen and sophomores who make up the majority of the roster.
Girls basketball preview: Senior trio set to lead Franklin Regional into new section
November 25, 2020
When reflecting on last season, Franklin Regional girls basketball coach Anthony Kobus pointed out five losses in section play by seven points or less.
Boys basketball preview: Franklin Regional to rely on deep group of returning guards
On paper, the 2019-20 Franklin Regional boys basketball season looked like a tale of two halves with a 7-2 run down the stretch to get into the postseason after 5-9 start, but it was more of a yearlong journey of growing up.
Weather’s no problem for Mars boys soccer in PIAA semifinal victory
November 17, 2020
Mars boys soccer coach Chris Knauff said the ground was clear at his home five miles from the Mars Athletic Complex, so he was quite shocked to see a snow-covered field upon arrival.
Pine-Richland routs Peters Township, wins WPIAL championship in 5th classification
November 14, 2020
Pine-Richland already had WPIAL football titles in Class 2A, 3A, 4A and 6A, and after a dominant performance on Saturday, the Rams added 5A to the list.
Clutch goal from Jayden Sharpless lifts North Catholic past Avonworth in Class 2A title game
November 7, 2020
In the early portion of Saturday’s WPIAL Class 2A championship game, North Catholic standout junior Jayden Sharpless said she was a little too amped up when she fired a free kick well over the goal from 30 yards out.
Greensburg Central Catholic boys fight off Eden Christian upset bid in Class A quarterfinals
October 31, 2020
Ricco Ciccarelli could hear Greensburg Central Catholic coach Tyler Solis say, “I think you got it,” as his attempted cross kept curling closer and closer to the net.
North Catholic punishes Mt. Pleasant for mistakes in Class 2A matchup
October 30, 2020
As the clock was winding down late in the fourth quarter, Mt. Pleasant coach Jason Fazekas said to his assistants he felt like the score was a lot closer than the scoreboard indicated.
Forced into starring role, Brock Wilkins carries Kiski Area past Shaler
October 16, 2020
After two successful weeks of filling in for standout Kenny Blake at running back, Brock Wilkins was ready to go back to his role as a lead blocker Friday night. When Blake went down with an injury on his first carry, Wilkins was thrust right back into the spotlight.
North Hills pulls away from Kiski Area
October 2, 2020
In three plays, Kiski Area went from looking like it was going to be right back into its game with North Hills to having the momentum completely flipped.
Avonworth makes smooth transition to Class 3A, blanks Quaker Valley
September 11, 2020
Coming off a historic season that culminated in a WPIAL Class 2A championship, Avonworth had a lot of great players to replace, including a 2,500-yard passer and a 2,300-yard rusher, as it moved up to Class 3A this fall.
North Catholic girls fight off challenge from Central Valley in 4A second round
March 11, 2020
There’s an understanding among the North Catholic Trojanettes that they are going to get everyone’s best.
Freeport confident heading into softball season with small but talented roster
March 10, 2020
When Freeport softball takes the field this year, there’s a good chance there will only be 11 players on the team.
With Heilman on hill, Freeport has shot at another special season
Last season, Freeport baseball coach Ed Carr watched a team that consisted mainly of juniors grow up on the fly and exceed expectations.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Julia Cummings and Kiski Area’s Jack Blumer
Julia Cummings
Fox Chapel baseball optimistic despite heavy turnover from last season
March 9, 2020
Fox Chapel will have to replace 11 seniors, six of their starting nine and most of the pitching staff from a team that went 10-8 and made the WPIAL playoffs, but Foxes coach Jim Hastings has some pieces returning and others coming through the pipeline to help offset the losses.
Bigger roster gives new Fox Chapel softball coach Olbrich cause for optimism
During offseason training, first-year Fox Chapel softball coach Chris Olbrich kept seeing more and more girls show up to work out.
Kiski Area hockey continues remarkable turnaround
March 8, 2020
Kiski Area sophomore defenseman Aiden Sites said if he was told before the season the Cavaliers would be in the PIHL Class A semifinals he wouldn’t have believed it.
Playing without star center Michael Carmody, Mars falls short in PIAA 1st-round game
March 6, 2020
After his team lost in overtime, battling without standout senior Michael Carmody, who was serving a one-game suspension, Mars boys basketball coach Rob Carmody told his players he was obviously disappointed, but he was glad they lost on a play made by a “winning player.”
Norwin hockey focuses on positives after abrupt exit from playoffs
March 4, 2020
Norwin hockey’s season ended Tuesday night when the Knights fell 3-2 to Kiski Area in the first round of the PIHL Class A Penguins Cup playoffs.
Kiski Area edges Norwin to reach Penguins Cup semifinals
In one season, Kiski Area hockey has gone from a one-win team to being a victory away from playing for a Penguins Cup championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao
March 3, 2020
Johnny Crise
Kiski Area, Plum hockey teams surge into playoffs
March 1, 2020
A couple of weeks ago, Kiski Area and Plum completed two of the more remarkable rebounds in the PIHL.
Chartiers Valley defends WPIAL title, wins 55th consecutive game
February 29, 2020
Chartiers Valley girls basketball coach Tim McConnell said he told his younger sister, Trinity coach Kathy McConnell-Miller, that the only good thing about facing each other in a WPIAL final was that a McConnell was guaranteed to win.
Led by singles champ Small, Plum bowling team has postseason to remember
February 28, 2020
Plum bowling coach Darryl Pilyih said coaching senior standout Shannon Small has become a pretty easy task because she rarely makes a mistake.
Shutdown defenses to meet when North Allegheny, Bethel Park tangle for girls 6A title
When Bethel Park and North Allegheny take the floor at Petersen Events Center on Saturday for the Class 6A girls basketball championship, expect a defensive chess match to unfold.
Chartiers Valley uses bulletin-board material to top TJ, return to Class 5A finals
February 26, 2020
Moments after Chartiers Valley finished off a 65-43 win over Thomas Jefferson in the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals Wednesday night at Mt. Lebanon, Colts coach Tim McConnell offered an open dinner invitation to who ever made shirts for the Jaguars that read, “3.1 doesn’t equal 4.4.”
North Allegheny girls shut down Upper St. Clair, get back to WPIAL Class 6A finals
February 25, 2020
On the bus ride to North Hills, members of the North Allegheny girls basketball team chatted back and forth about what their keys were going to be defensively.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Shannon Small and Korry Myers
Shannon Small
Belle Vernon boys basketball upsets Quaker Valley, clinches PIAA spot
February 22, 2020
Listed at 5-foot-9, Devin Whitlock was the shortest player on the floor in Saturday’s game between Quaker Valley and Belle Vernon, but what he lacks in size he makes up for in many other areas.
Brayden Reynolds’ clutch shot sparks Chartiers Valley past Shaler
February 21, 2020
Chartiers Valley coach Brandon Sensor thought Shaler did a pretty good job on his standout guard Brayden Reynolds through the first three quarters of Friday’s WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal game.
Penn-Trafford gymnast Adamik balances fun, competition at high school level
A couple of years ago, Lacey Adamik gave up the everyday grind of training for competitive USA gymnastics, but as time went on, she started to miss the sport.
Elliott handles pressure, shoots Bishop Canevin boys past Union
February 20, 2020
Dom Elliott was honest about what was going through his mind in as he toed the line for two foul shots with five seconds remaining and Bishop Canevin trailing by one.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Samantha Coleman and A.J. Corrado
February 18, 2020
Samantha Coleman
After scholarship from Hines Ward, Valley’s Guzzo to be featured in book
February 16, 2020
Greg Guzzo was checking his email randomly last year when he saw a message titled “Positive Athlete.”
Pine-Richland’s Alexander, Thomas Jefferson’s Kameg big winners at WPIAL gymnastics meet
February 15, 2020
Pine-Richland’s Samantha Alexander went into WPIAL individual gymnastics championships wanting to stay on her feet.
Q&A with Plum’s Connor Moss
February 14, 2020
Plum’s Connor Moss eclipsed 1,000 career points Feb. 5 after scoring 25 in a 52-51 nonconference win over Baldwin. Moss joins another junior, the girls team’s Kennedie Montue, in hitting the milestone. Moss scored more than 20 points 13 times this season and had more than 30 points four times.
Iron sharpens iron for Franklin Regional state title hopefuls Dibert, Solomon
At every practice in the Franklin Regional wrestling room, Finn Solomon and Carter Dibert are paired. When they wrestle, it typically becomes a spectacle.
Burrell gymnastics team beaming at chance to compete at WPIAL championships
February 13, 2020
For a long time, Burrell has been represented at the WPIAL individual gymnastics championship.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Sarah Sawhook and Leechburg’s Dylan Cook
February 11, 2020
Sarah Sawhook
Fox Chapel hockey hopes to ride momentum into postseason
February 9, 2020
In 20 years of being involved in hockey, Fox Chapel coach Cam Raidna never experienced anything like what his team pulled off Thursday night against Kiski Area.
Recruiting interest ramping up for Plum lineman Evan Azzara
February 7, 2020
Plum junior Evan Azzara has visited almost every Mid-American Conference school in Ohio, but the one he went to the most has been Miami (Ohio).
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Madilyn Boyer, Burrell’s Ian Oswalt
February 4, 2020
Madilyn Boyer
Knoch girls finally slay rival Freeport
February 3, 2020
Moments after Lauren Cihonski hit a game-winning basket with four seconds remaining to help Knoch beat Freeport 53-52, the magnitude of what transpired hit her.
Plum hockey gets healthy in time for PIHL playoffs push
January 31, 2020
Every hockey team deals with bumps and bruises, but, in January, Plum could have used a M.A.S.H. unit.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athetes of the Week: Plum’s Kennedie Montue, Leechburg’s Jake Blumer
January 28, 2020
Kennedie Montue
No. 1 North Catholic fights off serious challenge from Freeport
January 27, 2020
Coming into Monday’s game, North Catholic girls basketball had won 54 section games in a row — all but one of them by double digits — so when Freeport tied the game with five minutes remaining, it presented a situation that hadn’t come up in a while.
Thomas Jefferson’s Pazo, North Catholic’s Shaffer lift Team Blue to PIHL Class A All-Star Game win
January 26, 2020
Thomas Jefferson junior Eddie Pazo and North Catholic junior Quinten Shaffer had a hat trick each to lead Team Blue to a 9-5 win over Team Gold in the PIHL Class A All-Star Game Sunday at RMU Island Sports Center.
Ringgold’s Budjos nets hat trick to lead Team Blue to victory in PIHL Class B All-Star Game
Typically going on the penalty kill late in a game down by two goals is not a successful strategy, but in the PIHL Class B All-Star Game, Team Blue made being down a player work in a major way.
Surging Norwin girls basketball team finds right balance
January 24, 2020
The Norwin girls basketball team was the top scoring offense in WPIAL Class 6A through 14 games, and the Knights ranked second in scoring average against.
Gateway girls grind out win over Armstrong
January 23, 2020
Armstrong girls basketball coach Kirk Lorigan joked that he started looking in the stands for James Naismith, because it felt like the cylinder hoops at Gateway’s gymnasium were replaced with peach baskets.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Freeport’s Maddie Clark, Highlands’ Jrake Burford
January 21, 2020
Maddie Clark
Kiski Area goalie Petika leads A-K Valley contingent in PIHL All-Star games
January 19, 2020
Kiski Area goalie Eric Petika got a nice wakeup call from his dad the morning after the PIHL All-Star teams were released a couple of weeks ago.
Steel Valley’s Camden Polak likes making noise in the library
January 15, 2020
Many high school students go to the library to check out a book for their next homework assignment, but Steel Valley senior Camden Polak goes there for a different reason.
Jeannette puts together complete effort in routing Serra Catholic
January 14, 2020
Even though Jeannette coach Adrian Batts was hoarse from imploring his team all game, it wasn’t going to stop him from talking about the enjoyment he got from watching his team execute Tuesday night.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Riverview’s Sydney McDonough, Knoch’s Ryan Lang
Sydney McDonough
Burrell standout Stewart surprises with return to varsity hockey team
January 12, 2020
After spending some time in the junior hockey ranks this season, Tyler Stewart made a surprise return to the ice for Burrell hockey last Monday.
Plum spirit squad shows competitive drive
Every Saturday in the fall, the Plum competitive spirit team met in the gym for a 7 a.m. practice after cheering the night before at football games with a determination to get stronger.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: St. Joseph’s Trinity Lockwood-Morris and Plum’s Connor Moss
January 7, 2020
Trinity Lockwood-Morris
Blackhawk defense shuts down Central Valley in Class 4A showdown
January 6, 2020
Blackhawk girls basketball coach Steve Lodovico loves to run a press and trap defense with the goal of creating turnovers and racking up points off them. Facing a familiar foe in Central Valley on the road, he decided to adjust the gameplan.
Fox Chapel hockey hopes experience in close games helps with playoff push
January 5, 2020
The Fox Chapel hockey team has played its share of close games this season.
Plum girls improving in quest for Section 2 championship
January 4, 2020
About an hour removed from a 41-31 victory over Armstrong on Thursday, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier provided a list of reasons it was their best performance to date.
Plum bowler Shannon Small sets big goals
Nesbit’s Lanes has pretty much become a second home for Shannon Small.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley, St. Joseph’s Andrew Sullivan
December 31, 2019
Andrew Sullivan
New-look Burrell hockey team finds stability
December 29, 2019
Entering the season, perhaps no team in the PIHL lost more key pieces than Burrell.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Knoch’s Nevaeh Ewing, Apollo-Ridge’s Keighton Reese
December 24, 2019
Nevaeh Ewing
‘Building year’ for youthful Freeport hockey
December 22, 2019
Jack Mason can still remember the nervousness he felt playing varsity hockey as a freshman.
Plum boys basketball seeks secret to closing out games
December 20, 2019
First-year Plum boys basketball coach Mark Marino has been happy with the buy-in level from his players in the early part of the season.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Morgan Gamble and Demitri Fritch
December 17, 2019
Demitri
Plum in prime position midway through hockey season
December 15, 2019
As Plum hockey reached the midpoint of the PIHL Class AA season, it found itself tied atop the Northeast Division standings with Armstrong with a pair of games in hand.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Valley’s Tori Johnson, Fox Chapel’s Arnold Vento
December 10, 2019
Tori Johnson
Phipps, Norwin wrestling ready to take next step
December 7, 2019
Kurtis Phipps showed his toughness by battling through a foot injury in last year’s PIAA Class AAA championship match. He suffered the injury a day earlier in his semifinal win.
Franklin Regional wrestlers look to add to program’s Hershey history
Franklin Regional coach Matt Lebe had to stop for a moment and count back through the years to figure out how many seasons in a row the Panthers have had a representative in the PIAA wrestling finals.
Central Valley dominates Bald Eagle Area to earn trip to Hershey
November 29, 2019
One thing in particular that stands out from the many things that Central Valley coach Mark Lyons loves about his football team is that they enjoy playing together and not one player believes he is above another.
With three top starters returning, Plum girls planning banner season
November 28, 2019
In his opening remarks at the first practice of the season, Plum girls basketball coach Steve Elsier challenged his team.
Unusual Plum boys roster packed with senior leadership but lacking experience
With plenty of seniors on the roster, it might look like the Plum boys basketball team has a lot of experience. In reality, almost everyone will be new to varsity this winter.
Kiski Area girls hope experience, work ethic lead to growth
November 25, 2019
Kiski Area girls basketball coach Nick Dizon couldn’t have been happier with the work his group put into its offseason.
Kiski Area boys plan to pick up the pace
Entering year two of his tenure at Kiski Area, Will Saunders is ready to let his team run.
Successful season falls short of ultimate goal for Penn-Trafford
November 23, 2019
The Penn-Trafford football team has high standards, and with that comes championship aspirations.
Fox Chapel boys basketball team rallies around defense
November 22, 2019
At the end of practice, most teams come together in a circle, put their hands in and say one, two, three and then their team name.
New coach works to instill confidence in talented Fox Chapel girls roster
When Marty Matvey arrived to take over the Fox Chapel girls basketball program this summer, he quickly realized there was talent from top to bottom in the lineup.
Rebuilding plan has Cheswick Christian boys ready to contend again
November 20, 2019
When 6-foot-10 Ben Pollock finished his Cheswick Christian Academy boys basketball career in 2016-17 after rewriting much of the school’s record book, longtime Chargers coach Todd Rosio had a three-year plan to build the team back up to contending status.
Cheswick Christian girls dedicate season to former coach in need of heart transplant
Jacque Willis thought she might become a basketball coach someday, but she never expected it to be just a few months after she graduated college.
Central Valley stops Aliquippa in overtime in tense WPIAL title game
November 16, 2019
On the first play of overtime, Michael Barbuto was pushing toward the goal line when he felt something strange happen.
Washington leans on Zahmere Robinson to stop upset-minded Brentwood
November 15, 2019
After Washington’s Zahmere Robinson fumbled for the first time this year in a third quarter that saw Brentwood surging, he went to the sidelines and told his teammates he’d make up for it.
Franklin Regional not satisfied with first-round playoff exit
There wasn’t another team in the WPIAL that played a schedule like Franklin Regional did this season.
North Catholic volleyball gets vengeance, defeats Freeport in PIAAs
November 12, 2019
The day after North Catholic girls volleyball lost to Freeport in the WPIAL Class AA finals by surrendering a 2-0 lead, coach Amanda Fetter told her players they deserved to have a banner hanging in the gymnasium, and the only one left to get was a PIAA banner.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Knoch’s Skylar Burkett and Fox Chapel’s Colby Zmenkowski
Skylar Burkett
Playing through injuries solidified Knoch volleyball team’s depth
November 11, 2019
At practice Monday, Knoch girls volleyball players sat on the gym floor in a circle around coach Diane Geist as they prepared for their state semifinal opponent, District 3 champion Palmyra.
Mars girls soccer team rolls past West Allegheny in PIAA playoffs
November 9, 2019
The Mars girls soccer team has been dominant against WPIAL opponents all season, and in its final meeting against a district foe this season, it wasted little time establishing the tone.
Pine-Richland easily handles North Allegheny on way to WPIAL final
November 8, 2019
As Pine-Richland coach Eric Kasperowicz was giving his postgame speech with his players surrounding him on a knee, the assistant coaches started tossing Heinz ketchup packets into the huddle.
Knoch volleyball back to full strength in first-round PIAA win over South Fayette
November 5, 2019
The last time Kennedy Christy was in the Shaler gym, she was injured on the final night of the regular season in a nonsection match against the Titans and it caused her to miss Knoch’s entire WPIAL playoff run.
Freeport volleyball shakes off ‘WPIAL hangover,’ cruises in first-round PIAA match
After having to come back from two-set deficits to win in the WPIAL semifinals and finals last week,the Freeport girls volleyball team had a much less stressful opening to the state playoffs.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Freeport’s Isabella Russo, Riverview’s Mason Ochs
Isabella Russo
Knoch girls volleyball beats Thomas Jefferson for 3rd straight WPIAL title
November 2, 2019
In its playoff run, Knoch girls volleyball proved how strong a team it is by grinding out wins without standout hitters Kennedy Christy and Hannah Rowe.
Plum soccer reached goals despite dramatic playoff loss
November 1, 2019
If someone had told Plum boys soccer coach Raf Kolankowski before the season that his team would have been leading in a WPIAL Class AAAA semifinal with five-plus minutes remaining, he would’ve taken it in a heartbeat.
Joey Fonagy’s overtime goal lifts Canon-McMillan to WPIAL boys soccer title
October 31, 2019
The Big Macs had one more comeback in them and it was one that they’ll remember for a long time.
AK Valley high school athletes of the week: Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger and Deer Lakes’ Michael Sullivan
October 29, 2019
Kaitlyn Killinger
Hat trick lifts Deer Lakes boys soccer past South Park in Class AA semis
October 26, 2019
Deer Lakes boys soccer has used “unfinished business” as its mantra after narrow misses on the road to a WPIAL championship appearance the last few years.
Canon-McMillan boys score 2 late goals, edge Plum in Class AAAA semis
A few minutes after the Plum boys soccer team’s magical season ended Saturday with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss in the WPIAL Class AAAA semifinals that saw Canon-McMillan score twice in the final six minutes, Mustangs coach Raf Kolankowski used the moment as a teaching tool.
Westmoreland girls soccer playoff capsules: Games of Oct. 24, 2019
October 23, 2019
Class AAAA
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Burrell’s Sara Novak and Springdale’s Mike Mitchell
October 22, 2019
Sara Novak
Senior-led Leechburg girls volleyball turns focus to playoffs
October 20, 2019
The best word to describe Leechburg girls volleyball in matches against the two teams in front of them in the Section 4-A standings is “close.”
Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer shakes off slow start, advances in playoffs
October 19, 2019
For Greensburg Central Catholic boys soccer coach Tyler Solis, Saturday’s first-round playoff game had several elements that his team needed to get through.
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio, who has Down syndrome, scores touchdown on senior night
October 18, 2019
Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio had a senior night to remember on Friday.
Neshannock shuts down Western Beaver, secures playoff berth
There were a lot of playoff scenarios in a crowded Midwestern Athletic Conference entering Friday night, but the easiest way for Neshannock to secure a postseason berth was to go out and get a win.
With Mohrbacher sisters filling the net, Freedom girls soccer doesn’t skip a beat
October 17, 2019
Freedom girls soccer has a bit of a different look from the 2018 WPIAL championship team after the graduation of some key seniors and standout Jayden Sharpless transferring to North Catholic, but the results have been the same.
Knoch girls volleyball team doesn’t let success become distraction
October 13, 2019
The last few seasons for the Knoch girls volleyball team has been a special ride, with two WPIAL titles and a PIAA title. So as the postseason approaches, it is natural for the seniors to dream of finishing their careers with winning a third district title.
Hughes-Sciarro connection leads Riverside past rival Ellwood City
October 11, 2019
Riverside quarterback Ben Hughes and wide receiver Nathan Sciarro started working on their connection in May, going down to the football field after school and running routes with the goal of getting better timing.
Plum boys soccer team ready to make history
Plum boys soccer captains Cole Kelly, Luke Gildea and Tyler Kolankowski are well versed in the history of the program.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Maddie Ancosky, Scott Bitar
October 8, 2019
Maddie Ancosky
Kiski Area volleyball making steady climb in Section 1-AAA
October 6, 2019
The day before Thursday’s crucial Section 1-AAA match with Armstrong, Kiski Area libero Rebekah Fowler didn’t want to give too much away.
Plum’s captains bringing optimism back to ice
October 4, 2019
Prior to the season, Plum hockey coach Phil Mains told his leadership group of captain Dan Baranowski and alternate captains Logan Schlegel and Nic Pushic that the team would go as they go.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Will Meyer, Kiski Area’s Sidney Palla
October 1, 2019
Will Meyer
Deer Lakes volleyball encouraged by performance in tough tests
September 29, 2019
Deer Lakes girls volleyball coach Terry Gaston always tells his team if it can get 20 points in a set against an opponent, it can win.
QB Jay Pearson keeps his word, helps OLSH torch Laurel
September 27, 2019
Prior to Friday’s game with Laurel, Jay Pearson told OLSH coach Dan Bradley that he was going to score on the first play.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Knoch’s Kenzie Kerkan, Freeport’s Isaac Wetzel
September 24, 2019
Kenzie Kerkan
Freeport volleyball seniors determined to return to top
September 22, 2019
Freeport setter Madeline Clark can still recall the feeling of walking off the floor after last year’s WPIAL semifinal loss to Frazier that ended the Yellowjackets’ 3-year run of making the district title game.
Plum girls soccer uses team-first approach to climb standings
September 20, 2019
From the first meeting with his players, first-year Plum girls soccer coach Jamie Stewart’s message has been “team first.”
AK Valley H.S. Athletes of the Week: Burrell’s Allie Vescio and Leechburg’s Cole Villa
September 17, 2019
Allie Vescio
Fox Chapel girls volleyball hopes aggressive approach works
September 15, 2019
When describing how aggressive to be when spiking a volleyball, Fox Chapel coach Phil O’Keeffe likes to use a baseball analogy.
Plum boys golfers focus on shaving strokes
September 13, 2019
It’s been a tough season in the win-loss department for the Plum boys golf team, going up against section rivals and perennial powers Fox Chapel, Central Catholic and Franklin Regional. In golf, though, success can be measured in different ways.
A-K Valley H.S. athletes of the week: Fox Chapel’s Lucy Ream and Plum’s Darius Flowers
September 10, 2019
Lucy Ream
Percise Colon scores clutch touchdown to carry NA past Central Catholic
September 6, 2019
North Allegheny coach Art Walker earned his 200th win Friday night, but he won’t remember the game, because of the milestone number.Junior duo goes low for Franklin Regional golf team
Franklin Regional’s Chuck Tragesser and Michael Wareham spend a lot of their free time playing golf together at Willowbrook Country Club in Apollo. On match days, they are paired.
Franklin Regional girls volleyball looks to build off historic 2018 season
August 30, 2019
The Franklin Regional girls volleyball team was one of the feel-good stories of the WPIAL last season.
Competition to bring out best in Knoch boys soccer
August 24, 2019
When Knoch boys soccer coach Malcolm Cook looked back at last season, the overarching theme was that there were too many holes in the lineup to find the right combination to be competitive.
Small roster not dimming enthusiasm for Knoch girls soccer
Knoch girls soccer already was low on players, but three season-ending injuries before the first practice made the roster even thinner.
Plum gains momentum with Week Zero win over Highlands
August 23, 2019
Plum went into its Week Zero matchup at Highlands hoping to take some positive momentum into Class 5A Foothills Conference play and the Mustangs got it in all three phases of the game.
Freeport boys soccer confident it can compete in tough section
August 21, 2019
There have been plenty of good on-field moments the last few years for Freeport boys soccer, but one thing that always has stuck out for coach Dave Teorsky didn’t happen in a game.
Sidney Shemanski hopes to guide young Freeport girls soccer to section title
Sidney Shemanski will begin the first leg of the three-part finale to her Freeport athletic career this fall with the girls soccer team.
South Park ready to rebound with experienced group
August 18, 2019
South Park football coach Marty Rieck isn’t one to make excuses for shortcomings, but the fact of the matter is that his team was young last season.
Deer Lakes adopts ‘why not us?’ mantra in quest for playoff berth
Tim Burk is a Deer Lakes guy through and through, so he took great pride in watching the Lancers’ boys soccer team make a run to the state championship game and the boys basketball team win the first PIAA playoff game in school history and advance to the quarterfinals.
After near misses, North Catholic focused reaching championship game
When you come as close to playing for a championship as North Catholic football has only to see it slip away, it’s hard not to look back at the small moments that swayed the game.
Armstrong looks to gain experience early on with young roster
August 16, 2019
It took only two weeks for Frank Fabian to realize he made a mistake after resigning as Armstrong’s coach.
Always one to lighten mood, Deer Lakes’ Hollibaugh got lighter to improve his play
August 12, 2019
Deer Lakes football coach Tim Burk is never exactly sure what his tight end Jack Hollibaugh is going to say when he enters the locker room, but he knows it likely will be something funny.
Plum’s Kelly balances sports, music as key cog on soccer team
August 9, 2019
Cole Kelly does his best to split his time for his two passions — soccer and music — because he loves them equally.
Youth camp helps fund Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team
July 17, 2019
Last week, the Apollo-Ridge girls soccer team held its fifth annual youth skills camp, which has become a benefit not only for the future of the program, but the present, as well.
Plum’s Linhart displays virtues of multisport athletes
June 8, 2019
The three-sport athlete has become a rare breed with many specializing in one sport to try to make it to college, but Hunter Linhart saw the benefits of diversifying.
Brennan powers Serra Catholic past Neshannock in PIAA quarterfinals
June 6, 2019
With teams intentionally walking standout catcher Mark Black regularly in the playoffs, Serra Catholic baseball coach Brian Dzurenda decided to move him from third in the order to the leadoff spot, which put Pat Brennan in Black’s old spot.
Franklin Regional ‘revved up’ for PIAA quarterfinal matchup
June 5, 2019
Michael Klingensmith led off first base after drawing a walk in the top of the first inning in Monday’s PIAA first- round game when Cathedral Prep pitcher Colin Kelly made a pick-off throw to first.
Franklin Regional baseball advances with win over Cathedral Prep
June 3, 2019
It often has been said good things come to those who wait, and Franklin Regional baseball proved that in a couple of ways Monday.
With school out, Leechburg turns complete focus on PIAA softball playoffs
June 1, 2019
Kristen Knapp, Aubry Skeel and Kiera Jones left Leechburg on Thursday night as graduates.
Boehme hits for cycle as Seton LaSalle takes down Serra Catholic in WPIAL Class 2A final
May 29, 2019
Seton LaSalle first baseman Dan Boehme knew he had a good day, but he was unaware it was a historic one until he got back into the dugout after crushing a two-run homer over the left field fence.
Westmoreland baseball/softball preview capsules: Games of Tuesday, May 28
May 27, 2019
Tuesday’s games
Leechburg softball focused on consolation prize
May 26, 2019
Leechburg softball coach Debbi Young has found it can be tough at times to get a team energized for a consolation game after a difficult loss in the semifinals, but she doesn’t foresee that being a problem with her current group.
WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final suspended by inclement weather
May 23, 2019
With the score tied 11-11 in the final minute of the WPIAL Class AAA girls lacrosse final between Upper St. Clair and Shady Side Academy, Mother Nature decided to put a halt on the night and add some suspense.
Oakland Catholic captures WPIAL Class AA girls lacrosse title
Natalie Cyterski was bloodied, battered and exhausted, but she wasn’t going to be denied.
Maley’s walk-off single lifts No. 2 Pine-Richland past Norwin in WPIAL quarterfinals
May 21, 2019
Jake Maley hit a walk-off single in the bottom of the sixth inning to propel No. 2 Pine-Richland to a 2-1 victory over No. 7 Norwin in a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal baseball game Tuesday night at Upper St. Clair’s Boyce-Mayview Park.
Westmoreland H.S. baseball capsules for games of Monday, May 20, 2019
May 19, 2019
WPIAL baseball playoffs
Kiski Valley rugby teams advance to state championship games
May 18, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby advanced to the Rugby PA Club Division II championship game for the second consecutive season with a 32-5 win over North Penn on Saturday at Penn State Berks.
Mars baseball shuts out Fox Chapel in 1st round
May 16, 2019
Fox Chapel coach Jim Hastings summed up how things went for his team Thursday with five words.
Kiski Valley rugby teams vying for state championships
May 13, 2019
In the last five years, Kiski Valley rugby has built its program to be on par with some of best in the state and last week reflected that when the girls and boys teams were awarded top seeds in their respective brackets.
Plum softball not caught up in numbers game
May 10, 2019
Nearly half of the players in Plum softball’s lineup have batting averages at .400 or above, but none of them know it.
Kiski Valley girls rugby team hoping for breakthrough
April 27, 2019
After three years of seeing the Kiski Valley girls rugby team finish as the state runner-up, Rilee Roach is ready to break through.
All systems rolling for Franklin Regional baseball
April 26, 2019
Franklin Regional baseball coach Bobby Sadler laughed and then paused for a few seconds when deciding if pitching or hitting was going better for his team.
Tough nonsection slate paying off for Greensburg Central Catholic baseball
April 23, 2019
Going into the season with seven new starters, Greensburg Central Catholic baseball coach Dennis Reist beefed up the schedule with an early run of difficult nonsection opponents and hoped Mother Nature would cooperate.
Shorthanded Penn-Trafford track teams eye individual success
April 5, 2019
For the second year in a row the Penn-Trafford boys and girls track teams have small rosters, but that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of talent.
Penn-Trafford boys volleyball aims for another section title
March 29, 2019
The Penn-Trafford boys volleyball team jumped right into the thick of an intense battle in its season opener Tuesday night, and that was exactly what Warriors coach Jim Schall wanted to see to get a better handle on his team.
Kiski Valley rugby gets boost from Buckheads transfers
March 28, 2019
Kiski Valley boys rugby coach Seth Erwin was already excited about the group he had returning from a team that was the state runner-up last year, and then he received some news in the offseason that made his roster even stronger.
New-look Deer Lakes boys volleyball team looks to maintain high standard of success
March 25, 2019
Deer Lakes boys volleyball coach Brady Schuller said he had a couple of curveballs thrown his way last year with some injuries to key players in a season that ended one win short of a second consecutive PIAA playoff berth.
La Salle takes down North Allegheny in Class AAA Pennsylvania Cup championship
March 23, 2019
North Allegheny rolled into the second intermission break on the back of two late goals that got the Tigers tied with La Salle and looked to continue the momentum when they received a power play early in the third.
Freeport’s Brown follows in mother’s footsteps with selection to Cager Classic
March 22, 2019
Jalen Brown paused a moment before describing the impact his mother, Eve VanDyke, has had on his life and his basketball career.
Freshmen, sophomores to make quick impact for Springdale softball team
March 19, 2019
Springdale softball coach Anthony Pototo pointed to a few factors that went against his team last season: poor weather, a lack of pitching depth and a young team.
Springdale baseball to lean on young lineup during rebuilding season
After each practice, Springdale baseball coach Brett Burger tells his team to “be better tomorrow than they were today.”
Cook, Ringgold edge No. 1 Burrell to claim PIHL Division II championship
March 18, 2019
With the score tied in the third period, Burrell had the ice tilted in its favor and fired a bunch of shots on goal, but Ringgold goalie Evan Cook answered each time.
Penn-Trafford baseball sets sights on winning section championship
There isn’t any question that Penn-Trafford baseball lost some talented players to graduation with all five departed seniors going on to play in college.
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA finals preview: Peters Township vs. North Allegheny
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AAA Championship
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A finals preview: Montour vs. South Fayette
PIHL Penguins Cup Class A championship
Penn-Trafford softball prepares for tough section slate in Class 5A
When new alignments came out, Penn-Trafford softball coach Denny Little looked at who was going to be in the Warriors’ section and came to a quick conclusion.
PIHL playoff capsule: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair
March 17, 2019
PIHL Penguins Cup Class AA Championship
Tshiebwe, Kennedy Catholic use 2nd-half surge to oust Pine-Richland in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2019
For a half, Pine-Richland controlled the pace with a slow down offense and shot well enough from beyond the arc to go into halftime down only five to Class 6A’s No. 1 team, Kennedy Catholic.
PIHL Class AA Penguins Cup semifinals preview capsules
March 12, 2019
Class AA semifinals
Gateway’s Whiteside, Hanisak gain experience at WPIAL championships
March 8, 2019
Gateway coach Ryan Sula saw improvement from Evan Whiteside in every area of his wrestling, but the one thing that stood out the most was the growing confidence in his 113-pound junior.
Plum’s Citrano, Stecik cap season at WPIAL wrestling championships
As a freshman this year, Plum’s Vinny Citrano believed in himself every time he stepped on a mat, and it showed in his results. But before his first match at the WPIAL individual championships Feb. 28, the magnitude of the event set in.
Stewart’s 7 points lead Burrell to PIHL Division II 1st-round victory over Trinity
March 4, 2019
After Tyler Stewart skated around three Trinity players before depositing the puck into the back of the net for his fifth goal of the game midway through the third period, Burrell hockey coach Max Rickard said he looked at one of his assistant coaches and just shook his head.
Chartiers Valley’s McConnells combine for another WPIAL title — this time girls
March 2, 2019
Tim McConnell thought back to eight years ago when he said someone made a comment to him that one day he’d coach his daughter, Megan.
Spirnak lifts No. 5 Elizabeth Forward past upset-minded Quaker Valley in quarterfinals
February 21, 2019
With Quaker Valley pushing Elizabeth Forward to the edge late in the fourth quarter, Bri Spirnak did what she had been doing all game: She stayed tough and found a way to score.
Knoch displays versatility, rolls past South Park in 1st round
February 20, 2019
Knoch has displayed an ability and willingness to get out and run the floor a little more than it has in the past, and that continued in a big way in the playoffs Wednesday night.
TJ’s Galioto, Moon’s Hoff headline WPIAL gymnast champs
February 15, 2019
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.
Westmoreland basketball playoff preview capsules for Tuesday’s games
Tuesday’s games
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.
