Author: John Grupp
Senior center fielder shows pop for first-place Hampton softball team
April 20, 2024
Hampton’s Jessica Lange made a name for herself doing the little things for the Talbots softball team.
Hampton basketball readies for rare coaching search
For only the second time in the past 46 years, Hampton is searching for a new boys basketball coach.
Hall of fame basketball coach Joe Lafko steps down at Hampton
April 17, 2024
Saying it’s time to “figure out the next chapter,” WPIAL Hall of Famer Joe Lafko has stepped down as Hampton boys basketball coach.
Ex-MLB pitcher David Phelps helps launch Aquinas Academy baseball team
April 13, 2024
Aquinas Academy baseball coach David Phelps knows all about pressure.
Faced with choice between football, lacrosse at Mount Union, Hampton senior picks both
One thing is certain about Hampton two-sport standout Gabe Gannelli and his upcoming college days.
Onetime Hampton baseball player reaches NCAA Division II Elite Eight as basketball coach
April 6, 2024
Hampton graduate David Steckel took an unlikely path from a high school baseball player to an assistant coach for an Elite Eight men’s basketball team.
With bad weather scrambling schedule, beach trips means a lot to Hampton baseball
The Hampton baseball team found a way in late March to mix business with pleasure.
Despite early-season loss, Hampton boys lacrosse has high expectations
March 30, 2024
The opening week of the 2024 spring season proved something about the Hampton boys lacrosse team.
Hampton girls lacrosse plans to spread scoring wealth
The Hampton girls lacrosse team this season is relying on balance rather than brilliance.
Defending state champ leads talented Hampton track team
March 23, 2024
Hampton track star Dale Hall enters his senior season in the unusual position of being a reigning state champion and an underdog, all at the same time.
As playoff run ends, Hampton takes pride in special season
One day after Hampton’s boys basketball season came to an end, Joe Lafko contemplated the Talbots’ memorable journey.
Hampton boys tennis looks to take another step
March 16, 2024
The tennis courts at Hampton Community Park are scheduled to undergo a major renovation this summer, but in the meantime, the Hampton boys team has some work of its own to do.
Hampton notebook: Aquinas Academy girls team misses out on trip to basketball finals
The Aquinas Academy girls basketball team weathered injuries and illness for much of the season, but the Crusaders fought through it.
Hampton sophomores bring home WPIAL swimming and diving gold
March 9, 2024
Hampton sophomore Lainey Sheets popped her head out of the water after the 100 backstroke at the WPIAL Class 2A swimming championships at Pitt on March 1 and was a bit bewildered.
Hampton softball picks up pace under new coach
Hampton all-section senior shortstop Charlotte Lomb said new coach Kate Hedderman’s high-paced workouts were an eye-opener for some of her teammates.
After productive offseason, Hampton baseball eager to get started
Hampton baseball coach Kellen Wheeler had a numbers problem this offseason.
Aquinas Academy boys show they’re no one-man team
March 2, 2024
Aquinas Academy entered this season with a lot of uncertainty after losing WPIAL all-time leading scorer Vinnie Cugini to graduation.
Hampton wrestlers march ahead in postseason tournaments
The Hampton wrestlers had such a memorable season as a team, they decided to keep it going as individuals.
Hampton senior wrestler buckles down after tough seasons, climbs WPIAL ranks
February 10, 2024
In Alan Danner’s first two seasons at Hampton, he spent much more time on the wrong side of pins than on the right side of wins.
Hampton’s Peter Kramer eager to return to playoff action
Hampton standout senior guard Peter Kramer is hoping to go from an ineligible postseason to an indelible one.
Senior Meghan Murray breaks program scoring mark as Hampton girls hit stride
February 3, 2024
Hampton star guard Meghan Murray sank a half-court shot to end the first quarter against Mars on Jan. 22, but her next basket was even more dramatic.
Hampton junior swimmer moves into fast lane
Hampton junior swimmer Wil Cramer is proving that where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Hampton players recall ‘incredible’ run to ‘84 state basketball finals
January 27, 2024
Many of the memories have faded into time over the past four decades.
Hampton hockey heads in new direction after midseason coaching change
January 20, 2024
On its way to a fifth consecutive losing season, the Hampton hockey team has made a midseason coaching shift.
Defense powering Hampton boys basketball
Three days after Christmas, the Hampton boys basketball team wasn’t feeling very joyful.
Senior battles through knee injury for surprising Hampton wrestling team
January 13, 2024
Hampton senior Caleb Rihn heard “a large pop” from his left knee during club wrestling practice in early November.
Hampton girls basketball starting to warm up, eye WPIAL playoff berth
The Hampton girls basketball team flew to California over Christmas break for a three-day tournament and visited several popular spots around San Diego.
New Hampton softball coach Kate Hedderman ready to get started
January 6, 2024
Hampton didn’t have to look too far to find its new softball coach.
Led by super sophomore, Hampton girls swimmers set for special season
December 16, 2023
Hampton’s Lainey Sheets was the only freshman in the state who finished top five at last season’s PIAA Class 2A Swimming championships.
Roster numbers down but excitement remains high for Hampton boys swim season
Hampton swimming coach Morgan Zweygardt can count on two hands the number of boys on her roster this season.
Aquinas Academy girls hungry to take next step
December 9, 2023
Playing at Pitt’s Petersen Events Center each of the past two seasons was a dream come true for the Aquinas Academy girls basketball team.
Aquinas Academy boys basketball braces for ‘life without Vinnie’
The Aquinas Academy boys basketball team spent more time this offseason in the weight room than ever before.
Behind 7 returning WPIAL qualifiers, Hampton wrestlers determined to snap playoff drought
December 2, 2023
The Hampton wrestling team’s season-ending banquet last March was more about eyeing the future than remembering the past.
Meghan Murray-led Hampton girls basketball team a work in progress
Hampton star point guard Meghan Murray is being realistic when she expects the Talbots to start slow this season.
Talented senior class ushered in golden era for Hampton volleyball
November 26, 2023
The journey began innocently enough, at a spring-time middle school volleyball tournament at Montour.
Hampton looks for balance behind top scorer Peter Kramer
Hampton boys basketball coach Joe Lafko called it the “X factor” this season.
Hampton hockey shows glimpses of potential while gaining varsity experience
November 19, 2023
Hampton hockey coach Buck McKee knew some growing pains awaited his young Talbots this season.
Seniors spearhead another impressive season for Hampton boys soccer
The Hampton boys soccer team prepared for the 2023 season by attending soccer camp in mid-August in Edinboro that included a trip to a nearby water park.
Hampton, Pope John Paul II to collide in state championship clash of undefeated volleyball powers
November 16, 2023
The Hampton girls volleyball team gathered Wednesday afternoon to watch videos of their PIAA championship opponent, Pope John Paul II.
After WPIAL 3-peat, PIAA title, Hampton runners celebrate ‘incredible’ season
November 11, 2023
On their way home from the PIAA Class 2A cross country championships in Hershey, the Hampton boys were met at the turnpike by township fire trucks and escorted to the high school three miles down Route 8.
Hampton guard Peter Kramer commits to Lehigh
November 7, 2023
Hampton’s Peter Kramer was cold, standing in nearly a half-foot of snow with a shovel in his hands.
Hampton girls soccer looks to bright future after playoff ouster
November 5, 2023
Every player who scored a goal this season for the Hampton girls soccer team has one thing in common — she’ll be back.
‘Challenging’ season ends with Hampton football on wrong side of playoff tiebreaker
The Hampton football season began with an injury and ended with an insult.
Hampton girls tennis reflects on historic season
October 28, 2023
The Hampton girls tennis team stopped at a restaurant on the way home from its PIAA Class 2A playoff match Oct. 24 in Erie.
Hampton senior running back climbs school’s all-time rushing list
The first time Hampton running back Brock Borgo touched the football in a meaningful varsity carry, he raced 58 yards for a touchdown.
Aquinas Academy boys double win total but playoff spot remains elusive
October 21, 2023
Aquinas Academy missed the WPIAL Class A boys soccer playoffs this season, but the Crusaders kept opposing goalies busy.
Hampton boys eye WPIAL cross country 3-peat
Since last season’s fourth-place finish at states, the Hampton boys cross country team has been focused on a return trip to Hershey.
After sitting out, Eden Christian runner eager to compete for WPIAL cross country gold
October 14, 2023
The only running Nathan Garrett did at last year’s WPIAL cross country championships was to urge on his Eden Christian teammates.
Aquinas field hockey rebuilding on the run
Someone forgot to tell the Aquinas Academy field hockey team that this was supposed to be a rebuilding year.
Hampton sophomore sets stage for volleyball team’s formidable front line
October 7, 2023
Hampton’s Lilly Muczinski knew early on what position she wanted to play in volleyball.
Hampton girls soccer teammates go from fierce rivals to best friends
Talk about two peas in a pod.
Hampton pair take swing at WPIAL golf championships
September 30, 2023
Hampton teammates Matt Erka and Tyler Schmitt took different paths to reach the 2023 WPIAL Class 3A individual golf championships.
‘Surprised’ 3-sport standout among selections for Hampton hall of fame Class of 2023
September 16, 2023
Former Hampton three-sport standout Joe Raimondi saw the letter from the school’s athletic hall of fame and was unsure what to believe.
Hampton football offers no excuses after rough start
The Hampton football team could blame its dreadful start this season on a number of factors.
Promising young runners could help keep Hampton girls cross country on top
September 9, 2023
Hampton girls cross country star Kevyn Fish figured her team might be swimming upstream this season.
Defending WPIAL champion Hampton runners focusing on Hershey
The two-time defending WPIAL Class 2A champion Hampton boys cross country team is aiming to take another step forward.
Hopes are sky high for Hampton girls volleyball
September 2, 2023
The Hampton girls volleyball team looks so promising this season that winning a section title would hardly qualify as a goal.
Hampton girls tennis ready to fight for playoff berth
During the second day of Hampton girls tennis tryouts in mid-August, four upperclassmen playing doubles argued over whether a serve was in or out.
Early playoff exit lights fire under Hampton boys soccer
August 26, 2023
The seniors on the Hampton boys soccer team have felt euphoria and agony over the years.
After key losses, Hampton girls soccer to rely on deep pool of talent
The Hampton girls soccer team lost two all-WPIAL players to graduation and then lost another one to something nobody saw coming.
Northgate finds strength in numbers
August 21, 2023
Every time Northgate players walked into the weight room this offseason, they were confronted with the same reminders.
Peter Kramer leads senior-heavy Hampton boys golf team
August 19, 2023
The Hampton boys golf team is looking to turn experience into exultation.
North Catholic ready to rebound under new coach
August 12, 2023
North Catholic first-year football coach Chris Rizzo traveled about 2,000 miles to take over a program that’s not too far from where it wants to be.
Hampton determined to extend playoff streak
Something is catching on with Hampton football.
Hampton volleyball star Emmy Schrom staying close to home at Duquesne
August 5, 2023
When Hampton two-time all-state volleyball player Emmy Schrom began looking at colleges, proximity was a priority.
New Hampton athletic director Mike Gavlik brings vast experience to position
July 18, 2023
Mike Gavlik has formed a straightforward philosophy during his two decades as a high school athletic director.
Hampton runner sparkles with Firecracker 5K win
July 15, 2023
Hampton’s Chris Belch put on a display on the Fourth of July.
Hampton wrestler Isabella McNutt takes another shot at nationals
July 8, 2023
Making the 1,100-mile trek from Pittsburgh to Fargo, N.D., is becoming an annual summer trip for Hampton’s Isabella McNutt.
New multipurpose field progressing at Hampton
July 1, 2023
Construction of the new softball/multipurpose field at Hampton High School is rounding second and — slowly but surely — heading for home.
Despite short playoff run, Hampton girls lacrosse team savors season’s successes
June 10, 2023
Hampton failed to reach the WPIAL girls lacrosse semifinals this season for the first time since 2015, but the journey was worth the while.
Hampton staying sharp with summer basketball schedule
So much for resting on your laurels.
Hampton runners good as gold at WPIAL, PIAA meets
June 3, 2023
Hampton track won WPIAL and PIAA gold medals in May with a relay team that got a late start and a miler who had a great finish.
Hampton baseball season punctuated by playoff win
Things looked bleak for the Hampton baseball team at midseason.
Hampton grad Matt DeMatteo thrives after narrowing focus to track at Duquesne
May 20, 2023
Former Hampton three-sport standout Matt DeMatteo already owns the third-fastest 400-meter hurdle time in Duquesne track and field history.
Aquinas girls lacrosse makes best of ‘rough season’
There were many reasons why the Aquinas Academy girls lacrosse team missed the WPIAL playoffs this season for the first time since 2016.
Hampton boys tennis team sees net gains
May 13, 2023
The Hampton boys tennis team finished 8-8 this year, but it sure felt like a winning season.
Top of the lineup boosting Hampton softball toward playoff berth
April 29, 2023
The top of Hampton’s softball lineup is at the top of its game this season.
Hampton lacrosse star lighting up scoreboard
April 22, 2023
When Hampton’s Emi DiLiberto started playing lacrosse in fifth grade, she was petrified of the hard, rubber ball.
Aquinas Academy junior aces WPIAL tennis test
Aquinas Academy junior Jack Gillespie is a three-time Tae Kwon Do world champion and is ranked No. 2 in the nation in his age group for combat weapons.
Hampton’s Eric Weeks makes headlines in 3 sports
April 15, 2023
Hampton senior Eric Weeks’ offseason between basketball and baseball this year lasted about 12 hours.
Sparked by arrival of basketball star Vinnie Cugini, Aquinas Academy volleyball thriving
When Aquinas Academy senior Vinnie Cugini joined the school’s boys volleyball team for the first time this spring, he had mild expectations.
Returning state track qualifiers provide high expectations for Hampton girls
April 8, 2023
The Hampton girls track and field team will be led this season by a Kat, a Fish and a soon-to-be Husky.
Multisport athletes give lift to Hampton boys track
The Hampton boys track and field team this season has a lot of question marks that might turn into exclamation points.
Smaller roster doesn’t faze perennial girls lacrosse power Hampton
April 1, 2023
The Hampton girls lacrosse program has only 25 players this season spread across the varsity and JV rosters.
Hampton boys lacrosse looks to build foundation for playoff run
The Hampton boys lacrosse team was playing an intrasquad practice game in late March under the lights at Fridley Field when pouring rain began.
Hampton’s Vitaliy Pikalo ascends to No. 1 singles spot
March 25, 2023
In tennis, “love” is another word for zero.
Hampton softball off to powerful start
The Hampton softball team opened the 2023 season with a bizarre at-bat the Talbots won’t soon forget.
‘Special group’ propels Hampton to memorable season
March 18, 2023
The motto for the Hampton boys basketball team this season was “to live in the moment.”
Ace lefty Ryan Apaliski leads young pitching staff for Hampton baseball
The Hampton baseball team is hoping one ace and a bunch of wild cards can turn into a winning hand.
Hampton junior Meghan Murray eclipses milestone but Talbots fall short of PIAA playoffs
March 11, 2023
Bored, restless and stuck at home during the lockdown three years ago, then-Hampton eighth grader Meghan Murray grabbed a notebook and jotted down five goals for high school basketball.
Hampton freshman Gabriella Elk thriving at diving
When Hampton freshman Gabriella Elk made the transition from gymnastics to diving, one part of the switch proved to be tricky.
Hampton freshman makes name for himself in WPIAL wrestling postseason
March 5, 2023
Hampton freshman Dustin Kerr proved a wrist fracture and a sore elbow couldn’t prevent him from climbing a podium.
Hampton’s Benny Haselrig fulfills Division I dream with decision to walk on at Pitt
Hampton senior Benny Haselrig agonized a bit during the recruiting process.
Aquinas Academy fencing seeks dual success with boys, girls teams
February 18, 2023
Aquinas Academy fencing coach John Carroll got right to the point when asked about his expectations this season.
Hampton infielder Addy Maguire inks with Edinboro
When Addy Maguire showed up for Hampton softball tryouts as a freshman three years ago, coach Ron Fedell was baffled.
Roster’s lone senior sets tone during successful season for Hampton girls
February 11, 2023
When it comes to the Hampton girls basketball team, forward Claire Rodgers is one of a kind.
Without top scorer, Hampton boys to lean on defense, depth in playoffs
No. 2 Hampton is getting ready to try to show it can win games with its best player in street clothes.
Hampton wrestlers set sights on next hurdle
February 4, 2023
Hampton missed the WPIAL wrestling playoffs in its first season as a Class 2A program, but there’s still a lot to shoot for.
New-look Aquinas girls roster back in WPIAL Class A mix
Rebuilding is a dirty word for the Aquinas Academy girls basketball team.
Hampton sophomore reaching new heights in competitive climbing
January 28, 2023
Hampton’s Pax Carslaw is starting to get a grip on competitive climbing.
Hampton coach encouraged by team’s effort despite early struggles
January 21, 2023
Hampton first-year hockey coach Buck McKee is short on wins and players, but he has an abundance of one thing — optimism.
Hampton girls bowling team provides low-pressure fun
It was supposed to be all fun and games.
Sheets siblings fuel Hampton swim teams
January 14, 2023
The Hampton boys and girls swimming teams seem to be headed in different directions, but they have one thing in common.
Hampton competitive spirit team reaches PIAA championships for 1st time in 5 years
The Hampton competitive spirit team has something to cheer about.
Hampton girls basketball team unwraps memorable holiday trip
January 7, 2023
The Hampton girls basketball players received a Christmas present they will never forget.
Red-hot Hampton boys basketball surges out of the gate
The Hampton boys basketball team is hoping a season that began with a memorable win ends with a whole bunch more.
Hampton senior Ava Vitiello tracks down D-I scholarship
December 17, 2022
For the longest time, Hampton’s Ava Vitiello believed a Division I scholarship was out of her reach.
After busy offseason, top scorer Meghan Murray ready to lead Hampton girls
December 3, 2022
The best player on the Hampton girls basketball team spent this summer getting even better.
Coach’s milestone win just the 1st step for Hampton boys
At some point early this winter, Hampton boys basketball coach Joe Lafko will achieve something “that’s been a career goal with me forever.”
Roster depth, move to Class 2A boost Hampton wrestling team
November 26, 2022
For the first time in program history, the Hampton wrestling team can try to pick on someone its own size.
Hampton boys swim team in search of WPIAL 3-peat with new-look roster
The Hampton boys swimming team will need to take a different lane to a third consecutive WPIAL Class 2A title.
Plenty of highlights for Hampton volleyball despite quick WPIAL playoff exit
November 19, 2022
The Hampton girls volleyball team made history during a season that turned into the past sooner than anyone expected.
Hampton football team racks up postseason accolades
Hampton senior defensive lineman Gabe Harris was surprised to earn all-Greater Allegheny Conference honors, but maybe he shouldn’t have been startled at all.
Hampton football looks ahead following heartbreaking loss
November 12, 2022
Hampton senior Eric Weeks has replayed the final moments of the Talbots’ 34-33 gut-wrenching last-second WPIAL Class 4A playoff loss to Montour over and over again.
Bittersweet ending for seniors on Hampton girls soccer team
November 5, 2022
Hidden beneath the emotional hugs following Hampton’s first-round playoff loss was a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Aquinas Academy field hockey gains ground with wins over rival, trip to WPIAL finals
The Aquinas Academy field hockey team last year became the school’s first team to reach the WPIAL finals in any sport.
Hampton wide receiver Benny Haselrig catching eye of colleges
October 29, 2022
The struggle was real last season for Hampton all-conference wide receiver Benny Haselrig.
Hampton boys soccer team’s WPIAL reign ends suddenly
Hampton boys soccer coach Matt McAwley is practical enough to know this season wasn’t going to end anything like last season.
Rebuilding Hampton hopes to overcome smallest roster in PIHL
October 22, 2022
The Hampton hockey team will be skating uphill this season.
Hampton’s Joey Mayer makes ‘remarkable’ return
Hampton senior quarterback Joey Mayer climbed into an ambulance in mid-September with a dislocated left elbow and a broken heart.
Hampton boys soccer team braces for title defense
October 15, 2022
The defending WPIAL and PIAA champion Hampton boys soccer team is ready to try to make another postseason run.
Hampton golfer Joey O’Donnell caps long road with WPIAL bid
October 8, 2022
Hampton senior Joey O’Donnell’s disappointing 23-over 94 at the WPIAL Class 3A individual golf semifinals was only a letdown if one ignores how far he came just to get there.
Aquinas Academy junior Alexis Abbett proving to be hard to catch
When Aquinas Academy junior Alexis Abbett was a toddler, she loved to run.
Libero Avery Koontz gets her digs in for Hampton girls volleyball
October 1, 2022
As libero for Hampton’s No. 2-ranked girls volleyball team, Avery Koontz is not allowed to jump above the height of the net or attack the ball.
Sets of siblings fill Hampton soccer rosters
Hampton girls soccer coach Bill Paholich learned early this season he needed to be on a first-name basis with his players.
Hampton sophomore serves up WPIAL tournament bid
September 24, 2022
Moments after Hampton’s Grace Stitt lost in her section singles semifinal match Sept. 14, coach Sara Longo reminded her of what was at stake the following day.
Hampton football opens up passing attack
The Hampton football team has gone airborne this season.
Confidence growing for Aquinas Academy girls soccer
September 17, 2022
The smallest school in WPIAL girls soccer is starting to think big.
Tough breaks test Aquinas Academy boys soccer team
Aquinas Academy left the field following last season’s WPIAL Class A boys soccer playoff loss to Sewickley Academy with bright hopes for 2022.
Hampton cross country team working on encore after historic season
September 10, 2022
The Hampton boys cross country team is learning how to run with a target on its back.
Runner-up finishes motivate Hampton girls volleyball to grab gold
The most successful season in program history was just the start for the Hampton girls volleyball team.
Realignment adds tall hurdle, but Hampton girls soccer team remains optimistic
September 3, 2022
Two years ago, the Hampton girls soccer team won its first section title since 2008.
Defending WPIAL boys soccer champion Hampton embarks on extensive rebuild
The reigning WPIAL and PIAA champion Hampton boys soccer team faces a massive rebuild this season.
Realignment gives Hampton tennis team high hopes
August 27, 2022
The tennis courts at Hampton Community Park haven’t changed since last year. They are still 78 feet long by 36 feet wide.
After roster shuffle, Hampton golf team has young but talented lineup
Hampton lost its top golfer to a prep school in New England but gained a No. 1 golfer from a private school in Fox Chapel.
Hampton’s Ryan Apaliski commits to James Madison after strong audition at summer camp
August 20, 2022
Hampton senior left-hander Ryan Apaliski needed only two innings to help secure a home for the next four years.
Hampton remains hungry after 11-win season
August 14, 2022
No one needs to tell Hampton first-year coach Steve Sciullo about the importance of an offensive line.
North Catholic embraces new challenge in Class 4A
North Catholic enters the 2022 season in a new classification with a different home field, a new offensive coordinator, a new quarterback and many new starters.
Hampton infielder finds pop over summer
August 13, 2022
During his first two seasons as Hampton’s starting second baseman, Anthony Bucci was known as a flashy fielder without much pop in his bat.
Hampton wrestler performs on national stage
July 31, 2022
Hampton’s Isabella McNutt only started wrestling a year ago, but that didn’t stop her from reaching the nation’s biggest event this summer.
Ex-Hampton golfer’s game heats up during successful summer
July 23, 2022
Former Hampton golfer Justin Griffith is getting two more swings at his first state title.
‘Fired up’ Hampton freshmen win summer basketball title
July 16, 2022
Summer basketball leagues are built around staying in shape and building team chemistry.
Hampton announces latest class for Athletic Hall of Fame
July 9, 2022
Former Hampton cross country coach Tom Tobin knows all about Halls of Fame.
Hampton volleyball coach’s departure ‘heartbreaking’
June 18, 2022
Hampton didn’t have to look far to find its new girls volleyball coach.
Standout guard Peter Kramer returning to Hampton
June 11, 2022
The Hampton boys basketball team will get some excitement this upcoming season when coach Joe Lafko collects his 500th career coaching victory.
Hampton ace Apaliski aims to build on breakout season
If Hampton left-hander Ryan Apaliski improves this summer as much as he did last summer, Talbots coach Kellen Wheeler may start running out of superlatives.
Hampton quartet fares well at PIAA track
June 4, 2022
Hampton brought back one state medal, one personal-best time and a vanload of memories from the PIAA Class 3A track and field championships May 27-28 at Shippensburg.
Hampton girls lacrosse team delights in exceeding expectations
The Hampton girls lacrosse team entered the 2022 season with tepid expectations after graduation losses decimated last year’s WPIAL Class 2A semifinalist.
Bright future for Hampton boys lacrosse
May 28, 2022
Hampton boys lacrosse coach Andy DeMichiei and his wife, Kristen, welcomed their first child, Owen, on May 10.
Disputed call haunts Hampton baseball team
Hampton baseball coach Kellen Wheeler said he “couldn’t even sleep that night” after the Talbots’ controversial WPIAL playoff loss to Penn-Trafford.
Catcher Bella Henzler ends Hampton career with flourish
May 21, 2022
The Hampton softball team will return almost everyone from this year’s WPIAL Class 5A playoff qualifier, but one loss is going to sting.
Busy Matt DeMatteo ready to represent Hampton in Big 33
Memorial Day weekend should be a memorable one for Matt DeMatteo.
Steve Sciullo settles into top spot at Hampton
May 14, 2022
Hampton first-year football coach Steve Sciullo likes what he sees from his new view atop the program.
Youthful Hampton lacrosse team shrugs off slow start
The Hampton boys lacrosse team expected to take some lumps this season as it tried to replace 13 seniors.
Reese’s walk-off home run highlights emotional week for Hampton softball
May 7, 2022
Hampton sophomore Mackenzie Reese was looking for an inside pitch in the bottom of the eighth inning against Seneca Valley on April 22.
Hampton junior strides toward WPIAL track championships
Qualifying for the WPIAL Class 3A track and field championships this spring won’t be enough for Ava Vitiello.
Hampton 3-sport star Matt DeMatteo to run track at Duquesne
May 4, 2022
Hampton three-sport athlete Matt DeMatteo has committed to attend Duquesne on a track scholarship.
Hampton soccer standout thrives in return to diamond
April 30, 2022
When Luke Staggers picked up a baseball bat for the first time in five years, what happened was just about what anyone would expect.
Hobbled Hampton senior stays positive, hopes to return for lacrosse playoffs
Hampton’s Rachel Dolan rode a stationary bike on the track at Fridley Field during girls lacrosse practice in mid-April.
Hampton sophomore skates to national hockey championship
April 23, 2022
Hampton sophomore Sean Sullivan felt a range of emotions after the Steel City Ice Renegades won a 2022 USA Hockey 16U national championship earlier this month.
Pair of Hampton standouts win WPIAL scholar-athlete awards
A banner year for Hampton athletics just got even more special.
Hampton 3-sport standout picks basketball, makes college choice
April 16, 2022
Sophia Kelly’s answer was exactly what Mercyhurst women’s basketball coach Brooklyn Kohlheim wanted to hear.
After cold start, Hampton boys tennis team warming up
Hampton boys tennis coach Grant McKinney peeked outside on a wintry Monday in late March and figured practice was a long shot.
Hampton girls lacrosse looking for new scorers to step forward
April 9, 2022
The Hampton girls lacrosse team will try to fill the shoes of one All-American with the hands and feet of many.
Hampton boys lacrosse team features new look
The Hampton Athletic Hall of Fame inducted Andy DeMichiei this past summer for his exploits on the lacrosse field.
Coaching continuity helps Hampton track team enter season with confidence
April 2, 2022
When Derek Brinkley stepped down as Hampton track and field coach after 18 seasons this offseason, a priority for athletic director Bill Cardone was keeping the staff as intact as possible.
Will Retsch ends Hampton swimming career with record-shattering flourish
Hampton swimmer Will Retsch is proof that water is the universal solvent.
Battery powers Hampton softball team
March 26, 2022
The Hampton softball team this season will use its battery to make up for some lost power.
High hopes for Hampton baseball after up-and-down playoff season
The Hampton baseball team was taking indoor batting practice earlier this month when players were asked to close the gymnasium doors to accommodate a meeting in the adjacent cafeteria.
Hampton senior Wolfe enjoying best season after biding his time as junior backup
February 19, 2022
Hampton wrestler Alan Wolfe refused to get discouraged last season, stuck on the bench behind a two-time WPIAL qualifier.
Aquinas Academy girls eye next step after defending section title
February 12, 2022
The Aquinas Academy girls basketball team is hitting stride at just the right time.
With full lineups, Hampton bowling teams enjoy season
February 5, 2022
Hampton bowling coach Bob Wallace doesn’t stress over wins and losses with his fifth-year program.
Hampton swimmer Donato glides toward WPIALs
January 29, 2022
Belle Donato’s watchful parents urged her to trust them and take the plunge.
Isabella McNutt hears the cheers on Hampton wrestling team
January 22, 2022
Hampton sophomore Isabella McNutt began martial arts at age 4 and earned her Taekwondo black belt at age 7.
Realignment sends several Hampton sports teams down in class
Seven Hampton athletics teams will be getting new scenery for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 sports seasons.
Hampton girls basketball turns up pressure during fast start
January 15, 2022
The Hampton girls basketball team was perfect in December by letting no opposing teams win and by barely allowing them to breathe.
Bocce provides team sports experience to Hampton students with disabilities
There is something special and unifying about the Hampton High School bocce team.
Hampton senior shows off all-around ability in IM
January 8, 2022
Hampton swimming coach Morgan Zweygardt quickly spotted something about then-freshman Will Retsch.
Accolades pile up after Hampton football’s record-breaking season
December 18, 2021
When the Hampton football players turned in their equipment after the winningest season in program history, their coaches gave them something in return.
Senior’s 7-goal game highlights Hampton hockey’s move to Class A
Hampton hockey coach Luke Leya figured Logan Scanlon was bound to break out one of these nights.Boost in numbers gives Hampton wrestling optimism despite graduation losses
December 12, 2021
The Hampton wrestling team is aiming to focus on quantity rather than quality.
Hampton can count on depth in quest to repeat at WPIAL Class 2A boys swim champs
The reigning WPIAL Class 2A champion Hampton boys swimming team hopes deeper is better when it comes to the pool.
Veteran backcourt has Hampton girls basketball thinking big
December 5, 2021
Hampton girls basketball coach Tony Howard has a good feeling entering the 2021-22 season.
Hampton boys basketball poised to rebound with multi-sport athletes
The Hampton boys basketball team will try to bounce back from one of the worst seasons in program history with a bunch of players who have won a lot lately.
Hampton athletes rack up championships during historic fall season
November 28, 2021
One year after a pandemic rattled WPIAL athletics, something else proved to be contagious at Hampton — winning.
Future bright for Hampton cross country teams
November 20, 2021
The Hampton boys and girls cross country teams each have a lot to look forward to next season.
Hampton football wraps up historic season
Following their WPIAL playoff loss to Thomas Jefferson, the Hampton senior football players gathered at midfield inside a quiet, emptied Fridley Field.
Hampton girls volleyball’s ‘amazing’ year highlighted by WPIAL finals trip, PIAA win
November 13, 2021
The Hampton girls volleyball team found a silver lining in its WPIAL Class 3A runner-up season.
‘Special group’ brings WPIAL boys soccer championship to Hampton
Hampton’s journey to the 2021 WPIAL boys soccer championship began when many of the players were still in elementary school.
Coach pays off bet as Hampton wins school’s 1st WPIAL cross country title
November 6, 2021
Hampton boys cross country coach Dean Longwell dyed his hair bleach blonde on Oct. 31, but it had nothing to do with Halloween.
Hampton girls soccer team came a long way during another playoff season
A girls soccer season that began with the program’s most lopsided loss in a decade ended with the players’ heads held high.
Hampton holds off Plum in WPIAL Class 4A 1st round, stays unbeaten
November 5, 2021
The No. 4-seeded Hampton Talbots remained perfect, but they used an imperfect performance to stay that way.
Hampton marches into WPIAL football playoffs
October 30, 2021
Each Saturday morning, the Hampton football team gathers for its weekly film study to break down the previous night’s game.
Hampton 3-sport standout Kelly helps guide girls soccer team to WPIAL playoff berth
October 23, 2021
Sophia Kelly had a tough decision to make this past summer.
Hampton freshman runner Fish off to fast start
October 9, 2021
Hampton’s Kevyn Fish proudly held out her left hand and showed her dad the “6:22” written on her palm.
Resch provides physical, intelligent presence in middle of Hampton defense
Hampton’s Jacque DeMatteo has sought two traits in his middle linebacker during 22 seasons as a WPIAL football coach.
Hampton girls soccer shakes off slow start
October 2, 2021
The Hampton girls soccer team is getting healthy at the right time.
Smothering defense helps Hampton start season strong
September 25, 2021
Hampton senior Thomas Bradfield is one of the top goalkeepers in WPIAL Class 3A soccer.
Former Hampton star takes reins of school’s boys lacrosse program
September 18, 2021
One of the winningest coaches in the history of Hampton boys lacrosse is being replaced by one of the program’s top players of all time.
Hampton to welcome doubled-up class into sports hall of fame
Former girls soccer star Amy Lindsey Shane waited more than two decades to get into the Hampton Athletic Hall of Fame, so one extra year wasn’t going to matter.
Senior’s return helps spark Hampton girls tennis team to early-season wins
September 11, 2021
On the first day of Hampton girls tennis practice last month, coach Grant McKinney could hardly believe his eyes.
Hampton football making noise with super start
On the bus ride home from their 51-13 victory at Fox Chapel on Sept. 3, the Hampton football players couldn’t play any music during their joyful postgame celebration.
Fresh start energizes talented, young Hampton cross country team
August 28, 2021
A youthful Hampton girls cross country team is about to get even younger.
Hampton boys soccer seniors driven to make most of last chance
Since going undefeated as eighth graders, the seniors on the Hampton boys soccer team have held lofty expectations.
Hampton girls tennis vows to show improvement after winless season
August 22, 2021
Junior Abi Green is hoping to put a new spin on her 2021 season with the Hampton girls tennis team.
Big, experienced line leads charge for Mars
August 20, 2021
Mars senior left tackle Matt Detisch spent this offseason doing bear crawls on a big hill at his home.
Hampton determined to build on playoff season
Hampton all-conference wide receiver Benny Haselrig played last season with the letters “IWNBD CH” written on his wrist tape.
New dual-threat QB brings excitement to North Hills
August 19, 2021
North Hills is talented and experienced on defense this season, and a little bit Green at quarterback.
North Catholic looks to clear semifinal hurdle
August 15, 2021
The seniors on the North Catholic football team have more conference titles than regular-season losses.
‘Thankful’ Talbots eye girls volleyball section repeat
August 14, 2021
Inside a nearly empty Hampton High School earlier this month, unmistakable sounds echoed from the main gym.
Youthful Talbots swing into golf season
The Hampton golf team has gone from experienced and good to inexperienced and maybe good.
‘Unheard-of’ playoff miss drives Avonworth
In the past 20 years, 663 schools have finished with a winning percentage of .750 or better in WPIAL conference play.
Hampton senior tight end is the reel deal
August 8, 2021
Depending on the setting, Mike Witherup can catch a pass or catch a bass.
Traveling summer baseball teams keep Hampton players sharp
July 31, 2021
Editor’s note: Neighbor Spotlight is a monthly feature that aims to let our readers learn more about the people in their communities who are working to make them a better place, who have interesting stories to tell or who the community feels deserve “15 minutes of fame.” If you would like to nominate someone as a Neighbor Spotlight, see the hamptonjournal.com, select the “Post Story” button in the upper right corner and complete the form to publish your nomination. Questions? Email Neighborhood News Network editor Katie Green at kgreen@triblive.com.
Hampton grad Tyler Bischke picks New Orleans
Former Hampton infielder Tyler Bischke has committed to Division I New Orleans after excelling during his lone season at a tiny junior college in Oklahoma.
Hampton wrestling shakes up coaching staff
July 11, 2021
When Chris Hart told his Hampton wrestlers at their season-ending banquet last month that he was stepping down as head coach, their next coach was standing only a couple of feet away.
Hampton grad competes at U.S. Open qualifier, NCAA tournament in golf season to remember
July 3, 2021
Hampton graduate Ben Huber this spring was part of the best golf team in Carnegie Mellon history and struggled to an 80th-place finish at an event in Columbus, Ohio.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Robert Dickerson, North Hills
July 1, 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.
Summer league basketball gives Hampton chance to build chemistry
June 25, 2021
High school basketball season is still five months away, but the Hampton boys are getting a running start.
Hampton football carries momentum into offseason program
Success is becoming contagious for the Hampton football team.
Hampton’s Suyama presses on after covid cancellations, torn ACL deny her final 2 lacrosse seasons
June 19, 2021
Emi Suyama knows life can throw a lot at you.
Mars out to make history again in PIAA boys lacrosse finals
June 10, 2021
For more than a decade, the only way a WPIAL team could reach the PIAA lacrosse championships was with a ticket.
Hampton’s Galuska keeps his cool at states, medals in 400
June 5, 2021
Hampton senior Gage Galuska was a little slower — and a lot colder — at the PIAA Class AAA track and field championships.
Hampton girls lacrosse star racks up eye-popping stats in abbreviated career
Hampton girls lacrosse coach Kelsey Viets felt disbelief as she tabulated star midfielder Megan Cook’s career statistics.
Hampton boys lacrosse sends off ‘special’ senior class
May 29, 2021
Hampton All-WPIAL attack Max Saltrelli realized four years ago his then-freshman class was going to be “something special.”
Hampton baseball turns focus to next season after up-and-down year
The final out of Hampton’s 2021 baseball season was a deep drive against West Allegheny in the WPIAL Class 5A playoff opener.
Joy, pain for Hampton track team at WPIAL meet
May 22, 2021
Two Hampton seniors showed at the WPIAL Class AAA track and field championships that a fraction of an inch or a hundredth of a second can be the difference between elation and heartache.
Power-hitting Hampton softball squad cools down at inopportune time
The most prolific home run-hitting Hampton softball team in at least two decades picked a lousy time to go quiet.
Hampton boys lacrosse surges into postseason
May 15, 2021
Hampton senior defender Gus Wolf hopes history repeats itself in the WPIAL Class AA boys lacrosse playoffs.
Hampton athletes sprint toward WPIAL track championship meet
The Hampton boys track and field team last month won its first section title in 36 years.
Tape-measure homer shows Hampton softball slugger’s eye-popping power
May 8, 2021
Hampton’s Hannah Bradfield hit six home runs in a four-game stretch in late April, but only one of them left nearly everybody shocked.
Hampton’s Stennett returns to girls lacrosse after missing month with concussion
April Fool’s Day was no joke for Hampton lacrosse player Jillian Stennett.
Hampton tennis reaches WPIAL playoffs thanks to unexpected help from section foe Indiana
May 1, 2021
The pizza and cupcakes started to taste a little bit better to the Hampton boys tennis team.
Talbots baseball armed for another WPIAL playoff bid behind Kosko, Marshalwitz
A pair of lefties have the Hampton baseball team on the right side of the WPIAL playoff picture.
Division I-bound catcher Bella Henzler is big hit for Hampton
April 24, 2021
The first time Hampton coach Ron Fedell saw star catcher Bella Henzler playing softball he wondered if the diminutive seventh-grader had a future behind the plate.
Hampton girls track team off to quick start behind versatile senior jumper
April 17, 2021
Hampton senior Hannah Schepner still is unsure about her best event in track and field.
Hampton football players give boost to boys track and field team
If the Hampton boys track and field team can reach the WPIAL Class AAA playoffs for only the second time in a decade, it will have another Hampton team to thank.
Loaded senior class has Hampton girls lacrosse seeking 3rd WPIAL title since ’17
April 10, 2021
On the eve of each home section game, the Hampton girls lacrosse players gather after practice for a team dinner.
Hampton eyes another run to WPIAL boys lacrosse finals
The Hampton boys lacrosse team waited 667 days between matches.
Hampton tennis off to quick start in return to Class AA
April 3, 2021
The Hampton boys tennis team is hoping to make a racket this season.
Hampton hockey rolls with punches
The youthful Hampton hockey team endured a lot of growing pains this season.
Silver lining, record finish for Hampton swimmer Donato
March 27, 2021
The Hampton 100-yard breaststroke record stood for 25 years until senior Richie Donato broke it March 6.
Hampton softball has ‘a lot of games to win’ after coach’s covid scare
They were simple get-well cards. Some were store-bought, some caringly drawn by hand.
Hampton baseball deals with numbers crunch
Turns out the pandemic isn’t finished with the Hampton baseball team.
Hampton wrestler Hart rebounds from cracked ribs to earn PIAA silver
March 20, 2021
In mid-January, Hampton senior Justin Hart couldn’t laugh without it hurting.
Relay win sparks Hampton boys to 1st WPIAL team swim title since 1999
March 15, 2021
The Hampton boys swimming team needed 1 minute, 36 seconds to set into motion something that hadn’t happened in 22 years.
Hampton reflects on breakthrough season after playoff run ends
After the final horn sounded on her senior season, Hampton guard Liv Bianco slowly walked off the court and placed the basketball on the scorer’s table.
Hampton boys look to grow from tough season
March 6, 2021
A season that began with a delay ended with a dud for the Hampton boys basketball team.
Hampton’s Murray siblings show drive to succeed
February 27, 2021
For years, Brennan and Meghan Murray have squared off at the basketball hoop in the driveway of their Hampton home.
Diving no longer ‘secondary thing’ for Hampton’s Carslaw
When Koda Carslaw took up diving last season, he admits it was “more of a secondary thing.”
Hampton wrestler overcomes size disadvantage to have big senior season
February 20, 2021
Nearly every time Conrad Harold stepped on the wrestling mat this season, he was facing someone bigger than him.
Talented juniors lead Hampton girls basketball renaissance
Every once in a while — it doesn’t happen often — one of the top players on the Hampton girls basketball team will toss up a wildly off-target shot at practice.
Tiny Aquinas Academy showing it belongs among WPIAL girls basketball contenders
February 7, 2021
The second-smallest school in WPIAL girls basketball is eyeing bigger things this season.
Led by scoring sensation Vinnie Cugini, Aquinas Academy boys seek playoff success
Aquinas Academy star guard Vinnie Cugini knows the Crusaders will make the WPIAL Class A playoffs this season for the first time in program history.
Aquinas Academy sophomore Vinnie Cugini makes WPIAL history
January 31, 2021
There weren’t many fans to witness it, but Aquinas Academy sophomore Vinnie Cugini made WPIAL history Friday night.
Hampton girls off to red-hot start after adopting up-tempo style
January 30, 2021
Not even a pandemic — or having to run pregame drills in the school cafeteria — can slow down the Hampton girls basketball team.
Hampton competitive spirit squad adapting to all-new calendar
The Hampton competitive spirit team still hasn’t started its 2020-21 season, when in any other year it would almost be over.
Hampton heavyweight eager to test himself against Powerade field
January 23, 2021
Hampton’s Dawson Dietz left the Powerade Wrestling Tournament two years ago with a season-ending torn labrum.
Hampton hockey focuses on defense to stop slump
The slumping Hampton hockey team is slowing things down in hopes of heating things up.
Hampton wrestler steps up to help teammate who lost home in fire
January 16, 2021
On a school night in early November, Hampton’s Jayden Resch disappeared into a spare bedroom for a few hours.
Hampton girls basketball carries momentum through ‘pause’
January 10, 2021
Hampton had the “best, most intense” three-week preseason in Tony Howard’s 14 years as a girls basketball coach.
Hampton boys basketball eager for restart
Joe Lafko has seen a lot in three decades as a basketball coach, but this is the first season he has held court at a computer screen.
Last season’s abrupt ending motivates North Allegheny girls basketball
December 13, 2020
After having its state title hopes dashed last season by the covid-19 pandemic, the North Allegheny girls basketball team isn’t worried about a couple of inconveniences.
Hampton girls swimmers get up to speed quickly in preseason
With most swimming pools shut down for much of the offseason, Hampton coach Morgan Zweygardt was unsure what to expect from her girls team when practices began.
Hampton boys swimmers a WPIAL title threat in Class AA
The Hampton boys swimming team is looking forward to picking on someone its own size.
North Allegheny girls basketball coach Spencer Stefko returns after battling covid
December 8, 2020
North Allegheny’s Spencer Stefko, the reigning PIAA Class 6A girls basketball coach of the year, will never forget this past Thanksgiving.
Hampton athletes earn postseason honors after historic fall season
December 5, 2020
The most challenging, unusual sports season in WPIAL history included something else that has never been seen before.
Led by state qualifiers, Hampton wrestling looks strong in upper weights
If Hampton senior Justin Hart ever says “uncle” in the wrestling room, it will have nothing to do with giving up.
Girls basketball preview: Hampton aims to get back on track with up-tempo attack
November 28, 2020
The Hampton girls basketball team is going small in the hopes of something big.
Boys basketball preview: Hampton getting ready for season unlike any other
There are a lot of new faces on the Hampton boys basketball team, even if coach Joe Lafko can’t quite see them right now.
Hampton bowlers aiming high with deeper rosters
November 21, 2020
The Hampton bowling team is turning to a familiar face for a season the likes of which it has never seen before.
Plum volleyball team savors remarkable turnaround season
Plum entered this season with the expressed goal of reaching the WPIAL Class 3A girls volleyball playoffs.
Hampton hockey making dramatic improvements
November 17, 2020
The Hampton hockey team last season needed three months to reach two wins.
Hampton teams walk through covid minefield to complete successful fall season
November 14, 2020
Bill Cardone was sitting in the parking lot at Pittsburgh International Airport on Aug. 21, waiting to pick up his wife, when he got the news.
JV success points to bright future for Hampton football
Hampton reached the WPIAL football playoffs for the first time in five years this season, and a lot more help is on the way.
Hampton notebook: Strong boys soccer season ends in OT loss to No. 1 Mars
November 7, 2020
Hampton senior Corey Scherer needed some time to ease the sting of a 1-0 double-overtime playoff loss to nemesis Mars.
Hampton football takes huge step forward
Hampton senior lineman Dawson Dietz stood along a chainlink fence at Aliquippa’s Carl Aschman Stadium, wearing a muddy uniform and a smile.
Pair of birdies highlight Oakmont experience for Hampton’s Arianna Erka
October 25, 2020
There was a time when back-to-back triple bogeys at the WPIAL golf championships would have ruined Arianna Erka.
Longtime friends, teammates Nichols, Viszlay lead Hampton soccer into postseason
October 24, 2020
Hampton’s Liam Nichols and Gabe Viszlay are dynamic teammates on the field and the best of friends away from it.
Hampton girls tennis players have no trouble finding silver linings in season
October 17, 2020
The Hampton girls tennis team is proof a season that looks dreadful on paper can look pretty good in person.
Freshman phenom brings scoring punch to Hampton girls soccer team
Hampton girls soccer coach Bill Paholich needed one workout to realize freshman Madison Hurst had a chance to be special.
New Hampton volleyball coach ‘strong leader’
October 10, 2020
Annie Bozzo is Hampton’s third girls volleyball coach in as many years, but the transition appears to be smooth.
Hampton senior Resch vocal leader for volleyball team
For the past two years, Hampton’s Julia Resch has drawn loud cheers before her volleyball matches even start.
Gage Galuska part of turnaround season for Hampton football
Hampton three-sport senior Gage Galuska plays football in the fall, wrestles in the winter and runs track in the spring.
Hampton girls cross country ‘moving in the right direction’
October 3, 2020
The Hampton girls cross county team has hit the ground running.
Hampton cross country team finds its stride in Class AA
Talk about a kick to the shins.
Hamption golfer Ruzomberka on quest for redemption
September 26, 2020
Hampton senior Matt Ruzomberka has played thousands of holes of golf since his father introduced him to the sport growing up in England a decade ago.
Hampton upbeat after rare shutout win
A 3-by-3-foot white board hangs on the wall inside the clubhouse at Hampton’s Fridley Field to commemorate “Football Shutouts.”
Rebuilding Hampton girls eye 5th straight postseason berth
September 19, 2020
Emmy Chismer got a head start on what 2020 would bring.
Saltrelli’s return to midfield bolsters Hampton boys soccer team
Max Saltrelli is a starting center midfielder for the Hampton boys soccer team and a 40-goal scorer for the school’s lacrosse program.
Northgate optimistic after nightmare season in 2018
August 20, 2019
One season after the Northgate Flames were barely an ember, second-year coach Mike Fulmore is feeling a bit more optimistic.
High expectations for Class 6A Seneca Valley after WPIAL title-game run
August 15, 2019
Seneca Valley used mainly its experience and size to reach last year’s WPIAL Class 6A title game.
Class 6A Butler faces debilitating lack of numbers
After going 0-10 in his first full season as coach at his alma mater, Butler’s Eric Christy knows the real challenge is about to begin.
Senior center fielder shows pop for first-place Hampton softball team
April 20, 2024
Hampton’s Jessica Lange made a name for herself doing the little things for the Talbots softball team.
Hampton basketball readies for rare coaching search
For only the second time in the past 46 years, Hampton is searching for a new boys basketball coach.
Hall of fame basketball coach Joe Lafko steps down at Hampton
April 17, 2024
Saying it’s time to “figure out the next chapter,” WPIAL Hall of Famer Joe Lafko has stepped down as Hampton boys basketball coach.
Ex-MLB pitcher David Phelps helps launch Aquinas Academy baseball team
April 13, 2024
Aquinas Academy baseball coach David Phelps knows all about pressure.
Faced with choice between football, lacrosse at Mount Union, Hampton senior picks both
One thing is certain about Hampton two-sport standout Gabe Gannelli and his upcoming college days.
Onetime Hampton baseball player reaches NCAA Division II Elite Eight as basketball coach
April 6, 2024
Hampton graduate David Steckel took an unlikely path from a high school baseball player to an assistant coach for an Elite Eight men’s basketball team.
With bad weather scrambling schedule, beach trips means a lot to Hampton baseball
The Hampton baseball team found a way in late March to mix business with pleasure.
Despite early-season loss, Hampton boys lacrosse has high expectations
March 30, 2024
The opening week of the 2024 spring season proved something about the Hampton boys lacrosse team.
Hampton girls lacrosse plans to spread scoring wealth
The Hampton girls lacrosse team this season is relying on balance rather than brilliance.
Defending state champ leads talented Hampton track team
March 23, 2024
Hampton track star Dale Hall enters his senior season in the unusual position of being a reigning state champion and an underdog, all at the same time.
As playoff run ends, Hampton takes pride in special season
One day after Hampton’s boys basketball season came to an end, Joe Lafko contemplated the Talbots’ memorable journey.
Hampton boys tennis looks to take another step
March 16, 2024
The tennis courts at Hampton Community Park are scheduled to undergo a major renovation this summer, but in the meantime, the Hampton boys team has some work of its own to do.
Hampton notebook: Aquinas Academy girls team misses out on trip to basketball finals
The Aquinas Academy girls basketball team weathered injuries and illness for much of the season, but the Crusaders fought through it.
Hampton sophomores bring home WPIAL swimming and diving gold
March 9, 2024
Hampton sophomore Lainey Sheets popped her head out of the water after the 100 backstroke at the WPIAL Class 2A swimming championships at Pitt on March 1 and was a bit bewildered.
Hampton softball picks up pace under new coach
Hampton all-section senior shortstop Charlotte Lomb said new coach Kate Hedderman’s high-paced workouts were an eye-opener for some of her teammates.
After productive offseason, Hampton baseball eager to get started
Hampton baseball coach Kellen Wheeler had a numbers problem this offseason.
Aquinas Academy boys show they’re no one-man team
March 2, 2024
Aquinas Academy entered this season with a lot of uncertainty after losing WPIAL all-time leading scorer Vinnie Cugini to graduation.
Hampton wrestlers march ahead in postseason tournaments
The Hampton wrestlers had such a memorable season as a team, they decided to keep it going as individuals.
Hampton senior wrestler buckles down after tough seasons, climbs WPIAL ranks
February 10, 2024
In Alan Danner’s first two seasons at Hampton, he spent much more time on the wrong side of pins than on the right side of wins.
Hampton’s Peter Kramer eager to return to playoff action
Hampton standout senior guard Peter Kramer is hoping to go from an ineligible postseason to an indelible one.
Senior Meghan Murray breaks program scoring mark as Hampton girls hit stride
February 3, 2024
Hampton star guard Meghan Murray sank a half-court shot to end the first quarter against Mars on Jan. 22, but her next basket was even more dramatic.
Hampton junior swimmer moves into fast lane
Hampton junior swimmer Wil Cramer is proving that where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Hampton players recall ‘incredible’ run to ‘84 state basketball finals
January 27, 2024
Many of the memories have faded into time over the past four decades.
Hampton hockey heads in new direction after midseason coaching change
January 20, 2024
On its way to a fifth consecutive losing season, the Hampton hockey team has made a midseason coaching shift.
Defense powering Hampton boys basketball
Three days after Christmas, the Hampton boys basketball team wasn’t feeling very joyful.
Senior battles through knee injury for surprising Hampton wrestling team
January 13, 2024
Hampton senior Caleb Rihn heard “a large pop” from his left knee during club wrestling practice in early November.
Hampton girls basketball starting to warm up, eye WPIAL playoff berth
The Hampton girls basketball team flew to California over Christmas break for a three-day tournament and visited several popular spots around San Diego.
New Hampton softball coach Kate Hedderman ready to get started
January 6, 2024
Hampton didn’t have to look too far to find its new softball coach.
Led by super sophomore, Hampton girls swimmers set for special season
December 16, 2023
Hampton’s Lainey Sheets was the only freshman in the state who finished top five at last season’s PIAA Class 2A Swimming championships.
Roster numbers down but excitement remains high for Hampton boys swim season
Hampton swimming coach Morgan Zweygardt can count on two hands the number of boys on her roster this season.
Aquinas Academy girls hungry to take next step
December 9, 2023
Playing at Pitt’s Petersen Events Center each of the past two seasons was a dream come true for the Aquinas Academy girls basketball team.
Aquinas Academy boys basketball braces for ‘life without Vinnie’
The Aquinas Academy boys basketball team spent more time this offseason in the weight room than ever before.
Behind 7 returning WPIAL qualifiers, Hampton wrestlers determined to snap playoff drought
December 2, 2023
The Hampton wrestling team’s season-ending banquet last March was more about eyeing the future than remembering the past.
Meghan Murray-led Hampton girls basketball team a work in progress
Hampton star point guard Meghan Murray is being realistic when she expects the Talbots to start slow this season.
Talented senior class ushered in golden era for Hampton volleyball
November 26, 2023
The journey began innocently enough, at a spring-time middle school volleyball tournament at Montour.
Hampton looks for balance behind top scorer Peter Kramer
Hampton boys basketball coach Joe Lafko called it the “X factor” this season.
Hampton hockey shows glimpses of potential while gaining varsity experience
November 19, 2023
Hampton hockey coach Buck McKee knew some growing pains awaited his young Talbots this season.
Seniors spearhead another impressive season for Hampton boys soccer
The Hampton boys soccer team prepared for the 2023 season by attending soccer camp in mid-August in Edinboro that included a trip to a nearby water park.
Hampton, Pope John Paul II to collide in state championship clash of undefeated volleyball powers
November 16, 2023
The Hampton girls volleyball team gathered Wednesday afternoon to watch videos of their PIAA championship opponent, Pope John Paul II.
After WPIAL 3-peat, PIAA title, Hampton runners celebrate ‘incredible’ season
November 11, 2023
On their way home from the PIAA Class 2A cross country championships in Hershey, the Hampton boys were met at the turnpike by township fire trucks and escorted to the high school three miles down Route 8.
Hampton guard Peter Kramer commits to Lehigh
November 7, 2023
Hampton’s Peter Kramer was cold, standing in nearly a half-foot of snow with a shovel in his hands.
Hampton girls soccer looks to bright future after playoff ouster
November 5, 2023
Every player who scored a goal this season for the Hampton girls soccer team has one thing in common — she’ll be back.
‘Challenging’ season ends with Hampton football on wrong side of playoff tiebreaker
The Hampton football season began with an injury and ended with an insult.
Hampton girls tennis reflects on historic season
October 28, 2023
The Hampton girls tennis team stopped at a restaurant on the way home from its PIAA Class 2A playoff match Oct. 24 in Erie.
Hampton senior running back climbs school’s all-time rushing list
The first time Hampton running back Brock Borgo touched the football in a meaningful varsity carry, he raced 58 yards for a touchdown.
Aquinas Academy boys double win total but playoff spot remains elusive
October 21, 2023
Aquinas Academy missed the WPIAL Class A boys soccer playoffs this season, but the Crusaders kept opposing goalies busy.
Hampton boys eye WPIAL cross country 3-peat
Since last season’s fourth-place finish at states, the Hampton boys cross country team has been focused on a return trip to Hershey.
After sitting out, Eden Christian runner eager to compete for WPIAL cross country gold
October 14, 2023
The only running Nathan Garrett did at last year’s WPIAL cross country championships was to urge on his Eden Christian teammates.
Aquinas field hockey rebuilding on the run
Someone forgot to tell the Aquinas Academy field hockey team that this was supposed to be a rebuilding year.
Hampton sophomore sets stage for volleyball team’s formidable front line
October 7, 2023
Hampton’s Lilly Muczinski knew early on what position she wanted to play in volleyball.
Hampton girls soccer teammates go from fierce rivals to best friends
Talk about two peas in a pod.
Hampton pair take swing at WPIAL golf championships
September 30, 2023
Hampton teammates Matt Erka and Tyler Schmitt took different paths to reach the 2023 WPIAL Class 3A individual golf championships.
‘Surprised’ 3-sport standout among selections for Hampton hall of fame Class of 2023
September 16, 2023
Former Hampton three-sport standout Joe Raimondi saw the letter from the school’s athletic hall of fame and was unsure what to believe.
Hampton football offers no excuses after rough start
The Hampton football team could blame its dreadful start this season on a number of factors.
Promising young runners could help keep Hampton girls cross country on top
September 9, 2023
Hampton girls cross country star Kevyn Fish figured her team might be swimming upstream this season.
Defending WPIAL champion Hampton runners focusing on Hershey
The two-time defending WPIAL Class 2A champion Hampton boys cross country team is aiming to take another step forward.
Hopes are sky high for Hampton girls volleyball
September 2, 2023
The Hampton girls volleyball team looks so promising this season that winning a section title would hardly qualify as a goal.
Hampton girls tennis ready to fight for playoff berth
During the second day of Hampton girls tennis tryouts in mid-August, four upperclassmen playing doubles argued over whether a serve was in or out.
Early playoff exit lights fire under Hampton boys soccer
August 26, 2023
The seniors on the Hampton boys soccer team have felt euphoria and agony over the years.
After key losses, Hampton girls soccer to rely on deep pool of talent
The Hampton girls soccer team lost two all-WPIAL players to graduation and then lost another one to something nobody saw coming.
Northgate finds strength in numbers
August 21, 2023
Every time Northgate players walked into the weight room this offseason, they were confronted with the same reminders.
Peter Kramer leads senior-heavy Hampton boys golf team
August 19, 2023
The Hampton boys golf team is looking to turn experience into exultation.
North Catholic ready to rebound under new coach
August 12, 2023
North Catholic first-year football coach Chris Rizzo traveled about 2,000 miles to take over a program that’s not too far from where it wants to be.
Hampton determined to extend playoff streak
Something is catching on with Hampton football.
Hampton volleyball star Emmy Schrom staying close to home at Duquesne
August 5, 2023
When Hampton two-time all-state volleyball player Emmy Schrom began looking at colleges, proximity was a priority.
New Hampton athletic director Mike Gavlik brings vast experience to position
July 18, 2023
Mike Gavlik has formed a straightforward philosophy during his two decades as a high school athletic director.
Hampton runner sparkles with Firecracker 5K win
July 15, 2023
Hampton’s Chris Belch put on a display on the Fourth of July.
Hampton wrestler Isabella McNutt takes another shot at nationals
July 8, 2023
Making the 1,100-mile trek from Pittsburgh to Fargo, N.D., is becoming an annual summer trip for Hampton’s Isabella McNutt.
New multipurpose field progressing at Hampton
July 1, 2023
Construction of the new softball/multipurpose field at Hampton High School is rounding second and — slowly but surely — heading for home.
Despite short playoff run, Hampton girls lacrosse team savors season’s successes
June 10, 2023
Hampton failed to reach the WPIAL girls lacrosse semifinals this season for the first time since 2015, but the journey was worth the while.
Hampton staying sharp with summer basketball schedule
So much for resting on your laurels.
Hampton runners good as gold at WPIAL, PIAA meets
June 3, 2023
Hampton track won WPIAL and PIAA gold medals in May with a relay team that got a late start and a miler who had a great finish.
Hampton baseball season punctuated by playoff win
Things looked bleak for the Hampton baseball team at midseason.
Hampton grad Matt DeMatteo thrives after narrowing focus to track at Duquesne
May 20, 2023
Former Hampton three-sport standout Matt DeMatteo already owns the third-fastest 400-meter hurdle time in Duquesne track and field history.
Aquinas girls lacrosse makes best of ‘rough season’
There were many reasons why the Aquinas Academy girls lacrosse team missed the WPIAL playoffs this season for the first time since 2016.
Hampton boys tennis team sees net gains
May 13, 2023
The Hampton boys tennis team finished 8-8 this year, but it sure felt like a winning season.
Top of the lineup boosting Hampton softball toward playoff berth
April 29, 2023
The top of Hampton’s softball lineup is at the top of its game this season.
Hampton lacrosse star lighting up scoreboard
April 22, 2023
When Hampton’s Emi DiLiberto started playing lacrosse in fifth grade, she was petrified of the hard, rubber ball.
Aquinas Academy junior aces WPIAL tennis test
Aquinas Academy junior Jack Gillespie is a three-time Tae Kwon Do world champion and is ranked No. 2 in the nation in his age group for combat weapons.
Hampton’s Eric Weeks makes headlines in 3 sports
April 15, 2023
Hampton senior Eric Weeks’ offseason between basketball and baseball this year lasted about 12 hours.
Sparked by arrival of basketball star Vinnie Cugini, Aquinas Academy volleyball thriving
When Aquinas Academy senior Vinnie Cugini joined the school’s boys volleyball team for the first time this spring, he had mild expectations.
Returning state track qualifiers provide high expectations for Hampton girls
April 8, 2023
The Hampton girls track and field team will be led this season by a Kat, a Fish and a soon-to-be Husky.
Multisport athletes give lift to Hampton boys track
The Hampton boys track and field team this season has a lot of question marks that might turn into exclamation points.
Smaller roster doesn’t faze perennial girls lacrosse power Hampton
April 1, 2023
The Hampton girls lacrosse program has only 25 players this season spread across the varsity and JV rosters.
Hampton boys lacrosse looks to build foundation for playoff run
The Hampton boys lacrosse team was playing an intrasquad practice game in late March under the lights at Fridley Field when pouring rain began.
Hampton’s Vitaliy Pikalo ascends to No. 1 singles spot
March 25, 2023
In tennis, “love” is another word for zero.
Hampton softball off to powerful start
The Hampton softball team opened the 2023 season with a bizarre at-bat the Talbots won’t soon forget.
‘Special group’ propels Hampton to memorable season
March 18, 2023
The motto for the Hampton boys basketball team this season was “to live in the moment.”
Ace lefty Ryan Apaliski leads young pitching staff for Hampton baseball
The Hampton baseball team is hoping one ace and a bunch of wild cards can turn into a winning hand.
Hampton junior Meghan Murray eclipses milestone but Talbots fall short of PIAA playoffs
March 11, 2023
Bored, restless and stuck at home during the lockdown three years ago, then-Hampton eighth grader Meghan Murray grabbed a notebook and jotted down five goals for high school basketball.
Hampton freshman Gabriella Elk thriving at diving
When Hampton freshman Gabriella Elk made the transition from gymnastics to diving, one part of the switch proved to be tricky.
Hampton freshman makes name for himself in WPIAL wrestling postseason
March 5, 2023
Hampton freshman Dustin Kerr proved a wrist fracture and a sore elbow couldn’t prevent him from climbing a podium.
Hampton’s Benny Haselrig fulfills Division I dream with decision to walk on at Pitt
Hampton senior Benny Haselrig agonized a bit during the recruiting process.
Aquinas Academy fencing seeks dual success with boys, girls teams
February 18, 2023
Aquinas Academy fencing coach John Carroll got right to the point when asked about his expectations this season.
Hampton infielder Addy Maguire inks with Edinboro
When Addy Maguire showed up for Hampton softball tryouts as a freshman three years ago, coach Ron Fedell was baffled.
Roster’s lone senior sets tone during successful season for Hampton girls
February 11, 2023
When it comes to the Hampton girls basketball team, forward Claire Rodgers is one of a kind.
Without top scorer, Hampton boys to lean on defense, depth in playoffs
No. 2 Hampton is getting ready to try to show it can win games with its best player in street clothes.
Hampton wrestlers set sights on next hurdle
February 4, 2023
Hampton missed the WPIAL wrestling playoffs in its first season as a Class 2A program, but there’s still a lot to shoot for.
New-look Aquinas girls roster back in WPIAL Class A mix
Rebuilding is a dirty word for the Aquinas Academy girls basketball team.
Hampton sophomore reaching new heights in competitive climbing
January 28, 2023
Hampton’s Pax Carslaw is starting to get a grip on competitive climbing.
Hampton coach encouraged by team’s effort despite early struggles
January 21, 2023
Hampton first-year hockey coach Buck McKee is short on wins and players, but he has an abundance of one thing — optimism.
Hampton girls bowling team provides low-pressure fun
It was supposed to be all fun and games.
Sheets siblings fuel Hampton swim teams
January 14, 2023
The Hampton boys and girls swimming teams seem to be headed in different directions, but they have one thing in common.
Hampton competitive spirit team reaches PIAA championships for 1st time in 5 years
The Hampton competitive spirit team has something to cheer about.
Hampton girls basketball team unwraps memorable holiday trip
January 7, 2023
The Hampton girls basketball players received a Christmas present they will never forget.
Red-hot Hampton boys basketball surges out of the gate
The Hampton boys basketball team is hoping a season that began with a memorable win ends with a whole bunch more.
Hampton senior Ava Vitiello tracks down D-I scholarship
December 17, 2022
For the longest time, Hampton’s Ava Vitiello believed a Division I scholarship was out of her reach.
After busy offseason, top scorer Meghan Murray ready to lead Hampton girls
December 3, 2022
The best player on the Hampton girls basketball team spent this summer getting even better.
Coach’s milestone win just the 1st step for Hampton boys
At some point early this winter, Hampton boys basketball coach Joe Lafko will achieve something “that’s been a career goal with me forever.”
Roster depth, move to Class 2A boost Hampton wrestling team
November 26, 2022
For the first time in program history, the Hampton wrestling team can try to pick on someone its own size.
Hampton boys swim team in search of WPIAL 3-peat with new-look roster
The Hampton boys swimming team will need to take a different lane to a third consecutive WPIAL Class 2A title.
Plenty of highlights for Hampton volleyball despite quick WPIAL playoff exit
November 19, 2022
The Hampton girls volleyball team made history during a season that turned into the past sooner than anyone expected.
Hampton football team racks up postseason accolades
Hampton senior defensive lineman Gabe Harris was surprised to earn all-Greater Allegheny Conference honors, but maybe he shouldn’t have been startled at all.
Hampton football looks ahead following heartbreaking loss
November 12, 2022
Hampton senior Eric Weeks has replayed the final moments of the Talbots’ 34-33 gut-wrenching last-second WPIAL Class 4A playoff loss to Montour over and over again.
Bittersweet ending for seniors on Hampton girls soccer team
November 5, 2022
Hidden beneath the emotional hugs following Hampton’s first-round playoff loss was a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Aquinas Academy field hockey gains ground with wins over rival, trip to WPIAL finals
The Aquinas Academy field hockey team last year became the school’s first team to reach the WPIAL finals in any sport.
Hampton wide receiver Benny Haselrig catching eye of colleges
October 29, 2022
The struggle was real last season for Hampton all-conference wide receiver Benny Haselrig.
Hampton boys soccer team’s WPIAL reign ends suddenly
Hampton boys soccer coach Matt McAwley is practical enough to know this season wasn’t going to end anything like last season.
Rebuilding Hampton hopes to overcome smallest roster in PIHL
October 22, 2022
The Hampton hockey team will be skating uphill this season.
Hampton’s Joey Mayer makes ‘remarkable’ return
Hampton senior quarterback Joey Mayer climbed into an ambulance in mid-September with a dislocated left elbow and a broken heart.
Hampton boys soccer team braces for title defense
October 15, 2022
The defending WPIAL and PIAA champion Hampton boys soccer team is ready to try to make another postseason run.
Hampton golfer Joey O’Donnell caps long road with WPIAL bid
October 8, 2022
Hampton senior Joey O’Donnell’s disappointing 23-over 94 at the WPIAL Class 3A individual golf semifinals was only a letdown if one ignores how far he came just to get there.
Aquinas Academy junior Alexis Abbett proving to be hard to catch
When Aquinas Academy junior Alexis Abbett was a toddler, she loved to run.
Libero Avery Koontz gets her digs in for Hampton girls volleyball
October 1, 2022
As libero for Hampton’s No. 2-ranked girls volleyball team, Avery Koontz is not allowed to jump above the height of the net or attack the ball.
Sets of siblings fill Hampton soccer rosters
Hampton girls soccer coach Bill Paholich learned early this season he needed to be on a first-name basis with his players.
Hampton sophomore serves up WPIAL tournament bid
September 24, 2022
Moments after Hampton’s Grace Stitt lost in her section singles semifinal match Sept. 14, coach Sara Longo reminded her of what was at stake the following day.
Hampton football opens up passing attack
The Hampton football team has gone airborne this season.
Confidence growing for Aquinas Academy girls soccer
September 17, 2022
The smallest school in WPIAL girls soccer is starting to think big.
Tough breaks test Aquinas Academy boys soccer team
Aquinas Academy left the field following last season’s WPIAL Class A boys soccer playoff loss to Sewickley Academy with bright hopes for 2022.
Hampton cross country team working on encore after historic season
September 10, 2022
The Hampton boys cross country team is learning how to run with a target on its back.
Runner-up finishes motivate Hampton girls volleyball to grab gold
The most successful season in program history was just the start for the Hampton girls volleyball team.
Realignment adds tall hurdle, but Hampton girls soccer team remains optimistic
September 3, 2022
Two years ago, the Hampton girls soccer team won its first section title since 2008.
Defending WPIAL boys soccer champion Hampton embarks on extensive rebuild
The reigning WPIAL and PIAA champion Hampton boys soccer team faces a massive rebuild this season.
Realignment gives Hampton tennis team high hopes
August 27, 2022
The tennis courts at Hampton Community Park haven’t changed since last year. They are still 78 feet long by 36 feet wide.
After roster shuffle, Hampton golf team has young but talented lineup
Hampton lost its top golfer to a prep school in New England but gained a No. 1 golfer from a private school in Fox Chapel.
Hampton’s Ryan Apaliski commits to James Madison after strong audition at summer camp
August 20, 2022
Hampton senior left-hander Ryan Apaliski needed only two innings to help secure a home for the next four years.
Hampton remains hungry after 11-win season
August 14, 2022
No one needs to tell Hampton first-year coach Steve Sciullo about the importance of an offensive line.
North Catholic embraces new challenge in Class 4A
North Catholic enters the 2022 season in a new classification with a different home field, a new offensive coordinator, a new quarterback and many new starters.
Hampton infielder finds pop over summer
August 13, 2022
During his first two seasons as Hampton’s starting second baseman, Anthony Bucci was known as a flashy fielder without much pop in his bat.
Hampton wrestler performs on national stage
July 31, 2022
Hampton’s Isabella McNutt only started wrestling a year ago, but that didn’t stop her from reaching the nation’s biggest event this summer.
Ex-Hampton golfer’s game heats up during successful summer
July 23, 2022
Former Hampton golfer Justin Griffith is getting two more swings at his first state title.
‘Fired up’ Hampton freshmen win summer basketball title
July 16, 2022
Summer basketball leagues are built around staying in shape and building team chemistry.
Hampton announces latest class for Athletic Hall of Fame
July 9, 2022
Former Hampton cross country coach Tom Tobin knows all about Halls of Fame.
Hampton volleyball coach’s departure ‘heartbreaking’
June 18, 2022
Hampton didn’t have to look far to find its new girls volleyball coach.
Standout guard Peter Kramer returning to Hampton
June 11, 2022
The Hampton boys basketball team will get some excitement this upcoming season when coach Joe Lafko collects his 500th career coaching victory.
Hampton ace Apaliski aims to build on breakout season
If Hampton left-hander Ryan Apaliski improves this summer as much as he did last summer, Talbots coach Kellen Wheeler may start running out of superlatives.
Hampton quartet fares well at PIAA track
June 4, 2022
Hampton brought back one state medal, one personal-best time and a vanload of memories from the PIAA Class 3A track and field championships May 27-28 at Shippensburg.
Hampton girls lacrosse team delights in exceeding expectations
The Hampton girls lacrosse team entered the 2022 season with tepid expectations after graduation losses decimated last year’s WPIAL Class 2A semifinalist.
Bright future for Hampton boys lacrosse
May 28, 2022
Hampton boys lacrosse coach Andy DeMichiei and his wife, Kristen, welcomed their first child, Owen, on May 10.
Disputed call haunts Hampton baseball team
Hampton baseball coach Kellen Wheeler said he “couldn’t even sleep that night” after the Talbots’ controversial WPIAL playoff loss to Penn-Trafford.
Catcher Bella Henzler ends Hampton career with flourish
May 21, 2022
The Hampton softball team will return almost everyone from this year’s WPIAL Class 5A playoff qualifier, but one loss is going to sting.
Busy Matt DeMatteo ready to represent Hampton in Big 33
Memorial Day weekend should be a memorable one for Matt DeMatteo.
Steve Sciullo settles into top spot at Hampton
May 14, 2022
Hampton first-year football coach Steve Sciullo likes what he sees from his new view atop the program.
Youthful Hampton lacrosse team shrugs off slow start
The Hampton boys lacrosse team expected to take some lumps this season as it tried to replace 13 seniors.
Reese’s walk-off home run highlights emotional week for Hampton softball
May 7, 2022
Hampton sophomore Mackenzie Reese was looking for an inside pitch in the bottom of the eighth inning against Seneca Valley on April 22.
Hampton junior strides toward WPIAL track championships
Qualifying for the WPIAL Class 3A track and field championships this spring won’t be enough for Ava Vitiello.
Hampton 3-sport star Matt DeMatteo to run track at Duquesne
May 4, 2022
Hampton three-sport athlete Matt DeMatteo has committed to attend Duquesne on a track scholarship.
Hampton soccer standout thrives in return to diamond
April 30, 2022
When Luke Staggers picked up a baseball bat for the first time in five years, what happened was just about what anyone would expect.
Hobbled Hampton senior stays positive, hopes to return for lacrosse playoffs
Hampton’s Rachel Dolan rode a stationary bike on the track at Fridley Field during girls lacrosse practice in mid-April.
Hampton sophomore skates to national hockey championship
April 23, 2022
Hampton sophomore Sean Sullivan felt a range of emotions after the Steel City Ice Renegades won a 2022 USA Hockey 16U national championship earlier this month.
Pair of Hampton standouts win WPIAL scholar-athlete awards
A banner year for Hampton athletics just got even more special.
Hampton 3-sport standout picks basketball, makes college choice
April 16, 2022
Sophia Kelly’s answer was exactly what Mercyhurst women’s basketball coach Brooklyn Kohlheim wanted to hear.
After cold start, Hampton boys tennis team warming up
Hampton boys tennis coach Grant McKinney peeked outside on a wintry Monday in late March and figured practice was a long shot.
Hampton girls lacrosse looking for new scorers to step forward
April 9, 2022
The Hampton girls lacrosse team will try to fill the shoes of one All-American with the hands and feet of many.
Hampton boys lacrosse team features new look
The Hampton Athletic Hall of Fame inducted Andy DeMichiei this past summer for his exploits on the lacrosse field.
Coaching continuity helps Hampton track team enter season with confidence
April 2, 2022
When Derek Brinkley stepped down as Hampton track and field coach after 18 seasons this offseason, a priority for athletic director Bill Cardone was keeping the staff as intact as possible.
Will Retsch ends Hampton swimming career with record-shattering flourish
Hampton swimmer Will Retsch is proof that water is the universal solvent.
Battery powers Hampton softball team
March 26, 2022
The Hampton softball team this season will use its battery to make up for some lost power.
High hopes for Hampton baseball after up-and-down playoff season
The Hampton baseball team was taking indoor batting practice earlier this month when players were asked to close the gymnasium doors to accommodate a meeting in the adjacent cafeteria.
Hampton senior Wolfe enjoying best season after biding his time as junior backup
February 19, 2022
Hampton wrestler Alan Wolfe refused to get discouraged last season, stuck on the bench behind a two-time WPIAL qualifier.
Aquinas Academy girls eye next step after defending section title
February 12, 2022
The Aquinas Academy girls basketball team is hitting stride at just the right time.
With full lineups, Hampton bowling teams enjoy season
February 5, 2022
Hampton bowling coach Bob Wallace doesn’t stress over wins and losses with his fifth-year program.
Hampton swimmer Donato glides toward WPIALs
January 29, 2022
Belle Donato’s watchful parents urged her to trust them and take the plunge.
Isabella McNutt hears the cheers on Hampton wrestling team
January 22, 2022
Hampton sophomore Isabella McNutt began martial arts at age 4 and earned her Taekwondo black belt at age 7.
Realignment sends several Hampton sports teams down in class
Seven Hampton athletics teams will be getting new scenery for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 sports seasons.
Hampton girls basketball turns up pressure during fast start
January 15, 2022
The Hampton girls basketball team was perfect in December by letting no opposing teams win and by barely allowing them to breathe.
Bocce provides team sports experience to Hampton students with disabilities
There is something special and unifying about the Hampton High School bocce team.
Hampton senior shows off all-around ability in IM
January 8, 2022
Hampton swimming coach Morgan Zweygardt quickly spotted something about then-freshman Will Retsch.
Accolades pile up after Hampton football’s record-breaking season
December 18, 2021
When the Hampton football players turned in their equipment after the winningest season in program history, their coaches gave them something in return.
Senior’s 7-goal game highlights Hampton hockey’s move to Class A
Hampton hockey coach Luke Leya figured Logan Scanlon was bound to break out one of these nights.Boost in numbers gives Hampton wrestling optimism despite graduation losses
December 12, 2021
The Hampton wrestling team is aiming to focus on quantity rather than quality.
Hampton can count on depth in quest to repeat at WPIAL Class 2A boys swim champs
The reigning WPIAL Class 2A champion Hampton boys swimming team hopes deeper is better when it comes to the pool.
Veteran backcourt has Hampton girls basketball thinking big
December 5, 2021
Hampton girls basketball coach Tony Howard has a good feeling entering the 2021-22 season.
Hampton boys basketball poised to rebound with multi-sport athletes
The Hampton boys basketball team will try to bounce back from one of the worst seasons in program history with a bunch of players who have won a lot lately.
Hampton athletes rack up championships during historic fall season
November 28, 2021
One year after a pandemic rattled WPIAL athletics, something else proved to be contagious at Hampton — winning.
Future bright for Hampton cross country teams
November 20, 2021
The Hampton boys and girls cross country teams each have a lot to look forward to next season.
Hampton football wraps up historic season
Following their WPIAL playoff loss to Thomas Jefferson, the Hampton senior football players gathered at midfield inside a quiet, emptied Fridley Field.
Hampton girls volleyball’s ‘amazing’ year highlighted by WPIAL finals trip, PIAA win
November 13, 2021
The Hampton girls volleyball team found a silver lining in its WPIAL Class 3A runner-up season.
‘Special group’ brings WPIAL boys soccer championship to Hampton
Hampton’s journey to the 2021 WPIAL boys soccer championship began when many of the players were still in elementary school.
Coach pays off bet as Hampton wins school’s 1st WPIAL cross country title
November 6, 2021
Hampton boys cross country coach Dean Longwell dyed his hair bleach blonde on Oct. 31, but it had nothing to do with Halloween.
Hampton girls soccer team came a long way during another playoff season
A girls soccer season that began with the program’s most lopsided loss in a decade ended with the players’ heads held high.
Hampton holds off Plum in WPIAL Class 4A 1st round, stays unbeaten
November 5, 2021
The No. 4-seeded Hampton Talbots remained perfect, but they used an imperfect performance to stay that way.
Hampton marches into WPIAL football playoffs
October 30, 2021
Each Saturday morning, the Hampton football team gathers for its weekly film study to break down the previous night’s game.
Hampton 3-sport standout Kelly helps guide girls soccer team to WPIAL playoff berth
October 23, 2021
Sophia Kelly had a tough decision to make this past summer.
Hampton freshman runner Fish off to fast start
October 9, 2021
Hampton’s Kevyn Fish proudly held out her left hand and showed her dad the “6:22” written on her palm.
Resch provides physical, intelligent presence in middle of Hampton defense
Hampton’s Jacque DeMatteo has sought two traits in his middle linebacker during 22 seasons as a WPIAL football coach.
Hampton girls soccer shakes off slow start
October 2, 2021
The Hampton girls soccer team is getting healthy at the right time.
Smothering defense helps Hampton start season strong
September 25, 2021
Hampton senior Thomas Bradfield is one of the top goalkeepers in WPIAL Class 3A soccer.
Former Hampton star takes reins of school’s boys lacrosse program
September 18, 2021
One of the winningest coaches in the history of Hampton boys lacrosse is being replaced by one of the program’s top players of all time.
Hampton to welcome doubled-up class into sports hall of fame
Former girls soccer star Amy Lindsey Shane waited more than two decades to get into the Hampton Athletic Hall of Fame, so one extra year wasn’t going to matter.
Senior’s return helps spark Hampton girls tennis team to early-season wins
September 11, 2021
On the first day of Hampton girls tennis practice last month, coach Grant McKinney could hardly believe his eyes.
Hampton football making noise with super start
On the bus ride home from their 51-13 victory at Fox Chapel on Sept. 3, the Hampton football players couldn’t play any music during their joyful postgame celebration.
Fresh start energizes talented, young Hampton cross country team
August 28, 2021
A youthful Hampton girls cross country team is about to get even younger.
Hampton boys soccer seniors driven to make most of last chance
Since going undefeated as eighth graders, the seniors on the Hampton boys soccer team have held lofty expectations.
Hampton girls tennis vows to show improvement after winless season
August 22, 2021
Junior Abi Green is hoping to put a new spin on her 2021 season with the Hampton girls tennis team.
Big, experienced line leads charge for Mars
August 20, 2021
Mars senior left tackle Matt Detisch spent this offseason doing bear crawls on a big hill at his home.
Hampton determined to build on playoff season
Hampton all-conference wide receiver Benny Haselrig played last season with the letters “IWNBD CH” written on his wrist tape.
New dual-threat QB brings excitement to North Hills
August 19, 2021
North Hills is talented and experienced on defense this season, and a little bit Green at quarterback.
North Catholic looks to clear semifinal hurdle
August 15, 2021
The seniors on the North Catholic football team have more conference titles than regular-season losses.
‘Thankful’ Talbots eye girls volleyball section repeat
August 14, 2021
Inside a nearly empty Hampton High School earlier this month, unmistakable sounds echoed from the main gym.
Youthful Talbots swing into golf season
The Hampton golf team has gone from experienced and good to inexperienced and maybe good.
‘Unheard-of’ playoff miss drives Avonworth
In the past 20 years, 663 schools have finished with a winning percentage of .750 or better in WPIAL conference play.
Hampton senior tight end is the reel deal
August 8, 2021
Depending on the setting, Mike Witherup can catch a pass or catch a bass.
Traveling summer baseball teams keep Hampton players sharp
July 31, 2021
Editor’s note: Neighbor Spotlight is a monthly feature that aims to let our readers learn more about the people in their communities who are working to make them a better place, who have interesting stories to tell or who the community feels deserve “15 minutes of fame.” If you would like to nominate someone as a Neighbor Spotlight, see the hamptonjournal.com, select the “Post Story” button in the upper right corner and complete the form to publish your nomination. Questions? Email Neighborhood News Network editor Katie Green at kgreen@triblive.com.
Hampton grad Tyler Bischke picks New Orleans
Former Hampton infielder Tyler Bischke has committed to Division I New Orleans after excelling during his lone season at a tiny junior college in Oklahoma.
Hampton wrestling shakes up coaching staff
July 11, 2021
When Chris Hart told his Hampton wrestlers at their season-ending banquet last month that he was stepping down as head coach, their next coach was standing only a couple of feet away.
Hampton grad competes at U.S. Open qualifier, NCAA tournament in golf season to remember
July 3, 2021
Hampton graduate Ben Huber this spring was part of the best golf team in Carnegie Mellon history and struggled to an 80th-place finish at an event in Columbus, Ohio.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Robert Dickerson, North Hills
July 1, 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.
Summer league basketball gives Hampton chance to build chemistry
June 25, 2021
High school basketball season is still five months away, but the Hampton boys are getting a running start.
Hampton football carries momentum into offseason program
Success is becoming contagious for the Hampton football team.
Hampton’s Suyama presses on after covid cancellations, torn ACL deny her final 2 lacrosse seasons
June 19, 2021
Emi Suyama knows life can throw a lot at you.
Mars out to make history again in PIAA boys lacrosse finals
June 10, 2021
For more than a decade, the only way a WPIAL team could reach the PIAA lacrosse championships was with a ticket.
Hampton’s Galuska keeps his cool at states, medals in 400
June 5, 2021
Hampton senior Gage Galuska was a little slower — and a lot colder — at the PIAA Class AAA track and field championships.
Hampton girls lacrosse star racks up eye-popping stats in abbreviated career
Hampton girls lacrosse coach Kelsey Viets felt disbelief as she tabulated star midfielder Megan Cook’s career statistics.
Hampton boys lacrosse sends off ‘special’ senior class
May 29, 2021
Hampton All-WPIAL attack Max Saltrelli realized four years ago his then-freshman class was going to be “something special.”
Hampton baseball turns focus to next season after up-and-down year
The final out of Hampton’s 2021 baseball season was a deep drive against West Allegheny in the WPIAL Class 5A playoff opener.
Joy, pain for Hampton track team at WPIAL meet
May 22, 2021
Two Hampton seniors showed at the WPIAL Class AAA track and field championships that a fraction of an inch or a hundredth of a second can be the difference between elation and heartache.
Power-hitting Hampton softball squad cools down at inopportune time
The most prolific home run-hitting Hampton softball team in at least two decades picked a lousy time to go quiet.
Hampton boys lacrosse surges into postseason
May 15, 2021
Hampton senior defender Gus Wolf hopes history repeats itself in the WPIAL Class AA boys lacrosse playoffs.
Hampton athletes sprint toward WPIAL track championship meet
The Hampton boys track and field team last month won its first section title in 36 years.
Tape-measure homer shows Hampton softball slugger’s eye-popping power
May 8, 2021
Hampton’s Hannah Bradfield hit six home runs in a four-game stretch in late April, but only one of them left nearly everybody shocked.
Hampton’s Stennett returns to girls lacrosse after missing month with concussion
April Fool’s Day was no joke for Hampton lacrosse player Jillian Stennett.
Hampton tennis reaches WPIAL playoffs thanks to unexpected help from section foe Indiana
May 1, 2021
The pizza and cupcakes started to taste a little bit better to the Hampton boys tennis team.
Talbots baseball armed for another WPIAL playoff bid behind Kosko, Marshalwitz
A pair of lefties have the Hampton baseball team on the right side of the WPIAL playoff picture.
Division I-bound catcher Bella Henzler is big hit for Hampton
April 24, 2021
The first time Hampton coach Ron Fedell saw star catcher Bella Henzler playing softball he wondered if the diminutive seventh-grader had a future behind the plate.
Hampton girls track team off to quick start behind versatile senior jumper
April 17, 2021
Hampton senior Hannah Schepner still is unsure about her best event in track and field.
Hampton football players give boost to boys track and field team
If the Hampton boys track and field team can reach the WPIAL Class AAA playoffs for only the second time in a decade, it will have another Hampton team to thank.
Loaded senior class has Hampton girls lacrosse seeking 3rd WPIAL title since ’17
April 10, 2021
On the eve of each home section game, the Hampton girls lacrosse players gather after practice for a team dinner.
Hampton eyes another run to WPIAL boys lacrosse finals
The Hampton boys lacrosse team waited 667 days between matches.
Hampton tennis off to quick start in return to Class AA
April 3, 2021
The Hampton boys tennis team is hoping to make a racket this season.
Hampton hockey rolls with punches
The youthful Hampton hockey team endured a lot of growing pains this season.
Silver lining, record finish for Hampton swimmer Donato
March 27, 2021
The Hampton 100-yard breaststroke record stood for 25 years until senior Richie Donato broke it March 6.
Hampton softball has ‘a lot of games to win’ after coach’s covid scare
They were simple get-well cards. Some were store-bought, some caringly drawn by hand.
Hampton baseball deals with numbers crunch
Turns out the pandemic isn’t finished with the Hampton baseball team.
Hampton wrestler Hart rebounds from cracked ribs to earn PIAA silver
March 20, 2021
In mid-January, Hampton senior Justin Hart couldn’t laugh without it hurting.
Relay win sparks Hampton boys to 1st WPIAL team swim title since 1999
March 15, 2021
The Hampton boys swimming team needed 1 minute, 36 seconds to set into motion something that hadn’t happened in 22 years.
Hampton reflects on breakthrough season after playoff run ends
After the final horn sounded on her senior season, Hampton guard Liv Bianco slowly walked off the court and placed the basketball on the scorer’s table.
Hampton boys look to grow from tough season
March 6, 2021
A season that began with a delay ended with a dud for the Hampton boys basketball team.
Hampton’s Murray siblings show drive to succeed
February 27, 2021
For years, Brennan and Meghan Murray have squared off at the basketball hoop in the driveway of their Hampton home.
Diving no longer ‘secondary thing’ for Hampton’s Carslaw
When Koda Carslaw took up diving last season, he admits it was “more of a secondary thing.”
Hampton wrestler overcomes size disadvantage to have big senior season
February 20, 2021
Nearly every time Conrad Harold stepped on the wrestling mat this season, he was facing someone bigger than him.
Talented juniors lead Hampton girls basketball renaissance
Every once in a while — it doesn’t happen often — one of the top players on the Hampton girls basketball team will toss up a wildly off-target shot at practice.
Tiny Aquinas Academy showing it belongs among WPIAL girls basketball contenders
February 7, 2021
The second-smallest school in WPIAL girls basketball is eyeing bigger things this season.
Led by scoring sensation Vinnie Cugini, Aquinas Academy boys seek playoff success
Aquinas Academy star guard Vinnie Cugini knows the Crusaders will make the WPIAL Class A playoffs this season for the first time in program history.
Aquinas Academy sophomore Vinnie Cugini makes WPIAL history
January 31, 2021
There weren’t many fans to witness it, but Aquinas Academy sophomore Vinnie Cugini made WPIAL history Friday night.
Hampton girls off to red-hot start after adopting up-tempo style
January 30, 2021
Not even a pandemic — or having to run pregame drills in the school cafeteria — can slow down the Hampton girls basketball team.
Hampton competitive spirit squad adapting to all-new calendar
The Hampton competitive spirit team still hasn’t started its 2020-21 season, when in any other year it would almost be over.
Hampton heavyweight eager to test himself against Powerade field
January 23, 2021
Hampton’s Dawson Dietz left the Powerade Wrestling Tournament two years ago with a season-ending torn labrum.
Hampton hockey focuses on defense to stop slump
The slumping Hampton hockey team is slowing things down in hopes of heating things up.
Hampton wrestler steps up to help teammate who lost home in fire
January 16, 2021
On a school night in early November, Hampton’s Jayden Resch disappeared into a spare bedroom for a few hours.
Hampton girls basketball carries momentum through ‘pause’
January 10, 2021
Hampton had the “best, most intense” three-week preseason in Tony Howard’s 14 years as a girls basketball coach.
Hampton boys basketball eager for restart
Joe Lafko has seen a lot in three decades as a basketball coach, but this is the first season he has held court at a computer screen.
Last season’s abrupt ending motivates North Allegheny girls basketball
December 13, 2020
After having its state title hopes dashed last season by the covid-19 pandemic, the North Allegheny girls basketball team isn’t worried about a couple of inconveniences.
Hampton girls swimmers get up to speed quickly in preseason
With most swimming pools shut down for much of the offseason, Hampton coach Morgan Zweygardt was unsure what to expect from her girls team when practices began.
Hampton boys swimmers a WPIAL title threat in Class AA
The Hampton boys swimming team is looking forward to picking on someone its own size.
North Allegheny girls basketball coach Spencer Stefko returns after battling covid
December 8, 2020
North Allegheny’s Spencer Stefko, the reigning PIAA Class 6A girls basketball coach of the year, will never forget this past Thanksgiving.
Hampton athletes earn postseason honors after historic fall season
December 5, 2020
The most challenging, unusual sports season in WPIAL history included something else that has never been seen before.
Led by state qualifiers, Hampton wrestling looks strong in upper weights
If Hampton senior Justin Hart ever says “uncle” in the wrestling room, it will have nothing to do with giving up.
Girls basketball preview: Hampton aims to get back on track with up-tempo attack
November 28, 2020
The Hampton girls basketball team is going small in the hopes of something big.
Boys basketball preview: Hampton getting ready for season unlike any other
There are a lot of new faces on the Hampton boys basketball team, even if coach Joe Lafko can’t quite see them right now.
Hampton bowlers aiming high with deeper rosters
November 21, 2020
The Hampton bowling team is turning to a familiar face for a season the likes of which it has never seen before.
Plum volleyball team savors remarkable turnaround season
Plum entered this season with the expressed goal of reaching the WPIAL Class 3A girls volleyball playoffs.
Hampton hockey making dramatic improvements
November 17, 2020
The Hampton hockey team last season needed three months to reach two wins.
Hampton teams walk through covid minefield to complete successful fall season
November 14, 2020
Bill Cardone was sitting in the parking lot at Pittsburgh International Airport on Aug. 21, waiting to pick up his wife, when he got the news.
JV success points to bright future for Hampton football
Hampton reached the WPIAL football playoffs for the first time in five years this season, and a lot more help is on the way.
Hampton notebook: Strong boys soccer season ends in OT loss to No. 1 Mars
November 7, 2020
Hampton senior Corey Scherer needed some time to ease the sting of a 1-0 double-overtime playoff loss to nemesis Mars.
Hampton football takes huge step forward
Hampton senior lineman Dawson Dietz stood along a chainlink fence at Aliquippa’s Carl Aschman Stadium, wearing a muddy uniform and a smile.
Pair of birdies highlight Oakmont experience for Hampton’s Arianna Erka
October 25, 2020
There was a time when back-to-back triple bogeys at the WPIAL golf championships would have ruined Arianna Erka.
Longtime friends, teammates Nichols, Viszlay lead Hampton soccer into postseason
October 24, 2020
Hampton’s Liam Nichols and Gabe Viszlay are dynamic teammates on the field and the best of friends away from it.
Hampton girls tennis players have no trouble finding silver linings in season
October 17, 2020
The Hampton girls tennis team is proof a season that looks dreadful on paper can look pretty good in person.
Freshman phenom brings scoring punch to Hampton girls soccer team
Hampton girls soccer coach Bill Paholich needed one workout to realize freshman Madison Hurst had a chance to be special.
New Hampton volleyball coach ‘strong leader’
October 10, 2020
Annie Bozzo is Hampton’s third girls volleyball coach in as many years, but the transition appears to be smooth.
Hampton senior Resch vocal leader for volleyball team
For the past two years, Hampton’s Julia Resch has drawn loud cheers before her volleyball matches even start.
Gage Galuska part of turnaround season for Hampton football
Hampton three-sport senior Gage Galuska plays football in the fall, wrestles in the winter and runs track in the spring.
Hampton girls cross country ‘moving in the right direction’
October 3, 2020
The Hampton girls cross county team has hit the ground running.
Hampton cross country team finds its stride in Class AA
Talk about a kick to the shins.
Hamption golfer Ruzomberka on quest for redemption
September 26, 2020
Hampton senior Matt Ruzomberka has played thousands of holes of golf since his father introduced him to the sport growing up in England a decade ago.
Hampton upbeat after rare shutout win
A 3-by-3-foot white board hangs on the wall inside the clubhouse at Hampton’s Fridley Field to commemorate “Football Shutouts.”
Rebuilding Hampton girls eye 5th straight postseason berth
September 19, 2020
Emmy Chismer got a head start on what 2020 would bring.
Saltrelli’s return to midfield bolsters Hampton boys soccer team
Max Saltrelli is a starting center midfielder for the Hampton boys soccer team and a 40-goal scorer for the school’s lacrosse program.
Northgate optimistic after nightmare season in 2018
August 20, 2019
One season after the Northgate Flames were barely an ember, second-year coach Mike Fulmore is feeling a bit more optimistic.
High expectations for Class 6A Seneca Valley after WPIAL title-game run
August 15, 2019
Seneca Valley used mainly its experience and size to reach last year’s WPIAL Class 6A title game.
Class 6A Butler faces debilitating lack of numbers
After going 0-10 in his first full season as coach at his alma mater, Butler’s Eric Christy knows the real challenge is about to begin.
