Author: Michael Love
New Freeport girls basketball coach Ketterer is familiar face
June 6, 2023
Mallory Heinle Ketterer knows the Freeport girls basketball program inside and out.
Burrell comes up short in pitchers’ duel in 1st round of PIAA softball playoffs
June 5, 2023
MIFFLINTOWN — With Fordham-bound junior Liz Gaisior in the circle for Juniata and senior Katie Armstrong, a Gannon commit, throwing for Burrell, an old-fashioned pitchers’ duel was expected Monday in a PIAA Class 3A first-round game at Juniata High School in Mifflintown.
Alle-Kiski Valley PIAA softball capsule: Game for Monday, June 5, 2023
June 4, 2023
PIAA
Burrell softball team wants long ride to start deep run
Burrell High School graduation is Thursday evening.
Gateway notebook: Gators tandem takes 3rd at PIAA doubles championships
Emily Levine wasn’t witness to her Gateway doubles team’s run to third place at the PIAA Class 3A tournament May 27, at the Hershey Racquet Club.
Gateway showcases ‘premier baseball and softball complexes’ during WPIAL playoffs
When the baseball and softball fields at the Gateway Sports Complex were still in the construction stage, Gateway athletic director Don Holl gazed into his crystal ball and saw the facility hosting a number of WPIAL playoff games.
Leechburg boys basketball coach Damian Davies resigns
June 2, 2023
Damian Davies said it was time to step away as head coach of the Leechburg boys basketball team but said he leaves with many positive moments from the four seasons of his second stint with the program.
WPIAL girls lacrosse all-star teams released
June 1, 2023
Fox Chapel’s Sydney Schutzman and Mt. Lebanon’s Addie Murdoch in Class 3A and Hampton’s Emi DiLiberto in Class 2A were unanimous selections to the All-WPIAL girls lacrosse teams released Wednesday.
Penn-Trafford earns spot in PIAA baseball playoffs with win over rival Plum
May 31, 2023
The first two meetings between baseball section rivals Plum and Penn-Trafford were close and low-scoring.
Katie Armstrong strikes out 14 as Burrell blanks Waynesburg in WPIAL Class 3A third-place game
May 30, 2023
The Burrell softball team used small ball to pick up its first run of Tuesday’s WPIAL Class 3A third-place game against Waynesburg Central at Gateway.
Greensburg Central Catholic holds off OLSH to advance to PIAA softball playoffs
In a win-or-go-home scenario Tuesday at Gateway, the Greensburg Central Catholic softball team survived.
Spot in states secure, but Burrell softball team still plenty to play for in 3rd-place game
May 29, 2023
Last year, the Burrell softball team lost in the WPIAL Class 4A semifinals, dropping it to the third-place consolation game against Montour with a trip to the PIAA playoffs on the line.
Gateway boys volleyball uses playoff defeat as learning moment
May 28, 2023
On the road and down a set in its WPIAL Class 2A first-round match against No. 7 Montour on May 16, the No. 10 Gateway boys volleyball team punched back and scored a win in set two to even things up.
Gateway boys tennis team caps special season in PIAA semifinals
The Gateway boys tennis team surged to the top of WPIAL Class 3A this season and made its mark with a run at the PIAA tournament.
5 athletes, coach, cross country team to join Gateway Sports Hall of Fame in class of 2023
The Gateway Sports Hall of Fame will induct its next class of Gators athletic greats this fall, and the first class since 2019 has been selected.
Shaler wins 1st WPIAL boys volleyball championship, ending North Allegheny’s title run
May 25, 2023
The Shaler boys volleyball team arrived at Peters Township High School as Thursday’s Class 2A championship game was taking shape.
North Catholic tops Ambridge for WPIAL boys volleyball title in clash of Class 2A rivals
There were no secrets when section rivals Ambridge and North Catholic met Thursday evening at Peters Township to decide the WPIAL Class 2A boys volleyball championship.
Freeport track and field duo ready to tackle PIAA championships
May 24, 2023
Before Reese Skiba and Isaac Wetzel can throw and run Friday and Saturday at the PIAA Class 2A track and field championships at Shippensburg, the Freeport duo will take one of the most important walks of their lives.
One big hit enough for Avonworth to win pitchers’ duel over Burrell in softball semifinal
May 23, 2023
Avonworth cleanup hitter Leah Kuban fell victim to Burrell pitcher Katie Armstrong twice in Tuesday’s WPIAL Class 3A semifinal softball game at North Allegheny.
Seton LaSalle erupts for 6-run 6th inning to surge past Riverview in Class 2A
May 22, 2023
Seton LaSalle collected four hits through five innings against Riverview starting pitcher Ben Hower in a Class 2A quarterfinal baseball playoff game Monday afternoon at Gateway.
A-K Valley WPIAL softball playoff capsule: Games for Tuesday, May 23, 2023
WPIAL softball playoffs
Alumni help Valley boys tennis players prepare for postseason tournaments
The Valley boys tennis team qualified for the quarterfinals of the WPIAL Class 2A tournament and faced North Catholic on May 8 with a spot in the semifinals and a berth to states on the line.
Plum senior trio caps career in WPIAL softball playoffs
May 21, 2023
As the No. 8 and No. 9 seeds for the WPIAL Class 5A softball playoffs, Thomas Jefferson and Plum, many expected, would play a close and competitive first-round game.
Gateway 1st-year hurdler Derrick Jones earns trip to PIAA championship meet
A couple of months ago, a hurdle was a foreign object to Gateway senior Derrick Jones.
A-K Valley greats relive memories at annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony
May 20, 2023
Kerry McKinney Mills is in quite the celebratory mood.
Carmichaels softball routs Leechburg in Class A quarterfinals
May 18, 2023
The Carmichaels softball team scored 10 or more runs in 13 of its 16 regular-season games.
Riverview’s Amberson Bauer, Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller lead WPIAL parade of A-K Valley gold medalists
May 17, 2023
Riverview senior Amberson Bauer finished fourth in the Class 2A boys WPIAL cross country championships in November.
A-K Valley WPIAL softball playoff capsules: Games for Thursday, May 18, 2023
WPIAL softball playoffs
A-K Valley WPIAL softball playoff capsules: Games for Wednesday, May 17, 2023
WPIAL softball playoffs
Thomas Jefferson stuns Plum with walk-off grand slam in Class 5A 1st round
May 15, 2023
The Thomas Jefferson softball team possesses a gold chain with a dollar sign in sparkles designated for those who hit home runs.
A-K Valley WPIAL softball playoff capsules: Games for Tuesday, May 16, 2023
WPIAL softball playoffs
Freeport grad takes over boys basketball program
May 14, 2023
For more than two decades, Rich Macura served as an assistant coach in a number of scholastic boys basketball programs.
A-K Valley WPIAL softball playoff capsules: Games for Monday, May 15, 2023
WPIAL softball playoffs
Plum notebook: Mustangs baseball team captures section title
May 13, 2023
For the second time in three seasons, the Plum baseball team was able to add to its section-title banner in the main gymnasium.
Shaler, Latrobe earn top seeds for WPIAL boys volleyball playoffs
May 12, 2023
Shaler in Class 3A and Latrobe in Class 2A are the top seeds as the WPIAL released the boys volleyball playoff brackets Friday afternoon.
Burrell, Deer Lakes enter WPIAL softball playoffs looking to reprise runs from 2022
May 11, 2023
Burrell and Deer Lakes made deep runs in the 2022 softball postseason.
Armstrong leads Burrell softball to mercy-rule victory over Deer Lakes
May 10, 2023
Second place in Section 1-3A was on the line Wednesday as the Deer Lakes and Burrell softball teams met at Bon Air Elementary in Lower Burrell.
Indiana wins softball section finale vs. Highlands in extra innings
May 8, 2023
The Highlands softball team had its back against the wall in a must-win situation as it hosted Indiana in its Section 1-4A finale Monday afternoon.
With WPIAL playoffs on horizon, volleyball coaches association releases final boys rankings
The final week of the WPIAL boys volleyball regular season is here as teams fight for the few remaining openings to both the Class 3A and Class 2A playoffs.
Gateway’s Kefimba Cisse rounds into form ahead of WPIAL championships
May 7, 2023
Kefimba Cisse is in the home stretch of preparation for the WPIAL Class 3A track and field championships May 17 at Slippery Rock.
Gateway snaps skid but falls short of playoff berth
The Gateway baseball team hoped for positive results as it closed out the Section 1-5A slate with series against Penn-Trafford and Penn Hills.
Plum gymnast Natalia Burris competes at Eastern Nationals
May 6, 2023
Natalia Burris was in select company over the weekend.
After strong regular season, Plum girls lacrosse carries journey into WPIAL playoffs
The WPIAL girls lacrosse committee is scheduled to meet Thursday to hash out the WPIAL playoff pairings and also release the brackets for both Class 3A and Class 2A.
Leechburg softball team proud to uphold playoff streak
May 3, 2023
Anna Cibik found herself in an unfamiliar position last week.
Top A-K Valley squads chase WPIAL team track titles
Rain and cold temperatures at the start of May prompted the WPIAL to make changes to the schedule of the Class 3A and Class 2A track and field team championships.
With 2 weeks left, WPIAL boys volleyball teams jockey for positions in section, coaches rankings
May 1, 2023
Two weeks remain in the WPIAL boys volleyball regular season, and teams in Class 3A and Class 2A are gearing up for the stretch run to the postseason.
New St. Joseph coaches excited to take over basketball programs
April 30, 2023
Geoff Dutelle and Logan Acri are ushering in new chapters for the St. Joseph basketball programs, and both got a chance last week to meet and talk with each other about what the future holds on and off the court.
Victory over Derry helps bolster Gateway boys volleyball team’s resume
The Gateway boys volleyball team toppled Armstrong and Deer Lakes to open Section 2-2A play, but consecutive section setbacks to Latrobe and Mars left the Gators at .500 in section and seeking a return to the win column.
After strong freshman season, Plum’s Gabrielle Layne ready to take next step
April 29, 2023
Gabrielle Layne came within an eyelash of making the finals of the Class 3A girls 100-meter dash at last year’s WPIAL championships at Slippery Rock.
A-K Valley softball notebook: Leechburg extends streak to 36 playoff berths
April 28, 2023
Leechburg officially clinched its WPIAL-record 36th consecutive WPIAL playoff appearance with Thursday’s 7-5 Section 3-1A victory at Jeannette.
A-K Valley athletes hope to contend for medals at WCCA track and field championships
April 26, 2023
With just three weeks remaining until the WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock, Thursday’s Westmoreland County Coaches Association championships at Latrobe Memorial Stadium serves as somewhat of an opening salvo for Kiski Area, Burrell and Valley in the stretch run of the regular season.
Kiski Area dedicates track to former coach William Halli
April 25, 2023
William “Bill” Halli and Richard Dilts are together again.
Greensburg Central Catholic prevails over Apollo-Ridge in wild, weather-affected game
April 24, 2023
When the Apollo-Ridge and Greensburg Central Catholic softball teams met at Apollo-Ridge on April 5, it was a low-scoring Section 2-2A affair won by the Centurions.
Seneca Valley vaults into top 10 as volleyball coaches association releases latest WPIAL boys rankings
Shaler remained at the top in Class 3A as the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its Week 6 rankings Monday morning.
Gateway boys tennis captures long-awaited section championship
April 23, 2023
The last time the Gateway boys tennis team captured a section title, Bill Clinton was ramping up his campaign to become President of the United States, Duke has just routed Michigan to win the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament, and “Jump” by the hip-hop duo Kris Kross was moving up the charts.
Gateway lacrosse eyes improvement, progress in 2nd half of season
The Gateway boys lacrosse team last made the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs in 2019.
Back from injury, Jack Loughren helping Riverview baseball contend for section crown
April 22, 2023
It was a long road to recovery for Riverview junior Jack Loughren.
Maddie Kee’s perfect game helps Deer Lakes to 4-inning win vs. Freeport
April 21, 2023
The Deer Lakes softball team hoped to return to the win column against Freeport in a Section 1-3A game Friday and finish the bounceback from Tuesday’s eight-run setback to Class 5A power Armstrong.
New-look Deer Lakes softball team challenges itself
April 19, 2023
The Deer Lakes softball team lost four starters to graduation from last year’s team, which finished runner-up to Avonworth in WPIAL Class 3A and made it the PIAA quarterfinals before falling to Bald Eagle Area.
A-K Valley greats Thrower, Meisner among next class for Western Chapter of Pa. Sports Hall of Fame
April 18, 2023
Alle-Kiski Valley athletic greats Greg Meisner and the late Willie Thrower are among a group of 10 who will be enshrined in the Robert “Tick” Cloherty Western Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame on Saturday at the Pittsburgh Sheraton Station Square.
Plum freshman tosses 5-inning perfect game in win over Fox Chapel
April 17, 2023
The Plum softball team put up three runs in the top of the first inning of a Section 1-5A game Monday in cool, drizzly and sometimes breezy conditions at Fox Chapel.
WPIAL boys volleyball teams settling into playoff positions and spots in coaches rankings
The WPIAL boys volleyball section schedule for Class 3A and Class 2A is at or is nearing its midway point, and teams are settling into or moving into playoff position.
Gateway’s Arontay Heningcamp ready to take next step in wrestling career
April 16, 2023
Shane Valko knows the Pitt-Johnstown wrestling program and its traditions inside and out.
Gateway baseball team looks to bounce back in Section 1-5A
The Gateway baseball team got a daily double April 3 with some timely offense and strong pitching and defense in a 3-1 victory over Franklin Regional at the newly refurbished field at the Gateway Sports Complex.
Young Plum softball team battling through challenging early schedule
April 15, 2023
The Plum softball team found itself in a hole at Shaler in a Section 1-5A game April 12.
Plum baseball looks to build momentum after narrow victory over Penn-Trafford
Last year, the Plum baseball team lost seven games.
Deer Lakes softball bounces back with win over Valley
April 14, 2023
The Deer Lakes softball team got back in the win column Friday, two days after suffering its first loss of the season.
Deer Lakes runner Aidan Herman circles goals on track calendar
April 13, 2023
Aidan Herman has his track and field future in his sights.
Moon senior Anthony Lounder, Winchester Thurston freshman Austin He take WPIAL tennis titles
April 12, 2023
A senior playing his third WPIAL tournament and a freshman making his WPIAL debut took home boys tennis singles championships Wednesday afternoon at Bethel Park High School.
After strong start, Valley boys tennis chasing section championship
The Valley boys tennis team already has clinched a spot in the WPIAL Class 2A team playoffs, which are set to begin May 1.
Burrell softball team has high standards this season
April 10, 2023
Alanna Miller said the Burrell softball players, two weeks into the season, are not where they want to be.
Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association releases Week 4 WPIAL boys polls
Teams in both Class 3A and Class 2A continue to jockey for position as the WPIAL boys volleyball spring season continues in the first cycle of section play.
Gateway’s Kiki Pitts, Daniella Gardner taking on hurdles together
April 9, 2023
Kiki Pitts and Daniella Gardner form a formidable 1-2 hurdles punch for the Gateway girls track and field team, and both hope to make an impact over the next several weeks leading up to the WPIAL Class 3A championship meet.
Riverview’s Amberson Bauer shines at Igloo Invitational
April 8, 2023
It’s been quite a positive last couple of weeks for Riverview senior distance runner Amberson Bauer.
Plum girls lacrosse building momentum after slow start
The Plum girls lacrosse team hopes to continue its upward trend this spring, a year after the program captured its first WPIAL playoff victory.
Adams returns to Valley as football team’s new head coach
April 4, 2023
Valley has a new head football coach.
Franklin Regional blanks Kiski Area in section opener
April 3, 2023
Franklin Regional pitcher Carli Ramchandran didn’t give up any hits through five innings of Monday’s Section 2-5A opener at Kiski Area.
Shaler, Latrobe hold on to top spots in WPIAL volleyball coaches rankings
Shaler and Latrobe maintained their spots at the top of the Class 3A and 2A boys volleyball rankings, respectively, as the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its Week 3 polls Monday.
Expectations high for Gateway boys volleyball team following section title
April 2, 2023
The Gateway boys volleyball team accomplished big things last spring with the program’s first section title since 1986 and also getting to within an eyelash of making the WPIAL Class 2A semifinals.
After finishing 1-2 at singles tournament, Gateway tennis eyes section team title
Gateway ruled the bracket for the WPIAL Section 1-3A singles tournament last week at Franklin Regional High School.
Plum boys volleyball ready for new challenge in Class 3A
The Plum volleyball team’s final Class 2A match last year was a close five-set contest against Thomas Jefferson in the first round of the WPIAL playoffs.
Valley News Dispatch girls basketball all-stars: St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli sparks run to PIAA tournament
April 1, 2023
Here are the 2022-23 Valley News Dispatch girls basketball all-stars:
Plum adds roster depth to track and field teams
Plum track and field coach Stephanie Kennedy saw a growth in numbers for both the boys and girls teams from last year to this spring, and the mix of veteran and new talent has her excited for what can be accomplished between now and the championship events in the latter half of next month.
Valley softball sets tone early, brings home win over Highlands
March 28, 2023
Valley jumped on Highlands for three runs in the first inning of a nonsection softball game Tuesday.
Led by trio of divers, North Allegheny girls win program’s 8th team title at PIAA swim meet
March 18, 2023
LEWISBURG — The North Allegheny girls swimming and diving team had a distinct points advantage even before the swimming consolation and championship finals began Friday afternoon at the PIAA Class 3A championships Bucknell University.
Fox Chapel girls relay squad takes home silver at PIAA
LEWISBURG — Talia Bugel couldn’t contain her excitement after she and her Fox Chapel teammates finished the 400-yard freestyle relay final Saturday afternoon at the PIAA Class 3A championships at Bucknell.
Franklin Regional’s Thomas shines in PIAA 100 backstroke
LEWISBURG — With only eight-tenths of a second separating the No. 1 and No. 8 seeds in the championship final of the boys 100-yard backstroke Saturday evening at the PIAA Class 3A championships, predicting the final order of finish was a little more difficult than one might have originally thought.
Seneca Valley’s Isaiah Clerkley takes silver as 3 from WPIAL earn PIAA diving medals
LEWISBURG — Isaiah Clerkley hit his sixth and final dive – an inward 1½ somersault pike with a 2.4 degree of difficulty – to move into first place in Saturday’s PIAA Class 3A boys championship meet at Bucknell University.
WPIAL swimmers set for championship heats on 2nd day of PIAA Class 3A meet
LEWISBURG – WPIAL swimmers in Class 3A are gearing up for consolation and championships heats Saturday afternoon and evening on the final day of the PIAA state meet from Bucknell University.
Franklin Regional relay sets school record, wins state title
March 17, 2023
The Franklin Regional boys 200-yard medley relay team had some unfinished business as it arrived at Bucknell for the first day of the PIAA Class 3A swimming championships.
Franklin Regional boys relay team makes jump from 3rd at WPIALs to state gold
The Franklin Regional boys 200-yard medley relay team had some unfinished business as it arrived at Bucknell University for the first day of the PIAA Class 3A swimming championships.
PIAA meet brings ups, downs for Fox Chapel standout Sophia Shao
Sophie Shao and the 100-yard butterfly go hand in hand.
North Allegheny’s Christina Shi captures 3rd straight PIAA diving title
LEWISBURG — The WPIAL populated the medals podium Friday afternoon at the PIAA Class 3A girls diving championships as all four entries from the district earned medals.
WPIAL swimmers position themselves for finals at PIAA Class 3A championships
LEWISBURG — WPIAL swimmers are positioned for several championship finals swims on Day 1 at the PIAA Class 3A championships at Bucknell.
WPIAL swimmers rack up 14 gold medals at PIAA Class 2A meet
WPIAL swimmers didn’t slow down Thursday as the PIAA Class 2A swimming championships continued at Bucknell University.
Mt. Pleasant girls swimmers finish off PIAA team championship in style
March 16, 2023
LEWISBURG — After receiving their PIAA Class 2A championship trophy Thursday at Bucknell, the coaches and swimmers of the Mt. Pleasant girls team jumped into the water to celebrate.
Kiski Area athletes swim to glory at PIAA meet
Parker Sterlitz finished outside the top 16 in last year’s Class 3A boys 500-yard freestyle at the PIAA swim championships at Bucknell.
A-K Valley softball preview: Realignment freshens local matchups
To Katie Armstrong, it seems like just yesterday the Burrell softball team was making its run in the WPIAL and PIAA playoffs en route to a 14-3 final record.
WPIAL trio claims PIAA Class 2A boys diving medals
A trio from the WPIAL took their places on the medal podium at the conclusion of the PIAA Class 2A boys diving championship meet Thursday afternoon at Bucknell University.
Mt. Pleasant’s Lily King breaks state record in 100 freestyle in PIAA Day 2 preliminaries
LEWISBURG — After a strong opening day of the PIAA swimming championships Wednesday, WPIAL Class 2A boys and girls swimmers returned to Bucknell on Thursday morning and carried the momentum into some top preliminary swims in the 100-yard freestyle, 500 free, 100 backstroke, 100 breaststroke and 400 free relay .
WPIAL swimmers claim 7 state titles on 1st day of PIAA Class 2A swim championships
March 15, 2023
WPIAL swimmers had a banner day Wednesday to open the PIAA Class 2A championships at Bucknell University’s Kinney Natatorium.
Southmoreland’s Henry Miller rocks PIAA competition with pair of gold-medal swims
A perk of being the No. 1 seed for a PIAA swimming finals heat is getting to pick the walk-up music that is played while the eight finalists make their way to the starting blocks.
Freeport’s Kira Schrecongost, other A-K Valley swimmers face best, score medals at PIAA meet
Freeport sophomore Kira Schrecongost and South Park junior Katie Jackovic know the power of Bedford junior Leah Shackley.
North Catholic’s Maggie Foley collects 3rd silver medal in PIAA Class 2A girls diving
North Catholic senior Maggie Foley had gold on her mind Wednesday afternoon at the PIAA Class 2A girls diving championships at Bucknell University.
WPIAL swimmers earn No. 1 seeds for PIAA Class 2A finals
The WPIAL will be well represented Wednesday afternoon and evening in the championship finals at the PIAA Class 2A swimming championships at Bucknell University.
Armstrong Sports Hall of Fame to welcome 12 new members
March 14, 2023
The Armstrong Sports Hall of Fame is back.
Mt. Pleasant swimmers gearing up for medal haul at PIAA championships
Mt. Pleasant sophomore Lily King reigned supreme at the WPIAL swimming championships March 2 and 3 as a strong contingent of Westmoreland County and Alle-Kiski Valley Class 2A and Class 3A competitors made their marks at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Gateway swimmers hope to finish season strong at PIAA championships
March 12, 2023
Members of the Gateway boys and girls swim teams are at Bucknell this week competing at the PIAA Class 3A and 2A championships, and they hope to build on strong individual and relay performances from the WPIAL meet at Pitt two weeks ago.
After tough season, Gateway softball seeks improvement in ’23
When the Gateway softball team faced Thomas Jefferson for the first of two Section 2-5A matchups last year, the Jaguars stung the young Gators, 15-0, in three innings.
Early deficit too much for Highlands girls to overcome in 1st PIAA playoff game
March 11, 2023
The Highlands girls basketball team dug itself an early hole in a PIAA Class 4A first-round playoff game Saturday against District 6 champion Penn Cambria at Mt. Aloysius.
Experienced Riverview baseball team adjusts to Class 2A competition
The Riverview baseball team lost just two starters from last year’s WPIAL playoff qualifier.
Plum baseball preparing for promising season with Florida training trip
The Plum baseball team is in Florida this week for some practice time and game play under sunny skies and in temperatures expected to reach the upper 70s.
Riverview unable to field softball team this spring
March 10, 2023
Faced with roster numbers that would be far fewer than required, Riverview softball will not field a team at the varsity level this spring.
A-K Valley PIAA basketball playoff capsules: Games for March 11, 2023
PIAA basketball playoffs
Three Rivers Unified Bocce regional tournament set for Thursday at Geneva College
March 8, 2023
Ten high school Unified bocce teams will gather Thursday at Geneva College’s Metheny Fieldhouse for the Three Rivers Region playoffs.
Exchange students from France, Chile savor Highlands girls basketball playoff run
Camille Gigon and Augustina Gutierrez-Collado became fast friends when they met in August and joined the Highlands girls volleyball team.
Kiski Area hockey beats North Hills in PIHL Penguins Cup quarterfinals
March 6, 2023
The Kiski Area hockey team rallied twice against Avonworth last week to claim a PIHL Penguins Cup Class A first-round victory.
Shady Side Academy boys, Allderdice girls claim Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association team titles
A several-month long series of matches culminated last Friday in the Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association playoffs at Allderdice High School, and the Allderdice girls and Shady Side Academy boys claimed team championships.
PIAA releases preliminary qualifiers for swimming and diving championships
March 5, 2023
The PIAA released the at-large (time) qualifiers Sunday afternoon for the Class 2A and Class 3A state swimming championships March 15-18, at Bucknell University.
Gateway hopes confidence carries over after strong performance in last year’s baseball playoffs
The Gateway baseball team entered last year’s WPIAL Class 5A playoffs as the 15th seed after tying for fourth place in Section 1 with McKeesport at 3-7.
Plum girls value experience in WPIAL basketball playoffs
Plum girls basketball coach Rich Mull said he knew his team had its work cut out for it when it took on No. 1 South Fayette in a WPIAL Class 5A first-round matchup Feb. 21.
Gateway boys turn attention to PIAA basketball playoffs
Kaleb Pryor still feels the sting of the Gateway boys basketball team’s loss to top-seeded Peters Township in the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals Feb. 25.
Mt. Pleasant girls repeat as WPIAL Class 2A swimming champions
March 3, 2023
The Mt. Pleasant girls swim team completed Friday what they started Thursday.
Kiski Area boys rally, win team title at WPIAL Class 2A swimming championships
The Kiski Area boys swim team trailed Indiana by 12 points heading into the 400-yard freestyle relay Friday at the WPIAL Class 2A championships.
Mt. Pleasant girls put on clinic at WPIAL swim championships
March 2, 2023
The Mt. Pleasant girls swim team is halfway to back-to-back WPIAL Class 2A titles.
Fox Chapel’s Shao keeps adding to WPIAL swimming medal count
Fox Chapel senior and Brown commit Sophie Shao had another big day at the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Kiski Area, Freeport, Fox Chapel swimmers chasing gold at WPIAL championships
March 1, 2023
Title defenses, breakout performances and cheering crowds, oh my.
North Catholic girls handle Highlands to earn another trip to WPIAL finals
February 28, 2023
There weren’t many secrets Tuesday at Gateway as section rivals North Catholic and Highlands met in a WPIAL Class 4A girls semifinal with a trip to Saturday’s championship game on the line.
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for March 1, 2023
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association playoffs set
The Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association concluded regular-season play Friday, and the final qualifiers and seeding for Friday’s league playoffs at Allderdice were determined.
Union girls take care of St. Joseph to earn 1st trip to WPIAL championship game
February 27, 2023
The St. Joseph girls basketball team took down the top seed in last year’s WPIAL Class A quarterfinals.
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Feb. 28, 2023
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Ray Bartha retires after 579 wins as Apollo-Ridge girls basketball coach
February 26, 2023
Ray Bartha said he knew it was time.
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Feb. 27, 2023
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Narrow section losses proved costly for Riverview boys basketball
Riverview boys basketball coach Phil McGivney hoped to be involved in on-court playoff activities instead of recalling what could’ve been from the regular season.
Plum swimmers ready to contend at WPIAL championship meet
The Plum girls swim team will be taking one of its largest groups to the WPIAL Class 3A championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Oakland Catholic’s Alexa Washington aims to cap high school career on high note
Alexa Washington felt a tinge of emotion rise to the surface last week when talking about the inevitable conclusion of her high school basketball career levied against the excitement of her Oakland Catholic team’s opportunities in the WPIAL playoffs.
Gateway’s Hunter Raymer ready to defend gold medal at WPIAL swimming championships
Gateway sophomore Hunter Raymer is the defending WPIAL Class 3A champion in the boys 500-yard freestyle.
Fencing develops into tight-knit community for high school athletes
February 25, 2023
Sophomore Jake Burgos scored a big victory in the Allderdice boys fencing team’s 5-4 victory over rival Fox Chapel on Feb. 10 at Allderdice High School.
Highlands girls beat Elizabeth Forward, clinch program’s 1st PIAA spot
February 24, 2023
The Elizabeth Forward girls basketball team averaged 60.5 points during the regular season en route to a Section 3 title, 17 victories and the No. 3 seed for the WPIAL Class 4A playoffs.
Highlands boys make good on third shot at Hampton, advance to semifinals
February 23, 2023
The third time was the charm for the Highlands boys basketball team.
A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games for Feb. 24, 2023
WPIAL Girls Basketball Playoffs
St. Joseph coach Dennis Jones continues recovery from series of medical issues as team reaches quarterfinals
February 22, 2023
Dennis Jones watched St. Joseph girls basketball’s first-round playoff victory over Geibel on the team’s Hudl account.
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Kiski Area grad Ben Fiore to lead boys soccer team at alma mater
Ben Fiore is coming home.
Oakland Catholic firing on all cylinders in Class 5A first-round win over Kiski Area
February 21, 2023
Senior-laden Oakland Catholic didn’t waste any time in taking control of its WPIAL girls basketball Class 5A first-round game against Kiski Area on Tuesday at Fox Chapel.
St. Joseph’s girls storm to dominant first-round victory over Geibel
February 20, 2023
Junior Julie Spinelli hit a 3-pointer for St. Joseph just 14 seconds into Monday’s WPIAL Class A first-round girls basketball game with Geibel Catholic at St. Joseph’s Walter Dlubak Athletic Center.
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023
Girls WPIAL Basketball Playoffs
Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association regular season concludes Friday
The Fox Chapel boys fencing team scored two wins during Friday’s Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association matches at Allderdice High School, and the Foxes moved into a second-place tie with Peters Township and Shady Side Academy.
Cager Classic all-star festivities return, scheduled for March 23-25
February 19, 2023
The WPIAL boys and girls basketball playoffs are in full swing, but officials with the Cager Classic have been planning ahead for when the postseason concludes.
A-K Valley basketball playoff preview capsules for games of Feb. 20, 2023
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Gateway bowlers earn trip to regional championships
The youthful Gateway boys bowling team collected 2,561 pins through three games and finished 15th out of 24 teams at the WPIBL boys team championship tournament Feb. 15, at Sims Lanes in Beaver Falls.
No. 11 Mohawk upsets No. 6 Apollo-Ridge in 1st round, gets rematch with Neshannock
February 18, 2023
The Mohawk girls basketball team had a long ride home from Apollo-Ridge after a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game Saturday afternoon.
A-K Valley basketball playoff preview capsules for games of Feb. 18, 2023
February 17, 2023
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Plum girls oust Montour in preliminary round, advance to face No. 1 South Fayette
February 16, 2023
Before the Plum girls basketball team could focus on No. 1, it had to make sure it took care of business against No. 17.
Senior grabs starting spot, makes impact in paint for Highlands girls
February 15, 2023
Ava Nitowski scored 14 points and added 11 rebounds Jan. 4 as the Highlands girls basketball team topped rival Freeport by 11.
A-K Valley basketball playoff preview capsules for games of Feb. 16, 2023
WPIAL basketball playoffs
Plum hires former Mars football coach, athletic director Scott Heinauer as interim AD
February 14, 2023
The Plum School Board on Tuesday appointed former Mars athletic director and football coach Scott Heinauer as interim athletic director and coordinator of student activities.
Freeport Area swimmers in good position to make waves at WPIALs
The Freeport Area girls swim team earned a fifth-place finish at last year’s WPIAL Class 2A championship meet at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Handful of A-K Valley basketball teams get No. 5 seeds in WPIALs
February 13, 2023
The WPIAL boys and girls basketball “second season” now is set as the 12 brackets were revealed Monday afternoon.
Allderdice teams, Shady Side girls wrap up spots for high school fencing league playoffs
The Shady Side Academy and Allderdice girls and the Allderdice boys all clinched playoff spots as the Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing League hosted matches Friday at Allderdice High School.
Plum girls basketball team excited to earn playoff spot
February 12, 2023
It was quite the roller-coaster final week of section play for the Plum girls basketball team.
With section championship behind them, Gateway boys eye WPIAL playoff goals
The Gateway boys basketball team again is a section champion, claiming its first such crown since 2017.
Gateway basketball alumni gather to celebrate WPIAL championship victories
The Gateway boys basketball program made it to the WPIAL Quad-A championship game three straight seasons from 2010-12 and won back-to-back titles in the final two years under the tutelage of the late Mitch Adams.
Recovered from neck injury, Plum’s Antonino Walker ready to make run at postseason medals
February 11, 2023
Plum junior Antonino Walker won 11 of his first 12 wrestling matches this season and hoped to add to it when the Mustangs competed at Saturday’s Pine-Richland Duals.
Riverview girls make 6th straight playoff appearance
The Riverview girls basketball team is in the WPIAL playoffs for the sixth year in a row and for the 13th time in 14 seasons.
League leaders to meet in Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association action
February 10, 2023
The Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association is just three weeks away from the playoffs, and teams in the boys and girls divisions are gearing up for the stretch run.
Burrell girls down Deer Lakes, earn section’s final playoff spot
February 9, 2023
In game that was winner-takes-all, the Burrell girls basketball team stood tall.
Kiski Area girls come together to end playoff drought
February 8, 2023
The last time the Kiski Area girls basketball team earned a spot in the WPIAL playoffs was the 2011-12 season when it went 16-7 overall and finished 8-4 in section play.
WPIBL releases qualifiers for team, singles championship tournaments
February 7, 2023
The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Bowling League’s regular season wrapped up Feb. 1, and after examining all of the scores, stats, averages and records, the league has released who will be competing in the team and singles championships over the next two weeks.
Gateway seniors sign on to continue football careers
February 5, 2023
Leonard Sherrod, Racari El, Anez Jordan and Malachi Moore shared in the celebration of senior football teammates Matt Brooks and Dallas Harper when they finalized their decisions to attend Division I Duquesne and Youngstown State, respectively, on the first day of the National Letter of Intent early signing period in December.
Burgettstown wrestlers get vengeance, win WPIAL team title
February 4, 2023
Burrell had gotten the better of Burgettstown four times in the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs over the past decade.
Plum’s Moore-Watkins, Thomas sign on to continue football careers
Needing 151 yards to become Plum’s all-time leader in career rushing yards, senior tailback Eryck Moore-Watkins exploded in the 2022 season finale against Indiana.
After battling injuries, Plum’s Miller relishes chance to finish high school career on the ice
Zach Miller hasn’t taken lightly the opportunity to suit up this year for the Plum varsity ice hockey team.
Burrell wrestling seeks revenge against Quaker Valley in WPIAL semifinals
February 3, 2023
The last time the Burrell wrestling team didn’t make it to at least the WPIAL Class 2A semifinals was in 2000.
Burrell wrestlers open WPIAL team tourney with 2 victories
February 1, 2023
The WPIAL wrestling pairings committee slotted Burrell as the No. 3 seed for the WPIAL Class 2A tournament.
A-K Valley girls basketball teams jockeying for playoff position
It is crunch time with one week left in section play, and several girls basketball teams in the Alle-Kiski Valley have either safely secured their spot in one of the six WPIAL tournaments or are fighting to join the party over their final section games.
Deer Lakes boys avenge earlier loss to Burrell
January 31, 2023
When the Burrell and Deer Lakes boys basketball teams met Jan. 6, neither escaped the 40s as the Bucs held on for a one-point victory in overtime.
Highlands girls pull away from Freeport, clinch spot in playoffs
January 30, 2023
The Highlands girls basketball team knew a victory over rival Freeport in Monday’s Section 1-4A matchup would give it an official berth to the WPIAL playoffs.
Allderdice girls remain undefeated in Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association competition
The Allderdice girls fencing team remained undefeated in Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association meets with a pair of wins last Friday during competition at Peters Township.
After medal-worthy performance at Allegheny County tournament, Gateway’s Heningcamp focused on postseason
January 29, 2023
Last year, Arontay Heningcamp fell short in his bid to claim a medal at the Allegheny County tournament.
Gateway’s 1st-year unified bocce program providing ‘positive, uplifting’ experience
Gateway athletic director Don Holl first saw what a unified bocce program was all about while at Seneca Valley, and he felt it would be something to consider at Gateway.
Riverview’s Anthony Tigano displays improvement with medal at Allegheny County tournament
January 28, 2023
With a medal on the line at the Allegheny County tournament Jan. 21 at Fox Chapel, Riverview sophomore Anthony Tigano got the job done.
Hampton boys earn season sweep of Highlands in key section matchup
January 27, 2023
The Highlands boys basketball team scored 23 points in the first half of Friday’s clash with Hampton, a matchup of the top two teams in Section 1-4A.
Freeport ace wastes no time in committing to St. Francis (Pa.)
Sydney Selker has two more softball seasons to play at Freeport, but the Yellowjackets standout also is looking further down the road at an opportunity she’s wanted for a long time.
Kiski Area, Burrell swimmers, divers excited to leave mark at WCCA meet
January 26, 2023
Ten records fell at last year’s Westmoreland County Coaches Association swimming championships at Derry.
Apollo-Ridge girls look forward to rematch with Shady Side Academy
January 25, 2023
Sydney McCray feels that the Apollo-Ridge girls basketball team didn’t show its best in the first meeting with highly ranked Shady Side Academy on Jan. 2.
A-K Valley girls basketball notebook: Plum closes in on return to WPIAL playoffs
Plum’s girls basketball team has been on a roller-coaster ride throughout the 2022-23 season as it seeks to return to the WPIAL playoffs after missing out a year ago.
Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association teams busy with regular-season matches
January 24, 2023
The Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association is nearing the heart of its 2023 season, and competitions continued this past weekend at the Corsair Fencing Club in Etna.
Knoch girls avenge earlier loss to Highlands as Shaw scores 22
January 23, 2023
When the Highlands and Knoch girls basketball teams met at Highlands on Dec. 19, the Golden Rams prevailed by 10.
Plum gymnast Sarah Kvortek suffers season-ending foot injury
Plum senior Sarah Kvortek hoped for one final solid performance at the WPIAL individual gymnastics championships Feb. 11 to close out her high school career.
Gateway swimmers eye WPIAL cut times as season kicks into high gear
January 22, 2023
Gateway swimming and diving coach Glenn Raymer said his boys and girls teams jumped into a busy January ready to work and compete after a challenging series of practices between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Plum swimmers seeing results after ‘intense holiday training’
January 21, 2023
Plum swim coach Shawn Haupt chuckled when he talked recently about the vibe among the boys and girls team members as some “moaning and groaning” with a lot of tiredness from some heavy-duty practice sessions.
Plum gymnast Sarah Kvortek ups degree of difficulty in quest for more success
Sarah Kvortek smiles when she thinks back to last year’s PA Classic state title in the all-around at Moon High School.
North Catholic girls rally to sink Highlands in key section matchup
January 19, 2023
North Catholic girls basketball coach Molly Rottman knew Thursday’s rematch between her Trojanettes and host Highlands would not be as one-sided as the first Section 1-4A meeting Dec. 15 when North Catholic won by 28 points.
Freeport girls basketball team working to make playoffs without injured senior Soilis
January 18, 2023
The Freeport girls basketball team has made the WPIAL playoffs six years in a row. But the Yellowjackets have some work to do to make it seven straight.
Deer Lakes boys beat Shady Side Academy in final seconds
January 17, 2023
Round 1 goes to Deer Lakes.
Apollo-Ridge girls hold serve with win over Mt. Pleasant
January 16, 2023
The Apollo-Ridge girls basketball team protected sole possession of second place in Section 3-3A and also defended its home court Monday evening with a 60-40 victory over Mt. Pleasant.
Gateway girls look to bounce back after narrow section losses
January 15, 2023
The Gateway girls basketball team started 0-4 in Section 1-5A play, but it was in position to turn some of those games into victories rather than the setbacks they experienced.
Plum wrestlers look forward to Allegheny County tournament
January 14, 2023
Last year, the Plum wrestling team took home 10 place medals and a third-place team finish from the Allegheny County tournament at Fox Chapel.
Plum girls hold off furious Kiski Area rally to win
January 12, 2023
With 3 minutes, 41 seconds left in Thursday’s Section 1-5A girls basketball game at Plum, the host Mustangs held a 15-point lead on Kiski Area and hoped to put the game on ice.
Riverview boys find winning formula with balanced scoring effort
The Riverview boys basketball team collected just six wins all of last season and was unable to secure a spot in the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs.
St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli doing a little bit of everything
January 11, 2023
Julie Spinelli wants to win basketball games.
A-K Valley girls basketball notebook: Status uncertain for Freeport’s Ava Soilis
Freeport senior guard Ava Soilis missed her team’s 55-36 nonsection victory over Riverview last Saturday after suffering a knee injury while battling for a rebound against Section 1-4A rival Highlands two days earlier.
Freshman, senior leading charge for Kiski Area girls wrestling
January 9, 2023
It was an all-Kiski Area final in the 126-pound bracket at the high school girls Powerade Tournament on Dec. 28 at Canon-McMillan High School.
Gateway’s Matt Brooks, Dallas Harper look forward to future in football
January 8, 2023
Matt Brooks didn’t wait around for his college experience to begin.
Renovations moving quickly for Gateway’s state-of-the-art baseball, softball fields
Two weeks ago, outfield walls similar to what is seen at PNC Park were installed on the baseball and softball fields at Gateway High School.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Highlands’ Shelby Wojcik, Kiski Area’s Isaiah Gonzalez
January 7, 2023
Shelby Wojcik
Plum’s girls wrestling team shows improvement in early-season matches
The Plum School District sanctioned girls wrestling in June — the 47th district to do so in Pennsylvania — and since then, the program has made significant strides. Its wrestlers, coach Dave Miller said, are making progress both in the practice room and on the competition mat.
Plum basketball finding its way
Rich Mull saw ups and downs from a youthful Plum girls basketball team in his first season as head coach last year.
Franklin Regional keeps Kiski Area in check, leans on Rowell in 4th to pull out win
January 6, 2023
Franklin Regional boys basketball coach Jesse Reed said Friday’s Section 3-5A home contest with Kiski Area wasn’t the prettiest of performances from his team, but he was pleased the Panthers were able to produce a 43-36 victory over the Cavaliers.
3 players score in double digits as Highlands girls hold off Freeport for 3rd straight win
January 5, 2023
The Highlands girls basketball team went three for three Thursday in a Section 1-4A matchup at Freeport.
Young Plum girls team might be finding way in new year
January 4, 2023
Rich Mull saw ups and downs from a youthful Plum girls basketball team in his first season as coach last year.
Shady Side Academy coach Jonna Burke hits 500 career wins with victory over Apollo-Ridge
January 3, 2023
Not too often do opposing basketball coaches combine to own nearly 1,100 career victories.
Alle-Kiski Valley’s top 10 sports stories of 2022
December 31, 2022
The year 2022 will long be remembered for many monumental happenings, from A-K Valley athletes’ accomplishments to championship performances and teams bringing home gold at the district, regional and state levels.
Julie Spinelli sparks St. Joseph girls to statement win over Freeport
December 28, 2022
There’s something about playing Freeport that sparks St. Joseph junior Julie Spinelli.
Leechburg’s Braylan Lovelace, Apollo-Ridge’s Nick Curci carry A-K Valley flag on signing day
December 21, 2022
Braylan Lovelace and Nick Curci may be headed to different colleges, but the two Alle-Kiski Valley football standouts on Wednesday shared a similar celebratory atmosphere.
Win over nemesis Knoch gives Highlands girls basketball team shot of confidence
December 20, 2022
The Highlands girls basketball team was back at it in practice Tuesday afternoon, one day after a big Section 1-4A victory over Knoch and one day before a nonsection clash with undefeated Armstrong.
Second-half surge powers Plum girls past Franklin Regional
December 19, 2022
With 2 minutes, 2 seconds left in the third quarter Monday night, the Franklin Regional girls basketball team held a three-point lead over Section 1-5A rival Plum and hoped to extend its advantage.
Gateway JV hockey team shattering expectations
December 18, 2022
The Gateway junior varsity hockey team registered eight points in 15 regular-season games last year.
Gateway boys basketball has date with Laurel Highlands circled on calendar
The Laurel Highlands boys basketball team won its second WPIAL Class 5A title in three years last season and had high hopes for a run in the PIAA tournament.
Big things ahead for Plum bowling team
Mareana Pilyih stands head and shoulders above the girls East section in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Bowling League after four games.
2022 Valley News Dispatch Defensive Player of the Year: Freeport’s Jacksen Reiser
December 17, 2022
Jacksen Reiser was focused on making the most of his senior season with the Freeport football team.
2022 Valley News Dispatch Football All-Stars
Here’s a look at the Valley News Dispatch’s 2022 football all-stars:
Furious fourth-quarter rally lifts Mars girls past Kiski Area
December 15, 2022
With 5 minutes, 14 seconds left in the fourth quarter of Thursday’s nonsection girls basketball game between Kiski Area and Mars, the Cavaliers led by nine and had designs on putting the game away.
Class 2A Burrell values longstanding wrestling rivalry with 3A Kiski Area
December 13, 2022
The Burrell wrestling team last beat neighboring rival Kiski Area in 2011.
Fox Chapel girls add to win streak, hand Plum its first loss
December 12, 2022
The Fox Chapel girls basketball team lost its season opener, falling by seven to Highlands at the Freeport Tip-Off on Dec. 2.
Freeport girls volleyball players go from young fans to state champions
At a gathering at Freeport Middle School shortly after the Yellowjackets girls volleyball team captured the 2017 PIAA Class 2A championship, then-sixth graders Josie Russo and Grace Beach posed for photos holding the title trophy.
Alex Keeling-Oliver leads Gateway bowlers into 2022 season
December 11, 2022
Alex Keeling-Oliver finished seventh in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Bowling League’s East section last year with a 184.03 average with a high game of 242 and a top series of 644.
3 Plum wrestlers claim Eastern Area titles
Plum wrestling coach Mike Supak said the Eastern Area Invitational Wrestling Tournament on Dec. 2 and 3 at Gateway was a strong first step for his young but experienced group.
Plum girls swim team boasts talent, depth
Plum swim coach Shawn Haupt looks up and down his girls roster and is excited for what could transpire throughout the 2022-23 season.
Inaugural We Serve First all-star event is ‘celebration of volleyball’
December 8, 2022
You can’t fault Sydney Joyce if she gets a little emotional or is overcome with nostalgia when she takes the court Friday and Saturday as part of the inaugural We Serve First All-Star Classic girls volleyball event at Kiski Area High School.
Freeport sophomore headlines swim season in A-K Valley
December 7, 2022
Freeport’s Kira Schrecongost didn’t let the bright lights and pressurized atmosphere of the WPIAL Class 2A swimming championships get to her last year as swam to gold in the 100-yard butterfly and second in the 200 individual medley as a freshman at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
WPIAL well represented on PVCA all-state girls volleyball teams
December 6, 2022
The Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association recognized the top players from each of the four girls volleyball classifications Tuesday with the release of the all-state selections.
Aquinas Academy tops St. Joseph, makes early statement in Class A girls basketball
December 5, 2022
The St. Joseph girls basketball team hoped to build on Friday’s victory over Class 4A Belle Vernon at the Play 4 Mae Tournament at Woodland Hills as it hosted Aquinas Academy on Monday in an early season clash of top five Class A teams.
Gateway wrestlers aim for postseason success
December 4, 2022
Arontay Heningcamp broke out last year for the Gateway wrestling team.
Gateway’s Hunter Raymer ready to defend WPIAL swimming title
Hunter Raymer entered his high school freshman season last December already experienced in a number of high-level club swim meets.
Deer Lakes’ Ryan Hanes named 2022 Valley News Dispatch Boys Soccer Player of the Year
December 3, 2022
Postseason honors have been piling up for Deer Lakes senior Ryan Hanes.
Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger named 2022 Valley News Dispatch Girls Soccer Player of the Year
Kaitlyn Killinger works with a girl in her neighborhood, a member of the Plum youth soccer program, on several aspects of the game.
Freshman Stephens banks in 3-pointer at buzzer to lift Plum girls to win over Freeport
December 2, 2022
The bank was open late for Riley Stephens, and the Plum freshman made a deposit she won’t soon forget.
Starting 5: A primer for high school hoops season in the A-K Valley
December 1, 2022
The WPIAL basketball season opens Friday. Here are some of the top players, teams and storylines to watch this winter in the A-K Valley.
After 4 years of success, Plum senior soccer players cap careers in PIAA playoffs
November 20, 2022
Only one team had scored a goal against the Moon girls soccer team before the Tigers faced Plum in a PIAA Class 3A quarterfinal Nov. 12 at Peters Township’s Confluence Financial Partners Stadium.
Gateway hockey selects trio for 2022 Honor Roll
The 50th anniversary year of the inaugural season of Gateway hockey will culminate Dec. 26 with the program’s annual alumni event at Palmer Imaging Arena in Delmont.
Gateway football players earn postseason honors
The Upper St. Clair football team was to take on Pine-Richland at Norwin on Saturday for the WPIAL Class 5A title.
Freeport sweeps York Catholic to claim PIAA Class 2A girls volleyball crown
November 19, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — Josie Russo celebrated her 17th birthday Saturday, and she couldn’t have asked for a better gift.
Freeport’s run to PIAA volleyball finals gives junior middle hitter chance to get back on court
November 18, 2022
Autumn English was a key part of the Freeport girls volleyball team’s early-season surge and its rise to the No. 1 spot in the Class 2A state rankings.
Players selected for We Serve First All-Star Classic girls volleyball event
November 17, 2022
The inaugural We Serve First All-Star Classic girls volleyball event will be Dec. 10 at Kiski Area High School, and the 36 seniors set to take part have been selected.
Freeport girls volleyball team outlasts Philipsburg-Osceola, reaches state final
November 16, 2022
A pair of district champions battled for five games Wednesday at Punxsutawney High School with a trip to the PIAA Class 2A girls volleyball championship on the line.
Pitt’s the pick for Riverview scoring sensation Lola Abraham
Riverview junior Lola Abraham has put together an impressive resume of on-field soccer results the past several years with her Pittsburgh Riverhounds Academy club and with her high school teammates.
Experienced lineup, drop to Class 3A could spark Burrell girls
November 15, 2022
The Burrell girls basketball team was on the move in the offseason, dropping down to Class 3A.
Burrell boys eye return to postseason after dropping to Class 3A
A new section with new opponents in a new classification doesn’t change the goals of the Burrell boys basketball team.
With roster intact from playoff team, Apollo-Ridge girls expect big season
November 14, 2022
Not a single member of last year’s Apollo-Ridge girls basketball team was lost to graduation.
Excitement building for boys basketball season at Apollo-Ridge
The Apollo-Ridge boys basketball team started last season with three wins over its first five games.
Freeport volleyball team prepares for state semifinal matchup
Normally, team banquets are designated for the end of a high school season when the program looks back at all its accomplishments.
Gateway’s Kefimba Cisse strong cross country season comes to close at PIAA meet
November 13, 2022
Kefimba Cisse began his cross country season by winning the Gateway Invitational in early September at Boyce Park.
Gateway’s Madi Jesih ready to continue soccer career at Robert Morris
Madi Jesih dreamed for many years of an opportunity in soccer beyond high school.
Riverview runners finish 5th at PIAA championships
The WPIAL represented itself well in the PIAA Class A boys cross country championship meet in Hershey on Nov. 5.
After capturing 4 section titles, Plum seniors cap high school careers in PIAA playoffs
For the first time in 17 years, the Plum varsity boys soccer team played in a PIAA tournament game.
Hailey Longwell’s hat trick lifts Moon past Plum, sets up rematch with Mars
November 12, 2022
In rainy and chilly conditions at Peters Township, Moon put a damper on Plum’s attempt to unseat the undefeated Tigers in a PIAA Class 3A girls soccer quarterfinal Saturday afternoon.
Freeport trounces West Mifflin in WPIAL quarterfinals
November 11, 2022
Freeport didn’t let persistent rain showers or West Mifflin slow it down in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal Friday at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium.
Plum girls soccer team ready for another crack at Moon in PIAA playoffs
The Moon girls soccer team did to Mars what no other team had done in 80 previous matchups with the Planets.
Freeport QB Croney acquitting himself well as starter
November 10, 2022
Gavin Croney’s only varsity snap as a quarterback last year didn’t quite go as planned
Alle-Kiski Valley athletes join in national signing day
November 9, 2022
Levi Hansen hopes to swim like a king in the Queen City.
Freeport girls volleyball team sweeps into state quarterfinals
November 8, 2022
The Freeport girls volleyball team celebrated what likely was its final home game of the season in dominant fashion.
A-K Valley PIAA soccer preview capsules: Games for Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022
November 7, 2022
Boys
After WPIAL title, Freeport volleyball team seeks second state championship
November 6, 2022
Freeport girls volleyball hasn’t lost to a Class 2A team this season.
Gateway rides strong finish into postseason
The Gateway football team transitioned from a wild and hectic regular season to the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs Friday as it was slated to host Upper St. Clair in the first round at Antimarino Stadium.
Steady ground game helps Riverview football continue to improve
The Riverview football team took a step forward in 2022 as it captured four victories in a season for the first time since 2015.
Freedom girls soccer team rolls past Springdale for WPIAL Class A title
November 4, 2022
The Freedom girls soccer team is back on top in WPIAL Class A.
Apollo-Ridge’s Gabe Kavulic will cap 1st foray into cross country at PIAA championships
Gabe Kavulic didn’t run cross country last year as a freshman.
Springdale girls soccer team seeks 3rd WPIAL title
November 3, 2022
Springdale’s Molly Hurley has had a knack for scoring goals in her breakout sophomore season.
Deer Lakes carries growing confidence into WPIAL finals matchup with Beaver
November 2, 2022
The Deer Lakes boys soccer team made an early exit from the WPIAL playoffs last year, falling as the No. 7 seed to East Allegheny, 2-1, in the first round.
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 10
Nick Cristillo
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 10
Class 3A
Westmoreland, A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsule: Game for Nov. 3, 2022
WPIAL girls soccer playoffs
South Fayette beats Latrobe in WPIAL volleyball semis
November 1, 2022
It’s been 15 years since the South Fayette girls volleyball team last played for a WPIAL championship.
Deer Lakes boys post another 1-0 win, go back to WPIAL soccer final
October 31, 2022
The Deer Lakes boys soccer team is heading back to the WPIAL championship game.
Springdale girls soccer blanks Waynesburg to achieve WPIAL championship game goal
Last year, the Springdale girls soccer team was denied a trip to Highmark Stadium to play for a WPIAL championship with a loss to Steel Valley in the semifinals.
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsule: Game for Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022
GIRLS
A-K Valley soccer playoff preview capsules for games of Oct. 31, 2022
October 30, 2022
WPIAL soccer playoffs preview
Gateway volleyball says goodbye to senior class after playoff loss
The Gateway and Laurel Highlands girls volleyball teams were paired up as the No. 16 and No. 17 seeds in a WPIAL Class 3A preliminary-round game Oct. 24 at Hempfield High School.
Gateway boys soccer season comes to close in WPIAL 1st round
The Gateway boys soccer team went toe-to-toe with No. 5 Kiski Area into the second half of a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game Oct. 22 at Kiski Area before the Cavaliers netted a pair of goals to score a 2-0 victory.
Plum’s girls volleyball season concludes in WPIAL playoffs
The Plum girls volleyball team saw its season come to a close last Wednesday with a 3-0 loss to No. 5 Montour in a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game at Montour High School.
Late-season victory helps Plum bounce back from 4-game slide
Faced with a four-game losing streak and needing a spark, the Plum football team got what it was looking for in a Week 8 game against Hempfield on Oct. 21.
Challenging opening-round foes await A-K Valley football teams in WPIAL playoffs
October 29, 2022
Call it the Avenue to Acrisure.
Apollo-Ridge soundly defeats Burrell in conference finale
October 28, 2022
Apollo-Ridge controlled its own destiny for a spot in the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs heading into Friday’s Allegheny Conference finale at Burrell.
Shaler tops North Allegheny to win slow-pitch softball league title
The Shaler and North Allegheny slow-pitch softball teams finished the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League regular season as the top two squads in the 14-team standings.
We Serve First Foundation to host inaugural girls volleyball all-star event
Area high school girls volleyball seniors, and the game itself, will be celebrated Dec. 10 as the inaugural We Serve First All-Star Classic will be at Kiski Area High School.
Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo joins elite company as 3-time WPIAL cross country champ
October 27, 2022
Brownsville senior Jolena Quarzo became the 12th girl to win three WPIAL cross country titles when she won the Class 2A race Thursday at Roadman Park at Cal (Pa.).
Riverview boys, girls earn top 3 finishes, PIAA berths at WPIAL cross country meet
For the first time since 2018, both the Riverview boys and girls cross country teams will run at the PIAA meet in Hershey after they each claimed third place in their Class A races at the WPIAL championships Thursday on the Roadman Park course at Cal (Pa.).
Riverview boys try to defend their WPIAL Class A cross country title
October 26, 2022
The Riverview boys cross country team struck WPIAL gold last year as it won the Class A crown after five straight runner-up finishes to Winchester Thurston.
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 9
Nick Curci
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 9
Class 5A Northeast
A-K Valley soccer playoff preview capsules for games of Oct. 27, 2022
Thursday’s games
Dave Anderson happy with decision to pull double coaching duty at Kiski Area
October 25, 2022
Dave Anderson will be front and center Wednesday evening as a varsity assistant for the Kiski Area boys soccer team as it hosts Montour at 6:30 in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal at Richard Dilts Stadium.
A-K Valley soccer playoff preview capsules for games of Oct. 26, 2022
Wednesday’s games
Plum girls soccer team cruises past Kiski Area in first-round playoff game
October 24, 2022
The Plum girls soccer team left no doubt in its WPIAL Class 3A first-round playoff game with Kiski Area on Monday at Mustangs Stadium.
Freeport duo will compete in girls soccer playoff game, WPIAL cross country this week
Freeport senior Nora Mahan and sophomore Addy Kristofik have a busy week ahead of them.
A-K Valley soccer playoff preview capsules for games of Oct. 25, 2022
Tuesday’s games
A-K Valley soccer playoff preview capsules for games of Oct. 24, 2022
October 23, 2022
Monday’s games
Plum hockey rebounds from tough start, looks ahead to promising season
Plum ice hockey coach Phil Mains knew his team was better than what it showed in an 11-0 season-opening loss to defending PIHL Class A champion Norwin on Oct. 10.
Plum’s Wes Lorish relishes experience at PIAA golf championships
Plum sophomore Wes Lorish missed out on a trip to states last year, so coming into this season, one of his main missions was to get to Penn State and face the best in the state.
Solid finish sends Gateway girls soccer team’s seniors out on high note
Gateway girls soccer coach Caleb Kyper wanted to see fight and determination from his team in the Section 3-3A and season finale at Latrobe on Oct. 18.
Springdale girls soccer team holds off Sewickley Academy in playoff opener
October 22, 2022
The Springdale girls soccer team is moving on to the quarterfinals.
A-K Valley high school football notebook: Apollo-Ridge firmly in Allegheny Conference playoff race
With five WPIAL playoff spots available in the Class 2A Allegheny Conference, there still are things to be decided.
Kiski Area rides strong 2nd half to playoff win
The Gateway boys soccer team had designs, as the No. 12 seed, of taking down No. 5 Kiski Area in a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game Saturday at Kiski Area’s Richard Dilts Stadium.
A-K Valley soccer playoff preview capsules for games of Oct. 22, 2022
October 21, 2022
Saturday’s games
Freeport girls look to add Class 2A WPIAL volleyball crown to collection
The Freeport girls volleyball team isn’t technically defending a WPIAL championship. The Yellowjackets moved back to Class 2A after winning the Class 3A crown last year, but the goal remains the same as they begin a quest for a seventh WPIAL title since 2010.
Volleyball powers get a look at their path to gold as the WPIAL announces playoff pairings
North Allegheny, North Catholic, Freeport and Serra Catholic drew No. 1 seeds as the WPIAL released the four girls volleyball playoff brackets Friday afternoon.
Knoch, Mt. Lebanon claim WPIAL girls tennis team titles
October 20, 2022
The Knoch girls tennis team is back on top in WPIAL Class AA.
Former Burrell boys coach takes over Highlands girls basketball program
After three years away from serving as a head basketball coach at the high school level, Shawn Bennis is back.
Plum, Springdale among top seeds from A-K Valley focused on 1st-round WPIAL playoff foes
October 19, 2022
Despite temperatures in the low 40s Wednesday accompanied by rain and wind, 16 Alle-Kiski Valley boys and girls soccer teams felt the warmth of discovering the whos, whens and wheres of the upcoming WPIAL playoff tournaments.
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 8
Chase Fenner
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 8
Class 5A Big East
Kiski Area girls soccer has been in playoff mode
October 18, 2022
Kiski Area girls soccer coach Dave Anderson said his team played several must-win games down the stretch as it fought to keep its WPIAL playoff-appearance streak intact.
Plum girls soccer wins at home to clinch section crown
October 17, 2022
The Plum girls soccer team controlled its own destiny Monday to finish off its fourth straight section championship.
Kiski Area senior swimmer chooses West Virginia
Parker Sterlitz made his first visit to West Virginia University about a year ago.
North Allegheny, Hampton, Freeport, Serra Catholic atop final coaches association volleyball rankings
It’s about that time.
Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League teams ready for playoff tournament
Montour, North Allegheny, Bethel Park, Baldwin and Shaler each recorded doubleheader sweeps Sunday as the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League nears the conclusion of its regular season and prepares for its playoff tournament.
Deer Lakes’ Yourish leads A-K Valley contingent into PIAA golf championships
October 16, 2022
Anna Yourish looked on a couple of years ago as her older brother, Josh, represented Deer Lakes at the PIAA championships in track and field.
Big-play potential part of the process for Gateway linebacker Remy Bose
Gateway led Penn-Trafford, 14-3, in the fourth quarter of their Victory Bell rivalry game Oct. 7, at Gateway’s Antimarino Stadium.
Gateway players confident ahead of WPIAL boys soccer playoffs
The Gateway boys soccer team enters the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs hoping to make some noise, and senior forward Colton Corrie says the Gators are set up to do just that.
Leechburg’s Braylan Lovelace passes 4,000-yard mark
October 15, 2022
Leechburg senior running back and Pitt commit Braylan Lovelace needed 217 yards against Riverview on Friday in an Eastern Conference matchup to become just the fifth Alle-Kisk Valley runner to eclipse the 4,000-yard mark for a career.
Plum boys soccer team ready for postseason
It’s time for a postseason rumble, and the Plum boys soccer team is ready, coach Raf Kolankowski said.
Plum girls aim to make another long run in WPIAL soccer playoffs
The Plum girls soccer team is no stranger to postseason pressure and opportunity, and the Mustangs will get a chance in the coming days to prove it.
Penn-Trafford football team rebounds to beat Plum
October 14, 2022
The Penn-Trafford football team got that winning feeling back Friday after last week’s tough loss to rival Gateway.
Deer Lakes girls soccer gets crucial win vs. Valley
October 12, 2022
The Deer Lakes girls soccer team was in must-win mode Wednesday as it hosted Valley in a Section 2-2A game at Lancers Stadium.
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 7
Tyler Bender
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 7
Class 5A Big East
Freeport girls volleyball rolls past Derry to remain undefeated in Section 5-AA
October 11, 2022
The Freeport girls volleyball maintained its two-game lead on the rest of Section 5-2A Tuesday evening with a dominant 3-0 victory over Derry at Freeport Middle School.
Valley girls soccer closes in on rare playoff berth
The Valley girls soccer team has a chance to set a record and do what only one other team has done in the program’s 20 years.
Burrell girls volleyball ready for regular season’s pivotal closing stretch
October 10, 2022
The Burrell girls volleyball team visits Deer Lakes and hosts Freeport next week to close out Section 5-2A play.
Serra Catholic new No. 1 in coaches association’s WPIAL Class A volleyball rankings
A dominant run atop the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association’s Class A top-10 rankings has come to an end.
Slow-pitch softball teams enter final week of WPISL regular season
Bethel Park, Baldwin, Mt. Lebanon, Shaler, Penn-Trafford and North Hills each recorded doubleheader sweeps in game play from last Wednesday to Sunday as teams jockey for position in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League.
Team play helps Gateway girls volleyball with turnaround season
October 9, 2022
A key goal for the Gateway girls volleyball team at the start of the 2022 season was to improve on last year’s 2-10 record in section play.
Gateway runners tune up for WPIALs at Section 4 championships
Members of the Gateway girls cross country team tested their mettle at the Division I, Section 4 championships Oct. 5 at Northmoreland Park, and the Gators took fourth in the team standings as a pair of runners earned medals for top-15 performances.
Alle-Kiski Valley high school football notebook: Highlands takes care of business
October 8, 2022
It’s never an easy proposition playing a football game at the venerable Wolvarena in Turtle Creek.
Riverview runners shine at McQuaid Invitational in New York
Each year, the Riverview cross country teams venture beyond the borders of Pennsylvania to test themselves at a high-level meet.
Plum runners battle at Section 4 championships
The Plum boys cross country team challenged the top teams in Division I, Section 4 at the league championships at Northmoreland Park on Oct. 5, and the Mustangs rallied together for third place.
Deer Lakes rallies for win in low-scoring battle with Valley
October 7, 2022
Last year’s Allegheny Conference matchup between Valley and Deer Lakes was low scoring at Lancers Stadium as the Lancers came away with the win thanks to a single touchdown accounting for the only points.
Eliza Miller leads Kiski Area girls cross country team back to section top spot
October 5, 2022
For the first time since 2015, the Kiski Area girls cross country team is section champion.
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 6
Nick Odom
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 6
Class 5A Northeast
A-K Valley girls soccer notebook: Springdale maintains section lead despite tough loss
October 4, 2022
The Springdale girls soccer team still is in the driver’s seat in Section 1-A with a full-game lead, but the Dynamos’ grip was loosened Monday with a 5-1 loss at Seton LaSalle.
Deer Lakes volleyball finding success and stability under 1st-year coach Nypaver
October 3, 2022
Four seasons, five coaches. The seniors on the Deer Lakes girls volleyball team have been through it all the past couple of years.
Hampton takes over as Class 3A No. 1 in latest volleyball coaches association WPIAL rankings
There is a new No. 1 in Class 3A this week as the Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association released its latest WPIAL girls volleyball top-10 rankings.
Several teams score doubleheader sweeps as slow-pitch softball league pushes toward playoffs
West Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Montour, Mt. Lebanon, Baldwin and North Allegheny all recorded doubleheader sweeps in game play from last Thursday to Sunday as the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League continues its stretch run to the playoff tournament.
Gateway runner Kefimba Cisse gains confidence ahead of postseason races
October 2, 2022
Kefimba Cisse made his Gateway cross country debut last year after playing soccer as a freshman in the fall of 2020.
Deep lineup returns for Gateway JV hockey team
Gateway junior varsity ice hockey coach Shawn Jesih sounded the bell of optimism when talking about a team filled with experience and hungry to make its mark in the PIHL’s JV Tier 3 this season.
Kiski Area’s Flemm overcomes injuries, mother’s bout with cancer to become stalwart for football team
October 1, 2022
Connor Flemm rarely leaves the field for the Kiski Area football team.
Plum building toward run at WPIAL playoffs
It’s three down and two to go for the Plum football team in Big East Conference play in its quest to qualify for the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs.
Deer Lakes holds off Knoch’s furious rally
September 30, 2022
The Deer Lakes and Knoch football teams put the pedal to the metal in the fourth quarter of their Allegheny 6 Conference opener Friday at Deer Lakes’ Lancers Stadium.
Burrell girls soccer in top form heading into tough stretch of games
September 29, 2022
The Burrell girls soccer team suffered a 2-0 setback at Section 2-2A rival Knoch on Sept. 9.
Freeport tops rival Deer Lakes to complete girls soccer section sweep
In the first meeting between the Deer Lakes and Freeport girls soccer teams at Freeport on Sept. 1, the Lancers led by two goals before the Yellowjackets rallied with three scores to win the game.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 5
Class 5A Big East
New cast of characters has Leechburg volleyball again competing for section title
September 26, 2022
The Leechburg girls volleyball team entered the season a younger group than the one that tied for last year’s Section 4-A title with Greensburg Central Catholic and made it all the way to the WPIAL semifinals.
Top WPIAL teams hold on to spots in Volleyball Coaches Association rankings
The WPIAL girls volleyball section schedule has reached the midway point, and races in all four classifications are heating up.
Shaler leads way as Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League enters stretch run
Shaler leads the pack of 14 varsity teams as the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League enters the stretch run to the league playoffs.
Key early-season wins have Plum boys soccer off to another strong start to season
September 25, 2022
The Plum boys soccer team is right where it hoped it would to be as it laid out its goals and expectations before the season.
Excitement building for 1st Plum girls wrestling season
No workouts are yet official, but a number of girls at Plum are meeting in the high school wrestling room twice a week for sessions as excitement continues to build for the first Mustangs girls wrestling season in November.
Gateway boys soccer team confident entering season’s 2nd half
Gateway boys soccer coach Bernie Stiles has a feeling of confidence as his team enters the stretch run to what he hopes is a WPIAL playoff spot.
A-K Valley high school football notes: Several teams bounce back with wins
September 24, 2022
It was bounce-back Friday for a number of Alle-Kiski Valley teams.
Gateway holds off Plum’s big rally
September 23, 2022
Gateway appeared to have a comfortable halftime lead Friday in a Big East Conference clash with Plum at Gateway’s Antimarino Stadium.
Highlands continues unexpected search for girls basketball coach
September 22, 2022
The hiring process to find a new girls basketball coach at Highlands is in its second week after Jason Kerr suddenly stepped down from the position after one year.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 4
Class 5A Big East Conference
Freeport girls soccer team uses grit to chase section title
September 20, 2022
In the first game of the year on the first day of this month, the Freeport girls soccer team faced a sizeable deficit to rival Deer Lakes.
Plum girls soccer team gets tough win against Franklin Regional
September 19, 2022
The Plum and Franklin Regional girls soccer teams met Monday for the first time since 2018 as they battled for a first-place spot atop Section 3-3A.
4 top teams hold spots in latest WPIAL girls volleyball rankings
All four teams atop their respective rankings — North Allegheny (Class 4A), Moon (Class 3A), Freeport (Class 2A), and Bishop Canevin (Class A) — held on to their spots in the new Western PA Coaches Association WPIAL girls volleyball top-10 polls released Monday.
Apollo-Ridge’s Jake Mull puts best foot forward in multiple sports
September 18, 2022
Throughout the WPIAL, there are athletes who play a sport in every season.
Athleticism, instinctiveness help Dallas Harper make impact for Gateway defense
Gateway needed a play early in the fourth quarter at North Hills on Sept. 9.
Plum girls volleyball aims to ‘seize the opportunity’ again
The Plum girls volleyball team faced a measure of déjà vu this past offseason as it looked to transition after losing seven seniors from the 2021 season.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller, Anders Bordoy
September 17, 2022
Eliza Miller
Lovelace helps Leechburg sprint past Springdale
September 16, 2022
With a big Eastern Conference clash looming next Friday at Clairton, Leechburg coach Randy Walters hoped his players would remain focused and take care of business Friday against Springdale in the conference opener for both teams.
Kiski Area’s Miller, Fox Chapel’s Gwin capture Kiski Invitational titles
After going through massive changes to format two years ago because of the covid pandemic and not being able to run last year, organizers of the fifth Gingerbread Man Kiski Invitational cross country meet at Allegheny Township’s Northmoreland Park were hoping for the best as more than 20 area high school gathered again Friday for one of the region’s top high school events.
Alle-Kiski Valley girls soccer notebook: Section 2-2A looking fierce
September 15, 2022
Deer Lakes, Burrell and Freeport have waged some fierce girls soccer battles for several years in Section 2-2A.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 3
Class 5A Big East
Joyce sisters enjoying time together with Kiski Area volleyball
September 12, 2022
Maddie Joyce started playing organized volleyball in sixth grade, and at the time, she was hitting the ball around with older sister Sydney and mom, Robin, who enjoyed a standout career at Duquesne in the 1990s.
Moon jumps to No. 1 in the Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association rankings
The Moon girls volleyball team opened Section 2-3A play with convincing victories over South Fayette, 3-1, and Oakland Catholic, 3-0, before going 10-0 and winning its own tournament on Saturday.
New website displays history of Gateway Sports Hall of Fame
September 11, 2022
The journey to the formation and implementation of the new Gateway Sports Hall of Fame website — gshof.com — had its genesis more than two decade ago when the first class of Gators greats — the 1969 championship football team, the late Curtis Bray, Michelle Chow, Richard Adipotti, Mel Nash, Cliff Parsons, Henry J. Furrie and Walter “Pete” Antimarino — was inducted.
Riverview boys cross country begins quest to defend WPIAL title
Amberson Bauer and Christopher Barnes finished near the top — third and fourth, respectively — at the traditional season-opening Gateway Invitational cross country meet Sept. 3 at Boyce Park in Plum.
Plum runners off to strong start after performance at Gateway Invitational
Plum’s Connor Pivirotto and Riverview’s Christopher Barnes were next to each other down the final straightaway to the finish line in the boys varsity race at the Gateway Invitational cross country meet Sept. 3 at Boyce Park.
Kefimba Cisse claims title at host Gateway Invitational
Kefimba Cisse finished second to the now-graduate Brady Sundin in Gateway cross country races last year.
A-K Valley high school football notebook: Wetzel nearly sets Freeport field goal mark
September 10, 2022
Early in the second quarter of Friday’s 61-7 victory over Quaker Valley, the Freeport offense faced a fourth-and-6 from the Quakers 40.
Freeport cruises past Quaker Valley, 61-7
September 9, 2022
Freeport wasted no time taking control of its nonconference game against Quaker Valley on Friday at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium.New coach Albie Fletcher plans ‘business as usual’ for Deer Lakes boys basketball program
September 8, 2022
Albie Fletcher joined the Deer Lakes varsity coaching staff under Terence Parham for the 2018-19 season.
Freeport girls soccer snaps winless streak against rival Burrell
September 7, 2022
Close and intense soccer is expected when the Freeport and Burrell girls teams meet.
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 2
Devin Beattie
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 2
Nonconference
North Catholic tops Class 3A in latest WPIAL girls volleyball coaches rankings
September 6, 2022
WPIAL section play begins for girls volleyball Tuesday evening, and leading into the numerous matchups on the docket, the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its Week 2 top-10 rankings.
Freeport volleyball sets sights on 18th straight section title
September 5, 2022
The Franklin Regional girls volleyball tournament has established itself as one of the premier events in the early fall season, and Freeport, a regular participant, knew it again would be tested against some of the top teams in the WPIAL.
Plum again takes aim at trip to WPIAL girls soccer finals
September 4, 2022
The WPIAL girls soccer championship games will be back at Highmark Stadium for the second year in a row, and Plum hopes to again reserve a spot in the Class 3A game in early November.
Gateway volleyball makes smooth transition to new head coach
There weren’t many introductions needed when Nicole Riley met her Gateway girls volleyball players on the first day of preseason camp Aug. 15.
Riverview girls look to build on trip to WPIAL playoffs
For the Riverview girls varsity soccer team, 2021 certainly was a year of growth.
A-K Valley H.S. football notebook: Apollo-Ridge weathers storm in emotional victory
September 3, 2022
Apollo-Ridge coach John Skiba was overcome with emotion, tears flowing down his face, after speaking with his team following a highly emotional 34-19 home victory over Valley on Friday.
Nick Curci runs for 249 yards to lift Apollo-Ridge past Valley
September 2, 2022
Facing a halftime deficit and another one in the fourth quarter and also facing adversity with several key injuries, Apollo-Ridge dug deep for a 34-19 victory over Valley in a nonsection contest Friday at Owens Field in Apollo.
Freeport senior Reiser vows to help team after injury
September 1, 2022
Jacksen Reiser was hoping to have a big senior season with the Freeport football team.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 1
August 31, 2022
Nonconference
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 1
Luke Bombalski
Volleyball coaches association releases 2022 Week 1 WPIAL girls rankings
August 29, 2022
The Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its inaugural WPIAL top-10 poll for the 2022 girls volleyball season Monday morning, and North Allegheny (Class 4A), Thomas Jefferson (Class 3A), Freeport (Class 2A) and Bishop Canevin (Class A) are at the top of their specific rankings.
Kiski Area, Norwin volleyball teams ready to play outdoors again
August 28, 2022
The Kiski Area and Norwin girls volleyball teams kick off their seasons Monday evening, and for the second year in a row, the rivals will take their nonsection matchup outside.
Gateway girls soccer under new leadership
The Gateway girls soccer program experienced transition in the offseason as Kelly Bender stepped down as varsity head coach after six seasons to concentrate on family and professional work changes.
High-scoring Strawser leads Gateway boys soccer into 2022 campaign
Gateway boys soccer coach Bernie Stiles said championship victories at a pair of winter indoor tournaments — futsal events at Deer Lakes and Penn Hills — were sparks that fueled the team in its offseason preparation for the 2022 season.
Experienced Riverview boys soccer team hopes to continue turnaround
The Riverview boys soccer team went winless in 2021.
Plum boys soccer team motivated to reach WPIAL championship game
The Plum boys soccer team has had some heart-wrenching playoff results the past three seasons.
AK Valley football notebook: Running game powers Burrell to opening win
August 27, 2022
Physical play on both sides of the ball is the calling card for Shawn Liotta-coached teams, and he said he was pleased with what he saw on film from Burrell’s 31-10 victory at Jeannette on Friday.
Apollo-Ridge fends off rival Leechburg in opener
August 26, 2022
After a two-year hiatus, the Leechburg and Apollo-Ridge football teams renewed their neighboring rivalry Friday night for a Week Zero clash at Owens Field.
A-K Valley girls soccer preview: Plum driven to add to impressive resume
The WPIAL girls soccer championship games will be back at Highmark Stadium for the second year in a row, and Plum hopes to again reserve a spot in the Class 3A game in early November.A-K Valley girls soccer preview: Plum driven to add to impressive resume
August 25, 2022
The WPIAL girls soccer championship games will be back at Highmark Stadium for the second year in a row, and Plum hopes to again reserve a spot in the Class 3A game in early November.
A-K Valley’s don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week Zero
Nonconference
Springdale sophomore tight end poised for breakout season
Garrett Myers attended Redeemer Lutheran school in Penn Hills through eighth grade.
Highlands’ Jimmy Kunst commits to play baseball at Eastern Michigan
Jimmy Kunst took an unofficial visit to the campus of Eastern Michigan a couple of months ago, and several aspects of the trip, including a tour of the Eagles baseball facilities, drew him closer to making his recent verbal commitment.
Senior Kevin Tomlinson driven to restore Riverview pride
August 23, 2022
Riverview senior Kevin Tomlinson has grown 5 inches in height since his freshman football season.
No time to waste as senior quarterback takes reins of Kiski Area offense
August 22, 2022
Playing three sports at Kiski Area, Lebryn Smith doesn’t have much down time.
New coach brings wide-ranging changes to Springdale program
It was a busy senior night last fall for the Springdale football team.
Riverview rebuilding project could pay off this season
Riverview has struggled in and out of Eastern Conference play with just seven victories over the past five seasons.
WPIAL Class 4A football breakdown: Aliquippa ready for another heavyweight fight
August 20, 2022
In winter 2020, Aliquippa challenged the PIAA assertion, under the competitive-balance rule, that it should move up from Class 3A to Class 4A.
Devil in the details: Pitt-bound Braylan Lovelace leading Leechburg to success on the field and off
Braylan Lovelace earned 13 Division I football offers throughout the college recruiting process, and three of them came from the Ivy League.
Burrell ready to take on new challenges in Class 2A
August 19, 2022
After several years in Class 3A, Burrell made the move down a classification in the new two-year cycle.
Veteran linebacking corps lights fuse for Freeport Area defense
August 17, 2022
The Freeport Area defense created havoc for opposing offenses throughout the 2021 season.
Deer Lakes in position to return to playoffs
Deer Lakes came as close as a team can to making the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs last year.
Freeport could have plenty to celebrate in program’s 100th season
The Freeport football program celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2022, and this year’s coaches and players hope to make it one for the record books.
A-K Valley football teams eager to get to work as official practices open
August 15, 2022
Ryan Tempalski experienced numerous first official football practice days as an assistant coach at schools throughout the region.
Deer Lakes father, son unsatisfied with missing playoffs
Derek Burk didn’t wait long to try and make improvements after last year’s close home loss to Burrell.
Burrell to lean on pair of senior linemen
August 14, 2022
Ian Quinn started organized tackle football in third grade in the Lower Burrell Flyers youth football organization.
Kiski Area brings new-look roster into Class 4A competition
When Kiski Area moved down from Class 5A to Class 4A and into the Greater Allegheny Conference, coach Sam Albert knew one of the league matchups would carry extra meaning.
Familiar face set to lead Gateway girls volleyball program
There is a reunion of sorts taking place within the Gateway varsity girls volleyball program.
Highlands grad Alan Crise aims to help local student-athletes navigate recruiting path
August 8, 2022
Alan Crise went through the college recruiting process during his senior year at Highlands in 2011-12, and the football, basketball and track and field participant remembers having a lot of questions throughout the journey that ultimately led to a track and field scholarship at Division II West Virginia Wesleyan.
Plum sophomore’s game grows heading into high school golf season
August 7, 2022
Wes Lorish said he didn’t play his best golf last week at the 46th Junior PGA Championship at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club in Palos Park, Ill., but the Plum sophomore and returning WPIAL individual semifinalist said he was grateful for the opportunity to test his mettle with some of the top junior golfers in the United States and internationally.
Positive resolution sought in volleyball theft at Vandergrift court dedicated to late coach
August 3, 2022
Tim Toy beams when he talks about the return of the Pack the Park high school girls volleyball game between Norwin and Kiski Area set for Aug. 29 at Ellen Toy Grass Court in Vandergrift’s Kennedy Park.
Plum’s Susko recovering from injury but ready for another multi-sport school year
July 31, 2022
Dannika Susko has taken a detour this summer in her preparation for her senior season with the Plum girls volleyball team.
Citing schedule concerns, Kiski Area baseball coach steps down after 4 seasons
July 27, 2022
Citing growth in his real estate career, particularly as it pertains to increased responsibilities in the spring housing market, Aaron Albert resigned Wednesday as Kiski Area head baseball coach after four seasons with the program.
Burrell wrestling staff honored as top assistant coaches in state
July 25, 2022
The Burrell wrestling team continued its high level of success this past season with a 19th consecutive section championship, another appearance in the WPIAL Class 2A title match, a trip to the PIAA tournament and several individual standout performances at the section, WPIAL, regional and state levels.
Springdale boys soccer team has smooth transition to new coach Palo
July 20, 2022
Paul Palo didn’t need to have the Springdale boys soccer players fill out name-tag stickers when he took over as the Dynamos coach earlier this year.
Blackhawk grad Michael Turconi selected by Toronto Blue Jays in 15th round
July 19, 2022
Michael Turconi is among the latest Western Pennsylvania products to be selected in the 2022 MLB Draft.
New coach Skoda eager to help Highlands girls soccer team get back on track
July 17, 2022
Preseason practices for the girls soccer season at Highlands begin in less than a month, and Matt Skoda said there is much work to be done before that first official workout.
Excitement builds as Plum joins growing girls wrestling movement
When it became official last month that Plum will sanction a girls wrestling program, Saphia Davis was excited, but she was not 100% sure of the validity of the news.
Gateway lineman Matt Brooks finds perfect fit with Duquesne
Matt Brooks struck up a strong connection while talking with new Duquesne defensive line coach Reggie Wells Jr.
New AD charting course for future of Springdale athletic programs
July 14, 2022
Amanda Noel is three months into her new role as Springdale athletic director, and she said she is equally as excited with what has been accomplished so far and with what is yet to come as the fall sports season begins in less than a month.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca
July 12, 2022
Editor’s note: 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 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen
July 9, 2022
Editor’s note: 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 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Deer Lakes’ Justin Brannagan named 2022 Valley News Dispatch Baseball Player of the Year
June 25, 2022
2022 Valley News Dispatch Baseball All-Stars
Burrell’s Katie Armstrong earns 2022 Valley News Dispatch Softball Player of the Year honors
2022 Valley News Dispatch Softball All-Stars
Burrell’s Jarrett relishes being part of 1st PIHL girls hockey season
June 24, 2022
Ellie Jarrett was smiling ear to ear after the PIHL girls hockey championship game June 11 at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry Township.
Coach who built Deer Lakes boys basketball into perennial playoff team steps down
June 23, 2022
Terence Parham called it one of the hardest decisions he’s ever had to make.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Gateway’s Brad Birch
June 20, 2022
Editor’s note: 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 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Gateway’s Zeisloft adds Positive Athlete Award to resume
June 19, 2022
Dietrich Zeisloft was a leader on the field for several seasons for the Gateway boys soccer team with his ability to put the ball in the back of the net, help control possession and facilitate his teammates on the attack from his midfield position.
Local basketball coach Mark Marino set to lead U.S. team in Greece
June 18, 2022
Mark Marino is no stranger to coaching basketball teams from the United States in overseas competition.
Apollo-Ridge brings back familiar face to coach girls soccer
June 15, 2022
Sarah Bonelli Christopher graduated from Apollo-Ridge in 2013 and went on the play four years as a midfielder at Lock Haven.
WPIAL athletes across all sports honored for positive impact on community
June 14, 2022
Kiski Area athletic director John Peterman knows his school’s student-athletes are energetic competitors on the field and make a difference off the field, both in the classroom and the community.
Valley school board removes interim tag, names Kim Johnson full-time AD
June 13, 2022
For two months this spring, Kim Johnson balanced her duties as a ninth-grade honors biology and AP biology teacher at Valley High School with newly gained responsibilities as the interim athletic director after the resignation of Muzzy Colosimo in March.
Deer Lakes softball reflects on impressive season
June 12, 2022
Deer Lakes softball coach Rick Cerra saw the pieces for a strong season and postseason run come together back in September, six months before preseason practices began.
Gateway softball hopes to build from progress made this spring
When one looks just at the scores of a majority of the games for the Gateway softball team this spring, thoughts might develop of a team that went nowhere in developing on the field.
Future looks bright for Burrell softball
June 11, 2022
A youthful lineup this spring didn’t stop the Burrell softball team from reaching the playoffs for the 17th season in a row, and when the Bucs arrived in the postseason, they made the most of their opportunity.
Deer Lakes softball team bows out of state playoffs
June 9, 2022
Deer Lakes entered Thursday’s PIAA Class 3A quarterfinal matchup with Bald Eagle hoping to punch its ticket to the state semifinals for the first time since 2015.
Deer Lakes wants to continue PIAA postseason journey
June 8, 2022
A quartet from the Deer Lakes softball team — Jenna Bisegna, Reese Hasley, Keeghan Cook and Lydia Guthrie — took one of the biggest walks of their lives and graduated Wednesday evening.
A-K Valley PIAA softball playoff capsules for June 9, 2022
Today’s games
Burrell softball team faces juggernaut Beaver in PIAAs
June 7, 2022
The Beaver softball team currently owns one of the longest winning streaks in WPIAL history.
Burrell rides early offense, Armstrong’s arm into PIAA softball quarterfinals
June 6, 2022
ERIE — It was déjà vu for the Burrell softball team Monday afternoon in its PIAA Class 4A first-round game against District 10 champion Villa Maria Academy at Penn State Behrend.
Deer Lakes softball faces tough road in PIAA tournament
June 5, 2022
District champions, when they enter the PIAA playoffs, always are afforded the opportunity to play their first game in their home district.
A-K Valley PIAA softball playoff capsules: Games for Monday, June 6, 2022
Class 4A
Riverview runners cap special season at PIAA meet
Riverview’s boys 3,200-meter relay runners stood on the medals stand at last year’s PIAA Class 2A championships having just completed a strong performance on the track at Shippensburg University.
After quarterfinal loss, Riverview baseball looks forward to next season
Riverview baseball players had winning playoff experiences under their belts as they began this year’s WPIAL Class A tournament with a first-round matchup against Bishop Canevin.
Gateway’s Robinson caps high school career at PIAA track championships
Amaya Robinson graduated from Gateway on Wednesday.
Times Express campus clippings: Gateway grad honored for strong softball season at Waynesburg
Gateway graduate Kayla Gratton, a sophomore on the Waynesburg University softball team, enjoyed a strong season at shortstop, and she was rewarded for her efforts with selection to the Presidents Athletic Conference all-star team as an honorable-mention pick.
Burrell softball team eyes 1st PIAA win in decade
June 4, 2022
With its season on the line and a trip to the PIAA playoffs at stake, the Burrell softball team came up big Tuesday against Montour at Mars.
Burrell coach Shawn Liotta, brother Jeremy key cogs of innovative Fan Controlled Football League
June 3, 2022
Shawn Liotta’s passion for coaching football and striving for success has no downtime.
Deer Lakes softball players turn attention to states after WPIAL title game loss
June 2, 2022
Jenna Bisegna was at the meeting point between disappointment over Deer Lakes’ 8-1 loss to Avonworth on Wednesday in the WPIAL Class 3A softball title game and getting energized for Monday’s PIAA first-round game as the Lancers met for practice Thursday afternoon.
Avonworth tops Deer Lakes to claim WPIAL Class 3A softball crown
June 1, 2022
Avonworth softball is back on top of the WPIAL Class 3A mountain.
Katie Armstrong leads Burrell into PIAA softball playoffs for 1st time in 11 years
May 31, 2022
For the first time in 11 years, the Burrell softball team will be a part of the PIAA playoffs.
Deer Lakes softball players hope to add another title to program’s legacy
Anna Bokulich remembers Deer Lakes’ 2015 WPIAL softball championship well.
Fresh faces have Burrell softball team 1 win from PIAA playoffs
May 30, 2022
Bella Stewart said it all was a bit nerve-wracking at first when she jumped in head first as the Burrell softball team began the season.
Gateway boys volleyball coach reflects after special season
May 29, 2022
The Gateway boys volleyball team was on the doorstep of a big victory in a WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinal match against Ambridge on May 19 at North Allegheny.
Gateway Sports Hall of Fame plans to honor Class of 2022
Plans are in motion for the Gateway Sports Hall of Fame to resume honoring athletic greats this year.
Missed opportunities prove costly for Plum baseball team
May 28, 2022
The Plum baseball team was no stranger to a close game even before it played its WPIAL Class 5A first-round playoff game against No. 6 Shaler on May 17 at North Allegheny.
Strong finish helped Plum cap season in WPIAL playoffs
The Penn-Trafford softball team will play for a WPIAL Class 5A title against Armstrong on Thursday at Cal (Pa.).
Elizabeth Forward puts end to Burrell’s softball title hopes
May 25, 2022
While the Burrell softball team failed to reach one of its goals Wednesday, another one remains very much in play.
Alle-Kiski sends plenty of track athletes to PIAAs
Deer Lakes senior Carson McCoy doesn’t have to wait long to run at the PIAA track and field championships at Shippensburg University.
Deer Lakes softball holds off South Allegheny, reaches WPIAL Class 3A final
May 24, 2022
The Deer Lakes softball team is back where it has been several times over the past decade.
A-K Valley WPIAL playoff softball capsule: Game for Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Class 4A
Burrell’s lone senior, Caroline Dynka helps lead Bucs to playoff win
Caroline Dynka didn’t want her varsity career to end Monday on the turf at Norwin High School.
Burrell softball advances with grueling 11-inning win vs. Belle Vernon
May 23, 2022
The Burrell and Belle Vernon softball teams went well beyond regulation to decide their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal game Monday at Norwin.
Alle-Kiski Valley softball playoff capsules: Games of Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Class A semifinals
A-K Valley softball playoff capsules: Games of Monday, May 23, 2022
May 22, 2022
Class 4A quarterfinals
Riverview runners take aim at state medals
Riverview junior Amberson Bauer and senior teammates Ty Laughlin and Parker Steele were a part of last year’s boys 3,200-meter relay which set a school record and brought home WPIAL gold.
Plum’s Brooks, Domke earn WPIAL track and field medals
The Plum boys and girls track and field teams were well represented at the WPIAL Class 3A track and field championships last week at Slippery Rock University.
Gateway’s Robinson sprints to berth at PIAA championship meet
Next spring, Amaya Robinson hopes to make an impact on the track at Slippery Rock University as a member of The Rock women’s track and field team.
A-K Valley Hall of Fame honors 10 inductees
May 21, 2022
Bob White was a three-year football standout at Freeport who went on to star at Penn State and captain the 1986 Nittany Lions to the national championship.
Southmoreland surges past Ellwood City into WPIAL Class 3A semifinals
May 19, 2022
Facing an early deficit against Ellwood City in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal Thursday at North Allegheny, the Southmoreland softball team responded in a big way.
Greensburg CC gets past Leechburg to make 1st semifinal trip in a decade
The Greensburg Central Catholic softball team will play in a WPIAL semifinal game for the first time in 10 years.
Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy adds WPIAL gold to his medal collection
May 18, 2022
Carson McCoy won state gold last year in the 1,600-meter run, and now he can display that hardware with a pair of WPIAL individual gold medals.
After another long layoff, Springdale softball ‘all about keeping the momentum going’
The Springdale softball team’s 3-1 victory over rival Leechburg on May 11 gave it an outright section title for the first time since the 1998 team went 14-0 in section play and made the semifinals of the WPIAL Class AA playoffs.
Greensburg Central Catholic beats Leechburg for elusive 1st-round win
May 17, 2022
Last year, the Greensburg Central Catholic baseball team earned the No. 2 seed for the WPIAL Class A playoffs and secured a first-round bye.
A-K Valley WPIAL playoff baseball/softball capsules: Games for Wednesday, May 18, 2022
BASEBALL
Former Highlands QB hired to coach Golden Rams football team
May 16, 2022
Matt Bonislawski is a Golden Ram once again.
A-K Valley WPIAL baseball and softball playoff preview capsules for May 17, 2022
Baseball
Alle-Kiski Valley well represented at WPIAL track and field championships
Greg Klingensmith owns the Apollo-Ridge boys school record in the discus at 156 feet 9 inches recorded in placing third at last year’s WPIAL Class 2A track and field championships at Slippery Rock University.
Optimistic Plum girls lacrosse team seeks 1st playoff victory
May 15, 2022
Heading into this season, the Plum girls lacrosse team already had experienced the WPIAL playoffs three times in its young history.
Riverview’s Bauer hopes to build on school-record time in 800 at WPIAL meet
Amberson Bauer qualified, along with several of his Riverview track and field teammates, for the WPIAL Class 2A championships at Slippery Rock University.
Plum notebook: Softball team grabs final berth, earns trip to Class 5A playoffs
It has been an up and down season for the Plum softball team, but last Tuesday against Penn Hills, the Mustangs were able to enjoy a victory which clinched a spot in the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs.
Gateway savors elusive section volleyball title
The 36-year wait to put another number on the boys volleyball section-title banner in the gym at the Gateway Furrie Sports Complex has ended. Head coach Phil Randolph and his players couldn’t be more excited.
Deer Lakes, Plum expect tough matches in 1st round of WPIAL boys volleyball playoffs
May 13, 2022
Last year, the Plum boys volleyball team was the No. 9 seed for the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs, and it defeated No. 8 Trinity in the first round before a matchup with eventual champion Seton LaSalle in the quarterfinals.
Seneca Valley, North Allegheny take top 2 seeds in Class 3A WPIAL volleyball bracket
Seneca Valley and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart are the No. 1 seeds in Class 3A and 2A for the WPIAL playoffs as both brackets were revealed Friday afternoon.
Alle-Kiski Valley trio rewarded with WPIAL playoff byes
May 12, 2022
Three Alle-Kiski Valley softball teams — Burrell, Deer Lakes and Springdale — earned byes into the quarterfinals as the WPIAL playoff brackets and pairings were released Thursday at Triblive HSSN.
Apollo-Ridge overcomes obstacles, eager for WPIAL Class 2A playoffs
May 11, 2022
Eric Kowalczyk saw promise in his young Apollo-Ridge softball team when the season started in late March.
Gateway boys volleyball fends off Plum challenge, finishes undefeated in section
May 10, 2022
The Plum boys volleyball team hoped to play spoiler and prevent visiting Gateway from finishing its Section 2-2A slate undefeated as the teams met in the section finale Tuesday at Plum.
Deer Lakes’ McCoy riding high after Baldwin win
May 9, 2022
Carson McCoy just missed out on gold in the 800-meter run at last year’s Baldwin Invitational.
No changes in final WPIAL Boys Volleyball Coaches Association top-10 polls
WPIAL boys volleyball section play concludes Thursday evening, and the playoff brackets and pairings are scheduled to be released Friday.
Ford City grad Lizzie Suwala-Sheaffer ‘honored’ to take spot in A-K Valley HOF
May 7, 2022
Lizzie Suwala-Sheaffer could hit a shot from anywhere on the basketball court.
Riverview baseball ready for another playoff run
Riverview and Springdale are rivals in every sport, and baseball this spring is no exception.
Burrell’s Armstrong outduels Freeport’s Selker as Bucs softball team earns 1-0 win
May 5, 2022
Second verse, same as the first.
Valley softball enjoying continued renaissance
May 4, 2022
Morgan Dunkel was ready to take the ball, toe the rubber in the pitching circle and have a breakout freshman season for the Valley softball team.
Highlands knocks off Burrell, heating up race for section softball title
May 2, 2022
The Burrell softball team had an outright Section 1-4A championship in its sights as it hosted Highlands on senior night Monday evening at Bon Air Field in Lower Burrell.
OLSH returns to top of Class 2A in latest boys volleyball coaches’ rankings
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart is back on top of the Class 2A rankings as the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its Week 6 WPIAL boys top-10 polls Monday morning.
Plum softball team making final playoff push
May 1, 2022
Despite a sometimes-rocky trip through the Section 1-5A schedule this spring, the Plum softball team still was alive for a WPIAL playoff spot as it entered its home stretch of games.
Kiski Area, Valley, Highlands gear up for WPIAL team tennis tournament
April 29, 2022
The Kiski Area boys tennis team opens the WPIAL Class 3A team tournament Tuesday as the No. 9 seed, and the Cavaliers, the runner-up to Franklin Regional in Section 1, will take on No. 8 Central Catholic at 3 p.m. at Norwin.
Pitcher plays key role as Deer Lakes tops Valley, clinches share of section title
April 28, 2022
Maddie Kee was key for the Deer Lakes softball team in its Section 1-3A clash at rival Valley on Thursday afternoon.
Kiski Area defeats Plum, clinches WPIAL playoff berth
April 27, 2022
The Kiski Area softball team missed the WPIAL playoffs in 2019 and ‘21 after a run to the quarterfinals in ‘18.
Springdale softball takes advantage of Leechburg miscues, holds off late rally
April 25, 2022
The Leechburg and Springdale softball teams ended long weather-related layoffs Monday with the resumption of a Section 3-A rivalry that has produced its fair share of close and competitive outcomes.
North Allegheny, North Catholic hold on to top rankings in boys volleyball coaches’ poll
North Allegheny and North Catholic kept their places at the top in the Class 3A and Class 2A boys volleyball rankings, respectively, as the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its Week 5 top-10 polls Monday morning.
Gateway athletes battle adversity in quest for WPIAL qualifying marks
April 24, 2022
When breaking down early-season progress of his boys and girls track and field teams, veteran Gateway coach Tom LaBuff said that his athletes have worked hard to cut through adversities such as less-than-stellar weather and the fight to stay healthy in the quest to meet their goals and expectations.
A-K Valley Hall of Fame nominee Phelps continues to have impact, success with Burrell
April 23, 2022
Ray Sharick was just beginning his Burrell varsity track and field career as a freshman when he met Frank Phelps.
Plum baseball rebounds after dropping series to Mars
The Plum and Mars baseball teams set the standard for close and competitive games the past two seasons.
Highlands softball shakes off rust, builds momentum with win over Freeport
April 22, 2022
The Highlands softball team returned to game action Friday after a nine-day, weather-related layoff, and it put a second win on the board against Section 1-4A rival Freeport.
Back from broken wrist, sophomore Selker fuels strong start for Freeport softball
April 20, 2022
Sydney Selker made the most of her first varsity season with the Freeport softball team.
Nick Dizon steps down as Kiski Area’s girls basketball coach to lead Penn State Greater Allegheny program
April 19, 2022
Nick Dizon called it a very tough decision, but after four years as coach of the Kiski Area girls basketball team, he is stepping away to lead the women’s program at Penn State Greater Allegheny.
North Catholic regains top spot in volleyball coaches association’s Class 2A rankings
April 18, 2022
A section clash last week between WPIAL heavyweights produced a change at the top of the latest Western Pa. Volleyball Coaches Association Class 2A rankings released Monday morning.
Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger commits to Pitt women’s soccer
Pitt is it for another Plum girls soccer standout.
Plum girls lacrosse in hunt for Section 2 championship
April 17, 2022
The Plum girls lacrosse team reached the midpoint of its Section 1-2A slate in contention for the section title.
Gateway sprinter Amaya Robinson to continue career on a familiar track
Amaya Robinson is building on the past and making the most of the present while lending an eye to the future.
Gateway baseball team earns split with Penn-Trafford
The Gateway baseball team split last year’s Section 1-5A series with Penn-Trafford on the way to a 6-4 record and a trip to the WPIAL playoffs.
Riverview runners working toward more WPIAL success
April 16, 2022
Parker Steele has high hopes the Riverview boys 3,200-meter relay can defend its WPIAL Class 2A title from a year ago.
Plum girls lacrosse in hunt for Section 2 championship
The Plum girls lacrosse team reached the midpoint of its Section 1-2A slate in contention for the section title.
Stallsmith’s 6-RBI game helps Knoch beat Burrell in Section 1-4A
April 15, 2022
Burrell took Game 1, but the Knoch baseball team returned the favor in a big way Friday afternoon in a Section 1-4A rematch at sun-splashed No Offseason in Russellton.
Deer Lakes softball team off to good start in pursuit of section title
April 13, 2022
Early last season, Deer Lakes suffered a 6-3 loss to Valley, and that ended up playing a big part in costing the Lancers a share of the Section 1-3A championship.
North Allegheny, OLSH maintain top spots in WPIAL Volleyball Coaches Association rankings
April 11, 2022
North Allegheny (Class 3A) and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (Class 2A) held on to their respective No. 1 spots in the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association’s Week 3 WPIAL boys top 10 polls released Monday morning.
Gateway boys volleyball ready to make its mark in Class 2A
April 10, 2022
The Gateway boys volleyball team got a chance to show its potential at the early-season Seneca Valley tournament on April 2.
Gateway baseball team off to strong start after extra-inning victory
With five seniors and several other returning underclassmen to fuel the machine, the Gateway baseball team’s optimism for the 2022 season grew in the weeks leading up to the season opener at Pine-Richland on March 29.
A-K Valley HOF inductee Haney was coach of year in 2006
April 9, 2022
When Dianne Haney stepped down as Kiski Area softball coach in 2014, she had completed 22 years at the helm of the Cavaliers and helped the program to 248 victories, 12 section championships, 15 playoff appearances, four undefeated regular seasons and a 1995 WPIAL runner-up finish.
Plum boys volleyball hunting for Section 2 championship
The Plum boys volleyball team has goals and aspirations of claiming the Section 2-2A championship.
Promising performances highlight start of season for Plum track and field
Plum boys and girls track and field coach Stephanie Kennedy witnessed a plethora of promising performances from the more than two dozen athletes who competed at the early-season Altoona Igloo Invitational on April 2 at Altoona’s Mansion Park.
Armstrong’s Olsen winner of 2nd Willie Thrower Award as top QB in Southwestern Pennsylvania
Cadin Olsen stood tall, literally and figuratively, among a wide-ranging crop of talented quarterbacks in the WPIAL and City League.
Golden Gloves Western Pa. finals set for Saturday in Monroeville
April 8, 2022
The Western Pennsylvania Golden Gloves winter and spring 2022 schedule comes down to Saturday evening and a card full of championship bouts at Pro Sports in Monroeville.
Burrell’s Armstrong guides young, determined squad
April 6, 2022
Katie Armstrong’s freshman softball season was over before it got a chance to get going.
Highlands softball team pounds 5 HRs among its 20 hits in win over Freeport
April 4, 2022
After scoring single runs in losses to Shaler and Laurel to open its season, the Highlands softball team broke out in a big way Monday in the Section 1-4A opener against Freeport at Freeport Community Park.
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart is Class 2A’s new No. 1 in coaches association volleyball rankings
There’s a change at the top of the Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association’s WPIAL Class 2A rankings released Monday morning.
Gateway swimmers send off coach at PIAA championships
April 3, 2022
The 2021-22 season is the last for Sherry Sonetti as head coach of the Gateway swim teams, and she also is retiring from the Gateway School District at the end of the academic year in June.
West girls edge East in double OT in record-setting Cager Classic
April 2, 2022
At the midway point of the first overtime of Saturday’s 25th Cager Classic girls all-star game at Highlands, a loose ball off a missed shot caused a mad scramble involving a couple of players from both the East and West squads.
Knoch’s Maddie Boyer named Valley News Dispatch Girls Basketball Player of the Year
Maddie Boyer
Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan takes Valley News Dispatch Boys Basketball Player of the Year honors
Eli Yofan
Highlands’ Foster sprinted to Alle-Kiski Valley Sports Hall of Fame
When Robert Foster began running track and field at Highlands, he wasn’t sure where the sport would take him.
After strong season, future bright for Plum wrestling program
Seven Plum wrestlers took part in the WPIAL/Southwest Regional Class 3A tournament March 4 and 5 at Canon-McMillan High School.
Plum swimmers cap special season at PIAA championships
Sam Schohn was one of the top performers in the Class 2A boys 100-yard breaststroke all season.
Penn Hills stands by decision for teams to not play Kiski Area this spring over racism accusations
April 1, 2022
The Penn Hills School Board on Wednesday reaffirmed the district’s stance that its high school sports teams will not play Kiski Area opponents this spring after allegations that Kiski Area fans subjected Penn Hills players to racist taunts at a March 2 middle school volleyball game.
Highlands searches for new football coach after Girardi steps down
March 31, 2022
Dom Girardi stepped down as Highlands football coach Thursday, ending a five-season tenure with the Golden Rams.
New coach to Springdale football team: ‘Show me what ya got’
March 29, 2022
Ryan Tempalski is ready to generate a spark for the Springdale football program.
Volleyball coaches association releases first WPIAL boys regular-season rankings
March 28, 2022
Five dual matches Friday and a trio of tournaments Saturday kicked off the 2022 WPIAL boys volleyball season.
WPIAL swimmers claim 6 more titles at PIAA Class 2A championships
March 19, 2022
LEWISBURG — WPIAL swimmers continued to roll Saturday evening on the second day of the PIAA Class 2A championships at Bucknell.
Schohn, Schrecongost cap careers with medal-winning performances at PIAA swimming
Seniors Sam Schohn from Plum and Lexi Schrecongost from Freeport capped their high school swimming careers Saturday with medal-winning performances at the PIAA Class 2A championships at Bucknell.
Mt. Pleasant girls place 2nd at PIAA swimming championships
It was quite the two days for the Mt. Pleasant girls swim team at the PIAA Class 2A championships at Bucknell.
North Catholic’s Maggie Foley takes 2nd at PIAA diving championships
LEWISBURG — North Catholic junior Maggie Foley placed second to Marple Newtown senior Alexandra Pastris at last year’s PIAA Class 2A diving championships at Cumberland Valley High School.
WPIAL swimmers chasing more gold in championship heats at PIAA swim meet Day 2
LEWISBURG — After winning seven state titles on Day 1 of the PIAA Class 2A swimming championships at Bucknell, WPIAL swimmers are after more gold Saturday evening.
WPIAL swimmers claim 7 state titles on 1st day of PIAA Class 2A championships
March 18, 2022
LEWISBURG — Friday was a banner day for WPIAL boys and girls swimmers at the PIAA Class 2A championships at Bucknell.
Mt. Pleasant’s King is queen of the PIAA 50 freestyle, with a record time
LEWISBURG - Mt. Pleasant freshman Lily King familiarized herself with the top of a swimming medals podium at the WPIAL Class 2A championships earlier this month.
8 is enough for Freeport freshman Kira Schrecongost at PIAA championships
LEWISBURG - Freeport freshman Kira Schrecongost swam four times on the first day of the WPIAL Class 2A championships March 3 at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Ligonier Valley’s Nick Roddy takes silver at PIAA diving championships
LEWISBURG — Ligonier Valley senior Nick Roddy missed out on a chance to dive at the Class 2A state championships as a sophomore in 2020 as the PIAA canceled the entire Class 2A meet at the onset of the covid-19 pandemic.
WPIAL swimmers secure top seeds for PIAA Class 2A championship heats
LEWISBURG — After taking the baton from Class 3A, the WPIAL swimmers from Class 2A were off and running Friday morning at the PIAA championships at Bucknell.
Seneca Valley boys capture Class 3A team title at PIAA swimming and diving championships
March 17, 2022
LEWISBURG — The PIAA Class 3A boys swimming and diving team title is back with the WPIAL.
Strong showing from Franklin Regional, Hempfield boys teams at PIAA championships
LEWISBURG — The Franklin Regional boys 400-yard freestyle relay team had its sights set on capping the PIAA Class 3A swimming championships Thursday evening at Bucknell with a swim in the finals heat.
Kiski Area’s Miller ‘in awe’ of 4th-place finish at PIAA Class 3A swimming championships
Eliza Miller made the most of her first finals swim at the PIAA Class 3A championships.
North Allegheny’s Christina Shi captures 2nd straight PIAA diving championship
LEWISBURG — The PIAA Class 3A girls diving championship meet went down to the wire Thursday afternoon, and the pressure was on Christina Shi as she attempted to win her second straight state title.
WPIAL swimmers advance to PIAA championship finals on Day 2
LEWISBURG — The WPIAL will have several swimmers and relays battling for state medals and championship gold Thursday evening on Day 2 of the PIAA Class 3A championships at Bucknell.
Seneca Valley’s Daniel Simoes captures PIAA gold in 200 IM
March 16, 2022
Daniel Simoes placed second in the 200-yard individual medley at last year’s PIAA Class 3A championships at Cumberland Valley High School.
Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao takes silver in butterfly at PIAA meet
Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao stood on the bulkhead next to the starting block for nearly 10 minutes as PIAA officials worked out a problem with the timing system.
Franklin Regional boys swim relay takes 5th at states
The Franklin Regional boys 200 medley relay fashioned the best swim in program history at the WPIAL Class 3A championships March 3 at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Seneca Valley divers compete at PIAA championships
LEWISBURG — Seneca Valley was well represented at the PIAA Class 3A boys diving championships Wednesday at Bucknell.
WPIAL swimmers to race in championship heats on Day 1 of PIAA Class 3A meet
LEWISBURG — The consolation and championship finals for the first day of the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships are set.
After season to remember, Highlands softball team excited for encore
The Highlands softball team now is the hunted.
Strong returning core has Highlands baseball team thinking of longer playoff run
Last season, the Highlands baseball team came into the WPIAL quarterfinals on a six-game winning streak but left with a third loss of the season to Blackhawk.
WPIAL Class 3A swimmers, divers hope to make their marks as PIAA championships begin at Bucknell
After a one-year hiatus, the PIAA Class 3A and 2A swimming and diving championships are back at Bucknell University.
A-K Valley, Westmoreland County swimmers thrilled to return to state meet at Bucknell
March 15, 2022
A sense of normalcy is back at the PIAA swimming and diving championships, and for the numerous qualifiers from the Alle-Kiski Valley and Westmoreland County schools, it only adds to the anticipation.
Plum’s Kaley Simqu commits to play soccer at Pitt
March 13, 2022
Kaley Simqu helps form the defensive nucleus for the Plum girls soccer team and has been a part of a strong run of success the past three seasons.
Plum swimmers look forward to PIAA championship meet
Sam Schohn knows all about swimming at the PIAA Class 2A championships.
Gateway wrestlers cap season at WPIAL championships
Arontay Heningcamp’s debut match at the WPIAL/Southwest Regional Class 3A wrestling tournament didn’t exactly go the way he had hoped.
Gateway’s Hunter Raymer swims to WPIAL gold medal, eyes success at PIAA meet
Hunter Raymer was no stranger to big swim meets before the WPIAL Class 3A championships March 3 and 4 at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Como earns spot in AK Valley Hall of Fame after helping to build Burrell’s wrestling success
March 12, 2022
Chris Como lives and breathes Burrell wrestling.
Alle-Kiski Valley PIAA playoff capsule: Highlands vs. Laurel Highlands, Friday, March 11, 2022
March 10, 2022
Friday’s game
Knoch girls win 1st PIAA playoff game in program history
March 9, 2022
Three was the magic number for the Knoch girls basketball team in its PIAA Class 4A first-round home game Wednesday evening against District 9 champion St. Marys.
Mt. Pleasant enters PIAA swimming event on a roll
The Mt. Pleasant girls swim team captured five WPIAL championships and had numerous other medal-winning and point-producing performances last Thursday and Friday at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Highlands opens PIAA playoffs with rout of Brashear
March 8, 2022
Brashear scored the first two points of Tuesday night’s PIAA Class 5A first-round game at Highlands.
A-K Valley PIAA basketball playoff capsules: Games for Wednesday, March 9, 2022
Boys
Alle-Kiski Valley PIAA basketball playoff preview: Games of Tuesday, March 8, 2022
March 7, 2022
Tuesday’s games
Apollo-Ridge’s Bartha to step down as athletic director, stay on as girls basketball coach
As Ray Bartha prepares his Apollo-Ridge girls basketball team for Tuesday’s PIAA Class 2A first-round playoff game at District 10 champion West Middlesex, he also is moving forward with his plans to transition away from the school’s athletic director position after 14 years.
Fox Chapel girls soak in silver-medal performance at WPIAL championships
March 4, 2022
The Fox Chapel girls 400-yard freestyle relay finished Friday what the Foxes’ 200 medley relay started Thursday.
Mt. Pleasant girls capture 1st WPIAL swimming championship
The Mt. Pleasant girls swimming and diving team took home a runner-up trophy from the 2020 WPIAL Class 2A championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao breaks 38-year-old record, wins 100 fly title at WPIALs
March 3, 2022
A 38-year WPIAL record is no more.
Franklin Regional, Hempfield, Mt. Pleasant swimmers shine during Day 1 of WPIAL championships
It was the best of feelings and the worst of feelings for the Franklin Regional boys relays Thursday on Day 1 of the WPIAL Class 3A championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.
Valley freshman Sidnie Shirey won’t let disability keep her from swimming, inspiring others
Sidnie Shirey stands on the pool deck beside the starting block.
WPIAL’s swimming best ready to do battle in return to Pitt’s Trees Pool
March 2, 2022
Levi Hansen won three medals in four individual races at WPIALs over the past two seasons.
Knoch girls hold off Southmoreland, reach WPIAL title game for 1st time
March 1, 2022
The Knoch girls basketball team reached the WPIAL semifinals last year for the first time in program history, but it fell one win short of its goal of reaching the championship game and an opportunity to play for the gold.
Freeport’s Schrecongost, Fox Chapel’s Shao lead strong A-K Valley contingent into WPIAL swimming championships
Lexi Schrecongost’s swimming future is at Toledo.
Kiski Area swim coach Lisa Pepka resigns days before WPIAL meet
Kiski Area boys and girls swimming coach Lisa Pepka resigned from the position Monday, just three days before the WPIAL championships.
Aquinas Academy fends off upset-minded St. Joseph, rolls into Class A title game
February 28, 2022
The St. Joseph girls basketball team held a great deal of momentum entering Monday’s WPIAL Class A semifinal against Section 3 rival Aquinas Academy at North Hills High School.
AK Valley WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games for Tuesday, March 1, 2022
Boys
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsule for Feb. 28, 2022
February 27, 2022
Monday’s game
St. Joseph girls relish another shot at Aquinas after upset
The St. Joseph girls basketball team will get another crack at Aquinas Academy as the Section 3-1A rivals do battle at 6 p.m. Monday at North Hills in the WPIAL semifinals with a trip to Petersen Events Center on the line.
Gateway swimmers chasing medals at WPIAL championships
Before competing in college at Youngstown State, Summer Raymer has one final chance to make her mark on the biggest high school stages in Pennsylvania.
Young Gateway lineup ‘trending in right direction’
The Gateway junior varsity hockey team finished its regular season Feb. 14 with a tough 3-2 loss to Mt. Lebanon.
Plum’s Kvortek celebrates PA Classic all-around title
Sarah Kvortek returned to the top of the podium in the Intermediate I (Gold) division at the WPIAL gymnastics championships Feb. 12 at Moon High School.
PIAA-playoff bound Knoch beats Montour in WPIAL Class 4A semifinals
February 25, 2022
The Knoch girls basketball team will play in the WPIAL Class 4A semifinals for the second straight season.
Fox Chapel freshman has eyes on PIAA diving qualification
Jackson Hagler quickly established himself as a qualifier for the WPIAL Class AAA diving championships.
Gateway’s Passalinqua aims for success at WPIAL diving championships
Noah Passalinqua established himself as a major player in Class 3A boys diving throughout the season, and now he hopes to make his mark on a championship stage.
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games of Friday, Feb. 25, 2022
February 24, 2022
BOYS
Montour shakes off rust, pulls away from Burrell in Class 4A quarterfinals
February 23, 2022
The Montour boys basketball team is moving on.
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games of Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022
BOYS
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules for Feb. 23, 2022
February 22, 2022
Wednesday’s games
St. Joseph girls halt playoff losing streak
February 21, 2022
The St. Joseph girls basketball team is back in the WPIAL postseason win column.
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules for Feb. 22, 2022
Boys
A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules for Feb. 21, 2022
February 20, 2022
Monday’s games
First trip to PIAA meet memorable for Plum competitive spirit squad
The Plum competitive spirit team made a long journey this season from a spring and summer of training all the way through to its first appearance on biggest high school stage for the sport in Pennsylvania.
Plum trio blazing trail for girls wrestling in district
High school girls wrestling in Pennsylvania is gaining momentum on a weekly basis.
Gateway girls hope strong finish provides momentum for next season
Despite not having the entire season it wanted, the Gateway girls basketball team finished on a positive note with three wins over its final four games.
Excitement growing for WPIAL swimming’s return to Pitt
February 19, 2022
When Penn-Trafford swim coach Dave Babik took over as the WPIAL swimming and diving chairman at the start of this school year, he knew he would have a lot on his plate.
Deer Lakes boys get playoff win in final seconds
February 18, 2022
Justin Brannagan’s final field-goal attempt in the final home game of his varsity career ended up being a shot he will remember for the rest of his life.
Knoch girls basketball seniors gear up for final ride
February 16, 2022
Maddie Boyer, Mackenzie McGraw and Lily Hawk have been friends and basketball teammates since fourth grade.
Brian Miller named athletic director at Plum
Just a couple weeks after Josh Shoop stepped down as Plum’s athletic director, the school district’s board of directors on Tuesday hired his replacement who will guide the Mustangs teams through the remainder of the winter season, into the spring season and beyond.
Fox Chapel boys, Knoch girls refocus after getting look at WPIAL playoff pairings
February 14, 2022
The WPIAL boys and girls basketball playoff brackets were released Monday, and the Fox Chapel boys and Knoch girls, as predicted, earned byes into the quarterfinals.
Gateway’s Holmes siblings look forward to WPIAL championships
February 13, 2022
Andrew Holmes has his sights set on more WPIAL gold at Pitt’s Trees Pool in a couple weeks as he hopes to add to last year’s WPIAL title in the 200-yard freestyle.
Plum athletes off to strong start during indoor track season
February 12, 2022
Plum cross country and track and field coach Stephanie Kennedy is optimistic as she looks ahead to the outdoor track season.
Kiski Area girls avenge loss against Plum
February 11, 2022
When the Plum and Kiski Area girls basketball teams met Jan. 26 at Plum, the Mustangs came away with a victory.
Before heading to Providence, Plum’s Glasspool has sights set on WPIAL success
February 9, 2022
Elizabeth Glasspool hopes to make a big splash in the smallest state in the country.
Deer Lakes girls basketball gets in playoff mode early
Nikki Fleming said she and her Deer Lakes girls basketball teammates didn’t know what to expect at the start of the season with a new coach and a new system in place.
Highlands girls basketball team erupts for win vs. Freeport
February 7, 2022
The Highlands girls basketball team entered Monday’s Section 1-4A matchup with Freeport averaging 54.5 points, and its previous season high of 76 points came last week in a 22-point nonsection win over Keystone Oaks.
Gateway’s Engleka to join Division III powerhouse
February 6, 2022
The University of Mt. Union has been the standard for football success in NCAA Division III for the past three decades.
Central Catholic’s Brown to join longtime friend at Mt. Union
Monroeville resident Jaden Brown reached out to longtime friend Jaired Lehman, a Gateway graduate, as he went through his college baseball recruiting process.
Long time coming: Knoch wins win 1st section title in 50 years
February 5, 2022
A 50-year section-championship drought came to an end Saturday afternoon as the Knoch girls basketball team held off a furious fight from Highlands to capture the Section 1-4A crown with a 56-48 victory in front of a large and spirited home crowd.
Before heading to Providence, Plum’s Glasspool has sights set on WPIAL success
Elizabeth Glasspool hopes to make a big splash in the smallest state in the country.
Plum football standouts look forward to playing at next level
After four years of contributions to the Plum football team on offense, defense and special teams, Logan Brooks is taking his talents north to Erie.
Plum seeking new athletic director after Josh Shoop resigns
February 4, 2022
The Plum School District is moving forward with plans to hire a new athletic director.
Burrell wrestling teams moves 1 step closer to 16th consecutive WPIAL Class 2A title
February 2, 2022
No. 1 remains alive for No. 16.
High stakes as Knoch, Highlands girls set for showdown Saturday
The Knoch girls basketball team stands on the cusp of securing the Section 1-4A championship.
Fox Chapel swim teams speeding toward section titles
January 31, 2022
Payton O’Toole made a splash two years ago as a freshman at Burrell with a fifth-place finish in the 200-yard freestyle at the WPIAL Class 2A championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool. She also was sixth in the 500 free.
A-K Valley senior spotlight: Plum’s Vince Citrano
Whether it’s been by decision, major decision, fall or technical fall, Plum senior Vince Citrano has been on point with his goals for his final high school wrestling season.
Gateway freshman Raymer hunting gold at WPIAL championship meet
January 30, 2022
There were high expectations for Hunter Raymer as he entered his freshman swim season at Gateway a couple of months ago.
Plum’s Kvortek ready to score high at WPIAL gymnastics championships
January 29, 2022
Sarah Kvortek realized the fulfillment of a goal last season as she stood at the top of the podium at the WPIAL individual gymnastics championships at Moon High School.
Kiski Area boys make late run to get past Gateway in Section 3-5A
January 28, 2022
With four minutes left in Friday’s Section 3-5A boys basketball matchup between Gateway and Kiski Area, the visiting Gators held a one-point advantage and hoped to make a run to put the game on ice.
Kiski Area swimmers Hansen, Sterlitz have sights set on top spots at WCCA meet
As freshmen in 2020, Levi Hansen and Parker Sterlitz made a run at the boys 500-yard freestyle title at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association championships at Derry High School.
Kiski Area wrestlers top Franklin Regional, repeat as section champs
January 26, 2022
For the 26th time in program history, the Kiski Area wrestling team is section champion.
St. Joseph girls basketball team develops chemistry
The St. Joseph girls basketball team entered the fourth quarter of Tuesday’s nonsection game against Class 3A Shady Side Academy trailing by three points.
WPIAL releases latest swimming and diving performance lists
January 25, 2022
Fox Chapel junior Sophie Shao, the defending WPIAL and PIAA Class 3A champion in the 100-yard butterfly, looks at her time in the event on the swimming performance list on the WPIAL website and sees who also is recording top times and making a charge up the rankings.
Deer Lakes’ Hasley hits 1,000 points on game-winning shot vs. Freeport
January 24, 2022
Reese Hasley’s 1,000th career point Monday night against rival Freeport was quite dramatic.
After strong finish at Allegheny County tournament, Plum looks forward to postseason
January 23, 2022
Few teams at the Allegheny County tournament Jan. 14 and 15 at Fox Chapel High School had the overall performance the Plum wrestling team produced.
Plum, Riverview fall sports teams look forward to new, current rivalries
Whether they’re joined in the same conference or separated in the same or a different classification, the Plum and Franklin Regional football teams usually find themselves on the same field each season.
Captains McKenna, Heningcamp help spark growth for Gateway wrestling
Floyd McKenna entered his junior season hoping to make his mark on the mat for the Gateway wrestling team.
After year absence, Gateway alumni reunite for annual Black/White hockey game
Stefan Biancaniello surveyed the landscape at Palmer Imaging Ice Arena in Delmont on Dec. 26, and his heart was warmed.
Deer Lakes boys rebound for victory against Knoch
January 21, 2022
The Deer Lakes boys basketball team was looking for a bounce back from Tuesday’s loss to Section 1-4A leader North Catholic as it hosted section rival Knoch on Friday.
Apollo-Ridge girls team playing beyond its years
January 19, 2022
With no seniors on its roster, the youthful Apollo-Ridge girls basketball team took a wait-and-see attitude into the season with hopes of making an impact in and out of Section 4-2A.
Knoch girls top Freeport, stay unbeaten in section
January 18, 2022
The Knoch girls basketball team keeps rolling along in Section 1-4A.
Burrell wrestling program mourns loss of Shawn, Edward DesLauriers
January 16, 2022
Dakota DesLauriers was on hand Friday at Burrell High School to watch the current crop of Bucs wrestlers take on Kiski Area in the annual nonsection matchup of neighboring rivals.
Gateway girls return from covid shutdown, earn 1st victory
The Gateway girls basketball team tasted victory for the first time this season Jan. 11 with a 49-39 victory over Section 4-5A rival Penn Hills in the friendly confines of Gateway’s Furrie Sports Complex.
Gateway bowlers chasing postseason berth
The Gateway varsity boys bowling team entered a rebuilding mode at the start of the season after all five starters from last year’s WPIBL playoff squad graduated.
After tough stretch, Plum hockey rebounds to get back in playoff chase
Plum ice hockey players knew what it felt like to be in a close game as they skated against Chartiers Valley on Jan. 10 at Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center.
Kiski Area wrestling continues dominance, tops Burrell
January 14, 2022
Covid wreaked havoc with last year’s winter sports season, and the annual wrestling clash between Alle-Kiski Valley rivals Burrell and Kiski Area was one of the big events which fell victim to cancellation.
WPIAL standouts get all-star football treatment in Dallas
January 13, 2022
Brock White Jr. knows what it is like to suit up for a football game at Dallas’ AT&T Stadium, nicknamed “Jerry World” after Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
Knoch’s Nina Shaw shows off scoring touch, all-around game
January 12, 2022
Nina Shaw went off for a career-high 26 points in Knoch’s 50-33 victory over Section 1-4A rival Highlands on Monday.
Knoch girls basketball team wins section showdown with Highlands
January 10, 2022
The lead in Section 1-4A was on the line Monday as 3-0 Knoch and 3-0 Highlands did battle at Highlands High School.
A-K Valley senior spotlight: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley
Reese Hasley Deer Lakes basketball
Gateway swimmers earn early WPIAL qualifying times
January 9, 2022
The Gateway boys and girls swimming and diving teams have entered the Section 3-3A portion of their schedules, and coach Sherry Sonetti hopes that a strong series of practices over the holiday break will pay dividends.
Various Alle-Kiski Valley schools change classifications
January 8, 2022
After many years of high-level contests in WPIAL Class 2A, including five seasons that resulted in WPIAL championships, the Freeport girls volleyball team made a move to Class 3A two years ago.
Patience, hard work paying off for Plum girls basketball
Early last month, as the Plum girls basketball team was going through its final paces in practices and scrimmages to get ready for the 2021-22 season, first-year coach Rich Mull said patience and hard work would be key components in the improvement of a young group with just one senior and a lot of younger talent looking to make an impact.
Riverview’s Fichte finds success with new bowling program
Gwyn Fichte has had quite the year so far in terms of sports success.
Junior guard steps into go-to role for Freeport girls basketball team
January 5, 2022
With two regular starters out of the lineup Monday for a Section 1-4A matchup against Burrell, Ava Soilis set out to lift up her youthful Freeport teammates.
Burrell girls get 1st victory of season, beat Freeport
January 3, 2022
The Burrell girls basketball team was not able to taste the thrill of victory over its first eight games.
Top 10 A-K Valley sports stories of 2021
December 30, 2021
As 2021 opened, high school sports in the Alle-Kiski Valley and throughout the region and state were on hold because of ongoing covid-19 uncertainties.
Knoch girls basketball team again leans on defense in win over Kiski Area
December 29, 2021
Nina Shaw loves to put the ball in the hoop.
Fox Chapel girls grab momentum with tournament win over Deer Lakes
In a game featuring several scoring runs, the Fox Chapel girls basketball team had the biggest one at a crucial point to take control of its Peter Sauer Memorial Tournament matchup with Deer Lakes on Wednesday afternoon at Shady Side Academy.
Mars girls basketball gives Highlands its 1st loss
December 28, 2021
The Highlands girls basketball team came into their holiday tournament game against Mars on Tuesday afternoon undefeated through six games.
Burrell senior coming to grips with ‘heartbreaking’ knee injury
December 27, 2021
Allison Fisher’s senior season was full of promise.
Valley News Dispatch Defensive Player of the Year: Kiski Area’s Brayden Dunmire
Alle-Kiski Valley Defensive Player of the Year
Alle-Kiski Valley boys and girls cross country honor rolls announced
December 22, 2021
The Alle-Kiski Valley Cross Country Honor Roll for the 2021 season was released Wednesday.
Freeport girls basketball fends off Deer Lakes rally in section opener
December 20, 2021
The Deer Lakes girls basketball team made a furious fourth-quarter comeback at Freeport on Monday in the Section 1-4A opener for both teams.
Citrano, Plum wrestling team motivated to reach goals
December 18, 2021
Vinnie Citrano has great expectations for his final varsity wrestling season.
Schohn, Plum swim teams pushing pace
After making his mark at WPIALs last year and competing at the PIAA championships, Plum senior Sam Schohn’s goals are clear for the 2021-22 swim season.
Highlands continues hot start, defeats rival Burrell
December 16, 2021
The Highlands girls basketball team got off to a winning start in Section 1-4A play Thursday as three players scored in double figures and a fourth came close during a 59-37 victory over Burrell.
Top A-K Valley swimmers already off to strong starts
December 15, 2021
Sophie Shao was the hunted last season after bursting onto the high school scene as a freshman and winning WPIAL and PIAA Class AAA gold in the 100-yard butterfly.
Gateway’s Patrick Body looks forward to joining College Football Playoff qualifier Cincinnati
Patrick Body is confident.
A-K Valley football players finalize Division I commitments
Brandon Lawhorn Moore made a verbal commitment to Miami (Ohio) last month, and Wednesday morning, “Beef” made it official with the Redhawks.
Highlands girls stay busy during undefeated start to season
December 14, 2021
The Highlands girls basketball team took advantage of the opportunity to get on the court in game action starting last Friday against Fox Chapel at the Freeport Tip-Off Tournament through Tuesday evening’s game against neighboring St. Joseph.
Marston, Susko pace Plum girls basketball past Freeport in season opener
December 11, 2021
Sophomore guard Megan Marston scored 17 of her game-high 21 points in the second half, and junior forward Dannika Susko added 12 points and nine rebounds as the Plum girls basketball team topped Freeport 43-33 in the second game of the Freeport Tip-Off Tournament on Friday at Freeport Middle School.
Highlands girls pull away from Fox Chapel in Freeport Tip-Off Tournament
December 10, 2021
The Highlands girls basketball team trailed Fox Chapel for most of the first half of Friday’s season opener at the Freeport Tip-Off Tournament.
Starting 5: A-K Valley basketball teams, players and storylines to watch in 2021-22
December 9, 2021
Starting 5s
Dozen new A-K Valley high school basketball coaches set for season to tip off
Rich Mull certainly wasn’t alone when he officially took over the head coaching duties of the Plum girls basketball team in August.
Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger chosen as Valley News Dispatch Girls Soccer Player of the Year
December 4, 2021
Plum’s Luke Kolankowski selected as Valley News Dispatch Boys Soccer Player of the Year
Luke Kolankowski has always seen himself as a facilitator in the offense for the Plum boys soccer team.
Gateway boys aim to challenge for Section 3-5A title
Gateway boys basketball coach Alvis Rogers said he has a lot to be excited about with his team as it is on the cusp of a new season in Monroeville.
With new coach, experienced backcourt, Riverview boys look to climb section ladder
December 3, 2021
When Phil McGivney took the reins of the Riverview boys basketball program over the summer, he saw strong potential in a group of players hungry for a turnaround.
Nothing but positive vibes emanate from Riverview girls basketball teams
Maddie Deem is on an island, so to speak.
New-look Plum boys basketball team taking shape
December 2, 2021
When the final buzzer sounded to conclude Plum’s WPIAL Class 5A first-round loss to New Castle last March, Plum coach Mark Marino was able to take stock of what his veteran team was able to accomplish during a season filled with so many covid-related uncertainties
Plum girls look to build off historic trip to postseason
When Rich Mull took over the reigns of the Plum girls basketball program in August, he was anxious to get going full speed ahead with a youthful group of players he knew had the potential to do great things.
Knoch girls basketball team motivated by unfinished business
November 30, 2021
Madilyn Boyer wants to help put a “2022” on a girls basketball section-championship banner in the gym at Knoch High School.
Knoch boys basketball excited about improved depth alongside top scorer Ryan Lang
When asked what the biggest takeaway was from his team’s offseason of work, second-year Knoch boys basketball coach Alan Bauman pointed to the development of strong depth in the varsity rotation.
New-look Plum boys basketball team taking shape
November 28, 2021
When the final buzzer sounded to conclude Plum’s WPIAL Class 5A first-round loss to New Castle in March, Plum boys basketball coach Mark Marino could take stock of what his veteran team was able to accomplish during a season filled with covid-related uncertainties.
Gateway girls basketball players adjusting to new roles
The Gateway girls basketball team didn’t start out the way it had hoped last year amidst the atmosphere of overall uncertainty in the wake of the covid pandemic.
With roster reshaped by graduation, Fox Chapel girls look forward to season of growth
November 26, 2021
Elsie Smith is ready for the bright lights in a central role for the Fox Chapel girls basketball team.
Loaded lineup has Fox Chapel boys basketball team focused on big season ahead
The Fox Chapel boys basketball team T-shirt for this season bears just one word: focus.
Burrell girls basketball program rolls with changes
November 23, 2021
When Shaun Reddick took over as coach of the Burrell girls basketball team in June, it marked his return to that capacity for the first time since one season at the helm of the Bucs two decades ago.
Burrell boys basketball team confident in ability, experience
Two years ago, the Burrell boys basketball team won just one game.
Lots of opportunities await for Apollo-Ridge boys basketball team
November 22, 2021
The Apollo-Ridge boys basketball team was hit hard by graduation, as much of its starting lineup, including four players who played all 16 games and accounted for 819 of the 915 points the team scored last season, moved on.
Inexperienced Apollo-Ridge girls basketball team eager to ‘prove themselves’
Veteran Apollo-Ridge girls basketball coach Ray Bartha said he is cautiously optimistic about what direction his Vikings team can take this winter.
After 3rd-place finish at PIAA meet, Riverview bids farewell to decorated senior runners
November 21, 2021
The Riverview boys cross country team was situated high in the PIAA Class A state rankings through the entirety of the fall season.
After trip to PIAA semifinals, future looks promising for Plum girls soccer
The Plum girls soccer team accomplished many things in 2021 and finished with 21 victories through the regular season, WPIAL playoffs and PIAA tournament.
Quaker Valley wins 9th state championship in PK shootout
November 19, 2021
As sophomore Nick Allen stepped to the ball as Quaker Valley’s fifth shooter in a tiebreaking penalty kick shootout Friday afternoon, he found himself in the middle of a moment he had pictured for years.
Late rally lifts Allentown Central Catholic past Avonworth in PIAA Class 2A girls soccer final
HERSHEY — The Avonworth girls soccer team was three minutes away from finishing off its first PIAA championship victory in its first appearance in Hershey.
Student-athletes learn to ‘respect the game’ at WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit
November 17, 2021
More than 400 student-athletes from schools throughout Western Pennsylvania gathered Wednesday morning to discuss their roles in creating a stronger leadership environment through sportsmanship both on and off the field.
Mars girls soccer headed back to Hershey after another win over Plum
November 16, 2021
The Mars girls soccer team is headed back to Hershey for a shot at its third straight PIAA championship.
Knoch makes football coaching change
Brandon Mowry will not be back as Knoch’s football coach.
Dotchin, Kerr hired as Highlands basketball coaches
Highlands has its basketball coaches.
Plum girls soccer gets another crack at nemesis Mars, this time in state semifinals
November 15, 2021
The Plum girls soccer team had to endure a pair of 170-mile round trips — two excursions to Hollidaysburg’s Tiger Stadium, near Altoona — for the first two rounds of the PIAA Class 3A playoffs.
PIAA girls soccer preview capsule: Plum vs. Mars, Tuesday, Nov. 16
Class 3A
A-K Valley senior spotlight: Plum’s Marissa Liberto
Marissa Liberto
Injuries allow young players to gain experience for Riverview
November 14, 2021
The Riverview football team took its lumps on the scoreboard throughout the 2021 season, but coach Trevor George said the mix of veterans and young talent never wavered in their attitude and dedication to pushing past any adversities they faced.
Heart, grit help carry Plum to WPIAL football playoffs
The Plum football team lost to Hampton by 28 points in the regular season.
Gateway’s Sundin caps high school cross country career at PIAA championships
Brady Sundin capped his high school cross country career on the state’s biggest stage.
Gateway hockey team snaps early skid
The Gateway junior varsity ice hockey team continues to navigate through the fall portion of its 2021-22 season, and the Gators added a point to its place in the standings with a 2-2 tie against North Hills on Nov. 8.
Plum girls soccer team tops Mechanicsburg in PIAA quarters
November 13, 2021
The record-setting season for the Plum girls soccer team continues.
Rochester football team pulls away for win over Springdale
November 12, 2021
Rochester and Springdale were knotted at seven at halftime of Friday’s WPIAL Class A quarterfinal at Freedom’s Jimbo Covert Field.
Plum girls soccer not satisfied as they head into state quarterfinals
The Plum girls soccer team is in uncharted territory, but at the same time, it has set its course for a familiar destination.
A-K Valley PIAA soccer quarterfinal capsule for Nov. 13, 2021
PIAA
Springdale aims for revenge against No. 5 Rochester in WPIAL quarterfinals
November 10, 2021
Springdale and Rochester are no strangers to each other, even though the Dynamos and Rams have played only four times in their respective histories.
A-K Valley football players to watch for 2021 Week 11
Legend Ausk
Plum beats District 6 champ Hollidaysburg for program’s 1st PIAA playoff victory
November 9, 2021
HOLLIDAYSBURG — The Plum girls soccer team threw everything but the kitchen sink at the Hollidaysburg net, and Tigers freshman keeper Natalie Foster in the first half during a PIAA Class AAA first-round game Tuesday at Hollidaysburg.
Plum girls soccer team gets shot at redemption in PIAA 1st round
Kaley Simqu was a starter at Cedar Crest High School two years ago for Plum’s PIAA Class 3A girls soccer first-round game against District 3 champion Manheim Central.
A-K Valley PIAA girls soccer playoff capsules for Nov. 9, 2021
November 8, 2021
Class 3A
Freeport, Plum finally cross paths in PIAA first-round volleyball match
The Plum and Freeport girls volleyball teams shared a gym four times this season but never played an official match against each other.Persia leads Plum runners at WPIAL championship meet
November 7, 2021
Ashley Persia ran her final high school cross country race Oct. 28 at the WPIAL championships, and the Plum senior made her move throughout the race and finished 48th in Class 3A at Cal (Pa).
Plum girls volleyball turns attention to PIAA playoffs
The Plum girls volleyball team had its sights set on the WPIAL Class 3A championship game as it faced Hampton in the semifinals Nov. 2 at Gateway.
Gateway’s Madi Jesih commits to play soccer at Robert Morris
In less than two years, Gateway junior Madi Jesih will trade Gators black and gold for Robert Morris red, white and blue.
Behind young roster, Gateway boys soccer looks forward to promising future
It wasn’t the way the Gateway boys soccer team wanted to close out its 2021 season.
Second-half surge lifts Freeport over Ambridge, into WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals
November 5, 2021
It took Freeport a quarter to get its offense going Friday night in a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game against Ambridge at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium.
Freeport, Hampton meet for third time, this time with WPIAL title on the line
November 4, 2021
The first two matchups between the Freeport and Hampton girls volleyball teams were five-game slugfests that decided the Section 5 championship.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 10
Class 5A
Freeport fends off Armstrong in Class 3A volleyball thriller
November 2, 2021
The Freeport girls volleyball team is back in the WPIAL championship game.
Hampton girls volleyball uses big rally to defeat Plum
In a Section 5 match with Armstrong late in the regular season, the Hampton girls volleyball team found itself down 2-0.
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Nov. 3, 2021
Boys
Kelsey Salopek’s 50th goal sends Steel Valley past Springdale into 1st WPIAL finals
November 1, 2021
The Steel Valley girls soccer team is headed to Highmark Stadium.
Alle-Kiski Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Nov. 2, 2021
Tuesday’s WPIAL soccer playoff games
Valley’s Muzzy Colosimo gets emotional as he retires from coaching
The past couple of days have been pretty emotional for Muzzy Colosimo since he announced his retirement from coaching football and was on the sidelines guiding his Valley football team one last time Friday evening.
A-K Valley senior spotlight: Riverview’s Parker Steele
Parker Steele
Fox Chapel girls soccer riding momentum as they prep for WPIAL semis vs. Seneca Valley
October 31, 2021
Molly McNaughton ranged to her left, got a hand on the ball and pushed it away from the goal.
Resilient Springdale girls soccer team eager for WPIAL Class A semifinal vs. Steel Valley
Grace Gent led Springdale in scoring during the regular season with 23 goals.
Gateway girls soccer team reflects on trip to postseason
The Gateway girls soccer team hoped for a longer stay in the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs, but coach Kelly Bender said she was happy with her team’s effort in the 3-0 first-round loss to South Fayette on Oct. 25.
Strong finish carries Plum to slow-pitch softball finals
The Plum slow-pitch softball team entered the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League single-elimination playoffs Oct. 23 hoping to make a run to the title game.
Burrell wins, gets help, qualifies for playoffs for first time since 2012
October 29, 2021
Burrell entered Friday’s Allegheny Seven Conference finale with Valley at Buccaneer Stadium needing a win and a Deer Lakes loss to make the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs.
Knoch girls cross country team ‘ready to run’ at WPIAL championship meet
October 27, 2021
The WPIAL cross country championships return to Cal (Pa.) on Thursday after a one-year covid hiatus, and the Knoch girls team hopes to be a major factor in the team and individual standings.
A-K Valley WPIAL soccer playoff capsules for Oct. 28, 2021
Today’s games
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 9
Class 5A Northeast Conference
A-K Valley football players to watch for 2021 Week 9
Devin Beattie
Freeport girls volleyball in good position for playoffs
October 26, 2021
The Freeport girls volleyball team feels right at home in the WPIAL playoffs.
Volleyball coaches association releases final WPIAL girls rankings, players of the week
The WPIAL playoff brackets are set and the postseason matches begin this week.
East Allegheny boys soccer team dethrones defending 2A champ Deer Lakes
October 25, 2021
There will be a new WPIAL champion in boys Class 2A.
Gateway’s Raymer commits to swim at Youngstown State
October 24, 2021
Summer Raymer is busy in the water getting ready for competitions with her Racer-X club team and also for her final season with the Gateway swim team.
Gateway hockey celebrating 50th anniversary season
The Gateway ice hockey program is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and alumni president Stefan Biancaniello said there are a lot of positive vibes surrounding what will be a year-long celebration.
Young lineup off to strong start for Plum hockey
October 23, 2021
The Plum varsity hockey team won just one game last year in a 2020-21 season that was unlike any other in the history of the PIHL with delays, restrictions and numerous changes overall because of the covid pandemic.
Alle-Kiski Valley high school football notebook: Leechburg snaps drought
Leechburg traveled Route 66 on Friday to face Imani Christian and wrapped up its first trip to the WPIAL playoffs since 1988.
Pine-Richland comes through for victory over Kiski Area
October 22, 2021
The Kiski Area football team needed a win Friday at Pine-Richland to keep its WPIAL playoff hopes alive in the Northeast Conference.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 8
October 20, 2021
Class 5A Northeast
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2021 Week 8
Garrett King
Springdale, Plum land No. 2 seeds for WPIAL girls soccer playoffs
The Springdale and Plum girls soccer teams each captured section championships in the regular season, and both the Dynamos and Mustangs lead the Alle-Kiski Valley with No. 2 seeds for the upcoming WPIAL playoffs.
Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League playoff tournament matchups set
October 19, 2021
The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League playoff tournament will be Saturday and Sunday, and all 12 teams will take part.
Freeport girls soccer team edges Valley to take sole possession of 4th in Section 2-2A
October 18, 2021
The Valley girls soccer team came into Monday’s Section 2-2A finale against Freeport at Valley High Memorial Stadium needing to defeat the Yellowjackets to clinch a WPIAL playoff spot for the first time since 2016.
Shaler, Thomas Jefferson, North Catholic, Bishop Canevin hold top spots in latest WPIAL girls volleyball rankings
After a two-week hiatus from the top spot, Thomas Jefferson again was the No. 1 team in Class 3A when the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association’s Week 7 WPIAL girls rankings were released Monday morning.
Riverview boys, girls soccer teams show improvement in 2nd half
October 17, 2021
The Riverview girls soccer team lost its first three games of the season and was outscored 30-7.
Plum girls soccer team ramping up for playoff run
When the final horn sounded on Plum’s 10-0 rout of Section 3-3A rival and WPIAL playoff contender Penn Hills on Oct. 12, the Mustangs had clinched their third consecutive section championship.
After slow start, North Allegheny field hockey finds its rhythm
October 16, 2021
The North Allegheny field hockey team is a youthful bunch with many new starters after 10 seniors graduated from last year.
Dugger brothers lead Penn Hills past Fox Chapel in key Northeast Conference game
October 15, 2021
Penn Hills recorded three touchdowns in the second half of Friday’s Class 5A Northeast Conference game at Fox Chapel.
Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League regular season concludes Sunday with 4 doubleheaders
The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League playoffs are just around the corner as the regular season concludes Sunday with four doubleheaders.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 7
October 13, 2021
Class 5A Northeast
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2021 Week 7
Angelo Cicco
Highlands boys basketball coach Stoczynski resigns after 9 seasons
Tyler Stoczynski won 131 games in nine seasons, including 108 over the past six years, as the Highlands boys basketball coach.
Plum girls soccer team gears up with playoffs right around corner
October 12, 2021
The Plum girls soccer team has displayed its usual dominance through the regular season, and the two-time WPIAL Class 3A finalists have their sights set on another strong postseason run.
Top teams hold pat in latest coaches association WPIAL girls volleyball rankings
October 11, 2021
The top teams in each classification — Shaler (Class 4A), Hampton (Class 3A), North Catholic (Class 2A) and Bishop Canevin (Class A) — held strong this past week as the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its Week 6 WPIAL girls rankings Monday morning.
Riverview boys cross country team celebrates 4th straight section title
October 10, 2021
The Riverview boys cross country team has set several top goals for itself this season, and the deep group of runners checked one of the boxes last week by capturing a fourth consecutive section championship.Plum runners prepare for postseason meets
The Plum boys and girls cross country teams have their eyes focused on preparation for the WPIAL Class AAA championships in a couple of weeks at Cal (Pa.).
Rocco, Serra Catholic have high expectations amidst unbeaten run
As a quarterback, Max Rocco appreciates the work of the center along the offensive line.
Sandor, Sundin, Cisse lead Gateway runners at Section 4 championship meet
The Gateway boys and girls cross country teams have their eyes focused on preparation for the WPIAL Class AAA championships in a couple of weeks at Cal (Pa.).
Knoch twins, Latrobe duo collect WPIAL doubles gold
October 7, 2021
For the second year in a row, sisters from Knoch rule the roost in WPIAL Class 2A doubles.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 6
October 6, 2021
Class 5A Northeast
A-K Valley football players to watch in 2021 Week 6
Dom Beyer
Deer Lakes girls soccer to keep pedal down during stretch run
October 5, 2021
The Deer Lakes girls soccer team is on the cusp of clinching its fifth straight trip to the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs, but coach Frank Accetta doesn’t want his players to slow down as they enter the stretch run in the regular season.
Sisterly bond helps Knoch girls tennis grow into WPIAL powerhouse
October 4, 2021
When Katie and Nance Conlon, coaches of the Highlands and Knoch girls tennis teams, respectively, met for their teams’ Section 3-AA match last week, daughter and mother had another chance to reconnect their love of the game and reminisce about how it has played such a strong part in their lives.
Hampton new Class AAA No. 1 as Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association releases latest WPIAL girls rankings
The Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its latest WPIAL girls top-10 polls Monday morning, and there is a new No. 1 team in Class AAA.
Plum volleyball caps 1st half of section play with key win over Franklin Regional
October 3, 2021
The Plum girls volleyball team ended the first half of Section 1-3A play in a three-way tie for the section lead with Franklin Regional and Indiana.
Shutout victory helps Plum football get back on track
For the first time this season, Matt Morgan was able to deliver a victory speech.
Gateway notebook: Gators girls soccer in hunt for section title
The Gateway girls soccer team earned an important point in the chase for the top spot in Section 1-3A with a 1-1 tie against Hampton on Sept. 28.
Gateway hockey team continues to build toward success
Shawn Jesih has high hopes this season for the Gateway junior varsity ice hockey team, the organization’s highest-level squad in the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League.
A-K Valley H.S. football notebook: Freshman kickers delivers for Plum
October 2, 2021
Plum coaches put their faith in freshman Angelo Baleno on Friday at Highlands, and Baleno rewarded them.
Deer Lakes football team keeps rolling, building confidence
Deer Lakes is on a roll in the Allegheny Seven Conference.
Late defensive stand, long scoring drive help North Hills edge Kiski Area
October 1, 2021
North Hills was in a precarious position late in the fourth quarter of its Northeast Conference opener with Kiski Area on Friday.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 5
September 29, 2021
Class 5A Northeast
A-K Valley football players to watch for 2021 Week 5
Nick Curci
Knoch’s Bauer aims to rebound at PIAA singles tournament
Ally Bauer won a WPIAL Class 2A doubles championship last year with sister Brooke.
Opportunity knocks for Kiski Area girls soccer in 2nd half of season
September 28, 2021
The Kiski Area girls soccer team finds itself in the middle of a playoff chase in Section 1-3A.
Shady Side Academy girls soccer makes goal count in shutout win over Burrell
September 27, 2021
The defending Section 2-2A champion Shady Side Academy girls soccer team scored just one time in Monday’s Section 2-2A contest on the turf at Burrell’s Buccaneer Stadium.
Shaler, Thomas Jefferson take over top spots in Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association rankings
The Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its Week 4 top-10 rankings Monday, and there are changes at the top in both Class 4A and Class 3A.
Gateway boys soccer rolls into 2nd half of Section 4-3A play at 5-1
September 26, 2021
The Gateway boys soccer team finds itself right in the mix for a playoff spot in Section 4-3A as it gets into the second half of section play this week.
After strong start, Gateway’s Brady Sundin builds confidence for invitational, championship meets
Brady Sundin didn’t have the 2020 cross country season he had hoped.
Quarterback Burke helps make Leechburg’s high-scoring offense go
September 25, 2021
Thomas Burke is in a lead role for one of the higher-octane offenses in the WPIAL.
Early challenges help Plum boys soccer maintain high expectations
The Plum boys soccer team is off to a strong start as it has plans to contend for the Section 4-3A championship and make some noise in the WPIAL playoffs.
Leechburg strikes early, often to beat Eastern Conference rival Springdale
September 24, 2021
Leechburg didn’t waste any time getting on the scoreboard against visiting Springdale in an Eastern Conference matchup Friday at Veterans Memorial Field.
Bethel Park’s Gorman defends WPIAL singles title; Sewickley Academy’s Close wins in Class 2A
Once was nice for Bethel Park’s Mia Gorman.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 4
September 22, 2021
Class 4A Greater Allegheny Conference
A-K Valley football players to watch for 2021 Week 4
Thomas Burke
Burrell girls soccer team picks up where it left off
September 21, 2021
A youthful Burrell girls soccer team navigated through all of the covid-related changes last fall, won eight out of 12 games and finished 7-2 in Section 2-AA play.
Volleyball coaches association releases Week 3 WPIAL girls rankings
September 20, 2021
The Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its WPIAL girls top-10 poll for Week 3 on Monday, and there is a change at the top in Class 3A.
Gateway girls soccer shows improvement during 3-game winning streak
September 19, 2021
The Gateway girls soccer team came out on the short end of a 5-1 result against Plum, the WPIAL Class 3A runner-up the past two seasons, in the season opener Sept. 4.
Gateway sophomore running back Jaquon Reynolds breaks out against Penn Hills
Jaquon Reynolds waited his turn.
Riverview girls volleyball riding high after defeating No. 8 Apollo-Ridge
The Riverview girls volleyball team is not the biggest in terms of roster numbers with just 14 from freshmen to seniors, but the Raiders are playing big so far in the 2021 season.
Plum girls soccer again off to strong start
The Plum girls soccer team entered the season with high hopes to maintain a standard set the past several years that included consecutive trips to the WPIAL Class 3A title game.
Tough challenges await unbeaten Kiski Area, Highlands
September 18, 2021
The last time the Kiski Area football team was 4-0, the current players weren’t born.
Bishop Canevin edges Springdale in defensive struggle
September 17, 2021
The Bishop Canevin and Springdale football teams came into Friday’s Eastern Conference opening clash averaging about 33 points a game each.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 3
Class 4A Greater Allegheny Conference
Freeport/Apollo-Ridge football game canceled because of covid, quarantines
The Freeport and Apollo-Ridge football teams will not play their Week 3 nonconference varsity game Friday at Owens Field in Apollo or Saturday’s junior varsity game at Freeport.
Springdale girls soccer makes statement with strong start
September 14, 2021
The Springdale girls soccer team opened some eyes Sept. 4 when it toppled perennial Class 2A playoff contender Deer Lakes by a 7-3 score at Lancers Stadium.
Norwin, Kiski Area girls volleyball teams gather outdoors for unique matchup
September 13, 2021
Picture-perfect weather conditions greeted a large crowd, as well as both the Kiski Area and Norwin girls volleyball teams, for a special outdoor match at Kennedy Park in Vandergrift on Monday evening.
Perennially powerful Freeport girls volleyball program off to another good start
The Freeport girls volleyball team has big expectations this season.
Volleyball coaches association releases Week 2 WPIAL girls rankings
The Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association’s WPIAL girls volleyball top-10 rankings for Week 2 were released Monday morning after the opening week of section competition, additional nonsection matches and a quartet of tournaments Saturday.
Kiski Area, Norwin volleyball teams ‘fired up’ to play in special outdoor event
September 12, 2021
The Kiski Area and Norwin girls volleyball teams are set to meet Monday, but not in the usual gymnasium setting.
Gateway runners kick off season at host invitational
The Gateway cross country teams have a lot on their plate in the early portion of the season, and coach Tom LaBuff said workouts and challenging competition are helping the boys and girls runners gauge where they are in their progression and also set goals for the end of the season.
Moon’s Cochran a champion again at Red, White & Blue Classic
September 11, 2021
Moon senior Mia Cochran truly has the hang of the White Oak Park cross country course.
Riverview boys cross country eyes return to PIAA meet
The Riverview boys cross country team finished second to Winchester Thurston at last year’s WPIAL Class A championships at White Oak Park.
Plum runners start strong at Gateway Invitational
The Plum cross country teams are regular attendees of the season-opening Gateway Invitational at Boyce Park.
Fox Chapel pulls away from Plum, picks up 1st win of season
September 10, 2021
Something had to give Friday as the Plum and Fox Chapel football teams both hoped to get into the win column after coming up empty over the first two weeks.
Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League set for Week 2 of game action
The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League began its varsity season last Sunday with a pair of doubleheaders, and game action involving the 12 teams continues Sunday at six fields around the Pittsburgh region.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 2
Nonconference
Leechburg boys soccer, girls volleyball teams postpone games through weekend
The Leechburg boys soccer and girls volleyball teams postponed games through this weekend.
Riverview soccer teams eager to be back on field
September 7, 2021
It has been nearly two years since the Riverview boys and girls varsity soccer teams played games that counted in the WPIAL.
Freeport football to honor veterans Friday
The Freeport football team takes on Avonworth at home Friday, and the Yellowjackets will honor local veterans and celebrate RED Friday.
Volleyball coaches association releases Week 1 rankings as WPIAL kicks off regular season
September 6, 2021
It was a busy opening weekend to the 2021 season for many WPIAL girls volleyball teams with dual-match and tournament action.
Deep senior class returns to lead Gateway girls volleyball
September 5, 2021
When Kayla Taylor arrived in Monroeville in July as the new head coach of the Gateway girls volleyball team, she wasn’t familiar with much in the program, including its players.
Gateway girls tennis showing improvement with returning lineup
Kenny Nieser heads to the tennis courts at Gateway High School each time hoping to see improvement from his youthful girls team.
Riverview soccer teams eager to be back on field
It’s been nearly two years since the Riverview boys and girls varsity soccer teams played games that counted in the WPIAL.
Plum girls volleyball aims to defend section championship
With the loss of eight seniors, including six who played major roles, from last year’s Section 1-3A championship team, Plum girls volleyball coach Kelsey Bonk knew coming into this season there would be a lot of competition for starting spots in the rotation.
Freeport builds big lead, holds off rival Knoch
September 3, 2021
Last year’s Freeport and Knoch football game was canceled amid the plethora of schedule changes because of the covid pandemic.
A-K Valley girls volleyball preview: Freeport seeks 17th straight section title
September 2, 2021
In the Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association’s preseason poll for Class AAA, four of the top six girls teams in the rankings are the ones who finished in a four-way tie for last year’s Section 5-AAA title.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 1
Nonconference
Covid cancels Riverview, Butler football games
August 31, 2021
The Riverview football team will not play its nonsection game at Chartiers-Houston on Friday.
Fox Chapel girls soccer out to defend section title
For the 18th time in program history, the Fox Chapel girls soccer team brought home a section championship in 2020, edging WPIAL power Norwin by two points for the Section 3-4A crown.
Deer Lakes runner McCoy gears preparation toward contending at WPIAL cross country championships
August 30, 2021
Carson McCoy is a state champion in track and field, as he won the PIAA Class AA title in the 1,600-meter run in May at Shippensburg after placing second at WPIALs at week earlier.
Volleyball coaches association releases preseason WPIAL girls rankings
Girls volleyball teams in the WPIAL officially begin their seasons Friday and Saturday with matches and tournaments all throughout the region.
Plum girls soccer aims to maintain contender status
August 29, 2021
With back-to-back runs to the WPIAL Class 3A championship game, the Plum girls soccer team has established itself as a team to beat.
Plum boys soccer players motivated by early playoff exit
The Plum boys soccer team didn’t expect last season to end suddenly.
Optimism abounds for experienced Gateway girls soccer team
The 2020 season for the Gateway girls soccer team was anything but normal as covid uncertainties and a two-week stoppage in the middle of the regular season were just some of the obstacles which challenged the Gators players and coaches.
Gateway boys soccer embarks on ‘new beginning’
On the main page of the Gateway boys soccer website are the words “New beginnings” along with “Pride, passion and perseverance.”
A-K Valley girls soccer preview: Plum eyes another trip to WPIAL final
August 28, 2021
The Plum girls soccer team hopes three is the magic number this fall.
Alle-Kiski Valley high school football notebook: Springdale, Deer Lakes renew rivalry
A number of high school football rivalries were put on hold last year as the covid pandemic delayed, shortened and toyed with players, coaches and fans from August to early December.
Smith shines as Franklin Regional beats rival Plum
August 27, 2021
Things couldn’t have started any better for Franklin Regional and new coach Lance Getsy on Friday against Plum at Franklin Regional Stadium in Murrysville.
Versatile senior brings big-play threat to Springdale offense
August 25, 2021
Last year, Logan Dexter and Dmitri Fritch led the Springdale receiving corps with a combined 53 catches for 841 yards and 10 touchdowns.
A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for Week Zero 2021
Nonconference
A-K Valley football players to watch for Week Zero 2021
Derek Burk
Springdale hoping to build on back-to-back winning seasons
Springdale is coming off its second straight winning season after just two victories in 2018.
Riverview ready to rebound after winless campaign
The Riverview football team took its lumps last season as it navigated its way through a WPIAL-wide truncated season with restrictions and schedule changes brought on by the covid pandemic.
Blue-collar linebacker leads charge for Riverview
August 24, 2021
Anthony Mazur came into Riverview’s preseason football camp in 2018 as a fullback on offense as he hoped to make an impact in his first varsity season.
2021 WPIAL Class 4A football breakdown: Contenders line up to knock TJ from throne
Thomas Jefferson reigned again in Class 4A last season, winning its 10th WPIAL championship followed by its fifth PIAA title.
Young Gateway golfers look to make impact this season
August 22, 2021
Paul Doonan sees a youth movement with his Gateway boys golf team.
Apollo-Ridge excited to build on strong season
Apollo-Ridge was an experienced team in 2020. That experience helped the Vikings navigate the covid landscape and truncated season to a 6-1 overall record and a rout of perennial Class 2A contender Washington in the WPIAL playoffs.
WPIAL girls tennis preview: Knoch, Latrobe loaded to defend titles
August 21, 2021
Knoch girls tennis players pulled off a rare WPIAL trifecta last year.
Multi-talented Fraser hopes to have healthy season, be key player for Knoch
Keegan Fraser is on multiple missions entering football season.
New generation of versatile, athletic linemen paves way for A-K Valley offenses
Brandon Lawhorn Moore doesn’t mind that his Kiski Area teammates and coaches call him “Beef.”
Senior linebacker making name for himself at Kiski Area
August 20, 2021
Anyone who plays football at Kiski Area is bound to receive a nickname from head coach Sam Albert and his coaching staff.
Knoch determined to get back to winning ways
There is optimism in Saxonburg.
Highlands looks to leave playoff drought in past
Chandler Thimons enters his third year as the Highlands starting quarterback hoping to help snap the Golden Rams’ five-year playoff drought.
Highlands’ new-look offensive line showing potential
August 19, 2021
Last year, a Highlands offensive line that included four seniors opened holes for the run game and protected the passer who averaged 300 yards a game as the Golden Rams finished 4-3 in the Greater Allegheny Conference and challenged for a WPIAL playoff spot through the final week of the regular season.
With more preparation, Kiski Area expects strong start to season
Matt Hilty is hoping this season at Kiski Area can start and remain normal after a 2020 fall that was anything but.
Freeport sophomore Colton Otterman set to take off after breakout freshman season
August 18, 2021
Colton Otterman is not the biggest dog in the fight. But the Freeport sophomore wide receiver and outside linebacker wants to make sure opponents experience his bite.
As football practice kicks off across A-K Valley, Leechburg begins quest to end playoff drought
August 16, 2021
Leechburg head coach Randy Walters woke up early Monday morning, got his coffee and was at the practice field by 7:30 to make sure everything was ready for the first workout session of preseason camp at 9.
New girls volleyball coach eager to get started at Gateway
August 15, 2021
Kayla Taylor’s excitement for Gateway’s upcoming girls volleyball season has been building since she was hired as head coach last month.