Author: William Whalen
New coach Hunkele aims to build Highlands tennis into winner
September 12, 2022
First-year Highlands girls tennis coach Vaughn Hunkele knew exactly what he signed up for when he took the job in August.
Freeport boys golf off to strong start against local rivals
September 6, 2022
After taking some knocks the past two seasons in Class 3A, the Freeport golf team is back in Class 2A and putting Section 1 on notice.
Highlands overcomes another slow start, beats Blackhawk
September 2, 2022
After two weeks of football, a pattern is beginning to develop with Highlands: A slow first half leads to a dominant second half.
Highlands takes control, tops University Prep in coach’s debut
August 26, 2022
First-year coach Matt Bonislawski’s debut wasn’t perfect, but it didn’t need to be.
Fresh faces ready to make impact as West Greene looks to defend Tri-County South title
August 23, 2022
For the first time under coach Brian Hanson, the West Greene football team will go into the season with a new look.
With loaded roster, special season could be in store for Mapletown
Long-time Mapletown coach George Messich has been coaching football for a little more than four decades, and it’s pretty safe to say he knows a good thing when he sees it.
Highlands quarterback goes from freaked-out freshman to record-breaking senior
August 18, 2022
A career that literally began by accident will end up rewriting the record book at Highlands.
New coach has talented team to work with at Highlands
August 14, 2022
Make no bones about it, Highlands is going to have a different look, feel and attitude under first-year head coach Matt Bonislawski.
Highlands baseball players benefit from early-season trip south
April 12, 2022
Hoagie sales, golf outings and the exhausting obligation of monthly fundraisers was all the Highlands baseball team needed to take its first trip south in program history.
New-look Leechburg softball still expects deep postseason run
March 19, 2022
For 30 years, it’s been lather, rinse, repeat for Leechburg softball.
Leechburg baseball team loaded with pitching, bursting with enthusiasm
Hard work, positivity and optimism. Spend any length of time with first-year Leechburg baseball coach Heath Shimer and it’s obvious a new era of Blue Devils baseball about to begin.
Burrell baseball team finds its feet in Class 4A
March 12, 2022
Going into last season and bumping up from Class 3A to Class 4A, the Burrell baseball team had no idea what to expect. Now, coach Mark Spohn has his Bucs ready to compete in one of the toughest sections in Class 4A, Section 1.
Avoiding injuries will be key for Burrell softball, which has small roster
If it seems like the Burrell softball team is filled with a lot of fresh faces this season, that’s because it is.
Kiski Area girls basketball ends season on high note
March 7, 2022
For the Kiski Area girls basketball team, all the pieces are in place. The only thing to do now is to continue to work, train and wait until next season.
St. Joseph boys hope to learn, develop after falling short of postseason
March 1, 2022
St. Joseph boys basketball coach Hart Coleman said he is going to attend WPIAL playoff games and recommends his players do the same.
After early struggles, Burrell girls showed improvement late in season
February 28, 2022
Untimely injuries, young players stepping into starting roles, tough calls late in games, buzzer beaters and losing streaks weren’t enough to break the will and determination of the 2021-22 Burrell girls basketball team. All these struggles did was build character and light a fire moving forward.
Highlands girls find rhythm, shake off West Mifflin in WPIAL Class 4A 1st round
February 22, 2022
It’s a difficult task to try to trace the history of the Highlands girls basketball team.
High-octane Highlands roars past Albert Gallatin in Class 5A first round
February 21, 2022
Backed by junior guard Jimmy Kunst’s 24 points and a 32-point second quarter, fifth-seeded Highlands made quick work of No. 12 Albert Gallatin, 76-44, in the first round of the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs Monday night.
Highlands girls basketball closes regular season by besting rival Deer Lakes
February 10, 2022
The plan for the Highlands girls basketball team entering its final regular-season game was simple: get back to basics, play defense and, above all else, get of the game healthy.
Springdale girls remain in hunt for postseason berth
The Springdale girls basketball team knows this feeling all too well. It’s the uneasy feeling knowing its playoff season already has begun weeks before the WPIAL postseason bracket has been released.
Young, small Freeport hockey team enjoying winning streak
February 8, 2022
This season seems to be more about the journey than the destination for the Freeport hockey team. Featuring a roster loaded with underclassmen, the Yellowjackets seem to peaking at just the right moment heading into the final month of the regular season.
Plum competitive spirit team ready for 1st trip to PIAA championships
January 28, 2022
Not many sports crown a champion after just 2 minutes, 30 seconds.
Brad Bestic ready to guide St. Joseph athletics in new role
December 6, 2021
St. Joseph has found its man to guide the athletic department. On Nov. 1, Brad Bestic was hired as the new St. Joseph athletic director and comes to the position ready to lead the school’s teams to the next level.
Springdale boys basketball expects winning ways to continue
December 4, 2021
Winning is contagious.
Springdale girls basketball team ready to make noise in playoffs
There’s an air of quiet confidence and cautious optimism that surrounds the Springdale girls basketball team, and there should be.
Strong 2nd half defines Freeport football season
November 29, 2021
It was gut-check time in the locker room following Freeport’s tough 14-3 loss to Class 2A No. 2-ranked Serra Catholic to round out the September schedule. The Yellowjackets had no sting. They were flat, and it showed.
Strong finish provides optimism for future of Burrell football
The Burrell football season changed in a flash — literally.
No. 2 North Catholic shuts out No. 3 Avonworth to advance to WPIAL Class 3A final
November 19, 2021
It wasn’t easy but North Catholic is back in the WPIAL championship game.
Highlands football season highlighted by early winning streak, late-season surge
November 15, 2021
When the No. 8-seeded Highlands Rams fell to No. 9 New Castle in the first round of the WPIAL Class 4A football playoffs, it might have marked a disappointing ending to the season. It also gave a glimpse into a promising future.
Pine-Richland shakes off slow start, beats Peters Township in Class 5A quarterfinals
November 12, 2021
With a sputtering offense, miscues on defense and his team trailing at halftime, Pine-Richland coach Steve Campos didn’t need to do much to inspire his team in the locker room, just a reminder was all that was needed.
After early playoff exit, Deer Lakes boys soccer team turns attention to next season
November 10, 2021
The ink wasn’t even dry on the 2021 season and a disappointed Deer Lakes boys soccer team was eager to dive right into offseason workouts.
Big plays from QB Hood lead New Castle past Highlands in Class 4A playoffs
November 5, 2021
New Castle senior quarterback Chris Hood led the Red Hurricanes on the field and through the air. Hood ran for 218 yards and threw two touchdown passes as No. 9 seed New Castle rolled into Golden Rams Stadium on Friday night and upset No. 8 Highlands, 31-19, in the first round of the WPIAL Class 4A playoffs.
Young Burrell boys soccer team made strides during ’21 season
November 2, 2021
The story of the 2021 Burrell boys soccer team could be summed up in one game: the Bucs’ 5-1 loss to No. 2-seeded Quaker Valley in the first round of the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs.
Highlands runs past Knoch in season finale
October 29, 2021
Knoch couldn’t stop the bleeding Friday at Golden Rams Stadium.
Highlands scores in bunches for homecoming win vs. Armstrong
October 15, 2021
The WPIAL postseason doesn’t begin for a few more weeks, but for the Highlands Golden Rams, the playoffs began Friday night.
Burrell spoils Deer Lakes homecoming with Allegheny Conference win
October 8, 2021
Trailing by three points, Burrell was facing a fourth-and-4 at the Deer Lakes 26-yard line.
Plum edges Highlands for conference victory
October 1, 2021
It was Military Appreciation night Friday at Highlands’ Golden Rams Stadium, night but Plum showed up for a car show.
Deer Lakes golfers make school history at section qualifiers
September 28, 2021
Deer Lakes golf coach Sam Sack knew almost immediately that this season could shape up to be a special one.
Deer Lakes makes lone TD count in win vs. Valley
September 24, 2021
It was a game that had more twists and turns than Crawford Run Road and offered more turnovers than a fall bake sale, but the Lancers pulled it off.
Team-first mentality helps Highlands football to 4-0 start
September 21, 2021
The Highlands football team fans cheer for on Friday nights isn’t the product of just a week’s worth of practice.
Second-half surge pushes undefeated Highlands past winless Mars
September 17, 2021
Highlands rolled into conference play Friday night undefeated, but some in the football world felt the Golden Rams hadn’t been challenged and had a soft 3-0 record.
Freeport golf team adjusting to facing Class 3A competition
September 15, 2021
It doesn’t take much to think back to the days when the Freeport golf team was a member of Class 2A. It was only two years ago.
Highlands easily dispatches rival Burrell
September 10, 2021
During pregame walk-throughs, Highlands coach Dom Girardi had a worried look about him. His Golden Rams were about to face a bruised and battered Burrell team. But that’s not what he was worried about. What concerned Girardi the most was the rivalry between the schools.
Victory at historic Oakmont Country Club boosts confidence for Burrell golfers
September 6, 2021
The Burrell boys golf team dropped anchor at Oakmont Country Club last week. Having lost three starters from last season and playing one of the top golf courses in the world, the Bucs arrived with more questions than answers going into their Section 1-2A match against rival Riverview.
Indiana grounds Burrell, sails to decisive victory
September 3, 2021
With 100 yards of plush two-tone green field turf surrounded by a bright cosmic blue track, Buccaneer Stadium’s new makeover gives the illusion the Burrell football team is playing on an island.
Senior-heavy Leechburg expects to take next step after .500 campaign
August 20, 2019
There was a ton of positive energy and momentum surrounding the Leechburg when last season wrapped up.
Steel Valley adjusts to new coach, shorthanded roster
August 19, 2019
Maroon and gold is the new blue and gold for new Steel Valley coach Ray Braszo as the long-time coach will once again walk the home sideline at Ironmen Stadium.
Leechburg searching for right combination at middle linebacker
August 18, 2019
The human heart has two ventricles. One side pumps blood into the lungs, and the other pumps blood into the aorta.
Woodland Hills focused on fast start to season
August 16, 2019
There’s an old saying among WPIAL coaches when it comes to playing Woodland Hills during the season: You never want to get the Wolverines late, you want them early.
Canon-McMillan must make up for loss of more than 20 graduates
August 15, 2019
Almost on a daily basis, Canon-Millan coach Mike Evans will get stopped by people and asked the big question.
Springdale girls soccer hopes new coach is a hit
July 29, 2019
A lot of hit songs have come out of Liverpool, England. Bands like the Beatles, A Flock of Seagulls and 1980’s sensation Rick Astley all claim the city as home.
Swim clubs offer valuable offseason training for high school standouts
July 20, 2019
WPIAL gold medals in swimming might be won in early March, but they are earned during the offseason.
Isaly’s summer-time tour big hit with junior golfers
July 12, 2019
From chipped-ham sandwiches to sand-wedge chips, the Isaly’s Junior Golf Tour has carved its niche on the Western Pennsylvania junior golf scene by attracting top talent and playing at some of area’s most prestigious courses.
Penn-Trafford’s Faith Anthony eager to play collegiate hockey at Franklin Pierce
July 5, 2019
The Franklin Pierce women’s hockey team hasn’t been around long. Just like every fledgling sports program, the Ravens took it on the chin the first few years but have built a winning program over the past seven seasons.
Greensburg Central Catholic’s Colbert puts offseason focus on fundamentals
July 2, 2019
It’s been nearly six months since Bret Colbert was hired to lead the Greensburg Central Catholic football team to its next era of gridiron glory.
Brotherly bond helps create special season for Franklin Regional baseball
June 14, 2019
The Franklin Regional baseball team found its inspiration when players showed up one day for practice, and a dead frog was in the dugout.
Penn-Trafford baseball reflects on historic season of success
June 8, 2019
Five years ago, Penn-Trafford baseball coach Dan Miller went through an interview process with the message that the Warriors were three to five years away from competing for a WPIAL title. Miller wasn’t lying.
After falling in PIAA 1st round, Knoch reflects on special softball season
June 5, 2019
A young team, a new head coach and more question marks than players, the 2019 Knoch softball team had no idea what was in store this season.
North Allegheny volleyball beats Bethel Park again, this time in PIAAs
June 4, 2019
It was a WPIAL finals rematch the Bethel Park boys volleyball team waited 12 days for and one WPIAL and defending PIAA champion North Allegheny knew was coming. It wasn’t if — the only question was where it would be held.
Knoch softball bows out of PIAAs with loss to Grove City
June 3, 2019
The Knoch softball team made its first trip into the PIAA softball playoffs Monday. The weather was near perfect, and the Knights’ confidence was at an all-time high as they looked to rebound from their semifinal loss and make a deep run in the state playoffs.
Late score lifts Team Different past Never Fear in NFBD all-star football game
June 2, 2019
Touchdown celebrations mandatory, 18-minute running clocks and a dee jay set up on the sidelines — it was all fun and football at Cupples Stadium in the South Side Sunday night.
Knoch softball embraces underdog role in PIAA playoffs
If there’s one softball team in the PIAA Class 4A bracket flying under the radar, it has to be Knoch.
Norwin softball team reflects on special season
May 31, 2019
The Norwin softball team belted out its last rendition of the school alma mater as the team bus climbed the steep hill to reach campus following the Knights’ WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal loss to North Allegheny.
Franklin Regional softball vows to be back in contention next season
Last Tuesday was a wild day. Torrential downpours, lightning and even tornado warnings all made the day much more unpredictable. Another thing that seemed a little off was the Franklin Regional softball team’s bus ride from the Murrysville campus to Seton Hill — the site of the WPIAL Class 5A third-place consolation game.
Knoch takes down Thomas Jefferson to reach PIAA Class 4A softball playoffs
May 28, 2019
There was plenty of weather swirling around Seton Hill’s softball field Tuesday afternoon. Spotty showers showed up for a few minutes, and a random lightning strike suspended play for 30 minutes.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Zach Allen, Deer Lakes’ Kiera Cutright
Zach Allen
Despite loss in WPIAL quarterfinals, Gateway baseball celebrates successful season
May 24, 2019
There are 20 baseball teams in WPIAL Class 5A, and if all but one those teams measured success by winning a championship, there wouldn’t be much to play for.
North Allegheny sweeps Bethel Park for 20th WPIAL Class AAA volleyball championship
May 23, 2019
Bethel Park marched into Fox Chapel gymnasium Thursday night feeling confident that after three cracks at North Allegheny in past Class AAA title games, the Black Hawks might come out victorious against the two-time defending WPIAL and reigning state champion Tigers.
Ambridge tops Seton LaSalle to win 10th WPIAL Class AA volleyball title
It’s tough to buck a trend when that trend is a 6-foot-6 outside hitter and sends high-speed laser-like kills across the net.
Valley’s Odrey hopes experience pays off at PIAA singles tournament
After two years, the list might be getting longer but the candy orders have been placed.
Blackhawk baseball advances to Class 4A final with walk-off win over New Castle
May 22, 2019
With the score tied at 3-3 and the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh inning, Blackhawk baseball coach Bob Amalia offered some words of advice to junior infielder Marco Borello before he left the dugout.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Logan Parker and Kelli Galbraith
May 21, 2019
Logan Parker
Beaver shuts out No. 14 Highlands in Class 4A quarterfinals
May 20, 2019
Monday’s WPIAL playoff game won’t go down as one of the best games Highlands played this season, but the 2019 season will go down in the record books as the best season of the new millennium.
Freeport boys lacrosse going ‘crazy’ in WPIAL Class AA playoffs
May 19, 2019
The Freeport football team has had its share of success. The soccer and basketball programs are postseason regulars and not enough can be said about the girls volleyball team with its four WPIAL titles and 2017 state championship.
Ligonier Valley baseball looks to steal win against perennial power Mount Union
May 18, 2019
Success can be measured a number of different ways in baseball. Of course, there’s wins and losses. Batting average, RBIs and runs scored are others. The Ligonier Valley baseball team measures success 90 feet at a time.
Ligonier Valley softball energized after ‘long cold wait’ for this year’s playoffs
With laser-like focus and precision, the Ligonier Valley softball team did exactly what they set out to do in the Heritage Conference this season — beat everybody.
Plum baseball team misses playoffs for 1st time in 13 seasons
May 17, 2019
It was a matter of when, not if, and everyone knew it had to end some day. Nobody wanted it to happen on their watch. But for the first time in 13 seasons, the Plum baseball team did not show up in a WPIAL postseason bracket.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Highlands’ Zac Kuniak, Plum’s Jillian Durst
May 14, 2019
Zac Kuniak
Franklin Regional baseball expecting deeper playoff run this season
May 10, 2019
The road to Wild Things Park has been a short one for the Franklin Regional baseball team over the past few years. It’s not like the Panthers know some kind of special short cut. It’s all highway.
Penn-Trafford track and field uses county championships as WPIAL tune-up
May 9, 2019
The Penn-Trafford track and field team isn’t much of an invitational team.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Jack Henderson and Knoch’s Amanda Fischer
May 7, 2019
Jack HendersonGateway’s Adusepoku among WPIAL’s top sprinters
May 3, 2019
The annual Butler Invitational is known for having a deep and talented field of athletes, which is why it’s one of the most anticipated track and field events of the season.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: CJ Thimons and Marleen Meyer
April 30, 2019
CJ Thimons
Jane Garver channels inner ‘Eugene’ in leading Ligonier Valley softball to 12-0 record
April 29, 2019
Longtime Ligonier Valley softball coach Mark Zimmerman doesn’t randomly had out nicknames to his players — there’s a lot of though that goes into it.
No margin for error as Plum baseball seeks 13th straight playoff berth
April 26, 2019
It has been an up-and-down season for the Plum baseball team.
Norwin’s Walker ahead of schedule, key to Knights’ chances
Norwin baseball standout Jayden Walker readily admits he was nervous stepping up to the plate last season as a freshman starter, but the 6-foot-3, 220-pound slugger sure didn’t look it.
Greensburg Salem athletes to use familiarity to their advantage at WCCA championships
April 24, 2019
When the Greensburg Salem track and field team steps off the bus Saturday morning at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium to compete in the Westmoreland County Coaches’ Association track and field championships, the Golden Lions will be entering familiar territory.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Elizabeth Clark, Leechburg’s Cameron Curfman
April 23, 2019
Elizabeth Clark
New philosophy has Penn-Trafford baseball excelling at plate
April 19, 2019
In the lead up to the 2019 season, Penn-Trafford baseball coach Dan Miller was preparing for the worst and hoping for the best.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Josh Probst, Leechburg’s Aubry Skeel
April 16, 2019
Josh Probst
Winless Plum boys volleyball team strives to reach potential
April 14, 2019
The Plum boys volleyball team held its annual invitational tournament Saturday. For a team that has yet to win a set in section play, the tourney acted as a midseason break, an opportunity to get out of section play and try new things against some of the WPIAL’s top teams.
‘Instant offense’ sparks Franklin Regional baseball to 6-1 start
April 9, 2019
There’s a new after-school work program for Franklin Regional high school students. Once the final bell rings and classes let out, 15 students head to the ball field and start swinging bats at the aluminum factory.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Ryan Rametta, Apollo-Ridge’s Kylee Wynn
Ryan Rametta
Thin Gateway track and field roster still boasts plenty of talent
April 5, 2019
When it was all said and done last season, longtime Gateway track and field coach Tom LaBuff felt good when he looked ahead to the 2019 season.
Franklin Regional track teams reload after heavy graduation losses
Most high school track and field programs would not only struggle to survive, but also struggle to compete if they were to lose a senior class of more than 20 athletes from the year before.
Young players bolster lineup for Latrobe girls lacrosse
April 4, 2019
It was a long and quiet bus ride back to campus from Sewickley Academy last May for the Latrobe girls lacrosse team. The Panthers handed Wildcats a 23-3 shellacking in the quarterfinals of the WPIAL Class AAA playoffs. Egos were bruised, and the Wildcats were humbled.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Springdale’s Alexis Hrivnak, Freeport’s Jarrett Heilman
April 2, 2019
Jarrett Heilman
Beall having a ball for Franklin Regional softball
April 1, 2019
Franklin Regional softball standout Angalee Beall has never been one to show off. It’s not her style. The senior pitcher prefers to let her play do the talking.
Talented Norwin boys volleyball still playing like underdogs
March 29, 2019
The Norwin boys volleyball team is hoping to end the season the way it began, and there’s a good chance that could happen.
Johnson, Sharrow pace East girls to Cager Classic win
March 23, 2019
The West might be the best, but the beast is still the East.
Gateway boys tennis sets eyes on WPIAL playoff spot
It’s been nine seasons since the Gateway boys tennis team showed up in a WPIAL Class AAA postseason bracket and, for the Gators, that’s long enough.
Valley’s Carter sweeps Cager Classic skills competition
March 22, 2019
It was never a secret Valley senior Nyjewel Carter was one of the top shooters the Vikings had this season; now he can stake his claim as one of the top shooters in the Alle-Kiski Valley
Young Valley lineup looks to maintain momentum from trip to quarterfinals
Valley coach Jim Basilone trotted his Vikings off Washington & Jefferson’s Ross Memorial baseball field following a gut-wrenching, 6-5 loss to Brownsville in the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals and delivered his most important speech of the season.
Valley softball ready to take next step toward success
Nine years have passed since Valley won the WPIAL softball title; it’s been eight years since the Vikings made an incredible run through the state bracket and captured a PIAA Class AAA title.
Renewed optimism for Gateway boys volleyball team
Three new coaches in three seasons, temporary leadership and a lack of consistency took their toll on the Gateway boys volleyball program.
It will be mom vs. son as Petruskas face off in Cager Classic All-Star game
March 21, 2019
No one ever picked up an easy win around the Petruska household, and those who were lucky enough to do so know they earned it.
Vincentian Academy boys ready for PIAA finals matchup against Sankofa Freedom Academy
March 20, 2019
When the ball goes up in the air at Hershey’s Giant Center at 2 p.m. Thursday for the start of the PIAA Class A boys championship game, a team from the North Hills and the other from North Philly will add to the state’s already rich sports rivalry between East and West.
OLSH uses 3rd quarter surge to top Ridgway in PIAA quarterfinals
March 17, 2019
The Our Lady of the Scared Heart boys basketball team has been playing with emotion all season. The Chargers found themselves in a fast-paced, up-and-down the floor game against District 9 champ Ridgway, and it hit a fever pitch in the final seconds of the first half.
North Catholic routs Villa Marie, rolls into PIAA Class 4A semifinals
March 16, 2019
Even with all of its success, WPIAL Class 4A champion North Catholic girls basketball team has been in search of its most complete game of the season, and it seemed like a scare from Blackhawk on Wednesday in the PIAA second round did the trick.
Tough loss at WPIBL championships helped spark victory at regional for Norwin bowlers
March 15, 2019
One lousy pin. That’s how the Norwin boys bowling team ended its season last year, falling one pin short at the Western Regionals and being denied a spot in the state tournament.
Penn-Trafford girls bowlers show improvement with regional tournament victory
Every coach wishes for the best and wants his or her team to do well, but Penn-Trafford bowling coach Bud Cummins never thought his girls bowling team would wind up being one of the best in the state when the season started.
Plum boys lacrosse to field one of most talented teams in program history
After six years of being a varsity sport, dropping in WPIAL classification, getting a feeder program in place that is starting to churn out young talent, the Plum boys lacrosse team is finally poised to deliver a little payback and start winning some matches.
Monessen softball team takes aim at return trip to WPIAL final
To say the Monessen softball team still hasn’t moved on from last season’s heartbreaking loss to rival West Greene in the WPIAL Class A championship game is a gross understatement. The wounds from that game have turned into scars, but the fire in the bellies of the Greyhounds continues to rage.
Monessen baseball motivated by postseason defeats
Tough losses can do one of two things, divide a team or bring a team together.
Oakland Catholic girls edge rival Penn Hills in PIAA Class 5A 2nd round
March 13, 2019
No team wants to see a section rival in the postseason, but that’s what happened Wednesday night at Fox Chapel. Section 3-5A foes Oakland Catholic and Penn Hills laced them up one last time this season in a rubber match.
North Catholic girls rally past Blackhawk in PIAA Class 4A 2nd round
It wasn’t how North Catholic girls basketball coach Molly Rottmann drew it up, but she’ll take it.
For Penn-Trafford’s Coy, journey to Hershey is a trip down memory lane
March 8, 2019
It’s tough not to crack a smile and imagine the possibilities when someone rolls up for a road trip driving a shiny new black Chevy Suburban, but Penn-Trafford wrestler Nick Coy jumped in anyway.
Franklin Regional swim team basks in WPIAL meet success
At the start of the swim season, Franklin Regional coach Vic Santoro was wondering what kind of team he had.
Allderdice boys fall short against state’s top-ranked team in Class 6A, Kennedy Catholic
March 2, 2019
Allderdice boys basketball coach Buddy Valinsky gave his team a bit of a break this past week. Light practice is hardly the conventional wisdom going into a matchup against the No. 1-ranked Class 6A team in the state.
Top-seeded Neshannock girls defeat Shady Side Academy for 1st WPIAL title
Every team needs a little luck while making a championship run. Unfortunately, for Shady Side Academy, Neshannock’s luck came in the form of a late time out by the Indians.
Franklin Regional boys begin prep for PIAA basketball playoffs
Franklin Regional boys basketball coach Steve Scorpion felt a little conflicted last Tuesday night.
Past 2 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball champions Moon, Mars set to play for title
February 28, 2019
It’s the title game that will have astronomers’ eyes on Pitt’s Petersen Events Center and not up against a telescope pointed skyward.
Mayo, Shahan, Gardner take gold on 1st day of WPIAL swimming
Hempfield senior Gavin Mayo isn’t swimming for North Carolina yet. The All-American standout is still mining for WPIAL gold as he won the 50-yard freestyle Thursday afternoon at the WPIAL Class AAA swimming championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool
North Allegheny boys, girls in control after Day 1 of WPIAL Class AAA swimming championships
The North Allegheny boys and girls swim teams didn’t waste any time showing WPIAL opponents why there are the favorites to continue their domination of Class AAA.
Brashear boys look to dethrone 4-time defending City League champion Allderdice
February 22, 2019
When longtime rivals Allderdice and Brashear take to the court Saturday afternoon and play for the City League boys basketball championship, there will be no secrets or surprises, just straight-up basketball.
Allderdice girls ready to defend City League title against rival Obama Academy
When Allderdice third-year coach Ellen Guillard walks her team onto the hardwood floor of Pitt’s Petersen Events Center Saturday to face Obama Academy in the City League girls basketball championship game, things will have come full circle for her and the Dragons.
Deer Lakes girls pull away from Seton LaSalle in Class 3A 1st round
February 20, 2019
Western Pennsylvanians saw nearly every form of precipitation Wednesday: snow, ice, sleet and rain.
Mars girls persevere in 1st-round win over Woodland Hills
February 19, 2019
The postseason has a way of exposing both the good and bad in teams, and Tuesday night was no exception for Mars girls basketball.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Leechburg’s Connor McDermott, Burrell’s Carlee Hummel
Connor McDermott
Franklin Regional’s Smith bowls pair of 300 games in 879 series
February 18, 2019
Alex Smith knows how to draw a crowd. The Franklin Regional High School junior and standout bowler figured out all he needs to do is roll strikes.
First-quarter run carries North Catholic over Valley in WPIAL 3A playoffs
February 16, 2019
Valley believed it a good chance knock off No. 3 seed North Catholic in the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs.
Leechburg boys pull away from Bishop Canevin after halftime
February 14, 2019
Leechburg boys basketball coach Corey Smith walked his team onto the floor after halftime, turned around, removed his charcoal gray sport coat and said, “I’m feeling it.”
Franklin Regional swim team enjoys surprise success
Longtime Franklin Regional swimming coach Vic Santoro was expecting this season to be a rebuilding year. Until it wasn’t.
North Allegheny shuts down Seneca Valley in Section 1-6A victory
January 11, 2019
It's never easy following up one of the top girls teams in the WPIAL but the North Allegheny boys basketball had no choice. The Tigers took the prime-time slot following the top-ranked girls blowout win over Butler Friday night at North Allegheny High School and didn't disappoint. Led by aPenn-Trafford bowlers looking to snap postseason drought
December 8, 2018
It's been a while since the Penn-Trafford bowling team has reached the postseason. To be exact, the girls have been absent since 2011 and the boys haven't graced a bracket since the debut of the iPhone. andquot;This has been a building process with this team,andquot; said Penn-Trafford coach Bud Cummins,Cheswick Christian Academy girls feature experience, potential
November 21, 2018
Getting banged up and bruised along the way are the necessary scars a team must accumulate during a championship run. The Cheswick Christian Academy girls basketball team limped into the 2017 Southwestern Christian Athletic Conference postseason with a young team, even younger bench, and down three starters to injury. It's
Gateway boys soccer looks forward to promising future
October 26, 2018
Car dealerships and all their 15- and 20-point inspection offers have nothing on the Gateway boys soccer. When second-year coach Bernie Stiles holds his season-ending performance review with his players, it's enough make a Consumer Reports evaluation look incomplete. andquot;We have 94-point performance evaluation,andquot; Stiles said. andquot;The objective for (the
Central Valley girls volleyball uses tough nonsection slate to prepare for playoffs
September 16, 2018
There's right around five weeks until the start of the WPIAL girls volleyball postseason, which leaves plenty of time for Central Valley girls volleyball coach
Franklin Regional baseball’s strong season stops short
June 1, 2018
There are 22 teams in WPIAL Class 5A baseball, and every one starts the season with the same goal: to win a championship. But only
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Megan Andree, Leechburg’s Corey Kerecz
May 2, 2018
Megan Andree School: Kiski Area Class: Junior Sport: Softball Report card: Andree epitomized Kiski Area's perfect 3-0 week last week, capping the final week of
Waynesburg girls knock off top-seeded Freedom to earn WPIAL Class AA title
November 4, 2017
Leave it to a Raider to dethrone the defending WPIAL Class AA champions and bring to a halt an impressive 39-game WPIAL winning streak. Waynesburg
Plum football hopes to bounce back at Armstrong
September 25, 2017
Matt Morgan the football coach is superstitious. The 6-foot-6 Plum coach didn't say he was that way as a player, but he has begun to
Kiski Area girls soccer puts last year’s playoff loss behind them
August 26, 2017
The climb to the top is a brutal one and is often paved with tears and heartbreak. Last October's bus ride from Gibsonia following Kiski
New coach Hunkele aims to build Highlands tennis into winner
September 12, 2022
First-year Highlands girls tennis coach Vaughn Hunkele knew exactly what he signed up for when he took the job in August.
Freeport boys golf off to strong start against local rivals
September 6, 2022
After taking some knocks the past two seasons in Class 3A, the Freeport golf team is back in Class 2A and putting Section 1 on notice.
Highlands overcomes another slow start, beats Blackhawk
September 2, 2022
After two weeks of football, a pattern is beginning to develop with Highlands: A slow first half leads to a dominant second half.
Highlands takes control, tops University Prep in coach’s debut
August 26, 2022
First-year coach Matt Bonislawski’s debut wasn’t perfect, but it didn’t need to be.
Fresh faces ready to make impact as West Greene looks to defend Tri-County South title
August 23, 2022
For the first time under coach Brian Hanson, the West Greene football team will go into the season with a new look.
With loaded roster, special season could be in store for Mapletown
Long-time Mapletown coach George Messich has been coaching football for a little more than four decades, and it’s pretty safe to say he knows a good thing when he sees it.
Highlands quarterback goes from freaked-out freshman to record-breaking senior
August 18, 2022
A career that literally began by accident will end up rewriting the record book at Highlands.
New coach has talented team to work with at Highlands
August 14, 2022
Make no bones about it, Highlands is going to have a different look, feel and attitude under first-year head coach Matt Bonislawski.
Highlands baseball players benefit from early-season trip south
April 12, 2022
Hoagie sales, golf outings and the exhausting obligation of monthly fundraisers was all the Highlands baseball team needed to take its first trip south in program history.
New-look Leechburg softball still expects deep postseason run
March 19, 2022
For 30 years, it’s been lather, rinse, repeat for Leechburg softball.
Leechburg baseball team loaded with pitching, bursting with enthusiasm
Hard work, positivity and optimism. Spend any length of time with first-year Leechburg baseball coach Heath Shimer and it’s obvious a new era of Blue Devils baseball about to begin.
Burrell baseball team finds its feet in Class 4A
March 12, 2022
Going into last season and bumping up from Class 3A to Class 4A, the Burrell baseball team had no idea what to expect. Now, coach Mark Spohn has his Bucs ready to compete in one of the toughest sections in Class 4A, Section 1.
Avoiding injuries will be key for Burrell softball, which has small roster
If it seems like the Burrell softball team is filled with a lot of fresh faces this season, that’s because it is.
Kiski Area girls basketball ends season on high note
March 7, 2022
For the Kiski Area girls basketball team, all the pieces are in place. The only thing to do now is to continue to work, train and wait until next season.
St. Joseph boys hope to learn, develop after falling short of postseason
March 1, 2022
St. Joseph boys basketball coach Hart Coleman said he is going to attend WPIAL playoff games and recommends his players do the same.
After early struggles, Burrell girls showed improvement late in season
February 28, 2022
Untimely injuries, young players stepping into starting roles, tough calls late in games, buzzer beaters and losing streaks weren’t enough to break the will and determination of the 2021-22 Burrell girls basketball team. All these struggles did was build character and light a fire moving forward.
Highlands girls find rhythm, shake off West Mifflin in WPIAL Class 4A 1st round
February 22, 2022
It’s a difficult task to try to trace the history of the Highlands girls basketball team.
High-octane Highlands roars past Albert Gallatin in Class 5A first round
February 21, 2022
Backed by junior guard Jimmy Kunst’s 24 points and a 32-point second quarter, fifth-seeded Highlands made quick work of No. 12 Albert Gallatin, 76-44, in the first round of the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs Monday night.
Highlands girls basketball closes regular season by besting rival Deer Lakes
February 10, 2022
The plan for the Highlands girls basketball team entering its final regular-season game was simple: get back to basics, play defense and, above all else, get of the game healthy.
Springdale girls remain in hunt for postseason berth
The Springdale girls basketball team knows this feeling all too well. It’s the uneasy feeling knowing its playoff season already has begun weeks before the WPIAL postseason bracket has been released.
Young, small Freeport hockey team enjoying winning streak
February 8, 2022
This season seems to be more about the journey than the destination for the Freeport hockey team. Featuring a roster loaded with underclassmen, the Yellowjackets seem to peaking at just the right moment heading into the final month of the regular season.
Plum competitive spirit team ready for 1st trip to PIAA championships
January 28, 2022
Not many sports crown a champion after just 2 minutes, 30 seconds.
Brad Bestic ready to guide St. Joseph athletics in new role
December 6, 2021
St. Joseph has found its man to guide the athletic department. On Nov. 1, Brad Bestic was hired as the new St. Joseph athletic director and comes to the position ready to lead the school’s teams to the next level.
Springdale boys basketball expects winning ways to continue
December 4, 2021
Winning is contagious.
Springdale girls basketball team ready to make noise in playoffs
There’s an air of quiet confidence and cautious optimism that surrounds the Springdale girls basketball team, and there should be.
Strong 2nd half defines Freeport football season
November 29, 2021
It was gut-check time in the locker room following Freeport’s tough 14-3 loss to Class 2A No. 2-ranked Serra Catholic to round out the September schedule. The Yellowjackets had no sting. They were flat, and it showed.
Strong finish provides optimism for future of Burrell football
The Burrell football season changed in a flash — literally.
No. 2 North Catholic shuts out No. 3 Avonworth to advance to WPIAL Class 3A final
November 19, 2021
It wasn’t easy but North Catholic is back in the WPIAL championship game.
Highlands football season highlighted by early winning streak, late-season surge
November 15, 2021
When the No. 8-seeded Highlands Rams fell to No. 9 New Castle in the first round of the WPIAL Class 4A football playoffs, it might have marked a disappointing ending to the season. It also gave a glimpse into a promising future.
Pine-Richland shakes off slow start, beats Peters Township in Class 5A quarterfinals
November 12, 2021
With a sputtering offense, miscues on defense and his team trailing at halftime, Pine-Richland coach Steve Campos didn’t need to do much to inspire his team in the locker room, just a reminder was all that was needed.
After early playoff exit, Deer Lakes boys soccer team turns attention to next season
November 10, 2021
The ink wasn’t even dry on the 2021 season and a disappointed Deer Lakes boys soccer team was eager to dive right into offseason workouts.
Big plays from QB Hood lead New Castle past Highlands in Class 4A playoffs
November 5, 2021
New Castle senior quarterback Chris Hood led the Red Hurricanes on the field and through the air. Hood ran for 218 yards and threw two touchdown passes as No. 9 seed New Castle rolled into Golden Rams Stadium on Friday night and upset No. 8 Highlands, 31-19, in the first round of the WPIAL Class 4A playoffs.
Young Burrell boys soccer team made strides during ’21 season
November 2, 2021
The story of the 2021 Burrell boys soccer team could be summed up in one game: the Bucs’ 5-1 loss to No. 2-seeded Quaker Valley in the first round of the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs.
Highlands runs past Knoch in season finale
October 29, 2021
Knoch couldn’t stop the bleeding Friday at Golden Rams Stadium.
Highlands scores in bunches for homecoming win vs. Armstrong
October 15, 2021
The WPIAL postseason doesn’t begin for a few more weeks, but for the Highlands Golden Rams, the playoffs began Friday night.
Burrell spoils Deer Lakes homecoming with Allegheny Conference win
October 8, 2021
Trailing by three points, Burrell was facing a fourth-and-4 at the Deer Lakes 26-yard line.
Plum edges Highlands for conference victory
October 1, 2021
It was Military Appreciation night Friday at Highlands’ Golden Rams Stadium, night but Plum showed up for a car show.
Deer Lakes golfers make school history at section qualifiers
September 28, 2021
Deer Lakes golf coach Sam Sack knew almost immediately that this season could shape up to be a special one.
Deer Lakes makes lone TD count in win vs. Valley
September 24, 2021
It was a game that had more twists and turns than Crawford Run Road and offered more turnovers than a fall bake sale, but the Lancers pulled it off.
Team-first mentality helps Highlands football to 4-0 start
September 21, 2021
The Highlands football team fans cheer for on Friday nights isn’t the product of just a week’s worth of practice.
Second-half surge pushes undefeated Highlands past winless Mars
September 17, 2021
Highlands rolled into conference play Friday night undefeated, but some in the football world felt the Golden Rams hadn’t been challenged and had a soft 3-0 record.
Freeport golf team adjusting to facing Class 3A competition
September 15, 2021
It doesn’t take much to think back to the days when the Freeport golf team was a member of Class 2A. It was only two years ago.
Highlands easily dispatches rival Burrell
September 10, 2021
During pregame walk-throughs, Highlands coach Dom Girardi had a worried look about him. His Golden Rams were about to face a bruised and battered Burrell team. But that’s not what he was worried about. What concerned Girardi the most was the rivalry between the schools.
Victory at historic Oakmont Country Club boosts confidence for Burrell golfers
September 6, 2021
The Burrell boys golf team dropped anchor at Oakmont Country Club last week. Having lost three starters from last season and playing one of the top golf courses in the world, the Bucs arrived with more questions than answers going into their Section 1-2A match against rival Riverview.
Indiana grounds Burrell, sails to decisive victory
September 3, 2021
With 100 yards of plush two-tone green field turf surrounded by a bright cosmic blue track, Buccaneer Stadium’s new makeover gives the illusion the Burrell football team is playing on an island.
Senior-heavy Leechburg expects to take next step after .500 campaign
August 20, 2019
There was a ton of positive energy and momentum surrounding the Leechburg when last season wrapped up.
Steel Valley adjusts to new coach, shorthanded roster
August 19, 2019
Maroon and gold is the new blue and gold for new Steel Valley coach Ray Braszo as the long-time coach will once again walk the home sideline at Ironmen Stadium.
Leechburg searching for right combination at middle linebacker
August 18, 2019
The human heart has two ventricles. One side pumps blood into the lungs, and the other pumps blood into the aorta.
Woodland Hills focused on fast start to season
August 16, 2019
There’s an old saying among WPIAL coaches when it comes to playing Woodland Hills during the season: You never want to get the Wolverines late, you want them early.
Canon-McMillan must make up for loss of more than 20 graduates
August 15, 2019
Almost on a daily basis, Canon-Millan coach Mike Evans will get stopped by people and asked the big question.
Springdale girls soccer hopes new coach is a hit
July 29, 2019
A lot of hit songs have come out of Liverpool, England. Bands like the Beatles, A Flock of Seagulls and 1980’s sensation Rick Astley all claim the city as home.
Swim clubs offer valuable offseason training for high school standouts
July 20, 2019
WPIAL gold medals in swimming might be won in early March, but they are earned during the offseason.
Isaly’s summer-time tour big hit with junior golfers
July 12, 2019
From chipped-ham sandwiches to sand-wedge chips, the Isaly’s Junior Golf Tour has carved its niche on the Western Pennsylvania junior golf scene by attracting top talent and playing at some of area’s most prestigious courses.
Penn-Trafford’s Faith Anthony eager to play collegiate hockey at Franklin Pierce
July 5, 2019
The Franklin Pierce women’s hockey team hasn’t been around long. Just like every fledgling sports program, the Ravens took it on the chin the first few years but have built a winning program over the past seven seasons.
Greensburg Central Catholic’s Colbert puts offseason focus on fundamentals
July 2, 2019
It’s been nearly six months since Bret Colbert was hired to lead the Greensburg Central Catholic football team to its next era of gridiron glory.
Brotherly bond helps create special season for Franklin Regional baseball
June 14, 2019
The Franklin Regional baseball team found its inspiration when players showed up one day for practice, and a dead frog was in the dugout.
Penn-Trafford baseball reflects on historic season of success
June 8, 2019
Five years ago, Penn-Trafford baseball coach Dan Miller went through an interview process with the message that the Warriors were three to five years away from competing for a WPIAL title. Miller wasn’t lying.
After falling in PIAA 1st round, Knoch reflects on special softball season
June 5, 2019
A young team, a new head coach and more question marks than players, the 2019 Knoch softball team had no idea what was in store this season.
North Allegheny volleyball beats Bethel Park again, this time in PIAAs
June 4, 2019
It was a WPIAL finals rematch the Bethel Park boys volleyball team waited 12 days for and one WPIAL and defending PIAA champion North Allegheny knew was coming. It wasn’t if — the only question was where it would be held.
Knoch softball bows out of PIAAs with loss to Grove City
June 3, 2019
The Knoch softball team made its first trip into the PIAA softball playoffs Monday. The weather was near perfect, and the Knights’ confidence was at an all-time high as they looked to rebound from their semifinal loss and make a deep run in the state playoffs.
Late score lifts Team Different past Never Fear in NFBD all-star football game
June 2, 2019
Touchdown celebrations mandatory, 18-minute running clocks and a dee jay set up on the sidelines — it was all fun and football at Cupples Stadium in the South Side Sunday night.
Knoch softball embraces underdog role in PIAA playoffs
If there’s one softball team in the PIAA Class 4A bracket flying under the radar, it has to be Knoch.
Norwin softball team reflects on special season
May 31, 2019
The Norwin softball team belted out its last rendition of the school alma mater as the team bus climbed the steep hill to reach campus following the Knights’ WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal loss to North Allegheny.
Franklin Regional softball vows to be back in contention next season
Last Tuesday was a wild day. Torrential downpours, lightning and even tornado warnings all made the day much more unpredictable. Another thing that seemed a little off was the Franklin Regional softball team’s bus ride from the Murrysville campus to Seton Hill — the site of the WPIAL Class 5A third-place consolation game.
Knoch takes down Thomas Jefferson to reach PIAA Class 4A softball playoffs
May 28, 2019
There was plenty of weather swirling around Seton Hill’s softball field Tuesday afternoon. Spotty showers showed up for a few minutes, and a random lightning strike suspended play for 30 minutes.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Zach Allen, Deer Lakes’ Kiera Cutright
Zach Allen
Despite loss in WPIAL quarterfinals, Gateway baseball celebrates successful season
May 24, 2019
There are 20 baseball teams in WPIAL Class 5A, and if all but one those teams measured success by winning a championship, there wouldn’t be much to play for.
North Allegheny sweeps Bethel Park for 20th WPIAL Class AAA volleyball championship
May 23, 2019
Bethel Park marched into Fox Chapel gymnasium Thursday night feeling confident that after three cracks at North Allegheny in past Class AAA title games, the Black Hawks might come out victorious against the two-time defending WPIAL and reigning state champion Tigers.
Ambridge tops Seton LaSalle to win 10th WPIAL Class AA volleyball title
It’s tough to buck a trend when that trend is a 6-foot-6 outside hitter and sends high-speed laser-like kills across the net.
Valley’s Odrey hopes experience pays off at PIAA singles tournament
After two years, the list might be getting longer but the candy orders have been placed.
Blackhawk baseball advances to Class 4A final with walk-off win over New Castle
May 22, 2019
With the score tied at 3-3 and the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh inning, Blackhawk baseball coach Bob Amalia offered some words of advice to junior infielder Marco Borello before he left the dugout.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: Logan Parker and Kelli Galbraith
May 21, 2019
Logan Parker
Beaver shuts out No. 14 Highlands in Class 4A quarterfinals
May 20, 2019
Monday’s WPIAL playoff game won’t go down as one of the best games Highlands played this season, but the 2019 season will go down in the record books as the best season of the new millennium.
Freeport boys lacrosse going ‘crazy’ in WPIAL Class AA playoffs
May 19, 2019
The Freeport football team has had its share of success. The soccer and basketball programs are postseason regulars and not enough can be said about the girls volleyball team with its four WPIAL titles and 2017 state championship.
Ligonier Valley baseball looks to steal win against perennial power Mount Union
May 18, 2019
Success can be measured a number of different ways in baseball. Of course, there’s wins and losses. Batting average, RBIs and runs scored are others. The Ligonier Valley baseball team measures success 90 feet at a time.
Ligonier Valley softball energized after ‘long cold wait’ for this year’s playoffs
With laser-like focus and precision, the Ligonier Valley softball team did exactly what they set out to do in the Heritage Conference this season — beat everybody.
Plum baseball team misses playoffs for 1st time in 13 seasons
May 17, 2019
It was a matter of when, not if, and everyone knew it had to end some day. Nobody wanted it to happen on their watch. But for the first time in 13 seasons, the Plum baseball team did not show up in a WPIAL postseason bracket.
Alle-Kiski Valley Athletes of the Week: Highlands’ Zac Kuniak, Plum’s Jillian Durst
May 14, 2019
Zac Kuniak
Franklin Regional baseball expecting deeper playoff run this season
May 10, 2019
The road to Wild Things Park has been a short one for the Franklin Regional baseball team over the past few years. It’s not like the Panthers know some kind of special short cut. It’s all highway.
Penn-Trafford track and field uses county championships as WPIAL tune-up
May 9, 2019
The Penn-Trafford track and field team isn’t much of an invitational team.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Jack Henderson and Knoch’s Amanda Fischer
May 7, 2019
Jack HendersonGateway’s Adusepoku among WPIAL’s top sprinters
May 3, 2019
The annual Butler Invitational is known for having a deep and talented field of athletes, which is why it’s one of the most anticipated track and field events of the season.
A-K Valley high school athletes of the week: CJ Thimons and Marleen Meyer
April 30, 2019
CJ Thimons
Jane Garver channels inner ‘Eugene’ in leading Ligonier Valley softball to 12-0 record
April 29, 2019
Longtime Ligonier Valley softball coach Mark Zimmerman doesn’t randomly had out nicknames to his players — there’s a lot of though that goes into it.
No margin for error as Plum baseball seeks 13th straight playoff berth
April 26, 2019
It has been an up-and-down season for the Plum baseball team.
Norwin’s Walker ahead of schedule, key to Knights’ chances
Norwin baseball standout Jayden Walker readily admits he was nervous stepping up to the plate last season as a freshman starter, but the 6-foot-3, 220-pound slugger sure didn’t look it.
Greensburg Salem athletes to use familiarity to their advantage at WCCA championships
April 24, 2019
When the Greensburg Salem track and field team steps off the bus Saturday morning at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium to compete in the Westmoreland County Coaches’ Association track and field championships, the Golden Lions will be entering familiar territory.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Burrell’s Elizabeth Clark, Leechburg’s Cameron Curfman
April 23, 2019
Elizabeth Clark
New philosophy has Penn-Trafford baseball excelling at plate
April 19, 2019
In the lead up to the 2019 season, Penn-Trafford baseball coach Dan Miller was preparing for the worst and hoping for the best.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Deer Lakes’ Josh Probst, Leechburg’s Aubry Skeel
April 16, 2019
Josh Probst
Winless Plum boys volleyball team strives to reach potential
April 14, 2019
The Plum boys volleyball team held its annual invitational tournament Saturday. For a team that has yet to win a set in section play, the tourney acted as a midseason break, an opportunity to get out of section play and try new things against some of the WPIAL’s top teams.
‘Instant offense’ sparks Franklin Regional baseball to 6-1 start
April 9, 2019
There’s a new after-school work program for Franklin Regional high school students. Once the final bell rings and classes let out, 15 students head to the ball field and start swinging bats at the aluminum factory.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Ryan Rametta, Apollo-Ridge’s Kylee Wynn
Ryan Rametta
Thin Gateway track and field roster still boasts plenty of talent
April 5, 2019
When it was all said and done last season, longtime Gateway track and field coach Tom LaBuff felt good when he looked ahead to the 2019 season.
Franklin Regional track teams reload after heavy graduation losses
Most high school track and field programs would not only struggle to survive, but also struggle to compete if they were to lose a senior class of more than 20 athletes from the year before.
Young players bolster lineup for Latrobe girls lacrosse
April 4, 2019
It was a long and quiet bus ride back to campus from Sewickley Academy last May for the Latrobe girls lacrosse team. The Panthers handed Wildcats a 23-3 shellacking in the quarterfinals of the WPIAL Class AAA playoffs. Egos were bruised, and the Wildcats were humbled.
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Springdale’s Alexis Hrivnak, Freeport’s Jarrett Heilman
April 2, 2019
Jarrett Heilman
Beall having a ball for Franklin Regional softball
April 1, 2019
Franklin Regional softball standout Angalee Beall has never been one to show off. It’s not her style. The senior pitcher prefers to let her play do the talking.
Talented Norwin boys volleyball still playing like underdogs
March 29, 2019
The Norwin boys volleyball team is hoping to end the season the way it began, and there’s a good chance that could happen.
Johnson, Sharrow pace East girls to Cager Classic win
March 23, 2019
The West might be the best, but the beast is still the East.
Gateway boys tennis sets eyes on WPIAL playoff spot
It’s been nine seasons since the Gateway boys tennis team showed up in a WPIAL Class AAA postseason bracket and, for the Gators, that’s long enough.
Valley’s Carter sweeps Cager Classic skills competition
March 22, 2019
It was never a secret Valley senior Nyjewel Carter was one of the top shooters the Vikings had this season; now he can stake his claim as one of the top shooters in the Alle-Kiski Valley
Young Valley lineup looks to maintain momentum from trip to quarterfinals
Valley coach Jim Basilone trotted his Vikings off Washington & Jefferson’s Ross Memorial baseball field following a gut-wrenching, 6-5 loss to Brownsville in the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals and delivered his most important speech of the season.
Valley softball ready to take next step toward success
Nine years have passed since Valley won the WPIAL softball title; it’s been eight years since the Vikings made an incredible run through the state bracket and captured a PIAA Class AAA title.
Renewed optimism for Gateway boys volleyball team
Three new coaches in three seasons, temporary leadership and a lack of consistency took their toll on the Gateway boys volleyball program.
It will be mom vs. son as Petruskas face off in Cager Classic All-Star game
March 21, 2019
No one ever picked up an easy win around the Petruska household, and those who were lucky enough to do so know they earned it.
Vincentian Academy boys ready for PIAA finals matchup against Sankofa Freedom Academy
March 20, 2019
When the ball goes up in the air at Hershey’s Giant Center at 2 p.m. Thursday for the start of the PIAA Class A boys championship game, a team from the North Hills and the other from North Philly will add to the state’s already rich sports rivalry between East and West.
OLSH uses 3rd quarter surge to top Ridgway in PIAA quarterfinals
March 17, 2019
The Our Lady of the Scared Heart boys basketball team has been playing with emotion all season. The Chargers found themselves in a fast-paced, up-and-down the floor game against District 9 champ Ridgway, and it hit a fever pitch in the final seconds of the first half.
North Catholic routs Villa Marie, rolls into PIAA Class 4A semifinals
March 16, 2019
Even with all of its success, WPIAL Class 4A champion North Catholic girls basketball team has been in search of its most complete game of the season, and it seemed like a scare from Blackhawk on Wednesday in the PIAA second round did the trick.
Tough loss at WPIBL championships helped spark victory at regional for Norwin bowlers
March 15, 2019
One lousy pin. That’s how the Norwin boys bowling team ended its season last year, falling one pin short at the Western Regionals and being denied a spot in the state tournament.
Penn-Trafford girls bowlers show improvement with regional tournament victory
Every coach wishes for the best and wants his or her team to do well, but Penn-Trafford bowling coach Bud Cummins never thought his girls bowling team would wind up being one of the best in the state when the season started.
Plum boys lacrosse to field one of most talented teams in program history
After six years of being a varsity sport, dropping in WPIAL classification, getting a feeder program in place that is starting to churn out young talent, the Plum boys lacrosse team is finally poised to deliver a little payback and start winning some matches.
Monessen softball team takes aim at return trip to WPIAL final
To say the Monessen softball team still hasn’t moved on from last season’s heartbreaking loss to rival West Greene in the WPIAL Class A championship game is a gross understatement. The wounds from that game have turned into scars, but the fire in the bellies of the Greyhounds continues to rage.
Monessen baseball motivated by postseason defeats
Tough losses can do one of two things, divide a team or bring a team together.
Oakland Catholic girls edge rival Penn Hills in PIAA Class 5A 2nd round
March 13, 2019
No team wants to see a section rival in the postseason, but that’s what happened Wednesday night at Fox Chapel. Section 3-5A foes Oakland Catholic and Penn Hills laced them up one last time this season in a rubber match.
North Catholic girls rally past Blackhawk in PIAA Class 4A 2nd round
It wasn’t how North Catholic girls basketball coach Molly Rottmann drew it up, but she’ll take it.
For Penn-Trafford’s Coy, journey to Hershey is a trip down memory lane
March 8, 2019
It’s tough not to crack a smile and imagine the possibilities when someone rolls up for a road trip driving a shiny new black Chevy Suburban, but Penn-Trafford wrestler Nick Coy jumped in anyway.
Franklin Regional swim team basks in WPIAL meet success
At the start of the swim season, Franklin Regional coach Vic Santoro was wondering what kind of team he had.
Allderdice boys fall short against state’s top-ranked team in Class 6A, Kennedy Catholic
March 2, 2019
Allderdice boys basketball coach Buddy Valinsky gave his team a bit of a break this past week. Light practice is hardly the conventional wisdom going into a matchup against the No. 1-ranked Class 6A team in the state.
Top-seeded Neshannock girls defeat Shady Side Academy for 1st WPIAL title
Every team needs a little luck while making a championship run. Unfortunately, for Shady Side Academy, Neshannock’s luck came in the form of a late time out by the Indians.
Franklin Regional boys begin prep for PIAA basketball playoffs
Franklin Regional boys basketball coach Steve Scorpion felt a little conflicted last Tuesday night.
Past 2 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball champions Moon, Mars set to play for title
February 28, 2019
It’s the title game that will have astronomers’ eyes on Pitt’s Petersen Events Center and not up against a telescope pointed skyward.
Mayo, Shahan, Gardner take gold on 1st day of WPIAL swimming
Hempfield senior Gavin Mayo isn’t swimming for North Carolina yet. The All-American standout is still mining for WPIAL gold as he won the 50-yard freestyle Thursday afternoon at the WPIAL Class AAA swimming championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool
North Allegheny boys, girls in control after Day 1 of WPIAL Class AAA swimming championships
The North Allegheny boys and girls swim teams didn’t waste any time showing WPIAL opponents why there are the favorites to continue their domination of Class AAA.
Brashear boys look to dethrone 4-time defending City League champion Allderdice
February 22, 2019
When longtime rivals Allderdice and Brashear take to the court Saturday afternoon and play for the City League boys basketball championship, there will be no secrets or surprises, just straight-up basketball.
Allderdice girls ready to defend City League title against rival Obama Academy
When Allderdice third-year coach Ellen Guillard walks her team onto the hardwood floor of Pitt’s Petersen Events Center Saturday to face Obama Academy in the City League girls basketball championship game, things will have come full circle for her and the Dragons.
Deer Lakes girls pull away from Seton LaSalle in Class 3A 1st round
February 20, 2019
Western Pennsylvanians saw nearly every form of precipitation Wednesday: snow, ice, sleet and rain.
Mars girls persevere in 1st-round win over Woodland Hills
February 19, 2019
The postseason has a way of exposing both the good and bad in teams, and Tuesday night was no exception for Mars girls basketball.
A-K Valley Athletes of the Week: Leechburg’s Connor McDermott, Burrell’s Carlee Hummel
Connor McDermott
Franklin Regional’s Smith bowls pair of 300 games in 879 series
February 18, 2019
Alex Smith knows how to draw a crowd. The Franklin Regional High School junior and standout bowler figured out all he needs to do is roll strikes.
First-quarter run carries North Catholic over Valley in WPIAL 3A playoffs
February 16, 2019
Valley believed it a good chance knock off No. 3 seed North Catholic in the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs.
Leechburg boys pull away from Bishop Canevin after halftime
February 14, 2019
Leechburg boys basketball coach Corey Smith walked his team onto the floor after halftime, turned around, removed his charcoal gray sport coat and said, “I’m feeling it.”
Franklin Regional swim team enjoys surprise success
Longtime Franklin Regional swimming coach Vic Santoro was expecting this season to be a rebuilding year. Until it wasn’t.
North Allegheny shuts down Seneca Valley in Section 1-6A victory
January 11, 2019
It's never easy following up one of the top girls teams in the WPIAL but the North Allegheny boys basketball had no choice. The Tigers took the prime-time slot following the top-ranked girls blowout win over Butler Friday night at North Allegheny High School and didn't disappoint. Led by aPenn-Trafford bowlers looking to snap postseason drought
December 8, 2018
It's been a while since the Penn-Trafford bowling team has reached the postseason. To be exact, the girls have been absent since 2011 and the boys haven't graced a bracket since the debut of the iPhone. andquot;This has been a building process with this team,andquot; said Penn-Trafford coach Bud Cummins,Cheswick Christian Academy girls feature experience, potential
November 21, 2018
Getting banged up and bruised along the way are the necessary scars a team must accumulate during a championship run. The Cheswick Christian Academy girls basketball team limped into the 2017 Southwestern Christian Athletic Conference postseason with a young team, even younger bench, and down three starters to injury. It's
Gateway boys soccer looks forward to promising future
October 26, 2018
Car dealerships and all their 15- and 20-point inspection offers have nothing on the Gateway boys soccer. When second-year coach Bernie Stiles holds his season-ending performance review with his players, it's enough make a Consumer Reports evaluation look incomplete. andquot;We have 94-point performance evaluation,andquot; Stiles said. andquot;The objective for (the
Central Valley girls volleyball uses tough nonsection slate to prepare for playoffs
September 16, 2018
There's right around five weeks until the start of the WPIAL girls volleyball postseason, which leaves plenty of time for Central Valley girls volleyball coach
Franklin Regional baseball’s strong season stops short
June 1, 2018
There are 22 teams in WPIAL Class 5A baseball, and every one starts the season with the same goal: to win a championship. But only
A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Megan Andree, Leechburg’s Corey Kerecz
May 2, 2018
Megan Andree School: Kiski Area Class: Junior Sport: Softball Report card: Andree epitomized Kiski Area's perfect 3-0 week last week, capping the final week of
Waynesburg girls knock off top-seeded Freedom to earn WPIAL Class AA title
November 4, 2017
Leave it to a Raider to dethrone the defending WPIAL Class AA champions and bring to a halt an impressive 39-game WPIAL winning streak. Waynesburg
Plum football hopes to bounce back at Armstrong
September 25, 2017
Matt Morgan the football coach is superstitious. The 6-foot-6 Plum coach didn't say he was that way as a player, but he has begun to
Kiski Area girls soccer puts last year’s playoff loss behind them
August 26, 2017
The climb to the top is a brutal one and is often paved with tears and heartbreak. Last October's bus ride from Gibsonia following Kiski
