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December 7, 2017
ThisWeek’s 2017 Super 25 Football Team The Captain
Warriors’ Bangura shatters records By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKNEWS.COM
Coming off a record-setting junior season, Harvest Prep running back Daniel Bangura was determined not to rest on his laurels this fall. One of his main sources of motivation came after he was held to 84 yards rushing and one touchdown in a 48-7 loss to Warren John F. Kennedy in a 2016 Division VII state semifinal. “That last game I played as a junior, I don’t think I broke one tackle,” Bangura said. “I felt weak looking at the film. This year, coming into my senior season, I had made it a goal of mine to put on 10 pounds of muscle, so I hit the weights hard in the winter and went from 165 to 175. One of the biggest things I felt like I improved on in the offseason was strength. I felt like I broke a lot more tackles this year.” After becoming the first player in Ohio history to rush for more than 4,000 yards in a season, as he finished with 4,128 last fall while also setting state records for total touchdowns (57), rushing touchdowns (54) and points (348), Bangura had another spectacular year to become Harvest Prep’s first Super 25 captain. He rushed for 3,401 yards and 45 touchdowns on 278 carries, had 14 receptions for 264 yards and five scores and even completed 14 of 23 passes for 59 yards and two touchdowns. He also added 11 two-point conversion runs. Bangura is Ohio’s all-time leader in rushing yards (9,650) and ranks first in career touchdowns (133) and rushing touchdowns (124). He also is 12th on the national career rushing list. The 5-foot-9, 175-pounder holds offers from Kent State, Limestone, Ohio University, Findlay and Urbana. “The numbers were electric last year, but let me tell you for anyone to do what he’s done for two to three years, nobody would believe what he does in the offseason,” said coach Milan Smith, whose squad finished 9-2. “There’s his diet regimen, and you’re talking about a kid who chooses to keep his mind clean. He’s matured off the field.” julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek
DAEVON ANDERSON Anderson was one of the area’s top wide receivers for the second consecutive season, helping Hilliard Bradley finish a program-best 11-1. The 6-3, 180-pound senior had 65 catches for 1,242 yards and 13 touchdowns and was named first-team all-state and alldistrict in Division I and was the OCC-Cardinal Offensive Player of the Year. Anderson, who has yet to make a college decision, owns the program’s career records for receptions (142), yards receiving (2,312) and touchdown receptions (28). The Jaguars won their second consecutive OCC-Cardinal championship. “Daevon is one of the most athletic kids that I have ever coached,” coach Mike LoParo said. “He leaves the school owning all of the receiving marks and he should excel at the next level.”
GREY BRANCIFORT A starter at linebacker since early in his sophomore season, this 6-1, 215-pound senior is Pickerington Central’s all-time leader in tackles. Brancifort had more than 120 tackles, including double figures in tackles for loss, through 13 games. He had an interception in the Tigers’ 42-31 victory over Hilliard Bradley in a Division I, Region 3 semifinal Nov. 10. Brancifort, who was named third-team all-state, first-team alldistrict on defense and first-team all-OCC-Ohio Division, also has seen playing time at running back, rushing for 62 yards. Central finished 14-1 after defeating Mentor 56-28 in the state final Nov. 24. “He’s our all-time leader in tackles and one of our top instinctive defenders to ever play,” coach Jay Sharrett said.
RAYMELL BYRD This 6-0, 166-pound junior quarterback was the catalyst of Whitehall’s offense. Byrd rushed for 1,628 yards and 24 touchdowns on 227 carries and completed 70 of 153 passes for 1,131 yards with 14 touchdowns and four interceptions and was named third team all-state, first-team all-district and all-MSL-Ohio. The Rams, who averaged 30.5 points, lost to New Albany 42-35 in the first round of the Division II, Region 7 playoffs to finish 7-4. Whitehall went 4-1 in the MSL-Ohio to share the league championship with Columbus Academy and London. “Raymell being selected to the Super 25 is a testament to his tremendous athletic and leadership abilities,” coach Rod Lightfoot said.“It’s a joy coaching a young man who elevates the play of those around him and takes pride in putting team first.”
SAVON EDWARDS This 5-8, 155-pound junior running back and cornerback did more than his share on both sides of the ball for Eastmoor Academy, which went 6-4. Edwards rushed for 1,171 yards and 17 touchdowns on 138 carries and had 21 receptions for 460 yards and nine scores. He also converted seven twopoint conversions and returned two kickoffs and one punt for scores. Edwards, who was named second-team all-state, first-team alldistrict and all-City League-South, had 45 tackles, 16 pass breakups and two interceptions on defense. “He only averaged 14 carries, so talk about production. He had an ability to make big plays,” coach Jim Miranda said. “People tried to challenge him (on defense) because of his height, and it’s hard to deny his production.”
JUSTUS HARRIS One of the biggest improvements Gahanna made this season was in its running game, where this 5-10, 185-pound junior led the way with 1,016 yards and 19 touchdowns. Harris also had 32 catches for 383 yards and two touchdowns and also returned a kickoff for a touchdown for the Lions, who finished 7-5. Harris, who had 87 yards and four touchdowns on 16 carries, four catches for 112 yards and three kickoff returns for 152 yards and one score in a 49-36 win over Lancaster on Oct. 13, was third-team all-state, first-team all-district and all-OCC-Ohio. He also played in the secondary, recording 8.5 tackles against Liberty. “He’s had a great year,” coach Bruce Ward said.“He’s caught (the ball) well, runs well, returns kicks and gets a tackle or two.”
ZACH HARRISON This 6-6, 245-pound junior for Olentangy Orange has become one of the top defensive linemen in the state. Harrison, who is rated by several recruiting experts as the state’s top player in the 2019 recruiting class, had 34 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. At tight end, he had nine catches for 173 yards and four touchdowns. Harrison was named first-team all-state, all-district and all-OCCBuckeye for the Pioneers, who finished 9-2. “Zach’s numbers are good, but the effect that he has on opposing offenses in terms of game-planning is immeasurable,” coach Zebb Schroeder said. “Teams always have to keep track of him, and that allows his teammates to get in position to make plays.”
XAVIER HENDERSON This 6-2, 195-pound senior defensive back for Pickerington Central was named Division I state co-Defensive Player of the Year and also earned the district honor for the second consecutive season. Henderson, a Michigan State commit, had more than 60 tackles and four interceptions, including one that he returned for a touchdown, through 13 games. As a wide receiver, Henderson had 10 catches for 229 yards and two touchdowns and had rushed 25 times for 160 yards and two scores. In addition, he had seven kickoff returns for 185 yards and a touchdown. “(He’s) the most diverse player we have had in years,” coach Jay Sharrett said. “We’re fortunate that he has been a four-year starter and leader in our program.”
GRIFFIN HOAK Hoak was a defensive standout for Dublin Coffman, which finished 8-3 after losing to Olentangy 28-24 in the opening round of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs Nov. 3. The 6-1, 226-pound senior linebacker had a team-high 97 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, one fumble recovery and one blocked kick. A Youngstown State commit, Hoak was named first-team all-state, all-district and shared OCC-Central Player of the Year honors with three other players. The Shamrocks went 5-0 in the OCC-Central to win their first league championship since 2014. “Griffin played our field linebacker position and he was put in position to make plays,” coach Mark Crabtree said. “He is arguably one of the best linebackers we’ve had at Coffman in my (17-year) tenure as coach. He has great instincts, speed and play-making ability.”
BRYCE HOUSTON This 6-0, 212-pound senior was a force at linebacker for Olentangy Orange. Houston had a team-high 56 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, four forced fumbles and five pass breakups, but missed the final two games, including the Pioneers’ playoff loss to Gahanna, after suffering a right knee injury in a 25-24 loss to Olentangy Liberty on Oct. 20. The Ohio University commit was named third-team all-state, firstteam all-district in Division I and OCC-Buckeye co-Defensive Player of the Year, sharing the honor with Olentangy lineman Jacob Slade. “It’s evident what Bryce can do on the field, but he also watches a lot of film and meets with coaches to get an edge,” coach Zebb Schroeder said. “He’s a physical player who enjoys the sheer force and contact of the game.”
KHALIL JONES This 5-9, 160-pound senior did a little of everything for Thomas Worthington, which was 4-6 for its best record since going 5-5 in 2009. “Khalil was our primary playmaker,” coach Matt Zingery said.“His ability to learn our new offensive system quickly allowed him to play receiver, running back and quarterback in every game. His passion and energy made him a leader and his upbeat personality off the field matched his competitiveness on it.” Jones was named first-team all-state and all-district in Division I as a wide receiver and made first-team all-OCC-Cardinal after totaling 1,573 all-purpose yards and 16 touchdowns in nine games. He had 49 receptions for 753 yards and 10 touchdowns, 288 yards and five scores on 59 carries and 532 combined yards and a touchdown on 27 kickoff and punt returns.
CADE KACHERSKI This 6-3, 190-pound senior excelled at linebacker and on special teams for Dublin Jerome. Kacherski, who also saw action as a receiver, had 65 tackles, four sacks and eight blocked kicks and was second-team all-state, firstteam all-district and all-OCC-Cardinal. Kacherski blocked an extra-point attempt late in the Celtics’ 2827 win over Watterson on Oct. 20.The win helped Jerome reach the Division I, Region 2 playoffs, where it lost at Olentangy Liberty 350 in the first round Nov. 3 to finish 7-4. “Cade’s defensive presence and intensity helped set the tone for the entire team while setting others up for success due to many teams game-planning away from him,” coach Bob Gecewich said. “His penchant for blocking kicks put us in a position to win no less than three tight games and served as a catalyst for the team.”
JAMES LACHEY Lachey played all over the field for Grandview, which finished 5-5. The 6-4, 235-pound senior started the season at tight end and defensive end but also played running back and quarterback. A Bowling Green commit, Lachey led the Bobcats with 762 yards rushing and 14 touchdowns on 123 carries, had 10 catches for 209 yards and one score and was 6-for-11 passing for 162 yards with a touchdown and an interception. On defense, he had 80 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, seven sacks and one interception and was named Division VI state and district Defensive Player of the Year and first-team all-MSL-Ohio. “What James did this season was amazing, moving around the field wherever we needed him,” coach Jason Peters said.“He’s one of those special kind of athletes who can do a lot of things.”
DAVEONN LOGAN This 6-1, 180-pound senior quarterback was named Division II district Offensive Player of the Year and helped lead Mifflin to the playoffs for the first time since 2002. Logan, who also was second-team all-state, followed a junior season in which he threw for 1,820 yards and 25 touchdowns by completing 136 of 215 passes for 2,852 yards and 32 scores this season. He also rushed for 344 yards and eight touchdowns on 67 carries. The Punchers lost to Ashland 48-47 in overtime in the first round of the Division II, Region 7 playoffs to finish 8-3. They went 5-1 in the City-North to share the title with Beechcroft and Northland. According to coach Anthony Thornton, three traits – leadership, football IQ and talent – helped Logan succeed. “His season was phenomenal,” Thornton said.
HERMAN MOULTRIE This 5-11, 185-pound senior running back led Columbus Academy to its second consecutive Division V playoff berth. Moultrie rushed for 1,194 yards and 14 touchdowns on 214 carries and added 428 yards receiving and four touchdown receptions and was named third-team all-state, first-team all-district and all-MSL-Ohio. Moultrie also was a defensive back for the Vikings, who lost to Wheelersburg 35-16 in a Region 19 semifinal Nov. 10 to finish 9-3 overall and went 4-1 in the MSL-Ohio to share the league title with Whitehall and London. “Herman was a dynamic weapon for us,” coach Robin Miller said. “He helped us in the run game, the return game and really evolved into a key part of our passing game. He’s a heady football player with not only a high IQ but also tremendous instincts.”
K.J. PRICE One of the Central District’s feel-good stories this season was London, which followed a 3-7 finish in 2016 by earning a share of the MSL-Ohio title and qualifying for the Division IV, Region 16 playoffs. A big part of that success was this 5-10, 175-pound junior running back, who was named MSL-Ohio Back of the Year and district Offensive Player of the Year as well as first-team all-state. In the regular season, Price rushed for 2,364 yards and 25 touchdowns on 243 carries and totaled 2,724 yards. Seventh-seeded London lost to second-seeded Cincinnati Wyoming 10-7 in the first round of the playoffs Nov. 3 to finish 8-3. It was the Red Raiders’ first playoff appearance since 1999. “We all just put in the work,” Price said. “I was able to play the whole season after last year I ended up getting hurt.”
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ThisWeek Community News | Sports Awards 2017
December 7, 2017
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ThisWeek’s 2017 Super 25 Football Team ABOUT THE PLAYERS – ThisWeek’s Super 25 team profiles the top high school football players – regardless of position – in our coverage area. The team was determined by the sports staff and by nominations from area coaches.
Super 12 PLAYER Daevon Anderson Daniel Bangura Grey Brancifort Raymell Byrd Savon Edwards Justus Harris Zach Harrison Xavier Henderson Griffin Hoak Bryce Houston Khalil Jones Cade Kacherski James Lachey Daveonn Logan Herman Moultrie K.J. Price Elijah Ratliff Allen Smith Josh Stewart Maximus Stienecker Demontae Taylor Ty Van Fossen Jimmy Weirick Thomas Wilson Johnny Wiseman
TEAM Hilliard Bradley Harvest Prep Pickerington Central Whitehall Eastmoor Academy Gahanna Olentangy Orange Pickerington Central Dublin Coffman Olentangy Orange Thomas Worthington Dublin Jerome Grandview Mifflin Columbus Academy London Reynoldsburg Westerville Central Hilliard Bradley Hartley Independence DeSales Pickerington North Worthington Kilbourne Olentangy Liberty
YR. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr.
POS. WR RB/DB/KR/PR LB/RB QB RB/DB/KR/PR RB/DB/KR DL/TE DB/WR/KR LB LB WR/RB/KR/PR LB/WR DL/TE/RB/QB QB RB/DB RB DL/OL RB QB LB/OL RB/DB/KR/PR LB/TE/FB QB LB/P DB/WR
2016: Aaron Latiolais, Heath; 2015: Deeb Haber, Olentangy; 2014: Gunnar Hoak, Dublin Coffman; 2013: Jared Drake, Westerville Central; 2012: Ja'Wuan Woodley, Hartley; 2011: Ross Franklin, Johnstown; 2010: Jayshon Jackson,Westerville South; 2009: Matt Ferguson, Pickerington North; 2008: Josh Kusan, DeSales; 2007: Jeremy Ebert, Hilliard Darby; 2006: Kasey Wendal, Westland; 2005: Jordan Gafford, Worthington Kilbourne; 2004: Christen Haywood, Hilliard Davidson; 2003: Jack Rafferty, Coffman; 2002: Brady Quinn, Coffman; 2001: Erick Phillips, Davidson; 2000: Maurice Hall, Brookhaven; 1999: Nathan Poole, Grove City; 1998: Kyle Slager, Upper Arlington; 1997: Jesse Kline, Upper Arlington; 1996: Derek Combs, Grove City; 1995: Nick Goings, Dublin Scioto, and Andy Katzenmoyer,Westerville South; 1994: Goings, Dublin; 1993: Steve Baird, Hilliard.
Although Reynoldsburg went 7-3 and fell one spot short of a Division I, Region 3 playoff berth, this 6-3, 270-pound senior lineman did his part to help the Raiders stay in postseason contention all season. Ratliff, a Marshall commit, finished with 90 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss at defensive tackle and was named first-team all-state, all-district and all-OCC-Ohio. A three-year starter on defense, Ratliff also saw action as an offensive guard for the Raiders, who averaged 24.4 points this season. He had 47 tackles and 3.5 sacks a year ago while making second-team all-league. “Elijah had a really good season at defensive tackle for us,” coach Buddy White said. “He’s such a great kid, such a committed young man. I’m going to miss that kid.”
Despite being just 5-9, 185 pounds, this senior excelled on both sides of the ball for Hartley and was named Division III district Defensive Player of the Year as well as firstteam all-state. A linebacker, Stienecker had 103 tackles and 14.5 tackles for loss through 12 games for the Hawks, who lost to fifth-seeded Dresden Tri-Valley 13-9 in the Region 11 final Nov. 17 to finish 11-2. Hartley had won the Division IV state title the past two seasons. Stienecker also was a starter on the offensive line. “It’s about technique,” coach Brad Burchfield said.“It’s about how much you’re willing to care about your team. He’s very athletic and very tough and those are the two biggest things you need to have. He’s a great player.”
ELIJAH RATLIFF
ALLEN SMITH This 5-10, 175-pound senior running back for Westerville Central rushed for 1,368 yards and 13 touchdowns on 210 carries and caught 15 passes for 142 yards and a score. Smith, who had a season-high 276 yards and five touchdowns in a 42-35 win over Westerville South on Oct. 19, was honorable mention all-state, firstteam all-district in Division I and all-OCC-Buckeye as the Warhawks finished 4-6.The five touchdowns against South tied the Warhawks’ single-game record, which was set three other times. Smith ran for 209 yards and two scores in a 21-12 win over Westerville North on Oct. 6. “Allen is a running back that displays vision, quickness and power,” coach John Magistro said. “Throw in a great receiver, also, and you have a complete, great running back.”
JOSH STEWART Hilliard Bradley had a major void to fill at quarterback following the graduation of Will Phillis, the program leader in career yards passing and career touchdown passes who now plays at Kent State. In stepped Stewart, a transfer from Worthington Kilbourne. The 6-2, 210-pound senior completed 166 of 249 passes for a program-record 2,515 yards with 27 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He also rushed for 512 yards and nine touchdowns. Stewart was second-team all-state, first-team all-district in Division I and all-OCC-Cardinal as Bradley was 11-1 overall and 6-0 in the league. “Coming in and filling the shoes of Will Phillis couldn’t have been easy,” coach Mike LoParo said. “Josh stepped right into that role and helped take us to a new level.”
Harvest Prep senior Daniel Bangura addresses the crowd after being named Super 25 captain on Nov. 28 during the ThisWeek Sports Awards banquet. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK
Past Captains
MAXIMUS STIENECKER
DEMONTAE TAYLOR After seeing limited action a year ago, this 5-11, 185-pound senior for Independence blossomed into a standout running back. Taylor rushed for 2,503 yards and 20 touchdowns on 288 carries, had 11 receptions for 228 yards and two scores and had five twopoint conversions and was named Division III district Offensive Player of the Year and first-team all-state. He also had 107 yards and a touchdown on punt returns and 287 yards on kickoff returns, and as a defensive back, had two interceptions and one pass deflection. The 76ers finished 10-2, won the City-South title and reached a Region 11 semifinal in their first playoff appearance since 2008. “He’s done some stellar things,” coach Maurice Douglas said.“We knew he’d be good coming into camp. It was just a matter of how good, and he’s continued to stay humble.”
TY VAN FOSSEN This 6-2, 210-pound senior excelled the last two seasons at linebacker for DeSales. The Stallions reached a Division III state semifinal a year ago but finished 6-4 and missed the playoffs this season. Van Fossen, a Cincinnati commit, finished with 95 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, two sacks, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and one interception and was named first-team all-state and all-district. Van Fossen also saw extensive action at tight end and fullback on offense. “Ty is very physical,” coach Ryan Wiggins said. “He’s violent. The same way he lifts weights, the same way he practices is how he plays the game. You mix that with being quick and athletic and he makes a great linebacker.”
PLAYER Donta Ashcraft Sam Backenstoe Bryce Barasch Anthony Baum Alexander Blackmon Cannon Blauser Joe Boggs Robert Cope Jacob Cover Luke Crabtree Darren Davis Devin Dukes Jeremy Erickson Keon Freeman Jaelen Gill Brandon Haley Will King Dante Landolfi Jake Lewis Cody Little Mike Lowery Dorrian Moultrie Isaiah Mullens Eli Myers John Paolo Zaire Porter Tyler Potts Jacob Slade Zach Slade Justin Vance Gavin Waters Mike White Ty Wiley Mike Williams Jeremiah Wood
TEAM Hilliard Darby Hilliard Davidson Johnstown Ready Hartley Hilliard Bradley Reynoldsburg Dublin Jerome Hilliard Darby Dublin Coffman Canal Winchester Grove City Dublin Scioto Whitehall Westerville South Granville New Albany Upper Arlington Licking Valley Franklin Heights Gahanna Columbus Academy Harvest Prep Big Walnut Olentangy Liberty Marion-Franklin Pickerington North Olentangy Olentangy Walnut Ridge Licking Heights Columbus West Pickerington North Northland Pickerington Central
YR. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr.
POS. DL OL/DL RB OL/DL LB/RB LB OL RB/DB OL LB LB RB LB LB RB/DB RB DL/TE LB QB QB QB WR/LB DL/TE DL LB WR/DB DB DL/OL DL/RB LB/TE LB RB WR WR/DB DB/RB
JIMMY WEIRICK After being named OCC-Ohio co-Player of the Year as a junior, this 5-11, 180-pound senior quarterback for Pickerington North became a more effective runner this season. Weirick completed 161 of 320 passes for 2,526 yards with 32 touchdowns and was North’s leading rusher with 1,083 yards and 12 scores on 136 carries. Weirick again shared league Player of the Year honors this season and also was named Division I state and district Offensive Player of the Year for the Panthers, who lost to Pickerington Central 31-14 in the Region 3 final Nov. 17 to finish 10-3. “I’m just impressed with his mental toughness, physical abilities and his athleticism to make plays,” coach Nate Hillerich said. “He can kind of do everything. He has the ability to make checks at the line of scrimmage and can get us in the right place.”
THOMAS WILSON This 5-9, 200-pound senior linebacker for Worthington Kilbourne set a single-game program record with 25 tackles in a 17-3 loss to Hilliard Darby on Oct. 6, a week after making 21 tackles in a 34-21 loss to Dublin Scioto. Wilson also set program records for tackles in a season (146) and career (448), solo tackles in a season (72) and career (165) and career sacks (15). He averaged 40.4 yards on 54 punts, placing 29 inside the 20, and was named first-team allstate and was the district Defensive Player of the Year in Division II and first-team all-OCC-Cardinal on defense and as a punter. “Thomas plays like his hair is on fire,” coach Vince Trombetti said. “He is one of the physically toughest kids that I have ever coached. He plays with total disregard for his own body and even less for those he is trying to tackle.”
JOHNNY WISEMAN Speed and athleticism were among the biggest traits Wiseman has shown the last two seasons for Olentangy Liberty. Versatility, though, is what made this 5-11, 180-pound senior free safety and receiver stand out. Through 13 games,Wiseman had six interceptions, six pass breakups, 48 tackles, three sacks and one forced fumble on defense and 33 receptions for 460 yards and six touchdowns and 146 yards rushing on offense. Wiseman was second-team all-state, first-team all-district on defense and co-Offensive Player of the Year in the OCC-Buckeye as Liberty finished 11-3. “He’s just a great athlete with a ton of skills, and is just a really good player,” coach Steve Hale said.
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Jaguars enjoyed finest season By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKNEWS.COM
A dynamic offense and a stingy defense helped the Hilliard Bradley High School football team finish the regular season unbeaten and earn the program’s first playoff victory. The Jaguars recorded their most wins in a season and won their second consecutive OCC-Cardinal Division title. They also were ThisWeek’s Super 7 poll champion. In the Division I, Region 3 playoffs, second-seeded Bradley defeated seventhseeded Kettering Fairmont 49-14 before losing to third-seeded Pickerington Central 42-31 to finish 11-1 overall. Bradley was fifth in the final state poll behind top-ranked Cleveland St. Ignatius. “We had a great season thanks to our players and our assistant coaches,” said coach Mike LoParo, who was ThisWeek’s Coach of the Year. “They all did a great job of getting us ready to play, especially defensive coordinator Mike Picetti, offensive coordinator Mike Owens and offensive line coach Mike Walker. Having assistants like them has to improve how we do everything.” Bradley went 6-0 in the OCC-Cardinal and averaged 38.9 points per game and surrendered 13.2. Senior quarterback Josh Stewart completed 166 of 249 passes for 2,515 yards with 27 touchdowns and 10 interceptions and rushed for 512 yards and nine touchdowns on 110 carries. His primary receivers were seniors Daevon Anderson (65 receptions, 1,242 yards, 13 touchdowns) and Kory Taylor (55 catches, 911 yards, 9 touchdowns). Junior running backs Grant Buehl (120 carries, 647 yards, 10 touchdowns) and Jack Richards (111 carries, 582 yards, 10 touchdowns) led a potent rushing attack. The defense was led by junior linebacker Cannon Blauser (121 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks) and senior linebacker Adam McCardle (98 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries). “This didn’t happen overnight. It’s been building for several years after having some 5-5 and 6-4 seasons,” LoParo said. “In those years, a foundation was being created in the weight room and in the culture of the program.” shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen
ThisWeek Community News | Sports Awards 2017
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December 7, 2017
ThisWeek’s 2017 Super 12 Boys Soccer Team The Captain
Kiley at best in crunch time for Shamrocks
By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKNEWS.COM
Luke Kiley was one of the Dublin Coffman High School boys soccer team’s most dynamic scorers and creators throughout his four seasons with the program. That was never more evident than when it was most important. “You can’t replace a Luke,” coach Brian Stoddard said. “He’s got a bright future. As great as Luke is, he has another level in the postseason. He has a different focus level. His work rate comes up. It allows us to do even more because he gets so much attention. It frees up space for other guys.” The senior forward, who has been named ThisWeek’s Super 12 captain, has been recognized at multiple levels for his abilities. The OCC-Central Division and Division I district Player of the Year, Kiley also was named Ohio Mr. Soccer after a season in which he scored 24 goals and helped the Shamrocks reach a state semifinal for the first time. Kiley, who also had 11 assists during the regular season, will continue his playing career at Georgetown University. “It was a great honor to get (Mr. Soccer) knowing how hard it is and the great players who have gotten it in the past,” Kiley said. “It means a lot knowing my hard work and dedication is being recognized. I feel like I can always keep working on my attitude and work rate before I get to Georgetown.” The Shamrocks have won seven consecutive district titles and went a combined 66-11-8 with Kiley as a key player, including 19-2-2 this fall when they also won their second consecutive league title. On Nov. 4, Kiley scored his final two prep goals as Coffman beat Dublin Jerome 5-0 in a regional final. The Shamrocks lost to Beavercreek 1-0 in two overtimes Nov. 8 in a state semifinal. “My senior year went very well,” Kiley said. “I didn’t score as many goals as I wanted to, but we were the winningest team in Coffman history. I feel like I got better as a leader being a captain of the team.” julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek
MAX BRENNAN This junior midfielder helped lead Marysville to a Division I district final, which the Monarchs lost to Hilliard Darby 1-0 to finish 112-5 overall. Brennan had 16 goals and 10 assists and was named first-team all-district and allleague and second-team all-state. He scored a season-high three goals in a 9-0 win over Urbana on Oct. 3. “Max is a bright and (funny) individual who never fails to pick his team up when they need him,” assistant coach Joey Dougherty said. “This season, (Brennan) and Matthew Walters dominated the field and spread havoc amongst the opposing defenders. Max has always been a brilliant player on the field and an even better person off.”
CHRIS DOWLING With this senior leading the way, Dublin Jerome won its third consecutive OCC-Cardinal and Division I district titles. Dowling was part of a midfield corps that was the Celtics’ biggest strength this season.A first-team all-state, all-district and allleague selection, he finished with 10 goals and 10 assists as the Celtics finished 14-2-5 overall and 5-0-1 in the league. He had one goal as the Celtics beat Westerville South 4-2 on Nov. 1 in a regional semifinal. They ended up as regional runners-up. “Chris is not necessarily going to be the crazy speed demon, but he’s the type of guy everybody wants,” coach Nate Maust said. “He’s the glue.”
EMEKA ENELI Although he was new to Dublin Coffman, this senior midfielder who previously played for Crew SC Academy fit in immediately. Eneli, who has committed to Cornell, scored 23 goals and earned first-team all-district and all-league and second-team all-state honors as Coffman stretched its district-title streak to seven. The Shamrocks went 19-2-2 overall and 4-0-1 in the OCC-Central to win their second consecutive league title. “A lot of people don’t know, don’t understand the quality (player) he is,” coach Brian Stoddard said. “He comes alive in tight spaces, he understands how to move off the ball and he’s got a great personality about it. ... and he’s just a class act.”
JASON FLEISCHMAN This senior forward had 11 goals and five assists to help Hilliard Darby post a 10-5-6 record. Fleischman, a first-team all-league and second-team all-district honoree, scored the program’s biggest goal to date during a 1-0 win over Marysville on Oct. 28 to give the Panthers their first district title. They lost to Dublin Coffman 5-1 on Nov. 1 in a Division I regional semifinal. “Jason is an extremely hard-working player,” coach Kyle Reichle said.“He is relentless on the field and creates opportunities for himself and the team by not giving up on a play. He set the tone and the rest of the team followed. That’s the kind of leader he is.”
CRISTIAN GOMEZ Gomez, a junior midfielder at DeSales, recorded 16 goals and 10 assists to help the Stallions to their third Division II state championship in four years and seventh overall. Gomez has started each of the team’s 68 games since his freshman season. He was first-team all-district and all-league and second-team all-state as DeSales went 22-0-1 overall and 4-0 in the CCL. “Cristian has demonstrated the ability to identify the opponent’s weakness and change tactical play on the field during the match to exploit that to our advantage,” assistant coach Ben Brooks said. “Cristian’s soccer IQ is off the charts with his technical skills (being) just as impressive.”
HECTOR GOMEZ Gomez, a senior midfielder at DeSales, ended a stellar prep career by assisting on three goals in a 4-0 win over Bay Village Bay in the Division II state final Nov. 11. Gomez, who was limited in the last four games by a high left ankle sprain but played more than 57 minutes in the final, had 24 goals and 20 assists and
was named state Player of the Year. He was first-team all-state for the second consecutive year. This season, DeSales went 22-0-1 overall and 4-0 in the CCL. “Hector’s technical skills and vision make him a danger from anywhere on the field,” assistant coach Ben Brooks said.“The bigger the game and opponent, the better Hector performs.”
About the players... ThisWeek’s Super 12 team profiles the top high school boys soccer players – regardless of position – in our coverage area. The team was determined by the sports staff and by nominations from area coaches.
MALANI LUNGU Lungu helped Westerville South win its first district title since 1993, as the Wildcats upset top-seeded Olentangy Liberty 2-1 in a shootout Oct. 28. The senior midfielder finished the season with six goals and six assists. He was named first-team all-district and all-OCC-Buckeye and second-team allstate. South lost to Dublin Jerome 4-2 in a Division I regional semifinal Nov. 1 to finish 11-5-4. “Malani has a special way of impacting the game and those around him in a positive way,” coach Wynleux Henderson said.“I’ve had the pleasure of coaching Malani the past two years and we’ve put a lot of weight on his shoulders to carry his team, and he’s always stepped up to the occasion.”
COLIN MCCORT Olentangy Liberty’s breakout season was tied heavily to this senior midfielder who will continue his soccer career at Bowling Green. McCort had 16 goals and eight assists as Liberty spent most of the regular season ranked first in the Division I state poll. Liberty went 9-4-4 a year ago but improved to 14-2-2 this season, winning the OCC-Buckeye at 4-0-1 and receiving the top seed for the district tournament.The Patriots lost to Westerville South 21 in a shootout in a district final Oct. 28. “Our success was predicated on what he did offensively,” coach Marc D’Auteuil said. “What we saw every day was his leadership and work rate and the intangibles you need from a senior captain.”
BRENNAN NINCEHELSER Nincehelser, a junior defender at Pickerington North, anchored a lockdown defense and added four goals as the Panthers won their second consecutive OCC-Ohio title. Nincehelser was league Player of the Year, first-team all-district and second-team allstate as North went 12-4-2 overall and 5-0 in the OCC-Ohio, losing to Olentangy 1-0 in a Division I district semifinal Oct. 25. The Panthers recorded 10 shutouts, tying a regular-season record, and after a 3-0 loss to Dublin Coffman on Sept. 5 did not give up a goal in seven consecutive games until a 1-all tie at Bexley on Oct. 7. “Brennan is always hard-working and extremely supportive of his teammates,” coach Darrin Monhollen said.
WES RYAN Ryan, a senior forward, helped lead Grandview to its fourth consecutive Division III district championship and its second regional title in four seasons.The second-ranked Bobcats finished 17-1-4 overall, losing to topranked and eventual champion Cincinnati Summit Country Day 3-2 on Nov. 8 in a state semifinal. Ryan was named first-team all-state, district Player of the Year and first-team all-league. He scored 36 goals and had 15 assists. “Wes is without a doubt the leader of the group,” coach James Gerdes said. “His work rate and his passion for soccer is contagious across the team. He has a passion for the sport and its tactics and strives to be better.”
IAN SMITH Smith made the transition from defender to midfielder and helped St. Charles finish 13-3-2 overall, losing to Hilliard Darby 2-1 in a Division I district semifinal Oct. 25. The senior had seven goals and seven assists and was named second-team allstate and first-team all-district and all-league. The Cardinals were second (3-1) in the CCL behind DeSales (4-0). “Ian defines St. Charles soccer in discipline, sacrifice and intensity,” coach Chris Vonau said. “He is truly a selfless player, always thinking about his role within the system rather than personal gratification or accomplishments. He will be sorely missed for his talents on and off the field.” Smith, who has not made a college selection, had five goals and one assist last season as the Cardinals were state runners-up.
Dublin Coffman senior forward Luke Kiley was named captain of the Super 12 boys soccer team Nov. 28 at the ThisWeek Sports Awards banquet. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK
Super 12 PLAYER Max Brennan Chris Dowling Emeka Eneli Jason Fleischman Cristian Gomez Hector Gomez Luke Kiley Malani Lungu Colin McCort Brennan Nincehelser Wes Ryan Ian Smith
TEAM Marysville Dublin Jerome Dublin Coffman Hilliard Darby DeSales DeSales Dublin Coffman Westerville South Olentangy Liberty Pickerington North Grandview St. Charles
YR. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr.
POS. M M M F M M F M M D F M
Honorable Mention PLAYER Brad Biehl Ryan Birgeneau Noah Boffo Jacob Borcila Wes Collins Manny Day Will Isaac Brody Kannally Ryan Kayalar Zach Lantzy Mason McCoy Nick Miller Jack Ostrowski Carter Patchett James Powers Jacob Roberts Len Sasaki Kyle Smith
TEAM YR. POS. Wellington Sr. F Granville Sr. F New Albany Jr. F Westerville Central Jr. G Olentangy Liberty Sr. D Grandview Jr. F Grove City Jr. F Delaware Sr. M Hilliard Bradley Sr. F Grove City Christian Sr. M Canal Winchester Sr. M Olentangy Sr. M Columbus Academy Sr. M Dublin Jerome Sr. M/F Bexley Sr. M Worthington Kilbourne Sr. M Thomas Worthington Sr. D Worthington Christian Sr. D
Past Captains St. Charles' Kristo Strickler (2016); Dublin Jerome's Ian Black (2015); Olentangy Liberty's Donny Deep (2014) and Sam DeRoy (2012); Dublin Coffman's Ben Kinney (2013); Worthington Christian's Brett Elder (2011); Gahanna Lincoln's Wil Trapp (2009-10) and Michael Lavric (2006); Worthington Kilbourne's Matt Wiet (2008), Jeff Rusch (2004), Chris Wolever (2001), Danny O'Rourke (2000) and Matt Salmon (1997); Hilliard Davidson's Colby Catlett (2007); Big Walnut's Braden Fleak (2005); Westerville North's Jeff Lenix (2003); Reynoldsburg's Tony Labudovski (2002) and Thomas Worthington's Troy Perkins (1999) and Andy Rutledge (1998).
GOLF
FOOTBALL
ICE HOCKEY
LACROSSE
ALL HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS.
VOLLEYBALL
CROSS COUNTRY
SOCCER
BASKETBALL TENNIS FIELD HOCKEY GYMNASTICS SWIMMING & DIVING
SOFTBALL ALL THE TIME. TRACK & FIELD BASEBALL
BOWLING
WRESTLING
ThisWeek Community News | Sports Awards 2017
December 7, 2017
Page 5
ThisWeek’s 2017 Super 12 Girls Soccer Team The Captain
Panthers’ Donley makes big splash By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKNEWS.COM Alicia Donley’s bloodlines might have dictated that she become a championship swimmer, but one comment a decade ago – not to mention an overly energetic twin brother – steered her toward soccer. “My twin brother, Andrew, when he was young, he had so much energy and sometimes he would beat me up,” said Donley, a junior forward at Pickerington High School North and ThisWeek’s Super 12 girls captain. “My parents were looking for a sport he could use as an outlet and he picked soccer, and I’d only do it if he played with me. After one of my games, somebody came up and said, ‘There’s the next Mia Hamm.’ I was maybe 7 or 8. “My mother asked me if I knew who (Hamm) was. I found out pretty quickly (she was a 17-year U.S. national team player). She’s my soccer idol now.” This year, Donley had 23 goals and 11 assists to lead the Panthers to OCCOhio Division and Division I district titles. North went 17-2-1 overall and 40-1 in the league. North lost to Dublin Jerome 4-3 in overtime in a regional semifinal. “Alicia is so unselfish,” coach Greg Van Kannel said. “She has a great sense of getting to the right place not only for herself but to set up her teammates.” Donley’s mother, Columbus School for Girls swimming coach Stephanie Donley, won 100-yard breaststroke state titles at Pickerington in 1985 and 1987 and was a seven-time national champion at Florida. Donley’s older sister, 2017 CSG graduate Miranda Donley, was an eight-time state swimming champion who now is at North Carolina State. Donley was part of the Unicorns’ state title 200 free relay in 2016, and in track helped the 1,600-meter relay to a state title as a freshman. Her decision to transfer to North involved her desire to graduate early next year, an option not available at CSG. She has committed to Tennessee. “Everything I accomplished this year was because of my coaches and teammates,” said Donley, who was district Player of the Year and first-team all-state. dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave
LYDIA CORNELIUS This junior midfielder for New Albany recorded 18 goals and 18 assists for an Eagles team that had only one regular-season loss and came within a win of a second consecutive OCC-Capital championship. Cornelius, a University of Chicago commit, was first-team all-league and all-district and second-team all-state after helping lead New Albany finish 10-2-6 and 3-0-2 in the league. “She is an outstanding player and did a tremendous job for the team by doing everything the coaching staff asked of her,” coach Jared Dombrowski said. “When you watch her play, her soccer IQ (is) very apparent in the way she sees the space around her and makes her teammates around her better.”
BLAIR COWAN This senior midfielder for Hilliard Darby had 13 goals and 17 assists to help the Panthers finish 13-4-2 and win their second Division I district championship. Cowan, an Ohio State commit, was firstteam all-district and all-OCC-Cardinal and second-team all-state. She finished her career with 43 goals and 51 assists, earning all-state honors three times. “Blair is a tremendously gifted athlete with a strong analytical mind,” coach Dan Brady said. “She processes things so quickly and, with two or three defenders marking her consistently, made the right decisions for the team.”
KATIE COX Led by this junior midfielder, Granville finished 14-4-2 and was the Division II district runner-up. Cox was named district Player of the Year and first-team all-state after finishing with 21 goals and 16 assists. She had also was district Player of the Year last season when she had 19 goals and 17 assists. “(She’s) the driving force of our team (and) the glue between our attack and defense,” coach Scott Forster said. “She is the most relentless and resilient player I’ve ever been around. She was amazing last year and was far better this year. She improved her aerial game as well as her goal-scoring ability. She can dictate the tempo of the game by her superior soccer IQ.”
DELANEY EARL This senior forward for Olentangy Orange was named second-team all-state for the third consecutive season. Earl had 14 goals and five assists for the Pioneers, who reached a Division I district final for the first time since 2012 but lost to Olentangy Liberty 3-1 on Oct. 28 to finish 11-7-1. She also was named first-team all-district and OCC-Buckeye Player of the Year, helping the Pioneers win the league title. “Delaney was a true difference-maker on the field,” coach Tim Lawrence said. “Her ability to create opportunities around the goal was top notch and our attack went directly through her. She also brought strong leadership.”
KAYLEE HENSLEY Last year’s Super 12 captain had another spectacular season. After allowing just three goals during the regular season and leading Gahanna to a regional runner-up finish in 2016, the senior goalkeeper gave up only six goals in the regular season this year and nine overall. The Lions lost to Hilliard Darby 3-2 in a Division I district final Oct. 28 to finish 12-2-4. Hensley, a University of Charleston commit, was named firstteam all-state, all-district and all-OCC-Ohio. “She had 13 shutouts and we only gave up six goals (during the regular) season,” coach Bob McGee said. “Two of the goals she gave up were on (penalty kicks).”
MAKENZIE KELLY The senior forward for Pickerington North had 18 goals and eight assists to help the Panthers to their third consecutive Division I district championship and the 11th in the program’s 15 seasons. Kelly was named first-team all-league and second-team all-district. North finished 17-2-1 overall and 4-0-1
to win the OCC-Ohio. Kelly, who finished her career with 50 goals and 18 assists, has committed to Ashland University. “Every year, she got better and better,” coach Greg Van Kannel said.“I liked her assist production this year; that definitely increased our goal (output). She knows where to be and how to finish. It’s not always easy to find that combination.”
About the players... ThisWeek’s Super 12 team profiles the top high school girls soccer players – regardless of position – in our coverage area. The team was determined by the sports staff and by nominations from area coaches.
EMMA PADGETT After helping Big Walnut win its first Division II district title a year ago, this senior forward was among the biggest reasons the Golden Eagles had an even longer postseason run this year. Big Walnut beat New Philadelphia 8-0 on Nov. 4 to capture its first regional title. The Golden Eagles lost to eventual champion Cincinnati Indian Hill 4-0 in a state semifinal Nov. 7 to finish 16-3-4. Padgett finished with 15 goals and was second-team all-state and first-team all-district and all-OCC-Capital. “Emma is an outstanding competitor,” coach Drew Pitzer said. “Not only is she a great forward, but she’s also stepped in and played sweeper when we needed her to, along with outside midfielder and center midfielder.”
MORGAN REEB The senior defender for Canal Winchester was a linchpin for arguably the best team in program history. A third-year starter, Reeb helped the Indians post seven shutouts as they finished 135-1 overall and went 4-0-1 in the OCC-Capital to capture their first league title since joining the conference. Canal Winchester also was a Division I district runner-up. “Morgan is a lockdown defender with great vision and distribution ability,” coach Alex Wentz said. “Over the past two years, her skill and soccer IQ have led us to a combined 26-7-4 record. She added a goal and two assists this season, but stats can’t capture her importance to our team.”
EMMA SEARS Dublin Jerome has won at least a share of seven consecutive league titles, and this junior forward has played a big role in the continuation of that streak. After making the Super 12 a year ago,Sears had 13 goals this season and, according to coach Kelly Brothers, led the team in assists. Sears was first-team all-state and all-district and OCC-Cardinal Player of the Year, as Jerome finished 15-4-2 and was a Division I regional runner-up. “Emma has been an asset to our varsity team since her freshman year,” Brothers said. “Her technical skills on the ball are second to none and she’s, of course, always had great speed.This year, she really improved in her ability to work off of the ball and create space and opportunities for her teammates.”
OLIVIA SENSKY Led by this senior defender, Olentangy Liberty put together its second run to a Division I state semifinal in three seasons. The Patriots posted shutouts in five of their final six regular-season games and posted three more shutouts in the postseason, including a 2-0 win over Dublin Jerome in a regional final Nov. 4. Sensky, an Ohio University commit, also was second on the team in assists with eight as the Patriots finished 13-6-3. “Olivia is a very talented athlete and her work rate is incredible,” coach Kristen McMahon said. “She has amazing vision and game awareness. Olivia has been a driving force on our team this year as a leader and organizer in the center back.”
IZZIE VACCARI Dublin Coffman had a bounce-back season after winning just four games in 2016, and the senior goalie was a key reason why. Vaccari, who has committed to Fairmont State, was named second-team all-state and all-district and first-team all-OCC-Central as Coffman won the league title and finished 12-2-4 overall. Vaccari recorded 11 shutouts, with three coming in scoreless ties. She allowed just nine goals all season. “She’s always been solid,” coach Costa Kalorides said earlier in the season. “She played great for us last year, so it’s been no real surprise. She’s made some big saves. We’ve been able to play some of the better teams in the area.”
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Pickerington North junior Alicia Donley displays her awards after being named the Super 12 captain Nov. 28 at the ThisWeek Sports Awards banquet. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK
Super 12 PLAYER Lydia Cornelius Blair Cowan Katie Cox Alicia Donley Delaney Earl Kaylee Hensley Makenzie Kelly Emma Padgett Morgan Reeb Emma Sears Olivia Sensky Izzie Vaccari
TEAM New Albany Hilliard Darby Granville Pickerington North Olentangy Orange Gahanna Pickerington North Big Walnut Canal Winchester Dublin Jerome Olentangy Liberty Dublin Coffman
YR. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr.
POS. M M M F F G F F D F D G
YR. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr.
POS. F F D D D F F M F F F M/F F F M/F M G F
Honorable Mention PLAYER Rachel Butler Abby Davies Anna Dobies Madison Hansen Erin Hartig Maddy James Molly Morgan Kayla Primm Olivia Rotolo Rose Sawyers McKenna Schaefer Apsara Som Grace Todd Abby Townsend Sonia Vargas Gabbi Viggiano Anna Weigand Jakaysha Williams
TEAM Dublin Jerome Newark Grandview Gahanna Grove City Grandview Upper Arlington Olentangy Watterson Granville Dublin Coffman Columbus Academy Worthington Christian Olentangy Liberty Hilliard Davidson Hilliard Bradley Marysville Wellington
Past Captains Gahanna Lincoln’s Kaylee Hensley (2016); Grandview Heights’ Haley Rees (2015); Olentangy Liberty’s Emma Ranalli (2014); Dublin Coffman’s Sam Edwards (2012, 2013) and Kelly Quinn (2003, 2004); Dublin Jerome’s Lindsay Agnew (2011); Upper Arlington’s Michela Paradiso (2008, 2009 and 2010); Pickerington North’s Tahnai Annis (2006, 2007) and Molly Cornwell (2005); Bexley’s Megan Brake (2002); DeSales’ Ashley Schillig (2001), Tesia Kozlowski (1999, 2000) and Mindy Hammond (1997) and Thomas Worthington’s Ashley Swinehart (1998)
ThisWeek Community News | Sports Awards 2017
Page 6
December 7, 2017
ThisWeek’s 2017 Fall Athletes of the Year
Fall’s best provided many shining moments From staff reports
Here are ThisWeek’s Athletes of the Year for the fall season:
Cassie Alcala GIRLS TENNIS The Pickerington North sophomore further solidified her place in program history – despite being only halfway through her high school career – when she finished second in singles in the Division I state tournament held Oct. 20 and 21 at Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason. Alcala, who as a freshman was the Panthers’ first state qualifier and this year was their first district champion, lost to Rocky River Magnificat’s Anna Roggenburk 6-0, 6-0 in the state final to finish 25-3 for the second consecutive season. Alcala’s other losses came against Division II singles champion Nicole Gillinov of Shaker Heights Hathaway Brown (6-2, 6-1 on Aug. 18) and Centennial’s Zoey Weil (6-2, 6-1 in a sectional final Oct. 7). Weil finished third in singles in Division I. “Cassie is a battler on the court. She fights for every point and never gives up no matter how the match is going,” coach Brian Hoff said. “This year, Cassie worked hard on having a more positive attitude. Cassie can be very tough on herself. (She) wants to win every point, and when she losses a point, she could be negative at times. But she was much better this year at putting the bad points behind her and moving on.” HONORABLE MENTION Claire Ghidotti, Watterson, Sr.; Kathleen Jones, Olentangy, Sr.; Sydni Ratliff, Columbus Academy, Fr.; Zoey Weil, Centennial, Jr. PAST CAPTAINS Zoey Weil, Centennial (2016); Ellee Bullock, Dublin Jerome (2014-15); Lauren Ghidotti,Watterson (2013); Rachael Morales, Hartley (2012)
Sarah Charley FIELD HOCKEY This junior attacker helped lead Thomas Worthington to its third consecutive state championship. Already possessing a dominating defense, the Cardinals unleashed a more potent offense this season. Led by Charley, who plays on the right wing, Thomas outscored its opponents 117-6 on the season, including its five postseason opponents 32-1. Charley totaled 28 goals and 24 assists for the Cardinals, who finished 21-0 overall after beating Columbus Academy 1-0 in the state final Nov. 4 at Upper Arlington and went 70 in the Central Ohio Field
Hockey League-West Division. Last season, Thomas outscored its opponents 79-9 and finished 18-3. Charley, who scored three goals in a 7-1 victory over Cincinnati Mount Notre Dame in a state semifinal Nov. 3, has 67 goals and 50 assists for her career. “Sarah has tremendous speed and is a very dynamic player,” coach Terri Simonetti Frost said. “She can beat anyone one-on-one and has great touches on the ball. She is very confident with her stick skills and works extremely well with other attackers. “Sarah is one of four allOhio players on our team and helped us become more explosive on offense. She is aggressive and has excellent vision.” Thomas’ Sarah Charley and her coach Terri Simonetti Frost were named the field hockey Athlete of the Year and Coach of HONORABLE MENTION the Year during the ThisWeek Sports Awards banquet. Emma Brown, Olentangy, Sr., F; Mollie McCormack, Olentangy Liberty, Sr., JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK M; Isabelle Perese, Thomas Worthington, Jr., G; Kiersten Thomassey, Columbus Academy, So., M PAST CAPTAINS Isabelle Perese, Thomas Worthington (2016); Hana Sinno,Thomas Worthington (2015); Grace Geiger, Columbus Academy (2014); Nina Devin, Thomas Worthington (2013); Courtney Deena, Columbus Academy (2012)
Jack King BOYS WATER POLO The senior helped lead Thomas Worthington to its first state title since 2004 and third over-
all. King flourished in what essentially was a point-guard role in the Cardinals’ all-senior starting lineup. “Jack was our point guard in the pool and just set things up on offense and was spectacular on defense,” coach Rick Yurich said. “If there was such an award, he would’ve been the MVP in the (state) championship (match).” Thomas defeated St. Charles 15-13 in overtime in the state final Oct. 28 at Mason. King had eight steals in the final and defended St. Charles’ top scorer. He scored nine goals and made 19 steals as Thomas went 3-0 in the state tournament to finish the season 329. On the season, King had 86 goals and 39 assists and won 88 swim-offs. “Jack had an outstanding senior season, winning spots on the Ohio Cup first team, the all-state first team and the allstate tournament first team, and was the Ohio Field Player of the Year,” Yurich said. “He was a captain and he became (the program’s) all-time steals record holder with 138. “Depending on the game, Jack might score six or seven goals, or he might attach him-
self to the other team’s best through the Liberty program. player and take him out of the If a round didn’t end to his likgame.” ing, he would be motivated even more to spend the time HONORABLE MENTION practicing to fix the issue.” Michael Gutman, St. Charles, Sr. PAST CAPTAINS Drew Wilson, Upper Arlington (2016); Alex Rabe, Upper Arlington (2015); Brady Roesch, Thomas Worthington (2014); Andrew Hoffman, St. Charles (2013); Thomas Trace, Upper Arlington (2012)
Trey Rath BOYS GOLF With this senior leading the way, the Olentangy Liberty boys golf team finished as Division I state runner-up. Rath, who has committed to Xavier University, tied for second in the state tournament held Oct. 20 and 21 at Ohio State’s Scarlet Course with a 147. “Experience is a great asset of Trey’s game,” coach Ryan Snivley said. “He has great course-management skills and the mental toughness to not let a bad shot throw him off.” Rath averaged 74.5 in the four-round OCC-Buckeye Division tournament to finish second and then tied for second (75) in a sectional Oct. 3 at Turnberry. In the district tournament Oct. 10 at Apple Valley, Rath tied Central Crossing’s Caleb Davern for first but earned medalist honors by winning a playoff. Rath finished seventh to earn second-team all-state honors as a sophomore. As a junior, he lost in a playoff at district for the final state berth. “Trey was successful throughout his career because of his passion for the game and his drive to be a winner,” Snivley said. “He’s the hardestworking kid I’ve had come
HONORABLE MENTION Caleb Davern, Central Crossing, Jr.; Blake Solomon, Dublin Jerome, Sr.; Troy Taylor,Westerville South, Sr.; Trent Tipton, Hartley, Jr. PAST CAPTAINS Evan Yakubov, St. Charles (2016); Cameron Karmia, Bexley (2015); Eddie O’Brien, St. Charles (2014); Nick Sparling, Dublin Coffman (2012-13)
Matt Scrape BOYS CROSS COUNTRY The Pickerington Central senior capped a record-setting career with his third Division I state meet appearance. The Syracuse University commit placed third (15 minutes, 20.9 seconds) of 183 runners in the meet Nov. 4 at National Trail Raceway. Scrape, who placed second at state as a junior and 22nd as a sophomore, set the school record of 14:59.54 in the district 2 meet Oct. 21 at Watkins Memorial. That bettered the previous record of 15:07.9, which he set last year. Scrape also won the OCCOhio, district 2 and regional titles. Last spring in the state track and field meet, he placed second in the 3,200 meters and helped the 3,200 relay to a 14th-place finish. He entered the season without a college offer but committed to Syracuse in October, choosing the Orange over Georgetown and Wisconsin. “Matt is humble as an elite athlete,” coach Andy Fischer said. “He knows that he is good (and) aware that he is improving as an athlete. … He loves running and has goals that motivate him to a higher level.
As a coach, I have had other athletes that were just as talented or athletes that were just as motivated, but he is the only one so far to have both qualities in high levels at the same time.”
HONORABLE MENTION Cesar Arellano, Dublin Scioto, Sr.; Lucas Bons, Dublin Coffman, Sr.; Arjun Jha, Thomas Worthington, Sr.; Andy Payne, Thomas Worthington, Sr. PAST CAPTAINS Hunter Moore, Olentangy Orange (2016); Andrew Jordan,Watkins Memorial (2015); Dennis Maloney, New Albany (2014); Toby Hardwick, Newark (2013); Jacob Brumford, Westerville North (2012)
Kendra Sheehan GIRLS WATER POLO The Upper Arlington senior scored 99 goals and added 65 steals and 32 assists as the Golden Bears went 19-9 and finished as state runners-up. Sheehan, who was named first-team all-state and has committed to swim at Ohio University, had 79 goals as a junior to help UA win the state championship. This season, the Bears lost to Napoleon 10-9 in the state final Oct. 21 at Cincinnati Princeton. In swimming, Sheehan is a three-time individual Division I state qualifier and helped UA’s 200-yard medley relay set a state-record time of 1:41.88 last season. She also finished eighth in both the 100 backstroke and 100 freestyle last year. “Kendra is the model athlete from a coach’s perspective,” coach Dan Peterkoski said. “She works hard, responds to criticism and works on correcting her mistakes. … At this year’s banquet, I pointed to her and told her teammates that she is the model of how to be successful in our program. We have a lot of success with getting kids to work hard. Kendra just did it better than most. “This year, she was able to take a step from simply working hard to implementing that work into game situations. That’s why she was much more dominant as a senior.” HONORABLE MENTION Elaine Miller, Thomas Worthington, Sr. PAST CAPTAINS Julie Trace, Upper Arlington (2016); Chloe Magyari, Upper Arlington (2015); Gracie Long, Upper Arlington (2014); Betsy Trace, Upper Arlington (2012-13)
Madison Spiess GIRLS GOLF The New Albany freshman recorded seven rounds in the 60s this season and became the Eagles’ first state qualifier. Spiess averaged 36.15 strokes per nine holes and 72.11
in 18-hole play. She set the program record of 67 in her first tournament, the Olentangy Invitational on Aug. 11 at Oakhaven, and matched it twice. She also won or shared medalist honors 12 times. Spiess shot a 142 in the tworound Division I state tournament held Oct. 20 and 21 at Ohio State’s Gray Course, including a 67 in the final round, to place third of 72 golfers. She shot a 73 in a sectional Oct. 3 at Westchester and carded a 72 in the district tournament Oct. 10 at Cooks Creek. New Albany finished second at sectional and fifth at district. “Madison’s performance was exceptional,” coach Rich Ritter said. “It is also more than worth noting that while Madison’s scoring and results were impressive and valuable to the team, her contributions to the (program) are greater than that. At all times, she exemplified our team’s core values of respect for teammates and competitors, conducted herself at all times with a high sense of honor and demonstrated mental toughness through persistence no matter the difficulties.”
HONORABLE MENTION Ashley Au, Olentangy Orange, Jr.; Kayla Davis, Gahanna, Jr.; Riley Dean, Olentangy Orange, Jr.; Taby Robinson, Dublin Jerome, Sr. PAST CAPTAINS Ashley Au, Olentangy Orange (2016); Liza Weisman, Bexley (2015); Lexie Long, Dublin Coffman (2014); Erin Harper, Watterson (2013); Lexie Toth, Dublin Jerome (2012)
Gracie Sprankle GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY Olentangy Liberty junior Gracie Sprankle finished third overall of 339 runners and was first among Ohio runners in the Nike Midwest Regional on Nov. 12 in Terra Haute, Indiana, in 17:36.1. That performance came eight days after she placed fourth (17:35.2) of 173 runners in the Division I state meet at National Trail Raceway. She was the top finisher among central Ohio runners. Her best, according to coach Darrell Dewese, may be still to come. “I knew she was going to have a better season this fall than she did as a sophomore,” Dewese said. “I didn’t really know how good it would be until we got into the season. The times she was running during our intervals were better than anything I’d ever seen. I
ATHLETES >> 6
ThisWeek Community News | Sports Awards 2017
December 7, 2017
Page 7
ThisWeek’s 2017 Fall Coaches of the Year
Coaches put in spotlight for successful seasons From staff reports
For the first time, ThisWeek is honoring a Coach of the Year for each of the 12 fall sports. Here are the fall’s top coaches.
Ken Berlin DUBLIN SCIOTO GIRLS TENNIS Although none of its singles or doubles p l a y e r s advanced to the OHSAA Division I state tournament, Dublin Jerome’s depth prevailed through most of the OTCA state team tournament. Balancing a mixture of seniors such as Vicki Chang, who was not with the team as a junior, along with sophomore newcomer Katherine Wang and talented freshmen like Arya Dudipala, Berlin guided the Celtics to a runner-up finish in the OTCA state team tournament. Two of the players who competed for the Celtics in their 31 loss to Mason in the state final match Oct. 22 at Reynoldsburg were not in the team’s lineup for the OHSAA postseason. Jerome finished 17-2 and won the OCC-Cardinal title.
Cari DeAngelis OLENTANGY ORANGE GIRLS GOLF After guiding Orange to its first state title in 2016, DeAngelis helped the Pioneers defend their Division I title this season. Orange shot a 602 at state Oct. 20 and 21 at Ohio State’s Gray Course to finish 10 strokes ahead of runner-up Centerville. The Pioneers set state tournament records for lowest tworound score and lowest round (297 in the second round). Junior Ashley Au tied for sixth at state with a 145 to lead the Pioneers. Juniors Riley Dean and Natalia Sompolvorachai tied for 15th (152) and senior Alyssa Kim tied for 20th (153). Orange also won OCCBuckeye, sectional and district championships.
Darrell Dewese
OLENTANGY LIBERTY GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY With two of his runners finishing in the top 10 in the Division I state meet Nov. 4, Dewese directed Liberty to a third-place finish (172). Led by junior Gracie Sprankle and senior Emma Bower, the Patriots also earned OCCBuckeye and Division I district championships. After finishing third (90) at regional Oct. 28 behind Granville (63) and Davidson (81), the Patriots beat both teams at state as just 1 minute, 3.7 seconds separated their third and Bradley coach Mike LoParo presents a Super 25 award to fifth runners. Jaguars wide receiver Daevon Anderson during the ThisWeek Dewese led Liberty to a state Sports Awards banquet Nov. 28. LoParo was named football runner-up finish in 2015. Coach of the Year. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK
James Gerdes GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS BOYS SOCCER In just his second season heading the program, Gerdes guided Grandview to its second state tournament appearance, with the other coming in 2014. The Bobcats lost to eventual Division III champion Cincinnati Summit Country Day 3-2 in a state semifinal Nov. 8 to finish 17-1-4. They outscored their first five postseason opponents 30-1 and averaged 4.8 goals on the season as senior Wes Ryan (36 goals, 15 assists) and junior Manny Day (28 goals, 21 assists) led the offense. In two seasons under Gerdes, Grandview has gone 30-6-9.
Mike LoParo HILLIARD BRADLEY FOOTBALL Despite losing one of the top players in the state last season to graduation, the Bradley football team put together the first perfect regular season in its nineyear history this fall. The architect of the program is LoParo. With senior newcomer Josh
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vacations or go anywhere. “Her work ethic is incrediwasn’t the only one that ble. She carried that work ethic noticed.” and determination into the seaSprankle will compete in the son.” Nike Cross Nationals on Dec. HONORABLE MENTION 2 in Portland, Oregon. She won OCC-Buckeye, dis- Emma Bower, Olentangy Liberty, Sr. ; trict and regional champi- Allison Guagenti, Olentangy Orange, Sophie Lewis, Hilliard Davidson, onships and has run faster than Jr.; Jr.; Danielle Santos, Hilliard Darby, So. 18 minutes six times this fall. “It started with the confi- PAST CAPTAINS India Johnson, Hilliard Davidson (2015dence she gained last spring in 16); Claire Wiles, Olentangy Liberty track,” Dewese said. “She (2014); Julia Rizk, Columbus Academy trained incredibly hard this (2013); Leah Wallace, Reynoldsburg summer. She didn’t really take (2012)
Drew Pitzer Stewart taking over at quarterback in place of 2017 graduate BIG WALNUT and 2016 Division I state OffenGIRLS SOCCER sive Player of the Year Will Two seaPhillis, the Jaguars finished 11sons before 1, won their second consecuPitzer took tive OCC-Cardinal Division over as coach, title and reached a Region 3 semifinal. A strong stable of Big Walnut receivers that included senior won just four Daevon Anderson also helped games. Bradley finish first in the final In his fifth season this fall, ThisWeek Super 7 poll. he guided the Golden Eagles to their first state tournament. Dan Peterkoski Big Walnut lost to eventual Division II state champion UPPER ARLINGTON Cincinnati Indian Hill 4-0 in a GIRLS WATER POLO state semifinal Nov. 4 to finish Although 16-3-4. UA came up The Golden Eagles outscored just short of its their first six postseason oppofourth consec- nents 37-1, including beating utive state New Philadelphia 8-0 in a championship, regional final Nov. 4 for their the Golden first regional championship. Bears finished 19-9 and reached Big Walnut won its first disthe state final under Peterkoski. trict title in 2016. UA, which has won six state Pat Schlecht titles in the last eight seasons and 16 overall, was seeded secHILLIARD DAVIDSON ond in the state tournament and BOYS CROSS COUNTRY lost to top-seeded Napoleon 10Schlecht guided Davidson to 9 in the state final Oct. 21 at a Division I state runner-up finCincinnati Princeton. The Bears opened state with ish this season after the Wilda 10-6 win over the Columbus cats finished ninth at state in Hawks club team and beat the 2016. Cincinnati-based Mavericks Led by senior Andrew Tighe, club team 13-12 in overtime to Davidson scored 143 points to reach the state final. place behind Hudson (73) in
Riley Wagoner GIRLS VOLLEYBALL The latest in a long line of great players to come through Dublin Coffman’s program is this 6-foot junior outside hitter, who was named first-team all-state and district Player of the Year in Division I. Wagoner also was named OCC-Central Player of the
Year after helping the Shamrocks win their 11th consecutive league championship and extend their winning streak in league play to 135 matches. A University of Hawaii commit, Wagoner led the OCC-Central in kills with 456, led the Shamrocks in serves received with 375 and was second on the team in digs (300), hitting percentage (.383), serving aces (38) and blocks (18). Coffman finished 25-3 and reached a state semifinal, where it lost to eventual champion
the state meet Nov. 4 at National Trail Raceway. Tighe, who also helped the Wildcats earn a state runner-up finish as a freshman in 2014, placed 21st in 16 minutes, 2.9 seconds. Davidson won regional, district and OCC-Central titles this season. At regional Oct. 28 at Pickerington North, the Wildcats scored 91 points to finish ahead of runner-up Thomas Worthington (115).
Terri Simonetti Frost THOMAS WORTHINGTON FIELD HOCKEY Thomas has won five state titles under Simonetti Frost, including its third in a row this season. The Cardinals, who have won six state titles overall, beat 10-time state champion Columbus Academy 1-0 in the state final Nov. 4 at Upper Arlington to finish 21-0 overall. Thomas outscored its opponents 117-6 on the season, including its five postseason opponents 32-1. The Cardinals also beat Academy 2-1 on Sept. 9 and went 7-0 to win the Central Ohio Field Hockey League-West Division title.
Mary Anne Souder
Ursuline Academy 25-21, 2527, 21-25, 25-21, 15-5 in a state semifinal Nov. 9 at Wright State to finish 25-3 overall.
Craig Yakscoe COLUMBUS ACADEMY BOYS GOLF Central Ohio swept the three boys golf state championships, but Academy might have had the toughest road among those three to even reach state considering it was in the same district as perennial power and 2015 state champion Bexley. Under Yakscoe, the Vikings captured the MSL-Ohio title and won the 12-team Division II sectional Sept. 26 at Oakhaven with a 303. Academy then shot a 302 in the sixteam district tournament Oct. 4 at Denison Golf Club at Granville to edge Bexley (306) for the only state berth. The Vikings shot 596 at state Oct. 13 and 14 at NorthStar to finish 10 strokes ahead of runner-up Chardon Notre DameCathedral Latin.
Rick Yurich THOMAS WORTHINGTON BOYS WATER POLO Yurich, in his third season as Thomas coach, guided the Cardinals to their first state championship since 2004 and third overall. The Cardinals went 3-0 in the state tournament, defeating St. Charles 15-13 in overtime in the state final Oct. 28 at Mason to finish the season 32-9. In the state championship match, Thomas rallied twice from a five-goal deficit and took its first lead at 11-10 with just more than 20 minutes remaining in the fourth period. They also trailed St. Charles 12-11 at the end of the first overtime period before again coming back.
DUBLIN COFFMAN GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Despite having just two seniors, Coffman reached the Division I state tournament for the fifth time under Souder. The Shamrocks won their 11th consecutive league championship, going 10-0 in the OCC-Central to extend their league winning streak to 135 matches, and captured their 11th consecutive district title. After winning both of its regional tournament matches by 3-0 scores, Coffman lost to sports@thisweeknews.com eventual champion Cincinnati @ThisWeekSports
Cincinnati Ursuline Academy 25-21, 25-27, 21-25, 25-21, 15-5 on Nov. 9. Wagoner started as a freshman when Coffman finished as state runner-up and was named first-team all-state, alldistrict and all-league last season when the Shamrocks lost in a state semifinal. “She just reads the court well,” coach Mary Anne Souder said. “Her defense is incredible. She works all year round. She’s a good six-rotation player, for sure. For us,
she’s a veteran leader and she’s only a junior.” HONORABLE MENTION Diana Brown, DeSales, Sr., S; Maddie Fogg, Olentangy Liberty, Sr., S; Carrigan O’Reilly, Olentangy Orange, Jr., S; Julia Vermilion, Pickerington North, Sr., OH PAST CAPTAINS Kendyl Paris, Hilliard Davidson (2016); Hunter Atherton, Dublin Coffman (2015); Emily Rahe, Hartley (2014); Kenya Cason, DeSales (2013); Megan Giardina, Pickerington North (2012) sports@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekSports
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ThisWeek Community News | Sports Awards 2017
December 7, 2017