FIELD HOCKEY BEAT

KEYSTONE AWARDS THE CITIZENS’ VOICE WILKES-BARRE, PA DIVISION III SPORTS BEAT ENTRY MATT BUFANO FIELD HOCKEY BEAT

Northeastern Pennsylvania is a hotbed for high school field hockey with many players going on to Division I and Olympic careers. It deserves the same quality and quantity of coverage usually reserved for high school football and beat writer Matt Bufano delivers.

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B01] | 08/21/18

22:01 | MALUSOANTH

tHE CItIzEns’ VOICE

Sports WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL FIELD HOCKEY

Best of the best

DAVE SCHERBENCO / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

WVC junior field hockey standouts, from left, Valley West’s Rina Tsioles, Crestwood’s Sarah Richards, Wyoming Seminary’s Alex Wesneski and Hannah Maxwell and Coughlin’s Jolene Ulichney all have unique tales from the college recruiting process that will eventually land them at Division I schools.

Some of the area’s top players detail the recruiting process

BY MATT BUFANO STAFF WRITER

The opportunities are boundless for a field hockey player in the Wyoming Valley Conference.

There are countless ways in which a player can get from point A to point B, which crenique to ates a twisting and turning tale unique every prospect.

Alex Wesneski’s field hockey careeer started with a clinic at Dallas High School.

S Wesneski became such a coveted play yer that she was an invited guest at The Horseeshoe in Columbus, Ohio, and Cameron Indoo or Stadium for Ohio State football and Duke basketball games, respectively. She will play at Iowa. n with a Rina Tsioles’ playing career began camp at Spartan Stadium. Only a few w years later, Tsioles, at 13, caught Villanova’s attenn few tion during a club tournament. The next years have since provided a long réssumé of high school accomplishments, as well w as a commitment to play for Old Dominion n.

Wesneski, Tsioles and at least fou ur other WVC standouts in the Class of 20220 have already given verbal commitments to o major college programs.

That leaves uncommitted players like Jolene Ulichney as part of a dying breed; however, the NCAA hopes that new rules will result in more players waiting until junior orr senior year to commit. ampuses “It’s fun to get to look at all these ca and see what they have to offer,” said s the 16-year-old Ulichney. “But it’s a lot of o work keeping in contact with all the coach hes. You have to do a lot of homework off the fiield, too.

It’s fun, though, but it’s a big commitm ment. So I’m trying to find the place that I think k is right for me.” i latest Earlier this year, the NCAA touted its legislation by saying some significant changes h would “lead to better decision-making” and ultimately “improve the college experience.”

Still, no decision is easy when high school athletes are being courted by the nation’s top programs, as is often the case in WVC field hockey.

Five players entering their junior year — Wesneski and Hannah Maxwell of Wyoming Seminary, Tsioles of Valley West, Ulichney of Coughlin and Sarah Richards of Crestwood — recently detailed what it’s like to be a blue-chip recruit.

Sometimes, it’s easy to take the WVC’s success in field hockey for granted.

Around here, high school championships are won and colle g e commitments are made so often that, some players believe, there’s a misconception that field hockey is easy.

But, Richards clarifies, “We’re just a field hockey powerhouse.”

Part of it, too, are all the nearby people and resources that help players reach their maximum potential.

Along with Electric Surge, PA Elite and Majestyx are other prominent clubs in the area, each run by rising high school coaches in Erin McGinley of Wyoming Area and Amy D Daniel of Berwick, respectively.

Dan niel graduated from Crestwood in 2007 and ussed her skills to earn a full scholarship to o James Madison.

“I sttill think we’re the hotbed of hockey,” Danieel said. “I think we’re so fortunate to have th he coaches we have in this area.”

Man ny high school teams offer clinics in the offfseason. Even Paige Selenski and Kelsey y Kolojejchick — local Olympians who reecently retired from the U.S. women’s nation nal team — instructed a pair of camps this pa ast summer.

Pluss, the USA Field Hockey headquarters a are just over two hours south at Spook ky Nook Sports in Lancaster County.

So w while the youngest players often gravitatee to field hockey for familiar reasons — making friends, learning discipline, having fun — it quickly elevates into h something much more.

Growing up

The landscape Local field hockey is booming.

Chris Comiskey is co-director of Electric Surge THE CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE Field Hockey Club Wyoming in Kingston, where Seminary’s he and his wife, Alex Wesneski, left, and Coughlin’s Lunda, offer indoor Jolene Ulichney, two of a number of and d outdoor td ttraining i i from the U-10 age level Division I college prospects out of the Wyoming Valley Conference, battle during a game last season. up.

NFL

Roethlisberger eager to ‘knock that rust off’ ASSOCIATED PRESS

PITTSBURGH — Ben Roethlisberger believes his right arm feels as good as it has in years.

The same goes for the rest of the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback’s body, save for the occasional unwanted collision with a teammate.

If the scariest moment Roethlisberger endures all season is the accidental blindside hit from right tackle Marcus Gilbert — who inadvertently knocked the wind out of Roethlisberger during practice last week, sending a br ief scare through the organization and sending Roethlisberger into the concussion protocol as a precaution — the franchise’s all-time leader in

Electric Surge opened five years ago and had four teams of about eight to 10 players per team.

Electric Surge had nine teams the following year, then 13, then 21, and Comiskey is anticipating 27 or 28 teams this year.

Whereas other sports tend to “weed out” players over time, that’s not usually the case in field hockey.

“I’ve coached a lot of kids all the way through,” Comiskey said.

“From my experience, most of them stick it out. Maybe it’s just the area. Field hockey’s really big in this area, so that could be a possibility.”

DON WRIGHT / ASSOCIATED PRESS

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger throws during practice on Sunday. nearly every significant passing category will take it.

“Hopefully, the hardest hit I take all year is from Gilbert and we can laugh at it at the end of the year,” Roethlisberger said withalaughonTuesday.

Maybe, but nobody was laughing when Roethlisberger’s familiar No. 7 was kneeling on the turf at Saint Vincent College. He took a pair Please see STEELERS, Page B5

Rina Tsioles began playing field h hockey in third grade.

Within a few years and before she W everr played for Valley West’s varsity, Tsio oles performed well enough on the clu ub circuit to compete at Team US SA’s National Indoor Tournament.

There, Villanova made it clear the T Willdcats were interested in Tsioles. ““It got me really excited,” Tsioles rem membered. “I’m like, ‘Oh, my gosh, collleges are looking at me playing.’”

In the end, Villanova didn’t work out. t Please see RECRUITING, Page B3

INDYCAR

Wickens has rods placed into spine after Pocono crash ASSOCIATED PRESS

ALLENTOWN — IndyCar driver Robert Wickens had titanium rods and screws placed in his spine to stabilize a fracture associated with a spinal cord injury suffered in a weekend crash at Pocono Raceway.

IndyCar said in a statement Tuesday the severity of the spinal cord injury was unknown.

Schmidt Peterson Motorsports later said it would not field the No. 6, the car Wickens’ drives, at this weekend’s race in St. Louis. James Hinchcliffe, who injured his hands in the wreck in Pocono, has been cleared to compete and will race at Gateway.

Wickens is expected to undergo more surgeries to

treat fractures in his lower extremities and right forearm. He remains in stable condition.

His car sailed into the fence at Pocono when he and Ryan Hunter-Reay made slight contact on Sunday. Hunter-Reay’s car spun and Wickens’ car launched over it and into the fence. A large hole was torn into the fence. The race was delayed 2 hours to repair the damage.

The 29-year-old Wickens is a rookie in IndyCar but a championship driver in touring cars in Europe. He left that series this year to try IndyCar alongside childhood friend Hinchcliffe. The two Canadians became friends racing against each other in the junior ranks and Hinch-

cliffe lured Wickens back to North America.

Hinchcliffe and Wickens drive for Schmidt Peterson Motorsports, and Wickens had been sur prisingly c o m p e t i t ive s i n c e h i s series debut. He was on his way to winning the season opener at St. Petersburg, Florida, until he was spun in the closing laps. Wickens has one pole, four podiums, a pair of runner-up finishes and was sixth in the standings before his crash.

He finished ninth in the Indianapolis 500.

Team owner Sam Schmidt was paralyzed when he crashed during a test at Walt Disney World Speedway in 2000. The accident left Schmidt a quadriplegic.

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B03] | 08/21/18

22:41 | CONNORSSTE

LocaL sports

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22, 2018

THE CITIZENS' VOICE B3

MAX Field Hockey fills a void in online coverage

By Matt Bufano STAFF WRITER

College coaches go out and do their own homework.

They talk to club and high school coaches, asking for honest feedback about players. They watch for a player’s technical skill, as well as how they handle adversity and interact with others.

“They sit close enough to hear the coaches, too, so they know what the kids are being taught,” said Electric Surge Field Hockey Club co-director Chris Comiskey.

But now more than ever, there’s information available

online, as well.

While Rivals, 247Sports and ESPN extensively cover football and basketball recruiting, Stephanie Maychack carved out her own lane with MAXFieldHockey.com.

“When I had the concept, it was a no-brainer,” Maychack said. “The concept ... took a while to teach people that this could be available. And, now, people kind of rely on it.”

Knowing there was a thirst and frustration for lack of national field hockey news, Maychack created

hIGh schooL fIELd hockEy MAX Field Hockey in 2012 when she was in business school at Maryland.

“We’ve worked really hard to build this brand,” Maychack said.

As it continues growing, more than 127,000 users visited the site last year for a combined 1.13 million views.

About 20 percent of its traffic comes from player rankings. College commitment articles and high school team rankings are also popular.

MAX Field Hockey is not just popular because it’s oneof-a-kind, but also because it commits itself to accuracy and gaining the trust of the sport’s community.

The rankings and lists are compiled with feedback from many people and sources, including constantly nstantly updatupdat ing spreadsh heets Maychack uses to tracck everything going on in n the National Futures Ch hampionships, Stars and Stripes, S Junior National Camp, C Junior

Olympics, USA Field Hockey, scholastic all-state and wherever else talented players may turn up.

“We’re able to see the big picture of these kids,” Maychack said. “We’re to the point now where they’re getting on our lists in seventh and eighth grade and we’re able to fill in as we go.”

Maychack is plenty familiar with Northeaste r n Penn-

sylvania, where, on Tuesday, Wyoming Seminary (No. 9) and Valley West (No. 11) landed in MAX Field Hockey’s first batch of high school rankings for in-state teams in 2018.

“A lot of those players (in NEPA) will do well in the national stage,” Maychack said. “You can see how those players will do when they go to the Futures events and move up through the pipeline.” contact the writer: mbufano@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2060; @CVBufano on Twitter

rEcruItInG: Every prospect has a story “Definitely, playing in the WVC is really nice because we are so competitive and we have so many Division I athletes that college coaches come to our games” hannah Maxwell

Wyoming Seminary field hockey player

Alex Wesneski manages to be a two-sport standout, but it issn’t easy.

Wesneski recalled earlier in the t summer when she played a fo ourday field hockey tournamentt at Spooky Nook Sports that end ded at 5:30 p.m. Saturday; the neext day, she played four basketb ball games in a tournament in New N Jersey.

“Oh, yeah, I was exhausted,” Wesneski said.

But the more showcases you y attend, the more likely you u’ll impress, and that’s certain nly been the case for Wesneski.

While Wesneski has all the of fensive and defensive skills and tools desired by a field hockey coach, she believes it’s the intangible things that will catch a college coach’s attention.

“Just to see that you want to be involved; they like to see a good team player and that you’re working with your teammates, rather than individually,” Wesneski said.

Wesneski first heard from Indiana in seventh or eighth grade; received her first offer from Villanova; went on unofficial visits at six schools; and ultimately chose to attend Iowa.

a dozen Division I teams in Pennsylvania and three Division III “We had a little communica- teams in Luzerne County. tion, but after a while, I think I “Definitely, playing in the WVC just thought it wasn’t the right is really nice because we are so fit for me,” Tsioles said. “Other competitive and we have so many colleges started communicating Division I athletes that college with me and I saw more of a coaches come to our games,” Hanfuture with them than Villanova.” nah Maxwell said.

Sarah Richards was in a simHowever, you don’t need to play ilar situation at the same time, for a powerhouse like Maxwell’s about eighth grade, when she Wyoming Seminary to be recruitattracted the attention of Dela- ed. ware at a regional USA Field Sub-.500 teams included, 14 Hockey Futures tournament.

WVC programs had at least one Richards’ recruiting trail, player on a Division I roster in however, led to Iowa, Lafay- 2017. ette, Louisville, Ohio State, Speaking from experience, Penn State, Syracuse and Tem- Maxwell said players don’t have to ple, as the 2016 national cham- join a club team to be recruited. pion Blue Hens fell behind.

However, Maxwell did lead the In each instance, members conference in scoring as a freshof Villanova’s and Delaware’s man and played for a state chamstaff followed NCAA protocol pionship as a sophomore — so she support systems and approached the players’ would have been noticed regardWesneski tried to enjoy the c l u b c o a c h e s , w h o t h e n less. recruiting prorelayed messages to the playFor all players, though, playing ers. cess as best ges. club has its advantages It’s a lot of pressure for the athshe could.

“I think the only advantage a of letes, of course, but also for coach- playing club is that you’re But she y playing es like Comiskey, who is expected all year-round — and you’re was admitto know the ins-and-outs as he exposing yourself to different tedly “a litguides players through a compli- competition, not jusst the Wyotle stressed cated process. out” at ming Valley Confeerence,” “We studied up on the rules, but Maxwell said. times, which they change constantly,” Comisled to some ms — Most club team key said. “I think the NCAA’s w h i c h p l a y 5 - o n - 5 conversations doing a nice job — or at least try- indoor, 11-on-11 ou with older uting to — of protecting the student- door — are loadeed. b r o t h e r L . J. athletes to make sure they’re not Wi t h s o f e w w e a k We s n e s k i , a getting bombarded with calls.” tight end at spots, college coacches The NCAA’s latest rule change scout these travel tournaAlbany. says college coaches are not ments in the offseason and allowed to discuss recruiting with find numerous prosp pects. a prospect, in person, until Sept. 1 An obvious disadv vantage of the recruit’s junior year. is that club field hockey Sept. 1 of junior year is also could cost thousand ds of dolwhen schools are allowed to final- lars, and it could mightily m cut ly hold an official visit, in which into time for social activities a and the college hosts the player and other sports. their parents and covers their P a r e n t s a re expenses. forced to While the NCAA tries to curb make tough the trend of early commitments, d e c i s i o n s , it can’t exactly stop it, because as well.

CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE players are free to go on academic “A lot of visits. Players’ current coaches m i s s i n g Wyoming Seminary’s could also remain in contact with other kids’ Hannah Maxwell has committed to college coaches and act as a mid- g a m e s , play college field hockey for Wake dle man of sorts. m i s s i n g a Fores stt.

For Richards, she fell in love v a c a t i o n with Ohio State at first sight. h e r e o r She’s been on three unofficial vis- there each year — especially over “He always was able to give its and has pledged to play for the the last couple years since it’s really good advice on what I Buckeyes. been a lot more into the recruiting should do,” Alex Wesneski said. “I Tsioles played the field, but it process,” said Hannah’s father, don’t really see him, but he was was Old Dominion — one of Scott Maxwell, who’s missed always there for me when I was he enter enterthe last colleges she two Thanksgivings while at stressed. I would call him and ask tained — that earn ned her the Shooting Star what I should do and everything. verbal commitmen nt. very big help throughout tournament in He was a v “Be patient and d wait Richmond, the wholee time.” for the right colleg ge,” TsiWesnesski was initially hesitant Virginia. oles advised. to visit Io owa, but she wound up making th he trip and not wanting v Being discovered to leave.

College coaches will find “My o lder brother told me the best field hock key players picking a college), ‘You’ll (about p no matter what. know. You’ll get a feeling,’” “I think when you’re a good Wesneeski recalled. “When I player on a good d team, people got to o Iowa … it felt like notice,” said PIAA A District 2 field home..” hockey chairman Chris C Gegaris.

Many top field hockey playThe WVC houses 22 field hockers in tthe area come from supey programs, eig ght of which portivee and athletic families, have played in a district champiinclud ding Richards, whose onship and/or sttate playoff oldeer brother Kyle plays game in the last four f clu ub lacrosse at Temple; years. an nd Tsioles, whose older CITIZENS’ al to It’s not unusua s ister Foto plays field VOICE FILE spot a college coacch in hockey at Bloomsburg. the stands at onee of Jolene Ulichney, too, C r e s t w o o d ’s those playof f comes from an athletic Sarah Richards games, espeffamily with an older has committed to play cially b r o t h e r, J o h n , w h o college field hockey for since arned a tryout agreeea Ohio State University. there’s men nt last season with the FROM PAGE B1

Wheeling Nailers, the ECHL a f f i l i at e o f the Pittsburgh Penguins.

O n e s c h o o l being considered by U l i -

CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE

Valley West’s Rina Tsioles has committed to play college field hockey at Old Dominion.

chney is Old Dominion, where her cousin, Danielle Grega, was a unanimous All-Big East firstteam selection. Grega is the newest member of the U.S. women’s national team.

“I lean on her and I hope to follow in her footsteps one day,” Ulichney said of Grega. “She’s always great. She’s helped me out so much.”

Meanwhile, Maxwell’s family worked to help her be recruited.

As if what she had done on the field wasn’t enough, Maxwell’s father and brother edited and uploaded a freshman year highlight reel to YouTube.

Then, Maxwell and her father logged thousands of miles in visiting about 15 campuses from the Bi 10, Big 10 Atlanti Atl tic 10, ACC and beyond.

“That really helps you see what you don’t what you like, w like,” Maxwell ssaid. “You kind of get a feel for ev verything.”

From the list of schools she axwell and her considered, Ma f a m i ly n a r r ow we d d ow n h e r choices using a variety of athmic factors. letic and academ Maxwell ultim mately gave her verbal committment to Wake Forest, more t han 500 miles south of Wilkees University, where her brotther, Hunnter, plays men’s soc cer.

“He kind of helped me kee p an open mind and reminded me o f some things I didn’t really understand as a freshman,” Hannah Maxwell said of her brotheer. “It was nice t o h ave t h a t b i g - b r o t h e r ould make the aspect, so I co best decision po ossible.”

And in the ccase of Wesneski, Maxwelll, Tsioles, Ulichney and Ri Richards, if they need advice from their high school coach, it doesn’ t get much better than the likes of Karen Klassner at Wyoming Seminary, Linda Fithian at Valley West, Colleen Wood at Coughlin and Patsy Moratori at Crestwood.

opportunities aplenty A student-athlete’s post-high school career is brighter in field hockey than most sports.

“There’s an opportunity out there for anybody who wants it,” said Stephanie Maychock, creator of MAXFieldHockey.com.

“Literally anybody who wants to play the sport of field hockey in college, there’s a spot for them. I truly believe that.”

High school field hockey play-

ers have about a 1 in 10 shot of continuing their careers in college, and 1 in 38 of playing Division I. Locally, there’s at least 30 WVC alumnae on the rosters at Wilkes, King’s and Misericordia this season, as well as 40 WVC grads playing Division I. Women’s basketball and volleyball — while more popular on a national scale — offer about a 1 in 16 shot of playing in college, and 1 in 88 of playing Division I. While Division III programs do not offer athletic scholarships, how a D-I or D-II school divvies up its scholarship money varies on a case-by-case basis, whether it favors star players, upperclassmen and so on.

In the meantime, the Class of 2020 has two more seasons of high school field hockey left to play.

“Honestly,” Maxwell said, “nothing is more exciting than winning a district title or playing in the state playoff games.”

In addition to the five players featured, juniors Ali Tedik of Coughlin (Temple) and Bari Lefkowitz of Wyoming Seminary (Northwestern) also gave verbal commitments this past summer, and there’s likely more to come.

Unburdened from the pressure of choosing their colle g es, though, Wyoming Seminary’s Blue Knights will take the field this season with five Division I commits as they defend their District 2 gold medal and PIAA silver medal.

Beyond that and even beyond c o l l e g e, s o m e p l aye r s l i ke Wesneski have expressed hope of one day making the U.S. senior national team.

Getting to that point takes teamwork and a push from one another, even if the players are on rival teams during the high school season.

“I’ve actually played on teams with all of them,” Richards said of Wesneski, Tsioles, Maxwell and Ulichney, mentioning their intertwining paths in the club field hockey scene. “It’s actually really impressive. It’s crazy how four or five of us already committed. I think playing together for so long, even though we all go to different schools — it’s really helped us to improve.” contact the writer: mbufano@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2060; @CVBufano on Twitter

Where are they now?

View this story at citizensvoice. com/sports to see an interactive map showing where WVC products are playing Division I field hockey.

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B01] | 09/04/18

22:25 | MALUSOANTH

tHE CItIzEns’ VOICE

Sports WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2018

RAILRIDERS

HIGH SCHOOL FIELD HOCKEY

IronRail playoff series starts tonight

BY CONOR FOLEY STAFF WRITER

Lehigh Valley had the best record in the International League, set a franchise mark for winning percentage at .600 and torched North Division opponents for a 57-32 record.

Still, the RailRiders have an edge over their closest rivals, winning 11 of 20 meetings, and seven of nine at PNC Field.

For the third straight year, the IronRail Series continues into the postseason.

The RailRiders host Lehigh Valley tonight at 6:35 in Game 1 of a bestof-5 Governors’ Cup semifinal series. Game 2 is at PNC Field on Thursday, then the series shifts to Coca-Cola Park in Allentown on Friday for the final three games. The winner meets Durham or Toledo in the final.

“I think primarily because we have good pitching, along with them also,” RailRiders manager Bobby Mitchell said about why his team matches up so well with Lehigh Valley.

“I think the pitching is going to be huge in this series.”

Erik Swanson will get the ball first for the RailRiders. Lehigh Valley turns to Enyel De Los Santos tonight, with IL pitcher of the year Cole Irvin going in Game 2 and Drew Anderson in Game 3. De Los Santos and Anderson are on the Phillies 40-man roster, but were not called up for the Sept. 1 roster expansion.

“They have more power and they’ve got really good pitching,” Mitchell said.

“And then we have really good pitching and then we’re going to have to score runs, or find ways to score runs because we don’t have the power they have.”

Pitching got the RailRiders to this point, helping to win five of their final six games of season while allowing no more than three runs in any game.

SWB won the International League wild card by one game over Indianapolis and Columbus.

Swanson was part of that, wrapping up his regular season with a stellar start against Pawtucket on Please see RIDERS, Page B3

CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE

Kelsey Reznick, right, and Wyoming Seminary are at the top of the list of area field hockey contenders.

CHAMPIONSHIP DREAMS Top programs hoping to end area’s title drought

BY MATT BUFANO STAFF WRITER

Since 2014, many Wyoming Valley Conference field hockey teams have played with aspirations of winning a state championship, only to come up short.

It’s hard to believe the 22-team powerhouse league is mired in a PIAA title drought of four-plus years since Wyoming Seminary defeated Crestwood in the 2013 Class 2A state final.

Those two programs have since come close to winning it all, as have Valley West, LakeLehman and Holy Redeemer.

Maybe this is the year the WVC’s fortunes change on the grand stage.

But first, the WVC will engage in a regular season that’ll look a bit different from years past.

Here are a few storylines to follow as the new campaign unfolds:

Some go up, some go down

Maxwell,AubreyMytych,Kelsey Reznick,AlexWesneskiandMia Magnotta.

WyomingArea(KariMelberger, Ellie Glatz, Abigail Gober) and Valley West (Rina Tsioles, Cameryn Forgash, Karaline Stelma) each have three returning all-state selections.

Dallas’ Emily Farrell and Hannah Yanovich, Coughlin’s Jolene Ulichney and Ali Tedik, Crestwood’s Mackenzie Kile and Sarah Richards, and Holy Redeemer’s McKenna Dolan and Lauren Mullery are All-state all-stars all back from all-state seasons, There are a ton of talented too, as are Kate Roberts of players returning this season to Lake-Lehman and Addy Ross of Delaware Valley. theWVC. Wyoming Seminary returns Please see FIELD, Page B5 five all-state players in Hannah

Division 2, are Lackawanna off seeding was determined solely based on league games Trail and Tunkhannock. like when Division 1 teams Welcome aboard played other Division 1 teams.

Four teams that had losing Now, however, crossover records a year ago will get games — not just in the disfresh starts with new head trict, but other parts of the coaches. state and even out-of-state — Nanticoke Area will be led will factor into a “power ratby Marnie Kusakavitch; ing” formula used for every Pittston Area hired Kaitlyn team.

Connors; Tunkhannock In other words, every game appointed Jillian Weaver; and on the schedule matters.

Elly Skinner takes the reins at Standings will be regularly Wallenpaupack. updated at piaad2.org.

The WVC is breaking in a new divisional alignment.

After dominating Division 2 the past two seasons, Holy Redeemer has joined Division 1. The level of competition is Every game counts much greater in Division 1, so Beginning this season, Disdon’t expect any more undefeated regular seasons from trict 2 has adopted a new power rating system in sports like the Royals.

Heading in the opposite field hockey.

In years past, district playdirection, from Division 1 to

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Franklin expects better play from new linemen

BY DONNIE COLLINS STAFF WRITER

The year of the offensive line at Penn State didn’t start off as well as anybody on the Nittany Lions sideline hoped, especially for the two players working at new positions since the start of camp.

On Tuesday, head coach James Franklin said he expects, and anticipates, a better performance from starting right guard, LakeLehman grad Connor McGover n, and center

Michal Menet, beginning Saturday when the Nittany Lions travel to take on rival Pittsburgh at Heinz Field.

Once one of the top prep prospects in Pennsylvania, Menet made his first career start in the 45-38 overtime win over Appalachian State at Beaver Stadium, while McGovern played at right guard for the first time since the loss to USC in the 2017 Rose Bowl. Perhaps predictably, he said, the tandem had to fight through some grow-

ing pains against a tough and uncommonly complex Mountaineers defense.

“I think both of them, with an odd-front defense, playing a different position, I don’t think played up to the standards that I know they want to play at or we need them to play at,” Franklin conceded.

Both players were expected to start at each other’s positions throughout the summer. However, citing Menet’s body type and McGovern’s experience at

right guard, offensive line coach Matt Limegrover swapped them at the onset of camp.

Turned out, Appalachian State gave them a 3-4 look they simply don’t see often defensively.

“It’s probably not an ideal situation that your center, who’s starting his first game of his career, is playing an odd defense where you got a nose right over your head,” Franklin said. “We’ve got to play lower. We’ve got to be

more aggressive. We’ve got to displace people a little bit more often.”

While quarterback Trace McSorley found himself on the run often, and the running game stalled out for periods of time, Franklin also pointed out that McSorley was sacked just once. The running game also finished strong statistically, averaging 4.7 yards per tote on 44 attempts.

Please see PSU, Page B3

YOUTH GOLF

Werner to compete at Drive, Chip & Putt regionals

BY MATT BUFANO STAFF WRITER

The local golf community has a player to root for this weekend.

High school or college? Neither. Amateur, pro? Try again.

Nick Werner of Wilkes-Barre, a sixth-grade student at St. Nicholas, will play Sunday in the regional Drive, Chip & Putt tournament at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland.

Werner is competing in the 10-11 boys age bracket, for which he qualified thanks to his performance last month during a subregional qualifier at The ACE Club outside Philadelphia.

“He’s gotten better throughout the years,” Joe Werner said of his son, Nick, who’s played on the Drive, Chip & Putt circuit the past five years. “The COURTESY OF JOE WERNER more experience you get at doing it, of Nick Werner will compete in a regional Drive, Chip & course, the better you get at doing it. It’s Putt competition to possibly earn a trip to Augusta. been a great opportunity for him. He’s

done quite well there. The competition at this level is so good; he’ll be playing kids from North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania — all the best players will be at this regional event.”

While it’s a treat to play at Congressional, home of three U.S. Opens (most recently in 2011), the champion in each age g roup Sunday will advance to play in the finals at Augusta National during the week of the Masters.

Getting to Augusta National will require an excellent showing in all three areas: driving, chipping and putting.

The event uses an aggregate score that rewards golfers for long drives, accurate chips, and how a player handles putts of 6, 15 and 30 feet.

During subregional qualifying at The ACE Club, Werner placed first in

putting, third in chipping and 12th in driving.

Overall, Werner’s score of 129 was two points behind the first-place finisher. Fifteen players were in the field, but only the top-two made the cut.

Werner is not the only golfer from the area who will play in Sunday’s tournament, as he’ll be joined by Michael Maslanka of Taylor. Maslanka competes in the 12-13 bracket, one age group ahead of Werner’s.

Maslanka was a first-place finisher in subregionals, where he scored a 150.

“Nick and Mike have been playing together for a long time, since Nick was six andMikewasseveninPGAJuniorLeague events,” Joe Werner said. “Mike is a very accomplishedplayer.He’svery,verygood.”

Contact the writer: mbufano@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2060; @CVBufano on Twitter

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B05] | 09/04/18

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2018

22:07 | MALUSOANTH

LocaL

THE CITIZENS' VOICE B5

FIELD: A preview of each Wyoming Valley Conference team Division 1

Wyoming area

abington Heights

Coach: Erin McGinley 2017 results: 8-7, lost to No. 3 Lake-Lehman, 1-0, in the District 2 Class A quarterfinals.

Players to watch: Seniors - Bayli Grossi, mid/def.; Abigail Gober, def. Juniors - Lauren Parente, fwd.; Kari Melberger, mid; Ellie Glatz, GK. Sophomore - Kayla Kiwak, fwd.

Outlook: Simply put, Wyoming Area had a great start and lousy finish last season. But there’s more to it than just that. The Warriors’ 7-1 start and 1-6 finish were a byproduct of a schedule that backloaded all the best teams to October, including Sem, Valley West, Coughlin, Crestwood, Dallas and then a playoff game against Lake-Lehman. Any team would have struggled down the stretch playing that schedule. Parente led the team in goals last year; Melberger and Kiwak had the team lead in assists. The potential is there for a very good season.

Coach: Samantha Krut 2017 results: 3-12, lost to No. 6 Honesdale, 1-0, in the District 2 Class 2A first round.

Players to watch: Seniors - Arla Davis, mid; Shaelyn Kobrynich, mid/fwd. Juniors - Nina Kozar, def.; Dani Beamish, fwd.

Outlook: The Comets improved from one to three wins in Krut’s rookie season as head coach, which featured wins against Hazleton Area, Pittston Area and Tunkhannock. Abington Heights has eight returning starters, while also welcoming eight freshmen. After having trouble scoring last season, Krut says the focus this season is creating movement on the forward line to develop stronger shots. Of course, Krut’s also aiming to build continuity in the coaching ranks with the help of assistant coach Heather Bluhm and juniorhigh coach Malorie McCoy.

coughlin Coach: Colleen Wood 2017 results: 9-6, lost to No. 5 Wallenpaupack, 1-0, in the District 2 Class 2A quarterfinals.

Players to watch: Senior - Ashley Chase, fwd. Juniors - Abie Sorokas, fwd.; Jolene Ulichney, mid; Ali Tedik, mid/def.; Jordan Pugh, def.; Raven Bozek, def.; Morgan Gayton, def.; Briannah Lee, GK. Sophomores — Hannah Chocallo, mid; Candladia Washinski, fwd/mid.

Outlook: All 10 players to watch are returning starters, so the Crusaders are in pretty good shape.

Even in down years, coach Wood and the Crusaders find a way to win more than they lose — but this season could potentially result in far more wins than losses. In addition to good position players all over the field, Lee is one of the top goalkeepers in the league. The core of this group plays a lot in the offseason and has played together for quite some time, Wood said.

Coughlin will contend for a spot in the district final.

crestwood Coach: Patsy Moratori 2017 results: 11-6, lost to No. 1 Valley West, 2-0, for the District 2 Class 2A championship; lost to Twin Valley, 5-1, in the PIAA first round.

Players to watch: Seniors Mackenzie Kile, mid; Emma Colo, def.; Emma Janosczyk, fwd. Juniors - Sarah Richards, mid; Chloe Greene, fwd.

Outlook: By its own standards, Crestwood suffered a down year in 2017. Considering the Comets won 11 games, played for a district championship and then made the state tournament, that should tell you a lot about the strength of this program. Kile is a Bucknell commit. Richards is an Ohio State commit. Colo leads the defense as a three-year starter. There’s a lot to like here. With some solid upperclassmen plus 15 freshmen on the roster, Crestwood’s seemingly never-ending streak of winning seasons is not in jeopardy.

Dallas Coach: Kylie Fisher 2017 results: 11-5, lost to No. 2 Crestwood, 2-1, in the District 2 Class 2A semifinals.

Players to watch: Seniors - Emily Farrell, mid; Hannah Yanovich, fwd.; Grace Young, fwd.; Adie McClain, mid; Lauren Delamater, mid; Sydney Strickland, def. Junior Shannon Barrett, fwd.

Outlook: Oh, so close. After backto-back years of being eliminated in the district semifinals, could this be the year Dallas pushes forward and makes the district championship game? Farrell is committed to Penn State and is one of the best overall players in the league. Yanovich was easily the team’s leading scorer last year, and she’s one of the best goal-scorers in the entire league. Numbers are up and so is enthusiasm. From the sevenplayer senior class on down, Dallas has a deep and committed roster of players.

Delaware Valley Coach: Lindsay Gonzalez 2017 results: 7-10-1, beat No. 1 Hazleton Area, 1-0, for the District 2 Class 3A championship; beat State College, 3-2, for the District 2/6 subregional title; lost to Central Bucks East, 9-0, in the PIAA first round.

Players to watch: Seniors - Brenna Cavallaro, mid; Addy Ross, fwd.; Grace Conselyea, def/mid.; Carly Lehmkuhl, def. Juniors - Skyler Padgett, fwd.; Ashley Thalasinos.

Outlook: Last season was unremarkable … the regular season, that is. By the time the playoffs rolled around, Delaware Valley was playing its best field hockey and it showed. The Warriors eked through the district and subregional playoffs with three straight one-goal wins, ultimately finding themselves in the state playoffs for the first

Wyoming Seminary Coach: Karen Klassner 2017 results: 20-1, beat No. 3 Lake-Lehman, 2-0, for the District 2 Class A championship; lost to Greenwood, 2-1, in the PIAA championship game.

Players to watch: Kelsey Reznick, def.; Mia Magnotta, GK; THE CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE Hannah Maxwell, fwd.; Aubrey Mytych, fwd./mid; Alex Wesneski, Valley West’s Karaline Stelma, back, celebrates a win over fwd/mid; Kate Barilla, def.; Julia Selinsgrove in last year’s state quarterfinals.

Christian, mid; Bari Lefkowitz, mid; Grace Parsons, mid. seemingly always in a district time since 2000. The junior and Outlook: The Blue Knights are senior class is pretty strong. A run championship and state tournaloaded with about nine returning ment. Lehman graduated five seat another District 2 title is within starters, several of whom could niors in 2018, all of whom are reach. post a Player of the Year-type seaplaying now in college. So, this is Hazleton area son. Sem will score a lot of goals. a young team. The Black Knights Practically all the top scorers are Coach: Mary Kelly have 15 freshmen, six sophoback from last season, which, 2017 results: 6-9, lost to No. 2 mores, nine juniors and three sesince it ended in defeat, will likeDelaware Valley, 1-0, in the District niors. However, Lipski points out ly drive the Blue Knights with re2 Class 3A championship game. this is one of the most diligent demption on their mind. If there’s Players to watch: Senior - Jenna teams she’s ever coached. Lipski Corra, GK. Juniors - Kaitlyn Diehl, praised her players’ “team mental- anything to work on, though, it’s def.; Jillian Buchman, fwd. Sophoity” and said she is impressed with defense. Klassner said the team is still playing around with its sysmores - Riley Hudock, def.; Gabritheir progress. tems and presses, a process elle Cavenas, mid.

Pittston area that’ll likely last the entire year. In Outlook: The Cougars’ roster is addition to the tough league schedmade up of 75 percent freshmen Coach: Kaitlyn Connors ule, Sem is playing non-league and sophomores. But, Kelly said, 2017 results: 2-12. what they lack in experience is Players to watch: Seniors - Gab- games against state champion made up for with heart and work

by Wassel, def.; Avery Strucke, GK. contenders from Pennsylvania and ethic. Hazleton Area had some Juniors - Gabby Para, mid; Hannah beyond. nice wins on its resume last seaWaleski, def. Freshmen - Tori Para, Division 2 son, including Wallenpaupack, Del- fwd.; Mia Marriggi, fwd. aware Valley and Lackawanna Trail.

Outlook: First-year coach ConBerwick Having gone a combined 43-27nors said the Patriots had a great Coach: Amy Daniel 2 in the past five years, Hazleton preseason, which showed the 2017 results: 8-5, lost to No. 4 Area has gotten into a nice rhythm team has a lot of depth. “They’re Northwest, 1-0, in the District 2 of playing competitive, victorious pushing each other and I’m excited Class A quarterfinals. field hockey. to see the production this season.

Players to watch: Senior - Hailey We’re strong through the middle Stein, mid. Juniors - Maddy IsenHoly Redeemer and our offensive attack is solid,” berg, def.; Meredith McLaughlin, Coach: Maura McCormick Connors said. Pittston Area’s vetdef.; Abbie Nevel, mid. Sophomore Waskevich eran savvy is apparent on the de- Jacqueline Nevel, GK. Freshman 2017 results: 13-1, lost to No. 3 fense, where there are two returnPeyton Lipsey, mid/fwd.

Lake-Lehman, 1-0, in the District 2 ing starters and a senior goalie.

Outlook: Daniel has done arguClass A semifinals.

Pittston Area’s wins last seaably the best coaching job in the Players to watch: Senior - McKson were against Honesdale and conference the past few years. The enna Dolan, fwd. Juniors - MereTunkhannock, and there were also Bulldogs have come a long way dythe Baird, GK; Lauren Mullery, a few overtime losses. from the winless team in 2015 def.; Caton Fahey, mid. Sophothat Daniel inherited. So, now that Valley West mores - Addison Bielski, fwd.; Lexi Berwick is competitive, could the Fumanti, fwd. Freshman - Lauren Coach: Linda Fithian Dawgs take that next step and acKane, mid.

2017 results: 18-2, beat No. 2 tually contend for a district semiOutlook: Redeemer dominated Crestwood, 2-0, for the District 2 final or final berth? “This team is WVC Division 2 the past few years. Class 2A championship; lost to hungry and fast,” Daniel said. Now The Royals were rarely tested, but, Villa Maria, 2-1, in the PIAA title that Holy Redeemer is in Division to their credit, they also held their game.

1, Berwick may be the team to own against Division 1 teams in Players to watch: Seniors - Emily beat in Division 2. the playoffs. Now, they’re playing Latoski, Karaline Stelma, Natalie a Division 1 schedule all season Zasada, Elizabeth Luff. Juniors - AvGaR long and it won’t be easy. Redeem- ary Heckman, Brooke Pileggi, SydCoach: Hannah Beach er needs to replace several startney Rusnock, Rina Tsioles, Jenna 2017 results: 1-11. ers who are now playing in colRovine. Sophomores - Jillian BonPlayers to watch: Senior - Naflege. But according to McCormick czewski, Cameryn Forgash, Olivia isat Oseni, def. Sophomores - Erin Waskevich, the players competing Gayoski.

Leonard, fwd.;. Jordyn Catina, mid; for spots are excited for the chalOutlook: The Spartans are down Kelis Quiller, fwd. lenge. several key players from last seaOutlook: The Grenadiers have son — six of whom are now on a strong group of underclassHonesdale college rosters, including four-year men who have played together for Coach: Carly Propst starters Madison Woods (now at years. The younger players far out2017 results: 4-12, lost to No. 3 Penn), Foto Tsioles (Bloomsburg) number the older players, as GAR Dallas, 2-1, in the District 2 Class and Mercedes Jasterzenski (Hofshas only six juniors or seniors.

2A quarterfinals. tra). But that’s no reason to panic. However, there’s no lack of eagerPlayers to watch: Seniors - NiValley West has another strong ness and enthusiasm. Beach said cole Longman, fwd.; Brooke Garteam this season. Stelma scored a this team worked all offseason in das, mid. Juniors - Chloe Fox, fwd.; team-high 16 goals last year; Forweight training and tournaments.

Mandy Gunuskey, mid; Chloe Nico- gash scored 15 goals with 14 as“I’ve never coached a grittier, teamlini, def. Freshmen - Nicole Miszler, sists. Rina Tsioles is easily one of centric group of girls,” Beach addGK; Katy Corcoran, mid. the best players in the district, and ed. The Grenadiers improved from Outlook: Last year, Honesdale even the state. Rusnock is back, 0-12 to 1-11 from 2016 to ‘17, won only four games. But the Hor- too, and she’s proven herself to be and this year should bring even nets were close on many occaa reliable goalkeeper. It’ll be diffimore improvement. sions, losing five games by one cult to match 2017’s success, but goal apiece. The Hornets graduatHanover area not impossible. ed four senior starters from a year Coach: Jocelyn Holodick-Reed Wallenpaupack ago, including their goalkeeper.

2017 results: 5-7-1, lost to No. 2 However, they’ve got a strong fourCoach: Elly Skinner Holy Redeemer, 7-0, in the District player senior class this season 2017 results: 7-8-1, lost to No. 2 Class A quarterfinals. and are welcoming 11 incoming 1 Valley West, 6-0, in the District 2 Players to watch: Seniors freshmen. Propst says to expect Class 2A semifinals.

Emilee Bobos, mid; Ashleigh Car“strong leadership and aggressive Players to watch: Senior - Madibohn, mid; Kelsey Henahan, def.; play,” especially from Honesdale’s son Schmalzle, fwd. Juniors- Kylie Sharon Monahan, fwd.; Sara Whiupperclassmen.

Ferro, def.; Mia Watson, mid. Soph- tesell, fwd. omore - Kayla Schmalzle.

Outlook: The Hawkeyes list 11 Lake-Lehman Outlook: A former standout at seniors on the roster, giving them Coach: Jean Lipski Honesdale and Kutztown, Skinone of the largest senior classes 2017 results: 14-4, lost to No. ner takes over as head coach. She in the league. Hanover Area ex1 Wyoming Seminary, 2-0, for the was the assistant coach for Walpects to have those seniors set District 2 Class A championship; lenpaupack the past four years. the tone this season. With five lost to Newport, 1-0, in the PIAA Skinner has some good talent to wins last season and six the year first round. work with, however, it’s mostly unbefore, Hanover Area is usualPlayers to watch: Seniors - Hunt- derclassmen. The young players ly pretty competitive in Division er Kline, def.; Kate Roberts, fwd. are working hard, Skinner said.

2. Whitesell led the offense last Juniors - Madeline Newman, mid; Madison Schmalzle provides some season with four goals, includAmy Supey, GK; Ava Radel, fwd. veteran leadership, as well as scor- ing one in a big, 3-2 win against Outlook: No WVC program has ing ability. She was tied for the Berwick. been a more consistent winner team lead with seven goals a year in the past five years than LakeLackawanna Trail ago.

Lehman. The Black Knights are Coach: Gary Wilmet

PRESEaSoN PoWER RaNKINGS 1. Wyoming Seminary (A) 2. Valley West (2A) 3. Crestwood (2A) 4. Dallas (2A) 5. Lake-Lehman (A) 6. Coughlin (2A) 7. Holy Redeemer (A) 8. Wyoming Area (A) 9. Berwick (A) 10. Delaware Valley (3A) 2017 results: 4-11, lost to No. 2 Delaware Valley, 2-1, in the District 2 Class 3A semifinals.

Players to watch: Seniors Sam Baltrusaitis, fwd.; Rachael Beemer, mid; Cali Fauquier, def.

Juniors - Willow Burnell, def.; Bella Jagoe, fwd. Sophomores - Bella Coleman, mid; Morgan Faist, mid; Liz Litwin, fwd.; Liv Rosengrant, def.

Outlook: A few things are different this season at Lackawanna Trail, where the Lions have switched from Class 3A to 2A and also moved from WVC Division 1 to 2. This is a young team, Wilmet admits, but it’s actually loaded with experience. All nine players to watch are listed as returning starters. Wilmet described Trail’s practices as “energetic and competitive,” and he hopes to compete for the Division 2 title.

Meyers Coach: Allison Banks 2017 results: 3-9-1, lost to No. 8 Nanticoke Area, 3-1, in the District 2 Class A quarterfinals.

Players to watch: Ava Fellerman, Suzie Grohowski, Abbi Sattof, Alana Germano, Olyvia Jackson, Tiffany Fox. Outlook: The Mohawks are not far removed from their triumphant 2016 season, in which they earned the No. 4 seed in D2 Class A. However, they followed that up with a step backward last season, winning only three games (two against Hanover Area, one against GAR).

Meyers does not play Hanover Area and GAR until late September, so it’ll be interesting to see Meyers’ record after its first five games or so.

Nanticoke area Coach: Marnie Kusakavitch 2017 results: 4-9-1, lost to No. 1 Wyoming Seminary, 14-1, in the District 2 Class A quarterfinals.

Players to watch: Seniors - Abby Kotch, def.; Katie King, def. Juniors - Maddy Stashak, fwd.; Amanda Margalski, def.

Outlook: Kusakavitch takes over after a good playing career at Holy Redeemer and West Chester. She said she sees a handful of freshmen earning playing time this year.

The forwards are a young group, but Nanticoke Area has more mature and patient players on the defense. “I’m just looking for hard work, dedication and a good outcome on both ends. It’s a fresh start for everybody,” Kusakavitch said.

Northwest Coach: Ashley Lawson 2017 results: 9-4-1, lost to No. 1 Wyoming Seminary, 11-1, in the District 2 Class A semifinals.

Players to watch: Seniors Kelsey Jones, def.; Emily Culver, fwd; Kendra Saxton, mid. Juniors - Sydney Franchella, fwd.; Ariana Walker, fwd. Sophomore - Lauren Okuniewski, mid. Freshman - Alaina Carle, def.

Outlook: Among teams in WVC Division 2, Holy Redeemer was easily the best in 2016 and 2017.

A good case could be made that Northwest was No. 2. The Rangers went a combined 18-9-1 in the past two seasons. Franchella was the team’s leading scorer as a freshman and sophomore, so with her and a handful of other playmakers back this season, Northwest will certainly be in the hunt for a division championship. Northwest’s forward line is probably the best in Division 2, so expect a lot of goals.

Tunkhannock Coach: Jillian Weaver 2017 results: 0-14.

Players to watch: Seniors - Grace Harding, def.; Shannon Green, mid.

Juniors - Sophie Burke, fwd.; Ashley Griffin, fwd. Sophomores - Lily Fetterman, fwd.; Erin Weaver, mid. Freshman - Emily Weaver, def.

Outlook: Weaver takes over as head coach, but she’s already familiar with this team. Weaver was the assistant coach last season.

She does have a tall task, though, in building up a winless team that lost nine seniors to graduation.

Tunkhannock had the lowest-scoring offense in the conference last season. But the Tigers could certainly change that, thanks in large part to their moving down from Division 1 to Division 2. Weaver is optimistic about the potential and heart on this team.

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B03] | 10/13/18

18:11 | MALUSOANTH

tHE CItIzEns’ VOICE

Varsity Voice Sunday, october 14, 2018

WVC LEADERS Field Hockey WVC games through Oct. 11 Division 1 Name, school G A P alex Wesneski, Sem 22 14 58 Hannah Maxwell, Sem 24 7 55 Lauren Parente, Wa 19 3 41 Hannah yanovich, dal 14 7 35 Kate roberts, L-L 12 5 29 cameryn forgash, VW 10 8 28 toni Minichello, Wa 12 4 28 Skyler Padgett, dV 11 4 26 aubrey Mytych, Sem 10 5 25 Jolene ulichney, cou 11 2 24 Kelsey reznick, Sem 3 15 21 Karaline Stelma, VW 9 3 21 ava radel, L-L 8 4 20 Kayla Kiwak, Wa 7 6 20 Division 2 Name, school G A P Sydney franchella, nW 11 3 25 alyssa fowler, Lt 8 2 18

B3

PLAYING FOR HIM

Girls Soccer WVC games through Oct. 11 Division 1 Name, school G A P ali francis, dal 28 6 62 Melissa Herrera, cre 25 5 55 Krystal Haertter, cou 15 3 33 Kennadi Josefowicz, VW 14 1 29 esa Mendola, cou 11 4 26 emma Sweitzer, dal 6 9 21 chyanne cook, cre 10 1 21 allyse filipowich, cou 8 4 20 Division 2 Name, school G A P aleah Kranson, Wa 30 11 71 annie bagnall, Hr 29 5 63 emily Smith, L-L 22 15 59 Madison brdaric, L-L 20 7 47 abby Paczewski, L-L 15 15 45 Kasey danko, Hr 17 5 39 chloe Weaver, L-L 11 16 38 christina Kosco, Wa 11 8 30 Kalie Quaglia, Hr 7 11 25 emily Matthews, Sem 11 0 22 Grace Wolsieffer, Hr 7 6 20

Boys Soccer All games through Oct. 11 Division 1 Name, school G A P Hubert Herrera, cre 25 14 64 Max Gariano, cre 18 16 52 Zach Holthaus, dal 22 2 46 eddie Melan, tun 18 7 43 adam eckhart, na 16 0 32 Sean Murphy, cre 12 3 27 Wil Garcia, Haz 9 6 24 beaudyn Lewis, dal 8 7 23 alex Paduck, tun 7 8 22 Gabe fabian, Haz 7 5 19 chris Wolk, Haz 7 5 19 Division 2 Name, Team G A P Mike bulzoni, L-L 19 9 47 Luke Johns, WS 20 5 45 tanner nilon, Mey 19 6 44 edge Miller, WS 9 17 35 Lucas barnak, Hr 10 12 32 Max Paczewski, L-L 12 7 31 reggie Grayek, WS 11 4 26 ryan casey, Mey 8 10 26 Jimmy dunleavy, Hr 11 0 22 Gavin Lahart, Wa 8 6 22

WVC BOYS SOCCER Division 1 Crestwood Dallas Valley West Hazleton Area Tunkhannock Coughlin Berwick Pittston Area Nanticoke Area

13-0 10-2-1 10-2-1 6-5-1 5-4-1 3-7-3 2-9-2 1-11-1 1-11

Division 2 Wyoming Seminary Meyers Lake-Lehman Wyoming Area Holy Redeemer Hanover Area MMI Prep GAR

11-1-1 9-1-1 8-2-2 5-4-1 6-5-1 2-11 1-9 1-10

WVC GIRLS SOCCER Dallas Crestwood Coughlin Berwick Valley West Pittston Area Hazleton Area Nanticoke Area Tunkhannock

Division 1

Division 2 Lake-Lehman Wyoming Area Holy Redeemer Meyers Wyoming Seminary Hanover Area GAR

10-0-2 10-0-1 9-4 9-5 5-7-1 5-8 3-9 2-11 1-10 11-1 8-1 7-2 3-5 3-6 0-8-1 0-9-1

WVC FIELD HOCKEY Division 1 Wyoming Seminary Wyoming Area Lake-Lehman Valley West Coughlin Dallas Crestwood Delaware Valley Honesdale Abington Heights Holy Redeemer Hazleton Area Wallenpaupack Pittston Area Division 2 Northwest Berwick Hanover Area Nanticoke Area Lack. Trail GAR Tunkhannock Meyers

11-0 9-1-1 8-1-1 8-2 6-3 6-5 5-5 4-6 3-6 3-7 3-7 2-8 1-10 0-8 9-0 6-2-3 5-2-2 5-4-1 4-2-2 1-6-3 1-8-1 1-8-2

WVC VOLLEYBALL Holy Redeemer Nanticoke Area Tunkhannock Dallas Delaware Valley Lake-Lehman North Pocono Wyoming Area Pittston Area MMI Prep Valley West Hazleton Area Meyers Berwick Crestwood GAR Coughlin Hanover Area

13-0 12-1 13-2 12-2 10-3 9-5 7-6 7-6 7-7 6-8 6-8 5-8 5-8 4-9 3-11 3-12 1-13 0-14

Warren ruda / Staff PHotoGraPHer

On her college admission essay to Duke University, Wyoming Seminary field hockey standout Kelsey Reznick wrote about how her brother, Curtis, who was born with Cri du Chat syndrome, is one of her biggest teachers.

Sem’s Kelsey Reznick draws inspiration from older brother

BY MATT BUFANO Staff Writer

KINGSTON — Kelsey Reznick learned field hockey from some of the sport’s greatest minds, turning that into an All-American high school career.

In the classroom, Reznick favors math and science and she is a dean’s list mainstay at a private school renowned for its academics.

So, on the surface, Duke University knows what it’s getting with Reznick.

Then comes the college admission essay, where Reznick opens up about an unlikely source who’s been one of her greatest teachers in life: big brother Curtis Reznick.

“They want to know you as a person,” Kelsey said. “I think he describes me best — why I do what I do. That’s why I wrote about him.”

Curtis was Debi and Jason Reznick’s firstborn child, welcomed into the world June 4, 1999 at the former St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hazleton.

Curtis was crying, as all babies do, but his was particularly high-pitched and screechy — like a cat.

“That was the doctor’s first indication that there was an issue with him,” Debi recalled. “It was five minutes after he was born. They knew immediately.”

What followed were days of testing and blood work and, eventually, the diagnosis that Curtis had Cri du Chat syndrome — a genetic disease that translates in French to “cry of the cat.”

Genetically, Curtis is missing a part of chromosome 5.

He has distinct facial features, like widely spaced eyes, and needs help with simple tasks not only functionally, but also mentally, behaviorally and emotionally.

Being such a rare disease — figures vary from 1 in 20,000 to 1 in 50,000 being born with it — there was limited information available on Cri du Chat, which sent the new parents to the Internet where

they read heartbreaking reports.

“When we first started searching online, a lot of the information was, ‘Kids with this don’t live very long,’” Jason recalled. “Those first couple weeks, my God, we were expecting a very short life expectancy.”

Those fears were later dispelled by specialists and doctors. Curtis has no physiological problems.

However, a new fear occurred more than a year after Curtis’ birth, when Debi was again pregnant and doctors said it was a possibility the next child could also be born with Cri du Chat.

“Theyaskedusif wewanted a genetic test and we said no,” Jason recalled. “It wouldn’t changeourdecision.”

Debi and Jason held their breath, waiting to hear the first cries of their new baby.

“We knew what (Cri du Chat) sounded like,” Jason said, “and she came out screaming like a loud, regular baby. So we knew everything was OK.” That new baby was Kelsey, who immediately gravitated toward playing sports and dancing.

Curtis would sometimes come along, too, but then and still today, he has trouble toleratinglongtripsandlongevents.

The situation has often led to one parent going on road trips with Kelsey, while the other stays home with Curtis.

“Kelsey grew up with him and she doesn’t know anything else,” Jason said. “She was the younger one and she knew her older brother had challenges. She grew up with it and she was empathetic right from the get go.”

Some strangers on the street, however, were not so understanding.

When the family would be together, Kelsey found herself confused at the looks or stares they’d sometimes be given.

That confusion later turned into sadness and anger.

“Just because he can’t do some things that other people can, I think that’s really, really pushed me in academics and athletics to push myself because he can’t. I kind of play for both of us.”

Kelsey Reznick

Wyoming Seminary field Hockey

“If people just walk by, they don’t really understand,” Kelsey said. “But if they know him, if they come over and say hi — he loves to give people hugs and he’s a super heartwarming person to be around. I think people with disabilities are really misunderstood. People think they’re different than other kids and other adults, but really, they’re the same. Just because they function differently or can’t do some things that we can do, they’re still the same on the inside. They’re really caring and loving and super kind.”

Curtis loves balloons and looking at photographs. His favorite television show is “Wheel of Fortune.”

Although he cannot communicate verbally, he knows some sign language — yes, no, more and thank you are some of the phrases — and he shows his affection through hugs and kisses.

Curtis is a graduate of Hazleton Area’s special education program, but his sports allegiances lie with

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Wyoming Seminary’s field hockey team.

While he’s unable to truly follow the action, Curtis does understand when Kelsey’s on the field and he cheers her on by smiling and clapping, even letting out some yells, too.

“All of her teammates know him,” Debi said. “A lot of the families and Sem parents know him and love him and high-five him. It’s always, ‘Where’s my buddy?’ if he’s not at the game.”

A natural athlete and gifted student, Kelsey has remained grounded because of Curtis’ challenges, which have given her perspective and kept her ego in check as she’s become one of the nation’s top high school players.

Even as she traveled the United States and internationally with Team USA’s junior squads, Kelsey called home — whether it be her parents or family or Alice Floyd, the home health aide

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— and kept in touch with big brother via FaceTime.

“They’ll put him on the phone and he’ll be smiling,” Kelsey said. “It’s just nice to see him when I’m gone for long periods of time because I’m not really used to that — I’m seeing him every day.”

Next year, the Reznick family, of Drums, will go through a big change when Kelsey plays field hockey and attends school 500 miles south at Duke.

But, she’ll be taking with her a life’s worth of lessons.

Don’t judge a book by its cover.

Smile in the face of challenges.

Appreciate the little things.

Stay humble.

Treat others with kindness and respect and patience.

Kelsey learned all that from her parents and, of course, Curtis.

“It took a lot of learning and loving and figuring out,” Debi said of raising Curtis.

“There’s still days that he’ll teach us something new.”

Kelsey added: “Just because he can’t do some things that other people can, I think that’s really, really pushed me in academics and athletics to push myself because he can’t.

“Ikindof playforbothof us.”

Contact the writer: mbufano@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2060; @cVbufano on twitter

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WB_VOICE/PAGES [B01] | 11/05/18

23:23 | PICCOTTITY

tHE CItIzEns’ VOICE

Sports TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Steelers rolling, while Bell hints at return The running back left a cryptic tweet early Monday.

By WILL GRAVES AssociAted Press

PITTSBURGH — Le’Veon Bell might be ready to head back to work. The Pittsburgh Steelers don’t exactly look like they need him.

The star running back tweeted “Farewell Miami” on Monday, possibly indicating the end of his monthslong standoff with the club.

Bell hasn’t been inside the Pittsburgh locker room since last January, opting to stay away rather than sign his one-year franchise tender.

The two-time All-Pro has sacrificed half of the $14.4 million he’s due this season but needs to report by Nov. 13 to make sure he accr ues enough service time to reach free agency in March.

Bell’s extended absence initially created a furor inside the locker room. Now, it seems almost like an afterthought. The Steelers (5-2-1)

have ripped off four straight victories heading into Thursday night’s visit from Carolina (6-2), relying heavily on James Conner — Bell’s replacement — to surge into the lead in the AFC North.

Conner topped 100 yards rushing for a fourth straight week during a 23-16 victory over Baltimore on Sunday, and caught his first career touchdown pass when he took a short flip from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and bulled past Baltimore safety Eric Weddle at the pylon.

“He’s showing that no challenge is too big for him, against the No. 1 defense or whoever it might be,” Steelers left tackle Alejandro Villanueva said of Conner. “You know when you’re so close to him, and he lowers his shoulder, and you see him get a couple yards, it’s extremely motivating.”

Conner is second in the league in all-purpose yards and touches behind Los Angeles Rams star Todd Gurley.

Please see STEELERS, Page B6

GAil Burton / AssociAted Press

Steelers’ James Conner, left, is second in the NFL in all-purpose yards this season.

BASEBALL

PIAA FIELD HOCKEy TOURNAMENT

THEY’RE THE INSPIRATION

Wyoming Area’s Minichello, Gober honor late parents with play

By MATT BUFANO stAff Writer

WEST PITTSTON — Anne Gober and Marc E. Minichello never got to see their daughters play much field hockey for Wyoming Area.

Gober died at 45 and Minichello was 48, as their deaths, nearly two years apart, stunned their families and also shocked the community where they were nothing short of beloved.

Wyoming Area field hockey standouts Abigail Gober, a senior, and Toni Minichello, a freshman, are linked by their parents’ tragic deaths.

But, in honoring their memory, Gober and Minichello pay constant tribute to their late parents with how they live and how they play.

“I can’t imagine what that’s like,” said Warriors head coach Erin McGinley. “But I think, unfortunately, you have to learn to find strength to go on in your life. You have to figure that out. It’s unfortunate, but it’s something that’s a life lesson for them and something that makes them able to overcome. So, when there’s high pressure on the field, I don’t think it’s anything like losing a parent ... but they’re able to face that adversity and come out on top.”

Gober and Minichello have filled pivotal starting roles for Wyoming Area’s (17-2-2) most successful field hockey team ever, which will play the program’s first state playoff game 5 p.m. today in the PIAA Class A tournament against Mifflinburg at Central Columbia.

Please see WARRIORS, Page B4

christoPher dolAn / stAff PhotoGrAPher

Wyoming Area field hockey players Toni Minichello, left, and Abby Gober honor their parents with black wristbands that they wear on the field during matches. They have helped lead the Warriors to the PIAA Class A tournament this season.

Mitchell won’t lead RailRiders in 2019 He guided team to championship series last season.

By CONOR FOLEy stAff Writer

Bobby Mitchell is out as RailRiders manager.

After one season with the team, and three seasons in the Yankees organization, Mitchell said he was told the club would not be renewing his contract.

“I was surprised, to be honest with you. I was surprised,” Mitchell said when reached by phone Monday night. “But it’s their prerogative.

Enjoyed the time that I had there with the organization. MITCHELL It’s a very talented organization, obviously. I’ll miss the players the most, along with the staff members I worked with.”

The RailRiders went 73-65 in 2018, their fewest wins since 2014. They still won the International League wild card, though, and knocked off rival Lehigh Valley — which led the league with 84 wins — in the first round of the Governors’ Cup playoffs. That meant Mitchell’s team reached the championship round for the third straight year; he took Double-A Trenton to the finals in 2016 and 2017. This year’s RailRiders lost to Durham in five games in the Governors’ Cup championship.

The RailRiders ranked fifth in the International League in team ERA (3.71), fourth in WHIP (1.26) and third in strikeouts (436). On offense, they were fourth in batting average (.256), third in slugging percentage (.407) and third in OPS (.729). They also had to deal with a trading deadline that robbed them of key players like Tyler Austin, Brandon Drury and Billy McKinney.

Please see MITCHELL, Page B4

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

‘Amazing’ Williamson set for Blue Devils debut

By CHIP ALExANDER the neWs & oBserver

DURHAM, N.C. — Duke co-captains Javin DeLaurier and Jack White spent part of a Friday media availability delving into two topics, the Blue Devils’ basketball season opener tonight against Kentucky and the basketball freakishness of freshman Zion Williamson.

The Kentucky discussion was the standard opener stuff: new team, exciting time, big stage, big-name opponent, Duke vs. Kentucky again. The usual. It’s in the

Tonight’s games Champions Classic TV: esPn no. 10 Michigan state vs. no. 1 Kansas, 7 no. 4 duke vs. no. 2 Kentucky, 9:30 Champions Classic tonight at Indianapolis.

“It’s the country’s first look at us,” DeLaurier said.

There’s a lot to look at for the fourth-ranked Blue Devils. There’s RJ Barrett, the ultra-versatile 6-foot-7 forward who has been named to

the AP Preseason All-America team. There’s 6-8 forward Cam Reddish, guard Tre Jones and 6-7 forward Joey Baker. All freshmen.

And that man Williamson.

“I’ve never seen anyone like Zion,” DeLaurier said. “I think one of our athletic trainers put it the best. He said all you guys hit the genetic lottery but Zion hit it twice.

“I think that’s a pretty good way to describe him.

When you look at him, he’s 6-7, 270 pounds, all muscle and can just fly through the

air. It’s somewhat unlike anything that anyone has ever seen. He’s amazing.”

So how do you guard him?

“You know, it’s hard, definitely a challenge,” said the 6-10, 234-pound DeLaurier.

“And I don’t want to give too much away in case people start scouting us. I’ll keep those tricks to myself.”

White didn’t, though.

“The guy is such a unique, incredible athlete,” said White, a 6-7, 222-pound junior from Australia.

Please see DUKE, Page B3

AssociAted Press file

Zion Williamson is one of the key pieces of Duke’s highly regarded 2018 recruiting class.

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B04] | 11/05/18

23:30 | PICCOTTITY

SPORTS

B4 THE CITIZENS' VOICE

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

PIAA FIELD HOCKEY ROUND 1 PREVIEW

TIMES-SHAMRoCK FILE

Crestwood’s Hubert Herrera (10) has scored 38 goals this season to lead the team.

PIAA BOYS SOCCER ROUND 1 PREVIEW Class 3A Athens vs. Crestwood When: 5 p.m. tonight Where: Lake-Lehman How they got here: Athens was District 4’s top seed and won its tournament with a 3-1 win over No. 2 seed Selinsgrove, 3-1. Crestwood also backed up its top seed with a 2-0 victory over No. 2 seed Dallas in the District championship game.

Moving on: Tonight’s winner will advance to the quarterfinals and play either District 1 champion Strath Haven or Mechanicsburg, the third-place team from District 3.

Notes: Crestwood (19-1) repeated as Wyoming Valley Conference champions and then won its third District 2 title in four seasons last week. The Comets did so in familiar fashion: through Hubert Herrera, who drilled a 35-yard free kick for the lead, and Max Gariano, who set up Herrera’s second goal in the final minute against Dallas. … Postseason included, Herrera leads the team with 38 goals and 18 assists, and Gariano also gives defenses headaches with 26 and 21. Gariano scored five goals in the first two rounds of districts. … Sean Murphy has tacked on 19 goals and five assists. The three leaders are at the front of an offense that has scored 115 goals in 20 games. … Chris Smith has allowed as many goals as he and the Comets have tallied shutouts (12), bringing their average goal differential to plus-5.15 all season. They’ve hardly slowed down in three D2 tournament wins by a combined 10-1 final.

Will all of that be enough to stop Athens (19-1), though?

The Wildcats were likewise dominant on their way to a second district title in three seasons, outscoring opponents 112-5 for an average goal differential of plus-5.35. Four of their wins featured 10 goals or more, including a pair of 14-0 blowouts. … Just as impressive, Athens hasn’t allowed multiple goals in a game yet.

Backed by keeper Joel Maslin, its defense’s season has included 15 shutouts — including every league game — and five 1-goal performances.

Class 2A Midd-West vs. Wyoming Seminary When: 7 p.m. tonight Where: Crestwood How they got here: District 4 top seed Midd-West needed a win in penalty kicks to reach the D4 final, but it lost there to No. 2 Central Columbia, 2-1.

Wyoming Seminary was D2’s No. 3 seed but took out both teams ranked higher, including No. 1 Scranton Prep for the title, 0-0 (3-1 PK’s).

Moving on: Tonight’s winner will advance to the quarterfinals and play either District 3 champion Lancaster Mennonite or District 12 champion Lansdale Catholic.

Notes: If Crestwood fails to advance in Class 3A play earlier this evening, it’ll come down to Wyoming Seminary (14-1-2) to snap what’s currently a fivegame losing streak in the PIAA tournament for Wyoming Valley Conference boys soccer. Sem is the last league team to win, when it reached the Class A quarterfinals in 2015. The Blue Knights were D2 runners-up in 2016, too, making this the third trip to states in four seasons for their senior class.

Sem is back at states thanks to a huge performance by goalie Ryan Anderson in the D2 final. He held Scranton Prep scoreless through regulation and overtime, then held his own in penalty kicks. … Anderson hasn’t allowed a goal all postseason, and he’s been a part of 11 shutouts. The Knights have conceded multiple goals in a game once (their lone loss), and are outscoring opponents 62-7… If Wyoming Seminary’s offense gets back on the board here, Luke Johns, Reggie Grayek or Edge Miller might have something to do with it. Postseason included, Johns has 20 goals and six assists, Miller has 12 goals and 17 assists, and Grayek has 12 and five. Together, they accounted for all of Sem’s scoring in the D2 tourney.

Midd-West (19-2) has been equally stingy on defense and outscored opponents 84-10 in regulation and overtime this season. The Mustangs won by shutout a dozen times.

— Eric Shultz

PIAA GIRLS SOCCER ROUND 1 PREVIEW (2-1) Wyoming Area (16-5) vs. (4-1) Midd-West (18-3) What: Class 2A first round When: 5 p.m. tonight Where: Balls Mills Complex, Williamsport How they got here: Wyoming Area won the District 2 championship, 1-0, against LakeLehman. Midd-West won the District 4 championship, 2-1, against Lewisburg.

Moving on: Winner advances to Saturday’s quarterfinals, where it will play District 11 champion Palisades or District 3 runner-up Boiling Springs.

Scouting report: This is the first state playoff game in Wyoming Area girls soccer history.

So, it’s no surprise this is likely the Warriors’ best team ever, the one most likely to make a deep run in the postseason. …

Senior striker Aleah Kranson is as good a scorer as there is.

In league play, Kranson scored 36 goals this season; she’s since added six goals in three playoff matches for 41 goals.

Christina Kosco (15 goals, 11 assists) and Tierney Porfirio (11 goals, 10 assists) are the next leading scorers for WA. Goalkeeper Lauren Kelly had a six-save shutout against LakeLehman. … Midd-West is a returning state quarterfinalist from last year. Midd-West beat Lake-Lehman, 4-3, in the first round of last year’s state tournament. … While Wyoming Area is a first-time district champ, Midd-West has won three district championships in the last four years. … MiddWest faced some tall challenges in districts. In the semifinals, Midd-West was down 1-0 but scored three unanswered goals to beat Milton. Then, Midd-West needed an overtime game-winning goal from Alyssa Keister to edge Lewisburg.

(2-1) Dallas (17-2-2) vs. (3-2) Mechanicsburg (21-1) What: Class 3A first round When: 7 p.m. tonight Where: Lake-Lehman HS How they got here: Dallas won the District 2 championship, 4-1, against Scranton Prep. Mechanicsburg lost the District 3 championship game, 1-0, against Manheim Central.

Moving on: Winner advances to Saturday’s quarterfinals, where it will play District 12 champion Archbishop Ryan or District 1 runner-up Villa Maria.

Scouting report: Dallas could not have played much better in the district playoffs. The Mountaineers were a four-seed, but they weren’t very far off from being the No. 1 seed. Regardless, Dallas beat the Nos. 5, 1 and 2 seeds by a combined score of 12-3. … With 40 goals in league play and the playoffs, junior Ali Francis is one of the best scorers in the state. Teammate Emma Sweitzer has 17 goals, while Liv Maniskas and Kanisha Cheshire have also scored in the playoffs. Goalkeeper Sarah Krokos made 12 saves in the district final. … Dallas is back in the state playoffs for a second straight year. Last season, the Mountaineers lost in the first round, 1-0, against East Pennsboro. … Mechanicsburg was undefeated until losing its district title game. … According to the Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association, Mechanicsburg is the No. 3 big school team in the state. Dallas is not in the top-10, nor is it listed as an honorable mention. USA Today ranks Mechanicsburg as the No. 21 team in the nation. … Sophomore Elena Hinkson is one of the key players to keep an eye on.

— Matt Bufano

(2-1) Wyoming Seminary (17-2-1) vs. (3-4) Bermudian Springs (21-2-1) What: Class A first round When: 5 p.m. tonight Where: Crestwood HS How they got here: Wyoming Seminary won the District 2 championship, 3-2, against Wyoming Area. Bermudian Springs lost the District 3 third-place game, 4-0, against Newport.

Moving on: Winner advances to Saturday’s quarterfinals, where it will play District 11 champion Lehighton or District 3’s No. 5 seed Susquenita.

Scouting report: Wyoming Seminary has won back-to-back district titles in Class A. Last year, the Blue Knights’ run in states continued all the way to a loss in the state championship.

The bulk of last year’s team is back again this season, which has made Sem one of the favorites to win this year’s state title. … Throughout league play and the postseason, Iowa commit Alex Wesneski is Sem’s leading scorer with 31 goals. She’s followed

by Hannah Maxwell (29 goals) and Aubrey Mytych (15 goals), as well as Kelsey Reznick, who has 19 assists.

Mia Magnotta is the returning starter in goal for the Blue Knights. … Sem has not lost since oct. 6, when it dropped two contests against teams from out of state. … Bermudian Springs was also in the state tournament last year.

It lost in the quarterfinals. … Bermudian Springs was undefeated in the regular season, thanks in large part to goalkeeper Melania Shoop. But now, the team has back-to-back losses. … offensively, Bermudian Springs has a balanced offense with several reliable scorers. … Bermudian Springs hails from Adams County in the southernmost part of the state.

(2-2) Wyoming Area (17-2-2) vs. (4-1) Mifflinburg (13-7) What: Class A first round When: 5 p.m. tonight Where: Central Columbia HS How they got here: Wyoming Area was the runner-up in District 2 after

losing the final against Wyoming Seminary, 3-2. Mifflinburg defeated Lewisburg, 3-2, for the District 4 championship.

Moving on: Winner advances to Saturday’s quarterfinals, where it will play District 7 champion Shady Side or District 3 three-seed Newport.

Scouting report: This has been a season of historic firsts for Wyoming Area, which continues with today’s first state playoff game in program history. … The Warriors’ only losses were against Valley West and Sem, both of which qualified for the state tournament. … WA has somewhat of a big three when it comes to offense, led

by Lauren Parente (27 goals, four assists), Toni Minichello (20 goals, eight assists) and Kayla Kiwak (13 assists, 15 assists). Ellie Glatz is the goalkeeper for a defense that shut out Nanticoke Area and Lake-Lehman in districts. … Mifflinburg is district champions for the first time since 1987.

However, Mifflinburg did come close a year ago when it lost the championship game 3-2. … Mifflinburg is better than its seven-loss record, as Lewisburg and Selinsgrove were among the quality teams that beat Mifflinburg. … Mifflinburg was the No. 4 seed in its district tournament, beating the Nos. 5, 1 and 2 seeds by a combined score of 9-5. … Last year’s District 4 champion, Lion Mountain, was knocked out in the first round of the PIAA tournament by District 3 five-seed Bermudian Springs.

3’s No. 4 seed Manheim Central.

Scouting report: Valley West has now won three straight district championships. Actually, the Spartans were more impressive and beat their opponents by bigger margins in this year’s district playoffs than in 2016 and 2017. … Valley West made the state final last year, but lost about half its starters from that team. … Among the most important players back this year are old Dominion commit and midfielder Rina Tsioles, goalkeeper Sydney Rusnock, and leading scorers Cameryn Forgash (17 goals) and Karaline Stelma (16 goals). … Valley West’s losses this season were against Lower Dauphin, Sem and Coughlin. The Spartans did not play any teams from District 1 this season. … Great Valley entered the District 1 playoffs as a four-seed.

It beat the Nos. 13 and 5 seeds, but then dropped to the third-place game after losing to the No. 8 seed. … While Valley West is on a hot streak, Great Valley is coming two of its worst losses all season. In the third-place game, Great Valley put only two shots on goal while Mount St. Joseph’s had 24 shots. Great Valley was losing 4-0 at halftime.

(2-1) Delaware Valley (13-7) vs. (1-3) Methacton (15-8) What: Class 3A first round When: 6 p.m. tonight Where: Wallenpaupack HS How they got here: Delaware Valley defeated Honesdale, 1-0, for the Dis(2-1) Valley West (14-3-1) trict 2 championship. Methacton won vs. (1-4) Great Valley (15-7) the District 1 third-place game, 3-0, What: Class 2A first round against Central Bucks East.

When: 6:30 p.m. tonight Moving on: Winner advances to SatWhere: Hazleton Area HS urday’s quarterfinals, where it will play How they got here: Valley West elimi- District 3 champion Lower Dauphin or nated Coughlin, 4-0, in the District 2 District 1 six-seed Souderton.

Class 2A championship game. Great Scouting report: Del Val is representValley settled for fourth-place in District ing the WVC once again in the state’s 1 after losing the third-place game, 4-0, Class 3A tournament. Last year, the against Mount St. Joseph’s.

Warriors had a quick exit with a 5-0 Moving on: Winner advances to Satloss to Central Bucks East, which was urday’s quarterfinals, where it will play also the three-seed from District 1.

District 11 champion Bangor or District — Matt Bufano

WARRIORS: Gober, Minichello are leaders FRoM PAGE B1

Minichello had never played for Wyoming Area’s varsity when her father suffered a fatal heart attack in January 2017.

But in the years before his death, Minichello’s father certainly influenced the player she’s become.

“He definitely pushed me all the time to do training,” said Minichello, the daughter of Paula Minichello. “He would take me to our gym and make me lift. He’d make me come to the track and run a lot, even though I definitely did not want to do it. He pushed me pretty hard. I had to fill the shoes of my brother leaving (Marc A. Minichello, Class of 2018 Wyoming Area graduate), so I knew I had to step it up. My dad was just that guy who pushed me so hard. He was like my best friend. My dad and I were so close.”

All that training and running has paid of f, as Minichello plays like an upperclassman with 20 goals through WVC games and the playoffs, making her one of the best freshmen in the conference.

“Toni is a physically solid player and she can play on both ends of the ball,” McGinley said. “She can win on a tackle, she can beat you with her individual skill, and she’s got a very hard shot for a freshman.”

Meanwhile, McGinley touts Gober as being the most communicative player on the Wyoming Area defense, saying Gober is “by far our most vocal back.”

Gober finds a way to get everyone involved, just like her mom.

CHRISToPHER DoLAN / STAFF PHoToGRAPHER

Toni Minichello, left, and Abby Gober display the black wristbands that honor their late parents.

“She helped out with the organizations; she was always the type of person that pushed people to be a president, a secretary, or to have some type of involvement,” Abigail Gober said of her mother. “She was always helping out — even if she wasn’t a president or one of the main people in the organization. Wherever you needed her, she was there.”

That included the parents associations of Wyoming Area field hockey and softball, as well as track & field, cross-country and the drama club.

Anne Gober died from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle crash in July 2015, leaving behind husband Joe Gober, several children and countless other lives she had touched.

If not for her mother, perhaps Abigail Gober would have never pursued field

hockey, a sport Abigail initially disliked.

“She’d be like, ‘You don’t know the game yet. You just gotta wait and try,’” recalled Gober, who has an older sister, Grace, playing field hockey at Temple. “Both of my parents always pushed me to do something that they knew I could do, but I had to be around it long enough to know if I enjoyed it or not.”

Minichello, Gober and some Warrior teammates remember their late parents by wearing black wristbands with their initials — AEG, MEM — stitched into them.

During every Wyoming Area field hockey senior night, balloons and sky lanterns are released with messages written to their late parents on them, as well. “ I t ’s a ve r y s p e c i a l moment,” Gober said.

This season has been filled with special moments and program-firsts for the War-

riors, whose seasons prior to 2018 had always ended in the district semifinals or sooner.

But this year’s group — led

by Gober and Minichello, as well as senior Bayli Grossi, juniors Kari Melberger, Cassidy Orzel, Lauren Parente, Morgan Beppler and Ellie Glatz, sophomore Kayla Kiwak, and freshmen Megan Beppler and Mackenzie Switzer — has taken the program on a ride it had never been on before. Even with a 3-2 loss to nationally ranked Wyoming Seminary in the district championship game, Wyoming Area was pleased with its performance and with good reason.

“We played excellent hockey on the turf,” McGinley said, referencing the turf used at Crestwood compared with the grass field at Wyoming Area. “I got so many compliments from several different people, as well as college coaches, on how well our team played. So I think that’s a huge testament because we’re young — really young — and that’s something that is truly amazing.”

McGinley added that one of her favorite parts of this team is how well it conducts itself off the field, which, judging by the parents who raised the likes of Gober and Minichello, comes as no surprise.

“After my dad’s passing, it showed me how to be a better person, definitely,” Minichello said. “He always taught me, ‘Treat others the way you want to be treated,’ and I think that is the golden rule in my life.”

Contact the writer: mbufano@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2060; @CVBufano on Twitter

MITCHELL: Move felt like ‘kick in stomach’ FRoM PAGE B1

Mitchell said he was told he would not be back not long after the season ended.

“When it’s a surprise, like it was, it’s kind of a kick in the stomach initially,” he said. “I haven’t been through it a lot, because I’ve left other organizations voluntarily. …

I started calling people right away and tried to contact people right away and see what could come up and just go from there. If it works out,

it works out. If not, you just move on to other things.”

Mitchell said he has no regrets over his time with the Yankees.

“We developed a lot of guys that went up to the big leagues to help,” Mitchell said. “All three years I was there we had a lot of guys who went up there. That’s the satisfaction we get out of the job. That happened. Nobody can take that away from you.

It’s great to see these guys go up there and do well.”

Mitchell isn’t sure what his next step will be, but sounded like he very much wants to remain in professional baseball.

It is not known who the next RailRiders manager will be and the organization has yet to make the Mitchell move official.

If Mitchell and his predecessor, Al Pedrique, offer any hints as to who could hold the job next, however, it’s possible the candidate could already be in the orga-

nization. Mitchell and Pedrique were both promoted to the RailRiders job after spending time with Trenton. This season, the Thunder finished first in their division at 79-61 in Jay Bell’s first year at the helm.

Bell, the former longtime big leaguer, took High-A Tampa to the playoffs the year prior.

Contact the writer: cfoley@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9125; @RailRidersTT on Twitter

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B01] | 11/17/18

22:13 | CONNORSSTE

tHE CItIzEns’ VOICE

Sports SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2018

PIAA FIELD HOCKEY

ONE TO REMEMBER

Sem claims program’s 7th state title

BY MATT BUFANO Staff Writer

WHITEHALL TWP. — Kelsey Reznick doesn’t get many chances to score goals.

Penalty corners? Absolutely. Penalty strokes? Sure.

Problem is those situations don’t occur often, forcing Reznick — one of the nation’s top high school field hockey players — to play a grand

majority of every game on defense as a center-back.

But, Reznick had a golden scoring opportunity Saturday and she used it to lead her team to a state championship victory.

Reznick and Hannah Maxwell scored goals to put Wyoming Seminary on the board, goalkeeper Mia Magnotta earned a shutout, keeping Newport off the board, and Sem

walked away from Whitehall High School with a 2-0 win in the PIAA Class A title game.

“Coming out on top and putting Sem — our program — back on top, it feels great,” said senior midfielder Aubrey Mytych. “Teamwork, 100 percent, got us here. I’m going to miss playing with these girls and there’s nobody else that I would rather be on the field with.”

It is the seventh state championship for head coach Karen Klassner and the Blue Knights (21-2-1), but their first since 2013, as no one on the roster had previously won it all.

In fact, Sem’s current bunch overcame more adversity than most, given it was also a favorite in last year’s state title game, but lost.

Please see TITLE, Page B3

CHriStOPHer DOLaN / Staff PHOtOGraPHer

PIAA VOLLEYBALL

PSU FOOTBALL: Penn State 20, Rutgers 7

Redeemer’s run ends in 2nd place

BY TOM FOX COrreSPONDeNt

MECHANICSBURG — It’s not how you start, but rather, how you finish.

Bald Eagle Area was able to close each set strong, and Holy Redeemer just ran out of time to find that matchclinching, momentum-shaping run.

The Eagles closed each set with a short punch, and that proved to be the difference in an even-matched PIAA Class 2A state championship as BEA swept Holy Redeemer, 3-0, at Cumberland Valley High School. Set scores were 25-19, 25-23 and 25-23.

The loss ends a historic

Defense strong in win; passing needs work

season at Holy Redeemer (242) as the Royals are the first District 2 team to play for a volleyball state championship.

“That was the best team we’ve played all year,” Redeemer head coach Jack Kablick said. “We gave up 15 unforced errors in the first set, 15 in the second set and 14 in the third. And, we were still there at the end. ... They finished stronger than we KeviN fiSCHer / CONtributiNG PHOtOGraPHer did.”

The Holy Redeemer volleyball team receives its runnerThe score somewhat tells up trophy after the PIAA Class 2A volleyball championt h e s t o r y. T wo eve n ly ship on Saturday. matched teams with powerful attackers, intelligent setfor more on Holy redeemer’s state ters and solid liberos.

Please see ROYALS, Page B4

title game, see Page B4.

PISCATAWAY TWP., N.J. race McSorley doesn’t want to hear excuses.

He doesn’t think they’re particularly germane to the problems. He doesn’t think they’re necessarily constructive to the solution, either.

As Penn State marchDONNIE es toward its COLLINS final regular season Commentary game next week, there are myriad ways anyone can look at what has gone down with this program in 2018. It has taken step backs and

T

steps forward. The Lions are at least a contender for a third consecutive New Year’s Six bowl, but they have also shown some glaring weaknesses. Perhaps the most surprising is McSorley hasn’t been able to get the passing game going to anywhere near the rate of success or level of precision it enjoyed in the past few seasons.

On an overcast Saturday in New Jersey, with Thanksgiving in the offing and the homestretch looking much more favorable for the Nittany Lions than its rough-andtumble midseason schedule did, Penn State did what everyone expected.

Please see COLLINS, Page B5

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22:37 | CONNORSSTE

PIAA CLASS A FIELD HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIP Wyoming Seminary 2, Newport 0 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2018

THE ciTizENS’ VOicE B3

cHRiSTOPHER DOLAN / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Wyoming Seminary field hockey coach Karen Klassner celebrates after the Blue Knights defeated Newport, 2-0, to win the PIAA Class A championship.

Mytych, Reznick helped team thrive

By MATT BufAnO STAFF WRiTER

WHITEHALL TWP. — It pays to score goals and record assists.

It helps your team, of course, but it also helps yourself, as climbing the scoring leaderboards in a league such as Wyoming Valley Conference field hockey will get a player noticed to some degree.

Flash back to the 2015 season, when Wyoming Seminary freshman Aubrey Mytych led her division in scoring. Teammate Kelsey Reznick scored a goal in her first four WVC league games.

Along the way since then, Mytych and Reznick have seen their positions change and their statistics decline — but their team and their individual level of play has never been better.

“That’s the big thing; they did it for the betterment of the team,” head coach Karen Klassner said after winning her seventh state championship in the Blue Knights’ 2-0 win Saturday against New-

cHRiSTOPHER DOLAN / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Wyoming Seminary’s Aubrey Mytych winds up to take a shot Saturday. port for the PIAA Class A title. “And for them, in the long run, it’s going to help them in college.”

Mytych will play at Penn State. Reznick will play at Duke.

“To be able to play anywhere on the field, that is our goal — that when kids leave Seminary, they leave not feeling upset when they play

somewhere they haven’t played in the past,” Klassner said. “Because coaches are going to put them where they need them. That was key for us that they accepted those changes.”

Reznick dropped back to play defense this year.

Mytych moved from the forward line to the midfield, as she switched positions

with Julia Christian, who had a breakout season with 15 goals and 12 assists.

Hannah Maxwell is another player who’s seen her roles change a few times, as her return this season to the forward line resulted in her leading the team in goals.

“She’s kind of a natural forward,” Klassner said of Maxwell. “She’s a scorer.

And we needed to move her back up there, we knew that.”

Mytych could pinpoint when she stopped caring about statistics.

“Since I committed to Penn State, goals and assists don’t matter to me anymore,” said Mytych, who scored 15 goals this season but none in the state tournament. “What mattered to me was winning a state championship and doing what was needed for the team. If it was needed for me to play mid and I don’t score that much, you know what? That’s fine. Hannah, Alex (Wesneski) and Julia did a great job at forward this year and they really did a

great job of putting the ball in the back of the cage.”

M e a n wh i l e, Re z n i c k scored only seven goals this year. She was held scoreless for a seven-game stretch in the regular season.

But, the future Duke Blue Devil executed her role perfectly as the center-back, helping Sem’s defense post six shutouts in its seven playoff games.

“Whether it be a forward, mid, back, whoever it is (that scores) — all that matters is that we work together collectively as a unit to get that ball in the cage,” Reznick said.

“We know the person who put it in gets the credit, but everyone did their job and part to get that ball in the cage. I think that’s where we’ve really grown as a team this year. We know that’s what a team concept is.

That’s what we’re really worked toward this year and it paid off.”

Contact the writer: mbufano@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2060; @cVBufano on Twitter

TITLE: Blue Knights win first championship since 2013 FROM PAGE B1

“We’re a high-profile team and I think when are you are a high-profile team, people expect you to be perfect. And we’re not perfect,” Klassner said. “But that’s sometimes what is expected of our team or Emmaus or some of the other teams. They always have to perfect. That’s not really fair to them, but that’s just the way it is and we know it and we tell them that.

“This team was probably one of the best teams I’ve had, as far as adjusting to that type of situation and mentally getting themselves back into the game.”

Reznick, who earlier this week signed her National Letter of Intent to play at Duke, ceased the moment with 12:47 to play in the first half of a scoreless tie.

That’s when Sem drew a 1-on-1 penalty stroke because the ball hit a Newport player’s body at the goal line.

Klassner had her choice of any player to take the stroke, and chose Reznick, who entered Saturday as the team’s fifth-leading scorer.

“She said, ‘I want the stroke,’ so we put her up there,” Klassner said. “We said OK. If someone’s going to do that, she’s going to go take the stroke. Quite honestly, she was ready to play today. That was one of the best games I’ve seen her play. She was everywhere.”

And in that moment, Reznick

MAXWELL

cHRiSTOPHER DOLAN / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Wyoming Seminary players pile on top of goalie Mia Magnotta after her shutout. drilled a slap shot to the bottomleft corner of the cage. She admitted she was aiming for the top left, but it didn’t matter — the goal went in.

“She’s been in those highpressure situations, especially when playing with the U.S. national team and stuff,” Mytych said of Reznick. “So she was perfectly fine in that situation. It doesn’t matter how good or bad the stroke was, it just matters that it got in the cage and it was a goal.”

The Blue Knights added to their lead at the 21:58 mark of the second half, when Maxwell weaved through several defenders and scored a highlight reelworthy goal on a move she said

she had worked on with assistant coach Kim Barbacci.

The rest of the game, though, was filled with challenges for Sem. A whopping 10 cards were issued — six for Sem, four for Newport — as the officials heard it from both fanbases.

“You gotta control the controlables,” said Maxwell, whose Blue Knights briefly played at an 11-on-9 disadvantage. “Even though it was very physical, those are the fun games.”

In all, Sem outshot Newport 17-2. Sem also had nine corners to Newport’s five.

Newport goalkeeper Allie Harris played a fantastic game

with 15 saves for the Buffaloes (18-7-1), who were the thirdplace team from District 3.

It was Newport’s first state championship appearance.

The Buffaloes made the state semifinals last year and the quarterfinals in 2016.

“You hear everything — Division I commits and all that — but I don’t tell my girls that stuff because it just gets in their head,” Newport head coach Cheryl Capozzoli, who played at Maryland, said of Sem. “So, we knew they were going to be a tough team. ... We knew that if we came out and played a good game, we would be in the game. I don’t think we did enough offensively to be in

REZnICK

the game — their defense was strong in the back and we just couldn’t capitalize when we got in the circle. We played too much of a defensive game to come out and score.”

Newport hopes to return to the state final next year, as does Sem, which returns eight starters — Julia Christian, Bari Lefkowitz, Anna Mozeleski, Grace Parsons, Elisabeth Seyfarth, Alex Wesneski, Magnotta, Maxwell — while saying goodbye to Mytych, Reznick and Kate Barilla.

“We’ve said all along during the playoffs that Mia was our trump card,” Klassner said, touting another shutout by Magnotta. “We knew that they’d have to go through her to score, and she just gained more confidence as the season went on. I wouldn’t want to face her next year. She’s going to play with lots of confidence next year, and we have a lot of kids back. And then we add some really good kids to our roster next year, so that’ll be our goal next year — is to get back here.”

Contact the writer: mbufano@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2060; @cVBufano on Twitter

GAME REPORT Newport 00—0 Wyoming Seminary 11—2 First half Kelsey Reznick (Sem) penalty stroke, 12:47 Second half Hannah Maxwell (Sem) unassisted, 21:58 Shots Wyoming Seminary 17 Newport 2 Corners Wyoming Seminary 9 Newport 5 Saves Newport (Allie Harris) 15 Sem (Mia Magnotta) 2

Offensive play of the game Needing an insurance goal with a 1-0 lead, Sem forward Hannah Maxwell delivered when she dribbled the baseline to deke through Newport’s defense. She then ripped a goal into the cage for a 2-0 lead.

Defensive play of the game With 10:27 remaining in the first half, Newport left wing Sophie Shoemaker had the ball and a clear path. Only a few yards separated Shoemaker and Sem goalkeeper Mia Magnotta.

Shoemaker swung hard, aiming at the top-right corner of the cage — but Magnotta saved it with her left hand to keep the 1-0 lead.

Quotable “i was definitely overanxious. My mom came in my room at like 8:30 and i was like, ‘We don’t have to be at the bus until 12.

What am i going to do?’

So, my mom made me the same breakfast that she’s made me for every state playoff game. And then, we got to the bus with butterflies in our stomachs.

We were in the locker room and we were just so excited, but we were definitely nervous.”

Sem junior Hannah Maxwell on her pregame mood.

By the way, the breakfast of champions — prepared

by Donna Maxwell — was two fried eggs and a piece of white toast.

Three stars ■ Hannah Maxwell, Sem forward: Scored a goal for the third straight game in the state tournament, which put the Blue Knights ahead 2-0.

■ Kelsey Reznick, Sem defender: Played lockdown defense and also scored the go-ahead goal on a penalty stroke in the first half.

■ Mia Magnotta, Sem goalkeeper: Faced only two shots on goal, but she blocked them both, securing a fourth consecutive shutout for a defense that wasn’t scored upon in the state playoffs.

— Matt Bufano

Visit citizensvoice.com/ sports to see more photos from the game.

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B01] | 11/18/18

23:12 | MALUSOANTH

KELSEY REZNICK WYOMING SEMINNARY Official SpOrtS Medicine SpOnSOr Of the athlete Of the Week

The Sem senior scored her team’s first goal in Saturday’s state championship field hockey game. The Blue Knights won their first state title since 2013.

One day later, has it sunk in yet that you’re a state champion?

Yes and no. the game went so fast that it happened, and after you could definitely feel it.

Waking up the next day it’s like ‘Wow, we just won a state championship.’ it hasn’t really sunk in yet, but i think once we get back to school it will really hit when

tHE CItIzEns’ VOICE

the faculty and students are congratulating us.

Being heavy favorites, how did you prevent any overconfidence?

We didn’t underestimate any opponents. We made it to the state championship last year and i think we got too hot headed there and thought we’d walk in and win, and that didn’t happen. that was a really good lesson for our team to learn last year and we took it into this year.

Playing defense, if someone told you before the state tournament you’d get four straight shutouts, would you have believed it?

Yes. With myself and my goal-

keeper, Mia Magnotta, and two side-backs kate Barilla and Grace parson ns, i think we have worked tremendously hard the whole year. they were there the whole year and i switched halfway through. We really worked together communicating and organizing ourselves and the people in front of us to not let any goals in. it was a really awesome accomplishment and i was fully confident we could’ve done that.

For more from the interview with Kelsey Reznick visit citizensvoice.com/aow.

MOndaY, nOVeMBer 19, 2018

DISTRICT 2 FOOTBALL

END OF THE ROAD chriStOpher dOlan / Staff phOtOGrapher

Wyoming Seminary’s Mia Magnotta, left, and Kate celebrate after winning the PIAA Class A field hockey state title on Saturday.

MATT BUFANO Sports

Latest Sem champion ranks as one of the greatest

A

nd so, it’s settled. The 2018 Wyoming Seminary Blue Knights are one of the greatest field hockey teams to ever come out of District 2.

That goes without saying to some degree — any state champion is clearly among the elite, as the Wyoming Valley Conference has produced 15 state champion teams (Crestwood in 1988, ’99, ’03, ’04 and ’12; LakeLehman ’96 and ’02; Sem ’01, ’06, ’08, ’10, ’11, ’13 and ’18; Valley West ’03).

But, if those 15 teams were broken down into subcategories, 2018 Sem belongs in the upper echelon — for many reasons.

For one, Sem’s 2-0 triumph against Newport in Saturday’s PIAA Class A title game was a statement; not just for Sem, but for the WVC. And that statement — to every league and team across the state — is that a WVC team is back on top.

It’s hard to believe fourplus years had passed since Sem and Crestwood went head-to-head in the 2013 Class 2A championship game.

From 2014 to 2017, Crestwood, Valley West and Sem all played for state titles, but lost. Local teams in other sports, like Holy Redeemer softball and Dallas baseball, won state championships while field hockey teams struggled to do the same.

It could be a long time before WVC field hockey endures another four-year window without any state champs.

Sem’s roster and schedule are further proof of its greatness.

First, the roster.

Hannah Maxwell’s going to play at Wake Forest. Alex Wesneski, Iowa. Aubrey Mytych, Penn State. Kelsey Reznick, Duke. Bari Lefkowitz, Northwestern.

When all’s said and done, there’s likely a few more bigtime college prospects in Sem’s freshman and sophomore classes.

Please see BUFANO, Page B4

chriStOpher dOlan / Staff phOtOGrapher

Valley View’s Zach Manchak takes down Dallas’ Christian Motley during the District 2 Class 4A football championship on Sunday.

Dallas starts strong, but sees season end at Valley View

BY STEVE BENNETT Staff Writer

PECKVILLE — On its first drive of the night, Dallas checked off all the boxes. The Mountaineers completed a few passes, established a little bit of the run game and was able to convert three third down play calls.

It was certainly an encouraging sign for the Mountaineers, especially after quarterback Michael Lukasavage hit Dan Meuser with

an 11-yard touchdown pass to put the Mountaineers ahead early.

But just like the last time Dallas played Valley View, the Cougars responded scoring the next seven times the offense took the field. It was more than enough for the Cougars, whowontheirsecondconsecutiveDistrict 2 Class 4A championship with a 49-14 victory, Sunday night at John HenzesVeteransStadium.

Valley View, now 13-0 on the year, advances to the state tournament

and will face perennial power Imhotep Charter this weekend at a site and time to be announced. Dallas ends the year 11-2 with its only two losses coming at the hands of Valley View.

“Most people would think that would put fear in our hearts, we just kept our head in there and drove right down the field and scored on them,” said Valley View quarterback Janaasah Boone. “It was kind of unexpected. We were

expecting to come in and give it to them. That drive just woke us up.”

And it showed. Boone said that was the first time all season a team took the opening kick and marched down the field and scored on the Cougars. Valley View has now given up a total of 27 points all season in the opening quarter.

But the Dallas lead did not last long.

Please see DALLAS, Page B3

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Eagles embarrassed by blowout loss

BY GUERRY SMITH aSSOciated preSS

NEW ORLEANS — The slow-starting Eagles will see their season end much quicker than they anticipated if their latest performance is any indication.

Another dismal first-quarter doomedPhiladelphiaina48-7loss to the streaking New Orleans Saints onSunday — the most-lopsided loss ever by a defending SuperBowlchampion.

The Eagles (4-6) face a tough road just to make the playoffs.

Although they trail NFC Eastleading Washington by only Bill feiG / aSSOciated preSS two games, their latest showSaints receiver Michael Thomas crosses into the ing was a particularly deflatend zone in front of Eagles cornerback Rasul ing one.

Douglas (32) and free safety Corey Graham for a None of their first five losstouchdown in the second half of Saturday’s game. es was by more than seven

points. This one approached the franchise-record 62-10 loss to the New York Giants in 1972.

“When you get kicked in the face like we did, it’s going to make you go back and look at yourself,” offensive tackle Lane Johnson said. “I hope it hurts everybody because I don’t want to be a part of this again.”

Carson Wentz, who had labeled it a must win, was 1 for 5 for 10 yards with an interception by the start of the second quarter. Philadelphia, which entered with an NFLlow 21 points in the first quarter, did not pick up a first down on its opening two series.

Wentz threw his first inter-

ception on the second play of the next possession — a deep ball into double coverage that cornerback Marshon Lattimore grabbed.

The Eagles trailed 17-0 after each team had the ball three times.

“I pride myself in coming out swinging early,” Wentz said. “We need to be locked in, but just haven’t made enough plays. It’s frustrating.”

Almost nothing went right for the Eagles, who had 196 yards of offense and were even worse defensively. The Saints scored on touchdown drives of 86, 84 and 84 yards to end the first half, reached the end zone on their first three possessions of the second half.

WB_VOICE/PAGES [B04] | 11/18/18

23:11 | MALUSOANTH

SPORTS

B4 THE CITIZENS' VOICE

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2018

Bread winner Logano spoils Big Three party to win championship

BY JENNA FRYER ASSOCIATED PRESS

TERRY RENNA / ASSOCIATED PRESS

Joey Logano waves a checkered flag as he stands with his wife Brittany Baca and son Hudson after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Homestead-Miami Speedway on Sunday.

HOMESTEAD, Fla. — Joey Logano raced into NASCAR anointed as its next star. He was 18, dubbed “Sliced Bread” because of all the hype, and in way over his head.

It made Logano an easy target on and off the track and threatened his career. Logano was out of a job five years after he arrived but given a second chance by Roger Penske, a titan of motorsports.

Now he’s part of Penske’s storied history as NASCAR’s newest champion.

The underdog on paper but the favorite in his mind, Logano busted up The Big Three and won an improbable first NASCAR title by soundly beating a trio of former champions. Logano won the season finale Sunday at HomesteadMiami Speedway to grab the Cup title in a season in which he barely contended until the playoffs began.

The year was dominated by Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick and reigning series champion Martin Truex Jr., with Logano calling the championship field “The Big Three and Me.” But Logano kicked it into another gear during the playoffs with two victories and eight top-10 finishes in the postseason. He led a race-high 80 laps but the title was slipping away in the waning laps until Team Penske teammate Brad Keselowski spun Busch teammate Daniel Suarez for a race-changing caution.

He was fourth on the restart with 15 laps remaining but powered his way alongside leader Truex, used a strong

NASCAR move in the outside lane three laps later to take over the top spot, and Logano pulled away to win for Penske.

“We were the favorite. We executed down the stretch like nobody’s business,” Logano said. “I knew we had a shortrun car. I said it before the race started that if it was anything longer than 25 laps we were going to be in trouble. That showed all day. But it came down to the short run and we are champions. NASCAR champions.”

Logano won the title in his 10th season at NASCAR’s top level, six years after Penske rescued him from the unemployment line.

He started with Joe Gibbs Racing as a teenager, made his debut days after his 18th birthday and was pushed into the Cup Series prematurely when Gibbs needed a replacement driver for Tony Stewart.

When Logano didn’t deliver for Gibbs he was grabbed by Penske, who won got his first Cup title in 2012 with Keselowski, the driver who pushed for Logano to be hired as his new teammate.

“I think when it’s time to go, he’s the guy,” Penske said. “I couldn’t ask for a better result and a guy that delivers it for the whole team.”

Gibbs, who saw his former driver beat current driver Busch for the title, was pleased for Logano.

“Ithinkit’sgreatforthemand Joey,” Gibbs said. “Great kid, greatfamily.I’msurehe’sgoingto makeagreatchampion.”

Logano’s title closes a banner year for Penske.

Penske also this season was elected into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, won the Indianapolis 500 for a record 17th time and celebrated Team Penske’s 500th victory as an organization.

“Every time I think about how we succeed and how we can be better, one thing is ‘What’s your brand?”’ Penske said. “This kind of winning, not only on the racetrack but in business, drives a great Penske brand.”

Team Penske also has been the cornerstone for Ford the last six seasons, and Logano gave the manufacturer its first Cup title since 2004.

NASCAR’s final weekend concluded with three new champions from three different teams representing all three manufacturers. Brett Moffitt won the Truck Series title in a Toyota for Hattori Racing, Tyler Reddick won the Xfinity Series title in a Chevrolet for JR Motorsports, and Ford finally got a title on what is officially called “Ford Championship Weekend.”

Logano screamed so hard when he crossed the finish line that he later joked he thought he pulled a muscle.

Then he explained how far he’s come from a kid in Connecticut who showed so much talent so young that Hall of Famer Mark Martin stamped him NASCAR’s next superstar when Logano was around 15 years old.

Now he’s 28, a 10-year veteran at NASCAR’s top level, and a champion in the second act of his career.

BUFANO: Sem’s 2006 season the gold standard FROM PAGE B1

The talent on this team was truly remarkable — even by Sem’s high standards — and more often than not, it showed with the results.

Sem lost only two games this season; one to the Kentucky state champ, another to the New Jersey state champ. Only one team tied Sem and it was Wyoming Area, which was a state quarterfinalist.

Sem won its three district playoff games by a combined score of 27-2. Then, it won its four games in the state tournament, 20-0.

I repeat: Sem scored 20 goals and allowed zero in the state tournament, facing Pennsylvania’s Class A cream of the crop.

Compare that with 2013, when Sem won the state championship, but actually lost the district final.

So, go back even further to 2011, when, like this year, Sem won District 2 and PIAA championships. But the scores by which Sem outscored its opponents were much closer — 8-3 in districts and 11-5 in states.

While we’re at it, let’s go back even further to 2006.

Perhaps that’s when Sem set the gold standard, achieving a 24-0 record with district and state championships, as well as a national No. 2 ranking and three first-team All-Americans, including future Olympians Kat Sharkey and Kelsey Kolojejchick.

In hindsight, that team looks unbeatable, especially considering it played in the old two-classification system when playoff brackets were more loaded than they are today.

Sem now has a few months to revel in its spectacular success, a slump-busting, highscoring, shutout-recording, star-studded season that will long be remembered.

If history is any indicator, though, Sem will absolutely not be resting on its laurels in 2019.

“There’ll never be a season like that again,” head coach Karen Klassner said of 2006 at the start of the 2007 season. “I told the girls at our first practice that last year is over and now we concentrate on this year.

Especially because we know the bull’s-eye is on us.”

The more things change, the more they stay the same, right?

The 2019 campaign will feature all eyes on Wyoming Seminary, as the Blue Knights try repeating as state champs.

Every team will throw its best shot at Sem, trying to beat the team they’ve read and heard so much about.

I’m sure Klassner and her players would have it no other way.

Matt Bufano covers WVC field hockey for The Citizens’ Voice. He can be reached at mbufano@citizensvoice.com.

CHRISTOPHER DOLAN / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Dallas quarterback Mike Lukasavage is taken down by Valley View’s Traon Jones during the District 2 Class 4A football championship on Sunday.

DALLAS: Mannello wants to build depth on line FROM PAGE B1

Boone was a big reason why. He finished the night throwing for 146 yards and five touchdowns. He also kept the Mountaineers off balance with his ability to escape the pocket and pickup yards when the defensive coverage down the field limited his options. He was also effective on designed runs where he simply kept the snap and found a crease to slip through.

Boone scored on a 1-yard run to tie the game, then the turning point came on the next Dallas possession. Jaden Duplessis picked off a pass at the Dallas 39 and returned it to the 13. Boone then found Duplessis on a 13-yard touchdown pass to put the Cougars ahead for good.

It was a scenario the Mountaineers knew all too well. In the first meeting in Week 8, a 33-0 Valley View win, the Cougars scored a quick touchdown then returned an interception for a score.

“We didn’t respond,” said Dallas coach Rich Mannello.

“That is one heck of a football team. We are still not there physically. We have more work to do in the weight room. We will give them a few weeks off and then start moving the metal again.”

Valley View scored three more times before the end of the first half. Running back Mason Kordish scored on a 7-yard run, before Boone hooked up with Duplessis again, this time on a 6-yard pass. On that call, Boone took off around the left side, waited for the Dallas defense to close in, and then did a neat little jump pass that Duplessis caught in the middle of the end zone.

“That was a designed run play,” Boone said. “I told my receivers instead of blocking to just run. I just dumped it in there because I knew the corners and safeties were going to come down.”

Kordish hauled in a touchdown pass just before the end of the second quarter that gave the Cougars a 35-7 lead.

“We got to the next level, but that is the next step,”

Mannello said as he pointed over to where the Valley View players were celebrating the district title. We still have more work to do in the weight room.”

That work, according to Mannello, will be focused on the offensive line and developing depth. Mannello knows what direction he wants to go, and the work will soon begin to get there.

“The offensive line, we have to develop that next level of linemen after the starters,” Mannello said.

“They are not physically ready to play right now. We h av e t o c l o s e t h e g a p between that next six to 12 or 14, regardless of grade.

They have to be physically ready to play. On the defensive line, you can take a linebacker and have him play with his hands down. Those o f f e n s ive l i n e m e n t a ke development, and that is our next step.”

Contact the writer: sbennett@citizensvoice.com; 570 821-2062; @CVSteveBennett on Twitter.

Valley View Dallas Dallas Valley View

49 14 7 0 0 14 21 14

7 — 14 0 — 49

First quarter DAL - Meuser 11 pass from Lukasavage (Fisher

kick). 7:48 VV - Boone 1 run (Ceccotti kick). 3:23 VV - Duplessis 13 pass from Boone (Ceccotti kick). 1:29Second quarter VV - Kordish 7 run (Ceccotti kick). 7:52 VV - Duplessis 6 pass from Boone (Ceccotti kick).

3:26 VV - Kordish 12 pass from Boone (Ceccotti kick). :35Third quarter VV - Rozina 7 pass from Boone (Ceccotti kick). 7:28 VV - Duplessis 60 pass from Boone (Ceccotti kick). :05 Fourth quarter DAL - Kelley 4 run (Fisher kick). 3:54

Team statistics Dal First Downs 9 Rushing-Att-Yards 25-45 Comp-Att-Int 7-15-1 Passing Yards 74 Total Yards 119 Punts-Average 5-37.0 Fumbles-Lost 1-1 Penalties-Yards 2-20 Individual statistics

VV 15 39-145 9-10-0 147 292 1-31.0 2-0 2-10

Rushing: Dal – L.Kelley 18-53, 1 TD; D.Meuser 1-26; S.Cuba 1-1; M.Lukasavage 5-(-35). VV – M.Kordish 17-70, 1 TD; J.Boone 12-68, 1 TD; T.Jones 1-11; I.Little 1-6; T.Noto 1-1; Z.Manchak 3-(-2); N.Clifford 3-(-9); M. Smith 1-0; Team - 0-0.

Passing: Dal – M.Lukasavage 6-14-1, 60, 1 TD; J. Esposito 1-1-0, 14. VV – J.Boone 9-10-0, 147, 5 TDs. Receiving: Dal – L.DelGaudio 3-24; D.Meuser 2-25, 1 TD; M.Maransky 1-14; J.Farrell 1-11. VV – J.Duplessis 5-101, 3 TDs; M.Kordish 1-12, 1 TD; A. Savkov 1-12; C.Rozina 1-7, 1 TD; Z.Kovalchik 1-15.