Displaying items by tag: High School Sports

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Malcolm Brown, a senior bowler from East CLC.

Malcolm said that bowling was always a fun activity from an early age and he continued throughout.

“I started when I was 5 years old and I just started doing it a lot more throughout the years and I wanted play a varsity sport in high school,” he said.

As a letterman on the team, he says that the camaraderie and fun is what makes bowling great.

He cited winning the City Series bowling title as a junior last year as one of the highlights of his time at East.

His coach Gabe Gonzalez said that Brown is a leader in many ways not only on the team, but in the school as well.

"He is what makes this team go," Gonzalez said.

"As a returning varsity player Malcolm tends to set the bar high for his teammates but does so in a quiet way, and he is not really a vocal leader but he certainly leads by example."

One of the activities that Malcolm does in the community is being involved with the City of Akron Youth Leadership Council.

He says that being involved with that is not only beneficial for him, but the city of Akron as well, trying to better his community.

“I think it’s always good to give back to the community, because the community needs help sometimes,” Brown said.

He is currently undecided on where he is going to college and what he will major in at the moment.

 

Our next 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Cheyenne Cunningham, a junior bowler from East CLC.

She says that being a student athlete at East is an enjoyable experience all around.

“It’s pretty fun because freshman year I didn’t know a lot of people, and everyone else on the team were seniors or juniors and getting ready to graduate, but now half of my friends decided to join and it’s pretty fun now,” she said.

In addition to being a bowler for the Dragons, Cunningham is also a member of the Color Guard, the ROTC, the drill team, and band.

She says that it’s not always easy to balance the activities with the academics and athletics, but it’s a great experience for her.

Coach Gabe Gonzalez said that she is one of the hardest working people he’s been around.

"Cheyenne is a model and motivated student who is part of our top ranked JROTC program, East High School  Band (2nd chair clarinet), and an academic honor recipient," Gonzalez explained.

"Cheyenne is a very passionate student-athlete who is dedicated to helping others. Cheyenne is coachable and makes my job easier."

In the community, Cheyenne is a Girl Scout and said that she has learned a lot from that organization.

“The lessons we learn ( in the Girl Scouts) is how to help our community, how to make it better, and what we can do as leaders,” she explained.

We wish Malcolm and Cheyenne the best in all of their future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Student Athlete of the Week is Amicia Powers, a senior indoor track athlete from North High School.

Powers is a three sport athlete competing in volleyball, indoor track , and track and field (outdoor)

She says that the balance between academics and athletics is a tough one, but very doable once you get a hold of time management.

"I balance it by getting my schoolwork done first before practice and our coaches let us get our work done so we can focus during practice," she said. 

Coach Demonte Powell says Amicia has been the vocal and physical leader since her first day of practice.

“She understands without self discipline success is impossible and she carries one of the highest gpa's on the team yearly,” he said.

“She's an athlete that keeps me going and constantly makes me work hard. When she finally leaves it will be a big loss losing such a leader and a team player we in the staff love Amicia dearly and wish her nothing but success .”

In addition to being a three sport athlete, Powers is also a member of Skills USA, the Senior Advisory Board, Viking Voices, and the cheerleading squad.

She says that being a student athlete at North is an honor and a privilege, especially with the international students, many of whom she has grown to be friends with. 

"I think it's good to know where they come from in certain situations," she said. 

Also in the community, she volunteers at the Haven of Rest in Akron, something that she takes pride in as well.

Upon graduation in the spring of 2020, she plans on attending either the University of Akron or Kent State University to study Biology/Pre-Med.

 

 Our next Male Student Athlete of the Week is Elijah Humphrey, a junior basketball player from North High School.

He says he got into basketball at an early age.

“ I always played since I was little, I started in rec league in third grade, and I just came up from there," he said.

Humphrey is a two sport athlete competing in both basketball and track and field and both are beneficial to his conditioning. 

“It's just easier for me to get up an down the court," 

In addition to being playing two sports for the Vikings, Elijah also is a member of DECA and Viking Voices.

Coach Marc Smith had some good things to say about Humphrey.

"He has some good leadership qualities that has helped us improve as a program.  He is a member of DECA and has already earned scholarship   through that organization," he said.
 
 "He has been playing all year with injuries but is still our 2nd leading scorer, best FT shooter, and arguably our best rebounder.  There is no doubt that if he stays focused, he will be a dynamic individual that will have a major impact on his family, community, and profession."

For community service, Humphrey also volunteers at the Haven of Rest in Akron. He says giving back to community is something he enjoys and realizes the importance of.

We wish Amicia and Elijah the best in all of their future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Rowan Lilly, a senior bowler from Our Lady of the Elms High School.

Rowan says bowling was one of the things that her friends enjoyed and that was something that drew her attention during her sophomore year.

“I’ve really grown to appreciate the sport and I really enjoy just going all the time,” she said.

Away from the bowling alley, she is a scholar athlete at the Elms, and also is involved in her school as a student body Vice President and an officer in the Social Action Club.

She says that the Elms provides a great atmosphere for her to grow in various facets of her life.

“The opportunities that I get at the Elms are unlike any other place that I can get them.”

Her bowling coach Pat Kelley said that Rowan is a great example of what a student athlete is in all aspects.

“Rowan is a very diligent student who works hard to be as precise as she can in everything she does; her physics studies with me, her bowling, and her dancing,” she explains.

“If she is disappointed in the result, she will quietly work at correcting what went wrong.”

In addition to being a student athlete, Rowan is also an accomplished dancer as well.

“Rowan's experience in dance has a positive influence in her bowling,” said head coach Pat Kelley.

“The position awareness she has from her dancing has helped her to be consistent in her approach and release on the lanes so I can count on her for very similar scores during a match.”

Upon graduation in the spring of 2020, she plans on attending Kent State University and majoring in Business Management.

 

 Our next Female Student Athlete is Bella Vesco, a senior basketball player from Our Lady of the Elms.

Basketball has been a part of her life from an early age and to this day, she truly enjoys getting better and working on her game.

“I always played basketball since the third grade,” my dad coached me and encouraged me to play,” she said.

Bella is a three sport athlete competing in soccer and track and field to go along with basketball during the winter months. Earlier this year, she was First Team All-District in soccer for 2019.

She says that being a student at the Elms has been a positive experience and one that she will always remember.

“Everyone is super supportive and it’s nice,” she explains.

Head basketball coach John Reed had this to say about his senior leader.

"Bella Vesco is a leader in every possible She is well respected by her fellow students and classmates," he said. "There is nothing Bella would not do for the school or her teammates.I truly have enjoyed knowing her over the past four years,"
 
Away from sports, she is the president of the Social Action Club and a class coalition rep. In the community, she volunteers at the Akron Rotary Camp and works as a cashier at Shaffer’s Market in the Portage Lakes.

Upon graduation in the spring of 2020, she plans on attending either Ohio State University or Loyola of Chicago to study pre-med.

We wish Rowan and Bella the best in all of their future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Calvin Alexander, a senior football player from Ellet High School. 

 He says that playing sports in Ellet is a source of pride for not only the school, but the Ellet community as a whole. 
 
“Everybody in the community is involved, and everyone loves football and loves sports in the community,” he said. 
 
Alexander garnered 1st team All-City honors, was a three year letterman, and was All-District Honorable Mention during his senior year. 
 
His head coach, Chuck Shuman says that Calvin is a true leader on and off the field. 
 
“He’s a treasure to have,” Shuman said. “He’s intense, focused and a very responsible kind of guy, and we’ve been fortunate to have had him over the past four years.”
 
Away from the field, Calvin is a member of Junior Leadership, Student Council, Drama Club, and is the Vice President of his senior class. 
 
“I just love helping others and being able to lead whenever I can.”
 
Upon graduation in the spring of 2020, Alexander plans on attending the University of Akron to study civil engineering. 
 
  
  
 Our next Female Student Athlete of the Week is Savannah Bunn, a Senior soccer player from Ellet High School. 
 
Savannah says that soccer has been a part of her life from a young age.
 
“I love doing it every day,” she said. “
 
“I’m friends with most of my teammates and when we’re on the field, we’re connected and that comes from our relationship off the field.”
 
Head Coach Justin Dimengo says that her perseverance and determination is what makes her a great athlete as well as a student. 
 
“During her first three years, she was our junior varsity goalkeeper as she learned how to play what I would say is the most difficult position on the field,” he said. 
 
“This season, she earned the spot of our starting varsity goalkeeper. She made countless great save after great save in some really huge moments throughout the season.”
 
That also carries off the field, Dimengo continues. 
 
“She does a great job excelling in the classroom while playing three varsity sports throughout the school year: soccer, bowling, and softball.”
 
In addition to being a three sport athlete, she is also a member of the National Honor Society and ranked near the top of her senior class. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring she plans on attending the University of Akron to study physical therapy or sports medicine. 
 
We wish Calvin and Savannah the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Amiyah Stallings, a junior basketball player from Buchtel High School.

Her coach, Brian Neugebauer said that she embodies all it takes to be a successful student athlete.
 
“Amiyah is a hard worker, a captain, a shooter, and has a positive, encouraging voice and character,” he said. 
 
As a sophomore she was named second team all city and through three games this year, she averages 14 points, 1 assist, and two steals. 
 
Off the court, she does the school announcements for WVOB and she says she enjoys it because of the creative aspect.
 
“It’s fun to do it every day in the morning,” she said. 
 
She also does some volunteer work for the Ladies First program which she was a part of as a youngster.
 
She says that most of her teammates were part of that program and having that camaraderie and chemistry leads to success at the high school level. 
 
“We all knew each other from Ladies First and you build the chemistry, keep going up, and it helped us out in high school,” she said. 
 
 
 
  
Our next Male Student Athlete is Ronnell “Tae” Perie, a junior basketball player from Buchtel High School.
 
He said that getting into the sport of basketball came easy to him at an early age.
 
“My dad put the ball in my hands as soon as I was born,” he said. “He was a basketball player and that’s what got me started,” he said. 
 
Away from the court, he’s a student ambassador at Buchtel and is also involved with youth basketball clinics, Fallen Fathers, and YBPC. 
 
His coach, former Buchtel Griffins alum and former UA Zips basketball player Matt Futch says that the junior gives his best both on and off the court.
 
“He has a leadership quality to him, and we’ve been working to have him bring that out and lead the group,” he says.
 
“He’s got a good sense of humor, good kid to be around, he’s responsible, and takes care of his business.” 
 
He says the bond with his teammates is one that will extend long beyond their playing days.
 
“I just know they got my back andI got their back forever no matter what it is on or off the court,” he explained.
 
We wish Amiyah and Tae the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Gabriela Heideman, a senior tennis player from Wadsworth High School.

She says she got into the love of tennis from an early age and hasn't stopped since.

"I started when I was 9,  my dad got us a couple of rackets, we started playing in the driveway and I started getting lessons soon thereafter, and it just grew," she explained. 

Among her accomplishments her senior year, Heideman finished 23-9, breaking her own school record in addition to finihing 3rd in the Suburban Leauge, finishing as a runner up in the sectional tournament and qualifying for the district tournament.

Her head coach Kristy Nichol also discussed how Heideman excels not only on the tennis court, but in the classroom and in the community as well.

"She is extremely dedicated to the game and loves to play tennis,” she said.

“Every day, Gabriela set the example, and girls on the team looked up to her for motivation and I am excited to watch her continue her tennis career in college.”

Outside of school, she spreads her love of the game through volunteering at tennis camps in Wadsworth.

"It's a great chance for me to grow as a teacher, and help kids love the game just like I did," Gabriela said. 

While she is undecided on where she will attend college after graduation in the spring of 2020, she plans on majoring in education.

 

 Our next 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the week is senior football player Trey Shaffer from Wadsworth High School.

He says that being a Grizzly student-athlete has been a fantastic experience for him.

"We have a ton of pride, and it's really awesome playing here because everybody supports everybody," he says. 

Justin Todd, the head coach of the Grizzlies had this to say about his senior quarterback.

"Trey continues to be a great leader for our program and is playing his best football now, when it’s needed the most,” Todd explains. 

“His maturity and demeanor is exactly what you look for in the QB position, never too high or too low, he’s a calming voice in the huddle and on the sideline.”

Shaffer says that being the quarterback, there comes with a lot of expectations and knowledge of all the variables on the field, but having that familiarity with his seniors has been special.

"We've pretty much all been playing together since we were eight years old," Trey said. I really think that our best football is ahead of us, and it's great to go to work with not only the seniors but the rest of our guys, it's been fun to see."

Away from the field, Trey is a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, and the Recycling Club among other activities.

He is currently undecided on where he will continue his education, but he plans on majoring in either Political Science or History. 

We wish Gabriela and Trey all the best in all of their future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Alexis Mayle, a senior volleyball player from Barberton High School. 

She says that working with her coaches and teammates is something she truly enjoys.
 
“It's fun," she says. " "It means the world to me to be as close as I am with them."
 
Alexis is a two sport athlete for the Magics playing volleyball during the fall and softball during the spring. She says that the balance between academics and athletics is a tough one, but necessary.
 
“I take my schoolwork very seriously, " she explains. 
 
Among her accomplishments, she is a three year varsity letter winner in volleyball and will be a four year letter winner in softball, garnering Suburban League 2nd team honors as a junior.
 
Away from the athletics, Mayle is a member of the Math team and works at a local restaurant in the Barberton area. 
 
Her volleyball coach Nick Williams discusses how she leads both on and off the court.
 
“It has been pleasure coaching Mayle these past four years! Lexi brings a fiery, determined, hard-working and fun attitude to the game, that not only the team respects and loves, but the coaching staff does as well,” he said.
 
 “Her hard work and bubbly personality will be missed tremendously by everyone. “
 
 
 
 Our next Male Student Athlete of the Week is Tyler Eberhart, a senior football player from Barberton High School. 
 
Tyler says he grew to love the game of football from an early age. 
 
“I first started loving football as soon as I started playing," he said. "I just fell in love with it immediately."
 
He says as a two time captain, leadership in all forms is important.
 
“This year as a senior it's a little more vocal and still leading by example."
 
Tyler is a two sport athlete in both football and track and field. In addition to being a letterman in both of those sports, he is also a member of the National Honor Society, Math Club, and Student Council. 
 
Coach Tony Gotto has this to say about Eberhart, one of the leaders on the field and in the locker room.
 
“I asked the team one day of who our overall leader is and it was unanimous,” he said of Eberhart.
 
He does every community service and has incredible work ethic.” And 
 
In the community, Eberhart works at Barberton Local Tees and is also involved with his church, Barberton First Baptist. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring of 2020, Tyler plans on studying mechanical engineering. He is currently undecided on where he will attend school, but has been offered by both Case Western Reserve and Valparaiso to continue to play football.
 
We wish Alexis and Tyler the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Allison Spears, a senior soccer player from Norton High School.

She says that being a Norton Student Athlete is something truly special.

“Going to practice every day and just smiling and laughing and walking through the halls and seeing my teammates every day.”

In 2019, she was named a team captain and was also a recipient of the PTC Scholar Athlete Award. She says that leadership is a dual role for her as she leads by example and vocally out on the pitch.

“It just depends on how the game is going,” she said.

Her coach Dan DiPasquale says that Spears exemplifies what you’re looking for in a student athlete.

“Allison is a soccer player that I first noticed when she was in the 8th grade! “ he says.

“Her dedication & hard work has made her into the amazing soccer player, leader & mentor that she is today, and I am very proud of everything she has accomplished!"

Away from the pitch, Spears is a member of the National Honor Society as well as the National Technical Honor Society and does some great work in the community as a Safety Town Volunteer for the past six years.

Upon graduation in the spring, Allison plans on attending the University of Akron to study Pre-Med.

 

 Our next Male Student Athlete of the Week from Norton High School is Tim Jervis, a senior football player.

Tim says the atmosphere for Norton and their student athletes is second to none.

“It’s nice because it’s a small community and everyone supports you,” he said

His coach Kevin Pollock said he’s a great young man both on and off the field.

“Great kid, Great grades, and huge impact for us on both sides of the ball,” Pollock explained.

Tim is a two sport athlete for the Panthers playing along the offensive and defensive line in football and throwing shot and discus on the track and field team during the spring.

When not studying or playing sports, Tim is a member of the Spanish Club and a member of Superintendent Advisory Group. In addition to those activities, he also works at the Wadsworth YMCA.

He is currently undecided on where he will attend college in the fall of 2020, but he says he wants to get into the medical field.

We wish Allison and Tim the best in all of their future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Joey Klein, a junior soccer player from Revere HIgh School. 

He says that soccer has always been a part of his life from an early age.
 
“I’m pretty sure it was my parents that forced me to do it,” he said with a laugh. “I’m really happy they did and I’ve enjoyed it ever since.”
 
This year he was nominated as a team captain for the varsity team and was also chosen by his peers for the Athletic Leadership Council.
 
As a two sport athlete in soccer and track, Joey says being a Revere Student Athlete is something special.
 
“I just feel proud, “ he said. “The years before us set such a precedent of winning and to be a leader and a captain is a great feeling.” 
 
Away from the pitch, Joey is a member of Student Council as well as Class Council. 
 
He also spreads his love of the game of soccer to youngsters in the community by coaching and refereeing for the Revere 2nd Grade Academy.
 
His coach Nick DePompei says Klein exemplifies what a Revere Student Athlete should be. 
 
“Joey is a gifted leader on and off the field.  He understands how to work with his teammates and get the best out of them,” he said. 
 
“Joey has always been about his team first and does an amazing job making them better on the field. Whatever is asked of him on the field he is willing and capable to handle it.”

 
Our next Female Student Athlete of the Week is Alanna Ramsey a senior volleyball player from Revere High School.
 
Volleyball has been a part of her life from an early age, and she enjoys it each year.
 
“Honestly my whole family played volleyball and pushed me into it but I’ve had zero regrets going into volleyball,” she said. 
 
As a two sport athlete participating in both volleyball and track, she says that the community and her fellow students support the athletes across all sports 
 
Outside of sports, Ramsey is a part of Student Council and Yearbook.
 
Her coach Dana Cummins says she is an example for all of the younger players and a true team leader.
 
“She would run through a wall for me and her teammates. She works hard every day and is a true competitor. She brings the energy, that the other players feed off of,” she said. 
 
“Alanna is a great kid, always brings laughter each day and well liked by her teammates and It has been a pleasure coaching her the past 4 years. “
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Alanna plans on studying Criminal Justice.  
 
We wish Joey and Alanna the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Karly Devaney, a senior golfer from Springfield High School. 

She says that she got into golf from her father and grandfather and that she enjoys working with her coaches and teammates.
 
“You definitely get very close to them, especially with golf and practice probably every day, and with Coach (Kevin) Hanna, it’s cool just because I’ve had him as a teacher and now as a coach, I can go to him whether it’s for golf or for school,” she explained. 
 
Devaney is a two-sport athlete competing in both golf and softball for the Spartans.
 
She says the atmosphere is what keeps things going at Springfield and the whole community is supportive of her and her fellow students who compete in sports. 
 
“You get so close to so many people and there’s underclassmen that I probably wouldn’t know if it wasn’t for my sports, and a lot of them have become my best friends,” she said. 
 
Coach Kevin Hanna says that Karly is the model student athlete ambassador.
 
“She has been a leader on the team to our younger players and a great example of what hard work will do for a person in the classroom and on the golf course,” he explained. 
 
“She is a 4 year letter winner and in those 4 years the team has a record of 48 wins to 15 losses and she has earned two 1st team PTC honors.”
 
In the community, she volunteers at a local food pantry and at school, she is a peer tutor and secretary of the National Honor Society.
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Karly plans on attending Geneva College to study biomedical engineering and forensics. 
  

  
Our next Male Student Athlete of the Week is Carter McCollum a senior cross country runner from Springfield High School. 
 
Carter is a four year varsity letterman in cross country, track, and indoor track, leading his team to the state regionals in cross country as a junior as well as going to regionals in track in the 1600 meter race. 
 
He says the most enjoyable part about being with his teammates is the fact that they push each other and make each other better. 
 
His coach Kevin Gorby says that dedication is there day in and day our for McCollum.
 
“Carter is one of the most dedicated runnersI have coached at Akron Springfield,” he says.   “Carter is a great role model for our younger runners and has always done whatever is needed to make our team great!”
 
Away from the trails, Carter is a member of DECA and helped set up and volunteer for Community Race as well as serve as a counselor for Cross Country at the middle school camp. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Carter plans to attend Youngstown State University to study Business and Marketing.
 
We wish Karly and Carter all the best in their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is senior football player Ben Lahoski from Woodridge High School.

Ben says football has always been a family thing for him growing up and all the way into his senior season.
 
“My grandpa played, my dad played, and it’s just always been a part of me,” he said. 
 
Ben’s coach Jeff Decker says that he is one of the smartest players he’s ever been around.
 
"He is an outright team leader,” Decker explained.

“All of the kids look to him, and he’s the hardest worker and he knows every position on offense and defense if we asked him to play it.”

Ben plays linebacker on defense and serves as a running back on offense. 

He’s a two-sport athlete playing both football and basketball at Woodridge. One of the unique aspects is playing on Lahoski Field, named after his grandfather.

Away from the field, he’s a member of the National Honor Society and is active in the community as well. 

Upon graduation in the spring, Ben is undecided on where he is going to school, but plans on majoring in Business. 

 

 Our next Female Student Athlete of the Week is Sarah Abood, a junior volleyball player from Woodridge High School. 

She says that she got the love for volleyball in middle school and stuck with it ever since. 

“i originally got it from my grade school at IHM (Immaculate Heart of Mary in Cuyahoga Falls), and we started out with CYO and then I got into travel volleyball and tried out for the high school team," she said.

Her coach Katie Cicione says that Sarah is a true leader both on and off the court.

“Sarah is one of the most hard working athletes that we have within our program,” she says. 

“Every day  she strives to be the best version of herself possible for her teammates, constantly asking questions and always the first person one of our underclassmen go to.” 

Among her many activities and clubs s, one of the most notable is the Woodridge Athlete Leadership Council.

She says that the number of athletes encouraging and helping one another is critical to success on and away from the playing field.

“I enjoy being a part of that club, it pushes me to be a better leader every day," she explained. 

We wish Ben and Sarah all the best in their future endeavors. 

 
Published in SAOTW

Congrats to our G&G Fitness Coach of the Week Dan Massarelli of Canton Central Catholic.

His team is trying to get back to states against Ashtabula Edgewood.

 

Congrats to all our Coaches of the Week and we will pick it up again in the 2019-2020 school year.

Published in Sam and Brad
Friday, 31 May 2019 15:07

Sam and Brad Show Podcast 5.31.19

On the Feel Good Friday edition of the Sam and Brad Show Podcast:

Brad Russell spoke with OHSAA Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass to talk about the state softball tournaments at historic Firestone Stadium this weekend and the state baseball tournaments next week at Canal Park. 

Published in Sam and Brad

Our G&G Fitness Coach of the Week is Rod Swartz, the head baseball coach of the Norton Panthers.

Their last game they won the PTC Metro over Coventry.

Swartz says that the "third season" is going well.

"We play Marlington in the districts Monday at 2pm down in Louisville," he says. "We have a deep and experienced team, and it's been a pleasure to be around."

 

Their record is currently 19-1 on the season. Stay tuned for next week's 1590 WAKR G&G Fitness Coach of the Week, 

Published in Sam and Brad

Our 1590 WAKR G&G Fitness Coach of the Week this week is Bill Gamble of the Jackson Polar Bears. He is the head baseball coach for the Polar Bears.

He talked about the team his run has been on, winning 50-plus Federal League games and getting ready for the post season.

Coach Gamble says his team is getting close to where he wants them to be, despite their tremendous success.

"We know the pitching is elite, we know that every play is going to matter the further and further we go in the tournament," he says. 

 

Stay tuned for the Coach of the Week next week on the Sam and Brad Show.

Published in Sam and Brad

Our G&G Fitness Coach of the Week this week is Eric Mitchell the Track & Field coach of the Firestone Falcons.

"The track team is looking really good, we've finished the City Series undfeated in both the boys and the girls side, so we're moving in the right direction," he said.

In addition to coaching track and field, he is also the head coach of the football team over at Firestone. 

 

Stay tuned for next week's 1590 WAKR Coach of the Week from G&G Fitness! 

Published in Sam and Brad

This week our 1590 WAKR G&G Fitness Coach of the Week is Dave Mariola, the new wrestling coach at Walsh Jesuit high school.

Mariola comes to Walsh Jesuit from Barberton High School.

 Dave says it was a tough decision to make.

"It was a real emotional decision, three months no sleep," he says. "The people at Walsh said they needed the program to be built up, they contacted me, and little by little, I made the decision to go there."

Mariola will still teach at Barberton. 

Stay tuned for next week's 1590 WAKR G&G Fitness Coach of the Week! 

Published in Sam and Brad

Our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete  of the Week is Christian Beckett a senior lacrosse player from CVCA High School.

Christian says he got into lacrosse in his younger years and loves the physical aspect of the sport.
 
“One of my hockey coaches in third grade introduced me to it, and a bunch of my buddies started doing it," he said.
 
"I started playing in fourth grade and have stuck with it ever since."
 
Beckett, a three sport athlete in lacrosse, hockey, and golf also is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and is active in the community by helping with his church. 
 
His coach Rob Atwood talked about his leadership on and off the field.
 
“Christian is a great young man from a great family. He is a really good athlete and an even better person,” he said. 
 
“He leads by example, plays hard, and is always dependable.” 
 
 
   
Upon graduation in the spring, Beckett plans on studying Business/Sales and Marketing at Dallas Baptist University, where he will play hockey at the collegiate level. 
 
Our next Female Student Athlete of the Week is Kally Ashton, a senior softball player from CVCA High School.
 
She says her love and appreciation for athletics, especially softball came from her family growing up.
 
"I started out on my brother's baseball team when I was in second grade and hated it," she said with a laugh.
 
“I played softball in fifth grade and just fell in love with  it ever since," she said. 
 
As a captain on the softball team, she says she leads more by example and says the younger players see how she works and tailor that to their game. 
 
Her coach Jeff Johnson talked about her work on and off the field.
 
“Kally has become an amazing softball player. She is our centerfielder but could play anywhere you need her. She is batting over 500 this season, set a school record for doubles last year and has not struck out over the past year and a half,” he said. 
 
“She is very coachable and just fun to be around. She is a great teammate and is more of a quiet leader. She leads by example and by how she carries herself.”
  

  
Ashton is a two sport athlete in both golf and softball. In addition to that, she is a member of the Birdclub. 
 
She says her favorite bird is the Blue Jay, in part to her family being from Canada. 
 
In the community, she enjoys working with her church and tutoring. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Kally plans on studying Biomedical Engineering at the University of Cincinnati. 
 
We wish Christian and Kally the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in Sam and Brad

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Jenna Stout, a senior softball player from Stow-Munroe Falls High School. 

 She says she got into softball early on in her life and stuck with it ever since.
 
“Softball’s always been my thing,” she said. “Ever since t-ball.”
 
Her coach Allison Lewandowski says that Jenna is a true leader on and off the field.
 
“She is an outstanding student athlete with at 3.8 cum GPA,” she explained.
 
“She is able to balance school, softball and working and does a great job at it,” Lewandowski continued.
 
“We are truly grateful to have such an outstanding leader on our team.”
 
In addition to being a softball athlete, starting at 2nd base, she’s also involved in the health careers career program at the high school.
  
 
 
   
 Stout says the medical field is always something she’s been interested in.
 
“I’ve always wanted to do something with nursing and my junior year I got accepted into the program,” she said.
 
“It’s a step forward.”
 
When she’s not busy with work, school, or softball, she’s volunteering at local animal shelters and at the Haven of Rest. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Jenna plans on attending either Mount Union or Kent State to study nursing.
 
Our next Student Athlete of the Week is junior baseball player Adam Folk of Stow-Munroe Falls High School.
 
Adam says he grew to love the game of baseball from his mother at an early age and has always enjoyed the sport.
 
“I’ve been playing as long as I can remember,” he said. 
 
“My mom more than anyone really got me into it, and she’s pushed me to play this long and at as high of a level as I can.”
 
His coach Aaron DeBord says that Folk is a great leader on and off the diamond.
 
“He was unanimously picked as a junior captain  and is the unquestioned leader in our outfield,” DeBord said. 
Coach DeBord says his ability to be a good teammate is a great characteristic that he possesses. 
 “Adam seems to always know what to do or say to help get a friend out of a funk and make them feel better and more energized,” he says.
 
 
 
 
Folk says he takes his role as a teammate and captain seriously.
 
“I just want everyone to keep their head up at all times so we can play to the best of our ability.”
 
Away from the field, Adam enjoys spending time with family and friends.
 
We wish Jenna and Adam the best in all of their future endeavors.
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR G&G Fitness Coach of the Week is Kenny Linn of Tallmadge.

 Linn has coached the Blue Devils for the last 21 seasons. He says he encourages his kids to play multiple sports.

"I truly have worked with great coaches in the other sports here at Tallmadge, and we have no problem sharing the athletes," he said. 

Stay tuned next week for our 1590 WAKR G&G Fitness Coach of the Week! 

Published in Sam and Brad

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Mary Rohrer, a senior softball player from Firestone High School.

Mary said softball was something she got into from an early age and it has stuck with her ever since.
 
“My parents put me in it, I liked it and stayed with it,” she said. 
 
She’s a two sport letter athlete in both soccer and softball in addition to being in the choir, the school musicals and dance. 
 
 
 
  
Her softball coach Joe Moxon said that Rohrer exhibits great leadership both on and off the field.
 
“Mary is an exceptional student athlete who is very well rounded. She excels in the classroom, on the stage and leads on the field in practice and games,” he said.
 
“She is one of the hardest working players that we have. She is very well liked by her coaches & teachers, teammates and peers.”
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Mary plans on attending Ohio University and majoring in business. 
 
Our next  male Student Athlete of the Week is Max Erisey, a senior baseball player from Firestone High School. 
 
He says he’s been engrained in the game of baseball from an early age.
 
“My older brother got me into it, he played, my dad played for Firestone, and it's been a family thing," he said. 
 
 
He's been a four year letterman and a 2-year captain at Firestone and he's enjoyed every minute of it. 
 
He says being a student athlete at Firestone has been a true honor.
 
"To be able to represent Firestone, the green and gold, it's nice." 
Coach John Sloan talked about his prowess both in the classroom and on the field.
 
"He has a 3.8 gpa and a 30 on the ACT in addition to being  a member of the soccer, bowling and a 4 year starter on the baseball team," he said. "As a person he is an extremely polite people person. He has been a co captain and this year the sole captain of the baseball team. He is a student amabassador of the Lebron James Family Foundation."
 
 Upon graduation in the spring. Erisey plans on studying anthropology at the University of Akron. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Syndie Wolf, a senior softball player from Ellet High School.

She said that she got into softball from an early age and with her family dynamic with her sisters playing and her grandfather coaching the team, it's been in her blood from the start.

"When I was five, I started going to games, and I always wanted to play, It was fun watching my sisters play," she said.

 

 

Sydnie is a three-sport athlete in softball, volleyball, and cheerleading. Among her accomplishments at Ellet, in volleyball she was an All City Honorable Mention, academic all-city performer and a three-year letterman.

In softball she was an academic all-city selection and a 4 year letterman.  and in cheer, she was an academic all city and a 2 year letterman.

She says her and her fellow seniors make practice fun and lighthearted.

"It's hard to explain, but it's always one of us," she says.

Her coach and grandfather Chuck Shuman says that Sydnie is a very hard worker on and off the softball diamond.

"I respect her for the time she puts in," Shuman said. "She does everything I ask, we're going to ask her to pitch some this year."

Despite having fought through some injuries over the years, she shown hard work and dedication.

"She never misses a day, she's a very dedicated athlete, and we appreciate the effort that she gives us."

Upon graduation in the spring, Sydnie plans on attending the University of Akron or Ohio University to study Biology and Pre-Med.

Our next 1590 WAKR Student Athlete of the Week is Josh Jaeger a senior baseball player from Ellet.

He always enjoyed the game of baseball growing up and says he enjoys working with his coaches and teammates at Ellet.

 

  "It's just a fun experience having to learn and be able to make yourself better with other people and share experience with everyone around you," Jaeger said.

His coach John Sarver talked about his versatility and work ethic.

"Josh Jaeger is one of our hardest workers. He can play multiple positions, including pitching.," he explained.

"He is very coachable and one of our best hitters. He seems to play his best in the most important games."

Upon graduation in the spring, Josh plans on attending Thiel College in Greenville, Pennsylvania to play baseball and study Biology.

We wish Sydnie and Josh all the best in all of their future endeavors. 

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Katherine Davis, a senior track and field athlete from Copley High School.

Davis said she got into track and field from her family.

"What really got me into track and field was that my dad was a decathlete in college and I had three other siblings that ran track," she said.

 

 

She is a two-sport athlete in both volleyball and track and field and in addition to those two sports, she is also a member of DECA, a part of the marketing program at Copley.

Her head coach John Legrair said that she is a great student athlete who leads by example.

"She's willing to focus on quality, not quantity of athletic preparation , during the pre season and that attitude has paid multiple dividends," he said.

One of the other things she is passionate about is the community service she does at her church.

"At my church we have Wednesday night activities for the youth, all the way up through high school, we all go and do service for people, whether it's at a retirement home or at a homeless shelter, I've always had fun helping others,' she explained.

Upon graduation in the spring, Katherine plans on attending Utah Valley University to study marketing.

Our next 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Kyler Farkas, a senior baseball player for Copley High School.

He says that the team concept and the dynamic of playing with guys he's grew up playing with is the enjoyable part of playing baseball at Copley.

"It's just a good atmosphere to be able to play at," he said.

 

 A team captain and letterman this year, Farkas takes that responsibility seriously and says his leadership style is a combination of both vocal leadership and leadership by example.

"It's more by example, on the field I like to lead vocally as well though and push my teammates," he explained.

Baseball Coach Ray Fantozzi said that Farkas is a solid competitor on the diamond and a solid young man away from the field.

"Kyler is a third year varsity infielder, who has a great outlook on baseball," he said.

"He is a tough competitor on the field, and has a great work ethic. Always diligent in his preparation, and focused. He puts his team results first, and is looked up to by his teammates."

In addition to playing baseball, Kyler is a member of DECA and volunteers at Grace Church and serves as a volunteer basketball coach.

Upon graduation in the spring, Kyler plans on attending the University of Akron and majoring in Business Management.

We wish Katherine and Kyler the best in all of their future endeavors. 

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Jess Vari a senior basketball player from Revere High School. 

She says basketball is something that runs in her family with her older siblings and father all playing. 
 
“It was just a family thing,” she said 
 
She says that the relationship between her coaches and teammates is is a special one, and getting to know first year coach Dan Brown was a great experience for her as well.
 
“The first day we met him he had full confidence in us and he was really supportive and engaging,” she said. 
 
 
 
  
Coach Brown said that Vari exhibits leadership both on and off the court.
 
“Jess meant so much to our team this  season," he said.
 
“ She was our on-the-court leader, not only vocally, but in the way she conducted herself with outstanding footwork in the post, is a skilled defender and is one of the hardest workers I've ever coached. We're going to miss her."
 
This year she was a co-captain and was 2nd team all conference during her senior year. 
 
In addition to being a basketball player for Revere, she’s also a member of the National Honor Society and the Athletic Leadership Council among other groups.
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Jess plans on studying nursing in college.
 
Our next Student Athlete of the Week is Bradley Garrison a senior lacrosse player from Revere High School. 
 
He got into lacrosse at an early age and he truly enjoys the game and the physicality it brings.
 
“I always like the agressiveness of it and I like the fast pace," he says.
 
Garrison is a two-sport athlete in football and lacrosse and is a 3 year letterman in lacrosse. 
 
His coach Patrick Quinn has this to say about his senior.
 
“Our team motto is strength and honor and Bradley exemplifies these traits on a daily basis,” he said. 
 
  
 
 
 He runs straight towards and through the obstacles and challenges in his life and is always looking for opportunities for his teammates, he is a leader and a great lacrosse player.”
 
In addition to those sports, Bradley is a member of Ski and Snowboard Club. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Garrison plans on studying Criminal Justice. 
 
“I enjoy the action and I like police officers and what they do for the community," he explained. 
 
We wish Jess and Bradley the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Savannah McGraw, a senior bowler from Coventry High School. 

She says she got into bowling to have another challenge for herself and to compete alongside her friends. 
 
“I just thought it would be cool and something to do with my friends, and over time it just became something that I love to do," she says.
 
She says working with her coaches and teammates is something she truly enjoys.
 
“It is just a lot of fun and being with your friends," she explained. 
 
McGraw is a three sport athlete competing in volleyball, bowling, and track. In addition, she was part of the all-district team in bowling in 2018-19.
 
 
 
  
In addition to being a three sport athlete, Savannah is a member of the National Honor Society and the Key Club. 
 
Her coach Aaron Rose talked about her leadership and competitive nature.
 
“Savannah is a competitor that does not like to lose,” he said. “She is hard working and is always trying to get better and it has been a pleasure to coach and teach such an outstanding student and athlete.”
 
Upon graduation in the spring, McGraw plans on studying Criminal Justice at Gannon University. 
 
Our next Student Athlete is Nolland Almestica a senior track and field athlete from Coventry High School. 
 
He says competing in track has been a passion of his since his middle school days.
 
“I started track in eighth grade and it was difficult to get it started  because of athsma," he said.  "But when I started I had this rush of adrenaline and it felt like I was meant to be on the track."

 
Nolland is a three year letter heading into his senior year, competing in the middle distance events such as the 800 meter dash and the 4x800 and 4X400 relay. 
 
He says working with his teammates and communication is essential to success on the track.
 
Track Coach Danny Savage had this to say about his star senior.
 
“Nolland is an amazing young man who is every coach's dream,” Savage explains.
 
“He is one of the hardest working athletes I've ever seen but still finds the time to succeed in the classroom and community. “ 
 
In addition to being a track athlete, Almestica also participates in Marching Band, Symphonic Band and is a member of the National Honor Society. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, he plans on attending the University of Akron and majoring in Political Science.
 
We wish Savannah and Nolland the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Student Athlete of the Week is Shae Moles, a senior basketball player from Springfield High School.

He says he got into basketball at an early age and kept it going ever since.

"Football was my first love for any sport, but once I started playing in youth and got up to junior high, I just fell in love with the game," he said.

He says working with his teammates and coaches has been a truly rewarding experience over the course of his career as a Spartan.

His head coach Tim Cole said Shae's hard work is apparent on the court and in the classroom.

"Shae is a perfect example of what we want a Spartan Basketball player to be," Cole says. "He works really hard in the classroom, volunteers in the community, and excels in all parts of the game on the floor. He never misses practice, works hard in the offseason, and is a leader for both his senior teammates and underclassmen alike. He leads a small-cell group of underclassmen and has taken them under his wing to teach the next generation ‘The Spartan Way’.“

 

 "They (coaches and teammates) help you each step of the way," he explained.

Shae' s a three year letterman and was 2nd team All-PTC and participated in the PTC All Star Game. He's also showing excellence in the classroom as well, with a 3.4 GPA and participation in such extracirriculars such as senior council.

In the community, Shae serves as a referee for youth sports basketball games in the area.

Upon graduation in the spring, Shae plans on majoring in either education or physical therapy.

Our next Student Athlete of the Week is Natalie Phillips, a junior basketball player from Springfield High School.

She says seventh grade is when she got into the sport of basketball

"My brother did it and I started it because I wanted to try something new.

Phillips is a two-sport athlete at Springfield in both basketball and cross country all while maintaining a 3.6 GPA.

Her head coach Kevin Pletcher has this  to say about one of his leaders.

“Natalie loves the game of basketball, she loves being part of the girls basketball program,” he said. “She represents herself first class as a student-athlete here in the Springfield school system and community."

 She said one of the cool aspects of playing basketball for the Lady Spartans includes playing at the Q (Quicken Loans Arena) during the course of her career.

"We go every two years, so that's pretty unique," she says.

Phillips is a 3 year letterwinner in basketball heading into her senior season in 2019-20.

We wish both Shae and Natalie the best in all of their future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW

The 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week from Kenmore-Garfield High School is Brandon Evans, a senior basketball player.

Brandon says he fell in love with the game of basketball at an early age.

"I just instantly had an interest for it, and I've played from 5 years old and I just never stopped," he said.

Brandon's a three sport athlete at Kenmore-Garfield with football, basketball, and cross-country.

He says the balance between academics and athletics is a tough, but managable one.

"School is always the first priority of mine, he said.

His coach Murray Hooten says Brandon's a leader on and off the court. 

"Brandon Evans is a good student in the classroom and an amazing athlete on the court. He has an oustanding work-ethic that allows him to compete at a high level for us. Brandon leads by example and I wish we had him in our program for one more year. He will be a great asset to any college program he decides to play in."

Among some of the highlights for Brandon include being named  Player of the Month for December, an honor he was truly proud of.

"It felt good and it felt like my talents are being noticed and that my hard work and dedication has been noticed.

 

 Upon graduation in the spring, Brandon plans on studying sports medicine.

Our next Student Athlete of the Week is Alexis Radcliff a senior basketball player from Kenmore Garfield.

She said she got into basketball at an early age and stuck with it ever since,

"I didn't get serious until my junior year, and then my senior year has been a great one for me.

Among some of the honors for Alexis this year, Academic All City, Player of the Year, and First Team All City.

Coach Yontami Jones had this to say about Alexis.

 "We are truly going to miss our leader on and off the court!," she said.

"Alexis is like a daughter to me. I was truly blessed to have her as a player!!"

She says the best thing about being a student athlete at Kenmore-Garfield is the family atmosphere.

 

 "I love the school and I love how we all support each other through everything.

Upon graduation in the spring, Radcliff plans on studying business management.

We wish Brandon and Alexis the best in all of their future endeavors. 

Published in SAOTW
Friday, 15 February 2019 15:53

G&G Fitness Coach of the Week Yontami Jones

This week our 1590 WAKR G&G Fitness Coach of the Week is Yontami Jones, the girls' basketball coach of Kenmore Garfield Golden Rams.

 The Lady Rams won the 2018-19 City Series title.

She says that her team fought through some adversity earlier in the season, but perservered and came through. 

Stay tuned for next week's Coach of the Week! 

Published in Sam and Brad

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Tommy Cummings, a senior basketball player from Walsh Jesuit High School.

Tommy says he got into basketball in kindergarten and stuck with it ever since then growing up in the Macedonia area. He said that working with his coaches and teammates is special because of the grind of the season and the bond he developed with them over the years.
 
"It's really fun because you bond every day, you go through hardships together, and winning makes it just that much better when you're with your teammates and you become brothers," he explained. 
 
 
 
 
 His head coach Kevin Byrne talked about the leadership Cummings brings both on and off the floor. 
 
"Tommy exemplifies everything we look for in our student athletes at Walsh Jesuit," he said.
 
"He is a great student, a great teammate, and most importantly a great person.  He is reliable, one of the most important things any person can be."
 
On the court, coach Byrne says he is just as dynamic. 
 
Tommy has had an outstanding senior season for us and by  playing the point for a new coach, as a senior, is challenging for anyone" Byrne explains.
 
"Tommy has made it look effortless.  No one in the area plays harder.  It is contagious.  We remain a dangerous team to play largely because of Tom's ability to play both ends of the floor and be a threat on the offensive end, both with his scoring and his ability to make great decisions on when and where to throw his teammates the ball."
 
Upon graduation in the spring, he plans on studying engineering in college. 
 
Our next 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Kyra Dossa a gymnast and diver from Walsh Jesuit High School.
 
She says that balancing the two winter sports isn't easy but its a challenge she readily accepts.
 
"Gymnastics is definitely a priority because I've been doing it longer, but my two coaches communicate well and balance my schedule," she says.
 
 
 

 
  
Kyra says the community at Walsh is a welcoming one, and that makes going to school and going to practice a great experience.
 
This year has already been a great one for her as she placed 1st in the all-around at the Win The Day Invitational and 2nd in the all around at the McGee Invitational. 
 
Her gymnastics coach Megan Crysler said Kyra is a true team leader even as a young underclassman
 
"She’s a hard worker everyday and pushes herself to be a better gymnast," she said.
 
"Not only is she an amazing gymnast, but she’s a kind, sweet, and funny person and I can’t wait to work with her over the next few years!  "
 
In her community of Sagamore Hills, she volunteers to coach her neighborhood swim team. In her spare time, she enjoys shopping and being with her family and friends. She enjoys the volunteer aspect to help out the next generation of swimmers.
 
"You get to help out the little kids and it's a lot of fun, she says.
 
We wish Tommy and Kyra the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Kylee Beaty a senior basketball player from Wadsworth High School.

Kylee said she got into the sport of basketball at a young age and enjoys playing with her teammates.
 
“All the girls on the team are really close and we’re all best friends, so it’s great going to school with them and playing basketball with them,” Kylee said.
 
 
 
She says the coaching staff is supportive and pushes the girls to be the best athletes and people they can be.
 
“All the coaches on the team support us on a day to day basis, Batey explained. 
 
Her head coach Andy Booth says Kylee is one of the hardest working players he’s coached. 
 
“She moved from northwest Ohio as a freshman, she’s in her second year of varsity basketball, and she’s. earned everything,” Booth said.
 
“She’s a balanced player, can shoot the three and get into the paint and she’s quick and strong defensively,” 
 
In addition to being a basketball player on the Grizzlies team, Kylee is a member of Advancement to Nursing and the Big Brother/ Big Sister program.
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Kylee plans on attending Lawrence Tech University to study nursing. 
 
Our next Male Student Athlete of the Week is Eric Auffenberg, a senior bowler from Wadsworth.
 
He says bowling has been a part of his life since he was a youngster.
 
“I started bowling at a very young age, my parents got me into it when I was three or four years old and I’ve liked it ever since,” he said.
 
 
 
Eric’s a team captain and a four year letterman for the Grizzlies, and he says he leads both vocally and by example.
 
“I think it’s more vocal than anything else, because I can explain what to do with the teammates and help them out,” he said.
 
In addition to being a bowler for Wadsworth, Eric is a member of the National Honor Society, Band, and a statistician for the Grizzlies baseball team.
 
His coach George Steele says that Eric is one of the smartest bowlers he's ever been around.
 
"He comes from a bowling family, he understands the game so well, Steele said, "He's also a good kid and very coachable, what every coach looks for in an athlete," 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, he plans on attending the University of Cincinnati to study mechanical engineering.
 
We wish both Kylee and Eric all the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Nicole Lester, a senior basketball player from Norton High School.

 Nicole said she got into the game of basketball from her friends at a young age and stuck with it ever since.
 
She says that because of playing with a lot of her teammates earlier in life, it translates into the court now.
 
“It’s easy because you can read where everyone is going,” Lester said.
 
 

 
She said her head coach Brian Miller gets the most out of her teammates day in and day out, caring not only about them as players, but as students and people. 
 
“He’s really funny,” Nicole said with a smile. “He cares about us and our education first.”
 
Miller said Nicole’s leadership and positive attitude carries from the court to off the court.
 
“She is not interested in her stats only cares about winning and making sure the team is first,” he explained.
 
“She is a tremendous student. Her grades are excellent and she will have great success in her life.”
 
In addition to being a four year letter winner for the Lady Panthers, Nicole is a member of the National Honor Society and volunteering with the Youth basketball camp at Norton as well as father/daughter dances. 
 
Our next male Student Athlete of the Week is Nathan Dobben, a senior basketball player from Norton High School. 
 
Nate says he got into basketball at an early age and fell in love with the sport.
 
“In sixth grade I went out for the team and ever since then I’ve loved the sport and always wanted to play.”
 
Dobben is also a captain on the team this year and he takes his leadership role seriously.
 
“I feel like now as a senior I have to lead both vocally and by example,” he said. 
 
 

 
 
His coach BJ Sanderson had this to say about his senior leader.
 
“Nate is a phenomenal kid. Great grades, great manners, great family, and a great head on his shoulders,” Sanderson explained.
 
“He is a great example of the kind of student-athlete leading our program.”
 
Nathan is also a part of the National Honor Society , Key Club, and is the Senior Class Vice President.
 
Upon graduation in the spring, he plans on attending the University of Akron to study engineering. 
 
We wish Nicole and Nathan the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Cameron Fitzsimmons, a senior wrestler from Barberton High School. 

 
Cameron says he got into wrestling at a young age and grew to love the competition on the mat.
 
“I have been wrestling since I was 5 years old and the sport has taught me so much. Its taught me discipline, determination, leadership and it has made me a better person overall and I thank my teammates and coaches for that." 
 
He says that the grind of working with his coaches and teammates is something he enjoys.
 
“Barberton wrestling is one of a kind, every athlete is dedicated and willing to learn everyday, “ he said.
 
“We have the best coaches in the area that do everything in their power to make sure we meet our goals as a team."
 
 
 
As of this writing, Fitzsimmons has a 24-8 record in the 2018-19 season and 8 losses. He’s also the recipient of the Dave Cline Award as well. 
 
He is also a member of the National Technical Honors Society and College Credit Plus.
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Cameron plans on studying Business Management in college. 
 
Our next female student athlete of the week is Madison Goodrich, a junior bowler from Barberton High School.
 
She says she got into bowling in the second grade and stuck with it ever since then.
 
“It was just a second-grade league just to get out of the house, and I stuck with it."
 
She says she leads by example and vocally and as a left handed bowler, she has a unique perspective.
 
“It's a little bit of both, I can show the other left handed bowlers what to do and actually show them some things, plus I can talk to them as well," she said. 
 
In addition to being a bowler she’s also a member of the color guard and Teens Against Cancer over at Barberton 
 

 
Her coach Ed Sitko said that her leadership carries both in competition and in life.
 
“As a bowler, Madison is a talented young lady, she was given the gift of being left handed. This year she has positioned herself as a team captain with her bowling ability and team attitude, “ he explained.
 
“As a person, she truly cares about her friends and teammates. I am thankful to have her on the team, and glad she has one more year left. “
 
Theres also a unique family aspect as well.
 
“It has to be hard for her to have me as her coach and step-dad, she has the normal pressures of the sport and a little more.”
 
We wish Cameron and Madison the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW
This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Billie Johnson, a junior basketball player from East.
 
He says that working with his teammates and coaches is something he enjoys and pushes him to be better day in and day out.
 
“Sometimes it's hard because some people don't like to listen, but we always come together and figure out what to do," he said.
 
He says head coach of the Dragons Brian Dawson gets the most out of him and his fellow basketball players and puts them in a position to succeed on the court and off.
 
“He always gets the best out of us," Billie explained.
 
 
 
Coach Dawson says Billie’s work ethic is contagious and that having him on the court makes a difference for East. 
 
“He’s one of our post players and we need him to get a double-double for us (points and rebounds) which he usually does,” Dawson said 
 
“Not only is he a great player, but a great kid as well, he goes to practice, he maintains a 3.0 GPA, he does the morning announcements in the morning, and on top of all that he goes to work, so he’s a well rounded young man.”
 
The three year letterman is not only a leader on the court, but also a leader in his school community, being a part of the Student Council. 
 
Our next Female Student Athlete of the Week is Alexis Buchanan, a senior  basketball player from East. 
 
She says she got into basketball from an early age and never looked back.
 
“ I used to look up to my male cousins when I was younger, I started playing when I was 8, and I wasn't too good, but I kept up with it and I'm on the varsity," she said.
   
 
 
 In addition to being a basketball player and a  three year letterwinner, she is also a co-captain on the cheerleading squad.
 
Her head coach on the basketball team Darryl Anderson says she is a leader on and off the court. 
 
“Alexis us a high energy; high quality young lady,” Anderson said.
 
“Alexis does our dirty work and she is one of the top rebounders and defenders on the team.”
 
Off the court, Buchanan exhibits a lot of good characteristics that make her a good basketball player.
 
“She is a leader at school and she is a positive role model to all of her teammates,” Anderson continued.  
 
“Alexis is a young lady that her coaches and teammates can rely on.”
 
Buchanan said that working with her coaches and teammates is something she truly enjoys.
 
“Every year I like coming across more people," she explained. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Alexis plans on attending Bowling Green State University to major in pre-nursing.
 
We wish Billie and Alexis the best in all of their future endeavors. 
 
Published in SAOTW
Thursday, 10 January 2019 15:02

1590 WAKR Student Athletes of the Week

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is junior basketball player Lukas Swartz of Mogadore High School. 

Lukas says the love of basketball came from his family growing up.
 
“My dad and my uncle played in college and I always grew up with a ball in my hands, and I've played ever since I was little," he said.
 
He says playing for his dad, Russ Swartz is a interesting and fun dynamic.
 
“I enjoy it a lot because he'll help me a lot, and at home, we talk basketball a lot."
   

 
The head coach had this to say about Lukas as a player and a person.
 
“Lukas is a hard worker both in the classroom and on the court,” Swartz said. “He wants to be the one best player and more importantly be the best person he can possibly be, and with that he is very team oriented and always puts the success of the team first.” 
 
In addition to being a member of the basketball team, Lukas plays baseball, and is a member of the National Honor Society.
 
Our next 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Hope Murphy, a junior basketball player from Mogadore High School. 
 
She says that working with her coaches and teammates is a true joy as they get ready to compete on the hardwood.
 
“We have come a long way from where we started this year," Murphy said. "We're a young team."
 
 
 
   
Her head coach Jennifer Ritch said she is a true leader on and off the court.
 
“Hope is a fantastic student athlete that always gives 100% whether on the basketball court, cross country course or track,” she explains.
 
“She is a great leader and she brings tenacity and toughness to our team, always putting her teammates first and is a perfect representative of what a Mogadore Wildcat is all about.”
 
In addition to being a three sport athlete, Murphy is a member of the National Honor Society and Junior Akron Leadership.
 
“It's opened me up to a lot of different professions and situations that have been very eye-opening to me."
 
We wish Lukas and Hope the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Romello Pacely, a junior basketball player from North High School.

Romello says he got into basketball at an early age and stuck with the game when he got to high school.
 
“I got into it from my brother," he said. "I always looked up to him, so I liked the game of basketball."
 
The junior letterman says he, his teammates and coaches are determined to work hard, hold themselves accountable, and change the culture at North. 
 
“He (Coach Marc Smith) motivates us every day, always pushes us to be better," Romello explained.
  
 
 
  
In addition to being a basketball player, Pacely maintains a 3.3 GPA and works hard in the classroom as well as the court.
 
His coach Marc Smith talked about his work ethic and how he’s developing as a player and a person. 
 
“Romello is a young man who has worked very hard in the classroom and on the court, “ Smith said. “He hasn't allowed his limitations to dictate who he is as a person. “
 
We are proud of what he has accomplished in the classroom and look forward to watching his development over the next couple of years.”
 
Our next Female Student Athlete of the Week is Akilah Primm, a senior basketball player from North High School. 
 
She says she got the competition bug from her sister, Amani who plays college basketball at Tri-C.
 
Primm  says that by her sister earning that college scholarship, it pushes her to do the same.
 
“She was playing when we were younger and it became fun to me," Akilah said. "It makes me want to go (to college) and be with her."
 
As a captain and one of the key cogs for North, she knows that getting the best out of her teammates is one of the most important things she can do for her team.
 
 
  
Her coach Shermaine Meadows talked about her leadership on and off the court. 
 
“Akilah Primm has been a quality leader to our program in which we have grown to depend on day in and day out,” he explained.
 
She is by far the best defender on the team and her blazing speed makes it almost impossible to stay in front off.”
 
Off the court, she has the same drive and determination.
 
“Akilah has helped change the culture here at North high school with a high level of excellence and competitive spirit that transcends the court,” Meadows said. 
 
“Akilah volunteers at the haven of rest and churches around the city. She carries a Gpa of 3.5  One of the most coachable kids I’ve experienced.”
 
We wish Romello and Akilah the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Andreana Gotto, a senior basketball player from Tallmadge 

She says that working with her coaches and teammates is something that she truly enjoys.
 
“We always have a good time, always having fun, but some moments we have to take things seriously to get ready for the games,” she says. 
 
Her head coach Collin Epstein says she is driven and focused both on and off the court.
 

 
“Andreana has a 3.896 GPA, outside of school she has volunteered at the science convention, haven of rest, youth basketball camps, and red cross,” he said.
 
“On the basketball court she is a two time captain for our team and was honorable mention suburban league last year.”
 
As a captain, she says she leads both vocally and by example.
 
“I get the girls going, I talk (on the court), even if we’re just messing around, I say something,” she said with a smile. 
 
Our next Male Student Athlete of the Week is Nick Hussing, a senior basketball player from Tallmadge High School. 
 
Nick says he got the love of basketball from his older brother growing up.
 
“He would always beat me, never took it easy on me, but he made me better,” Hussing said. 
 

 
His head coach Bill Johnson said Nick is a quality young man on and off the court.

“Nick volunteers at his church and helps with youth basketball, Johnson explains. “He is a great worker and an even better leader.”

“On the court, Nick is a senior captain for us,” he continued. “He is the kind of kid that will run through a wall for you and never ask questions,” he said.

“Since I’m a senior captain, I’ve always led by example, but this year I try to lead with my voice,”Nick explained. 

Hussing is a 3.8 student, a member of NHS, the Tallmadge High School Pep Club and the French Club. 

We wish Andreana and Nick the best in all of their future endeavors. 

Published in SAOTW

his week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Emily Andrassy, a senior basketball player from Stow-Munroe Falls High School.

Emily says she started playing basketball from an early age, and has enjoyed the game ever since.

“My parents are very athletic, but I’ve always been athletic and I enjoyed playing outside with my neighbors,” she said.

As a four-year letterwinner and two-time captain both junior and senior year, Emily said that even though she can motivate her teammates vocally, she mostly leads by example on the practice floor, and on game day.

"I probably lead more by example, but I try to be more vocal, but it’s all about coming to practice and working hard.”

 

 Her head coach Bob Podges had some great words for Andrassy and what she brings to the court.

"Emily is the heart and soul of our team," he said. "She's our best defender with an oustanding competive spirt."

The leadership qualities that she displays on the court also are on display off the court as Andrassy participates in the Freshman Mentorship program, something she takes a great deal of pride in.

Upon graduation in the spring, Emily plans on attending Kent State University.

Our next Male Student Athlete is Jackson Carlson, a senior basketball player from Stow High School.

He said he too fell in love with the game of basketball from an early age.

"My dad put a basketball in my hand since I before I can remember, and I’ve always been around the sport and loved it,” he said. 

As a two-sport athlete for Stow (basketball and baseball), Carlson says he enjoys being with his teammates and working with them towards a common goal.

Coach Dave Close, the longtime coach of the Bulldogs, said that Jackson has grown as a player and as a person.

"He is a young man who has worked very hard to improve as a player and as a junior, he did not receive a lot of playing time. But he rolled up his sleeves and worked hard 
the entire off-season to become a better and more well-rounded player," he said. 

He also works hard off the court as well to become a more well-rounded person as well.

"He too has volunteered at Open M and has volunteered in the summer helping to teach youngsters 
the game of basketball," Close said.

 

 Carlson plans on majoring in education when he attends college in the spring, He says helping youngsters is something he's really interested in.

"I always liked being around students and want to coach as well,” he explained.

We wish Emily and Jackson the best in all of their future endeavors. 

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Imani Jackson, a senior basketball player from Buchtel High School.

Jackson says the team dynamics are strong, an aspect of playing at Buchtel she enjoys.
 
“We have fun when we're at practice," Jackson explains. "The girls are fun, we're laughing throughout practice, even though we're out of breath," she said with a laugh.
 
Her head coach Brian Neugebauer says Imani is an integral part of the team for the Lady Griffs.
 
“She is a leader that has become vocal and assertive over time,” he said. 

 
“She has a high work ethic and through that work has improved all aspects of her game.”
 
Neugebauer says that leadership and and overall drive to excel carries over
away from the court. 

“Imani is in the Nursing Program at Buchtel CLC, maintains an accumulative GPA of 3.8, scored a 24 on her ACT & is an overall outstanding individual.”

 
Our next Male Student Athlete of the Week is Addison Singletary, a junior basketball player from Buchtel.
 
He transferred from Kenmore-Garfield High School after spending two years there, and his new teammates at Buchtel embraced him from the start before the season even began.
 
“They were very welcoming and it's been a great experience," he said. 
 
His coach, Matt Futch, a 2002 Buchtel graduate said Singletarty is a great young man on and off the court.
 
“He is a tremendous kid who has an unbelievable work ethic in the classroom and on the court,” Futch explains.
 
  

  
 
“He is a very coachable young man and a joy to be around. “
 
 "Addy" holds a 3.5 GPA currently and says one of the highlights from his time at Buchtel was helping with the youth clinic earlier in the year.
 
We wish Imani and Addison the best in all of their future endeavors.
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Zach Miller, a senior hockey player from CVCA.

Hockey’s been a big part of his life from his early years when his parents had him taking skating lessons.

“Ever since I was seven years old, I started playing hockey and have played it ever since,” Zach said.

He says being around the guys is one of the best aspects of being on the team.

“Being around the guys is so much fun, because of the atmosphere that’s provided,” Miller said.

  

  His coach Doug Fairchild says that Zach is a true leader both on and off the ice.

“Zach is an outstanding student, one of the top students in our engineering program at CVCA,” Fairchild explains.

“Zach was a unanimous selection as a team captain this season due to his hard work and dedication. He is an excellent example for our younger players to follow.”

When he’s not playing hockey, Zach’s a part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the National Honor Society. He’s also done some volunteer work for the Akron–Canton Regional Foodbank.

Upon graduation in the spring, Zach plans to major in Areospace Engineering.

Our next Student Athlete is Lauren Davis, a senior basketball player from CVCA.

She says working with her coaches and teammates is something she truly enjoys whenever she steps on the basketball court.

“We all just care about each other so much and it makes for a good atmosphere during games and practices,” she explained.

She is a two year captain, and a three-year varsity letter winner for the Royals.

Her coach Andy O’Keefe says that leadership translates to all facets of Lauren’s life.

“She exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader. Lauren's toughness, skillset, and determination make her a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court,” O’Keefe.

“At the same time, her selfless and humble character makes everyone on the team better.”

Upon graduation in the spring, Lauren plans to attend Kent State University to study nursing.

We wish Zach and Lauren the best in all of their future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is junior basketball player Josh Fleming from Woodridge High School.

 He says he got into basketball at an early age and has enjoyed it ever since.
 
“I’ve been playing it my whole life, one of my friends was playing when I was younger and I just wanted to play with them,” he said. “From then I grew to love the sport.”
 
A two-sport letterman in both soccer and basketball, Fleming says competition and being around his teammates are a couple of the most important and enjoyable things about being a Woodridge Bulldog. 
 
 
 
“I enjoy playing with my teammates and coaches, they’re always super supportive,” he said. 
 
His coach Richard Blevins had some high praise for the junior.
 

“Josh epitomizes what we want Woodridge Basketball to represent,” Blevins said.

 “He is a tireless worker and a great teammate as well as an excellent student and we always know Josh will give 100% in any situation.”

 One unique thing about Josh is his volunteer work during the Polar Express in Peninsula during the holiday season. 

 Our next 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Isabella (Bella) Chriakos, a junior basketball player from Woodridge High School. 
 
She enjoys playing basketball at Woodridge because of the great relationships she built with her teammates over the years.
 
“I love my team so much, every day with them is a blessing,” she said. 
 

A three-sport athlete participating in golf, basketball, and track, Bella says that the atmosphere at Woodridge is a positive one for her and her teammates.
 
“It makes it great because I see the girls every day and we do a lot of team bonding activities.”
 
Her basketball coach Chris Nauer talked about her leadership on and off the court.
 
 “She works extremely hard throughout the season as well as the off season,” Nauer said. “She is very dedicated to the game and is a great teammate.”
 
 That dedication crosses over from the court to the classroom. 
 
“She encompasses everything that represents a student-athlete excelling in the classroom and on the basketball court.” 
 
In addition to being a starter on the basketball team, Bella is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club among other activities.
 
When she’s not playing sports or studying, she’s volunteering at One of A Kind Pet Rescue and doing other philanthropic endeavors such as organizing the school blood drive at the high school. 
 
We wish Josh and Bella the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Samuel Lord, a junior wrestler from Ellet High School. 

 He started wrestling at an early age, but now as a junior in high school, the grind and the discipline of the sport drives him and his teammates.

“The coaches push us to be our best and the athletes in there all really push each other to be better every day,” he said.

His coach Brian Biel said that the junior captain knows the meaning of working hard and staying focused.

"He leads by example and has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches through his hard work, positive attitude, and pursuit of personal and team growth," he said,

Lord said that school always comes first and the coaches and his fellow teammates are always cognizant of that.

“Sometimes practices have to be short so we can get our work done, but it’s all about balance,” he said.

As always, the goal is States, but last year in just his sophomore season, Samuel was 6th in sectionals and 7th in the North Coast Classic. 

 As a team leader, he says leadership by example is more his style, but he’s not afraid to motivate a teammate when he knows they can do better.

Our next 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Sarah Mason, a senior basketball player from Ellet High School.

 She learned the sport of basketball growing up with 6 brothers and grew to appreciate the game that way. 

“I just grew up around basketball,” she said.

She also appreciates her head coach Tina Wallace, who is a tough coach, but looks out for her team day in and day out. 

“She’s always there for us and always there to support us and teach us what we need to know,” she explained. 

 

 

Coach Wallace talked about Mason’s hard work on and off the court 

“She’s a relentless defender, first one in the gym, last one to leave, I call her the rock in your shoe” Wallace said.  

“But the most impressive quality is her character, Sarah has Great Parents and she truly exemplifies Student-Athlete.”

 Sarah is a four year starter and letter winner for Ellet and says it’s great playing basketball with people she’s grown up with and enjoys being around.

“It’s just a great feeling,” Mason said with a smile. 

Upon graduation in the spring, Sarah says she plans on attending the University of Akron to study art. 

We wish Samuel and Sarah the best in all of their future endeavors. 

 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Logan Johnson a senior wrestler from Firestone. 

Logan says that he got into the sport of wrestling at an early age and has loved it ever since.
 
A team captain and a letterman for the Falcons, Johnson says working with his coaches and teammates is something he enjoys.
 
“You make good friends when you wrestle, you meet a lot of people in tournaments, it's fun but it's hard work."
 
His coach Dan Sandy had some great words for Logan and the work he puts in on the mat and in other aspects of his life.
 
“Logan was the 2018 Akron City Series Heavyweight Champion and was also a member of the Academic All-City Series Team,” Sandy explained. “He is the rock of our team.”
 
 
 
  
In addition, he also helps with other activities when he has time. 
 
“He (Logan) helps volunteer at our community youth league events with concessions and doing score tables at times. He is also a member of our school's prestigious Akron School of the Arts Visual Arts Program. “
 
Logan says the Firestone community is like one big family and one he’s glad to be a part of.
 
“No matter where you go, you're always saying hi to people, no matter what."
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Johnson plans to attend The Ohio State University to study Agriculture.
 
Our next 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete is Madeline Dyer, a junior swimmer from Firestone.
 
She says swimming has always been a part of what she’s done, and she wanted to follow her older brother, who swam as well.
 
“I kind of wanted to do what he was doing, so my parents put me in swim lessons and it grew from there,"
 
She says being a part of the Firestone swimming tradition is an honor and a privilege. 
 
“It's such an incredible thing to have that kind of tradition," she says. 
 
Her coach Cindy Dial says she is a hard worker in and out of the pool. 
 
"Madeline is a great role model and she has a passion for her academics as well as her athletics and it is very contagious," she explained.
 
A returning letterman, All-Ohio Award Winner and All American, Madeline says she sets high goals for not only herself, but her team as well.
 
 
 
 When she’s not in the pool or studying, she’s volunteering at One of a Kind Pet Shelter and hanging with friends. 
 
We wish Logan and Madeline the best in all of their future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Tyris Dickerson, junior football player from Archbishop Hoban High School.

Tyris said he’s been into football from a young age, and said playing for Hoban and coach Tim Tyrrell has been a great experience.
 
“He doesn't just make you grow as a person on the field, he makes you grow as a person in life, " Dickerson said.
 
 
 
  
"He really brings us all together and creates a family (atmosphere) at the school."
 
Coach Tyrrell says Dickerson’s play and leadership abilities are just a couple of the traits that make him a special athlete and person.
 
“He was our leading rusher on the team last year with over 1,800 yards and is over 1,300 already this year,” Tyrrell explains. 
 
“More than football Tyris is a leader more off the field, he is our lead mentor for all young players on the football team.”
 
Tyris was named 1st team all district in football and also participated in track and field during the spring. 
 
He says the Hoban community is a special one, and he truly appreciates the support from all sides.
 
A true jack of all trades, Tyris is the lead designer on the team, he designed the new home uniforms,7 on 7, and sweat suits for the team this year.
 
In the community, Dickerson volunteers at the Haven of Rest, and will attend Eastern Kentucky University upon graduation in the spring of 2019 to study Broadcasting Communications. 
 
This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Megan Hutson a senior basketball player from Archbishop Hoban High School. 
 
She says she enjoys the camaraderie with her coaches and teammates and it’s those relationships that make basketball fun at Hoban.
 
"Over the past four years, I've grown so close to my multitude of coaches," she said. "We (my teammates) know how to work with each other now and our chemistry has grown so much over the last four years."
 
Megan is a three year letterwinner going into her senior season and her head coach Scott Callaghan says her leadership and love of the game translates to the court in practice and in the game. 
 
“Athletically, Megan has excelled on the basketball court because of her size, speed, and heart,” he said.
 
“She is an elite rebounder and defender and most importantly, Megan is the captain of our basketball team because of her maturity, enthusiasm, and faith."
 
Off the court, she exhibited those same leadership traits that made her successful on the court.
 
 
 
  
"Megan Hutson perfectly fits the title of 'student-athlete.'  Academically, she challenges herself by taking the toughest courses avaiable, and she has earned all 'A's' throughout high school,” Callaghan explained. 
 
As a captain, Hutson says she will have to lead both by example and vocally in the 2018-19 season.
 
“The past three years have been more by example, but I'm trying to be more vocal this year."
 
Upon graduation in the spring of 2019, Megan plans on studying mechanical engineering. 
 
We wish Tyris and Megan the best in all of their future endeavors. 
 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Theresa Damm, a senior basketball player from Our Lady of the Elms High School.

She says she got into basketball at an early age and as a senior leader, she wants to lead her team not only vocally, but by example as well.

"We have a young team, a lot of freshmen, so it's going to be a lot of them (the coaches) coaching, but also myself helping out the younger players learning the game," she says.

Coach John Reed echoed that sentiment as he offered his take on Theresa both as a player and as a person.

"She is a role model on and off the court and we are looking for her to model and teach the younger ladies how to play the game and how to do things the "Elms" way,"
he explained.

On the court, she will be expected to lead as well, Reed says.

"This will be her 4th year in the program in which she excels in every facet of the game and she has the ability to handle the ball and to post up."

Damm says that the Elms community is a very close one and they encourage leadership and being involved all across the board.

"Everybody really gets a fair shot at leadership and to have a voice, and to speak and be heard," she explained.

 

 Theresa is also her class vice president, and is involved in community activities such as volunteering at the Haven of Rest and the American Red Cross.

Upon graduation in the spring, Theresa plans on attending the University of Akron to study criminal justice and participate in the ROTC program. 

Our next 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Nick Llewellyn, a senior football player from St. Vincent-St. Mary High School.

Nick says that the brotherhood amongst the football players and especially his fellow seniors was one of the things he most enjoyed during his time with the Fighting Irish.

"Not much has changed with our group, we were always fighting and shooting  for what we want, that was the main thing that kept us going all the way through."

He said that the alumni who played for the Irish also helped  guide the team as well.

"Everyone comes back and the whole school supports you, and it's a great family atmosphere," he said.

Llewellyn's coach, first year head coach Bobby Nickol talked about his grit and toughness on the football field.

"He's an Unbelievably hard working player and gives every ounce of his 160 pound frame to play a position meant for 200 pound guys," Coach Nickol said.

Nick 13 tackles, a forced fumble and an interception on Friday, their last game of the 2018 season.

As a young man, Nickol says Llewellyn is just as impressive.

"He has 4.0 GPA and is going to be highly successful in anything he chooses to do in life," Nickol continued. " He is the definition of a STVM student athlete."

 

 Nick is a two-sport athlete as a football player and a wrestler.

In addition to those things, he is also a Peer Minister, a member of the National Honor Society, and a member of the Irish Athletes for Christ, among other clubs and groups.

We wish Nick and Theresa the best in all of their future endeavors. 

 

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Student Athlete of the Week is junior football player Ethan Wright of Manchester High School.

Ethan says he got into football at an early age and loved the team aspect and the camaraderie of his teammates, some of whom he plays with today.

“I just love the game,” Ethan says. “I started playing in second grade, and have just loved it ever since.”

He plays for the Panthers and legendary coach Jim France, Ohio’s all time wins leader in high school.

 

 

France says Wright, who plays running back and safety at Manchester, is a team-first player despite a great deal of individual accomplishments.

“Ethan Wright is a quality young man who strives to get better as an athlete and human being each and every day,” France said.

On the field, even though he was a first team all state performer and a three year letterman, France explains that Ethan’s work ethic sets him apart.

“Ethan is a hard working and humble guy, he is team oriented and is a winner.”

Wright says the team success this year on the gridiron stems from the togetherness and brotherhood that has started since before the season began.

Ethan says that his work on the field translates to the classroom as well, saying it’s going to prepare him for college and beyond, taking pride in his work.

“You just got to work hard in the classroom, you have to have the right GPA or coaches won’t look at you,” he said.

Our next 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Audrey Dolan a junior soccer player from Manchester High School.

Audrey says the coaches and teammates are what keeps her going and looking forward to working with them day in and day out.

“It’s actually a lot of fun,” Dolan said. “It gets stressful when the games get hard, but it’s fun.”

Her coach Eddie Kissner says that Dolan’s work ethic in both the classroom with a 3.5 GPA and the soccer field is apparent to all.

“Audrey has improved so much as the season has progressed. Audrey works extremely hard as a forward pressuring backs to create turnovers,” he said.

“She has also become a great finisher scoring some of our biggest goals of the season.”

In addition to being on the soccer team, Dolan is also a member of the Ski Club and the Art Club.

When she’s not on the soccer field or staying on top of her studies, she volunteers at the Cuyahoga Falls Women’s Club.

“My grandma plays cards there and I cook and clean there a couple times a week,” she says.

Audrey says she enjoys her time there and she’s always picking up some good advice from the people at the Women’s Club.

We wish Ethan and Audrey the best in all of their future endeavors.

 

Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Brooke Sells a senior soccer player from Coventry High School.

Brooke says her love of the sport started at an early age.
 
"My mother got me into soccer about 15 years ago, my brother started playing when he was 5 and we've played ever since," Brooke explained. 
This year as a captain and 2nd team All-PTC member, Sells says she leads her team both vocally and by example.
 
"I feel like I'm a combination of both, she said, "I/m always telling my teammates where to be on the field." 
Her head coach Mike Gaugler echoes that sentiment by explaining how Brooke took a leadership role with the Comets early on.
 
“This being my 1st year coaching High School Girls Soccer, Brooke was a definite asset to myself and the team getting us rolling with conditioning and pace for the season,” Gaugler said. 
 
 “As a player she is very fierce and has great ball placement anywhere on the field!”

    
As of this writing, that has truly translated into success for her and the team this season, as she has 9 goals, 12 assists this season.
 
She’s already taking some classes at the University of Akron and plans on studying either Biology or Microbiology at Walsh University upon graduation in the spring. 
 
We wish Brooke the best in all of her future endeavors. 
 
Our next student athlete is Caleb Shank of Coventry High School. 
 
Kaleb says the experience of playing football for the Comets is a great experience when it comes to working with his coaches and teammates.
 
“It's really fun to be out there with all of them, it's always a good time, and I love playing hard with them," he said. 
 
 
 
  
He says that as a senior, the biggest thing he and his peers can pass on to the underclassmen is the work ethic it takes to be a Coventry football player.
 
“Just give it everything you got and never take a play off," he explained. 
 
Kaleb’s coach Ed Egan said that his perseverance as a person translates well to his ability on the field.
 
“Kaleb has had some knee injuries in the past,” Egan said.
 
“He came out this year as a senior, and has had a tremendous impact with 2 Sacks and 1 tackle for loss against Streetsboro, and this past Friday night against Woodridge he had 3 Sacks and 1 tackle for loss which was very impressive."
 
In addition to being a two-year letterman in football, Kaleb is a wrestler during the winter season. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Kaleb plans on studying physical therapy. His own experiences with injury led him to choosing that career path. 
 
“I had a couple knee surgeries and going to physical therapy seeing how they help people, I was really interested in it," he said. 
 
We wish Kaleb the best in all of his future endeavors. 
 
Published in Sam and Brad

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Maxwell Moldovan a junior golfer from Green High School.

Maxwell said he learned the game from his father, who works in the golf industry. 
 
"He got me into the game. we live on a golf course, so the opportunity to play was presented to me early," he said.
Maxwell had an outstanding season for the Bulldogs in 2018. He won 4 out of 6 tournaments in the regular season and won the 2018 Division I sectionals earlier this month. 
 
His coach Jason Martin said Moldovan has an excellent work ethic and that translates on both the course and in the classroom.
 
“Maxwell Moldovan is a very hard worker and dedicated golfer. He has had an incredible 2018 high school golf season as defending state champion, he explained.“
 
“He is a super young man and a pleasure to coach.”
 
Maxwell says he patterns his game after recent WGC-Bridgestone Invitational Champion Justin Thomas, who is one of the rising stars on the PGA Tour. 
 
"I look up to him, our games are similar and we're built similarly, so he's a guy I can see myself potentially competing against." 
 
 
 
We wish Maxwell the best in all of his future endeavors. 
 
Our next Student Athlete of the Week is senior tennis player Emily Christopher of Green High School. 
 
Emily says she enjoys the competition of tennis and working with her coaches and teammates day in and out. 
 
"I learned leadership skills and my teammates have taught me a lot about respect and the game as well," she explained. "I love my teammates and the team atmosphere of it."
 
Her coach Jenna Montisano says Emily is a smart tennis player with a great feel for the game.
 
“She has a variety of shots, and is great at reading the court to find the open spots. She can be consistent or aggressive depending on what it takes to defeat her opponents,“ she said. 
 
“She and her doubles partner, Lauren DePew, have had a lot of success this year. They won the Dover Invitational (beating out 8 schools). They finished 3rd in the Federal League, and had an overall record of 18-4.”
 
 

  
Off the court, Emily exhibits the character that makes for not only a good athlete, but a quality person as well. 
 
“She is extremely kind; both on and off the court. Emily is very ethical and honest. She is extremely intelligent, and is her own person. She doesn’t buy into what others think. She works hard, and is always looking for ways to better herself.”
 
Away from the court, Emily volunteers at her church and likes spending time with friends and family. 
 
Upon graduation in the spring, Emily plans on attending the University of Akron to study criminal justice. 
 
We wish Emily the best in all of her future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW

This week our 1590 WAKR Student Athlete of the Week is Caleb Eckenrode of Springfield High School. 

Caleb plays on the golf team for the Spartans, and he got into the game at an early age, learning the ins and outs from his stepfather.
 
““My stepfather introduced me to the game at the age of seven, started out as a family thing," Caleb explained.  "I didn't get into competitive golf until about the 8th grade, and it just took off from there."
 
Caleb is a letterman in golf, and also participates in indoor track and outdoor track.
 
His coach Jack Morgan spoke about his demeanor on the course and how he applies himself on the links. 
 
 
 
 “Caleb possesses maturity beyond his years on the golf course, “ he said. 
 
“Caleb has developed his golf game into something that is very fun to watch.  He plays within himself and does not try anything that he is not capable of doing and he will only continue to improve throughout his high school career and I look forward to see how he grows as a golfer and as a person."
 
Caleb says he enjoys watching PGA golfers Jordan Spieth and Dustin Johnson for their prowess on the course and their cool off it.
 
We wish Caleb the best in all of his future endeavors. 
 
Our next Student Athlete of the Week is Emma Sandefur, a cross-country runner who competes for Springfield High School. 
 
Her head coach Kevin Gorby said Emma’s goals are lofty, but she has the skill and determination to reach them.
 
“As an athlete Emma Sandefur is our hardest worker. Emma has dedicated herself this year to being the best. She dreams of getting to the State meet, and her work ethic will get her there,” he said. 
 
 “As a person Emma is a great teammate who truly cares about those around her. Emma has great character, and works hard to be the best person she can be. “
 
 
 
 
Emma says that working with her coaches and teammates is something that she enjoys and looks forward to day in and day out.
 
“ It's fun," she said. "We've become close as a team and we're friends." 
 
In addition to participating in cross country, Emma is also a member of the band. She says balancing academics and athletics is of the utmost importance.
 
“You have to be able to split your time and get your stuff done," she says. 
 
We wish Emma the best in all of her future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW
Thursday, 27 September 2018 11:19

Student Athletes of the Week Tyler Lenke & Emily Dente

This week our 1590 WAKR Female Student Athlete of the Week is Emily Dente, a junior soccer player from Copley High School.

As a team captain, Dente says her leadership on the pitch is both vocal and by example.

“I’m very vocal on the field,” she says. I play center back, so I can see everything.”

  

 Her head soccer coach Wally Senk echoed that sentiment.

"Emily is a bonafide competitor with an innate ability to lead. She doesn't have an off-switch, embracing the grind and paying attention to the little things that make her and her teammates better,” he said.

Dente is a multi-sport athlete playing soccer, basketball, and track for the Indians.

Away from the field, Senk said she maintains that focus and intensity in the classroom as well.

“Emmy's determination, perseverance, and self-motivation are contagious and evident on the field as well as in the classroom, where she keeps her GPA above 4.0."

Emily comes from an athletic family as her dad Mark, is the boys and girls basketball coach at Copley High, and also has two brothers in sports.

“I really like it (being in an athletic family)because we all support each other,” she said.

Upon graduation in the spring of 2020, Emily plans on studying pediatric nursing.

We wish Emily the best in all of her future endeavors.

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is senior football player Tyler Lenke of Copley High School.

Lenke said he got into football at an early age, and says it’s a lot of fun getting to work with his coaches and teammates day in and day out.

“There’s times, but there’s a lot of good times, and you just make the best of it,” he said. Tyler’s head coach Scott Chouinard, talked about his work ethic on the field. “Tyler Lenke is a three year starter and captain of our 2018 football team,” Chouinard explained. “He has played Offensive Line and Defensive Line and has been one of our most consistent players for the past three years.”

Away from the gridiron, Lenke also exhibits leadership, according to Coach Chouinard. “Off the field he is a kind and thoughtful individual who is always willing to help teachers and fellow students and he represents the best of Copley High School in his actions and his performance on the football field and in the hallways.”

 

 Tyler has played every position along the offensive line during his time at Copley, and as a captain, that versatility gives him insight and credibility with his teammates, especially his mates along the line. “When you’ve played every position along the line, you get to know what everyone’s supposed to do, and if someone needs help, you know exactly what to do, and you help them.”

Upon graduation in the spring, Tyler plans on attending college and mechanical engineering could be a possible course of study. We wish Tyler the best in all of his future endeavors.

Published in SAOTW
Friday, 21 September 2018 13:25

1590 WAKR Student Athlete of the Week Tyler Scott

This week our 1590 WAKR Male Student Athlete of the Week is Tyler Scott, a junior football player from Norton High School.

Tyler is a three-sport athlete in football, basketball, and track and field. He says the balance between academics and athletics is a challenge that he readily accepts. 
 
“Since I was little, father and mother have always taught me that grades come first," he said. 
 
"If you're going to participate in  school and want to play (sports) why not be the best at it? " 
 
On the football field, he says the camaraderie between his fellow players and coaches has led to success on the gridiron thus far.
 
“It's pretty fun and we have a lot more camaraderie this year, and we're winning so it's fun," Scott explained. 
 
His head coach, Kevin Pollock, who is in his first year with the Panthers says  that Scott is a natural with his skill set at both running back and defensive back.
 
"He’s an incredibly naturally gifted athlete who doesnt rely on his skill but works his butt off,” Pollock explained. 
 
Off the field, Scott is also a great young man to be around, says Pollock.
 
“Tyler is an outstanding playmaker, but also a great person. Always smiling, always doing the right things. Fun kid to be around and its special to watch him play."
 
We wish Tyler the best in all of his future endeavors. 
Published in SAOTW
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