WYOMING VALLEY
FREE
SPORT SHOT! May 2015
Vol. 2 Issue 4
For the athlete in all of us
TRACK & FIELD Coughlin hosts Pittston for Wyoming Valley Conference competition Pages 4-5
CHEERLEADING Shooting Starz Youth Prep Team supports community at basketball event Page 16-17
BASEBALL Wyoming Seminary, Holy Redeemer open the spring season Pages 18-19
ACING THE PERFORMANCE Senior Spotlight: Gianna Plaska, Wyoming Seminary, page 3 Wilkes-Barre Area Hosts First Bowling Invitational pages 8-9
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Editor’s Note: Challenge Yourself A few months ago, I let everyone know that my New Year’s Resolution for 2015 was to run a 5K. For me, that resolution was twofold. First, I would need to find motivation. Running has never been something that interested me. I will go to the gym and do the elliptical, bike and stair climber, but the treadmill is a machine I avoid at almost all costs. So, when I heard about the Wyoming Valley Striders Couch to 5K program, I gave it a little thought before sending in my registration form. This program is designed to get you from the couch to completing a 5K in eight weeks. That’s exactly what I needed. I’m a third of the way through the program and so far, so good! I feel good after I complete each practice and I’ve even run on days we didn’t have practice – I know, I can’t believe it either. This program makes me run. It’s something I’m dedicated to and I have 49 other women right there with me. But, the portion of the pro-
gram I’m most nervous about is still to come. Right now, we’re doing a lot of interval workouts – 90 seconds of running, two minutes of walking. I’m good with that! However, when I got the schedule and saw “jog two miles” or “jog two and a half miles” I swear my heart dropped to my stomach. I’m not even sure the last time I ran up to a mile, two miles or three miles. So, I’m nervous for the practices leading up to the 5K on June 6 (Donn’s Dash in Wilkes-Barre) but I think I’m on the right path to complete my resolution. The second part of my resolution will be completing the 5K by running the 3.1 miles – no walking. I really think practicing with the Striders is going to help me achieve my goal. This is definitely something that’s challenging me and I would recommend it to anyone looking for something to help ease you into running. Check back in the July issue to see how my first 5K turns out. Fingers crossed I make it to the finish line!
May, 2015
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Applied Core and Arm Balances at Balance Yoga Saturday’s, noon to 2 p.m. in May at Balance Yoga in Forty Fort. These classes will explore a variety of beginning to intermediate arm balances into a flow-style class in ways that make them more accessible and in keeping with the dynamic energy of the class. Class hosted by Dana Sherman. 24th Annual Spring Trail Run 5.3 Mile Sunday, May 10, noon in Wyoming at Frances Slocum State Park. $5 donation requested. Registration 11a.m. to 11:55 a.m. at the pavilion near the boat launch area.
Get updated on what events we’re covering and where you can pick up a copy of the print edition.
WVC Softball Coaches Brush up on your knowledge of the Wyoming Valley Conference high school softball coaches by searching for their last names scattered throughout this word search below.
On the cover: Dallas’ Jack Robbins reaches out to make the play on his home court in a match against WVW. Dallas won 4-1. Photo by Mary Bove
Wyoming Valley Sport Shot Editor/Publisher: Ellen Hoffman PO Box 1778 Kingston, PA 18704 wyomingvalleysportshot.com wyomingvalleysportshot@gmail.com or 570.406.3335
The schedule: The print edition of Wyoming Valley Sport Shot is published on the first Saturday of each month. Free copies are distributed at 100 locations in the Wyoming Valley. Wyomingvalleysportshot.com is updated throughout the month as well as Wyoming Valley Sport Shot on Facebook.
Spartan Wrestling ShieldStrong 5K Run/Walk Saturday, May 23, 11 a.m., cookout to follow at 12: 30 p.m. at Keeley’s Alehouse & Grill. A portion of the proceeds will benefit a member of the Spartan wrestling family in a dire situation who the WVW Booster Club deems to be in need of financial assistance. For questions contact Mary Jean 570-371-9947 or Mary Ann 570-239-3838
Northeast PA Heart Walk Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m., Kirby Park. For more information contact Diane at 570-690-3839 or diane.mcgee@ heart.org
Your stuff: Bring it on. We welcome your photos, news and ideas submitted for publication. Send submissions of photos and information to wyomingvalleysportshot@gmail.com. Submitted copy and printed photographs delivered to Wyoming Valley Sport Shot will not be returned. Photos reproduce best if saved in .jpg format at 300 dpi and submitted by email. Game time: Advertising deadline: 10 days prior to publication. Content submission deadline: Seven days prior to publication.
And...Any opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of this publication. We reserve the right to edit all content for clarity, relevance and length and the right to reject submissions. Submitted copy must include a contact name and phone number.
Nescospeck Duathlon Sunday, May 17, 8 a.m. at Nescopeck State Park. Register individually ($65) or as a relay team ($80). 5K trail run, 16 mile out and back bike, 5K run. All proceeds benefit the Hazleton YMCA/ YWCA. T-shirts guaranteed to all who register prior to May 4
35th Annual Forty Fort Lions Old Fort 5 Miler Monday, May 25, 9 a.m., Forty Fort Borough Park. Pre-registration: $15 (before May 20), day of race registration: $20.
Our mission: Photographs that capture the spirit of high school and recreational athletes in the Wyoming Valley. Check out all the photographs at wyomingvalleysportshot.com.
Our team: Wyoming Valley Sport Shot is locally owned and handmade in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Contributing photographers this issue include Mary Bove, Caitlin Hargrave, Frank Lauri, Steve Shoemaker.
Cherry Blossom 5 Mile Run Sunday, May 3, 10 a.m. Kirby Park, Wilkes-Barre. Registration 8-9:45 a.m. Hosted by the Wyoming Valley Striders. One mile fun walk also available. Contact Traci Strungis at 570-4703612 or tracistrungis@yahoo.com
BERTONI BURRIDGE HOOPER HOSKINS
LYONS MCNEIL MYTYCH PAULUKONIS QUAGLIA
SNYDER STETZ THOMAS TINNER
Core Strength Transformer Weekend Saturday, May 30 at Lotus Pug Yoga, Wilkes-Barre. Two sessions available at noon and 3 p.m. $50 per session. Sadie Nardini is offering belly to deep core, breath, metabolism and detox in this revolutionary yoga flow workshop that will give participants a brand new take on yoga practice or teaching.
May, 2015
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Senior Spotlight: Gianna Plaska By Ellen Hoffman
Soccer, swimming and pee wee football are among some of the popular sports for kids to join as their first athletic challenge. Gianna Plaska, of Mountain Top, chose a different route. Instead of driving to a soccer field or local YMCA, Plaska’s mother took her to Northeast Gymnastics Academy in Hanover Township when she was four years old. She started with basic level classes and quickly impressed one of the team coaches. “I was just doing a normal class and the one team coach saw me and said to my mom maybe it would be a good idea for me to try out for team,” she said. “So I did. I started out on what they call Pixies, which is just basic level, and I worked my way up from there.” She worked her way up to Level 10, the level under Elite, which is what Olympic gymnasts are ranked. Plaska first qualified at Level 10 two years ago at Regionals in New Jersey. “It’s something that I’ve been working for my whole life. So when they called my name to say that I made it, it was just like all the work paid off.” Plaska’s hard work surely paid off as she secured a spot this fall on Central Michigan University’s Division 1 team. Once she realized her youth dreams of becoming an Olympic gymnast were more of a fantasy, for now, she set her sights on Division 1. “As a little kid I dreamed of going to the Olympics because I think all little kid gymnasts do,” she said. “But, as I got older I started to realize how hard it is to make it to the Olympics that I set my goals on Division 1 gymnastics.” Her decision on CMU was something she wasn’t planning for. Before making her choice, she was also considering University of Pennsylvania, Texas Women’s University, Lindenwood University, Brown University, Cornell University and Temple University. But, once the talking started with CMU’s Jerry Reighard, Plaska says things moved quickly. “It was kind of all a whirlwind. But, I’m so happy that I picked there. I love the campus and the coach is amazing.” Plaska said finding an environment that
fits both athletic and academic needs is key. She’ll get a taste of collegiate life before classes start in the fall. She plans to take a summer course and train with the team before moving out as a freshman. She is looking forward from the transition of competing as an individual to competing as part of a team. “In college it’s more of a team sport. I think I’ll like that more because you have your whole team behind you.” Plaska will be joining 21 other girls come the fall season. She thinks this will pose as a transition for her. “Right now in my gym there are five level 10’s and I’ll be going in with 21 girls at level 10 at CMU. So I think it will be a lot more exciting competing together.” While it will be more of a team effort, it’s still all eyes on the individual as they compete in different events. “Self confidence is important because you have to go out there believing in yourself.” Plaska said her coaches at Northeast Gymnastics play a huge role in her performance. The coaching staff at CMU is one big reason that helped her make her college decision. “The coach is a big aspect because they’re with you every day. It’s like your second mom.” Senior Spotlight is a monthly feature that will highlight the success and determination of an upcoming 2015 high school graduate from the Wyoming Valley who excelled in athletics and is taking those skills to the collegiate level. Photo submitted by Gianna Plaska.
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Your Shots West Side Starz Teams Place in Competition
West Side Starz Youth Level 1 Cosmic Intensity and Junior Level 1 Galaxy Explosion placed first in Cheer and Dance Extreme’s competition at Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in D.C. Cosmic Intensity was also named the Grand Champion at Level 1. In order to make it to this final competition, the girls needed to receive a bid to be invited to the competition. They placed first at the Maryland Madness Competition in February, allowing them to make it to the finals. These teams are coached by Becca Geisinger, Sue Yamelski, Tammy Mikolaichik and Erin Maslowski. First row, left to right, Grace Aiello, Ariana Rysz, Genny Matello, Olivia Williams, Kayla Rodzniak, Kaylee Potoski, Genny Yamelski, Carissa Pierontoni, Abby Mikolaichik, Shawna Rodzniak. Back row, left to right, Anna Rowlands, Makenzie Frazier, Savannah Mcfall, Aliyah Gentner, Myya Swainbank, Gia Zomerfeld-Barna, Colby Michaels, Jenna Maslowski, Kayleigh Williams, Julia Walsh, McKenna Purkey, Madison deLong August Laurel. Photo submitted by Tammy Blannard.
Members of West Side Starz Senior Level 2 Stellar Evolution took first place in Cheer and Dance Extreme’s competition. The team is coached by Tammy Blannard and Chris Ktytor. First row, left to right, Olivia Williams, Genny Yamelski, Shawna Rodzniak, Abby Mikolaichik. Middle row, left to right, Gia Zomerfeld-Barna, Aliyah Gentner, Alyx Mikolaichik, Colby Michaels, Mary Chitswara, Jill Ktytor. Back row, left to right, Myya Swainbank, Chris Masher, Lauryn Simmons, Miranda Mikkelson, Madison DeLong, Brielle Culp, Zoe Kanellis, August Laurel. Below, the Stellar Evolution team poses in their National Champion jackets. Photos submitted by Tammy Blannard.
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May, 2015
Coughlin, Pittston Split Wins in Mid Season Competition Coughlin hosts Pittston for a Wyoming Valley Conference meet in track and field - April 21
Pittston’s Abby Sheerer competes in the long jump during an away meet.
Joshua John, Pittston, focuses on the finish line.
Coughlin’s Madisyn Hawkins performs at the pole vault.
Tamar Bourdeau, Coughlin, competes in Olivia Giambra performs a long jump in the 400 meter race. Pittston girl’s win over Coughlin.
Angelica Singer, left, and Kirsten Durling work together to encourage each other to cross the finish line.
May, 2015
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Natheniela Bourdeau, Coughlin, tightens her laces before competing.
Pittston’s Antonio Frallicciardi competes during the hurdles portion.
Pittston’s Madison Mimnaugh runs during their away win over Coughlin.
Coughlin’s Tom Schwab competes at home against Pittston Area.
Angelo Aita competes in a relay during Pittston’s meet against Coughlin.
Austin Popple, of Coughlin, performs in their home win over Pittston. Photos by Caitlin Hargrave
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May, 2015
Black Knights, Trojans Dig in to Competitive Spirits Junior Varsity teams from Lake Lehman, Nanticoke compete in Nanticoke - April 20
Michael Skamarakus, Nanticoke, sets up a shot.
Lake Lehman’s Rielly Sutliff prepares to volley against Nanticoke.
GNA’s Brinton Ball blocks a shot from Lake Lehman’s Eric Masters.
GNA’s Michael Rosario-Clark connects with the ball on his home court.
Lake Lehman’s Mason Little directs his teammates toward the play,
GNA’s Alec Divers sets up a play.
May, 2015
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Your Shots Champions Crowned at Revolution Ice Centre
Lake Lehman’s Matt Fassett dives to make the play against Nanticoke Area.
Lake Lehman’s Yonah Wasik pushes the ball over as Nanticoke’s Michael Skamarakus defends. Photos by Mary Bove
Teams from Northeast Sports Management’s hockey leagues competed in the end of season championship games at the Revolution Ice Centre in Pittston April 20-22. Photos from top to bottom, D Division Champions: Blü Cheese, C Division Champions: Tomahawks, B Division: 1 Timing 2 Timers. Photos submitted by Northeast Sports Management.
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May, 2015
Wilkes-Barre Area Hosts Bowling Tournament for Kids
Tournament in Wilkes-Barre raised money for the Wilkes-Barre Educational Foundation - April 19
Stanton Lanes Rock After Dark Enjoy our night bowling every Friday and Saturday 9 PM to Midnight. Come see music videos and the best lights show in the Valley! $12.95 per person for unlimited bowling, includes shoe rentals
570-824-4661 470 Stanton St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
May, 2015
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Photos by Steve Shoemaler
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May, 2015
Dallas Junior High Softball Bats Off Against Berwick Middle school teams from Dallas, Berwick compete in spring play - April 15
Dallas second baseman Samantha Kern makes a play to first base.
Dallas shortstop Gianna Spaciano puts the tag on the runner in a home game against Berwick.
Clockwise from left, Dallas pitcher Bailey Slacktish throws to first base in a game against Berwick. Dallas’ Samantha Kern (14) congratulates teammate Gianna Spaciano (3) after she scored a run. Dallas catcher Sydney Horlein throws to second base. Dallas shortstop Gianna Spaciano fields a ground ball at home. Dallas’ Christina Shappert connects with an outside pitch.
May, 2015
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Dallas starting pitcher Bailey Slacktish delivers a pitch during a game against Berwick.
Dallas Coach Tony Chiarucci talks to his team between innings.
Dallas’ Mia Dixon runs to first base.
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Right fielder Ali Francis throws to second.
Sydney Horlein lays down a bunt against Berwick.
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Dallas’ Mikayla Engler runs to first base in a game against Berwick. Photos by Frank Lauri
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May, 2015
Mountaineers Secure Home Win Over Spartans
Varsity teams from Dallas, Wyoming Valley West rally in Dallas’ 4-1 win - April 16
Dallas’ Frank Bevevino focuses on making contact with the ball in a match against WVW.
Dallas’ Anthony Brominski serves as his doubles partner Cameron Tuck prepares for play.
Wyoming Valley West’s Brian Grodzki serves the ball to his Dallas opponent.
Left to right, WVW’s Anthony Barbose jumps into his serve in an away match at Dallas. Wyoming Valley West’s Matt Finnegan puts the ball in to play during a Wyoming Valley Conference match. Dallas’ Cameron Tuck runs to make the play in Dallas’ win over WVW. Photos by Mary Bove
May, 2015
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Your Shots WVW Volleyball Hosts Annual Spartan Classic
Anthony DeLuca, of Dallas, reaches for the ball in a match against WVW.
The Wyoming Valley West boys volleyball team hosted the annual Spartan Classic March 28. Coughlin, Crestwood, Dallas, Easton, Mountain View, Nanticoke, North Pocono and Western Wayne teams competed in the tournament. WVW fell in the semi-finals to Nanticoke, who went on to claim the top spot in the tournament. Pictured above are the Spartans celebrating after making it to the semi-final round. Photo submitted by Caitlin Hargrave.
Seniors Capture 2015 Hoops for Hope Title Wyoming Valley West’s Dan Taren moves to make a volley in a match at Dallas.
Crestwood High School hosted a Hoops for Hope basketball tournament to raise money for the annual Relay for Life in Mountain Top. The senior basketball won Hoops for Hope 2015 title. The team was coached by the three graduating seniors: Nick Gavio, Jason Dotzel and Cole Wasco. All proceeds raised from the event are going to Relay for Life to benefit the American Cancer Society. The Relay on Broadway will be held at the Crestwood High School athletic fields May 16. The event will feature food, Left, Wyoming Valley West’s Matt Finnegan prepares to serve. basket raffles, live entertainment and tents decorated as broadway shows. Pictured above is the senior team. Front row: Rob Coslett, Tyler Brown, Sam Zavada, Caroline Cefaly and Juli Deluca. Back row: Luke Modrovsky, Connor Givens, John Majdic, Austin Orso, Gavio, Dotzel, Wasco, Joey Grandinetti and Chris Above, Dallas’ Frank Bevevino competes in doubles. Dexter. Photo submitted by Dawn Marie Chalk.
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May, 2015
Hanover Hawkeyes Take Home a Win at Nanticoke Beginning of Wyoming Valley Conference play features Hanover, Nanticoke teams - April 13
Meyers’ Erin Morris makes a throw to first during a home game.
Hanover catcher Christina Kratz takes some practice pitches.
Hanover’s Marykate Penczkowski throws one to home.
Gina Strillacci, of Meyers, competes at home against Hanover Area. Left to right, Hanover’s Shelby Monk runs to second during a game at Meyers. Karley Bennett, of Hanover, attempts to tag out Meyers’ Brittany Delcostillo at the Wilkes-Barre field.
Hanover’s Emily Zagami connects with the pitch from Meyers. Meyers’ Alexis Bruno makes a play for the Meyers Mohawks. Photos by Mary Bove
May, 2015
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Hanover’s Shannon Keating connects with the pitch as Meyers’ Sarah Smith stays in position.
Alexis Bruno, of Meyers, makes a play in the outfield.
Barb Guirin, of Meyers, throws to the infield to make the play against Hanover Area.
Michelle McNair, of Meyers, moves toward home as Hanover looks to make a play.
Meyers’ Bailey McDaniel reaches to make the play at first on Hanover’s Kim Perecci.
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May, 2015
Shooting Starz Show Community Support in Pittston Members of the Shooting Starz Youth Prep Team performed at a charity basketball game - April 11
Addison Vavrek shoots some hoops before the basketball players take the court.
Members of the Shooting Starz Youth Prep Team pose for a group photo before performing their routine. Clockwise from left, Shooting Starz Youth Prep Team finish their half time performance at Pittston High School. Team members Emilee DeGood,Victoria O’Konski, Ashlee Karaliunas lift Lorelai Smith into a stunt. Emilee DeGood jumps out of a stunt with the help of her teammates. Francesca Scarano with her mother Pam play around with the basketball before the start of the game. Lorelai Smith smiles for the crowd at the Guns and Hoses Charity Basketball Game. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
May, 2015
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Left to right, Chloe Szumski picks up a loose basketball while learning how to shoot from one of the referees. Maci Stehle enjoys herself at the Guns and Hoses Charity Basketball Game in Pittston. Victoria O’Konski and Emilee DeGood move through their routine with the other members of Shooting Starz Youth Prep team.
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May, 2015
Holy Redeemer Sweeps Wyoming Seminary in Opener The Royals ran past the Blue Knights in their 12-0 victory in Kingston - March 30
Holy Redeemer leadoff hitter Jason Hoggarth, right, is congratulated by his teammate Tim Cavanaugh after hitting an inside the park home run in the first inning. Wyoming Seminary starting pitcher Roy Phillips delivers a pitch during a home game.
Holy Redeemer’s first baseman Matt Dacey gets under an infield pop up.
Holy Redeemer’s second baseman Tim Cavanaugh watches his ball after a hit. Photos by Frank Lauri
Wyoming Seminary’s first baseman Justin Negron, right, gets ready to put the tag on Holy Redeemer’s Rob McClay (31).
Wyoming Seminary’s relief pitcher Caleb Jerome delivers a pitch during a home game.
May, 2015
Wyoming Seminary’s second baseman John Kehl snags a line drive in the season opener against Holy Redeemer.
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Holy Redeemer starting pitcher Keaton Dolan delivers a pitch during the Royals 12-0 win over Wyoming Seminary.
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Wyoming Seminary’s first baseman Justin Negron connects with a pitch during a home game against Holy Redeemer.
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May, 2015