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August 2014 Vol. I Issue 7
JUNIOR LEGION Back Mountain scoots past Wilkes-Barre in 6-5 victory in Dallas Pages 4-5
FIELD HOCKEY CAMP Wyoming Area high school field hockey team coached kids at a week-long camp Pages 8-9
VOLLEYBALL CLINIC Holy Redeemer hosted a skills training camp for kids of all ages and levels Pages 10-11
CELEBRATING THE CHAMPIONSHIP Senior Spotlight: Chase Makowski, Holy Redeemer, page 3 Futures wrestling clinic at Wyoming Seminary, pages 12-13
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Editor’s Note: Personal Photographers My parents were always on the sidelines of any sporting event I was involved with. If they weren’t coaching or manning the scoreboard, they were snapping pictures. I’ve been attending more and more youth sporting events in the past few months and it’s good to see that parents still find it a priority to be involved. Whether it’s coaching or cheering, it means a lot to everyone that they’re interested. So many things have changed in the past ten years but thankfully, this hasn’t. I stopped by two different sporting clinics in July and parents were still hanging out in the stands watching with their iPhone camera apps open and ready to document the next big play or victory lap. It’s not just a championship game or tournament that drives parents to take their seats in the bleachers, but simply that their child is interested in a sport. At both events I recently at-
August, 2014
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tended, a field hockey clinic and a softball/baseball camp, parents were taking pictures and, just a guess, posting them to their Facebook pages and sending them to other family members or friends. They’re proud of what their kids are doing and want others to know what they’re up to. I’m happy to see that Wyoming Valley Sport Shot can be an asset to those moments that parents so eagerly try to document on their smart phones. We’re excited to get into the fall sports seasons and watch the Wyoming Valley teams take home the W in football, soccer, field hockey, tennis, cross country, volleyball and any other event kids choose to participate in. If you are one of those parents Get updated on what events we’re covering and constantly seated in the stands where you can pick up a copy of the print edition. and have photos you want others to see, send them to Wyoming Valley Sport Shot. We want others to see them too! We’re just as proud and want those Get ready for field hockey season to begin in the Wyoming Valley. Spruce up moments to be recognized. on your field hockey terms by finding the words hidden in this puzzle.
Field Hockey Terms
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Go Hot Mama 5K Run/Walk Sunday, August 3, 10 a.m. start and end at Keeley’s Alehouse & Grille. Race is hosted to help Tracy Phillips Derr in her battle against cancer. Make checks to: Benefit for Tracy Derr. Contact Diane Cowman with questions at 570-259-6903, dcowman@hotmail.com Patriot Cup Hosted by the Pittston Area Soccer Booster Club. August 9 (rain date August 10) 8 a.m. Open to boys and girls and played at the Pittston Area soccer complex.
Wilkes-Barre Triathlon Sunday, August 17, 7:30 a.m. Participants must be at least 14 years old. Entries will be accepted until Wednesday, August 13, or until a maximum number of entries are reached. Call 570-270-4793 with questions.
Editor/Publisher: Ellen Hoffman PO Box 1778 Kingston, PA 18704 wyomingvalleysportshot.com wyomingvalleysportshot@gmail.com or 570.406.3335 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.
Fred Kase Memorial 5K Saturday, August 23, 9 a.m. Check in and day of registration: 7:30 a.m. Registration: $20 - first 150 pre registered get a free T-shirt. Pre registration deadline August 15. Hosted by Kingston Forty Fort Firefighter’s Charitable Association. Contact: 267-718-6097 or kfffca@gmail.com
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. 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.
Endure Ride Sunday, August 3 - Wilkes University. Registration 7-10 a.m. Three course options: 36 mile course and 62 mile course for avid cyclists, and a 10 mile course for novices and families. 36 and 62 mile rides start at 8:15 a.m. 10 mile ride starts at 10:15 a.m. Visit www.ACSEndure.org
Coal Street Hockey School Week-long hockey school for all ages and skill levels. The school is held from August 12 to August 16 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Contact Rich Mihelic at 570-2089473 or rmihelic@wbspenguins.com.
On the cover: Back Mountain coach Scott Berecin lifts his daughter Maura into the air after she scored the winning run, defeating GWA 15-14. Photo by Frank Lauri
Our team: Wyoming Valley Sport Shot is locally owned and handmade in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Contributing photographers this issue include Frank Lauri, Steve Shoemaker and contributing staff consists of Caitlin Hargrave, Elizabeth Hoffman and Samantha Holcomb.
River Commons Yoga Melt Hot Yoga and Balance Yoga offer a free yoga class on River Commons every Saturday during the summer. Classes are from 10-11 a.m. The class is located at the Millennium Circle Portal across from the Hotel Sterling lot.
ASSIST DRIBBLE FLICK JAB OBSTRUCTION
SCOOP SLAP STROKE SWEEPER TACKLE
Rivalry Run 5K Run/Walk Saturday, August 30 - noon. Pittston Area High School stadium entrance, registration opens at 10 a.m. Benefits the Jaime Baker Memorial Scholarship Fund and The Warrior Pride Scholarship Fund. $15 pre-registration by August 15, $20 on race day. T-shirts to first 200 entrants..
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Senior Spotlight: Chase Makowski By Ellen Hoffman
Chase Makowski had an eventful golf career with the Holy Redeemer golf team. Eventful, yes. Boring, no. The recent graduate and his teammates had two seasons they will never forget. After making it to the State Championship in 2012, Makowski and his team ended up tying Wyomissing High School, meaning a penalty hole would decide the Championship. Unfortunately, that year Holy Redeemer did not bring home the victory. But, after returning to the State Championships in 2013, Makowski’s senior year, against the same team, he knew they couldn’t leave like they did last year. He said he didn’t start the course the way he would have liked to. “That day I started off terribly. I’m like, ‘I can’t play like this. I’m one of the leaders on this team. I need to pick everyone up.’ Really after those first holes I said to myself, ‘This is on you. This is for your team and this is your last round at Holy Redeemer.You could win a state championship today.” That he did. After tying with Wyomissing, again, Holy Redeemer came out on top. Makowski led the team with a 77, one of his proudest moments on the green. “It was so memorable,” he said. “I was really proud of myself that day.” That State Championship marked the end of his time at Holy Redeemer, but not the end of his golf career. Makowski is moving on to play Division I golf at Monmouth University – along with another member of the Holy Redeemer team – Mariano Medico. Makowski and Medico have been friends since they were two years old, Makowski said, almost as if they were brothers. “I’m really excited to take it to the next level with him at Monmouth,” he said. “We feed off of each other when we play. If he’s doing well, that motivates me to do better and keep up, and vice versa. It’s cool the
relationship that we have.” Makowski didn’t know where he wanted to take his education after high school but knew he was interested in continuing his golf career. After researching and reaching out to a few coaches, he knew Monmouth was his next move. “I was taught to reach out to the coaches first. Not many Division I schools are going to reach out to you.You need to make the first move,” he said. After contacting the Monmouth University coach and visiting the campus, he said he knew that was where he was headed for the next four years. “Out of the DI schools Monmouth was probably the most appealing to me,” he said. “I mean it’s not that far from home, so I could shoot home for a weekend if I wanted to and it being right on the beach might have played a small role too.” One thing Makowski hopes to improve while at Monmouth is his confidence on the golf course. This, he said, is something that will improve with time and age. “I know I have the ability and talent to play at the Division I level, but sometimes I struggle with my confidence or committing to a shot out there. I know that as I mature and grow up it will come.” But, overall, he is happy to continue his golf game competitively. “I didn’t know if I would be going DI but either way, it didn’t really matter to me,” he said. “As long as I got a good experience, a good education and a chance to play some golf in college I’d be happy. But, the opportunity arouse for me to play DI and the coach said I was good enough so I’ll take it.” Senior Spotlight is a monthly feature that will highlight the success and determination of a high school senior who excelled in athletics and is taking those skills to the collegiate level. Photo submitted by Chase Makowski.
KaPow Hockey Klub offers field hockey training, leagues, and tournament opportunities for players 4 to 18 years old. With players coming from all regions in Northeastern PA, it is a great way to meet new friends and continue to improve your field hockey game. Stay posted as the 2014-2015 winter programs will be announced on the website by mid-August at www.kapowfh.com Hope to see you all this season!
Like us on Facebook for more updates: KaPow Hockey Klub
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August, 2014
Back Mountain Scores Home Win Over Wilkes-Barre
Youth legion baseball teams met for competition at Dallas High School - July 10
Back Mountain catcher Cody Coolbaugh gets under a pop up.
Wilkes-Barre pitcher Austin Yelland releases toward the plate.
Wilkes-Barre’s Taylor Nargoski fakes a steal to second base against Back Mountain.
Wilkes-Barre’s Ryan Gilgallon misplays a pop up at third base.
Back Mountain’s Andrew Kovalick lays down a bunt in the team’s win over Wilkes-Barre.
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Back Mountain’s Byron Oldeak swings at a pitch in a game at Dallas High School against Wilkes-Barre.
Back Mountain second baseman J.D. Barrett puts the tag on WilkesBarre’s Cade Flanley at Dallas High School.
WB’s Kyle Ostrowski attempts to run down a pop up.
Back Mountain pitcher Jackson Shaver delivers a pitch.
‘Like’ us on Facebook to check out our weekly dinner menu. Gourmet menu features change every Wednesday!
P: 570.235.1037
Wilkes-Barre shortstop Cade Flanley makes a throw to first base to make the out against Back Mountain. Photos by Frank Lauri
Get the best fan experience with our 11 big screen TVs for all your sports viewing!
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August, 2014
Team MVP Baseball Hosts Weekend Camp in Plains Baseball and softball players participated in Team MVP’s Little League Camp - July 27
Nathan Novakowski fields a ground ball during the first training session in Plains.
Marly Myers makes a throw to first base during Team MVP’s training clinic in Plains.
Dylan Petrucci steps into his throw to first base during the second day of the clinic.
Noah Helmbold tosses the ball to his teammate at first base to make the play during Team MVP’s training camp.
Aaron Yelland runs to make the play at first during a drill coordinated by the Team MVP coaches.
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Make it Happen at LCCC! 1.800.377.5222 • www.luzerne.edu Ayla Balent lines up her glove with her teammate Riley Knaub looks to make the play at first during in order to complete her throw. one of many training sessions with Team MVP.
Now taking sign-ups for the Jr. Bowling Program September 6 starting at 9:30 a.m.
Hunter tosses the ball to the first baseman to make the out. Photos by Ellen Hoffman
Call 570-824-4661 for prices (varies by age)
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August, 2014
Wyoming Area Kiddie Camp a Hit for All Ages
Coaches and members of the WA FH team hosted week-long skills camp - July 17
Samantha Casey prepares to push the ball to her teammate at Wyoming Area field hockey camp.
Katie Wolfgang mans the cage during the Wyoming Area field hockey kiddie camp. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
Chase Comiskey spots the photographer from across the field and gives a smile during Wyoming Area field hockey camp.
Koehl Comiskey drives the ball down the field in a drill at Wyoming Area field hockey camp.
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Bryce Comiskey prepares to drive the ball down the field.
Sofia Sabatini dribbles through a course set up by the Wyoming Area field hockey coaches and players.
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Jillian Spak prepares for the last day of camp by handing out sticks to the attendees.
Aubriana Marranca moves toward the ball on the last day of the field hockey camp.
Lyla Rehill pushes the ball through a string of cones set up by the members of the Wyoming Area field hockey team.
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August, 2014
Holy Redeemer Courts Heat Up with Volleyball Camp Week-long skills clinic at Holy Redeemer proves popular for kids of all ages - July 9
Corbin Thompson, of Dallas, dives in an attempt to play a loose ball.
Mike Gatusky, of Holy Redeemer, reaches to block the hit by Jared Thompson, of Dallas.
The group poses for a photo after the third day of camp at Holy Redeemer high school.
Kendra Miller, of LaPlata, Delaware, practices her passing skills during the clinic at in Wilkes-Barre.
Camp volunteer instructor Rob Wingert demonstrates hitting during the third day of the camp at Holy Redeemer high school.
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Alex Kotch, right, of Holy Redeemer, makes a hit as Mike Gatusky, of Holy Redeemer attempts to block.
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Nick James, of Holy Redeemer, moves to hit the ball as John Carr, of Holy Redeemer, gets in position to block.
Holy Redeemer’s Lauren Slavoski plays defense during the third day of the volleyball camp hosted by Holy Redeemer’s coaching staff. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
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Luke Nealon, of Holy Redeemer, gets a hand on the ball as Mark Pointek, of Holy Redeemer, blocks.
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August, 2014
Futures Wrestling Clinic Featured at Wyoming Sem Wyoming Seminary hosted a wrestling training clinic for boys - July 2
Danny Boychuck, of Haddonfield NJ, handles Chris Weiler, of Wyoming Seminary, at a weeklong wrestling clinic.
Tom Traver, right, of Dallas takes hold of Benny Baker of Newark Valley, NY in a Futures Wrestling Clinic hosted at Wyoming Seminary.
John Giacche, of Union Endicott NY, and Chris Weiler, of Wyoming Seminary, begin their match at the Wyoming Seminary clinic.
Liam Farrell, of Dallas, gets lifted by Mel Kernis, of Wyoming Area at Wyoming Seminary.
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Zack Bednick, of Endicott NY, and Gino Setta, of Wilkes-Barre, compete in friendly competition at the Wyoming Seminary week-long clinic.
Cole Nye, of Harrisburg PA, and Dillon Ryan, of Scottsdale Arizona, participate in a training session.
Liam Farrell, of Dallas, grabs his opponent from behind during a session at Futures Wrestling Camp. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
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August, 2014
Temple Coach Visits Members of KaPow Hockey Klub KaPow hosts Temple University head field hockey coach for skills clinic - July 13
Callie Edwards, of WVW, participates in the clinic hosted by KaPow and Temple University field hockey.
Holy Redeemer’s Abby Stucker moves toward goal during the KaPow clinic on the Wyoming Seminary fields.
Lake-Lehman’s Sarah Sabaluski dribbles down the field during the first drill of the clinic in Kingston.
Sticks Down for Eric 7v7 Tournament Location: Wyoming Area Field Hockey Complex Hosted by the Wyoming Area FH Booster Club August 17 @ 1 PM (arrive @ 12:15 for prompt start) Sign-Up Deadline: August 11 (max 12 teams, filled first-come, first-serve) Open to anyone - ages 5+ - not just FH players Cost per player: $27.00 (includes T-shirt) Contact Nicole Moscatelli at 570-237-5462 or nbaiera1@gmail.com to register a team
Lake-Lehman’s Katie Supey takes a shot on goal during a practice with the head coach of Temple University field hockey.
Sticks Down benefits the Little Eric’s Foundation. Little Eric’s Foundation is to support research and raise awareness to improve the quality of life of patients and their families, in the hope of finding a cure for Pediatric Brain & Childhood.
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Wyoming Area’s Grace Angelella, left, snatches the ball away from Holy Redeemer’s Abby Stucker attempts to block her move.
Taylor Alba, of Lake-Lehman, makes a move to lose the defender and make it to goal.
Hannah Retherford, of Benton, enjoys a round of TV tag as a warm-up to the clinic hosted by KaPow.
Temple University head field hockey coach Amanda Janney instructs field hockey players from KaPow, hosted at the Wyoming Seminary stadium.
Mercedes Jasterzenski, of WVW, moves the ball toward goal as Natalie Scheib, of Line Mountain, moves to defend.
Zoe Stepanski, of Dallas, drives the ball to a teammate during a drill at the end of the clinic with the Temple University head field hockey coach. Photos by Ellen Hoffman
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August, 2014
BM Takes District 31 Championship Over GWA 9/10 All Star softball teams Back Mountain and Greater Nanticoke Area competed for the top spot - July 9
Back Mountain’s relief pitcher Sommer Zier-Norris winds up against GWA.
GWA’s Lynzic Skoronski lays down a bunt in the District 31 championship game against Back Mountain.
GWA 9/10 All Stars do a pre game cheer before re-starting the District 31 championship game. Photos by Frank Lauri
Back Mountain manager Larry Egan and coach Jeff Hockenberry react after clinching the District 31 9/10 softball championship.
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GWA’s pitcher Anna Wisnewski goes into her windup.
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Back Mountain’s Caroline Stallord competes against GWA.
Back Mountain pitcher Maura Berecin pitches in the District 31 9/10 softball championship.
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GWA’s Halle Kranson keeps the ball in her glove for the out.
Back Mountain 9/10 All Star softball celebrates their win over GWA.
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August, 2014
Runners Show Up to Celebrate Independence Day The 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/Walk proves popular in Wyoming Valley - July 4
Participants in the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/Walk take off at the starting line on River Street in Wilkes-Barre. Photos by Frank Lauri.
Eighteen-year-old Nicholas Costello finished first overall in the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk with a time of 15:29.
Audrey Mill, of Larksville, crosses the finish line of 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk with a time of 28:27.
Decked out in his patriotic gear, Jordan Lindley participates in the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk finishing with a time of 17:14.
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Marina Orrson finished first place overall in the female division of the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk with a time of 16:12.
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Nineteen-year-old Kieran Sutton finished second place overall in the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk with a time of 15:37.
Beth Kunec, of Ashley, takes time to stretch before the start of the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk on the Fourth of July.
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Top, participants wait at the starting line on River Street in Wilkes-Barre. Above, runners take off in the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/Walk.
Mike Palermo crosses the finish line of the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk with a time of 21:34.
Jenny Wizeman finished as the second place overall winner in female division of the 31st Annual Bernie’s Memorial 3 Mile Run/ Walk with a time of 17:11.
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August, 2014
Your Shots
WVW Soccer Hosts Kids Clinic CrossfitRS Competes at Test Your Metal
WVW girls soccer hosted a camp for youth boys and girls in Forty Fort. Pictured above is the U-8 group and their counselors. Front row from left: Ella Stambaugh, Eliana Pileggi, Katherine Potter, Samantha Hornlein, Lily Shymanski, Natalie Wilson, Evan Allen. Second row left to right: Mercedes Hughes, Zach Schultz, Lily Mahoney, Gabby Marsola, Emma Stambaugh, Ava Elgonitis, Matt Volpiti. Third row left to right: Sabrina Seitz, Kerri Mulligan, Allison Detwiler, Caitlin Hargrave. Photo submitted by Caitlin Hargrave.
Members of CrossfitRS competed in a Test Your Metal Crossfit competition in Allentown on July 20. Front row from left: Kasey Corbett, Ginny Bonomo, Cait Schuler, Allison Schuler. Top row from left: Justin Saraka, Christian Szot, Casey Dolan, Brandon Higgins, Josh Mattei, Eric Roos, Mark Szot, Lenny Holeva, Pro Ellide. Photo submitted by Casey Dolan.