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September 2014
Vol. I Issue 8
VARSITY TENNIS Coughlin and Hanover girls battle in their first match of the fall season Pages 8-9
YOUTH SOCCER Girls youth soccer kicked off in Luzerne County to start the fall season Pages 12-13
WB TRIATHLON 33rd annual event in the Back Mountain puts local’s training to the test Pages 18-19
TACKLING A NEW SEASON Senior Spotlight: Anthony Khalife, Coughlin page 3 Crestwood, Holy Redeemer JV teams tee off, pages 10-11
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Editor’s Note: Good Sportsmanship is Key Losing is tough. It’s hard to lose at age eight and it’s hard to lose at age 18. It stinks losing the state championship game and it stinks losing a recreational game. One thing that makes losing slightly easier is by presenting good sportsmanship – from both sides – the winners and the losers. I saw two great acts of sportsmanship during a youth soccer game at the end of the summer. The Mountain Top U10 girls team showed up at the Luzerne County fields in Forty Fort expecting to play another youth soccer team only to find out they would be competing against a U10 travel team, the Northeast Tornadoes. Dispite the game ending double digits to nil, the Mountain Top team kept their heads, and confidence, high. After shaking hands, the Northeast Tornadoes showed their appreciation for their opponents by ending the match in a cheer, filled with chanting and clapping and welcoming Mountain Top
to their side of the field. Mountain Top returned the love and performed the same cheer for the Tornadoes. There aren’t many teams out there that could end a game the way Mountain Top did and still come off the field smiling and laughing. As we begin the fall sports season, I challenge all teams, at all age levels, to display the same acts of sportsmanship as these youth soccer teams.
September, 2014
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WVC Youth Football Teams It’s football season! Brush up on your Wyoming Valley Conference Youth Football team names by finding the teams hidden in this puzzle.
Wyoming Valley Sport Shot
3rd Annual Pink Piloxing Sunday, September 14 - 10 AM to noon. $20 donation. Hosted by the Wilkes-Barre YMCA. Two hour event to benefit Livestrong at the YMCA. Register online at www.wbymca.org. Zachary Shoemaker Dodgeball Tournament 7th Annual dodgeball tournament at the Kingston Armory - Sunday, September 21 - 11 AM. Double elimination, 8 people per team. Contact Stef Sikora 570-574-5945 or dodgeball4zack@gmail.com with questions. www.dodgeball4zack.org The Wendy’s Wonderful Kids Half Marathon Saturday, September 27 - 7:30 AM Three races available: 5K, lake run, half marathon. All races start and finish on Lake Shore Drive in front of Grotto Pizza. Runners can sign up at: www.lin-mark.com or download the registration form and mail it to Wilkes-Barre Racing.
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.
Whitewater Cup Soccer Tournament Columbus Day Weekend Tournament - October 11,12 - U8-U19 boys and girls are eligible. Boys brackets play on Saturday and girls brackets play on Sunday. Games are played in and around Mountain Top.
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.
3v3 Basketball Tournament Saturday, September 9 - 10 AM (9:45 AM registration) Rain date: Sunday, September 10. Held at the Rock Recreational Center in Dallas. $100 per team and $25 for same day registration. Available to boys and girls grades 4-12. 2nd Annual K.O.P.S. Run Saturday, September 13 - 7:30 AM registration. Kids Fun Run starts at 9 AM and 5K starts at 10 AM. $20 for runners and walkers and $15 for kids race participants. Starts at Butler Township Community Center. www.keepourpolicesafe.com
On the cover: West Pittston’s Anthony Litzi gets wrapped up by Kingston’s Scott Greene in the opening game at Church Street Park. Photo by Frank Lauri
Our team: Wyoming Valley Sport Shot is locally owned and handmade in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Contributing photographers this issue include Mary Bove, Frank Lauri, Summer McDonnell, Steve Shoemaker and contributing staff consists of Elizabeth Hoffman and Samantha Holcomb.
Big Day Out Saturday, September 6 - Pocono White Water. Bike, hike and raft all in one day. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, guides, shuttle, equipment included. Call 1-800-944-8392 for information.
BOBCATS HURRICANES HUSKIES INDIANS MOUNTS
PANTHERS RAIDERS RAMS SAILORS WILDCATS
Little League Camps Team MVP Baseball and Softball Training is available for grades K-7 - eight hour players camp and one hour complimentary coaches clinic. Ranges in price from $75-$125. For every five participants, Team MVP will provide one trainer to properly instruct every participant. To learn more go to www.teammvptraining. com and use the MVP Services tab.
September, 2014
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Senior Spotlight: Anthony Khalife By Ellen Hoffman
The most memorable moments are sometimes the ones that go unplanned. Recent Coughlin High School graduate, Anthony Khalife, says an unplanned moment was one instance he cherishes looking back on his football career thus far. During his junior season at Coughlin he played tight end, rather than offensive or defensive line, the position he played in previous seasons. In that one season, he scored his first and only touchdown in his career. In an unplanned moment, in an unplanned position, he caught a deflected pass near the goal line in a game against Hazelton. This, he says, as an individual, was the most memorable moment he can remember. Khalife began playing competitively in 7th grade with his only other football experience as a stint in the pee wee league on the Plains Yankees team. He decided to commit to the sport in middle school because it’s a family function, he said. His father spent time as the head football coach at GAR so Khalife understood how much it meant to his family. “I just wanted to give it a shot,” he said. “My family is very involved in football.” While he never saw his career moving to Division I play, he is happy with his decision. He was offered spots on the football teams at Colgate University, Bucknell University and Army. “I just worked as hard as I could during high school and was fortunate enough to have the opportunities arise. Out of the three schools that offered, Colgate was by far my favorite.” He is unsure what direction he is taking academically, but has high hopes for the next four years. “I hope to get a great Liberal Arts education here at Colgate and develop
better both physically, mentally and maturitywise for both football and life. Right now I am undecided on a major. I hope to leave with a degree that will give me the chance to do something I love doing.” Khalife is excited but knows there will be some adjustments moving from the Coughlin field to the Colgate stadium. “The speed of the game and the amount of time one needs to put in at this level, both academically and athletically, is going to be the biggest adjustment,” he said. Another adjustment for Khalife, and many other athletes in his position, is leaving the team he grew close to and friends he’s played with throughout school. “The thing I will miss most is definitely getting to suit up with the guys I’ve been friends with since elementary school,” he said. “You never get the chance to do that at any other time in your life.” Khalife is excited for what his new football career will bring and the people he will meet along the way. Although he is saying goodbye to the friends and teammates he’s always known, he’s making room for a new group of friends. Khalife said that building new relationships directly relates to something football teaches everyone: teamwork. “Football has and will continue to teach people discipline, dedication and all-around character building,” he said. “This includes teamwork and a great work ethic.” Khalife and the rest of the Colgate Raiders host their first home game of the 2014 season Sept. 20 against Cornell University. 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 Anthony Khalife. Pictured above, Khalife is #65.
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. Please visit our website at: www.kapowfh.com to register for our 2014-2015 Winter Academies Hope to see you all this season!
Like us on Facebook for more updates: KaPow Hockey Klub
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September, 2014
New Athletes Take on Pee Wee Football League
Kingston Huskies and West Pittston Rams compete in opening game of the season - August 24
Kingston’s Jadiel Gutierrez feels some pressure from the West Pittston defense during the Huskies first home game at Church Street Park in Kingston.
Rams Max Getzie and Guy Jordan congratulate teammate Erik Saranchuk, center, after a touchdown against Kingston.
Huskies Tahjeer Walker makes a touchdown saving tackle on West Pittston’s Erik Saranchuk in Kingston.
Kingston’s Jadiel Gutierrez tackles West Pittston’s John Turner after scoring a two point conversion. Photos by Frank Lauri.
September, 2014
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Kingston’s Scott Greene and Jared Kappenman try to tackle West Pittston’s Erik Saranchuk.
Kingston’s Scott Greene spikes the ball that resulted in a penalty during the opener against West Pittston.
Kingston’s Louden Giza signals to the sideline during the opener against West Pittston.
Kingston Huskies Ayden Muckey gets set against the West Pittston Rams during the opening game of the season.
The West Pittston Rams defense gets ready to move in on the Kingston Huskies offense at Church Street Park in Kingston.
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September, 2014
Cyclists Pedal Across Luzerne, Lackawanna Counties
Endure Ride raised over $200K for the American Cancer Society after six years of riding - August 3
Bicyclists take off at the start of the 6th Annual Endure Ride starting at Wilkes University.
Mountain Top resident Tim Craig pumps his fist in the air as he returns from his 38-mile Endure ride.
Kevin Cavanaegh, of Plains, rides to the left of Marty Haney, also of Plains, at the beginning of the 10-mile ride. Photos by Mary Bove
Jana Kass, of New York, cheers as she comes in from the 38-mile Endure ride benefitting cancer research.
Andrew Jackloski, of Edwardsville, returns after his completion of the 10-mile Endure ride in Wilkes-Barre.
September, 2014
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Your Shots
WA FH Benefits Little Eric’s Foundation
Wyoming Area Field Hockey hosted a tournament to benefit Little Eric’s Foundation on August 17. Five teams composed of WA players, parents, coaches, friends and family raised over $1,800 for the foundation. The mission of Little Eric’s Foundation is to support research and raise awareness in the hope of finding a cure for Pediatric Brain & Childhood Cancers. Photo submitted by Jill Holcomb.
Crestwood Cheerleading Hosts Camp
Host your end of season sports awards party with us! Our bowling and pizza awards parties are a great way to end your sports seasons! Bring everyone together to celebrate your team’s accomplishments! We have packages available to meet all your needs!
The Crestwood High School Cheerleading squad hosted a clinic for Mountain Top Blitz Cheerleaders July 28-31. The clinic taught basic fundamentals of stunting, cheering, dancing, tumbling and jumping along with a routine that the teams will compete with this fall season. Photos submitted by Alexa Chowlea.
Call 570-824-4661 or stop in today to set up your party at Stanton Lanes!
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September, 2014
Coughlin Takes Season Opener Over Hanover
Varsity girls tennis teams show some love in first match of the season - August 18
Hanover’s Marissa Kremenic taps the ball over the net during a home match against Coughlin.
Coughlin’s Chloe Hutter waits for doubles teammate Deanna Richards to serve the ball during an away match.
Gabrielle Keating, of Hanover, competes in a singles match on Hanover’s home courts. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
Sierra Grohowski, of Hanover, makes sure to push the ball back over the net during doubles play.
September, 2014
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Hanover’s Victoria Hoffman keeps her eye on her opponent during a doubles match.
Kassie Cebula posts a singles win for the Crusaders during the first game of the season.
Coughlin’s Kristi Pearage focuses on the ball during singles play in Hanover.
Hanover’s Lauren Richmond competes in a singles match on her home court.
Coughlin’s Diana Rodriguez makes contact with the ball during her singles match against Hanover.
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September, 2014
Coughlin, Holy Redeemer JV Teams Putt through Heat
The junior varisty teams took to the greens in an early season match at Lehman Golf Club - August 26
Crestwood’s Josh Sterling chips from the rough in a match against Holy Redeemer.
Crestwood’s Ryan LeRoy battled the gnats as he lines up his putt during the August match.
Nathan Morgan, of Holy Redeemer, makes a shot from the fairway at Lehman Golf Club during a match against Crestwood.
Meghan Corridoni, of Holy Redeemer, putts the ball against Crestwood at the Lehman Golf Club.
Connor Maloney, of Holy Redeemer, walks to his ball in the fairway at the Lehman Golf Club.
September, 2014
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Crestwood’s John McGroarty hits out of the rough.
Holy Redeemer’s Jimmy Dunleavy practices his putting.
Matt Hinde, of Holy Redeemer, grimaces as his chip onto the green rolls back down the hill.
Zach Brennan, of Crestwood, putts on the practice green.
Football season is back! Enjoy our NFL package on 11 big screen TVs perfect for all fans! Catch the college and pro games while enjoying great food! ‘Like’ us on Facebook to check out our weekly dinner menu! Not your average bar!
Crestwood’s Gabe Hagen attempts to chip up to the green. Photos by Frank Lauri
P: 570.235.1037
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September, 2014
Youth Soccer Season Begins in Luzerne County
Northeast Tornadoes and Mountain Top battle in girls youth soccer game - August 23
Brooke Lapinski, of Mountain Top, clears the ball from the defensive zone.
NE Tornadoes player Anna Wisnewski moves the ball down the field during the first quarter of the game in Forty Fort.
NE Tornadoes player Zoe Wheeler fends off Mountain Top players Grace Vovey, left, and Ceanna Belisle, right.
NE Tornadoes player Avery Cole faces a one-on-one with Mountain Top goalie Mia Pollack.
Ella Farrell dribbles the ball toward the goal in Forty Fort.
Olivia Oresick switches direction to grab a loose ball.
September, 2014
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Avery Cole moves the ball down the field as she receives encouragement from her teammates.
NE Tornadoes Bonita Brigido aims for the goal from outside the box during a game against Mountain Top.
Kaitlyn Martin, center, looks to teammates Gabrielle Ambosie, left, and Olivia Oresick, right, for support to clear the ball.
Kayla Kresge looks for an open teammate as Abbey Krzywicki defends. Photos by Ellen Hoffman
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September, 2014
Varsity Soccer Teams Compete in Annual Patriot Cup
Wyoming Valley West beats Lake Lehman 3-0 in Pittston soccer tournament - August 9
Hunnter Maxwell moves the ball out of the WVW defensive zone in the Patriot Tournament.
Michael Symeon takes a goal kick for Lake Lehman against Wyoming Valley West.
Lake Lehman’s JK Karolovich moves the ball past WVW’s Anthony Barbos.
WVW’s Mike Bazadona makes a move past a Lake Lehman defender during WVW’s win in the Patriot Cup.
Eric Bordo, of Lake Lehman, dribbles the ball toward goal. Photos by Summer McDonnell
September, 2014
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Your Shots
Wiffleball League Benefits SPCA Wyoming Area Golf Tees Off Season
The Backyard Wiffleball League hosted a tournament to benefit the SPCA August 2 at Diamond City Park in Wilkes-Barre. Saturday Crush won the second annual tournament and the event helped raise $900 for the local SPCA. From left to right Zach Artim, Mark Belles, Ryan Hart, Joe Foose, Bob Loftus and George Moser. Not pictured, Andy Peck. Photo submitted by Andy Peck.
The Wyoming Area high school golf team started their fall season with practices at Fox Hill Country Club in Exeter on August 11. Left photo: Mike Kolessar tees off at the 15th hole. Right photo: Bill Peck approaches the 14th hole during the first practice of the season. Photos submitted by William Peck.
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September, 2014
Athletes Put Endurance to Test in WB Triathlon Competitors took to the Back Mountain course in the 33rd year of the annual event - August 17
Jessica Chesman climbs a hill during the bike leg of the 2014 Triathlon.
Heidi Vanhamme raises her arms as she crosses the finish line of the 2014 event with an overall time of 2:04:31.
Swimmers hit the water at Harvey’s Lake for the start of the 2014 Wilkes-Barre Triathlon.
Robert Gould bikes during the 2014 Wilkes-Barre Triathlon in the Back Mountain.
Con McCole departs with his bike and gives a shout out to volunteers. McCole has participated in 33 consecutive WilkesBarre Triathlons.
September, 2014
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Dawn Frey cools down with a wet towel after she crossed the finish line during the 2014 Wilkes-Barre Triathlon.
Andrew Morgan climbs a hill on his bike during the Triathlon.
Marc Eder exits the water during the 2014 Wilkes-Barre Triathlon at Harvey’s Lake.
Paul Keeler crosses the finish line of the 2014 Wilkes-Barre Triathlon with an overall time of 1:57:54. Photos by Frank Lauri
Jere Franklin adds some air to his tires before the start of the 2014 Wilkes-Barre Triathlon.
Sean Mulloy crosses the finish line with a time of 3:32:53 for the Olympic division of the 2014 Wilkes-Barre Triathlon.
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September, 2014
Hockey School Popular for End of Summer Fun
Players of all skill levels participate in a week-long hockey camp at Coal Street Ice Rink - August 14
Reese Kaczmarczyk shoots on goalie Xavier Bleiler during the Coal Street Hockey School.
Jacob Onda skates through a drill conducted by the counselors.
Josh Wesneski moves the puck down the rink in a scrimmage at the Coal Street Ice Rink.
Jeffery Stilip keeps a tennis ball under control on the ice.
Ben Zieglar practices his puck handling with the hockey school.
September, 2014
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Reese Kaczmarczyk didn’t take his eyes off the camera all day, even when he wiped out.
Jake Goldowski moves down the ice during an end of the day scrimmage in Wilkes-Barre.
Ryan Winters stretches in front of the camera before the hockey training sessions begin.
Ryan Smith looks for an open pass from a teammate during the Coal Street Hockey School. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
A team celebrates after scoring a goal during the youth hockey school in Wilkes-Barre.
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September, 2014