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October 2014
Vol. I Issue 9
GYMNASTICS Shooting Starz Academy in Wilkes-Barre celebrates National Gymnastics Day Pages 4-5
DODGEBALL Annual benefit proves popular for local dodgeball lovers of all ages Page 8
PEE WEE FOOTBALL Back Mountain Bobcats B Team defeats Kingston Township Raiders Pages 10-11
PUMPED UP IN THE END ZONE Senior Spotlight: Abby Thornton, Wyoming Area page 3 Wyoming Seminary, WVW Jr. high soccer teams face off 14-15
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Editor’s Note: “It’s About Having Fun” I have a six-year-old friend. He’s like any other first grader: he likes wrestling, asks a ton of questions and never stops moving. He has the energy of a Tazmanian Devil, constantly moving and constantly excited, letting nothing stand in his way. I saw this friend of mine at a high school girls soccer game and started talking to him about his football season (he plays defense in a local mini football league). He told me they’re undefeated and might continue their streak on Sunday. I told him good luck and that hopefully his team will continue their winning streak. He looked at me, tossed the football he was carrying up into the air, and said, “But it’s not about winning, Ellen. It’s about having fun.” My heart almost broke into two from cuteness overload. I wanted to ask him where he learned that but, like any other first grader, his Tazmanian Devli side kicked in, and he was sick of talking to
me and ran off before I could ask another question. But, how does a six-year-old learn this concept? And why does that concept escape some players as they grow older or more competitive? Is it because there is something bigger on the line? A college scholarship? A bid to Districts or States? Even if those rewards are on the line, it’s important not to lose sight of where your love for the game started. Why did you sign up for youth soccer or pee wee football? Why did you choose to continue playing into middle school, high school or even the higher education levels? Hopefully your answer to that question is that you enjoy what you do when you’re on that field or huddled with your teammates before the first kick off. Those are the moments that are most important. No matter what the numbers are in the record book, it’s about having fun.
October, 2014
Your Shot
Get Your Rear in Gear 5K Saturday, October 4 - 7:30 a.m. registration 9:00 a.m. race time Kirby Park, Wilkes-Barre. $30 for adults, $15 for youth. Contact Jennifer Sobeck at 570-704-8179. Color Me Pink 5K Saturday, October 4 - 8:30 a.m. registration 10:00 a.m. start time Pittston YMCA, Main St. in Pittston. $25 registration fee for all participants Contact Barb Sciandra for more information at 570-407-0780 or Barb6438@yahoo.com
The Plains Power U8 team, or Purple Dolphins, competed in a soccer festival hosted by the Wyoming Valley Youth Soccer Association September 13 at the Luzerne County fields in Forty Fort. Left to right: Keira Kennedy, Celia Balut, Caitlin Sekelsky, Addison Corchado, Hailey Bohonko, Giana Marinangeli, Norah Corchado, Eryka Serafin with coach Regina Corchado behind. Missing from photo: Bailey Metzgar, Nakiya Onion, Sara Katsock, Emma Christianson, Lily Macking and assistant coach Bianca Macking. Photo submitted by Regina Corchado.
WVC HS Football Coaches Test your knowledge of the names of the football coaches in the Wyoming Valley Conference by finding the last names hidden in this puzzle.
Wyoming Valley Sport Shot Editor/Publisher: Ellen Hoffman PO Box 1778 Kingston, PA 18704 wyomingvalleysportshot.com wyomingvalleysportshot@gmail.com or 570.406.3335
Field Hockey at Wyoming Valley Sports Dome League play begins November 3. Ten game schedule plus playoffs. Apps now being accepted: 6th grade & under (Tuesday), 8th grade & under (Monday), 10th grade & under (Tuesday), 12th grade & under (Monday).
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. 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.
Men’s Open Softball at Wyoming Valley Sports Dome Begins November 2014. Entry based on first come first serve. Cash prizes for the top two teams. Sign up by calling the Dome at 570-954-1597.
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.
Hockey Training at Revolution Ice Centre Fall session 2 - Mondays 5:15-6:15 p.m. or Saturdays 9:00-10:00 a.m. One time per week: $225, two times per week: $375. Sign up by October 20 for discounted pricing. Training available for players age 4-12. Equipment included in package. Call 570-883-1100 for more information. Fall Trail Run 5.5 Mile Sunday, October 26 - Noon start time, Frances Slocum State Park. Registration at the pavilion near the boat launch area. Hosted by the Wyoming Valley Striders. Contact Vince Wojnar 570-474-5363 or 570-5746911, WYOVALSTR@aol.com.
On the cover: Hanover Area’s Kyle Merth takes the interception into end zone in a home game against Holy Redeemer. Photo by Steve Shoemaker
Our team: Wyoming Valley Sport Shot is locally owned and handmade in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Contributing photographers this issue include Mary Bove, Frank Lauri, Steve Shoemaker and contributing staff consists of Elizabeth Hoffman and Samantha Holcomb.
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.
BRUZA CINTI DENNIS GILSKY HANSON HUMMER
KEATING MYERS NORRIS SPENCER WIEDLICH ZARUTA
Little League Camps Team MVP Baseball/Softball Training is available for grades K-7 - eight hour players camp and one hour coaches clinic. Ranges in price from $75-$125. To learn more go to www.teammvptraining.com under MVP Services tab. Holy Redeemer HS Seeks Boys’ Varsity Swim Coach Interested applicants should contact the high school at 570-829-2424 for more information.
October, 2014
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Senior Spotlight: Abby Thornton By Ellen Hoffman
The months between high school graduation and the beginning of the first semester of college are usually relaxing for most 18-year-olds. Many spend that time with friends and family hanging out before the transition between high school and undergraduate study begins. For recent Wyoming Area graduate Abby Thornton, that wasn’t the case. Thornton, now a freshman at Providence College, spent most of her summertime training in order to prepare for preseason as a Providence Friar. “Since the players in D1 are all extremely talented and the speed of the game is so fast, you cannot rely solely on your skill,” she said. “You need to be in shape in order to compete.” The length of the game grows to 70 minutes in college ball whereas in high school play it’s only 60 minutes. Thornton says those ten minutes may not seem like much but can change the whole game. “You need to be constantly running up and down the field,” she said. “The college game is so much faster than high school.” Thornton not only transitioned to a faster speed of a game she’s grown up playing but also a new playing surface. Before Providence she mostly played on grass fields, like her high school field at Wyoming Area. So not only are all of the players moving at a faster pace, so is the ball. “The ball moves so much faster on astro turf and it was definitely a huge adjustment I had to make.” While Thornton has only been away from the Wyoming Valley for two months, she has learned more about field hockey and what it takes to be a well-rounded player. “Success cannot be achieved through yourself,” she said is the most valuable lesson field hockey has taught her. “It’s a team sport and a team will not be successful without the selflessness of every single player.” Thornton says it’s important to have trust and confidence in her teammates and once
that is achieved, everything else will fall into place. It’s about thinking of “we” and not “me” on the field, she said. Thornton also learned that being a wellrounded player means life doesn’t stop once she steps off the field. “Your attitude, nutrition, hydration, work ethic in the weight room and mental toughness are all things that contribute to your performance.” In high school, Thornton never knew where her field hockey skill would take her but she knew Providence was her next step once she visited the campus and met the coaches. “I chose this school not only for the field hockey program, but for the academics and campus as a whole. When I first visited, I fell in love with the campus and the program. The coaches are amazing and the players on the team were very welcoming.” The WA grad started playing field hockey in fourth grade thanks to the encouragement of her best friend Sally DeLuca and her mother Ree Ree DeLuca. She admits, it was not love at first stroke, but after a second chance it stole her heart. While she is enjoying her time as a Friar she does miss some aspects from her life as a Warrior. “What I miss most about high school field hockey is the field hockey family. I miss my coach, Lunda Comiskey, and all the girls on the team. The chemistry we had was unreal.” She credits the time she spent as a Warrior as to why she kept a strong love for field hockey. “The bonds that were created will never be broken and the feeling of playing on the field with those girls is one of my favorite memories of all time.” 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 Abby Thornton.
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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October, 2014
National Gymnastics Day Celebrated in Wilkes-Barre
Shooting Starz Gymnastics Academy hosts day of performances to raise awareness of the sport - September 20
The Excel Silver Team joins hands during their floor routine.
Abby Norwillo performs a routine on the uneven bars at the Shooting Starz Gynmastics Academy.
Katie Scanlon performs a stunt during a celebration honoring National Gymnastics Day.
Katie Scanlon flips through the air during a floor routine in the Wilkes-Barre gym.
October, 2014
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McKenna Golembeski and Ava Finn show off their charm during a floor routine.
Abby Norwillo and her teammates celebrate National Gymnastics day in Wilkes-Barre.
Victoria Atkinson wows the crowd with her floor routine in celebration of National Gymnastics Day.
Joey Deremer looks to her spotter for approval before completing her stunt.
Ava Finn focuses on her balance as she prepares to land.
Participants at the Shooting Starz Gynastics Academy take a break to have fun with the Cha Cha Slide. Photos by Mary Bove
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October, 2014
West Side, Hanover Compete in Intramural Fun
U11 boy teams look to better their records in a mid-season match up - September 20
West Side’s Ryan Smith moves the ball down the field toward the Hanover defensive zone.
West Side’s Zach Buffano (15) and Hanover’s Jamie Mynes battle for the ball at Hopkins Park.
Hanover’s Jake Zola (6) chases after West Side’s Chris Bonoski (14) in an attempt to gain possession.
Hanover’s Nick Jacobs handles the ball in an away match against West Side.
Hanover’s goalie Jake Zola lays out to block the shot against West Side.
Members of the West Side United Youth Soccer Team pose for a fun shot.
October, 2014
West Side’s George Hebda works the ball in recent action against Hanover.
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Hanover’s Jake Zola, left, and West Side’s Caleb Troutman, right, go after the ball.
West Side’s Chris Tecotl (4) and Hanover’s Joey Mendygral (3) battle to get to the ball at Hopkins Park. Far left, West Side’s Benjamin Polomchak sets up for a kick against Hanover. Left, Hanover’s Ashton Schiel works the ball down the field in recent action against West Side. Photos by Frank Lauri
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! Call 570-824-4661 or stop in today to set up your party at Stanton Lanes!
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October, 2014
Dodgeball Keeps Ballers Coming Back to Tournament
Annual event benefits Zachary Shoemaker after a car accident left him mentally, physically damaged - September 21
Team Troop 417 strategizes before a dodgeball match in the Kingston Armory.
Anthony Eck, of Beastie Balls, watches his ball soar across the court at the Kingston Armory.
Anita McCullough, of the Untouchballs, laughs with her teammates during the tournament.
Alex Senchak, of Artful Dodgers, looks to release his ball to take out an opponent.
The Avengers team member Joelle Bauman aims at her target.
Nicole Golden and Kari Hoppaugh discuss their game plan for team Duck this Dynasty.
Steve Brand of Troop 417 zeroes in on an opponent. Photos by Ellen Hoffman
October, 2014
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Spartans Send Dawgs Back to Berwick Dawghouse Spartan rumble, crowd too much for Berwick to handle in long time rivalry - September 19
WVW student section is “blacked out� for the game against the Berwick Bulldogs.
WVW kicker Ian Ultsh runs onto the field before the game against Berwick.
WVW captains A.J. Iorio, Jeremy Kozich, Jared Kozich and Eric Acosta meet at mid field for the traditional coin toss.
Spartan cheerleaders display their banner before the game against the Berwick Bulldogs.
WVW cheerleaders Ali Schappert (51), Sydney Fry (7), Carlie Thomas (68) and Madiline Luff (14) enter Spartan Stadium for the game against Berwick. Photos by Frank Lauri
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October, 2014
Bobcats Capture Home Victory Over Raiders The Back Mountain Bobcats beat the Kingston Township Raiders 46-0 in Dallas - September 14
Bobcats kicker Ethan Adams gets set to kick off.
Raiders Jacob Koretz (13) looks to get away from Ben Fife (2).
Jackson Wydra runs the ball against the Back Mountain Bobcats.
Bobcats William Labar crosses the goal line for a touchdown.
Raiders Jack Luke (45) and Braden Saracino (80) try to tackle Bobcats Daniel Kutz (52).
October, 2014
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The Back Mountain Bobcats warm up before their game with the Kingston Twp. Raiders.
A pass is just out of reach of Raiders RJ Wren (3) with Ben Fife (2) defending.
Bobcats Ben Fife (2) runs away from David Biscontini (13) in a B team game.
Bobcats Colby Kennedy takes a break during Bobcats Daniel Kutz recovers a fumble from a time out against the Raiders. the Raiders Sunday afternoon.
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! Raiders RJ Wren runs the ball against the Kingston Twp. Bobcats Photos by Frank Lauri
P: 570.235.1037
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October, 2014
GAR Grenadiers Dig Out Win Over Pittston Patriots Wyoming Valley Conference teams competed in a mid-season girls volleyball match up - September 15
Jackie Rocha, of GAR, gives her coach a thumbs up from the court.
Kirsten Durling, of Pittston Area, looks to block a ball from GAR’s Jackie Rocha.
Pittston Area’s Kate Musto focuses on the ball during a home match.
Erin Scafella laughs with teammates before the start of a new set.
Pittston Area’s Abigail Rodriguez gives a teammate a high five before the start of the match.
October, 2014
Brittany Stephenson, of GAR, leaps to make the play.
GAR’s varsity team celebrates their road win over Pittston Area. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
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Meghan Gerrity, of Pittston Area, serves the ball toward her GAR opponents.
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GAR’s Banessa Flores competes against Pittston.
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October, 2014
Wyoming Seminary Grabs Road Win Over WVW
The Blue Knights defeat the Spartans 4-1 in Larksville during a jr. high game - September 10
WVW’s Kevin Grodzki moves the ball past Wyoming Seminary’s Riley Meagher.
Wyoming Seminary’s Gregory Fisher dribbles the ball through the midfield.
Allison Hohn, of Wyoming Seminary, tackles the ball against WVW’s Trent Giza.
Regie Grayek, of Wyoming Seminary, sends the ball across the field to a teammate in the Blue Knights away win.
Wyoming Valley West’s Adam Detwiller sends the ball out of the Spartans defensive zone.
Kennadi Josefowicz, of WVW, dribbles the ball up the field. Photos by Ellen Hoffman
October, 2014
The Blue Knights Riley Meagher passes the ball up field to an open teammate.
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Ricardo Leon congratulates teammate Nate Naugle on his goal in the first half of the Spartans home game.
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Wyoming Seminary goalie Jeremy Callahan scoops up a shot on goal from Wyoming Valley West.
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October, 2014
Hawkeyes Hand Redeemer Royal Defeat
Hanover Area secures a home win with a final score of 42-7 over Holy Redeemer - September 5
The Hanover Area Hawkeyes storm the field before the start of the game.
Holy Redeemer’s Mauriceo Rodregas kicks for the extra point against Hanover.
Hanover’s Jordan Hagler makes a catch on his home field.
Hanover’s Jake Peters waits for the snap from teammate Shaun Jones.
Justin Januszko, of Holy Redeemer, gains some yardage.
Connor Bowers makes a leaping catch for Hanover Area.
October, 2014
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A Hanover Area High School cheerleader pumps up the crowd with her squad.
Holy Redeemer’s Pat Villani scoots past a Hanover defender.
Hanover’s Jake Peters (12) hands off to teammate Ya’Sir Jones (7).
Chad Fahey, of Holy Redeemer, looks to make a pass in an away game against Hanover Area. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
Hanover’s Brandon Chafin attempts to take down Holy Redeemer’s Pat Villani.
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October, 2014
Crestwood Dominates Nanticoke in Season Opener
Crestwood Comets take 8-0 away win over Nanticoke Trojans in varsity field hockey - September 3
Crestwood’s Jordan Olenginski handles the ball as a Nanticoke defender blocks.
Amber Grohowski, of Nanticoke, moves the ball into the Crestwood defensive zone as Hunter Pitman defends.
Paige Mislitski, of Nanticoke, watches the offensive play from the defensive zone.
Savannah Oliver, of Nanticoke, moves in on Crestwood’s Casey Cole in both team’s 2014 home opener.
Crestwood’s Sarah Macko moves the ball past Nanticoke’s Carly Grabowski.
October, 2014
Ashleigh Thomas, of Crestwood, handles the ball in the Nanticoke defensive zone.
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Bereniss Sosa, of Nanticoke, sends the ball down the field in a home game against Crestwood.
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Nanticoke’s Megan Kocher dribbles the ball down the field in a Wyoming Valley Conference game against Crestwood.
Players face off in the Nanticoke defensive zone in a varsity field hockey match.
Nanticoke’s Liz Colemire races to get to the ball before a Crestwood defender. Photos by Steve Shoemaker
Lauren Reidinger, of Crestwood, watches the play up the field.
Hannah Ackers, of Crestwood, sends the ball past Nanticoke defender Becca Morgis.
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October, 2014