Archives

Boys
2011-12 standings
Region 2 – AA
Region Overall
x-Lakeview 9-1 19-7
y-Sharpsville 7-3 14-9
y-Wilmington 5-5 9-14
Greenville 4-6 10-12
Reynolds 3-7 10-11
Mercer 2-8 6-16
x-region champion
y-qualified for the playoffs

New Region 2 standings
Region 2 – AA
School Enrollment
Greenville 180
Lakeview 149
Mercer 154
Reynolds 178
Sharpsville 175
West Middlesex 162
Wilmington 223
Class AA range: 131-243

2012 returning all-stars (Current year listed)
First team
Casey Greggs Lakeview 12
Dalton Boggs Lakeview 12
Matthew Dogan* West Middlesex 12
Trey Staunch* West Middlesex 10
Second team
Tyler Luchey Sharpsville 12
Coty Gander Lakeview 12
Jeremy Jancso* West Middlesex 12
Region Player of the Year – Casey Greggs, Lakeview
*West Middlesex was in Region 1 last winter

Girls
2011-12 standings
Region 2 – AA
Region Overall
x-Greenville 11-1 21-5
y-Sharpsville 10-2 16-7
y-Sharon 9-3 15-8
y-Wilmington 6-6 12-11
Mercer 4-8 6-16
Reynolds 2-10 5-16
Lakeview 0-12 2-20
x-region champion
y-qualified for the playoffs

New Region 2 standings
Region 2 – AA
School Enrollment
Greenville 206
Lakeview 160
Mercer 182
Sharon 208
Sharpsville 145
West Middlesex 142
Wilmington 179
Class AA range: 135-238

2012 returning all-stars (Current year listed)
First team
McKenzie Popatak Sharpsville 12
Lexie Arkwright Mercer 11
Alanna Elliott Wilmington 11
Molly Stitt* West Middlesex 12
Second team
Jessica Burnett Greenville 12
Tanayja Sanders Sharon 11
Region co-Players of the Year – McKenzie Popatak, Sharpsville
*West Middlesex was in Region 1 last winter

Tuesday: Region 3, 4 preview

–Tom Reisenweber

Boys
2011-12 standings
Region 1 – A
Region Overall
x-West Middlesex 10-0 22-5
y-Kennedy Catholic 7-3 16-10
y-VisionQuest 7-3 15-10
Rocky Grove 4-6 7-15
Jamestown 2-8 3-19
Commodore Perry 0-10 0-22
x-region champion
y-qualified for the playoffs

New Region 1 standings
Region 1 – A
School Enrollment
Commodore Perry 66
Jamestown 68
Kennedy Catholic 109
Rocky Grove 118
VisionQuest 62
Class A range: 130 and below

2012 returning all-stars (Current year listed)
First team
Mac Hartman Kennedy Catholic 12
Second team
Jeff Thompkins Kennedy Catholic 12

Girls
2011-12 standings
Region 1 – A
Region Overall
x-Kennedy Catholic 10-0 22-4
y-Farrell 8-2 15-7
y-Commodore Perry 6-4 8-15
West Middlesex 4-6 11-10
Rocky Grove 1-9 7-15
Jamestown 1-9 4-16
x-region champion
y-qualified for the playoffs

New Region 1 standings
Region 1 – A
School Enrollment
Commodore Perry 75
Farrell 114
Jamestown 70
Kennedy Catholic 96
Reynolds 134
Rocky Grove 112
Class A range: 134 and below

2012 returning all-stars (Current year listed)
First team
Alex Ricketts Kennedy Catholic 12
Rachel Burns Kennedy Catholic 12

Later today: Region 2

–Tom Reisenweber

Youngsville Eagles
Boys
Coach (season): Keith Martin (1st season)
2011-12 overall record: 0-19
2011-12 region record (place): 0-8 (fifth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AA playoffs.
Top players lost: None
Top returning players: Broc Horn, Coll Dininny, James Frazier, Tom Chapman
Assistant coaches: Jim Kesterholt, Jeff Manelick
Outlook: Youngsville will look to go into a new direction this year with a new head coach in Keith Martin. The Eagles didn’t lose anyone to graduation and will have an experienced team back. Broc Horn was a leader for Youngsville last year and is joined by fellow leading scorers Coll Dininny, Tom Chapman and James Frazier. The Eagles could have some bumps in the road this year but if they buy into a new system, they could be an interesting team to watch. Youngsville has experience and chemistry but they will need to play together under a new coach to make a run at a playoff spot.

Schedule
December
7-8 Warren County tournament
12 Commodore Perry 7:30
14 at Cambridge Springs* 7:30
18 Maplewood* 7:30
21 at Saegertown* 7:30
27-28 Sheffield tournament
January
3 at Tidioute Charter 7:30
9 Conneaut* 7:30
11 at Eisenhower* 7:30
18 at Cochranton* 7:30
22 Cambridge Springs* 7:30
25 at Maplewood* 7:30
29 Saegertown* 7:30
31 at Rocky Grove 7:30
February
7 at Conneaut* 7:30
9 Eisenhower* 7:30
12 Tidioute Charter 7:30
15 Cochranton* 7:30
*Region 3 games

Girls
Coach (season): David Becker (1st season)
2011-12 overall record: 10-10
2011-12 region record (place): 3-9 (fifth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class A playoffs.
Top players lost: Amber Fox, Lindsay Lyon
Top returning players: Katie Chuzie, Karissa Cratty, Kennedy Cratty, Jorie Clark, Jess Jameson
Assistant coach: Tim McDowell
Outlook: Much like the boys, the Youngsville girls will look to go into a new direction with new head coach David Becker. The Eagles will have to replace two solid players in Amber Fox and Lindsay Lyon but will have a strong group back. Juniors Katie Chuzie, Jorie Clark and Jess Jameson are back along with sophomores Karissa and Kennedy Cratty. All five could be big-time contributors along with new players Katie Maille, Aubree Hendrickson and Kelsey Anderson. Youngsville is still rebuilding its program and this year wins won’t be as important as developing chemistry in a new system. With underclassmen leading the way, the Eagles could turn into a contender next winter.

Schedule
December
7-8 Warren County tournament
13 Maplewood* 7:30
17 at Seneca 7:30
19 at Commodore Perry 7:30
20 Conneaut* 7:30
27-28 Union City tournament
January
5 at Cambridge Springs* 7:30
8 Eisenhower* 7:30
10 Cochranton* 7:30
14 at Tidioute Charter 7:30
17 Saegertown* 7:30
22 at Maplewood* 7:30
24 Tidioute Charter 7:30
28 at Conneaut* 7:30
31 Cambridge Springs* 7:30
February
2 at Eisenhower* 7:30
5 at Cochranton* 7:30
7 Sheffield 7:30
11 at Saegertown* 7:30
13 at Venango Catholic 7:30
*Region 3 games

Monday: Region 1, 2 preview

–Tom Reisenweber

Wilmington Greyhounds
Boys
Coach (season, record): Michael Jeckavitch (3rd season, 18-25)
2011-12 overall record: 9-14
2011-12 region record (place): 5-5 (third)
2011-12 playoff results: Lost to Mercyhurst Prep 57-15 in the District 10 Class AA quarterfinals.
Top players lost: Anthony Derrick, Matt Bowen, Ryan Crawford, Josh Tekac, Vince Pitzulo
Top returning players: Rocco Fagan, Jordan Smith, Jesse Hilliard
Assistant coaches: Michael Zeigler, Kyle Piper, Curtis Nugent
Outlook: Wilmington made its way to the District 10 playoffs last year before running into eventual D-10 champion Mercyhurst Prep. The Greyhounds were hit hard by graduation with the loss of Anthony Derrick, Matt Bowen, Ryan Crawford, Josh Tekac and Vince Pitzulo. Derrick was voted to the all-region first team and Bowen to the second team. All five leave big holes for third-year coach Michael Jeckavitch to fill. Jordan Smith is the only returning starter, while juniors Rocco Fagan and Jesse Hilliard could step into expanded playing time this year. Ryan Brumbaugh and Davis Smith are back to play their senior season after missing last year. Nate Anthony is a junior transfer from West Middlesex, while Travis Brumbaugh, Hunter Taylor and Scott Onestak could contribute this season as well. The ‘Hounds could use up to a 9-10 man rotation to exploit their speed and use it to compete. Wilmington will also have plenty of chemistry this year. The ‘Hounds will be smaller than usual and that size disadvantage could hurt throughout the season, especially near the playoffs. Wilmington will look to play tougher defense and develop its offense enough to use speed to balance out size.

Schedule
December
7-8 Jamestown tournament
11 Commodore Perry 7:30
14 at Union 7:30
18 Jamestown 7:30
27-28 Union tournament
January
3 at Sharpsville* 7:30
5 Lakeview* 7:30
8 Reynolds* 7:30
9 Neshannock 7:30
11 Mercer* 7:30
15 at Greenville* 7:30
18 West Middlesex* 7:30
23 Shenango 7:30
25 at VisionQuest 7:30
29 Sharpsville* 7:30
February
1 at Lakeview* 7:30
5 at Reynolds* 7:30
8 at Mercer* 7:30
12 Greenville* 7:30
15 at West Middlesex* 7:30
*Region 2 games

Girls
Coach: Brandy Sanford
2011-12 overall record: 12-11
2011-12 region record (place): 6-6 (fourth)
2011-12 playoff results: Lost to Villa Maria 77-12 in the District 10 Class AA quarterfinals.

Note: A preview was not submitted by the coach.

Schedule
December
7-8 Mohawk tournament
11 at Farrell 7:30
13 Reynolds 7:30
15 at Shenango 2:30
17 at Laurel 7:30
20 at Sharon* 7:30
27-28 Union tournament
January
3 Lakeview* 7:30
7 at Mercer* 7:30
9 Neshannock 7:30
10 Sharpsville* 7:30
17 West Middlesex* 7:30
21 Greenville* 7:30
24 Sharon* 7:30
28 at Lakeview* 7:30
31 Mercer* 7:30
February
4 at Sharpsville* 7:30
6 Jamestown 7:30
11 at West Middlesex* 7:30
14 at Greenville* 7:30
*Region 2 games

Later today: Youngsville

–Tom Reisenweber

West Middlesex Big Reds
Boys
Coach (season, record): Chad Mild (14th season, 211-126)
2011-12 overall record: 22-5
2011-12 region record (place): 10-0 (champion)
2011-12 playoff results: Defeated VisionQuest 74-68 in overtime and Kennedy Catholic 41-38 in overtime to win the District 10 Class A championship. West Middlesex then defeated North Catholic 61-50 in the first round of the PIAA playoffs and Johnsonburg 50-45 in two overtimes in the second round. West Middlesex then lost to Lincoln Park 47-45 in the quarterfinals.
Top player lost: Dustyn David
Top returning players: Matt Dogan, Jeremy Jancso, Roman Klaric, Jerrod Palmer, Trey Staunch, Mike Ginther
Assistant coaches: Gregg Dogan, Scott Slovesko
Outlook: West Middlesex will face new challenges this season with a move to Class AA. Despite the bigger class, the Big Reds look like an instant favorite with nearly everyone back this season. West Middlesex was loaded last year and won the District 10 Class A championship. The Big Reds will have to replace Dustyn David but everyone else returns for the Big Reds. Matthew Dogan, a Gannon recruit that has already scored 1,000 points, is back along with fellow all-region first-team selection Trey Staunch. Jeremy Jancso is also back after being voted to the all-region second team. Roman Klaric, Jerrod Palmer and Mike Ginther are also back for Middlesex. The Big Reds move into Region 2 this season and will get a tune-up for the postseason. Erie County has dominated Class AA for a long time and Middlesex has the chance to change that trend. With an experienced team back, it won’t take much for the Big Reds to contend and likely win the D-10 Class AA championship. Beyond that, Middlesex could be a dangerous team in the PIAA playoffs.

Schedule
December
7-8 New Castle tournament
15 at Poland (Ohio) TBA
18 Kennedy Catholic 7:30
21 Sharpsville* 7:30
28-29 Farrell tournament
January
3 Mercer* 7:30
8 at Lakeview* 7:30
11 Greenville* 7:30
12 at Hubbard (Ohio) 7:30
15 Reynolds* 7:30
18 at Wilmington* 7:30
20 at LaBrae (Ohio) 8
22 at Sharpsville* 7:30
25 at Rocky Grove 7:30
29 at Mercer* 7:30
February
1 Beaver 7:30
5 Lakeview* 7:30
8 at Greenville* 7:30
12 at Reynolds* 7:30
15 Wilmington* 7:30
*Region 2 games

Girls
Coach (season, record): Jody Anthony (6th season, 39-89)
2011-12 overall record: 11-10
2011-12 region record (place): 4-6 (fourth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class A playoffs.
Top players lost: None
Top returning players: Molly Stitt, Kelsey Murray, Alexis Summers, Alyson Pierce
Assistant coaches: Toddy Anthony, Kim Krueger
Outlook: West Middlesex started seeing some success with a young team last year and is hoping to carry that over to this season. The Big Reds didn’t lose anyone to graduation and have an experience team back. Molly Stitt, a senior point guard, is back after being voted to the all-region first team last year along with fellow starters Kelsey Murray, Alexis Summers and Alyson Pierce. Murray and Summers are returning seniors, while Pierce is an emerging sophomore. With all of the experience back, Middlesex could be bolstered by new players in freshmen Morgan Atterholt, Logan Nitsche and Kristen White. The Big Reds will be an interesting team this season. They have experience but will have to deal with traditional powers in Class AA with a move up one class. Middlesex could be a surprise team in Region 2 and might be in line for a trip to the postseason.

Schedule
December
7-8 West Middlesex tournament
12 at Commodore Perry 7:30
15 Rocky Grove 2:30
17 at Farrell 7:30
21 at Sharpsville* 7:30
27-28 Conneaut tournament
January
4 Mercer* 7:30
8 at Greenville* 7:30
10 at Jamestown 7:30
12 at Hubbard (Ohio) 7:30
14 at Lakeview* 7:30
17 at Wilmington* 7:30
21 Sharon* 7:30
24 Sharpsville* 7:30
28 at Mercer* 7:30
31 Greenville* 7:30
February
2 Brookfield (Ohio) 7:30
7 Lakeview* 7:30
11 Wilmington* 7:30
14 at Sharon* 7:30
*Region 2 games

Sunday: Wilmington, Youngsville

–Tom Reisenweber

Warren Dragons
Boys
Coach (season, record): Jeff Berdine (11th season, 140-100)
2011-12 overall record: 19-7
2011-12 region record (place): 11-3 (second)
2011-12 playoff results: Defeated Sharon 77-54 in the District 10 Class AAA quarterfinals and Girard 42-26 in the semifinals before losing to General McLane 56-49 in the championship. Warren then lost to Hampton 60-41 in the first round of the PIAA Class AAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Preston McMeans, Hank Morrison, Kory Thomas, Drew Lobdell
Top returning players: Austin Jerman, Mark Davis, Matt Sandberg, Collin Fantaskey, Jack Daley, Grayson Foley, Andrew Hammersley
Assistant coach: Dave Papalia
Outlook: Warren was impressive last season as the Dragons made their way to the District 10 Class AAA championship game. Warren ran into powerhouse General McLane but the Dragons still competed in the PIAA playoffs. Coach Jeff Berdine will have some big-time players to replace if Warren wants to repeat that success this year. Preston McMeans, an all-region first-team selection that averaged 19 points per game, graduated along with second-team selection Hank Morrison, who scored 14 points per game. Kory Thomas and Drew Lobdell also graduated, leaving plenty of production that needs to be replaced this winter. Senior leader Austin Jerman is back along with classmates Mark Davis, Matt Sandberg, Jack Daley, Grayson Foley and Andrew Hammersley. All six will be impact players and provide senior leadership for Warren along with junior Collin Fantaskey. Jerman, Davis and Sandberg are returning starters while the rest will be in the mix for the final two spots. Tanner Stanz, Jacoby Passmore, Ryan Gustafson, Austin Schwanke and Phil Hachula are new players that could also earn meaningful playing time this winter. Warren has plenty of offensive firepower but the Dragons’ signature defense will decide how far they can go this season.

Schedule
December
7-8 Warren County tournament
14 at Titusville 7:30
18 McDowell 7:30
21 at Bradford 7:30
27-28 Warren tournament
January
4 Harbor Creek* 7:30
7 Girard* 7:30
10 at General McLane* 7:30
14 at East* 7:30
18 at Strong Vincent* 8
22 Corry* 7:30
24 at Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
26 Cathedral Prep TBA
29 at Harbor Creek* 7:30
February
1 at Girard* 7:30
5 General McLane* 7:30
7 East* 7:30
9 Strong Vincent* 7:30
12 at Corry* 7:30
15 Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
*Region 6 games

Girls
Coach (season, record): Lisa Ruhlman (5th season, 52-40)
2011-12 overall record: 15-8
2011-12 region record (place): 9-5 (fourth)
2011-12 playoff results: Lost to Hickory 51-43 in overtime in the District 10 Class AAA quarterfinals.
Top players lost: Emily Sherman, Kristin Hultquist, Kristie Reynolds, Sam Bevevino
Top returning players: Jaimie Eaton, Taylor Mineweaser, Alexa Bupp, Brittany Merenick
Assistant coaches: John White, Jessica Robinson, Steve Merenick
Outlook: Warren came very close to upsetting Hickory in the first round of the playoffs last year. The Dragons will need several younger players to step up to return to the postseason. Warren graduated Emily Sherman, Kristin Hultquist, Kristie Reynolds and Sam Bevevino int he spring. Sherman might be the biggest loss after being voted to the all-region second team last year. The Dragons return several standout players, including Jaimie Eaton. She was a first-team selection last year and should go over 1,000 points. Taylor Mineweaser, Alexa Bupp and Brittany Merenick are also big-time contributors back this season. Warren has a solid core of plays back but the Dragons’ schedule will be even tougher with the addition of Villa Maria in region play. The Dragons can compete with some of the region’s best teams but they will need to continue to develop and get contributions from younger players to do so.

Schedule
December
9-10 Warren County tournament
11 Oil City 7:30
13 at Franklin 7:30
17 Strong Vincent 7:30
20 at East 7:30
27-28 Cranberry tournament
January
5 McDowell 2:30
8 Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
12 at Central Tech 7:30
15 at Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
17 at Corry* 7:30
21 Villa Maria* 7:30
24 Harbor Creek* 7:30
28 at Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
31 Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
February
5 Corry* 7:30
7 at Kane 7:30
12 at Villa Maria* 7:30
14 at Harbor Creek* 7:30
18 Bradford 7:30
*Region 6 games

Later today: West Middlesex

–Tom Reisenweber

Villa Maria Victors
Girls
Coach (season, record): Doug Chuzie (2nd full season, 32-5)
2011-12 overall record: 24-5
2011-12 region record (place): 14-0 (champion)
2011-12 playoff results: Defeated Wilmington 77-12, Seneca 56-24 and Girard 57-26 to win the District 10 Class AA championship. Villa then defeated Avonworth 55-28 in the first round of the PIAA Class AA playoffs and Bishop Canevin 47-30 in the second round. Villa beat Forest Hills 57-45 in the quarterfinals before losing to Seton-La Salle 56-50 in the semifinals.
Top players lost: Lisa Mifsud, Adrienne Kloecker, Abbey Steudler, Zhane Brooks, Rebecca Sweny, Cierra Pollock
Top returning players: Karlee McBride, Leah Bennett
Assistant coach: Tom Laird
Outlook: Villa Maria will face new challenge this season. Not only were the Victors hit hard by graduation, they moved back up to Class AAA for the new PIAA two-year cycle. Villa lost four of its five starters to graduation, including District 10 Player of the Year Lisa Mifsud. Mifsud was named to the all-state first team and is now competing for Holy Cross. Adrienne Kloecker graduated and is playing for Mercyhurst University along with Abbey Steudler (St. Leo) and Zhane Brooks (IUP). The Victors also lost four-year varsity players Rebecca Sweny and Cierra Pollock. Villa will have a tough time replacing its seniors but the Victors will have Indiana recruit Karlee McBride to lean on. She is an all-district selection and all-state selection. McBride is a three-star recruit according to ESPN and has emerged as a terrific all-around player during her career at Villa. Senior Leah Bennett and junior Lindsey Mifsud are also back and could be counted on as leaders. Bennett is a 5-11 senior and is being recruited by several Division II schools in Florida, while Lindsey Mifsud is a 5-7 junior guard that started seeing playing time last year. She is receiving collegiate interest but is only a junior and has plenty of time for recruiting. Despite the experience of those three, Villa will still need to rely on younger players to play meaningful minutes. Juniors Amesha Harden-Pullium and Shanice Morris will be in the mix along with sophomore Morgan Putnam. Harden-Pullium an Morris are daughters of coaches and understand the game, while Putnam was one of the top players on the junior varsity last year. Sarah Agnello, Katlyn Unger, Deja Young, Nicole Maxson, Allison Thompson, Jess Damico, Sara Gromacki, Anna Sweny, Jackie Kitts and Marlena Harris could compete for playing time as well. The Victors have loaded their schedule, once again, including a national tournament and a rematch with Seton-La Salle. The biggest story in D-10 might be the rekindling of the Villa-Mercyhurst rivalry. Not only are the two teams playing twice in region play, they may meet for the D-10 championship. The Victors will be young but their program is strong enough to reload instead of rebuild.

Schedule
December
10 at Strong Vincent 7
13 at Meadville 7:30
15 at Seton-La Salle 2:30
20-22 KSA tournament
January
5 East 7:30
8 Corry* 7
10 Mercyhurst Prep* 8:30
12 at McDowell 7:30
16 at Harbor Creek* 7:30
21 at Warren* 7:30
25 at Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
26 Bishop Canevin 1:30
28 at Corry* 7:30
31 Harbor Creek* 7
February
2 Perry 6
5 at Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
9 at Altoona 2:30
12 Warren* 7:30
13 Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
16 Central Tech 7:30
*Region 6 games

Saturday: Warren, West Middlesex

–Tom Reisenweber

VisionQuest Eagles
Boys
Coach (season, record): Richard Gordon (3rd season, 27-16)
2011-12 overall record: 15-10
2011-12 region record (place): 7-3 (tied for second)
2011-12 playoff results: Defeated Eisenhower 71-50 in the District 10 Class A quarterfinals before losing to West Middlesex 74-68 in overtime in the semifinals. VisionQuest then defeated Cochranton 67-44 in the third-place game. VisionQuest then defeated Northern Cambria 72-50 in the first round of the PIAA palyoffs and Vincentian Academy 68-61 in the second round. VisionQuest lost to Ridgway 58-51 in the PIAA quarterfinals.
Top players lost: Everyone
Top returning players: None
Assistant coaches: Tracy Walters, Ansel Locket, Brendan Flowers
Outlook: VisionQuest is in the same situation as George Junior. The Eagles’ roster changes every year and VisionQuest put together a terrific season last winter. The Eagles made a run in the PIAA playoffs and Darrian Brown was named to the all-state team. Coach Richard Gordon is looking for continued success every year on and off the court. He commented that he uses basketball as a tool to teach young men about life and the situations they could get into. For the Eagles, winning games isn’t as important as learning the game and lessons about life.

Schedule
December
7-8 Franklin tournament
12 at Reynolds 7:30
13 at North East 7:30
14 Lakeview 7:30
18 at Sharpsville 7:30
21 at DuBois 7:30
27-28 Iroquois tournament
January
10 at Cochranton 7:30
11 Kennedy Catholic* 7:30
15 Rocky Grove* 7:30
18 Jamestown* 7:30
22 at Commodore Perry* 7:30
25 Wilmington 7:30
29 at Hickory 7:30
February
1 at Kennedy Catholic* 7:30
5 at Rocky Grove* 7:30
8 at Jamestown* 7:30
12 Commodore Perry* 7:30
*Region 1 games

Later today: Villa Maria

–Tom Reisenweber

George Junior Tigers
Boys
Coach (season): Pat Devine (5th season)
2011-12 overall record: 8-13
2011-12 region record (place): 0-6 (fourth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Everyone
Top returning players: None
Assistant coaches: Ryan Devine, Ryan McNamara, Adam Gibson
Outlook: George Junior coach Pat Devine is in a tough situation each season. He doesn’t have any players back and deals with a new set of players each year. This year will be interesting as well because the Tigers dropped down into Class AAA. George Junior only had to deal with three teams in Class AAAA but it drops into a brutal Class AAA region with speedy and talented teams. The Tigers have plenty of work to do in camp and they won’t get any time to ease into their schedule. After playing in the Lakeview tournament, George Junior jumps right into region play against Slippery Rock.

Schedule
December
7-8 Lakeview tournament
13 Slippery Rock* 7:30
15 at DuBois 7:30
18 Franklin* 7:30
21 at Farrell* 7:30
January
3 Meadville* 7:30
8 Grove City* 7:30
11 at Oil City* 7:30
15 Sharon* 7:30
18 at Hickory* 7:30
20 at Campbell Memorial (Ohio) 2
22 at Slippery Rock* 7:30
25 at Franklin* 7:30
29 Farrell* 7:30
February
1 at Meadville* 7:30
7 at Grove City* 7:30
9 Oil City* 7:30
12 at Sharon* 7:30
15 Hickory* 7:30
*Region 5 games

Note: George Junior does not have a girls basketball team.

Later today: VisionQuest, Villa Maria

–Tom Reisenweber

Union City Bears
Boys
Coach (season): Kelley Ponsoll (1st season)
2011-12 overall record: 3-19
2011-12 region record (place): 3-5 (fourth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AA playoffs.
Top players lost: None
Top returning players: Drake Burgess, Alex Hoban, Jarad Ossa
Assistant coaches: Kyle Ponsoll, Rossi Santo, Cody Campbell
Outlook: Union City will look to go in a new direction with new head coach Kelley Ponsoll. The Bears struggled last season but a big part of their struggles could have been youth. Union City didn’t lose anyone to graduation and will bring back an experienced team. Drake Burgess was voted to the all-region first team last year, while Alex Hoban was voted to the second team. Both are returning juniors along with Jarad Ossa. Burgess averaged 8.4 points per game last year, while Hoban was at 10.6 ppg and Ossa scored 4.9 ppg. All three are returning starters along with Raymond Pituch. The Bears could also receive big contributions from new players Quentin Maynard, Lucas Dougherty and Brody Mangel. Union City returns all five starters from last year and the chemistry they built last winter could translate into more wins this season. The Bears will have to deal with strength and size issues this year but taking care of the ball and playing mistake-free basketball will be important to counter those disadvantages. Union City has a new system in place and the quicker the Bears buy into it, the quicker they can rebuild the program.

Schedule
December
7-8 Cambridge Springs tournament
11 at Maplewood 7:30
18 at Corry 7:30
21 Northwestern* 7:30
January
3 Fairview* 7:30
5 at Titusville* 7:30
8 at North East* 7:30
11 Seneca* 7:30
12 Saegertown 1:30
15 Iroquois* 7:30
18 Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
19 Reynolds 7:30
22 at Northwestern* 7:30
25 Mercer 7:30
29 at Fairview* 7:30
February
1 Titusville* 7:30
5 North East* 7:30
6 at Cambridge Springs 7:30
8 at Seneca* 7:30
12 at Iroquois* 7:30
15 at Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
*Region 4 games

Girls
Coach (season): Chris Krause (6th season)
2011-12 overall record: 0-22
2011-12 region record (place): 0-14 (eighth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AA playoffs.
Top players lost: Matti Uber, Amber Bacon, Halle Hinkle, Katie Kirik
Top returning players: Michaela Krause, Morgan Peterson
Assistant coaches: Frank Snyder, Mary Russell
Outlook: Union City faced a big problem with numbers last year. The Bears’ problem could have carried over this year but they had more participation and have 12 girls on the roster. Now that the program has more stability, Union City can focus on winning games. The Bears will have to replace Matti Uber, Amber Bacon, Halle Hinkle and Katie Kirik. Union City returns two starters in sophomore Michaela Krause and senior Morgan Peterson and will look to the younger players to fill in the rest of the lineup. Junior Autumn Kinney is back after not playing the past two years, while freshmen Carly Williams, Hayley Patchen, Jolene Bacon, Sarah Toy and Jordyn Kosienski could be impact players right away. Union City will have to deal with Erie County powerhouses but this year could be more about continuing the build the program than winning every game. The Bears are starting to build confidence and put their work in during the offseason. Union City may go through more growing pains this year but their hard work could pay off in the future.

Schedule
December
12 Cambridge Springs 7:30
13 Lakeview 7:30
17 at Rocky Grove 7:30
19 Fairview* 7:30
27-28 Union City tournament
January
4 General McLane* 7:30
7 at Seneca* 7:30
10 at Northwestern* 7:30
11 at Maplewood 7:30
14 North East* 7:30
16 Titusville 7:30
17 Girard* 7:30
21 Iroquois* 7:30
24 at Fairview* 7:30
28 at General McLane* 7:30
30 at Commodore Perry 7:30
31 Seneca* 7:30
February
4 Northwestern* 7:30
7 at North East* 7:30
11 at Girard* 7:30
14 at Iroquois* 7:30
*Region 4 games

Friday: George Junior, VisionQuest, Villa Maria

–Tom Reisenweber

Titusville Rockets
Boys
Coach (season, record): Scott Davie (4th season, 15-51)
2011-12 overall record: 7-15
2011-12 region record (place): 2-14 (ninth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Alex Kline, Kennedy Neely, Robby Johnson
Top returning players: Jayce Corklin, Corey Ciccarelli, Dillon Speer
Assistant coach: Ed Kline
Outlook: Titusville went through some tough stretches last year in a loaded region. The Rockets will have to replace three players in Alex Kline, Kennedy Neely and Robby Johnson. All three graduated, leaving some big holes for Titusville to fill. The Rockets return three starters in Jayce Corklin, Corey Ciccarelli and Dillon Speer. Corklin and Ciccarelli each scored 11 points and dished out four assists per game last year. Speer averaged nine points and eight rebounds per game last year. The three returners will be counted on in a big way while new players Tyler Copeland, Herman Artis and Armand Rickerson could be big-time contributors this season. Titusville has experience and knows what it takes in the southern Class AAA region but the Rockets have to start putting together region wins to contend for a playoff spot in Class AA. Titusville moved down in the offseason and will deal with several established programs.

Schedule
December
7 at Harbor Creek 7:30
11 at Oil City 7:30
14 Warren 7:30
15 Maplewood 7:30
21 Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
28-29 Corry tournament
January
3 at Seneca* 7:30
5 Union City* 7:30
8 at Northwestern* 7:30
11 North East* 7:30
15 at Fairview* 7:30
18 at Iroquois* 7:30
22 at Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
24 Eisenhower 7:30
26 Oil City 7:30
29 Seneca* 7:30
February
1 at Union City* 7:30
5 Northwestern* 7:30
8 at North East* 7:30
12 Fairview* 7:30
15 Iroquois* 7:30
*Region 4 games

Girls
Coach (season, record): Jennifer Troup (3rd season, 10-34)
2011-12 overall record: 4-18
2011-12 region record (place): 1-11 (seventh)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.
Top player lost: Renata Drusko
Top returning players: Grace Champion, Carly Kriner, Haleigh Scott, Praise Mabugu, Faith Champion, Lisa Harger, Samantha Edwards, Alyssa Popham
Assistant coaches: Crystal Gates, Bill Good
Outlook: Titusville has gone through some growing pains over the past two years, but the Rockets have an experienced group back this year. The tough times over the past two years could pay off in a big way. Titusville only lost Renata Drusko to graduation and returns its entire starting lineup. Seniors Grace Champion, Carly Kriner, Faith Champion, Haleigh Scott and Praise Mabugu are back as starters, while Lisa Harger and Samantha Edwards are fellow seniors that are back. With seven seniors, the Rockets will also receive contributions from underclassmen Alyssa Popham, Rachael Jacobs, Shannon Moore, Nicole Galmish, Luellen Foltz and Tyanna Hernandez. Titusville has plenty of experience and chemistry but size and rebounding could still be issues. The Rockets will try to utilize their speed to overcome their height issues. Titusville has the ability to hang with some of the region’s best teams but they will have to prove it this year to make a very tough Class AAA playoff field.

Schedule
December
11 Rocky Grove 7:30
13 at Northwestern 7:30
15 Maplewood 3
18 Franklin* 7:30
20 at Corry 7:30
27-28 Saegertown tournament
January
3 at Meadville* 7:30
4 at Rocky Grove 7:30
7 Grove City* 7:30
10 Hickory* 7:30
12 Eisenhower 2:30
14 at Oil City* 7:30
16 at Union City 7:30
21 at Slippery Rock* 7:30
24 at Franklin* 7:30
28 Meadville* 7:30
31 at Grove City* 7:30
February
4 at Hickory* 7:30
7 Oil City* 7:30
11 at Cochranton 7:30
14 Slippery Rock* 7:30
*Region 5 games

Later today: Union City

–Tom Reisenweber

Strong Vincent Colonels
Boys
Coach (season, record): Shannon Pullium (14th season, 215-119)
2011-12 overall record: 15-10
2011-12 region record (place): 5-1 (co-champion)
2011-12 playoff results: Defeated McDowell 63-36 in the District 10 Class AAAA semifinals before losing to Cathedral Prep 85-43 in the D-10 championship. Strong Vincent then lost to Shaler 81-60 in a PIAA Class AAAA play-in game.
Top players lost: DeAndrye Henderson, Denzel Jones, Trey Vaughn
Top returning players: Malquan Pullium, Peris Husband, Jarod Johnson, Brandon Coleman, Donnie Tatum
Assistant coaches: Dave Morris, Ron Pacley, Cory Coleman
Outlook: Strong Vincent has one of the most competitive programs in District 10 and the Colonels will have to adapt to a new level of play for the next two years. Vincent moved down to Class AAA and will have to deal with several Erie County powers in region play. The Colonels will have to replace several starters in DeAndrye Henderson, Denzel Jones and Trey Vaughn. Henderson averaged 17 points and 10 rebounds per game last year to be voted to the all-region first team and the Region 8 Player of the Year. Jones had 10 points and 7 rebounds per game to also be voted to the first team. Vaughn’s absence leaves plenty of size issues for the current Colonels. Vincent will have some experience back to lean on. Malquan Pullium and Peris Husband are returning starters along with Jarod Johnson, Brandon Coleman and Donnie Tatum. Pullium averated 12 points per game last year and could emerge as one of the top players in Erie County this year. Demarcus Cleckley, Denzil Porter, Joey Otto and Ryan Hatevich are new players this season that could contribute right away. The Colonels have experience and ability but their success will depend on how quickly the younger players adapt to the varsity level. Vincent loaded up its non-region schedule, including Class AAAA teams Cathedral Prep, Central Tech and McDowell. The Colonels will also go to Pittsburgh for two tournaments this winter.

Schedule
December
7-8 Lebanon tournament
10 Cathedral Prep 8:30
13 at McDowell 7:30
27-28 Seneca Valley tournament
January
4 Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
8 East* 8:30
10 at Girard* 7:30
15 at Harbor Creek* 7:30
18 Warren* 8
21 General McLane* 7
24 at Corry* 7:30
26 Central Tech 7
29 at Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
31 at Cathedral Prep 8:30
February
1 at East* 7:30
5 Girard* 8
7 Harbor Creek* 8:30
9 at Warren* 7:30
12 at General McLane* 7:30
15 Corry* 7:30
*Region 6 games

Girls
Coach (season, record): Paul Przepierski (2nd season, 1-21)
2011-12 overall record: 1-21
2011-12 region record (place): 0-6 (fourth)
2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAAA playoffs.
Top players lost: None
Top returning players: Deja Dixon, Emma Verdecchia, Myah Malone, Tiffani Jones
Assistant coaches: Angela Lombardozzi, Dan Latcovich, Anna Kaye Gier
Outlook: Strong Vincent went through some growing pains last year with a new coach and a new system. After not graduating anyone, the Colonels will still need to deal with several players not playing basketball this year. Vincent will have a young team but returns four starters from last winter. Juniors Deja Dixon, Emma Verdecchia and Tiffani Jones are back along with sophomore Myah Malone. Dixon was voted to the all-region team last year and is one of the top point guards in the city. The Colonels could also receive contributions from new players Rachel DeSanctis, Hevyn Johnson and Danielle Lee. Coach Paul Przepierski is looking for an improved team attitude this year and has a team that he can count on this year. The Colonels may still be building their program but they could surprise a few teams in the second half of the season.

Schedule
December
10 Villa Maria 7
13 Mercyhurst Prep 7:30
15 at General McLane 7:30
17 at Warren 7:30
20 Oil City 7:30
27-28 Iroquois tournament
January
3 at East* 7:30
5 at Corry 7:30
10 McDowell* 7:30
12 Fort LeBoeuf 3:30
16 Conneaut (Ohio) 7:30
24 at Central Tech* 7:30
26 Meadville 3:30
28 East* 7:30
30 Saegertown 7:30
February
2 at Harbor Creek 2:30
5 Eisenhower 7:30
7 at McDowell* 7:30
8 at Fairview 4
12 at Greenville 7:30
14 Central Tech* 7:30
*Region 7 games

Thursday: Titusville, Union City

–Tom Reisenweber