Archives

In case you missed a Fall Fastbreak preview, here are links to every team in District 10.
Cambridge Springs, Cathedral Prep, Central Tech, Cochranton, Commodore Perry, Conneaut Lake, Conneaut Valley, Corry, East, Eisenhower, Fairview, Farrell, Fort LeBoeuf, Franklin, General McLane, George Junior, Girard, Greenville, Grove City, Harbor Creek, Hickory, Iroquois, Jamestown, Kennedy Catholic, Lakeview, Linesville, Maplewood, McDowell, Meadville, Mercer, Mercyhurst Prep, North East, Northwestern, Oil City, Reynolds, Rocky Grove, Saegertown, Seneca, Sharon, Sharpsville, Slippery Rock, Strong Vincent, Titusville, Union City, Villa Maria, VisionQuest, Warren, West Middlesex, Wilmington, Youngsville

– Tom Reisenweber

Youngsville Eagles
Boys
Coach (season, record): Ray Neidrick (2nd season, 1-21)
2010-11 overall record: 1-21
2010-11 region record (place): 0-8 (fifth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AA playoffs.
Top players lost: Jeremy Clark, Nathan Smith
Top returning players: Thomas Chapman, Broc Horn, Coll Dininny
Assistant coach: Shawn Isenburg
Outlook: Youngsville went through some growing pains under new head coach Ray Neidrick but the Eagles also gained a year of experience. Youngsville will have to replace guards Jeremy Clark and Nathan Smith, who graduated, but everyone else is back for the Eagles. Thomas Chapman and Coll Dininny are solid forwards in the paint, while Broc Horn has improved his shot in the offseason. Add in senior Nick Barrett and juniors Dan McLauhlin, Rocco Gatta and Corey Jones and Youngsville has a somewhat experienced team back. The Eagles are still trying to build the program and with only one senior, winning games this winter won’t be as important as developing the underclassmen for a push next year.

Schedule
December
9-10 Warren County tournament
16 at Linesville 7:30
20 Conneaut Valley 7:30
22 at Corry 7:30
27-28 Sheffield tournament
January
3 at Conneaut Lake 7:30
6 Cochranton 7:30
9 Iroquois 7:30
10 at Eisenhower 7:30
17 at Maplewood* 7:30
20 Saegertown* 7:30
24 at Cambridge Springs* 7:30
27 at Union City* 7:30
February
7 Maplewood* 7:30
10 at Saegertown* 7:30
14 Cambridge Springs* 7:30
17 Union City* 7:30

Girls
Coach (season, record): Allison Kitchel (3rd season, 6-36)
2010-11 overall record: 6-14
2010-11 region record (place): 0-12 (seventh)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class A playoffs.
Top players lost: None
Top returning players: Amber Fox, Lindsey Lyon, Cierra Ohl
Assistant coach: Tony Richards
Outlook: Youngsville has been improving since Allison Kitchel took over and with no seniors gone to graduation, the Eagles could be a surprising team this winter. Youngsville is primed to make a run at a .500 season with one of the most experienced teams back this winter. Seniors Lindsey Lyon, Cierra Ohl and Amber Fox provide leadership for the Eagles, while Katie Chuzie, Jessica Jameson, Katie Gustafson and Jorie Clark could be key juniors. Youngsville is in a tough region with the likes of Saegertown and Linesville but the Eagles could be a competitive team this winter.

Schedule
December
9-10 Warren County tournament
13 Rocky Grove 7:30
16 at Linesville* 7:30
19 at Cochranton* 7:30
23 Saegertown* 7:30
28-29 Union City tournament
January
5 Eisenhower* 7:30
9 at Conneaut Lake* 7:30
12 Conneaut Valley* 7:30
18 at Sheffield 7:30
19 at Oil City 7:30
23 Linesville* 7:30
26 Cochranton* 7:30
February
3 at Iroquois 7:30
6 at Saegertown* 7:30
9 at Eisenhower* 7:30
13 Conneaut Lake* 7:30
16 at Conneaut Valley* 7:30
17 at Rocky Grove 7:30

– Tom Reisenweber

Wilmington Greyhounds
Boys
Coach (season, record): Michael Jeckavitch (2nd season, 9-13)
2010-11 overall record: 9-13
2010-11 region record (place): 5-5 (fourth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AA playoffs.
Top players lost: Darryl Pace, Curtis Bretz, Jason McFarland
Top returning players: Anthony Derrick, Vince Pitzulo, Matt Bowen, Josh Tekac, Ryan Crawford, Ryan Sager
Assistant coaches: Michael Zeigler, Curtis Nugent, Kyle Piper, Kevin Zona
Outlook: Wilmington is looking to get back to the postseason after a .500 record in region play last winter. The Greyhounds have to replace Darryl Pace, Curtis Bretz and Jason McFarland but they have a solid group back. Anthony Derrick, Vince Pitzulo, Matt Bowen, Josh Tekac, Ryan Crawford and Ryan Sager can be leaders for Wilmington and have plenty of experience. The ‘Hounds are usually in the hunt for the playoffs and region title and last year’s 9-13 season will be plenty of fuel for this year’s squad.

Schedule
December
9-10 Jamestown tournament
13 Mohawk 7:30
17 at Shenango 7:30
20 at Union 7:30
28-29 Union tournament
January
3 at West Middlesex 7:30
6 VisionQuest 7:30
10 at Rocky Grove 7:30
13 Greenville* 7:30
17 Reynolds* 7:30
20 at Lakeview* 7:30
24 Mercer* 7:30
27 Sharpsville* 7:30
February
3 at Greenville* 7:30
7 at Reynolds* 7:30
10 Lakeview* 7:30
11 Laurel 7:30
14 at Mercer* 7:30
17 at Sharpsville* 7:30

Girls
2010-11 overall record: 12-11
2010-11 region record (place): 6-6 (fourth)
2010-11 playoff results: Lost 73-14 to Villa Maria in the District 10 Class AA quarterfinals.

No information submitted by the girls coach.

Schedule
December
9-10 Mohawk tournament
13 at West Middlesex 7:30
15 Sharon* 7:30
19 at Lakeview* 7:30
21 at Mercer* 7:30
23 at Sharpsville* 7:30
28-29 Union tournament
January
9 at Reynolds* 7:30
12 at Greenville* 7:30
14 Laurel 7:30
19 Kennedy Catholic 7:30
23 at Sharon* 7:30
25 Shenango 7:30
28 Lakeview* 7:30
31 at Rocky Grove 7:30
February
2 Mercer* 7:30
6 Sharpsville* 7:30
13 Reynolds* 7:30
16 Greenville* 7:30

Later today: Youngsville

– Tom Reisenweber

West Middlesex Big Reds
Boys
Coach (season, record): Chad Mild (14th season, 189-121)
2010-11 overall record: 15-11
2010-11 region record (place): 6-4 (tied for third)
2010-11 playoff results: Defeated Conneaut Valley 68-56 and Kennedy Catholic 59-45 before losing 67-59 to Rocky Grove in the District 10 Class A championship. West Middlesex then lost 70-35 to Lincoln Park in the first round of the PIAA Class A playoffs.
Top players lost: James Gearhart, Tyriq Savage
Top returning players: Matt Dogan, Roman Klaric, Jerrod Palmer, Jeremy Jancso, Christian Porterfield
Assistant coaches: Gregg Dogan, Troy Mild, Scott Slovesko, Maurice Campbell
Outlook: West Middlesex made its way to the District 10 Class A championship before falling to powerhouse Rocky Grove. The Big Reds could become the team to beat in Class A this winter. With only James Gearhart and Tyriq Savage graduating, Middlesex has experience and plenty of talent to win Region 1 and D-10. Matt Dogan is one of the top emerging players in Mercer County, while Roman Klaric, Jerrod Palmer, Jeremy Jancso and Christian Porterfield are solid players as well. Add in Dustyn David, Mike Ginther, Dom Pape, Trey Staunch and Isaac Williams and the Big Reds are loaded from top to bottom. Middlesex is in a tough region with Kennedy Catholic and Rocky Grove as well as VisionQuest. The Big Reds were close to winning D-10 last winter but with another year of experience down, Middlesex could be the Class A team to beat.

Schedule
December
9-10 New Castle tournament
13 at Hubbard (Ohio) 7:30
14 at Fairview 7:30
17 Mercyhurst Prep 4:30
20 Sharpsville 7:30
29-30 West Middlesex tournament
January
3 Wilmington 7:30
6 at Greenville 7:30
10 Reynolds 7:30
13 at VisionQuest* 7:30
17 at Jamestown* 7:30
20 Commodore Perry* 7:30
24 at Rocky Grove* 7:30
27 at Kennedy Catholic* 7:30
February
3 VisionQuest* 7:30
4 at Youngstown East (Ohio) 7:30
7 Jamestown* 7:30
10 at Commodore Perry* 7:30
14 Rocky Grove* 7:30
17 Kennedy Catholic* 7:30

Girls
Coach (season, record): Jody Anthony (5th season, 28-79)
2010-11 overall record: 7-15
2010-11 region record (place): 3-7 (tied for fourth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class A playoffs.
Top players lost: None
Top returning players: Rachel DeMaria, Molly Stitt, Alexis Summers, Kelsey Murray
Assistant coaches: Kim Krueger, Todd Anthony
Outlook: With everyone back this winter, West Middlesex is looking to break the .500 barrier and contend for a postseason spot. Leading rebounders Rachel DeMaria and Kelsey Murray are back along with leading scorers Molly Stitt and Alexis Summers. Add in newcomes Taylor Gilliland, Aerial Pratt, Alyson Pierce, Kate Willey, Sierra Hall and Amanda Novosel and the Big Reds could be a tough out each night on the floor. Middlesex is determined to make this winter one of the best in school history and they will certainly be tested with the likes of Farrell and Kennedy Catholic in their region. The Big Reds will have a month of December games to prepare for region play before a huge test Jan. 5 against Kennedy Catholic. One advantage the Big Reds have this season is playing 14 of 22 games at home.

Schedule
December
9-10 West Middlesex tournament
13 Wilmington 7:30
15 Slippery Rock 7:30
23 Rocky Grove* 7:30
27-28 West Middlesex tournament
January
3 at Maplewood 7:30
5 Kennedy Catholic* 7:30
7 at Union City 2:30
9 at Jamestown* 7:30
12 Farrell* 7:30
16 at Commodore Perry* 7:30
19 Sharpsville 7:30
21 at Mercer 7:30
28 Tidioute Charter 2:30
30 Sharon 7:30
February
2 at Rocky Grove* 7:30
6 at Kennedy Catholic* 7:30
9 Jamestown* 7:30
13 at Farrell* 7:30
21 Commodore Perry* 7:30

Sunday: Wilmington, Youngsville

– Tom Reisenweber

Warren Dragons
Boys
Coach (season, record): Jeff Berdine (10th season, 122-92)
2010-11 overall record: 13-9
2010-11 region record (place): 6-8 (fifth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Tyler Fantaskey, Kyle Papalia, Joel Stewart
Top returning players: Preston McMeans, Hank Morrison, Kory Thomas, Mark Davis, Austin Jerman
Assistant coaches: Dave Papalia, Chris Yost, Joe McGraw
Outlook: Warren could be a surprising team this winter. The Dragons have been on the cusp of making the playoffs the past few years and could break through this season. Warren lost Tyler Fantaskey, Kyle Papalia and Joel Stewart to graduation but the return of Preston McMeans, Hank Morrison, Kory Thomas, Mark Davis and Austin Jerman gives the Dragons a tough team. McMeans has started since his sophomore season and should eclipse 1,000 points this winter with 648 through his first three years. Morrison is a returning starter and Thomas started half of last year’s games. Davis and Jerman were also part-time starters last winter as Warren is loaded with experience. The focus of this year’s team will be to improve defensively and limit mental mistakes. The region is tough with perennial powers like General McLane, Girard and East. Add in Central Tech and each game is a big game during region play. Warren has been waiting in the wings the past few years and this looks like the year the Dragons not only make the playoffs but emerge as a region contender.

Schedule
December
9-10 Warren County tournament
13 at Mercyhurst Prep 7:30
17 at East* 7:30
20 Girard* 7:30
23 Bradford 7:30
27-28 Northwestern tournament
January
3 at Harbor Creek* 7:30
6 Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
10 at General McLane* 7:30
13 Central Tech* 7:30
17 at Corry* 7:30
19 East* 7:30
21 at Girard* 7:30
24 McDowell 7:30
27 Harbor Creek* 7:30
31 at Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
February
3 General McLane* 7:30
11 Oil City 2:30
14 at Central Tech* 7:30
17 Corry* 7:30

Girls
Coach (season, record): Lisa Ruhlman (4th season, 37-32)
2010-11 overall record: 14-9
2010-11 region record (place): 7-7 (tied for fourth)
2010-11 playoff results: Lost 64-30 in the District 10 Class AAA quarterfinals.
Top players lost: None
Top returning players: Kristin Hultquist, Emily Sherman, Kristie Reynolds, Jaimie Eaton, Sabrina Anderson, Taylor Mineweaser, Alexa Bupp
Assistant coaches: John White, Jessica Robinson, Jasper Merenick
Outlook: Warren found a way into the District 10 playoffs last winter and is looking to return there after not losing anyone to graduation. The Dragons return an experienced group, led by Kristin Hulquist, Emily Sherman, Kristie Reynolds, Jaimie Eaton, Sabrina Anderson, Taylor Mineweaser and Alexa Bupp. Warren could also receive big contributions from Brit and McKenzie Merenick as well as Nerissa McIntyre. Region 6 is in transition with half of the region getting new coaches, leaving plenty of room for experienced teams to make their move. The Dragons could be a dangerous team this winter as they have gone through the battles of region play before.

Schedule
December
9-10 Warren County tournament
13 Titusville 7:30
19 Strong Vincent 7:30
23 at Central Tech 7:30
January
9 Harbor Creek* 7:30
12 North East* 7:30
16 at General McLane* 7:30
18 Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
21 at Fairview* 7:30
24 at Corry* 7:30
26 Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30
30 at Harbor Creek* 7:30
February
2 at North East* 7:30
4 at Bradford 2:30
7 General McLane* 7:30
9 at Mercyhurst Prep* 7:30
11 Fairview* 7:30
14 Corry* 7:30
16 at Fort LeBoeuf* 7:30

Later today: West Middlesex

– Tom Reisenweber

VisionQuest Eagles
Coach (season, record): Richard Gordon (2nd season, 12-6)
2010-11 overall record: 12-6
2010-11 region record (place): 6-4 (tied for third)
2010-11 playoff results: Defeated Linesville 74-57 and lost 72-56 to Rocky Grove in the District 10 Class A playoffs.
Top returning players: Darrian Brown, Derrick Rollins, Kimon Roberson, Dominique Henderson
Assistant coaches: James Wofford, Justin Sims
Outlook: VisionQuest had plenty of success last winter before running into a buzzsaw in West Middlesex in the playoffs. The Eagles lost most of their team as is the norm for the school but a few key players are back. Darrian Brown, a 6-foot 2-inch shooting guard, and Derrick Rollins, a 6-1 point guard, are back after joining the team midway through last season. Both gained valuable experience in the postseason and could be impact players this year. Add in 6-4 Kimon Roberson, a center, and Dominique Henderson from the junior varsity and VisionQuest should be pretty solid this year. Curtis Gibbs could be an impact player as well and provides senior leadership. The Eagles have some tough teams to deal with in Region 1 but if they can get back into the playoffs, they could surprise a team or two.

Schedule
January
3 at Sharpsville 7:30
6 at Wilmington 7:30
10 Greenville 7:30
13 West Middlesex* 7:30
17 at Commodore Perry* 7:30
20 at Kennedy Catholic* 7:30
24 Jamestown* 7:30
27 at Rocky Grove* 7:30
31 at North East 7:30
February
3 at West Middlesex* 7:30
7 Commodore Perry* 7:30
10 Kennedy Catholic* 7:30
14 at Jamestown* 7:30
17 Rocky Grove* 7:30

Saturday: Warren, West Middlesex

– Tom Reisenweber

George Junior Tigers
Coach (season): Pat Devine (4th season, 2nd stint as George Junior coach)
2010-11 overall record: 6-13
2010-11 region record (place): 0-6 (fourth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Everyone
Top returning players: None
Assistant coaches: Jaylan Kelnesky, Ryan Devine
Outlook: George Junior goes through a tough transition each year and has no one back from last year’s team. Coach Pat Devine is trying to get through camp but has to deal with players being released and things of that nature. The Tigers used to be a state power that competed for state titles, but with high turnover over the past few years, George Junior has run into trouble with keeping a stabile roster. When the Tigers take the floor this winter, Devine is hoping to build some chemistry quickly. George Junior is in a down region this season and could be a surprise team as the winter goes on.

Schedule
December
9-10 Lakeview tournament
13 Oil City 7:30
20 Iroquois 7:30
28-29 Hickory tournament
January
3 at Franklin 7:30
5 Cathedral Prep* 7:30
10 at McDowell* 7:30
14 at Farrell 7:30
16 TBA (Ohio C. Center tournament) noon
18 Strong Vincent* 7:30
19 Slippery Rock 7:30
24 Titusville 7:30
27 at Meadville 7:30
February
2 at Cathedral Prep* 7
7 at Sharon 7:30
10 Hickory 7:30
14 McDowell* 7:30
16 at Strong Vincent* 7

Later today: VisionQuest

– Tom Reisenweber

Villa Maria Victors
Coach (season, record): Doug Chuzie (2nd season, 1st full season, 8-0)
2010-11 overall record: 28-2
2010-11 region record (place): 14-0 (champion)
2010-11 playoff results: Defeated Wilmington 73-14, Sharpsville 54-34 and Sharon 61-37 to win the District 10 Class AA championship. Villa then defeated Deer Lakes 59-34, Westmont Hilltop 67-50, Bishop Canevin 46-37, Seton-La Salle 58-34 and Dunmore 62-39 to win the PIAA Class AA championship.
Top player lost: Jillian May
Top returning players: Lisa Mifsud, Adrienne Kloecker, Abbey Steudler, Zhane Brooks, Karlee McBride, Rebecca Sweny, Leah Bennett, Cierra Pollock
Assistant coaches: Nicole Delsandro, Tom Laird
Outlook: Villa Maria was supposed to have the “super team” two years ago when standouts like Kayla McBride and Ashley Prischak were seniors. This year’s squad could be even more dangerous to the rest of the state. The entire starting lineup has committed to playing on the collegiate level, while several reserves are being recruited as well. Lisa Mifsud is heading to Holy Cross, while Adrienne Kloecker is staying in the area to attend Mercyhurst. Abbey Steudler is heading to St. Leo in Florida, while Zhane Brooks will compete for IUP. Karlee McBride is only a junior but she has verbally committed to Bowling Green after next year. That ferocious five led the Victors to their third-straight state championship in March and with all five back, Villa is a strong favorite to win a fourth. Allentown Central Catholic is the only girls basketball team to ever win four state titles in a row, while Mt. Lebanon could join Villa with four a in a row this winter on the Class AAAA level. The Victors are loaded enough that their three key reserves, Rebecca Sweny, Leah Bennett and Cierra Pollock could also play at the collegiate level. Sweny and Pollock are seniors, while Bennett is a junior. Some newcomers to Villa this winter include Lindsey Mifsud, Amesha Harden and Shanice Morris. They make up the next group that could star next year. One advantage they have is practicing this entire winter against one of the best teams in the state, giving the Victors another loaded team instead of one that would rebuild.

Villa’s non-region schedule is a brutal one that will certainly test the already experienced Victors. After a stop at the North Allegheny tournament where Villa could face McDowell, the Victors head out to Phoenix for the NIKE Tournament of Champions. The NIKE tournament is referred to as the de factor national championship tournament. Villa has played in three of the past four years and lost by two points to Sacred Heart Cathedral in 2007, the eventual USA Today national champion. The Vicotrs will face four national powers and return home in time for Christmas. Also on the schedule is rival Mercyhurst Prep as well as Academy of Notre Dame de Demur in the Blue Chip Showcase in Philadelphia. Academy of Notre Dame is in the Pennsylvania Indepedent School Athletic Association, which is a conference of powerhouses like Germantown Academy, which does not have to adhere to PIAA regulations. Villa has everyone back except Jillian May this winter and barring a rash of injuries, the Victors should make history once again.

Schedule
December
9-10 North Allegheny tournament
12 at Maplewood* 7:30
15 Northwestern* 7:30
19-22 NIKE showcase
January
5 Girard* 7:30
9 at Seneca* 7:30
12 at Cambridge Springs* 7:30
16 at Iroquois* 7:30
19 Union City* 7:30
21 at Northwestern* 2:30
26 Maplewood* 7:30
29 Academy of Notre Dame 1
February
2 at Union City* 7:30
4 at Mercyhurst Prep 7:30
6 Iroquois* 7:30
9 at Girard* 7:30
13 Seneca* 7:30
16 Cambridge Springs* 7:30

Friday: George Junior, VisionQuest

– Tom Reisenweber

Union City Bears
Boys
Coach (season, record): Brad Smith (2nd season, 12-11)
2010-11 overall record: 12-11
2010-11 region record (place): 6-2 (second)
2010-11 playoff results: Lost 65-42 to Sharpsville in the District 10 Class AA quarterfinals.
Top players lost: Bryan Landis, Lonnie Maynard, Gavin Nirmaier, Justin Miller, John Hartman, Tim Jackson
Top returning players: Drake Burgess, Alex Hoban, Raymond Pituch, Shane Russell
Assistant coaches: Austin Collins, Christian Daley, Jerrod Ossa, Troy Jackson, J.T. Dagget
Outlook: Union City will be young and inexperienced this season after the loss of six seniors, including Bryan Landis, Lonnie Maynard, Gavin Nirmaier, Justin Miller, John Hartman and Tim Jackson. That group led the Bears to the postseason but it will be tougher this winter. Drake Burgess and Alex Hoban are returning lettermen, while Raymond Pituch and Shane Russell are experienced varsity players. Second-year coach Brad Smith will also look for contributions from new players Austin Collins, Christian Daley, Jerrod Ossa, Troy Jackson and J.T. Dagget. The Bears have a strong work ethic and have built chemistry over the summer. Ultimately, this season will come down to how tough the defense and is and how steady Union City is on the boards. The Bears are in a winnable region and could return to the postseason despite big graduation losses.

Schedule
December
9-10 Cambridge Springs tournament
13 at Corry 7:30
16 at Eisenhower 7:30
20 Linesville 7:30
22 Reynolds 7:30
27-28 Corry tournament
January
3 at Conneaut Valley 7:30
6 Conneaut Lake 7:30
7 Northwestern 7:30
10 at Cochranton 7:30
13 Saegertown* 7:30
16 at Seneca 7:30
20 Cambridge Springs* 7:30
24 at Maplewood* 7:30
27 Youngsville* 7:30
31 Iroquois 7:30
February
3 at Saegertown* 7:30
11 at Cambridge Springs* 4
14 Maplewood* 7:30
17 at Youngsville* 7:30

Girls
Coach (season): Chris Krause (5th season)
2010-11 overall record: 2-20
2010-11 region record (place): 0-14 (eighth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AA playoffs.
Top players lost: Megan Kimmy, Mackenzie Dougherty
Top returning players: Amber Bacon, Halle Hinkle, Katie Kirik, Matti Uber, Morgan Peterson
Assistant coaches: Frank Snyder, Mary Russell
Outlook: It should be an interesting season in Union City. The Bears have only seven players in the program and have cancelled the junior varsity season. Union City has four seniors back in Amber Bacon, Halle Hinkle, Katie Kirik and Matti Uber along with junior Morgan Peterson. The Bears also have two freshmen in Mckenzie Bahl and Michaela Krause to help give the starters some breathers. The program is in danger and unless Union City can generate some interest this winter, next year is in question. The Bears are in a brutal region, featuring last year’s state champion in Villa Maria and solid programs like Girard, Cambridge Springs and Seneca. Union City will have a tough time winning games but the fact these seven girls are sticking it out is something the folks in Union City should be proud of.

Schedule
December
13 at Oil City 7:30
15 Jamestown 7:30
16 Girard* 7:30
19 Seneca* 7:30
23 at Maplewood* 7:30
28-29 Union City tournament
January
5 at Cambridge Springs* 7:30
7 West Middlesex 2:30
9 Northwestern* 7:30
12 at Iroquois* 7:30
16 Saegertown 7:30
19 at Villa Maria* 7:30
21 at Commodore Perry 7:30
23 at Girard* 7:30
26 at Seneca* 7:30
28 at Rocky Grove 3:30
February
2 Villa Maria* 7:30
6 Maplewood* 7:30
9 Cambridge Springs* 7:30
13 at Northwestern* 7:30
16 Iroquois* 7:30

Later today: Villa Maria

– Tom Reisenweber

Titusville Rockets
Boys
Coach (season, record): Scott Davie (3rd season, 8-36)
2010-11 overall record: 5-17
2010-11 region record (place): 1-15 (ninth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Jimmy Burt, Brennan Becker, Michael Vinopal
Top returning players: Alex Kline, Kennedy Neely, Robby Johnson, Corey Ciccarelli, Jayce Corklin, Dillon Speer
Assistant coach: Ed Kline
Outlook: Titusville has an experienced team back this fall after losing only three seniors to graduation. Jimmy Burt, Brennan Becker and Michael Vinopal are gone but the Rockets have everyone else back this winter. Alex Kline, Kennedy Neely, Robby Johnson, Corey Ciccarelli, Jayce Corklin and Dillon Speer are returning lettermen this year and are looking to improve and compete in a tough region. Johnson, Kline and Neely provide senior leadership, while Ciccarelli, Corklin and Speer received important minutes last year to gain experience. Titusville is probably still a few years from contending in one of the toughest Class AAA regions in the west but improving the program and developing chemistry as a team will be important this winter.

Schedule
December
10 Harbor Creek 7:30
13 Eisenhower 7:30
17 Maplewood 2:30
20 at Farrell* 7:30
23 Meadville* 7:30
27-28 Corry tournament
January
3 at Grove City* 7:30
6 Franklin* 7:30
10 at Meadville* 7:30
13 Hickory* 7:30
17 at Sharon* 7:30
19 Oil City* 7:30
21 Slippery Rock* 7:30
24 at George Junior 7:30
27 Farrell* 7:30
31 Grove City* 7:30
February
2 at Franklin* 7:30
7 at Hickory* 7:30
10 Sharon* 7:30
14 at Oil City* 7:30
17 at Slippery Rock* 7:30

Girls
Coach (season, record): Jennifer Gates (2nd season, 6-16)
2010-11 overall record: 6-16
2010-11 region record (place): 2-10 (sixth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.
Top player lost: Dorothy Stromdahl
Top returning players: Grace Champion, Carly Kriner, Renata Drusko
Assistant coaches: Alicia Ward, Bill Good
Outlook: Titusville will be young and fast this winter but size will be an issue. The Rockets don’t have many rebounders but second-year coach is hoping to make up for that with speed. Dorothy Stromdahl is gone to graduation, but the Rockets have Grace Champion, Carly Kriner and Renata Drusko are back. Champion is the starting point guard and last year’s fourth-leading scorer, while Kriner was second in scoring and a shooting guard. Drusko is the only senior back and is a solid rebounder. Haleigh Scott and Praise Mabugu could see more varsity action this winter after stepping up in the offseason.

Schedule
December
9-10 Oil City tournament
13 at Warren 7:30
16 at Oil City* 7:30
19 Franklin* 7:30
23 at Meadville* 7:30
27-28 Saegertown tournament
January
3 Corry 7:30
5 Grove City* 7:30
9 at Slippery Rock* 7:30
12 Eisenhower 7:30
14 at Maplewood 2:30
19 at Hickory* 7:30
23 Oil City* 7:30
26 at Franklin* 7:30
31 at Eisenhower 7:30
February
2 Meadville* 7:30
6 at Grove City* 7:30
9 Slippery Rock* 7:30
13 Cochranton 7:30
16 Hickory* 7:30

Thursday: Union City, Villa Maria

– Tom Reisenweber

Strong Vincent Colonels
Boys
Coach (season, record): Shannon Pullium (13th season, 200-109)
2010-11 overall record: 12-11
2010-11 region record (place): 3-3 (tied for second)
2010-11 playoff results: Lost 63-47 to McDowell in the District 10 Class AAAA semifinals.
Top players lost: Cordell Ratliff, Deuel Pacley
Top returning players: DeAndrye Henderson, Denzel Jones, Tre Vaughn, Wil Goshay, Malquan Pullium
Assistant coaches: Dave Morris, Cory Coleman, Ron Pacley, Lionel Hamer
Outlook: Strong Vincent had a disappointing end to its season last winter by losing in the District 10 Class AAAA semifinals. The Colonels are looking to bounce back this season with a talented group back. Vincent did lost Cordell Ratliff and Deuel Pacley to graduation but the returning group led by Denzel Jones and DeAndrye Henderson is solid. Jones and Henderson makeup one of the top duos in District 10 along with Tre Vaughn, Wil Goshay and Malquan Pullium. Vaughn emerged as a solid inside player last year and could be a difference-maker for the Colonels. Paris Husband, Trousie Thrower, Brandon Coleman and Jarod Johnson are new players this year and could be big contributors on both ends of the floor. Vincent loaded its non-region schedule with powerhouse teams that could help the Colonels prepare for the postseason. Among the laundry list of brutal non-region games are showdowns with Mercyhurst Prep, Fort LeBoeuf, State College, Altoona, Central Tech, Aquinas Institute (N.Y.), East and appearances in the Bethel Park and Gateway tournaments.

Schedule
December
9-10 Bethel Park tournament
14 at Harbor Creek 7:30
15 Fort LeBoeuf 8:30
23 at Mercyhurst Prep 7:30
26-28 Gateway tournament
January
6 at McDowell* 7:30
9 at Cathedral Prep* 8:30
16 Struthers (Ohio) 4
18 at George Junior* 7:30
20 at State College 7:30
21 at Altoona 2:30
24 at Central Tech 7:30
27 at Rochester East (N.Y.) 8:30
28 at Aquinas Institute (N.Y.) 7
February
3 McDowell* 7:30
6 Girard 8:30
10 East 8:30
13 Cathedral Prep* 8:30
16 George Junior* 7

Girls
Coach (season): Paul Przepierski (1st season at Strong Vincent, 5th season overall)
2010-11 overall record: 5-18
2010-11 region record (place): 1-5 (tied for third)
2010-11 playoff results: Lost 67-23 in the District 10 Class AAAA semifinals.
Top players lost: Shantale Davis, Devonna Smith, Shataya White
Top returning players: Stephanie Peck, Haley Hess, Emma Verdecchia, Tiffany Jones, Treasure Tate, Ashley Taylor
Assistant coaches: Angela Lombardozzi, Dan Latcovich, Anakay Gier
Outlook: Strong Vincent will have a new system and new coach in Paul Przepierski after Lance Brown moved on to Fairview. Przepierski has experience with four years as a head coach in the 1980s and has been an AAU coach for a long time with the Achieve Your Dreams basketball club. The Colonels were pretty one-dimensional last winter with star Shataya White dominating on the floor. Vincent will need others to step up as White has graduated along with Shantale Davis and Devonna Smith. Przepierski is looking for Stephanie Peck, his new captain, to lead the team along with sophomore point guard Emma Verdecchia. Haley Hess is a solid post player, while Tiffany Jones, Treasure Tate and Ashley Taylor are back to contribute as well. The Colonels can take control of the city teams but Vincent’s ultimate goal will to be get back on top of D-10 and McDowell. The Colonels won’t play the Trojans until later in the season and could surprise McDowell as in the second or third possible meeting.

Schedule
December
9 at Girard 7:30
15 at North East 7:30
17 Mercyhurst Prep 3:30
19 at Warren 7:30
21 at Harbor Creek 7:30
23 Fairview 7:30
January
5 at Corry 7:30
9 at Hickory 7:30
15 Glenville (Ohio) 10:30 a.m.
16 Meadville 7:30
23 at Central Tech* 7:30
26 McDowell* 7:30
30 at Farrell 7:30
February
4 Fort LeBoeuf 2
13 Central Tech* 7:30
16 at McDowell* 7:30

Later today: Titusville

– Tom Reisenweber

Slippery Rock Rockets
Boys
Coach (season, record): Phil Bushre (4th season, 28-37)
2010-11 overall record: 10-12
2010-11 region record (place): 4-12 (eighth)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Brian Giesler, Alec McDeavitt, Andrew Waryanka, Cody Wolinski
Top returning players: Ryan Thompson, Sean White, Caleb Whitney, Ty Udy, Dan Bertozzi
Assistant coaches: Randy Giesler, Jourdan Bryant
Outlook: Slippery Rock made things tough on opponents last winter and the experienced Rockets will look to take the next step this season. Fourth-year coach Phil Bushre has some production to replace as Brian Giesler, Alec McDeavitt, Andrew Waryanka and Cody Wolinski have graduated. Giesler is playing for Grove City College, while McDeavitt is at Butler Community College. The Rockets have five strong seniors back, including Ryan Thompson, Sean White, Caleb Whitney, Ty Udy and Dan Bertozzi. Thompson, White and Whitney are returning starters, while Udy and Bertozzi were key reserves last year. Whitney could be the key in the paint at 6 feet, 5 inches, while juniors Ryan Currie, Dustin Mellot, Mike Rummel and Bobby Paczkowski could be big-time contributors this season. Slippery Rock has an aggressive team with good chemistry and depth. The Rockets could be a top contender in Region 7 this winter.

Schedule
December
9-10 Fairview tournament
16 at Grove City* 7:30
20 Franklin* 7:30
27-28 Freeport tournament
January
3 at Meadville* 7:30
6 Hickory* 7:30
10 at Sharon* 7:30
13 Oil City* 7:30
17 Farrell* 7:30
19 at George Junior 7:30
21 at Titusville* 7:30
24 Grove City* 7:30
27 at Franklin* 7:30
31 Meadville* 7:30
February
2 at Hickory* 7:30
4 Sharon* 7:30
7 at Oil City* 7:30
10 at Farrell* 7:30
13 at Ellwood City 7:30
17 Titusville* 7:30

Girls
Coach (season): Christin Miller (1st season)
2010-11 overall record: 10-12
2010-11 region record (place): 5-7 (tied for third)
2010-11 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.
Top players lost: Molly Weitzel, Jackie Basta
Top returning players: Breanna Northcott, Morgan Siebka, Haley Angerette
Assistant coaches: Matthew Stebbins, Marissa Manko
Outlook: Slippery Rock is under new direction this year as Christin Miller takes over as head coach. Miller was an assistant at South Park for four years and is hoping to get Slippery Rock back into the playoffs. The Rockets lost Molly Weitzel and Jackie Basta to graduation but have an experience group back. Senior Breanna Northcott is back along with juniors Morgan Siebka and Haley Angerette. Northcott missed the beginning of last season with a knee injury and unfortunately injured her other knee in the offseason. She will miss the first half of the season after averaging 11 points per game last year. Siebka averated 15 points per game last year and looks to be the leader of the team this year, while Angerette is a versatile player that scored 9 ppg as a sophomore. Riley McGonigle, Michelle Hartzell, Anna Cessar and Ellie Shaw could contribute as well this season. Hartzell, Cessar and Shaw bring senior leadership to the table, while McGonigle, a sophomore, is an up-and-coming point guard. Region 5 is pretty wide-open after Franklin and the three playoff spots available will be tightly-contested for. The Rockets can be in that race if they build some chemistry in a new system.

Schedule
December
13 at Neshannock 7:30
15 at West Middlesex 7:30
19 Meadville* 7:30
21 at Hickory* 7:30
22 at Farrell 7:30
January
5 at Oil City* 7:30
9 Titusville* 7:30
12 Grove City* 7:30
17 at Sharpsville 7:30
20 at Franklin* 7:30
21 Indiana 12:30
26 at Meadville* 7:30
28 Hopewell 8:30
February
2 Hickory* 7:30
4 at Seneca Valley 7:30
6 Oil City* 7:30
9 at Titusville* 7:30
11 Ambridge 12:30
13 at Grove City* 7:30
16 Franklin* 7:30

Wednesday: Strong Vincent, Titusville

– Tom Reisenweber