Author: Chris Harlan

Neshannock coach Michael Bongivengo talks with quarterback Jino Mozzocio during practice Aug. 20.

Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne gets soaked by the water cooler as time expires in the WPIAL Class 5A championship game against Peters Township on Nov. 23 at Acrisure Stadium.

The PIAA has pushed Thomas Jefferson’s state playoff game back a day and changed the location of games involving Westinghouse and Central Catholic.

PIAA rules Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus eligible, reverses WPIAL decision

November 19, 2024

The PIAA reversed an earlier WPIAL decision and ruled Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus eligible after an appeal hearing Tuesday.

Central Catholic celebrates with the trophy after beating North Allegheny in the WPIAL Class 6A championship game Saturday at Norwin.

Pine-Richland quarterback Aaron Strader gets instructions on the sideline during the Rams’ game against North Hills on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Pine.

Quarterback’s quick return boosts No. 1 Pine-Richland for WPIAL semifinal vs. high-scoring Bethel Park

November 15, 2024

There were concerns Aaron “Oobi” Strader had broken his collarbone late in the regular season, an injury that would’ve cost top-seeded Pine-Richland its quarterback.

Thomas Jefferson head coach Bill Cherpak talks with his team after defeating Aliquippa in their WPIAL Class 4A semifinal on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, at Chartiers Valley.

The WPIAL on Saturday released sites for the next round of football playoff games.

Thomas Jefferson’s Shepherd Turk celebrates a sack with Dominic Volomino and Zachary Villa during the fourth quarter of their WPIAL Class 4A semifinal against Aliquippa on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, at Chartiers Valley.

‘Streaks are meant to be broken’: No. 1 Thomas Jefferson ends Aliquippa’s run of 16 straight finals appearances

November 8, 2024

The streak is over.

Beaver’s Drey Hall fends off Avonworth’s Bryce Metz on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, in Beaver.

Thomas Jefferson’s Tyler Eber tries to run out of the tackle of West Allegheny’s Jake Bobonski during a Class 4A playoff game Friday, Nov. 1, 2024.

Tyler Eber runs for 238 yards, 2 TDs as No. 1 Thomas Jefferson rolls past West Allegheny

November 1, 2024

Thomas Jefferson’s Tyler Eber wasn’t counting his carries, and neither was his coach, so they were a little surprised to hear he’d run the ball nearly 50 times.

Belle Vernon’s Alonzo Wade finds a gap between Seth Stewart and Daniel Glass on Oct. 25, 2024.

5 things to watch in WPIAL opening round: Wild card decisions under scrutiny

Did the WPIAL football committee get the wild cards right?

Thomas Jefferson’s Tyler Eber runs for a touchdown against Belle Vernon on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024.

Thomas Jefferson finds ‘true identity’ ahead of WPIAL playoff test vs. West Allegheny

October 31, 2024

It’s tough to win in November as a WPIAL football team with an identity crisis.

Brock Cornell and West Allegheny knocked off Montour on Friday night.

South Fayette’s Alex Deanes scores during the fourth quarter against Upper St. Clair on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, at South Fayette.

5 things to watch in Week 9: New wild card approach puts playoff hopes in WPIAL football committee’s hands

October 25, 2024

In most other years, Friday’s finale between Hopewell and North Catholic might be considered almost a play-in game.

Avonworth head coach Duke Johncour works with his team during practice on Monday, Aug.12, 2024, in Ohio Twp.

South Park’s Robert Lenzi intercepts a pass intended for South Allegheny’s Drew Cook last month.

5 things we learned in high school football Week 7: Class 2A has new look

October 12, 2024

In some WPIAL football classifications, the names near the top of the conference standings don’t change too much from year to year.

Deaubre Lightfoot and his Belle Vernon teammates entered the Class 4A rankings this week.

WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 13, 2024

Class 6A

Upper St. Clair’s Charlie Bywalski catches a touchdown pass in the final minute against Bethel Park on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024, at Bethel Park.

Ringgold calls off football game vs. Thomas Jefferson, investigates ‘alleged incidents of misconduct’

October 10, 2024

Ringgold has called off Friday’s football game while investigating unspecified allegations “that involve members of the football team.”

North Allegheny girls volleyball coach Russ Hoburg works with his team during a 2022 match against Freeport.

6 WPIAL coaches earn statewide honor from PIAA for 2023-24 seasons

Six WPIAL coaches earned statewide recognition Wednesday when the PIAA announced its coaches of the year for the 2023-24 school year.

Rochester senior running back Carter Mason with his mother, Terri, and 2-year-old sister

Rochester football player Carter Mason recovering in hospital after in-game head injury, brain bleed

October 8, 2024

Terri Mason was home watching a livestream of the Rochester football game when she realized something was wrong.

North Allegheny head coach Art Walker and his staff react from the sideline during a game against Central Catholic on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, at Baldwin High School.

Upper St. Clair’s Julian Dahlem carries for a 53-yard touchdown run on the first play against Franklin Regional on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, at USC.

Upper St. Clair faces yet another undefeated Allegheny Six foe, this time South Fayette

October 4, 2024

With the regular season already half over, Upper St. Clair will likely face three undefeated teams in a row.

Central Catholic kicker Billy Lech watches his 54-yard field goal with teammates during the second quarter against North Allegheny last Friday.

5 things to watch in Week 6: Move over quarterbacks, is the WPIAL now the cradle of kickers?

Which decades-old kicking record might be broken this week?

Beaver boys soccer must forfeit section win under new PIAA rule

October 3, 2024

The Beaver boys soccer team must forfeit a section win because of a new rule that school administrators say should be reconsidered.

Belle Vernon’s Mason Yeschenko battles Mt. Pleasant’s Bryson Bankosh for possession during their game on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, at Viking Stadium.

Central Catholic’s Xxavier Thomas returns the opening kick off for a touchdown against North Allegheny during the 6A WPIAL Championship game Saturday Nov. 18, 2023 at Norwin High School.

Derry’s Sophia Mazzoni reacts to her throw of 161-10 that won the the girls javelin at the PIAA Class 2A Track and Field Championship on May 24 at Shippensburg University.

Derry javelin champ Sophia Mazzoni commits to Auburn

September 25, 2024

Derry javelin thrower Sophia Mazzoni, an elite talent with state and national titles, committed Wednesday to Auburn.

South Fayette’s Tyson Wright celebrates a touchdown against Belle Vernon on Friday night.

Aliquippa’s Arison Walker catches a pass on Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, at Heinz Field in Aliquippa.

Despite mismatch in enrollments, Aliquippa draws nonconference clash vs. Penn Hills

September 20, 2024

Aliquippa went to court to avoid a promotion to Class 5A football this fall, but the Quips still get a taste of that classification on Friday.

Monessen’s TyVaughn Kershaw scores against Serra Catholic last Friday.

Avonworth’s Fiona Mahan controls the ball in front of Central Columbia’s Haley Bull during the PIAA Class 2A state championship game on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

Season-ending knee injury sidelines Alabama recruit Fiona Mahan as Avonworth chases 4th straight WPIAL title

September 13, 2024

Fiona Mahan continues to guide Avonworth on its quest for a fourth straight WPIAL girls soccer title, but the senior has taken on a new role after a season-ending knee injury.

North Hills head coach Pat Carey works with his team during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in at Martorelli Stadium.

Central Catholic’s student section, The Fleet, cheers on the Vikings on Friday, Aug. 25, 2023, against Woodland Hills at the Wolvarena.

5 things to watch in Week 2: NFL encroaches on Friday night high school football tradition

September 6, 2024

The storied tradition of Friday night football adds another chapter this week with high school games all across Pennsylvania. But might a game played in South America keep some fans home, especially on the other side of the state?

Penn Hills quarterback Devin Harris throws a pass during a preseason practice.

Transfer Devin Harris eligible to quarterback Penn Hills in WPIAL playoffs

September 4, 2024

If Penn Hills makes the football playoffs as the Indians hope, quarterback Devin Harris is eligible to lead them.

Mt. Pleasant’s Dylan Pitzer wrestles Mark Effendian of Faith Christian during the PIAA wrestling championships March 9, 2024, at Hershey’s Giant Center.

Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer ineligible after transfer from Mt. Pleasant to Derry

Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer, a WPIAL runner-up last winter, could miss his junior season after transferring from Mt. Pleasant to Derry.

North Allegheny senior kicker Peter Notaro set a school record with a 52-yard field goal Friday.

South Fayette head coach Marty Spieler throws a pass during practice on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in South Fayette.

Elizabeth Forward’s Chris Climes competes during the 2023 football season.

Woodlands Hills quarterback Cam Walters throws during the Willie Thrower quarterback camp in June at Valley High School.

Woodland Hills looks to give Scoop Smith more help, return to playoffs

August 8, 2024

Getting the ball to Scoop Smith was the best option any time Woodland Hills’ offense faced a tough spot and needed a big play.

Gateway’s Kenny Lewis goes through drills during practice Aug. 8, 2024 at Gateway High School.

The North Allegheny volleyball team hoists the state championship trophy after defeating Unionville, 3-0, in the PIAA Class 4A final on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

PIAA board favors 6 classes for girls volleyball, rejects plan to expand track to 3

July 17, 2024

STATE COLLEGE — The PIAA wants to increase girls volleyball to six classifications, but a request to expand track and field to three was rejected by the board.

Bishop Canevin’s Tyler Maddix hits an RBI triple against Eden Christian during the WPIAL Class A championship game on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Wild Things Park.

2024 Pa. State Baseball Coaches Association all-state team includes 44 players from WPIAL, City League

July 1, 2024

More than 40 WPIAL and City League baseball players earned all-state recognition Monday as chosen by the Pennsylvania State Baseball Coaches Association.

Canon-McMillan’s Valarie Solorio reacts after winning her match against Neshaminy’s Grace Nesbitt in the 100-pound finals of the PIAA girls wrestling championship March 9 at the Giant Center in Hershey.

WPIAL will tweak girls basketball sections to move Greensburg Central Catholic to 3A

June 20, 2024

The WPIAL must amend its girls basketball section alignment for next season to move Greensburg Central Catholic from Class 2A to 3A.

Brandon Sensor was 88-46 in six seasons as head coach at Chartiers Valley.

Newly hired boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor sees Shaler as ‘right opportunity’

When Brandon Sensor resigned at Chartiers Valley four months ago, the boys basketball coach insisted that wouldn’t be the end of his coaching journey.

Chartiers Valley head coach Brandon Sensor watches from the bench during a game on Friday, Jan. 13, 2023, at Mars Area High School.

Shaler poised to hire boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor

June 18, 2024

Former Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor is close to returning to the WPIAL.

Upper St. Clair’s Tyler Robbins dunks against Baldwin during the WPIAL Class 6A championship game March 2 at Petersen Events Center. The Upper St. Clair boys now share a section with Imani Christian, which voluntarily moved up after winning consecutive state titles in Class A.

STATE COLLEGE — One imperfect inning dashed Eden Christian’s thoughts of playing the spoiler.

Indiana’s Trevor Smith walks from the field as Holy Ghost players celebrate their walk-off win in the PIAA Class 4A championship game Thursday at Penn State.

Avonworth catcher Mason Metz hugs pitcher Carson Franc after defeating Fairview in their PIAA Class 3A quarterfinal on Thursday at Slippery Rock University.

Unlikely hero pitches unsinkable Avonworth to another extra-innings win

June 6, 2024

Carson Franc kept working on his pitches and believing his time on the mound could come, despite having thrown very few innings all season.

North Hills lineman Jamar Allen works out during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, in Ross.

WPIAL rules Aliquippa rising junior ineligible following transfer from North Hills

Aliquippa’s Jamar Allen, an all-conference football player who transferred from North Hills, was ruled ineligible Thursday by the WPIAL.

Elizabeth Forward pitcher Shelby Telegdy delivers against Hampton during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Cal.

Butler’s Drew Griffith and Ringgolds’ Ryan Pajak pace past the pack in the boys 3200m during the PIAA 3A Track and Field Championship Saturday, May 25, 2024 at Shippensburg University.

Highlands head coach Corey Dotchin watches from the bench on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, at Hampton.

WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 baseball playoffs

Defending champions Mt. Lebanon and Riverside were tabbed as favorites to repeat when the WPIAL on Friday released brackets for the upcoming baseball playoffs.

Shaler’s Luke Jarzynka scores against North Hills on April 22 at Herb Field in Ross.

Emily Griffith and her Hempfield teammates took over the top spot in the WPIAL Class 6A rankings this week.

The Pine-Richland baseball team mobs Jake Waddell after his walk-off hit defeated North Allegheny, 9-8, in the bottom of the seventh inning on Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Pine.

Pine-Richland celebrates section title with walk-off win over rival North Allegheny

May 3, 2024

Pine-Richland had already left the bases loaded three times, but that’s not what Jake Waddell was thinking about when he came to the plate in seventh.

Riverside pitcher Christian Lucarelli delivers against North Catholic on Friday.

With focus on staying healthy, Riverside ace Christian Lucarelli works tirelessly on craft

April 29, 2024

Christian Lucarelli arrived at Riverside baseball practice with a clear, plastic sphere that was partially filled with water. The peculiar fitness tool, which has handles on the sides, is designed to strengthen core muscles.

WPIAL cancels eligibility hearings for 2 Aliquippa transfers after Central Valley drops opposition

The WPIAL has canceled eligibility hearings for Aliquippa sophomore Joseph “J.J.” Work and freshman Khalil Ellerbee, saying Central Valley no longer contests their transfers.

A West Virginia pylon during the 2021 Gold-Blue game at Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium.

Blackhawk’s Alena Fusetti celebrates with Aubree Hupp after Hupp hit a 3-pointer against Scranton Prep during the PIAA Class 4A championship game Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Giant Center in Hershey.

19 WPIAL players picked for 2024 all-state girls basketball team

April 26, 2024

A month after winning a PIAA title, Blackhawk teammates Alena Fusetti and Aubree Hupp were among 19 WPIAL girls basketball players to earn all-state honors Friday.

WPIAL reveals brackets for 2024 team track championships

April 25, 2024

The North Allegheny boys and girls will try to repeat as WPIAL champions when the track and field team playoffs start Tuesday.

‘Loud and crazy’ invite crowd sees Butler record-setter Drew Griffith nearly run 4-minute mile on his home track

April 19, 2024

In meets from Boston to Los Angeles, record-setting runner Drew Griffith has wowed crowds from coast to coast over the past three months.

Peters’ Mickey Vaccarello beats Pine-Richland’s Tanner Cunningham for a second-quarter touchdown during 5A WPIAL Championship game Saturday Nov. 18, 2023 at Norwin High School.

Blackhawk’s Alena Fusetti takes the court during player introductions before the PIAA Class 4A state championship game against Scranton Prep on Saturday, Mar. 23, 2024, at Giant Center in Hershey.

PIAA taking bids to host basketball championships

April 12, 2024

Giant Center in Hershey has hosted the state high school basketball finals for more than a decade, but could or should the PIAA championships go elsewhere?

Rob Niederberger talks with an official during Shaler’s game against Woodland Hills on Jan. 30.

Basketball coach Rob Niederberger, who lifted Shaler from last place to WPIAL contender, resigns

When Shaler hired Rob Niederberger as boys basketball coach nine years ago, he took over a team mired in last place. He resigned Thursday knowing the next coach will inherit a program that’s in a much better position.

Oakland Catholic coach Eddie Benton Jr. celebrates during his team’s win over McKeesport in the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023.

Robert Morris hires Oakland Catholic’s Eddie Benton as assistant women’s basketball coach

April 9, 2024

Oakland Catholic girls basketball coach Eddie Benton, who led the Eagles to consecutive section titles, is leaving for a job at Robert Morris.

Sunglasses help Deer Lakes’ Sophia Laurenza make a running catch in the sun but they wouldn’t protect her eyes from staring at a solar eclipse.

Blackhawk’s Aubree Hupp drives to the basket against North Catholic’s Alayna Rocco during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Mar. 2, 2024, at Petersen Events Center.

PIAA Class 4A girls basketball championship preview: Blackhawk vs. Scranton Prep

PIAA Class 4A girls basketball championship

Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings celebrates after hitting a 3-pointer to end yhe first half against Archbishop Carroll during the the PIAA Class 4A state championship game on Thursday, Mar. 21, 2024, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Aliquippa’s Tikey Hayes fights past Dallas’ Gavin Lewis during the PIAA Class 4A championship game on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

Brandin Cummings kissed his hand before touching the Leopard logo on Lincoln Park’s basketball court, offering a kiss goodbye as his final home game was winding down.

The Upper St. Clair basketball team celebrates after defeating Baldwin in the WPIAL Class 6A championship game on Saturday, Mar. 2, 2024, at Petersen Events Center.

Upper St. Clair ends Baldwin’s WPIAL run with resounding victory in Class 6A final

March 2, 2024

“Let’s go dance,” Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer told his players, guiding them back to their Petersen Events Center locker room where they bounced and sang along to “Y-M-C-A.”

North Allegheny’s Lola Malarky won the WPIAL Class 3A diving championship Feb. 24, at North Allehgeny. Also earning medals were North Allegheny’s Juliet Hood (second) and Maggie Lapina (third). Mars’ Emily Mueller (fourth), Pine-Richland’s Kendyll Jerry (fifth), Seneca Valley’s Ali Waters (sixth), Fox Chapel’s Ainsley Anderson (seventh) and Mars’ Mya Lee (eighth).

North Allegheny divers follow different routes to WPIAL success

A gymnastics background can certainly help, but North Allegheny diving coach Patti McClure says she’s first looking for a kid with a “kamikaze” attitude.

Moon’s Elijah Guillory dunks against Franklin Regional during the WPIAL Class 5A championship game on Friday, Mar. 1, 2024, at Petersen Events Center.

Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas dunks against Hampton during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Thurday, Feb. 29, 2024, at Pitt.

Westinghouse’s Ty Abram scores a touchdown in the City League game on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, at Cupples Stadium on the South Side.

Avonworth’s Noah Quinn celebrates after scoring against Montour on Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, in Ohio Twp.

WPIAL sets playoff sites, times for Saturday’s basketball semifinals

February 22, 2024

The WPIAL has scheduled four basketball semifinal doubleheaders Saturday at Montour, Mt. Lebanon, North Allegheny and Peters Township.

Uniontown’s Kelan Milsom blocks the shot of North Catholic’s Max Hurray in a WPIAL 4A quarterfinal Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024 at Norwin High School.

Short-handed Uniontown gets defensive in WPIAL quarterfinal win over North Catholic

Uniontown was missing its big man in the middle, but against a small, speedy opponent, was that a blessing in disguise?

North Allegheny’s Khiryn Boyd carries against Harrisburg’s Trentin Moffit during their PIAA Class 6A state semifinal on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Gateway’s Mykel Bruce-McCrommon is fouled by Franklin Regional’s Cameron Rowell on Jan. 12, 2023, at Franklin Regional High School.

Moon’s Elijah Guillory scores against Mars on Tuesday, Jan. 65, 2024, in Adams Twp.

Aliquippa coach Mike Warfield talks with officials after a penalty against the Quips during the 2022 PIAA Class 4A championship game against Bishop McDevitt.

Aliquippa forced to move to Class 5A football after PIAA rejects appeal

MECHANICSBURG — If the PIAA believes five transfers gave the Aliquippa football team a competitive advantage, Quips coach Mike Warfield wants to know how.

New South Fayette football coach Marty Spieler

New coach Marty Spieler brings unique resume, complete with a Kelce tie, to South Fayette

January 23, 2024

The coaching career of Marty Spieler once crossed paths with the Kelce brothers, but, no, Taylor Swift probably won’t show up at South Fayette games this fall.

Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter wins the TSTCA cross country championship Oct. 19, 2023, at White Oak Park.

Burrell coach Shawn Liotta was ejected during a WPIAL playoff game against Mohawk in November after confronting officials regarding allegations his players were the target of racial slurs by Mohawk players.

WPIAL places Mohawk football on 2 years of probation for alleged racial slurs toward Burrell players

January 16, 2024

The WPIAL has placed the Mohawk football team on probation for two years after allegations that racial slurs were used in a playoff game against Burrell in November.

The Farrell Steelers play Westinghouse in a PIAA Class 2A state quarterfinal on Nov. 26, 2022, at Cupples Stadium.

WPIAL board unanimously rejects Farrell’s request to rejoin district

The WPIAL board voted unanimously Tuesday to deny Farrell’s request to join the league as a member school, citing the cost of transportation and tight athletic department budgets.

Erica Gribble and Greensburg Central Catholic maintained their hold on the top spot in Class 2A.

Butler won’t rejoin WPIAL football; decision nearing on Farrell’s request to return

January 12, 2024

How many football teams will the WPIAL have next season? That number continues to fluctuate.

North Allegheny’s Tyree Alualu celebrates with Lincoln Hoke after scoring during their PIAA Class 6A state semifinal against Harrisburg on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Class 6A

Butler’s Donovan Carney shoots his eighth three-pointer of the game on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at New Castle.

McGuffey coach Ed Dalton talks with his team during a preseason practice Aug. 17.

McGuffey football coach Ed Dalton resigns after 12 years, not ready for retirement

January 4, 2024

Ed Dalton is stepping down after 12 seasons as McGuffey’s football coach, but don’t mistake his resignation as an early retirement.

Class 6A

Mt. Lebanon coach Mike Collodi watches a 7-on-7 competition at Mt. Lebanon last summer.

McKeesport’s Rachael Manfredo celebrates after scoring her 1,000th career point on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023, at Norwin.

WPIAL girls basketball rankings for week ending Dec. 24, 2023

December 23, 2023

Class 6A

Butler’s Braylon Littlejohn brings the ball upcourt against Franklin Regional’s Connor Crossey on Friday, Dec. 15, 2023, in Murrysville.

WPIAL boys basketball rankings for the week ending Dec. 24, 2023

Class 6A

Central Catholic’s Xxavier Thomas gets offer he ‘always wanted,’ commits to Penn State

December 21, 2023

Xxavier Thomas says he was ready to commit to Penn State since visiting the campus a year ago, but the Central Catholic junior first needed an offer from the Nittany Lions.

Latrobe linebacker Alex Tatsch has 17 college offers.

Burrell’s Macky Bennis (left) and Colter Christie (right) helped their team rise from unranked to No. 2 in Class 3A this week.

WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 17, 2023

December 16, 2023

Class 6A

The Greensburg Salem girls basketball team rose from unranked to No. 4 in Class 4A this week.

The team North Allegheny thought most about this week, the roster of players the Tigers maybe focused on more than any other, was North Allegheny.

Imhotep Charter quarterback Mikal Davis eludes Peters Twp.’s Jake Velgich on a touchdown run during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

Imhotep Charter too much for Peters Township in Class 5A state championship game

December 8, 2023

MECHANICSBURG — Peters Township’s defense had to tackle a running back headed to Georgia, a sophomore back with SEC offers and a freshman wideout already courted by Pitt and Penn State.

Pittsburgh City League athletic director Karen Arnold presents Westinghouse’s Michael Richardson with the state runner-up trophy after the PIAA Class 2A championship game against Southern Columbia on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

North Allegheny’s Logan Kushner breaks into the secondary against Central Catholic in the fourth quarter of the WPIAL Class 6A championship game Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023 at Norwin.

With 6 TDs, North Allegheny QB Logan Kushner shines brightest in WPIAL title win over Central Catholic

November 18, 2023

“Best player on the field” was how North Allegheny coach Art Walker described his quarterback Logan Kushner.

Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes runs down the sideline for a second-quarter touchdown against Mars during the WPIAL Class 4A semifinals Friday, Nov. 17, 2023 at North Allegheny.

Aliquippa headed ‘home’ to WPIAL finals, extending championship game streak to 16 years

Whether the stadium on the North Shore is called Heinz Field or Acrisure Stadium doesn’t much matter to Aliquippa’s football players, since they have their own nickname for it.

Central Catholic’s Elijah Faulkner carries against North Allegheny on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, in McCandless.

Offense steps to forefront when Central Catholic, North Allegheny meet again for Class 6A title

November 17, 2023

The traditional style of a Central Catholic vs. North Allegheny game was always defined by the defenses. Just a year ago, they combined for a 7-3 score in a field-position battle.

Peters Township’s Nate Miller (2) celebrates with Carter Shanafelt after Shanafelt scored his first touchdown against Moon on Friday, Oct. 6, 2023, at Peters.

Farrell athletic director and football coach Anthony Pegues calls himself “a WPIAL guy,” since the Steelers played here in the WPIAL when he was on the team.

Michael Cahill leads East Allegheny into the WPIAL semifinals, where it hasn’t been since 1992.

5 things we learned in Week 11 of the WPIAL football season: Semifinals feature new blood

November 11, 2023

Some teams are penciled into the semifinals before the WPIAL playoffs even start. Aliquippa, after winning Friday, will make its 17th straight appearance in the final four.

Aliquippa’s Beno Williams pressures Latrobe quarterback John Wetzel during their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, at Aliquippa.

WPIAL announces playoff sites for football semifinals

WPIAL football playoffs

Pine-Richland’s Grant Argiro celebrates the winning extra point against Penn Hills with 2 seconds left during a WPIAL Class 5A semifinal Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, at Martorelli Stadium.

Touchdown with 2 seconds left sends defending champ Pine-Richland back to WPIAL finals

November 10, 2023

Pine-Richland was two seconds away from a season-ending loss when freshman Aaron “Oobi” Strader narrowly crossed the goal line on a touchdown run that has the defending champion headed back to the WPIAL finals.

Captains from Penn Hills and Pine-Richland meet with officials at midfield before their game on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, in Pine.

A federal judge has granted Jonna Burke’s request for a preliminary injunction, a legal victory that lets the Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach avoid a PIAA suspension for now.

Burrell coach Shawn Liotta was ejected before halftime of Friday’s WPIAL Class 2A first-round game at Mohawk.

Burrell football coach says playoff opponent used racial slurs, his protest led to ejection

November 5, 2023

Burrell football coach Shawn Liotta said his players were targeted with racial slurs in a game Friday against Mohawk and that he was ejected after confronting game officials about it.

North Allegheny coach Art Walker talks with officials before a game against Central Catholic on Sept. 22.

North Allegheny trying to make most of calm before the playoff storm

The North Allegheny football team didn’t have a game in the first week of the playoffs, but that doesn’t mean the Tigers took a week off.

Moon’s Josh Bladel is tackled by Gateway defense on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023 at Gateway High School’s Antimarino Stadium.

WPIAL rules North Catholic baseball player ineligible after transfer

November 2, 2023

The WPIAL ruled North Catholic junior Jake McKee ineligible for the upcoming baseball season after transferring from New Brighton.

Hopewell football coach Matt Weiss resigned Monday after five seasons with the Vikings, a program that has struggled significantly for more than a decade.

West Allegheny quarterback Brock Cornell throws a pass under pressure from Central Valley’s Tyler Ondrusek on Friday, Oct. 19, 2023, in North Fayette.

WPIAL shows love for traditionally tough Parkway, gives home games to 4 teams

October 29, 2023

West Allegheny’s football team rode on a bus for more than an hour a year ago when the Indians opened the WPIAL playoffs in Fayette County.

Central Catholic quarterback Payton Wehner carries for a first down against North Allegheny on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, in McCandless.

Belle Vernon’s Alonzo Wade celebrates a defensive stop in a Sept. 8 game.

5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 9: Head-to-head matchups to decide 9 conference titles

October 27, 2023

The wait is over.

Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes shakes hands with Central Valley’s James Moran after their game on Friday, Oct. 28, 2022, at Freedom Area High School.

Imani Christian’s Alier Maluk carries the state championship trophy from the court after defeating Berlin Brothersvalley in the PIAA Class A final on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Giant Center in Hershey.

North Allegheny’s Kyrell Hutcherson defends against Seneca Valley’s Cole Brooks during their game on Jan. 12, 2021, in Jackson.

Avonworth’s Dimitri Velisaris rushed for 174 yards in Friday’s win over West Mifflin.

Central Catholic’s Elijah Faulkner dives into the end zone to score his first touchdown against North Allegheny on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, in McCandless.

Quinton Martin helped to lead Class 3A No. 1 Belle Vernon to a victory over Laurel Highlands on Friday.

Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 3, 2023

WPIAL football rankings

Pine-Richland’s Ryan Cory works out during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, in Pine.

Mars head coach Eric Kasperowicz works with his team during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at Mars.

With experienced roster returning, Mars’ jump is ‘mind blowing’

August 12, 2023

Mars coach Eric Kasperowicz doesn’t go out of his way to compare his current team with his previous one, but he does see some promising similarities.

Shaler’s Miguel Hugas celebrates his home run with teammates during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game against Strath Haven on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at Penn State.

2023 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Shaler’s Miguel Hugas

July 1, 2023

The Strath Haven students behind the third base dugout decided to taunt Miguel Hugas with chants of “overrated.”

Westinghouse’s Michael Richardson (right) and Nyxai Robinson sack Farrell’s Kabron Smith during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals.

Keystone Oaks defensive back Clinton Robinson, who’ll be a senior in the fall, has committed to Syracuse.

Shaler senior Derek Leas carries the state championship trophy from the field after defeating Strath Haven in the PIAA Class 5A final on Thursday at Penn State.

Shaler erases 5-run deficit, celebrates PIAA title with walk-off win

June 15, 2023

UNIVERSITY PARK — Starting pitcher Derek Leas lasted only nine batters before his coach pulled him from the mound, but this state championship will be remembered for its improbable comebacks.

Riverside pitcher Christian Lucarelli celebrates an inning-ending strikeout during the PIAA Class 3A championship game Thursday at Penn State.

Freeport’s Reese Skiba takes fifth in the discus during the PIAA Class 2A track and field championships Friday.

Freeport senior shakes off rough start, claims PIAA discus medal

May 26, 2023

SHIPPENSBURG — After her first couple of discus throws produced a foul and a 104-footer, Reese Skiba’s state championship was off to a lackluster start.

Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo defends her 1,600-meter run title from last year going away in the PIAA Class 2A track and field championships May 26, 2023, at Shippensburg University.

Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo defends 1,600-meter title at PIAA track championships

SHIPPENSBURG — Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo decided to skip more races than usual in her senior year, but this wasn’t a case of senioritis.

Seneca Valley’s Jonathan Price wins the boys 100-meter hurdles ahead of North Allegheny’s Owen Curran and Mt. Lebanon’s Luke Cramer during the WPIAL 3A Team Championships Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at West Mifflin High School. North Allegheny won the WPIAL team championship.

Coaches wish PIAA team track title could be decided in playoff format like WPIAL

May 25, 2023

It takes a team effort to win a WPIAL team track title, but that’s not necessarily true for winning a state title.

Upper St. Clair’s Dani Prunzik wins the girls 100 meters ahead of teammate Sadie Tomczyk and Canon-McMillan’s Bennett Pidro at the Baldwin Invitational on May 5, 2023 at Baldwin High School.

Armstrong’s Emma Paul is greeted by teammates at home plate after hitting a two-run homer against Latrobe on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, in Kittanning.

North Allegheny’s Wren Kucler wins the girls 1,600 meters, leading the one, two, three sweep with sister Robin and Eva Kynaston during the WPIAL Class 3A team track championships Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at West Mifflin High School.

North Allegheny girls, boys sweep WPIAL Class 3A track and field team titles

May 9, 2023

North Allegheny track coach John Neff said he had trouble deciding which three girls should run the 3,200 meters Tuesday, mainly because the Tigers had too many good options.

Ian Wong and his Plum teammates jumped into the WPIAL baseball rankings this week, landing at No. 4.

North Hills’ Royce Parham dunks against Mechanicsburg during their PIAA Class 5A first round state playoff game on Friday, March 10, 2023, in Ross.

North Hills’ Royce Parham commits to Marquette

April 26, 2023

North Hills junior Royce Parham, one of the WPIAL’s top college basketball recruits, committed Wednesday to Marquette.

North Allegheny head coach Dan DeRose talks with an official during a game against Butler on Feb. 22, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

Former North Allegheny basketball coach Dan DeRose files lawsuit against Fox Chapel School District after ’21 altercation

Dan DeRose wants to coach high school basketball again, but the former WPIAL champion said school districts have shied away because of criminal charges he faced two years ago involving Fox Chapel school police.

South Fayette’s Maddie Webber scores against Archbishop Wood during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at Giant Center in Hershey.

South Fayette’s Maddie Webber, Union coach Rob Nogay lead all-state girls basketball team

April 24, 2023

South Fayette senior Maddie Webber, a Villanova recruit who led the Lions to a WPIAL title and a PIAA runner-up finish this winter, was named the state’s Class 5A girls basketball player of the year by all-state voters.

Deer Lakes’ Delanie Kaiser drives in a run with a base hit against Freeport on Friday.

The Seneca Valley boys soccer team celebrates with the state championship trophy after defeating Lower Merion in the PIAA Class 4A final on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, at Cumberland Valley.

PIAA adds 500 officials, but shortage remains ‘major issue’ for many sports

April 19, 2023

Statewide efforts to recruit and retain high school game officials are seeing some positive results, said a PIAA administrator who oversees the men and women in stripes.

Freeport’s Cassidy Dell sets up a score against York Catholic during the PIAA Class 2A state championship match on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, at Cumberland Valley.

WPIAL announces 20 winners of James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award

The WPIAL saw an increased number of applicants for the James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award this year, and Wednesday announced 20 winners from the 162 nominees.

Franklin Regional’s Luke Williams scores past Gateway pitcher Taili Thompson during their game April 4.

South Park promotes longtime assistant to football coach

April 14, 2023

South Park’s new football coach is already very familiar with the program.

The Moon girls soccer team celebrates with the state championship trophy after defeating Upper Perkiomen in the PIAA Class 3A final on Friday, Nov. 18, 2022, at Cumberland Valley.

Moon finds replacement for retiring athletic director Ron Ledbetter

Moon has hired a new athletic director to replace Ron Ledbetter, who is retiring this summer after a 33-year career as an educator. The school on Thursday announced the hire of current Beaver athletic director Alan Alcalde.

Butler’s Braylon Littlejohn looks for room to shoot during a February playoff game at Mt. Lebanon.

Butler basketball standout Braylon Littlejohn commits to Miami (Ohio) — for football

April 12, 2023

When Butler’s Braylon Littlejohn committed to Miami (Ohio) on Tuesday, folks weren’t asking him about his choice of schools, but rather his choice of sports.

Armstrong’s Jessie Pugh connects on a double against Latrobe on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, in Kittanning.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin celebrates after scoring the winning touchdown against Neumann Goretti during the PIAA Class 3A state championship game on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at Cumberland Valley High School.

Belle Vernon star Quinton Martin picks Penn State

April 7, 2023

Penn State landed its first WPIAL running back recruit since Miles Sanders when Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin committed to the Nittany Lions.

Penn Hills’ Daemar Kelly dunks against Peters Twp. during the WPIAL Class 5A championship game on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at Petersen Events Center.

2023 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars

April 6, 2023

Scoring 1,000 points in a high school career remains an impressive feat in WPIAL basketball, but remarkably, the league saw its first 3,000-point scorer this winter.

Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas celebrates after defeating Neumann Goretti in the PIAA Class 4A state championship game on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Giant Center in Hershey.

With tiny enrollment but tons of talent, Imani Christian claims PIAA Class A basketball crown

HERSHEY — One of the smallest high schools in the state won the biggest basketball trophy in Pennsylvania, yet few will call this an underdog story.

Deer Lakes makes more history with berth in 1st PIAA final

March 21, 2023

Neither team had ever reached the state finals, so the Deer Lakes and Penn Cambria boys basketball teams knew history would be made one way or the other Tuesday night.

OLSH girls basketball coach Don Eckerle watches from the bench during the 2022 WPIAL Class 2A championship game against Neshannock at Petersen Events Center.

The Penn Hills basketball team celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Peters Twp. in the Class 5A final on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at Petersen Events Center.

Whenever Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine glanced into the stands Monday night, he wasn’t looking for friends or family. That’s where his suspended head coach was sitting, five rows behind the team’s bench.

South Park head coach Marty Rieck talks with his team after practice on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, in South Park.

South Park football coach Marty Rieck resigns after 8 seasons

February 20, 2023

South Park football coach Marty Rieck, who won state titles with the Eagles as both a player and assistant coach, has resigned after eight seasons leading the program.

Wrestlers from 26 schools took part in the Western Pa. girls wrestling championships Feb. 19, 2023, at North Allegheny High School.

Nationally ranked wrestlers among winners at Western Pa. Girls Championship

Three nationally ranked wrestlers were among the 13 champions crowned Sunday at the Western Pa. Girls Championship, an event that more than doubled in size since last winter.

Pine-Richland’s Ryan Palmieri eludes Imhotep Charter’s Zahir Mathis during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game on Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, at Cumberland Valley High School.

Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen throws a pass against Mars on Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, at Armstrong High School.

Cate Clarke (left) and her Serra Catholic teammates are No. 1 in the Class 2A rankings.

Imhotep Charter’s Justin Edwards drives past New Castle’s Cahmari Perkins during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game last year.

State rep proposes legislation that would allow PIAA to crown separate public, private champs

February 3, 2023

The PIAA has maintained that splitting public and private schools into separate playoffs is prohibited under a state statute from 1972, but new legislation could rewrite that law.

Baldwin lineman Victor Iaquinta helps Keith Mincin up from the mat during practice on Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, in Baldwin.

Baldwin hires McKeesport assistant Dana Brown Jr. as football coach

February 1, 2023

Dana Brown Jr. turns 32 on Sunday, but he got an early birthday present Wednesday night.

Aliquippa’s DJ Walker scores on a 92-yard reception against Central Valley on Friday, Oct. 28, 2022, at Freedom Area High School.

Neshannock head coach Luann Grybowski celebrates after a Lancers’ score during the WPIAL Class 2A championship game against OLSH on Friday, March. 4, 2022, at Petersen Events Center.

6 WPIAL coaches earn NFHS Section 2 honors for 2021-22 sports seasons

January 27, 2023

Six WPIAL coaches have earned regional honors from the National Federation of State High School Associations for their work in the 2021-22 school year.

Westinghouse quarterback Keyshawn Morsillo shakes hands with Steel Valley quarterback Cruce Brookins at midfield after their PIAA Class 2A state semifinal on Friday, Dec. 2, 2022, at West Mifflin High School.

New Castle’s Jonathan Anderson brings the ball upcourt against Butler on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023, at Butler High School. New Castle moved into the No. 1 spot in Class 6A.

Aliquippa’s D.J. Walker drives between Shenango’s Braden Zeigler and Brody McQuiston during their game on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023, at Aliquippa High School.

With Pitt coach watching, Aliquippa football stars hit basketball stride to defeat Shenango

January 19, 2023

Pitt football coach Pat Narduzzi was sitting among the home fans in Aliquippa’s gym Wednesday night, there with dozens of others to watch a group of football players throw around a basketball.

WPIAL Hall of Fame Class of 2023 inductees Greg Meisner (left) and Tom Pipkins, both former Valley athletes, fist bump during the hall of fame announcement at the Heinz History Center on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023.

Valley great Tom Pipkins highlights 2023 WPIAL Hall of Fame class

January 18, 2023

Tom Pipkins jokes that he might already be retired from working if high school athletes could’ve signed endorsement deals back in his day.

Peters Twp.’s Jack Dunbar celebrates after hitting a 3-pointer against Bethel Park on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, at Bethel Park High School.

Peters Township creates 3-way section tie with narrow win over Bethel Park

Peters Township broke a tie on the scoreboard to create a tie in the standings.

Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca works out on Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in Oakland.

Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca commits to Penn State

January 17, 2023

Central Catholic linebacker Anthony Speca, one of the state’s top college football recruits, committed Tuesday to Penn State.

Norwin’s Lauren Palangio scores past Hempfield’s Mia Shipman during their game Monday at Norwin High School.

North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman sets up a score during the PIAA Class 4A state championship game against Garnet Valley on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, at Cumberland Valley.

North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman repeats as Gatorade Pa. Volleyball Player of the Year

January 13, 2023

North Allegheny senior Mia Tuman was recognized as the state’s top girls volleyball player for the second year in a row Friday when she was named Gatorade Pennsylvania Volleyball Player of the Year.

Pine-Richland head coach Jon LeDonne hoists the state championship trophy with his team after defeating Imhotep Charter in the PIAA Class 5A final on Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, at Cumberland Valley High School.

Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne among 32 nominees for NFL’s Don Shula Award

Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne, who led the Rams to a state title this season, was one of 32 coaches nationwide nominated for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.

Mt. Lebanon’s Nate Girod celebrates with the student section after defeating Upper St. Clair in double overtime on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

Mt. Lebanon matches rival Upper St. Clair shot for shot in double-overtime win

January 10, 2023

Two dozen 3-pointers made the score higher than a typical Mt. Lebanon-Upper St. Clair grind, but the dramatic finish still fit this gritty rivalry’s history.

Referee Brian Sakowski has experience as an official for WPIAL and college football. He will be on the officials crew for the 2023 Division I College Football Playoff National Championship.

The Greensburg Salem girls basketball team huddles before its game against Derry on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022.

Class 6A

Pine-Richland’s Jacob Beam (73) celebrates with Ryan Cory after defeating Imhotep Charter in the PIAA Class 5A state championship game on Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, at Cumberland Valley High School.

Sto-Rox’s Zay Davis eyes up a tipped pass against Steel Valley on Sept. 2, 2022, in McKees Rocks.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Sto-Rox tops Century with 9 players on 1st team

December 23, 2022

Sto-Rox was a newcomer in the Class 2A Century Conference, but the Vikings made themselves right at home this season.

Steel Valley head coach Ray Braszo talks with quarterback Cruce Brookins during the second quarter against Sto-Rox on Friday, Sept. 2, 2022, in McKees Rocks.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Steel Valley leads 1st team with 9 spots in Allegheny

Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins was a two-way standout for the Ironmen, but he wasn’t the only player on the roster making an impact on both sides of the ball.

Westinghouse quarterback Keyshawn Morsillo celebrates with Roderick Jeter after scoring against Farrell during their PIAA Class 2A state quarterfinal Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, at Cupples Stadium.

Aliquippa’s Cameron Lindsey scores past Bishop McDevitt’s Ty Kephart during the PIAA Class 4A championship game.

Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2024

December 21, 2022

College football coaches needing a linebacker, running back, wide receiver or offensive lineman will be visiting Western Pennsylvania in the coming months.

Pine-Richland’s Ryan Palmieri carries past Imhotep Charter’s Mysir Mayo and Amaury Hunter during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game on Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, at Cumberland Valley High School.

2022 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars

Western Pennsylvania had five high school football teams reach the state finals this season, including a postseason run by Westinghouse that was the City League’s first PIAA championship game appearance in decades.

Union’s Braylon Thomas scores past Bishop Canevin’s A’Zjaun Marshall during the WPIAL Class A championship game on Friday, Nov. 25, 2022, at Acrisure Stadium.

Trib HSSN 2022 Head of the Class: Football player of the year in all 6 classes

December 19, 2022

As the saying goes, big-time players make big-time plays in big-time games. Many of the best players in Western Pennsylvania proved those words true this fall.

Bishop McDevitt’s Tyshawn Russell scores past Aliquippa’s Tikey Hayes during the PIAA Class 4A state championship game on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022, at Cumberland Valley High School.

A PIAA boys basketball championship trophy sits on the court at Giant Center in Hershey.

Plans to expand, strengthen PIAA competitive-balance rule rejected by board

December 7, 2022

MECHANICSBURG — Plans to revamp the competitive-balance formula were rejected Wednesday by the PIAA board, meaning only football and basketball teams are still impacted by the rule — and only those that add too many transfers.

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher announced an NIL deal Wednesday.

2022 WPIAL 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Central Valley

WPIAL Class 4A football championship

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin scores against East Allegheny on Friday, Nov. 11, 2022 in the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals.

North Allegheny head coach Dave DeGregorio (right) talks with Baldwin head coach Jeff Ackermann before their WPIAL Class 6A first round playoff game on Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022, at North Allegheny High School.

North Allegheny basketball teams adjust to early start to season

Starting basketball season a week earlier than usual probably doesn’t excite WPIAL coaches, but the idea of a less-compact regular season maybe does.

Aliquippa’s Dorius Moreland (12) and Jayace Williams (33) celebrate a turnover in the first half of the Quips’ 42-7 victory over McKeesport in the WPIAL Class 4A semifinals Nov. 18, 2022, at Memorial stadium in Canonsburg.

5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football

November 17, 2022

Aliquippa is trying to reach the WPIAL football finals for the 15th year in a row, meaning some of the players on the Quips roster weren’t born the last time the team failed to get there.

Gateway’s Malachi Moore scores against Hempfield during the first quarter on Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, at Spartan Stadium.

5 things to watch in Week 10 of high school football

November 4, 2022

In WPIAL Class 5A, is eight enough?

Upper St. Clair’s Jamaal Brown carries the ball during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, in Upper St. Clair.

Coach Eric Christy and the Butler football team will compete in the District 10 playoffs.

Judge rules Butler football can compete in District 10 playoffs

October 28, 2022

Butler earned its biggest win of the season hours before Friday night’s football game against Latrobe.

Mars head coach Eric Kasperowicz gives Babe Hein five before playing Montour Friday, Aug. 26, 2022 at Montour High School.

Armstrong’s Ian Olsen celebrates with Connor Jacobs (88) and Jaxson Crissman (6) after his pick-six against Mars during their game on Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, at Armstrong High School.

WPIAL board increases to 21 seats with diversity advisory council addition

The WPIAL board has expanded to 21 members with the addition of a seat for a representative from the WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council.

If proposed changes to the PIAA’s competitive-balance rule had been in place last season, successful programs such as the Montour baseball team would have been forced to move up in classification, regardless of the number of transfers on the roster.

PIAA’s reps from WPIAL split on future of competitive-balance rule

October 17, 2022

The WPIAL has three seats on the PIAA board, and its representatives usually vote together, but that didn’t happen when asked about making major changes to the state’s competitive-balance rule.

The Central Catholic student section cheers on its team during a game last season.

McKeesport senior Bobbie Boyd (right) returns an interception during the fourth quarter of the Tigers’ 19-7 victory over Penn-Trafford on Friday, Sept. 2, 2022, at Warrior Stadium in Harrison City.

5 things to watch in Week 7 of high school football

October 14, 2022

Football coaches will always say Week 7 isn’t the time for nonconference games, since the playoffs are less than a month away and nobody wants to get hurt now in a “meaningless” game.

OLSH head coachDonnie Millitzer works with his team during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022, at Youthtowne.

PIAA rule keeps OLSH football team idle Friday night after Avella forfeits

October 13, 2022

Avella doesn’t have enough healthy players available for this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, so the Eagles will forfeit the Class A Black Hills Conference contest scheduled for Friday night.

The PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship trophy sits on the court Friday, March 26, 2021, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Bethel Park’s Ryan Petras celebrates his first touchdown with Aidan Currie during their game against Upper St. Clair on Friday, Oct. 7, 2022, at Upper St. Clair High School.

Bethel Park’s offense plays keep away in win over No. 1 Upper St. Clair

October 7, 2022

“The most average line you’ve ever seen.”

Washington quarterback Davoun Fuse throws a pass on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022, in Washington.

Gateway quarterback Brad Birch throws a touchdown pass during the first quarter against Hempfield on Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, at Spartan Stadium.

Brad Birch leads Gateway to rout of previously unbeaten Hempfield

September 30, 2022

Would anyone have been surprised if Gateway quarterback Brad Birch crashed the halftime homecoming ceremony, took the blue-and-white balloons and named himself Hempfield’s king?

Franklin Regional head coach Lance Getsy talks with his team during a preseason practice.

5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football

In an ultra-competitive Class 5A, Bethel Park, Hempfield and Upper St. Clair are the only WPIAL teams that haven’t lost to a 5A opponent yet this season — a list that keeps getting shorter.

WPIAL rules East Allegheny transfer eligible for regular-season football but not playoffs

September 27, 2022

East Allegheny junior Amir Rollins, a transfer from Penn Hills, is allowed to play football in the regular season, but he remains ineligible for the playoffs, the WPIAL ruled Tuesday.

Mapletown players run after practice on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022, in Mapletown.

North Allegheny’s Campbell Melzer (6) celebrates with Kevin O’Donnell after breaking up a pass in the end zone on fourth down in the final minute against Central Catholic on Friday, Sept. 23, 2022, at West Mifflin High School.

Peters Twp.’s Reston Lehman returns a fumble for a touchdown during the third quarter against South Fayette on Friday, Sept. 16, 2022, at Peters.

PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi watches the PIAA Class 2A football state championship game on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

PIAA puts NIL debate on hold until October

September 14, 2022

A groundbreaking Name, Image and Likeness policy proposed by the PIAA must pass three separate votes to take effect, but that second vote won’t happen this week as initially thought.

Ellwood City head coach Dan Bradley works with his team on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022, in Ellwood City.

Penn Hills’ Amir Key scores past Pine-Richland’s Luke Rudolph during their game on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, in Penn Hills.

Penn Hills’ Amir Key scores 3 times in victory over Pine-Richland and his former coach

September 9, 2022

Jon LeDonne spent five seasons building Penn Hills into a big-play dynamo and saw that explosive energy work against his new team Friday night.

OLSH quarterback Nehemiah Azeem throws a pass during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022, at Youthtowne.

2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches

Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.

2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches

Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.

After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams

August 25, 2022

Six for six.

After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams

Six for six.

Kiski Area varsity football players warm up during practice at the stadium Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022.

After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams

Six for six.

Upper St. Clair kicker Bennett Henderson watches his first of two field goals against Moon on Friday, Oct. 15, 2021, at Tigers Stadium in Moon.

The PIAA may expand its competitive-balance rule to include all team sports.

PIAA may strengthen competitive-balance rule by adding all team sports, removing transfers

July 14, 2022

The PIAA appears ready to rewrite its competitive-balance rule to include all team sports while also making it easier to force successful teams into a higher classification.

North Allegheny’s Cole Young is projected to go in the first round of the MLB Draft.

July 4, 2022

Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan celebrates after the Foxes scored late in the fourth quarter against Central Catholic on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at Alumni Hall in Oakland.

Beaver pitcher Payton List delivers against Elizabeth-Forward during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Friday, June 3, 2022, at California University.

Beaver’s Payton List, Mt. Lebanon’s Deirdre Flaherty top all-state softball awards

June 30, 2022

Mt. Lebanon catcher Deirdre Flaherty and Beaver pitcher Payton List topped the list of players earning all-state honors Thursday from the Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association.

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher talks with Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock after the coin toss before a game last season.

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher

June 29, 2022

North Allegheny’s Tyree Alualu smiles during practice in McCandless.

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Allegheny’s Tyree Alualu

June 24, 2022

Moon’s Mia Cochran wins 1,600 meters, wants 2 more golds at busy PIAA championship

May 27, 2022

SHIPPENSBURG — After defending her state 1,600-meter title Friday morning, Moon’s Mia Cochran revealed the top item on her afternoon agenda.

Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy defends his Class 2A state title in the 1,600 meters at the PIAA track championship Friday, May 27, 2022 at Shippensburg University.

All-state boys basketball teams to be announced this week starting with non-PIAA schools

May 2, 2022

The boys basketball all-state teams will be announced one classification per day this week starting with non-PIAA schools.

West Greene’s Taylor Karvan slides under the tag of Tri-Valley catcher Brittany Rice during the 2021 PIAA Class A softball championship game.

Montour’s Brock Janeda celebrates after tagging out Quaker Valley’s Nick Allen at second base during an April 8 game. The Spartans are ranked No. 1 in Class 4A.

WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman poses for a photo after a WPIAL board meeting June 18, 2020, at Chartiers Valley.

WPIAL lacrosse match rescheduled after officials decline to accept assignment

A simmering discontent by officials about pay and travel forced Trinity to reschedule a boys lacrosse game, but the WPIAL was optimistic the season won’t be disrupted by a widespread work stoppage.

New Castle’s Mike Wells carries the runner-up trophy from the court after the PIAA Class 5A state championship game against Imhotep Charter on Friday, March 25, 2022, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero stands with Jack Gardinier after receiving their runner-up medals following the PIAA Class 4A state championship game against Neumann-Goretti on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Potential NFL path draws Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer to Boston College

March 23, 2022

Jordan Mayer is very good at getting his arms around quarterbacks, but when the Thomas Jefferson junior committed to Boston College, he was the one wrapped up.

Aliquippa’s D.J. Walker (3) celebrates with Jayace Williams after defeating South Allegheny, 57-55, in their PIAA Class 3A state semifinal on Saturday, March 19, 2022, at Highlands High School.

PIAA semifinal win gives Aliquippa chance for rare football-basketball championship double

March 19, 2022

Aliquippa is headed to Hershey for the second time in three months, chasing after a rare football-basketball double state championship.

North Allegheny’s Leyna Rumpler finished second in the 2022 state girls wrestling tournament on March 13, 2022.

Gateway’s Jaydon Carr tracks down an inbounds pass away from Laurel Highlands’ Tahji Hooper during the PIAA Class 5A quarterfinals Tuesday at Robert Morris.

Peters Township will host a clash of champions Saturday when WPIAL champion Fox Chapel faces City League champion Allderdice in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.

The Allderdice bench erupts after Mike Quigley (14) hit a three-pointer in the final seconds of overtime during their PIAA Class 6A first round state playoff game against Central Catholic on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, in Squirrel Hill.

Quaker Valley’s Markus Frank scores against Montour’s Kaleb Platz during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Thursday, March. 3, 2022, at Petersen Events Center.

PIAA announces sites, times for 2022 boys basketball 1st-round playoff games

The PIAA on Sunday posted sites and times for first-round games in the state boys basketball playoffs. Here’s a list of games involving WPIAL and City League teams.

No. 1 North Hills reaches WPIAL finals with low-scoring win over Mt. Lebanon

March 1, 2022

Mt. Lebanon is notorious for consuming clock with long possessions, but when the Blue Devils did so Tuesday night, it was often because they found no easy route to the rim.

Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich stiff-arms State College’s Calvin Roan during their PIAA Class 6A state semifinal on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Upper St. Clair freshman Rylee Kalocay didn’t start Saturday’s semifinal, but she certainly finished it.

No. 1 North Hills celebrates 4th win over rival North Allegheny in WPIAL quarterfinals

February 25, 2022

As the saying goes, it’s tough to beat a basketball team three times in one season, but what about four? The sold-out crowd that packed into North Hills’ gym was there to find out.

Ellwood City head coach Steve Antuono talks with his son, Stevie, during the 2021 WPIAL Class 3A championship game at North Allegheny High School.

Ellwood City basketball coach Steve Antuono suspended 2 games after chaotic playoff loss

Game officials imposed a two-game suspension on Ellwood City boys basketball coach Steve Antuono for unsportsmanlike actions during a chaotic ending to Thursday night’s playoff loss.

Gateway’s Jaydon Carr scores next to Kaleb Pryor during their Section 3-5A game against Penn Hills on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, at Gateway High School.

Butler coach Eric Christy talks with Cooper Baxter (left) and Dylan Fediaczko during a 2019 practice.

Butler plans legal action after PIAA upholds WPIAL ruling keeping football team out of District 10 playoffs

February 23, 2022

Butler intends to take legal action after the PIAA upheld a decision banning the football team from the District 10 playoffs, said the school’s athletic director.

The Mt. Lebanon football team celebrates with head coach Bob Palko after defeating St. Joseph’s Prep, 35-17, in the PIAA Class 6A state championship game on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

North Allegheny’s Cole Young celebrates after driving in two runs against Hempfield during the WPIAL Class 6A championship game last season. Some scouting services have him projected to be a first-round pick in the MLB Draft.

North Allegheny’s Cole Young projected as 1st-round pick in MLB Draft

February 13, 2022

Cole Young has a Twitter account, so the North Allegheny senior usually notices whenever someone publishes a new MLB mock draft or an updated list of high school baseball prospects.

Mt. Lebanon’s Reagan Murdoch celebrates with Ashleigh Connor after scoring during their Section 2-6A game against USC on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, at Upper St. Clair High School.

WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 girls basketball pairings

The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.

North Hills’ Royce Parham eyes up the tip-off with North Allegheny’s Ty Iwanonkiw at the start of their Section 1-6A game Jan. 7, 2022, at North Allegheny.

Penn Hills head coach Jon LeDonne during practice Friday, Aug. 13, 2021 at Penn Hills High School.

Pine-Richland hires Penn Hills’ Jon LeDonne as football coach

February 7, 2022

As a parent with three kids in the district, Jon LeDonne already wore a number of hats around Pine-Richland. Scorekeeper for middle school basketball. Coach for a fourth-grade girls team. Scorers’ table duty at youth wrestling matches.

Mt. Lebanon’s Bob Palko named Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year

February 6, 2022

Mt. Lebanon football coach Bob Palko, who led the Blue Devils to their first state championship, was named the 2021 Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year on Sunday.

North Allegheny’s Lexi Sundgren competes in the girls 200 freestyle during the 2020 WPIAL championships.

With longtime coach out of retirement, North Allegheny swim teams out to achieve more excellence

Longtime North Allegheny swimming coach Corky Semler didn’t hesitate when athletic director Bob Bozzuto asked if he was interested in coming out of retirement this winter.

Latrobe coach Mark Burkhardt watches from the bench during a game against Woodland Hills on Jan. 20, 2022, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Aliquippa’s Neco Eberhardt celebrates his first quarter sack during the PIAA Class 4A state championship game against Bishop McDevitt on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

WPIAL delays release of football schedules over ‘unique situation’ with Aliquippa

February 3, 2022

The WPIAL decided not to release new football schedules this week because of a “unique situation” facing one of its schools.

Laurel Highlands quarterback Rodney Gallagher has about two dozen Division I offers, including Notre Dame, Michigan and Texas.

Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2023

Some of the nation’s top college football recruiters will visit Western Pennsylvania often in the coming months, because the WPIAL and City League have an uncommitted four-star Rivals recruit in the 2023 class.

South Side head coach Luke Travelpiece works with his team during practice on Aug. 10, 2020.

WPIAL disciplines South Side, Steel Valley football after hearing on racial allegations

February 2, 2022

The South Side and Steel Valley football teams must complete educational training organized by the WPIAL to “further develop cultural competency” after their playoff game in November ended with accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct and racial slurs.

Shady Side Academy’s Rian Fitzgerald (1) celebrates after scoring next to South Allegheny’s Jeston Beatty during their game on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022, in Fox Chapel.

Class 6A

Greensburg Central Catholic boys hold off Winchester Thurston, take over 1st place

January 28, 2022

Greensburg Central Catholic and Winchester Thurston were scheduled to meet three weeks ago, but that boys basketball game was postponed, so the teams could only study one another from a distance.

Aliquippa and Ambridge gather for the coin toss before a 2004 game at Carl Aschman Stadium, also known as “The Pit.”

As Our Lady of the Sacred Heart made WPIAL history Monday night, the boys basketball team wasn’t focused on what it was playing for, but rather who.

Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza scores against St. Joseph’s Prep during the fourth quarter of the PIAA Class 6A championship game on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza commits to Navy football, joining Blue Devils teammate

January 24, 2022

Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza has played football with teammate Eli Heidenreich for as long as he can remember. As it turns out, high school graduation won’t break their bond.

Fox Chapel’s J.P. Dockey drives past Central Catholic’s Dante Depante during their Section 3-6A game on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2022, at Fox Chapel High School.

Former football coach Eric Kasperowicz drops lawsuit against Pine-Richland, hopes to reclaim job

January 21, 2022

Former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz is dropping his defamation lawsuit against the school district and its administrators in hopes of reclaiming his coaching job.

Matt Stebbins, pictured during the 2020 WPIAL Class 2A girls championship game at Petersen Events Center, has resigned as the head coach of the Laurel High School girls basketball team.

Lincoln Park’s L.A. Pratt takes the game-winning shot over Montour’s Dante Deltondo and Diaun Pinkett in the final seconds of their Section 2-4A game on Friday, Jan. 14, 2022, in Midland.

LA Pratt’s game-winner lifts Lincoln Park to 2-point win over Montour

January 14, 2022

Lincoln Park saw a 15-point lead vanish Friday night, but that was all forgotten once senior LA Pratt made a clutch runner with five seconds left to lift the Leopards to a 51-49 victory over Montour in a battle of ranked teams.

OLSH head coach Dan Bradley watches his team during practice on Aug. 3, 2021, in Clinton.

Ellwood City hires ‘proven winner’ Dan Bradley to fix struggling football program

Ellwood City hired former OLSH football coach Dan Bradley on Thursday to fix a distressed program that hasn’t won a game in three seasons.

Aliquippa head coach Mike Warfield celebrates with his team after defeating Bishop McDevitt, 34-27, in the PIAA Class 4A state championship game on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

PIAA denies Aliquippa appeal asking to avoid promotion to Class 5A football

January 13, 2022

The PIAA on Thursday denied an initial appeal from Aliquippa, which wants to avoid a pending promotion to Class 5A football next season.

North Hills’ Royce Parham dunks during the fourth quarter against North Allegheny on Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, at North Allegheny High School.

North Hills clamps down on defense, stops North Allegheny in clash of 6A contenders

January 7, 2022

Alex Smith knew that if North Allegheny shooter Matt McDonough didn’t cool down, he and his North Hills teammates were in trouble.

Woodland Hills running back Eris Seibles carries against Wayne Valley during the first quarter on Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, at the Wolvarena.

Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes dives over the pylon to score past Belle Vernon’s Reiley Wiant during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021, at Heinz Field.

2021 Trib 25 Football Team: WPIAL, state champions highlight HSSN all-stars

December 31, 2021

This was a historic football season for the WPIAL, which had four teams celebrate state titles in Hershey.

Central Valley’s Sean FitzSimmons sacks Wyomissing quarterback Ben Zechman on fourth down and goal during the fourth quarter of the PIAA Class 3A state championship game on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Early signing day: Notre Dame, Pitt, Kentucky among Power 5 schools to land WPIAL, City League recruits

December 15, 2021

The excitement of signing day used to be limited to February, but that changed five years ago when the NCAA added an early signing period for Division I football.

Rochester running back Sal Laure carries through the line during practice on Aug. 16, 2021, in Rochester.

Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich celebrates a State College turnover during a PIAA Class 6A state semifinal on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Mt. Lebanon facing daunting challenge in state’s premier big-school program St. Joseph’s Prep

December 10, 2021

Nobody was too surprised to see St. Joseph’s Prep in Hershey. Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko certainly wasn’t.

Southern Columbia’s Braeden Wisloski scores past Serra Catholic’s Elijah Ward during the PIAA Class 2A state championship game on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Southern Columbia routs Serra Catholic, rolls to 5th consecutive PIAA title

HERSHEY — Serra Catholic punched and pulled at the football all afternoon, but the Eagles couldn’t wrestle the state championship from Southern Columbia’s steely grip.

The Aliquippa football team celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Belle Vernon in the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021, at Heinz Field.

Aliquippa celebrates ‘incredible, shameful’ victory over Belle Vernon in WPIAL Class 4A final

November 27, 2021

Small-school Aliquippa might be short on students, but nobody has more WPIAL football titles than the Quips.

Central Valley’s Matt Merritt rolls out to pass against Aliquippa on Sept. 10, 2021, at The Pit.

Central Valley seeks 3rd straight WPIAL title, unbeaten North Catholic could spoil plans

When Central Valley takes the field Saturday, this will be the third WPIAL championship appearance in a row for some of the team’s starters.

Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus (right) celebrates with his team after defeating Beaver Falls, 35-12, in the WPIAL Class 2A championship game on Friday, Nov. 26, 2021, at Heinz Field.

Serra Catholic forces 9 turnovers, wins for coach in WPIAL Class 2A finals

November 26, 2021

Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus wore a hat at Heinz Field that said “battle,” a brand name of sportswear, but also one word that captures both his determination to coach and his defense’s relentlessness to win.

North Catholic quarterback Joey Prentice works out on Aug. 9, 2021, in Cranberry.

Welcome to Heinz Field.

Aliquippa’s Cyair Clark tries to fight off the tackle of Central Valley’s Landon Alexander during a game Sept. 10, 2021, at The Pit in Aliquippa.

If forced to Class 5A, Aliquippa might consider leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule

November 21, 2021

Forcing the Aliquippa football team to play schools two, three or four times its size isn’t safe or fair, regardless of whether the Quips are winning those games, says the school district’s top administrator.

Mt. Lebanon players celebrate their win in the WPIAL 6A final against Central Catholic on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021 at Norwin Senior High School.

Moon’s Jeremiah Dean cruises into the end zone against Penn Hills during a WPIAL 5A semifinal Friday, Nov. 19, 2021 at Newman Stadium.

Moon headed to 1st WPIAL final since 1998 after topping Penn Hills in semis

November 19, 2021

Heinz Field hadn’t been built the last time Moon made the WPIAL football finals, but the Tigers are headed there now.

Moon’s Ben Bladel celebrates with Dylan Sleva late in their game against Bethel Park on Friday, Oct. 21, 2021, in Moon.

Kiski Area lineman Brandon Lawhorn Moore will play for Miami (Ohio) next season.

Kiski Area lineman Brandon Lawhorn Moore commits to Miami (Ohio)

November 13, 2021

Kiski Area’s Brandon Lawhorn Moore, one of the WPIAL’s top offensive line recruits, committed Saturday to Miami (Ohio).

WPIAL announces sites for football semifinals

The WPIAL on Saturday revealed host sites for next weekend’s 10 football semifinals.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Joe Lekse celebrates his second touchdown against Hampton with Nick Florian on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at Fridley Field in Hampton..

Thomas Jefferson returns to WPIAL semifinals with dominant win over Hampton

November 12, 2021

Hampton’s offense had posted extraordinary rushing numbers all season, but Thomas Jefferson knows a little about running the football, too.

New Brighton’s Keandre Williams works out during practice Aug. 5.

Steel Valley’s NiJhay Burt stiff-arms Serra’s Ryan Brooks during their game on Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, in Munhall.

Nijhay Burt carries No. 5 Steel Valley past Serra Catholic to clinch Allegheny Conference title

October 29, 2021

WPIAL rushing leader Nijhay Burt was averaging 2 yards a carry on his first 10 tries Friday night, yet nobody this season has frustrated the Steel Valley star for an entire game.

Serra Catholic’s Pharoh Fisher tracks a pass during practice.

5 things to watch in Week 9: Winner-takes-all matchups in 2 WPIAL conferences

Serra Catholic hasn’t celebrated a conference title since 2007, and the 14 seasons since included some lean years for the Eagles. The team went winless in 2012 and endured one-win seasons in 2013 and ’14.

5 things we learned in Week 8: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher delivers again in must-win game

October 24, 2021

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher has delivered many times before in must-win situations, but those often had him holding a basketball in his hands.

Robbie Labuda and his Mt. Pleasant teammates joined the WPIAL Class 3A rankings this week.

Moon’s Ben Bladel sacks Bethel Park quarterback Max Blanc during their game on Friday, Oct. 21, 2021, in Moon.

Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 16, 2021

Class 6A

Dylan Sleva drives dominant 4th quarter as No. 1 Moon outlasts Upper St. Clair

October 15, 2021

There wasn’t much surprise whenever Dylan Sleva got the football in the fourth quarter, yet Moon kept feeding their 225-pound battering ram.

North Catholic players work out on the first day of heat drills during practice on Aug. 9, 2021, in Cranberry.

The Gateway football team takes the field before the start of its game against Thomas Jefferson on Friday, Sept. 3, 2021, in Monroeville.

5 things to watch in Week 6: De facto conference champions to be crowned?

October 7, 2021

No, it’s not over ‘til it’s over.

Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich works out during practice on Aug. 11, 2021, in Mt Lebanon.

Central Catholic, Mt. Lebanon battle for 1st place in WPIAL Class 6A

Unlike last week, there won’t be any motivational banner hanging over Mt. Lebanon’s locker room entrance.

Clairton’s Tyler Boyd scores against Southern Columbia during the fourth quarter of the 2011 PIAA Class A state championship game at Hersheypark Stadium.

The North Allegheny girls golf team is off to a 12-1 start in 2021.

North Allegheny girls golfers chasing individual, team success

Many of the golfers on North Allegheny’s girls team already have their own swing instructors, so first-year coach Sarah Morrison tries not to tinker much with their mechanics.

Central Catholic’s Gannon Carothers carries past North Allegheny’s Nate Spak during the first quarter on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

Central Catholic tops North Allegheny in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship

September 24, 2021

Central Catholic has a new-look offense with ties to an NFL coach, but the Vikings haven’t abandoned what made them two-time defending WPIAL champions.

North Allegheny’s JR Burton catches a pass during practice on Aug. 10, 2021, in McCandless.

Bishop Canevin’s Jason Cross throws a pass during practice on Aug. 24, 2021.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Joe Lekse (3) celebrates his touchdown run with Nick Florian during the third quarter against Gateway Friday, Sept. 3, 2021, in Monroeville.

Senior quarterback steps up, leads Thomas Jefferson past Gateway in battle of top-ranked teams

September 3, 2021

Quarterback was considered a big question mark for Thomas Jefferson, so coach Bill Cherpak intended to give a couple of players snaps there.

Central Valley lineman Sean Fitzsimmons practices Aug. 9 in Center.

5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 1: Teams roll with covid cancellations

September 2, 2021

If high school football teams were hoping covid shutdowns were left behind in 2020, this week shows they’re not gone yet.

Central Catholic’s Donovan Hinish (left) and Matt Aulicino work out during practice on Aug. 10, 2021, in Oakland.

Upper St. Clair’s Aidan Besselman (4) battles Mateo Cepullio for a pass during practice on Aug. 11.

5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week Zero: On opening night, teams have options

August 26, 2021

“Week Zero” is back.

The Derry student section cheers at the start of a game against Mount Pleasant Friday, Sept.13, 2019, at Derry Area High School.

WPIAL football teams welcome return to traditional ‘Friday night lights’ atmosphere

In any other year, there might have been huge crowds at Sarge Alberts Stadium to witness one of the most dominant seasons in WPIAL football history.

2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties

August 25, 2021

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top safeties for the 2021 season.

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher throws during work outs Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020 at Laurel Highlands High school.

Aliquippa’s Chinua Solomon (4) celebrates his touchdown with Karl McBride during the 2019 WPIAL Class 3A championship game at Heinz Field.

WPIAL football finals to be played over 2 days at Heinz Field

August 23, 2021

For the first time, the WPIAL football championships will be a two-day event at Heinz Field this fall.

Aliquippa receiver Darion Dixon celebrates with head coach Mike Warfield after catching a touchdown pass during practice on Aug. 17, 2021, in Aliquippa.

Pine-Richland is a defending WPIAL and PIAA champion, but the Rams aren’t focused on last year. At this point, that undefeated season seems long ago.

Central Valley running back Landon Alexander works out during practice on Aug. 9, 2021, in Center.

2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs

August 18, 2021

Starting this week, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2021 season.

Gateway’s Brad Birch looks to throw during practice Friday, Aug. 13, 2021 at Gateway High School.

Gateway gladly wears bull’s-eye in WPIAL Class 5A

On paper, Gateway certainly has the look of a WPIAL contender.

Gateway’s Brad Birch throws during practice Friday, Aug. 13, 2021 at Gateway High School.

After state championship blockbuster, Central Valley working on encore

August 14, 2021

The big question facing Central Valley this fall is: How do you top last season?

Upper St. Clair head coach Mike Junko talks with his players during practice on Aug. 11, 2021, in Upper St. Clair.

Charters Valley’s Mariah Turnbull (32) dribbles the ball against Gateway’s Alexis Margolis (2) during their game on Jan. 18, 2021.

Chartiers Valley’s Marian Turnbull commits to Northeastern

August 10, 2021

The record-setting Chartiers Valley girls team now has five rising seniors all committed to play basketball in college with three headed to Division I schools.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) participates in the Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Wednesday June 2, 2021 at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)

Derry’s Justin Flack is tackled at the goal line by Aliquippa defenders during the 2018 WPIAL Class 3A championship game at Heinz Field.

The Wolvarena will host the Western Pa. vs. Everyone football showcase Aug. 27-28.

Week Zero football showcase returns to Wolvarena in August

July 1, 2021

Week Zero is back on the football schedule this fall, and with it returns the Western Pa. vs. Everyone football showcase hosted by Woodland Hills.

Butler’s Devin Carney smiles as he leaves the court after hitting the winning three-pointer in overtime of a WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal against Penn-Trafford on Friday, March 5, 2021, in Harrison City.

Butler basketball’s Devin Carney commits to Elon

One of college basketball’s stingiest defenses added some scoring power Thursday when Butler’s Devin Carney committed to Elon.

TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Patrick Body, Gateway

June 28, 2021

Moon lineman Trent Fraley commits to Marshall

June 27, 2021

Moon’s Trent Fraley, the son of a former NFL lineman, announced his commitment Sunday to Marshall.

New Castle pitcher Rocco Bernadina delivers during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game against Montour on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Wild Things Park.

WPIAL, PIAA champions among 2021 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars

Among the six teams crowned WPIAL baseball champions this spring, their individual stories varied greatly.

TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Brad Birch, Gateway

TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Landon Alexander, Central Valley

June 26, 2021

Mauro Monz oversees Carlynton practice in 2014.

Red Land’s Benny Montgomery (right) and Cooper Artley score in a 8-0 win over Manheim Central in the PIAA Class 5A baseball semifinals June 14, 2021.

Future 1st-round MLB Draft pick awaits Bethel Park in PIAA final vs. Red Land

June 16, 2021

At around 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Bethel Park pitcher Eric Chalus will take the mound for the PIAA Class 5A championship at Penn State’s Medlar Field and face Red Land’s leadoff hitter.

Seneca Valley head coach Ron Butschle works with the defense during workouts Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at Seneca Valley High School.

Serra Catholic girls basketball coach and athletic director Bill Cleary is retiring after the 2020-21 school year.

Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey speaks during the PIAA Playoff Equity Summit in 2018 in State College.

Tajier Thornton, Cyair Clark, Vernon Redd and Nate Lindsey, members of the Aliquippa 400-meter relay team, finished fifth at the PIAA Class AA championships May 28, 2021, at Shippensburg University.

The Aliquippa boys 400-meter relay placed third at the WPIAL track championships May 19 at Slippery Rock.

Pine Richland head coach Eric Kasperowicz reacts to a game closing first down against Governor Mifflin during the PIAA Class 5A semifinals Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, at Tiger Stadium in Hollidaysburg.

Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz apologizes to Pine-Richland administrators in letter

In a letter asking to be rehired, ousted football coach Eric Kasperowicz apologized to Pine-Richland’s school board and administration for his “attitude and behavior” during a contentious late-March interview.

Chartiers Valley’s Brayden Reynolds smiles after hitting a three-pointer against New Castle on Friday, Feb. 12, 2021, at New Castle High School.

4 WPIAL boys basketball players make Class 5A all-state team

April 30, 2021

Chartiers Valley senior Brayden Reynolds and Laurel Highlands sophomore Rodney Gallagher earned first-team honors when the Pa. Sports Writers All-State Team for Class 5A boys basketball was announced Friday.

Archbishop Wood’s Kyle Pitts scores over Gateway’s Brendan Majocha during the second quarter of the PIAA Class 5A state championship game Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, at Hersheypark Stadium.

North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch (left) celebrates with Paige Morningstar and Jasmin Timmerson after defeating Spring-Ford in the PIAA Class 6A state championship game on Friday, March 26, 2021, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Lizzy Groetsch, Aislin Malcolm among 20 WPIAL girls basketball players named all-state

North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm each added another statewide honor to their resumes.

All-state boys basketball teams revealed this week starting with non-PIAA schools

April 25, 2021

The all-state boys basketball teams will be announced over a seven-day span starting today with players from non-PIAA member schools. In years past, all-state organizers added those athletes to the PIAA classification teams but split them into their own group this winter.

The Ligonier Valley bench watches the action against Seton LaSalle on Friday, April 9, 2021.

Pine-Richland head coach Eric Kasperowicz talks with his team after defeating Manheim Township in a PIAA Class 6A state semifinal Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Butler’s Devin Carney drives past North Allegheny’s Greg Habib during their game on Monday, Feb. 22, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

Chartiers Valley’s Perri Page (11) celebrates with Helene Cowan (5) and Aislin Malcolm during their PIAA Class 5A quarterfinal against Warren on Saturday, March 20, 2021, at Chartiers Valley High School.

PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Cardinal O’Hara

PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship

The North Allegheny girls basketball team celebrates with the state championship trophy after defeating Spring-Ford in the PIAA Class 6A final on Friday, March 26, 2021, at Giant Center in Hershey.

North Allegheny girls celebrate 1st PIAA title, top Spring-Ford in state finals

March 26, 2021

HERSHEY — North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Paige Morningstar were together at Giant Center four years ago when the Tigers last reached the state finals, and they talked then about someday winning a title.

The OLSH boys basketball team celebrates in the locker room after defeating Constitution in the PIAA Class 2A state championship game on Friday, March 26, 2021, at Giant Center in Hershey.

OLSH joins elite list as undefeated PIAA boys basketball champion

HERSHEY — For Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, this was the perfect ending.

Beaver’s Antonio Petrella works out during the first day of spring practice on Monday, March 8, 2021, at Beaver Area High School.

PIAA favors full playoff brackets for spring sports ‘if possible’

March 24, 2021

If the PIAA gets its wish, spring sports will have full state playoff brackets this season rather than the smaller champions-only format used in the fall and winter.

Upper St. Clair’s Ethan Dahlem works against Reading’s Lonnie Walker IV during their PIAA Class 6A semifinal on Tuesday at Altoona Area High School.

Short-handed Upper St. Clair falls in state semifinals to Reading

March 23, 2021

ALTOONA — There was no short-handed win for Upper St. Clair this time, no sequel to the team’s six-man celebration from a few days ago.

Comparisons to older brother Nelly are harder to shake than any lockdown defender, and Lincoln Park freshman Brandin Cummings just added another item in common.

Dan DeRose makes ‘tough decision,’ resigns as North Allegheny boys basketball coach

March 17, 2021

Calling it “a very tough decision,” Dan DeRose resigned Wednesday night after one season as boys basketball coach at North Allegheny.

Upper St. Clair’s Luke Banbury celebrates with David Pantelis after defeating Butler in their WPIAL Class 6A semifinal on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, at Upper St. Clair High School.

Covid-19 concerns won’t keep Upper St. Clair boys out of PIAA basketball playoffs

Upper St. Clair’s boys basketball team has at least six healthy players, so the Panthers will compete Saturday in the PIAA playoffs as scheduled.

Lincoln Park’s Dakari Bradford (left) celebrates with LA Pratt and Daquan Bradford after defeating North Catholic in the WPIAL Class 4A championship game on Monday, March 15, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

Lincoln Park’s Dakari Bradford scores past Montour’s Isayah Moseley during their WPIAL Class 4A semifinal on Thursday, March 11, 2021, in Midland.

WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Lincoln Park

March 14, 2021

WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship

New Castle’s Sheldon Cox (right) celebrates with Isaiah Boice during the fourth quarter of the WPIAL Class 5A championship game against Chartiers Valley on Saturday, March 13, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

New Castle tops Chartiers Valley for record 14th WPIAL basketball title

March 13, 2021

New Castle’s Sheldon Cox wasn’t the senior who had everyone’s attention entering Saturday night. But by the time Cox threw down two dunks in the final seconds, all eyes were on him and his record-setting Red Hurricanes.

Chartiers Valley’s Socrates Boulis pressures New Castle’s Mike Wells during their game on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021, at Chartiers Valley High School.

WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. New Castle

WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship

Upper St. Clair’s Luke Gensler (22) celebrates with David Pantelis and John Sukernek after defeating Pine-Richland, 56-53, in the Class 6A final on Friday, March 12, 2021, at Peters Township High School.

Lincoln Park’s Dakari Bradford celebrates after being fouled while scoring during a WPIAL Class 4A semifinal against Montour on Thursday, March 11, 2021, in Midland.

Lincoln Park bests Midland’s streak with 6th consecutive WPIAL finals appearance

March 11, 2021

Blue and gold banners hang in Lincoln Park’s gym to celebrate the great Midland teams from past decades but the new-era Leopards just one-upped their old-school counterparts.

New Castle tops Laurel Highlands, reaches 7th WPIAL finals in 10 years

March 10, 2021

Six times in the past decade already, New Castle had reached the WPIAL finals behind a frenzied press defense that’s become a hallmark of the program.

Allerdice head coach Devin Crummie signals from the bench during a game on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, at Obama Academy in Pittsburgh.

Butler’s Devin Carney (2) celebrates with Madden Clement after hitting the winning three-pointer as time expired in overtime of their WPIAL Class 6A quarterfinal against Penn-Trafford on Friday, March 5, 2021, in Harrison City.

Latrobe’s Emma Blair pulls down a rebound in the final seconds next to Woodland Hills’ Peyton Pinkney (left) and Hope Hawkins on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Mt. Lebanon boys basketball coach Joe David testified in a WPIAL hearing Thursday that he was uncomfortable with one of the officials assigned to his game last week, but insisted he never threatened to take his team and leave.

Upper St. Clair’s Luke Gensler drives to the basket past Allderdice’s Tony Henderson during their PIAA Class 6A first round playoff game on Mar. 7, 2020, at Fox Chapel High School.

The Mars girls basketball team huddles in an empty gymnasium at the start of its game against North Catholic on Dec. 11, 2020.

WPIAL: Gyms must have capacity of 700 or greater to host basketball playoff games

February 22, 2021

Some top seeds in the WPIAL basketball playoffs could find themselves playing on their opponent’s home floor this winter.

Upper St. Clair’s Kate Robbins (42) celebrates with Molly James after scoring against Bethel Park during their game on Feb. 18, 2021, at Bethel Park High School.

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher celebrates after defeating Thomas Jefferson, 58-56, on Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, at Thomas Jefferson High School.

Rodney Gallagher’s winner lifts Laurel Highlands over Thomas Jefferson

February 19, 2021

Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher already has accomplished more than most sophomores, but the Mustangs star added two more firsts to his list.

Derry girls basketball coach Gene Brisbane and his team won’t enter the WPIAL playoffs.

25 basketball teams won’t participate in WPIAL’s open postseason tournament

February 18, 2021

Derry’s girls basketball team earned its way into the WPIAL playoffs last winter, but the one-win Trojans won’t go back this year.

Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer (4) celebrates with Harrison Hayes after his touchdown run during the second quarter of the WPIAL Class 5A championship game against Peters Twp. on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, at North Allegheny.

Chartiers Valley’s Brayden Reynolds celebrates a three-pointer next to New Castle’s Mike Wells during their game on Friday, Feb. 12, 2021, at New Castle High School.

Valley’s Justin Hooper and Burrell’s Alex Ariedge watch as referee John Skovran flips a coin before the start of their game Sept. 11, 2020 at Valley.

Montour’s Aden Saunders steals the ball from Central Valley’s Jayvin Thompson during their game on Friday, Jan. 29, 2021, at Central Valley High School.

No. 3 Montour builds 15-point lead, hangs on for victory over Central Valley

January 29, 2021

Isayah Mosley and his Montour teammates held their breath in the final seconds of a 40-38 victory Friday night as host Central Valley missed at the buzzer.

North Catholic’s Tara Lucot celebrates next to Mohawk’s Paige Julian during their game on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, in Cranberry.

The Big 33 Football Classic was canceled last spring but the game’s Super Bowl streak continues.

South Allegheny’s Omar Faulker dunks during a game at Ligonier Valley on Friday, Jan. 22, 2021.

New Castle’s Sheldon Cox drives to the basket past Chartiers Valley’s Anthony Mackey during their game on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021, at Chartiers Valley High School.

New Castle backs up No. 1 ranking with victory over No. 2 Chartiers Valley

January 19, 2021

New Castle joined a larger classification this winter but the results seem much the same.

Moon’s Reilly Sunday scores past Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm during their game on Jan. 9, 2020, at Moon Area High School.

Moon basketball’s Reilly Sunday commits to Duquesne

Moon point guard Reilly Sunday, who’s sidelined this basketball season with a knee injury, committed Tuesday to Duquesne.

Charters Valley’s Mariah Turnbull (32) dribbles the ball against Gateway’s Jayla Oliver (3) during their game Jan. 18, 2021.

63! Chartiers Valley girls break state basketball win streak record

January 18, 2021

Silver balloons hung in Chartiers Valley’s locker room after Monday’s girls basketball game, with some spelling out “yay!” and others “63.”

Hempfield’s Michael Hosni Penn Trafford’s Nick Crum Friday, Jan. 15, 2021 at Penn Trafford High School.

Clairton running back Dontae Sanders breaks into the clear against Jeannette Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 at McKee Stadium in Jeannette.

Thomas Jefferson’s Jake Pugh hoists the PIAA Class 4A championship trophy next to Jacob Krawczyk after defeating Jersey Shore, 21-14, in the state final on Saturday, Nov. 28, 2020, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Thomas Jefferson defends title, captures 5th PIAA football championship

November 28, 2020

HERSHEY — Style points aren’t important to Thomas Jefferson’s football team, or else the Jaguars coaching staff wouldn’t be wearing shorts in 40-degree weather.

Plum’s Max Matolcsy wraps up Thomas Jefferson’s Conner Murga in the WPIAL Class 4A semifinals Friday, Nov. 6, 2020.

PIAA Class 4A championship breakdown: Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore

Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore

Pine-Richland’s Harrison Hayes hoists the PIAA Class 5A championship trophy with Miguel Jackson (56) and Cole Schurman after the Rams defeated Cathedral Prep, 48-7, in the state final on Friday, Nov. 27, 2020, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem beats Governor Mifflin’s Greg Suber for a third-quarter touchdown during the PIAA Class 5A semifinal Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020 at Tiger Stadium in Hollidaysburg.

PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep

November 26, 2020

Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep

The Central Valley football team celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Elizabeth Forward, 35-0, in the Class 3A final on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020, at North Allegheny.

Sto-Rox’s Josh Jenkins eludes Western Beaver’s Deondre Robinson during their game on Friday, Oct. 16, 2020, at Sto-Rox.

WPIAL Class 2A football championship breakdown: Beaver Falls vs. Sto-Rox

November 12, 2020

WPIAL Class 2A football championship

Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley works out next to head coach Mark Lyons during practice on Aug. 12, 2020, in Center.

Masks, social distancing and empty bleachers, high school football in the Covid era, as Derrick Davis and the Gateway Gators prepare to defend their WPIAL Class 5A title.

Campus visit convinces Gateway’s Derrick Davis to pick LSU

November 7, 2020

Derrick Davis visited Louisiana around the age of 8 for a youth track meet. He finished 17th in the country in the 100-meter dash, an early glimpse of the athleticism that has made him a coveted college football recruit.

Central Catholic’s Bralen Henderson (81) hoists the WPIAL Class 6A championship trophy next to Jackson Farrell after defeating North Allegheny, 38-24, Friday, Nov. 6, 2020, at Martorelli Stadium.

WPIAL will start winter sports on time

November 4, 2020

With the first practices only weeks away, the WPIAL won’t make any changes to the winter sports schedule after receiving mixed feedback from schools.

Sto-Rox kicker Adam Devine kicks an extra point against Western Beaver on Oct. 16, 2020, at Sto-Rox High School.

5 things we learned in opening round of WPIAL football playoffs

October 31, 2020

Sto-Rox’s coach LaRoi Johnson has a bundle of 2-point plays he will call in any situation, but with Friday’s game on the line, he summoned his sophomore kicker.

The scoreboard at North Allegheny High School’s Wright Field at Newman Stadium features a video screen that replays game action.

North Allegheny, North Hills set to host WPIAL football finals

The WPIAL football finals are moving from the North Shore to the North Hills.

Central Catholic’s JD Younger (3), Donovan Hinish (51) and Bralen Henderson sack Mt. Lebanon quarterback Joey Daniels during the second quarter of their WPIAL Class 6A semifinal on Friday, Oct. 30, 2020, at Mt. Lebanon.

Players from Lancaster Catholic and Belle Vernon shake hands after a four-overtime PIAA Class 4A second-round playoff game March 10, 2020.

PIAA approves covid-19 guidelines for winter, remains ‘cautiously optimistic’

October 29, 2020

PIAA basketball teams should limit the number of individuals on their bench to maintain a social distance of six feet or more when possible.

Pay to play? PIAA board discusses fee for state playoff qualifiers

October 28, 2020

The PIAA might someday charge schools a fee to compete in the state playoffs, creating an alternate source of income as the coronavirus pandemic batters its budget.

Clairton gets fired up before playing Jeannette Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 at McKee Stadium in Jeannette.

PIAA gives teams home-field advantage in state playoffs

Some WPIAL teams will have a home-field advantage in the state playoffs.

Avonworth head coach Duke Johncour during work outs Friday, July 31, 2020 Avonworth High School.

WPIAL football committee’s choices leave ‘sour taste’ for some coaches

October 25, 2020

After Avonworth’s regular-season finale was canceled because of coronavirus concerns, football coach Duke Johncour told his players to start preparing for any number of playoff scenarios.

Keystone Oaks quarterback Logan Shrubb goes through drills during work outs Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2020 at Dormont Memorial Stadium.

Mt. Lebanon’s Joey Daniels (3) celebrates with kicker Casey Sorsdal after his extra point kick in overtime against Seneca Valley on Friday, Oct. 23, 2020, in Jackson. Lebo won, 28-27.

Mt. Lebanon tops Seneca Valley with blocked extra point in overtime

October 23, 2020

With its playoff hopes in jeopardy, Mt. Lebanon would’ve gone for two in overtime Friday night, sticking with coach Bob Palko’s win-or-go-home reputation.

Mt. Lebanon’s Joey Daniels (3) looks to pass the ball against Central Catholic during their game at Graham Field in Wilkinsburg on Friday, Oct. 9, 2020.

Chartiers Valley’s Isaac Minnetti-Houser celebrates with Jacob Adwar after Adwar scooped up a Blackhawk fumble Friday, Oct. 2, 2020 at Chartiers Valley High School.

Aliquippa, Chartiers Valley follow different routes to Parkway clash in Class 4A

October 8, 2020

Anthony Collura heard stories about the horse, the rider and the flaming spear that arrives at Aliquippa football games, but the Chartiers Valley senior wasn’t sure they were true.

Runners start their race during the WCCA cross country championships Oct. 12, 2017 at Westmoreland County Community College.

PIAA tweaks fall playoff brackets, cross country qualifiers for state championship

October 7, 2020

The PIAA made changes to its fall postseason plans Wednesday including a move that lets more WPIAL runners into the state cross country championships.

Shane Kemper of Burgettstown wrestles Bryce Enders of Halifax in the 152-pound bout at the PIAA state wrestling championship March 6, 2020 at the Giant Center in Hershey.

PIAA readies covid-19 guidelines for winter, intends to start seasons as scheduled

As fall sports approach the postseason, the PIAA is turning its attention to winter.

A limited number of spectators watch the Upper St. Clair football game against Pine-Richland on Friday, Sept. 18, 2020, at Upper St. Clair High School.

New attendance limits remove some stress for WPIAL schools

October 6, 2020

High school administrators across the PIAA were verifying the number of seats in their stadiums and gymnasiums Tuesday after Gov. Tom Wolf eased limits on gathering sizes.

Pine-Richland’s Luke Miller drops Penn Hills’ Cam Hopkins for a loss Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020 at Penn Hills High School.

4 WPIAL football teams maintain long conference streaks as Penn Hills’ ends

October 4, 2020

One of WPIAL football’s longest active conference winning streaks ended Saturday, leaving four double-digit streaks intact.

Chase Whatton (right), Spencer Ross (left) and the Elizabeth Forwatf defense have allowed six points this season.

Central Catholic’s Gannon Carothers celebrates his rushing touchdown as he scores against Seneca Valley on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, in Jackson.

Gannon Carothers’ versatility helps No. 2 Central Catholic defeat No. 3 Seneca Valley

October 2, 2020

Gannon Carothers’ coaches say the junior plays five positions for Central Catholic, a versatility that seemed invaluable Friday night.

Socially-distanced fans sit in the bleachers during a game between Riverview and Jeannette on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020, at Riverview.

Clairton football practices are shut down until next week over covid-19 concerns and Saturday’s game against Bishop Canevin was canceled, the school announced Wednesday night.

Chartiers Valley’s Jake Adwar works out during practice on Aug. 17, 2020, in Collier.

Gov. Tom Wolf followed through on his promise Monday and vetoed legislation that would have let school districts set their own attendance limits for sports.

Canon-McMillan’s Chris Davis pulls in a pass duing a preseason practice.

Upper St. Clair’s Jaden Keating picks up a first down through the Bethel Park defense during the first quarter of their game on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020, at Upper St. Clair.

5 things we learned from WPIAL Week 1: Smattering of fans an ‘eerie’ atmosphere

September 12, 2020

WPIAL football looked familiar, but it certainly sounded quieter than ever.

Clairton’s Isaiah Berry celebrates his first-quarter touchdown against Jeannette on Friday at McKee Stadium in Jeannette.

WPIAL football rankings for Week 1

WPIAL football

Upper St. Clair’s Jaden Keating scores during the first quarter against Bethel Park Friday, Sept. 11, 2020, at Upper St. Clair.

Fox Chapel’s David Shin (3) defends against North Allegheny’s Philip Iozzi (12) September 14, 2019 at North Allegheny.

Mars running back Teddy Ruffner carries the ball during practice on Aug. 20, 2020, in Adams.

PIAA rejects Thursday kickoff request for WPIAL football season

High school football season won’t start on a Thursday night.

Central Catholic’s Eddie Tillman catches a pass during practice on Wednesday, July 1, 2020, in Oakland.

Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald plays against Pine Richland Friday, Sept. 28, 2019 at Gesling Stadium.

Central Catholic football star, Pitt recruit Elliot Donald skipping senior season

August 30, 2020

The possibility he’d infect his granddad or any other family member with covid-19 was too much risk, said Central Catholic football star Elliot Donald, who decided to skip his senior season.

Shady Side Academy head coach Chuck DiNardo during work outs Monday, July 20, 2020 at Shady Side Academy.

Shady Side Academy delays football season until Week 3

August 28, 2020

Shady Side Academy won’t start football season until Week 3, a decision meant to limit potential exposure to coronavirus.

Uniontown reinstates football, soccer seasons after initially canceling fall contact sports

Football and soccer seasons were reinstated Friday at Uniontown.

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon goes through drills during workouts Thursday, Aug.20, 2020 at Peters Township High School.

Westinghouse celebrate its City League victory over University Prep on Oct. 26, 2019.

Clairton’s Dontae Sanders goes through drills during workouts this week.

PIAA set to make ‘biggest announcement’ regarding fall sports

August 20, 2020

The PIAA has been around for more than a century, and Friday’s decision surely ranks among its most debated.

Allegheny County Health Department offers to assist WPIAL with covid-19 restrictions

The WPIAL and Allegheny County Health Department will meet Friday to discuss plans for potentially playing high school sports this fall.

McKeesport teammates watch from the sideline during a game last season at Franklin Regional.

Health department restrictions could force Allegheny County football teams elsewhere

August 19, 2020

If there’s a high school football season this fall, teams from Allegheny County might play home games at stadiums in neighboring counties.

Quaker Valley warms up before a 2017 football game against Aliquippa.

The Shaler Area football team works out July 30.

State lawmakers question data used to recommend PIAA sports shutdown

August 17, 2020

Republican state lawmakers are questioning the specific data — or lack thereof — that Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration used to recommend shutting down youth sports this fall.

Westinghouse’s Tyrese Hicks brings down Brashear quarterback Sha’rron Steave during the second quarter of their City League game on Sept. 15, 2016, at Cupples Stadium.

Pittsburgh Public Schools plans to postpone fall sports in City League

August 6, 2020

Pittsburgh Public Schools announced plans Thursday to postpone fall sports in the City League, a move tied to the district’s decision to start classes exclusively online.

Greensburg Salem football player Jayden Stevens performs drills with teammates last month
at Offut Field in Greensburg. Just days before many seasons are slated to begin, Gov. Tom Wolf
on Thursday recommended postponing all high school sports until Jan. 1.

Gov. Wolf recommends high school sports be delayed until Jan. 1

With fall sports in the balance, will the PIAA treat Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation as a suggestion or a mandate?

Southmoreland student section cheers as their team takes the field against McGuffey on Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 at Southmoreland High School’s Russ Grim Field.

Uncertainty remains for spectators hoping to attend high school games

August 5, 2020

New covid-19 guidelines for spectators at high school sporting events weren’t released Wednesday as many school administrators, coaches and fans had hoped.

Former Pine-Richland quarterback Phil Jurkovec transferred from Notre Dame to Boston College in January.

Penn Hills’ Noel Roach (6) reacts after making an interception in the fourth quarter during a game against Mars on Sept. 13, 2019 at Penn Hills.

Winchester Thurston’s Langston Moses (21) goes up for a shot over OLSH’s Eric Olexa (5) during a Class 2A WPIAL semifinal game Feb. 25, 2020 at North Hills.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis is congratulated by Gateway fans after defeating McKeesport 14-7 in the WPIAL Class 5A football semifinal Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019 at Offutt Field in Greensburg.

Pitt, Penn State make the cut as Gateway’s Derrick Davis narrows his college options

July 12, 2020

Pitt and Penn State both made the cut Sunday as Gateway football star Derrick Davis narrowed his college recruiting options.

Avonworth’s Trevor Faulkner scores during the first quarter of the PIAA Class 2A state championship game against Southern Columbia Friday, Dec. 6, 2019, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Avonworth tight end Trevor Faulkner commits to Air Force Academy

Avonworth rising senior Trevor Faulkner, who had more than a dozen Division I offers, committed Sunday to Air Force.

Return-to-football workouts expose those ‘slacking’ when schools closed

Central Catholic’s campus was closed for three months, cutting off access to the football team’s weight room, but most players found ways to stay in shape.

Face mask ‘gray area,’ county restrictions cause schools to cancel workouts

July 2, 2020

Must high school athletes wear face masks during workouts?

Moon coach Adam Kaufman fist bumps Donovan Johnson as time winds down in their PIAA Class 5A semifinal victory over Mars on March 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

Shaler uses caution, sends football players home over covid-19 concerns

June 30, 2020

Choosing to take a cautious approach, Shaler coach Jim Ryan sent his football team home early from workouts Tuesday after learning a family friend of a player could have contracted covid-19.

West Allegheny baseball player Austin Hendrick

Report: West A’s Austin Hendrick signs $4 million contract with Cincinnati Reds

June 26, 2020

Former West Allegheny star Austin Hendrick signed with the Cincinnati Reds on Friday.

Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico resigns after 2 decades

Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico, who won a state title with the Big Macs, resigned this week after two decades with the team.

Sto Rox coach LaRoi Johnson leads practice Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, at Sto-Rox.

A WPIAL gold medal presented to the championship winners in Pennsylvania’s District 7 athletic events.

Woodland Hills football coach Tim Bostard checked every player’s temperature and nobody was allowed to shake hands.

Thomas Jefferson’s Dan Deabner shows off the WPIAL championship trophy to fans after defeating Belle Vernon in the Class 4A final Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

PIAA approves state football brackets; WPIAL can finalize its playoff plans

June 15, 2020

The PIAA approved state tournament brackets for all sports except basketball Monday, meaning the WPIAL soon can finalize plans for its football playoffs and championship games.

“Foul or vulgar language and physical contact with a game official, coach or athlete” is now punishable by a two-game PIAA suspension.

PIAA adopts 2-game suspension for unsportsmanlike actions including ‘racially insensitive comments’

The PIAA strengthened its stance against “ethnic and racially insensitive comments” by making those and other unsportsmanlike actions punishable with a two-game suspension.

Mark Black celebrates with Serra’s Alex Glumac (5) after hitting a home run June 11, 2019.

West Allegheny’s Nico Flati works out during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019.

Foul language, physical contact would earn 2-game suspension under PIAA proposal

May 21, 2020

The use of foul and vulgar language or physical contact with a PIAA game official, coach or opponent could become a two-game suspension for high school athletes and coaches.

Hempfield’s Isaiah Vance greets opponent Hunter Catch of Sun Valley for the heavyweight final match in class AAA in PIAA wrestling championship on Saturday, March 7, 2020 at the Giant Center in Hershey.

PIAA board refers wrestling weight-class reduction to medical committee

The PIAA board referred a proposal to reduce wrestling weight classes to the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for discussion.

Lincoln Park basketball coach Mike Bariski reacts to a foul during the WPIAL Class 3A semifinals Feb. 24, 2020, at North Allegheny High school.

National association issues detailed guide for reopening high school athletics

May 19, 2020

Players shouldn’t pass a basketball, hand off a football or share a baseball bat when high school sports workouts first resume, according to guidelines revealed Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

Dek hockey athleticism earns North Hills lineman 1st college football offer

May 17, 2020

At 6-foot-5 and around 230 pounds, North Hills’ Matt Hummel is bigger than most dek hockey players.

Upper St. Clair’s Luke Banbury (25) added a college offer from Air Force.

Air Force Academy football makes recruiting push into Western Pa.

Two military service academies have successfully recruited Western Pennsylvania football players for years. Combined, Army and Navy had seven former WPIAL athletes on their rosters last fall.

Pine-Richland’s Luke Miller (right) committed Saturday to Kent State.

Pine-Richland’s Luke Miller wastes no time making commitment to Kent State

May 16, 2020

Pine-Richland junior Luke Miller didn’t need long to decide.

Thomas Jefferson’s Preston Zandier (2) prepares to take the field with his teammates at the start of the PIAA Class 4A state championship game against Dallas Thursday, Dec. 5, 2019, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Serra Catholic coach Justin Walther calls for a travel call at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Justin Walther resigns at Serra Catholic, seeks big-school basketball job

If you’re a big-school athletic director, Justin Walther would like to talk.

Cornell boys basketball coach Bill Sacco looks on during the WPIAL Class A championship game on Feb. 27, 2020, at Petersen Events Center.

Basketball coach Bill Sacco retires after 18 seasons at Cornell

May 7, 2020

Bill Sacco had already retired from teaching and coaching when he noticed Cornell was hiring a boys basketball coach and decided to apply.

A WPIAL gold medal presented to the championship winners in PIAA District 7.

Baldwin’s boys basketball team hasn’t won a WPIAL playoff game since 2003. The Highlanders reached the postseason only four times in the 17 years since, with four first-round losses.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington and Riverview’s Sydney McDonough fight for a loose ball Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018 at Walter Dlubak Athletic Center.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington commits to Boston University

May 3, 2020

There’s a third Division I basketball player in the Washington household.

OLSH junior Dante Spadafora and sophomore Jake DiMichele earned first-team all-state honors Tuesday, and the Chargers’ Mike Rodriguez was named the state’s top coach in Class 2A.

PIAA shouldn’t enforce competitive-balance rule, Lincoln Park basketball coach says

April 27, 2020

If the PIAA competitive-balance rule forces the Lincoln Park boys basketball team into a higher classification next season, coach Mike Bariski thinks that’s unfair.

Cornell’s Kaden DiVito looks to pass against Saltsburg during a PIAA Class A first-round game Friday, March 6, 2020, at Kiski.

All-state boys basketball: Cornell’s Kaden DiVito named Player of the Year in Class A

Cornell’s Kaden DiVito, who saw his senior season cut short two wins away from the PIAA finals, earned statewide recognition Monday as the Class A boys basketball player of the year.

Moon sophomore Reilly Sunday adds 5 Division I offers since late March

April 26, 2020

Social distancing hasn’t kept basketball scholarship offers away from Moon’s Reilly Sunday.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington takes a foul shot during a game against Keystone Oaks on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Quaker Valley.

Butler’s Raine Gratzmiller celebrates as time expires in a PIAA Class 6A second round state playoff game against Upper St. Clair Wednesday, March 11, 2020, at UPMC Events Center in Moon.

‘Most spectators’ barred from Ohio high school events over coronavirus concerns; Conn. cancels tournaments

March 10, 2020

Facing concerns about coronavirus, state high school associations across the country are deciding whether to alter their postseason plans.

Butler’s Mattix Clement scores against Upper St. Clair’s Ethan Dahlem (3) and Luke Gensler during their WPIAL Class 6A semifinal Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020, at Robert Morris University.

PIAA moves Butler-Upper St. Clair boys basketball game to Robert Morris

The PIAA has relocated the boys basketball playoff game between Butler and Upper St. Clair to Robert Morris’s UPMC Events Center.

Swimmers compete in the boys 100 backstroke during the 2020 AA WPIAL Swimming and Diving Championship at Trees Pool on Friday, Feb. 28, 2020.

PIAA says skip handshakes, but championships still on schedule despite coronavirus concerns

March 9, 2020

Elbow bumps could replace handshakes.

Shaler Area’s Cam Mbalo competes in the boys Class AAA triple jump during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder drives to the basket against Penns Valley’s Zach Braucht during their PIAA Class 3A first round playoff game Saturday, Mar. 7, 2020, at Fox Chapel High School.

Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder delays knee surgery with PIAA 1st-round win

March 7, 2020

Andre Wilder is trying to postpone knee surgery one win at a time.

Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer hugs Josh Russell during the fourth quarter of their PIAA Class 6A first round playoff game against Allderdice Saturday, Mar. 7, 2020, at Fox Chapel High School.

New Castle’s Sheldon Cox (11) pulls down a rebound against Mt. Pleasant during a WPIAL Class 4A first-round game Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2020, at North Allegheny High School.

Burrell gymnastics coach Renee Ruggeri applauds her team during a meet Jan. 23, 2020 at Jewarts Gymnastics.

WPIAL approves section alignments for winter sports, basketball must wait

February 18, 2020

The WPIAL released updated sections for some winter sports, but basketball won’t be ready for awhile.

Knoch’s Sammy Jo Barnes (right) runs at the front of the pack during the WPIAL Class AA championship race Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, at California University.

Peters Twp.’s Donovan McMillon blocks a punt by Bethel Park’s Austin Cortopassi during the first quarter Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon announces Penn State offer

February 16, 2020

Add Penn State’s James Franklin to the growing list of college football coaches hoping to recruit Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon.

North Allegheny coach Art Walker congratulates Khalil Dinkins after his touchdown against Seneca Valley Friday, Sept. 27, 2019, at Nextier Stadium in Jackson.

North Allegheny junior Khalil Dinkins adds Penn State offer

The college options for North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins jumped significantly this month with scholarship offers from Penn State and Michigan.

Basketball official Tyler Scott prepares to referee a game on Jan. 7, 2020, at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Dwindling number of high school officials part of troubling nationwide trend

February 15, 2020

As a high school basketball official in his early 20s, Joe Strednak wasn’t much older than the athletes on the court. Occasionally, someone would test his poise as the youngest ref on his crew.

North Catholic’s Cassie Foster drives past Freeport’s Samantha Clark during their game Monday, Jan. 27, 2020, at Freeport Middle School.

Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020

February 8, 2020

WPIAL rankings

Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020

WPIAL rankings

Gateway running back Derrick Davis avoids Mt. Lebanon’s Sam Rolfsen on the way to a first-quarter touchdown Friday, Aug. 23, 2019 at Antimarino Stadium at Gateway High School.

Western Pa.’s top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2021

February 5, 2020

If you wanted to spot some of the top college football coaches in the country, there was no need to fly to Clemson, S.C., or Ann Arbor, Mich.

Gateway’s Tui Faumuina-Brown charges into the end zone for a touchdown against Franklin Regional during WPIAL football on Friday night, Oct. 4, 2019 at Gateway Senior High School in Monroeville.

Aliquippa’s Vernon Redd is upended next to Central Valley’s Reed FitzSimmons during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

WPIAL releases football schedules for 2020 season

January 30, 2020

The loudest complaints from WPIAL football teams were about travel and blowouts.

Central Valley’s Stephon Hall (25) celebrates his mercy-inducing touchdown with quarterback Ameer Dudley during the second quarter against Aliquippa Friday, Oct. 25, 2019, at The Pit in Aliquippa.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Chase Winovich carries for a first down past West Mifflin’s Tyler Bornak during the third quarter Friday, Oct. 25, 2013, at West Mifflin.

2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Defense

January 3, 2020

When the NFL playoffs arrive this weekend, three WPIAL defensive stars from the past decade will be in uniform, a testament to the football talent Western Pennsylvania produces.

Butler head coach Eric Christy talks with Cooper Baxter (left) and Dylan Fediaczko during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2019.

Struggling Butler football program leaving WPIAL for independent schedule

Worried that years of losing will force its program to someday fold, Butler decided it won’t play WPIAL football next season and instead will put together an independent schedule.

Clairton’s Tyler Boyd scores against Southern Columbia during the fourth quarter of the PIAA Class A state championship game Friday December 16, 2011 at Hersheypark Stadium.

2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Offense

January 2, 2020

The 2010s were a record-setting decade for WPIAL football teams, with career, single-season and single-game record books rewritten more than once.

West Greene’s Ben Jackson (34) stiff arms California’s Colton Lusk (20) on Oct. 4, 2019, at West Greene.

Butler’s Ethan Morton scores over North Allegheny’s Greg Habib during their game Friday. Butler tops the Trib’s boys Class 6A rankings.

Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019

December 21, 2019

WPIAL rankings

Mt. Lebanon’s Morgan Palmer drives past Bethel Park’s Madie Dziezgowski during their game Thursday. Bethel Park is No. 1 and Mt. Lebanon No. 5 in the Trib’s girls basketball rankings.

Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team asked to leave the WPIAL and join District 10, but that request was denied by the WPIAL board Monday.

Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani follows high school connections to Albany

December 15, 2019

Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani will play college football for a coach who knows his high school very well.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis named TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year

With nearly 30 college scholarship offers, Gateway’s Derrick Davis admits he’s had to look back through his Twitter timeline just to remember them all.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Shane Stump (4) celebrates his third touchdown during the PIAA Class 4A state championship game against Dallas Thursday, Dec. 5, 2019, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Pine-Richland’s Anthony Taormina (83) and Jim Fawcett (52) react after the Rams lost 39-38 to Manheim Central in overtime of the 2003 PIAA Class AAA title game at Hersheypark Stadium.

PCN will re-air Pine-Richland’s snowy 2003 PIAA football final

December 12, 2019

The images are among the most iconic in PIAA football championship history.

WPIAL survey results: Schools favor 6 playoff brackets, mixed on realignment approach

The WPIAL’s football survey produced mixed results on some topics, but a clear majority of schools want to keep six separate playoff brackets.

Aliquippa’s Chinua Solomon (4) celebrates his touchdown with Karl McBride during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game against Central Valley Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

PIAA could force Aliquippa football to Class 4A under competitive-balance rule

December 11, 2019

Add Aliquippa to the list of football teams that might be forced into a higher classification next season.

Charles “Ace” Heberling, who directed the WPIAL for more than two decades and is credited with making the league what it is today, died Monday.

Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis (11) catches a pass for a touchdown during their game against South Fayette on Friday, Aug. 23, 2019.

WPIAL leading receiver David Pantelis announces offer from Duquesne

December 8, 2019

As the WPIAL’s leading receiver, Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis earned the attention of WPIAL defensive coordinators all across Class 5A.

Wyoming Area quarterback Dom DeLuca (9) celebrates with Nasir Condry (52) after scoring the winning touchdown against Central Valley in the final minute of the PIAA Class 3A state championship game Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Wyoming Area’s late rally stuns Central Valley in PIAA championship

December 7, 2019

HERSHEY — Momentum might be a myth to some, but Central Valley believes in it wholeheartedly.

Southern Columbia’s Cal Haladay returns an interception for a touchdown past Avonworth’s Theodore Newhouse-Godine during the PIAA Class 2A championship game Friday.

West Mifflin’s Ni-Keese Hodges-Demery grabs the ball in front of Belle Vernon’s Nolan Labuda (left) and Ian Maloney on Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, at Belle Vernon.

WPIAL bans West Mifflin from 2020 football playoffs for using ineligible player

November 25, 2019

The West Mifflin football team used an ineligible player all season, so the Titans are banned from the postseason next year, the WPIAL decided Monday.

Gateway wins field-position battle with Peters Township for 7th WPIAL title

November 23, 2019

Gateway didn’t score a point in the final 20 minutes Saturday night, but ultimately they didn’t need any.

Peters Twp.’s Josh Casilli celebrates as he returns a kickoff for a touchdown past Bethel Park defenders during the second quarter Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Gateway, Peters Township big-play offenses will test 5A’s stingiest defenses

Gateway’s Derrick Davis can take a screen pass to the end zone at any time, and Peters Township’s Josh Casilli is just as dangerous with the football in his hands.

Thomas Jefferson defenders upend Cathedral Prep’s Tamar Sample during PIAA 4A quarterfinals Friday, Nov. 22, 2019 at Martorelli Stadium.

Central Catholic’s Matt Altsman celebrates with the student section after beating Pine Richland in the 6-A WPAIL Championship game Saturday, Nov. 17, 2019 at Heinz Field.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe cuts back on the Apollo-Ridge defense on the way to a touchdown Friday, Sept. 20, 2019 at Avonworth High School.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe seeks court injunction to play in WPIAL Class 2A football final

November 20, 2019

Turned away by both the WPIAL and PIAA, Avonworth senior Kyros Thorpe is taking his eligibility battle to court.

Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield shoots over OLSH’s Dante Spadafora during their game Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School.

Central Catholic’s Jonathan Opalko watches as his game-winning 40-yard field goal goes through the uprights against Pine-Richland during the WPIAL Class 6A championship game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak reacts during a WPIAL Class 4A playoff game against Montour.

Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson leads PTFCA all-state cross country team

November 10, 2019

Two-time state cross country champion Patrick Anderson was named as the sport’s male athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

Southmoreland’s Colt Harper dodges a McGuffey defenders to bring the ball down on Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 in WPIAL football at Southmoreland High School’s Russ Grim Field.

The WPIAL football playoffs often bring together unfamiliar teams, so their coaches spend hours studying one another on film.

North Hills and Upper St. Clair haven’t played one another in nearly a decade, but a first-round matchup has stirred some nostalgia.

North Hills’ Dylan Pawling dives for extra yardage against Mars on Oct. 4, 2019 at Martorelli Stadium.

Cornell’s Savon Wilson works out next to head coach Ed Dawson during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019, in Coraopolis.

Peters Township’s Josh Casilli celebrates with Corban Hondru after Hondru’s touchdown against Woodland Hills Friday, Sept. 6, 2019 at the Wolvarena.

Sto-Rox quarterback Eric Wilson throws a pass during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019 in McKees Rocks.

Jeannette quarterback James Sanders (12) looks downfield for wide receiver Brett Birch as Greensburg Central Catholic’s Paul Rice (5) defends on Friday, Oct. 11, 2019 in Carbon.
Jeannette quarterback James Sanders and the Jayhawks are ranked No. 1 in the WPIAL Class A.

Moon quarterback Dante Clay carries for a first down past Upper St. Clair defenders during the first quarter Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, in Moon.

No ‘doormat’: Moon tied for 1st after defeating Upper St. Clair

October 11, 2019

Doormats? Hardly.

Upper St. Clair’s David Pantellis works out on Monday, Aug. 12, 2019.

Moon faces another top wideout in Allegheny 8 clash with Upper St. Clair

October 10, 2019

For the second week in a row, Moon faces a big-play offense with one of the WPIAL’s top wide receivers.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ben LaCarte (4) faces off with Clairton’s Wayne Wade III (3) after catching a pass on Sept. 6, 2019, at GCC.

WPIAL Football

Thomas Jefferson’s Logan Danielson sacks Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley during the second quarter of their game Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, in Center.

Thomas Jefferson slows Central Valley’s big-play offense in nonconference clash

October 4, 2019

Central Valley has the type of athlete-heavy spread offense that’s caused Thomas Jefferson trouble in recent years.

Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes and Johnnie Bryant celebrate with the championship trophy after defeating Trinity, 73-72, to win the PIAA Class 3A boys state final Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

PIAA tightens competitive balance formula for football, basketball transfers

Adding one transfer could force a basketball team into a higher PIAA classification.

Central Catholic’s Eddy Tillman brushes off Pine-Richland would-be tacklers Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 at CMU.

WPIAL Football

North Allegheny’s Percise Colon pulls away from the Mt. Lebanon defense en route to a first quarter touchdown Friday, Sept. 20, 2019, in McCandless.

North Allegheny’s Percise Colon draws big comparisons after victory over Mt. Lebanon

September 20, 2019

Art Walker has a small-but-sensational running back who’s undersized and maybe underestimated, but one that could lead the team to a championship.

WPIAL sets hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address racial, anti-gay slurs

Representatives from Connellsville and Allderdice will meet next week to address allegations that the schools’ boys soccer teams used racial and anti-gay slurs.

Mt. Lebanon’s Evan Jones evades Gateway’s Jay Johnson Friday, Aug. 23, 2019 at Antimarino Stadium at Gateway High School.

Franklin Regional head coach Greg Botta participates in the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7on7 tournament on Thursday July 18, 2019 at Latrobe High School.

WPIAL wants 2 football coaches suspended for violating heat acclimatization rules

September 17, 2019

The WPIAL wants two football coaches suspended for a scrimmage next season for violating preseason heat acclimatization rules.

Seton LaSalle football player among 2 ruled eligible after WPIAL hearings

The WPIAL ruled Seton LaSalle transfer Tyler Buzalka eligible for football season following a hearing Monday in Green Tree.

WPIAL calls in Connellsville, Allderdice after more racial slur allegations

September 16, 2019

The WPIAL is calling in Connellsville administrators for the second time in two years to face allegations that the school’s boys soccer team targeted an opponent with racial slurs.

Upper St. Clair quarterback Ethan Dahlem works out during practice on Monday, Aug. 12, 2019.

Penn Hills’ Noel Roach (6) reacts after making an interception in the fourth quarter against Mars on Friday, Sept. 13, 2019 at Penn Hills.

No. 4 Penn Hills forces 6 turnovers in 14-7 victory over Mars

September 13, 2019

The halftime adjustment for Penn Hills’ defensive line seemed almost counter-intuitive: Try not to rush into the backfield too quickly.

Quarterback Park Penrod is among nine Avonworth players who’ll each honor a military member in the second annual Gold Star Game in New Brighton.

5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football: Sept. 13-14

September 12, 2019

If Avonworth quarterback Park Penrod throws a touchdown or scrambles for a first down, his name won’t echo through the stadium Friday night.

Mars coach Scott Heinauer argues with a referee when Mars hosted Penn Hills, Friday, Sept. 14, 2018.

WPIAL football rankings

South Fayette’s Joey Audia dives over the pylon to score past New Castle’s Donny Cade Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, at South Fayette High School.

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada throws 5 touchdowns in win over New Castle

September 6, 2019

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada tossed five touchdown passes in Friday night’s 37-21 victory, but those throws weren’t the only ones that left New Castle coach Joe Cowart impressed.

Washington lineman Chase Mitchell commits to FBS newcomer Liberty

The WPIAL added another Division I lineman to the 2020 recruiting class Thursday when Washington’s Chase Mitchell committed to Liberty.

South Fayette’s Charley Rossi (1) rushes the ball during their game against Upper St. Clair on Friday, Aug. 23, 2019.

Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe seeks postseason eligibility

September 2, 2019

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe has made an immediate impact since transferring from Central Catholic, but it’s unknown whether he’ll be eligible for the football playoffs.

Freedom’s Jayden Sharpless moves the ball upfield during a game against South Side Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, at Freedom.

WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for soccer star Jayden Sharpless

North Catholic transfer Jayden Sharpless, the top WPIAL girls soccer player last season, will learn this week whether she can play this fall.

Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald - Trib HSSN preseason Kennywood Top 25 football team

Steel Valley’s Eshawn Carter gets past Wilmington Area’s Colton Richards during the 2A PIAA semifinal Friday, Nov. 30, 2018 at Ambridge High School.

Belle Vernon’s Cameron Guess returns for the 2019 season.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers

August 21, 2019

Sharing your field with a good soccer team can sometimes be a boost for football programs across the WPIAL.

Penn Hills coach Jon LeDonne is suspended for Friday’s season opener against Penn Hills.

Even without LeDonne in attendance, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland excited for clash of champions

Jon LeDonne won’t take a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains or listen to some Smokey Robinson on his free Friday night.

Blackhawk’s Marques Watson-Trent (23) rushes the ball during the Blackhawk’s 21-0 loss against South Fayette on Friday, Sept. 28, 2018.

WPIAL position by position breakdown: Scouting the safeties

August 20, 2019

Versatile safeties are crucial in today’s WPIAL.

Tribune-Review
Virginia recruit Josh Rawlings caught four touchdown passes last season for Woodland Hills.

Peters Township’s Josh Casilli runs the ball when Peters Township faced off against West Toronto Prep at Wolvarena, Friday, August 24, 2018.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis stiff-arms West Allegheny’s Ian McBain en route to a third quarter touchdown during their WPIAL Class 5A semifinal Friday, Nov. 16, 2018, at West Mifflin.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs

August 13, 2019

High school football has become a pass-oriented game, but that doesn’t mean teams across Western Pennsylvania have abandoned running the football.

Clairton, McGuffey schedule Week 1 football game

July 29, 2019

Left idle by forfeits, McGuffey and Clairton will have Week 1 football games after all.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher - Trib HSSN preseason Kennywood Top 25 football team

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher sets commitment date

July 28, 2019

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher hasn’t picked his college but the star linebacker did set a commitment date.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis eludes Franklin Regional’s Justin Johns during the second quarter Friday, Oct. 5, 2018, in Murrysville.

Peters Township’s Josh Casilli committed Thursday to Penn, choosing an Ivy League path that was wildly successful for another WPIAL wide receiver just a few years ago.

The TribLive HSSN Preseason All-Star football team is introduced Tuesday at Kennywood Park.

QB Eric Wilson wants to help revive Sto-Rox tradition he grew up on

July 21, 2019

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski scores past Central Valley’ Allyson Kirby during the 4A girls WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski adds 2 more Division I offers

July 20, 2019

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, now in the heart of AAU basketball season, added two more college offers.

Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton competes in a 110 meter hurdles preliminary race next to Brentwood’s John Milcic during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys outdoor track season

July 18, 2019

Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton became the most talked about track star in the WPIAL this spring, a situation neither he nor his father could have imagined.

Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo scores over Penn-Trafford’s Bella Long during their WPIAL Class 5A first round playoff game Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

Shady Side Academy’s Melissa Riggins win the girls AA 1600m during the WPIAL Track and Field Championships at Slippery Rock University.

Monessen’s Devin Whitlock celebrates as time expires in a PIAA Class A second round state playoff game against Bishop Carroll Tuesday, Mar. 12, 2019, at Greensburg Salem High School.

WPIAL declares two-sport Belle Vernon transfer Devin Whitlock eligible

July 15, 2019

Belle Vernon sophomore Devin Whitlock, a two-sport standout who transferred from Monessen, is eligible to play football and basketball this upcoming school year.

Woodland Hills’ Keandre Bowles shoots over Gateway’s R.J. Stevenson during their game Friday, Dec. 14, 2018, at Woodland Hills.

North Allegheny’s Jared Orwell (center) celebrates with Ryan Dougherty (6) and J.T. Montross after driving in a run against Pine-Richland in a PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal Thursday, June 6, 2019, at La Roche University.

PIAA baseball committee wants games added to regular season

July 13, 2019

Pennsylvania high school baseball teams could play a few more regular-season games next season, if the PIAA baseball steering committee gets its wish.

Mars celebrates after Andrew Recchia hit the game winner to beat Moon during the 5A boys WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

While awaiting PIAA eligibility hearing, West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson giving 100 percent effort

July 11, 2019

Like famous uncle, Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald seems poised for ‘great things’

July 6, 2019

Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy eludes Manheim Central defenders on an 83-yard kickoff return for a touchdown during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Looking back at the top 15 high school sports stories of the 2018-19 school year

June 29, 2019

8.6.18

Mars’ Bella Pelaia scores past Franklin Regional’s Jordan Yaniga during their game Monday, Jan. 28, 2019, at Franklin Regional High School.

Mars basketball’s Bella Pelaia commits to Mount St. Mary’s

June 28, 2019

For the third time in three years, the Mars girls basketball team has a Division 1 recruit.

Blackhawk pitcher Brendan McKay delivers to the plate against Montour at Chippewa Park.

Ex-Blackhawk baseball star Brendan McKay making major league debut

As the Trib’s player of the year in 2014, Blackhawk’s Brendan McKay was asked to predict where he saw himself in five years.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty tries to tackle Seneca Valley’s Jake Mineweaser on Friday, Nov. 2, 2018 at Fox Chapel High School.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty grows along with expectations

June 27, 2019

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens leaving Southern Cal after stellar freshman year

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens, who earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year track honors this spring, announced Wednesday that he’s transferring from Southern Cal.

North Allegheny lineman Jake Lugg chooses Ivy League football

June 26, 2019

The Ivy League added a top WPIAL lineman for the second time in two days when North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg committed Wednesday to Harvard.

Thomas Jefferson’s Mac Duda (72) and Darius Barrett (50) line up against Belle Vernon on Sept. 7, 2018, at Belle Vernon.

The WPIAL baseball playoffs were as unpredictable as ever this season with only one top-seeded team winning a title.

Steel Valley’s Nahki Johnson celebrates with Eshawn Carter after Carter’s return for a touchdown against Wilmington Area during the 2A PIAA semifinal Friday, Nov. 30, 2018 at Ambridge High School.

West Mifflin standout Nahki Johnson among 2 ruled ineligible by WPIAL

June 20, 2019

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson and Gateway’s Diego Bledsoe played football together last season at Steel Valley before each transferred elsewhere.

Central Catholic’s Kenneth Blake gets the corner onNorth Allegheny Friday, Sept. 7, 2018 at Newman Stadium at Wright Field.

The WPIAL denied Donovan Johnson’s waiver request Monday, leaving the Moon basketball star ineligible for his senior season.

Mars’ Michael Carmody, WPIAL’s top-ranked football recruit, commits to Notre Dame

June 16, 2019

Almost two years to the day that Robby Carmody committed to Notre Dame basketball, his younger brother Michael committed Sunday to play football for the Fighting Irish.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Tom Voelker scores against Homer-Center during a PIAA Class A quarterfinal Thursday, June 7, 2018, at North Allegheny. New legislation could have public and private schools playing in different playoff brackets.

Devon Prep avoids Serra star Mark Black in 7th, dashes Eagles’ PIAA title hopes

June 14, 2019

UNIVERSITY PARK — Devon Prep challenged Serra Catholic star Mark Black three times Friday, but with two outs in the seventh and first base open, there was no reason to take that chance again.

Beaver senior Zach Hansen walks from the field as Selinsgrove players celebrate after the final out of the Bobcats’ 7-4 loss in the PIAA Class 4A state championship game Friday, June 14, 2019, at Penn State University.

‘Nightmarish’ inning costs Beaver in PIAA championship loss to Selinsgrove

UNIVERSITY PARK — This season was mostly a dream come true until the fifth inning Friday, which felt quite the opposite.

Elizabeth Forward shortstop Anna Resnik loses the ball as West Perry’s Tiara Johnson slides into second base in the bottom of the seventh inning of the PIAA Class 4A state championship game Thursday, June 13, 2019, at Penn State University.

Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield drives between Serra Catholic’s Jayden Bristol (left) and Chris Salemi in the WPIAL Class 2A semifinals Feb. 26, 2019, at Peters Township.

Baseball semifinal sites, times: WPIAL Class 2A finalists rematch at West Mifflin

June 7, 2019

Twelve days after Seton LaSalle defeated Serra Catholic in the WPIAL championship, the section rivals will rematch in the state semifinals.

Hempfield pitcher Callie Sowers celebrates after the final out of a PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal against McDowell Thursday, June 6, 2019, at North Allegheny High School.

Softball semifinal sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams 1 victory away from PIAA finals

Hempfield is one win away from its fourth consecutive appearance in the state softball championships.

Pine-Richland’s Matt Schietroma (7) hoists the championship trophy with his teammates after defeating Penn-Trafford in the WPIAL Class 6A final Thursday, May 30, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title

May 30, 2019

With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.

Steel Valley’s Nick Harhai sprays water on Joe Kraft, after Kraft scored the winning run during the eighth inning against Hopewell in the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

Steel Valley captures 2nd WPIAL baseball title with comeback victory over Hopewell

May 28, 2019

Steel Valley has a knack for championship comebacks.

Aliquippa’s MJ Devonshire splits Sharon’s Trey Jones and Ty Eilam on the way to a touchdown during the Class 3A PIAA semifinal Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018 at Milhalik-Thompson .

The Burrell girls 4x100 relay team (from left) Jocelyn Vickers, Allee Kuhns, Madi Walsh and Olivia Kelly talk about their race after winning the Class AA final during the PIAA track and field state championships Saturday, May 25, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Beaver’s Emma Pavelek clears the bar in the girls Class AA high jump competition during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Avonwoth-Northgate’s Hayden Robinson wins the girls AAA 100m during the WPIAL Track and Field Championships at Slippery Rock University.

WPIAL sprint champion Hayden Robinson among favorites for PIAA gold

May 23, 2019

Hayden Robinson has one goal for her final trip to Shippensburg.

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green works out Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2018, at the high school.

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green includes Pitt among Top 5 schools

May 18, 2019

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green, who ranked among the WPIAL’s top college recruits before transferring out of state, announced a Top 5 list Friday that included Pitt and four Big Ten schools.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty narrows lengthy offers list to 7 favorites

May 17, 2019

Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty, who leads WPIAL football recruits with more than 40 combined FBS and FCS offers, narrowed his lengthy list Friday.

Baldwin’s Brendan O’Malley celebrates winning the boys Class AAA 200 meters during the WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock University.

Baldwin’s Brendan O’Malley earns bragging rights by winning 3 WPIAL gold medals

Brendan O’Malley’s twin brother Bailey won WPIAL gold last season and defended his shot put title again Thursday.

PIAA overturns WPIAL, Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton can defend hurdles title

May 15, 2019

A clerical error will not prevent Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton from defending his WPIAL title in the 110-meter hurdles, the PIAA decided Wednesday.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson scores over Archbishop Wood’s Daeshon Shepherd during the PIAA Class 5A boys state championship game Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Moon basketball’s Donovan Johnson receives North Carolina scholarship offer

May 14, 2019

Hours after earning all-state player of the year honors, Moon’s Donovan Johnson received a scholarship offer from North Carolina.

Moon coach Adam Kaufman fist bumps Donovan Johnson as time winds down in their PIAA Class 5A semifinal victory over Mars Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson leads all-state basketball selections as Pa. Player of the Year in Class 5A

Moon’s Donovan Johnson was named as the state’s Class 5A boys basketball player of the year Tuesday and Adam Kaufman was named coach of the year after leading the Tigers to a PIAA title in March.

Northgate coach T.J. Wiley talks with his team during heat acclimation drills.

Bishop Canevin hires football coach T.J. Wiley

May 8, 2019

Former Northgate, Deer Lakes and Penn-Trafford football coach T.J. Wiley is headed to Bishop Canevin.

3rd WPIAL baseball team forfeits after violating pitch-count rule

May 7, 2019

Two weeks after defeating section-leading Hopewell, Beaver Falls gave the victory back.

Butler’s Ethan Morton (25) celebrates a 40 point night with an upset of No. 1 seeded Pine-Richland during boys 6A semifinal WPIAL action Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at Fox Chapel Area School.

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton will make his college decision this week

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton holds nearly two dozen scholarship offers, having added one after another since Cleveland State gave him his first three summers ago.

Central Valley’ North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski scores past Central Valley’ Allyson Kirby during the 4A girls WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

North Catholic basketball teammates add offers just before recruiting shutdown

May 6, 2019

A week-long recruiting shutdown starts Monday for NCAA women’s basketball coaches, but North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski each pulled in an offer just before the deadline.

Quaker Valley’s Ryan Stowers drives between New Castle’s Donte Burnett (left) and Demetris McKnight during their game Friday, Jan. 4, 2019, at New Castle High School.

PBC Roundball welcomes several elite players for pair of games Saturday

April 26, 2019

The public address announcer gave Moses Malone a Roundball Classic introduction of Biblical proportions.

Moon Area’s Donovan Johnson steals the ball from Penn Hill’s Dorian Boyce during semifinal WPIAL action Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at North Hills High School.

Senior season in question for Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson

April 23, 2019

Moon junior Donovan Johnson won a state basketball title this winter as one of the best players in the WPIAL, but his eligibility for next season is in question.

Woodland Hills TE Josh Rawlings names Pitt among his ‘Elite 8’

April 21, 2019

Woodland Hills junior Josh Rawlings, a football recruit with more than two dozen offers, announced Sunday a Top 8 list of favorites that included Pitt.

Butler’s Ethan Morton draws recognition from USA Today, MaxPreps

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton was named to USA Today’s All-Pennsylvania team — one of two honors the junior received this week.

Josh Scherer and Pine-Richland maintain the top spot in this week’s TribHSSN baseball rankings.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 21, 2019

April 20, 2019

Baseball rankings

Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis will accept the WPIAL’s Sportsmanship Award at the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit at the Pittsburgh Regional History Center on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2015.

Pitt coaches pursue another Baldwin lineman, extend offer to sophomore

April 16, 2019

From Dave Wannstedt to Jason Pinkston, Baldwin and Pitt have had a number of links through the years.

Norwin’s Jayden Walker celebrates his double during a game against Latrobe Monday, April 8, 2019, at Norwin High School.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 14, 2019

April 13, 2019

Baseball rankings

Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis won two gold and two silver medals at the Tri-State Coaches Association track championships April 13, 2019, at West Mifflin.

Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis earns 4 medals, sets record at TSTCA championship

Two first-place medals, two seconds and a meet record caused Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis to smile Saturday, but so did a candid compliment from her coach.

Allderdice selects former Central Catholic assistant Devin Crummie as boys basketball coach

April 10, 2019

Devin Crummie, a longtime assistant boys basketball coach at Central Catholic, is headed to Allderdice.

Sisters Angie (left) and Adrienne Nardone will play against each other in a softball game April 10, 2019. Angie plays for Ellwood City, and Adrienne plays at North Catholic.

Chartiers Valley’s Mackenzie Wagner kisses the championship trophy with teammates after defeating Bishop Carroll in the PIAA Class 5A girls state championship game Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

West Mifflin Head Coach Ray Braszo works on defensive ball skills with players on Monday, July 28, 2014 at West Mifflin.

Ousted at West Mifflin, football coach Ray Braszo returns to roots in Steel Valley

April 3, 2019

Ray Braszo wore West Mifflin blue and gold for nearly three decades, but the veteran football coach also has deep roots in Steel Valley.

Burrell’s Marshall McKallip (3) and Seth Fischbach celebrate in the outfield after defeating Kiski Area, 4-2, Tuesday, Mar. 26, 2019, at Kiski Area High School.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of March 30, 2019

March 30, 2019

Rankings

Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell commits to UMass

March 29, 2019

Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell, who left the WPIAL for a prep school in Connecticut, committed to Massachusetts on Friday.

Arizona basketball offer adds to Donovan Johnson’s month of madness

March has brought more joy than madness for Moon’s Donovan Johnson and his family.

McKeesport’s Deamontae Diggs (6) hauls in a pass to score during their game against Plum on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018.

Fresh off NCAA upset, Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield commits to Liberty

March 27, 2019

Isiah Warfield didn’t fill out an NCAA tournament bracket but did urge others to pick against fifth-seeded Mississippi State in the first round.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher wraps up Derry’s Justin Flack during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at Heinz Field.

Pitt coaches offer scholarship to Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher

Pitt football coaches in decades past found great success recruiting in Aliquippa, a list that starts with all-time greats Mike Ditka, Sean Gilbert and Darrelle Revis.

Bethel Park hires Brian DeLallo as new football coach

March 26, 2019

Bethel Park administrators talked with a handful of football coaches from outside the district, but decided that their best candidate already was on staff.

Chartiers Valley’s Megan McConnell celebrates with Mackenzie Wagner after the Lady Colts defeated Archbishop Carroll in the PIAA Class 5A girls state championship game Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Moon seniors celebrate with the championship trophy after defeating Archbishop Wood in the PIAA Class 5A state final Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Vincentian falls to Philadelphia’s Sankofa Freedom Academy in PIAA Class A final

March 21, 2019

HERSHEY — While preparing for the state finals, Vincentian Academy coach Tim Tyree studied two separate game films of Sankofa Freedom Academy.

Vincentian Academy boys basketball coach Tim Tyree Jr., leads his team against Monessen in a PIAA Class A boys basketball semifinal March 18, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon.

Seneca Valley takes the field against North Allegheny before their 6A WPIAL semifinal Friday, Nov. 9, 2018 at Wright Field at Newman Stadium.

After reaching WPIAL finals, Seneca Valley linemen drawing college offers

March 11, 2019

Seneca Valley reached the WPIAL football finals last fall behind a strong offensive line, and college coaches have taken notice.

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo runs to a first place finish in the Class AA girls race during the TSTCA cross country meet Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, at California University.

Allderdice’s Terrell Childs celebrates after the Dragons defeated Canon-McMillan in a PIAA Class 6A first round state playoff game Saturday, Mar. 9, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

Penn Hills’ Tyree Spencer (11) is fouled by Montour’s Justin LaBrie (10) during a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal game Friday, Feb. 22, 2019 at Fox Chapel.

5 things to watch in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs

March 7, 2019

Coach Dan DeRose and his Penn Hills boys basketball players are leaving at 10 a.m. Friday for a four-hour bus ride to Hershey, the site picked for their state playoff opener.

OLSH quarterback Tyler Bradley celebrates with with teammates as time expires in the WPIAL Class A championship game against Rochester Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at Heinz Field.

Recchia’s late 3-pointer helps Mars defend WPIAL Class 5A championship

March 1, 2019

Andrew Recchia was the only person at Petersen Events Center who already knew how this WPIAL championship would end.

Serra Catholic’s jimmy Moon (5) goes to the hoop against Sto-Rox’s Dre Frenzley (22) and Jamil Williams during their WPIAL Class 2A playoff game Feb. 22, 2019, at Peters Township.

WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball preview: OLSH vs. Serra Catholic

Class 2A boys

Lincoln Park’s Isaiah Smith drives to the basket past North Catholic’s Jackson Paschall during the WPIAL Class 3A boys championship game Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019, at Petersen Events Center.

Lincoln Park tops North Catholic to claim WPIAL Class 3A championship

February 28, 2019

Against one of the WPIAL’s top shooting teams, Lincoln Park’s defense was willing to trade 3s for 2s.

Butler’s Ethan Morton (25) celebrates a 40-point night with an upset of No. 1-seeded Pine Richland during a Class 6A semifinal Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at Fox Chapel Area School.

Moon Area’s Donovan Johnson grabs a rebound over Penn Hill’s Wes Kropp during semifinal WPIAL action Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at North Hills High School.

Johnson’s double-double guides No. 3 Moon past Penn Hills in Class 5A semifinals

February 26, 2019

Two years ago, a star basketball player transferred home to Moon, reunited with his childhood friends and led the Tigers’ run to the WPIAL finals.

Central Catholic head boys basketball coach Chuck Crummie during the AAAA WPIAL championship game against Moon at AJ Palumbo Center Feb. 2008.

M.J. Devonshire was taking his official recruiting visit to Kentucky when Aliquippa lost to Neshannock in January, a loss that bothered him hundreds of miles away.

Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes celebrates his three-pointer during overtime against Aliquippa Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018, at Aliquippa High School.

WPIAL schedules Aliquippa/Lincoln Park doubleheader at New Castle

February 19, 2019

Lincoln Park and Aliquippa, the WPIAL’s top seeds in Class 3A boys basketball, can’t meet until the finals.

Shaler’s Mekhi Reynolds battles against McKeesport’s Justin Todd during a WPIAL Class 5A playoff game Feb. 18, 2019, at Fox Chapel.

Penn Hills senior Daequan Hardy added another postseason honor to his list.

Ohio State joins list of schools recruiting Mars’ Michael Carmody

February 15, 2019

Mars junior Michael Carmody added his ninth Big 10 football offer Thursday when conference champion Ohio State joined his scholarship list.

North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green works out Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2018, at the high school.

North Catholic football standout Nikhai Hill-Green announces transfer out of state

North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green, one of the WPIAL’s top football players, said Friday that he’s transferring out of state.

Union’s Michael Flowers shoots a three-pointer, as Clairton’s Leonard Robinson defends during their WPIAL Class A playoff game Friday, Feb. 15, 2019, at Hampton High School.

WPIAL causes buzz by seeding Burgettstown second in deep Class 2A bracket

October 29, 2018

Red Land's Joey Cotto scores past North Hills catcher JT Mazula during the third inning of their PIAA Class 5A first round playoff game Monday, June 4, 2018, at Wild Things Park.

WPIAL champion North Hills falls to Red Land in opening round of PIAA playoffs

June 4, 2018

Five days after celebrating a WPIAL baseball championship at Wild Things Park, North Hills' magical season ended on the same field. North Hills managed only

Arizona freshman Jordan Geist competes during the Desert Heat Classic on April 28, 2018, at Drachman Stadium in Tucson, Ariz.

Downpour creates ‘brutal’ 1,600 meters at Baldwin Invite

May 5, 2018

Mt. Lebanon's Patrick Anderson was leading the boys 1,600-meter race when the storm clouds let loose over the Baldwin Invitational. The rain was shockingly cold,

North Allegheny’s Ayden Owens breaks Dion Bentley’s decades-old record at Baldwin Invitational

Days like this are why Ayden Owens is a Southern Cal recruit. The North Allegheny senior dazzled Friday at the Baldwin Invitation by sweeping the

Tennis finals rematch among Friday’s 3 things to watch in high school sports

May 4, 2018

For the second season in a row, Peters Township's Connor Bruce and Fox Chapel's Robby Shymansky will battle in the WPIAL tennis finals. The two

OLSH-Sewickley Academy rematch part of 3 things to watch Friday in WPIAL athletics

February 9, 2018

November 1, 2017

Montour and New Castle tied for second in the Northwest Nine, but the WPIAL scheduled them head-to-head for the ultimate tiebreaker. The conference foes meet

California among top seeds for WPIAL football playoffs

October 30, 2017

2024 All-City League Football Team

All-City League Football Team

2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Tri-County South

2024 Tri-County South All-Conference

2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Black Hills

2024 Black Hills All-Conference

Gut-wrenching overtime loss dashes Avonworth’s state title hopes in PIAA 3A final

MECHANICSBURG — Avonworth trailed by two touchdowns in the second half of a state championship game and rallied to force overtime.

Central Catholic ready for championship-caliber challenge vs. St. Joseph’s Prep

December 6, 2024

On this side of the state, St. Joseph’s Prep probably finds few fans.

Avonworth sees similarities in PIAA finals opponent Northwestern Lehigh

As Avonworth makes its second trip to the state finals in five years, the Antelopes feel differently about this one.

Mike Warfield returns as Aliquippa football coach after 1-year leave of absence

December 4, 2024

Pine-Richland bulldozes Bethel Park to earn return trip to Class 5A finals

Josh Nindl celebrated Friday night with a WWE-style championship belt slung over his shoulder.

Quarterback’s quick return boosts No. 1 Pine-Richland for WPIAL semifinal vs. high-scoring Bethel Park

November 15, 2024

There were concerns Aaron “Oobi” Strader had broken his collarbone late in the regular season, an injury that would’ve cost top-seeded Pine-Richland its quarterback.

5 things to watch in H.S. football: Will coaches Cherpak, Walker add to WPIAL trophy collections?

‘Streaks are meant to be broken’: No. 1 Thomas Jefferson ends Aliquippa’s run of 16 straight finals appearances

November 8, 2024

The streak is over.

Penn State was the first of nearly two dozen schools to offer Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg a scholarship, but ultimately the Nittany Lions’ offer was all he needed.

WPIAL announces sites for Friday’s football playoff games

The WPIAL on Saturday announced sites for the next round of football playoff games.

Tyler Eber runs for 238 yards, 2 TDs as No. 1 Thomas Jefferson rolls past West Allegheny

November 1, 2024

Thomas Jefferson’s Tyler Eber wasn’t counting his carries, and neither was his coach, so they were a little surprised to hear he’d run the ball nearly 50 times.

Class 6A

Class 4A seeds raise eyebrows as WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 football playoffs

“Shocked and surprised.”

WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 football playoff pairings

Outside of wild cards, the 2024 WPIAL playoff field is set.

Beaver knocks off Avonworth, creates 3-way tie for Western Hills title

Beaver won its first conference title in almost two decades, but coach Cort Rowse didn’t care to ponder whether this was the biggest win in recent history.

5 things to watch in Week 9: New wild card approach puts playoff hopes in WPIAL football committee’s hands

October 25, 2024

In most other years, Friday’s finale between Hopewell and North Catholic might be considered almost a play-in game.

Ringgold calls off football game vs. Thomas Jefferson, investigates ‘alleged incidents of misconduct’

October 10, 2024

Ringgold has called off Friday’s football game while investigating unspecified allegations “that involve members of the football team.”

If North Allegheny defends its boys and girls WPIAL country titles this fall, the celebration will surely include a number of first-time champions.

Pick-6 propels Central Catholic past rival North Allegheny in WPIAL finals rematch

Against an offense with a sophomore at quarterback and a banged-up running game, Central Catholic didn’t allow them any stress relief in Friday’s second half.

WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 29, 2024

Class 6A

Familiar championship foes North Allegheny, Central Catholic won’t look beyond Friday

September 27, 2024

Central Catholic and North Allegheny seem likely to meet twice this season, maybe with a rematch in the WPIAL finals.

5 things to watch in Week 5: Little room for error in WPIAL 4A with 8-team playoff ahead

Eight maybe isn’t enough when counting WPIAL playoff berths.

Class 6A

Behind determined defense, Penn Hills hands Aliquippa 1st regular-season loss since 2021

The night ended much the way it started with the Penn Hills defense celebrating a stop.

Despite mismatch in enrollments, Aliquippa draws nonconference clash vs. Penn Hills

September 20, 2024

Aliquippa went to court to avoid a promotion to Class 5A football this fall, but the Quips still get a taste of that classification on Friday.

Class 6A

Missing its top 3 running backs, Pine-Richland fends off North Hills in Northeast opener

The Pine-Richland roster lists Jalen Neals as a wide receiver, but the versatile junior had a hint that his coaches were planning a position change.

Season-ending knee injury sidelines Alabama recruit Fiona Mahan as Avonworth chases 4th straight WPIAL title

September 13, 2024

Fiona Mahan continues to guide Avonworth on its quest for a fourth straight WPIAL girls soccer title, but the senior has taken on a new role after a season-ending knee injury.

Class 6A

North Allegheny boys soccer focused on unfinished business

A WPIAL title slipped away on penalty kicks and a trip to the state finals fell two rounds short.

Here is an easy way to put a state championship streak in perspective.

Peters Township punishes McKeesport with defense, running game

Peters Township knows a little about running the football, too.

Peters Township draws matchup with McKeesport’s triple-option in Week 1 nonconference clash

August 30, 2024

McKeesport runs an offense that’s rather unique in the WPIAL, leading opponents to scheme up new ways to defend against the triple-option.

Kraft Heinz, Aliquippa breaking ground on athletic, academic center near school’s football stadium

A year after Aliquippa announced a partnership with Kraft Heinz, the two will break ground Friday on a new athletic and academic center near the school’s football stadium.

Class 6A

Montour defense stands tall against Central Valley rushing attack in Week Zero victory

Breaking long runs can be a big part of Central Valley’s offense, especially with a 200-pound running back that has a hard-to-tackle reputation.

2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the coaches

August 23, 2024

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top coaching changes for the 2024 season.

Central Valley, Montour maintain ‘really healthy rivalry’ with Week Zero rematch

One point was the margin last year when Montour and Central Valley met in a conference game, so how could they not have a rematch?

Woodland Hills looks to give Scoop Smith more help, return to playoffs

August 8, 2024

Getting the ball to Scoop Smith was the best option any time Woodland Hills’ offense faced a tough spot and needed a big play.

Knoch transfer Colt Sprankle earns postseason eligibility after PIAA board overturns WPIAL

The PIAA board overturned a WPIAL decision and granted postseason eligibility to Knoch junior Colt Sprankle, a football-playing transfer from Armstrong.

PIAA board favors 6 classes for girls volleyball, rejects plan to expand track to 3

July 17, 2024

STATE COLLEGE — The PIAA wants to increase girls volleyball to six classifications, but a request to expand track and field to three was rejected by the board.

When Brandon Sensor resigned at Chartiers Valley four months ago, the boys basketball coach insisted that wouldn’t be the end of his coaching journey.

Shaler poised to hire boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor

Neshannock and Laurel won’t travel far for the next round of the PIAA softball playoffs and neither will Chartiers-Houston or Carmichaels.

PIAA releases semifinal sites, times for 2024 state baseball playoffs

WPIAL baseball teams Avonworth, Eden Christian and Indiana learned the site and time of their state semifinal games when the PIAA released the schedule Friday.

Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames named Gatorade Pa. Softball Player of the Year

Seneca Valley pitcher Lexie Hames was named Gatorade Pennsylvania Softball Player of the Year on Friday, making her the first WPIAL athlete to win the award in six years.

Unlikely hero pitches unsinkable Avonworth to another extra-innings win

June 6, 2024

Carson Franc kept working on his pitches and believing his time on the mound could come, despite having thrown very few innings all season.

WPIAL rules Aliquippa rising junior ineligible following transfer from North Hills

Aliquippa’s Jamar Allen, an all-conference football player who transferred from North Hills, was ruled ineligible Thursday by the WPIAL.

SHIPPENSBURG — Hampton’s Dale Hall won a state title in the 800 meters Saturday at the PIAA track championship, a year after winning gold in the 1,600 meters.

Avonworth/Northgate sprinter Hayzes Robinson joins sisters’ tradition with PIAA gold in 100

SHIPPENSBURG — Winning gold medals at Seth Grove Stadium is somewhat of a tradition for the Robinson sisters, one that Hayzes was more than excited to join Saturday.

Butler’s Drew Griffith breaks PIAA championship record in 3,200, but national mark must wait

May 25, 2024

SHIPPENSBURG — Drew Griffith won his second PIAA gold medal and broke a state championship record Saturday, but unlike a day earlier, the Butler star didn’t take a run at any national marks.

Freeport’s Michael Braun adds 2nd state medal to his collection

SHIPPENSBURG — After crossing the finish line at Seth Grove Stadium, distance runners are ushered to the infield turf where they can go in a few different directions.

Cross country champion Jaxon Schoedel of Mohawk adds PIAA title in 3,200 meters

SHIPPENSBURG — Mohawk’s Jaxon Schoedel was stuck in a slow heat for the 1,600 meters a day earlier, but the 3,200 meters had everybody in one big group Saturday.

Pine-Richland pole vaulter Nadia Constantakis uses gymnastics skills to place 2nd at states

SHIPPENSBURG — Lifelong gymnast Nadia Constantakis remembers being a newcomer to the Pine-Richland track team, working out with the sprinters and having a revelation.

Fox Chapel’s Rowan Gwin part of dominant showing for WPIAL in 1,600 at PIAA championships

May 24, 2024

SHIPPENSBURG — Fox Chapel’s Rowan Gwin wasn’t at Seth Grove Stadium last year for the state track championships, but his mind was.

There’s probably not much that makes Butler’s Drew Griffith too nervous at a track meet nowadays, but watching Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter run could be on that list.

After rain halts WPIAL meet, Butler’s Drew Griffith doesn’t mind waiting to make more history

May 15, 2024

Butler’s Drew Griffith ran the 1,600 meters in record time at the WPIAL track and field championships and then waited around for hours as it rained off and on.

PIAA sets 2025-28 state championship sites for basketball, wrestling, swimming

Giant Center in Hershey will continue to host the state basketball and individual wrestling championships for the next four years, and swimming and diving is staying at Bucknell.

No. 12 Shenango credits strength of its section after upset win over No. 5 Valley

Shenango was the underdog on paper as a fourth-place finisher from one section facing the champion of another.

Chartiers Valley ‘checked all of the boxes’ for new boys basketball coach Corey Dotchin

May 14, 2024

Corey Dotchin used to listen to podcasts on his drive to basketball practice, but he won’t have the time anymore.

Sewickley Academy athletes to play football for Moon under co-op agreement

Sewickley Academy students will be playing football for Moon next fall under a plan the private school announced Tuesday.

Defending champions Mt. Lebanon and Riverside were tabbed as favorites to repeat when the WPIAL on Friday released brackets for the upcoming baseball playoffs.

WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 baseball playoff pairings

May 9, 2024

The 2024 WPIAL baseball playoff field is set with 77 teams, including all six defending champions: Mt. Lebanon, Shaler, Hopewell, Riverside, Seton LaSalle and Bishop Canevin.

Mars, Mt. Lebanon, Shady Side Academy earn No. 1 seeds in 2024 WPIAL lacrosse playoffs

Defending champion Mars, which swept the WPIAL Class 2A lacrosse titles a year ago, will start this season’s playoffs as the No. 1 seed in the boys and girls tournaments.

The WPIAL will hold an eligibility hearing for Aliquippa sophomore Jamar Allen, an all-conference football player who transferred there from North Hills.

WPIAL rules Imani Christian basketball’s R.J. Sledge eligible for senior year

Three-time WPIAL and state basketball champion R.J. Sledge of Imani Christian will have a chance to go four for four next winter.

WPIAL Softball rankings: Week ending May 5, 2024

May 4, 2024

Class 6A

Earpieces let high school catchers receive in-game coaching

In a stressful moment behind the plate, when the other team was trying to rally, Franklin Regional catcher Ryan Catello started hearing voices in his helmet.

With 2 teams in emerging league, North Allegheny coach encouraged with growth of flag football

Class 6A

Versatility, commitment let Izzy Costa shine in multiple events for North Allegheny track

North Allegheny’s Izzy Costa had an upset stomach but was still was warming up for the long jump after running the 100 and 400 meters in a dual meet at Butler.

PIAA taking bids to host basketball championships

April 12, 2024

Giant Center in Hershey has hosted the state high school basketball finals for more than a decade, but could or should the PIAA championships go elsewhere?

Basketball coach Rob Niederberger, who lifted Shaler from last place to WPIAL contender, resigns

Robert Morris hires Oakland Catholic’s Eddie Benton as assistant women’s basketball coach

April 9, 2024

Oakland Catholic girls basketball coach Eddie Benton, who led the Eagles to consecutive section titles, is leaving for a job at Robert Morris.

TribHSSN softball rankings for April 6, 2024

April 6, 2024

Class 6A

PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi on public vs. private debate: ‘We have a ‘school’ problem’

WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 7, 2024

Class 6A

ALTOONA — Shaler leading scorer Keegan Smetanka was down on the court with a first-quarter ankle injury, so his teammates huddled quickly to discuss what to do next.

Colin Masten gets to rim, helps Franklin Regional to PIAA 5A quarterfinals

March 12, 2024

ALTOONA — Colin Masten wears jersey No. 1, which was fitting Tuesday night because of how many times he made folks say, “And one!”

Brandin Cummings kissed his hand before touching the Leopard logo on Lincoln Park’s basketball court, offering a kiss goodbye as his final home game was winding down.

Nearly a national record holder, Butler’s Drew Griffith running the best he ever has

Drew Griffith ran two miles in a historic time, faster than the all-time indoor best for high school boys, but the Butler senior’s name won’t appear in any national record book.

Baldwin celebrates 1st WPIAL playoff win in 21 years with victory over North Allegheny

Baldwin boys basketball coach Jeff Ackermann took his team to look at the school’s trophy case before Friday night’s playoff game.

PSFCA announces rosters for 2024 East-West all-star football games

February 23, 2024

After taking job just last month, coach sets big goals for Bishop Canevin

Aaron McGee gave away some of his Bishop Canevin gear when he left for an assistant coaching job at Moon, but fortunately he held onto some shirts.

WPIAL announces playoff sites, times for Thursday’s basketball quarterfinals

February 20, 2024

The WPIAL released sites and times for Thursday’s boys and girls basketball quarterfinals.

Brandon Sensor resigns as Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach, citing lack of support from administration

Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor, who missed the final six weeks of the season on administrative leave, resigned Tuesday.

WPIAL reveals Aliquippa’s 5A conference, but football coach says ‘it’s not settled’

The WPIAL revealed an updated football alignment Monday that has Aliquippa sharing a Class 5A conference with Fox Chapel, North Hills, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland, Plum and Shaler.

Football coach Greg Perry has a new head coaching job that’s just down the road from his previous two.

WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 boys and girls basketball playoffs

When the WPIAL basketball committee met Monday morning to seed the playoff brackets, there was little debate about the No. 1 seeds.

WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast the 2024 boys basketball playoff pairings

February 10, 2024

The 2024 WPIAL boys basketball playoff field is set with 87 teams in the six classifications.

WPIAL girls basketball rankings

‘Excellence has to be earned’: North Allegheny swimmers aim to maintain streak of WPIAL championships

The North Allegheny swimming team owns a WPIAL championship streak that’s older than some kids on the roster.

WPIAL boys basketball rankings

Lincoln Park’s ‘big two’ share the wealth in win over North Catholic

The motto on Lincoln Park’s shirts says “one more,” which coach Mike Bariski translates into “one more pass.”

PIAA officials acknowledge competitive balance formula has ‘room for conversation’ in future

January 26, 2024

WPIAL girls basketball rankings

Nobody in WPIAL history won more consistently than Clairton’s Tyler Boyd, whose football teams were part of a state-record winning streak that eventually reached 66 games.

WPIAL places Mohawk football on 2 years of probation for alleged racial slurs toward Burrell players

January 16, 2024

The WPIAL has placed the Mohawk football team on probation for two years after allegations that racial slurs were used in a playoff game against Burrell in November.

WPIAL board unanimously rejects Farrell’s request to rejoin district

The WPIAL board voted unanimously Tuesday to deny Farrell’s request to join the league as a member school, citing the cost of transportation and tight athletic department budgets.

WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 14, 2024

January 13, 2024

WPIAL girls basketball rankings

WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 14, 2024

WPIAL boys basketball rankings

North Allegheny girls hope January road trips make Tigers a tough ‘out’ later this season

No, the North Allegheny girls basketball team hasn’t left the WPIAL, even though its schedule certainly looks like the Tigers moved closer to Harrisburg.

Avonworth sheds underdog label with section-shaking win over No. 3 Montour

In a pregame talk with his players, Avonworth basketball coach Mike Mancuso embraced the idea that the WPIAL saw them as underdogs in their own section.

Butler won’t rejoin WPIAL football; decision nearing on Farrell’s request to return

January 12, 2024

How many football teams will the WPIAL have next season? That number continues to fluctuate.

Class 6A

Barrage of 3-pointers — including 8 by Donovan Carney — leads Butler past New Castle

January 5, 2024

Butler’s Donovan Carney was making shots from far beyond the arc, teammate Tayt Lucas hit a couple of 3-pointers and Kyle Casteel came off the bench shooting 3s with no hesitation.

PIAA policy won’t let Aliquippa argue health and safety in rejecting move to Class 5A

Two years ago, Aliquippa argued relentlessly that it was too dangerous to force the small-school Quips to play Class 5A football and ultimately the school won its PIAA appeal.

2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny

Allegheny Conference

WPIAL girls basketball rankings for week ending Dec. 24, 2023

December 23, 2023

Class 6A

Here’s a look at the TribLive High School Sports Network’s Terrific 25 football all-stars for the 2023 season.

Early signing day for 2024: WPIAL football players announce Division I commitments

WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 17, 2023

December 16, 2023

Class 6A

The team North Allegheny thought most about this week, the roster of players the Tigers maybe focused on more than any other, was North Allegheny.

Imhotep Charter too much for Peters Township in Class 5A state championship game

December 8, 2023

MECHANICSBURG — Peters Township’s defense had to tackle a running back headed to Georgia, a sophomore back with SEC offers and a freshman wideout already courted by Pitt and Penn State.

Southern Columbia’s 99-yard drive dashes Westinghouse’s state championship hopes

MECHANICSBURG — It was heartache again for the ‘House.

Aliquippa dominates Dallas to become school’s 1st undefeated state championship team

December 7, 2023

PIAA will let Woodland Hills, Charleroi fix enrollment mistakes, avoid promotion to higher classifications

December 6, 2023

The PIAA will let Woodland Hills and Charleroi fix mistakes the schools made when submitting their enrollments, errors that would’ve forced their teams into higher classifications.

The PIAA has released updated enrollment numbers for all sports, giving high school teams their first look at classifications for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.

The WPIAL investigation is ongoing into allegations that racial slurs were used in a Burrell-Mohawk football game.

With 6 TDs, North Allegheny QB Logan Kushner shines brightest in WPIAL title win over Central Catholic

November 18, 2023

“Best player on the field” was how North Allegheny coach Art Walker described his quarterback Logan Kushner.

Aliquippa headed ‘home’ to WPIAL finals, extending championship game streak to 16 years

Whether the stadium on the North Shore is called Heinz Field or Acrisure Stadium doesn’t much matter to Aliquippa’s football players, since they have their own nickname for it.

Offense steps to forefront when Central Catholic, North Allegheny meet again for Class 6A title

November 17, 2023

The traditional style of a Central Catholic vs. North Allegheny game was always defined by the defenses. Just a year ago, they combined for a 7-3 score in a field-position battle.

Farrell athletic director and football coach Anthony Pegues calls himself “a WPIAL guy,” since the Steelers played here in the WPIAL when he was on the team.

5 things we learned in Week 11 of the WPIAL football season: Semifinals feature new blood

November 11, 2023

Some teams are penciled into the semifinals before the WPIAL playoffs even start. Aliquippa, after winning Friday, will make its 17th straight appearance in the final four.

WPIAL announces playoff sites for football semifinals

WPIAL football playoffs

Touchdown with 2 seconds left sends defending champ Pine-Richland back to WPIAL finals

November 10, 2023

A federal judge has granted Jonna Burke’s request for a preliminary injunction, a legal victory that lets the Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach avoid a PIAA suspension for now.

Burrell football coach says playoff opponent used racial slurs, his protest led to ejection

November 5, 2023

Burrell football coach Shawn Liotta said his players were targeted with racial slurs in a game Friday against Mohawk and that he was ejected after confronting game officials about it.

North Allegheny trying to make most of calm before the playoff storm

The North Allegheny football team didn’t have a game in the first week of the playoffs, but that doesn’t mean the Tigers took a week off.

5 things we learned in high school football Week 10: Wildcat formation works for WPIAL teams

November 4, 2023

The wildcat formation is almost as old as WPIAL football itself, but the run-oriented offense is proving hard to stop.

WPIAL announces sites, times for Friday’s football playoff games

WPIAL football playoffs

No. 5 Moon thwarts final drive, runs past Gateway in WPIAL 5A quarterfinals

Moon ran the football almost 70 times Friday night, and Gateway coach Don Holl marveled that not once were the Tigers flagged for holding.

WPIAL rules North Catholic baseball player ineligible after transfer

November 2, 2023

The WPIAL ruled North Catholic junior Jake McKee ineligible for the upcoming baseball season after transferring from New Brighton.

Hopewell football coach Matt Weiss resigned Monday after five seasons with the Vikings, a program that has struggled significantly for more than a decade.

WPIAL shows love for traditionally tough Parkway, gives home games to 4 teams

October 29, 2023

West Allegheny’s football team rode on a bus for more than an hour a year ago when the Indians opened the WPIAL playoffs in Fayette County.

Breaking down the WPIAL football playoffs: Favorites, challengers, predictions

October 28, 2023

Trib HSSN high school football rankings, Week ending Oct. 29, 2023

WPIAL football rankings

WPIAL reveals pairings for 2023 football playoffs

Neshannock is already the Midwestern Conference champion, but to reach the WPIAL finals the Lancers will need to win the Century Conference, too.

North Allegheny plans ‘Learn to Row’ event to teach students, prospective team members

Final WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2023 football playoff pairings

Let the guesswork begin.

Aliquippa uses 1-play touchdown drives to top rival Central Valley, clinch Parkway title

The biggest worry for a defense facing Aliquippa isn’t a long, grinding touchdown drive that eats the clock and wears you away physically.

5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 9: Head-to-head matchups to decide 9 conference titles

October 27, 2023

The wait is over.

WPIAL football rankings

‘Young and hungry’ North Allegheny takes ice with new-look roster

Only a sophomore, Luke Walkauskas skates on one of North Allegheny’s top lines, where he’s joined by two more 10th graders in Brendan White and Eddie Scherer.

Pine-Richland’s punishing ground game too much for Woodland Hills

There is nothing fancy about Pine-Richland’s wildcat offense and by now, it could hardly catch anyone by surprise.

Former Imani Christian standout Alier Maluk commits to Florida State

October 20, 2023

Former WPIAL basketball player Alier Maluk, who won a state title last winter with Imani Christian, announced his commitment to Florida State on Friday.

5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 8: Traditionally tough Parkway lives up to reputation

The Parkway Conference was traditionally considered among the best battles in WPIAL football, and this year’s version has lived up to that reputation.

There’s a popular meme that shows two miners digging for diamonds, but one gives up within inches of striking it rich.

Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 7, 2023

WPIAL football rankings

North Allegheny shakes off rivalry loss, focuses on future

Carter Shanafelt scores 4 times as Peters Township rockets past Moon

Speedy receiver Carter Shanafelt was in such a hurry Friday night that he started a second-half rally before halftime.

Shady Side Academy forfeits football game against Knoch

October 6, 2023

Shady Side Academy has forfeited Friday night’s football game against Knoch because of an illness among “several players,” the school announced hours before kickoff.

‘Outside of the box’ defense has Peters Township ranked No. 1 in WPIAL 5A

Peters Township’s T.J. Plack is an offensive-minded head coach of a high-scoring team that averages five touchdowns a week, yet he raves about a defense he calls special.

5 things to watch in Week 6: As NFL mourns, WPIAL remembers ‘coach’ Dick Butkus

Dick Butkus became legendary as one of the fiercest linebackers in NFL history, but folks around the WPIAL might remember him as “Coach” Butkus.

5 things we learned in high school football Week 5: Ground game pays off in win column

September 30, 2023

One of the WPIAL’s leading rushers shook off an ankle injury and returned to the field Friday night, helping West Greene’s offense run its way to victory.

Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 30. 2023

WPIAL football rankings

For North Allegheny cross country team, it’s a matter of staying the course

When it comes to putting down cones, North Allegheny might be second only to PennDOT. There are always plenty lining the school’s cross county course in North Park.

WPIAL football rankings

North Allegheny boys soccer team living up to standards set by 2nd-year coach

This is year two for Manuel Montero, and the North Allegheny boys soccer coach says there’s a much greater comfort level for the team this fall, and it shows.

Central Catholic makes statement, handles North Allegheny

September 22, 2023

There already were reasons to believe Central Catholic was the team to beat in the WPIAL, starting with a roster that’s heavy in major-college recruits.

North Allegheny, Central Catholic are familiar rivals, but this No. 1 vs. No. 2 clash has different feel

Call this the year of the turnaround.

Fight mars final minute of Imani Christian-Steel Valley football game

As injured teammate Antwan Black Jr. was on his way to the hospital, first by ambulance and then by helicopter, Laurel Highlands players had a tough decision to make.

North Allegheny reloads lineup in quest for 7th straight PIAA volleyball title

First-time starters on the North Allegheny girls volleyball team surely have more seasoning than most since they’ve practiced for years against a state championship lineup.

In WPIAL Class 5A, there’s no room for error.

2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top tight ends for the 2023 season.

2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line

August 19, 2023

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2023 season.

Clairton seeking donations to renovate 93-year-old football stadium

August 18, 2023

2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top wide receivers for the 2023 season.

Enthusiasm grows at Imani Christian with numbers up, talent abundant

August 17, 2023

Imani Christian’s practices look different this summer than last, largely because there are twice as many players.

In an era where specialization is trendy in high school sports, Freedom’s Shaye Bailey doesn’t like that idea.

2023 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Shaler’s Miguel Hugas

July 1, 2023

The Strath Haven students behind the third base dugout decided to taunt Miguel Hugas with chants of “overrated.”

Looking back: The WPIAL’s top storylines from 2022-23

Nov. 11, 2022

Bishop Canevin safety Jason Cross, whose recruiting stock soared, commits to West Virginia

June 30, 2023

Avonworth and Neshannock repeated as WPIAL softball champions this week, but now they’ll try to win back-to-back state titles as well.

Known for high-flying dunks, Penn Hills’ Daemar Kelly now leaping over high jump bars

May 16, 2023

Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL baseball playoffs

Class 6A

WPIAL releases brackets for 2023 baseball playoffs

Who’s No. 1?

WPIAL announces pairings for 2023 softball playoffs

May 11, 2023

Last year’s winners are back for more.

WPIAL adds Pittsburgh Pirates as sponsor for baseball, softball championships

WPIAL awards Mars, Peters Township top seeds in boys lacrosse playoffs

Defending WPIAL and state champion Mars will begin its title defense as a No. 1 seed in the WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs.

Bob Palko among 5 football coaches chosen for PSFCA Hall of Fame

Bob Palko, who won a record nine WPIAL football titles at West Allegheny and Mt. Lebanon, will be inducted this month into the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Class 6A

Moon’s Jacob Puhalla defends McKinney Mile title in Baldwin Invite’s marquee race

Once Jacob Puhalla wins a track title, the Moon runner likes to win it again.

Class 6A

North Allegheny hosting Western Pa. Football Recruiting Day to connect with college coaches

There are dozens of small-college football coaches who recruit Western Pennsylvania, but sometimes a talented WPIAL player can go overlooked in the process.

After not running track for a year, North Allegheny sprinter Khiryn Boyd was curious about the times being run this spring and how his compared with his competitors.

PIAA adds 500 officials, but shortage remains ‘major issue’ for many sports

April 19, 2023

Statewide efforts to recruit and retain high school game officials are seeing some positive results, said a PIAA administrator who oversees the men and women in stripes.

WPIAL announces 20 winners of James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award

The WPIAL saw an increased number of applicants for the James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award this year, and Wednesday announced 20 winners from the 162 nominees.

2023 Boys Basketball Player of the Year

2023 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball All-Stars

April 5, 2023

‘Nobody has a perfect system:’ PIAA, critics remain at odds over public-private school debate

The Philadelphia Catholic League opponent Deer Lakes faced in the state basketball finals played tremendous defense, but that shouldn’t surprise anyone, the Lancers’ coach said.

North Allegheny boys volleyball embarks on season of change

Deer Lakes makes more history with berth in 1st PIAA final

March 21, 2023

Neither team had ever reached the state finals, so the Deer Lakes and Penn Cambria boys basketball teams knew history would be made one way or the other Tuesday night.

Behind big night from Dante DePante, Central Catholic stops New Castle to win 2nd WPIAL title

March 4, 2023

Central Catholic hadn’t won a WPIAL title in 15 years, but Dante DePante made himself at home in Petersen Events Center, an arena that’s about a mile from the Vikings’ gym.

In the end, Lincoln Park too much for North Catholic in Class 4A WPIAL title game

March 3, 2023

Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas hear praise from many places, but on this championship night, the best accolades came from the coach of the other team.

Deer Lakes dethrones OLSH to win 1st WPIAL basketball championship

The Deer Lakes boys made basketball history twice this winter, and each time they snapped an Our Lady of the Sacred Heart streak.

South Park football coach Marty Rieck resigns after 8 seasons

February 20, 2023

South Park football coach Marty Rieck, who won state titles with the Eagles as both a player and assistant coach, has resigned after eight seasons leading the program.

Nationally ranked wrestlers among winners at Western Pa. Girls Championship

Three nationally ranked wrestlers were among the 13 champions crowned Sunday at the Western Pa. Girls Championship, an event that more than doubled in size since last winter.

22 WPIAL football players picked for Big School East-West all-star game

February 18, 2023

North Allegheny girls regroup during long layoff before WPIAL Class 6A playoffs commence

WPIAL schedule-makers gave the North Allegheny girls almost two weeks off before the basketball playoffs, but the Tigers didn’t take a vacation.

Small School East-West all-star game roster includes 16 from WPIAL, City League

The chairman of the WPIAL basketball committee largely avoided one of Monday’s most-interesting debates, since it was a topic close to his heart.

Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets

February 13, 2023

A closer look at the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs, which begin Thursday night:

Class 6A

Class 6A

North Allegheny wrestling crowns 2 county champs

Central Catholic’s new football coach wasn’t chosen from the school’s alumni list, but that doesn’t mean Ryan Lehmeier isn’t already familiar with the team’s tradition.

Bethel Park hires offensive coordinator Phil Peckich as football coach

Bethel Park promoted offensive coordinator Phil Peckich to head coach Tuesday night, giving the Black Hawks football program some continuity under a coach who’s among the youngest in the WPIAL.

WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 22, 2023

January 21, 2023

Class 6A

WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 22, 2023

Class 6A

WPIAL Hall of Fame inductee Don Rebel reflects on 35 years calling games

North Allegheny wrestling great Ray Brinzer to join WPIAL Hall of Fame

Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca commits to Penn State

January 17, 2023

Central Catholic linebacker Anthony Speca, one of the state’s top college football recruits, committed Tuesday to Penn State.

WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 15, 2023

Class 6A

Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for week of Jan. 8, 2023

Class 6A

Jonathan Anderson leads No. 1 New Castle past No. 2 Butler in renewed rivalry

New Castle’s Jonathan Anderson already knew all about his school’s old rivalry with Butler, even though the senior hadn’t faced the Tornado in his playing days.

WPIAL clears 6-9 basketball player Ama Sow after transfer to Montour

January 6, 2023

Montour sophomore Ama Sow kept asking boys basketball coach Bill Minear the same question.

Bob Palko, 9-time WPIAL champion, resigns as Mt. Lebanon football coach

Thirteen months after celebrating a state championship with the Blue Devils, Bob Palko has resigned as Mt. Lebanon’s football coach to focus attention on concerns away from the field.

Class 6A

Lincoln Park tops Laurel Highlands in potential star-powered WPIAL championship preview

December 29, 2022

WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 25, 2022

December 25, 2022

Class 6A

WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 25, 2022

Class 6A

Union quarterback Braylon Thomas and South Side linebacker Ryan Navarra earned the top individual awards in the Class A Big 7 all-conference voting.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Sto-Rox tops Century with 9 players on 1st team

December 23, 2022

Sto-Rox was a newcomer in the Class 2A Century Conference, but the Vikings made themselves right at home this season.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Steel Valley leads 1st team with 9 spots in Allegheny

Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins was a two-way standout for the Ironmen, but he wasn’t the only player on the roster making an impact on both sides of the ball.

2022 All-City League Football Team: Westinghouse’s Keyshawn Morsillo, coach Donta Green take top honors

December 22, 2022

Westinghouse won the City League title for the 38th time in team history, but the Bulldogs didn’t stop there.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Avonworth sweeps MVP honors in Western Hills

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Belle Vernon gets 12 spots on Interstate 1st team

Belle Vernon has had many reasons to celebrate.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Freeport, Shady Side Academy lead Allegheny 6 honors

Conference champion Freeport received 10 first-team all-conference spots in the Class 3A Allegheny 6, led by Ben Lane, Jacksen Reiser and Jacob Bollinger, who also earned individual awards.

Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2024

December 21, 2022

College football coaches needing a linebacker, running back, wide receiver or offensive lineman will be visiting Western Pennsylvania in the coming months.

2022 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars

PIAA sparks controversy with changes to diving championships

The PIAA fears high school diving is disappearing from many areas of the state, but changes meant to save the sport will force the WPIAL to revamp its championship format this winter.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: 10 Armstrong players, coach Frank Fabian earn Greater Allegheny honors

December 16, 2022

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Penn Hills, Pine-Richland lead Class 5A Northeast honors

The playoff race in the Northeast was among the most competitive in the WPIAL, depth that showed in the all-conference team.

2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Upper St. Clair places 10 on Allegheny Six team

Upper St. Clair’s Aidan Besselman and Mark Banbury earned first-team honors on both sides of the ball, helping the Panthers claim 10 spots on the Allegheny Six all-conference team.

Former Gateway star Derrick Davis announces plans to transfer from LSU

December 12, 2022

Former Gateway standout Derrick Davis, the TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year in 2019, has announced plans to transfer from LSU.

Belle Vernon sees no ‘racial intent’ by football players in controversial social media video

PIAA wants investigation into signs, video targeting Westinghouse football team

December 10, 2022

The PIAA has directed the Southern Columbia administration to investigate allegations of racist taunts involving signs and a social media video targeting Westinghouse’s football team.

After 7-year hiatus, Jamie Kyriazis returns to coach North Allegheny wrestling team

Timing is important in wrestling.

Pine-Richland stuns Imhotep Charter in PIAA Class 5A final on Ryan Palmieri’s big night

December 9, 2022

MECHANICSBURG — Pine-Richland quarterbacks sure have a knack for big performances in the biggest games, a history that includes Ben DiNucci, Phil Jurkovec and Cole Spencer.

Westinghouse’s hopes of state championship dashed by Southern Columbia in Class 2A final

MECHANICSBURG — Westinghouse fairy-tale ending was spoiled by a team that’s very familiar with being cast as the villain in the state football championships.

Westinghouse welcomes underdog role in PIAA finals against 12-time champion Southern Columbia

Westinghouse coach Donta Green gathers his football players after each practice and every game for a session he calls highs and shout-outs.

Bishop McDevitt punishes Aliquippa for mistakes in PIAA Class 4A title game

When Central Catholic football coach Terry Totten officially met with his players one final time Thursday, he showed them the watch on his wrist and told them how it just keeps ticking.

November 25, 2022

2022 WPIAL 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Central Valley

WPIAL Class 4A football championship

2022 WPIAL 3A football championship breakdown: Belle Vernon vs. Avonworth

November 24, 2022

WPIAL Class 3A football championship

2022 WPIAL 2A football championship breakdown: Steel Valley vs. Beaver Falls

WPIAL Class 2A football championship

2022 WPIAL A football championship breakdown: Bishop Canevin vs. Union

WPIAL Class A football championship

Starting basketball season a week earlier than usual probably doesn’t excite WPIAL coaches, but the idea of a less-compact regular season maybe does.

‘We are here:’ Aliquippa gets defensive in WPIAL semifinal victory over McKeesport

November 18, 2022

There was no tropical storm or heavy rain.

2022 WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic

WPIAL Class 6A football championship

2022 WPIAL 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair

WPIAL Class 5A football championship

Program-boosting coaches lead North Allegheny, Central Catholic into WPIAL Class 6A title game

Whether he deserves some credit or blame depends on your perspective, but Art Walker certainly helped set Central Catholic on a path to become a WPIAL powerhouse.

5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football

November 17, 2022

Aliquippa is trying to reach the WPIAL football finals for the 15th year in a row, meaning some of the players on the Quips roster weren’t born the last time the team failed to get there.

November 11, 2022

Central Catholic is passing more than ever, yet rainstorm awaits in WPIAL semifinals

There was a new piece of equipment on the field at Central Catholic football practice this week: a five-gallon water jug.

The drive home from Burgettstown to Lawrence County takes about an hour, but the Union football team had a slight detour Friday night.

New cast of characters earns more championship gold for North Allegheny cross country

North Allegheny swept the big-school WPIAL cross country team titles this fall for the fifth year in a row, adding two more banners to a long list of league championships.

Upper St. Clair stuns Gateway in WPIAL playoffs behind ‘resilient’ QB who’d lost starting job

Upper St. Clair quarterback Julian Dahlem lost his starting job last month and hadn’t attempted a pass in weeks, yet the sophomore threw a season-saving touchdown Friday night.

5 things to watch in Week 10 of high school football

November 4, 2022

In WPIAL Class 5A, is eight enough?

Class 6A

WPIAL announces 2022 football playoff pairings

Girls wrestling moves closer to goal of being sanctioned by PIAA

Someday, the state’s best female wrestlers will be crowned PIAA champions at Giant Center in matches held alongside the boys, if advocates for the sport get their wish.

WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2022 football playoff pairings

Capacity crowd sees Aliquippa defeat rival Central Valley with dominant 3rd quarter

Aliquippa’s DJ Walker saw fans standing rows deep along the fence, heard cheers of a capacity crowd and felt the excitement in the cold, October air.

Judge rules Butler football can compete in District 10 playoffs

October 28, 2022

Butler earned its biggest win of the season hours before Friday night’s football game against Latrobe.

Trib HSSN WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Oct. 23, 2022

October 22, 2022

WPIAL football rankings

North Allegheny volleyball looks to finish job after unprecedented regular season dominance

North Allegheny athletic director concerned by changing definition of amateurism

Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen capitalizes on Mars’ mistakes in high-scoring Greater Allegheny win

Giving Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen short fields, time to pass and extra possessions is a dangerous combination.

5 things to watch in Week 7 of high school football

October 14, 2022

Football coaches will always say Week 7 isn’t the time for nonconference games, since the playoffs are less than a month away and nobody wants to get hurt now in a “meaningless” game.

PIAA rule keeps OLSH football team idle Friday night after Avella forfeits

October 13, 2022

Philadelphia Catholic League teams no longer block WPIAL’s path to PIAA basketball finals

New faces take center ice for perennially powerful North Allegheny hockey program

North Allegheny always had a few familiar names among its top six forwards in recent years, experienced scorers who were there for multiple seasons. Yet, the Tigers are entering a winter of change.

Bethel Park’s offense plays keep away in win over No. 1 Upper St. Clair

October 7, 2022

“The most average line you’ve ever seen.”

WPIAL football rankings

North Allegheny embraces being viewed as underdog, now leads Class 6A

Saying the biggest high school in Western Pennsylvania was overlooked might seem unlikely, but when football season started, North Allegheny’s players didn’t hear much talk about themselves.

Brad Birch leads Gateway to rout of previously unbeaten Hempfield

September 30, 2022

Would anyone have been surprised if Gateway quarterback Brad Birch crashed the halftime homecoming ceremony, took the blue-and-white balloons and named himself Hempfield’s king?

WPIAL football rankings

Talented sophomores pacing defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams

At this time of year, North Allegheny’s cross country team doesn’t talk much about winning championships, even if the boys and girls are both defending state champs.

North Allegheny tops Central Catholic in low-scoring defensive battle

September 23, 2022

North Allegheny’s Campbell Melzer was upset with himself after missing a tackle on a fourth-quarter hitch route that put Central Catholic in scoring position for a late touchdown.

5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football

It wasn’t too long ago that West Allegheny was the team to beat in the Parkway Conference, back before the Indians made the jump to 5A.

Pick a word: Unpredictable? Competitive? Chaotic?

Despite revamped roster, North Allegheny girls soccer again off to strong start

The North Allegheny girls soccer team had six starting spots open this season, more than half of the lineup, but what the Tigers also had was depth.

Peters Township overcomes 5 turnovers to defeat South Fayette in Allegheny Six opener

September 16, 2022

1st-year QBs lead Peters Township, South Fayette into Allegheny Six opener

T.J. Plack handed the key for Peters Township’s offense to a first-year starting quarterback and told him to drive.

WPIAL football rankings

New coach overhauls boys soccer program at ‘University of North Allegheny’

As a soccer coach who’d reached the college ranks, Manuel Montero wasn’t interested in coaching high school soccer again, but North Allegheny’s unofficial nickname intrigued him.

Penn Hills’ Amir Key scores 3 times in victory over Pine-Richland and his former coach

September 9, 2022

Jon LeDonne spent five seasons building Penn Hills into a big-play dynamo and saw that explosive energy work against his new team Friday night.

WPIAL football rankings

Schedule toughens for 5-time defending PIAA champion North Allegheny girls volleyball team

Section 1 is smaller this season, so the North Allegheny girls volleyball team had to fill some open dates on its schedule.

Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.

2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties

August 23, 2022

Safety is often the last line of defense, but having a good one can be a weapon for any team.

2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks

Western Pennsylvania football was always known for its quarterbacks and linemen, but that’s changed in recent decades.

WPIAL title contender Clairton somehow flying under radar

August 22, 2022

Remember Clairton?

2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers

Summer camp success has Seneca Valley linebacker Chris D’Appolonia committed to ‘dream school’

July 31, 2022

As Brashear’s other D1 linebacker, Kameron Cheatom ready to make a name for himself

July 28, 2022

WPIAL approves extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa athlete injured in shooting

July 25, 2022

The WPIAL approved an extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa’s Antonyo “Sunny” Anderson, a multi-sport athlete who was seriously injured in a shooting 14 months ago.

Former North Allegheny decathlete Ayden Owens-Delerme finishes 4th at World Championships

Brashear linebacker Ta’Mere Robinson chooses Penn State after Nittany Lions ‘stuck with me’

PIAA may strengthen competitive-balance rule by adding all team sports, removing transfers

July 14, 2022

The PIAA appears ready to rewrite its competitive-balance rule to include all team sports while also making it easier to force successful teams into a higher classification.

MLB Draft ‘starting to feel real’ for North Allegheny’s Cole Young

PIAA moves closer to allowing NIL deals for high school athletes

July 13, 2022

Local TV commercials might feature high school football players or a popular basketball star could sell ads on social media.

No more ‘Highway to Heinz,’ but WPIAL plans to hold 4 football finals at Acrisure Stadium

July 11, 2022

16-time WPIAL champion boys volleyball coach Dan Schall steps down at North Allegheny

July 9, 2022

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes

July 5, 2022

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Penn Hills’ Julian Dugger

July 4, 2022

Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan named 2021-22 Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year

Trib HSSN top storylines from the 2021-22 school year

July 2, 2022

Nov. 19-20, 2021

Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen commits to Ivy League school

July 1, 2022

Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen, a dual-threat quarterback and one of the WPIAL’s top passers, committed Friday to Penn.

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Cameron Lindsey

Beaver’s Payton List, Mt. Lebanon’s Deirdre Flaherty top all-state softball awards

June 30, 2022

Mt. Lebanon catcher Deirdre Flaherty and Beaver pitcher Payton List topped the list of players earning all-state honors Thursday from the Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association.

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher

June 29, 2022

2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Allegheny’s Tyree Alualu

June 24, 2022

Evan Holewinski pitches 3-hitter, Bethel Park wins back-to-back PIAA titles

June 17, 2022

UNIVERSITY PARK — Rarely does a WPIAL baseball team have a chance to win consecutive state titles, so Bethel Park tried to remember and repeat everything that worked a year ago.

7th-inning rally lifts Montour baseball to 1st state championship

June 16, 2022

WPIAL notebook: Class 4A boys basketball crowded with champions after realignment

June 13, 2022

Lincoln Park and North Catholic have met in the WPIAL boys basketball finals four times in the past six seasons, but they won’t wait that long to face one another again.

WPIAL approves new basketball sections without addressing public-private concerns

The WPIAL considered some radical ideas such as splitting public and private school basketball teams into separate sections, but ultimately decided that’s a debate for another day.

Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer commits to Wisconsin

About two months after restarting his recruiting process, Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer committed Sunday to Wisconsin.

Schalls share final memorable season with North Allegheny boys volleyball

June 11, 2022

WPIAL runners sweep 3,200-meter races at PIAA championships

SHIPPENSBURG — Eden Christian’s Sean Aiken attempted the 3,200 meters for the first time a couple of months ago, and he really didn’t like running nearly two miles.

Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy celebrates another come-from-behind win at PIAA championships

SHIPPENSBURG — Carson McCoy apologized after his latest come-from-behind victory, knowing he’d just ruthlessly dashed the hopes of the same opponent for the third time.

Shenango thrower Emma Callahan ties shot put record at PIAA championships

SHIPPENSBURG — The target distance on Shenango thrower Emma Callahan’s mind was 50 feet, 10¾ inches, which was the state championship record for girls shot put in Class 2A.

Moon’s Mia Cochran wins 1,600 meters, wants 2 more golds at busy PIAA championship

May 27, 2022

SHIPPENSBURG — After defending her state 1,600-meter title Friday morning, Moon’s Mia Cochran revealed the top item on her afternoon agenda.

South Fayette’s Tyler Pitzer dazzles Franklin Regional with 5-inning perfect game

This outing was perfect for South Fayette pitcher Tyler Pitzer in more ways than one.

WPIAL hires chief operating officer to ease workload of executive director

May 16, 2022

The role of the WPIAL executive director has changed over the years, with social media bringing more and more issues to the league’s attention, said outgoing director Amy Scheuneman.

Time is running out for shot clock advocates.

WPIAL postpones team track semifinals to Wednesday

The WPIAL postponed its team track semifinals to Wednesday because of an unfavorable weather forecast Tuesday that included afternoon rain and possible thunderstorms.

Class 6A

North Allegheny, 5 other schools join Steelers-sponsored girls flag football league

There’s a new high school football league in Western Pennsylvania sponsored by the Pittsburgh Steelers and created entirely for girls.

21 WPIAL girls basketball players earn all-state honors, Neshannock’s Luann Grybowski named top coach

April 28, 2022

April 16, 2022

Class 6A

Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 16, 2022

Class 6A

What if basketball sections were determined by a team’s talent level rather than its school enrollment?

WPIAL notebook: Kiski Area doesn’t want to share section with Penn Hills

April 13, 2022

The racially charged dispute between Penn Hills and Kiski Area wasn’t resolved, so the WPIAL may keep those teams apart in future years.

Class 6A

The WPIAL rejected a compromise offered Monday by Butler’s administration that would’ve let the school’s football team play in the District 10 playoffs for the next two seasons.

‘Relentless’ Fox Chapel tops Allderdice in PIAA battle of district champions

March 12, 2022

With only one player taller than 6-foot-2, Fox Chapel maybe doesn’t look like a team built to outrebound many opponents.

Peters Township will host a clash of champions Saturday when WPIAL champion Fox Chapel faces City League champion Allderdice in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.

Allderdice advances in PIAA playoffs with overtime win against Central Catholic

March 9, 2022

Mike Quigley has a favorite rim in Allderdice’s gym, one that he’s found is a little softer than the other.

Penn Hills refuses to play Kiski Area sports teams this spring over alleged racial taunts

Penn Hills won’t play games against Kiski Area teams this spring because of racial taunts allegedly made by fans during a recent middle school volleyball game.

March 1, 2022

Mt. Lebanon is notorious for consuming clock with long possessions, but when the Blue Devils did so Tuesday night, it was often because they found no easy route to the rim.

Confident and now healthy, star freshman Meleek Thomas leads Lincoln Park past North Catholic

Butler plans legal action after PIAA upholds WPIAL ruling keeping football team out of District 10 playoffs

February 23, 2022

Butler intends to take legal action after the PIAA upheld a decision banning the football team from the District 10 playoffs, said the school’s athletic director.

The WPIAL has suspended a former Greensburg Central Catholic assistant football coach for violating PIAA rules against recruiting.

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens lands at Arkansas with record-setting splash

February 19, 2022

North Allegheny’s Cole Young projected as 1st-round pick in MLB Draft

February 13, 2022

Cole Young has a Twitter account, so the North Allegheny senior usually notices whenever someone publishes a new MLB mock draft or an updated list of high school baseball prospects.

WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 girls basketball pairings

The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.

WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 boys basketball pairings

February 12, 2022

The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.

Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 13, 2022

Class 6A

Not many WPIAL football coaches have had two former players active in the NFL at the same time, but New Castle’s Joe Cowart did during his coaching tenure, which came to a close this winter.

One team in Butler’s brutal section may be left home when the playoffs start, which has the Golden Tornado convinced it can’t lose another game.

WPIAL delays release of football schedules over ‘unique situation’ with Aliquippa

February 3, 2022

The WPIAL decided not to release new football schedules this week because of a “unique situation” facing one of its schools.

Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2023

WPIAL disciplines South Side, Steel Valley football after hearing on racial allegations

February 2, 2022

Class 6A

Greensburg Central Catholic boys hold off Winchester Thurston, take over 1st place

January 28, 2022

Greensburg Central Catholic and Winchester Thurston were scheduled to meet three weeks ago, but that boys basketball game was postponed, so the teams could only study one another from a distance.

North Allegheny AD Bozzuto sees future Class 6A football alignment with larger field

Football coach LaRoi Johnson is returning to his roots.

WPIAL notebook: Golf adds 36-hole format for individual championships

To win a WPIAL golf title next season, players must make the cut and play two good rounds.

WPIAL announces 2022 Hall of Fame class

January 19, 2022

Bob Kalp won more than 400 games as Hempfield’s softball coach, and Chuck Tursky celebrated his 500th career win as Kiski Area’s wrestling coach.

WPIAL board blocks Butler from District 10 football playoffs

WPIAL reveals updated conference alignments for 2022, 2023 seasons

January 18, 2022

The WPIAL took a multiple-choice approach when it drew up new conferences for the 2022 and ‘23 football seasons.

3 options WPIAL could take with Class 6A football realignment

Tuesday should be a big day for WPIAL football players, coaches and fans.

Trib HSSN WPIAL Girls Basketball Rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2022

Class 6A

Pitt the ‘best of both worlds’ for North Allegheny’s Timmerson

Jasmine Timmerson noticed her cell phone is a little quieter nowadays without so many calls or texts from college coaches.

North Hills clamps down on defense, stops North Allegheny in clash of 6A contenders

January 7, 2022

Alex Smith knew that if North Allegheny shooter Matt McDonough didn’t cool down, he and his North Hills teammates were in trouble.

The Beaver County branch of the NAACP added its voice to those opposing a PIAA rule that could force the small-school Aliquippa football team to face even larger opponents in Class 5A next season.

Central Valley’s Sean FitzSimmons named Trib HSSN Football Player of the Year

January 2, 2022

Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Jan. 2, 2022

January 1, 2022

Class 6A

After winning its first WPIAL and PIAA football titles, Penn-Trafford has more reason to celebrate.

WPIAL lands 14 on 4A all-state team; Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes, Mike Warfield earn top honors

If Tiqwai Hayes’ next three seasons are anything like his first, the Aliquippa freshman has an exciting future ahead.

PIAA champion Central Valley places 7 players on Class 3A all-state team, plus coach of the year

December 28, 2021

Serra Catholic’s Jose Regus honored as Class 2A Coach of the Year in all-state football voting

6 WPIAL players recognized on Class A all-state football team

Six WPIAL Class A football players earned all-state honors Tuesday, including Bishop Canevin wide receiver Lesae Lacks, whose team-high 50 catches helped the Crusaders win the district title.

Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 26, 2021

December 25, 2021

Class 6A

Class 6A

Girls wrestling moving closer and closer to PIAA-sanctioned status

When coach Dan Heckert started a girls wrestling program a year ago at North Allegheny, he hoped someday the sport might become sanctioned by the PIAA and have teams at schools across the WPIAL.

Leechburg quarterback Thomas Burke finished fifth among all WPIAL passers this season, earning the senior Offensive Player of the Year honors in the Eastern Conference.

Tri-County South: Top rushers Landan Stevenson, Colin Brady lead all-conference selections

Mapletown’s Landan Stevenson and West Greene’s Colin Brady play for small schools but they put up big numbers.

PIAA Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Bishop McDevitt

PIAA Class 4A championship

Aliquippa’s slimmed-down 300-pounders face heavy workload in state finals

December 8, 2021

PIAA delays release of updated enrollment numbers to fix vo-tech issue

WPIAL schedules hearing to address racial allegations against South Side football team

The WPIAL has scheduled a hearing Dec. 21 to address racial allegations stemming from a football playoff game last month between South Side and Steel Valley.

Midwestern: Laurel’s Luke McCoy, Beaver Falls’ Mekhi Clark top all-conference team

December 6, 2021

Laurel running back Luke McCoy, who ranked among the WPIAL rushing leaders this season, was honored three times by Midwestern coaches in all-conference voting.

Century: 9 Washington players named all-conference, Davoun Fuse voted MVP

Three Rivers: Sto-Rox leads conference honors with 9 players on 1st team

Sto-Rox outscored Three Rivers opponents 201-12 this season, a dominance that saw quarterback Josh Jenkins and running back Jaymar Pearson named Offensive co-MVPs in the Class 2A conference.

Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko returns to PIAA football finals with heavy heart

December 5, 2021

The mood at Mansion Park Stadium was jubilant as Mt. Lebanon’s football team won a state semifinal for the first time in school history, yet amid the celebration coach Bob Palko held back tears.

Could the WPIAL send five or six teams to Hershey?

Only 14, freshman Tiqwai Hayes shoulders leading role in Aliquippa’s playoff run

When he’s avoiding tacklers and scoring touchdowns at a place like Heinz Field, it’s easy to forget Tiqwai Hayes is only 14 years old.

Central Catholic’s Donovan Hinish stays committed to Notre Dame as coach Brian Kelly exits

Parkway: Aliquippa leads all-conference voting with 14 players on 1st team

Central Valley seeks 3rd straight WPIAL title, unbeaten North Catholic could spoil plans

When Central Valley takes the field Saturday, this will be the third WPIAL championship appearance in a row for some of the team’s starters.

Serra Catholic forces 9 turnovers, wins for coach in WPIAL Class 2A finals

November 26, 2021

Welcome to Heinz Field.

If forced to Class 5A, Aliquippa might consider leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule

November 21, 2021

Alex Tecza’s 4 TDs help lift Mt. Lebanon to 1st WPIAL football title in 21 years

November 20, 2021

Central Catholic had about six weeks to devise a new strategy for stopping Alex Tecza, Eli Heidenreich and Joey Daniels, yet the three seniors and their Mt. Lebanon teammates proved undeniable.

WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: Mt. Lebanon vs. Central Catholic

WPIAL Class 6A football championship

North Allegheny’s Mlecko steps into PIAA cross country history books as 4-time team champion

Mt. Lebanon seeks 1st WPIAL title in decades vs. Central Catholic team familiar with finals

On one sideline will be Mt. Lebanon, the undefeated No. 1 seed in the WPIAL playoffs that is making its first championship appearance since 2000.

Moon headed to 1st WPIAL final since 1998 after topping Penn Hills in semis

November 19, 2021

Heinz Field hadn’t been built the last time Moon made the WPIAL football finals, but the Tigers are headed there now.

Seeking 1st WPIAL finals trip since 1998, No. 1 Moon faces Penn Hills in semifinals

North Allegheny swimming brings back retired coach to replace Patrick Wenzel

November 18, 2021

Citing personal reasons, title-winning North Allegheny swimming coach Patrick Wenzel resigned this fall after leading the WPIAL’s top program for eight years.

WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit to be live streamed Wednesday on TribLive HSSN

November 17, 2021

No Western Pennsylvania field hockey team has reached the PIAA finals in the sport’s 47-year history, but three WPIAL squads will try as they start their state tournament quest Tuesday.

Sites, times announced for PIAA girls volleyball tournament

The North Allegheny girls volleyball team will begin its quest for a fifth consecutive state title at home Tuesday.

PIAA announces sites, times for state soccer playoff openers

The PIAA revealed sites and times for first-round matchups in the state soccer playoffs and all eight WPIAL champions have home games.

5 things we learned: Home-field advantage didn’t guarantee wins in WPIAL 1st round

November 6, 2021

There are high school football stadiums in Western Pennsylvania where visiting teams rarely win. New Brighton walked into one of those daunting places Friday night and confidently won.

Freshmen runners help North Allegheny boys, girls again sweep WPIAL titles

The starting line at a cross country championship can be a stressful scene for first-timers, yet North Allegheny’s freshmen clearly weren’t fazed.

In the span of a year, Steel Valley went from a one-win season to the No. 1 seed in the WPIAL football playoffs.

Unsung line coach has helped North Allegheny win battles in trenches for 3 decades

Who decided that the running backs and wide receivers are called skill-position players? North Allegheny line coach Mike Buchert strongly disagrees.

2021 WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan predict football playoffs

Nijhay Burt carries No. 5 Steel Valley past Serra Catholic to clinch Allegheny Conference title

October 29, 2021

WPIAL rushing leader Nijhay Burt was averaging 2 yards a carry on his first 10 tries Friday night, yet nobody this season has frustrated the Steel Valley star for an entire game.

5 things to watch in Week 9: Winner-takes-all matchups in 2 WPIAL conferences

Rare defeat helped North Allegheny girls volleyball players refocus

The winning streak had stood at 57 section victories when the North Allegheny girls volleyball team saw its unbeaten run stunningly end this season.

No. 1 Moon shuts out Bethel Park, clinches Allegheny Six title

October 22, 2021

Moon has a fondness for physical football, clock-consuming drives and 225-pound running backs.

5 things to watch in Week 8: Home field at stake for WPIAL 1st round and quarterfinals

There’s no place like home, especially in the playoffs.

Class 6A

Dylan Sleva drives dominant 4th quarter as No. 1 Moon outlasts Upper St. Clair

October 15, 2021

There wasn’t much surprise whenever Dylan Sleva got the football in the fourth quarter, yet Moon kept feeding their 225-pound battering ram.

After rushing for 167 yards and two touchdowns on Friday, Mt. Lebanon running back Alex Tecza didn’t sleep well that night.

Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 9, 2021

October 9, 2021

Class 6A

Mt. Lebanon shows ‘toughness’ in lightning-delayed win over No. 1 Central Catholic

Defending PIHL champion North Allegheny plans to enjoy the ride

The lake wasn’t frozen, so the North Allegheny hockey team traded its sticks for oars and competed in the Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival at North Park.

Lightning postpones Central Catholic vs. Mt. Lebanon football game to Saturday

October 8, 2021

Many of the golfers on North Allegheny’s girls team already have their own swing instructors, so first-year coach Sarah Morrison tries not to tinker much with their mechanics.

Central Catholic tops North Allegheny in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship

September 24, 2021

Central Catholic has a new-look offense with ties to an NFL coach, but the Vikings haven’t abandoned what made them two-time defending WPIAL champions.

WPIAL sets covid-19 cancellation policy, won’t require vaccinations for officials

September 20, 2021

No longer Penn State-bound, Perry’s Tyreese Fearbry chooses Kentucky

September 19, 2021

Six weeks after decommiting from Penn State, Perry senior Tyreese Fearbry has a new plan for college.

Chartiers Valley cornerback Lamont Payne commits to Penn State

Chartiers Valley junior defensive back Lamont Payne committed to Penn State on Saturday while on campus to watch the Nittany Lions’ win over Auburn.

5 things we learned in Week 3 of H.S. football: Bishop Canevin joins Class A conversation

September 18, 2021

Rebuilding a football program traditionally takes playbooks and practice, but Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson added tree pruners and paint brushes to his list.

Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 19, 2021

Class 6A

Strong freshman class adds to lineup for defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams

When your boys and girls teams are both defending WPIAL and PIAA cross country champions, what do you do this fall for an encore?

September 15, 2021

Time inevitably erases memories from blowout games with lopsided scores, regardless of whether you’re on the winning or losing side.

Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 12, 2021

Class 6A

Central Valley’s Landon Alexander gets birthday wish, defeats rival Aliquippa

Landon Alexander wished for a win on his 18th birthday.

Aliquippa, Central Valley anticipate electric atmosphere as rivalry renews

September 10, 2021

Friday’s scheduled football game between Westinghouse and Kirtland (Ohio) will not be played because of a covid case within the City League school’s program.

Central Valley, Blackhawk left without Week 1 games after opponents cancel

September 1, 2021

In a dilemma reminiscent of last fall, Central Valley has started searching for a new opponent for Friday night’s football game.

Bishop Sycamore under scrutiny after facing Sto-Rox, IMG Academy on same weekend

August 30, 2021

Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Aug. 29, 2021

August 28, 2021

Class 6A

5 things we learned in Week Zero of H.S. football

Rather than a double-double, two-sport star Rodney Gallagher recorded a double-triple.

Big-play defense leads Sto-Rox past Bishop Sycamore at Wolvarena

Sto-Rox’s high-scoring offense will have big nights this season, there’s little doubt about that.

Philly power Imhotep Charter wears down Central Catholic with oversized offensive line

Two tight ends, a huge offensive line and a gritty running back gaining chucks of yardage at a time. This certainly was the style of offense Central Catholic usually would relish.

Central Catholic draws Philadelphia power Imhotep Charter in cross-state Week Zero clash

August 27, 2021

Finding a willing Week Zero opponent nearby isn’t always easy for Central Catholic, the two-time defending WPIAL Class 6A champion.

2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the biggest coaching moves for the 2021 season.

2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top kickers and punters for the 2021 season.

5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week Zero: On opening night, teams have options

August 26, 2021

“Week Zero” is back.

TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top linebackers for the 2021 season.

2021 WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Pine-Richland saga headlines offseason of change

The defending champion has a new coach. The preseason favorite has a new quarterback. The runner-up from last season has a whole lot of new faces.

WPIAL football finals to be played over 2 days at Heinz Field

August 23, 2021

For the first time, the WPIAL football championships will be a two-day event at Heinz Field this fall.

Pine-Richland is a defending WPIAL and PIAA champion, but the Rams aren’t focused on last year. At this point, that undefeated season seems long ago.

2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs

August 18, 2021

Starting this week, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2021 season.

Gateway gladly wears bull’s-eye in WPIAL Class 5A

On paper, Gateway certainly has the look of a WPIAL contender.

2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks

August 17, 2021

Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2021 season.

Like rivals, Upper St. Clair turns to new nucleus

Upper St. Clair’s conference was among the WPIAL’s deepest in recent years with senior-heavy rosters full of experience becoming the norm in the South Hills.

Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.

High school baseball players can play dozens and dozens of AAU games each summer, at times more than one per day and often multiple days in a row.

Rick Meister, championship-winning softball coach at North Allegheny, dies

Former North Allegheny softball coach Rick Meister, who led the Tigers to both WPIAL and PIAA gold, has died. He was 73.

Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich follows family tradition, commits to Navy

August 6, 2021

North Allegheny shortstop Cole Young, who could be a future MLB Draft pick, is headed to the site of this year’s baseball all-star game.

Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Sean FitzSimmons

July 4, 2021

2021 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Eric Chalus, Bethel Park

2021 HSSN Baseball Player of the Year

Week Zero football showcase returns to Wolvarena in August

July 1, 2021

Week Zero is back on the football schedule this fall, and with it returns the Western Pa. vs. Everyone football showcase hosted by Woodland Hills.

Butler basketball’s Devin Carney commits to Elon

One of college basketball’s stingiest defenses added some scoring power Thursday when Butler’s Devin Carney committed to Elon.

TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Patrick Body, Gateway

June 28, 2021

Moon lineman Trent Fraley commits to Marshall

June 27, 2021

Moon’s Trent Fraley, the son of a former NFL lineman, announced his commitment Sunday to Marshall.

Facing 1-year suspension, Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz resigns

June 17, 2021

Suspended football coach Mauro Monz, facing a one-year ban from the WPIAL over recruiting allegations, said he’s resigning at Seton LaSalle rather than continue to appeal.

Clutch pitching carries Bethel Park past star-studded Red Land to PIAA baseball title

Slow start dooms Eden Christian baseball in 1st PIAA finals appearance

UNIVERSITY PARK — As a first-time state finalist, Eden Christian will remember Thursday’s game for years to come, even if they’d like to forget the first two innings.

Future 1st-round MLB Draft pick awaits Bethel Park in PIAA final vs. Red Land

June 16, 2021

At around 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Bethel Park pitcher Eric Chalus will take the mound for the PIAA Class 5A championship at Penn State’s Medlar Field and face Red Land’s leadoff hitter.

Seneca Valley adds former Pine-Richland football assistants Lehmeier, Sasson

Butler tight end Charlie Kreinbucher commits to Akron

June 15, 2021

The Butler football program has struggled in recent years, but the Golden Tornado has a Division I talent in rising senior Charlie Kreinbucher.

WPIAL upholds suspensions of Seton LaSalle football coaches

June 14, 2021

The WPIAL heard additional evidence about Seton LaSalle’s suspended football coaches during a lengthy hearing Monday but ultimately reached the same decision.

Anthony Miller’s 12 Ks lead New Castle to 1st appearance in state baseball finals

Seneca Valley assistant could be Pine-Richland’s next coach, source says

Steve Campos, an assistant football coach at Seneca Valley, is expected to be the recommended candidate to fill the vacant head coach job at Pine-Richland, according to a source.

SHIPPENSBURG — Waynesburg pole vaulter Taylor Shriver needed three tries to clear her first bar at the state championships, an 11-foot jump that’s normally routine for the senior.

Thoughts of hospitalized teammate carry Aliquippa relay team to 5th-place finish

May 28, 2021

SHIPPENSBURG — He should have been here, said the four sprinters on Aliquippa’s relay team, whose thoughts were with their fifth teammate, hospitalized in Pittsburgh.

Shady Side Academy’s Melissa Riggins joins elite list with 6 PIAA gold medals

The WPIAL baseball finalists in Class 6A and 4A will play under the lights at Wild Things Park next week.

Bethel Park’s walk-off win caps fierce pitchers’ duel with West Allegheny

May 25, 2021

Bethel Park’s Zack Sackett stood in the first-base dugout at Matulevic Field and watched two of the WPIAL’s gutsiest pitchers duel for 41 outs Tuesday without allowing a run.

North Allegheny returns to WPIAL finals after 10-run win over Butler

North Allegheny’s Joe Manesiotis surely was a little surprised when Butler intentionally walked the batter ahead of him to load the bases.

Montour celebrates 1-run win over Quaker Valley in WPIAL 4A quarterfinals

May 24, 2021

With two runners on, no outs and trailing by a run, Montour’s Mason Sike was told to be ready to lay down a bunt.

Rain alters WPIAL baseball, softball playoff schedules Monday

Rain forced the WPIAL to revamp Monday’s playoff schedules for baseball and softball, moving some games to new sites and postponing others to Tuesday.

‘Revitalized’ Gary Goga hired as Keystone Oaks boys basketball coach

Boys basketball coach Gary Goga, who built Peters Township into a WPIAL championship program in his 15 seasons there, is ready for another challenge.

After enduring a year with no baseball, the WPIAL playoffs are back.

The weather app on Melissa Riggins’ smartphone misled her a little.

WPIAL softball rankings | May 8, 2021

Class 6A

WPIAL baseball rankings | May 8, 2021

Class 6A

North Allegheny’s Akindele among WPIAL’s top sprinters

When North Allegheny sprinter Lola Akindele broke the 60-second barrier in the 400 meters, she was elated.

If tight end Kyle Pitts is the first non-quarterback selected Thursday night in the NFL Draft, Gateway football coach Don Holl won’t be surprised.

4 WPIAL boys basketball players earn all-state honors in Class 4A

Washington softball forfeits remaining games, hopes for better seasons ahead

Washington hopes to build up its softball program in years to come, athletic director Mike Bosnic said Thursday, but this spring’s season will end after only one game.

North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm each added another statewide honor to their resumes.

All-state boys basketball teams revealed this week starting with non-PIAA schools

April 25, 2021

WPIAL Softball Rankings: April 24, 2021

April 24, 2021

Class 6A

WPIAL Baseball Rankings: April 24, 2021

Class 6A

North Allegheny tops Mt. Lebanon, celebrates back-to-back Penguins Cup titles

April 20, 2021

North Allegheny goalie Josh Bailey didn’t mince words Monday night. The second period, when he was peppered with 20 shots and the puck stayed trapped inside NA’s blue line, was bad.

WPIAL grants eligibility to pair of football players

April 19, 2021

The WPIAL granted eligibility to Central Catholic’s Jayden Thrift and McKeesport’s Jake Miller, two football players who switched schools this winter.

Fired football coach Eric Kasperowicz reaches out to Pine-Richland to ‘come to a resolution’

Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz reapplies to lead Pine-Richland football team

April 16, 2021

Pine-Richland already has at least one applicant to coach the football team next fall, and it’s someone who knows the program very well.

Cowboys QB Ben DiNucci supports Eric Kasperowicz after coach’s surprise firing at Pine-Richland

Ben DiNucci lives 1,200 miles from Pine-Richland but was stunned when word reached him in Texas that his high school football coach had been fired.

Football coach Eric Kasperowicz: ‘No bullying or hazing took place’ at Pine-Richland

April 15, 2021

WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes, cancels luncheon

The WPIAL/James Collins Scholar-Athlete Program luncheon was canceled again this spring because of the pandemic, but the $1,000 scholarships will be awarded as planned.

Pine-Richland fires football coach Eric Kasperowicz 5 months after winning state title

April 14, 2021

In the span of eight years, Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz built the Rams into one of the WPIAL’s best programs with four WPIAL championships and two state titles.

WPIAL approves spring championship sites, adopts split schedule for individual track meet

The WPIAL individual track and field championships will be run midweek this spring and have a split schedule, with Class 2A starting first and 3A later in the day.

The WPIAL will finalize its championship sites for spring sports when the board meets Wednesday.

PIAA basketball committee wants state semifinals on weekend, not weekday

April 11, 2021

The state basketball tournament might begin a few days earlier next winter, if the PIAA basketball committee gets its wish.

North Allegheny’s talented lineup, rotation aims to ‘prove something’

Trib HSSN Softball Rankings: April 11, 2021

April 10, 2021

Class 6A

This year’s Trib 10 boys basketball all-star team could look a lot like next year’s team.

HERSHEY — On film, Cardinal O’Hara looked big, strong and physical to Chartiers Valley coach Tim McConnell, so his Colts weren’t surprised by what they ran into at Giant Center.

PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Cardinal O’Hara

PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship

North Allegheny girls celebrate 1st PIAA title, top Spring-Ford in state finals

March 26, 2021

OLSH joins elite list as undefeated PIAA boys basketball champion

HERSHEY — For Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, this was the perfect ending.

Mohawk basketball seniors find ‘closure’ despite PIAA championship loss

March 25, 2021

HERSHEY — The PIAA eliminated its on-court medal ceremonies this winter, so Mohawk basketball coach Mike O’Lare awarded them in the team’s makeshift locker room.

Neshannock girls fall in PIAA basketball finals, plan return trip to Hershey

HERSHEY — Neshannock’s first visit to the state finals ended with silver medals and a runner-up trophy, but before the Lancers left Giant Center, they were already making plans for a return trip.

Dan DeRose makes ‘tough decision,’ resigns as North Allegheny boys basketball coach

March 17, 2021

WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. New Castle

WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship

Upper St. Clair tops Pine-Richland, celebrates 1st WPIAL title since ’05

March 12, 2021

There were moments when Danny Holzer could’ve worried in the fourth quarter, probably should’ve been worried, but Upper St. Clair’s longtime coach insists he wasn’t.

WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Pine-Richland

WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship

Union confusion leads Imani Christian basketball team on ride to wrong school

Sixty miles separate the Union Area High School near New Castle from Union High School in Rimersburg, but the districts with matching names continue to cause trouble for bus drivers.

Devin Carney’s buzzer-beating 3 lifts Butler past Penn-Trafford in OT

March 5, 2021

Ten times Butler’s Devin Carney had taken a shot from behind the arc Friday night and nine of them had missed. In fact, a potential winner at the end of regulation bounced hard off the rim.

After exploring college options, WPIAL to keep basketball finals in high school gyms

With gathering limits increased statewide, the WPIAL looked into renting a college venue for its basketball championships, but decided to use high school gyms as originally planned.

Breaking down the 2021 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs

February 23, 2021

Here is a breakdown of the 2020-21 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs:

In seeding basketball brackets, WPIAL asks: What have you done lately?

When it came time to seed the basketball playoff brackets, the WPIAL asked: What have you done lately?

Class 6A

Aspiring photographer, North Hills swimmer Josh Bogniard seeks picture-perfect WPIALs

Isayah Mosley and his Montour teammates held their breath in the final seconds of a 40-38 victory Friday night as host Central Valley missed at the buzzer.

The Big 33 Football Classic was canceled last spring but the game’s Super Bowl streak continues.

January 19, 2021

New Castle joined a larger classification this winter but the results seem much the same.

Class 6A

Now healthy, Habib steps into new role for North Allegheny

Greg Habib’s junior season ended early last winter when a player fell into his leg at Seneca Valley’s gym, forced his knee inward and injured his medial collateral ligament.

Woodland Hills suspended boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic for one game in response to a social media post last week that criticized game officials.

WPIAL ‘publicly censures’ Woodland Hills basketball coach Matt Furjanic for tweet

January 13, 2021

Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic tweets mostly about presidential politics to his 436 Twitter followers, but the WPIAL found one of his other posts more controversial.

Blistering 32-point quarter carries new-look North Allegheny past Seneca Valley

North Allegheny’s boys basketball team hasn’t reached triple digits in the past five seasons, which isn’t all that surprising since scoring 100 points is rare in the WPIAL.

Help has arrived for high school teams that fell behind schedule on their preseason practices.

5 Central Valley teammates voted all-state; Ameer Dudley named top player in 3A

Undefeated Central Valley was unmatched this season, a dominance that was rewarded in all-state voting Tuesday.

Beaver Falls trio leads 7 WPIAL players on Class 2A all-state football team

A month after winning a WPIAL football title, Beaver Falls teammates Josh Hough, Mitchell Myers and Tyler Jones have reason to celebrate again.

10 Apollo-Ridge players earn 1st-team honors in Allegheny Conference

Apollo-Ridge running back Logan Harmon and lineman Greg Klingensmith were among 10 Vikings who earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 2A Allegheny.

Beaver Falls’ Josh Hough, Laurel’s Mitch Miles earn top conference honors in MAC

WPIAL champion Beaver Falls earned seven first-team spots on the Midwestern all-conference team led by senior Josh Hough, who was named offensive player of the year.

McGuffey quarterback, lineman, coach earn all-conference awards in Century

McGuffey quarterback Rocco Falosk and lineman Aiden Brookman each earned individual conference honors after leading the Highlanders to the Century title.

Sto-Rox, Western Beaver lead Three Rivers all-conference football team

December 3, 2020

Sto-Rox and Western Beaver, which tied atop the Class 2A Three Rivers standings, led the all-conference voting with six first-team players.

Pittsburgh Public Schools postpones City League winter sports until January

Pittsburgh Public Schools has delayed the start of winter sports in the City League until at least January.

Elizabeth Forward leads Interstate all-conference vote with 8 first-team picks

Elizabeth Forward celebrated the second undefeated regular season in school history, an achievement that was rewarded in the all-conference voting.

Central Valley sweeps individual awards on Northwestern 6 all-conference team

PIAA savors fall season completed against all odds

November 30, 2020

There was cause to celebrate, but PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi probably didn’t spike the football or exchange high-fives after the state championships finished Saturday night.

Penn-Trafford leads all-conference picks on Big East football team

Central Catholic leads WPIAL Class 6A all-conference football team

5 things to watch at the PIAA football championships

With a laugh, Cathedral Prep coach Mike Mischler brags that his defense hasn’t given up a point in weeks.

PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep

November 26, 2020

Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep

PIAA urges winter sports teams to ‘set the foundation’ by starting practice Friday

November 18, 2020

The PIAA is encouraging winter sports teams to “set the foundation” by starting preseason practice Friday, if possible.

Individual schools must decide if athletes wear masks for competition, PIAA says

Could wearing a mask during a football game or soccer match be considered an unsafe condition?

WPIAL bans Peters Township band after investigating ‘blackface’ allegations

November 17, 2020

There’s an old theory that Western Pennsylvania cross country runners are better on hilly courses while their counterparts from the east thrive on fast, flat stretches.

Beaver Falls’ big backs will test Sto-Rox in WPIAL Class 2A final

Beaver Falls could use multiple receivers, spread the field and throw the football in Saturday’s WPIAL championship.

Aliquippa brings ‘massive’ line into Class 4A final against Thomas Jefferson

When Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak talks about Aliquippa’s linemen, he doesn’t compare them with any group he coached to a WPIAL title.

WPIAL Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Thomas Jefferson

WPIAL Class 4A football championship

Central Valley claims WPIAL title with yet another dominant performance

November 13, 2020

Call it a mercy mission.

Trib HSSN’s high school football championships primer

The WPIAL will host four football championship games Saturday after holding the Class 3A final Friday night. The Pittsburgh City League also will contest its championship game Saturday afternoon.

Central Catholic’s first opponent in the state playoffs will have a home-field advantage.

5 things we learned: Central Catholic coach Terry Totten climbs list with 6th WPIAL title

Only three football coaches have won more WPIAL titles than Central Catholic’s Terry Totten, but he hasn’t spent any time contemplating his place in league history.

Campus visit convinces Gateway’s Derrick Davis to pick LSU

The WPIAL football finals are moving from the North Shore to the North Hills.

Dominant Central Catholic defense shuts out Mt. Lebanon, returns to WPIAL finals

October 30, 2020

Like old west prospectors searching for gold, defensive lineman Bralen Henderson and his Central Catholic teammates spent this fall talking about nuggets.

What to watch in Week 8: Small-school Aliquippa enters 4A playoffs as top seed

The No. 1 seed in WPIAL Class 4A football is one of the smallest schools in the WPIAL.

WPIAL reveals 2020 football playoff brackets

The WPIAL promised its football teams weeks ago that if they canceled games for covid-19, those decisions wouldn’t hurt their qualifying chances come playoff time.

WPIAL football rankings for Week 7

Class 6A

WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel make final predictions for football pairings

This was a football season unlike any other.

Mt. Lebanon tops Seneca Valley with blocked extra point in overtime

October 23, 2020

With its playoff hopes in jeopardy, Mt. Lebanon would’ve gone for two in overtime Friday night, sticking with coach Bob Palko’s win-or-go-home reputation.

How will the WPIAL decide which football teams make the playoffs since covid-19 cancellations made the standings unbalanced?

After strong section season, North Allegheny runners prepare for championship meets

Small-school Aliquippa shows big-play ability in victory over Chartiers Valley

October 9, 2020

Aliquippa is a small school known for its big plays.

Covid-19 case forces New Castle to shut down football activities for 2 weeks

Here’s a look at this week’s WPIAL football rankings:

Multiple-QB approach working for North Allegheny

The Friday night started with Tanner Potts taking the first snap for North Allegheny’s offense. Ryan Treser handled the second snap, and soon Greg Phillips was behind center for the Tigers.

Gannon Carothers’ versatility helps No. 2 Central Catholic defeat No. 3 Seneca Valley

October 2, 2020

Gannon Carothers’ coaches say the junior plays five positions for Central Catholic, a versatility that seemed invaluable Friday night.

Clairton football practices are shut down until next week over covid-19 concerns and Saturday’s game against Bishop Canevin was canceled, the school announced Wednesday night.

5 things we learned in Week 3: Drop in classification lifts WPIAL teams to 3-0 starts

September 26, 2020

Gov. Tom Wolf followed through on his promise Monday and vetoed legislation that would have let school districts set their own attendance limits for sports.

5 things we learned in Week 2 of high school football

September 19, 2020

With Friday night’s win over Mt. Lebanon, a team Canon-McMillan hadn’t defeated in 12 years, the Big Macs bolstered their playoff chances.

WPIAL football rankings for Week 2

Central Catholic has five guys competing to play quarterback, and whoever wins the job will practice handing the football to Eddy Tillman.

Strong junior class has Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko optimistic in Year 2

Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko had 14 sophomores earn a varsity letter in his first season with the Blue Devils.

Football and soccer seasons were reinstated Friday at Uniontown.

If a school district lets students play sports and one contracts covid-19 with complications, could the school be held legally responsible?

WPIAL sets Sept. 1 deadline for schools to opt out of fall sports

August 24, 2020

The WPIAL believes a large majority of member schools will play sports this fall, but it’s hoping to know for sure in the next week.

The PIAA voted to allow high school sports to proceed on schedule. Allegheny County schools got a double dose of good news.

Sto-Rox hires Aliquippa’s Dwight Hines, all-time scorer Kerry Connolly as basketball coaches

After decades in red and black, Dwight Hines is embracing green energy at Sto-Rox.

PIAA set to make ‘biggest announcement’ regarding fall sports

August 20, 2020

The PIAA has been around for more than a century, and Friday’s decision surely ranks among its most debated.

The PIAA wants to move forward with fall sports, executive director Bob Lombardi told state legislators Tuesday, citing favorable data collected by UPMC athletic trainers.

State’s health secretary says Gov. Wolf won’t mandate cancellation of high school sports

If the PIAA ignores Gov. Tom Wolf’s advice and allows fall sports to continue, his administration won’t turn his strong recommendation into a mandate.

State lawmakers question data used to recommend PIAA sports shutdown

August 17, 2020

Republican state lawmakers are questioning the specific data — or lack thereof — that Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration used to recommend shutting down youth sports this fall.

If PIAA shuts down, AAU teams, other private programs could flourish

August 7, 2020

PIAA delays fall sports for 2 weeks to talk with Gov. Wolf, state legislature

The PIAA heard “thousands of voices,” so it’s trying to save fall sports.

State legislator urges PIAA to keep high school sports in fall

The governor wants high school sports delayed until January, but at least one member of the state legislature disagrees.

Pittsburgh Public Schools plans to postpone fall sports in City League

August 6, 2020

Pittsburgh Public Schools announced plans Thursday to postpone fall sports in the City League, a move tied to the district’s decision to start classes exclusively online.

Central Valley’s Myles Walker, who celebrated a WPIAL football title last fall, committed Monday to Akron.

North Allegheny’s Nate Hoke commits to ‘dream school’ BYU, where dad played

Nate Hoke doesn’t promote himself on social media like many athletes his age.

Gov. Wolf: Online-only schools shouldn’t play sports this fall

August 3, 2020

Online classes await students at a number of schools this fall, but that wasn’t expected to keep their sports teams from competing.

Penn Hills could become 2nd WPIAL school to drop ‘Indians’ nickname

Penn Hills may become the second WPIAL school to drop its Indians nickname.

The WPIAL delayed the start date for most fall sports, a decision executive director Amy Scheuneman compared to a two-hour delay on a winter morning.

Start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely changing after board adopts ‘hybrid’ option

July 30, 2020

The start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely are changing.

PIAA emphasizes ban on spectators comes from Gov. Wolf — not PIAA

The PIAA released a statement Thursday emphasizing that the current ban on spectators at high school sports events was imposed by Gov. Tom Wolf — not the PIAA.

Some changes to fall sports timeline still on the table after PIAA meeting

July 29, 2020

Fall sports season might end earlier for some schools and start a little later for others.

The WPIAL might not use Heinz Field for its football championships this fall for multiple reasons.

There are days when Aaron Albert coaches football in the morning, sprints to his real estate job for a few hours and then heads to the ballpark for evening baseball.

Trinity’s Courtney Dahlquist commits to Big South champion Campbell

July 21, 2020

The Campbell women’s basketball roster is dotted with players from North Carolina and Virginia down to Florida, fitting for a team in the Big South.

Pine-Richland wide receiver Eli Jochem adds 1st Division I offer

Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem, one of the WPIAL’s top receivers, announced his first Division I offer Monday from Fordham.

PIAA approves winter championship sites for next 4 seasons

July 19, 2020

Get your Hershey’s chocolate ready.

Shane Thrift hasn’t visited Delaware’s campus yet, but he’s confident he’ll feel comfortable there.

PIAA approves state football brackets; WPIAL can finalize its playoff plans

June 15, 2020

The PIAA approved state tournament brackets for all sports except basketball Monday, meaning the WPIAL soon can finalize plans for its football playoffs and championship games.

PIAA adopts 2-game suspension for unsportsmanlike actions including ‘racially insensitive comments’

The PIAA strengthened its stance against “ethnic and racially insensitive comments” by making those and other unsportsmanlike actions punishable with a two-game suspension.

Serra baseball star Mark Black commits to juco that produced Jose Bautista, Russell Martin

June 14, 2020

Serra Catholic baseball star Mark Black had his future mapped out way in advance, committing to St. John’s before his sophomore year, until the coronavirus pandemic turned the world upside down.

Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3 more Division I offers

Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson added three more Division I offers this week, pushing his overall total to about 30.

2-game suspension for foul language, physical contact among items on PIAA agenda Monday

The PIAA could give final approval Monday to a rule change that lets game officials issue a two-game suspensions to coaches and players who cross the line with foul language or make physical contact.

‘Position-less basketball’ draws Penn Hills’ A’Lysa Sledge to UMass Lowell

June 7, 2020

A’Lysa Sledge owns point guard skills and the size of a forward, a combination that lets her play every position on the floor for Penn Hills.

Indiana rising sophomore Eve Fiala draws Pitt basketball offer

Indiana’s Eve Fiala, who’s part of a talented 2023 WPIAL basketball class, added a scholarship offer Saturday from Pitt.

Sports might return sooner if schools prepare covid-19 plans now, PIAA says

June 5, 2020

The PIAA wants schools to use this downtime wisely.

Quaker Valley’s Bailey Garbee commits to American, turns teammates into rivals

Covid-19 guidelines for PIAA sports won’t be ready this week

June 4, 2020

Who were the PIAA football teams of the decade? MaxPreps ranks the Top 20

The most dominant high school football team in the state last decade wasn’t from Western Pennsylvania, but six WPIAL programs did make the list.

‘Sadness’ for athletes, coaches and alumni as Quigley Catholic closes doors

June 3, 2020

Where’s the rest of your team?

Miniature Wash High gym showcases ‘underground hobby’ of paper stadiums

Foul language, physical contact would earn 2-game suspension under PIAA proposal

May 21, 2020

The use of foul and vulgar language or physical contact with a PIAA game official, coach or opponent could become a two-game suspension for high school athletes and coaches.

PIAA board refers wrestling weight-class reduction to medical committee

The PIAA board referred a proposal to reduce wrestling weight classes to the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for discussion.

PIAA denies Lincoln Park appeal, forces boys basketball team to Class 4A

May 20, 2020

The Lincoln Park boys basketball team must move to Class 4A next season after the PIAA denied its final appeal Wednesday.

New coach Dan DeRose wants to win North Allegheny’s first WPIAL boys basketball title

North Allegheny has never won a WPIAL boys basketball title.

PIAA not ready to endorse NFHS guidelines for reopening high school athletics

The PIAA isn’t ready to endorse the return-to-sports guidelines issued Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

PIAA board says some teams may resume workouts next month, if governor approves

The PIAA board of directors unanimously supports a county-by-county approach to restarting high school sports, once the governor gives his approval.

National association issues detailed guide for reopening high school athletics

May 19, 2020

WPIAL adopts 2-game series for section baseball schedules, reveals realignment

May 18, 2020

High school teams can still hold the basketball for as long as they’d like.

Lincoln Park wants PIAA to define ‘participation’ in competitive-balance rule

Lincoln Park athletic director Mike Bariski is curious about the PIAA’s definition of the word “participation.”

If you’re a big-school athletic director, Justin Walther would like to talk.

Basketball coach Bill Sacco retires after 18 seasons at Cornell

May 7, 2020

Bill Sacco had already retired from teaching and coaching when he noticed Cornell was hiring a boys basketball coach and decided to apply.

Butler’s Ethan Morton named Player of the Year in Class 6A all-state voting

Hotly recruited Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon names Top 10 list

May 1, 2020

Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon, who’s quickly become the WPIAL’s hottest football recruit, announced a top 10 list Friday that included Penn State but not Pitt or West Virginia.

Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal commits to Duquesne

Three years ago, Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal and her family took an unofficial recruiting visit to Duquesne before her freshman year of high school.

Mars’ Michael Carmody, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher earn all-state honors in Class 5A boys basketball

Mars’ Michael Carmody and Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher, whose teams clashed in the WPIAL boys basketball finals, were named first-team all-state Friday.

‘Size doesn’t matter’ as South Fayette’s Charley Rossi adds first Division I offer

April 30, 2020

Charley Rossi took a break from helping his dad clean out the garage Monday to return a phone call to a college football coach.

OLSH junior Dante Spadafora and sophomore Jake DiMichele earned first-team all-state honors Tuesday, and the Chargers’ Mike Rodriguez was named the state’s top coach in Class 2A.

PIAA shouldn’t enforce competitive-balance rule, Lincoln Park basketball coach says

April 27, 2020

If the PIAA competitive-balance rule forces the Lincoln Park boys basketball team into a higher classification next season, coach Mike Bariski thinks that’s unfair.

All-state boys basketball: Cornell’s Kaden DiVito named Player of the Year in Class A

Cornell’s Kaden DiVito, who saw his senior season cut short two wins away from the PIAA finals, earned statewide recognition Monday as the Class A boys basketball player of the year.

Moon sophomore Reilly Sunday adds 5 Division I offers since late March

April 26, 2020

Social distancing hasn’t kept basketball scholarship offers away from Moon’s Reilly Sunday.

Peters Township hires new coaches for boys, girls basketball teams

Peters Township filled two vacant coaching jobs Monday night by hiring Joe Urmann to lead the boys basketball team and Bob Miles to lead the girls.

All-state girls basketball: 8 WPIAL players, coach Tim McConnell earn statewide honors in 5A

The PIAA Officials Council has suspended all chapter meetings until Gov. Tom Wolf reopens schools, the PIAA announced in an email to Pennsylvania high school sports officials.

Former Baldwin AD Vince Sortino joining WPIAL administration as assistant to executive director

March 16, 2020

Former Baldwin athletic director Vince Sortino is returning to the WPIAL.

No guarantee spring sports are played, but WPIAL discusses ‘what if’ scenarios

The WPIAL board discussed contingency plans for spring sports season behind closed doors Monday, but “anything at this point is uncertain,” associate executive director Amy Scheuneman said.

Future of spring sports season will be considered Monday by WPIAL board

March 13, 2020

The PIAA already postponed the end of winter sports season, but now spring sports might also be in danger.

In response to coronavirus concerns, North Allegheny will ban spectators from attending all home sporting events until April 13, the school district decided Wednesday.

Girls basketball sites, times: North Allegheny, Bethel Park travel to Bellefonte for PIAA quarterfinals

WPIAL finalists North Allegheny and Bethel Park will play on the same floor Friday night, one after the other as part of a PIAA girls basketball doubleheader at Bald Eagle in Bellefonte.

Boys basketball sites, times: PIAA schedules quarterfinal doubleheader at Hempfield

The PIAA scheduled a boys basketball quarterfinal doubleheader Friday night at Hempfield involving two WPIAL Class A teams.

Mt. Lebanon says it won’t play PIAA tournament game vs. Eastern Pa. team because of coronavirus

Scheduled to close, Vincentian Academy ends basketball season with emotional PIAA loss

This was the teary-eyed postgame talk that coach Tim Tyree dreaded, one that he and his Vincentian Academy players tried to delay for as long as possible.

‘Most spectators’ barred from Ohio high school events over coronavirus concerns; Conn. cancels tournaments

March 10, 2020

Facing concerns about coronavirus, state high school associations across the country are deciding whether to alter their postseason plans.

The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.

PIAA announces sites, times for 2nd-round boys basketball games

The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.

Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder delays knee surgery with PIAA 1st-round win

March 7, 2020

Andre Wilder is trying to postpone knee surgery one win at a time.

Sheldon Cox leads New Castle to WPIAL 1st-round win against Mt. Pleasant

February 19, 2020

If he could’ve changed anything, Mt. Pleasant coach Allan Bilinskyh would’ve picked a gym with tighter rims.

22 WPIAL football players selected for PSFCA East-West Game

Two WPIAL quarterbacks, Seneca Valley’s Gabe Lawson and Baldwin’s Mason Stahl, were chosen to lead the West all-stars in the PSFCA East-West Game on Memorial Day weekend.

PIAA rejects Quaker Valley wrestler Hunter Robison’s request to compete in postseason

Quaker Valley transfer Hunter Robison’s hopes to wrestle this season were dashed by the PIAA.

Butler clinches 1st boys basketball section title since 1992

January 28, 2020

Basketball coach Matt Clement was a junior on the team’s roster the last time Butler won a section title, but he watched Tuesday night as that 28-year wait finally ended.

Two-way Gateway football standout Tui Brown commits to UConn

Gateway senior Tui Brown, a two-way standout for the WPIAL champion, committed Sunday to UConn.

Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump commits to Duquesne

January 27, 2020

Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, who led the Jaguars to undefeated WPIAL and PIAA football titles, committed Monday to Duquesne.

The WPIAL has already requested a weekend at Heinz Field for the football finals, but it’s too early to say which classifications will play their championships at the North Shore stadium.

Woodland Hills basketball showcase draws teams from 7 states for anti-violence event

Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 11, 2020

WPIAL rankings

Short-handed Upper St. Clair uses ‘7 starters’ in victory over Bethel Park

With two starters out with injuries, Upper St. Clair could’ve easily explained away a lackluster effort Friday night, but the Panthers made sure that wasn’t necessary.

Charity basketball event draws out-of-state talent to Montour

January 10, 2020

WPIAL rankings

2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Coaches

The WPIAL awarded 48 football titles during the past decade and most of them went to the same 10 coaches.

2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Defense

January 3, 2020

When the NFL playoffs arrive this weekend, three WPIAL defensive stars from the past decade will be in uniform, a testament to the football talent Western Pennsylvania produces.

WPIAL rankings

Class 2A all-state football: Avonworth’s Duke Johncour named Coach of the Year

Fresh off their team’s first PIAA championship appearance, two Avonworth players earned all-state honors Saturday and Duke Johncour was named Pennsylvania’s Coach of the Year in Class 2A.

Class 4A all-state football: 4 Thomas Jefferson players selected, Cherpak voted top coach

Class 6A all-state football: Central Catholic leads WPIAL with 4 players

Central Catholic senior Jonathan Opalko twice made game-winning field goals in the playoffs and had a school-record 54-yarder in the regular season, kicks that earned him all-state honors Saturday.

Class A all-state football: West Greene’s Ben Jackson named Pa. Player of the Year

December 27, 2019

West Greene’s Ben Jackson became the first player in WPIAL history to rush for 3,000 yards in a single season, an achievement that earned him accolades this fall.

Class 3A all-state football: Central Valley leads WPIAL teams with 4 honorees

WPIAL champion Central Valley, which returned to the PIAA finals for the first time in five years, was rewarded Friday with four all-state selections.

Class 5A all-state football: Peters Township, Gateway, Moon claim multiple spots

WPIAL finalists Gateway and Peters Township combined Friday to fill five spots on the Class 5A all-state team led by Gators junior Derrick Davis, who was picked for the second consecutive year.

Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019

December 21, 2019

WPIAL rankings

Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team asked to leave the WPIAL and join District 10, but that request was denied by the WPIAL board Monday.

Missouri wrestling champion Wyatt Henson eligible for WPIAL, PIAA tournaments

December 16, 2019

Waynesburg transfer Wyatt Henson, a Missouri state wrestling champion, was ruled eligible Monday for the WPIAL and PIAA tournaments this winter.

WPIAL executive director Tim O’Malley retiring, board promotes Amy Scheuneman

The WPIAL will have a change in leadership this summer.

North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan commits to Patriot League football

North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan, an all-conference defensive end, has committed to Lehigh.

Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani follows high school connections to Albany

High school football players are in the midst of a two-week contact period on the NCAA recruiting calendar, a 14-day span that’s kept WPIAL juniors busy.

Southern Columbia has no equal in Class 2A football, a lesson Avonworth learned Friday.

Southern Columbia routs Avonworth in record-setting PIAA championship

December 6, 2019

Central Catholic ‘not awestruck’ by nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep

National rankings list St. Joseph’s Prep as one of the best high school football teams not only in Pennsylvania but in the entire country.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis can take a screen pass to the end zone at any time, and Peters Township’s Josh Casilli is just as dangerous with the football in his hands.

Thomas Jefferson finally clears Cathedral Prep hurdle

November 22, 2019

The referee held his hands only a few inches apart.

WPIAL Class 5A football final primer: Gateway vs. Peters Township

WPIAL Class 5A championship

WPIAL survey asks: Should every football team make the playoffs?

Would you be interested in every WPIAL football team making the playoffs?

Central Catholic keeps focus on State College with possible St. Joseph’s matchup looming

November 21, 2019

Central Catholic could have a showdown with defending state champion St. Joseph’s Prep on the horizon, an East vs. West clash with the nationally ranked Philadelphia power.

Ineligible Avonworth football player drops lawsuit against WPIAL, PIAA

Attorneys for ineligible Avonworth football player Kyros Thorpe withdrew his lawsuit against the WPIAL and PIAA on Thursday, ending his legal battle to play in the WPIAL football championship.

The WPIAL wants to hear from West Mifflin’s football coach and school administrators to determine whether the Titans used an ineligible football player all season.

WPIAL board unanimously approves Ligonier Valley request to join District 7

The WPIAL board voted unanimously Monday to accept Ligonier Valley as a member.

Opalko’s late field goal lifts Central Catholic past Pine-Richland in WPIAL Class 6A final

November 16, 2019

This was a kick that might make NFL kickers nervous.

Aliquippa quarterback plays in WPIAL championship hours after mother’s death

On the eve of the WPIAL championships, Aliquippa football coach Mike Warfield received a desperate text message from his quarterback.

WPIAL Class 6A football finals primer: Central Catholic vs. Pine-Richland

WPIAL Class 6A championship

Gateway’s defense uses 4th-down stands to edge McKeesport in WPIAL semifinals

McKeesport’s Devari Robinson sprinted forward on fourth-and-4, colliding with Gateway linebacker Jay Johnson, who dragged him to the Offutt Field turf.

5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football: TJ’s Cherpak draws Belichick comparisons

November 15, 2019

Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak chuckles at the comparison, but maybe it’s too not farfetched?

WPIAL Class 4A football finals primer: Thomas Jefferson vs. Belle Vernon

WPIAL Class 4A championship

Penn Hills had nine players voted first-team all-conference by coaches including eight on the defensive side of the football.

Big East: 9 from Penn-Trafford voted 1st-team all-conference, Ruane top coach

bPenn-Trafford went undefeated in the regular season and dominated the Big East once again Monday in the all-conference voting.

Allegheny 8: Peters Township leads all-conference voting with 8 on 1st team

Moon went from one conference win to a share of the Allegheny Eight title, a turnaround that earned Ryan Linn conference coach of the year honors.

Central Catholic leads 6A all-conference team; Canon-Mac’s Evans top coach

Central Catholic, North Allegheny and Pine-Richland finished tied as tri-champions in WPIAL Class 6A, but the Vikings ran away with the all-conference vote.

Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson leads PTFCA all-state cross country team

November 10, 2019

Two-time state cross country champion Patrick Anderson was named as the sport’s male athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

The WPIAL football playoffs often bring together unfamiliar teams, so their coaches spend hours studying one another on film.

After 2 winless seasons, Butler football might leave WPIAL for independent schedule

November 7, 2019

Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team might leave the WPIAL for an independent schedule next season.

5 things to watch in Week 11 of high school football: North Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon looking to flip script

How much can change in 14 days?

Home-field advantage weighs heavy in WPIAL playoffs

October 31, 2019

North Hills’ Rowdie Rooters, the team’s famed hilltop cheering section, hasn’t celebrated a home playoff game at Martorelli Stadium in almost a decade.

2nd WPIAL football playoff game moved to artificial turf

Friday’s forecast predicts drier weather, but Thursday’s rain was enough to force two WPIAL football playoff games to be moved off grass.

The WPIAL denied an appeal from Clairton transfer Wayne Wade III on Monday, leaving the senior ineligible for the upcoming football playoffs.

For many teams, there’s still hope.

Upper St. Clair swimming star Josh Matheny commits to Indiana

October 16, 2019

The Indiana Hoosiers are probably known best for an iconic basketball program once coached by Bob Knight, but the school also has a swim team that celebrates championships.

Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny standout Kenny White, now a junior college sophomore, added his third Division I offer this week from Robert Morris.

Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney adds Robert Morris offer

Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney has two hometown basketball offers now that Robert Morris has joined her scholarship list.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 7

October 12, 2019

WPIAL Football

5 takeaways from Week 7: Keystone Oaks QB tops 500 total yards in extraordinary effort

Keystone Oaks coach Greg Perry wasn’t too surprised, but quarterback Logan Shrubb didn’t seem tired when he arrived Saturday morning to lift weights.

Thomas Jefferson slows Central Valley’s big-play offense in nonconference clash

October 4, 2019

Central Valley has the type of athlete-heavy spread offense that’s caused Thomas Jefferson trouble in recent years.

PIAA tightens competitive balance formula for football, basketball transfers

Adding one transfer could force a basketball team into a higher PIAA classification.

WPIAL postpones hearing for Allderdice, Connellsville boys soccer teams

September 23, 2019

A WPIAL hearing scheduled Wednesday for the Allderdice and Connellsville boys soccer teams has been postponed.

WPIAL Football

North Allegheny’s Percise Colon draws big comparisons after victory over Mt. Lebanon

September 20, 2019

Art Walker has a small-but-sensational running back who’s undersized and maybe underestimated, but one that could lead the team to a championship.

WPIAL sets hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address racial, anti-gay slurs

Representatives from Connellsville and Allderdice will meet next week to address allegations that the schools’ boys soccer teams used racial and anti-gay slurs.

Mt. Lebanon isn’t ‘well-oiled machine,’ but will battle North Allegheny for 1st place

September 19, 2019

Bob Palko wants to build Mt. Lebanon into the “well-oiled machine” that his West Allegheny program was, but first, all of the parts have to be assembled correctly.

5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football

Clairton will try to do something that Mohawk, Rochester, Bishop Canevin and California couldn’t.

Injuries force Bishop Canevin to forfeit football game against OLSH

Citing a lack of healthy players, Bishop Canevin announced that it will forfeit this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.

WPIAL wants 2 football coaches suspended for violating heat acclimatization rules

September 17, 2019

The WPIAL wants two football coaches suspended for a scrimmage next season for violating preseason heat acclimatization rules.

Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL girls basketball title last winter, received her third Division I offer this week.

Brian Eyerman, Alex Papson among North Allegheny hall of fame class

Football standouts Brian Eyerman and Alex Papson are among 11 former North Allegheny athletes who’ll be inducted next month into the school’s sports hall of fame.

5 takeaways from Week 3: Quarterback’s 485 yards among all-time WPIAL best

September 14, 2019

Gaudy statistics by WPIAL quarterbacks aren’t unusual anymore, but occasionally there’s a number that stands out among the rest.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 3

WPIAL Football

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada throws 5 touchdowns in win over New Castle

September 6, 2019

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada tossed five touchdown passes in Friday night’s 37-21 victory, but those throws weren’t the only ones that left New Castle coach Joe Cowart impressed.

Washington lineman Chase Mitchell commits to FBS newcomer Liberty

The WPIAL added another Division I lineman to the 2020 recruiting class Thursday when Washington’s Chase Mitchell committed to Liberty.

New Castle wants to stop South Fayette’s 3-year undefeated run in Northwest 8

September 5, 2019

The name changed from the Northwest Nine to the Northwest Eight, but whatever the Class 4A conference was called, South Fayette has owned it.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL

August 21, 2019

Sharing your field with a good soccer team can sometimes be a boost for football programs across the WPIAL.

There’s no major college recruit on this list like last year when Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, North Allegheny’s Joey Porter Jr. and Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy topped the cornerback rankings.

For the fourth year in a row, the WPIAL had a high school football player chosen for the All-American Bowl.

The PIAA overturned a WPIAL decision and lifted the suspension given to Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso.

WPIAL’s best football players take break for TribLive HSSN event

July 23, 2019

High school football teams have worked out together for months in weight rooms and practice fields, but suddenly those offseason sessions have a more serious tone.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds 2 more Division I offers

Quaker Valley has another Washington with Division I basketball talent.

Armstrong coach Frank Fabian ready for season after short-lived resignation

In two weeks, when WPIAL football teams start heat acclimation, Armstrong coach Frank Fabian will be there for his fifth season with the River Hawks.

QB Eric Wilson wants to help revive Sto-Rox tradition he grew up on

July 21, 2019

WPIAL soccer referees must keep using the “double dual” officiating system, at least for now.

PIAA eligibility hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson postponed

The PIAA hearing scheduled Wednesday for Moon basketball standout Donovan Johnson was postponed.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 girls outdoor track season

July 16, 2019

Maybe the biggest story of track season came months earlier when the WPIAL decided to move the individual championship meet to Slippery Rock.

Thomas Jefferson QB Shane Stump adds 3rd Division I offer

Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, one of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks, announced his third college offer from Dayton.

North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch adds 4 more basketball offers

Four more names joined the list of Division I basketball teams recruiting North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch.

Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen, a rising senior, announced her commitment to St. Francis (Pa.) basketball Sunday.

Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal adds 4 more basketball offers

Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal added several more names to her scholarship list Sunday.

Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm adds WVU basketball offer

Chartiers Valley basketball standout Aislin Malcolm, one of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores, received an offer Sunday from West Virginia.

North Allegheny senior lineman Lugg forges his own path

North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg plays left tackle for the Tigers like older brother, Josh, did a few years earlier.

Basketball star Donovan Johnson will learn next week whether he can play his senior season at Moon.

After 2 years without, light towers return to Northgate’s stadium

Northgate football coach Michael Fulmore was headed home after a summer workout when something high in the Bellevue sky grabbed his attention.

While awaiting PIAA eligibility hearing, West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson giving 100 percent effort

July 11, 2019

2 WPIAL football recruits announce 1st Division I offers from St. Francis

Two rising seniors in the WPIAL each received their first Division I football offers this week from St. Francis.

Like famous uncle, Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald seems poised for ‘great things’

July 6, 2019

Incoming North Allegheny freshman announces Division 1 basketball offer

June 30, 2019

North Allegheny’s Jasmine Timmerson hasn’t started high school but already has a Division 1 basketball offer.

Trinity basketball’s Riley DeRubbo adds St. Francis offer

Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo, who missed most of her junior basketball season after knee surgery, has added another Division 1 offer.

Pennsylvania has nation’s No. 1-ranked small school football team

Defending PIAA champion Southern Columbia was ranked Sunday as the No. 1 small school football team in the country by the website High School Football America.

2 WPIAL schools honored nationally in preseason football rankings

WPIAL football teams Penn Hills and Pine-Richland were recognized by High School Football American in its national preseason rankings.

As the Trib’s player of the year in 2014, Blackhawk’s Brendan McKay was asked to predict where he saw himself in five years.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty grows along with expectations

June 27, 2019

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens leaving Southern Cal after stellar freshman year

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens, who earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year track honors this spring, announced Wednesday that he’s transferring from Southern Cal.

North Allegheny lineman Jake Lugg chooses Ivy League football

June 26, 2019

The Ivy League added a top WPIAL lineman for the second time in two days when North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg committed Wednesday to Harvard.

The WPIAL baseball playoffs were as unpredictable as ever this season with only one top-seeded team winning a title.

Woodland Hills tight end Josh Rawlings commits to Virginia over ACC rivals

June 23, 2019

Virginia was the first Power 5 program to offer Woodland Hills’ Josh Rawlings a football scholarship in December.

Serra Catholic’s Mark Black named Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year

The Youghiogheny runs beyond the outfield fence at Boston Field in McKeesport, the home for Serra Catholic baseball.

WPIAL’s youth movement shows in 2019 Trib HSSN baseball all-stars

WPIAL baseball has witnessed an influx of talented freshmen in recent years and their arrival is reflected in the Trib 10.

West Mifflin standout Nahki Johnson among 2 ruled ineligible by WPIAL

June 20, 2019

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson and Gateway’s Diego Bledsoe played football together last season at Steel Valley before each transferred elsewhere.

The WPIAL denied Donovan Johnson’s waiver request Monday, leaving the Moon basketball star ineligible for his senior season.

Mars’ Michael Carmody, WPIAL’s top-ranked football recruit, commits to Notre Dame

June 16, 2019

Almost two years to the day that Robby Carmody committed to Notre Dame basketball, his younger brother Michael committed Sunday to play football for the Fighting Irish.

How public-private legislation would alter Pa. high school sports landscape

June 15, 2019

Frazier softball’s state championship game moved to Friday as PIAA revamps schedule

UNIVERSITY PARK — The PIAA rearranged its softball and baseball championships schedule Thursday and postponed two games to Friday after rain soaked Penn State’s campus.

WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield transferring from Sewickley Academy

June 12, 2019

WPIAL basketball standout Isiah Warfield, a 25-point scorer last season at Sewickley Academy, has transferred home to Central Valley for his senior year.

Legislation to split public, private school sports ‘poorly crafted,’ PIAA exec says

June 11, 2019

High school sports proposal would separate public, private playoffs, ax PIAA transfer restrictions

Western Pa. representative readies legislation to separate private, public school playoffs

June 10, 2019

The executive director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference sat down with outspoken public school advocates in February for a frank conversation about the current PIAA playoff system.

PIAA postpones all baseball, softball semifinals involving WPIAL teams

The PIAA postponed many of Monday’s baseball and softball semifinals because of weather to Tuesday, including all involving WPIAL teams.

Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty commits to North Carolina

June 9, 2019

Softball sites, times: 11 WPIAL teams reach PIAA quarterfinals

June 4, 2019

WPIAL softball champions Laurel, West Greene and Elizabeth Forward will take part in a PIAA playoff tripleheader Thursday at Slippery Rock University.

Baseball sites, times: North Allegheny, Pine-Richland rematch in quarterfinals

Section rivals Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will rematch Thursday in a PIAA Class 6A baseball quarterfinal at LaRoche College.

If Hollis Mathis scores an all-star game touchdown Sunday, he might have to call somebody immediately.

Softball sites, times: 4 WPIAL teams headed to Penn State’s Beard Field for PIAA openers

Four WPIAL softball teams will take an early look at the state championship site.

Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins among 9 WPIAL girls named PTFCA all-state

May 31, 2019

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads WPIAL boys on PTFCA all-state team

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne, the WPIAL and PIAA Class AAA champion in the 3,200 meters, was named a first-team all-state selection by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

With rain in the forecast, the WPIAL moved up the start time for the Class 3A softball final Wednesday at Peterswood Park.

Track and field

PIAA recap: WPIAL athletes win 11 events at state track championships

The weekend started slowly but WPIAL athletes rallied on Saturday and won 11 events at the PIAA track and field championships in Shippensburg.

May 24, 2019

SHIPPENSBURG — Beaver sophomore Emma Pavelek leaped plenty high enough to win a state title, matching her top rival jump for jump at Seth Grove Stadium.

Burrell’s Sharrow redeems herself in 300 hurdles, advances to PIAA finals

SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stumbled to the finish line last year at Seth Grove Stadium and then waited nervously, hoping to hear her named called for the 300-meter finals.

WPIAL controversy settled, Waynesburg hurdler has ‘something to prove to myself’ at PIAAs

This week was calmer than last for WPIAL champion hurdler and pole vaulter Daniel Layton, but it wasn’t without incident.

WPIAL sprint champion Hayden Robinson among favorites for PIAA gold

May 23, 2019

Hayden Robinson has one goal for her final trip to Shippensburg.

Western Pennsylvania football fans probably know Colorado State as the alma mater of former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter.

University Prep’s Michael Snowden lists first FBS football offer

College recruiters are chasing after Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes, but he’s not the only Division 1 football prospect in the City League.

North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Mt. Pleasant, Avonworth, Chartiers-Houston and West Greene received No. 1 seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed softball playoff brackets.

Central Catholic dipped into the college ranks Wednesday and hired Brian Urso as boys basketball coach.

Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson runs state’s fastest 800 meters at Butler Invitational

Greensburg Salem senior Malia Anderson ran the fastest time in the state this season to win the girls 800 meters Thursday at the Butler Invitational.

Seneca Valley AD Heather Lewis joining WPIAL board of directors

April 18, 2019

Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis is the only newcomer voted onto the WPIAL board of directors this year in election results revealed Wednesday.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher gains popularity with ACC, Big 10 football coaches

Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher is popular with ACC and Big 10 football coaches.

WPIAL requests eligibility hearing for West Mifflin transfer Nahki Johnson

The WPIAL board voted Wednesday to hold an eligibility hearing for West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson.

Decline in ticket sales hurts WPIAL budget, limits money shared back to schools

Penn Hills, Pine-Richland and Butler will receive more than $5,000 apiece from the WPIAL as part of its annual share-back program from playoff gate ticket revenues.

WPIAL softball championships headed to Peterswood Park for 2019

April 17, 2019

The WPIAL softball championships are headed to Peterswood Park in Peters Township next month.

WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes

The WPIAL announced the 20 winners of its annual scholar-athlete scholarship contest. Each receives $1,000 and will be honored at a banquet May 13 at the DoubleTree in Green Tree.

Peterswood Park chosen to host WPIAL softball championships

Peterswood Park in Peters Township will host the WPIAL softball championships next month.

April 13, 2019

Baseball rankings

Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis earns 4 medals, sets record at TSTCA championship

Two first-place medals, two seconds and a meet record caused Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis to smile Saturday, but so did a candid compliment from her coach.

2 WPIAL girls javelin champions headline Tri-State Track Coaches Championship

April 12, 2019

Seneca Valley, North Allegheny ADs among 18 candidates vying for WPIAL board

Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis and North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto are among the school administrators seeking to join the WPIAL board of directors this summer.

April 6, 2019

One word can describe both Peters Township and Chartiers Valley: Perfect.

3 high-scoring juniors join senior-heavy Trib 10 boys basketball all-stars

Western Pennsylvania had no shortage of standout scorers this season.

The offers keep coming for Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty.

Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash commits to Binghamton

Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash, one of the WPIAL’s top seniors, committed Sunday to Binghamton.

Bethel Park’s Maddie Dziezgowski commits to St. Bonaventure

Bethel Park junior Maddie Dziezgowski, who helped the Black Hawks reach the WPIAL girls basketball semifinals, announced her commitment Saturday to St. Bonaventure.

March has brought more joy than madness for Moon’s Donovan Johnson and his family.

McKeesport’s Deamontae Diggs draws 1st FBS offer as Buffalo blankets WPIAL

March 28, 2019

Buffalo had two football players with Western Pennsylvania roots last season, but the Bulls coaches spent this week trying to boost that number.

Woodland Hills TE Joshua Rawlings sees 3rd Big 10 school join recruiting list

Woodland Hills junior Joshua Rawlings quickly became one of the WPIAL’s hottest football recruits.

North Catholic’s Tess Myers adds 8th college offer after reaching state finals

North Catholic’s Tess Myers, one of the WPIAL’s top juniors, added another Division I offer after leading her basketball team to the state finals.

Mars junior Michael Carmody adds 2 ACC, 2 SEC football offers

Mars junior lineman Michael Carmody added two more ACC and SEC football offers this week, pushing his scholarship total to more than two dozen.

Fresh off NCAA upset, Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield commits to Liberty

March 27, 2019

Isiah Warfield didn’t fill out an NCAA tournament bracket but did urge others to pick against fifth-seeded Mississippi State in the first round.

HERSHEY — This wasn’t the first time Lincoln Park built a double-digit lead and then held its breath until the clock reached zeroes.

PIAA Class 5A girls championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Archbishop Carroll

PIAA Class 5A girls championship

PIAA Class 3A boys championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. Trinity

PIAA Class 3A boys championship

PIAA Class 4A girls championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Bethlehem Catholic

PIAA Class 4A girls championship

March 21, 2019

HERSHEY — While preparing for the state finals, Vincentian Academy coach Tim Tyree studied two separate game films of Sankofa Freedom Academy.

Moon and Mars combined for a dramatic WPIAL boys basketball championship earlier this month.

PIAA girls basketball sites, times: Chartiers Valley, Thomas Jefferson rematch Tuesday

March 17, 2019

WPIAL champion Chartiers Valley and runner-up Thomas Jefferson will rematch at 7 p.m., Tuesday in a PIAA Class 5A semifinal at Peters Township.

PIAA boys basketball sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams reach state semifinals

New Castle’s field house will host a state semifinal two nights in a row.

Oscar Tshiebwe’s double-double leads Kennedy Catholic past Mt. Lebanon in PIAA quarterfinal

March 16, 2019

This state quarterfinal win over Mt. Lebanon, a 17-point victory against a WPIAL champion, “was a world-class butt-whipping,” said Kennedy Catholic coach Rick Mancino.

The PIAA scheduled Peters Township vs. Norwin girls as the late game in a boys/girls basketball doubleheader at Keystone Oaks on Friday night.

PIAA boys basketball sites, times: Mars, New Castle scheduled back-to-back

WPIAL champions Mars and New Castle will play back-to-back Friday night in a PIAA boys basketball doubleheader at Slippery Rock University.

Turnovers costly as Quaker Valley loses to Bishop McDevitt in PIAA 2nd round

March 12, 2019

HOLLIDAYSBURG — Bishop McDevitt forced 15 first-half turnovers and built a 20-point halftime lead in Tuesday night’s 79-47 victory over Quaker Valley in the PIAA Class 4A second round.

Mars survives foul trouble to defeat York William Penn in PIAA 2nd round

HOLLIDAYSBURG — Mars coach Rob Carmody wrote one word in bold letters on the whiteboard inside the locker room: Poise.

Class 6A

PIAA 2nd round sites, times announced for boys basketball playoffs

Class 6A

WPIAL, City League champions will clash at Canon-McMillan

WPIAL champion Mt. Lebanon and City League champion Allderdice will meet Wednesday night at Canon-McMillan in the second round of the PIAA Class 6A boys basketball playoffs.

4 WPIAL track standouts compete Sunday at New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York

Four WPIAL track standouts will compete Sunday at the New Balance Indoor Nationals in New York.

City League champion Allderdice defeats Canon-McMillan in overtime

March 9, 2019

Canon-McMillan chose to chase Allderdice’s guards around the court, so the Dragons turned instead to their 6-foot-7 center with a scorer’s touch.

WPIAL champion Neshannock advances in PIAA playoffs with 4-point victory over Tyrone

Neleh Nogay scored 14 points and Bella Burrelli added 10 as WPIAL champion Neshannock defeated Tyrone, 42-38, Friday night in a PIAA Class 3A first-round victory at North Allegheny.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis has another major college football team interested in him.

Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher, a standout linebacker on a state championship defense, added his first Big 10 college offer.

Pitt, WVU recruits among Maryland picks for Big 33 Football Classic

Pitt recruit A.J. Woods, a cornerback from Germantown, Md., was among the 38 high school football players chosen to represent Maryland in the Big 33 Football Classic.

Mt. Lebanon shows patience in WPIAL championship win over Butler

March 2, 2019

Mt. Lebanon wanted to keep the ball out of Ethan Morton’s hands, so the Blue Devils just held onto it themselves.

WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball preview: New Castle vs. Quaker Valley

Class 4A boys

WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball preview: Butler vs. Mt. Lebanon

Class 6A boys

Recchia’s late 3-pointer helps Mars defend WPIAL Class 5A championship

March 1, 2019

Andrew Recchia was the only person at Petersen Events Center who already knew how this WPIAL championship would end.

Class 3A boys

WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball preview: Mars vs. Moon

Class 5A boys

Johnson’s double-double guides No. 3 Moon past Penn Hills in Class 5A semifinals

February 26, 2019

Two years ago, a star basketball player transferred home to Moon, reunited with his childhood friends and led the Tigers’ run to the WPIAL finals.

February 21, 2019

No. 2 Aliquippa erases 14-point second-half deficit to defeat Neshannock

M.J. Devonshire was taking his official recruiting visit to Kentucky when Aliquippa lost to Neshannock in January, a loss that bothered him hundreds of miles away.

WPIAL Hall of Fame to announce 13th induction class

February 20, 2019

For some all-time WPIAL greats, 13 will be their lucky number.

WPIAL adds 2 boys basketball teams for 2019-20 season

One WPIAL boys basketball section will have a new look next season.

Carlynton hires former Peters Township football coach Piccinini

Carlynton has hired Rich Piccinini as football coach, the school announced Wednesday.

WPIAL schedules Aliquippa/Lincoln Park doubleheader at New Castle

February 19, 2019

Lincoln Park and Aliquippa, the WPIAL’s top seeds in Class 3A boys basketball, can’t meet until the finals.

Penn Hills senior Daequan Hardy added another postseason honor to his list.

Ohio State joins list of schools recruiting Mars’ Michael Carmody

February 15, 2019

Mars junior Michael Carmody added his ninth Big 10 football offer Thursday when conference champion Ohio State joined his scholarship list.

North Catholic football standout Nikhai Hill-Green announces transfer out of state

North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green, one of the WPIAL’s top football players, said Friday that he’s transferring out of state.

No. 6 Union tops No. 11 Clairton with barrage of third-quarter 3-pointers

February 14, 2019

Union followed a nine-point second quarter with a 29-point third, and the difference was a few well-timed 3-pointers.