Author: Michael Love

Apollo-Ridge’s Mikaila Ditty eyes her second home run against South Allegheny on Monday, April 14, 2025 at Apollo- Ridge High School.

Alle-Kiski Valley softball playoff preview capsules: Games for May 19, 2025

WPIAL softball playoffs

Upper St. Clair’s Sadie Tomczyk edges Plum’s Gabrielle Layne and Norwin’s Melani Schmidt in the 200 meters during the WPIAL Class 3A track and field championships May 14 at Slippery Rock University.

Riverview, Plum athletes earn trips to PIAA track and field championships

May 17, 2025

Riverview senior Matt Orbin was seeded fourth entering the Class 2A boys javelin at last Wednesday’s WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock.

Plum’s Liana Yusko gets to second base for the force out on Chartiers Valley’s Alana Woods during WPIAL Class 5A playoff action May 12 at West Mifflin High School.

Plum’s Wes Lorish pumps his fist after making a long putt on Hole 9 during the WPIAL Class AAA boys golf championship Oct. 1 2024, at Oakmont Country Club.

Plum golfer Lorish commits to Marshall, pursues U.S. Open

May 6, 2025

The U.S. Open golf championship is coming back to Oakmont Country Club on June 12-15, and Plum’s Wes Lorish is going to do his best to be there on the course with the game’s greatest players.

Valley’s Jake Ervin hits as he plays with Josh Serena against Hampton during the WPIAL Class 2A team semifinals Monday.

Valley boys tennis advances past Hampton to WPIAL team finals

May 5, 2025

Valley will get a chance to win its first WPIAL boys tennis championship as it punched its ticket to Wednesday’s Class 2A finals with a 3-2 victory over Hampton in a semifinal contest Monday afternoon on the courts at North Allegheny High School.

South Allegheny’s Cameron Colecche scores the winning run behind Apolloidge’s Olivia Saxion on Monday.

South Allegheny grinds out win vs. Apollo-Ridge

April 14, 2025

South Allegheny used a big fourth inning to turn around its fortunes against Apollo-Ridge in a key Section 2-2A softball matchup Monday at Apollo-Ridge High School.

Latrobe’s Gabe Watson plays against Penn-Trafford Thursday, April 10, 2025 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Gateway senior Dino Nadarevic (let) broke the school record in the discus, previously held by 1973 grad Wayne Marinclin (right). Nadarevic’s throw traveled 172 feet, 5 inches.

Gateway’s Dino Nadarevic breaks discus record, has shot put mark in sight

April 6, 2025

Gateway senior Dino Nadarevic entered his final high school outdoor track and field season eyeing up a couple of longstanding throwing school records.

Gateway baseball coach Andy Hoover talks with his team at practice Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the Gateway Sports Complex.

‘A long way to go’: Despite strong start, Gateway baseball focused on staying hot

The Gateway baseball team won its fifth game of the young season, 3-2 over McKeesport in its Section 4-5A opening series March 25.

Volleyball coaches association releases Week 3 WPIAL boys rankings

WPIAL boys volleyball teams enter the second week of section play looking to make moves in the standings.

Kyrell McCoy is a top distance runner for the Gateway track team.

Gateway track and field athletes look toward promising 2025 season

March 30, 2025

The calendar has turned from March to April, and the leading athletes on the Gateway track and field teams are working to take that next step in their development while others are honing their talents to what they hope is a breakout 2025 season.

North Allegheny’s Grant Regule, Gus Miller, Mason Shantz and Zach Totin won the 200 free relay at the PIAA Class 3A swimming championships Friday, March 14, 2025.

Freeport’s Isabelle Barton swims at the Fox Chapel pool Feb. 14, 2023.

Freeport contingent, 9 swimmers strong, ready for PIAA Class 2A meet

March 10, 2025

Isabelle Barton didn’t expect to swim an individual event at last year’s PIAA Class 2A championships at Bucknell University.

North Allegheny’s Brendan Moore looks to squeeze a shot between Shaler’s Logan Schimmel (16) and Peyton Planz (24) during the WPIAL Class 3A boys volleyball championship match May 23, 2024, at Peters Township High School.

Coaches association releases WPIAL preseason boys volleyball rankings

The WPIAL boys volleyball season begins Friday, and in advance of the opening matches and tournaments, the Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association on Monday released its preseason top 10 polls for both Class 2A and Class 3A.

Freeport sophomore Isaac Barton swims in practice March 5, 2025, at Highlands High School.

Mt. Pleasant’s Lily King reacts after setting a new WPIAL record in the girls 200 freestyle during the 2025 WPIAL Class 2A championships Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Eight Plum seniors were celebrated for finalizing their college decisions at a ceremony Feb. 5 at Plum High School. In front (from left) are Dorrian Anderson (Millersville football), Catie Weiss (Allegheny women’s soccer) and Noah Odom (Ashland football). In back are Nick Odom (Delaware Valley football), Trent Reese (UNC-Pembroke wresting), Josh Curry (Ashland football), T.J. Futules (Ashland football) and Gage Adinolfi (Penn State Behrend men’s soccer).

Plum football trio headed to Ashland while other Mustangs decide on future plans

February 8, 2025

Noah Odom will continue his football playing career at Division II Ashland University.

Plum’s Taylie Auth (right) looks to get off a shot as Shaler’s Bayleigh Perezdefends during a game Dec. 20 at Plum High School.

The Gateway unified bocce teams hosted Fox Chapel on Thursday at the Furrie Sports Complex in front of a large contingent of junior and senior students.

Riverview’s Alex Wylly wrestles against Woodland Hills’ Logan Summers on Dec. 4 at Penn Hills High School.

Springdale’s Alex Wylly eyes postseason success as part of Riverview wrestling co-op

February 1, 2025

Last season, Alex Wylly made a postseason push that saw him place fourth in his Class 2A section tournament, earn a sixth-place medal at the WPIAL championships, and compete at regionals.

Plum senior and Mercyhurst baseball commit Jake Dombkowski is congratulated by athletic director Drew Karpen during a signing celebration Jan. 28 at Plum High School.

Members of the 1984-85 Deer Lakes girls basketball team gathered Saturday at Deer Lakes High School to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their runs to both the WPIAL and PIAA Class AA championships.

Gateway’s Bailey Steele, with her brother Jonah Steele and mother Bridget Steele, signed to continue her diving career at IUP.

Gateway’s Bailey Steele, Hayden Price make college decisions

December 15, 2024

Bailey Steele has her sights set on qualifying for the PIAA Class 3A diving championships in her final varsity season.

Leechburg quarterback Jayden Floyd (right) looks for room to pass while under pressure from Clairton’s Tahvaz Armstrong on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024, at Veteran’s Memorial Football Field.

Springdale’s Briana Ross works past Winchester Thurston’s Gaby Winston during the WPIAL Class A championship game on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, at Highmark Stadium.

Springdale’s Briana Ross named 2024 A-K Valley Girls Soccer Player of the Year

Girls Soccer Player of the Year: Briana Ross, Sr., F, Springdale

Knoch’s Karlee Buterbaugh battles Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone for a rebound during their game Jan. 22, 2024, at Highlands.

Starting 5s: Previewing high school girls basketball season in the A-K Valley

November 28, 2024

Starting 5s

Deer Lakes’ Nathaniel Moore scores past Mercyhurst Prep’s Derek Bly during a PIAA Class A first-round game March 9.

Gateway girls basketball coach Curtis Williams directs traffic from the bench during a game against Penn Hills in 2023.

Gateway girls hungry to get back to winning ways

November 17, 2024

The numbers haven’t been pretty the past couple of seasons for the Gateway girls basketball team since making the WPIAL playoffs in 2020-21.

Gateway junior Mykel McCrommon returns in 2024 after earning all-section honorable mention recognition last year.

Gateway boys basketball players step into increased roles after heavy graduation loss

A senior-laden Gateway boys basketball team was stopped by rival Franklin Regional in last year’s WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinals.

Plum’s Kent Holmes (33) celebrates with Andy Strasser against Norwin in October.

Franklin Regional’s Drew Devola attempts a shot with pressure from Gateway’s Mykel Bruce-McCrommon on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024, at Norwin.

Gateway winter sports teams set to commence 2024-25 campaigns

November 10, 2024

The Gateway boys and girls basketball, swimming and wrestling teams have arrived at their WPIAL winter seasons as official preseason practices kick off Friday.

Gateway junior Hunter Raymer earned PIAA medals in the Class 3A boys 200-yard medley relay and 500 freestyle at the championship meet March 13 and 14, 2024, at Bucknell University.

Gateway’s Hunter Raymer has high expectations for final high school swim season

Hunter Raymer closed out his 2024 high school swim season at the PIAA championships with a pair of medals. The Gateway senior distance specialist took eighth in the Class 3A 200-yard individual medley and came back a day later to place fifth in the 500 freestyle.

Riverview’s Renton Biondich plays against Springdale on Oct. 3 at Riverside Park.

Riverview boys soccer continued to make strides, capping 2024 season in playoffs

November 9, 2024

The Riverview boys soccer team had a breakout season in 2024 with 10 wins in the regular season and its first trip to the WPIAL playoffs since 2019.

Plum’s Brenna McLaughlin battles Fox Chapel’s Alyssa Quackenbush for possession during their WPIAL Class 3A semifinal on <ins>Tuesday, </ins>Oct. 29 at Martorelli Stadium in Ross.

Southmoreland’s Stanley Betters is pursued by Highlands’ Jahmar Wright (1) on a kickoff return during a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game Nov. 1, 2024, at Southmoreland High School.

It wasn’t the way the Gateway boys soccer team wanted its WPIAL Class 4A first-round playoff game to play out.

Highlands’ Menage Lucas avoids Deer Lakes’ Nathaniel Moore on the way to a third-quarter touchdown Sept. 27.

Highlands joins Deer Lakes, Freeport, Leechburg from A-K Valley in football playoffs

October 26, 2024

Four Alle-Kiski Valley football teams will be a part of the WPIAL playoffs.

Plum’s Ronit Yurovsky returns a volley against Pine-Richland’s Taylor Perz during the WPIAL Class AAA final match Sept. 23, 2011 at Glen Creek Tennis Club.

Deer Lakes’ Reese Waruszewski takes the winning shot past Avonworth for the only score of the game during a WPIAL Class 2A first-round game Tuesday.

Freeport’s Alanina Whitlinger, shown in last year’s WPIAL championship, was an all-state selection last season.

Plum’s Darian Nelson is a member of the 2024 football team.

Plum’s Joey Massarelli plays against Quaker Valley on Oct. 7, 2024 at Pittsburgh Ice Arena.

Behind experienced roster, Plum hockey eyes return trip to playoffs

Plum hockey coach Jon Gratton said his team remained positive despite tough losses to Chartiers Valley and Quaker Valley to start its PIHL Class A season.

Clairton’s Zaemaer Correll (right) strolls into the end zone past Leechburg’s Rocco Vigna on Friday.

Clairton too much for Leechburg in Eastern Conference 1st-place showdown

October 11, 2024

When Tim Andrasy scored a rushing touchdown for Leechburg with 11 minutes, 11 seconds left in the fourth quarter of Friday’s Eastern Conference first-place clash with Clairton at Leechburg’s Veterans Stadium, it snapped the Bears’ 30-quarter streak of not allowing a point.

Slow-pitch softball league playoffs loom as regular season concludes

The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League regular season concludes Sunday with four doubleheaders.

Burrell’s Trey Coury is a member of the 2024 football team.

Freeport celebrates with Camryn Woods after her first-half goal against Burrell on Monday.

Freeport girls work overtime again to get past Burrell

October 7, 2024

In the first meeting between the Freeport and Burrell girls soccer teams Sept. 16, a goal from sophomore Camryn Woods in the first overtime lifted the Yellowjackets to the victory.

Gateway senior CJ Evans looks to push the puck up ice during a practice Sept. 30, 2024, at Palmer Imaging Arena in Delmont.

Gateway hockey team returns to PIHL varsity play

October 6, 2024

The Gateway hockey team took big steps forward last season with winning results on the ice.

Six Gateway seniors were celebrated before a home game against Obama Academy on Sept. 25, 2024, at Antimarino Stadium. In front, from left, are Abby Griffith, Gracyn Fry and Gianna D’Agostino. In back are Anna Walter, Hayden Price and Addi Helman.

Gateway girls soccer makes final push toward playoff berth

The Gateway girls soccer team hopes to be in position to clinch a WPIAL Class 3A playoff spot when it hosts Shaler on Monday (Oct. 14) in the Section 1 finale.

Leechburg’s Jayden Floyd beats Jeannette’s Issac Smartnick to the end zone last month.

Freeport’s Drew Ross stretches for the goal line during the fourth quarter against Deer Lakes on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024.

Erica Bosh was hired as Gateway’s girls volleyball head coach in August, right before preseason practices started.

Plum’s Darian Nelson (right), shown against Franklin Regional, helped the Mustangs to their first win of the season Friday.

Leechburg’s Jayden Floyd tries to reach the end zone as Riverview’s Quinlan Catanzaro attempts a tackle on Friday.

Leechburg’s Jayden Floyd rushes for 5 TDs as Blue Devils rout Riverview to stay unbeaten

September 13, 2024

Riverview came to Leechburg’s Veterans Memorial Field on Friday hoping to halt a six-game losing skid to the Blue Devils in Eastern Conference play.

Woodland Hills’ Annabel Johnson (left) and Fox Chapel’s Ethan Vaughan finished first at the annual Kiski Invitational on Sept. 13, 2024, at Northmoreland Park.

Fox Chapel runner Ethan Vaughan repeats as champion at Kiski Area Invitational

With temperatures in the mid 70s, sunny skies, and a light breeze, runners from close to 40 teams from the Alle-Kiski Valley, Westmoreland County, throughout the WPIAL and City League, and from District 10 and District 6 descended on Northmoreland Park on Friday to test their mettle at the Gingerbread Man Running Company Kiski Area Invitational.

Springdale’s Tessa Derringer celebrates with Molly Hurley (right) after Hurley’s winning goal in overtime to beat Riverview on Wednesday.

Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League begins 2024 season

The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League kicked off its 2024 season Sunday afternoon with four doubleheaders.

Freeport girls soccer earning respect early in season

September 5, 2024

The members of the Freeport girls soccer team took part in a light workout Thursday afternoon, less than 12 hours after producing a convincing 3-0 victory over Shady Side Academy in an early-season Section 2-2A clash at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium.

Knoch’s Colt Sprankle is a member of the 2024 football team.

Kiski Area’s Gianna DeVito spikes on Norwin’s Natalie Aquilio on Tuesday during the annual Pack the Park match at the Ellen Toy Grass Court at Kennedy Park.

Kiski Area wins 3rd straight Pack the Park girls volleyball match

September 3, 2024

Last year’s Pack the Park girls volleyball event and match between Norwin and Kiski Area at the Ellen Toy Grass Court in Vandergrift’s Kennedy Park didn’t face any adverse weather conditions such as what chased both teams inside Kiski Area High School one year earlier.

Riverview boys soccer player Drew Hunter practices Aug. 28 at Riverside Park.

Behind experienced lineup, Riverview boys soccer eyes improvement

September 1, 2024

The Riverview boys soccer team has made strides each season since the fall of 2021, when the program came back after a one-year hiatus because of low numbers.

Plum senior golfer Wes Lorish plays against Penn Hills on Aug. 28 at Green Oaks Golf Club in Verona.

Elizabeth Forward and Highlands will get together Friday night at Golden Rams Stadium, each seeking its first win of the season after close, heartbreaking defeats in Week Zero.

Freeport senior outside hitter Alaina Whitlinger serves at practice Tuesday.

Freeport volleyball commands respect in move up to 3A

August 27, 2024

The seniors on this year’s Freeport girls volleyball team know what it is like to face the competition in Class 3A.

Riverview sophomore defender Juliette Brun practices Aug. 21, 2024, at Riverside Park.

Deer Lakes quarterback Jake Fleischer threw for 246 yards and three touchdowns on Aug. 23, 2024.

A-K Valley football notebook: Deer Lakes snaps string of Week Zero losses

August 24, 2024

Deer Lakes defeated Apollo-Ridge, 35-14, in its first Week Zero game in 2016.

Franklin Regional’s Elijah Bennett (right) celebrates a touchdown with teammate Jake Weir in the second quarter Friday.

Franklin Regional continues dominance vs. Plum

August 23, 2024

Plum hoped to stop a five-game losing streak to rival Franklin Regional when the neighbors met to open the season Friday evening.

Kiski Area’s Aven Shirley returns the opening kickoff against Knoch for a touchdown Friday.

Landon Kucic runs for 4 TDs as Kiski Area dominates Knoch in opener

It didn’t take Kiski Area long to jump into the 2024 football season.

Riverview’s Katerina Tsambis (left) was an all-WPIAL pick last season.

A-K Valley girls soccer preview: Riverview ready for new challenges

August 22, 2024

Senior defender/midfielder Katerina Tsambis said she can’t stop smiling when she thinks of Riverview’s run last year to the WPIAL and PIAA Class A title games.

Springdale’s Noah Abaray (left) and Noah Robbins pose for a photo at practice Aug. 21, 2024, at Springdale.

Riverview senior Cam Long is eager to lead, teach football teammates

August 20, 2024

The Riverview football team scrimmaged Brashear last Saturday, and though senior Cam Long didn’t suit up, the senior offensive guard and nose tackle’s presence still was felt on the field.

Springdale head coach Chad Walsh during practice Aug. 7, 2024 at Springdale High School.

Senior Lucas Gamble practices at a light workout Aug. 16, 2024, at Leechburg’s Veterans Memorial Field.

Gateway senior captains for the 2024 season are, from left, defender/midfielder Anna Walter, midfielder Addi Helman and defender Gracyn Fry.

Gateway’s Dino Nadarevic finishes fifth in the WPIAL Class 3A boys discus during the WPIAL championships Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Slippery Rock University.

Adam Jackowski leads South Allegheny baseball past Burrell in WPIAL consolation game

May 28, 2024

Adam Jackowski shook off some early rough patches and started to cruise.

Chartiers-Houston’s Lauren Rush tags out Claysburg-Kimmel’s McKenna Black during the PIAA Class A quarterfinals last season.

Gateway junior Adam Memije (right) congratulates North Allegheny’s Advaita Sircar at the WPIAL Class 3A singles championships April 10, 2024, at Glen Creek Tennis Club in South Park.

WPIAL softball playoffs

Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller enters the WPIAL track and field championships seeded first in the Class 3A 800 meters. She is the defending champion in the event.

Kiski Area’s Miller ready for final shot at winning WPIAL track gold

May 14, 2024

Eliza Miller has a faint memory of her first WPIAL event as a freshman in the fall of 2020 amid the ongoing covid-19 pandemic.

Freeport pitcher Sydney Selker celebrates her 500th career strikeout with catcher Reese Selker during their WPIAL Class 3A playoff game against Southmoreland on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Gateway.

No. 12 Freeport softball upsets No. 5 Southmoreland in WPIAL Class 3A 1st round

Freeport made the WPIAL softball playoffs 12 straight seasons before missing out last spring.

Plum’s Jaiden Gentile tags out Shaler’s Ellie Nickel at second base during their game April 24. Plum earned the No. 9 seed for the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs.

Class 5A features deep bracket for WPIAL softball playoffs

May 9, 2024

The Class 5A bracket was a hot topic of the WPIAL softball pairings show Thursday afternoon on TribLive HSSN.

Jeff Zelonka coached the Apollo-Ridge girls basketball team this season.

Alle-Kiski Valley high school notebook: Apollo-Ridge pursues girls basketball coach

May 8, 2024

Apollo-Ridge School District and its athletics department are continuing the process that will lead to the hiring of a new girls basketball coach.

Kiski Area’s Carson Heinle throws during last year’s Willie Thrower quarterback camp at Valley.

Top Western Pa. quarterbacks set to show skills at 4th Willie Thrower camp

More than 50 quarterbacks from the WPIAL and throughout Western Pennsylvania and Ohio will get a chance to show their stuff at the fourth annual Willie Thrower Memorial Award Foundation Quarterback Camp on Saturday at Valley High School.

Gateway junior Dino Nadarevic throws during a meet in the 2024 season.

Gateway’s Dino Nadarevic, Kenny Lewis closing in on school records

May 5, 2024

Dino Nadarevic didn’t know what the South Fayette Invitational boys meet record was for the shot put before he competed in the event April 27.

Gateway junior Kaitlyn Karpuszka takes part in a scrimmage April 7, 2024, at Gateway’s Antimarino Stadium.

Plum is starting to hit its stride in Section 1-5A.

Fox Chapel’s Brie Hnatow take a lead off of third base after a pitch is thrown in the bottom of the third of a Section 1-5A softball game with Penn Hills on Monday at Fox Chapel High School.

Playoff picture looking good for Fox Chapel after win over Penn Hills

April 22, 2024

The Fox Chapel softball team took one step closer to securing a spot in the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs with an 11-0 win Monday afternoon.

Gateway’s Mark DiPalma goes up for a block against Penn Hills on April 17, 2024, at Gateway High School.

Gateway swimmers pleased with performance at state championships

The final Gateway swim in the final event of the final day of the PIAA swimming championships at Bucknell University resulted in a podium finish and a state medal.

St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli shoots a 3-pointer against Union during the WPIAL Class A championship game.

After busy tournament weekend, Shaler, Mars remain atop coaches’ volleyball polls

Shaler captured the Meadville Tournament championship Saturday, and the victory strengthened the Titans’ hold on the No. 1 spot in the latest Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association Class 3A poll released Monday morning.

Indiana won the boys team title at the PIAA Class 2A swimming championships Saturday, March 16, 2024.

WPIAL swimmers claim 6 more golds to wrap up successful PIAA Class 2A meet

March 17, 2024

WPIAL swimmers brought home six more PIAA Class 2A state championships Saturday evening to cap a highly successful two-day meet at Bucknell University.

Penn-Trafford’s Patton Graziano and Franklin Regional’s Holden Thomas

Mt. Pleasant’s Kiersten O’Connor smiles for a photo while standing atop of the 100-yard backstroke podium during the WPIAL Class 2A swimming championships Friday, March 1, 2024, at Pitt’s Trees Pool. Hampton’s Lainey Sheets, left, and Freeport’s Kasey Schrecongost, right, were also top finishers.

WPIAL swimmers to swap gold, silver medals after 100-yard backstroke review

A change has been made to the order of finish between Mt. Pleasant junior Kiersten O’Connor and Hampton sophomore Lainey Sheets after their Class 2A 100-yard backstroke race Friday at the WPIAL championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Norwin’s Dom Costantino celebrates after scoring against Fox Chapel during their PIHL AA playoff game on Monday, Mar. 4, 2024, at Palmer Imaging Arena.

Norwin comes alive in 3rd period to beat Fox Chapel, reach PIHL 2A semifinals

March 4, 2024

The Norwin and Fox Chapel hockey teams have gotten to know each other pretty well over the past three years, both in the regular season and in the Penguin Cup playoffs.

Union’s Kylie Fruehstorfer fights for a loose ball with Riverview’s Katerina Tsambis during the WPIAL Class A semifinals Feb. 26, at North Allegheny High School.

Deer Lakes’ Wayne Love is a senior on the 2023-24 basketball team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Freeport’s Kira Schrecongost, Deer Lakes’ Wayne Love

March 2, 2024

Kira Schrecongost

Franklin Regional’s Holden Thomas, Mt. Pleasant pair earn WPIAL swimming titles

March 1, 2024

Holden Thomas earned a bronze medal last year in the boys Class 3A 100-yard backstroke.

The Kiski Area girls swim team poses for a photo with the first-place trophy during the WPIAL Class 2A swimming championships Friday.

Kiski Area girls capture WPIAL team swimming title

Last year, the Kiski Area boys swim team captured the WPIAL Class 2A team title at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Mt. Pleasant’s David Mutter reacts to setting a WPIAL record with a time of 48.30 seconds in the 100-yard fly during the WPIAL Class 2A swimming championships on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Fox Chapel’s Sarah Pasquella practices Feb. 26, 2024, at Fox Chapel High School.

A-K Valley swimmers hope to turn high seeds into gold at WPIAL championships

February 28, 2024

Sarah Pasquella accomplished a lot in her two previous trips to the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone will play for fifth place in WPIAL Class 4A on Thursday.

Valley’s Tristin Goodwin fights for yardage against Apollo-Ridge in September. The Vikings will stay in the former Allegheny 6 conference in Class 3A for the next two seasons.

Alle-Kiski Valley high school notes: Football teams learn new homes

February 21, 2024

Plum football coach Matt Morgan felt that when he saw which teams moved up, moved down, or remained in WPIAL Class 5A, his Mustangs would most likely be on the move out of the Big East Conference that was their home the past two seasons.

Knoch players huddle around coach Shane McGraw during a WPIAL Class 4A first-round game against Belle Vernon on Tuesday.

Knoch girls lean on defense to earn victory over Belle Vernon in Class 4A 1st round

February 20, 2024

As the favorite with home-court advantage for its WPIAL Class 4A first-round game against No. 11 Belle Vernon, the Knoch girls basketball team had designs on sending the Leopards back on their long drive home with a not-so-excited feeling.

Burrell head coach Shawn Liotta coaches during the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7-on-7 competition at Greater Latrobe High School last August.

Burrell football coach Shawn Liotta named general manager for USA Football U20 team

Burrell football coach Shawn Liotta will serve as the general manager for the U.S. Under-20 national tackle football team that will take part in this summer’s International Federation of American Football World Junior Championship in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, USA Football announced Tuesday.

Naturelle Ewing (left) and her Knoch teammates will face Belle Vernon in the WPIAL Class 4A first round.

Alle-Kiski Valley high school basketball playoff preview capsules for Feb. 20, 2024

February 19, 2024

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Riverview’s Lola Abraham scores past St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook on Feb. 8 at Riverview High School.

Michell Kropelak-Brownback is a member of Pitt-Johnstown Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2024.

A-K Valley high school notebook: Springdale alumnae Kropelak-Brownback going into UPJ Hall of Fame

February 17, 2024

Michelle Kropelak-Brownback, a standout track star at Springdale in the mid to late 1990s, is one of seven athletic greats who make up the 15th Athletics Hall of Fame class at Pitt-Johnstown.

Keystone Oaks girls take down Burrell, get rematch with No. 1 Avonworth

Keystone Oaks will get another shot at No. 1

Kiski Area junior Mark Gray works with sophomore Abram Taylor during a practice Feb. 13, 2024, in the wrestling room at Kiski Area High School. Gray is back in action after recovery from a torn labrum in his left shoulder suffered in September.

Kiski Area wrestler Gray eager for postseason after being sidelined by shoulder injury

February 16, 2024

Kiski Area’s Mark Gray made his season debut last Saturday at the Pine-Richland Duals.

Burrell’s Julianna Fischer drives to the basket against Shady Side Academy on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, in Fox Chapel.

The Section 1-5A title is on the line for Plum on Thursday as it clashes with Indiana to conclude section play.

Plum’s Megan Marston celebrates after scoring against Franklin Regional on Dec. 18, 2023.

Plum girls pull away from Kiski Area to keep pace in section

February 5, 2024

The Plum girls basketball team took care of business Monday in a 61-49 Section 1-5A victory over Kiski Area on senior night at Plum High School.

Drake D’Angelo, with his daughters Gianna and Adelina at Burrell Buccaneer Stadium, is leaving Burrell soon to become the new athletic director at Greensburg Salem. D’Angelo served Burrell as its athletic director since July 2017.

Plum’s Alaina Claassen wins her match against Norwin’s Keiarra Leonard on Jan. 31 at Plum.

Plum girls wrestlers having strong seasons ahead of postseason tournaments

February 3, 2024

Alaina Claassen waited nearly nine months to get back into wrestling competition.

Players from Plum compete in the 2023 high school powder puff flag football game last fall.

Plum adds girls flag football team for this spring

Seventeen schools throughout the Pittsburgh region were part of a high school girls flag football league last spring.

Burrell’s Carter Thomas pins Bentworth’s Nick Krutules in the 114-pound bout during the WPIAL Class 2A team wrestling quarterfinals Wednesday at Burrell High School.

Burrell wrestling moves step closer to getting back to top of WPIAL Class 2A

January 31, 2024

The Burrell wrestling team topped Hampton and Bentworth in the first two rounds of the WPIAL Class 2A team tournament Wednesday at Burrell High School.

Remy Bose had his sights set on a dominant senior season in all three phases of the game for the Gateway football team.

Plum’s Nick Majors battles Blackhawk’s Matias Huber for the puck during their Nov. 6 game at Pittsburgh Ice Arena.

Plum notebook: Mustangs hockey team chasing Class A playoff berth

January 27, 2024

The Plum hockey team continues its fight for a spot in the PIHL Class A playoffs.

Plum senior Antonino Walker headlocks Gateway senior Steele Dallas during their 160-pound match Jan. 20 at the Allegheny County Wrestling Tournament.

The Highlands girls basketball team trailed Section 1-4A leader North Catholic by just two points early in the third quarter of their matchup Dec. 14 at Highlands.

Indiana girls basketball team rallies in 4th quarter to beat Plum

January 15, 2024

First place in Section 1-5A was on the line Monday evening when the Plum and Indiana girls basketball teams matched up in the first of two meetings this season.

Burrell sophomore Kendel Fenner works on her beam routine during training Jan. 9, 2024, at Ultimate Gymnastics in Delmont.

Plum’s Megan Marston scores against Franklin Regional on Dec. 18.

Penn-Trafford senor Ava Hershberger shows off her stick work in the PIAA Class 2A playoff game against Manheim Central on Nov. 7, 2023.

Quartet of WPIAL players selected to all-state field hockey teams

The Pennsylvania High School Field Hockey Coaches Association recently released its 2023 all-state teams, and while a majority of the players recognized are from the eastern side of the state, four from the WPIAL were honored with spots on the lists for both Class 2A and Class 3A.

Plum’s Saphia Davis locks on Maddie Killmeyer as coach Dave Miller instructs during a workout session.

Plum girls wrestlers continue growth in 1st year as PIAA sanctioned sport

December 17, 2023

When the Plum school board voted to sponsor a girls wrestling program in June 2022, it got the ball rolling for new opportunities in a district rich with wrestling tradition.

All of the members of the Gateway tennis team celebrated a successful season at the PIAA Class 3A team tournament May 19-20, 2023, in Hershey. The Gators, the WPIAL Class 3A champions, advanced to the PIAA semifinals before falling to eventual state champion Conestoga.

Gateway sports year in review: Boys tennis team makes program history

Paced by singles standouts in sophomores Adam Memije and Zidan Hassan and freshman Logan Memije, the Gateway boys tennis team captured the program’s first WPIAL team title in 35 years with a victory over North Allegheny in the Class 3A finals May 10 at Washington &Jefferson College.

Deer Lakes quarterback Derek Burk throws a 62-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Cochran against Freeport, breaking the A-K Valley passing record Oct. 27.

Springdale coach Ryan Tempalski works with the team during preseason practice.

Springdale continues search for new football coach

December 7, 2023

Springdale continues its search for a new football coach, and the deadline for applications, according to a post on the WPIAL website, is Wednesday.

Kiski Area senior Jason Flemm helps his teammates prepare for a nonsection game against New Castle on Tuesday.

Kiski Area basketball standout finding ways to help team after 2nd torn ACL

December 6, 2023

When Kiski Area senior Isaiah Gonzalez slashed to the basket or pulled up for a mid-range jumper in Tuesday’s 58-45 victory over New Castle, Jason Flemm got excited.

North Allegheny’s Marin Dunaway celebrates with Avery Butcher after scoring against Pine-Richland on Oct. 19, 2023, at Pine-Richland High School.

WPIAL well-represented on Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association girls all-state teams

WPIAL players were well-represented on the all-state girls volleyball teams released Wednesday by the Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association.

Kiski Area girls hold off late push by St. Joseph to bounce back from loss

December 5, 2023

The Kiski Area girls basketball team bounced back from a tough loss to Armstrong Saturday and handed St. Joseph its first loss of the young season with a 44-35 victory Tuesday in a nonsection clash at Kiski Area High School.

Highlands’ Bradyn Foster averaged 19.4 points per game last season.

Starting 5: A primer for 2023-24 boys basketball season in the A-K Valley

November 30, 2023

The WPIAL boys basketball season opens Friday. Here are some of the top storylines, teams and players to watch this season in the Alle-Kiski Valley

Highlands’ Kate Myers hit 93 3-pointers last season.

Starting 5: A primer for 2023-24 girls basketball season in the A-K Valley

The WPIAL girls basketball season opens Friday. Here are some of the top storylines, teams and players to watch this season in the Alle-Kiski Valley”

St. Joseph’s Anna Kreinbrook defends against Monessen’s Hailey Johnson during their WPIAL playoff game Feb. 23, 2023, at Monessen.

Riverview’s Lola Abraham celebrates her hat trick goal against Springdale on Oct. 16.

Riverview’s Lola Abraham named Valley News Dispatch girls soccer player of year

November 25, 2023

Player of the year

Kiski Area’s Abbie Johns, Rikiya Garcia-Broaden and Gia DeVito work against Cavaliers coach Dave Williamson during practice Monday.

Kiski Area girls raring to go after snapping playoff drought

November 20, 2023

Abbie Johns has her plans set for next season as the Kiski Area senior recently signed a National Letter of Intent to join the women’s basketball team at Shippensburg.

Kiski’s Isaiah Gonzalez works out during the Cavaliers’ practice on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, at Kiski Area.

Kiski Area boys look to build off near-upset in WPIAL playoffs

As the No. 14 seed for last year’s WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball tournament, Kiski Area was a decided underdog against a North Hills team searching for its first WPIAL title.

Gateway senior Anayla Jordan works out Nov. 15, 2023, at Gateway.

DelCo Christian’s Cortez Cardone celebrates his lone goal next to Charleroi goalkeeper Nate Mazon and Gage Patterson during the PIAA Class A state championship game on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

Delco Christian stops Charleroi in Class A state title game

November 18, 2023

Something had to give when Charleroi and District 1’s Delco Christian met to decide the PIAA Class A boys soccer championship Saturday afternoon at Cumberland Valley’s Eagle View Middle School in Mechanicsburg.

Riverview head coach Sean Abraham hugs Lola Abraham after presenting her runner-up medal after the PIAA Class A state championship game against Dock Mennonite on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at Cumberland Valley.

Riverview settles for silver after falling to Dock Mennonite in PIAA Class A girls soccer final

MECHANICSBURG — The Riverview girls soccer team’s history-making postseason run ended one win short of PIAA gold.

Riverview’s Juliette Brun is mobbed by teammates after scoring during their PIAA Class A state quarterfinal against Springdale on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Plum High School.

Riverview girls soccer team ready for ‘last hurrah’ in PIAA championship game

November 17, 2023

Of the 140 PIAA schools to sponsor girls soccer at the Class A level, only two are left standing.

Riverview goalkeeper Chiara Brun makes a save next to Springdale’s Molly Hurley during their game on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, at Riverside Park in Oakmont.

Deer Lakes’ Zach Grant (3) scores a touchdown against Southmoreland’s Wyatt Richter on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at Deer Lakes High School.

Deer Lakes routs Southmoreland for 1st playoff victory in school history

November 3, 2023

Something had to give Friday when Southmoreland and Deer Lakes met in a WPIAL Class 3A first-round game at Lancers Stadium.

Riverview’s Mary Quinlan controls the ball against Springdale on Monday, Oct. 16, 2023, in Springdale.

Riverview girls soccer team has chance to make history

November 2, 2023

Georgia Tsambis had a feeling.

Riverview’s Christopher Barnes finishes fourth in the boys Class A race at the TSTCA cross country championship Oct. 19 at White Oak Park.

Riverview runners return to Hershey with team trophies in their sights

The Riverview boys and girls cross country teams both ran at the PIAA Class A championships last year.

Kinoch’s Ethan Alwine is a member of the 2023 football team.

Riverview’s Lola Abraham celebrates a goal against Springdale on Oct. 16.

Lola Abraham’s 5 goals against South Allegheny propel Riverview to 1st WPIAL title match

October 31, 2023

Lola Abraham had five shots in the first half of a WPIAL Class A semifinal against South Allegheny on Tuesday at North Allegheny.

Burrell’s Tessa Mathabel is fouled by Mt. Pleasant’s Camden McCormick during overtime in their WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinal on Saturday.

A-K Valley WPIAL girls soccer playoff capsules: Games of Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023

October 30, 2023

WPIAL soccer playoffs

The Burrell girls soccer team celebrates after the Lady Bucs’ first goal during their WPIAL Class 2A quarterfinal on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023, at Mt. Pleasant.

Girls soccer teams from Springdale, Riverview, Burrell look to extend WPIAL title hopes

For several players on the Springdale girls soccer team, there is no secret to what it is like to be one game away from a WPIAL championship opportunity.

Burrell’s Jayson Ireland plays against Winchester Thurston on Sept. 19, 2023, at No Off-Season.

Members of Highlands’ varsity football team take to the field against Hampton on Friday, at Highlands High School.

After strong finish, Highlands, Kiski Area ready for tough tests in WPIAL playoffs

October 28, 2023

Highlands and Kiski Area took care of business in their final two Greater Allegheny Conference games to punch their tickets to the WPIAL Class 4A playoffs.

Deer Lakes quarterback Derek Burk throws a 62-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Cochran against Freeport in the second quarter Friday, breaking the A-K Valley passing record.

Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller takes the early lead from Penn-Trafford’s Amelia Barilla and never looks back as she wins the WCCA Cross Country Championship on Oct. 11.

Springdale’s Briana Ross celebrates with Ariana Feizi after scoring against Sewickley Academy during their WPIAL Class A first round playoff game on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, at Freeport.

Springdale girls earn emphatic victory over Sewickley in WPIAL Class A 1st round

October 24, 2023

Springdale junior Briana Ross was denied three times by Sewickley Academy goalkeeper Marie Bigi in a 45-second span in the first half of Tuesday’s WPIAL Class A first-round playoff game at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium.

Freeport freshman Camryn Woods gets set to deliver a pass during a drill in practice Thursday at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium. Woods leads the team with 29 goals.

Ryan Mason (right), Jack Guthrie and their Deer Lakes teammates have a shot to make the WPIAL playoffs.

Deer Lakes’ Wayne Love (right) and Ryan Cochran celebrate a touchdown against Valley on Friday.

Deer Lakes uses fast start to roll past Valley

October 6, 2023

Deer Lakes wasted no time getting on the board in its Allegheny 6 Conference matchup with Valley on Friday at Lancers Stadium.

Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller wins the Division 1, Section 4 cross country championship Oct. 4, 2023, at Northmoreland Park.

Plum’s Emily Grubich (26) celebrates with teammates after scoring the winning goal in overime against Latrobe on Monday, Oct. 2, 2023, at Plum.

Knoch’s Ethan Alwine (13) evades a tackle from Deer Lakes’ Nick Rossi (55) on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, at Knoch High School.

A-K Valley high school football notebook: Freeport shows grit despite loss

September 30, 2023

Despite his team not pulling out a victory in its Allegheny 6 opener against Shady Side Academy, Freeport coach John Gaillot reiterated Saturday the praise he had for his mix of youthful and veteran players in battling through adversity on and off the scoreboard in the 31-28 outcome.

Players from Shady Side Academy and Freeport line up for the coin toss before their game Friday at Freeport.

Burrell’s Tyler Maglisco is wrapped up by Valley’s Charles Perkins (right) on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, at Burrell High School.

Alle-Kiski Valley high school football notebook: Burrell shows its grit

September 16, 2023

When it comes to conference play in the WPIAL, the win is the thing, and Burrell delivered a victory in dramatic fashion Friday against Serra Catholic at Buccaneer Stadium in the Allegheny Conference opener for both teams.

Springdale quarterback Chase Weihrauch is sacked by Leechburg’s Lucas Gamble (23) in the first half Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, at Springdale Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Leechburg runs away from Springdale for conference win

September 15, 2023

Springdale possessed the football early in the fourth quarter down two possessions against Leechburg in both teams’ Eastern Conference opener Friday night at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Springdale.

Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller competes at the Kiski Invitational on Sept. 15, 2023, at Northmoreland Park.

Burrell’s Stephen Hasson celebrates after returning an interception for a touchdown Friday.

Alle-Kiski Valley high school football notebook: Kiski Area, Springdale, Burrell get 1st wins

September 9, 2023

Kiski Area and Burrell swallowed the bitter pill of defeat the first two weeks, but the Cavaliers and Bucs experienced the thrill of putting one in the win column Friday.

Freeport’s Peyton Los and Camryn Woods scored in a 2-1 victory over Burrell on Wednesday night.

Kiski Area senior Abbie Johns has verbally commited to play basketball at PSAC power Shippensburg.

Kiski Area’s Johns excited to commit to Shippensburg for basketball

September 5, 2023

Abbie Johns still feels the excitement and also the relief.

The Gateway girls volleyball team was happy to finally kick off its regular-season competition schedule Tuesday (Sept. 5) against Woodland Hills after several weeks of workouts in the gym leading to the past three weeks of official season practices.

Highlands quarterback Aaran Randolph had a 99-yard touchdown run in the Golden Rams’ victory Friday night.

The Deer Lakes defense smothers Burrell’s Devin Beattie on Friday.

Deer Lakes dominates rival Burrell in shutout

September 1, 2023

Last year’s matchup between Burrell and Deer Lakes went to overtime before the Bucs pulled out a six-point victory.

Highlands’ Luke Bombalski is a member of the 2023 football team.

A-K Valley football players to watch in 2023 Week 1

August 30, 2023

Player of the week

Burrell running back Devin Beattie moves past Jeannette’s Hunter Blazowich on Friday, Aug. 25, 2023, at Burrell High School.

Marnie Giunta is considered one of the top coaches in the history of athletics in the state of Delaware.

Over the past two meetings with Kiski Area, Plum running back Nick Odom has rushed for a combined 354 yards and four touchdowns.

Riverview senior quarterback Rocco Cecere directs the offense before running a play at practice Tuesday at Oakmont’s Riverside Park.

QB Cecere has Riverview football team ready for breakthrough

August 22, 2023

Rocco Cecere spent his freshman and sophomore seasons as a backup quarterback in the Riverview offense.

Katie Jo Stobert officially was hired as Highlands’ next athletic director at Monday’s school board meeting.

Katie Jo Stobert named Highlands’ new athletic director

Katie Jo Stobert officially was hired Monday night as Highlands’ next athletic director.

Freeport junior Michael Hanz has verbally committed to play baseball at West Virginia.

Recruiting process takes Freeport pitcher Michael Hanz to the place he belongs

August 21, 2023

Michael Hanz first made contact with the West Virginia baseball program a couple of summers ago.

Springdale quarterback Chase Weihrauch works out during practice Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, in Springdale.

Kiski Area’s Isaiah Gonzalez pulls in a touchdown pass during the WCCA 7-on-7 competition.

Isaiah Gonzalez relishes role as quarterback of Kiski Area defense

August 18, 2023

Isaiah Gonzalez earned a baptism by fire as a freshman when he stepped into the varsity lineup at cornerback against Penn Hills when then-senior and one of Kiski Area’s top players that year, Kenny Blake, was out with injury.

Burrell’s Devin Beattie makes a catch during the WCCA 7-on-7 competition July 20, 2023, at Greater Latrobe High School.

Burrell ready to run back into WPIAL playoffs

August 17, 2023

While some WPIAL offensive attacks look to incorporate both ground and air assaults, Burrell often loads up its tanks with the hopes of steamrolling opponents.

Apollo-Ridge senior quarterback Karter Schrock throws during a 7-on-7 competition July 18, 2023, at Fox Chapel.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Erica Rodriguez drives home Makenzee Kenney against OLSH during the WPIAL Class 2A softball consolation game Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Gateway High School.

Greensburg Central Catholic holds off OLSH to advance to PIAA softball playoffs

In a win-or-go-home scenario Tuesday at Gateway, the Greensburg Central Catholic softball team survived.

Burrell celebrates with Pyper Ferres after she hit a home run against Mt. Pleasant during a WPIAL Class 3A softball playoff game. Burrell plays Waynesburg Central in the third-place game Tuesday at Gateway.

Spot in states secure, but Burrell softball team still plenty to play for in 3rd-place game

May 29, 2023

Last year, the Burrell softball team lost in the WPIAL Class 4A semifinals, dropping it to the third-place consolation game against Montour with a trip to the PIAA playoffs on the line.

Gateway senior Noah Passalinqua, a 6-foot-1 outside hitter, was the Gators’ lone selection to the Section 2-2A first team.

Shaler wins 1st WPIAL boys volleyball championship, ending North Allegheny’s title run

May 25, 2023

The Shaler boys volleyball team arrived at Peters Township High School as Thursday’s Class 2A championship game was taking shape.

North Catholic’s Trey Purnsley (Center) and teammates celebrate a victory over Ambridge in the WPIAL Class 2A boys volleyball championship game Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Peters Township.

Plum starting pitcher Makenzie Lang throws against Thomas Jefferson during WPIAL Class 5A softball playoff action May 15 at Gateway High School.

Plum senior trio caps career in WPIAL softball playoffs

May 21, 2023

As the No. 8 and No. 9 seeds for the WPIAL Class 5A softball playoffs, Thomas Jefferson and Plum, many expected, would play a close and competitive first-round game.

Gateway’s Derick Jones earned medals in the 110 high hurdles and 300 hurdles at the WPIAL track and field championships May 17 at Slippery Rock.

Gateway 1st-year hurdler Derrick Jones earns trip to PIAA championship meet

A couple of months ago, a hurdle was a foreign object to Gateway senior Derrick Jones.

The Class of 2023 of the Alle-Kiski Valley Sports Hall of Fame was inducted at a banquet ceremony Saturday at the Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick. In front, from left, are Mark Lamendola, Kerry McKinney Mills, Thomas Saulle, Emily Alcorn Taylor and Stefan Lundberg. In back are Erin Exler Bish, Thomas Slosky, R. Terry Thompson, Tom Phillips and Joseph Galli Jr.

A-K Valley greats relive memories at annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony

May 20, 2023

Kerry McKinney Mills is in quite the celebratory mood.

Carmichaels senior Carlee Roberts doubled three times, drove in two runs and scored twice to help the No. 2 Mighty Mikes defeat No. 7 Leechburg in a WPIAL Class A quarterfinal game May 18, 2023, at Gateway.

Gateway sophomores Zidaan Hassan and Adam Memije teamed to win the Section 1-3A doubles title April 19, 2023, at Franklin Regional High School.

Gateway boys tennis captures long-awaited section championship

April 23, 2023

The last time the Gateway boys tennis team captured a section title, Bill Clinton was ramping up his campaign to become President of the United States, Duke has just routed Michigan to win the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament, and “Jump” by the hip-hop duo Kris Kross was moving up the charts.

Gateway’s Dallas Steele works upfield during the Gators’ game against Allderdice Monday, April 17, 2023, at Gateway.

The WPIAL boys volleyball section schedule for Class 3A and Class 2A is at or is nearing its midway point, and teams are settling into or moving into playoff position.

Gateway senior Arontay Heningcamp signs his National Letter of Intent to wrestle at Division II power Pitt-Johnstown during a ceremony on April 13 at Gateway High School.

Gateway’s Arontay Heningcamp ready to take next step in wrestling career

April 16, 2023

Shane Valko knows the Pitt-Johnstown wrestling program and its traditions inside and out.

Gateway baseball team looks to bounce back in Section 1-5A

The Gateway baseball team got a daily double April 3 with some timely offense and strong pitching and defense in a 3-1 victory over Franklin Regional at the newly refurbished field at the Gateway Sports Complex.

Plum’s Mackenzie Lang was hitting .550 through eight games in 2023.

Young Plum softball team battling through challenging early schedule

April 15, 2023

The Plum softball team found itself in a hole at Shaler in a Section 1-5A game April 12.

Plum’s Jack Anderson celebrates his double against Penn-Trafford on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, in Harrison City.

The Valley boys tennis team already has clinched a spot in the WPIAL Class 2A team playoffs, which are set to begin May 1.

Burrell softball catcher Bella Stewart again forms a battery with senior pitcher Katie Armstrong.

Burrell softball team has high standards this season

April 10, 2023

Alanna Miller said the Burrell softball players, two weeks into the season, are not where they want to be.

Mars’ Kyler Robinson digs a volley against Deer Lakes on Thursday, April 6, 2023, in West Deer.

Gateway boys volleyball team captains (from left) senior Noah Passalinqua and juniors Ryan Hoffner and Jace Beam hope to help the Gators to a second straight section championship this season.

St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli is the 2022-23 Valley News Dispatch girls basketball player of the year.

Valley News Dispatch girls basketball all-stars: St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli sparks run to PIAA tournament

April 1, 2023

Here are the 2022-23 Valley News Dispatch girls basketball all-stars:

Plum’s Gabrielle Layne practices sprinting March 30 at Plum.

Plum adds roster depth to track and field teams

Plum track and field coach Stephanie Kennedy saw a growth in numbers for both the boys and girls teams from last year to this spring, and the mix of veteran and new talent has her excited for what can be accomplished between now and the championship events in the latter half of next month.

Valley softball sets tone early, brings home win over Highlands

March 28, 2023

Valley jumped on Highlands for three runs in the first inning of a nonsection softball game Tuesday.

Franklin Regional’s Holden Thomas (backstroke), Aiden Bunker (breast), Ben Holm (butterfly) and Jason Tosh (freestyle) won the 200 medley relay at the PIAA Class 3A swimming championships Friday, March 17, 2023.

Mt. Pleasant swimmers celebrate their PIAA Class 2A title Thursday.

Mapletown’s Ella Menear repeated as state champ in the 200-yard individual medley at the PIAA Class 2A swimming championships Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at Bucknell University.

St. Joseph junior guard/forward Julie Spinelli surpassed 1,000 points for her varsity career during Monday’s WPIAL Class A semifinal against Union at North Allegheny High School. The milestone points came on a 3-pointer with about three minutes left in the first half. Spinelli scored a team-best 16 points, but the Spartans suffered a 55-40 loss to the No. 1 Scotties. St. Joseph will face Bishop Canevin on Wednesday in the third-place consolation.

Union girls take care of St. Joseph to earn 1st trip to WPIAL championship game

February 27, 2023

The St. Joseph girls basketball team took down the top seed in last year’s WPIAL Class A quarterfinals.

Highlands’ Tyarah Woody grabs a rebound from Elizabeth Forward’s Alyssa Terza during WPIAL Class 4A girls quarterfinal action Friday, Feb. 24, 2023, at Moon Area High School.

A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff capsules: Games for Feb. 28, 2023

WPIAL basketball playoffs

Apollo-Ridge coach Ray Bartha talks with Brinley Toland during a game against St. Joseph’s on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, at Apollo-Ridge High School.

Kalleigh Nerone and Highlands are in the WPIAL quarterfinals for the second year in a row. The Golden Rams face Elizabeth Forward on Friday.

A-K Valley basketball playoff capsules: Games for Feb. 24, 2023

WPIAL Girls Basketball Playoffs

St. Joseph coach Dennis Jones talks to his team between the third and fourth quarters of a nonsection game against Aquinas Academy on Monday, Dec. 5, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Walter Dlubak Athletic Center. Aquinas topped the Spartans, 45-32.

Oakland Catholic’s Alexa Washington handles the ball during a 2021 game against North Allegheny.

Oakland Catholic firing on all cylinders in Class 5A first-round win over Kiski Area

February 21, 2023

Senior-laden Oakland Catholic didn’t waste any time in taking control of its WPIAL girls basketball Class 5A first-round game against Kiski Area on Tuesday at Fox Chapel.

Freeport’s Melaina DeZort brings the ball upcourt during a game against Fox Chapel on Dec. 3, 2022, at Freeport.

Plum junior Antonino Walker controls Kiski Area’s Mark Gray during a match Jan. 18, 2023, at Kiski Area High School.

Recovered from neck injury, Plum’s Antonino Walker ready to make run at postseason medals

February 11, 2023

Plum junior Antonino Walker won 11 of his first 12 wrestling matches this season and hoped to add to it when the Mustangs competed at Saturday’s Pine-Richland Duals.

Burrell’s Luke Boylan earns a 4-0 decision over Laurel’s Chase Tinstman in the 215-pound bout during the WPIAL Class 2A team quarterfinals Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2023, at Burrell High School.

Burrell wrestling seeks revenge against Quaker Valley in WPIAL semifinals

February 3, 2023

The last time the Burrell wrestling team didn’t make it to at least the WPIAL Class 2A semifinals was in 2000.

Burrell’s Cam Martin beats Laurel’s Ryan Dimuccio in the 189-pound bout during the WPIAL team wrestling quarterfinals Tuesday.

Burrell wrestlers open WPIAL team tourney with 2 victories

February 1, 2023

The WPIAL wrestling pairings committee slotted Burrell as the No. 3 seed for the WPIAL Class 2A tournament.

Freeport coach Fred Soilis talks with Melaina DeZort during a game against Fox Chapel in December.

The Allderdice girls fencing team remained undefeated in Pittsburgh Interscholastic Fencing Association meets with a pair of wins last Friday during competition at Peters Township.

Gateway senior Arontay Heningcamp, at left, works with sophomore Luke Pawlowski during a practice Nov. 30 2022, at Gateway High School.

After medal-worthy performance at Allegheny County tournament, Gateway’s Heningcamp focused on postseason

January 29, 2023

Last year, Arontay Heningcamp fell short in his bid to claim a medal at the Allegheny County tournament.

Gateway’s Marshall Schmidt competes against Ligonier Valley during a bocce match Jan. 25, 2023, at Gateway’s Furrie Sports Complex.

Gateway’s Morgan Holmes is a Bloomsburg recruit.

Gateway swimmers eye WPIAL cut times as season kicks into high gear

January 22, 2023

Gateway swimming and diving coach Glenn Raymer said his boys and girls teams jumped into a busy January ready to work and compete after a challenging series of practices between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Plum’s Giuliana Ricciuti competes in the girls 100-yard freestyle during the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships Friday, March 4, 2022, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Plum swimmers seeing results after ‘intense holiday training’

January 21, 2023

Plum swim coach Shawn Haupt chuckled when he talked recently about the vibe among the boys and girls team members as some “moaning and groaning” with a lot of tiredness from some heavy-duty practice sessions.

Plum’s Sarah Kvortek won the PA Classic all-around title in 2022.

The Riverview boys basketball team collected just six wins all of last season and was unable to secure a spot in the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs.

St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli is averaging 19.9 points this season.

St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli doing a little bit of everything

January 11, 2023

Julie Spinelli wants to win basketball games.

Freeport’s Ava Soilis (right) is averaging 9.8 points this season.

Two weeks ago, outfield walls similar to what is seen at PNC Park were installed on the baseball and softball fields at Gateway High School.

Highlands’ Shelby Wojcik is a member of the 2022-23 girls basketball team.

Freeport’s Jacksen Reiser takes out Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin during WPIAL Class 3A semifinal action Friday, Nov. 18, 2022, at Gateway High School.

2022 Valley News Dispatch Defensive Player of the Year: Freeport’s Jacksen Reiser

December 17, 2022

Jacksen Reiser was focused on making the most of his senior season with the Freeport football team.

Leechburg’s Braylan Lovelace stretches the ball into the end zone ahead of Clairton’s Taris Wooding in the fourth quarter Friday, Sept. 23, 2022 at Neil C. Brown Stadium.

At a gathering at Freeport Middle School shortly after the Yellowjackets girls volleyball team captured the 2017 PIAA Class 2A championship, then-sixth graders Josie Russo and Grace Beach posed for photos holding the title trophy.

Junior Alex Keeling-Oliver is the captain of the Gateway boys bowling team for the 2022-23 season. He represented the Gators at both the WPIBL and Western Regional singles tournaments last year.

Gateway sophomore Hunter Raymer cuts through the water during a practice Nov. 30, 2022, at Gateway High School.

Gateway’s Hunter Raymer ready to defend WPIAL swimming title

Hunter Raymer entered his high school freshman season last December already experienced in a number of high-level club swim meets.

Deer Lakes’ Ryan Hanes heads the ball in front of Harbor Creek defenders during their PIAA Class 2A state playoff game on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, in West Deer.

Deer Lakes’ Ryan Hanes named 2022 Valley News Dispatch Boys Soccer Player of the Year

December 3, 2022

Postseason honors have been piling up for Deer Lakes senior Ryan Hanes.

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger works against Moon’s Lillian Snyder during their WPIAL Class 3A semifinal on Nov. 1, 2022, at Gateway.

Riverview junior Lola Abraham has given a verbal commitment to join the women’s soccer team at the University of Pittsburgh.

Pitt’s the pick for Riverview scoring sensation Lola Abraham

Riverview junior Lola Abraham has put together an impressive resume of on-field soccer results the past several years with her Pittsburgh Riverhounds Academy club and with her high school teammates.

Burrell sophomore guard Anna Clark listens to coach Shaun Reddick during an open gym workout Tuesday.

Experienced lineup, drop to Class 3A could spark Burrell girls

November 15, 2022

The Burrell girls basketball team was on the move in the offseason, dropping down to Class 3A.

Burrell’s Macky Bennis shoots a 3-pointer against Valley on Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, at Jeannette High School.

Burrell boys eye return to postseason after dropping to Class 3A

A new section with new opponents in a new classification doesn’t change the goals of the Burrell boys basketball team.

Apollo-Ridge’s Sydney McCray scores past St. Joseph’s Trinity Lockwood-Morris last season.

Gateway’s Kefimba Cisse takes second in the in the Section 4-3A championships Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2022, at Northmoreland Park.

Moon’s Hailey Longwell celebrates her first goal with teammates during their PIAA Class 3A state quarterfinal against Plum on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, at Peters Twp.

Hailey Longwell’s hat trick lifts Moon past Plum, sets up rematch with Mars

November 12, 2022

In rainy and chilly conditions at Peters Township, Moon put a damper on Plum’s attempt to unseat the undefeated Tigers in a PIAA Class 3A girls soccer quarterfinal Saturday afternoon.

Freeport’s Parker Lucas pulls in a pass past West Mifflin’s Shai Newby during a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal Friday, Nov. 11, 2022, at Freeport High School.

Freeport trounces West Mifflin in WPIAL quarterfinals

November 11, 2022

Freeport didn’t let persistent rain showers or West Mifflin slow it down in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal Friday at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium.

Plum’s Ava Weleski controls the ball against Moon during their WPIAL Class 3A semifinal on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022, at Gateway.

The Freedom girls soccer team celebrates with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Springdale in the Class A final on Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at Highmark Stadium.

Freedom girls soccer team rolls past Springdale for WPIAL Class A title

November 4, 2022

The Freedom girls soccer team is back on top in WPIAL Class A.

Apollo-Ridge sophomore Gabe Kavulic placed 13th in the Class A boys race at the WPIAL cross country championships Oct. 27, 2022, at Cal (Pa.)

Apollo-Ridge’s Gabe Kavulic will cap 1st foray into cross country at PIAA championships

Gabe Kavulic didn’t run cross country last year as a freshman.

Springdale’s Molly Hurley has scored twice in the playoffs.

Springdale girls soccer team seeks 3rd WPIAL title

November 3, 2022

Springdale’s Molly Hurley has had a knack for scoring goals in her breakout sophomore season.

Deer Lakes’ Ruger Beer battles South Park’s Colin Kinevy for possession during their WPIAL Class 2A semifinal on Monday, Oct. 31, 2022, at Peters Twp.

South Fayette’s Sydney Westfall blocks the shot of Latrobe’s Ryley Quinn during the WPIAL Class 3A semifinals Tuesday.

South Fayette beats Latrobe in WPIAL volleyball semis

November 1, 2022

It’s been 15 years since the South Fayette girls volleyball team last played for a WPIAL championship.

Deer Lakes’ Ruger Beer celebrates his goal with Ryan Hanes during their WPIAL Class 2A semifinal against South Park on Monday, Oct. 31, 2022, at Peters Twp.

Springdale’s Brooke Taliani works past Mohawk’s Amara Puglia during their WPIAL Class A quarterfinal on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022, at Kiski Area High School.

Leechburg’s Tim Andrasy runs the ball against Greensburg Central Catholic on Friday, Oct. 28, 2022, at Greensburg Central Catholic.

Challenging opening-round foes await A-K Valley football teams in WPIAL playoffs

October 29, 2022

Call it the Avenue to Acrisure.

Apollo-Ridge senior Jacob Mull hauls in a long pass and steps through an ankle tackle from Burrell’s Charles Shinko on his way to a touchdown Friday.

Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo crosses the finish line to win the WPIAL Class 2A girls cross country championship race on Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022, at Cal.

Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo joins elite company as 3-time WPIAL cross country champ

October 27, 2022

Brownsville senior Jolena Quarzo became the 12th girl to win three WPIAL cross country titles when she won the Class 2A race Thursday at Roadman Park at Cal (Pa.).

Riverview’s Amberson Bauer passes Winchester Thurston’s Eli DeSimone at the finish line during the WPIAL Class A cross country championship Thursday at Cal (Pa.).

Riverview boys, girls earn top 3 finishes, PIAA berths at WPIAL cross country meet

For the first time since 2018, both the Riverview boys and girls cross country teams will run at the PIAA meet in Hershey after they each claimed third place in their Class A races at the WPIAL championships Thursday on the Roadman Park course at Cal (Pa.).

Kiski Area girls head soccer coach Dave Anderson.

Dave Anderson happy with decision to pull double coaching duty at Kiski Area

October 25, 2022

Dave Anderson will be front and center Wednesday evening as a varsity assistant for the Kiski Area boys soccer team as it hosts Montour at 6:30 in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal at Richard Dilts Stadium.

Plum’s Tristan Ralph celebrates his goal with Benjamin Pittman during their WPIAL Section 4-3A game against Franklin Regional on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022, in Murrysville.

A-K Valley soccer playoff preview capsules for games of Oct. 26, 2022

Wednesday’s games

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger works against Kiski Area’s Alexis Zidek during their WPIAL Class 3A playoff game on Monday, Oct. 24, 2022, at Plum High School.

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger battles Franklin Regional’s Leah Brockett for possession during their game on Monday, Sept. 19, 2022, at Plum High School.

Kiski Area senior Riley Koziatek works for control of the ball during a Section 1-3A home game with Mars.

Kiski Area girls soccer has been in playoff mode

October 18, 2022

Kiski Area girls soccer coach Dave Anderson said his team played several must-win games down the stretch as it fought to keep its WPIAL playoff-appearance streak intact.

Plum’s girls soccer team gathers after playing Penn-Trafford on Monday.

Deer Lakes senior Anna Yourish will compete at the PIAA Class 2A girls golf championships Monday and Tuesday at Penn State.

Leechburg ball carrier Braylan Lovelace gains some yards before being tackled by Jeannette defense on Friday, Oct. 1, 2021 at Jeannette High School.

Penn-Trafford’s Conlan Greene warms up before playing Plum on Oct. 14, 2022, at Penn-Trafford.

Penn-Trafford football team rebounds to beat Plum

October 14, 2022

The Penn-Trafford football team got that winning feeling back Friday after last week’s tough loss to rival Gateway.

Dear Lakes’ Kylie McCoy fights through Valley’s Zhyaire Trammel (6) and Leah Taliani on Wednesday at Deer Lakes High School.

Freeport girls volleyball coach Tom Phillips talks to his team before its Section 5-2A match with Derry on Tuesday at Freeport Middle School.

Freeport girls volleyball rolls past Derry to remain undefeated in Section 5-AA

October 11, 2022

The Freeport girls volleyball maintained its two-game lead on the rest of Section 5-2A Tuesday evening with a dominant 3-0 victory over Derry at Freeport Middle School.

Valley senior Jordan Kirkwood concentrates on her footwork during a practice session Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022, at Valley High Memorial Stadium in New Kensington.

Valley girls soccer closes in on rare playoff berth

The Valley girls soccer team has a chance to set a record and do what only one other team has done in the program’s 20 years.

Burrell senior outside hitter Avery Bain gets set to serve in practice Monday at Burrell High School.

Gateway’s Ashlee Young plays against Plum on Sept. 13, 2022, at Gateway High School.

Team play helps Gateway girls volleyball with turnaround season

October 9, 2022

A key goal for the Gateway girls volleyball team at the start of the 2022 season was to improve on last year’s 2-10 record in section play.

Gateway freshman Gianna Laurenti finished ninth in the girls varsity race at the Division I, Section 4 cross country championships Oct. 5, 2022, at Northmoreland Park in Allegheny Township.

Gateway runners tune up for WPIALs at Section 4 championships

Members of the Gateway girls cross country team tested their mettle at the Division I, Section 4 championships Oct. 5 at Northmoreland Park, and the Gators took fourth in the team standings as a pair of runners earned medals for top-15 performances.

Chandler Thimons and his Golden Rams teammates are 7-0 and average 32.1 points.

Valley quarterback Tristan Goodwin throws a pass under pressure against Deer Lakes on Friday.

Deer Lakes rallies for win in low-scoring battle with Valley

October 7, 2022

Last year’s Allegheny Conference matchup between Valley and Deer Lakes was low scoring at Lancers Stadium as the Lancers came away with the win thanks to a single touchdown accounting for the only points.

Kiski’s Eliza Miller with her first place medal after winning the WPIAL Division I, Section 4 girls meet Wednesday at Northmoreland Park.

Springdale’s Grace Gent battles Greensburg Central Catholic’s Addison Vacanti for possession during their game on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022, in Springdale.

A-K Valley girls soccer notebook: Springdale maintains section lead despite tough loss

October 4, 2022

The Springdale girls soccer team still is in the driver’s seat in Section 1-A with a full-game lead, but the Dynamos’ grip was loosened Monday with a 5-1 loss at Seton LaSalle.

Deer Lakes senior outside hitter Maddy Friess gets set to deliver a serve during practice Monday at Deer Lakes High School.

Gateway junior Kefimba Cisse placed 15th in the Class 3A boys race at the Red, White & Blue Invitational on Sept. 10 at White Oak Park.

Gateway runner Kefimba Cisse gains confidence ahead of postseason races

October 2, 2022

Kefimba Cisse made his Gateway cross country debut last year after playing soccer as a freshman in the fall of 2020.

Gateway junior varsity ice hockey team captains for the 2022-23 season are, from left, juniors Blake Marsh, Hayden Hines and Noah Evans.

Deep lineup returns for Gateway JV hockey team

Gateway junior varsity ice hockey coach Shawn Jesih sounded the bell of optimism when talking about a team filled with experience and hungry to make its mark in the PIHL’s JV Tier 3 this season.

Kiski Area’s Connor Flemm is taken down during a game against Plum on Friday, Aug. 26, 2022, at Plum.

Kiski Area’s Flemm overcomes injuries, mother’s bout with cancer to become stalwart for football team

October 1, 2022

Connor Flemm rarely leaves the field for the Kiski Area football team.

Plum’s Eryck Moore carries the ball during a game against Kiski Area on Friday, Aug. 26, 2022, at Plum.

In the first meeting between the Deer Lakes and Freeport girls soccer teams at Freeport on Sept. 1, the Lancers led by two goals before the Yellowjackets rallied with three scores to win the game.

A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 5

September 28, 2022

Carlo Buzzato

Plum’s Eryck Moore carries the ball during a game against Kiski Area on Aug. 26.

A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2022 Week 5

Class 5A Big East

Leechburg’s Macy Kubla (20) celebrates after defeating Trinity Christian, 3-1, on Monday in Forest Hills.

Plum freshman Saphia Davis locks on fellow freshman Maddie Killmeyer as new Plum girls wrestling head coach Dave Miller instructs during a workout session Sept. 19, 2022, at Plum High School.

Apollo-Ridge’s Nick Curci is tackled by Ligonier Valley’s Nick Lonas and Mason Mohnkern on Friday, Sept. 16, 2022, at Apollo-Ridge’s Owens Field.

All four teams atop their respective rankings — North Allegheny (Class 4A), Moon (Class 3A), Freeport (Class 2A), and Bishop Canevin (Class A) — held on to their spots in the new Western PA Coaches Association WPIAL girls volleyball top-10 polls released Monday.

Apollo-Ridge’s Jacob Mull dives short of the end zone against Ligonier Valley on Friday, Sept. 16, 2022, at Apollo Ridge’s Owens Field.

Kiski Area’s Anders Bordoy is a member of the 2022 boys soccer team.

A-K Valley athletes of the week: Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller, Anders Bordoy

September 17, 2022

Eliza Miller

Springdale and Leechburg captains take part in the coin toss before their game Sept. 16, 2022, at Leechburg.

Lovelace helps Leechburg sprint past Springdale

September 16, 2022

With a big Eastern Conference clash looming next Friday at Clairton, Leechburg coach Randy Walters hoped his players would remain focused and take care of business Friday against Springdale in the conference opener for both teams.

Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller wins the Kiski Area Invitational on Sept. 16, 2022, at Northmoreland Park.

Class 5A Big East

Kiski Area’s Madeline Joyce (4) celebrates with Sydney Joyce and Laci Safranyos (14) after defeating Norwin on Aug. 29, 2022, at Kiski.

Joyce sisters enjoying time together with Kiski Area volleyball

September 12, 2022

Maddie Joyce started playing organized volleyball in sixth grade, and at the time, she was hitting the ball around with older sister Sydney and mom, Robin, who enjoyed a standout career at Duquesne in the 1990s.

Freeport’s Ava Soilis digs the ball out of danger during a match against North Allegheny on Aug. 29, 2022, at North Allegheny High School.

Moon jumps to No. 1 in the Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association rankings

The Moon girls volleyball team opened Section 2-3A play with convincing victories over South Fayette, 3-1, and Oakland Catholic, 3-0, before going 10-0 and winning its own tournament on Saturday.

The new Gateway Sports Hall of Fame launched on Aug. 31, 2022.

A-K Valley high school football notebook: Wetzel nearly sets Freeport field goal mark

September 10, 2022

Early in the second quarter of Friday’s 61-7 victory over Quaker Valley, the Freeport offense faced a fourth-and-6 from the Quakers 40.

Freeport’s Brady Stivenson warms up before taking on Quaker Valley on Sept. 9, 2022, at Freeport.

Freeport cruises past Quaker Valley, 61-7

September 9, 2022

Freeport wasted no time taking control of its nonconference game against Quaker Valley on Friday at Freeport Area Athletic Stadium.

New coach Albie Fletcher plans ‘business as usual’ for Deer Lakes boys basketball program

September 8, 2022

Albie Fletcher joined the Deer Lakes varsity coaching staff under Terence Parham for the 2018-19 season.

Riverview’s Landon Johnson is a member of the 2022 football team.

A-K Valley football players to watch in 2022 Week 1

Luke Bombalski

Freeport celebrates with the trophy after beating Hampton for the WPIAL Class 3A girls volleyball championship, Nov. 6, 2021, at Robert Morris University’s UPMC Events Center.

Volleyball coaches association releases 2022 Week 1 WPIAL girls rankings

August 29, 2022

The Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its inaugural WPIAL top-10 poll for the 2022 girls volleyball season Monday morning, and North Allegheny (Class 4A), Thomas Jefferson (Class 3A), Freeport (Class 2A) and Bishop Canevin (Class A) are at the top of their specific rankings.

Kiski Area’s Kate Wigton (left) and Norwin’s Natalie Bertani battle at the net Sept. 13, 2021, at Kennedy Park. The same two teams will meet Monday for the outdoors Pack the Park Volleyball Classic.

Burrell junior RB Devin Beattie (11) rushes for a touchdown past Jeannette’s Noah sunder (80) during the fourth quarter of Burrell’s 31-10 victory Friday, August 26, 2022, at McKee Stadium in Jeannette.

AK Valley football notebook: Running game powers Burrell to opening win

August 27, 2022

Physical play on both sides of the ball is the calling card for Shawn Liotta-coached teams, and he said he was pleased with what he saw on film from Burrell’s 31-10 victory at Jeannette on Friday.

Leechburg and Apollo-Ridge prepare for a Week Zero game Aug. 26, 2022, at Apollo-Ridge.

Kiski Area’s Dom Dininno is a member of the 2022 football team.

Riverview senior Kevin Tomlinston warms up before practice Tuesday at Riverside Park in Oakmont.

Senior Kevin Tomlinson driven to restore Riverview pride

August 23, 2022

Riverview senior Kevin Tomlinson has grown 5 inches in height since his freshman football season.

Kiski Area quarterback LeBryn Smith throws a pass during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament July 21 at Latrobe.

Aliquippa quarterback Quentin Goode throws during the Willie Thrower quarterback camp in July at Valley High School.

WPIAL Class 4A football breakdown: Aliquippa ready for another heavyweight fight

August 20, 2022

In winter 2020, Aliquippa challenged the PIAA assertion, under the competitive-balance rule, that it should move up from Class 3A to Class 4A.

Leechburg senior running back/linebacker Braylan Lovelace has committed to Pitt.

Devil in the details: Pitt-bound Braylan Lovelace leading Leechburg to success on the field and off

Braylan Lovelace earned 13 Division I football offers throughout the college recruiting process, and three of them came from the Ivy League.

Burrell head coach Shawn Liotta with quarterback Chase Fenner during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament Thursday, July 21, 2022 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Burrell ready to take on new challenges in Class 2A

August 19, 2022

After several years in Class 3A, Burrell made the move down a classification in the new two-year cycle.

Freeport Area multi-year starting linebackers (from left) seniors Parker Lucas and Jacksen Reiser and junior Colton Otterman, combined for 19 sacks in 2021.

Springdale lineman collide during practice at Springdale High School on Monday, Aug 15, 2022. It was the first official practice of the 2022 season.

A-K Valley football teams eager to get to work as official practices open

August 15, 2022

Ryan Tempalski experienced numerous first official football practice days as an assistant coach at schools throughout the region.

Junior Derek Burk is entering his third season as Deer Lakes starting quarterback.

Deer Lakes father, son unsatisfied with missing playoffs

Derek Burk didn’t wait long to try and make improvements after last year’s close home loss to Burrell.

Senior linemen Ian Quinn, left, and Aaron Mele will anchor both the offensive and defensive lines for Burrell.

Deer Lakes’ Justin Brannagan named 2022 Valley News Dispatch Baseball Player of the Year

June 25, 2022

2022 Valley News Dispatch Baseball All-Stars

June 20, 2022

Deer Lakes’ Shayne Cerra catches the final out against Waynesburg during the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals May 19.

Deer Lakes’ Shayne Cerra celebrates the first out of the seventh inning against South Allegheny during their WPIAL Class 3A semifinal Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at West Mifflin High School.

Burrell’s Rae Seibert lays down the winning bunt against Belle Vernon in the WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinals Monday.

Burrell softball advances with grueling 11-inning win vs. Belle Vernon

May 23, 2022

The Burrell and Belle Vernon softball teams went well beyond regulation to decide their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal game Monday at Norwin.

Alle-Kiski Valley softball playoff capsules: Games of Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Class A semifinals

Bray Jones and her Burrell teammates will play Belle Vernon in the Class 4A quarterfinals Monday.

The AK Valley Hall of Fame Class of 2022 comprises: front, left to right :Doug Kriston (for Rich Kriston), Harry Crytzer, Lizzie Suwala Sheaffer and Dianne Haney; back, left to right: Bob White, Terry Preece, Robert Foster, Frank Phelps, and Jeff Cortileso.

Olivia Navari (right) and Plum take a 13-3 record into the WPIAL playoffs.

Deer Lakes’ Evan Rothrauff hits against Derry’s Cameron McNichol during their match on April 5.

Deer Lakes, Plum expect tough matches in 1st round of WPIAL boys volleyball playoffs

May 13, 2022

Last year, the Plum boys volleyball team was the No. 9 seed for the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs, and it defeated No. 8 Trinity in the first round before a matchup with eventual champion Seton LaSalle in the quarterfinals.

WPIAL boys volleyball section play concludes Thursday evening, and the playoff brackets and pairings are scheduled to be released Friday.

Ford City grad Lizzie Suwala-Sheaffer drives to the basket during a game against Leechburg as a freshman in 2002. Her 2,266 career points are the most for a girls basketball player from the Alle-Kiski Valley.

Ford City grad Lizzie Suwala-Sheaffer ‘honored’ to take spot in A-K Valley HOF

May 7, 2022

Lizzie Suwala-Sheaffer could hit a shot from anywhere on the basketball court.

Vince Shook is one of Riverview’s top pitchers and hitters, and he helped the Raiders reach the WPIAL Class A championship game last season.

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger battles Mars’ Katherine McEnroe for possession during their PIAA Class 3A semifinal Nov. 16, 2021, at Shaler Stadium.

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger commits to Pitt women’s soccer

Pitt is it for another Plum girls soccer standout.

Plum’s Bella Difrancesca works against Chartiers Valley’s Regan Bruggeman during their game on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at Plum High School.

Junior Jack Betler leads a contingent of Riverview track and field runners in a workout April 13, 2022, at Riverside Park in Oakmont.

Riverview runners working toward more WPIAL success

April 16, 2022

Parker Steele has high hopes the Riverview boys 3,200-meter relay can defend its WPIAL Class 2A title from a year ago.

With five seniors and several other returning underclassmen to fuel the machine, the Gateway baseball team’s optimism for the 2022 season grew in the weeks leading up to the season opener at Pine-Richland on March 29.

Dianne Haney will be inducted into the A-K Valley Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2022.

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart is Class 2A’s new No. 1 in coaches association volleyball rankings

There’s a change at the top of the Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association’s WPIAL Class 2A rankings released Monday morning.

Gateway’s Hunter Raymer, top, and Kiski Area’s Parker Sterlitz, line up against one another in the boys 500 freestyle during the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships Friday, March 4, 2022, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Gateway swimmers send off coach at PIAA championships

April 3, 2022

The 2021-22 season is the last for Sherry Sonetti as head coach of the Gateway swim teams, and she also is retiring from the Gateway School District at the end of the academic year in June.

Riverside’s 200 freestyle relay of, from left, Joe Roth, Ryan Turner, Sam Kline and Alex Roth claimed a gold medal at the PIAA Class 2A swimming championships March 18, 2022, at Bucknell’s Kinney Natatorium.

Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao competes in the girls 200 individual medley during the WPIAL Class 3A swimming championships March 3 at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

A-K Valley, Westmoreland County swimmers thrilled to return to state meet at Bucknell

March 15, 2022

A sense of normalcy is back at the PIAA swimming and diving championships, and for the numerous qualifiers from the Alle-Kiski Valley and Westmoreland County schools, it only adds to the anticipation.

Kiski Area’s Levi Hansen swims the boys 200-yard freestyle during the Westmoreland County Coaches Association championships on Jan. 29, 2022, at Derry Area High School.

WPIAL’s swimming best ready to do battle in return to Pitt’s Trees Pool

March 2, 2022

Levi Hansen won three medals in four individual races at WPIALs over the past two seasons.

Aquinas Academy fends off upset-minded St. Joseph, rolls into Class A title game

February 28, 2022

The St. Joseph girls basketball team held a great deal of momentum entering Monday’s WPIAL Class A semifinal against Section 3 rival Aquinas Academy at North Hills High School.

J.P. Dockey and Fox Chapel will be looking to win their 22nd game in a row when they face Central Catholic in today’s WPIAL Class 6A semifinals.

AK Valley WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games for Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Boys

Carter Leri (left) and his Highlands teammates face No. 1 Laurel Highlands in the WPIAL semifinals Monday.

Knoch’s Maddie Boyer drives to the basket to score against Freeport on Feb. 1, 2020.

J.P. Dockey and his Fox Chapel teammates face No. 7 seed Pine-Richland on Friday.

A-K Valley WPIAL basketball playoff preview capsules: Games of Friday, Feb. 25, 2022

February 24, 2022

BOYS

Montour and Burrell tip off in a Class 4A playoff game Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022.

Montour shakes off rust, pulls away from Burrell in Class 4A quarterfinals

February 23, 2022

The Montour boys basketball team is moving on.

Jimmy Kunst and Highlands take on Penn Hills in the Class 5A quarterfinals.

Boys

Apollo-Ridge’s Sydney McCray (center) celebrates with Sophie Yard (right) and Delaney Fitzroy after scoring during their game against St. Joseph’s on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, at Apollo-Ridge High School.

Knoch’s Nina Shaw celebrates after defeating Highlands to win the Section 1-4A championship Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022.

Plum athletic director Josh Shoop was hired at Plum on Sept. 4, 2018.

As freshmen in 2020, Levi Hansen and Parker Sterlitz made a run at the boys 500-yard freestyle title at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association championships at Derry High School.

Kiski Area wrestlers pose with the section championship trophy Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022.

Kiski Area wrestlers top Franklin Regional, repeat as section champs

January 26, 2022

For the 26th time in program history, the Kiski Area wrestling team is section champion.

St. Joseph’s Julie Spinelli brings the ball upcourt against Apollo-Ridge on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, at Apollo-Ridge High School.

A-K Valley senior spotlight: Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley

Reese Hasley Deer Lakes basketball

Gateway sophomore Mark DiPalma swims the freestyle in practice Jan. 4, 2022, at Gateway’s Furrie Sports Complex.

Gateway swimmers earn early WPIAL qualifying times

January 9, 2022

The Gateway boys and girls swimming and diving teams have entered the Section 3-3A portion of their schedules, and coach Sherry Sonetti hopes that a strong series of practices over the holiday break will pay dividends.

Freeport’s Alaina Whitlinger (center) celebrates with teammates after sweeping Plum the PIAA first round.

Freeport’s Ava Soilis drives to the basket past Deer Lakes’ Lydia Guthrie (left) and Reese Hasley during their game on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, at Freeport Middle School.

Junior guard steps into go-to role for Freeport girls basketball team

January 5, 2022

With two regular starters out of the lineup Monday for a Section 1-4A matchup against Burrell, Ava Soilis set out to lift up her youthful Freeport teammates.

Burrell girls get 1st victory of season, beat Freeport

January 3, 2022

The Burrell girls basketball team was not able to taste the thrill of victory over its first eight games.

Burrell’s Damien Barr hoists the WPIAL Class 2A championship trophy as he is lifted by teammates after defeating Burgettstown for the school’s 15th straight title on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021, at Canon-McMillan High School.
Freeport’s Alaina Whitlinger (center) celebrates with teammates after sweeping Plum in three game during their PIAA Class 3A first round playoff match on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021, at Freeport.

Knoch girls basketball team again leans on defense in win over Kiski Area

December 29, 2021

Nina Shaw loves to put the ball in the hoop.

Deer Lakes’ Nikki Fleming and Fox Chapel’s Bella Urso fight for a loose ball during the Pete Sauer Memorial Tournament on Wednesday at Shady Side Academy.

December 25, 2021

Kiski Area senior Brayden Dunmire celebrates after returning an interception for a touchdown during a nonconference game against Franklin Regional on Sept. 3, 2021.

After making his mark at WPIALs last year and competing at the PIAA championships, Plum senior Sam Schohn’s goals are clear for the 2021-22 swim season.

Highlands’ Jocelyn Bielak drives past Burrell’s Addy Landowski and Hope Clark (left) on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021, at Burrell High School.

Highlands continues hot start, defeats rival Burrell

December 16, 2021

The Highlands girls basketball team got off to a winning start in Section 1-4A play Thursday as three players scored in double figures and a fourth came close during a 59-37 victory over Burrell.

The Plum swimming team gets fired up before a meet against Kiski on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2021, at Kiski Area High School.

New Deer Lakes girls basketball coach Sam Salih works with his team during practice Nov. 23.

Dozen new A-K Valley high school basketball coaches set for season to tip off

Rich Mull certainly wasn’t alone when he officially took over the head coaching duties of the Plum girls basketball team in August.

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger controls the ball during a game against Thomas Jefferson on Sept. 28.

Plum’s Kaitlyn Killinger chosen as Valley News Dispatch Girls Soccer Player of the Year

December 4, 2021

Student-athletes learn to ‘respect the game’ at WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit

November 17, 2021

More than 400 student-athletes from schools throughout Western Pennsylvania gathered Wednesday morning to discuss their roles in creating a stronger leadership environment through sportsmanship both on and off the field.

Plum girls soccer team tops Mechanicsburg in PIAA quarters

November 13, 2021

The record-setting season for the Plum girls soccer team continues.

Rochester coach Gene Matsook and Springdale coach Seth Napierkowski talk before their WPIAL Class A quarterfinal Friday, Nov. 12, 2021.

Burrell’s Kamden Marmo brings down Freeport’s Shane Jack during a game Oct. 15 at Burrell Stadium.

A-K Valley don’t miss high school football matchups for 2021 Week 10

Class 5A

Freeport’s Hadley Hellgren taps the ball back against Armstrong’s Kate Remaley during a WPIAL Class 3A girls volleyball semifinal Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021 at Gateway High School.

Steel Valley’s Kelsey Salopek works against Springdale’s Lilly Iadiccco during their WPIAL Class A semifinal on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, at Gateway High School.

Fox Chapel goalkeeper Molly McNaughton is mobbed by teammates after making the winning save in penalty kicks to defeat North Allegheny in their WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinal on Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, at North Allegheny High School.

Burrell and Valley football players take part in the coin toss Oct. 29, 2021, at Burrell.

Burrell wins, gets help, qualifies for playoffs for first time since 2012

October 29, 2021

Burrell entered Friday’s Allegheny Seven Conference finale with Valley at Buccaneer Stadium needing a win and a Deer Lakes loss to make the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs.

The Knoch girls cross country team goes on a workout run Oct. 26, 2021, in preparation for the WPIAL championships at Cal (Pa.).

Freeport’s Erica Lampus plays against Highlands on Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021 at Highlands High School.

Freeport girls volleyball in good position for playoffs

October 26, 2021

The Freeport girls volleyball team feels right at home in the WPIAL playoffs.

North Allegheny volleyball players celebrate a point against Oakland Catholic on Oct. 11, 2021, at North Allegheny.

The Gateway ice hockey program is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and alumni president Stefan Biancaniello said there are a lot of positive vibes surrounding what will be a year-long celebration.

Young lineup off to strong start for Plum hockey

October 23, 2021

The Plum varsity hockey team won just one game last year in a 2020-21 season that was unlike any other in the history of the PIHL with delays, restrictions and numerous changes overall because of the covid pandemic.

Quarterback Thomas Burke (right) and his Leechburg teammates are playoff-bound.

Alle-Kiski Valley high school football notebook: Leechburg snaps drought

Leechburg traveled Route 66 on Friday to face Imani Christian and wrapped up its first trip to the WPIAL playoffs since 1988.

Pine-Richland’s Connor Lenz shown intercepting a pass against Upper St. Clair last season, had a key fumble recovery against Kiski Area on Friday night.

Pine-Richland comes through for victory over Kiski Area

October 22, 2021

The Kiski Area football team needed a win Friday at Pine-Richland to keep its WPIAL playoff hopes alive in the Northeast Conference.

Deer Lakes’ Cody Scarantine breaks free during a game against Burrell on Oct. 8. The Lancers visit South Allegheny on Friday.

The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League playoffs are just around the corner as the regular season concludes Sunday with four doubleheaders.

Leechburg’s Brylan Lovelace avoids a tackle of Bishop Canevin’s Keshawn Harris in the first half Oct. 8 at Leechburg’s Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Plum runners prepare for postseason meets

The Plum boys and girls cross country teams have their eyes focused on preparation for the WPIAL Class AAA championships in a couple of weeks at Cal (Pa.).

Serra Catholic quarterback Max Rocco looks on at practice.

Rocco, Serra Catholic have high expectations amidst unbeaten run

As a quarterback, Max Rocco appreciates the work of the center along the offensive line.

Gateway’s Kefimba Cisse competes at the Section 4 championship race Oct. 6 at Northmoreland Park.

Plum head coach Matt Morgan during practice Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021.

A-K Valley H.S. football notebook: Freshman kickers delivers for Plum

October 2, 2021

Plum coaches put their faith in freshman Angelo Baleno on Friday at Highlands, and Baleno rewarded them.

Deer Lakes running back Cody Scarantine cuts across field while working through drills Monday, Aug. 16, 2021.

Deer Lakes football team keeps rolling, building confidence

Deer Lakes is on a roll in the Allegheny Seven Conference.

North Hills’ Cooper Thompson and John Green defend on a ball intended for Kiski Area’s Calvin Heinle in the end zone in the fourth quarter Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, at Martorelli Stadium.

Late defensive stand, long scoring drive help North Hills edge Kiski Area

October 1, 2021

North Hills was in a precarious position late in the fourth quarter of its Northeast Conference opener with Kiski Area on Friday.

Fox Chapel’s Colin Kwiatkowski beats Franklin Regional’s Caden Smith for a score Sept. 17 at Franklin Regional High School.

Kiski’s Karly Keller plays against Butler on Sept. 28, 2021, at Kiski Area High School.

Isabella Walsh is among the senior leaders for the Springdale girls soccer team.

Springdale girls soccer makes statement with strong start

September 14, 2021

The Springdale girls soccer team opened some eyes Sept. 4 when it toppled perennial Class 2A playoff contender Deer Lakes by a 7-3 score at Lancers Stadium.

Norwin’s Alyssa Laukus attempts to block the shot of Kiski Area’s Cora Coleman at the Ellen Toy Grass Outdoor Court in Vandergrift’s Kennedy Park on Monday, Sept. 13, 2021.

The outdoor court at Kennedy Park in Vandergrift, named in memory of longtime area volleyball coach Ellen Toy, will host the Kiski Area and Norwin girls volleyball teams Monday evening.

Kiski Area, Norwin volleyball teams ‘fired up’ to play in special outdoor event

September 12, 2021

The Kiski Area and Norwin girls volleyball teams are set to meet Monday, but not in the usual gymnasium setting.

Gateway runners kick off season at host invitational

The Gateway cross country teams have a lot on their plate in the early portion of the season, and coach Tom LaBuff said workouts and challenging competition are helping the boys and girls runners gauge where they are in their progression and also set goals for the end of the season.

Moon’s Mia Cochran wins the WPIAL Class AAA cross country title Oct. 30, 2020, at White Oak Park.

Fox Chapel’s Collin Dietz hands off to Zidane Thomas during warm-ups before a game Sept. 10, 2021, at Plum.

Fox Chapel pulls away from Plum, picks up 1st win of season

September 10, 2021

Something had to give Friday as the Plum and Fox Chapel football teams both hoped to get into the win column after coming up empty over the first two weeks.

The Lebo Blue junior high girls slowpitch softball team won the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League Junior High Opening Pitch Tournament on Sept. 5, 2021.

Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League set for Week 2 of game action

The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Softball League began its varsity season last Sunday with a pair of doubleheaders, and game action involving the 12 teams continues Sunday at six fields around the Pittsburgh region.

Riverview’s Cohen Hoolahan works the ball upfield during a game against Eden Christian Academy on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021, in Ohio Twp.

Riverview soccer teams eager to be back on field

September 7, 2021

It has been nearly two years since the Riverview boys and girls varsity soccer teams played games that counted in the WPIAL.

Freeport quarterback Garrett King is forced out of the pocket by the Armstrong defense during the first half Aug. 27, 2021, at Freeport High School.

Freeport football to honor veterans Friday

The Freeport football team takes on Avonworth at home Friday, and the Yellowjackets will honor local veterans and celebrate RED Friday.

Volleyball coaches association releases Week 1 rankings as WPIAL kicks off regular season

September 6, 2021

It was a busy opening weekend to the 2021 season for many WPIAL girls volleyball teams with dual-match and tournament action.

Gateway’s Amaya Robinson during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2021 at Gateway High School.

Plum’s Kaley Simqu, at left, Tori Ruggiero and Kaitlyn Killinger, at right, compete at practice Aug. 24, 2021, at Plum High School.

A-K Valley girls soccer preview: Plum eyes another trip to WPIAL final

August 28, 2021

The Plum girls soccer team hopes three is the magic number this fall.

Springdale head coach Seth Napierkowski during 7 on 7 competition on July 7, 2021, at Freeport Area High School.

Alle-Kiski Valley high school football notebook: Springdale, Deer Lakes renew rivalry

A number of high school football rivalries were put on hold last year as the covid pandemic delayed, shortened and toyed with players, coaches and fans from August to early December.

Franklin Regional’s Caden Smith warms up before playing Plum on Aug. 27, 2021, at Franklin Regional.

Smith shines as Franklin Regional beats rival Plum

August 27, 2021

Things couldn’t have started any better for Franklin Regional and new coach Lance Getsy on Friday against Plum at Franklin Regional Stadium in Murrysville.

Springdale’s John Utiss, a backup quarterback, throws during 7-on-7 competition in July.

Senior Brayden Dunmire enters his fourth year as a varsity starter for the Kiski Area football team.

Highlands offensive line coach Scott Newell talks to his players at the end of a practice session Thursday.

Highlands’ new-look offensive line showing potential

August 19, 2021

Last year, a Highlands offensive line that included four seniors opened holes for the run game and protected the passer who averaged 300 yards a game as the Golden Rams finished 4-3 in the Greater Allegheny Conference and challenged for a WPIAL playoff spot through the final week of the regular season.

Kiski Area quarterback Lebryn Smith works with his varsity team Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2021.

The Freeport football coaching staff met a number of times over several days toward the end of last year and took a close look at the personnel it would have at its disposal for the 2021 season.

Apollo-Ridge senior right tackle Bradey Schrock works in a blocking drill during a heat acclimation workout Aug. 13, 2021, at Apollo-Ridge High School.

Klingensmith, Schrock anchor stout Apollo-Ridge offensive line

August 14, 2021

Greg Klingensmith and Bradey Schrock have come a long way since their first start for Apollo-Ridge as freshmen linemen against Leechburg in the 2018 opener.

Plum coach Matt Morgan led the Mustangs to the WPIAL Class 5A semifinals last season.

Trib HSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Jacob Porter, North Allegheny

New Burrell girls basketball coach Shaun Reddick instructs his players during a workout Tuesday.

Shaun Reddick returns to lead Burrell girls basketball program

July 14, 2021

Shaun Reddick is no stranger to coaching basketball at Burrell in his nearly 25 years on the bench overall.

Trib HSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Cadin Olsen, Armstrong

July 13, 2021

TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Brandon Lawhorn Moore, Kiski Area

Beaver starting pitcher Payton List throws against Highlands during the PIAA Class 4A semifinal on Monday, June 14, 2021, at Mars Area High School.

List dominates as Beaver bests Highlands in PIAA Class 4A semifinal

Runs and hits were at a premium when Highlands and Beaver met for the WPIAL Class 4A softball championship June 2.

Highlands’ Jess Cekada hits a home run against Bishop McDevitt in the sixth inning during a PIAA Class 4A quarterfinal on Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Central Cambria High School.

Hard-hitting Highlands gets rematch with WPIAL champ Beaver in PIAA Class 4A semifinals

June 13, 2021

Jess Cekada was mobbed by her Highlands teammates as the junior shortstop crossed home plate after hitting a two-run homer in the bottom of the sixth inning of Thursday’s PIAA Class 4A quarterfinal game against Bishop McDevitt under the lights at Central Cambria High School.

A-K Valley PIAA playoff preview capsules for June 14, 2021

Class 4A

Ligonier Valley’s Annabella Schueltz hangs onto the ball as Chestnut Ridge’s Zoie Dunlap runs into her during the fourth inning of a PIAA Class 2A softball quarterfinal Thursday, June10, 2021, at Mt. Aloysius College.

Highlands’ Jess Cekada runs down a ball hit by Bishop McDevitt’s Olivia Murphy in the sixth inning during the PIAA Class 4A softball quarterfinals Thursday, June 10, 2021, at Central Cambria High School.

Nearly 6 hours of down time ‘worth the wait’ for Highlands softball players

June 11, 2021

Cloudy skies and rain greeted the Highlands softball team Friday afternoon as they gathered for practice in preparation for Monday’s PIAA Class 4A semifinal against Beaver.

Highlands celebrates Jess Cekada’s home run against Bishop McDeviit in the sixth inning during the PIAA Class 4A softball quarterfinals Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Central Cambria High School.

Highlands softball beats Bishop McDevitt, earns rematch with Beaver in state semifinals

June 10, 2021

EBENSBURG — The Highlands softball team had to wait through a four-hour delay from the original 4 p.m. start of its PIAA Class 4A quarterfinal game Thursday against Bishop McDevitt.

Ligonier Valley’s Bella Vargulish points to Ruby Wallce on second base after scoring against Chestnut Ridge in the fourth inning during the PIAA Class 2A softball quarterfinal on Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Mt. Aloysius College.

Ligonier Valley moves into PIAA semifinals with rain-shortened win over Chestnut Ridge

CRESSON — The record will show Ligonier Valley secured a 1-0 victory over Chestnut Ridge in the PIAA Class 2A softball quarterfinals Thursday.

“I don’t know if you can count how many runs we’ve saved on defense this year,” Highlands junior center fielder Maera Williams said.

The North Allegheny girls varsity quad competed at the Scholastic Rowing Association of America national championships Memorial Day weekend and earned eighth place overall. From left, are Tabo Mkandawire, Ashley Zeman, Alexandra Junko and Mirae Choe.

Plum’s Logan Parker, shown practicing in 2019, is seeded fifth in the state in the shot put.

A-K Valley contingent takes medal aspirations into Class AAA state meet

May 27, 2021

The Kiski Area girls 3,200-meter relay knocked nearly 15 seconds off its seed time at last week’s WPIAL Class AAA track and field championships at Slippery Rock.

Union takes down Leechburg, advances to WPIAL Class A title game

May 25, 2021

The Union softball team has another crack at unseating West Greene from its WPIAL Class A throne.

Emma Smerick collected two hits and scored the game-winning run in the bottom of the seventh for Armstrong in a 2-1 victory over Fox Chapel in a WPIAL Class 5A softball semifinal May 25, 2021, at Mars.

Walk-off win propels Armstrong softball to Class 5A title game

The Armstrong softball team hit eight home runs and scored 27 runs over its first two WPIAL Class 5A playoff victories.

Gateway runners Brady Sundin, left, and Luke Whisel practice May 12, 2021, at Gateway.

Gateway athletes set for WPIAL championship meet

May 16, 2021

The Gateway track and field spring season was one of growth and discovery for a number of athletes breaking into varsity competition for the first time.

Gateway’s Taili Thompson tries to get the tag on Penn-Trafford’s Jake Otto on Tuesday, April 12, 2021, at Penn-Trafford High School.

Tough schedule prepares Gateway for WPIAL baseball playoffs

The Gateway baseball team went through a lot during the regular season with a roller coaster of game results while overcoming a midseason covid pause.

Fox Chapel’s Laura Carter leads the pack en route to winning the 1600 meter run during the Baldwin Invitational on May 8, 2021, at Baldwin High School.

Distance runners Carter, Miller ready for 1st crack at WPIAL girls championships

May 15, 2021

Fox Chapel’s Laura Carter and Kiski Area’s Eliza Miller first meet in competition in fall 2018 as seventh-grade cross country runners.

Plum’s Ashley Polakovic makes a catch in front of Maura Marston during their game against Armstrong on Monday, May 10, 2021, at Armstrong High School.

Plum sophomore Dannika Susko completes the 400-meter run at a section tri-meet against Gateway and Penn Hills on April 20, 2021, at Gateway’s Antimarino Stadium.

Plum track and field athletes shine at Lady Spartan/Wildcat Invitational

April 24, 2021

After competing in a trio of Section 5-AAA meets in the early part of the season, Plum boys and girls track and field team members stepped out and tested their mettle at their first invitational of the spring April 16.

Plum sophomore Kylie Fischer looks to make a play during a Section 1-AA game April 19, 2021, at Franklin Regional.

When the Plum softball team suffered a 5-0 loss to Section 1-5A rival Franklin Regional on April 7, team members were itching to get back on the field and bounce back from the uncharacteristic shutout.

Ambridge’s Tyler McKight volleys the ball against Latrobe during the 2021 Hempfield Spartan Volleyball Tournament Saturday, April 17, 2021, at Hempfield.

North Allegheny, Ambridge hold their top spots in boys volleyball coaches rankings

April 19, 2021

The Western Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association released its WPIAL Week 4 boys rankings Monday morning, and North Allegheny (Class AAA) and Ambridge (Class AA) maintained their No. 1 positions in their respective polls.

Knoch senior Josh Rohland took first in the shot put and discus at the Butler County Classic.

Maya Borghol hit a home run in a March 23 scrimmage against Kiski Area.

Kiski Area’s Stephen Rayburg (34) celebrates his hat trick goal with Jonathan Ayres during their PIHL Class A Penguins Cup quarterfinal against Greensburg Salem on Monday, April 5, 2021, at Belmont Complex. Kiski won, 5-0.

Kiski Area blanks Greensburg Salem on opening night of PIHL playoffs

April 5, 2021

The Kiski Area hockey team is headed back to the PIHL Penguins Cup Class A semifinals.

After being denied an opportunity to compete and defend section championships last spring, members of the Riverview boys and girls track and field teams got back to competition March 27 at the Altoona Igloo Invitational.

St. Joseph third baseman Kalyda O’Connor prepares for a ground ball during a game against Highlands on Tuesday, March 30, 2021.

Senior duo excited to lead young St. Joseph softball squad into battle

April 1, 2021

Seniors Kelsey DuVall and Kassandra O’Hara own varsity starting experience, and that experience, along with their leadership, is being called upon to help guide a group of eight freshman on a roster of 11 for the St. Joseph softball team this spring.

Senior Hayden Mallin is a captain for the 2021 St. Joseph baseball team.

St. Joseph baseball ready to cut loose after canceled season

Only one senior was lost from the 2019 St. Joseph baseball team that finished 8-8 overall and suffered a heartbreaking 7-6 loss to Union in the quarterfinals of the WPIAL Class A playoffs.

Springdale’s Brandon John rounds the bases against Carrick on Tuesday, March 30, 2021.

Springdale baseball eager to ‘meet any challenge’

March 31, 2021

After winning just two games in 2019, the Springdale baseball team had high hopes to move up the ladder last year with an experienced group.

Junior Emily Wilhelm is Springdale’s leadoff hitter.

Gateway senior Mason Servello rolls a ball during a practice at New Great Valley Lanes in North Versailles early in the 2020-21 season.

Gateway bowlers cap season at regional tournament

March 21, 2021

While covid protocols and safety precautions made the 2020-21 Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Bowling League season like no other, an experienced Gateway boys varsity team worked through all of the obstacles to finish with successful results.

Gateway junior Will Roper gets into position to field a ground ball during a practice March 16, 2021, at the Gateway Sports Complex.

Gateway baseball players looking to build on past success with holdovers from ’19

Luke Jackson played 14 games and collected 33 at-bats as a sophomore in 2019 as Gateway finished 13-7 and qualified for the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs.

Neshannock senior Conner McBeth claimed gold in the 100-yard freestyle and silver in the 50 free at the PIAA Class AA swim championships Friday at Cumberland Valley High School.

Riverside’s Joseph Roth, Graham Kralic, Sam Kline and Alexander Roth celebrate their victory in the WPIAL Class AA boys 200-yard freestyle relay on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at Upper St. Clair High School.

Ellwood City’s Roth brothers among WPIAL swimmers set to challenge for state gold

March 18, 2021

A long and winding road finally leads to Cumberland Valley High School for the start of the PIAA swimming championships Friday morning.

Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao competes in the 200-yard individual medley at the WPIAL Swimming Championships at Upper St. Clair on March 7.

Fox Chapel’s Shao ready to defend 100 fly title at state meet

March 17, 2021

One title defense down, one to go.

Southmoreland’s Henry Miller wins the boys 100-yard breaststroke at the WPIAL swimming championships at Upper St. Clair on March 6.

Southmoreland’s Miller eager for crack at state swimming gold

Henry Miller and his father were about 10 minutes away from Bucknell University’s Kinney Natatorium last year when they got the call that the PIAA, out of growing concern with what would become the covid pandemic, canceled the two-day Class AA swimming and diving championships.

Gateway’s Andrew Holmes leads in the boys 200-yard freestyle at the WPIAL Class AAA swimming championships March 7, 2021, at Upper St. Clair High School.

Southmoreland’s Henry Miller won the Class AA boys 100-yard breaststroke at the WPIAL swim championships on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at Upper St. Clair High School.

Western Pa. individual swimmers, relays discover fates for PIAA championships

Swimmers from Alle-Kiski Valley and Westmoreland County schools brought home eight WPIAL Class AAA and Class AA titles from this past weekend’s swimming championships at Upper St. Clair High School.

Upper St. Clair’s Josh Matheny competes in the boys 200 individual medley during the 2020 WPIAL Class AAA Swimming and Diving Championship at Trees Pool on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020.

WPIAL’s top swimmers gear up for this weekend’s championship meets

March 5, 2021

Josh Matheny never thought he would be in position to win a WPIAL swimming championship in his home pool.

Fox Chapel’s Marissa Ritter (left) celebrates with Domenica Delaney after defeating Penn Hills, 39-34, in their WPIAL Class 5A playoff game on Thursday, March 4, 2021, at Fox Chapel High School.

Fox Chapel holds off Penn Hills in WPIAL Class 5A clash

Fox Chapel walked the line in the fourth quarter of Thursday’s WPIAL Class 5A first-round girls basketball game against Penn Hills.

Shady Side Academy’s Peter Kramer battles Apollo-Ridge’s Keighton Reese for a loose ball during their WPIAL
Class 3A playoff game at Fox Chapel.

Apollo-Ridge girls race past nonsection rival St. Joseph

February 22, 2021

Despite not residing in the same section, the St. Joseph and Apollo-Ridge girls basketball teams have played every year since the 2009-10 season.

Upper St. Clair’s Taylor Connors competes in the girls 200-yard freestyle at the WPIAL Class AAA swimming championships Feb. 27, 2020, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

WPIAL posts final swimming and diving performance lists

The WPIAL released its final swimming and diving performance lists Sunday evening, and individual swimmers and relays continued to produce new WPIAL-best performances during the final week of the regular season.

Freeport’s Marcus Trask works in front of the North Catholic goal during a game on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry.

Riverviews’ Maddie Deem during practice Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020 at Riverview High School.

Riverview basketball teams look forward to open playoffs

February 20, 2021

When the WPIAL announced in December that it would stage open playoff tournaments for basketball, fearing unbalanced section standings would create issues in determining playoff qualifiers, the Riverview girls basketball team knew it would be one of the participants.

Plum’s Logan Parker tossed a school indoor record of 57 feet, 6 ½ inches in the shot put at Youngstown State on Feb. 13, 2021.

For the second year in a row, the Greensburg Salem girls bowling team is the WPIBL champion.

Kiski Area’s Parker Sterlitz swims during practice Feb. 8, 2021, at Kiski Area High School.

Kiski Area swimmers focused on top performances as WPIALs looms

February 14, 2021

Last year as a freshman, Parker Sterlitz had a goal of joining classmate Levi Hansen on the medals podium for the Class AAA boys 500-yard freestyle at the WPIAL championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Gateway’s Andrew Holmes competes in the boys 500 freestyle during the 2020 WPIAL Class AAA Swimming and Diving Championship at Trees Pool on Friday, Feb. 28, 2020.

Gateway’s Andrew Holmes posts top WPIAL time in 200 IM

Gateway junior Andrew Holmes earned a WPIAL swimming championship automatic qualifying time in the 200-yard individual medley with a personal-best of 1 minute, 52.04 seconds against North Hills on Feb. 9.

Plum’s Kennedie Montue poses with coach Steve Elsier after breaking the program’s all-time scoring record Friday, Feb. 12, 2021.

Fox Chapel girls top Hampton, complete section series sweep

February 5, 2021

The Fox Chapel girls basketball team came into Friday’s Section 2-5A matchup with Hampton winners of three straight.

Fox Chapel’s Elizabeth Schwrtzman pulls down a rebound over Plum’s Dannika Susko on Jan. 28, 2021, at Plum High School.

Butler’s David Bocci stands on the No. 2 podium step, fourth from the left, signifying his runner-up finish in the Class AAA boys 100-yard butterfly at the WPIAL swim championships Feb. 27, 2020, at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

In-pool profile: Butler’s Bocci has sights set on WPIAL swimming gold

February 2, 2021

David Bocci played second fiddle in the 100-yard butterfly and 500 freestyle at last year’s WPIAL Class AAA championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Kiski Area’s Mason Pierce works out on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, at Center Ice Arena in Delmont.

Hempfield swimmers get pumped up before the start of the 2020 WPIAL Class AAA swimming and diving championships at Pitt’s Trees Pool on Friday, Feb. 28, 2020.

Meeting could steer WPIAL swimmers in right direction

January 31, 2021

The WPIAL swimming steering committee is scheduled to meet Wednesday, and the group could finalize a plan for the championships and provide answers amid the uncertainty with covid-19 gathering restrictions.

Charters Valley’s Perri Page (11) wins a jump ball against Gateway’s Dynasty Shegog (21) during their game on Jan. 18, 2021.

In Saturday’s 33-31 buzzer-beating win over Greensburg Salem, Kiski Area’s players saw first-hand how much every second counts in close games.

Gateway’s Holmes motivated by medal-winning performance

January 24, 2021

Andrew Holmes was among the top swimmers in the 200- and 500-yard freestyle events at last year’s WPIAL Class 3A championship meet at Pitt’s Trees Pool.

Plum junior Jason Rowe sizes up a target during a rifle practice Jan. 22, 2021, at Plum High School.

Burrell’s Olivia Watts goes through drills during practice Nov 23, 2020, at Burrell High School.

A-K Valley girls basketball notes: Burrell’s Watts on road to recovery from ACL tear

January 20, 2021

Olivia Watts is back on the road to recovery after a second ACL tear in her left knee put her on the sidelines for her entire junior season.

Knoch’s Nina Shaw drives into Highlands’ Kalleigh Nerone during their game on Monday, Jan. 11, 2021, at Knoch High School.

Knoch girls eager to continue strong section start

It’s been nearly 50 years since a Knoch girls basketball team has won a section championship.

Knoch girls start fast, roll past rival Freeport

January 18, 2021

The Knoch girls basketball team scored the first eight points in Monday’s Section 1-4A contest with rival Freeport at Freeport Middle School.

Gateway boys basketball head coach Alvis Rogers calls a timeout against Shaler during a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal game Feb. 17, 2020, at North Hills.

Sam Wygonik of St. Joseph practices with teammates during Killer Whales swim club practice Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021, at Fox Chapel High School.

Freeport’s Melaina DeZort scores past Highlands’ Jocelyn Bielak (24) and Kalleigh Nerone on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, at Highlands High School.

Freeport girls basketball defeats section foe Highlands

January 14, 2021

It wasn’t the cleanest of games in the eyes of Freeport girls basketball coach Fred Soilis, but his team did what it needed to do Thursday evening to claim victory in its season opener.

Plum’s Kennedie Montue helped the Mustangs to a season-opening victory.

A-K Valley girls basketball notebook: Plum flashes potential with win over Mars

January 13, 2021

A mix of experience and youthful talent has the Plum girls basketball team hoping to finish at the top of Section 2-5A and break a long playoff win drought.

Deer Lakes’ Reese Hasley takes a shot during the Lancers’ practice on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, at Deer Lakes High School.

Deer Lakes’ Hasley strives to lead improving team

In a high school basketball season like no other, leaders are needed to help guide teams through the uncertainties that remain as schedules continue to evolve.

Finally back in action, Knoch girls basketball takes down Highlands

January 11, 2021

Knoch sophomore Hattie McGraw sank her team’s first points of the season Monday with a 3-pointer just 22 seconds into a Section 1-4A home matchup against Highlands.

Freeport’s Alexis Schrecongost competes in the 100-yard breaststroke during the 2020 WPIAL Class AA swimming and diving championship at Trees Pool on Friday, Feb. 28, 2020.

Aiden Dunlap (22) and Nicholas Bruno (56) lead Hempfield with six goals apiece.

Burrell’s Olivia Watts goes through drills during practice last month.

A-K Valley teams disappointed, not shocked by high school sports shutdown

December 10, 2020

Over the past few weeks, coaches, athletes and administrators from around the Alle-Kiski Valley have been battling the unknown.

North Allegheny’s Paige Morningstar sets a kill during the Tigers’ match against Pine-Richland on Oct. 22, 2020, in McCandless.

Junior guard Trinity Lockwood-Morris is among the returning starters for St. Joseph.

Gateway’s Dynasty Shegog averaged nearly 10 points last season and recently committed to Cal (Pa.).

Burrell’s Brandon Coury (44) and Shady Side Academy’s Ethan Salvia (4) chase down a loose ball last season.

Boys basketball preview: Burrell confident improvement is around corner

November 24, 2020

The Burrell boys basketball team won just one game last year, although it came close to adding to the win total on several occasions.

Burrell’s Allison Fisher goes through drills during practice Monday, Nov 23, 2020 at Burrell High School.

Girls basketball preview: Young Burrell lineup eager to show how much it’s improved

Allison Fisher is ready.

Apollo-Ridge’s Klay Fitzroy (10) drives past Brentwood’s Riley Brendel (left) during a WPIAL Class 2A playoff game last season.

Boys basketball preview: After breakthrough season, Apollo-Ridge steps up in class

November 23, 2020

The Apollo-Ridge boys basketball team is moving on up.

Senior starter Morgan Gamble is an important piece of the Apollo-Ridge girls basketball roster.

Emma Kennedy is a rock behind the plate for her high school and club softball teams.

Plum seniors gather to celebrate their college decisions on the first day of the NCAA National Letter of Intent early-signing period Nov. 11, 2020, at Plum High School. In front, from left, are Emily Kirkpatrick (women’s soccer, Towson) and Jamie Seneca (women’s soccer, Gannon). In back are Makayla Jackson (women’s volleyball, Pitt) Matt Frazetta (baseball, Seton Hill) and AJ Koma (men’s soccer, Seton Hill).

Plum athletes ready to take next step in athletic careers

November 14, 2020

Each year, when the NCAA’s National Letter of Intent early-signing period for Division I and II athletes begins, Plum finds itself at the forefront with several signees.

Plum’s Dannika Susko blocks a shot during a match on Oct. 20, 2020 at Kiski Area.