As we both celebrate and recognize Father’s Day, VSN wanted to try and do something a little special and have kids in Hopewell write a little message to their fathers and let them know the impact that they’ve had in their lives.
I hope this is something that everyone enjoys because as you get older, stuff like this becomes a lot more meaningful.
Thank you to everyone that participated by sending me your thoughts.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!
Zach Kovell on his dad Chris
“Throughout my 19 years of living, you have been my biggest supporter in the whole world. No one has ever had my back like you do. Through any hardships or tough times in sports or relationships, you trusted me and believed in me to do my best and make the best decision. You make it evident that you would go to war for your three other children and me. Not only do you support me through everything, but you also push me to be the best I can be in everything I do. I credit you with my drive to always put my best foot forward in all the things I do. You have implemented this drive ever since I was in second grade basketball and haven’t stopped. It has helped form me into the man I am today. Thank you for everything you do for all of my siblings and me. Love you, pops.”
Zach Kovell and his dad Chris
The Miklos family on their father John
“Sports looked different for each of us—cheerleading, golf, baseball, and basketball—but one thing was always the same: our dad was there. Whether he was in the stands, offering advice from his own experience as a high school and college athlete, or making sure we had every opportunity to succeed, his support never wavered. He taught us the value of hard work, perseverance, and sportsmanship, and he celebrated our successes while helping us learn from our setbacks. The impact he had on our athletic journeys goes far beyond the games themselves, and we’re grateful for the example he set both on and off the field. It helped shape us into who we are today as adults.”
-Alyssa Roman, Alec Miklos, & Josh Miklos
Allison Ramaley on her dad Scott
“My dad has always been my biggest role model. I find myself looking to him for advice and he has always been there for me no matter the circumstances. Academically, my dad has always taught me grades are the most important. He would sit with me when I need help on history homework or proofreading my essays, making them perfect.
Allison and Scott Ramaley
As an athlete he has supported me through many challenges, injuries, achievements, and awards. He has inspired me to push myself to be my best in the classroom, on the field, and in everything I do. Some of my favorite memories with him are when he would always catch with me in the back yard as I pitched, when he coached me in my youth teams, as well as all the drives together to countless practices, games, and tournaments. I can count on one hand how many games my dad has missed for any sport. My dad has always been my number one supporter. I am so grateful I get to follow his footsteps by playing collegiate softball as he played collegiate baseball.”
Ella Ritchart on her dad, Doug
“My dad has had such a huge impact on my life by always supporting me, encouraging me, and helping me to become the person I am today. He has taught me many things but the most important is to always have a positive attitude and give everything 100% of your effort. I know that I can always count on my dad to support me no matter what I do.
Ella Ritchart on her dad Doug
My dad would drive me all over the place for sports games and practices and I could always count on him being there in the bleachers to cheer me on. I could also always count on him to make me laugh. If I am having a bad day my dad never fails to put a smile on my face. I am so beyond grateful for everything that my dad does for me. I could not ask for a better role model in my life. I am so lucky to be able to celebrate him as my father on Father’s Day !”
Zack Sampson on his dad John
“My dad has had a huge impact on my life both on and off the court. Ever since I was little, he has spent countless hours helping me become a better basketball player. Whether we’re out back working on shooting, ball handling, or talking through game situations, he’s always willing to take the time to help me improve. He pushes me to work hard, stay focused, and give my best effort in everything I do.
Outside of basketball, one of my favorite things to do with my dad is golf. I only started playing about a year ago, but it’s become something we both really enjoy. Some of my favorite memories are being out on the course with him. I’m thankful for all the time we get to spend together. Happy Father’s Day, Dad!”
John and Zack Sampson
Anthony LaSala on his dad, Chris
“While growing up, my dad has a tremendous impact on my life. Throughout my athletic career, he has always been there to support me and help me become the best version of myself. Whether it was taking me to the batting cages, hitting me ground balls, or playing catch in the street, he always made time to help me improve.
The LaSala Family
Leading up to high school, he coached many of my in-house and All-Star teams. During those years, we had a great group of kids and families both on and off the field. He always made sure everyone was developing and reaching their full potential. We shared a lot of success and made relationships that will last forever. I will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to have him as my coach during those years of youth baseball.
As I got older, he made sure he was at ever game he possibly could. Whether that meant coming straight from work or flying throughout the country to watch me play in college, he was always there. So much of what I learned through baseball came from him, and I am forever grateful that he taught me the game and helped shape me into the player and person I became.
Out of all the memories we shared through baseball, two standout the most. The first came after winning the 2021 WPIAL Championship in 2021. My dad was able to take a picture with Couper Stala, Chris Mullins, Luke Kerec, and I, four players he had coaches since coach’s pitch. It was special to celebrate that moment with him because he had been there since the very beginning.
The second memory came on Senior Day during my final college season. After I hit a home run, thee broadcast camera panned over to him in the stands. Seeing his reaction in that moment meant everything to me as my baseball career was coming to an end. It was a reminder of all the time and sacrifice he had given to help me chase my dreams.
I will always appreciate everything he has done for me, and I am grateful for the countless memories we have shared. I would not be where I am today without him, and I am forever thankful for his support throughout my journey.”
Liam and Rhett Rankin on their dad, BJ
“We appreciate how our dad always pushes us to do our best and encourages us to keep working hard. We love going to baseball tournaments with him, riding in the car together, and getting to visit different places. Through all of our successes and mistakes in baseball, he has always been there to support us and help us learn. He has been a great coach and an even better dad, both on and off the field. We are thankful for all the memories we’ve made together and for everything he does for us.”
The Rankin Family
Julian Baldwin on his dad, Jonathan
“My dad is the rock of my life. My dad holds it down when there’s nothing to be held together. I’m so grateful for everything he has done for me in my life, and I could never repay him for it.
He’s not just my dad — he’s my coach, my best friend, my support system, and my hero. No matter how hard times get, I know my dad always has my back. He would never lead me in the wrong direction, and he always wants what’s best for me.
From coaching me through little league all the way through high school, he’s never forgotten to teach me the biggest lesson anyone can teach you: how to be a man.
No matter how much we didn’t always see eye to eye, we’ve always had an unbreakable bond.
Julian and Jonathan Baldwin
Thank you, Dad. Have a great day.
Love,
JB
Connor Reed on his dad, Jared
“My dad has helped me grow both academically and athletically. In school, he has helped me with important projects and motivates me to work hard even when I don’t really want to. But he also knows when to let me have some breaks from work. Athletically, he has helped provide me with opportunities some may never get which I am very appreciative of. I am thankful for all of the effort and commitment he has put into helping me be the best I can be and I don’t know where I would be today without him and his support.”
Connor and Jared Reed
Tyler Triscila on his dad, Tony
“My dad taught me the importance of discipline. I started sports early in life and he always worked with me to get better by working hard and not giving up. Starting young with that mindset helped me become better on the field, and in life. Quitting was not an option because of the standards my dad set for me, and it paid off my senior year as third baseman for the baseball team. He taught me to keep facing things head on. It’s been two years since I last took the field, but the lessons of discipline that started on the tee ball fields have carried over to my HVAC training and career and have set me up for success.”
Tyler, Logan and Tony Triscila
Logan Triscila on his dad, Tony
“From the time I was three years old, I began playing sports. My dad taught me, by his example, the importance of showing up and being involved. From the time I was little he coached for my brother and I. He would alternate years he coached our all-star teams and would alternate fields at tournaments to be sure he saw each of us bat. Even during this last baseball season, he was recovering from an appendicitis surgery and was at my first playoff game just a few hours after getting out of the hospital. Having my dad show up for me, even when it was challenging, has taught me the importance of showing up for others whether it’s in a sports setting or not.”
Luca Flitcraft on his dad, Dan
“Ever since I started life, you were there every day by my side, whether it was at home, or outside, or a park, anywhere. And you’ve always helped me through anything. Whenever I started cross country, you were the first one to notice what I could do, and pushed me to do better and break my own best times. And with your help, and effort, and consistency to do better, I just kept getting better and winning. I’m the man I am today because of you dad. I love you and thank you for everything you’ve done.
Luca and Dan Flitcraft
Reese and Reed Budavich on their dad, Charlie
“Happy Father’s Day to our Dad!
He is one of the hardest working people we know and yet he always finds time to make it to all of our games and events.
Our dad has taught us how to compete not only in sports but also in life, showing us how hard work creates success. He always gives us honest feedback, both good and bad, and encourages us to reach our fullest potential whether it’s on the field, on the stage, or in the classroom. He’s our biggest, loudest fan!
Happy Father’s Day Dad, we don’t know what we would do without you!
Reed and Reese Budavich
Reese and Charlie Budavich
Reed and Charlie Budavich
Aaden and Kaleb Gonzalez on their dad, Jose
“Our dad’s story started long before we were born. He grew up in Venezuela and didn’t have the same opportunities that we have today. His parents, my abuelos, wanted to give him the opportunity to go to school in the United States, so they made it happen and they sent him here for college where he even got to play soccer. He came here for an education and ended up falling in love with the country. Later on he joined the United States military, and eventually became an American citizen.
He’s always taught us that hard work pays off. Whether it’s soccer, school, or anything else, he reminds us that if you want something, you have to be willing to work for it.
He has spent hours driving us to practices, taking us to tournaments, watching games, and supporting us in everything we do.
We are proud of everything he accomplished and being an amazing dad.
Happy Father’s Day, Dad. Thank you for always supporting us, believing in us. “
Aaden, Kaleb and Jose Gonzalez
Danica Hiltz on her dad, Brad
Happy Father’s Day, Dad! I love all my hugs and all the ways you help me every day. Thank you for being patient with me, supporting me, and always being there when I need you. You cheer for me at band, swimming, chorus, and everything I do. You make me feel safe, loved, and happy. Thank you for always believing in me and loving me just the way I am. I love spending time with you and making magical memories together. I love you, Dada. Love, Danica.
Danica and Brad Hiltz
Bella Ceccarelli on her dad, Lou
“Having my dad as both my coach and my biggest supporter has meant everything to me. From the early days of sports to my final high school memories, he has always been a constant in my life. Especially in the toughest losses or challenging moments in the classroom, when I feel defeated, he’s the one who reminds me why I started and why it’s worth it to keep going. He doesn’t just see results—whether it’s a scoreboard or a report card—he sees my effort, my heart, and the person I’m becoming. The lessons he’s taught me through sports—resilience, discipline, and perseverance—have carried over into my academics and shaped how I face challenges in all areas of my life. Knowing that he’s always proud of me, even when I’m struggling, means more than I can put into words. Having him in my corner through every win and every setback is something I’ll carry with me forever.”
Bella and Lou Ceccarelli
Ava Ray on her dad, Ryan
“My dad is impossible to miss at my games. He is the loudest parent in the stands, always shouting instructions and cheering so loudly that I could hear him above everyone else. For better or worse, everyone knows who he is cheering for.
Sometimes we spend hours outside doing the same drills repeatedly. I get frustrated whenever I mess up, but he calms me down, hands me the ball, and has me try again. I think he’s being tough on me, but I see he is teaching me to stick with something and push through when it gets hard.
The car rides home aren’t fun sometimes, especially after a bad game. I can’t escape it; if I play poorly, I know I’m going to get a lecture. He goes over everything I did wrong, explaining every missed play and mistake throughout the whole drive. It stresses me, but looking back, those tough talks make me confront my mistakes instead of just sulking. He doesn’t let me off easy, he makes me face where I need to improve.
I see his influence on how I play. That intense drive, the discipline to show up early, and the refusal to give up when I’m tired—all of that comes from him. He’s tough and very loud, but he gives me the mindset to survive the game. I appreciate my dad for all he’s taught me and for being my biggest fan.
Bryce Ray on his dad, Ryan
“My dad has had a huge impact on my track and soccer career by always supporting me and encouraging me to do my best. He attends my games and meets whenever he can, which motivates me to work harder and stay focused. When I face challenges or setbacks, he reminds me to keep pushing forward and never give up. He has taught me the importance of dedication, discipline, and having a positive attitude both on and off the field. Because of his guidance and support, I have grown not only as an athlete but also as a person.”
Addison Blosnick on her dad, Frank
Frank and Addison Blosnick
“Happy Father’s Day to my biggest supporter, my role model, and my loudest cheerleader. Whether he’s in the stands at volleyball games or driving to an AAU basketball tournament on the weekend, no matter what was going on I’ve never had to worry about there being an empty space in the bleachers. My dad has helped me grow into the person I am today through countless lessons and memories. He’s always been a constant in my life from offering a shoulder to cry on when I needed it most or a person to laugh with to brighten my mood. I couldn’t ask for someone better to be in my corner than the person I’m so grateful to be writing this about.”
Jamie, Gia and Jackson Yurcina
Gia Yurcina on her dad, Jamie
” My dad has always been there for me in all sports including cheer! He always wants us to try our best. We don’t have to be the best, but we have to give our best effort. He is always cheering for us and supporting us either on the sidelines or as the coach. “
James Gill on his dad, Dave
“My dad has been one of the biggest influences in my life, not only as my father but also as a coach and role model. He coached me and a lot of my friends in baseball from the time we were little and helped us grow not only as players but as teammates and friends. Through all the practices, games, and lessons along the way, he taught us the importance of hard work, teamwork, and never giving up. He also coached me in basketball for a few years and was my biggest supporter throughout all four years of high school football and baseball. No matter the sport, he was always there, whether he was coaching, giving advice, or cheering me on from the stands. His support and belief in me helped build my confidence and pushed me to be the best I could be both on and off the field. I’m really grateful for everything he’s done for me and for always believing in me.”
James and Dave Gill
Cici Smetana on her dad, Mike
“My dad has had an enormous impact on my life in many ways. From being me and my brother’s number one fan in the stands at every one of our games, to helping us study late at night or finish last minute school projects. My dad has always believed in me even when I don’t believe in myself. He has taught me to strive to be the best in whatever I do and never stop trying. No matter the ups and downs I will face in life I know that my dad will be there for me right by my side guiding me through it. I am so grateful to have such a supportive dad, and I appreciate all that he does for my family and I.”
The Smetana Family
Vin Smetana on his dad, Mike
“My dad has made a huge impact on my athletic career by always supporting me and helping me become a better athlete. He takes time out of his day to drive me to practices, games, even on days when he is tired or doesn’t feel like going. His dedication shows me how much he cares about my goals and wants to see me succeed. He always encourages me to work hard, stay focused, and never give up when things get difficult. Because of his support and sacrifices, I have been able to improve and grow on and off the field. I am very grateful to have a dad like him, and I appreciate everything he does to help me chase my dreams.”
Vin and Mike Smetana
Charlie Smetana on his dad, Mike
“My dad has made a huge impact on my athletic career by always being there for me throughout my baseball journey. From travel ball tournaments to high school games and workouts, he has spent countless hours helping me become the best player I can be. He drives me to practices, lessons, showcases, and games, even after long days of work, because he believes in me and my goals.
As a catcher, I’ve learned that success comes from hard work, discipline, and toughness, and my dad has helped teach me all of those things. He pushes me to give my best effort every day, stay focused on my goals, and keep working when things don’t go my way. His support has helped me grow not only as an athlete but also as a person.
Because of the sacrifices he has made and the encouragement he gives me, I’ve been able to achieve things I once only dreamed about, including earning the opportunity to play Division I baseball at Mercyhurst. I am extremely grateful for everything my dad has done for me, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without his support.”
Charlie and Mike Smetana
Jack Biega on his dad, Doug
“My dad is best known for being a great basketball coach. He has coached and mentored players from Aliquippa and Beaver Falls for over 20 years. Having someone like my dad, who has won many high school basketball championships, coach me and my friends since we were in elementary school has been an awesome experience. We all became better basketball players because of him, and Hopewell made the playoffs for the first time in 16 years. However, my dad and I have more than just basketball in common. He has always taken an interest in whatever I am interested in like Legos, Marvel movies, and Star Wars. We’ve done things like built light sabers together at Hollywood Studios and binged Breaking Bad. My dad is my hero and I’m lucky to call him my coach still, too. Love you, Dad.”
Doug and Jack Biega
Collin Davis on his dad, Brandon
“If it weren’t for my dad, I wouldn’t be the player or the person I am today. From the time I first picked up a baseball, he has been there every step of the way, throwing me pitches, spending hours at practices and games, and always pushing me to be my best. He has taught me that being successful isn’t just about talent, but about hard work, dedication, and never giving up when things get tough. More importantly, he has shown me how to be a good person off the field. He taught me to be respectful, accountable, and to always give my best effort in everything I do. He believes in me, supports me, and inspires me every day and I’ll always be grateful for the example he set and the impact he has had on me.”
Collin and Brandon Davis
Rilynn Davis on her dad, Brandon
“The biggest impact my dad has in my life is teaching me how to be a better player and person on and off the court and field. He has taught me the game isn’t always about winning or losing it’s about learning from your mistakes and going into the next game trying to fix them. He has taught me to keep pushing through and to never give up even when the game isn’t going how I want it to. He has taught me how to have confidence when I’m going up to bat or even shooting a free throw. He will always be the number one person cheering me on and that’s how I know no matter what I do I am always going to have someone by my side cheering me on. As my baseball and basketball coach he always believed in me, pushed me to be better, and encouraged me to push past what I thought I was capable of. Whether we were working on basketball, playing catch, and even just talking about life, he has always been there to guide me and support me. Because of him, I’ve learned that being successful isn’t about wins and losses but by your character and your effort.”
Brandon and Rilynn Davis
The Bokor children (Avery, Piper, Emmy, Pacey and Lincoln) on their dad, Craig
“It means a lot to me and it is extremely special to have a father as coach. I remember the first time that I wanted to play football was in 1st grade and I received a paper in school for a flag football league out in Chippewa. That night I talked with my dad about playing football and he asked me if I wanted to do this for sure and I said yes. From that night on he had always helped me be the best person I can on and off of the field. From non stop training, catching 100 balls in a row, and even to being able to do 50 pushups in 60 seconds as an eight-year-old kid. I have been able to learn so many new things through him and he has helped me the most throughout my athletic journey. He has provided me with the best trainers and connections possible. To have a father who is a coach is truly something special and something rare, that not everyone else has.”
– Avery Bokor
“My dad is one of the best people I know. Not only he is the greatest dad he also is my biggest supporter and coach. It’s always great to have dad as a coach because when I want to know what I do wrong he tells me and works with me to fix that. He’s always up for playing basketball or working with me or my siblings when he has free time. It’s also cool that he played D1 football because all of my friends’ dads didn’t and it’s cool and special having him as a dad. He’s one of my favorite coaches because when I mess up, he doesn’t yell at me he calmly tells me what I messed up on, and we work to fix it. Overall, he is a great dad whether a coach or father he is the best!”
-Piper Bokor ❤
“It means to me to have a dad that is a coach is that I can ask him for advice for the sport I’m playing and that he always knows the right thing to do. He always helps me do better and works with me on all my sports. My dad has been a great coach to both football and basketball, and I think he has helped alot of people and will continue to help people and do a great job at coaching! ”
⁃Emmy Bokor
“My dad is a great dad and also a great coach! He has played basketball and football for a long time, so he has a lot of knowledge about sports. I like that he coaches my football and basketball teams. He also won a state championship at Hopewell! my dad always supports me on the court and off the court. and that’s why he’s a great dad!”
-Lincoln Bokor
“It means a lot to have a father that played D1 for Pitt, as a coach and a dad!!! When I had my first basketball game I remember that I did not want to go because I was so scared, then after that one game I wanted to play again, my dad is so supportive when it comes to me playing my sports, he always gives me motivation before my basketball games, and as a dad he always makes sure we are feed and we ok!!! And we are having fun, and my dad always makes sure I get better and I work to get better, and I have gotten a lot better at basketball because I have been practicing with my dad and telling him what I need to do to work on, and as a coach he knows what he is doing , so he gives me corrections so dad thanks for always being there and making me the best I can be, I love you dad, you will forever be in my heart!!! 🤍❤️
Pacey
