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Hopewell Youth Baseball

MONSTER GAME from Reagan Haring Leads Hopewell 12U Springs Magnone Over Freedom

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 1 minutes read

The only thing hotter than the weather last night was the bat of Hopewell 12-year-old Reagan Haring.

Haring clubbed two home runs and collected 7 RBIs in Hopewell 12U/Spring Magnone’s 11-1 win over Freedom.

This is a huge accomplishment for Haring as he’s coming off a broken wrist that he suffered over the winter and forced him to miss the entire wrestling season. As expected, it’s taken Reagan some time to rehab and get his wrist strong enough to be able to perform at the plate.

Reagan clubbed a home run in their last game against Ambridge, so that’s 3 homers in the last 2 games.

I think that’s an indication that Haring is well on his way. Congratulations on all your hard work and staying mentally tough during this long process.

While the final score doesn’t reflect it, this was a close game as Hopewell only led 3-1 heading to the 4th inning. That’s when the Vikings scored 8 runs in the next 2 innings to ice the game.

On the mound, Trenton Kanyuch got the start and pitched 3 innings, allowing only 2 hits, 1 earned run and struck out 2. Clayton Magnone took over in the 4th inning and pitched 2 innings, allowing 2 hits, 0 runs and struck out 1. Logan Giering closed things out in the 6th inning, allowing 1 hit, 0 runs and struck out 1 Freedom batter.

Offensively, aside from Haring going 3-for-3 with 2 runs and 7 RBI, Jack Holsinger did a great job as the leadoff hitter, going 2-for-3 with 2 runs and 2 RBI.

Lucas Strano, Magnone and Brenne Sloan also picked up hits for Hopewell.

RBI getters for the Vikings were Haring (7), Holsinger (2), Giering (1) and Magnone (1).

The win improved Hopewell/Spring Magnone’s record to 3-2. Next up will be a game on Thursday against Hopewell/Homer Nine.

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Hopewell Youth Baseball

Hopewell’s Sadler Landscaping (9/10’s) With Come from Behind, Gutsy Win Over Hopewell Team Winiarski

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 2 minutes read

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP– Winning isn’t easy at any level so when it happens, you should enjoy it.

Tonight, Coach Ryan Rinaldi’s Hopewell 9/10-year-old Sadler Landscaping team took on Hopewell’s Coach Winiarski’s squad.

This was a tremendous game with solid pitching on both teams but the difference in the game was Team Rinaldi scoring 6 runs in the 5th inning, which propelled them to an 8-5 win.

This was a gutsy win for a number of reasons, first and foremost because of Hopewell 10-year-old Deacon Ankrom.

First of all, Ankrom was called upon to pitch in the 5th inning as he was brought in with the bases loaded with 0 outs and his team leading just 6-5. Ankrom on to strike out the next two batters and then fielded a comebacker to the mound to end the inning.

Then in the final inning with his team leading 8-5, Ankrom was struck in the eye by a sharp comebacker to the mound. Coach Rinaldi and his staff immediately went out to check on Ankrom, who told the coaches he was OK and wanted to finish the game.

Ankrom collected himself and went on to record three straight outs, 2 liners to Jonah Honess at third base and fittingly a strikeout to end the game.

Tip of the cap to you Deacon for displaying your toughness.

Coach Winiarski jumped out to a 4-0 lead after 4 innings but after being shut down over the first 4 innings back by Jordan Pe, Team Rinaldi kept battling and eventually broke through in the 5th inning.

Declan Rinaldi and Honess started the inning with back-to-back singles, which was followed by a 2-run single by Tristyn Trkula, who had an outstanding game.

Ankrom then singled to drive in Trkula, which gave them their 3rd run. Team Rinaldi then tied the game at 4 on back-to-back singles by Mason Thumm and Kade Glass. Team Rinaldi then took a 6-4 lead following a single by Micah Zughaib.

Team Rinaldi then added 2 more runs on a RBI single by Jackson Kleckner, which scored Will Vukovcan, who was hit by a pitch. The other run scored on a RBI groundout by Grayden McNally.

Outstanding pitching tonight was turned in by multiple Hopewell pitchers:

Peck- 2 innings, 1 hit, 0 runs, 0 walks, 4 K’s

Tourney- 2 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 3 K’s.

Trkulja- 2 innings, 1 hit, 0 runs, 0 walks, 2 K’s.

Ankrom: 2 innings, 1 hit, 0 runs, 0 walks and 3 K’s.

 

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Hopewell HS Baseball

Hopewell Senior Catcher Charlie Smetana Commits to D-1 Mercyhurst

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 6 minutes read

Exciting news emerged over the weekend for a Hopewell baseball player.

Hopewell senior catcher Charlie Smetana received a scholarship offer to play at D-1 Mercyhurst. This was a tough decision because Smetana had previously committed to play at the University of South Carolina-Sumter (JUCO).

After weighing the pros of cons of both opportunities, Smetana made the decision to accept the opportunity at Mercyhurst.

Vikings Sports Now had the chance to talk with Smetana about decision, what went into it, his future along with unfinished business that remains at Hopewell.

Hopewell catcher Charlie Smetana

Smetana Q/A with Vikings Sports Now Following Commitment to Mercyhurst:

Q: The last time we talked, you made the decision to play for the University of South Carolina-Sumter to continue your education and baseball career. Yesterday, you path changed and now you’re headed to Mercyhurst University. Walk us through that decision and what ultimately led you there?

Smetana: “The biggest thing for me was wanting to stay closer to family. After my grandma unexpectedly passed away earlier this year, it really put a lot into perspective for me. Being nine hours away started to weigh on me more than I expected, and I realized how important it was to be closer to the people who have always supported me.

Another huge factor was that one my best friends, LP, is playing there too. We’ve been teammates for years at Beaver Valley, so having the chance to continue playing together at the next level is awesome.

Mercyhurst also just felt right from a baseball standpoint. I’ve been there before for BV tournaments and always really like the campus, and the facilities.

Coach Cut (Cutshall) also had a big impact on my decision. He played at Mercyhurst and is in their Hall of Fame. Coach Cutshall and Coach Tanner have both been huge in my development over the years. They’ve always believed in me, pushed me to get better, and helped me so much.”

Q: What’s the excitement level like right now as you prepare to join the Mercyhurst program and begin this next chapter?

Smetana: “I’m definitely pumped for this opportunity. Playing college baseball has always been a goal so being able to continue at Mercyhurst is something I’m really excited and grateful for. I can’t wait to get on campus and get to work with the team.

At the same time, I know there’s still a lot of work ahead of me. This summer is going to be huge for continued development, and honestly, I feel like I’m just getting started. College baseball is a completely different level, so I’m focused on continuing to get stronger, improve my game, and prepare myself to compete when I get there. I’m excited, but I also know nothing is going to be handed to me.”

Q: When you sat down with your family (and coaches) to evaluate everything, what were the biggest factors that helped make Mercyhurst feel like the right fit for you?

Smetana: “The biggest thing finding a place that was the right fit for me both academically and athletically. The level of competition at Mercyhurst was a huge factor. I wanted to challenge myself at the next level and be in an environment where I’d have to compete every day and continue getting better. Being closer to home definitely doesn’t hurt either. Having my family able to come watch me play more often and knowing I’m not too far away was something that became more important to me throughout this process.”

Q: Athletic journeys are never done alone. Who are some of the people you’d like to thank for helping guide and support you along the way?

Smetana: “There are so many people I need to thank, and I will likely miss some. First, I want to thank Coach Cutshall, Coach Tanner, Coach Liberatore, Coach Weischedel, Coach Singletary and his staff: Coach Smith, Coach Absey and Coach K for all the mentorship, guidance, and support they’ve given me.

They’ve all played a huge role in helping me develop as a player and as a person, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them believing in me and pushing me to be better every day. I’ve been lucky with some great coaches since my earliest days with Coach Gill, Coach Tony, Coach Donovan and all the time they spent with us growing up.



I also want to thank all of my teammates over the years, especially the seniors (Drew, James, PK, Kingston, Ben, and Logan) who I grew up with on the field. Competing alongside those guys, learning from each other, and building those friendships has been amazing.

And of course, my family has meant everything throughout this journey. They’ve always support me, sacrificed for me, and been there through every step of the process.”

Q: I’ve known you a long time, and one thing that never changed was your dream of playing Division I college baseball. How much did the opportunity to compete at that level influence this decision?

Smetana: “There’s no question that playing Division I baseball has been a goal of mine for as long as I can remember. Growing up, that was always something I worked toward and dreamed about. But at the same time, I’ve learned not to get too hung up on the labels of D1, D2, D3, or Juco because at every level, you have to be really good to play college baseball.”

Q: I have to ask you about the Hopewell Vikings. Looking back on the season to this point, what are you most proud of about this team and the way you guys have battled together? And now, being in the quarterfinals, what’s the mindset in the dugout as you prepare for Monday’s game against No. 3 seed Valley?

“We’re having a blast right now, and I think the biggest thing is this team is really clicking on all cylinders at the right time. I’m most proud of the way we’ve competed together all season and how everybody has embraced their role. The seniors have been huge for us. King, Ben and PK have been unreal on the mound all year and have given us a chance to win every time out. I’d put those three up against any 3 pitchers in the WPIAL.

Drew has been a rock for us at shortstop, Logan has really stepped up as a leader of our team, in addition to playing really well at 1B and at the plate, and Jimmy has always been a great hitter and has really shown it this season. Boo Boo’s numbers speak for themself. He’s been on base a ton and has helped us plate a lot of runs. Collin and his speed have been unreal at second base, and Jake has come through with some huge clutch hits for us, especially in last Monday’s playoff game. Last but not least, our bench guys keep us loose and having fun. This season has been so much fun all the way around.


Also, our coaches have been dialed in all year, keeping us motivated, and focused, and grounded through the highs and lows of the season.

Going into Monday, I think the mindset in the dugout is just to stay loose, stay confident, and keep playing for each other. We know what we’re capable of when we play Hopewell baseball, and we’re excited for the opportunity in front of us.”

On a personal note, I’ve known and watched Charlie playing baseball since his days with Hopewell Youth Baseball. He’s lived, eaten and breathed baseball every day since then so to see him receive this tremendous opportunity is awesome.

Now, today begins a new journey and that’s to become a productive, starting D-1 baseball player at Mercyhurst. Knowing your work ethic and passion for the game, I have zero doubt that will eventually happen.

Congratulations Charlie and also to his parents Mike and Carrie.

 

 

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Hopewell Pony League Baseball

Hopewell Pony League/Team Hoffman Battle for 6-2 Win Over Central Valley

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 3 minutes read

Hopewell’s/Team Hoffman continued their perfect week last night with an impressive 6-2 win over Central Valley.

This was Hopewell’s third game in 3 days, and the Vikings have won all three games. Their week isn’t finished as they’ll be tested tonight as they have to travel to take on Riverside.

When you’re forced to play this many games in a row, your pitching depth becomes challenged because of the pitch count all these players are on. Fortunately for Coach Chip Hoffman and his staff, they’re blessed to have a roster full of players that can pitch.

On Tuesday, Connor Reed, Liam Rankin and Vin Smetana took the mound for Hopewell. On Wednesday, it was Channing Yesionek and Rhett Rankin. Last night, Tyler Hoffman and Rhett Rankin were able to limit CV to just 4 hits, while striking out 10 batters.

Central Valley gave Hopewell their biggest test of the season as this game was tied 2-2 as we went to the bottom of the 6th inning. Hopewell was able to plate 4 runs to re-take the lead and earned them the victory.

RECAPPING HOPEWELL’S 4-RUN 6TH INNING:
-Reed led off with a single, advanced to second on a passed ball and then stole third. Following walks to Hoffman and Liam Rankin and an out, Kruz Krotec came up with the big hit of the game, a 2-run double to left field, which scored Reed and Hoffman. Then with 2 outs and a walk to Dom Yannessa, Rhett Rankin drew a walk to score pinch-runner Ethan Bollinger. Krotec then scored on a passed ball and Hopewell took a 6-2 lead.

Hopewell’s Kruz Krotec

STRONG DEFENSE BY HOPEWELL:
-A day after committing 3 errors, Hopewell cleaned things up by playing an error free game.

1ST Inning: Yannessa caught two fly balls to right field and Yesionek brought in a pop up to second base.

2ND Inning: Smetana caught a line out and Krotec ended the second inning by catching a fly ball to center.

4TH Inning: Yeionek turned an unassisted double play to second base to clean things up in this inning after CV lead off with a walk.

5TH Inning: No defense needed in the fifth as Hoffman took care of things himself by striking out the side.

6TH Inning: Hoffman and Rankin both struck out a batter in the sixth before the frame ended on a ground out to Austin Gallagher at third.

7TH Inning: Smetana recorded the first out of the final inning with a fielder’s choice and the game ended like it started on a fly ball to Yannessa in right field.

On the mound: Hoffman pitched 5.1 innings, allowing 3 hits, 2 earned runs, 4 walks and 8 strike outs. Rankin closed out the game by going 1.2 innings, allowing just 1 hit, 0 runs and striking out 2.

Hopewell’s Ty Hoffman

Hopewell’s Tyler Hoffman

HOPEWELL OFFENSIVE BOXSCORE:
*The Hopewell hitters collected 8 hits and 6 talks in the game. Reed, Hoffman and Krotec led the way with 2 hits apiece. Smetana and Bennett Tomei also recorded a hit a piece.

With the win, Hopewell improves to 4-0 and will look to remain undefeated as they take on Riverside (2-1).

HERE’S A LOOK AT THE UPDATED STANDINGS IN THE WESTERN PA PONY LEAGUE
Hopewell/Team Hoffman: 4-0
Blackhawk: 4-0-1
Riverside/Giles: 4-1
New Brighton: 3-1
Riverside/Linville: 2-1
Beaver/Marino: 2-2
CV1: 2-2
Blackhawk/DePietro: 2-2
Ambridge: 1-2
CV 2: 0-2-1
Blackhawk/Litzinger: 1-3
Hopewell/Team Dunn: 0-3-1
Beaver/Eimiller: 0-3-1
Beaver Falls: 0-3

TONIGHT:
Hopewell/Team Hoffman vs. Riverside/Linville
Hopewell/Team Dunn vs. Blackhawk/DePietro

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Hopewell Youth Baseball

Two Hopewell Youth Baseball Players Blast Home Runs!

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 1 minutes read

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP– Despite the rain in the afternoon and the chilly weather, baseball was able to be played last night at Hopewell Youth Baseball’s Kane Road complex.

The highlight of the evening was when two Hopewell players hit long back-back home runs!

Congratulations to Logan Giering and Reagan Haring, who both blasted home runs to deep center field Wednesday night. For Giering it was grand slam and it came on a 3-2 pitch.

VSN talked with Giering before the game, who said he was in a little bit of a slump, so it was good to see him hit that blast. Giering was getting some extra batting practice in before the game and he has beautiful, left-handed swing that just screams power hitter.

Hopewell’s Logan Giering

In terms of the game, Hopewell dropped an 8-7 decision to Ambridge, as the Bridgers scored 3 runs in the last 2 innings to pull out the win.

Looking at the Hopewell box score, Haring, Giering, Jack Holsinger, Trenton Kanyuch and Jaxxon Hillard collected the 5 hits for Hopewell.

Holsinger and Clayton Magnone each pitched 3 innings for Hopewell, and both did a solid job. Holsinger struck out 5 hitters, while not allowing a walk. Magnone allowed 4 hits, 1 walk and struck out 4.

Hopewell will look to rebound on Monday when they return to the field as they travel to Freedom.

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Hopewell Youth Baseball

Hopewell’s Sadler Landscaping (9/10’s) With Dramatic Win Over South Side

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 2 minutes read

South Side- Games in the 9–10-year-old league, where kids are just starting to learn how to pitch, came sometimes be long and filled with many walks and errors.

That’s only natural since this is their first real introduction to baseball as for the first time they’re pitching for the first time, batters are facing pitching from an opposing player, and they’re now expected to make defensive plays in the field.

In other words, these kids are playing real baseball.

I’ve been watching baseball in Hopewell for many years and last night, I had the pleasure of watching one of more entertaining and well played games that I’ve witnessed in a long time.

Hopewell’s Team Sadler Landscaping/Team Rinaldi took on an unbeaten South Side team and came away with a 13-10 come from behind win.

Here are some impressive numbers- 1) game was played in under 2 hours 2) Hopewell picked up 14 hits and only allowed 8. 3) Hopewell pitchers allowed only 4 walks.

HOPEWELL BOXSCORE-

Pitching
*Let’s start with the pitching- Tristyn Trkulja started the game and was outstanding as he went innings, allowed 1 hit, 2 runs, 1 walk and 3 K’s. Deacon Ankrom pitched a gutsy 1.1 innings and was followed by Declan Rinaldi and Mason Thumm.

Rinaldi went 1.1 innings, allowing 1 hit, 1 run (0 ER), 0 walks and 1 K. Thumm closed out the game, pitching 1 inning, 0 runs, 2 walks and 1 K.

Hitting
*Offensively, Grayden McNally, Trkulja, Ankrom, Micah Zughaib and Jack Stager each picked up 2 hits, while Rinaldi, Kade Glass, Cullen Harcum and Will Vukovcan also came through with a hit.

RBI getters for Hopewell were: Zughaib (4), Ankrom (3), Glass (2), Vukovcan (2), Stager (1) and Trkulja (1).

Defensively
*Outs recorded by: Rinaldi, Ankrom (4), Thumm, Trkulja, McNally (2).

Hopewell trailed 10-6 going to the Top of the 5th inning when they put up 6 runs and then added another run in the Top of the 6th inning.

Things got interesting in the final inning as South Side had 2 runners on with 2 outs, but Thumm came up big with a game ending strikeout.

FINAL: HOPEWELL 13 SOUTH SIDE 10

WINNING IS FUN!!!

Hopewell’s Sadler Landscaping Team Rinaldi is back in action tonight when they’ll host Ambridge.

 

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Hopewell Youth Baseball

Hopewell 9/10-Year-Old Kids Pitch with Big Win Over Ambridge

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 1 minutes read

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP– The 3 fields were filled last night at Hopewell’s Kane Road baseball complex as it was a perfect night for baseball.

One of the games taking place was a 9–10-year-old kids pitch game between Hopewell’s Team Rinaldi and a team from Ambridge. After losing their opener last Thursday against a different team from Ambridge, the Vikings responded in a big way last night coming away with a 16-2 win.

After collecting just 7 hits in the opener, Hopewell was able to put up 15 hits Monday night as kids did a great job of putting the bat on the ball. No bigger evidence of that than the fact that Hopewell batters only struck out 3 times.

Leading the way at the plate was Grayden McNally, who went 3 for 3 with 3 runs and 2 RBI’s and Jonah Honess who was 2-for-2 with a walk and 5 RBIs. Declan Rinaldi was very productive from the #2 spot in the lineup reaching base 3 times (2 walks and a hit), along with 2 runs and 3 RBIs. Cullen Harcum drove in 2 runs, reaching base twice (single and a walk).

Tristyn Trkulja, Mason Thumm, Kade Glass, Deacon Ankrom, Micah Zughaib, Jack Stager, Jaxon Kleckner and Nicholas Hughes all collected a hit.

The beneficiaries of this offensive explosion were Honess and McNally, who both pitched 4 innings. Honess got the start and went 2 innings, allowing 3 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks and striking out 6.

McNally pitched the third and fourth innings, and was very efficient- 2 innings, 1 hit, 0 runs, 0 walks and 4 strikeouts (only 23 pitches).

Hopewell’s Team Rinaldi will be back in action tonight with their first road game of the season, as they travel to South Side.

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Hopewell HS Baseball

Win and Advance; Hopewell Defeats Ringgold in WPIAL Playoffs!

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 4 minutes read

PETERS TOWNSHIP– When you reach the WPIAL playoffs, despite the seed your team is given, all teams are talented and all are capable of winning on any given day.

Hopewell HC Morgan Singletary has won 2 WPIAL championships and is well aware of that and no doubt reinforced that to his players prior to today’s opening round of the WPIAL playoffs.

Tonight, Hopewell entered as the No. 6 seed and took on No. 11 seed Ringgold.

In order for Hopewell to achieve their ultimate goal, they’re going to need all 3 phases- pitching, hitting and strong defense. Fortunately for them, they received it, which allowed them to come away with a 5-3 win. The Vikings jumped out to a 5-1 lead before having Ringgold score 2 runs in the 6th inning to make things interesting.

Hopewell now advances to the quarterfinals and will take on No. 3 seed Valley next Monday. The time and location of that game will be announced later this week.

In terms of hitting, Hopewell collected 12 hits, including 4 extra base hits. The 12 hits were their most since recording 15 back on April 17th against Shenango.

Leading the way were Kingston Krotec, Logan Triscila, James Gill and Ben McDonald, each with 2 hits apiece. James Armstrong, Charlie Smetana, Jake Knobloch and Collin Davis each had a one hit apiece.

Getting the start tonight was Krotec, who’s been the team’s top pitcher all season and tonight, King did what he had to do bring home the win.

Hopewell pitcher Kingston Krotec

Krotec had a gutsy performance tonight going 6.2 innings, allowing 6 hits, 3 runs (1 earned run), 2 walks and 4 strikeouts. Krotec threw a season-high 107 pitches before giving way to senior Payton Korker, who recorded the last out of the game.

The win improves Hopewell’s record to 15-5, their most wins since the 2022 season when they had 16.

HOPEWELL BASEBALL’S RECORD LAST SIX SEASONS
2026: 15-5, 8-4  (?????)
2025: 5-14, 4-8
2024: 9-10, 4-6
2023: 14-12, 4-6 (WPIAL CHAMPIONSHIP)
2022: 16-8, 9-1
2021: 18-6, 9-1 (WPIAL CHAMPIONSHIP)

 

TONIGHT’S HOPEWELL/RINGGOLD GAME RECAP:
Top of 1st: Krotec recorded the first two outs of the game on ground balls and then the inning ended when Smetana threw out a runner trying to steal second.

Bottom of 1st: Hopewell got on the scoreboard first. With 1 out, Krotec doubled to right field and came around to score on a 2-out RBI double to center field by Smetana, Hopewell led 1-0.

Top of 2nd: An easy 1-2-3 inning following a flyout to Armstrong in left, a groundout to Korker at 3rd base and a groundout to Drew Donovan at short.

Bottom of 2nd: McDonald increased the lead to 2-0 on a long HR to right field on a 1-1 pitch. This was McDonald’s team-leading 6th HR, Hopewell led 2-0.

Top of 3rd: Another stressless inning as Krotec struck out 2 batters with the other out coming on a groundout to Davis at second base.


Bottom of 3rd: Instead of just one, Hopewell picked up 2 runs in this frame, which gave them a nice cushion. With 1 out, Triscila singled to center and advanced to second on a wild pitch. Gill then smacked a 2-0 pitch to center field, which scored McDonald. Later in the inning with 2 outs, Knobloch came through with a clutch 2-out single to center, as he jumped on the first pitch of the at-bat. Gill scored, and Hopewell led 4-0 after 3 innings.

Top of 4th: Ringgold threatened in the 4th as they got a 2-out triple, but Krotec grabbed a line drive back at the mound for the 3rd out.

Top of 5th: Ringgold had a real threat in the fifth as they had runners at 2nd and 3rd with 0 out. The next batter then popped up to Krotec for out #1. The next batter then hit a comebacker to the mound, the runner at third tried to score but Krotec threw home to Smetana for out No. 2. With 2 runners on, Ringgold came through with an RBI double to score run. However, they tried to plate the runner from first but a great relay from Knobloch to Donovan to Smetana, cut him down, Hopewell led 4-1.

Bottom of 5th: Hopewell was able to get that run back in the bottom of the inning as Triscila led off with a double to center. Logan advanced to third on a single by Gill. With runners at 1st and 3rd and 0 out, McDonald hit a sacrifice fly to center, which scored Triscila, Hopewell led 5-1.

Top of 6th: Ringgold didn’t quit and scored two runs to make it 5-3 and had 2 runners on with 2 outs. Instead of going to his bullpen, Singletary stuck with his senior and someone that has done the job all season. So, with 2 on and 2 out, Krotec ended Ringgold’s threat by getting a flyout to Knobloch in right field. Hopewell led 5-3.

Top of 7th: Krotec and Hopewell needed 3 outs in order to advance to the quarterfinals. Out No. 1 came on a pop up to Donovan at shortstop. Out No. 2 came on a strikeout. Singletary then brought in Korker to get the final out. After falling behind 3-0, Korker then got 2 strikes to get it to a full count. On the next pitch, the game ended as Armsrong caught a ball in foul territory.

FINAL SCORE: HOPEWELL 5 RINGGOLD 3

WINNING IS FUN!!!

Congratulations Hopewell on this first step. This team will have a week off to get ready for a very talented Valley team, which finished the season with a record of 14-5 and 8-2 in section. One of those section wins was over No. 1 seed Indiana.

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Hopewell Pony League Baseball

Hopewell Pony League Opens Season with Win Over Riverside

by Mike Vukovcan
written by Mike Vukovcan 3 minutes read

With the 2026 Junior High Baseball season ending last week, it’s time now for a lot of those players to continue their development by playing with the Hopewell Pony League team.

Unfortunately, because of weather and other circumstances, games were limited for these players, so Pony League gives them the opportunity to get important in-game competition.

These players will have games through the middle of June before entering the playoffs. Two years ago, Hopewell won the Beaver County Pony League Championship under the direction of HC Jamie Yurcina and Brandon Davis.

The Hopewell Pony League team, under the direction of HC Chip Hoffman, along with Jared Reed and BJ Rankin started their season on Friday night when they traveled to take on Riverside.

Hopewell started things off taking on an undefeated Riverside team, jumped out to an early 8-1 lead and came away with an 11-7 win.

Liam Rankin, Channing Yesionek and Connor Reed and combined to allow just 3 earned runs. Rankin started and went 3.1 innings, allowing 5 hits, 1 earned run and struck out 5 batters. Yesionek relieved him in the 4th inning and went on to pitch 2.2 innings, allowing 3 earned runs and struck out 4 batters. Reed closed things out by pitched a perfect 7th inning, striking out 2 batters.

Offensively, Hopewell picked up 10 hits in 6 innings, along with walking 7 times.

Dom Yannessa, Tyler Hoffman and Liam Rankin led the way for Hopewell with 2 hits apiece, while Yannessa had a team-high 3 RBI, Bennett Tomei had 2 RBI and Vin Smetana, Kruz Krotec, Rankin and Yesionek had an RBI apiece.

HOPEWEWELL/RIVERSIDE GAME HIGHLIGHTS:
-Bottom of 1st: After Riverside jumped out to a 1-0 lead, Hopewell quickly answered. Reed delivered a 1-out single to left and after stealing second base, scored on a Riverside error. With the bases load and 1 out, Yesionek drew a walk to bring in Krotec. Next up, Yannessa smashed a line drive single to left, which scored Hoffman. Hopewell led 3-1 after 1 inning.

-Top of 2nd: 2 Riverside batters reached but with 2 outs, Rankin closed things down by getting a pop up to Smetana at shortstop.

-Bottom of 2nd: Speaking of Smetana, Vin came through with an RBI triple to center field to score Ethan Bolinger to increase Hopewell’s lead. Smetana then scored on an RBI groundout by Krotec. Later in the inning, Yannessa delivered his second hit of the game, and 2-run single which scored Hoffman and Austin Gallagher. Hopewell led 8-1 after 2 innings.

-Top of 4th: Riverside picked up 3 runs to make the score 8-4 and were threatening for more with runners at 2nd and 3rd but Yesionek enters the game and ends the inning with a strikeout. Hopewell 8-4.

-Bottom of 4th: Hopewell quickly added to their lead as Tomei singled to right field, which brought in Hoffman and Evan Vogel. Next up, Rankin singled to left to bring in Gallagher. Hopewell led 11-4.

-Top of 6th: With Hopewell leading 11-5, they got an important scoreless 6th inning. The first out came on a pop up to Hoffman at catcher, and the last two outs on strikeouts by Yesionek.

-Top of 7th: After Riverside scored a couple of runs to take it 11-7, Hoffman brought in Connor Reed to try and close out the game. Connor did just that. First out came via a strikeout swinging, second out on a fly out to Yannessa in center and ended the game with a strike out (looking).

FINAL SCORE: HOPEWELL 11 RIVERSIDE 7

WINNING IS FUN!!

The Hopewell Pony League team (1-0) will return to action tomorrow when they travel to Beaver Falls.

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Hopewell HS Softball

2026 Hopewell Softball Regular Season Recap; Playoffs Ahead!

by vikingssportsn
written by vikingssportsn 4 minutes read

The 2026 Hopewell Vikings Softball regular season was defined by growth, resilience, and a team that never back away from a challenge. Facing one of the toughest schedules in the area, the squad battled through a demanding mix of section and non-section opponents while continuing to improve with every game.

After opening the season against strong programs like Neshannock (2025 AA WPIAL & State Champs), North Catholic and Mohawk (2025 AAA WPIAL Champs), the team entered the bulk of their section playing knowing every inning would be a test. Despite the early adversity, the girls responded with determination and grift, earning key wins over Ellwood City, Beaver Falls, Quaker Valley, Central Valley, and another dominant victory over Beaver Falls to close the regular season.

The offense steadily developed into one of the team’s biggest strengths. Over 14 games, the lineup produced a .330 team batting average with 120 hits, 89 runs scored and 74 RBIs. The team showed its offensive potential during breakout performances that included 19 runs against Quaker Valley and 23 runs in the season finale against Beaver Falls.

Senior Allison Ramaley paced the offense with a .438 average, 21 hits, and 13 RBIs, while Claire Sarkis hit an impressive .475 in a noticeable surge the second half of the season. Freshman also made major contributions throughout the season, highlighted by Lillian Otto, Abigail Babinsack, and Gianna Rossi continuing to mature against varsity-level competition.

Junior Marina Pinchotti added high energy in the lineup with 14 runs scored while patrolling center field the majority of the season. Juniors Teagen Scully and Cameron Roche provided great defense on the corners of the outfield as well, with several game changing catches throughout the season. In the infield, junior Dakota Roche played an important role at second base.

The offensive development continued with junior Hazel McCowin and sophomore Addison Pavlisko providing clutch at-bats and defense when called upon late in the season.

Inside the circle, the pitching staff gained valuable experience throughout the season. Senior Ramaley led the group with 4 wins, 34 strikeouts, and a 4.49 ERA across 43.2 inning pitched, while younger pitchers (Freshman Isabella Cipolla and sophomore Ellasandra Hartle) continued developing valuable varsity experience that will benefit the program moving forward.

Head coach Ronda Koblek reflected on the team’s development throughout the season.

“We are a young team that continues to grow with each practice and every game,” said Koblek. “Right from the start, we were challenged with an extremely tough softball schedule, both in non-section and section play. Throughout it all, I’ve seen the girls develop in ways that make the future of this team very promising.”

“Instead of folding under pressure or backing down from the competition, we’ve embraced every challenge and used it to improve our play game by game. These demanding matchups have prepared us for the playoffs in ways a less competitive schedule never could. What makes this team unique is the resilience of each player in their drive to compete and improve, often wile stepping into multiple positions. Their willingness to trust one another and commit to what they’re learning will continue to build success for our program moving forward.”

Assistant coach Riley Lewis echoed that confidence in the team’s progress and potential entering the postseason.

“We know we’re not a finished product, and what’s what makes this group so exciting,” said Lewis. “The regular season tested us in a lot of ways – there were moments where we had to respond to adversity, make adjustments, and learn how to compete together. Through all of that, this team kept showing up, kept working, and kept believing in each other.”

“You can see the growth, not just in the results, but in the way they carry themselves and trust one another. Now we have an opportunity to reset, and that’s what makes playoff softball special. It’s a new season, and we’re ready to compete, play our best, and make some noise. While the record only tells part of the story, the 2026 season established a strong foundation for the future. With a young core gaining experience and confidence every game, the program continues moving in the right direction with momentum, belief, and excitement heading into postseason play next week.”

Next week, the varsity squad has a scrimmage scheduled on Tuesday at Montour and then their 1st Round WPIAL 3A playoff game is scheduled for Thursday at 3 PM vs. the #5 seed McGuffey Highlanders at Montour High School.

If you’re able to make it, please come out and support this great group of athletes!

JUNIOR HIGH SOFTBALL ENDS THEIR SEASON AT BEAVER

With an eye toward the future of Hopewell softball, the junior high team wrapped up their season last night with an 8-5 loss to Beaver.

The Vikings finished the year with a strong 5-5 record while competing in one of the area’s toughest divisions alongside Central Valley, West Allegheny, Montour, South Fayette, Moon, and Blackhawk.

Head coach Bill Boggs reflected on the growth of this year’s group:

“After two years with the JH squad, this year’s 8th grade group may not be as big as last year’s squad, but it has the potential to have a few players make an immediate impact next year as freshmen, just like this year’s varsity freshmen did at the varsity level. That has the makings of a good core group for next year’s varsity squad to go along with a solid group of upperclassmen and a strong senior class. At the JH level, we’re doing the best we can to prepare these girls for the varsity level.”

The future continues to look bright for Hopewell Softball.

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