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Building Champions basketball camp registration opens Saturday

By Press Release
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Press Release:

Youth basketball players will have the opportunity to build their skills at the upcoming Building Champions basketball camp, set to take place from August 5 - 8 at Elba Central School gymnasium.

Registration for the camp will kick off at Elba High School on Saturday, June 8, from 10 - 11 a.m.

The camp will be divided into two sessions for different age groups. Students in grades 1 to 3 will have sessions from 9 to 11 a.m., while those in grades 4 to 6 will have theirs from 1 to 3 p.m.

Building Champions will focus on essential basketball skills including handling, passing, shooting, and defense. Both boys and girls in grades 1 to 6 are encouraged to participate and hone their abilities on the court.

Campers can expect a range of amenities throughout the camp, including access to a daily hydration station, healthy snacks, a pizza party, a commemorative t-shirt, and the exciting opportunity to compete for the "MVP" of the week trophy.

The cost of enrollment stands at $100 per camper. For those unable to attend the registration event, inquiries and registrations can be made by contacting Coach Zambito at 585-813-8592 or via email at ciaci4zambito@gmail.com.

For young athletes seeking to elevate their basketball skills in a supportive and engaging environment, Building Champions promises a rewarding experience.

Submitted photos.

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Spartans travel to Rochester for a Saturday afternoon tilt

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Spartans will be looking to get their offense in gear this Saturday when they travel to Franklin High School to take on the Rochester Chargers in Northeastern Football Alliance semipro action.

Corey Turpin will be handling all of the quarterback duties for the Spartans due to an injury to the team’s other QB, Alex Rood. Head Coach Harry Rascoe said that Rood will be out for at least eight weeks – likely all season.

The Spartans dropped their season opener last weekend, 16-6 to the Lockport Wildcats.

“Our defense played very well against Lockport, now we just to need get our offense clicking,” said Rascoe, noting that the Spartans held the Wildcats to just 118 yards passing and 90 yards rushing.

The Chargers received a forfeit victory last week as they were scheduled to play against the East Coast Blue Devils, which has opted out of the NFA this season.

Game time on Saturday is 5 p.m. Franklin High is located at 950 Norton St., Rochester.

Admission is $10. Youths 10 and under will be admitted at no charge.

Spartans hang tough in 16-6 loss to visiting Lockport Wildcats

By Press Release
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Genesee Spartans’ halfback Jed Reese looks for running room during Saturday’s semipro game against the Lockport Wildcats at Pembroke Town Park. 
Photo by Lauren Donovan.

The Genesee County Spartans gave the Lockport Wildcats all they could handle on Saturday afternoon before falling, 16-6, in their Northeastern Football Alliance semipro opener at Pembroke Town Park.

The Spartans’ defense kept the Wildcats, who went 9-1 last season, in check for most of the game except for a 60-yard touchdown pass from strong-armed quarterback Willie Fair III to Jason Thurman on the opening drive and a four-yard TD run by Fair with 1:18 to play.

Lockport was able to run for both two-point conversions.

Genesee’s offense sputtered in the first half, losing the ball twice on botched snaps, but put together its only scoring drive to begin the third quarter.

Halfback Jed Reese (Notre Dame graduate) gained 12 yards on two plays up the middle before wide receiver Deyonci Farley picked up 10 yards on a sweep.

On third down, quarterback Alex Rood threw a deep ball intended for wide receiver Rayshawn Huitt, who drew a pass interference penalty – putting the ball at the Lockport 7-yard line.

The Wildcats stiffened on the next two running plays and a false start penalty on the Spartans moved the ball back to the 15. From there, Rood found Huitt in the end zone for a touchdown, pulling Genesee to within two at 8-6.

Another pass intended for Huitt for the two-point conversion fell incomplete, however.

Both teams punted three times until the Spartans took possession at their own 47 with 4:39 to play. Following a couple of short gains, Rood hit Farley for a first down but a fumble on the play and long return gave the ball back to Lockport at the Spartans’ 26, setting up the visitors’ final scoring drive.

Spartans Head Coach Harry Rascoe said he was proud of the way the defense shut down the 6-5, 250-pound Fair for most of the contest. LB Marley English had an interception for Genesee.

“This was the best QB in the league and one of the best teams,” he said. “We’re close and we’re going to get better.”

Fair credited the Spartans for their defensive game plan.

“I want to take my hat off to their defensive coordinator (Craig Tiberio),” he said. “His schemes and stuff were a little tricky and we didn’t make the right adjustments.”

Reese said he saw a lot of good things, mentioning the Spartans’ effort and togetherness.

“This is our second season, and we will improve. I really like the way that everyone is more positive (this season) and willing to work with each other,” he said. “We’re playing like a team, not a bunch of individuals.”

The Spartans next game is against the Rochester Chargers at 5 p.m. Saturday at Franklin High School in Rochester.

Muckdogs win home opener in ninth with walk-off bunt

By Howard B. Owens
batavia muckdogs home opener 2024

Post-game fireworks for the Batavia Muckdogs home opener on Saturday were set up in dramatic fashion in the bottom of the ninth inning when the home team erased a 3-2 deficit to win 4-1 on a squeeze bunt with the bases loaded.

The Elmira Pioneers had high school senior Bryce Mashanic making essentially his baseball debut at the collegiate level to start the ninth, after he entered the game with two outs in the eighth inning. 

Mashanic faced adversity in the inning early after second baseman Tim Haftl made a bad throw on a routine grounder for an error, allowing Anthony Greco to reach base.  Greco advanced on a wild pitch to Sean Mindas, who would get a free pass on the next pitch. Mindas then stole second, and Pioneers issued an intentional walk to Caleb Walker. 

Greco scored on a sacrifice fly by Cooper Romich, tying the game.

That brought Travis Hammond to the plate with one out and Walker on third.  Walker inched down the line as Mashanic went into his wind up, dashing toward the plate and scoring standing up after Hammond laid down a perfect bunt down the first base line.

The walk-off sacrifice improved Batavia's record on the young season to 2-1.

DH Trevor Dutra, a sophomore at Lafayette College and from Rye Brook, was 2-3 with a walk. He had the only multi-hit game on the night for the Muckdogs.

Josh Livengood, a senior attending Center College and from Lexigton, Ky., got the win in relief, going 3 1/3 innings giving up no hits or runs and fanning six Pioneers.  It was his first appearance of the season.

Starter Gavin Chandler went four innings, giving up two runs on four hits and fanning three. Chandler is a sophomore at Marion Military Institute and is from Alabaster, Ala.

Photos by Nick Serrata.

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batavia muckdogs home opener 2024
batavia muckdogs home opener 2024
batavia muckdogs home opener 2024
batavia muckdogs home opener 2024
batavia muckdogs home opener 2024
batavia muckdogs home opener 2024
batavia muckdogs home opener 2024

Genesee County Spartans open season this Saturday against visiting Lockport

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Spartans open their Northeastern Football Alliance semipro season this Saturday afternoon against the visiting Lockport Wildcats.

Kickoff for the “Iron Reps Gym Night” contest is scheduled for 5 o’clock at the Pembroke Town Park field on Route 77.

Head Coach Harry Rascoe said he feels good about the team’s chances this season. He bases his optimism on what he’s seen in practice and the squad’s 34-6 victory over Auburn in a scrimmage game a couple of weeks ago.

“We’re looking for big games from our quarterbacks, Alex Rood and Corey Turpin, and for the defense to put pressure on Lockport’s QB, Willie Fair,” Rascoe said. “Willie (who is listed at 6-foot-5, 260 pounds) is a great quarterback with a great arm. If we stay disciplined and win the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, we’ll be OK.”

Steve and Christy Deleo, owners of Iron Reps Gym in Le Roy, will take part in the coin toss. The Deleo family has signed on as “silver” sponsors of the Spartans.

“Bronze” level sponsors this season are House of Bounce, Wescott Motors, T.F. Brown’s Restaurant and Get Sealed. Additional supporters are Extended Sound, TJ Henderson, Perfect Piece LLC, WBTA, Ri-Dans, and Go Art!

The team was supposed to have an eight-game schedule, but it has been cut to six due to the East Coast Blue Devils not playing in the league this season. Rascoe said the Spartans may pick up another match along the way and is also hoping that a playoff game is in the mix.

Tickets are $5 per person and free for kids 11 and under.

Genesee County Spartans’ schedule:

  • June 1 Lockport Wildcats
  • June 8 at Rochester Chargers
  • June 22 at Watertown Red & Black
  • June 29 Rochester Chargers
  • July 13 at Lockport Wildcats
  • July 20 Ithaca Warriors

All home games will be at Pembroke Town Park.

Jankowski places 1st in two Civil War shooting events in Virginia

By Press Release
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Press Release:

Eugene Jankowski Jr., of Batavia, won two gold medals in individual events at the North-South Skirmish Association (N-SSA) 149th spring national match held May 17-19 at Fort Shenandoah near Winchester, VA. 

Jankowski won 1st place in the individual 25-yard smoothbore musket event, and 1st place in the individual 50-yard rifled musket event.

The N-SSA is the country’s oldest and largest Civil War shooting sports organization, with 3,000 individuals making up its 200 member units. Each represents a particular unit or regiment, and members dress in authentic period-correct uniforms to compete in live-fire matches with original or authentic reproduction black powder Civil War period muskets, carbines, breech-loading rifles, revolvers, mortars, and cannons. The national match is the largest Civil War shooting sports event of its kind. 

Submitted photos.

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Muckdogs manager looks at his 2024 roster and sees talent throughout

By Howard B. Owens
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The 2024 Batavia Muckdogs at Eli Fish on Tuesday.  The players were on hand to meet season ticket holders.
Photo by Howard Owens.

At the start of every season, when asked, "Who are the players fans should really watch this season?" Batavia Muckdogs Manager Joey Martinez has the same trouble answering the question

He just can't seem to narrow the response down to two or three players.

"It's not fair to just pick just one. I can pick them all. I love all my guys," Martinez said. "I bet on them. I bet on us. You know, that's all I can do. That's all I know. I like them all."

He did try to single out a few players, starting with, "We've got a couple of arms out there that are pretty impressive."

There's Michael Benedict, Matt Misiti, Reed Marcum, and Garrett Brunstetter.

"Liam Ryan is pretty nasty. He's pretty nasty," Martinez said. "I watched him yesterday. He's pretty nasty."

He added, "I like the arms that we have, and we still got three or four guys coming. I'm looking forward to our William and Mary guy getting here. Anthony Greco. It looks like he's going to be a good guy.

Yet to arrive yet is a projected third baseman, Jake Butler.

"He's a very young guy with a very high IQ," Martinez said. "He has a great feel for the game."

Then he mentions Justin Austin and says, "I mean, the list goes on and on. We have got some really good players. I'm not even sure who else to say. The list goes on and on."

There are also a half-dozen or more returners, including local pitchers Bryceton Berry and Ty Woods. Trey Bacon, Garrett Beaver, Isidro Rosario, Lucas Lopez, and Tucker Beving are also returning.

James Bolton, from Webster, will make his Muckdogs debut this season. 

"I always have a lot of surprises and tricks up my sleeve, but I think our team is a little younger this year, a little bit more athletic, a little bit more speed," Martinez said. "We tried to make some adjustments in the offseason. So I would say more bats and balls skills. The pitching staff is looking good on top of that; I think, you know, with the Dogs, we are always gonna be competitive, man, you know, that's the only way I like it -- win or go home."

The Muckdogs open the season on Thursday in Jamestown, followed by an away game on Friday in Elmira, before the home opener against Elmire at 6:35 p.m. on Saturday. Fireworks will follow the game.

The team's first day game at Dwyer is on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. against Niagara Falls Americans, a new team in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League, and like Batavia and Elmira, the team is owned by Robbie and Nellie Nichols. The next home page after that is June 6 at 6:35 p.m. against Newark.  For the complete 2024 schedule, click here. For the current roster, click here.

Batavia girls threepeat as Section V champions in Track and Field

By Press Release
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Press release:

The Batavia Girls track team proved their dominance once again.  After wrapping up an undefeated regular season in Monroe county competition (5-0) and winning three local track invitational meets (Attica Invite, Alexander Invite, Batavia Invite), Batavia scored 185 points at the class B1 sectional championships to win the title for the third consecutive year.  Batavia was led by the following stellar performances...

Campbell Riley dominated on the track winning the 2000m Steeple (7:31.01), winning the 800m (2:21.81), getting 2nd in the 1500m (5:05.73) and then anchoring the winning 4x400m relay team along with teammates Jadyn Boyce, Ava Anderson, and Karizma Wescott.

Ava Wierda continued her dominance in the throws by winning both Shot (33 feet 8.25inches) and Disc (118feet)

Ava Anderson won the 400 hurdles (68.86) and placed 2nd in the 100m hurdles (17.5).

Madeline Smith won the 100 hurdles (15.74) and placed 6th in the 400m hurdles (73.58)

Karizma Wescott won the 400m (58.81), was on the winning 4x4 mentioned above as well as the winning 4x1 relay team along with teammates Ady O'Donnell, Ella Radley, and Ella Shamp. (49.59)

Ella Shamp also placed 2nd in LJ (16'6.5"), 3rd in HJ (4-10), and 5th in the 200m (27.06).

Anna Varland won the pentathlon for the THIRD YEAR IN A ROW scoring 2445 points!

Jaimin MacDonald placed 2nd in the shot (32'6")

The 4x8 relay team consisting of Jadyn Boyce, Mallory Boyce, Helaina Staley, and Maddie Bellamy placed 2nd with a time of 10:29.83.

Full scores and results can be found here.

I am extremely proud of this group of girls for their hard work and dedication throughout the spring.  Many of them are juggling multiple commitments but have always found the time to put in the work that they need to in order to achieve this goal.  I am especially happy for our group of seniors (Jadyn Boyce, Anna Varland, Isa Walsh, Kaelee Kelso, Sophie Moore, and Ella Radley) many of whom have been on the team since they were in 7th or 8th grade and have been instrumental in returning this team to its current state of success.  As a direct result of their mental and physical toughness and their leadership, they end their career as 3-time sectional champs!!!!

Batavia boys win eighth sectional title in Track and Field

By Staff Writer
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Submitted photo.

The Batavia Boys Track and Field team won its eighth sectional championship on Friday with 148.5 points in the Class B1 division, beating out Honeoye Falls/Lima, the runner-up with 131 points.

Batavia's scores include:

  • Parris Price:  1st 110 Hurdles (15.25), 4th 200m (23.34)
  • Cameron Garofalo: 1st 800m (2:00.11), 2nd 3000m Steeple (10:48.24), 3rd 1600m (4:35.09)
  • Sheldon Siverling:  1st Shot Put (56-6), 1st Discus (154-10)
  • Grant Gahagan: 1st High Jump (5-10)
  • Justin Smith: 2nd Discus (139-4), 3rd Place High Jump (5-8)
  • Jamari Irvin:  2nd Pentathlon (2591 points)
  • Da'Von Gallo Williams - 3rd place Long Jump (20-2.45)
  • Mekhi Fortes:  3rd Shot Put (49-6)
  • Karvel Martino:  4th Shot Put (46-7.75)
  • Tym Murrell:  4th Pentathlon (2275 points)
  • Isaac Varland:  4th Discus (133-7)
  • Donavin Solis:  5th 1600m (4:47.44), 5th 3200m (10:36.31)
  • Brian Calderon: 5th Shot Put (44-3.5)
  • Emmanuel Richardson:  5th HIgh Jump (5-8)
  • Cooper Konieczny:  5th 400 Hurdles (1:02.40)
  • Brock Warren: 6th Pentathlon  (2234 points)
  • Nate Kinsey:  6th 3200m (10:51.4)
  • Kahler Evans: 6th 3000m Steeple (11:19.89)

Also, all 3 relays finished in 2nd place

  • 4x100m (Zailen Griffin, Parris Price, Trevor Tryon, Isaac Varland) 44.41
  • 4x400m (Trevor Tryon, Parris Price, Isaac Varland, Cameron Garofalo (3:30.73)
  • 4x800m (Nate Kinsey, Grant Gahagan, E'Nhazje Carter, Donavin Solis (8:53.84) 

"This was a very tough and competitive meet, and Batavia Track and Field really rose to the occasion," said Coach Nick Burk. We had many personal best performances, and our athletes never gave up. We certainly represented our school positively and demonstrated resilience throughout the competition. I was also very glad that our relays performed so well, with many athletes needing to step up in order for us to win. Including Indoor and Outdoor track, this is our program's 44th Sectional championship."

For full results, click here.

Three Season Basketball Training Camp returns to elevate players' skills

By Press Release
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Coach Matt Shay providing shooting instruction during basketball camp in 2022.
FIle photo by Howard Owens.

Press Release:

Basketball enthusiasts seeking to enhance their skills and elevate their game are invited to participate in the annual Three Season Basketball Training Camp. Led by renowned coaches, the camp offers comprehensive instruction aimed at honing fundamental skills and tactical understanding.

Value & Repetition
Distinguished by its commitment to excellence, Three Season Basketball Training Camp provides campers with over 30 hours of intensive basketball instruction spread across a 5-week period. This extended duration allows for a focused approach to skill development, in contrast to the brief, condensed schedules typical of other camps, which often span only 3-4 consecutive days.

Dates and Cost
The camp will run from July 8 through August 9, offering participants an extensive opportunity to refine their abilities under expert guidance. Enrollment is $350, with a discounted rate of $175 available for additional siblings. Teams seeking group discounts are encouraged to contact Coach Brasky directly.

Directed by Coach Buddy Brasky
Under the tutelage of Coach Buddy Brasky, the Batavia basketball program has enjoyed a remarkable record of success over the past two decades. With 13 league titles, 6 sectional championships, and multiple appearances in the state semifinals, Coach Brasky's leadership has consistently propelled his teams to excellence. Recognized as Section V Coach of the Year on seven occasions, as well as earning numerous other coaching accolades, Coach Brasky's track record speaks volumes about his coaching prowess and commitment to player development.

Assistant Director: Coach Matt Shay
Coach Brasky is assisted by Coach Matt Shay, whose tenure at Pembroke High School has seen significant achievements, including multiple division titles and sectional final appearances. Coach Shay's dedication to his craft has been acknowledged through multiple Coach of the Year awards, reflecting his impact on the basketball landscape within the region.

Notable Camp Alumni
The Three Season Basketball Training Camp boasts an impressive roster of alumni who have gone on to achieve success both on and off the court. Among them are standout players like Tyson Totten, Cole Harding, Cayden Pfalzer, and Jeff Redband whose accomplishments serve as a testament to the camp's ability to nurture talent and foster growth.

Session Details
The camp is divided into two sessions catering to different age groups and skill levels:

  • Session 1 (Starts July 8): Boys entering 10th-12th grade
  • Session 2 (Starts July 9): Boys entering 7th-9th grade

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 12:30 pm, with an additional session on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for Session 1 and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Session 2.

For further updates and information, follow Three Season Basketball on Facebook @ThreeSeasonBasketball, contact Batavia High School at 585-356-4050, or click here for the flyer and registration form. Inquiries can also be directed via email to mbrasky@bataviacsd.org.

Three Season Basketball Training Camp represents an unparalleled opportunity for aspiring basketball players to refine their skills, learn from accomplished coaches, and take their game to the next level. Join us this summer and embark on a journey of growth, excellence, and camaraderie on the court. 

Byron-Bergen’s Martin, Chambry commit to collegiate sports at Alfred

By Press Release
chambry-and-martin-with-their-families-at-signing_3.jpg
Photo of (left to right): Martin and Chambry with their families as they commit to play collegiate sports for Alfred State
Submitted photo by Mary Hughes.

Press Release:

On Friday, May 17, Byron-Bergen senior athletes Braedyn Chambry and Colin Martin both signed letters of intent to become collegiate athletes at Alfred State College. Chambry will join the Pioneer basketball program and Martin will join the soccer program. Although they will be on different athletic teams, these long-time teammates are excited to head off to college together.

“Our years as teammates definitely made us close friends,” said Chambry. “We both decided on Alfred State at different times, without knowing if the other was going, too. Two of our other closest friends are also going to Alfred State, and it all happened by coincidence. I'm very excited that I'll be going to college with three of my best friends.”

Chambry took part in Varsity Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, Golf, Track & Field, and was a member of the trap club. On the basketball court, he averaged 22.9 points per game and 15 rebounds per game, was a three-time Genesee Region All-star, Section V All-tournament team his junior year, and Section V tournament MVP his senior year. At Alfred State, he plans to study criminal justice.

“I would like to thank my family and friends as well as all of my teammates throughout the years,” said Chambry. “I would also like to thank Coach Noeth for being my coach as well as my role model. I want to thank Coach Pulliam for coaching me throughout the last two summers and helping me get in contact with Alfred State. I also would like to thank Coach Pimm for coaching me throughout elementary school and providing me with a lot of opportunities to improve my game in and out of school season my entire career.”

Martin’s Boys Varsity Soccer accomplishments include a Sectional Championship, Far West Regional Championship, State Championship finalist, All Greater-Rochester, first-team All-State, three-time Genesee Region All-Star, and Byron-Bergen record-holder for the most career assists and assists in a single season. He was also a member of the basketball, baseball, track, and golf teams and is a member of the trap club. Martin plans to study business at Alfred State.

“I would like to thank my parents and grandparents for always being there at all my games and supporting me,” said Martin. “I would also like to thank Coach Rogoyski, Coach Ellis, and Coach DiLaura for helping me become the athlete I am today and always pushing me to be the best from modified to varsity.”

“I am proud and excited for both of these fine young men,” said Byron-Bergen Athletic Director Rich Hannan. “They are great athletes and even better people. Their work ethic is impressive, and they always put forth maximum effort in all that they do. Regardless of the sport they were in, they were great teammates and made kids around them better. I cannot wait to see how their journey unfolds at the next level. I want to wish them the best of luck.”

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Photo of (left to right): Martin and Chambry with Varsity Basketball Coach Roxanne Noeth
Submitted photo by Mary Hughes.
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Photo of (left to right): Martin and Chambry with Varsity Soccer Coach Ken Rogoyski
Submitted photo by Mary Hughes.
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Photo of (left to right): Martin, Chambry, and teammate Brodie Baubie as part of the youth soccer program. Baubie is also attending Alfred State in the fall.
Photo provided.
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Photo of (left to right): Brendan Pimm, Martin, Brodie Baubie, and Chambry play youth basketball. All four
students will attend Alfred State in the fall.
Photo provided.

Batavia Girls Flag Football ends its undefeated season with loss to Greece Athena in sectional final

By Steve Ognibene
Batavia and Greece Athena fight for an endzone pass in the section V girls flag-football final at Monroe Community College.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Batavia and Greece Athena fight for an endzone pass in the section V girls flag-football final at Monroe Community College.  Photo by Steve Ognibene

Batavia lost to Greece Athena 13-0 Tuesday evening at Monroe Community College in the Class B1 Girls Flag Football Section V final.  

The Trojans scored in each half, which was enough to win their first sectional flag football title in the second season for high school sports.

Athena, 13-1, overcame the only loss during the regular season to Batavia, which finished 13-1. 

To view or purchase photos, click here.

Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Alexander Trojans come from behind twice to defeat Pavilion in the 10th and advance to the C2 Semifinals

By Press Release
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Press release:

Despite trailing by as many as four runs, Alexander rallied to top Pavilion 10-9 on Monday.  

Alexander got on the board in the first inning after a steal of home scored one run. Pavilion jumped into the lead in the bottom of the first when Trilly Coots grounded out, scoring one run, and Alaina Rowe singled, scoring two runs taking a 3-1 lead. 

Pavilion added to their early lead in the bottom of the third inning after the Trojans committed an error, and Bryleigh Burns grounded into a fielder’s choice to score a run making it 6-2.  

Alexander tied the game in the top of the fifth thanks to a fielder's choice by Emily Pietrzykowski, a single by Melissa Sawyer, a fielder's choice by Faith Goodenbury, and a fielder’s choice by Melanie Bump.  

In the bottom of the sixth, Pavilion broke up the tie when Pietrzykowski induced EllaTillotson to hit into a fielder's choice, but one run scored. Then a single by Courtney Gurbacki followed to extend the Pavilion lead 8-6.  

With three outs to go and trailing by two, Alexander dug deep and fought hard to tie the game in the top of the seventh at 8 apiece. 

The game remained tied until Alexander captured the lead, 10-8, in the top of the tenth after Ella Felski drove in a run on a fielder’s choice and Carley Shepard doubled in a run.  

In the bottom of the 10th, Strathearn drove in a run on a fielder’s choice, cutting the lead to one for Alexander.  

Boyce was able to strike out power-hitter Kylie Conway and induce Tillotson to pop out too short before walking the bases loaded with two outs.  Finally, Boyce got Gurbacki to pop out and seal the win in dramatic fashion.

Senior Madison Boyce earned the win for the Trojans. The reliever allowed one hit and one run (zero earned) over four innings, striking out five and walking two. Boyce also collected her 200th career strikeout during the contest.

Gurbacki took the loss for Pavilion. The starting pitcher went 10 innings, surrendering 10 runs (seven earned) on eight hits, striking out nine and walking eight. The hurler battled hard, tossing 180 pitches on the day.

Pietrzykowski started in the circle for Alexander. The righty gave up seven hits and eight runs (three earned) over six innings, striking out eight and only walking three.

Melissa Sawyer, Madison Boyce, and Ava Yax each collected two hits for Alexander. Felski, Sawyer, Shepard, Goodenbury, Boyce, Pietrzykowski, and Bump each drove in one run for Alexander. Alexander had patience at the plate, collecting eight walks for the game. Sawyer and Boyce led the team with two free passes each. Boyce and Yax each stole multiple bases for Alexander.

Coots and Gurbacki were a force together in the lineup, as they each collected two hits for Pavilion. Rowe and Strathearn each drove in two runs for Pavilion. Coots paced Pavilion with three walks. Overall, the team had patience at the plate, piling up five walks for the game. Gurbacki stole two bases. Pavilion also turned two double plays in the game.

"I didn’t think anything would top the intensity of last year’s quarterfinal game we had against Oakfield, but I was wrong," said Coach John Goodenbury. 
This was a knock-down-drag-out fight.  I have a ton of respect for those Pavilion girls. They fought like champions.  We had to earn this one against a well-balanced team.  The crowd was either standing, pacing, or sitting on the edge of their seats for the final four innings tonight. Unfortunately, in a game like this, there had to be a winner and a loser, and we fought for the winning run.  

"Emily pitched another fantastic game, and Madison came in to support her in the 7th.  Boyce was not going to be denied when she took the circle and to see her fight was priceless to me.  She had the world on her shoulders in those moments, and she delivered with the help of her team.  Simply put, Emily kept us in the game, and Madison closed it out.  For me personally, this was bitter-sweet. I coached Gurbacki, Burns and Conway of the Pavilion girls on my EDGE 16U travel softball team last summer, and I still coach Washburn on my team this year. It’s very hard for me to see their school ball dreams end this year, but I am also proud and happy for my Alexander girls.  It’s the price I have to pay, I guess, but I don’t like that part.  We are excited to turn our attention to the C2 top seed Dundee-Bradford this Thursday."

Photos by Makenna Boyce.

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alexander pavilion softball
alexander pavilion softball
alexander pavilion softball
alexander pavilion softball
alexander pavilion softball

O-A advances in Class C1 beyond Ryan's shutout

By Staff Writer
oakfield-alabama softball

Caitlin Ryan tossed a complete-game shutout over Lyrons for Oakfield-Alabama on Monday, leading the Hornets to an 11-0 win in the Class C1 softball quarterfinal.

Ryan surrendered four hits, and K'd 10 batters. She was also 2-3 at the plate with a double, a home run and two RBIs.

  • Emma Moeller was 2-2 with a double and three RBIs
  • Sade Bush, 2-4 with an RBI
  • Jess Sosnowski, 2-3 with a triple and an RBI
  • Piper Hyde, 2-4 
  • Kara Tobolski, Allie Williams, Raine Denny, Rylee Denny, Ayva Matla, Cara Williams and Allison Harkness all had hits

"I'm really proud of how my team battled against a good Lyons team today," said Coach Jeff Schlagenhauf. "We hit the ball well and put a ton of balls in play. We hit up and down the lineup today which is always a good sign this time of year. "

Next up in the semifinals for #4 seed O-A is #1 seed Bloomfield on Thursday. Time and location are TBA.

Pictures courtesy of Jordyn Tobolski

oakfield-alabama softball
oakfield-alabama softball

Mruczek tosses no-hitter, breaks school strikeout record in 16-0 quaterfinal win

By Staff Writer

Behind a no-hitter tossed by Giana Mruczek and a 16-run attack, the #7 seed Batavia Blue Devils upset #2 seed School of the Arts in the Class A softball quarterfinal on Monday.

The final score was 16-0.

Mruczek recorded 15 strikeouts, breaking the school's single-season strikeout record of 152. She has 159 for 2024 so far.

The Blue Devils scored in every inning except the 6th.

Stats:

  • Hannah Carney, 4-4, two doubles and four RBIs
  • Ariana Almenkinde,r 2-4, double, an RBI
  • Drew Stevens, two RBIs, a triple 
  • Julia Clark, 2-4, triple, RBI, two stolen bases 
  • Sofia Branche,  home run 
  • Sophia Minuto, also had a single

Batavia faces Honeoye Falls-Lima in the Class A semifinal game on Thursday, time and location TBA.

Lancers advance in softball after 9-7 win

By Staff Writer
elba softball

Elba beat CG Finney 9-7 on Sunday in a first-round Section V playoff game in softball.

Maddie Hall was 2-4, two RBIs and a run scored. Brea Smith was 2-4 with a double, two RBIs and a run scored. Madison Marks was 2-3 with a double. Kaelin Ball was 2-4 with an RBI. Lydia Ross was 2-4 with a triple and run scored. 

Smith was the winning pitcher, giving up three hits, two walks, and one earned run. She fanned six.

Photos by Kristin Smith.

elba softball
elba softball
elba softball

Notre Dame tops Andover-Whitesville 3-0 in first-round softball game

By Press Release

Press release:

The #2 seed Lady Irish leaned on ace pitcher Loretta Sorochty on Saturday afternoon at GCC to come away with the 3-0 victory over 15-seeded Andover-Whitesville.  

Sorochty pitched a complete game one-hitter, allowing no runs and striking out 17 batters.  Makaila Brewster took the loss in the circle for Andover-Whitesville, going 6 innings, allowing 5 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and striking out 1.

Offensively for the Lady Irish, Sofia Falleti led the way with 2 hits (1 double), while Emma Sisson, Hannah Tenney and Olivia Gillard each had a hit.  Sisson's hit was a triple, and she scored a run, and Tenney's base hit resulted in an RBI.  Katie Landers had a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the 4th following Sisson's triple, which scored the game's first run and proved to be all Sorochty would need for run support.  Ava Grace accounted for the lone base hit for Andover-Whitesville, with a blooper base hit over second base. 

"It's good to get this first sectional win behind us, even if it wasn't as pretty as we would have liked," said Coach Otis Thomas. "We put the bat on the ball, but give credit to Andover-Whitesville for making the plays in the field to keep the score close.  Loretta gave us another strong outing in the circle, and hopefully, we can give her a little more run support next time.  We look forward to the next game coming up on Tuesday." 

Alexander wins pitchers duel in first round of Section V playoffs

By Press Release
alexander softball

Press release:

Both teams were strong in the circle on Friday, but the Alexander Trojans defeated York 2-1. 

Madison Boyce started the game on Friday before the game was cut short because of rain. 

Boyce picked up Saturday morning, where she left off the day before and earned the win for Alexander, while Emily Pietrzykowski had Boyce’s back and nailed down the save.  

York drew first blood in the contest when they scored on a wild pitch in the top of the first. Then, in the bottom of the fourth inning, Melissa Sawyer put one in the left-center gap for a double before she advanced to 3rd on a past ball. Sawyer scored on a fielder’s choice to second hit by Melanie Bump to tie the game at 1. 

Alexander didn't take the lead until the 5th inning when Ava Yax singled scoring Kaylin Dinkins, who was pinch running for Brianna Neyman after she landed a one-out single.  

The Alexander defense tightened up to close the door on York and advance to the second round on Tuesday, where they will travel to Pavilion for a 5 p.m. semifinal game. 

Sophomore Ava Yax set the tone at the top of the lineup, leading Alexander with two hits in three at-bats, a stolen base, and an RBI.  Boyce, Neyman, and Sawyer all had hits on the day.

Madison Boyce earned the win for the Trojans. Boyce only gave up one hit and one run (zero earned) over five innings, striking out seven and walking six. Pietrzykowski only surrendered two hits while striking out two to earn the save.

"We learned tonight that we never want to be a part of another weather-suspended game ever again," said Coach John Goodenbury. "We let in an unearned run in the first inning and had to stew on it for the night as the game was suspended heading into the 3rd inning. In a ball game, an offense can start to wear down a pitcher with quality at-bats, but this unique circumstance allowed both teams to pitch two innings and then get the night off to reset for the next day when play resumed.  This takes away the nuances of the game, and we had to focus on a fresh pitcher who only had to go 5 innings after a full night's rest.  We had to rely on our girls adjusting in the box to her after seeing her once the day before. That is a ton of pressure for our girls, but they dealt with it, and we are moving on.  It wasn’t our finest game, but we got the win to stay alive, and we are now focused on Pavilion for Monday.  Today was a total team effort and we know Pavilion is a very good team this year so we are not taking this next match lightly, it’s do-or-die time.  I would like to give a special thank you to our AD Eric Romesser and the outstanding Alexander maintenance crew for working magic to get our field ready after the pounding rain it took yesterday."

Submitted photos.

alexander softball
alexander softball
alexander softball
alexander softball
alexander softball
alexander softball
alexander softball

Batavia beats Greece Olympia in flag football semifinal 24-0

By Howard B. Owens
batavia flag football

In its second year, for a second time, Batavia's flag football team has a shot at a sectional title in Class B1 after beating Greece Olympia/Odyssey on Thursday 24-0.

The championship game will be played on Tuesday at Monroe Community College, with a game time of 5 p.m., against Greece Athena.

Batavia is the #1 seed in the tournament, and Athena is the #2 seed.  Athene won its semifinal game over Monroe 33-0.

On Thursday, Anna Varland was 16-24 passing for 134 yards and two touchdowns. Varland also ran for 91 yards and a TD.

Ella Radley rushed for 117 yards and a TD.

Isabella Walsh had six catches for 55 yards.

Jaimin McDonald, five receptions, 51 yards and a TD.

Kylee Brennan, six flag pulls and an interception. Grace Parker also snagged an interception.

Photos by Mike Ognibene.

batavia flag football
batavia flag football
batavia flag football
batavia flag football

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