Wyoming Area’s Gwen Glatz made herself known to the Wyoming Valley Conference as a freshman last season. She hit .323 last season with five home runs and 26 RBI.

She pitches, too.

Glatz, who has pitched every inning heading into Friday’s matchup with Hazleton Area, had a 1.18 ERA through 65 innings. On Saturday, April 16, she threw 10 innings in a 4-2 loss to Nanticoke. In back-to-back games with Dallas and Coughlin, Glatz totaled 14 innings, allowing no runs and just seven hits.

Her performance is no surprise to Wyoming Area head coach John McNeil.

“She’s consistent,” he said. “She’s a gamer, there’s no question about it. She gives her best effort every time she steps on the field.”

Through six conference games, Glatz also leads the team in hits (13) and batting average (.448).

“I’m impressed with by her work ethic,” McNeil said. “She tries to get better every day.”

On Wednesday, the Warriors came away with a 10-0 win over Coughlin. Glatz threw seven innings of shutout softball, her second straight shutout.

The Warriors got big production from Kristi Skok and Vicki Remley at the plate. Skok had three hits and drove in two runs, while Remley had two RBI. Glatz helped her cause with a two-run double.

Also starting the season on a hot streak is leadoff hitter Bree Bednarski. The Wyoming Area senior, known for her field hockey prowess, is hitting at a .333 clip while providing a team-leading 13 RBI and four doubles, including non-league games. She has two home runs on the season.

Bednarski, along with fellow seniors Grace Gober, Sarah Coolbaugh, Vicky Remley and Heather Nametko, lead a team that features no one in the junior class.

“There’s no question our seniors are the leaders of this team,” McNeil said. “I have to depend on the sophomores to come through at some key positions.”

Against Dallas on Wednesday, Bednarski drove in Julia Kopetchny for the game’s first run with a double in the third inning of a 4-0 win. Vicky Remley and Sarah Coolbaugh added other RBI, while Glatz allowed just three hits. The Warriors have now beat Dallas twice this season.

“We are progressing as we go,” McNeil said.

Pittston Area 6, Lake-Lehman 4

Pittston Area scored two runs each in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings to defeat Lake-Lehman and snap a three-game losing streak on Friday.

Taylor Baloga homered, knocked in two runs and was the winning pitcher in relief for Pittston Area. Lexi Felinski hit two doubles and had an RBI. Taryn Ashby doubled and drove in two runs.

Hazleton Area 5, Wyoming Area 3

Hazleton Area got the best of Wyoming Area in a matchup of Wyoming Valley Conference division champions on Friday.

Kristi Skok, Vicky Remley and Juli Kopetchny knocked in runs for the Warriors. Gwen Glatz picke up the loss for Wyoming Area while tossing seven innings and striking out four batters.

Tunkhannock 7, Pittston Area 3

Paige Mokychic’s go-ahead single gave Tunkhannock a 7-3 win over Pittston Area on Tuesday.

Pittston Area’s Taylor Baloga pitched all seven innings and gave up five runs with eight strikeouts. The pitcher also contributed a two-run home run. Also driving in a run was Taryn Ashby with a single in the second inning. Lexi Felinski had a double.

What’s next

The two teams have waited for it all season. The baseball teams and the tennis teams have already played each other. Now, it’s softball’s turn. The Warriors will travel to Pittston Area for a 4:15 first pitch on Tuesday, April 26.

Last year, the Warriors bested Pittston Area, 8-0. This game will also be played as part of the second annual Sabatini Pizza Trophy game, which is awarded to the game’s Most Valuable Player. Glatz was named the MVP in 2015, while Pittston Area’s Nina Cencetti took home MVP honors for the Patriots.

“We’re definitely rivals,” McNeil said. “(Pittston Area) have a nice ball club over there.”

Pittston Area’s Dominique Quaglia bunts against Tunkhannock.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_PSD042416Tunk-V-Pitt1.jpgPittston Area’s Dominique Quaglia bunts against Tunkhannock. Aimee Dilger | Sunday Dispatch

Patriot Abbey Bradigan slides into home safe.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_PSD042416Tunk-V-Pitt2.jpgPatriot Abbey Bradigan slides into home safe. Aimee Dilger | Sunday Dispatch

Tunkhannock’s Danielle Krispin swings at a pitch from Pittston Area’s Taylor Baloga.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_PSD042416Tunk-V-Pitt3-2.jpgTunkhannock’s Danielle Krispin swings at a pitch from Pittston Area’s Taylor Baloga. Aimee Dilger | Sunday Dispatch

Jess Parente lays down a bunt for Wyoming Area Friday.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-Hazleton-Sftbl-4.jpgJess Parente lays down a bunt for Wyoming Area Friday. Tony Callaio | Sunday Dispatch

Julia Kopetchney went 2 for 3 with an RBI in the Warrior loss to Hazleton Area on Friday.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-Hazleton-Sftbl-1.jpgJulia Kopetchney went 2 for 3 with an RBI in the Warrior loss to Hazleton Area on Friday. Tony Callaio | Sunday Dispatch

Wyoming Area’s Bree Bednarski catches a drive to the warning track in centerfield on Friday.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-Hazleton-Sftbl-3.jpgWyoming Area’s Bree Bednarski catches a drive to the warning track in centerfield on Friday. Tony Callaio | Sunday Dispatch

Warrior second baseman Vicky Remley snags a pop up against the Cougars on Friday.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-Hazleton-Sftbl-2.jpgWarrior second baseman Vicky Remley snags a pop up against the Cougars on Friday. Tony Callaio | Sunday Dispatch

Wyoming Area’s Gwen Glatz (6) slides under the tag at second base Friday.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-Hazleton-Sftbl-5.jpgWyoming Area’s Gwen Glatz (6) slides under the tag at second base Friday. Tony Callaio | Sunday Dispatch

HANOVER TWP. — As it turns out, Shelby Stackhouse had her sights set on reaching record heights for awhile.

Now, everyone at Wyoming Area will be looking at her as the gold standard in girls pole vault.

Among her four individual victories, Stackhouse cleared 9-6 to set a new school mark in the vault Monday and Bree Bednarski won three times as the Wyoming Area girls ran their Wyoming Valley Conference winning streak to 11 straight meets with a 116-33 victory over Hanover Area.

“It means so much,” said Stackhouse, a sophomore “I’ve trained so hard for it. I’m glad I was finally able to achieve 9-5. As close as I came (to the record), I really wanted it.”

The Hanover Area boys simply wanted to make a statement.

And they did just that, as Muhammad Chesson won four events, Brandon Chafin won three and the Hawkeyes remained unbeaten by dropping last season’s Wyoming Valley Conference Division 2 champion Wyoming Area, 84-66.

“I felt like Hanover, as a whole, we said we will perform and work harder than any other team,” Chesson said. “That’s amazing for me.”

The win put the Hanover Area boys in a first-place tie with Meyers at 4-0 in the WVC Division 2 standings, with Lake-Lehman right behind at 3-1. Wyoming Area’s chances of repeating as the division champ became remote, as the Warriors fell two meets behind with three remaining in the regular season.

“Very nice,” Hanover Area coach Al Weston said of his boys’ unexpected surge. “Feels good.”

The Wyoming Area girls know the feeling.

After winning their first WVC Division 2 title in at least 18 years with a 7-0 finish last season, the Warriors joined Holy Redeemer at 4-0 this year and at the top of the division standings — a win ahead of 3-1 Northwest and Lake-Lehman.

Stackhouse played a big role in keeping it that way.

She placed first to lead a Wyoming Area sweep in the 100 hurdles, then began a personal run of three straight victories in field events by clearing the 9-6 mark in the pole vault.

That record was especially sentimental to her, since her father and Wyoming Area jumping coach Kenny Stackhouse still holds the Warriors boys record with a pole vault of 14-3.

“I’m kind of following in his footsteps,” Shelby Stackhouse said. “It’s all about form. Ever since I started, I got the idea to achieve it. I jumped 9-0 the previous meet.

“But I broke the record today.”

She never really broke down, either.

Stackhouse went straight to the long jump, and won that event with a leap of 5-10 1/2 before finishing up with her fourth individual victory by clearing 5-2 in the high jump.

“I’m a little dead,” Stackhouse laughed. “But I love the events. If I can help out the team, I would do anything.”

Bednarski did her part, winning the 100 and 200 sprints and running anchor on the winning 400 relay team. And Laura Heinzelmeier added long-distance wins in the 1,600 and 3,200 to keep the Warriors on pace to shoot for a second straight league title.

“I don’t think we’ve ever done it before,” Wyoming Area coach Joe Pizano said. “But I know we have a great group of girls, we brought up a lot of freshmen who bought in. All the kids know what they’re doing.”

The Hawkeyes are going their best to make the Division 2 championship a two-way battle with rival Meyers.

Hanover Area fended off its second straight one-loss team trying to stay in the title race, as Chesson captured the 100, 200 and 400-meter dashes and ran the final leg for the winning 1,600-meter relay team. Chafin piled up key points in the field events, winning the long jump, triple jump and discus throw.

“For this school, that’s the talk,” Chesson said. “Our track team needs to step up. Everyone’s excited for the Meyers meet, everyone’s looking forward to the Meyers meet. We have to keep our winning streak.”

But that showdown with Meyers won’t happen until the regular-season finale May 10, and both unbeaten boys teams have to get through two more meets before then.

To keep this run of success going, the Hawkeyes are counting on athletes like Josh Jacobino, who won the 800 and ran on the 1,600 relay team Monday, and Josselin Meyer, who placed third in both the 800 and 1600 meter runs.

“Our depth came into play today pretty good,” Weston said. “In a close meet like this, those third places are where it’s at. It’s big. We had enough thirds today to get through. We have a couple meets left. I try to take everything one day at a time.

“I just worry about tomorrow’s practice.”

Boys

Hanover Area 84, Wyoming Area 66

3,200 relay — 1. WA (Eslick, Alberigi, Saitta, Buczynski) 9:29. 110 hurdles — 1. WA, Crake 16.2; 2. Han, Brueckner; 3. WA, Chauer. 100 — 1. Han, Chesson 11.2; 2. WA, M. Murphy; 3. WA, R. Murphy. 1,600 — 1. WA, Marvin 4:55; 2. Han, Dule; 3. Han, Meyer. 400 — 1. Han, Chesson 52.8; 2. Han, Minnich; 3. WA, Chronowski. 400 relay — 1. WA (Miles, O’Boyle, M. Murphy, R. Murphy) 45.6. 300 hurdles — 1. Han, Brueckner 41.2; 2. WA, Crake; 3. WA, Acacio. 800 — 1. Han, Jacobino 2:13; 2. WA, Buczynski; 3. Han, Meyer. 200 — 1. Han, Chesson 23.6; 2. WA, M. Murphy; 3. WA, Giordano. 3,200 — 1. Han, Dule 11:31; 2. WA, Marvin; 3. WA, Alder. 1,600 relay — 1. Han (Meyer, Brueckner, Jacobino, Chesson) 3:49.

High jump — 1. WA, Buczynski 5-8; 2. Han, Minnich; 3. WA, Murray. Pole vault — 1. Han, Randall 11-0; 2. WA, Klaproth; 3. WA, Lagrue. Long jump — 1. Han, Chafin 21-2.25; 2. WA, Murray; 3. Han, Crosby. Triple jump — 1. Han, Chafin 41-0.50; 2. Han. Crosby; 3. Han, Percy. Shot put — 1. Han, Sheridan 42-9.50; 2. WA, Carr; 3. WA, Yurek. Discus — 1. Han, Chafin 124-1; 2. WA, Carr; 3. WA, Sokash-Minnick. Javelin — 1. Han, Eichler 140-11; 2. WA, Sokash-Minnick; 3. WA, Acacio.

Track format is SCH Name time (DAL Michael Smith 3:34.06;)

Field format is SCH Name distance (PA Joanna Williams 54-10.5;)

Girls

Wyoming Area 116, Hanover Area 33

3,200 relay — 1. WA (Kranson, Concha, Johnson, Fink) 11:57. 100 hurdles — 1. WA, Stackhouse 15.9; 2. WA, Spak; 3. WA, Astolfi. 100 — 1. WA, Bednarski 12.5; 2. WA, Rhodes; 3. Han, Hossage. 1,600 — 1. WA, Heinzelmeier 6:02; 2. Han, Saltz; 3. WA, Johnson. 400 — 1. Han, Orzechowski 64.8; 2. WA, Solano; 3. WA, Kasisky. 400 relay — 1. WA (Rhodes, Kranson, Spak, Bednarski) 53.4. 300 hurdles — 1. WA, Spak 49.5; 2. WA, Astolfi; 3. Han, Meyer. 800 — 1. WA, Concha 2:55; 2. WA, Kranson; 3. Han, Nay. 200 — 1. WA, Bednarski 26.3; 2. WA, Rhodes; 3. Han, Orzechowski. 3,200 — 1. WA, Heinzelmeier 14:47; 2. Han. Saltz. 1,600 relay — 1. WA (Concha, Rhodes, Solano, Pettit) 4:55.

High jump — 1. WA, Stackhouse 5-2; 2. Han, Gavlick; 3. WA, Astolfi. Pole vault — 1. WA, Stackhouse 9-6; 2. WA, Kopetchny; 3. Han, Saltz. Long jump — 1. WA, Stackhouse 15-10.50; 2. WA, Pettit; 3. WA, Gerchak. Triple jump — 1. WA, Pettit 39-9.75; 2. WA, Gerchak; 3. Han, Barber. Shot put — 1. WA, Rescinti 30-8.50; 2. Han, Hooper; 3. WA, Wright. Discus — 1. Han, Atherton 87-11; 2. WA, Spak; 3. WA, Baylor. Javelin — 1. Han, Hooper 103-8; 2. WA, Bednarski; 3. WA, Coolbaugh.

Junior Muhammad Chesson of Hanover Area won the boys 400-meter run with a time of 52.8, on his way to a four-win day that helped the unbeaten Hawkeyes remain in a first-place tie in the WVC Division 2 with a 4-0 record.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_ha-1.jpgJunior Muhammad Chesson of Hanover Area won the boys 400-meter run with a time of 52.8, on his way to a four-win day that helped the unbeaten Hawkeyes remain in a first-place tie in the WVC Division 2 with a 4-0 record.

Freshman Bella Concha of Wyoming Area is the first female to finish the 800-meter run with Aleah Kranson following behind her. The Warriors won their 11th consecutive WVC girls meet over the past two seasons to remain tied for first place in Division 2 at 4-0 this year.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_ha-2.jpgFreshman Bella Concha of Wyoming Area is the first female to finish the 800-meter run with Aleah Kranson following behind her. The Warriors won their 11th consecutive WVC girls meet over the past two seasons to remain tied for first place in Division 2 at 4-0 this year.

Juniors Ethan Crake and Brandon Brueckner compete in the hurdles. The pair split victories, with Crake winning the 110 hurdles and Brueckner taking the 300 hurdles.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_ha-3.jpgJuniors Ethan Crake and Brandon Brueckner compete in the hurdles. The pair split victories, with Crake winning the 110 hurdles and Brueckner taking the 300 hurdles.

Freshman Christy Herrera of Hanover Area throws the discus.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_ha-4.jpgFreshman Christy Herrera of Hanover Area throws the discus.

Junior Gillian Barber of Hanover Area gets ready to land after attempting the long jump.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_ha-5.jpgJunior Gillian Barber of Hanover Area gets ready to land after attempting the long jump.

Senior Bobby Acacio of Wyoming Area jumps over a hurdle during his 300 hurdle run, where he placed third.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_ha-6.jpgSenior Bobby Acacio of Wyoming Area jumps over a hurdle during his 300 hurdle run, where he placed third.

RICE TWP. — The turning point, as Wyoming Area saw it, was actually the first batter of the game.

Leadoff man Mike Bonita singled. And then the Warriors’ reputation for aggressive baserunning paid off. Worried about a steal, Crestwood’s second pickoff throw got away and Bonita was on second. Then a groundout put him on third and a sacrifice fly brought him home.

“Before you know it, we produced a run,” Warriors coach Ron Musto said. “And I thought that set the tone for the entire game. It really did.”

From there, Wyoming Area managed to steal seven bases — all in the third and fourth innings — to fuel a 7-3 win on Monday in a battle of Class 3A contenders. The Warriors (6-0) remained the only unbeaten team in WVC play and now have a 3.5-game lead on top of Division 2. Crestwood fell a game behind Wyoming Valley West in the Division 1 race.

Five steals were the engine for a Wyoming Area attack that scored five runs on five singles in the third inning to break the game open. Two more in the fourth helped lead to another run.

“It absolutely (puts pressure on you),” Crestwood coach Tony Caladie said of the Warriors’ work on the basepaths. “When you’re doing things like that, you’re in a situation where your pitchers are thinking about it. Now you’re not throwing strikes. You’re not throwing as many breaking balls because (runners) are able to get a better jump on them.”

It was the first time all season a team had jumped out to a big lead on the Comets (5-2) in league play. Crestwood had won five straight, allowing just 11 runs all season. Ace Matt Mickowski had surrendered only two in 18 innings of work.

But Bonita (2 for 4, two RBI), Cory Lescavage, Cole Keating and Tyler Dougherty all drove in a run and then followed it up with a steal in the third.

It was a surge of support for Lescavage, who struck out five on the mound and got all but the final out of the game.

“He was able to spot his curveball and get ahead. He had our hitters guessing a little bit,” Caladie said. “By the time we figured it out, we were down 6-0 and that really hurt.”

“They like to jump on first-pitch fastball,” Musto said of the Comets. “We started seven out of the first nine batters with a breaking ball and then snuck in our fastball. I thought it kept them off-balance a little bit.

“That was the game plan coming in — pitch in reverse to them, try to get ahead with the breaking ball, sneak the fastball and work the change-up in on fastball counts.”

It wasn’t until the bottom of the seventh that Crestwood was able to do some damage as James Graves’ bases-loaded single drove in two runs and Colin Macko followed with an RBI single to make things interesting.

With the tying run on deck, the Warriors brought on lefty Matt Wright to finish it out, as he struck out the first batter he faced to pick up the save.

Musto said the plan is to stay aggressive as the Warriors hunt for a second straight division title and a top seed in next month’s District 2 tournament.

“When we’re winning 5-0, we’re gonna bunt the ball and play for another run,” Musto said. “I’m telling everybody, we’re gonna build on the lead, we’re gonna run the bases, we’re gonna bunt the ball, we’re gonna play for one run an inning.

“Whether they like it or not, I’m sorry, but that’s the game of baseball we’re gonna play. We’re here to win a championship.”

Wyoming Valley West 5,

Tunkhannock 3

Justin Vought launched a three-run homer to erase a deficit in the bottom of the fifth inning as the Spartans (6-1) rallied for four runs in the frame. Grant Powell went the distance, striking out three for the win.

The first three batters of the game scored for the Tigers (2-4), who got a two-run single from Brett Soltysiak.

Holy Redeemer 3,

Nanticoke 0

Jordan Choman struck out six and threw a two-hitter as Redeemer shut out Nanticoke. Miklaus Bozentka and Sean Wills knocked in runs for the Royals (7-1), who moved a half-game ahead of Meyers for first place in Division 3.

Alec Norton and Matt Labenski singled for the Trojans (2-7).

Berwick 2, Pittston Area 0

Henry Novicki and Nate Laubach drove in runs and Jared Marshman tossed a shutout as Berwick edged Pittston Area. Novicki had two of the five hits for the Dawgs (3-4).

The Patriots (2-5) got two hits from Albert Zuba.

Wyoming Area 7, Crestwood 3

Wyoming Area`AB`R`H`BI

Bonita cf`4`2`2`2

Lescavage p-ss`4`1`1`1

Kopcza 1b`2`1`1`1

Musto pr`0`0`0`0

Keating rf`4`1`1`1

Wright p`0`0`0`0

Nardell lf`3`0`1`0

Doughrty ss-2b`3`0`0`1

Webb 2b`2`0`0`0

Homza 2b-rf`1`0`0`0

Charney 3b`2`2`1`0

Lee c`2`0`0`0

Totals`27`7`7`6

Crestwood`AB`R`H`BI

Distasio ss`4`0`0`0

Darden 2b`3`0`0`0

Brozena ph`1`1`1`0

Mickowski p`0`0`0`0

Trimmer p`0`0`0`0

Graves dh`4`0`1`2

Macko 1b`4`0`1`1

TKindler lf`4`0`2`0

Kresge cf`3`0`0`0

Paranich cf`0`0`0`0

Tokach 3b`3`1`1`0

Albee rf`2`1`0`0

Wegener c`2`0`0`0

Kovalchik ph`1`0`0`0

Totals`31`3`7`3

Wyo. Area`105`100`0`—`7

Crestwood`000`000`3`—`3

Wyo. Area`IP`H`R`ER`B`K

Lscvge (W)`6.2`7`3`3`1`5

Wright (S)`0.1`0`0`0`0`1

Crestwood`IP`H`R`ER`BB`K

Mckski (L)`3.0`6`6`4`1`1

Trimmer`4.0`1`1`0`1`2

Coughlin 1, Dallas 0 (8 inn.)

Dallas`AB`R`H`BI

Barrett 2b`3`0`0`0

Martin cf`3`0`0`0

Simpson c`3`0`0`0

Yurko 1b`3`0`0`0

Eckert p`3`0`0`0

Kocher 3b`3`0`0`0

Mathers ss`0`0`0`0

Elston dh`2`0`0`0

Huntington lf`2`0`0`0

Wargo rf`2`0`0`0

Totals`24`0`0`0

Coughlin`AB`R`H`BI

Christian cf`4`0`0`0

Wozniak ss`3`0`0`0

Nowak p`2`0`0`0

Fettig 1b`4`0`2`1

Dressler c`3`0`0`0

Douglas rf`3`0`0`0

Monaghan lf`2`0`0`0

Ceklosky 3b`3`0`0`0

Gartley 2b`3`1`1`0

Totals`27`1`3`1

Dallas`000`000`00`—`0

Coughlin`000`000`01`—`1

Dallas`IP`H`R`ER`BB`K

Eckert (L)`7.2`3`1`1`3`7

Coughlin`IP`H`R`ER`BB`K

Nowak (W)`8.0`0`0`0`0`8

Valley West 5, Tunkhannock 3

Tunkhannock`AB`R`H`BI

Reposa ss`3`1`0`0

CBrown 2b`3`1`0`0

Gregory p`0`0`0`0

Munley p`0`0`0`0

Hulslander dh`2`1`1`1

Goodwin 3b`3`0`1`0

Gilpin lf`3`0`0`0

Soltysiak rf`3`0`1`2

Hughes 1b`3`0`1`0

Fenwick 1b`0`0`0`0

Muckin cf`3`0`1`0

Ceccarelli c`3`0`1`0

Totals`26`3`6`3

Valley West`AB`R`H`BI

Montalvo cf`3`1`1`0

Sott rf`2`2`2`0

Vought c`3`1`1`3

Yankosky 1b`3`0`2`1

Bayo lf`2`0`1`0

Popson ss`0`0`0`0

Romanwski ss`3`0`0`0

Powell p`2`0`0`0

McCue 3b`3`0`0`0

Yuhas 2b`0`0`0`0

Pollick dh`2`1`2`0

Ruff pr`0`0`0`0

Totals`23`5`9`4

Tunkhannock`300`000`0`—`3

Valley West`100`040`x`—`5

HR — Vought

Tunkhannock`IP`H`R`ER`BB`K

Gregory`4.1`7`3`3`0`1

Munley (L)`1.2`2`2`2`2`1

Valley West`IP`H`R`ER`BB`K

Powell (W)`7.0`6`3`3`3`3

Holy Redeemer 3, Nanticoke 0

Redeemer`AB`R`H`BI

Ell ss`2`1`0`0

Flanley 3b`3`0`0`0

Cavanaugh 2b`3`1`1`0

Choman p`1`0`0`0

Bozentka 1b`3`0`0`1

Vender pr`0`0`0`0

Molitoris rf`3`0`0`0

Wills cf`2`0`1`1

McClay lf`3`0`2`0

Borum c`2`1`0`0

Totals`22`3`4`2

Nanticoke`AB`R`H`BI

AKreitzer lf`2`0`0`0

AuNorton lf`1`0`0`0

SKreitzer cf`3`0`0`0

Rynkiewicz c`3`0`0`0

AlNorton 3b`3`0`1`0

KPokrinchak 1b`2`0`0`0

Labenski rf`3`0`1`0

Shatley p`0`0`0`0

Montgomery p`2`0`0`0

Bukofski 2b`1`0`0`0

TPokrinchak ph`0`0`0`0

Piestrak ss`0`0`0`0

Grodzicki dh`1`0`0`0

Piontkowski ph`1`0`0`0

Totals`22`0`2`0

Redeemer`210`000`0`—`3

Nanticoke`000`000`0`—`0

Redeemer`IP`H`R`ER`BB`K

Choman (W)`7.0`2`0`0`2`6

Nanticoke`IP`H`R`ER`BB`K

Shatley (L)`2.0`1`3`2`5`0

Mntgmry`5.0`3`0`0`4`3

Berwick 2, Pittston Area 0

Pittston Area`AB`R`H`BI

JoeDeLcca cf`2`0`0`0

OFier ss`3`0`0`0

Pisack 1b`2`0`1`0

Krawczyk`2b`0`0`0`0

JStella dh`3`0`1`0

Donnora pr`0`0`0`0

Turonis 3b`3`0`1`0

DStella pr`0`0`0`0

Jackson p`2`0 1`0

Shamnoski`c`2`0`0`0

Merithew ph`1`0`1`0

Ralston lf`2`0`0`0

McAndrew ph`1`0`1`0

Zuba rf`3`0`2`0

Totals`24`0`8`0

Berwick`AB`R`H`BI

AlMarkle ss`2`0`0`0

Marshman p`3`0`0`0

Horsefield dh`2`1`1`0

Knorr c`0`0`0`0

DiValerio 1b`2`0`0`0

Champ cf`3`1`1`0

Novicki 3b`3`0`2`1

Laubach 2b`2`0`1`1

Prebola lf`2`0`0`0

Melito rf`1`0`0`0

Mensinger`2`0`0`0

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Wyoming Area’s Mike Bonita, front, beats the tag of Crestwood first baseman Colin Macko in WVC baseball action Monday afternoon in Rice Township.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WyoArea-CrestwoodBB_1.jpgWyoming Area’s Mike Bonita, front, beats the tag of Crestwood first baseman Colin Macko in WVC baseball action Monday afternoon in Rice Township. Bill Tarutis | For Times Leader

Crestwood’s R.J. Kresge, right, slides safely to third base before Wyoming Area’s Brandon Charney applies the tag in WVC baseball action Monday afternoon in Rice Township.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WyoArea-CrestwoodBB_2.jpgCrestwood’s R.J. Kresge, right, slides safely to third base before Wyoming Area’s Brandon Charney applies the tag in WVC baseball action Monday afternoon in Rice Township. Bill Tarutis | For Times Leader

Wyoming Area’s Cory Lescavage follows through on a pitch against Crestwood in WVC baseball action Monday afternoon in Rice Township.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WyoArea-CrestwoodBB_3.jpgWyoming Area’s Cory Lescavage follows through on a pitch against Crestwood in WVC baseball action Monday afternoon in Rice Township. Bill Tarutis | For Times Leader

The Luzerne County Blast recently won the 2016 USSSA Spring Opener 14U Fastpitch Tournament title. From left, first row, are Stephanie Nowak, Wyoming; Lyndsey Hornlein, Dallas; Kaci Hockenberry, Dallas; Sydney Hornlein, Dallas. Second row, Gwen Balavage, Avoca; Alyssa Wilcox, Old Forge; Evan Freeman, Wyoming; Ali Francis, Dallas. Absent from photo, Riley Wren, Dallas; Mia Gianello, Old Forge; coach Rob Nowak, Wyoming; coach John Hornlein, Dallas; and Jeff Hockenberry, Dallas.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_LC-Blasts.jpgSubmitted photo

All Wyoming Area graduate and UConn defensive lineman Julian Campenni wants is a shot at making an NFL roster. But he’s realistic how that opportunity could come.

He knows it won’t be during the first two days of the NFL Draft on Thursday and Friday when the first three rounds are completed. Maybe it could happen on Saturday when rounds four through seven are held. Even then it could come late in the draft. Or, perhaps, not through the draft at all.

“From my agent, I’ve been told I’m potentially a seventh-round pick,” Campenni said, “but probably a priority free agent, though.”

Someway the 6-foot, 306-pounder expects to be heading to an NFL destination shortly after the draft concludes. If he’s not selected, it’s likely several teams will be calling him.

Common thinking among draft analysts is a player is better off not getting drafted late in the seventh round because as an undrafted free agent he can chose a team where could have a better chance of making the final roster.

“Obviously, your goal is to get drafted and if I get drafted that would be awesome,” Campenni said. “If I get drafted, that’s where I’m going to go and I’ll be ecstatic about it. If it doesn’t work out, then a priority free agent is a great way to go and potentially get into the best schemes.

“But the teams that would potentially take me in the seventh rounds I feel would be great fits for me.”

Campenni said he’s heard from several NFL teams, including Carolina, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, the New York Jets and Philadelphia.

Campenni wasn’t invited to the NFL Combine in Indianapolis in February. He and other UConn players held a pro day on March 8. According to nfl.com, there were 20 NFL teams present.

“It went really well,” Campenni said. “My times were good, especially when I compared them to the guys who went to the combine —the top 5-10 defensive linemen. They were right there. It was a great experience and thought I did a great job there.”

Campenni benched 225 pounds 31 times at UConn’s pro day, a mark that would have tied for fourth best at the combine. Georgia’s Chris Mayes did 33 reps to lead all defensive linemen. Campenni also ran a 5.3 40-yard dash, comparable to several defensive tackles of similar size invited to the combine.

Campenni earned Class 2A second-team all-state honors as a senior. He was named the Wyoming Valley Conference Small School MVP by the coaches as well. After redshirting at UConn, he started two games and played in 10 as a freshman. He started 11 of 12 games as a redshirt sophomore and every game the past two seasons. He has played defensive tackle and nose guard.

“Time really does fly by,” Campenni said. “I went through five years of college and it went like a blink of an eye. It’s crazy.”

Campenni

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_CAMPENNI.jpgCampenni

UConn defensive lineman Julian Campenni, a graduate of Wyoming Area, is hoping to get picked in the later rounds of the 2016 NFL Draft.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_campenni-5.jpgUConn defensive lineman Julian Campenni, a graduate of Wyoming Area, is hoping to get picked in the later rounds of the 2016 NFL Draft. Courtesy of UConn Athletics

Wyoming Area graduate and UConn defensive lineman Julian Campenni prepares for the Huskies’ pro day on March 8.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_campproday.jpegWyoming Area graduate and UConn defensive lineman Julian Campenni prepares for the Huskies’ pro day on March 8. Bob Sowell | UConn Athletics

A handful of Greater Pittston athletes recently made decisions regarding their futures, athleticallyand academically.

Wyoming Area lineman Frank Yurek signed his National Letter of Intent to continue his football career at King’s College on Monday, April 25 at Wyoming Area Secondary Center. Yurek played both sides of the ball for the Warriors, and was part of the 2012 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association District 2 Class AAA championship team.

He’s excited to continue his career close to home.

“I’m very excited that this is finally here,” Yurek said. “I’m looking forward to being around and stay close to home. Everything I need is still close to me. I feel a little more comfortable that way.”

Wyoming Area head football coach Randy Spencer said Yurek has come a long way since showing up as a freshman. Spencer said getting that experience on the district title team made Yurek the player he is today.

“It’s been a long four years, but overall it was just a great experience and I’m happy to play for this football team and where it brought me,” Yurek said. “It’s been very good to me.”

Yurek will study business this fall.

PA track stars headed to college

For Pittston Area track and cross country coach Joe Struckus, the group of seniors from last year and this year have been some of the best the school has ever seen. In 2014, Tara Johnson, Samantha Mayers and Abbie Sheerer each helped Pittston Area win its first district track and field championship since 1988.

Johnson, the 2015 PIAA District 2 Class AAA Cross Country champion, has chosen to run track and cross country at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre.

Johnson, a Pittston Area senior, took gold at the championships last fall, and has also been part of the Pittston Area track and field team that copped the 2014 district title. Johnson, along with teammates Samantha Mayers, Liz Waleski and Madison Mimnaugh, took district gold in last year’s 4×800 relay team.

“I didn’t decide until a few weeks ago and it took a big weight off my shoulders,” Johnson said. “I’m really excited to be a part of their team. They are really nice. It was really welcoming and low key.”

Johnson said her decision came down to King’s and St. Joseph’s University. She will be studying elementary and special education.

Abbie Sheerer, a senior jumper on the Pittston Area track and field team, has decided to continue her career at Widener University in Chester.

Sheerer has been a staple in the Pittston Area jumping ranks for the past several years. She’ll be competing in the long, high and triple jumps. Last year, Sheerer took fourth in the high jump at the district championships.

“I decided only a week and a half ago so it was kind of close to the deadline,” she said. “Now I know I can continue to do what I love and combine the two things I love.”

Sheerer will study physical therapy at Widener.

Samantha Mayers, a senior mid-distance runner for the Patriots, will continue her track career at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.

Mayers, who has won district titles in track and field and girls soccer, took sixth place in the 800 run at last year’s district track and field championships. She was also part of last year’s gold medal 4×800 relay team.

“It’s really excited to finally have decided where I’m going,” Mayers said. “It’s a big weight lifted off my shoulders. I’m excited to start a new chapter in my life.”

Mayers isn’t quite sure what she will be studying at St. Joe’s, but is leaning toward chemistry.

Coolbaugh headed to PSU Hazleton

Wyoming Area senior Sarah Coolbaugh recently committed to play softball for the Penn State Hazleton Lady Lions. This season, Coolbaugh is hitting around .300 as the Warriors’ catcher.

Last season, Coolbaugh appeared in 21 games and hit .475 with 11 RBI. She reached base in more than half of her plate appearances. Coolbaugh was a WVC First Team All-Star her junior season and was named to the Second Team as a sophomore.

Coolbaugh has yet to decide on a major, but is leaning toward accounting as a career choice. Coolbaugh is the daughter of Emmit and Margaret Coolbaugh, Harding.

Wyoming Area football player Frank Yurek recently signed to play for King’s College this fall. From left, first row, Frank Yurek, Frank Yurek and Lisa Yurek. Second row, Wyoming Area Athletic Director Joe Pizano, Wyoming Area football coach Randy Spencer, Wyoming Area football coach Mike Fanti and Wyoming Area Principal Vito Quaglia.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_Yurek_WA.jpgWyoming Area football player Frank Yurek recently signed to play for King’s College this fall. From left, first row, Frank Yurek, Frank Yurek and Lisa Yurek. Second row, Wyoming Area Athletic Director Joe Pizano, Wyoming Area football coach Randy Spencer, Wyoming Area football coach Mike Fanti and Wyoming Area Principal Vito Quaglia. Nick Wagner | Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Abbie Sheerer has selected Widener University to continue her track and field career. From left, first row, Abbie Sheerer and Maryann Sheerer. Second row, Pittston Area Principal John Haas, Pittston Area coach Joe Struckus, Pittston Area Assistant Athletic Director Charles LoPresto and Pittston Area Athletic Director Charlie Turco.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_AbbieSheer_PA.jpgPittston Area’s Abbie Sheerer has selected Widener University to continue her track and field career. From left, first row, Abbie Sheerer and Maryann Sheerer. Second row, Pittston Area Principal John Haas, Pittston Area coach Joe Struckus, Pittston Area Assistant Athletic Director Charles LoPresto and Pittston Area Athletic Director Charlie Turco. Nick Wagner | Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Samantha Mayers has selected St. Joseph’s University to continue her track career. From left, first row, Matthew Mayers, David Mayers, Samantha Mayers, Joann Mayers and Nicole Mayers. Second row, Pittston Area Principal John Haas, Pittston Area coach Joe Struckus, Pittston Area Assistant Athletic Director Charles LoPresto and Pittston Area Athletic Director Charlie Turco.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_SamMayers_PA.jpgPittston Area’s Samantha Mayers has selected St. Joseph’s University to continue her track career. From left, first row, Matthew Mayers, David Mayers, Samantha Mayers, Joann Mayers and Nicole Mayers. Second row, Pittston Area Principal John Haas, Pittston Area coach Joe Struckus, Pittston Area Assistant Athletic Director Charles LoPresto and Pittston Area Athletic Director Charlie Turco. Nick Wagner | Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Tara Johnson has selected King’s College to continue her cross country and track and field career. From left, first row, Brian Johnson, Tara Johnson, Beth Johnson and Brianna Johnson. Second row, Pittston Area Principal John Haas, Pittston Area coach Joe Struckus, Pittston Area Assistant Athletic Director Charles LoPresto and Pittston Area Athletic Director Charlie Turco.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_TaraJohnson_PA.jpgPittston Area’s Tara Johnson has selected King’s College to continue her cross country and track and field career. From left, first row, Brian Johnson, Tara Johnson, Beth Johnson and Brianna Johnson. Second row, Pittston Area Principal John Haas, Pittston Area coach Joe Struckus, Pittston Area Assistant Athletic Director Charles LoPresto and Pittston Area Athletic Director Charlie Turco. Nick Wagner | Sunday Dispatch

Wyoming Area softball player Sarah Coolbaugh, right, recently committed to play at Penn State Hazleton. With her is Penn State Hazleton coach Rich Lipinski.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_COOLBAUGH_RBG.jpgWyoming Area softball player Sarah Coolbaugh, right, recently committed to play at Penn State Hazleton. With her is Penn State Hazleton coach Rich Lipinski. Submitted photo

Tigue basketball tournament May 14

PITTSTON — The Greater Pittston YMCA will host the first Honorable Thomas Tigue Memorial 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday, May 14. Boys and girls in first through fourth grades will compete for the 3-on-3 championship.

The tournament will consist of eight teams of boys and girls from each grade playing eight-minute games against each other. The cost is $30 to register a team of four players, all must be in the same grade. Any school district is welcome to play.

For more information contact Leslie at 570-655-2255, ext. 103 or stop by the YMCA for a registration form. Deadline to register is April 30.

ADLL meeting May 15

AVOCA — The Avoca/Dupont Little League will hold its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Sunday, May 15 in the Avoca Borough Building. In addition to regular league business, the club will seek feedback on the opening day festivities as well as upcoming fundraisers.

Volunteers are being accepted for all league events. Bingo tickets will be sold during the meeting. The meeting is open to the public.

Greater Pittston legends game May 28

YATESVILLE — The Greater Pittston Area Legends Basketball Game will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 28 at Pittston Area’s Thomas R. Kelly Gymnasium.

All Pittston Area, Wyoming Area, Seton Catholic and Scranton Prep players are invited to attend. Donation to play is $20, which includes a T-shirt. For more information contact Mark Casper at hoops4me@comcast.net.

ADLL bingo June 5

AVOCA — The Avoca/Dupont Little League will hold a fundraising bingo event at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 5 at the Queen of the Apostles Church Hall. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m.

The price is $20 and includes 20 games, including specials. Seating is limited to the first 150 people. The theme is a mystery gift card bingo and each prize will be worth at least $50. Prizes will include gift cards to many local restaurants, stores and golf courses. The special game prizes are $100 cash, an overnight stay at the Marriott-Montage, an overnight stay for four at Kalahari, and four one-day hopper passes to Disney World in Florida.

There will also be a 50-50 drawing and basket raffles. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. All proceeds will go toward improving the players’ experience. Tickets can be purchased at the league’s monthly meetings or by calling Gary Wardecki at 570-540-0649 or Lori Boggetti at 570-877- 4361.

St. Joseph Marello golf tourney is June 12

WILKES-BARRE — The 22nd annual St. Joseph Marello Parish golf tournament is set for Sunday, June 12 at the Wilkes-Barre Municipal Golf Course with a tee time of 8 a.m. The fee is $80 per golfer which includes golf, cart, dinner after the tournament and a variety of prizes.

Registration forms are now available on line at www.sjm-kofc.org/golf and paper applications will be available in the church’s vestibule.

WYOMING — Several games into the girls lacrosse season, Wyoming Area was still searching for its first win. The Warriors came close a few times, but were never able to get over the hump. On Monday, Pittston Area was also looking for its first win.

Something had to give.

The Patriots and Warriors met at Tenth Street Elementary. Thanks to a late push by the Warriors and a loose ball recovery and goal from senior Jordan Kelly, Wyoming Area came out on top 10-8 in the battle of cross-river rivals.

Claudia Waltz and Caitlin Butchko scored four goals for the Warriors, while Kelly added two goals and one assist. Butchko said the Warriors have been waiting for this game all season.

“This win means everything,” she said. “We came out and played hard. We played as a team and this is something we’ve been waiting for since last season.”

Wyoming Area opened up a 5-1 lead just before halftime and the Warriors seemed to be in control heading into the intermission. However, Pittston Area’s Bailey Jordan scored for the Patriots in the final minute to cut the deficit to three goals.

Following the break, the two teams traded three goals and the Warriors found themselves up 8-5 midway through the second half. That’s when the Patriots started their comeback.

“We got caught on our heels a couple times and let them back in it,” Wyoming Area coach Carl DeLuca said. “Once we got to five minutes we wanted to slow it down.”

However, the Warriors started to slow things down with about 11 minutes to play, DeLuca said. That’s when Pittston Area’s Dana Zalewski and Jordan made their push.

Jordan knocked one in with five minutes to play to make it 8-6 in favor of the Warriors. After Waltz poured in a goal for the Warriors, Zalewski scored two goals in less than a minute to put the Patriots within one.

“It was something we’ve been doing all season,” Pittston Area coach Nicole Tieso said. “If we played as strong in the first half the outcome could have been different. I’m very proud of them. They never give up.”

Kelly would eventually lead the Warriors to the win. Zalewski’s second goal came with two minutes to play and the Patriots didn’t have many chances after that. In front of the Wyoming Area net, Kelly was able to scoop up a loose ball and take it to the net. She scored for the first time since the first minute of the game and put the contest out of reach.

“She’s one of my captains and one of our leaders,” DeLuca said of Kelly. “She knew we had to control the ball and when it opened up she saw the lane. I always wanted to get up by two and that did it.”

Wyoming Area’s Jess Walkowiak made 11 saves and the Warrior defense limited the Patriots. Brooklyn Pedana made six saves for Pittston Area.

“We wanted this game more than anything,” Butchko said. “It really boosts our confidence for the rest of the season and gives us a good head going into future games.”

Coughlin 15, Wyoming Area 8

On Wednesday, Wyoming Area fell to Coughlin, 15-8.

Crestwood 12, Pittston Area 2

Pittston Area’s Anna McDermott and Baily Jordan provided the offense for the Patriots with one goal each on Thursday. Brooklyn Pedana made 11 saves for Pittston Area.

Lake-Lehman 19, Pittston Area 7

Pittston Area’s Dana Zalewski and Bailey Jordan each scored three goals in a loss to Lake-Lehman on Wednesday. Anna McDermott added the other goal for the Patriots.

What’s next

Pittston Area will host its Senior Day on Monday, May 2 against Tunkhannock. Game time is 4:15 p.m. and the Senior Day presentation will be held at halftime. The Patriots the host Wyoming Seminary and Hazleton Area on Thursday and Friday, respectively.

Wyoming Area travels to Tunkhannock on Wednesday and Crestwood on Thursday.

Wyoming Area’s Jordan Kelly (3) jumps high in the air during a shot attempt during the first half against Pittston Area on Monday in Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-PA-Lacrosse-6-4.jpgWyoming Area’s Jordan Kelly (3) jumps high in the air during a shot attempt during the first half against Pittston Area on Monday in Wyoming. Tony Callaio photos | For Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Bailey Jordan (22) scores a goal for with just 47.4 seconds on the clock in the first half on Monday in Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-PA-Lacrosse-5-4.jpgPittston Area’s Bailey Jordan (22) scores a goal for with just 47.4 seconds on the clock in the first half on Monday in Wyoming. Tony Callaio photos | For Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Rachel Ferrance (14) and Milena Adams (20) attempt to take away the ball from Wyoming Area’s Claudia Waltz on Monday in Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-PA-Lacrosse-4-4.jpgPittston Area’s Rachel Ferrance (14) and Milena Adams (20) attempt to take away the ball from Wyoming Area’s Claudia Waltz on Monday in Wyoming. Tony Callaio photos | For Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area goalie Brooklyn Pedana saves a shot on goal is clears the ball down field on Monday in Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-PA-Lacrosse-3-4.jpgPittston Area goalie Brooklyn Pedana saves a shot on goal is clears the ball down field on Monday in Wyoming. Tony Callaio photos | For Sunday Dispatch

Wyoming Area’s Caitlin Butchko (2) scores against Pittston Area on Monday in Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-PA-Lacrosse-2-4.jpgWyoming Area’s Caitlin Butchko (2) scores against Pittston Area on Monday in Wyoming. Tony Callaio photos | For Sunday Dispatch

Wyoming Area’s Bella Waltz takes a shot against Pittston Area on Monday in Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_WA-PA-Lacrosse-1-4.jpgWyoming Area’s Bella Waltz takes a shot against Pittston Area on Monday in Wyoming. Tony Callaio photos | For Sunday Dispatch

Collectively, Misericordia University’s Zach Mulhern and Tyler McGarry have been the driving force behind the Cougars’ golf success this season.

Mulhern, a 2014 Wyoming Area graduate from Exeter, and McGarry, a 2015 Pittston Area graduate from Pittston, are the two top golfers for the college. Most recently, the duo received All-Conference honors following the 66th annual Middle Atlantic Conference Championships for the Freedom and Commonwealth Divisions.

McGarry, a freshman, finished second in the conference and was named the Freedom’s Rookie of the Year after shooting a shooting a two-day total of 159 at Hershey Country Club. His second place finished earned him First-Team All-Conference honors.

McGarry shot an 80 on the first day and a 79 on the second.

“Going into the final day I had a chance to win it so it was disappointing to not win it,” McGarry said. “I made a few mistakes. Being a freshman tying for second was pretty cool.”

McGarry said this was the first time he played at the course in Hershey and it was challenging.

As a senior at Pittston Area, McGarry was the 2014 Wyoming Valley Conference Class AAA Most Valuable Player. He won the PIAA District 2 Class AAA championship. He would late finished just two strokes from making the state tournament. However, he’s only been playing the game for around three years.

McGarry and Mulhern have become good friends over the past several years. McGarry was pleased to be able to get All-Conference honors with Mulhern.

“Him coming to Misericordia definitely helps us as a team,” McGarry said. “To make first- and second-team with him is something special. Next year we’re looking to get back there and go for a championship.”

Misericordia coach Paul Roman, who is in his first season as Cougars’ head coach, is the head golf professional at Irem Temple Country Club. He also served four years as assistant professional at Fox Hill Country Club in Exeter. He said what McGarry has been able to do is nothing short of impressive.

“He’s an all-around athlete,” Roman said. “He gets it and knows exactly what he has to do on the golf course. Everything he puts his finger on he seems to get it.”

Mulhern enjoys transition

Mulhern, now a sophomore, began his collegiate career playing at Temple University. He spent the 2013-14 season playing with the Owls prior to transferring to Misericordia following that season.

At Hershey Country Club, Mulhern shot a two-day total of 164, earning him Second Team All-Conference honors. He followed up a first-round 86, with a second-round 78.

“This year was definitely different than being at Temple,” Mulhern said. “It wasn’t as time consuming and it was laid back. I think that helped me. I played really well other than a few rounds this year.”

Mulhern also described the course in Hershey as challenging. The Cougars will have the majority of the team back next year, for which Mulhern is excited.

“Being able to see the course gives us a leg up,” he said. “That will be our year to make a run at it.”

Mulhern is a former PIAA District 2 Class 2A finalist and Times Leader All-Star. He was on the brink of playing his way to the 2012 PIAA tournament during his senior season at Wyoming Area. He reached the Eastern Regionals that year, and was sent to a five-man playoff to decide the region’s final Class 2A spot at states.

He lost by a stroke, and it turned out to be his last high school event. Now at Misericordia, Mulhern said his golf game has only improved over the past few seasons.

Mulhern decided to come back to the area after changing his college focus from dentistry to nursing. Misericordia was the right fit, he said.

“At first, the decision had nothing to do with golf,” he said. “Then I saw they had a new coach and Tyler was going there.”

Roman said both McGarry and Mulhern are excellent student-athletes and they are a privilege to coach.

“I’m so honored to be the coach here,” Roman said. “It’s a great group of kids. Tyler and Zach are really good friends and they always work so hard on their games.”

McGarry

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_McGarry-1-.jpgMcGarry

Pittston Area graduate Tyler McGarry competes on the Misericordia University golf team.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_McGarry_MU.jpgPittston Area graduate Tyler McGarry competes on the Misericordia University golf team. Submitted photo

Mulhern

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_Mulhern.jpgMulhern Submitted photo

Wyoming Area graduate Zach Mulhern competes on the Misericordia University golf team.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_Mulhern_MU.jpgWyoming Area graduate Zach Mulhern competes on the Misericordia University golf team. Submitted photo

TUNKHANNOCK – The optimistic view is that the Pittston Area and Tunkhannock pitchers and defense repeatedly worked their way out of jams Friday.

The pessimistic outlook would be that the two struggling teams missed repeated scoring opportunities.

What is beyond debate is that when the two last-place teams met, it was the Patriots who found a way to produce a much-needed victory.

Dylan Spurlin doubled in the game-winning run in the eighth inning and relief pitcher Tyler Jackson stranded five Tigers in the final two innings to lift the Patriots to a 3-1, extra-inning victory.

“We need every one we can get,” Pittston Area coach Paul Zaffuto said.

Pittston Area improved to 3-6 to catch Coughlin for fourth place in Division 1 of the Wyoming Valley Conference. Tunkhannock is fifth, and last, in Division 2 at 2-6.

“The way the season’s been going so far, we’re struggling at 3-6,” Zaffuto said. “We’re a lot better than 3-6.

“The only thing we’re lacking is team speed.”

Zaffuto said he still believes in the small-ball approach to building runs, but it is made a little more difficult without speed on the bases and the team has been having trouble producing the timely hits once it moves runners into scoring position.

It doesn’t help that the Patriots have run into a steady stream of quality pitching and what Zaffuto thinks has been more top-notch defensive plays than usual.

Friday, it was Tunkhannock pitcher Cody Brown snagging one hard-hit ball in self-defense to wipe out a lead runner and making another incredible diving stop to take away what would have been a hit up the middle.

“I’ve never seen defense played like this,” Zaffuto said.

Pittston Area got a runner as far as third base in each of the first four innings.

The Patriots took the lead in the fourth inning.

Spurlin led off with a single. Jeff Donnora bunted his courtesy runner, Albert Zuba, to second and starting pitcher Joe DeLucca singled to left for the RBI.

DeLucca stranded two Tunkhannock runners on base in three out of four innings to get to the sixth inning with a 1-0 lead.

When Tunkhannock put together two straight hits with one out, Rob Wychock came on in relief.

Bob Gilpin greeted Wychock with a game-tying single to left field, but the reliever got consecutive groundballs to escape the inning tied, 1-1.

When Wychock yielded a leadoff hit in the seventh, Jackson took over on the mound.

Jackson got a groundball for the third out with runners on second and third to get the game into extra innings.

Then, after the Patriots went ahead, he got the last out of the game when DeLucca went deep into center field to make the tough catch with the bases loaded.

Pittston Area used three hits, two walks and a sacrifice to build its winning rally in the top of the eighth.

Each of the three players who had hits in the inning got their second hit in the process.

Joe Stella led off with a single.

Jackson’s bunt moved Stella to second.

After the second out, Spurlin doubled to the gap in left-center for the winning run.

Donnora and DeLuca followed with walks to load the bases.

Kyle O’Fier singled in another run.

“We don’t have an overpowering pitching staff, but what’s been working against us has been working for us, too,” Zaffuto said. “They’re throwing first-pitch strikes and saying ‘go ahead, put the ball in play.’

“Our pitchers are around the zone and are giving us an opportunity to make plays behind them. Whether we make them or not is the difference in the ball game.”

DeLuca also finished with two hits.

Wyoming Area 8, Coughlin 2

Josh Kopcza led the way as Wyoming Area recovered from its first loss to defeat Coughlin, 8-2, in a WVC Division 1-2 crossover game.

Kopcza struck out seven without walking a batter and went 4-for-4 with two RBI.

Steve Homza added a single and double for the Warriors, who improved to 7-1 on the season and 20-3 in the WVC since the start of 2015. The only conference loss to a Class AAA opponent during that time was 2-1 to Pittston Area last year.

The game was scoreless until the Warriors scored four runs each in the sixth and seventh innings.

Wyoming Area opened a three-game lead in Division 2 with five games remaining.

Wyoming Valley West 9, Wyoming Area 1

Ryan Hogan drove in four runs Wednesday as Wyoming Valley West defeated host Wyoming Area, 9-1, to avenge its only WVC loss from a year ago.

The Division 1-2 crossover game matched defending champions and current division leaders.

Wyoming Valley West broke ahead in the second inning then used a four-run fifth to open a 7-0 lead on the way to handing Wyoming Area its first defeat.

Cory Lescavage had two hits for the Warriors. Tyler Dougherty and Aaron Lee had consecutive doubles in the bottom of the seventh for the only Wyoming Area run.

Dallas 10, Pittston Area 2

Nick Kocher threw a three-hitter Wednesday to lead Dallas to a 10-2 win over Pittston Area in a WVC Division 1-2 game.

Kyle O’Fier singled, doubled, scored a run and drove in another for the Patriots. Alex McAndrew doubled and drove in a run.

Berwick 2, Pittston Area 0

Alex McAndrew threw a five-hitter Monday at Berwick, but it was not enough for Pittston Area, which fell, 2-0, in a WVC Division 1-2 game.

McAndrew walked one and struck out three while giving up just one earned run.

Albert Zuba had two hits for the Patriots. McAndrew added a double.

Pittston Area had eight hits, but could not produce a run.

Wyoming Area 7, Crestwood 3

Wyoming Area stole seven bases, including five in the five-run third inning, Monday when Wyoming Area defeated Crestwood, 7-3, in a WVC Division 1-2 game.

Both teams came into the day on five-game winning streaks.

Mike Bonita had two hits, two runs and two RBI.

Winning pitcher Cory Lescavage, Cole Keating and Tyler Dougherty all drove in a run and stole a base during the third inning.

Lescavage pitched 6 2/3 innings for the win. After Crestwood scored all its runs in the bottom of the seventh, Matt Wright came in to strike out the only batter he faced for the save.

Wyoming Area graduate Julian Campenni wasn’t selected in the NFL Draft, but he’ll still get his shot at pro football.

The Indianapolis Colts offered the UConn defensive tackle an opportunity to participate in a tryout camp for rookies later in the week. Campenni will attend the tryout from Thursday through Sunday. NFL teams often invite a select number of undrafted players to these camps and then decide which ones they will give the chance to make the team.

“They offered me a tryout and it was the only opportunity I really had, unfortunately,” Campenni said. “I only needed one, I only wanted one, so I’m happy.”

The 6-foot, 306-pounder started three years at UConn and played in 10 games as a redshirt freshman. He and his agent didn’t talk to any teams during the draft, which concluded Saturday with rounds four through seven. He said a few other teams expressed interest after the draft, including Cleveland and Philadelphia.

He went through the experience with a mixed bag of emotions.

“I think it was a little bit of everything,” said Campenni, who was hoping to get drafted Saturday. “You kind of enjoy the moment as much as you can, but you see guys you feel you’re just as good as get drafted. The whole process is exciting, but you get a little bit of everything during the day. It’s really a rollercoaster ride.”

The Colts hadn’t told Campenni the details of the camp as of Saturday night, but he anxious to get to Indianapolis.

“I’m ready to go. I’m itching,” Campenni said. “I could get on a flight right now and go out and practice tomorrow morning. I’m ready to go.”

Campenni

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_CAMPENNI-1-1-2.jpgCampenni

The Pittston Area Ice Hockey Team will gather for its annual end of the year team celebration on Sunday, May 22 at the Tipsy Turtle Airport Pub, 28 Concorde Drive, Avoca. Players will be recognized for their hard work and dedication this season and seniors will be honored for their years of playing. In photo, from left, first row, Ryan Flanagan, Joey Langdon, Brittany Rose, Tommy Schwab, Henry Augenstein. Second row, Nick Corridoni, Maureen Flanagan, Charline Langdon, Charley Rose, Patty Rose, Sue Schwab, Karen Augenstein, and Henry Augenstein.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PA-Ice-Hockey.jpgSubmitted photo

May 2006

The Wyoming Area baseball team won the annual Ashby Game, 6-5, over Pittston Area and Kyle Shamnoski was named the Most Valuable Player of the game.

Shamnoski drove in three runs, including the game-tying and game-winning RBI. The winning pitcher for Wyoming Area was Lou Falzone. Carmen LoPresto and Sam Parente each had two hits for the Patriots.

May 1996

Pittston Area’s pitching duo of Amanda Darbenzio and Jen Borget, along with first inning home runs from Amber Hubert and Jen Rebovich, lifted the Patriots past Bishop Hoban.

The Argents managed just two hits off the PA pitchers. Rebovich finished with three hits, while Tara Weech had two hits, including a double. Carolyn Dulney was 3-for-4 and scored on Rebovich’s homer.

May 1986

The Wyoming Area boys track and field team clinched the 1986 Wyoming Valley Conference championship with a 105-46 win over Crestwood and a 78-72 triumph over Wyoming Valley West.

The Warriors improved to 14-0 on the season. It was coach John Zwirek’s first career WVC title. Against Valley West, Rob Yochem won the high jump to clinch the event, whileJoe Curley won the 1,600 and Len Hromek won the 3,200. Paul Paczowski won the shot put, Joel Skursky won the javelin and Gordon Simerson won the long jump.

May 1976

The Pittston Area track and field team won the Jordan Relays with a 27-17 margin over Wyoming Valley West.

The Patriots won the gold in the 440 sprint relay with the team of Mark Justick, Jim Graziosi, Sam Granteed, Tom Sabetta and Mike Corcoran. The half-mile relay was won by Justick, Graziosi, Corcoran and John Poli. A silver medal was won by Mike Lokuta, Greg Alba, Charles Daczka and Carlton Hurtt in the two-mile relay.

The Patriots also won a bronze in the mile relay and a fourth place finish in the mile medley.

Amanda Darbenzio helped pitch Pittston Area’s softball team past Bishop Hoban in May 1996.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PAsoftball.jpgAmanda Darbenzio helped pitch Pittston Area’s softball team past Bishop Hoban in May 1996. Sunday Dispatch File Photo

The Wyoming Area baseball team won the annual Ashby Game with a 6-5 decision over Pittston Area in May 2006.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_WAbaseball.jpgThe Wyoming Area baseball team won the annual Ashby Game with a 6-5 decision over Pittston Area in May 2006. Sunday Dispatch File Photo

Pittston Area was the champion of the Jordan Relays in May 1976. From left, first row, Carlton Hurtt, Mike Corcoran, Mike Lokuta and John Poli. Second row, Mike Meade, manager Diane Durkin, manager Tish Hoban, manager Amy Colarusso and John Strellish. Third row, Sam Granteed, Jim Graziosi, Mark Justick, Tom Sabetta, Greg Alba and Charles Daczka.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PAtrack_Jordans.jpgPittston Area was the champion of the Jordan Relays in May 1976. From left, first row, Carlton Hurtt, Mike Corcoran, Mike Lokuta and John Poli. Second row, Mike Meade, manager Diane Durkin, manager Tish Hoban, manager Amy Colarusso and John Strellish. Third row, Sam Granteed, Jim Graziosi, Mark Justick, Tom Sabetta, Greg Alba and Charles Daczka. Sunday Dispatch File Photo

Wyoming Area’s Scott Pimental readies himself for a discus throw in a track and field meet against Wyoming Valley West in May 1986.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_WAtrack_86.jpgWyoming Area’s Scott Pimental readies himself for a discus throw in a track and field meet against Wyoming Valley West in May 1986. Sunday Dispatch File Photo

MONDAY, MAY 9

Baseball

Pittston Area at Valley West, 4:15 p.m.

Tunkhannock at Wyoming Area, 4:15 p.m.

Softball

Pittston Area at Berwick, 4:15 p.m.

Wyoming Area at Lake-Lehman, 4:15 p.m.

Track and Field

Dallas at Pittston Area, 4:15 p.m.

Boys lacrosse

Tunkhannock at Wyoming Area, 4:30 p.m.

Girls lacrosse

Pittston Area at Dallas, 6 p.m.

Tunkhannock at Wyoming Area, 7 p.m.

TUESDAY, MAY 10

Softball

Pittston Area at Dallas, 4:15 p.m.

Track and Field

Lake-Lehman at Wyoming Area, 4:15 p.m.

Boys lacrosse

Wyoming Area at Scranton Prep, 5:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11

Baseball

Wyoming Area at Lake-Lehman, 4:15 p.m.

Softball

Wyoming Area at Tunkhannock, 4:15 p.m.

Girls lacrosse

Lake-Lehman at Wyoming Area, 4:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, MAY 12

Baseball

Pittston Area at Hazleton Area, 4:15 p.m.

Softball

Coughlin at Pittston Area, 4:15 p.m.

Girls lacrosse

Pittston Area at Coughlin, 4:15 p.m.

Tennis

PIAA District 2 Championships at Kirby Park, 9 a.m.

FRIDAY, MAY 13

Boys lacrosse

Lake-Lehman at Wyoming Area, 4:30 p.m.

Tennis

PIAA District 2 Championships at Kirby Park, 1 p.m.

SATURDAY, MAY 14

Baseball

Dallas at Wyoming Area, 3 p.m.

Brandon Matthews has come a long way since he was winning state championships in red, white and blue trousers.

The Pittston Area graduate and Dupont native is five years removed from his 2010 Pennsylvnia Interscholastic Athletic Association Golf Championship. He’s still winning titles, and his dreams are slowing coming true. Matthews recently finished up his Temple University golf career with a final round, two-under 70 to finish fifth at the American Athletic Conference Championship at the 7,025-yard Quarry Course at Black Diamond Ranch in Lecanto, Florida.

Matthews finished the tournament at three-under-par, just four shots from the lead. According to Matthews, his putting let him down in his two-over-par second round 74.

“I just didn’t make enough putts,” Matthews said. “That’s what it boils down to. It was really disappointing. Bottom line is if I made a few more puts I win the golf tournament.”

Matthews opened the tournament with a three-under 69 on Sunday, before shooting his 74 on Monday to put him tied for sixth. He then returned with his 70 on Tuesday to claim the top-five finish. In the final round, he made seven birdies, but had three bogies and one double bogey that prevented him from matching University of South Florida’s Aksel Olsen.

“I feel like my game is fantastic right now,” Matthews said. “My ball striking is very good and my wedge game is very good right now. My short game can definitely get better and if the putting shows up I can have a special week at any time. I’m working hard and waiting for that putting to click.”

That was the last collegiate tournament for the four-year Temple star. His eight career wins are tied for the most in Temple history, and he was named the school’s first All-American since 1988. More accolades will come for Matthews, but he already has a heavy trophy case.

In his first year at Temple, on the heels of a seventh place finish in the state as a senior at Pittston Area, Matthews was named the Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year and made All-Conference. He set school records for lowest round as a freshman with a 64 at The McLaughlin. Last spring, he tied a school record with three straight tournament wins to earn his second bid to the NCAA Tournament and All-American status.

Last year, as a junior, Matthews averaged 70.9 per round, breaking the Temple mark. He was also named Temple’s PNC Male Student-Athlete of the Year with the basketball team’s Will Cummings.

“I can’t believe it’s over,” Matthews said. “It’s unbelievable. I’m so thankful to the coach and the team that I had and the opportunities I was given. I couldn’t ask for a better place to spend my four years of college.”

His senior year wasn’t as kind to the golf star as the previous few years. Matthews failed to win a tournament this year for the first time in his collegiate career, but he turned up the success toward the latter half of the season. It culminated with his fifth place finish at the conference championships.

In the fall, Matthews battled injury to begin the season. He then battled back with two top-10 finishes to close out the fall season.

“It was a lot of hard work, that’s what gets you back from anything,” he said. “You just have to put in a lot of time and effort. I know if I’m struggling I can always come back.”

Although Matthews’ career at Temple may be finished, his golf game is not.

Matthews admitted he will retain his amateur status until the fall when he will turn professional. He wants his amateur status in tact for this year’s U.S. Amateur Championship, which is in mid-August at Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Sectional qualifying for the U.S. Amateur begins in July.

In 2013, Matthews made a run to the quarterfinals at the U.S. Amateur.

Matthews’ next big tournament is Monday, May 16 at Silver Creek Country Club in Hellertown for the U.S. Open Local Qualifying. It was in 2013 when Matthews made a name for himself after qualifying to be an alternate at the prestigious U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club.

“It’s pretty incredible that any regular, scratch golfer can play in the U.S. Open,” he said. “It’s great for the golfing community. You hear some great stories every year and my game is coming around nicely.”

Other than the U.S. Amateur, there are several other tournaments Matthews will be playing in this summer prior to turning professional. In the fall, he will head down to Florida for PGA Tour Qualifying School to see if he can make his dreams come true.

Locals in U.S. Open qualifier

Once again, the United States Golf Association will be holding a local qualifer at Huntsville Country Club for a chance to play in the U.S. Open, which is scheduled for the third week of June at Oakmont Country Club outside of Pittsburgh.

Several local players will be trying their luck on Wednesday, May 18 in the one-day tournament.

Pittston Area graduate Tyler McGarry will tee off at 12:02 p.m. with Shavertown native Mariano Medico and Newport native Kevin Kraft.

Joseph Hurn of Mountain Top starts his round at 9:50 a.m. Dallas native Michael Molino tees off at 10:34 a.m. Bill Smith, of Hazleton, tees off at 1:08 p.m. Dallas native Austin Smith tees off at 1:52 p.m.

The tournament is hosted by the North Central Pennsylvania Golf Association and the Anthracite Golf Association.

Temple golfer Brandon Matthews chats with University of South Florida assistant coach John Gordon prior to the American Athletic Conference Championships.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_Matthews2.jpgTemple golfer Brandon Matthews chats with University of South Florida assistant coach John Gordon prior to the American Athletic Conference Championships. Ben Solomon | American Athletic Conference

Brandon Matthews tees off at the American Athletic Conference Championships.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_20160503_AAC_MGOLF_DAY_3_053.jpgBrandon Matthews tees off at the American Athletic Conference Championships. Ben Solomon | American Athletic Conference

Brandon Matthews tees off at the American Athletic Conference Championships.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_20160503_AAC_MGOLF_DAY_3_112.jpgBrandon Matthews tees off at the American Athletic Conference Championships. Ben Solomon | American Athletic Conference

A love for all sports kept Jeremy Zezza in the game. By the time he was in high school, he narrowed his athletic prowess to baseball and basketball. That led to a tough decision once graduation time rolled around.

Ultimately, Zezza, a 2015 Wyoming Area graduate, chose to play baseball for Bloomsburg University, an NCAA Division 2 member. The Huskies recently finished their season with a .500 overall record and a 10-18 mark in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). Zezza got in some time on the mound as a relief pitcher.

The former Warrior made five appearances for the Huskies this season. He made his collegiate non-conference debut against Seton Hill University on Feb. 19 during Bloomsburg’s trip to North Carolina. He struck out the side against Seton Hill in his only inning.

“The team and everyone are awesome,” Zezza said. “The atmosphere here is incredible and I’m having a great time.”

Against East Stroudsburg, Zezza struggled to get out of his only inning, and allowed two runs on a pair of doubles. The freshman then bounced back with a one-hit inning in his PSAC debut in a loss against West Chester.

Zezza joined the team as a walk on during early workouts last summer. The coaches asked him to come back in the fall and he ended up making the team. Originally, he was scheduled to be red shirted and sit out his freshman year. However, just days before the team left for spring training in North Carolina, Zezza was informed that he was added to the active roster.

“It turned really quick,” Zezza said. “I’ve had a great experience and I was really excited to make the team.”

Zezza has had to deal with the transition from a starting pitcher to a relief pitcher, along with making the transition from an everyday player to solely a pitcher. In high school, Zezza was a position player, pitcher and hitter for the Warriors. Now, at practice, he concentrates only on pitching, he said.

He’s also had to deal with the transition from pitching against hitter in high school to hitters at the Division 2 level. He said in high school you have three or four good hitters.

“At this level now, everyone is a No. 3 hitter,” he said.

When Zezza was at Wyoming Area, he was a star on the diamond and on the court. In his senior year, Zezza broke the Wyoming Area basketball single game scoring record with a 43-point performance against Lake-Lehman, breaking a 15-year-old mark.

As a kid, Zezza’s love for all sports made his decision to play baseball instead of basketball a difficult one. One of the reasons he picked baseball was the time he enjoyed on the Wyoming Area baseball team his senior season.

“I’ll never forget my senior year of baseball playing with all my friends,” he said. “That’s the most fun I’ve ever had in sports. That’s when I realized I want to play baseball in college.”

Zezza said sports are is the No. 1 thing in his life and he never thought he would be playing baseball in college. He gave thought to playing both sports, but decided on baseball.

Admittedly, Zezza misses the basketball court. That doesn’t stop him from hitting a few pickup games now and again around the campus of BU.

Being close to home is something Zezza enjoys as well. He said his family rarely misses a game, whether it’s his parents, grandparents or siblings.

He said he’s always thinking of them when he’s on the mound.

“A lot of my family comes to support me and it feels great to see them there,” he said. “My whole family has supported me throughout all my sports and they push me to do my best. That’s a reason why I can play college sports because I have those people in my life to encourage me to try my best.”

Zezza is the son of Jerry and Doreen Zezza of West Pittston. He is studying marketing at Bloomsburg.

Wyoming Area graduate and Bloomsburg University freshman Jeremy Zezza is a relief pitcher for the Huskies.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_JeremyZezza1.jpgWyoming Area graduate and Bloomsburg University freshman Jeremy Zezza is a relief pitcher for the Huskies. Submitted photo

Zezza

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_JeremyZezza2.jpgZezza Submitted photo

YATESVILLE — With their championship dreams on the line, the Holy Redeemer Royals needed one more win at the wire.

Caroline Banas took them over the top.

Banas cleared 5 feet, 4 inches to win the high jump in the meet’s final event Thursday, lifting Redeemer over defending Wyoming Valley Conference Division 2 girls track and field champion Wyoming Area, 77-73 and into first place in the division in a battle of unbeaten teams fighting for the league’s top spot.

“I’m just happy,” Banas said. “It came down to the last couple events.”

Make that the very last one.

Holding a one-point lead with one event left, the Royals needed a win in the high jump to win the meet at Pittston Area’s track.

They put their season on the legs of last year’s state high jump bronze medalist, and she didn’t disappoint.

Locked in a duel with Wyoming Area’s game Shelby Stackhouse, Banas easily cleared the heights of 5-2 and 5-3 on her first try, then needed two leaps to make 5-4.

“I wasn’t nervous,” Banas said. “I knew I would do it.”

So did Redeemer, which moved to 6-0 on the season and clinched at least a tie for the WVC Division 2 title. The Royals can lock up the crown in their regular season finale Tuesday against Northwest.

“It feels great,” Holy Redeemer coach Kevin Walters said. “We’ve always said success breeds success. To be at least co-champions — we can’t finish lower — is great. They work hard. They deserve it.”

The boys meet wasn’t quite as pressure-packed, as Wyoming Area rode three victories by Alex Chronowski and two by Ryan Murray to a 103-46 victory over Redeemer. Chronowski won the 200 and 400 dashes and ran on the 1,600-meter relay team, while Murray won in long jump and high jump.

The girls meet jumped back and forth throughout, as both teams played to their strengths.

Wyoming Area’s Bree Bednarski did her best to give the Warriors a shot, winning the 100 and 200 dashes, the javelin throw and anchoring the 400-meter relay. Meanwhile, Stackhouse won the long jump and pole vault. while Holy Redeemer’s Autumn Kaminski won both hurdles and led off the 1,600 relay as Lindsey Williams and Molly Holmes teamed on relays to wind up as double winners.

Wyoming Area swept the pole vault, long jump and javelin, while Holy Redeemer recorded sweeps in the 800, 1,600 and 3,200 meter runs, along with the discus.

“What hurt us is we didn’t get one point in any of the distance events,” Wyoming Area coach Joe Pizano said. “But we knew that going into the meet. But our kids did a great job, set a lot of PRs today. Holy Redeemer has a great group of girls.”

Still, the Royals needed one more win to avoid having the meet wind up tied.

That could have happened after McKenna Dolan placed third in the high jump, if Stackhouse was able to out-leap Banas.

But the Royals senior standout refused to let it happen, drawing on her past big-meet experience to keep Redeemer on top.

“She was a great competitor, Shelby Stackhouse,” said Banas, who ran over and hugged her opponent the minute the meet was decided. “It really helped knowing I had the (bronze medal) finish at states and the experience indoors. I have a lot of confidence now. Some days I’m off.

“I was feeling it today.”

She felt her finishes on the track were just as important.

Banas ran anchor on the winning 1,600 relay team, and recorded second-place finishes in both the 200 and 400dashes. Without those critical points she provided, the outcome may have been much different.

“They have some good sprinters, but I got second in both,” Banas said. “I really pushed.

“Every point counts.”

Especially in a meet that goes right to the wire.

“I’m comfortable having her carry the meet on her shoulders,” Walters said of Banas. “I was excited to see the girls compete.

“Today was an outstanding meet.”

Girls

Holy Redeemer 77, Wyoming Area 73

3,200 relay — 1. HR (Holmes, Williams, Hons, Mullery) 11:34; 2. WA. 100 hurdles — 1. HR, Kaminski 15l5; 2. WA, Stackhouse; 3. WA, Spak. 100 — 1. WA, Bednarski 12.6; 2. WA, Rhodes; 3. HR, Kaminski. 1,600 — 1. HR, Williams 5:34; 2. HR, Holmes; 3. HR, Greer. 400 — 1. WA, Shedlock 61.8; 2. HR, Banas; 3. HR, Cavanaugh. 400 relay — 1. WA (Rhodes, Spak, Kranson, Bednarski) 51.2; 2. HR. 300 hurdles — 1. HR, Kaminski 47.3; 2. WA, Spak; 3. WA, Astolfi. 800 — 1. HR, Mullery 2:30; 2. HR, Hons; 3. HR, Holmes. 200 — 1. WA, Bednarski 26.1; 2. HR, Banas; 3. WA, Rhodes. 3,200 — 1. HR, Williams 11:47; 2. HR, Greer; 3. HR, Manley. 1,600 relay — 1. HR (Kaminski, Holmes, Cavanaugh, Banas) 4:20; 2. WA.

High jump — 1. HR, Banas 5-4; 2. WA, Stackhouse; 3. HR, Dolan. Pole vault — 1. WA, Stackhouse 9-0; 2. WA, Kopetchney; 3. WA, Pettit. Long jump — 1. WA, Stackhouse 16-3; 2. WA, Gurchak; 3. WA, Shedlock. Triple jump — 1. WA, Shedlock 34-4; 2. WA, Gurchak; 3. HR, Dolan. Shot put — 1. HR, Christian 34-2; 2. WA, Rescinti; 3. HR, Soboleski. Discus — 1. HR, Hilenski 106-0; 2. HR, Tomassura; 3. HR, Christian. Javelin — 1. WA, Bednarski 109-0; 2. WA, Coolbaugh; 3. WA, Wright.

Boys

Wyoming Area 103, Holy Redeemer 46

3,200 relay — 1. HR (Brown, Volpetti, Weybrecht, Capaci) 9:06; 2. WA. 110 hurdles — 1. WA, Shaver 18.2; 2. WA, Semanek; 3. HR, Benway. 100 — 1. WA, R. Murphy 11.8; 2. WA, Giordano; 3. WA, M. Murphy. 1,600 — 1. HR, Hoda 4:45; 2. HR, Williams; 3. HR, Volpetti. 400 — 1. WA, Chronowski 53.3; 2. HR, Banas; 3. HR, Fahey. 400 relay — 1. WA (Angeli, Giordano, M. Murphy, R. Murphy) 45.8; 2. HR. 300 hurdles — 1. WA, Shaver 46.9; 2. HR, Benway; 3. WA, Semanek. 800 — 1. HR, Capaci 2:07; 2. HR, Weybrecht; 3. HR, Brown. 200 — 1. WA, Chronowski 23.7; 2. WA, M. Murphy; 3. WA, R. Murphy. 3,200 — 1. HR, Hoda 10:50; 2. HR, Stevens; 3. HR, Strish. 1,600 relay — 1. WA (R. Murphy, M. Murphy, Chronowski, Buczynski) 3:41; 2. HR.

High jump — 1. WA, Murray 5-6; 2. WA, Buczynski; 3. HR, Aiello. Pole vault — 1. WA, Klaproth 12-0; 2. WA, Lagrue. Long jump — 1. WA, Murray 19-0; 2. WA, Acacio; 3. WA, Ansuli. Triple jump — 1. WA, Acacio 38-7; 2. WA, Murphy; 3. WA, Ansuli. Shot put — 1. HR, Brennan 36-9.50; 2. WA, Burton; 3. WA, Carr. Discus — 1. WA, Carr 121-3; 2. WA, Minnick-Sokach; 3. WA, Blannett. Javelin — 1. WA, Minnick-Sokach 144-10; 2. WA, Acacio; 3. WA, Higley.

Sal Aiello of Holy Redeemer competes in the triple jump Thursday at Pittston Area High School.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_waredeemertrack02-1.jpgSal Aiello of Holy Redeemer competes in the triple jump Thursday at Pittston Area High School. Pete G. Wilcox | Times Leader

Bobby Acacio of Wyoming Area competes in the triple jump on Thursday at Pittston Area High School.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_waredeemertrack03-1.jpgBobby Acacio of Wyoming Area competes in the triple jump on Thursday at Pittston Area High School. Pete G. Wilcox | Times Leader

Nick Brown of Holy Redeemer leads David Alberigi of Wyoming Area in the first leg of the 3200m relay at Pittston Area High School on Thursday.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_waredeemertrack01-1.jpgNick Brown of Holy Redeemer leads David Alberigi of Wyoming Area in the first leg of the 3200m relay at Pittston Area High School on Thursday. Pete G. Wilcox | Times Leader

YATESVILLE — Try as they might, the Wyoming Area Warriors attempted to tire out a state bronze medalist for a fantastic finish.

It didn’t work. With their championship dreams on the line, the Holy Redeemer Royals needed one more win at the wire. Caroline Banas took them over the top.

Banas cleared 5 feet, 4 inches to win the high jump in the meet’s final event Thursday at Pittston Area, lifting Holy Redeemer over defending Wyoming Valley Conference Division 2 girls track and field champion Wyoming Area, 77-73, and into first place in the division in a battle of unbeaten teams fighting for the league’s top spot.

“What we wanted to do,” Wyoming Area coach Joe Pizano said. “We tried to put that girl in a little tougher position. We made them run a hard 4×4 (1600 meter relay), after she ran the 200 and going into the high jump, back-to-back. But she’s a tough girl. It showed.”

It elevated 6-0 Holy Redeemer into first place in the WVC Division 2, while defending league champ Wyoming Area fell to 5-1 with one meet remaining in the regular season.

Holding a one-point lead with one event left, the Royals needed a win in the high jump to win the meet. They put their season on the legs of last year’s state high jump bronze medalist, and she didn’t disappoint.

Locked in a duel with Wyoming Area’s Shelby Stackhouse, Banas easily cleared the heights of 5-2 and 5-3 on her first tries, then needed two leaps to make 5-4.

The Royals can lock up the crown in their regular season finale Tuesday against Northwest.

The boys meet wasn’t quite as pressure-packed, as Wyoming Area rode three victories by Alex Chronowski and two by Ryan Murray to a 103-46 victory over Redeemer. Chronowski won the 200- and 400-meter dashes and ran on the 1600-meter relay team, while Murray won in long jump and high jump.

The girls meet jumped back and forth throughout, as both teams played to their strengths.

Wyoming Area’s Bree Bednarski did her best to give the Warriors a shot, winning the 100- and 200-meter dashes, the javelin throw and anchoring the 400-meter relay. Meanwhile, Stackhouse won the long jump and pole vault.

Wyoming Area swept the pole vault, long jump and javelin, while Holy Redeemer recorded sweeps in the 800, 1600- and 3200-meter runs, along with the discus.

“What hurt us is we didn’t get one point in any of the distance events,” Pizano said. “But we knew that going into the meet. But our kids did a great job, set a lot of (personal records) today. Holy Redeemer has a great group of girls.”

Still, the Royals needed the win from Banas in the high jump to avoid having the meet wind up tied. Banas had high praise for Stackhouse.

“She was a great competitor, Shelby Stackhouse,” said Banas, who ran over and hugged her opponent the minute the meet was decided. “It really helped knowing I had the (bronze medal) finish at states and the experience indoors. I have a lot of confidence now.”

The Warriors will need a victory against Lake-Lehman and a Northwest win against Redeemer in Tuesday’s regular season finales to share the WVC Division 2 title. Otherwise, Wyoming Area will turn its attention to the District 2 championships — where the Warriors will compete in Class 3A — and beyond while hoping for a big finish to the season.

“Our girls realize that they run their season to win the conference, after last year’s girls won it for the first time,” Pizano said. “But at the end of the day, they know their season isn’t over. They still have the district meet left, and hopefully, states. I think we have a chance to push for the 3A district championship on the girls’ side.”

Wyoming Area’s Tristan Sokach-Minnick competes in javelin in Thursday’s track and field event against Holy Redeemer at Pittston Area.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_trackwyomingarea01.jpgWyoming Area’s Tristan Sokach-Minnick competes in javelin in Thursday’s track and field event against Holy Redeemer at Pittston Area. Pete G. Wilcox | Sunday Dispatch

Wyoming Area’s Anthony Shaver won the boys 110 hurdles in Thursday’s track and field event against Holy Redeemer at Pittston Area.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_trackwyomingarea02.jpgWyoming Area’s Anthony Shaver won the boys 110 hurdles in Thursday’s track and field event against Holy Redeemer at Pittston Area. Pete G. Wilcox | Sunday Dispatch

Sportsmen’s club meeting May 8

DUPONT — The Elm Street Sportsmen’s Club will meet at 7 p.m. Sunday, May 8 at the Polish American Citizens Club, 111 Elm St. John Lizak will preside.

WA lacrosse honors seniors May 9

WEST PITTSTON — The Wyoming Area boys and girls lacrosse teams will honor their senior players between games on Monday, May 9 at the Jake Sobeski Stadium against the Tunkhannock Tigers.

The boys’ game starts at 4:30 p.m. followed by the acknowledgement of the senior boys and girls ending with the girls’ game starting at 7 p.m.

Wildcats meeting May 10

DURYEA — The Duryea Wildcats will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 10 at the field on Foote Avenue. The next sign up session will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 19 at the field. Registration requirements include a driver’s license, vehicle registration and a bill.

Tigue basketball tournament May 14

PITTSTON — The Greater Pittston YMCA will host the first Honorable Thomas Tigue Memorial 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday, May 14. Boys and girls in first through fourth grades will compete for the 3-on-3 championship.

The tournament will consist of eight teams of boys and girls from each grade playing eight-minute games against each other. The cost is $30 to register a team of four players, all must be in the same grade. Any school district is welcome to play.

For more information contact Leslie at 570-655-2255, ext. 103 or stop by the YMCA for a registration form. Deadline to register is April 30.

ADLL meeting May 15

AVOCA — The Avoca/Dupont Little League will hold its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Sunday, May 15 in the Avoca Borough Building. In addition to regular league business, the club will seek feedback on the opening day festivities as well as upcoming fundraisers.

Volunteers are being accepted for all league events. Bingo tickets will be sold during the meeting. The meeting is open to the public.

Friendly Sons golf tourney May 21

PITTSTON — The Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick annual Black Shamrock Open Golf Tournament will be held at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 21 at Pine Hill Country Club in Taylor. Cost per golfer is $80, which benefits the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick General Scholarship Fund.

This year, Bonner Chevrolet will sponsor a hole-in-one contest to win a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Anyone making a hole-in-one on a designated hole will win the car.

A dinner will follow at the Pittston Knights of Columbus Home Association, catered by Peculiar Culinary Company. For more information email friendlysonsgolf@gmail.com.

Panthers registrations are May 21

EXETER — The Wyoming/West Wyoming/Exeter Panthers Mini Football Organization will hold registrations from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 21 at Panther’s Field in Exeter.

LEF Wiffle Ball Tournament is May 22

WEST PITTSTON — Little Eric’s Foundation will hold its first wiffle ball tournament at West Pittston Little League Field on Sunday, May 22 with a rain date of Sunday, June 5.

Age brackets include 7 to 9, 10 to 12, 13 to 15 and 16 to adult and they may register their five-member team by contacting Jessica Speicher at 570-814-3550. The cost per team is $50 or $10 per person.

The event will also feature basket raffles, food, drinks, and awards in each group.

Proceeds will go towards research for pediatric brain and childhood cancer.

Greater Pittston legends game May 28

YATESVILLE — The Greater Pittston Area Legends Basketball Game will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 28 at Pittston Area’s Thomas R. Kelly Gymnasium.

All Pittston Area, Wyoming Area, Seton Catholic and Scranton Prep players are invited to attend. Donation to play is $20, which includes a T-shirt. For more information contact Mark Casper at hoops4me@comcast.net.

ADLL bingo June 5

AVOCA — The Avoca/Dupont Little League will hold a fundraising bingo event at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 5 at the Queen of the Apostles Church Hall. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m.

The price is $20 and includes 20 games, including specials. Seating is limited to the first 150 people. The theme is a mystery gift card bingo and each prize will be worth at least $50. Prizes will include gift cards to many local restaurants, stores and golf courses. The special game prizes are $100 cash, an overnight stay at the Marriott-Montage, an overnight stay for four at Kalahari, and four one-day hopper passes to Disney World in Florida.

There will also be a 50-50 drawing and basket raffles. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. All proceeds will go toward improving the players’ experience. Tickets can be purchased at the league’s monthly meetings or by calling Gary Wardecki at 570-540-0649 or Lori Boggetti at 570-877- 4361.

WA girls bball camp in June

EXETER — The Wyoming Area Young Lady Warriors Basketball Camp is scheduled for Tuesday, June 7 through Thursday, June 9 at the Wyoming Area Secondary Center gymnasium. The camp is open to all girls currently in second through seventh grade, including those outside the Wyoming Area School District.

Cost is $50 per player, which includes a T-shirt. The camp is held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. For more information and to download a registration form visit www.wyomingareagirlsbasketball.org.

St. Joseph Marello golf tourney is June 12

WILKES-BARRE — The 22nd annual St. Joseph Marello Parish golf tournament is set for Sunday, June 12 at the Wilkes-Barre Municipal Golf Course with a tee time of 8 a.m. The fee is $80 per golfer which includes golf, cart, dinner after the tournament and a variety of prizes.

Registration forms are now available on line at www.sjm-kofc.org/golf and paper applications will be available in the church’s vestibule.

Little Eric’s Foundation is holding its first wiffle ball tournament at West Pittston Little League Field on Sunday, May 22 with a rain date of Sunday, June 5. Shown are, from left, first row, Cameron McDermott, Kevin Wiedl, Krea Bonita, Chase Speicher, John Turner, Scott McDermott. Second row, Jason Wiedl, Jude Janosky, Caden Bonita and Evan Melberger.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_little-erics.jpgLittle Eric’s Foundation is holding its first wiffle ball tournament at West Pittston Little League Field on Sunday, May 22 with a rain date of Sunday, June 5. Shown are, from left, first row, Cameron McDermott, Kevin Wiedl, Krea Bonita, Chase Speicher, John Turner, Scott McDermott. Second row, Jason Wiedl, Jude Janosky, Caden Bonita and Evan Melberger. Submitted photo

The Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick annual Black Shamrock Open Golf Tournament will be Saturday, May 21 at Pine Hill Country Club in Taylor. This year, Bonner Chevrolet will sponsor a hole-in-one contest to win a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Shown are, from left, Rich Crossin, general manager, Bonner Chevrolet; Michael McFarland and Matthew Meade, Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_FriendlySons.jpgThe Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick annual Black Shamrock Open Golf Tournament will be Saturday, May 21 at Pine Hill Country Club in Taylor. This year, Bonner Chevrolet will sponsor a hole-in-one contest to win a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Shown are, from left, Rich Crossin, general manager, Bonner Chevrolet; Michael McFarland and Matthew Meade, Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Submitted photo

WEST WYOMING — Wyoming Area’s middle school baseball team got in the rivalry act with a 14-1 win over Pittston Area Thursday at the Shoemaker Avenue field.

Chase Yocum picked up the win by tossing four innings, allowing no runs on two hits while striking out seven. F.J. Braccini had three hits, including a double, and knocked in four RBI while scoring three runs. Caleb Graham had two hits and drove in three runs. Aiden Dollak contributed two RBI.

The Warriors improved to 8-7 on the season.

Wyoming Area’s Dillon Williams slides into second base under the tag of Pittston Area’s Steve Scriandra during the second inning Thursday in West Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PSD050516MSbase3.jpgWyoming Area’s Dillon Williams slides into second base under the tag of Pittston Area’s Steve Scriandra during the second inning Thursday in West Wyoming. Clark Van Orden | For Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Steve Sciandra forces out Wyoming Area’s Joe Chiampi Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PSD050816MSbase1.jpgPittston Area’s Steve Sciandra forces out Wyoming Area’s Joe Chiampi Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming. Clark Van Orden | For Sunday Dispatch

Wyoming Area’s Ryan Petrucci gets a hit during the first inning of play against Pittston Area Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PSD050816MSbase2.jpgWyoming Area’s Ryan Petrucci gets a hit during the first inning of play against Pittston Area Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming. Clark Van Orden | For Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Steve Scrianda started the game at second base but came in the second inning as a relief pitcher Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PSD050816MSbase4.jpgPittston Area’s Steve Scrianda started the game at second base but came in the second inning as a relief pitcher Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming. Clark Van Orden | For Sunday Dispatch

Pittston Area’s Jacob Black throws to first base for the second out of the first inning of a game against Wyoming Area Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming.

http://psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_PSD050816MSbase5.jpgPittston Area’s Jacob Black throws to first base for the second out of the first inning of a game against Wyoming Area Thursday afternoon in West Wyoming. Clark Van Orden | For Sunday Dispatch