From Richland to UPJ

Four seniors from Richland High School are headed across the street to continue their soccer careers at Pitt-Johnstown.

Sabrina Wingard, who ranks fifth in Richland girls' soccer history in assists, will join her sister Savanna on the Lady Cats in the fall.

Cousins Bobby and Curt Colvin were both four-year starters at Richland. Bobby Colvin played midfield and led Richland with 27 goals. Curt Colvin was a defender. Joining them on the Mountain Cats will be Ismail Ahmad, who scored 22 goals this season.

For more on the four future UPJ soccer players, click here.

The following is a submitted photo from Thursday's signing ceremony. The players are (from left) Ismail Ahmad, Bobby Colvin, Sabrina Wingard and Curt Colvin.

The South girls' All-Stars

There have been three girls' basketball players from The Tribune-Democrat coverage area to score 2,000 career points. One of them - Shanksville-Stonycreek senior Kayla Stockenus - will play in Saturday's AmeriServ Senior Hoops Showcase as part of the South roster.

Stockenus is one of several standouts for the South, which will be coached by Berlin Brothersvalley's Rachel Prosser. Under Prosser's guidance, the Mountaineers defeated Portage in the first round of the PIAA Class A playoffs and held a lead late in the fourth quarter against eventual PIAA runner-up Vincentian Academy in the second round.

The scene at Pitt-Johnstown's Sports Center won't be nearly as intense as the state playoffs. Still, the South roster is filled with players who experienced the thrills of the PIAA tournament.

Coach: Rachel Prosser, Berlin
A perennial contender in District 5 and frequent quest of the PIAA Class A playoffs, Berlin finished 23-5 with only one senior receiving significant minutes.

Players (in alphabetical order)
Carly Baer, Conemaugh Township
Multi-faceted senior averaged 7.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists.

Lyndy Baer, Conemaugh Township
The Indians reached the second round of the PIAA Class A playoffs behind a balanced attack. Baer, a 1,000-point scorer, averaged 11.8 points, 4.7 assists and made 52 3-pointers.

Elizabeth Chobany, Ferndale
The Yellow Jackets struggled in the win column, but Chobany was a bright spot. Chobany averaged 15.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.9 steals.

Alexis Jo Dona, Richland
Injuries shortened a promising senior season, but she averaged 6.6 points in limited duty.

Katie Gehlmann, Richland
Gehlmann averaged 12.7 points, 5.0 assists and made 32 3-pointers.

Maddy Grimm, Ligonier Valley
It's tough finding a player from District 6 with better numbers than the Kent State softball signee. Grimm averaged team highs in points (13.1), rebounds (6.8), steals (5.9), blocks (2.1) and assists (5.4).

Stephanie Hrbal, Bishop McCort
Hrbal ranked second on team in scoring (8.3) and averaged 3.0 rebounds.

Sarah Pfeil, Richland
Pfeil averaged a team-high 14.1 points with 6.3 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game.

Marah Riley, Berlin
The lone senior in the Mountaineers' starting lineup, Riley could run the offense and get to the basket.

Kelsey Smith, Conemaugh Township
A combo guard/forward, Smith averaged 9.0 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists.

Kayla Stockenus, Shanksville-Stonycreek
Stockenus averaged 31.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.4 steals and made 172 free throws.

The South boys' All-Stars

The basketball season was a solid team for Somerset County teams. Conemaugh Township and Shade won district championships and state playoff games. In the case of the Indians, they advanced all the way to the PIAA Class AA quarterfinals.

It's no coincidence that those two schools comprise seven of the 12 players on the South roster for the AmeriServ Senior Hoops Showcase, which begins March 30 at 1 p.m. at the Pitt-Johnstown Sports Center.

Coach: Scott Close, Somerset
Close has steadily turned the Golden Eagles from a struggling program into a high-scoring, quick-shooting outfit capable of beating any team in the Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference. Somerset reached the District 6 Class AAA championship game this season.

Brent Barron, Somerset
Barron averaged a team-high 17.1 points and 6.1 rebounds.

Dillon Boyer, Conemaugh Township
The leader of the Indians' balanced offense, Boyer averaged 14.3 points and was a 1,000-point scorer.

Josh Burns, Conemaugh Township
High-percentage shooter averaged 11.4 points and 2.7 steals.

Jake Close, Somerset
The future basketball player at Juniata College averaged 15.8 points and made 78 3-pointers.

Chad Eisenhuth, Ferndale
A 1,000-point scorer, Eisenhuth averaged 21.1 points as a senior.

Jeff Fisher, Conemaugh Township
Football standout averaged 12.5 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.2 steals.

Ryan Fyock, Shade
A gifted, creative offensive player, Fyock averaged 25.2 points and 5.7 rebounds.

Brock Medva, Shade
The football standout made plenty of big plays for the Panthers. He averaged 10.1 points and 2.4 steals.

Luke Shertzer, Richland
One of the area's premier defensive backs during football season, Shertzer's fine senior year continued in basketball as he averaged 10.7 points and 4.3 rebounds.

Carter Slade, Shanksville
The Vikings' clutch senior averaged 15.7 points and 7.8 rebounds.

Jeremy Sotosky, Conemaugh Township
CT's inside presence averaged 10.9 points and 7.7 rebounds.

Wade Walker, Shade
An athletic gamechanger, Walker averaged 18.0 points and 13.1 rebounds.

T-D girls' basketball rankings

1. Forest Hills 17-4
Rangers earned top seed in District 6 Class AAA playoffs.
 
2. Portage 20-2
WestPAC champs avenged previous loss to Berlin Brothersvalley in title game.

3. Westmont Hilltop 19-4
Hilltoppers struggled vs. Bishop Guilfoyle in LHAC title game. Of course, every team struggles against BG.

4. Berlin Brothersvalley 20-3
Rachel Prosser's squad had a 19-game win streak snapped against Portage.

5. Richland 17-5
Winners of four straight, Richland opens postseason play tonight against Central Cambria.

6. Ligonier Valley 15-6
Class AAA Rams haven't been able to solve Blairsville, the top seed in Class AA.

7. Conemaugh Township 18-4
Indians play Shade for first time this season in opening round of District 5 Class A playoffs.

8. Conemaugh Valley 16-6
Balanced Blue Jays won final four conference games.

9. Bishop McCort 12-9
Crimson Crushers should prove to be a tough out in District 6 Class AA bracket.

10. Windber 12-10
Ramblers will have 14-day layoff before playing in District 5 Class AA playoffs.

District 6 girls' Class AA preview

Top seeds: 1. Bald Eagle Area (20-1), 2. Bellwood-Antis (19-1), 3. Westmont Hilltop (19-3), 4. Blairsville (21-1).
Defending champion: Forest Hills.
Top players: Erin Rodgers, Paige Lamberson (Westmont Hilltop), Sarah Pfeil, Katie Gehlmann (Richland), Mackenzie Barbin, Emily Daley (Bishop McCort), Bri Wasser, Taylor King-Brothers (Central Cambria), Kaitlyn Krug, Bri Mulhern (Penn Cambria), Marissa Ward (Bald Eagle), Mackenzie Livingston (Blairsville).
The skinny: Bald Eagle's record is impressive. The level of competition they played isn't. Ditto for Bellwood-Antis. ... The Hilltoppers play Bishop Guilfoyle for the Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference title later today. ... Blairsville averages close to 70 points per game and is coached by former Richland coach Ralph McGinnis. ... Richland is seeded seventh and if the Rams get past Central Cambria, they could give No. 2 Bellwood-Antis trouble. ... Bishop McCort has displayed considerable improvement as the season has progressed.
Sleeper: Richland.
Prediction: Blairsville over Westmont Hilltop.

District 6 boys' Class AA playoff preview

Top seeds: 1. Bald Eagle Area (19-2), 2. Penn Cambria (17-4), 3. Bellwood-Antis (18-2), 4. Tyrone (16-5).
Defending champion: Bishop McCort
Players to watch: A.J. Leahey, Devin Lawhead (Penn Cambria), Nemo Trexler, Billy Hipp (Bishop McCort), Kyle Flick (Richland), Adam Polites, Jeff Hogan (Northern Cambria), Isaac Vescovi (Cambria Heights), Dennis Fisher (Bald Eagle Area), Noah Davis (Bellwood-Antis).
The skinny: Only two of the bracket's top eight seeds hail from the Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference - Penn Cambria (second), Bishop McCort (eighth). Both are capable of making a postseason push. Richland is seeded 12th and had an up-and-down season, yet the Rams figure to be a very difficult first-round opponent for Northern Cambria, which is the defending D6 Class A champ. Thanks to WJAC's Matt Maisel, who alerted The Varsity Club that Bellwood-Antis' Noah Davis, who averages more than 22 ppg, has a broken wrist but played in the Blue Devils' most recent game.
Sleeper: Bishop McCort
Championship: Bishop McCort over Tyrone.

T-D girls' basketball rankings

1. Berlin 12-2
Mountaineers have tough back-to-back road games at Conamaugh Valley and Shade this week.

2. Portage 15-1
Only time Mustangs allowed more than 50 points in a game this season was against Quad-A Greater Latrobe, and Portage won that game.

3. Forest Hills 13-3
Loss to Bishop Guilfoyle couple weeks ago must have angered the Rangers as they've blown out four straight opponents.

4. Westmont Hilltop 13-3
Hilltoppers' Erin Rodgers is one of area's top scorers, but she's also averaging 4.9 steals per game.

5.  Richland 12-4
The Rams are solid, but 15-ppint home loss to Bishop Guilfoyle proves Marauders' mettle.

6. Ligonier Valley 9-4
A convincing 13-point win over Conemaugh Township could be a jump start for Rams.

7. Conemaugh Valley 11-3
Tough to find fault in Blue Jay's loss to Portage.

8. Conemaugh Township 11-3
Indians rebound from loss to Ligonier Valley with win vs. North Star. Big game vs. Portage on Wednesday.

9. Bishop McCort 9-6
Crimson Crushers had five-game win streak snapped against Forest Hills.

10. Shade 12-3
The Panthers are on an eight-game win streak and freshman Emma Spinelli is averaging 19.2 points per game.

T-D girls' basketball rankings

1. Berlin 11-2
The Mountaineers had a rare off week. No game played.

2. Portage 13-1
Tuesday's game against Conemaugh Valley should be a sturdy test.

3. Forest Hills 11-3
If Rangers can beat Bishop Guilfoyle at home, they should run the table.

4. Westmont Hilltop 11-3
The Hilltoppers were the latest area team to lose to Tussey Mountain.

5. Richland 11-3
The Rams are finally getting healthy again.

6. Conemaugh Valley 11-2
The Blue Jays haven't lost since Dec. 17.

7. Conemaugh Township 10-2
Indians are averaging 13.3 steals per game.

8. Bishop McCort 8-5
The only newcomer to the rankings, the Crimson Crushers are 5-1 and in first place in LHAC Section 1.

9. Penn Cambria 8-5
The Panthers have quietly pieced together a four-game win streak.

10. Ligonier Valley 8-4
The Rams are struggling to score points. A healthier team may be the remedy.

The season's first Tribune-Democrat basketball rankings

Other work commitments have kept The Varsity Club on the quiet side in recent weeks, and there were even thoughts of keeping the blog dedicated to high school football. But we're going to crank things up for the rest of the winter sports season and see how things go.

T-D sports staffer Shawn Curtis suggested The Varsity Club offer the area's first intergender basketball rankings. Interesting idea (kind of), but we'll keep things separate ... at least for now.

Since most teams are at or nearing the halfway mark of the regular season, seems like a good time to do some local basketball rankings.

Boys
1. Shade 10-0
2. Bishop McCort 6-2
3. Greater Johnstown 6-3
4. Penn Cambria 7-2
5. Somerset 7-4
6. Bishop Carroll 7-2
7. Cambria Heights 7-3
8. Northern Cambria 7-3
9. Richland 4-1
10. Conemaugh Township 6-2

Girls
1. Richland 9-1
2. Forest Hills 8-2
3. Berlin 8-2
4. Portage 9-1
5. Ligonier Valley 7-2
6. Westmobt Hilltop 7-2
7. Conemaugh Valley 7-2
8. Meyersdale 7-1
9. United 7-4
10. Conemaugh Township 7-2

Area well represented on PFN All-State teams

The Pennsylvania Football news released its comprehensive All-State teams on Tuesday, and the area is well-represented, particularly in Class AA.

If you want to read the entire list of players, click here.

Locally, many of the players – Richland's Tanner Solarczyk, Berlin' Drew Glotflety and Penn Cambria Mack Behe – one would expect to be recognized were. There were a few surprises, too.

Greater Johnstown's Dalvin Williams was the lone local representative on the Class AAA team. He earned second-team honors at linebacker after he finished the regular season with 149 tackles. Williams was a first-team selection to the Pennsylvania Sports Writers' All-State team and had 10 or more tackles in all 10 of the Trojans' games.

Richland's Kyle Flick

Solarczyk, selected Tribune-Democrat Offensive Player of the Year, was a first-team running back in Class AA and was joined on the first team by Rams receiver Kyle Flick. Richland also placed quarterback Matt Shaffer on the second team along with lineman Josh Dininny. Receiver Luke Shertzer was the fifth Richland player selected as he made third team offense.

Ligonier Valley placed two on the Class AA offense. Lineman Micah Tennant, who will play at Lehigh, was a second-team selection and Ryan Torrance made third team at running back.

Forest Hills receiver Jared Shope, who spent time at quarterback this season because of an injury to Rangers starter Joe Donoughe, was a third-team selection.

Ligonier Valley's Stuart Urch

Behe made the PA Sports Writers All-State team at linebacker as a junior and a senior, so it's no surprise that the disruptive force from Penn Cambria earned a first-team spot in Class AA. He's joined at linebacker by Ligonier's Stuart Urch, who had 20 sacks.

Central Cambria defensive lineman  Tyler Gironda was a third-team selection in Class AA.

Two area talents landed on the Class A second team offense in Bishop McCort kicker Jordan Spangler and Berlin's Drew Glotfelty. Spangler kicked nine field goals in addition to being one of the area's premier pass catchers. Glotfelty, along with Solarczyk, rushed for 2,000 yards.

Berlin offensive lineman Levi Bowser was a third-team selection along with Shade running back Brock Medva.

Luke DiFrancesco, another of Bishop McCort's talented receivers, earned second-team honors at defensive back. He was joined by emerging defensive lineman Stew Trulick of Berlin and Norther Cambria linebacker Alex Atkins – Tribune-Democrat Defensive Player of the Year. Atkins finished the season with 160 tackles.


Windber placed three players on the third team in receiver Matt Barkley, punter Dustin Blough and defensive back Devon Tomlinson. North Star's Brantley Rice was also a third-team pick at defensive back.

Pa. Sportswriters All-State team

The 2012 Pennsylvania Sports Writers All-State football team. With players’ school, height, weight and class.

Richland's Tanner Solarczyk was one of four running backs selected to the Pa. Sportswriters Class AA All-State team.

CLASS AAAA
OFFENSE
QUARTERBACK
Mack Leftwich, North Allegheny - 5-11, 190 sr.
Bryan Schor, Delaware Valley - 6-1, 215 sr.
Thomas Woodson, Gateway - 6-2, 225 sr.
RUNNING BACK
Mike Class, Pennridge - 5-11, 185 jr.
James Conner, McDowell - 6-2, 230 jr.
Robert Martin, Harrisburg - 6-0, 190 jr.
WIDE RECEIVER
Will Fuller, Roman Catholic - 6-1, 175 sr.
Gregg Garrity, North Allegheny - 5-10, 145 sr.
Chris Jones, Coatesville - 5-11, 165 sr.
TIGHT END
Zach Lyon, North Allegheny - 6-0, 190 sr.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN
Scott Augustine, McDowell - 6-1, 195 jr.
Dan Herbster, Garnet Valley - 6-3, 275 sr.
Patrick Kugler, North Allegheny - 6-5, 280 sr.
Mike McGlinchey, William Penn Charter - 6-8, 275 sr.
Tom Spiteri, La Salle College - 6-2, 285 sr.
Mike Unger, Parkland - 6-2, 250 sr.
ATHLETE
Sean Coleman, La Salle College - 5-9, 170 sr.
Drew Scales, Central Dauphin - 5-8, 175 sr.
Von Walker, Central Mountain - 6-0, 195 sr.
KICKER
Joe Julius, Lower Dauphin - 5-11, 200 jr.

DEFENSE
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN
Curtis Cothran, Council Rock North - 6-5, 245 sr.
Jeremy Gonzales, North Allegheny - 6-1, 220 sr.
Junior Joseph, Wilson-West Lawn - 6-3, 235 sr.
Jawan Turner, Woodland Hills - 6-1, 245 sr.
LINEBACKERS
Alex Beasley, Woodland Hills - 6-0, 230 jr.
Hodari Christian, McKeesport - 6-0, 215 sr.
Dakota Everett, Pleasant Valley - 6-4, 225 sr.
Zayd Issah, Central Dauphin - 6-4, 220 sr.
Dominic Moyer, Wilson-West Lawn - 5-10, 210 sr.
DEFENSIVE BACKS
Brendan Coniker, North Allegheny - 6-0, 180 sr.
Montae Nicholson, Gateway - 6-2, 200 jr.
John Reid, St. Joseph’s Prep - 5-10, 175 so.
DEFENSIVE SPECIALISTS
Jimmy Brooks, Wilson-West Lawn - 5-8, 160 sr.
Karlon Quiller, Scranton - 6-0, 180 sr.

PLAYER OF YEAR
Mack Leftwich, North Allegheny
COACH OF YEAR
Matt Ortega, Coatesville


CLASS AAA
OFFENSE
QUARTERBACK
Joe Carroll, Thomas Jefferson - 6-2, 180 sr.
Damion Terry, Erie Cathedral Prep - 6-4, 210 sr.
Alec Werner, Bishop McDevitt - 6-1, 200 sr.
RUNNING BACK
Roman Clay, Lancaster Catholic - 5-11, 215 sr.
Alex Cooley, Eastern York - 5-7, 180 sr.
Colin McDermott, Allentown Central Catholic - 5-11, 185 sr.
WIDE RECEIVER
Robert Foster, Central Valley - 6-2, 185 sr.
Brian Lemelle, Bishop McDevitt - 5-11, 175 sr.
Zach Smith, West York - 6-1, 171 sr.
TIGHT END
Taylor Geib, Manheim Central - 6-2, 210 jr.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN
Matt Barone, Montour - 6-3, 285 sr.
Jordan Diven, West Allegheny - 6-1, 230 sr.
Zach Duffy, Muhlenberg - 6-5, 315 sr.
Dorian Johnson, Belle Vernon - 6-6, 280 sr.
Brody Kern, West York - 6-2, 275 sr.
Fran Walsh, Archbishop Wood - 6-1, 245 sr.
ATHLETE
Derrick Fulmore, West Mifflin - 6-0, 190 sr.
Devin Wilson, Montour - 6-4, 180 sr.
KICKER
John Chereson, Erie Cathedral Prep - 5-10, 170 sr.

DEFENSE
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN
Jeff Gulyas, Allentown Central Catholic - 6-3, 210 sr.
Steve Marrazzo Jr., Bishop McDevitt - 6-1, 210 jr.
Erik Swanson, Erie Cathedral Prep - 6-2, 230 sr.
Quinn Thompson, General McLane - 6-5, 230 sr.
LINEBACKERS
Matt Galambos, Haverford School - 6-2, 225 sr.
Carter Henderson, Franklin Regional - 6-0, 215 sr.
Jerry Langan, Abington Heights - 5-11, 200 sr.
Jake Plonski, Erie Cathedral Prep - 6-2, 220 sr.
Dalvin Williams, Greater Johnstown - 6-2, 200 sr.
DEFENSIVE BACKS
Darnell Holland, Bishop McDevitt - 5-11, 185 sr.
Austin Jerman, Warren Area - 6-2, 180 sr.
Jermaine Norris, Mastery Charter North - 5-11, 180 jr.
ATHLETE
Andrew Guckin, Archbishop Wood - 5-11, 200 sr.
Delton Williams, Erie Cathedral Prep - 6-2, 210 sr.

PLAYER OF YEAR
Damion Terry, Erie Cathedral Prep
COACH OF YEAR
Mike Mischler, Erie Cathedral Prep





CLASS AA
OFFENSE
QUARTERBACK
Brett Brumbaugh, South Fayette - 6-3, 180 So.
Nick O’Brien, Wyoming Area - 5-10, 180 Sr.
RUNNING BACK
DeShawn Coleman, Hickory - 6-0, 175 Sr.
Shai McKenzie, Washington - 6-0, 215 Jr.
Tanner Solarczyk, Richland - 6-0, 197 Jr.
David Williams, Imhotep Charter - 6-1, 200 Sr.
WIDE RECEIVER
Lucas Benton, Wilkes-Barre GAR - 5-9, 170 Sr.
Zack Bogoly, Wilson Area - 6-2, 200 Sr.
Zach Challingsworth, South Fayette - 6-2, 185 Sr.
TIGHT END
Scott Orndorff, Seton-La Salle - 6-5, 240 Sr.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN
Josh Dininy, Richland - 6-4, 273 Sr.
Jaleel Fields, Aliquippa - 6-2, 275 Jr.
Jaryd Jones-Smith, West Catholic - 6-7, 290 Sr.
Kyle Santorine, Lewisburg - 6-2, 295 Sr.
Ben Wertz, Wyomissing - 6-3, 260 Sr.
ATHLETE
Patrick Duvgineaud, Jim Thorpe - 5-11, 170 Sr.
Terry Swanson, Aliquippa - 5-9, 182 Jr.
KICKER
Jonah Bowman, Wyomissing - 6-0, 190 Sr.

DEFENSE
DEFENSIVE LINEMAN
Scott Beltz, Penn-Argyl - 6-3, 210 Sr.
Eric Joraskie, Mount Carmel - 6-4, 265 Sr.
Jeriko Reyes, Wyomissing - 6-1, 215 Sr.
Shakir Soto, Wilkes-Barre GAR - 6-4, 255 Sr.
Stuart Urch, Ligonier Valley - 6-1, 219 Sr.
LINEBACKER
Alex Anzalone, Wyomissing - 6-3, 225 Sr.
Mack Behe, Penn Cambria - 6-2, 190 Sr.
Cole Bush, Burrell - 6-2, 220 Jr.
Eric Haney, Danville - 6-0, 192 Jr.
Jaylin Kelly, Washington - 6-2, 235 Sr.
Brandon Smith, Lewisburg - 6-2, 215 Sr.
DEFENSIVE BACK
Elijah Cottrill, Beaver Falls - 6-2, 170 So.
Dravon Henry, Aliquippa - 6-0, 182 Jr.
Cale Rice, Danville - 5-6, 172 Sr.
ATHLETE
Paryss Marshall, Catasauqua - 6-1, 180 Jr.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Alex Anzalone, Wyomissing
COACH OF THE YEAR
Bob Wolfrum, Wyomissing


CLASS A
OFFENSE
QUARTERBACK
Matt Bodamer, Port Allegany - 6-1, 180 Sr.
Chavas Rawlins, Monessen - 6-3, 188 Sr.
Lenny Williams, Sto-Rox - 6-0, 190 Jr.
RUNNING BACK
Blake Bowman, Tri-Valley - 5-9, 170 Sr.
Daiqwon Buckley, Dunmore - 5-11, 215 Jr.
Casey Gray, Bellwood-Antis - 6-0, 170 Jr.
WIDE RECEIVER
Nick Conway, Port Allegany - 6-2, 170 Sr.
John Klingerman, Bloomsburg - 5-9, 185 Sr.
Terrish Webb, Clairton - 6-1, 175 Sr.
TIGHT END
Erik Smeltz, Line Mountain - 6-2, 200 Sr.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN
Ryan Cherwinski, Southern Columbia - 6-0, 260 Sr.
Devonte Harvey, Clairton - 5-10, 195 Sr.
James McHale, Dunmore - 6-7, 285 Jr.
Austin Mital, Moshannon Valley - 6-3, 270 Sr.
Spencer Smeal, Curwensville - 6-2, 240 Sr.
ATHLETE
Tyler Boyd, Clairton - 6-2, 175 Sr.
Danny Ferens, Penns Manor - 6-1, 190 Sr.
KICKER
Philip Esposito, Brockway - 6-0, 180 Sr.

DEFENSE
DEFENSIVE LINEMAN
Mike Boland, Dunmore - 6-5, 265 Sr.
Keith Shawley, Bellwood-Antis - 5-11, 225 Sr.
Nick Ceschini, Bishop Guilfoyle - 6-4, 220 Sr.
Robert Boatright, Clairton - 5-10, 170 Sr.
LINEBACKER
T.J. Armstrong, Clarion - 6-2, 205 Sr.
Alex Atkins, Northern Cambria - 6-2, 235 Sr.
Austin Noel, Delone Catholic - 6-1, 210 Sr.
Cody Pavlick, Southern Columbia - 6-1, 200 Jr.
Shane Schuback, Old Forge - 6-0, 200 Jr.
Garrett Vulcano, Chartiers-Houston - 6-1, 190 Sr.
DEFENSIVE BACK
Dywan Blanding, Steel-High - 5-9, 180 Sr.
Titus Howard, Clairton - 6-2, 160 Sr.
Doug Twigg, Glendale - 5-9, 166 Sr.
ATHLETE
Owen Daniel, Williams Valley - 6-1, 180 Sr.
Brian Tomasetti, Old Forge - 6-1, 175 Sr.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Tyler Boyd, Clairton
COACH OF THE YEAR
Jack Henzes, Dunmore

Final Patriot-News football rankings

The final 2012 Pennsylvania high school football rankings from the Patriot-News of Harrisburg, with school’s district in parentheses, followed by record and position in last week’s rankings. NR means not ranked.
CLASS AAAA
1. North Allegheny (7) 16-0 1
2. Coatesville (1)13-3 2
3. Woodland Hills (7)10-3 5
4. LaSalle College (12)12-2 3
5. Wilson (3)13-2 4
6. St. Joseph’s Prep (12)10-1 6
7. Harrisburg (3)11-3 7
8. Upper St. Clair (7)10-2 9
9. Parkland (11)11-3 8
10. Spring-Ford (1)12-2 10
Honorable mention
x-Central Dauphin (3) 10-3, Delaware Valley (2) 11-2, Gateway (7) 9-2, McDowell (10) 7-6, Ridley (1) 11-1, Scranton (2) 11-1.

CLASS AAA
1. Cathedral Prep (10)15-0 1
2. x-Archbishop Wood (12)12-3 2
3. West Allegheny (7)12-2 3
4. Bishop McDevitt (3)14-1 4
5. Thomas Jefferson (7)11-1 5
6. Allentown C.C. (11)9-6 6
7. West York (3)13-1 7
8. West Mifflin (7)11-2 8
9. Montour (7)9-2 9
10. Interboro (1)11-3 10
Honorable mention
Abington Heights (2) 10-3, Berwick (2) 10-2, xx-Lancaster Catholic (3) 9-4, Mars (7) 9-2, Pottsgrove (1) 11-1, West Chester Henderson (1) 9-3.

CLASS AA
1. Wyomissing (3)16-0 2
2. Aliquippa (7)15-1 1
3. Imhotep Charter (12)14-1 3
4. Richland (6)14-1 4
5. Washington (7)12-1 5
6. South Fayette (7)11-1 6
7. Hickory (10)11-2 7
8. Pen Argyl (11)11-3 8
9. Wyoming Area (2)10-3 9
10. Catasauqua (11)12-1 10
Honorable mention
Bermudian Springs (3) 12-1, Danville (4) 11-3, Grove City (10) 9-2, Jeannette (7) 10-2, Wilmington (10) 9-3.

CLASS A
1. x-Clairton (7)16-0 1
2. Dunmore (2)14-2 2
3. Sto-Rox (7)11-2 3
4. Bellwood-Antis (6)13-2 4
5. Southern Columbia (4)12-1 5
6. Port Allegany (9)13-1 6
7. Old Forge (2)11-1 7
8. Sharpsville (10)11-2 8
9. Delone Catholic (3)9-4 9
10. Bristol (1)9-2 10
Honorable mention
Monessen (7) 9-2, Neshannock (7) 10-2, North Catholic (7) 9-3, Rochester (7) 9-2, West Middlesex (10) 10-3, Williams Valley (11) 12-1.
x-2011 PIAA champion. xx-2011 Class AA champion. Number in parentheses is PIAA district.

Twelve things on 12/12/12

Twelve things that crossed my mind on Dec. 12, 2012, which is the last day to have identical digits (12/12/12) until Jan. 1, 2101 (01/01/01).

1. Richland football earned a lot of respect with the way it played in the PIAA Class AA tournament, and coach Brandon Bailey showed why a growing number of people think he's one of the best around. Check out this quote from Aliquippa's Malik Shegog in a recent edition of the Tribune-Review, "Hats off to (Richland‘s) coach; they played hard, and he had them ready."

2. Sixteen 3-pointers in an awful lot to make in a game at any point during the season. Somerset hit 16 of them at Bishop Carroll in a boys game on Monday.

3. Central Cambria's Max Kirsch and Richland's Brady Moran both had opportunities to play Division I golf. It's a pretty neat story that the duo opted to become teammates next year at IUP, and a big get for the Crimson Hawks. Kirsch and Moran played their best in the big tournaments.

4. Winston Redman resigned as football coach at Conemaugh Valley. Like any coach, Redman had his detractor but, from this perspective, he did a solid job this season. CV has a lot of building to do. The linemen are small and so are the numbers.

5. Ferndale is also looking for a football coach to replace Tony Penna Sr. Rebuilding Ferndale is a bigger task than turning Conemaugh Valley into a winner. The Yellow Jackets' struggles brings me back to one of my favorite arguments. ... It's time for more mergers.

6. It will be interesting to see how many area players land on the Pennsylvania Sports Writers All-State football team. Here's a few guys I believe are worthy: Dalvin Williams (Johnstown), Stuart Urch (Ligonier Valley), Tanner Solarczyk, Josh Dininny, Derek Crawford, Luke Shertzer and Elijah Metzger (Richland), Drew Glotfelty (Berlin), Brock Medva (Shade), Tony Strasiser, Levi Albright (North Star) and Johnny Sheesley (Blacklick Valley).

7. With a majority of skill players returning, Richland should be primed for another strong year in 2013, but replacing all those seniors up front will be difficult. Don't be surprised if Forest Hills is right there with the Rams atop the LHAC standings next year.

8. All signs point toward Don Bailey returning for another season at Forest Hills. Could all signs be pointing to another "Bailey Bowl" for the District 6 Class AA title in 2013?

9. Greater Johnstown and Somerset fielded underclassmen-heavy teams this fall and should be much improved in 2013. Teams from the WestPAC, however, were senior-oriented. Should be interesting to see which programs do the best job replacing departing talent like Strasiser, Glotfelty and Sheesley.

10. Wondering how many other opening will happen in football? Counting Conemaugh Valley and Ferndale, the guess here is five.

11. Love it when teams beef up the schedule in hopes of bettering postseason performance. The Ligonier Valley girls basketball team, which moved up to Class AAA this year, is a good example. The Rams compete in the Heritage Conference, which includes some Class A schools. That won't help LV in the postseason, but playing at the Greensburg Salem Tournament gives it a better idea of what it will take to advance in a larger classification.

12. Did the players from Johnstown and Westmont get to keep the Ampipe/Walnut Heights jerseys their wore earlier this season?

Richland's keys to victory

Richland's Luke Shertzer is a two-way starter at receiver and defensive back.

A look at what Richland needs to do to beat Aliquippa tonight:

Play big, heavy and physical
Chatted with a coach that went up against Aliquippa during this postseason, and he believes the only way to compete against the Quips is to have three or four linemen who weigh 280 to 300 pounds and aren't shy about contact.
Richland only has one player – Josh Dinniny – close to that range, but there are experienced, talented players along the front line for the Rams.
They'll need to play at their best against an Aliquippa team whose physical nature is undermined by its superior athleticism. The Quips are so tough along the defensive front that it frees up their highly athletic linebackers and defensive backs.

Establish the pass
Richland boasts a balanced offense, but Aliquippa boasts Division I prospects in the defensive secondary. The Quips are as physical at defensive back as their are along the front. Generally, they look to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage. Basically, they don't let receivers run the intended routes.
Given Richland's offensive prowess, the Rams will need to get something going in the passing game early to keep the Quips from stacking the box in an effort to stop Tanner Solarczyk and Matt Shaffer from running the football.
Bubble screens? Screen passes? Trick plays? Why not?

Score first and second
An early touchdown would be a confidence booster, and it might rattle an Aliquippa team that has only trailed once – by a 6-0 score to Ellwood City – all season.
Against Hickory in the PIAA Class AA quarterfinals, Richland scored early and often.
Can that happen against Aliquippa? Maybe, especially if Richland can take advantage of any potential Aliquippa penalties or turnovers.

The 700-point club

Aliquippa entered exclusive company with its 51-15 victory over Karns City in the PIAA Class AA quarterfinals last week.

The win gave the Quips 709 points on the season. They became just the sixth team in Pennsylvania high school football history to reach the 700-point plateau.

Aliquippa's run-oriented offense is led by Dravon Henry (1,439 yards) and Terry Swanson (1,234 yards). The Quips have rushed for more than 4,000 yards.

According to head coach Mike Zmijanac, a hard-hitting, physical defense deserves all the credit.

"The key for us is defensively," Zmijanac said. "We've played extremely well on that side of the ball and given our offense opportunities to score. We're not fancy offensively and we're not fancy on defense. The kids are just executing."

Richland, which sports the same 14-0 record as Aliquippa, gets its shot to slow down the Quips' high-powered run game, which churned out more than 500 yards in the WPIAL championship game against a previously unbeaten Wash High.

Members of the 700-point club
1. Jeannette (2007) 860 points in 16 games
2. West Catholic (2008) 775 points in 16 games
3. Southern Columbia (2006) 755 in 16 games
4. Clairton (2010) 746 points in 16 games
5. Aliquippa (2012) 709 points in 14 games
6. Serra Catholic (2007) 702 points in 16 games

Patriot-News football rankings

CLASS AAAA -- Record -- Previous rank
1. North Allegheny (7) -- 13-0 -- 1
2. LaSalle College (12) -- 11-1 -- 2
3. Harrisburg (3) -- 11-2 -- 3
4. Parkland (11) -- 11-2 -- 5
5. Woodland Hills (7) -- 10-3 -- 4
6. St. Joseph’s Prep (12) -- 10-1 -- 6
7. Wilson (3) -- 12-1 -- 8
8. Coatesville (1) -- 11-2 -- NR
9. Spring-Ford (1) -- 12-1 -- NR
10. Upper St. Clair (7) -- 10-2 -- 7
Honorable mention
 Central Dauphin* (3) 10-3, Delaware Valley (2) 11-2, Gateway (7) 9-2, McDowell (10) 7-5, Ridley (1) 11-1, Scranton (2) 11-1.

CLASS AAA -- Record -- Previous rank
1. Cathedral Prep (10) -- 12-0 -- 1
2. Bishop McDevitt (3) -- 13-0 -- 2
3. Archbishop Wood* (12) -- 10-2 -- 3
4. West Allegheny (7) -- 12-1 -- 4
5. Thomas Jefferson (7) -- 11-1 -- 7
6. West York (3) -- 13-0 -- NR
7. West Mifflin (7) -- 11-2 -- 5
8. Allentown C.C. (11) -- 8-5 -- NR
9. Montour (7) -- 9-1 -- 9
10. Interboro (1) -- 11-2 -- NR
Honorable mention
 Abington Heights (2) 10-3, Berwick (2) 10-2, x-Lancaster Catholic (3) 9-4, Mars (7) 9-2, Pottsgrove (1) 11-1, Selinsgrove (4) 10-3.

CLASS AA -- Record -- Previous rank
1. Aliquippa (7) -- 13-0 -- 1
2. Imhotep Charter (12) -- 13-0 -- 2
3. Wyomissing (3) -- 13-0 -- 3
4. Hickory (10) -- 11-1 -- 5
5. Washington (7) -- 12-1 -- 4
6. Richland (6) -- 13-0 -- 7
7. Pen Argyl (11) -- 11-2 -- 8
8. South Fayette (7) -- 11-1 -- 6
9. Wyoming Area (2) -- 10-3 -- 10
10. Catasauqua (11) -- 12-1 -- NR
Honorable mention
Bermudian Springs (3) 12-1, Danville (4) 11-2, Grove City (10) 9-2, Jeannette (7) 10-2, Wilmington (10) 9-3.

CLASS A -- Record -- Previous rank
1. Clairton* (7) -- 13-0 -- 1
2. Dunmore (2) -- 12-1 -- 3
3. Sharpsville (10) -- 11-1 -- 5
4. Sto-Rox (7) -- 11-2 -- 4
5. Bellwood-Antis (6) -- 12-1 -- 6
6. Southern Columbia (4) -- 12-1 -- 2
7. Old Forge (2) -- 11-1 -- 7
8. Port Allegany (9) -- 12-0 -- 10
9. Bristol (1) -- 9-1 -- NR
10. Delone Catholic (3) -- 9-3 -- NR
Honorable mention
 Monessen (7) 9-2, Neshannock (7) 10-2, North Catholic (7) 9-3, Rochester (7) 9-2, West Middlesex (10) 10-3, Williams Valley (11) 12-1.

Richland's Mihalik signs with West Liberty

Richland High School senior Nicki Mihalik signed a National Letter of Intent to play softball at Division II West Liberty University. Mihalik pitched the Rams to Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference championships as a freshman and junior. She has 372 strikeouts and a 33-8 career record. She was also an all-conference selection in soccer as a senior.

Richland's Nicki Mihalik signs her National Letter of Intent to play softball at West Liberty. Standing from left to right are Jim Peracchino, travel coach; Carl Teeter, travel coach; Stephen Mihalik, father; Lisa Parana, mother; Ed Haberkorn, Richland softball coach; Rick Bicko, travel coach.

PA Football News rankings

Class AAAA:
Rank - School - District - Record - Score - Last Weeks Ranking1. North Allegheny (7) (13-0) Defeated Woodland Hills, 21-14 (1)
2. LaSalle College (12) (11-1) Did Not Play (2)
3. Wilson (West Lawn) (3) (12-1) Defeated Governor Mifflin, 21-14 (3)
4. Harrisburg (3) (11-2) Defeated Central Dauphin, 27-21 (5)

5. Parkland (11) (11-2) Defeated Delaware Valley, 49-41 (8)
6. McDowell (10) (7-5) Defeated State College, 42-0 (HM)
7. Coatesville (1) (11-2) Defeated Neshaminy, 63-28 (HM)

8. Spring-Ford (1) (12-2) Defeated Pennridge, 35-24 (HM)
9. St. Joseph's Prep (12) (9-1) Season Complete (6)
10. Pennridge (1) (11-2) Lost to Spring-Ford, 35-24 (4)
Honorable Mention:

Central Bucks South (10-2)

Central Dauphin (3) (10-3)
Delaware Valley (2) (11-2)

Downingtown East (1) (10-1)

Governor Mifflin (3) (10-3)

Neshaminy (1) (9-4)

Ridley (1) (11-1)

Scranton (2) (11-1)

Upper St. Clair (7) (10-2)

---

Class AAA:
Rank - School - District
1. Bishop McDevitt (3) (13-0) Defeated Lancaster Catholic, 27-7 (1)
2. Cathedral Prep (10) (12-0) Defeated General McLane, 48-14 2)
3. Archbishop Wood (12) (10-2) Did Not Play (3)

4. West York (3) (13-0) Defeated Susquehanna Township, 31-7 (4)
5. West Allegheny (7) (12-1) Defeated West Mifflin, 34-8 (5)

6. Selinsgrove (4) (9-3) Defeated University Prep, 41-14 (10)
7. Interboro (1)(11-2) Defeated West Chester Henderson, 14-12 (HM_
8. Allentown Central Catholic (11) (8-5) Defeated Abington Heights, 23-0 (HM)
9. Thomas Jefferson (7) (11-1) Season Complete (HM)
10. Pottsgrove (1) (11-1) Season Complete (HM)
Honorable Mention:

Abington Heights (2) (10-3)

Berwick Area (2) (10-2) 

Central Valley (7) (9-2)
Clearfield (9) (11-1)

Garden Spot (3) (10-1)

General McLane (10) (9-3)

Susquehanna Township (3) (10-3)

West Mifflin (7) (11-2)

---

Class AA:
Rank - School - District
1. Aliquippa (7) (13-0) Defeated Washington, 34-7 (1)
2. Wyomissing (3) (13-0) Defeated Bermudian Springs (2)
3. Imhotep Charter (12) (13-0) Defeated Boy's Latin, 58-8 (3)
4. Richland (6) (13-0) Defeated Forest Hills, 27-0 (5)
5. Hickory (10) (11-1) Defeated Wilmington, 39-7 (7)
6. Pen Argyl (11) (10-2) Defeated Wyoming Area, 21-7 (8)
7. Danville (4) (11-2) Defeated Mount Carmel, 28-21 (10)
8. Karns City (9) (10-3) Defeated Chestnut Ridge, 35-29 (HM)
9. South Fayette (7) (11-1) Season Complete (9)
10. Washington (7) (12-1) Lost to Aliquippa, 34-7 (4) (Blogger's note: Washington beat South Fayette in the WPIAL playoffs but fell behind SF in this week's rankings.)

Honorable Mention:

Bermudian Springs (3) (12-1)

Catasauqua (11) (12-1)

Forest Hills (6) (9-4)

Jeannette (7) (10-2)

Wilmington (10) (9-3)

Wyoming Area (2) (10-3)

---

Class A:
Rank - School - District
1. Clairton (7) (13-0) Defeated Sto-Rox, 58-21 (1) (60 Straight Wins - Breaks the state Record)
2. Dunmore (2) (12-1) Defeated Southern Columbia, 35-29 (5)
3. Port Allegany (9) (13-0) Defeated Clarion Area, 47-8 (3)
4. Bellwood-Antis (6) (12-1) Defeated Bishop McCort, 54-3 (7)
5. Sharpsville (10) (11-1) Defeated West Middlesex, 28-0 (8)
6. Southern Columbia (4) (12-1) Lost to Dunmore, 35-29 (2)
7. Bristol (1) (9-1) Defeated Williams Valley, 20-0 (HM)
8. Berlin Brothersvalley (5) (11-1) Defeated North Star, 14-6 (HM)

9. Delone Catholic (3) (9-3) Defeated Steelton-Highspire, 28-13 (HM)
10. Old Forge (2) (11-1) Season Complete (9)

Honorable Mention:
Clarion Area (9) (12-1)
Monessen (7) (9-2)

Neshannock (7) (10-2)

North Star (5) (10-3)

Sto-Rox (7) (11-1)

Tri-Valley (11) (10-2)

West Middlesex (10) (10-3)

Williams Valley (11) (12-1)

#Won13

Every team has preseason goals and expectations. The Richland High School football team is no different.

The Rams, however, aren't afraid to raise the bar.

They're not afraid to let it be known, either.

Before a down was played this season, Richland adopted a Twitter hashtag used by coach Brandon Bailey, players and fans alike.

Many tweets concluded with "#win13."

For those not in the know, Twitter is a booming method of social media. It's used by movie stars, rock stars, pro athletes and, on a more local level, high school student-athletes and coaches. Twitter is an effective and quick way to communicate with an entire team and beyond.

Richland football actively uses Twitter as a communication vehicle. The Rams also entered the season with the heavy expectation of winning its first 13 games, which would lead to the program's first district championship.

Hence, the hashtag "#win13."

A couple weeks ago, senior receiver/defensive back Luke Shertzer explained the hashtag.

"It's something we talked about before the season, and it feels great knowing we're close to achieving it," Shertzer said. "All summer long, we talked about winning the (Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference) and the district. Winning 13 games meant we would do both."

Well, Richland achieved its goal Friday night when it shut out Forest Hills, 27-0, in the District 6 Class AA championship at Mansion Park in Altoona.

It prompted a change in hashtags.

Shertzer, who goes by @GeistownsFinest on Twitter said following the win, "Wouldn't trade this team for the world, thank you for making my senior year memorable #loveyall #WON13"

Matt Shaffer (@mshaffe12) "Words just can't describe this... #won13"

Tanner Solarczyk (@Tsolarczyk) "Best feeling ever #won13"

Mario Rizzo (@mariorizzo1411) "Hats off to FH, great game D6 champs!!!! Greatest feeling. Lets keep rolling and #win16"

Of course, for the Rams to win 16, it means they'll be crowned PIAA champions at the end of the year. First, Richland (13-0) must get past District 10 champion Hickory in the quarterfinals on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Slippery Rock University.

Who knows, by next week, maybe Richland will be tweeting "#won14."

Forest Hills/Richland aka "The Bailey Bowl" capsule

Forest Hills (9-3) vs. Richland (12-0)

What: District 6 Class AA championship.

When: 7 p.m., today.

Where: Mansion Park, Altoona.

District titles: Forest Hills, 9 – 1985 (Class AAA), 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 2002, 2005, 2009, 2010 (Class AA). Richland, none.

Forest Hills scores: Westmont Hilltop (W, 44-0), Bishop McCort (L, 10-6), Bishop Carroll (W, 27-0), Bishop Guilfoyle (L, 14-0), Cambria Heights (L, 24-6), Central Cambria (W, 28-14), Penn Cambria (W, 20-18), Somerset (W, 17-7), Greater Johnstown (W, 29-24), Philipsburg-Osceola (W, 43-0), Central (W, 21-7), Ligonier Valley (W, 26-12).

Richland scores: Cambria Heights (W, 38-20), Bishop Guilfoyle (W, 35-12), Bedford (W, 62-14), Greater Johnstown (W, 42-0), Bishop McCort (W, 17-10), Somerset (W, 47-0), Westmont Hilltop (W,
51-23), Penn Cambria (W, 30-12), Central Cambria (W, 35-0), Bellwood-Antis (W, 14-7), Penn Cambria (W, 28-0), Tyrone (W, 43-22).

Forest Hills coach Don Bailey
Seasons as head coach: 39.
Career record: 333-91-8.
District titles: 9.
This season: 9-3.
Highlight: Led Rangers to 1994 PIAA Class AA state championship game, a 20-14 double-overtime loss to Mount Carmel.

Richland coach Brandon Bailey
Seasons as head coach: 11.
Career record: 62-55.
District titles: 0.
This season: 12-0.
Highlight: Led Rams to first playoff berth in 20 seasons in 2008 and advanced to the district championship game two straight years.

Bailey vs. Bailey
Forest Hills is 9-1 against Richland since the father-son coaching duel began in 2002. ... The total includes Rangers playoff wins in 2008 and 2009. Richland won the 2011 season opener in Sidman. ... The teams did not meet during the 2012 regular season.