8th grade team on winning streak

Riding a four-game win streak and 6-2 overall mark into play this week against their rivals from Boardman Center Middle and Boardman Glenwood Middle School, coach Joe Paris’ Red squad could very easily be undefeated with a break or two.

“We like to run when we get the ball and fast break whenever possible. I am very pleased with our record. But more importantly, I am delighted that everyone on the team excels in the classroom.

“They all receive high marks for their work academically,” Paris sated.

The team’s six wins have come against both Boardman middle schools, Poland, Youngstown Christian, Howland and P. Ross Berry Middle School.

An excellent defensive unit, Paris’ starting unit consists of guards Michael Butcher and Gabe Chepke; forwards Nick Sheely and Jake Stephens and center Alex DiFrancesco.

DiFrancesco is the team’s leading rebounder and threat inside while Sheely and Stephens join DiFrancesco as the three team members averaging in double-figure scoring thus far on the season.

Shane Vitullo, a defensive stalwart, is one of the first off the bench while Devine Redding is the squad’s most improved player, according to Paris.

Other players seeing action include guard C.J. Martini and forwards Austin Bartley, Richie Gunter and Jake Cappezuto.

“We lost two heartbreakers this season; the first to Canfield by four points and the other at the buzzer to Warren.

“We feel that we learned a lot about ourselves in both games and consequently, we’re a much stronger team as a result,” Paris said.