Hull leads Team USA

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Canon-McMillan senior Mike Hull earned Team USA MVP honors as the linebacker led the United States team of high school stars a 17-0 win over the World team on Saturday.
Hull, who will a National Letter of Intent with Penn State Wednesday, earned consistsnt praise from NFL Network analyst Deion Sanders for his play throughout the game.
Along with Travis Williams, Hull led the United State teams with eight tackles and Hull made the game’s only interception on a diving effort in the third quarter. Team USA led 14-0 at the time but Team World drove to the 12-yard line when Hull picked off Jeremi Doyon-Roch’s third-down pass.
Mark Myers completed 7 of 10 passes for 79 yards and directed a key second-half touchdown drive.
Central Florida commit Josh Reese’s 50-yard catch from Myers set up a touchdown just before halftime, and Ethan Grant (TCU) and Dontae Williams (Oregon) scored on short runs and Ben Hopfinger kicked a 40-yard field goal.
The game featured 45 top U.S. high-school seniors against a squad of under-20 players from outside the United States. Eight countries were represented, with Canada supplying 32 of the 45 World players.

Four cited for roles in brawl at Washington-Monessen game

Two adults and two juveniles were issued citations for disorderly conduct by the Monessen Police Department for their roles in a fight that erupted between fans during halftime of Friday night's boys basketball game between Washington and Monessen at Monessen High School.

Lt. Ed Lyons said the incident started between a Monessen juvenile and "a couple" Washington juveniles before quickly escalating. Three people from Washington were cited and one from Monessen.

The fight began between females in the hallway and spilled into the gymnasium.

Monessen Police plan to release names early next week after reviewing video taken during the altercation.

Monessen school administrators have confirmed that its current girls basketball players were not involved.

Local basketball rankings

Boys
1. Washington (AA) 11-4
2. Monessen (AA) 11-3
3. South Fayette (AA) 12-2
4. Peters Township (AAAA) 10-6
5. Trinity (AAA) 10-3

Girls
1. Peters Township (AAAA) 9-9
2. Monessen (A) 12-1
3. Fort Cherry (A) 13-3
4. South Fayette (AA) 11-5
5. Beth-Center (AA) 13-3

WPIAL releases football schedules

The WPIAL released football schedules for the 2010 season and, in terms of non-conference games, the football committee didn't set up many intriguing match-ups for local teams.

Peters Township failed to draw a Quad-A opponent, as the WPIAL scheduled them against Laurel Highlands, Kittanning and West Mifflin. Trinity plays Central Valley (a merger of Center and Monaca) in Week 4 and Waynesburg drew Beaver Falls, also in Week 4. Fort Cherry, as usual, plays Rochester in Week 2.

Teams in conferences with eight teams or fewer receive an open date (Week 1) from the WPIAL where the school is permitted to schedule any team.

Class AA Charleroi and Class A Monessen are in nine-team conferences which means the two cross-river rivals will not renew the WPIAL's oldest football rivalry. The Cougars and Greyhounds last played on the opening game of 2007. The next meeting will be the 100th between the two.

Ringgold hoped the WPIAL would cross-section the Keystone Conference with the Big Eight Conference so the Rams could play rival Belle Vernon. Ringgold was scheduled against Hampton and Belle Vernon drew New Castle. Both schools have an open date in Week 1 but Ringgold athletic director Lloyd Price said the school agreed to play it's open date against Elizabeth Forward.

To view the entire schedule, click:
http://www.wpial.org/general/sportsalignments2004.asp

Conference games of note:
Great Southern (AAAA) – Peters Township at Canon-McMillan (Oct. 29);
Big Eight (AAA) – McGuffey at Trinity (Oct. 29);
Keystone Conference (AAA) – Ringgold at Hollidaysburg (Sept. 17), Franklin Regional at Ringgold (Oct. 22);
Century Conference (AA) – Washington at South Fayette (Sept. 24);
Interstate Conference (AA) – Greensburg Central Catholic at Charleroi (Sept. 17);
Black Hills Conference (A) – Fort Cherry at Clairton (Oct. 22);
Tri-County South Conference (A) – Beth-Center at Monessen (Oct. 8).

APB, Where are they Now?

Over a four-year stretch from the 1998-99 season to 2001-02, Jefferson-Morgan boys basketball was a postseason regular.

The Rockets went 41-7 in section play and 74-28 overall during an unprecedented run in the team's history. In the 1999 WPIAL Class A playoffs, Jefferson-Morgan beat Monessen in the first-round before losing to St. Joseph in the quarterfinals.

The following year, J-M was the No. 2 seed and received a first-round bye. the Rockets got to the WPIAL semifinals and notched a first with a PIAA first-round win over Forbes Road (District 5). J-M lost to eventual state champion Kennedy Christian (now Kennedy Catholic) in the second round.

WPIAL playoff appearances were made the following two years as well under the direction of long-time coach Jim Romanus, who is the girls basketball coach at West Greene.

The key players during the first two years of the run were all named Wilson – Calvin Wilson, Troy Wilson and Damon Wilson.

The Varsity Letters issues an All Points Bulletin for all three.

Cousins Calvin and Damon Wilson were seniors the year Jefferson-Morgan won its state playoff game. Calvin's plans included attending Robert Morris and walking on the basketball team. Damon attended the University of Kentucky.

Troy Wilson, Damon's brother, was a junior that year and missed part of his senior year due to legal troubles.

Anyone with information on any or all of the Wilsons is urged to contact The Varsity Letters.

Week in review, Jan. 18-24

Boys Basketball
Team of the week
Monessen Greyhounds - Monessen went 4-0 with victories over California (75-31), South Fayette (83-70), Frazier (50-31) and Chartiers-Houston (87-62) with an average margin of victory at 25.2 points.

South Fayette entered the game undefeated and as the Observer-Reporter's No. 1 Class AA team.

Monessen (7-1 Section 5-AA, 10-3 overall) has won seven straight since Jaisen Irwin joined the team. Irwin has averaged 13.6 points.

Runner-up - Bentworth

Starting five
Josh Stepoli, Monessen
Nate Bellhy, Fort Cherry
Troy Wilson, Washington
John Barker, Bentworth
Tyler Pavan, Burgettstown
Off the bench
Kionte Davis, Canon-McMillan

Games of the week - Canon-McMillan beats Upper St. Clair, 61-57, Friday to move into a fourth-place tie in Section 4-AAAA; Waynesburg beats Elizabeth Forward, 68-66, Friday for its second consecutive win in Section 5-AAA.

Weird, wild stuff - Fort Cherry gave up 101 points to South Fayette, 93 to North Catholic and 91 to Carlynton in successive games. That's an average of 95 per game. The Rangers are allowing a WPIAL-worst 73.2 points per game.

Girls basketball
Team of the week
Fort Cherry Rangers - Fort Cherry went 4-0 with victories over Cornell (54-29), Burgettstown (47-40), Avella (44-26) and Serra Catholic (50-43). The Rangers (7-0, 11-3) are the only unbeaten team in Section 2-A play and hold a one-game lead in the standings over Serra.

Avella, Chartiers-Houston and Serra each average more points per game than Fort Cherry (48.4) but the Rangers are allowing just 37.1 points per game, best in the section and third-best in Class A to Carmichaels and Rochester.

Sophomore Beka Bellhy averaged 14.5 points per game last week.

Runner-up - Monessen

Starting five
Beka Bellhy, Fort Cherry
Emily Sweat, Trinity
Chelsea Evans, Washington
Kristina Wagner, California
Emily Hansen, Canon-McMillan
Off the bench
Mariah Ward, Monessen

Games of the week - Monessen beats California, 42-41, on Geena Shrader's last-second shot in Section 3-A; Washington holds off Charleroi in the fourth quarter for a 44-43 win in Section 5-AA.

Weird, wild stuff - C-M's Hansen has reached double figures in points in 12 of 14 games. Her teammates have scored in double figures a combined seven times.

WPIAL girls basketball rankings

Class AAAA
1. Mt. Lebanon 14-2
2. Bethel Park 13-1
3. Fox Chapel 12-2
4. Norwin 11-3
5. Baldwin 10-4

Class AAA
1. Hopewell 15-0
2. Indiana 13-0
3. New Castle 13-2
4. Chartiers Valley 10-4
5. Uniontown 10-2

Class AA
1. Avonworth 14-0
2. Greensburg Central Catholic 11-0
3. Seton-La Salle 11-4
4. Jeannette 12-1
5. Beaver 11-2

Class A
1. North Catholic 12-3
2. Monessen 10-1
3. Rochester 14-2
4. Quigley 11-2
5. Fort Cherry 11-3

WPIAL boys basketball rankings

Class AAAA
1. Mt. Lebanon 14-0
2. Butler 13-1
3. Pittsburgh Central Catholic 11-3
4. North Allegheny 12-3
5. Plum 13-2

Class AAA
1. Chartiers Valley 13-1
2. Hampton 13-1
3. Laurel Highlands 14-1
4. Greensburg Salem 10-3
5. Trinity 10-2

Class AA
1. North Catholic 13-1
2. South Fayette 11-1
3. Rochester 15-1
4. Shady Side Academy 11-2
5. Washington 10-4

Class A
1. Sewickley Academy 11-2
2. Serra Catholic 12-2
3. Clairton 3-2
4. Lincoln Park 10-4
5. Cornell 11-4

Girls scoring leaders

Girls scoring

Through Jan. 21
Name, school G Pts. Avg.
Sowers, B-C 8 147 18.4
Pattison, McG 11 191 17.4
Moluski, Cal 11 167 15.2
Temple, Avella 11 165 15.0
Ward, Mon 9 132 14.7
Hansen, C-M 14 202 14.4
Shashura, B-C 8 110 13.8
Wagner, Cal 11 151 13.7
Shrader, Mon 9 123 13.7
T. Bonacci, Burg 12 159 13.2
Iacovino, Charl 8 105 13.1
K. Rosemeier, C-H 12 142 12.9
Sweat, Trin 11 141 12.9
Dickerson, Maple 10 125 12.5
Lucsko, McG 11 133 12.1
Jes. Dorazio, Bent 9 109 12.1
Mo. Stuvek, Carm 14 158 11.3
Bellhy, FC 13 146 11.2
Cree, Carm 14 149 10.6
Flament, Charl 8 85 10.6
McMasters, Cal 11 116 10.5
Thorne, Charl 8 83 10.4
Yourchik, J-M 13 134 10.3
Phillis, Burg 12 123 10.2
Barr, Avella 11 111 10.1

Statistics reflect games reported to the Observer-Reporter. To update statistics, please call 724-222-6397 after 5 p.m. or e-mail mkovak@observer-reporter.com.

Thinking out loud

The Observer-Reporter has learned that Trinity football coach and athletic director Ed Dalton is a finalist for the varsity football coaching position at Norwin High School.

Norwin finished 5-5 in 2009 with a 2-4 record in the Class AAAA Foothills Conference.

Dan Conwell previously coached at Norwin.

* With the recent transfers of Dylan Bongiorni (pictured) from Burgettstown to West Allegheny, which happened Friday, and Terrance Stepoli from Monessen to Greensburg Central Catholic, expect significant backlash.

It's already begun in Burgettstown, which, arguably, lost its best high school athlete.

Bongiorni started at quarterback as a freshman and sophomore for the Blue Devils and, with Burgettstown moving up to Class AA, his absence will be felt. Through 10 games with the Burgettstown basketball team, Bongiorni averaged 19.7 points per game.

Burgettstown is not expected to sign off on the transfer, which means a meeting with the WPIAL Board of Control is likely to determine if the transfer was for athletic intent. Burgettstown athletic director Jon Vallina and boys basketball coach Brendan Cypher both said that the move to West Allegheny was something they've heard since Bongiorni's freshman year, repeatedly.

Monessen athletic director John Sacco said the school won't contest the transfer of Stepoli, who was kicked off the boys basketball team during a loss at Washington on Jan. 5. Stepoli, like Bongiorni, was also a starting quarterback for the football team.

Since Stepoli's departure, Monessen is 7-0.

* Got to feel bad for the Ringgold girls basketball team and chances are head coach Nick Mandich feels jinxed.

First, standout forward Alina Selby suffers a season-ending knee injury five games into the season. Selby didn't play as a junior with a knee injury suffered last the 2008 volleyball season. Then, Ringgold lost point guard Alana Resanovich with a knee injury. Resanovich also missed time last year due to injury.

With those two, Ringgold looked primed to contend for third or fourth place in Section 4-AAAA behind heavyweights Mt. Lebanon and Bethel Park.

Boys scoring leaders

Boys scoring

Through Jan. 21
Name, school G Pts. Avg.
Bellhy, FC 12 380 31.7
Valentic, Trinity 11 238 21.6
Bongiorni, Burg. 9 181 20.1
Musgrove, Carm 11 204 18.5
Wolcott, PT 12 216 18.0
Lamberti, SF 9 155 17.2
Porterfield, Maple 9 146 16.2
Brown, Wash 13 205 15.8
Roman, Bent 11 174 15.8
Zedreck, SF 9 142 15.8
Cumpston, Maple 9 133 14.8
Barker, Bent 11 162 14.7
Pavan, Burg 13 190 14.6
McIlvaine, C-H 11 159 14.5
Bielecki, Burg 13 179 13.8
Scott, C-H 11 150 13.6
Wilson, Wash 12 162 13.5
Henry, SF 9 119 13.2
Lohr, Wbg 8 106 13.2
Davis, C-M 11 140 12.7
Yamber, Avella 11 138 12.5
Tyler, Cal 10 125 12.5
Mitchell-Walls, Bent 11 134 12.2
Moskola, J-M 7 85 12.1
McAnany, McG 12 143 11.9
Jones, C-H 8 95 11.9
Jones, WG 8 95 11.9
Minnick, Maple 9 102 11.3
Horensky, PT 12 134 11.2
Stine, Ringgold 9 101 11.2
Williamson, FC 13 143 11.0
Berger, C-M 10 109 10.9
Madison, Mon 8 87 10.9
Johnson, Mon 9 97 10.8
Diethorn, B-C 9 95 10.6
VanOlst, Cal 9 95 10.6
Stepoli, Mon 9 95 10.6
Anderson, Bent 11 116 10.5
J. Krall, Carm 11 116 10.5
Coleman, Wbg 8 83 10.4
Robinson, C-M 11 113 10.3
Burroughs, SF 9 92 10.2

Statistics reflect games reported to the Observer-Reporter. To update statistics, please call 724-222-6397 after 5 p.m. or e-mail mkovak@observer-reporter.com.

Local basketball rankings

Let's see … South Fayette beats Wash High (minus Troy Wilson) by 35 in late December. Washington beats Monessen by 16 in early January. Finally, on Wednesday night, Monessen beats South Fayette by 13.

What's to make of it all? Well, all three look primed to make significant postseason runs.

Boys rankings
1. South Fayette 10-1
2. Trinity 9-2
3. Peters Township 9-5
4. Washington 9-4
5. Monessen 8-3

Girls rankings
1. South Fayette 10-2
2. Peters Township 7-8
3. Beth-Center 10-2
4. Monessen 9-1
5. Fort Cherry 10-3

Hooks at Aliquippa

Zach Hooks started the 2009-10 school year at Charleroi High School armed with a full scholarship offer from the University of Pittsburgh football team. The 6-7, 290 junior has the size and footwork of a major Division I offensive lineman.

Hooks struggled through the Cougars' football season despite Charleroi coming this close to making the WPIAL Class AA playoffs from the Interstate Conference, which produced WPIAL champion and PIAA runner-up Greensburg Central Catholic. The possible Division I lineman failed to make his all-conference team.

A starting center as a sophomore on Charleroi's basketball team, Hooks never appeared in a game for the Cougars and reports surfaced that he transfered to Aliquippa. http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/valleyindependent/s_661442.html

On Jan. 12, Scout.com did a feature story on Hooks, who was participating in the U.S. Army Scouting Combine in San Antonio, Texas and refers to him as "Charleroi (Pa.) junior offensive tackle/defensive tackle."
http://recruiting.scout.com/a.z?s=73&p=2&c=937117&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2frecruiting.scout.com%2f2%2f937117.html

Judging from today's Post-Gazette, it's safe to say the Valley Independent's story on the Aliquippa transfer was correct.http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10020/1029548-364.stm

WPIAL football alignment for 2010-11

Class AAAA (27 teams)
Northern Seven Conference
Butler, Erie McDowell, North Allegheny, North Hills, Pine-Richland, Seneca Valley, Shaler
Foothills Conference
Connellsville, Gateway, Hempfield, Latrobe, McKeesport, Norwin, Penn-Trafford
Big East Conference
Altoona, Fox Chapel, Kiski Area, Plum, Penn Hills, Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Woodland Hiils
Great Southern Conference
Baldwin, Bethel Park, Canon-McMillan, Mt. Lebanon, Peters Township, Upper St. Clair

Class AAA (31 teams)
Big Eight Conference
Belle Vernon, Chartiers Valley, Elizabeth Forward, McGuffey, South Park, Thomas Jefferson, Trinity, West Mifflin
Keystone Conference
Albert Gallatin, Derry Area, Franklin Regional, Greensburg-Salem, Hollidaysburg, Laurel Highlands, Ringgold, Uniontown
Parkway Conference
Ambridge, Blackhawk, Central Valley, Hopewell, Montour, Moon, New Castle, West Allegheny
Greater Allegheny
Hampton, Highlands, Indiana, Kittanning, Knoch, Mars, Valley

Class AA (34 teams)
Century Conference
Burgettstown, Keystone Oaks, Quaker Valley, Seton-La Salle, South Allegheny, South Fayette, Steel Valley, Washington
Allegheny Conference
Apollo-Ridge, Burrell, Deer Lakes, Ford City, Freeport, Shady Side Academy, Summit Academy, West Shamokin
Midwestern Conference
Aliquippa, Beaver, Beaver Falls, Ellwood City, Freedom, Laurel, Mohawk, New Brighton, Riverside
Interstate Conference
Brownsville, Charleroi, East Allegheny, Greensburg Central Catholic, Jeannette, Mt. Pleasant, Southmoreland, Waynesburg, Yough

Class A (34 teams)
Eastern Conference
Avonworth, Bishop Canevin, Leechburg, North Catholic, Northgate, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Riverview, Springdale. Wilkinsburg
Black Hills Conference
Avella, Bentworth, Brentwood, Carlynton, Chartiers-Houston, Clairton, Fort Cherry, Serra Catholic
Big Seven Conference
Cornell, Neshannock, Rochester, Shenango, South Side Beaver, Sto-Rox, Union, Western Beaver
Tri-County South Conference
Beth-Center, California, Carmichaels, Frazier, Geibel, Jefferson-Morgan, Mapletown, Monessen, West Greene

Thinking out loud

The WPIAL football alignment for the 2010 and 2011 seasons will be released at the Board of Control meeting Tuesday.

A total of 12 teams will change classification, including McGuffey (AAA) and Burgettstown (AA). Our Lady of the Sacred Heart has ended its co-op with Cornell and will compete in Class A. Central Valley, the merger of Center and Monaca, will play Class AAA.

Considering the changes, this must have been one of the more difficult alignments in recent memory.

Here's a couple strong possibilities:

Washington, Burgettstown and South Allegheny moved to the Century Conference and replace Bishop Canevin, Sto-Rox and South Park. Bishop Canevin and Sto-Rox dropped to Class A, while South Park moved up to Class AAA.

McKeesport moves back to the Great Southern Conference.

The Black Hills Conference takes on a new look with the addition of Bishop Canevin and Sto-Rox. There's also a lot of talk about the Tri-County South being disbanded or, at the very least, Monessen being moved from that conference.

* It's been a weird year for Section 5-AA boys basketball.

First, Zach Hooks does not play at Charleroi and one published story reported the 6-6 junior transfered to Aliquippa.

Next, Terrance Stepoli was kicked off the Monessen team thanks to his actions during a loss at Washington. According to several sources, Stepoli is hoping to enroll at Greensburg Central Catholic.

And, last week, Dylan Bongiorni quit the Burgettstown basketball team after the first game of a stretch where the Blue Devils played three games in three days. Bongiorni was averaging 19.7 points. Many believe Bongiorni will end up at West Allegheny.

Hooks, Stepoli and Bongiorni were considered three of the top players in the section entering the year. With half the section schedule remaining, they are not playing.

It certainly adds some twists to the playoff race, which also includes Washington, Chartiers-Houston and California.

The most behaved team may end up winning the section.

* Anyone else like the grit of the Trinity boys basketball team?

The Hillers aren't going to wow anyone with statistics, though junior Josh Valentic is in the midst of a superb season. Trinity is winning close games and doing it with defense, hustle and rebounding.

I covered two Trinity games last week – a 21-point win over Elizabeth Forward and a two-point win at Belle Vernon. As someone who covered a lot of Pitt basketball through much of the decade, I see Trinity doing a lot of the little things that the Panthers did so well when they first became a national power.

Boys scoring leaders

Boys scoring

Through Jan. 17
Name, school G Pts. Avg.
Bellhy, FC 11 341 31.0
Valentic, Trinity 10 213 21.3
Bongiorni, Burg. 9 181 20.1
Lamberti, SFay 7 129 18.4
Musgrove, Carm. 9 159 17.7
Porterfield, Maple. 7 121 17.3
Brown, Wash. 12 200 16.7
Wolcott, PT 11 180 16.4
Roman, Bent. 9 144 16.0
Zedreck, SFay 7 111 15.9
Barker, Bent. 9 138 15.3
Cumpston, Maple. 7 105 15.0
Tyler, Cal. 8 114 14.3
Henry, SFay. 7 100 14.3
Pavan, Burg. 12 168 14.0
Scott, C-H 9 125 13.9
Bielecki, Burg. 12 166 13.8
McIlvaine, C-H 9 122 13.6
Wilson, Wash. 11 149 13.5
Yamber, Avella 10 126 12.6
Davis, C-M 10 125 12.5
Lohr, Wbg. 6 74 12.3
Moskola, J-M 6 73 12.2
McAnany, McG 11 133 12.1
Jones, C-H 8 95 11.9
Mitchell-Walls, Bent. 9 105 11.7
Minnick, Maple. 7 81 11.6
Jones, WG 6 69 11.5
Williamson, FC 12 137 11.4
Horensky, PT 11 125 11.4
Stine, Ringgold 9 101 11.2
Berger, C-M 10 109 10.9
J. Krall, Carm. 9 96 10.7
Coleman, Wbg. 6 64 10.7
Robinson, C-M 10 104 10.4
Burrough, SFay. 7 72 10.3
Wilcox, PT 11 112 10.2
Zavatski, C-H 9 91 10.1
Anderson, Bent. 9 90 10.0
J. Stepoli, Mon. 7 70 10.0
Mox, J-M 6 60 10.0

Statistics reflect games reported to the Observer-Reporter. To update statistics, please call 724-222-6397 after 5 p.m. or e-mail mkovak@observer-reporter.com.

Girls scoring leaders

Girls scoring

Through Jan. 17
Name, school G Pts. Avg.
Sowers, B-C 7 128 18.3
Pattison, McG 8 137 17.1
Moluski, Cal. 9 148 16.4
Temple, Avella 8 128 16.0
Ward, Mon. 7 105 15.0
Iacovino, Charleroi 6 87 14.5
Hansen, C-M 12 172 14.3
Schrader, Mon. 7 99 14.1
Wagner, Cal. 9 122 13.6
Rosemeier, C-H 9 115 12.8
Shashura, B-C 7 89 12.7
T. Bonacci, Burg. 10 126 12.6
Dickerson, Maple. 9 112 12.4
McMasters, Cal. 9 110 12.2
Sweat, Trinity 9 107 11.9
Flament, Charleroi 6 70 11.7
Lucsko, McG 8 88 11.0
Cree, Carm. 11 119 10.8
Stuvek, Carm. 11 118 10.7
Phillis, Burg. 10 106 10.6
Barr, Avella 8 84 10.5
Bellhy, FC 10 103 10.3

Statistics reflect games reported to the Observer-Reporter. To update statistics, please call 724-222-6397 after 5 p.m. or e-mail mkovak@observer-reporter.com.

APB, Where are they Now?

During her days at Carmichaels High School, Abby McMinn was one busy student-athlete.

A 2001 Carmichaels graduate, McMinn played volleyball, basketball and softball in addition to cheerleading. During the 2000-01 basketball season, she became the first girls player in Carmichaels history to have 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds in a career. Megan Stuvek joined that exclusive list a few years later.

She finished her varsity career with 14 letters, the most in school history. Her best sport was softball and McMinn started as a freshman on Carmichaels' 1999 PIAA Class AA championship team. She went on to play at Division II California University, where she started at catcher.

This week, The Varsity Letters issues an All Points Bulletin for McMinn.

Last week's APB for former Fort Cherry standout Josh Kemp was answered. Kemp is currently an assistant boys basketball coach at Fort Cherry.

Anyone knowing McMinn's whereabouts is urged to contact The Varsity Letters.

Local basketball rankings

Boys
1. South Fayette (AA) 9-0
2. Trinity (AAA) 9-2
3. Peters Township (AAAA) 8-5
4. Washington (AA) 8-4
5. Chartiers-Houston (AA) 8-1

Girls
1. South Fayette (AA) 8-2
2. Peters Township (AAAA) 5-8
3. Charleroi (AA) 7-1
4. Beth-Center (AA) 8-2
5. Monessen (A) 7-1

WPIAL girls basketball rankings

Just a little late on these this week.

Class AAAA
1. Mt. Lebanon 11-2
2. Bethel Park 11-1
3. Baldwin 10-2
4. Fox Chapel 10-1
5. Shaler 10-1

Class AAA
1. New Castle 11-0
2. Hopewell 11-0
3. Indiana 10-0
4. Chartiers Valley 8-4
5. Hampton 9-2

Class AA
1. Greensburg Central Catholic 10-0
2. Avonworth 11-0
3. Beaver 9-2
4. Seton-La Salle 9-4
5. Jeannette 10-1

Class A
1. North Catholic 9-2
2. Rochester 11-2
3. Quigley 9-2
4. Monessen 6-1
5. Vincentian Academy 7-4

AP releases all-state football team

The Pennsylvania sports writers’ Class AAAA all-state high school football team, as chosen by a statewide panel:
FIRST TEAM
OFFENSE
Quarterback — Drew Loughery, La Salle College, Sr., 6-1, 200.
Running Backs—Joe DeFebo, Wallenpaupack, Sr., 5-7, 185; Darrius Webb, Bethlehem Freedom, Sr., 5-8, 170; Andre Williams, Parkland, Sr., 5-11, 200.
Fullback—Travis Friend, Cumberland Valley, Sr., 6-2, 230.
Tight end—Tyler Beck, West Lawn Wilson, Sr., 6-3, 230.
Wide receivers—Dan Cason, East Stroudsburg South, Sr., 6-3, 180; Jarrod West, Bethlehem Liberty, Sr., 6-6, 195; Salath Williams, Harrisburg Bishop McDevitt, Sr., 6-4, 185.
Offensive linemen—Dusty Galich, McDowell, Sr., 6-3, 260; Mike Laskowski, State College, Sr., 6-2, 245; Tom Ricketts, North Allegheny, Sr., 6-5, 260; Steve Szostak, La Salle College, Sr., 6-3, 265; Matt Williams, Cardinal O’Hara, Sr., 6-4, 275.
Kicker—Sean Fakete, Central Dauphin, Sr., 5-10, 155.
All-purpose—Corey Brown, Cardinal O’Hara, Sr., 6-1, 185; Bryan Dean, Neshaminy, Sr., 5-7, 165; Brendon Felder, Gateway Sr., 6-0, 170.
DEFENSE
Defensive ends—Kyle Baublitz, Central York, Sr., 6-5, 258; Richard Gray, Woodland Hills, Sr., 6-2, 240; Aaron Donald, Penn Hills, Sr., 6-2, 270.
Defensive linemen—Sharrif Floyd, George Washington, Sr., 6-3, 310; Khaynin Mosley-Smith, Woodland Hills, Sr., 6-1, 285.
Linebackers—Adam Lazenga, Bethel Park, Sr., 6-0, 230; Mike Hull, Canon-McMillan, Sr., 6-1, 220; Mike Huf, Cardinal O’Hara, Sr., 6-3, 235; Mike Labor, Saint Joseph’s Prep, Sr., 6-3, 215; Ryan Saraceni, La Salle College, Sr., 5-11, 205.
Defensive backs—Cullen Christian, Penn Hills, Sr., 6-1, 185; Jon Duckett, Harrisburg Bishop McDevitt, Sr., 6-1, 205; Trevor Harman, Cumberland Valley, Sr., 6-1, 180; Dom Mills, State College, Sr., 6-3, 235.
Punter—Cody Webster, Central Dauphin East, Sr., 6-4, 180.
All-purpose—Orne Bey, Gateway, Sr., 5-9, 175; Anthony Gonzalez, Bethlehem Liberty, Sr., 6-3, 193; Alex Kenney, State College, Sr., 6-0, 185.

SECOND TEAM
OFFENSE
Quarterback—Matt Johnson, Harrisburg Bishop McDevitt, Jr., 6-2, 185.
Running backs—Jamal Abdur-Rahman, La Salle College, Jr., 5-10, 175; Drew Harris, Downingtown East, Soph., 6-2, 195; Dom Timbers, Woodland Hills, Sr., 5-9, 185.
Fullback—Darien Robinson, McKeesport, Sr., 6-0, 205.
Tight end—Ralph Reeves, Lansdale North Penn, Sr., 6-3, 230.
Wide receivers—Omar Black, Abraham Lincoln, Sr., 6-2, 200; Matt Bundy, Penncrest, Sr., 6-0, 165; Sam Feleccia, La Salle College, Sr., 6-3, 225.
Offensive linemen—Seth Betancourt, Saint Joseph’s Prep, Sr., 6-6, 295; Giles Campbell, Bethlehem Liberty, Sr., 6-1, 260; Joe Laukaitis, Upper St. Clair, Sr., 6-2, 270; Miles Dieffenbach, Fox Chapel, Sr., 6-5, 285; J.D. Dzurko, Lansdale North Penn, Sr., 6-2, 270.
Kicker—Tom Weathers, Penncrest, Jr., 6-4, 170.
All-purpose—Rob Kalkstein, Gateway, Sr., 5-10, 170; Colin Masterson, Ridley, Sr., 6-1, 170; Bret Gillespie, Downingtown West, Sr., 6-2, 195.
DEFENSE
Defensive ends—Steve Sinnott, La Salle College, Sr., 6-4, 230; Dante Holmes, Bethlehem Liberty, Soph., 6-3, 210.
Defensive linemen—Taj Alexander, Downingtown East, Sr., 6-6, 285; Taray Carey, Whitehall, Sr., 6-2, 200; Stefan Belle, Harrisburg Bishop McDevitt, Sr., 6-1, 260.
Linebackers—Robert Basile, Quakertown, Sr., 6-1, 215; Patrick Murphy, Easton, Sr., 6-0, 215; Kasey Gallagher, McDowell, Sr., 6-2, 225; Carlos Brown, McKeesport, Sr., 6-2, 235; Gabe Stein, Souderton, Sr., 5-10, 200.
Defensive backs—Corey Ford, Harrisburg Bishop McDevitt, Sr., 5-11, 170; Jashaad Gaddy, Easton, Sr., 6-2, 200; Dayonne Nunley, Gateway, Sr., 5-8, 165; Marcus Simpson, Central Dauphin, Sr., 5-10, 165.
Punter—Keith Stambaugh, Spring Grove, Jr., 5-8, 150.
All-purpose—Jesse Della Valle, Shaler, Sr., 6-1, 175; Bre Ford, Bethel Park, Jr., 5-11, 190; Colby Way, State College, Sr., 6-3, 235.
Player of the year—Sharrif Floyd, George Washington.
Coach of the year—Drew Gordon, La Salle College.

The Pennsylvania sports writers’ Class AAA all-state high school football team, as chosen by a statewide panel:
FIRST TEAM
Offense
Quarterback—Tyler Smith, Wilson Area, Sr., 6-5, 195.
Running backs—Ryan Brumfield, Owen J. Roberts, Jr., 5-10, 180; Mike Caputo, West Allegheny, Jr., 6-1, 190; Rushel Shell, Hopewell, Soph., 6-0, 210.
Fullback—Joe Gruber, Manheim Central, Sr., 6-0, 210.
Tight end—Cody Plesnar, Dallas, Sr., 6-1, 210.
Wide receivers—Jim Giasante, Thomas Jefferson, Sr., 6-2, 200; Ryan Keiser, Selinsgrove, Sr., 6-2, 185; Kowan Scott, Wilson Area, Jr., 6-4, 170.
Offensive linemen— Sal Conaboy, Abington Heights, Sr., 6-5, 255; Brad McKeone, Pottsville, Jr., 6-4, 305; Sean Hickey, Franklin Regional, Sr., 6-6, 290; Alex Davis, Strong Vincent, Sr., 6-3, 275; Jon Trego, Selinsgrove, Sr., 6-0, 230.
Kicker—Taylor Groff, Manheim Central, Sr., 6-0, 165.
All-purpose—Ben Dupree, Susquehanna Township, Sr., 5-9, 185; Jon Monteiro, Daniel Boone, Sr., 6-2, 200; Jerry Rahill, Archbishop Wood, Sr., 6-1, 185.
DEFENSE
Defensive ends—Roy Dennis, Berwick, Jr., 6-2, 220; Dakota Royer, Manheim Central, Sr., 6-3, 220.
Defensive linemen—Spencer Myers, Selinsgrove, Sr., 6-3, 230; Evan Craig, Abington Heights, Sr., 6-1, 285; Mitchell Stead, Daniel Boone, Sr., 6-3, 225.
Linebackers—Jordan Paskorz, Hampton, Sr., 6-4, 230; Arron Achey, Elco, Sr., 6-2, 210; Sean Sadosky, St. Marys, Sr., 6-1 210; Preston Hamlette, Pottsgrove, Sr., 5-10, 210; John Snyder, Abington Heights, Sr., 6-0, 200.
Defensive backs—Terrell Chestnut, Pottsgrove, Jr., 5-11, 175; Braedon Pennington, Punxsutawney, Sr., 5-11, 185; Matt Hundenski, Hopewell, Sr., 5-10, 185; Scott Adkins, Archbishop Wood, Sr., 5-8, 170.
Punter—Matt Kirkpatrick, Upper Perkiomen, Sr., 6-1, 180.
All-purpose—Casey Ebersole, Manheim Central, Sr., 6-0, 165; Shyquawn Pulliam, Cathedral Prep, Sr., 5-10, 175.

SECOND TEAM
Offense
Quarterback—Brendan Nosovitch, Allentown Cent. Cath., Soph., 6-2, 185.
Running backs—Matt Craig, Springfield-Delco, Jr., 5-10, 180; Kevin Kelley, Conestoga Valley, Sr., 5-7, 150; Justin Wiley, Cathedral Prep, Jr., 5-11, 173.
Fullback—Ethan Hornberger, Kennard-Dale, Sr., 6-2, 240.
Tight end—Kyle Shuck, Selinsgrove, Sr., 6-1, 220.
Wide receivers—Trey Campman, Clearfield, Sr., 6-2, 171; Dan Gay, West York, Sr., 6-2, 200; Ben Simmen, West Allegheny, Sr., 6-3, 175.
Offensive linemen—Zack McMenamin, Interboro, Jr., 5-10, 205; Arthur Doakes, Lebanon, Sr., 6-6, 360; Tim Johnson, West Allegheny, Sr., 6-0, 270; Rob LaPorte, Manheim Central, Jr., 6-4, 310; Matt Lippincott, Wilson Area, Sr., 6-3, 280.
Kicker—Chris Rodrigues, Wilson Area, Sr., 5-10, 150.
All-purpose—Rondell White, Bayard Rustin, Sr., 5-10, 180; D.J. Robinson, Conrad Weiser, Jr., 5-7, 160; Cory Briggs, Selinsgrove, Sr., 6-3, 200.
DEFENSE
Defensive ends—Dave McFadden, Allentown Cent. Cath., Sr., 6-6, 210; Dom Gianoni, Cathedral Prep, Sr., 6-3, 210; Morgan Craig, Abington Heights, Jr., 6-4, 230.
Defensive linemen—Alex Zupanovich, West Allegheny, Sr., 5-11, 255; Kayvon Greene, Pottsgrove, Jr., 6-2, 210; Darion Bundy, West York, Sr., 6-1, 185; Robert Terrell, Susquehanna Township, 6-0, 230.
Linebackers—Luke Rhodes, Hollidaysburg, Jr., 6-2, 225; Ron Skinner, Uniontown, Jr., 5-10, 175; Seth Lauver, Selinsgrove, Jr., 6-2, 245.
Defensive backs—Ray Mosby, Wilson Area, Sr., 5-7, 170; James Fruehan, Abington Heights, Jr., 5-9, 165; Dylan Anderson, Southern Lehigh, Sr., 6-1, 170; Ed Hasis, Thomas Jefferson, Sr., 6-1, 180.
Punter—Cody Nuzzo, Bradford, Sr., 5-8, 175.
All-purpose—Manasseh Garner, Brashear, Sr., 6-3, 210; Lonnie Richardson, Strath Haven, Sr., 5-11, 185.
Class AAA player of the year—Ben Dupree, Susquehanna Township.
Class AAA coach of the year—Dave Hess, Selinsgrove.

The Pennsylvania sports writers’ Class AA all-state high school football team, as chosen by a statewide panel:
FIRST TEAM
Offense
Quarterback—Kyle Smith, Lancaster Catholic, Sr., 6-4, 210.
Running backs—Michael Perry, Dunmore, Sr., 5-10, 205; Cody Cook, Beaver Falls, Sr., 5-10, 170; David Miller, Greensburg Cent. Cath., Sr., 5-10, 215.
Fullback—Dusty Reed, Delone Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 185.
Tight end—Bryce Pardoe, Hughesville, Sr., 6-2, 210.
Wide receivers—Andrew Carswell, Sto-Rox, Sr., 6-5, 210; Matt Koontz, Littlestown, Sr., 6-3, 205; Jake Dunn, Panther Valley, Sr., 6-0, 185.
Offensive linemen—Jake Zuzek, West Catholic, Sr., 6-2, 295; Sean Christofferson, Wilmington, Sr., 6-3, 245; Aaron Lamphere, Towanda, Sr., 6-2, 220; Steve McIlhinny, South Fayette, Sr., 6-1, 230; Brandon Bunting, Mount Pleasant, Sr., 6-2, 260.
Kicker—Drake Greer, Bishop Canevin, Sr., 6-4, 190.
All-purpose—Tyler Purvis, Lancaster Catholic, Sr., 6-3, 190; Trent Hurley, Greensburg Cent. Cath., Sr., 6-4, 215; Christian Brumbaugh, South Fayette, Jr., 6-3, 195.
Defense
Defensive ends—Bryan Thomas, Washington, Sr., 6-4, 230; Trevor Demko, Mount Carmel, Sr., 6-6, 225; John Ruppert, West Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 295.
Defensive linemen—Jeff Goyette, Camp Hill Trinity, Sr., 6-0, 200; Pat Mahoney, Greensburg Cent. Cath., Jr., 6-0, 210; Stanley Pugh, Aliquippa, Sr., 6-2, 260.
Linebackers—Trevor Chesla, Towanda, Sr., 6-3, 218; Derrick Burns, Wilmington, Sr., 5-11, 205; Wyatt Benson, Haverford School, Sr., 6-4, 220; R.J. Malson, Greenville, Sr., 6-0, 200.
Defensive backs—Tomas Cabrera, Hanover Area, Sr., 6-2, 180; Morgan Holmes, Dunmore, Jr., 5-10, 170; Louis Brown, Sharon, Sr., 6-0, 180; Drew Siegfried, Wyncote Bishop McDevitt, Sr., 6-1, 185.
Punter—Andrew Cerett, Huntingdon, Sr., 6-5, 255.
All-purpose—Ryan Richards, Panther Valley, Sr., 5-11, 220; Jacob Boy, Moniteau, Sr., 6-4, 200; Admire Carter, Beaver Falls, Sr., 5-8, 185.

SECOND TEAM
Offense
Quarterback—Derek Buganza, Brockway, Jr., 5-9, 175.
Running backs—Brandon Holloman, West Catholic, Jr., 5-10, 165; Marquis White, Benjamin Franklin, Sr., 5-10, 165; Cody Remaley, Northern Lehigh, Jr., 5-9, 175.
Fullback—Ed Pavalko, North Schuylkill, Jr., 6-0, 219.
Tight end—Shane Cafferty, Martinsburg Central, Sr., 6-3, 224.
Wide receivers—Mike Vervoot, Brockway, Jr., 5-7, 170; Anthony Bumbulsky, Tamaqua, Sr., 6-5, 175; Graeme Zaparzynski, Blossburg North Penn, Sr., 6-1, 180.
Offensive linemen—Chris Elkins, Beaver Falls, Sr., 6-3, 240; Christian Fruendeberger, Northern Lehigh, Sr., 6-0, 220; Kevin Kulka, General McLane, Sr., 6-1, 210; Bernie Sarra, Greensburg Cent. Cath., Jr., 6-1, 315; Chet Ritter, Hughesville, Sr., 6-2, 290.
Kicker—Dakota Roof, Towanda, Sr., 5-11, 175.
All-purpose—Paul Jones, Sto-Rox, Sr., 6-3, 225; Jordan Stewart, Lancaster Catholic, Jr., 6-1, 195; Stephen Stopper, Loyalsock Township, Sr., 6-0, 205.
Defense
Defensive ends—Jake Wagner, Karns City, Sr., 6-0, 205; Wes Smith, Delone Catholic, Sr., 5-9, 175.
Defensive linemen—Shane Morris, Central Cambria, Jr., 6-3, 250; Ahmad Abuomar, Mount Carmel, Sr., 6-3, 235; Jared Templeton, Tyrone, Jr., 6-4, 270.
Linebackers—Jordan Kerner, Fairview, Jr., 6-6, 230; Matt Brinser, Middletown, Jr., 6-1, 215; Lukas Turley, Center, Jr., 6-2, 200; Eric Conjeski, Beaver Area, Sr., 6-2, 270; Dante Dickens, West Catholic, Sr., 6-0, 200.
Defensive backs—Lucas Runk, Martinsburg Central, Jr., 5-10, 180; Zach Hogan, North Schuylkill, Sr., 5-8, 150; Cody Miller, Towanda, Jr., 6-1, 145; Alex Filarsky, Lakeland, Soph., 5-10, 147.
Punter—Blake Berresford, Montoursville, Sr., 6-5, 275.
All-purpose—Kody Flail, North Schuylkill, Jr., 5-10, 178; Michael Ehnot, Dunmore, Sr., 5-10, 165; Mike Kinney, Loyalsock, Soph., 6-2, 210.
Class AA player of the year—Kyle Smith, Lancaster Catholic.
Class AA coach of the year—Bruce Harbach, Lancaster Catholic.


The Pennsylvania sports writers’ Class A all-state high school football team, as chosen by a statewide panel:
FIRST TEAM
Offense
Quarterback—Anthony Casciano, Bangor Pius X, Sr., 5-11, 195.
Running backs—Josh Seidel, Bishop McCort, Sr., 6-0, 200; Wyatt Straub, Tri-Valley, Sr., 5-9, 170; Deontae Howard, Clairton, Sr., 5-9, 170.
Fullback—Jake Morton, Southern Columbia, Jr., 6-2, 170.
Tight end—Terry Gettings, Rochester, Sr., 6-2, 200.
Wide receivers—Jeff Davis, Steelton-Highspire, Sr., 6-8, 210; Kevin Weatherspoon, Clairton, Sr., 6-0, 185; Brett Zuck, Keystone, Sr., 6-3, 185.
Offensive linemen—Fred Ruff, Delaware Valley Charter, Sr., 6-5, 295; Kyle Holland, Old Forge, Sr., 6-3, 255; Zac Donaldson, Brentwood, Sr., 6-1, 250; Zack Doyle, Bellwood-Antis, Sr., 6-2, 230; Logan Woznicki, Mercyhurst Prep, Sr., 6-1, 250.
Kicker—Dane Domonkos, Bishop McCort, Sr., 5-7, 155.
All-purpose—Desimon Green, Clairton, Jr., 6-5, 220; Trey Johnson, Rochester, Sr., 5-9, 170; Dan Odem, Farrell, Sr., 6-1, 170.
Defense
Defensive ends—Anthony Pioli, Bishop McCort, Sr., 5-11, 220; T.J. Armstrong, Clarion, Fr., 6-2, 185.
Defensive linemen—Shane Rugg, Bishop McCort, Sr., 6-3, 240; Josh Rogers, Pottstown St. Pius X, Sr., 6-2, 225; Robert Trudo, Farrell, Jr., 6-5, 265.
Linebackers—Eddie Ball, Clairton, Sr., 5-9, 205; Brandon Small, Clairton, Sr., 5-11, 195; Jake Szoszorek, Iroquois, Sr., 5-8, 205; Greg Ermold, Holy Name, Sr., 5-9, 225; Ron Jackson, Farrell, Sr., 5-9, 195.
Defensive backs—Nick DeGol, Bellwood-Antis, Sr., 5-11, 165; Preston Jefferson, Farrell, Sr., 6-4, 175; Cory Bauer, Brentwood, Jr., 6-1, 180; Zach Petrunak, Portage, Sr., 5-11, 155.
Punter—Dave Bojalad, Elk County Catholic, Jr., 6-2, 215.
All-purpose—Tyler Klinger, Line Mountain, Sr., 5-10, 160; Ben Lohr, Meyersdale, Sr., 6-0, 180; Nick Bolias, Monessen, Jr., 6-0, 185.

SECOND TEAM
Offense
Quarterback—Matt McGinley, Tri-Valley, Sr., 6-5, 190.
Running backs—Seth Zaman, Conemaugh Township, Sr., 5-10, 170; Mike Sinosky, Portage, Sr., 5-10, 210; Jed Greslick, Curwensville, Sr., 5-8, 165.
Fullback—Tyler Grosser, Upper Dauphin, Sr., 6-0, 185.
Tight end—Justin Dunlap, Sharpsville, Sr., 6-0, 230.
Wide receivers—Ryan Gaunt, Ferndale, Sr., 5-10, 180; Gary Laucks, York Catholic, Jr., 6-3, 180; Matt Hepler, Tri-Valley, Sr., 6-2, 190.
Offensive linemen—Brad Witcoskie, Southern Columbia, Sr., 5-11, 260; Marcus Foster, Reading Cent. Cath., Sr., 6-2, 230; Eric Roberts, Rochester, Sr., 6-0, 225; Seth Landgraf, Millersburg, Sr., 6-0, 220; Luke Lantzy, United, Sr., 5-10, 240.
Kicker-Matt Gaston, Southern Huntingdon, Sr., 5-10, 175.
All-purpose—Dan Reed, Keystone, Sr., 6-0, 180; Joe Colangelo, Monaca, Sr., 6-0, 180; Martin Long, Pittsburgh North Catholic, Jr., 6-2, 195.
Defense
Defensive ends—Eric Minemyer, Bishop Carroll, Sr., 6-5, 240; Steve Belskey, Bishop McCort, Sr., 6-1, 205.
Defensive linemen—Ben Ancheff, Williams Valley, Sr., 6-0, 320; Tyler Lewis, Lakeview, Sr., 6-1, 205; Jared Burger, Union City, Sr., 6-0, 200.
Linebackers—Cody Cooper, Upper Dauphin, Sr., 6-1, 185; Bubba Rue, Clarion, Sr., 6-1, 215; Chaz Merriman, Bishop McCort, Sr., 6-0, 210; Joey Rys, Reading Central Cath., Jr., 5-11, 180; Chris Moore, Line Mountain, Sr., 6-0, 225.
Defensive backs—Cole Parkinson, Pottstown St. Pius X, Sr., 6-3, 175; Chad Piccirilli, Sharpsville, Sr., 6-0, 155; Zach Artz, Tri-Valley, Sr., 5-9, 165; Zach Waddell, United, Sr., 6-0, 185.
Punter—Cody Crosby, Eisenhower, Sr., 6-4, 200.
All-purpose—Nick Gmerek, Moshannon Valley, Sr., 5-9, 165; Jimmy Zubek, Avonworth, Sr., 5-9, 175; Fred Caruso, Holy Name, Jr., 5-9, 180.
Class A player of the year—Deontae Howard, Clairton.
Class A coach of the year—Tom Nola, Clairton.

Thinking out loud

Canon-McMillan's Mike Hull was selected to play in the Big 33 Football Classic the same day Hull started for the East team at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. Hull will also play in the upcoming USA vs. The World football game on Jan. 30 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The game will be televised by the NFL Network.

High school football players are permitted to play in two all-star games, so how can Hull be named to three?

Well, the USA vs. The World game is not considered an all-star game so the Penn State recruit can suit up for the Big 33.

* Take away the Carmichaels girls and it's not a stretch to say basketball in Greene County has rarely been worse.

Need proof?

Let's look at the boys teams from Waynesburg (4-4), Mapletown (3-4), Carmichaels (2-6), Jefferson-Morgan (1-6) and West Greene (0-8).

Waynesburg's lone win against a team not from Greene County or rural West Virginia came against Class A Beth-Center. For Mapletown, the lone win against non-Greene County competition came against something called Eden Christian. Jefferson-Morgan's lone win is against West Greene, which enters tonight on a 33-game losing streak.

Carmichaels, which lost every starter from last year's WPIAL quarterfinals team, beat Quigley Catholic from Beaver County.

Now, let's examine the girls teams from Waynesburg (0-9), Jefferson-Morgan (5-5), West Greene (2-6) and Mapletown (1-9).

Waynesburg has lost 18 straight and is averaging 14.3 points per game this year. The scary thing is seven of those games were against Class A teams, including three games against J-M and two against West Greene. The last time the Raiders beat a WPIAL team outside of Greene County came on Feb. 9, 2006 against McGuffey.

As stated, three of the Rockets' wins came against Waynesburg. The others were versus West Greene and Hundred, W.Va. Both of West Greene's wins were against Waynesburg and Mapletown's lone win came against the Raiders.

Mapletown, at least, ventures outside the area to play non-section games. The same can't be said for Waynesburg, J-M and West Greene.

So, are there any solutions to improve the state of basketball in Greene County? Not sure. There's not much tradition in this wrestling-rich region.

One suggestion might be to avoid scheduling so many games against each other, particularly on the girls side. Venture out. Find a tip-off tournament in Connellsville or Beaver. Try a holiday tournament in Washington or Greensburg. Yeah, it might result in a blowout but it might make the team a little bit better.

* With Ringgold senior Alina Selby out for the year, The Varsity Letters asks, "Who is the frontrunner for Girls Player of the Year?"

Any ideas?

PIAA girls/boys basketball rankings

Pennsylvania high school girls basketball rankings from the Patriot-News of Harrisburg, with school’s district in parentheses, followed by the school’s record and last week’s ranking. NR means not ranked. Honorable mention teams listed alphabetically.

CLASS AAAA
1. Mt. Lebanon (7) 8-2 1
2. Cheltenham (1) 11-0 3
3. Downingtown East (1) 7-1 4
4. Council Rock North (1) 7-3 6
5. Bethel Park (7) 10-0 NR
6. Liberty (11) 11-0 NR
7. Cardinal OHara (12) 5-3 2
8. Abington (1) 9-0 NR
9. Shaler (7) 9-0 NR
10. Archbishop Ryan (12) 8-2 5
Honorable mention
Archbishop Prendergast (12) 8-2; Central Bucks East (1) 7-1, Central Dauphin (3) 7-3, Council Rock South (1) 7-3, Frankford (12) 8-0, Methacton (1) 7-4, Northampton (11) 8-1.

CLASS AAA
1. Archbishop Carroll & (12) 7-1 1
2. Archbishop Wood (12) 7-2 5
3. Hopewell (7) 9-0 NR
4. Trinity (3) 8-1 3
5. Springfield-Delco (1) 11-0 7
6. St. Basil (1) 7-2 NR
7. Mount St. Joseph (1) 10-1 2
8. New Castle (7) 9-0 NR
9. Holy Redeemer (2) 7-2 8
10. Allentown C.C. (11) 8-1 4
Honorable mention
Cardinal Dougherty (12) 8-1, Hampton (7) 8-1, Indiana (7) 8-0, Slippery Rock (10) 8-1, St. Marys (9) 9-0, Villa Maria Academy (1) 7-3, West York (3) 10-0.

CLASS AA
1. Villa Maria & (10) 8-0 1
2. Delone Catholic (3) 9-1 2
3. York Catholic (3) 8-1 6
4. Lancaster Mennonite (3) 9-1 4
5. Greensburg C.C. (7) 7-0 7
6. Pine Grove (11) 10-0 8
7. Ligonier Valley (6) 8-0 NR
8. North Star (5) 6-1 NR
9. Southern Huntingdon (6) 7-2 3
10. Engineering & Science (12) 6-1 NR
Honorable mention
Apollo-Ridge (7) 9-0, Avonworth (7) 9-0, Dunmore (2) 7-2, Greenville (10) 8-2, Jeannette (7) 8-1, Kane (9) 9-1, Marion Center (6) 5-2, Northern Lehigh (11) 11-0, Sto-Rox (7) 8-2.

CLASS A
1. Bishop Guilfoyle & (6) 9-0 1
2. Nativity BVM (11) 7-1 2
3. North Catholic (7) 7-2 3
4. Penns Manor (6) 8-0 NR
5. Northern Cambria (6) 7-2 4
6. Lebanon Catholic (3) 7-1 10
7. Williamsburg (6) 8-1 NR
8. Ferndale (6) 5-2 8
9. Lourdes Regional (4) 7-1 NR
10. Elk County Catholic (9) 8-1 NR
Honorable mention
Quigley (7) 7-2, Rochester (7) 8-2, Steel-High (3) 8-1, Tri-Valley (11) 5-2, West Forest (9) 7-0, Vincentian Academy (7) 5-3.


Pennsylvania high school boys basketball final regular-season rankings rom the Patriot-News of Harrisburg, with school’s district in parentheses, followed by the school’s record and last week’s ranking. NR means not ranked. Honorable mention teams listed alphabetically.
CLASS AAAA
1. Plymouth-Whitemarsh (1) 9-0 2
2. Penn Wood & (1) 7-3 1
3. Mt. Lebanon (7) 10-0 7
4. Frankford (12) 7-2 5
5. Saint Josephs Prep (12) 9-2 NR
6. Roman Catholic (12) 7-3 4
7. Bethlehem Liberty (11) 9-1 NR
8. Harrisburg (3) 8-1 NR
9. John Bartram (12) 6-4 8
10. Wilson (3) 11-0 NR
Honorable mention
Bayard Rustin (1) 7-2; Butler (7) 10-0; Chester (1) 5-3; Hazleton (2) 8-2; La Salle College (12) 7-3; North Allegheny (7) 9-2; Reading (3) 10-2; State College (6) 6-2.

CLASS AAA
1. Neumann-Goretti (12) 10-1 1
2. Archbishop Carroll & (12) 8-1 2
3. Hampton (7) 9-1 3
4. Chartiers Valley (7) 10-1 6
5. Erie East (10) 7-1 9
6. Holy Ghost Prep (1) 9-2 4
7. Simon Gratz (12) 7-2 NR
8. Eastern York (3) 8-0 8
9. York Suburban (3) 11-0 NR
10. Abington Heights (2) 10-1 NR
Honorable mention
Blackhawk (7) 6-2; Crestwood (2) 10-1; Coughlin (2) 10-1; Grove City (10) 9-0; Hershey (3) 7-2; Holy Redeemer (2) 8-2; Mifflinburg (4) 10-1; Susquehanna Twp (3) 5-3.

CLASS AA
1. Imhotep & (12) 8-1 1
2. Strawberry Mansion (12) 10-0 2
3. Communications Tech (12) 8-0 NR
4. South Fayette (7) 7-0 5
5. Hughesville (4) 9-0 6
6. Loyalsock (4) 8-0 7
7. North Catholic (7) 6-1 10
8. Mercyhurst Prep (10) 8-2 NR
9. Trinity (3) 5-3 3
10. Carbondale (2) 10-1 NR
Honorable mention
Devon Prep (1) 8-3; Dunmore (2) 8-3; Fairview (10) 7-2; Holy Cross (2) 7-3; Notre Dame-Green Pond (11) 9-2; Quaker Valley (7) 9-1; Saint Pius X (1) 8-4.

CLASS A
1. Girard College & (1) 7-4 1
2. Sewickley Academy (7) 7-2 2
3. Reading C.C. (3) 12-0 3
4. Greenwood (3) 10-1 4
5. Serra Catholic (7) 8-2 5
6. Math, Civics & Sciences (12) 8-2 NR
7. Boys Latin Charter (12) 7-2 NR
8. Church Farm (1) 4-2 8
9. Elk County Cath. (9) 8-1 9
10. Northern Cambria (6) 8-1 NR
Honorable mention
Allegheny-Clarion Valley (9) 7-1; Constitution (12) 5-4; Homer-Center (6) 6-2; Johnsonburg (9) 6-2; Millville (4) 7-1; New Hope Academy (3) 10-0; Paul Robeson (12) 6-1; Union (7) 9-0.

WPIAL boys basketball rankings

Class AAAA
1. Mt. Lebanon 10-0
2. Butler 10-0
3. North Allegheny 9-2
4. Gateway 6-1
5. Pittsburgh Central Catholic 8-2

Class AAA
1. Chartiers Valley 10-1
2. Hampton 9-1
3. Belle Vernon 8-0
4. Blackhawk 6-2
5. West Mifflin 7-3

Class AA
1. South Fayette 7-0
2. North Catholic 6-1
3. Rochester 10-1
4. Jeannette 7-2
5. Quaker Valley 9-1

Class A
1. Sewickley Academy 7-2
2. Union 9-0
3. Serra Catholic 8-2
4. Neshannock 7-3
5. St. Joseph 8-2

Local basketball rankings

Boys
1. South Fayette (AA) 7-0
2. Peters Township (AAAA) 7-3
3. Trinity (AAA) 6-2
4. Washington (AA) 5-4
5. Chartiers-Houston (AA) 6-1

Girls
1. South Fayette (AA) 6-2
2. Peters Township (AAAA) 4-6
3. Charleroi (AA) 5-1
4. Fort Cherry (A) 6-3
5. Beth-Center (AA) 6-2

Guess who's back?

="0" alt="" />
Trinity High School varsity football coach and athletic director Ed Dalton is back, and so are the rest of the Hillers' fall sports coaches.

Trinity School Board unanimously rescinded its decisions to open all fall sports coaching positions and not renew the contract of the athletic director at Thursday's meeting.

The decision to open all fall coaching positions and not renew Dalton's contract as athletic director at December's meeting went against school policy.

Approximately 200 people attended Thursday's meeting in support of Dalton, who is 54-56 in 11 years as Trinity's football coach with five consecutive WPIAL playoff appearances. They erupted in applause upon learning of the decision.

Ringgold's Selby out for year

Ringgold High School senior Alina Selby is out for the remainder of the 2009-10 girls basketball season after she tore ligaments in her right knee during Saturday's game against Belle Vernon.

It's the second consecutive year Selby, a 5-11 forward, suffered a devastating knee injury. As a junior, Selby injured her left knee during volleyball season and missed the entire basketball schedule.

A two-time first-team selection to the Observer-Reporter all-district team as a freshman and sophomore, Selby was averaging 19 points per game through Ringgold's first five games. The Rams were 4-1 at the time of the injury and 4-3 heading into tonight's Section 4-AAAA game against Baldwin.

No baseball for Hull?

Canon-McMillan senior Mike Hull, who is currently in San Antonio, Texas, for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, is leaning toward not playing varsity baseball this spring.

The first practice for spring sports is scheduled for March 8 – the PIAA baseball and softball championships are scheduled for Friday, June 18 – and Hull is expected to arrive at Penn State early this summer to join the football team.

"I don't think I'll play baseball because it's so close to when I leave for Penn State," Hull said Wednesday from San Antonio. "I might do track or something to do with running."

Hull batted leadoff for Canon-McMillan when it won the 2008 PIAA Class AAAA championship and also started in the outfield as a junior. He earned baseball all-district honors both years.

APB, Where are they now?

Fort Cherry High School has produced its fair share of talented multi-sport athletes and future NFL coaches. The Rangers' list of legends includes, but is not limited to, Marty Schottenheimer, Marvin Lewis, Perry Kemp, Mike Vernillo, Perry Ivery and Jim Garry.

Scanning the past 10 years of Fort Cherry athletics and it would be difficult to find an athlete who combined ability with hard work better than Josh Kemp.

The Varsity Letters issues an All Points Bulletin for Kemp.

A nephew of Perry Kemp and cousin of Perry Ivery, Josh Kemp was a football and basketball standout for the Rangers. As a junior, his play helped the Rangers reached the 2001 WPIAL Class A championship, where they lost to Rochester. As a senior, Kemp rushed for 1,700 yards.

He also excelled in basketball and averaged 18.4 points as a senior.

Kemp went on to play at California University, where he started as a safety and eventually became a starter in the defensive backfield.

Anyone knowing of Kemp's whereabouts is urged to contact The Varsity Letters.

Max Preps All-Americans

CBS Max Preps, an incredibly comprehensive web site dedicated to high school athletics, released its 2009 High School Football All-American Team on Monday.

There are no WPIAL players to be found and only one selection from Pennsylvania – first-team defensive lineman Sharrif Floyd from Washington High in Philadelphia.

To check out the team:

http://www.maxpreps.com/news/wlz5-u_rEd6UswAcxJTdpg/2009-high-school-football-all-american-team.htm

WPIAL girls basketball rankings

Class AAAA
1. Mt. Lebanon 6-2
2. Bethel Park 9-0
3. Shaler 8-0
4. Fox Chapel 8-0
5. McKeesport 6-3

Class AAA
1. New Castle 8-0
2. Hopewell 9-0
3. Hampton 7-1
4. Indiana 6-0
5. Uniontown 6-1

Class AA
1. Greensburg Central Catholic 6-0
2. Avonworth 8-0
3. Seton-La Salle 6-3
4. Beaver 6-2
5. Jeannette 8-1

Class A
1. North Catholic 7-2
2. Rochester 8-2
3. Quigley 7-2
4. Vincentian Academy 5-3
5. Fort Cherry 6-2

Dudas out at Oakland Catholic

Former South Fayette girls basketball coach Jim Dudas is no longer the coach at perennial power Oakland Catholic.

Dudas was removed from the position after Oakland Catholic started the 2009-10 season with a 3-3 record. The team's next game is scheduled for tonight against Woodland Hills with former Moon coach Shannon Boyle taking over for Dudas.

In his only full year at Oakland Catholic, Dudas compiled an 18-9 record and the team reached the WPIAL semifinals in addition to qualifying for the PIAA tournament.

At South Fayette, Dudas adopted a deliberate offensive system and the Lions reached the WPIAL Class AA playoffs in 2007-08. They nearly knocked off top-seed OLSH in the first round of the tournament after a victory in the preliminary round.

WPIAL boys basketball rankings

Class AAAA
1. Mt. Lebanon 9-0
2. Gateway 6-0
3. Seneca Valley 5-1
4. Butler 8-0
5. North Allegheny 7-1

Class AAA
1. Chartiers Valley 7-1
2. Hampton 7-1
3. Belle Vernon 7-0
4. Montour 5-2
5. Moon 6-2

Class AA
1. South Fayette 6-0
2. Quaker Valley 8-0
3. North Catholic 6-0
4. Rochester 7-2
5. Jeannette 6-2

Class A
1. Sewickley Academy 6-2
2. Union 8-0
3. Cornell 6-1
4. Serra Catholic 6-2
5. Neshannock 6-2

PFN releases All-State teams

Pennsylvania Fooball News released its 2009 All-State football selections over the weekend. South Fayette, Monessen and Beth-Center each had at least three players honored.

First-team selections
Dan Black, South Fayette
Class AA. OL

Bryan Thomas, Washington
Class AA, DL

James Shuma, Monessen
Class A, OL

Nick Bolias, Monessen
Class A, DB

Second-team selections
Chad Hagan, Canon-McMillan
Class AAAA, DB

Mike Hull, Canon-McMillan
Class AAAA, LB

Steve McElhinny, South Fayette
Class AA, OL

Nolan Spicer, South Fayette
Class AA, DL

Third-team selections
Christian Brumbaugh, South Fayette
Class AA, QB

ShelDon Miller, Monessen
Class A, DB

Honorable mention
Ken Wilkins, Trinity, DL
Tyler Challingsworth, South Fayette, DB
Justin Ramous, South Fayette, DB
Nick Foraci, South Fayette, OL
Jeff Davis, South Fayette, RB
Eric Myers, South Fayette, TE
Ryan Ross, South Fayette, WR
Jon Gardner, South Fayette, WR/DB
Tyler Miller, Beth-Center, OL
Sal Faieta, Beth-Center, QB
Jake Sofran, Beth-Center, LB
Cory Minnick, Mapletown, QB

For a complete list of PFN's all-state selections, click:
http://www.pawrsl.com/pfn/2009_pfn_all_state_index.htm