West Scranton Invaders

Scranton left no doubt in this year’s Bell Game, storming past West Scranton 51-6 for a seventh straight rivalry win. Behind Brody Coyle’s dual-threat performance and a ground game that racked up over 220 yards, the Knights kept the Bell shining bright on their sideline.

The District 2 preseason coaches’ poll has arrived, and the message is clear: this isn’t one person’s opinion, it’s the collective voice of coaches across the region weighing in on who’s ready to bring the heat. Delaware Valley leads the Big School rankings, while Scranton Prep tops the Small Schools, both programs seen as steady systems built for long runs. Backed by the insight of those who know the game best, these rankings act like a finely tuned HVAC unit balanced, efficient, and powerful. Thanks to sponsor Kleinbauer Mechanical, family owned and operated, for reminding us that whether it’s football or HVAC, reliability and honest work always rise to the top.

He built more than a football program—he built a family. On a warm summer night in West Side, the glow of the Jr. Invaders’ annual bonfire wasn’t just from the flames—it was from the love, laughter, and memories shared for the man who gave his heart to this community. From Pearl Jam sing-alongs to a plaque that will stand for generations, the season kickoff was a moving tribute to Coach Tommy Selemba. Read how West Scranton came together to honor their champion.

Legacy Under the Lights: 91st Dream Game Media Day Unites Past and Future of NEPA Football VALLEY VIEW — The scent of summer grass and the echo of cleats on concrete set the stage under the bleachers of Valley View’s football stadium, where dozens of the region’s top high school football players gathered for the 91st Annual Dream Game Media Day. It was more than a press event. It was a reunion, a farewell, a coming-of-age story all in one. Hosted by longtime broadcaster Tony Sibila and Honesdale’s new head coach George Howanitz, Media Day was filled with stories from players on the cusp of adulthood and from coaches whose roots run deep in Northeastern Pennsylvania’s football soil. “It’s like a family reunion,” Howanitz said. “There’s history in every name on the roster.”

The rosters for the 91st Annual Dream Game have been released, featuring standout senior athletes from across the region. Representing the City team under head coach Jake Manetti (West Scranton) are top talents like Treyvon Dickey (Scranton Prep), Gabe Franek (Dunmore), and Drew Kiesendahl (Wallenpaupack). On the County side, head coach Mike Schuback (Old Forge) leads a loaded roster highlighted by Zach Cwalinski (Valley View), Richie Kostoff (Riverside), and Mason Avery (Honesdale). The game is scheduled for July 23 at John Henzes Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Delaware Valley capitalized on a decisive second inning to clinch a 5-3 win against West Scranton on Wednesday. The team scored all five runs in that inning, demonstrating offensive prowess and resilience.

POCONO SUMMIT, PA — In a game full of offensive fireworks and wild momentum swings, the West Scranton Invaders rallied with a massive late-inning surge to defeat Pocono Mountain West 13-10 on Thursday afternoon.

Mia Keenan went 4-for-4 and crushed a third-inning homer as West Scranton scored early and often, powering past Scranton Prep 18-3 in a dominant four-inning win.

Ariella Bell was untouchable, tossing a perfect game with nine strikeouts, while Riley Grambo went 3-for-3 at the plate as North Pocono shut out West Scranton 10-0 in five innings.

West Scranton’s own Vaira Connor rocked the mat by clinching double state gold in the 10U girls’ 56 lbs division at both the Keystone State Championships and the Pennsylvania Junior Wrestling Youth State Championships—a true sign of a rising wrestling star.

Coach Tommy Selemba was more than a leader—he was the soul of the West Scranton Jr. Invaders. With unwavering dedication, he shaped not just players, but people, always putting the kids first and pouring his heart into every moment. From the sidelines to the stat sheets as a longtime All County Conference Junior Football League statistician, Tommys impact stretched far beyond the game. His legacy is one of love, service, and a community forever made stronger because of him.

Jules Galella crushed a grand slam and Ava Schmidt followed with one of her own as Holy Cross used two huge innings to dismantle West Scranton 15-2 in six frames. Schmidt also struck out nine in a complete game, while Lila Kolcharno led the hit parade with a 3-for-4 day.

Dallas High School opened their 2025 baseball season in commanding fashion with an 11-1 win over West Scranton on Tuesday afternoon. The Mountaineers wasted no time getting on the board, putting up six runs in the first inning and never looking back.

This past weekend, three local athletes showcased their exceptional talents on national and collegiate stages. Senior thrower Tommy Fiorelli earned a silver medal in the shot put at the Adidas Indoor Nationals, demonstrating remarkable dedication and skill. Mid-Valley High School alumna and Villanova University sophomore, Maranda Runco, played a pivotal role in the Wildcats’ 12-3 victory over Georgetown University, contributing both offensively with a home run and defensively by closing the game as a pitcher. Additionally, former West Scranton High School hurdler, Colin Manley, began his outdoor track season with a commendable performance for East Stroudsburg University, finishing second in his heat and tenth overall in the hurdles event. These achievements highlight the athletes’ commitment and the supportive sports community that has fostered their growth.

Upon arriving at the collegiate level, Merrifield wasted no time establishing himself as a versatile and reliable guard. Over the years, he has been a consistent force on both ends of the floor, earning recognition for his scoring ability, passing, and leadership.