
More Than a Game: How Football Became Russell Minor Shaw’s Lifeline, Teacher, and Path to Perseverance
July 25, 2025 Marc EmileShaw credits much of his journey to his parents, whose constant support has fueled him through highs and lows. Also to the game of football, he says, gave him structure, kept him focused, helped him earn a college degree, and kept him away from trouble.

Brotherhood Runs Deep: Edwards, Douglas, and Kucharski Carry On Family Legacy at the 91st Dream Game
July 23, 2025 Doug NoldyWhen the lights shine bright at John Henzes Veterans Memorial Stadium for the 91st Scranton Lions Club Dream Game, it won’t just be about touchdowns and tackles — it’ll be about tradition, legacy, and family. Logan Edwards, Demitrius Douglas, and Nick Kucharski each carry more than just their school pride into this historic all-star clash — they carry the last names that have already been etched into Dream Game lore. From Lackawanna Trail to Valley View, these younger brothers are ready to write the next chapter in their family’s football story, turning sibling rivalry into one final show of brotherly love on the gridiron.

More Than a Game: Coach Andrews is Building Men Through Bangor Football
July 22, 2025 Marc EmileNow as the head coach of the Bangor Area High School football program, Coach Andrews is leading the team through a rebuilding phase. Two years removed from a strong senior class, the Slaters are coming off a tough 1-9 season. But under Andrews\' leadership, the focus remains clear: growth, resilience, and consistency.

Legacy Under the Lights: 91st Dream Game Media Day Unites Past and Future of NEPA Football
July 16, 2025 Brad LoffLegacy 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.”

Super Bowl Champ Saquon Barkley Hosts Youth Football Camp in Scranton
July 8, 2025 SportzWireScranton turned into a football hot bed Tuesday evening as Super Bowl champ Saquon Barkley lit up Valor Field for a youth camp that drew hundreds of eager young athletes. The Whitehall standout and Pennsylvania native brought big-time energy, hands-on coaching, and inspiration to the field, giving local kids a night they won’t forget at Memorial Stadium.

The SportzWire team has learned of the passing of one of the true pioneers and innovators in upper Lackawanna County — Thomas Pidgeon
July 1, 2025 Doug NoldyThomas “Tom” Pidgeon, a beloved community leader, veteran, and youth sports pioneer in Jermyn and the greater upper Lackawanna County area, has passed away. Known for his tireless dedication to Lakeland athletics and decades of service to his community, Tom leaves behind a legacy of leadership, family, and selfless commitment.

Jack Gravine: Rising Star with a Champion’s Heart and a Quarterback’s Vision
June 18, 2025 Marc EmileOff the field, Jack maintains a 3.9 GPA and is a proud member of the National Honor Society. He is also a firm believer in faith and family. Jack lives by the quote: “Put God first.”

Forged Through Adversity: Jacob Simoson’s Relentless Rise on the Field and in the Classroom
June 17, 2025 Marc EmileThe true definition of tough, disciplined, and resilient, Jacob Simoson has built his football journey on perseverance and purpose. A graduate of Lake-Lehman High School, Jacob is now a senior Offensive Guard for Bloomsburg University.

Hugh Kirwan: Leading Keystone Football’s Rebirth with Grit, Vision, and Heart
May 10, 2025 Doug Noldy / Andrea MeccaIn the face of uncertainty and transition, Hugh Kirwan has emerged as the steady hand guiding Keystone College football into a new era. From standout player to seasoned coach, his journey reflects unwavering passion, resilience, and a deep love for the game. Now, as head coach, Kirwan is not just rebuilding a team—he’s reigniting a legacy.

Pachucy Era Begins: Wyoming Seminary Taps Scranton Native as New Head Coach
April 30, 2025 Justin BradleyAfter five seasons of impact at Mid Valley, George Pachucy steps into the head coaching role at Wyoming Seminary, bringing with him a passion for mentorship, a legacy of coaching, and a heart rooted in Northeast PA football.

BREAKING: George Howanitz Named New Head Coach at Honesdale
April 15, 2025 Brad Loff🚨 Breaking News from SportzWire 🚨 Honesdale has landed one of District 2’s most respected coaches. Former Valley View head coach George Howanitz is officially taking over the Hornets football program—coming out of retirement and bringing a winning pedigree to Wayne County.

Heart Over Height: The Taylor Bolesta Pro Day Journey
March 27, 2025 Matt FlanaganTaylor Bolesta’s football journey is one that embodies grit, perseverance, and an unshakable belief in self. The former Stony Brook defensive tackle may not have entered his pro day with prototypical NFL size, but what he lacked in height and reach, he made up for in sheer effort, preparation, and heart.

Lakeland’s CJ Dippre Shines at 2025 NFL Combine, Boosting His Draft Stock
March 11, 2025 Brad LoffLakeland’s own CJ Dippre has taken center stage at the 2025 NFL Combine, turning heads with his impressive display of athleticism and strength. The former Alabama tight end posted a 4.69-second 40-yard dash and led all tight ends with 32 bench press reps, proving he has both the speed and power to thrive at the next level. Once considered a late-round pick, Dippre’s stock is on the rise, with many scouts now projecting him as a Day 2 selection. From his standout days at Lakeland Junior/Senior High School to refining his skills at Maryland and Alabama, Dippre’s journey has been defined by hard work and versatility. As the NFL Draft approaches, he remains one of the most intriguing tight end prospects, poised to make an impact at the professional level.

Nicky The Cowboy: A Journey of Faith, Passion, and Penn State Pride
January 3, 2025 Carrie Miner YapleYou\'ve heard of the Penn State Nittany Lion, the iconic symbol of the university’s athletic spirit, but have you heard of Nicky The Cowboy?