In a thrilling showcase of talent, Lia Ochs set a new record for the Hazleton Area girls’ team in the 100-yard freestyle during a swim meet against Dallas on March 15, 2024. The Lady Cougars triumphed over their rivals with a score of 97-82, solidifying their unbeaten status in the Wyoming Valley Conference. Ochs completed the race in an impressive 54.53 seconds, finishing just ahead of Dallas’ Macie Stauffer, who took second place.
Ochs’ outstanding performance did not stop there; she also emerged victorious in the 200-yard freestyle, narrowly defeating Stauffer by 0.27 seconds. In a display of teamwork, Ochs teamed up with Lorelei Lucas, Mariannyi Brache Minaya, and Kathleen Rodgers to secure a first-place finish in the 400-yard freestyle relay. Lucas also contributed significantly to the team’s success, winning both the 50-yard freestyle and the 500-yard freestyle events.
Boys’ Team Shows Strength Against Mountaineers
The Hazleton Area boys’ swim team also showcased their prowess, defeating the Mountaineers with a score of 91-79. Morris Hunsinger led the way with individual wins in the 50-yard freestyle and the 100-yard backstroke. Other standout performances included Cason Machey in the 200-yard freestyle, Chase Kaschak in the 100-yard butterfly, Nicholas Pop in the 100-yard freestyle, and Wellingston Reyes in the 100-yard breaststroke.
The boys’ team further demonstrated their depth by winning the 200-yard medley relay, with Hunsinger, Reyes, Pop, and Kaschak teaming up for the victory. In the 200-yard freestyle relay, Cody Scholl, Kaschak, Machey, and Pop combined their efforts for another win.
Close Contests in Girls’ Basketball
In girls’ basketball, the Tamaqua Raiders achieved a narrow victory over North Schuylkill, winning 46-43 in a thrilling overtime match at the Tamaqua Athletic Center. After trailing in the first half and entering the fourth quarter down by 32-27, Tamaqua rallied to tie the game and outscore their opponents 5-2 in the overtime period. Lauren Ligenza led the Lady Raiders with a double-double, scoring 20 points and grabbing 15 rebounds. Millie Black contributed 13 points to the effort, while Mya Conti led North Schuylkill with 18 points.
In another matchup, Pottsville secured a 47-39 win over Panther Valley. The key to Pottsville’s success was a pivotal 17-9 run in the third quarter, where Jo Barnhart scored 21 points, including four three-pointers. For Panther Valley, Morgan Orsulak led the team with 16 points.
The Marian Fillies dominated their game against Shenandoah Valley, winning 48-26. Addy Marek was the standout scorer, netting 25 points for Marian. The Fillies’ solid defensive effort kept the Lady Devils at bay, with Jocelyn Chagolla scoring a team-high of 8 points for Shenandoah Valley.
In a lopsided Division II contest, Williams Valley crushed Weatherly 53-6. The Vikings limited Weatherly to just three points through the first three quarters. Mallory Miller led the scoring with 26 points, including six three-pointers, while Weatherly struggled to find their rhythm.
In junior high boys’ basketball, Weatherly edged out Marian with a score of 46-39. Carter Minnick was instrumental for the Wreckers, scoring 23 points. Gavin Woodring led the Colts with 21 points, but it was not enough to secure the win.
These exciting performances across multiple sports highlight the talent and determination of the athletes involved, reflecting a vibrant competitive spirit in the region.
