Advanced Approach Pittsburgh: Championships
#1 1st SPAASM Gold Championship Ever 17-1 at West Allegheny HS
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Monday, March 5
#2 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 16-1 at Slippery Rock University's ARC
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Saturday, March 10
#3 3rd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 16-1 at Mercyhurst College
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The S.P.A.A.S.M. 15-1's have reached the brink of winning their first ever championship, after finishing second at LaRoche College today (Saturday March 10, 2001). We cannot get any closer than we were today. Our 15'1's lost in the gold final today, 1-2 losing 13-15 in game 3 to Beaver Valley Premier 15-1. Our 15's fought hard but came up just short. B.V.P.'s Dana McLaughlin (Hopewell - 9th) played a great championship match leading Premier to the gold. The S.P.A.A.S.M. 15-1's have played in three tournaments so far: We finished first in our pool in a 16C tournament at West Allegheny (lost in gold semifinals), we finished first in our pool in a 16C tournament at Slippery Rock University (won gold quarterfinal, lost in gold semifinals), and we finished second in our pool in a 15C tournament at LaRoche College (won in gold semifinals, lost in gold finals). That is a pretty good start so far for our 15's.
Sunday, March 18
#4 4th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 16-1 at Kent State University
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The S.P.A.A.S.M. 18-1's have reached the brink of winning their first ever championship, after finishing second at the Community College of Beaver County today (Saturday March 17, 2001). We cannot get any closer than we were today. Our 18-1's lost 1-2 in the gold final today to Club Allegheny North 18-1. Our 18's fought hard but came up just short. The S.P.A.A.S.M. 18-1's have played in three tournaments so far: We finished first in our the silver in a 18C tournament (5th out of 8 overall) at Akron Ellet High School. We finished tied for fifth out of 12 in an 18C tournament at Slippery Rock University (we finished first in our pool, then lost in gold quarterfinals). Today we were second out of 8 at CCBC. So our 18's are only one step from their first championship.
Saturday, March 24
#5 5th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 16-1 at CCBC
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Saturday, March 31
#6 6th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 15-1 at CCBC
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Saturday, March 31
#7 7th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 18-1 at Northwestern ES
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Sunday, April 8
#8 8th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 18-1 at Wooster HS
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Saturday, April 21
#9 9th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 16-1 at Quigley HS
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Sunday, May 20
#10 10th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2001 16-1 at Chartiers Valley HS
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Sunday, March 17
#11 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2002 16-1 at CCBC
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| St. Patty's Day! | |
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Saturday, March 23
#12 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2002 18-1 at Slippery Rock University's ARC
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| Feel the power! | |
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Saturday, April 20
#13 3rd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2002 15-1 at CCBC
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Saturday, April 27
#14 4th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2002 18-1 at Quigley HS
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Sunday, April 28
#15 5th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2002 16-1 at Quigley HS
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Saturday, May 11
#16 6th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2002 18-1 at Quigley HS
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| A Fun Ride | |
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Amanda Phillips, Stephanie Harwood, Stephanie Ruggles, Brittany Morrow, Eleni Haniotes, Chelsea Viti, Katie Greco, and Amber Theobald put together a very impressive undefeated day at Quigley Catholic High School on Saturday. No rollercoaster rides, just a bunch of "W's".
Yep, that's the third Gold Championship of 2002 for the 18-1's! Columbus, and OVR Regionals, here we come!
Saturday, May 11
#17 7th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2002 16-1 at Beaver HS
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First Place in Pool B SPAASM 16-1 (2-0 match record)
Gold Semifinal #1: SPAASM 16-1 (2-0 over Renaissance)
Gold Semifinal #2: SPAASM 15-1 (2-0 over A.C.E.)
Gold Final SPAASM 16-1 vs. SPAASM 15-1
Game 1: SPAASM 15-1 25 - 20
Game 2: SPAASM 16-1 25 - 16
Game 3: SPAASM 16-1 17 - 15 If you missed this one, shame on you for seven years. WOW!
Congratulations to the 16-1's on the Gold Championship, congratulations to the 15-1's on the Gold Runner-Up, and Congratulations to the 16-2 on the Silver Championship! What a day, what a day!
Saturday, March 29
#18 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2003 16-1 at Ringgold HS
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Sunday, April 6
#19 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2003 18-1 at Aliquippa HS
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Saturday, February 12
#20 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2005 17-1 at Quigley HS
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Saturday, April 9
#21 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2005 18-1 at Monroeville SC
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Sunday, January 29
#22 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 15-1 at United HS
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At 9:00 am on Sunday January 29, 2006 the SPAASM Girls 18-1, 17-1, 16-1 and 15-1 teams all began their first tournaments of 2006. 18-1 was at Cal U of PA. 17-1 had a 2.25 hour drive to Brunswick HS in Cleveland. 16-1 had the shortest trip to East Palestine HS. The 15-1 team headed to United HS. Throughout the day, the text messages flew... How was each team doing? Who was winning?
It became a bit of a contest throughout the club... NO ONE WAS LOSING, ANYWHERE. Each team won their first match of the day. Each team won their second match. Each team won their third. By about 3:30 pm, every SPAASM Girls Team (18-1, 17-1, 16-1 and 15-1) all had gone undefeated and finished in first in their respective pools. Then the real challenge began...
Now that we all had qualified for the Gold Playoffs, who would advance? The 16-1 and 15-1 teams won their quarterfinal matches. All teams had now advanced to their tournament's Gold Semifinal Rounds...
The 17-1 team played a tough Maverick team and was the first SPAASM Girls Team to lose a match this season at 4:00 pm on Saturday. They ended up 3rd in the Gold out of 8. The 18-1, 16-1, and 15-1 teams battled on and advanced again, all winning their Gold Semifinal Matches to advance to their Gold Championship Finals. Our 18-1s lost in the Gold Finals to a strong Highlands 18-1 team. We finished 2nd out of 8. Our 16-1s lost in the Gold Finals too, finishing 2nd out of 12 teams. That leaves only one other team, the SPAASM 15-1s, and guess what?
The SPAASM Girls 15-1s are still undefeated in matches after winning the Gold Championship at United High School. This is the earliest in a season that a SPAASM team has ever won a championship. It is also our first ever "January" Championship. Congratulations to Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Meghan Franz, Anna Homitsky, Cassie Kulp, Stephanie Mock, Niki Rakovan, Alyse Roberts, Emily Tittiger, Coach Mark Francis, and Coach Lauren Senkevich. What a day, what a day.
To recap Sunday January 29, 2006... Four SPAASM Girls Teams played in their first tournament of 2006. All four went undefeated in pool play and all four advanced to at least the gold semifinals. Three SPAASM Girls Teams played for a Gold Championship. The 15-1s brought one home! CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE!. We are all very proud of you!
Sunday, February 26
#23 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 18-1 at Columbiana HS
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Saturday, March 11
#24 3rd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 15-1 at La Roche College
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The winning team members were Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Meghan Franz, Anna Homitsky, Cassie Kulp, Stefanie Mock, Niki Rakovan, Alyse Roberts, Emily Tittiger and the winning coaches were Mark Francis and Lauren Senkevich.
This accomplishment marks the 24th time a SPAASM team has come home with a Gold Bracket Championship Finals victory. We've made the Gold Semifinals/Finals and finished third/second hundreds of times, but nothing beats getting in the car (minivan) and riding home as a champion.
Congratulations and best wishes on many more championships to come over the next four years. Look out Jackson HS, here comes the champs.
Sunday, March 12
#25 4th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 16-1 at La Roche College
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Winning championships... it never gets old.
After the Advanced Approach (SPAASM) 15-1 team brought home the Gold the day before at La Roche College, the Advanced Approach (SPAASM) 16-1 said, "Anything you can do, we can do better", winning the Gold in grand fashion by going undefeated in matches (5-0) and in sets (10-0) on Sunday March 12, 2006 at La Roche College.
This is the 25th overall Gold Bracket Championship win for the Advanced Approach (SPAASM) Volleyball Club and the 4th overall Gold Bracket Championship win in 2006.
Today's winning team members include Kaitlin Bianco, Courtney Carter, Elizabeth Emerick, Ashley Grenet, Sam Harris, Ali Lewandowski, Janelle Martsolf, Brianna Mixter, Richelle Tittiger, and Meghan Franz (who filled in after some players had to leave for their school play). [Incidentally, Meghan has pulled into the club lead by winning her third Gold championship in 2006 (2 with her 15-1 team and 1 now wiith the 16-1s)].
Elizabeth Frick and Alicia Harris were unable to attend and Ali Lewandowski and Richelle Tittiger had to leave at noon for the finale of the Ambridge High School Musical.
The team exhibited great emotional and mental toughness by adjusting to these personnel fluctuations and showed great resolve in winning the tournament.
The championship coaches today were Stephanie Francis and Matt Work. The freshmen and sophomores have now put the pressure on our 17-1 and 18-1 teams to keep the "La Roche" streak in tact as our 17-1 team hosts an 8 team tournament at La Roche this Saturday and our 18-1 team hosts an 8 team tournament this Sunday at La Roche.
Tune in after the weekend to see if the SPAASM juniors and seniors can continue to defend our home turf. Our 17-1 team finished second in the Gold today at Jackson High School just missing their first tournament championship by losing the third game of the Gold Final, 15-13. At that tournament, Emily McMurray injured her knee (possible ACL/MCL tear) during the team warm up before their first match of the day. Please keep Em in your prayers tonight and tomorrow. She is scheduled to have an MRI done first thing Monday morning.
Today's 16-1 victory also sets up an interesting competion between 15-1 Coach Mark Francis and his wife 16-1 Coach Steph Francis. When it comes to collecting Gold Championships, as of today, Mark is in the lead over Steph 2-1 in 2006. Which "Coach Francis" will win more Gold Championships in 2006?
Sunday, March 19
#26 5th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 18-1 at La Roche College
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Saturday, April 1
#27 6th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 18-1 at Geneva College
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Sunday, April 23
#28 7th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 18-1 at Westminster College
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Across the gym from the SPAASM 18s, the inspired play of the SPAASM 17-1 team got them to the 17 and under Gold Championship match. SPAASM 17-1 also went undefeated in matches in pool play in the 17 and under portion of the Westminster College Tournament and advanced all the way to their Gold Championship final, finishing second after falling to FLASH 17-1 Black. (FLASH 17-1 Black has taken first at every tournament they have played in this year and is ranked #2 in the Ohio Valley Region 17 and Under Club standings). Good job 17-1.
Monday, May 21
#29 8th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2006 18-1 at Ambridge Area HS
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Saturday, February 10
#30 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 16-1 at New Castle YMCA Y Zone
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The 16s were undefeated in pool play and undefeated in playoff matches. Champion coaches were Stephanie Francis and Matt Work. The champion players were Erin Augspurger, Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Cassie Kulp, Tami Mack, Stephanie Mock, and Becky Smith.
Congratulations on the win, the first of many to come this season!
Sunday, March 4
#31 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 16-1 at Penn State Fayette
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This is the second Gold Championship of 2007 for the SPAASM 16-1 team and the 31st Gold Championship for SPAASM overall.
Also, congrats to the 18-1 team for their 2nd place gold finish at East Palestine HS on Sunday March 4, 2007. Playing back to back tournaments (Saturday at Seton Hill) somewhat shorthanded this weekend due to injuries (and a certain starting setter getting Subway cravings and missing pool play games), the 18s went undefeated all day Sunday until losing a 3rd game 15-13 heartbreaker to Allegheny North in the Gold Championship match. Get well soon, Stef!
Congratulations on another fine day of volleyball. Keep working hard and the wins will follow!
Saturday, March 10
#32 3rd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 16-1 at South Fayette HS
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The champion players and coaches today are Erin Augspurger, Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Cassie Kulp, Tami Mack, Stephanie Mock, Becky Smith, Coach Stephanie Francis, and Coach Matt Work.
Way to go! Let's keep the winning streak going...
Sunday, March 11
#33 4th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 18-1 at Penn State Fayette
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The champion players today were Kaitlin Bianco, Liz Emerick, Sam Harris, Stefanie Kelley, Emily McMurray, Brianna Mixter (no trips to Subway today - good job!), Nicole Traupman, and Rachel Wagner. Ashley Grenet, Jackie Fitzgerald, and Kelly McCauley were unable to attend. Champion coaches today were Haley Dzumba and Dan Sisley. Great job, and keep up the good work!
Saturday, March 24
#34 5th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 16-1 at California U of PA
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Congratulations on the victory. Take pride in your accomplishments and always strive to do the right thing.
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Saturday, April 7
#35 6th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 16-1 at Massillon Rec Center
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The champions today are Erin Augspurger, Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Cassie Kulp, Tami Mack, Stephanie Mock, Becky Smith, Coach Stephanie Francis and Coach Matt Work.
Congratulations on another Gold Championship! This weekend the 16-1 and 15-1 team face their biggest challenges of the year with a trip to the David L. Lawrenece Convention Center in Pittsburgh were they will compete in the NorthEast Qualifier on Friday Saturday and Sunday. Come out at support the SPAASM teams as they compete against some of the best teams and players from accross the country.
Saturday, April 21
#36 7th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 18-1 at Aliquippa Middle School
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The champion players today were Liz Emerick, Sam Harris, Stefanie Kelley, Emily McMurray, Brianna Mixter, Becky Smith (played up with 18-1 today), and Rachel Wagner. Kaitlin Bianco, Jackie Fitzgerald, Ashley Grenet, Kelly McCauley, and Nicole Traupman were unable to attend. The champion coaches today were Haley Dzumba and Dan Sisley. Congrats on another victory!
Sunday, April 22
#37 8th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 16-1 at Windham HS
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The champions today are Erin Augspurger, Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Cassie Kulp, Tami Mack, Stephanie McCarl (played up with 16-1 today), Stephanie Mock, Becky Smith, Coach Stephanie Francis and Coach Matt Work.
Sunday, May 20
#38 9th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2007 16-1 at Penn State Beaver
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The champions today are Erin Augspurger (DNP injured), Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Cassie Kulp, Tami Mack, Stephanie Mock, Becky Smith, Coach Stephanie Francis and Coach Matt Work.
Saturday, February 23
#39 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 16-1 at California U of PA
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39!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 16-1 team on winning the Gold Championship at the 16-team California University of PA tournament on Saturday February 23, 2008. This is the first Advanced Approach Gold Championship of 2008.
The 16-1 team went undefeated in matches (6-0) and games (12-0) on the day. Several times throughout the day, the 16-1 team found the energy to dig itself out of big holes to come back on teams and win games. (We trailed 00-09 in Game 1 of the Gold Semifinals and 02-10 in Game 1 of the Gold Finals).
Several players exhibited great physical and mental toughness battling through injury and illness throughout the day. We are very proud of you and the way you performed today.
What may have have been most impressive was the lack of junk food and soda present at the tournament. We know this was a BIG sacrifice for some of you, but wasn't it worth it? We looked fresh and chipper in the Gold Final. Your commitment seems to be working.
The champions today are Jaime Barkman, Caitlyn Beatty (DNP injured), Natalie Chieffallo, Madie Hudac, Alex Karika (up from 14-1 for the day, great job & thank you, Alex!), Shelby Knopick, Stephanie McCarl, Courtney Shallcross, Jodie Shearer, Emily Traupman, Paige Vavrek, and Coach Scott Phillips.
A special shout out to Jodie Shearer who made the ultimate sacrifice of a teenage girl on Saturday, she actually went to her high school dance AFTER we won the Gold, BRILLIANT! Thank you Jodie for your commitment to the team.
This accomplishment marks the 39th time an Advanced Approach team has come home with a Gold Bracket Championship Finals Victory. Nothing beats getting in the "car" (used to be "minivan", now its more like "SUV" - see March 11, 2006 Championship) and riding home as a champion.
#40 is next, which team will get it? The race to #50 is just around the corner!
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Sunday, March 2
#40 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 17-1 at California U of PA
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40!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 17-1 team on winning the Gold Championship at the 12-team California University of Pennsylvania tournament on Sunday March 2, 2008.
This is the 2nd Gold Championship for the club this year.
The 17-1 team rolled through pool play going 3-0 in matches and 6-0 in sets. We won 2-0 in the Gold Quarterfinals, 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals. In the Gold Final, we were down one set to none. We came back to win Set 2 and Set 3 to capture the gold. We finished the day at 6-0 in matches and 12-1 in sets.
The gold champs today are Erin Augspurger, Paige Banyas, Sarah Beals, Jillian Galloway, Kim Gomber, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Cassie Kulp, Mariah Martin, Erica Powell, Coach Karen Kaczmarek, and Coach Matt Work.
A pic of the gold champs from last Sunday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Saturday, March 8
#41 3rd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 16-1 at Edinboro U of PA
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41!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 16-1 team on winning the Gold at Edinboro University on Saturday March 8, 2008. This is the 3rd Gold Championship for the club this season and the 41st Gold Championship overall. This is the second straight Gold Championship for our 16-1 team.
Players, Parents, and Coaches braved blizzard conditions to get to the tournament.
After a slow start (we lost our first game of the day), the 16-1 team ended up going undefeated (6-0) in matches (4-0 in pool play and 2-0 in the gold playoffs) and 12-1 in sets, winning our last 12 sets in a row. (We had a five-team pool due to teams dropping out due to the blizzard conditions).
The gold champs today are Jaime Barkman, Natalie Chieffallo, Madie Hudac, Shelby Knopick, Stephanie McCarl, Courtney Shallcross, Jodie Shearer, Emily Traupman, Paige Vavrek, Coach Colby Hill, Coach Bethanne Mixter, Coach Karen Kaczmarek, Coach Tia Mancini, Coach Scott Phillips, Coach Kayla Schaughency, Coach Amanda Silay, Coach Izzy Vavrek, Coach Matt Work, and Coach Brittany Yates. Caitlyn Beatty was unable to attend.
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Saturday, March 15
#42 4th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 14-1 at Bethany College
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42!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 14-1 team on winning the Gold Championship at Bethany College on Saturday March 15, 2008. This is the 42nd overall Gold Championship for Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) and the fourth this season.
The 14-1 team went undefeated in matches (5-0) and 10-1 in sets on the day. After winning the Gold in the 14&U division, several players stayed to watch the 17&U gold championship match. To see what happened in that match, read the next posting!
The Gold Champs today are Michaela Ankrom, Jocelyn Craker, Dana Fitzgerald, Rachel Hast, Alex Karika, Courtney Kress, Alexis Rains, Kelly Reynolds, Laura Thomas, Izzy Vavrek, and Coach Scott Phillips. Coach Katie Ward was unable to attend.
Saturday, March 15
#43 5th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 17-1 at Bethany College
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43!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 17-1 team on winning the Gold Championship at Bethany College on Saturday March 15, 2008. This is the 43rd overall Gold Championship for Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) and the fifth this season. This is the second Gold Championship for our 17-1 team this year.
The 17-1 team went undefeated in matches (6-0) and 12-1 in sets on the day.
The Gold Champs today are Erin Augspurger, Page Banyas, Sarah Beals, Coach Jocelyn Craker, Jillian Galloway, Kim Gomber, Coach Rachel Hast, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Coach Alex Karika, Cassie Kulp, Mariah Martin, Erica Powell, Coach Laura Thomas, and Coach Matt Work.
A pic of the gold champs is coming soon. If you have one, please e-mail it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Saturday, April 12
#44 6th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 16-1 at Aliquippa MS
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44!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 16-1 team on winning the Gold at Aliquippa Middle School on Saturday April 12, 2008. This is the 6th Gold Championship for the club this season and the 44th Gold Championship overall. This is the 3rd Gold Championship for our 16-1 team this year.
The 16-1 team played consistently well all day and ended up going undefeated (6-0) in matches (4-0 in pool play and 2-0 in the gold playoffs) and 12-0 in sets.
The gold champs today are Jaime Barkman, Caitlyn Beatty, Natalie Chieffallo, Madie Hudac, Shelby Knopick, Stephanie McCarl, Courtney Shallcross, Jodie Shearer, Emily Traupman, Paige Vavrek, Coach Harry Humphrey, Coach Karen Kaczmarek, and Coach Scott Phillips.
The proudest moment of the day came when, after we won Gold Semifinal #1, our team offered to work for the team we defeated to allow them to leave the tournament early. That team had a long drive and we had to stay and wait to play in the Gold Finals. This noble gesture was greatly appreciated by the other team and is one of the great things about our sport. Volleyball people get along and truly like each other. You don't see this type of sportsmanship and camaraderie in other sports.
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Sunday, April 27
#45 7th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 14-1 at Baldwin Wallace College
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45!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 14-1 team on winning the Gold Championship at Baldwin-Wallace College in Berea, OH (Cleveland) on Sunday April 27, 2008. This is the 45th overall Gold Championship for Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) and the seventh this season. This is the second Gold Championship for the 14-1 team this year.
The 14-1 team went undefeated in matches (5-0) and 10-1 in sets on the day. We made two great comebacks to win games during the Gold Playoffs... We came back from down 23-15 in Gold Semifinal Game 1 and we came back from down 23-12 in the first game of the Gold Final.
The Gold Champs today are Jocelyn Craker, Rachel Hast, Alex Karika, Courtney Kress, Laura Thomas, and Izzy Vavrek. Michaela Ankrom, Alexis Rains, and Kelly Reynolds were unable to attend. The championship coaches today were Coach Erin Augspurger, Coach Paige Banyas, Coach Jillian Galloway, Coach Anna Homitsky, Coach Kellie Karasack, Coach Alex Koury, Coach Cassie Kulp, Coach Mariah Martin, Coach Nicole Miller, Coach Scott Phillips, Coach Erica Powell, Coach Katie Ward, and Coach Matt Work. (In another display of club unity, our 17-1 team stayed and cheered on our 14-1 team to the Gold Championship).
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Sunday, May 4
#46 8th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 18-1 at Penn State Beaver
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46!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 18-1 team on winning the Gold Championship at the Penn State Beaver tournament on Sunday May 4, 2008.
This is the 8th Gold Championship for the club this year.
The 18-1 team rolled through pool play going 3-0 in matches and 6-0 in sets. We won 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals and 2-0 in the Gold Finals. We finished the day undefeated in matches (5-0) and undefeated in sets (10-0).
The gold champs today are Kaitlyn Bianco, Liz Emerick, Stefanie Kelley, Casey Klukaszewski, Tami Mack, Morgan McCarthy, Brianna Mixter, Nikki Rakovan, Rachel Stedina, Coach Haley Dzumba, and Coach Dan Sisley. Brittany Jakim was unable to attend.
A pic of the gold champs from Sunday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Sunday, May 4
#47 9th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2008 17-1 at W&J College
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Congratulations to the Advanced Approach (Pittsburgh) 17-1 team on winning the Gold Championship at the Washington and Jefferson College tournament on Sunday May 4, 2008.
This is the 9th Gold Championship for the club this year and the 3rd Gold Championship for the 17-1 team this season.
The 17-1 team rolled through pool play going 3-0 in matches and 6-0 in sets. We won 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals and 2-0 in the Gold Finals. We finished the day undefeated in matches (5-0) and undefeated in sets (10-0).
The gold champs today are Erin Augspurger, Paige Banyas, Jillian Galloway, Kim Gomber, Anna Homitsky, Kellie Karasack, Alex Karika, Cassie Kulp, Mariah Martin, Erica Powell, Coach Karen Kaczmarek, and Coach Matt Work. Kim Gomber attended but did not play due to a high ankle sprain. Sarah Beals and Alex Koury were unable to attend.
A special thank you to Stephanie McCarl (16-1/10th grade) and Alex Karika (14-1/8th Grade) who stepped in and did a marvelous job. Steph attended her Prom Friday night, attended the 16-1 tournament on no sleep all day Saturday at W&J, and then played great with 17-1 all day Sunday. Alex left a basketball tournament in Erie on Saturday night (and missed her basketball games on Sunday) and stepped into Kim's role and did a great job setting a 5-1. Thank you Steph and Alex!
A pic of the gold champs from Sunday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Sunday, January 25
#48 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2009 16A at Ambridge Area Middle School
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Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 16A team on winning the Gold Championship at the Beaver Valley Premier Invitational Tournament at Ambridge Area Middle School on Sunday January 25, 2009.
This was the first tournament for the club in 2009 and is the 1st Gold Championship for the club this year and the 1st Gold Championship for the 16A team this season.
Both 16&U teams (16A,16H) played today... In pool play at the Economy Elementary School the 16-A team struggled going 2-1 in matches and 4-3 in sets. 16A finished in 2nd place in Pool A behind a very solid AIVA 15-1 team.
The 16H team breezed through their pool at the Ambridge Area Middle School going undefeated in matches (3-0) and undefeated in sets (6-0).
In semifinal 1 AIVA 15-1 defeated Blazers 16-1 to advance to the Gold Final. In semifinal #2 Advanced Approach 16A had to face Advanced Approach 16H. In set 1, 16H jumped out to a 5-0 lead. After a very hard fought battle, 16A completed the comeback to win set 1. In Set 2, 16A jumped out to a big lead. 16H showed a lot of heart and courage when setter Sam Morra ran off 11 straight points in a huge comeback for 16H. The 16A team barely held on to win set 2 and advance to the Gold Championship.
In the Gold Final, Advanced Approach 16A had a rematch with AIVA 15-1. AIVA jumped out to a 12 point lead early in set 1. The Advanced Approach 16A team noticed some tendencies from the first match up early in the day from the early stages of this match and made some adjustments during a timeout. We started a comeback but fell short in set 1. In set 2 the strategy and adjustments started working right off the bat. The set went back and fourth and 16A pulled out a hard fought win. With all the momentum finally on our side, 16A completed the day with an impressive finish in set 3 to win the GOLD!
So after winning 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals and 2-1 in the Gold Finals, 16A finished the day at 4-1 in matches and 8-4 in sets. 16H finished in 1st place in Pool B going 3-0 in matches and 6-0 in sets. The only sets 16H lost all day were to Advanced Approach 16A so 16H finished the day 3-1 in matches and 6-2 in sets.
The gold champs today are Caiti Adair, Olivia Brinker, Tia Mancini, Kayla Schaughency, Morgan Seybold, Molly Thuer, Izzy Vavrek, Jen Yardas, Brittney Yates, Coach Karen Kaczmarek, Coach Scott Phillips, Coach Krista Michaylo, Coach Harry Humphrey, Coach Stephanie DeAngelis, Coach Susan Gross, Coach Rachel Hast, Coach Alana Liggett, Coach Ashley Martin, Coach Sam Morra, Coach Rachel Netherland, Coach Laura Schmidt, Coach Zuri Seigworth, Coach Olivia Wulf. Coach Abby Tevis was unable to attend.
Sunday, March 8
#49 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2009 17F at Crestview Senior High School
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Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 17F team on winning the Gold Championship at the Club Hollywood Tournament at Crestview Senior High School in Columbiana, Ohio on Sunday March 8th, 2009.
This is the 2nd Gold Championship for the club this year and the 1st Gold Championship for the 17F team this season.
In pool play the 17F team went 3-0 in matches and 6-0 in sets. 17F finished in 1st place in their pool. After winning 2-0 in the Gold Quarterfinals and winning 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-0 in the Gold Finals finishing the day undefeated in matches (6-0) and also in sets (12-0).
The gold champs today are Austen Ashworth, Ali Cameron, Meghan Condit, Hallie Ganch, Stephanie McCarl, Ashley MacDonald, Sarah Metarko, Jodie Shearer, Bethany Suchy, Emily Trapman, Coach Fred Wallace, and Coach Karisa Decker.
Congratulations on a great day!
Sunday, February 28
#50 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2010 18F at Robert Morris University
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50!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 18F team on winning the Gold Championship at the Pittsburgh 3 Rivers Best of the 'Burgh 18&U Mixed Tournament at Robert Morris University in Coraopolis, PA on Sunday Februrary 28th, 2010.
This is the 1st Gold Championship for the club this year and the 1st Gold Championship for the 18F team this season. This is the 50th overall gold championship for the club.
In pool play the 18F team went undefeated in matches (2-0) and 6-1 in sets. 18F finished in 1st place in their pool. After winning 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-0 in the Gold Finals finishing the day undefeated in matches (4-0) and finishing 8-1 in sets.
The gold champs today are Austen Ashworth, Megan Condit, Claire DeLucia, Saige Foster, Hallie Ganch, Eva Irwin, Sarah Metarko, Jodie Shearer, Bethany Suchy, Kelly Treser, Coach Fred Wallace, and Coach Judy Naab.
Congratulations on a very impressive day!
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Sunday, March 14
#51 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2010 17S at Bethany College
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51!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 17-S team on winning the Gold Championship at the 12 team Penn Highlands 17&U Tournament at Bethany College Tournament in Bethany, WV on Daylight Savings Time Change Day, Sunday March 14th. (Maybe we should get one hour less sleep the night before every tournament)...
This is the 2nd Gold Championship for the club this year and the 1st Gold Championship for the 17S team this season. This is the 51st overall gold championship for the club.
In pool play the 17S team went undefeated in matches (3-0) and 6-1 in sets. 17S finished in 1st place in their pool. After winning 2-1 in the Gold Quarterfinals, and 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-0 in the Gold Finals finishing the day undefeated in matches (6-0) and finishing 12-2 in sets on the day.
The gold champs today are Lindsey Bennett, Kristin Collins, Sam Morra, Rachel Netherland, Erin Smith, Olivia Wulf, Jenny Yardas, and Brittney Yates. Alex Hill, Chelsey Isler, and Zuri Siegworth were unable to attend. The championship coaches today were Scott Phillips (and an injured Jenny Yardas throughout the gold playoffs). Great job putting the starting line-up together, Jenny!
Congratulations on a very impressive week of training and a very impressive day of competing... although you used to be much more muchier, you gained back much of your muchness today!
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
#52 3rd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2010 18F at Bethany College
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52!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 18F team on winning the Gold Championship at the Penn Highlands 18&U Tournament at Bethany College in Bethany, WV on Sunday March 21st, 2010.
This is the 3rd Gold Championship for the club this year and the 2nd Gold Championship for the 18F team this season. This is the 52nd overall Gold Championship for the club.
In pool play the 18F team went 2-1 in matches and 4-2 in sets. 18F finished in 2nd place in their pool. After winning 2-1 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-1 in the Gold Finals finishing the day 4-1 in matches and finishing 8-4 in sets.
The team overcame injuries to outside hitter Eva Irwin (lost in the first match for the day) and setter Sarah Metarko (injured in game 2 of the semifinals making a diving save). Libero Austen Ashworth was forced into setting duties for set 3 of the semifinals. The team pulled together to get the set 3 semifinal win with their new setter and libero (Hallie Ganch). Sarah returned to set in the Gold Finals allowing everyone to return to their normal positions. The team rose to the challenge securing the championship with another gutsy performance in the finals.
The gold champs today are Austen Ashworth, Megan Condit, Claire DeLucia, Saige Foster, Hallie Ganch, Eva Irwin, Sarah Metarko, Jodie Shearer, Bethany Suchy, Kelly Treser, Coach Fred Wallace, and Coach Judy Naab.
Congratulations on a very gutsy, hard-fought, impressive championship day!
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Sunday, March 28
#53 4th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2010 17S at Girard HS in Girard, OHIO... not PA!
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53!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 17-S team on winning the Gold Championship at the 12 team Club O.N.E. 17&U Tournament at Girard Senior High School in Girard, Ohio.
This is the 4th Gold Championship for the club this year and the 2nd Gold Championship for the 17S team this season. This is the 53rd overall Gold Championship for the club.
In pool play the 17S team went 2-1 in matches (lost in 3 to Club O.N.E. 17-1) and 5-2 in sets. 17S finished in 2nd place in their pool. After winning 2-0 in the Gold Quarterfinals, and 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-0 in the Gold Finals (in a rematch with Club O.N.E.) finishing the day 5-1 in matches and finishing 11-2 in sets on the day.
It was great to see players and coaches making adjustments throughout the day. The reason we were able to defeat Club O.N.E. in the finals is because we learned how to play against them in pool play. Sucessfully observing, adjusting, and adapting is a sign of having a good team. Managing players who exhibit those skills is a coach's dream.
The gold champs today are Lindsey Bennett (after an early morning scenic drive through Girard, PA), Kristin Collins, Chelsey Isler, Sam Morra, Rachel Netherland, Erin Smith, Olivia Wulf, Jenn Yardas, and Brittney Yates. Alex Hill and Zuri Siegworth were unable to attend. The championship coaches today were Scott Phillips and Michelle Beck. Great job Coach Beck!
...and please, someone make sure Lindsey and her pop drive to Baltimore, MARYLAND this weekend.
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Sunday, April 11
#54 5th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2010 17S at Crestview HS in Columbiana, OH
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54!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 17-S team on winning the Gold Championship at the 16 team Club Hollywood 17&U Tournament at Crestview Senior High School in Columbiana, Ohio.
This is the 5th Gold Championship for the club this year and the 3rd Gold Championship for the 17S team this season. This is the 54th overall Gold Championship for the club. Currently our 17s have won three and the 18s have won two Gold Championships so far this year. Several of our teams are on the brink as we have finished second and third in Gold playoffs many times this year.
In pool play the 17S team went 3-0 in matches and 6-1 in sets. 17S finished in 1st place in their pool. After winning 2-1 in the Gold Quarterfinals, and 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-0 in the Gold Finals finishing the day 6-0 in matches and finishing 12-2 in sets on the day.
Although the team didn't seem to have their A-game for the majority of the day, the staff is proud of the fact we were able to "win ugly" and continue to advance through the pool and playoff rounds. Several players seemed tired and several are fighting minor injuries and illnesses. To see the team come together and win, as a team, was another big step in the development of this group together. Winning this championship certainly made the ride home more enjoyable and relaxing.
The gold champs today are Lindsey Bennett, Kristin Collins, Chelsey Isler, Sam Morra, Rachel Netherland, Erin Smith, Olivia Wulf, Jenn Yardas, and Brittney Yates. Alex Hill and Zuri Siegworth were unable to attend. The championship coaches today were Scott Phillips, Josh Sadowy, and Danelle Wagner. Great job Coach Sadowy and Coach Wagner!
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Saturday, April 24
#55 6th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2010 17S at New Castle YMCA's Y Zone in New Castle, PA
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55!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 17-S team on winning the Gold Championship at the 8 team 17&U Tournament at New Castle YMCA's Y-Zone in New Castle, PA.
This is the 6th Gold Championship for the club this year and the 4th Gold Championship for the 17S team this season. This is the 55th overall Gold Championship for the club. Currently our 17s have won four and the 18s have won two Gold Championships so far this year. Several of our teams are right on the brink of championships as we have finished second and third in Gold playoffs many times this year.
In pool play the 17S team went 2-1 in matches and 4-2 in sets. 17S finished in a three-way tie for 1st place in their pool. After winning 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-0 in the Gold Finals finishing the day 4-1 in matches and finishing 8-2 in sets on the day.
The gold champs today are Lindsey Bennett, Kristin Collins, Chelsey Isler, Sam Morra, Rachel Netherland, Erin Smith, Olivia Wulf, Jenn Yardas, and Brittney Yates. Alex Hill and Zuri Siegworth were unable to attend. The championship coach today was Scott Phillips.
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Sunday, May 16
#56 7th SPAASM Gold Championship of 2010 18F at W&J College
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56!
Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 18F team on winning the Gold Championship at the W&J College 18&U Tournament at W&J College in Washington, PA on Sunday May 16th, 2010.
This is the 7th Gold Championship for the club this year and the 3rd Gold Championship for the 18F team this season. This is the 56th overall Gold Championship for the club.
In pool play the 18F team went undefeated in matches (3-0) and sets (6-0). 18F finished in 1st place in their pool. After winning 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-0 in the Gold Finals finishing the day 5-0 in matches and finishing 10-0 in sets.
The gold champs today are Austen Ashworth, Megan Condit, Claire DeLucia, Saige Foster, Hallie Ganch, Eva Irwin, Sarah Metarko, Jodie Shearer, Bethany Suchy, Kelly Treser, Coach Fred Wallace, and Coach Judy Naab.
Congratulations on another impressive gold championship. Great job!
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Sunday, March 13
#57 1st SPAASM Gold Championship of 2011 15&U at New Castle YMCA's Y Zone in New Castle, PA
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Congratulations to the Advanced Approach Pittsburgh 15&U team on winning the Gold Championship at the 8 team 15&U Tournament at the New Castle YMCA's Y-Zone in New Castle, PA.
This is the 1st Gold Championship for the club this season. This is the 57th overall Gold Championship for the club.
In pool play the 15&U team went 3-0 in matches and 6-0 in sets. We finished in 1st place in our pool. After winning 2-0 in the Gold Semifinals, we won 2-1 in the Gold Finals finishing the day 5-0 in matches and finishing 10-1 in sets on the day.
The gold champs today are Seairra Barnett, Jenna Dobiak, Amanda Hedges, Kara Kopka, Mackenzie Monaghan, Nicole Romah, and Jordan Trombetta. The championship coach today was Caitlin Brown.
Congratulations on another great day and keep up the good work!
A pic of the gold champs from Saturday is coming soon. If you have one, please send it to advancedapproach@comcast.net today.
Saturday, March 19
#58 2nd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2011 16&U at Geneva College
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Sunday, March 20
#59 3rd SPAASM Gold Championship of 2011 16&U at Penn State Behrend
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59!
#60 1st Advanced Approach Gold Championship of 2013 - Who will it be?!?!?
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60?
With Championship #57, #58, and #59 all now in the books, we are looking for our 60th...
THIS SPOT COULD BE YOURS!
SOMEONE'S NAME AND PICTURE WILL END UP HERE - WILL IT BE YOURS?
WE'LL FIND OUT SOON ENOUGH...
CHAMPIONS... 56 TIMES!
