It is said, when great pitching meets great hitting, the pitching will come out on top on most occasions. The power-laden lineup of the Swanton Lady Bulldogs found this to be the case when they struggled against the hard-throwing pitcher of the top-seeded Eastwood Lady Eagles and fell in the OHSAA Division V district Semi-Final game 13-0 in five innings at Liberty Center High School. Swanton ends the season with an overall record of 13-15, including a Sectional Championship and a third-place finish (5-2) in the NWOAL
Click on the link above to access photos from the game. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymdia.com website.
Photo: Cara Ludlow managed the only Swanton hit off the Eastwood pitcher
Yesterday morning the Swanton Community gathered to honor all who have fallen in defense of our great nation. Organized by the Swanton American Legion Murbach-Siefert Post #479, the solemn event began with a parade that traveled south on Main Street and concluded at Memorial Park, in front of the WWI Doughboy Statue. Post Commander John Schmidt served as the emcee and welcomed all in attendance. Legion Chaplin Amy Herrick offered a prayer and Poppy Princess Emerald Klump led he crowd in reciting the National Anthem.
Commander Schmidt then addressed the crowd. “Today, we celebrate Memorial Day, a day to honor the more than one million veterans that have died in battles since the Revolutionary War. We also honor those more than four million veterans who have worn the uniform and swore an oath to protect our country against all enemies, foreign and domestic, who are buried all over the world.”
“In the Swanton community alone, we honor almost one thousand veterans buried in local cemeteries. At noon today, the Swanton American Legion Honor Guard will visit seven local cemeteries to render military honors to those veterans resting in eternal peace. This is a solemn day. But it is also a day filled with joy as we celebrate the beginning of our summer activities. Activities we can participate in with peace and freedom because of those brave souls that have gone before us to protect our way of life.”
The featured speaker for the day was one of Swanton High School’s best and brightest, Hailey Frosch. Hailey, the Junior Student Council President and a member of the National Honor Society and the national Society of High School Scholars, gave her in sight into what Memorial Day means to today’s generation of students as they begin to realize and understand the sacrifices yesterday’s and today’s military heroes have made. Following her speech, the Honor Guard presented a 21-gun salute. Upon the conclusion of the ceremony, Commander Schmidt invited everyone back to the Swanton Legion for a complimentary lunch.
Click on the link above to access photos from the day. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website
The Swanton Bulldogs wasted no time in getting on the scoreboard by plating two runs in the first inning and five more in the second for a 7-0 lead on their way to an 8-2 OHSAA DV Sectional Title victory over the Tinora Rams at Tinora High School on Saturday. In a recent regular season game on the same field, the Rams defeated the Bulldogs 18-8 in an unsarcastically poor Swanton showing. “We’ve been preaching it for about two weeks now and it was one of those day where it all clicked. They beat us up pretty good about a week and a half ago. I don’t think they were expecting what they got,” said Swanton head coach Josh Siewert commenting on his team’s turnaround performance.
Adam Lemon started the Bulldog scoring barrage with a two-run single in the first inning to bring home Luke Marlow who had singled to lead off the game and Carson Lemons who followed with a double. After adding another run in the top of the second to go up 3-0, Swanton loaded the bases with nobody out, bringing Isaiah Bolyard to the plate. Bolyard drove a fastball into the right-center field gap for a double, pushing the Swanton lead to 5-0 and surprising the co-champions of the Green Meadows League. “I was behind on the count a little bit, expecting the curve ball and I was sitting back a little bit, got a fastball and hit it,” said Bolyard detailing his big hit. “Right when I hit it, I knew it was down. It knocked in two runs and that was huge.”
The sudden deficit led to a pitching change by the Rams’ coach Brent Renollet who brought in Hunter Bostleman for starting pitcher Mason McQuillen. Lemons greeted Bostelman with double to drive home Marlow and Bolyard, giving the Dogs a 7-run advantage, stunning the Tinora faithful.
Swanton starting pitcher, Marlow, who had breezed through the first inning, gave up three hits and one run in the bottom of the second, but was otherwise brilliant on the mound, throwing four more innings with no more hits or runs. He did walk three batters but also struck out three hitters in picking up the win. “The team really backed me up today. We had 12 or 13 hits, kept putting the ball in play and did what we do best. And the defense saved my butt out there a few times,” said Marlow crediting his teammates.
For those who know this Bulldog team, Marlow was a surprise starter over Swanton ace, Adam Lemon, but Coach Siewert explained his strategy. “These guys (Tinora) have been taking pitches all year. They’ve had 30 walks in the last three games,” said Siewert. “Adam was good for us all year but Marlow is more efficient out of the gate.”
With the Sectional Championship now in hand, Swanton moves on to face the Eastwood Eagles, champions of the Northern Buckeye Conference, in the District Semi-Finals on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at Defiance High School. When it was mentioned to Coach Siewert that Eastwood is a very good team, he replied, “So was Tinora.”
Click on the link above to access photos from the game. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
Five Swanton Bulldog senior baseball players, Isaiah Bolyard, Vincent Fanelli, Drake Harris. Adam Lemon and Evan Smigelski, walked off their home field at Memorial Park following a game for the final time this past Monday. And, like many times in their four-year careers, they walked off as winners after easily defeating the Toledo Christian Eagles 14-4 in five run-rule innings.
The victory moves the Bulldogs’ overall record to 17-7. They will play the Tinora Rams on Saturday at 12:00 p.m. in an OHSAA Division V playoff game at Tinora High School.
Click on the link above to access photos from the game. Given that it was Senior Night, all photos are the the five senior players. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
Photo: Evan Smigelski applies the tag on a pick-off attempt from pitcher Adam Lemon
Prior to its Monday afternoon game with the Toledo Christian Eagles, the Swanton Bulldogs’ baseball team honored five seniors who were about to play their final game on their home field at Memorial Park. As always, it was a moment of tears and cheers as the celebrated seniors were introduced, one at a time, and a short bio read by Betty Jo Sedowski in the following order:
Iasiah Bolyard: Our first senior is Isaiah Bolyard. Isaiah is being escorted by Joe and Lori Bolyard. While mat Swanton High School, Isaiah has participated in Soccer, Football, Baseball and FCA. His future plans are to attend the University of Toledo, majoring in Business Management while continuing to work for Design Entertainment.
Vincent Fanelli: Our next senior is Vincent Fanelli. Vincent is being escorted by Melanie Lorenzen. While at Swanton High School, Vinnie has participated in Soccer, Wrestling, Baseball and Frosh Fest. His future plans are to attend Owens Community College for Electrical Engineering or take side courses at the University of Toledo in Business.
Drake Harris: Our next senior is Drake Harris. Drake is being escorted by Rob and Jill Harris. While at Swanton High School, Drake has participated in Football, Wrestling, Baseball and Frosh Fest. His future plans are to attend Adrian College to play baseball while majoring in Business.
Adam Lemon: Our next senior is Adam Lemon. Adam is being escorted by Lyn and Jon Lemon. While at Swanton High School, Adam has participated in Soccer, Golf, Basketball, Baseball, Interact Club and National Honor Society. His future plans are to attend Lourdes University to major in Marketing and play baseball.
Evan Smigelski: Our last senior is Evan Smigelski. Evan is being escorted by Kelli and Jeremy Smigelski. While at Swanton High School, Evan has participated in Football, Wrestling and Baseball. His future plans are to play football at Defiance College while majoring in Education.
Click on the link above to access photos from the ceremony. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
Photo: Evan Smigelski, Adam Lemon, Drake Harris, Vincent Fanelli, Isaiah Bolyard
The Swanton Lions Club their 16th Annual Golf Outing this past Saturday afternoon at White Pines Golf Course in Swanton. As in the past, this year’s proceeds will go to funding a scholarship for a Swanton High School senior who has demonstrated service to our community, dedication to their academics and outstanding character.
Click on the link above to access photos from the outing. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the Swanton Lions Club and fultoncountymedia.com website.
At last week’s Swanton Lions Club meeting, Swanton High School senior Keagan Young was presented with a one-time Richard Notestine Scholarship of $1,000. The organization’s criteria are based on high academic achievement combined with strong community service. Each applicant is required to submit an essay on their community service experiences and what it means to them.
The Scholarship Committee was very impressed with Keagen’s academic achievements and were also emotionally captivated by her essay. Below is Ms. Young’s essay in its entirety:
Making a Difference – One Act at a Time
Throughout my high school years, I dedicated countless hours to serving my community through a wide range of volunteer experiences. From sports camps to blood drives, and supporting local festivals, I sought every opportunity to make an impact. Each experience, though unique, shared a common thread, my desire to contribute to the well-being of others and grow as a compassionate, responsible individual.
My journey into volunteerism began with a desire to give back. I quickly found myself involved with various organizations including animal shelters, community clean-up groups and the lower grade schools. The diversity of these experiences allowed me to develop new skills, gain different perspectives, and understand the value of adaptability. Whether I was recycling, helping the elementary or junior high school students, I learned that meaningful change often starts with small, consistent efforts.
One of my most memorable experiences was helping something at our school called Frosh Fest, a welcoming program designed to help incoming freshmen navigate their first day of high school. As an upperclassman, I had the privilege of guiding them through the hallways, answering their questions, and easing their nerves about finding their classrooms to understanding their schedules. It was rewarding to see their anxious faces gradually relax as they realized they were not alone and had the support from students who had once felt the same way.
I also enjoyed helping with the sports camps for younger students, especially when I saw the confidence grow along with their skills. Each interaction taught me something new about patience, empathy, leadership and the importance of teamwork.
Through these experiences, I developed skills beyond volunteering. Helping with my community festival taught me the importance of organization and communication, while working with other people in the community enhanced my ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Perhaps most importantly, I learned that genuine service requires humility and a willingness to listen.
Volunteering has shaped me into a more compassionate, resilient and proactive individual. It has inspired me to pursue future opportunities to serve others, whether through advocacy, mentorship or hands-on efforts. I am committed to continuing this journey, building on the lessons I learned and striving to make a positive impact wherever I go.
Keagan, who served as the President of Swanton’s National Honor Society this past year, has chosen to continue her education at Bowling Green State University and major in Interior Design. The Swanton Lions Club would like to say congratulations and good luck to Keagan in all her future endeavors.
Photo: Keagan Young receives scholarship award from Lions’ Secretary Holly Lawson
The Swanton Lady Bulldogs wasted no time in showing the crowd who was the better team on Wednesday as they scored eight runs in the bottom of the first inning and went on to run-rule the Evergreen lady Vikings 12-1 at Memorial Park in Swanton. It was the second win over Evergreen in the season, having defeated the Lady Vikings earlier 11-4 in NWOAL play. “Basically, we thought we needed to prove to them and to us how well we can actually hit the ball, and we did that,” said Swanton coach Lauren Yoder.
Swanton freshman Beyla Remer ruled the day in the circle with her arm and at the plate with her bat to lead the Lady Bulldogs to the easy win. She allowed just one run on five hits in five innings and went 4 for 4 with two runs scored and two RBIs from the lead-off position.
“I’m just so happy I get to play with this team, to be a part of it is so much fun,” said Beyla. Early in the year, Beyla, a natural right-handed hitter, struggled with her hitting until her coach talked her into switching to the left side and the results speak for themselves. “I feel much more confident on the left side. When coach told me to switch to the left side I was like, ’Uh’, but now I don’t think I could ever go back to the right,” said Beyla explaining her much improved hitting.
Coach Yoder also commented on Beyla’s pitching success. “She spins the ball so well. That’s been in all of our games, the way she spins it, hitting her spots and mixing up speeds. That’s been a key part in all of our wins this year,” said Yoder.
Others contributing to the 12-run and 14-hit win, were Lexi Shinaver (3/4 with 2R and 2RBI), Alexa Faber (2/3 with 1R and 3RBI), Jordyn Ramirez (2/3 with 1R and 1RBI) and Cara Ludlow (2BB with 2R), Kendal Baum (1/3 with 1R and 1RBI), Adriana Elliot (1/2 with 1R, 1R, 1BB). Megan Clancy led the Lady Vikings with two hits and one RBI.
The victory improves Swanton’s overall record to 13-13. They will now move on to face the #1-seeded Eastwood Lady Eagles next Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. at Liberty Center High School.
Evergreen defeated Ottawa Hill 10-1 yesterday to improve to 5-15. They will play the Lake Lady Flyers in a double header at home on Saturday to finish the season.
Click on the link above to access photos from the game. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded foe NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
Richard Flores, of the Delta Panther powerhouse wrestling program, has signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his education and wrestling career at Tiffin University. “I like the coaches there and the people that are committing as well. I’ve got a few friends going there. It’s a really nice program,” explained Richard about his choice.
In his senior year, competing in the 132-pound weight class, Richard finished in second place in the NWOAL, Sectional and District tournaments, qualifying for the OHSAA DIII State Tournament where he stood on the podium in fourth place. He began wrestling in the third grade in Delta’s Biddy Wrestling program and has played a significant part in Panther Coach Ron Nagel’s very successful program.
While competing in the Dragons’ wrestling program, Richard will be majoring in Cyber Security.
Click on the link above to access photos from the signing. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and ca be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
At tonight’s Village Council meeting, all six Council members, Derek Kania, Dianne Westhoven, Samantha Disbrow, John Schmidt, Patrick Messenger and Noah Kreuz, voted against sending a motion to amend the Village’s Ordinance prohibiting chickens within Village limits. Had the motion passed it have been sent to the Planning Commission and the Village Solicitor to change the verbiage and allow residents to keep hens on their property.
Prior to the unanimous vote, each Council member related that their decision was based on discussions with many residents and an apparent overall lack of support for the change from constituents and a poor showing by pro-chicken advocates at the Public Hearing conducted at the previous Council meeting, as well as a heavy agenda going forward facing the Council and the Village. Council President Kania emphasized that his decision and the decisions of his fellow Council members would not reflect their personal opinions, but only reflect what they believed to be the best decision for the residents of the Village.
Fulton County Ohio Media 