The year 2024 was a landmark for sports enthusiasts across the region, showcasing unparalleled individual and team achievements. From championship victories to record-breaking performances, this year's highlights have left an indelible mark on the sporting landscape.

Epic Victories and Unbreakable Records Define 2024

Champions of the Diamond: Misericordia’s Historic Triumph

The Misericordia baseball team etched its name into the annals of history by clinching the NCAA Division III World Series title. After securing the MAC Freedom championship and regional titles, the Cougars faced off against Christopher Newport and emerged victorious. Their journey continued with a remarkable three-game winning streak, leading them to the championship round. Here, they triumphed over the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, claiming their first national title. Scranton Prep alumnus Matt Lanzendorfer sealed the deal in the championship game, while head coach Pete Egbert was honored as both the ABCA Region IV Coach of the Year and National Coach of the Year.

Tennis Titan: Ilana Rosenthal’s Reign Continues

Wyoming Seminary’s tennis star, Ilana Rosenthal, solidified her legacy with three consecutive PIAA Class 2A singles championships. Her dominance on the court was unmatched, culminating in a stellar high school career. Rosenthal’s prowess extended beyond local boundaries, earning her a scholarship to continue her tennis journey at the University of Connecticut. Her ability to thrive under pressure has made her one of the most celebrated athletes in the Wyoming Valley Conference.

Pitching Perfection: Gianna Adams’ Legendary Career

Pittston Area softball pitcher Gianna Adams redefined what it means to be a dominant force on the mound. Over four years, she amassed an impressive 834 strikeouts, boasting a 65-7 record and a minuscule 0.73 ERA. In 2024 alone, she recorded 287 strikeouts and tossed seven no-hitters, including four perfect games. Off the mound, Adams was equally formidable, batting .433 with 30 hits, 25 runs, and 15 RBIs. Her leadership led the Patriots to state championship glory in her sophomore year and a runner-up finish in her senior season.

Golf Greatness: Nick Werner’s Double Victory

Nick Werner of Wyoming Seminary added another feather to his cap by winning his second consecutive PIAA Class 2A golf championship. Competing at the Penn State Golf Courses, Werner finished the two-day event 6-under-par, two strokes ahead of his closest competitor. His exceptional performance earned him a scholarship to play for the Nittany Lions, continuing his golfing excellence at the collegiate level.

Swimming Sensations: Woobie Kupsky and Brianne Dempsey

MMI Prep’s Woobie Kupsky and Dallas High’s Brianne Dempsey were swimming sensations who dominated the PIAA championships. Kupsky showcased his prowess in the 500-yard freestyle, clocking a time of 4:30.74, nearly four seconds ahead of the next competitor. Dempsey’s diving skills were equally impressive, scoring 411.85 points across 11 dives to win the Class 2A state championship. Their victories highlighted the depth of talent within the Wyoming Valley Conference.

Batting Brilliance: Kirsten Finarelli’s Stellar Performance

Lake-Lehman’s Kirsten Finarelli was a force to be reckoned with on the softball diamond. Her junior season saw her earn the Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association Class 3A Player of the Year award. Finarelli’s batting average of .723 included 34 hits, 37 runs, and 24 RBIs, with 29 of those hits going for extra bases. She signed her national letter of intent to join Penn State, ensuring her legacy would continue at the collegiate level.

Football Flourish: King’s College’s Unbeaten Season

King’s College football team had a historic 2024 season, finishing undefeated in the MAC and securing an automatic bid to the NCAA playoffs. They advanced to the Round of 32 before being eliminated by Salisbury. Quarterback Russell Minor-Shaw was named the MAC Offensive Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, underscoring the team’s strength and consistency. Head coach Mike Cebrosky guided the Monarchs through a successful inaugural season.

Soccer Stars Shatter Records

The fall of 2024 witnessed record-breaking performances in soccer. Wyoming Seminary’s Matt Swartz became the program’s first player to surpass 100 career goals, setting a new all-time scoring record. At Valley West, Lola Wojciechowski broke the girls soccer program’s scoring record, scoring her 100th goal in a decisive victory over Pittston Area. These achievements underscore the growing talent and competitiveness within the Wyoming Valley Conference.

Wrestling Pioneer: Alahna Morris Makes History

Lake-Lehman’s Alahna Morris blazed a trail for female wrestlers, becoming the first from the Wyoming Valley Conference to win a gold medal in a girls district wrestling tournament. Competing in the 148-pound weight class, Morris entered as the No. 3 seed but emerged victorious, making history and paving the way for future female wrestlers.

National Glory: Wyoming Seminary Wrestling Dominance

The Wyoming Seminary wrestling team once again proved its supremacy, finishing No. 1 in the nation at the National Prep Tournament. The Blue Knights crowned 10 champions out of 11 finalists, solidifying their reputation as one of the best teams in the country. This achievement highlights the depth and talent within the Wyoming Seminary wrestling program.