Loveland Magazine

LOVELAND MAGAZINE

News and Events from the Loveland, Ohio Area

Without fear or favor

Since 2004

Tag: #ourway

  • Community Rally’s Around LHS’s Coach Parker at Opening Night of “Rolling Mondays!”

    Community Rally’s Around LHS’s Coach Parker at Opening Night of “Rolling Mondays!”

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – It’s official! Loveland High School’s (LHS) Women’s Basketball Coach, Darnell Parker, has quite a loyal fanbase of Tigers! 

    On Monday, April 12th, Bishop’s Quarter, located in Downtown Historic Loveland, hosted “Rolling Mondays,” a fundraiser in support of Coach Darnell Parker as he battles Colin and Liver Cancer. The first Rolling Monday proved to be a success as fundraiser organizers, Jessica Early, Jodi Stanton, Loveland Magazine, and several LHS parents and local business owners, brought the community together to generate funds to help pay Coach Parker’s Cancer bills. 

    Beginning at 6 PM the community began to “Roll” into Bishop’s Quarter so that they could “Eat Out to Help Out” Coach Parker. The fun-filled night kicked off with the serving of the “Coach’s Cocktail,” which included Tito’s, muddled strawberries, lime, basil, and simple syrup. I for one can say that the cocktail was not only unbelievable but very popular with those that attended the fundraiser! 

    While Coach Parker’s fans enjoyed their cocktails they were able to enjoy spectacular live music provided by Brad Martin, and yes he did dedicate “Paparazzi” by Lady Gaga to yours truly! As if the fantastic live music and refreshing cocktails weren’t enough, LHS Women’s and Men’s Basketball players competed against one another to see who could get the most entries into the Split the Pot drawing (Women’s Team) or the Gift Basket Raffle (Men’s Team)! The winning team ended up being the LHS Women’s Basketball Team but that doesn’t go without saying that the Gift Baskets were beautifully done and included a lot of superb prizes. The Split the Pot rounded out to be a whopping $500 for the very first Rolling Monday!

    Towards the end of the fundraiser, it was easy to see that Coach Darnell Parker has touched a lot of people’s lives with his vibrant personality, competitive drive, unbelievable coaching skill set, and ability to help so many athletes succeed.

    Bishop’s Quarter was filled with many pillars of the community on Monday night and they wanted to share with YOU what their experience was like at the first Rolling Monday EVER! Here are a few of those individuals’ thoughts about their “Eat Out to Help Out” night at Bishop’s Quarter!

    “Bishop’s Quarter was honored to support Darnell and his fight against cancer. It was my first time meeting Darnell and it did not take long to understand why so many people care about him and support him in his fight vs. cancer,” Co-Owner of Bishop’s Quarter, Mark Wiehe said, “He is an amazing and inspiring guy and I left our first meeting feeling like we have known each other for years. I was extremely proud as a Loveland resident and business owner to see the support shown by the school, basketball program, and community. Thank you, Cassie and Loveland Magazine for your support of Coach Darnell!!”

    “The first of the three Rolling Monday events to support Coach Parker was incredible! Bishop Quarter management, Mark and Kevin, hosted a fantastic evening,” LHS parent and one of the Rolling Monday organizers, Jessica Early said, “Loveland Magazine’s sponsorship and support were fantastic. Our Loveland community showed up with love, energy and amazing generosity. It truly was a special night in Loveland and we look forward to the next Rolling Monday event, Monday, April 19th at The Works!  I’m sure it will be wonderful.” 

    “Because I respect coach Parker and his team so much I jumped at the chance for Loveland Magazine to be the media sponsor,” Loveland Magazine Editor in Chief David Miller said, “I was so impressed with what Jodi and Jessica did! I was especially impressed with their organizing skills! I truly appreciated the wonderful hospitality Bishop’s Quarter and staff showed to all, it was a memorable night.”

    Thank you so much to everyone who contributed to making the night such a big success! We appreciate YOU!

    Here at Loveland Magazine, we of course had to capture the magic of the very first Rolling Monday so please enjoy the video footage and photos captured by both David Miller and myself!

    The next Rolling Monday is set to kick off at The Works Pizza located at 20 Grear Millitzer in Downtown Loveland on April 19th with activities from 6 PM-10 PM. The Works Pizza will be holding a Bartender Competition from 6 PM-10 PM in which guest appearances will be made by several Loveland community leaders! I will be guest bartending from 6 PM-6:45 PM, Jill Dressell (parent of a LHS basketball player) will be taking the 7 PM-7:45 PM time slot, Brad Early (Assistant Varsity Coach for the LHS Women’s Basketball team and a LHS parent) will be competing from 8 PM-8:45 PM, and Jodi Stanton (Parent of a former LHS Women’s Basketball player and current LHS Men’s basketball player) will be running the bar from 9 PM-9:45 PM.

    The guest bartender with the most tips (tips will be donated to Coach Parker) will win the competition! Split the Pot tickets will also be sold from 6 PM-8 PM.

    We hope to see the Loveland community and beyond at next week’s Rolling Monday at The Works Pizza! Believe me you won’t want to miss out on all the fun and the opportunity to give back to Coach Darnell Parker!

  • “Eat Out to Help Out” Loveland’s Coach Darnell Parker!

    “Eat Out to Help Out” Loveland’s Coach Darnell Parker!

    on “Rolling Mondays”

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – There are so many reasons why Loveland is such a great community to be a part of; the biggest reason being the community is ALWAYS ready to pay it forward and give back to those who have made a significant impact in the lives of those who reside in Loveland and beyond!

    Darnell Parker, the Loveland High School Women’s Basketball Coach, received devastating news in light of the 2020-2021 basketball season, that he was diagnosed with both Colon and Liver Cancer. Coach Parker decided to take a positive outlook on his Cancer diagnosis by sharing his story and experience with those that in some way had been touched by Cancer in hopes that he would provide both strength and encouragement for those struggling.

    Click the article link below to read Coach Parker’s initial announcement to the community about his Cancer diagnosis.

    A Tribute to Coach Darnell Parker and his Loving Tigers

    After Coach Parker announced he had Cancer the community of Loveland as well as those who had been positively impacted by Coach Parker rallied around him giving as much love and support as possible. Not only did the community hold multiple fundraisers benefiting Coach Parker they also created the hashtag “ParkerStrong” placing it on both t-shirts and magnets that they then sold, giving the proceeds to Coach Parker and his family.

    While Coach Parker was undergoing chemotherapy, the Women’s L.H.S Basketball Team dedicated their season to him, exerting that much more effort to have the most successful season possible. The Tigers ended their season going 20-4, winning the Eastern Cincinnati Conference (ECC) for the 2nd year in a row, and Coach Parker through it all was elected the 2020-2021 ECC Coach of the Year also for the 2nd year in a row!

    A couple of Coach Parker’s top-performing athletes had a lot to say about him and his impact on their lives.

    “Coach Parker has inspired me to never give up and to always find the silver lining in the worst of situations,” Jenna Batsch said, “He has taught me that every little hiccup in the road is just another opportunity to get better and he has inspired me to live every day with no regrets like it’s your last.”

    “Coach Parker got some of the worst news you could ever get and if you hadn’t heard it, you wouldn’t be able to tell,” Tess Broermann said, “He always has a smile on his face, and I’m thankful for his ability to fight. He doesn’t live in fear but leads a life with confidence. He inspires me to not sulk in bad news but make the most out of every day because you never know what’s going to happen tomorrow.”

    “Coach Parker is family to me, so it’s a no brainer to do what we can to help him out,” Jenna Stanton L.H.S class of 2018 and former basketball player of Coach Parker’s said, “I know that I could call him any day of the week and he’d be there for me, and you can’t say that about too many people. He’s treated me like family since the day we met and I’m so thankful I was able to play for him and Coach Keith. The Loveland community always comes out in full force to support their own so I’m excited to see the turn out for Coach Parker. He’s done so much for our community, this is the least we can do.” 

    Jenna now plays basketball at the College of Wooster.

    Click on the image below to see Coach Parker talk all about the 2020-2021 basketball season and how he was able to coach effectively while going through chemotherapy in a Loveland Magazine TV exclusive Zoom interview!

    Although Coach Darnell Parker has just recently completed round 11 of chemo treatments, he is still making a conscious effort to motivate and inspire others battling cancer to stay strong by sharing his own journey.

    Coach Parker’s constant positive outlook on life and his dedication to helping L.H.S student-athletes inspired Loveland’s parents to do something extra special for Parker and his family. Beginning on Monday, April 12th, L.H.S parents Jessica Early and Jodi Stanton, and local businesses, Bishop’s Quarter, The Works, and Narrow Path Brewing Company, will be hosting “Rolling Mondays” in honor of Coach Darnell Parker.

    Rolling Mondays will include basket raffles, split the pot, a “Darnell” signature cocktail, music, and a guest bartender competition in which yours truly will be competing in! A percentage of the sales generated at the business hosting the Rolling Monday will be put towards Coach Parker’s Cancer bills.

    On Monday, April 12th Rolling Mondays will be held at Bishop’s Quarter with fun events going on from 6 PM until 8 PM. On Monday, April 19th Rolling Mondays will be held at The Works with a Guest Bartender Competition going on from 5 PM until 8 PM. On Monday, April 26th Rolling Mondays will be held at Narrow Path Brewing Company.

    So just how did the idea of “Rolling Mondays” come about? Coach Parker supporters Jessica Early, Jodi Stanton, Scott Gordon, owner of The Works, and Loveland Magazine’s David Miller explained to us why this fundraiser is so important to them.

    “Jodi Stanton and I discussed the idea of holding a fundraiser in downtown Loveland back in November when we were both organizing t-shirt fundraising. At the same time, Scott Gordon reached out asking if The Works could help support anything,” Jessica Early said, “Since the Go Fund Me and t-shirt fundraisers were going strong in November, we sort of felt it seemed best to wait until the next phase of his treatment process began.” 

    Early said that in addition to waiting until the next phase of Coach Parker’s treatments, they also wanted to wait to hold Rolling Mondays until vaccinations were readily available so that the event could feel safer. “We understood that our Loveland restaurants took a big hit with the Covid Pandemic and thought it would be great to combine efforts of raising funds for Darnell as well as bringing life and energy back into downtown Loveland.”

    “I am so inspired by his ‘style’ of fight. I’m pretty sure most people would stop everything to focus on the fight. Darnell instead uses all aspects of his life as his fuel in the fight. Cancer robs individuals and families of energy, happiness, and positive health. No one seems to be immune from getting stuck in the web of cancer,” Early said, “The best we can do is work together as families and communities to help support those In need. Our Loveland and surrounding communities have been amazing thus far with supporting Darnell. At the same time, we (like so many others) are a community in need as we navigate thru this pandemic. I’ve been so impressed with how our local businesses have ‘hung’ in there and worked on creative ways to stay in business.”

    Early shared that she knows the Loveland community will enjoy coming out to Downtown Loveland on Mondays in April to help support businesses, Darnell, and each other. “Connecting to others is so important during this time. My goal is that Darnell doesn’t have the stressor of finances while making health decisions. His battle ahead is long and there will be continued treatment and monitoring for many years.”

    Jodi Stanton said, “The idea of Rolling Mondays developed from a few brainstorming conversations of ways we could help Coach Parker. The ideas were discussed early on after his diagnosis. However, we decided to wait until after the holidays and after the first couple of fundraisers including T-Shirt sales and car magnets.” Stanton explained that the idea of Rolling Mondays manifested into using multiple local restaurants/establishments and hosting the event on more than one night. 

    “I was actually on the interview panel for the hiring of the Varsity Women’s Basketball Coach, along with other parents and coaches. When we interviewed Coach Parker, his enthusiasm and positivity were amazing,” Stanton explained, “From day one with the program, he hit the ground running. Stanton also said that Parker made an unforgettable impact on her daughter’s high school basketball career. “The funny part is, they didn’t always see eye to eye, but, their player/coach relationship turned into something special.”

    “Unfortunately, me and my family have been directly affected by colon cancer. My father was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer 17 years ago,” Stanton said, “I’m thankful that research has been expanded and there are additional treatment options available to others today fighting this awful disease. I think our Loveland Community shows time and time again why Loveland is so special. When we have someone who has given so much to the athletes in our community, this is the perfect opportunity for others to give back!”

    Stanton said that she has no doubt Loveland will show up and provide support not only to Coach Parker but to our amazing restaurants and brewery who have stepped up to assist. “With the pandemic affecting our local businesses over the past year, this is a perfect chance to help out not only the Loveland businesses but Coach Parker as well. I don’t know that we have a certain monetary goal in mind. Anything we can do to help him and his fiancée, Sam, during this difficult time and to let them know they are not fighting this alone will be more than we could have hoped for. Like I mentioned earlier, Coach Parker is a special kind of guy. He invested so much time and energy into our players, our daughters, and the L.H.S Basketball program. Throughout that short time for me, he and Sam have also become two people I call friends.  This is just a small opportunity to help out friends.” 

    Scott Gordon, the owner of The Works, talked about his connection to Coach Parker and why he holds this cause so close to his heart. “I am a Loveland High School grad ‘85 and later came back to help coach baseball for several years. I have too many connections to Cancer and hate hearing when people I know are fighting that battle,” Gordon said, “Coach Parker was my nephew Alec Gordon’s coach many years ago in Glen Este. I don’t know Coach Parker personally,  but our paths have crossed a lot over the years. Our staff at The Works knows that the money raised is a small part of this, raising awareness for the ongoing battles with cancer is of course a small part. But, showing a member of our community they are appreciated and loved while battling for their life and health is what Loveland is all about.”

    Loveland Magazine’s very own David Miller also weighed in on how Coach Parker has left a lasting impression on his life. “Coach is such a positive expression of all things Loveland. Watching him coach, since he has been here, has been so much fun,” Miller said, “He has a unique way of showing displeasure with an official that never seems to get him in trouble, and his coaching style during games is always to encourage and applaud his players. His constant smile is pretty contagious and it spreads to the crowd.” David added that he was delighted to be asked to help with “Rolling Mondays” and was even more gracious that Loveland Magazine was selected to be the Media Sponsor.

    Here at Loveland Magazine, we encourage you to attend Rolling Mondays in support of Coach Darnell Parker. There is no better way to give back to the community than to support an individual that has given so much of himself to the community of Loveland and L.H.S. Join me on April 12th at Bishop’s Quarter as we rally around Coach Parker and his family for one awesome time in Downtown Loveland!

    Check out past Loveland Magazine articles featuring Coach Darnell Parker below!

    LHS’s Head Women’s Basketball Coach Reaches 100 Wins!

    Loveland High School Basketball Programs Look to Change School History!

  • LHS’s Coach Parker is Stronger Than Ever…and so are his Tigers!

    LHS’s Coach Parker is Stronger Than Ever…and so are his Tigers!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – The LHS Women’s Basketball Team is still doing it #ourway while keeping their head coach #parkerstrong!

    The 2020-2021 LHS Women’s Basketball season was quite the eventful one! The Tigers not only captured the ECC title for the second year in a row during a chaotic Pandemic but were also able to successfully motivate their coach, Darnell Parker as he battled cancer and dealt with the loss of his father giving him the strength to not only beat Cancer but also win the ECC Coach of the Year title for the second year in a row.

    Here at Loveland Magazine, we decided it would be a great idea to catch up with Coach Darnell Parker via Zoom to see just how he felt about the 2020-2021 basketball season, the COVID-19 Pandemic, and his personal journey with cancer.

    So without further ado, Loveland Magazine TV brings to you our loyal readers, “One-On-One Zoom Style With Darnell Parker!” Believe me, you don’t want to miss this inspiring interview!

    Click below to view the Zoom interview now!

    Thank you to team photographer Gayle Rothmeeler for allowing the use of her wonderful photos during this Zoom interview!

  • Brackets are Released for Women’s High School Basketball Post-Season!

    Brackets are Released for Women’s High School Basketball Post-Season!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – High School Winter sports are starting to wrap up their regular-season competition and prepare for the post-season as OHSAA officially released the Loveland Women’s Basketball Team first-round post-season matchup!

    The Tigers, who are still sitting in first place in the ECC (Eastern Cincinnati Conference) with an 11-2 record in the conference and a 15-4 record overall, have 3 regular-season games left all of them being important ECC matchups. On February 3rd the Tigers will face Lebanon on their court at 7 PM, on February 4th they will play Turpin at home at 7 PM, and on February 6th Loveland will compete at home against Winton Woods at 7:30 PM.

    Over the past couple weeks Loveland has captured some big ECC wins, beating Milford 45 – 39, West Clermont 59 – 27, and Kings 59 – 40. The Tigers suffered one upset during that time period against Little Miami, losing in quite the nail-biter 48 – 45.

    The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) recently released the Sectional/District brackets (see below) giving Loveland a 7th seed. The Tigers will be playing their opening tournament game against Cincinnati Anderson, a 29th seed, on February 13th at 10:30 AM at Harrison High School. If the Tigers grab a victory they will move on to play Cincinnati Winton Woods, a 22nd seed, on February 17th at 5 PM at Harrison High School.

    View all the State Tournament Brackets:

    The Loveland Women’s Basketball Team is not only having a very successful season with the potential to be the 2021 ECC Champs, but the Tigers also have several individuals in the top 10 in the ECC for their personal stats. Currently, Jenna Batsch is in 6th place for scoring averaging 14.1 points per game, and teammate Tess Broermann is in 8th place putting up 12.1 points per game. Broermann is also in 7th place in the ECC for Assists averaging 2.5 per game. Olivia Raby is sitting in 3rd place in the ECC for Blocks averaging 1.6 per game while Batsch is in 7th place averaging 1.3 per game. Batsch is also in 5th place in the ECC for Steals averaging 2.9 per game.

    To catch more of the Loveland Sports 411 With Me, Cassie Mattia, stay tuned!

  • L.H.S’s Coach Parker Gives Sneak Preview of 2020-2021 Season!

    L.H.S’s Coach Parker Gives Sneak Preview of 2020-2021 Season!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Cassie Mattia is the Associate Editor of Loveland Magazine and lives in Historic Downtown Loveland
    Can’t imagine a Countdown without the Kid, Our Capt @tessbroermann
    AKA T-Wip! Tess has been my Coach on the floor for 3 yrs & now as a Sr she is the undisputed engine & leader of our program! Proud of you is an understatement! Let’s run it back one last time kid #OurWay     – Coach Parker

    Loveland, Ohio – It’s that time of year again that gives many, including myself, an endless amount of joy! You maybe asking yourself, “Well what is so significant about this time of year?” IT’S BASKETBALL SEASON BABY! Of course the single phrase has to be said in a Dick Vitale voice!

    Basketball teams all across Ohio are preparing for what should be a very interesting season in light of COVID-19. The L.H.S Women’s Basketball team has not been letting the pandemic slow them down as they have been safely practicing hard in preparation for the first game that will be held on November 24th at the Tiger’s home gym against Lakota East at 7:30 P.M.

    Coach Darnell Parker and Assistant Coach Keith (Breezy) Braswell celebrating the ECC Championship in 2020
    Coach Parker from #Darnell Parker on Twitter

    L.H.S’s Women’s Basketball team is coming off of a historical 2019-2020 season, grabbing their first league title, sectional title, and an outstanding overall record of 22-4. Although they have lost some unbelievable female athletes such as the Tiger’s top performer, Jillian Hayes who will begin her career as Cincinnati Bearcat this year, Head Coach Darnell Parker says that he has two incredible leaders returning in Seniors Jenna Batsch and Tess Broermann that are sure to give the team that fire they need to succeed this year!

    So without further ado, here is the 2020-2021 Loveland High School Women’s Basketball Season Preview!

    The following graphics and photos provided by team photographer, Gayle Rothmeeler.

    Tiger Nation let me introduce you to Our @ViviClayton
    AKA ViVi! Vivi is a team-first guard willing to do whatever her team needs! Greatness is already in your DNA kid, go ahead and put it on display for all to witness! Orange and Black looks good on you Viv!#OurWay     – Coach Parker

    Cassie – What have you and the Tigers been doing in preparation for this season?

    Coach Parker – Preparation for this season started over the summer with our team lifting and conditioning sessions, as well as our super popular 6 A.M, Breakfast Club workouts. This is a great time for our kids as we start forming bonds and shaping the identity of this year’s team!

    She had her coming out party against the number 1 team in the state last year and Our Miss @EarlyJosie is hungry for more! Ultra competitive guard with a knack for slicing through defenses! Remember the name folks, get your ready! #OurWay – Coach Parker

    Cassie – What effect has COVID-19 had on your preparation?

    Coach Parker – Keeping our Student-Athletes safe is our top priority.  Each player, coach, and member of our program is diligent in following the guidelines set by our District and the OHSAA. Our kids have done a great job adjusting and it hasn’t affected our preparation too much.

    No better place to start than with the Captain @JennaBatsch
    aka STRETCH! Don’t let the smoothness fool you, the Kent St commit is an absolute BEAST on the court! It’s her time to shine bright! #OurWay     – Coach Parker

    Cassie – Who are some of the players that are returning? Any starters? Who do you expect to be a captain or “leader” for the other ladies to look up to this year.

    Coach Parker – SR-Jenna Batsch(Kent State Commit, Second leading scorer last year 11ppg)-Captain, SR-Tess Broermann(4-year starter 6.3ppg last season)-Captain, SO-Olivia Raby(Lead the team in FG% 52% 3.5ppg), SO-Josie Early(3ppg, Strong tournament run last season), Jr-Nia Kemper(PG Transfer from Wyoming 14ppg, Excellent shooter and defender), Jr-Vivian Clayton(G Transfer from Sycamore 8ppg, Great Defender and strong guard attacking the basket).

    Next up it’s Our Miss @ellanagel_AKA Shirley(another inside joke)! A summer spent grinding and getting better, and the Jr is ready to Soar! You have the green light to be great kid! All gas no brakes!! #OurWay – Coach Parker

    Cassie – Any big games you and the team are looking forward to?

    Coach Parker – We always enjoy the matchups with Walnut Hills and West Clermont. They have been the Gold standards in the league for a lot of years. This year we add three new teams in Little Miami, Lebanon, and Winton Woods. Starting new rivalries with these schools will be fun!

    LIV!!!!! Big sis may be gone but the Raby legacy continues! Our @Olivia_Raby_
    established herself as a big-time rim protector last season and this Summer added to her offensive game! Don’t take my word for it though, just enjoy the show #OurWay     – Coach Parker

    Cassie – What will be some of your primary focuses or things you would like to improve on from last season this year?

    Coach Parker – This season we will really focus on sharing the basketball and attacking opposing defenses from a lot of angles. We have 6-7 girls that could get double digits points on any given night and as a coach that is very exciting!  Defensively our pressure is going to be suffocating and we are going to be able to pressure teams for 32 minutes or more if necessary!

    I call her Laverne(inside joke) but Our @Yeager_Rachel15 is coming off of a solid Summer and ready to make her mark! You won’t find many who work as hard as Yeags, and that hard work is starting to pay dividends! Watch out Tiger Nation she’s ready to explode! #OurWay – Coach Parker

    Cassie – Will the coaching staff be the same as last year or do you have any newcomers?

    Coach Parker – We return our entire coaching staff from last year.  Really helps with continuity.

    Salute to the next in a long line of great #24s Our Miss Twitterless Gabby Saletta! The freshman is Lightning Quick on both sides of the ball and a ton of toughness after spending the fall on the pitch! Keep working Gabs! You got Next! #OurWay – Coach Parker

    Cassie – Do you have any Freshmen or Sophomores that you are expecting big things from this season?

    Coach Parker – Josie Early and Olivia Raby received significant minutes and experience as a freshman last year. They are going to be a big piece of the puzzle this season!

    Tiger Nation allow me to introduce a NewComer to the program Our Miss @NiaKemper4
    AKA FLEEK! Don’t Blink because if you do the ultra-quick sharp shooting PG will be gone! Don’t let the smile fool you she’s looking to take Someone’s lunch money on that Court #OurWay     – Coach Parker

    Cassie – What are some of your personal coaching goals this year? Team goals?

    Coach Parker – Personally my goals have shifted based on my health situation. Every day that I am able to spend with my team is a blessing!  When I am physically able I want to be with the team. I draw energy from them. The team really wants to defend out ECC crown and get back and when a District title. The community has really rallied behind myself and this team, I really feel we are destined for great things!

    We play in the present but the future looks bright especially for Our @HannahPawlikow1! This is one tough Freshman who doesn’t mind mixing it up in the paint! Excited to watch her develop in the next 4 years!! #OurWay – Coach Parker

    Cassie – Will you be competing against any schools that you haven’t competed against in the past or haven’t competed against in quite some time? If so what teams?

    Coach Parker – As Mentioned above we will start playing the new teams in our conference. We also open up with Lakota East who we haven’t played in recent times.

    Big shoes to fill after she took over her pals # but Our @SophiaKapsz
    (just call me KAPS) is up for the challenge! Infectious energy and an animal on the boards, she ready to wreak havoc this year. I hope she even breaks out the dance moves #OurWay     – Coach Parker

    Cassie – Any new mottos this year other than your infamous #Ourway?! 

    Coach Parker – Haha, OurWay will always be the motto that we follow.  With my diagnosis, the Girls have reached a Mantra of OURWAY, OURFIGHT. They are in this battle with me. That’s what Family does!!#OurWay

    Another one of our Fab Frosh making the Countdown! Our Miss @bebout_sara
    is well on her way to being a force in the paint for our Tigers! The future is bright for you kid! Keep working and getting better every day!     #OurWay – Coach Parker

    For more of the Sports 411 with me, Cassie Mattia, stay tuned!

    https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=T9887DUMPQ2W8
  • A Tribute to Coach Darnell Parker and his Loving Tigers

    A Tribute to Coach Darnell Parker and his Loving Tigers

    Cassie Mattia is the Associate Editor of Loveland Magazine and lives in Historic Downtown

    Loveland, Ohio – It has been a sad week for the Loveland High School Tiger Family as Head Women’s Basketball Coach, Darnell Parker, announced that he has been diagnosed with Colon and Liver Cancer.

    Coach Parker made the devastating announcement over Twitter on October 29th and almost immediately the Loveland community rallied together to root him on in his battle with cancer. Below is the announcement Coach Parker made a little over one week ago.

    Originally tweeted by Darnell Parker (@CoachDParker) on Oct 29, 2020.

    Thank you all in advance for your Prayers and Support! I know I can’t respond to everyone but just know it’s appreciated!

    Coach Parker has not been the only one to remain positive after being diagnosed with Colon and Liver Cancer; the support from the Loveland community and many others across Ohio has been outstanding! Below are just a few of the tweets that have been dedicated to Coach Parker’s post-cancer announcement.

    It’s no secret that Coach Parker has not only done a lot for Loveland High School but has also succeeded in developing an unbelievable Women’s Basketball program, breaking several school records along the way. Click below to read about Coach Parker’s stellar coaching career and his 100 win milestone!

    LHS’s Head Women’s Basketball Coach Reaches 100 Wins!

    Coach Parker has touched the lives of everyone he has surrounded himself with including myself. The first meeting I had with Coach Parker and his Tiger basketball team was last year when I decided to do a feature on-camera interview with him, his coaching staff, and the women’s basketball team. I remember walking into the gym excited to feature a Tiger women’s team that was kicking butt and taking names! Last year the women’s basketball team had one of their most successful seasons in history and of course, it had something to do with the talent Coach Parker had on his team but it had more to do with Coach Parker’s “ourway” philosophy. Below is the interview I conducted on that very special day!

    Loveland High School Basketball Programs Look to Change School History!

    The passion, the excitement, and the heart Coach Parker displayed the first day I interacted with him inspired me to the core. I remember asking Coach Parker why he created the #ourway and his response made me want to join the Tiger women’s basketball team myself! He told me that he didn’t want the Tiger program to mimic any other program, he wanted to do things their way. Coach Parker wanted his team to stand out through the way they played and through the way they carried themselves off the court and in school. I loved his mentality. His tenacity honestly reminded me of my own experience of playing basketball for my father which is saying something because I consider my father one of the best coaches around.

    My next encounter with Coach Parker other than through emails as I always made sure I kept him up-to-date on any articles featuring him and his Tigers, was when the women’s team faced Mount Notre Dame for the 2019 District Title at Princeton High School. Although I had heard about Coach Parker’s coaching style I had never experienced it in person. I was so impressed with how Coach Parker and his coaching staff were able to get the Tigers so focused while encouraging them to stay positive and just play the game they were born to play.

    Unfortunately, the Tigers lost that day and of course, the players were upset but the one thing I noticed is that everyone including the fans, parents, and assistant coaching staff went directly up to Coach Parker gave him a big hug, and thanked him for his dedication to them and the game of basketball. That really spoke to me. The fact that the first thing everyone did after the loss was go up to Coach Parker to encourage and congratulate him on an outstanding season said to me that the Tiger community knew he gave the team and LHS his all regardless of the loss. Click below to read about the Tiger’s 2019 District Title run!

    [Photo Album] Tigers fall in close game vs. Mount Notre Dame

    When I heard the news about Coach Parker and his battle with cancer my heart broke in two. Why does such an amazing human being have to go through so much pain? It just didn’t make sense to me. Then I read about the positive outlook Coach Parker decided to take on the entire situation. Wow what a selfless person. Instead of giving up on life, Coach Parker has decided to inspire others battling cancer through words of encouragement and sharing his own story. Although I am more than saddened by Coach Parker’s cancer diagnosis I know that he will do everything in his power to defeat cancer and spread love and kindness along the way!

    Coach Parker, I want you to know that you have inspired me to not only be a better person but also spread positivity with a smile on my face regardless of what obstacles may be challenging me. I am here for you, your awesome family, and the Tiger’s Women’s Basketball Team, and I will do whatever I can to help you spread that cancer won’t defeat your spirit or dedication to the Loveland/Tiger community! We love you here at Loveland Magazine and we can’t wait to see how successful you will be in the near future!

    Sincerely,

    Cassie Mattia

    Continue reading to see Loveland Magazine Editor in Chief, David Miller’s tribute to Coach Parker.

    Dear Coach Parker,

    You’ve become too much of a personal friend not to offer anything but, “Loveland Magazine is here for you to offer our support in any way we can.” You are more to me than just someone Loveland Magazine covers as a sports figure. I’ve come to love how you coach, always that big smile, always that grin, always that encouragement to your players. Even the prodding I see towards the officials is done with your natural good nature.

    To Coach’s players… I am here for you too. Trying to put myself in your Nike’s is impossible because I have never been there, but I acknowledge how difficult this is for you. Loveland Magazine is here for you too!

    Loveland Magazine is here for you… to help you all cut down this net too and we will be here to cover you cutting down many, many more!

    With love and fighting spirit,

    David Miller

  • LHS Athletics Enter Into Phase 3 of “Skills Practice”

    LHS Athletics Enter Into Phase 3 of “Skills Practice”

    LHS’s Athletic Director, Brian Conatser

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Its been a tough road for athletes all across Ohio in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Competitions have been canceled, sports seasons have been postponed, and in-person practicing has been banned. Although this new normal has been hard on many high school athletes and coaches, many were glad to hear that the Ohio Governor and Health Department’s Responsible Restart Ohio implemented a “three-phase process” that would ease both athletes and coaches back into practicing and competing.

    LHS’s Athletic Director, Brian Conatser, couldn’t be happier to get the Tiger Athletes and Coaches back into LHS’s athletic facilities, but in the safest way possible!

    “We are in Phase 3 of our skills practice which will last until July 6th,” Conatser explained, “Once we get more guidance from the Ohio Governor and OHSAA, we will move forward with those restrictions and guidelines.”
    On June 1st, LHS opened its Athletic Facilities in accordance with the OHSAA skills training guidelines.
    “Our coaches are extremely committed to working with the Athletic Department to implement COVID-19 procedures and guidelines. As an Athletic Department, we walked through the process as a team, fine-tuning our plan prior to our athletes returning to campus,” Conatser said, “The plan is extremely thorough and detailed, as the safety of our student-athletes and coaches are our primary concern.”
    Conatser provided the guidelines given to him by OHSAA that both coaches and student-athletes are following as they begin to return to athletics.
    1. Every student-athlete and coach MUST complete the 2020-21 Final Forms COVID-19 waiver prior to the 1st training session.
    2. Every student-athlete and coach MUST complete the LHS COVID-19 Self-Evaluation Google Form every day prior to each skills training session.
    3. Social distancing includes a 6-foot separation.  Entrances and Exits are outlined and over-communicated to avoid congregation and lingering of student-athletes.
    4. Facial coverings must be worn when in the building (gyms, fitness center, athletic training room). Facial coverings may be removed during the training session.
    5. Sanitation products and stations are located at the entry and exit of our inside facilities. We also ask EVERY student to bring: Water bottle, Sanitation wipes, Hand sanitizer, and Facial covering.
    6. All equipment, balls, etc. must be wiped down at the beginning and end of each training session.
    7. Three phases:  Phase 1: May 26th – June 8th / Phase 2:  June 9th – June 22nd / Phase 3: June 23rd – July 6th

    Conatser gave credit to Loveland’s student-athletes, coaches, and parents for playing such an important role in the three-phase process.

    “From parents dropping off their kids in designated spots to everyone following the COVID-19 guidelines. The coaches deserve an overwhelming amount of credit,” Conatser said, “These outstanding professionals make sure their programs have all of the information well ahead of time via communication from ZOOM, Google Hangout, email, Twitter, etc. We are looking forward to a safe and productive summer of skill training.”

    For more Loveland Tiger sports updates stay tuned to the Sports 411 With Me, Cassie Mattia!

  • Eastern Cincinnati Conference Holds a “Slogan Contest!”

    Eastern Cincinnati Conference Holds a “Slogan Contest!”

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Calling all student-athletes, coaches, parents, and fans! The Eastern Cincinnati Conference (ECC) recently announced that they will be going through somewhat of a league transformation. In addition to adding three new schools, Little Miami, Winton Woods, and Lebanon, to the ECC for the 2020-2021 sports season they are also looking to add a new conference slogan.

     

    The ECC stated that they would love to bring more awareness and reach to the conference’s brand so the conference decided to have students, coaches, and fans submit slogan ideas. The ECC selected the top 4 slogan ideas and posted them on the ECC website so that anyone and everyone could vote on their favorite slogan! Below are the top 4 slogan selections.

    1.  Engage.  Compete.  Conquer

    2.  Excite. Challenge.  Compete.

    3.  Eastern Cincinnati Conference … top-level competition with community-based values.

    4.  Engagement.  Competition.  Community.  We are the ECC!

    The Slogan Contest allows voters to submit their slogan selection as many times as they want up until Friday, June 26th, 2020. The new slogan will be released in early July. If you would like to participate in the Slogan Contest click the link below to submit your vote!

    VOTE NOW

    ECC Schools

    Stay tuned for the latest and greatest Local Sports 411 with me, Cassie Mattia!

     

  • [Photo Album] Tigers fall in close game vs. Mount Notre Dame

    [Photo Album] Tigers fall in close game vs. Mount Notre Dame

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – It was a packed gym Saturday afternoon at Princeton High School filled with many spirited fans rooting on Loveland’s Women’s Basketball Team as they pushed to win their first District Championship. Although the Lady Tigers didn’t pull off the win, the game itself was still both competitive and exciting!

    The Lady Tigers took on Mount Notre Dame, who were not only ranked number 1 in Ohio’s Division 1 High School Women’s basketball poll they were also ranked #3 in the nation by MaxPreps, as well as being both undefeated and the reigning Ohio Champs!

    Loveland began the 1st quarter focused on shutting down MND’s top scorers and creating opportunities for Jillian Hayes inside the paint. The Tigers managed to achieve their first-quarter goals ending the quarter with a 19-17 lead, a field goal percentage of 40 percent, and they kept MND’s top scorers to single digits. 

    In the 2nd quarter, the Tigers kicked up their defense allowing MND to score only 7 points. Although MND beat Loveland 7-6 in the 2nd quarter, the Lady Tigers capitalized on their free throws, going 6 for 6. Senior Jillian Hayes led the Tigers at the half in points with 8 followed by Freshman Josie Early who tallied up 6 points. Junior Tess Broermann contributed heavily adding on 4 points, 4 assists, and 1 steal. Senior Kate Garry was the top rebounder at the half with 3 and collected 2 assists. 

    After the half, both Loveland and MND turned up the heat! The 3rd quarter seemed to be all about the fast break as most of Loveland’s baskets were either scored on a fast break or a v-cut pass to the basket. With 5:33 left on the clock in the 3rd quarter, the Lady Tigers led by 7 points. MND mirrored Loveland’s effort going 42 percent from the 3 point line and 82 percent from the free-throw line. MND outscored Loveland in the 3rd quarter 18-13, but the score did not reflect Loveland’s tenacity as they not only hustled for every loose ball they also capitalized on the defensive end.

    Going into the 4th quarter the Loveland Tigers had everything to gain and nothing to lose. Loveland pushed until the very last second of the game but unfortunately did not collect the District title. MND outscored the Tigers 19-10 in the 4th quarter making the final score of the game 61-48.

    Loveland fans at the game and at home all agreed that although the Tigers did not win it was still an exciting game and such an honor to see such a great group of women compete. The top performer for Loveland was Jillian Hayes who put up 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists. Following close behind Hayes was Josie Early who collected 11 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 block. The ECC champs ended their season with an impressive 22-4 record.

    Emotions ran high as Loveland lined up to receive their District runner-up medals after the game ended. ECC Coach of the Year Coach Darnell Parker and Loveland’s Athletic Director Brian Conaster handed out the school history-changing medals with a smile and a huge hug to each Lady Tiger. After medals were handed out many of the Lady Tigers ran up to their friends and families to express to them how much they appreciated their support throughout the season. It’s safe to say that the season this particular Loveland High School Women’s Basketball Team had will go down as the best season ever in LHS Women’s Basketball history. 

    Loveland Magazine would like to congratulate the LHS Women’s Basketball Team and the LHS Athletic Department for having such an incredible year! We could not be more proud of everything everyone on the team and staff accomplished. We are truly touched to have had the opportunity to cover such a great basketball program! We wish the women moving on to the play at the college level the best of luck and of course those that still have a couple more years to play for Coach Parker we can’t wait to see what next year brings. GO TIGERS! #OURWAY!

    Read the complete game stats below the photos.

    Saturday, February 29, 2020
    61
    Mount Notre Dame
    1 2 3 4 T
    MND 17 7 18 19 61
    LVL 19 6 13 10 48
    48
    Loveland
    Mount Notre Dame
    PLAYERS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    Crockett, Autumn 2-2 0-0 4-5 2 4 6 1 1 2 2 3 8
    Stanley, Taylor 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0
    Stainton, Cassie 0-2 0-1 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Wolterman, Abby 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 3 0
    Cook, Makira 5-15 3-7 4-4 1 3 4 4 3 0 3 2 17
    Centrulla, Grace 1-2 0-0 2-2 1 4 5 0 0 1 1 1 4
    Phelia, Laila 5-7 1-3 6-6 1 5 6 2 1 0 3 4 17
    Bransford, K.K. 5-19 0-1 5-9 4 3 7 2 1 0 0 3 15
    TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    18-47 4-12 21-26 9 21 30 9 7 3 9 16 61
    38.3% 33.3% 80.8%
    Loveland
    PLAYERS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    Kate Garry 0-6 0-4 1-2 1 4 5 1 0 0 0 3 1
    Josie Early 3-6 0-0 3-4 0 4 4 0 1 0 1 0 9
    Tess Broermann 2-8 0-3 3-3 2 1 3 8 1 0 2 2 7
    Jillian Hayes 7-11 0-0 6-7 1 3 4 3 1 0 2 4 20
    Olivia Raby 0-1 0-0 0-0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 4 0
    Sophia Kapszukiewicz 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
    Jenna Batsch 3-8 0-0 0-0 0 2 2 0 0 1 2 1 6
    Sophia Raby 2-3 1-2 0-0 1 1 2 0 0 0 2 3 5
    TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    17-43 1-9 13-16 5 16 21 12 3 1 11 18 48
    39.5% 11.1% 81.3%

     

  • [Photo Album] The Loveland Women’s Basketball Team Advances to the District Semi-Finals!

    [Photo Album] The Loveland Women’s Basketball Team Advances to the District Semi-Finals!

    CORRECTION: This story has been up-dated to reflect that Josie Early is a first-year student and not a Junior.

    by Cassia Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – The Lady Tigers and Coach Parker are rewriting Women’s Loveland Basketball history one win at a time! LHS’s Women’s Basketball team is set to continue their impressive journey to the tourney on Monday night against Mason High School for the OHSAA District Semi-Finals crown.

    The Tigers defeated Lebanon 52-25 last Wednesday night at Lakota East High School bringing their record-breaking season to 21-3. Stand out Senior Jillian Hayes led the Tigers in scoring and rebounds with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Hayes now officially holds the record as Loveland’s all-time leading scorer and holds the all-time rebounding record. In the Eastern Cincinnati Conference Hayes is ranked 2nd in points averaging 18.1 per game, 2nd in rebounds averaging 10 per game, 4th in blocks averaging 1.5 per game, and 3rd in steals averaging 3.2 per game.

    First year student Josie Early, came off the bench Wednesday night and scored a season-high of 10 points.

    The future of Loveland Women’s Basketball, First year student Josie Early, came off the bench Wednesday night and scored a season-high of 10 points. Teammates, Junior Jenna Batsch, and, Senior Kate Garry, added 7 points each to the big Tiger win. Batsch holds the 5th spot in the ECC for steals averaging 2.6 per game while Garry has climbed her way up to the 3rd spot on Loveland all-time leading scorer list! Not only has Garry achieved an all-time leading scorer spot she has also grabbed the number 1 spot as Loveland’s all-time leading 3-point shooter. Coach Darnell Parker celebrated Garry’s accomplishments over Twitter saying, “@Kgarry12 has vaulted herself to #3 All-Time leading scorer in Loveland History! This kid is now on the Mt Rushmore of players to wear the Orange and Black! Proud of you KG!”

    Recently the ECC released the Women’s Basketball All-Conference Teams as well as the ECC Athlete of the Year and the ECC Coach of the Year. Not to anyone’s surprise, the Loveland Women’s Basketball squad received a number of accolades within the ECC. Coach Parker was named Coach of the Year and Jillian Hayes was named Co-Athlete of the Year along with Walnut Hills’ Sean Kelly Darks. Jenna Batsch and Jillian Hayes were named 1st Team All ECC while Tess Broermann and Kate Garry were named 2nd Team All ECC. Sophia Raby also received Honorable Mention All ECC.

    Loveland will go up against a talented Mason Comets team who went 15-8 this year finishing in 3rd place in the GMC. The Comets advanced to the finals by beating Ursuline Academy 39-36 last Wednesday. Mason is led by Freshman Margo Mattes who averages 14.9 points per game and Junior Forward Marilyn Popplewell who averages 9.9 points per game. The District Semi-Finals will be held at Lakota East High School on Monday at 7:30 PM.

    Check out the box score below from Loveland’s huge win against Lebanon last week!

    Wednesday, February 19, 2020

    52
    Loveland
    1 2 3 4 T
    LVL 13 11 16 12 52
    LEB 4 6 9 6 25

    25
    Lebanon
    Loveland
    PLAYERS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    Ella Nagel 0-1 0-0 0-0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Jenna Batsch 3-10 0-2 1-3 1 7 8 2 0 0 2 1 7
    Brooke Hatfield 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 0
    Tess Broermann 3-8 2-4 0-0 1 1 2 1 0 0 0 1 8
    Rachel Yeager 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Sophia Raby 2-6 0-1 0-0 0 2 2 4 0 0 0 2 4
    Olivia Raby 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 2 2 0 0 0 2 1 0
    Kate Garry 3-6 1-3 0-0 0 3 3 0 0 1 3 2 7
    Paige Broermann 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Sophia Kapszukiewicz 1-1 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
    Averee Martin 1-3 0-1 0-0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 2
    Samantha James 0-3 0-0 0-0 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Josie Early 3-8 1-2 3-4 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 2 10
    Jillian Hayes 4-13 0-1 4-6 3 6 9 2 2 0 2 2 12
    TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    20-59 4-14 8-13 10 23 33 10 2 1 9 13 52
    33.9% 28.6% 61.5%
    Lebanon
    PLAYERS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    Mueller, Logan 1-3 1-3 0-0 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 1 3
    Stone, Caitlyn 0-3 0-2 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0
    DeMichele, Elena 1-1 0-0 1-1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3
    Feldmann, Samantha 2-6 0-2 0-0 3 1 4 1 0 0 4 1 4
    Anspach, Sydney 0-1 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Edmonds, Molly 0-1 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Popp, Ashley 1-3 1-2 0-0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 3
    Folley, Kendall 1-8 0-4 0-1 0 1 1 3 0 0 6 3 2
    Sauerland, Lindsey 0-5 0-0 0-0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0
    Hughes, Gia 2-3 0-0 0-0 0 5 5 0 0 0 0 2 4
    Spatz, Gracee 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Dunn, Isabella 2-9 1-3 1-2 2 9 11 0 0 0 5 0 6
    TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
    10-43 3-16 2-4 6 18 24 5 0 0 20 9 25
    23.3% 18.8% 50.0%