Six Schuylkill League Teams Gear Up for PIAA State Playoffs

The PIAA state playoffs for soccer and volleyball commence this week, featuring six teams from the Schuylkill League competing for state honors. These teams have demonstrated exceptional skill throughout the season, culminating in their qualification for this prestigious tournament.

Soccer Showdowns

In boys’ soccer, the Blue Mountain Eagles (19-3; 12-0) and Minersville Battlin’ Miners (17-4; 8-2) will each compete in the first round of the PIAA playoffs. Blue Mountain faces Franklin Towne Charter on March 5 at 17:00 at their home ground, the Eagles Nest. Meanwhile, Minersville will take on Wyoming Seminary at 18:00 on the same day at Wyoming Seminary High School.

Blue Mountain secured their spot by triumphing in the District 11 3A playoffs, defeating Southern Lehigh 3-1 in the championship match. The Eagles were dominant throughout the playoffs, including an impressive 8-1 semifinal victory over Jim Thorpe. Key players for Blue Mountain included Evan Burcik and Aidan Varney, who scored in the first half, followed by Andrew Waschko, who sealed the championship win with a penalty kick.

Minersville achieved a historic victory, winning their first District 11 1A Championship with a 2-1 triumph over Tri-Valley. Jordan Bowers was instrumental, netting both goals for the Battlin’ Miners. Under the guidance of second-year head coach Ed Burke, Minersville has compiled an impressive 28-13 record over the last two seasons.

In the girls’ soccer category, Blue Mountain, with a record of 19-3, will compete against Lower Dauphin at 19:00 on March 5, also at the Eagles Nest. Schuylkill Haven, boasting a record of 16-6-1, has secured a matchup with Holy Redeemer at 19:00 at Wilkes University.

Blue Mountain claimed the District 11 3A Championship with a convincing 5-1 victory over Southern Lehigh, marking their first district title since 2018. The Eagles’ offensive leaders this season have been Hailey Scheuer and Gianna Chipriano, while goalkeeper Karley Koch has provided solid defense. Schuylkill Haven also achieved a milestone, winning the District 11 1A Championship for the first time since 2013, defeating Minersville 7-2. Kylie Siket was a standout performer, scoring four goals in the title match.

Volleyball Action

In volleyball, both Tri-Valley and Pine Grove are set to begin their PIAA state playoff campaigns. Tri-Valley will host Ephrata Mennonite for their PIAA 1A first round matchup on March 5 at 18:00, while Pine Grove faces Masterman at home at the same time.

Tri-Valley secured their position in the playoffs by winning the District 11 1A Championship with a narrow 3-2 victory over Marian. Pine Grove also claimed the District 11 1A title, defeating Mahanoy Area 3-1. Individual accolades for Pine Grove include Molly Drumheller, who was named to the Schuylkill League coaches Division I First Team, along with teammates Lily Flynn and Payton Harris on the second team. Tri-Valley’s Liv Lupole stands out on their roster, leading the offense with an impressive average of 3.7 kills per set.

As the playoffs unfold, local fans can anticipate thrilling matches showcasing the talents of these dedicated teams from the Schuylkill League. Stay tuned for coverage of the PIAA state playoff action in Schuylkill County and beyond.