Mineral Ridge preps to continue historic program run

MINERAL RIDGE, Ohio (WKBN) – Mineral Ridge football and head coach Brian Shaner are in the midst of a program turnaround back-to-back eight-win seasons for the first time in nearly 20 years while making some waves in the playoffs last year. Now, they hope to make an even bigger statement

“I mean, we set a standard the past two years and I know our guys want to continue that,” head coach Brian Shaner said.

Last season, the Rams played deeper into November than ever before when they advanced to Week 13.

“The last two seasons have been a big game changer for us for this program,” junior Owen Shingledecker said. “Last year we made it to the third round of the playoffs, which has never been done here.”

After an opening-round playoff win, they followed it up by taking out No. 2 seed Rootstown before hanging tough with four-time state champion Mogadore in a round-three loss.

“Again, when you have that success, the expectations are around town, and we don’t want to let anyone down. So, we get after it every day,” Shaner said.

Despite offensive workhorse Ian Erb graduating , Coach Shaner still has a few weapons at his disposal.

“Having Shingledecker back as a full-time quarterback and understanding our system is a plus going into camp and going into season,” Shaner said. “And he has weapons around him — Brady Ballestrino at wide receiver. Being back is phenomenal.

Along with plenty more at the skill positions and a returning offensive line, the Shingledecker and Balestrino connection will look to take another leap as well.

“It’s amazing — me and Owen — we have a great chemistry,” Balestrino said. “All winter, even though it’s snowing out, we would just go on the field for an hour — half-hour just run some routes and get our timing right.”

Pair all that with another stout defense that held seven opponents to 14 points or less and the Rams have eyes on more history.

“Obviously, last year — week 13, but this year we’re thinking all the way,” Balestrino said. “Week 13 was nothing last year. We want to go even further this year.”

“Just be ready. That’s all I got to say since we’re coming,” Shingledecker said.

Mineral Ridge begins the season by visiting Pymatuning Valley in week one on Friday, Aug. 23 at Laker Stadium.

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