Westmoreland County's Rising Stars: Local Athletes Shine Bright in College Sports

Westmoreland County continues to be a fertile ground for athletic talent, with numerous local graduates making significant impacts on college sports fields, courts, and tracks. Among the standout performances, Mt. Pleasant Area High School graduate Rylin Bugosh has wasted no time in establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with in track and field at Washington & Jefferson College.

Bugosh, a freshman, has demonstrated exceptional prowess in the javelin throw.

Her impressive mark of 34.02 meters at the Westminster Invitational not only secured her a third-place finish but also cemented her as a top contender in the Presidents' Athletic Conference (PAC). This stellar start to her collegiate career is a testament to her dedication and the strong athletic foundation she built during her high school years.

Her quick adaptation and success are drawing significant attention and promise for her future with the Presidents.

But Bugosh is far from the only local athlete turning heads. From the lacrosse field to the baseball diamond, Westmoreland County alums are excelling across various disciplines. Payton Skiffen, a Southmoreland graduate, is a key player for Gannon University's women's lacrosse team.

As a junior midfielder, she has consistently contributed, tallying 15 goals and 10 assists this season, showcasing her versatility and scoring touch for the Golden Knights.

On the men's lacrosse side, Norwin product Luke Czekaj is making his presence felt at Mercyhurst. The sophomore defender has been a crucial part of the Lakers' defense, featuring in 13 games and contributing to their strong season.

Baseball continues to be a dominant sport for Westmoreland County exports.

Seton Hill University's roster is brimming with local talent, including Latrobe graduates Brady Johnson, Logan Divald, Nick Sherbondy, and Joey Suchko. Johnson, a freshman pitcher, has already notched a save, while Divald, a junior, boasts a solid 2.25 ERA over four appearances. Sherbondy, a sophomore outfielder, has seen action in multiple games, and freshman infielder Suchko is gaining valuable experience.

These players are integral to the Griffins' success in the competitive PSAC.

Other Latrobe baseball standouts include Ryan Bushey, Tyler Fazekas, and Sam Miller at Pitt-Johnstown, all contributing to the Mountain Cats' efforts. Vinny Amatucci, a Greensburg Central Catholic graduate, is also shining on the mound for Pitt-Greensburg, maintaining a perfect 3-0 record with a 3.12 ERA.

Franklin Regional alumni Noah Deardorff and Matt DeLuca are making their mark at Westminster, with Deardorff batting an impressive .386 and DeLuca holding a 3-1 pitching record. Not to be forgotten, Norwin's Jake Kendro, now at national powerhouse Tennessee, is seeing limited but valuable action for the Volunteers, a glimpse into his bright future.

In softball, Latrobe graduate Kylie Smith is a powerful presence for West Virginia Wesleyan College.

The junior infielder is hitting .357 with 15 RBIs and 7 home runs, leading the Bobcats' offensive charge. These athletes exemplify the dedication, skill, and passion cultivated in Westmoreland County, proving that hard work truly pays off on the collegiate stage. Their achievements bring pride to their hometowns and serve as an inspiration for the next generation of local stars.