High School

Kids on the Pitch Podcast: PSN’s featured match gives North Catholic students chance to raise awareness for ‘Rise Again’ and Spinal Cord Illness; plus why HS soccer rankings mean little

by
John Krysinsky
September 26, 2023

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On Thursday, when North Catholic boys soccer team hosts Mars in a key WPIAL Class 3A, Section 1 match at J.C. Stone Field in North Park (6:30 p.m. kickoff), it will also serve as an awareness game to help bring attention to Rise Again — a non-profit organization formed and started by a North Catholic family (the Browns) in honor of their son Alex, to support individuals with spinal cord injuries and the professionals that work with them.

On this special episode of Kids on the Pitch Podcast, PSN’s John Krysinsky and Matt Popchock are joined by Alex Brown and North Catholic boys soccer players Jake Stofko and Francisco Smith.

Following a fun conversation with Alex, Jake and Francisco, John and Matt also discuss the validity and value (or lack thereof) for high school soccer rankings.

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Background:

Alex Brown suffered a spinal stroke at age 4. He is now a senior at North Catholic and friends with many of the soccer players. Alex plays sled hockey and participates in track and field as an adaptive athlete. He also serves as a broadcaster for the school’s athletic teams.

You can learn more about Alex’s story here https://ryanshazierfund.org/a-young-mom-becomes-an-instant-caregiver-amy-brown/.

WPIAL Boys Soccer Standings (9/24/2023)

WPIAL Girls Soccer Standings (9/24/2023)

John Krysinsky

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).