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April 15th, 2026
S2 Week 6 Match 2 Recap
A Force Awakens: Capogreco’s Masterclass Leads Gamblers to Statement Sweep Over New-Look Barbarians
By BBN Staff
Lorenzino’s Bocce Club — Youngstown, OH
The nightcap of Week 6 was billed as a massive playoff rematch with control of the North Division on the line. Instead, it turned into an absolute statement game.
Both the Koppel Gamblers and the defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians entered the synthetic surface at Lorenzino's completely desperate, tied at 1-2 in the standings. Both teams tore up their rosters to find a spark. Wickliffe arrived with a brand new lineup following their blockbuster trade of Finals MVP Bubba Infante for veteran Russ Meraglio. The Gamblers took an even more drastic approach—benching their two hottest Season 2 shooters (Jonathon Vivo and Chris Chmielewski) to roll out a completely revamped starting rotation.
The gamble paid off. Koppel’s new rotation clicked with devastating efficiency, suffocating the Barbarians to secure a dominant 14-8, 14-5 sweep and seize control of the North Division.
The Capogreco Clinic & The Coach on the Bench
If there were any questions about whether legendary hitter Anthony Capogreco could still carry a franchise, they were answered in violent fashion on Wednesday night.
Moved back into the Lead Hitter role, Capogreco put on an absolute clinic. He shot a staggering 93% (14 for 15) on the night. He hit backboards, he hit angles, and to cap off the match, he even deployed a soft underhand touch to secure the final pallino.
The broadcast booth was in pure awe as Capogreco took over the match. "Anthony Capogreco says, 'Let's make it green.' All systems go. Bullseye," called BBN's Danny Catullo. "He hit every shot in the bag."
While Capogreco handled the heavy artillery, the Gamblers also found an unexpected weapon on the sideline. Jonathon Vivo, despite being benched from his starting role, effectively served as a pseudo-captain and court coach. Vivo helped read the wall angles and direct traffic for the new-look front end of Pat Pezzin and Levi Policaro, establishing a new level of trust and chemistry that the Gamblers have been desperately seeking.
Wickliffe's Rolling Woes
On the other side of the court, the Wickliffe Barbarians simply could not find their footing. Playing their first match without Bubba Infante, the front-end rotation struggled to set the table. Owner Bob Gallese, returning from Florida to take the Lead Pointer spot, was held to just 33% rolling (4 for 12). Overall, the Barbarians rolled a dismal 47% as a team, leaving Captain Doug Carter and the hitters constantly playing from behind.
Even though Carter shot an impressive 76% (13 for 17) to keep the Barbarians alive in Game 1, the lack of pressure on the wall was too much to overcome. The Gamblers ruthlessly punished every open frame, scoring four points in the final frame of Game 2 to close out the sweep.
By The Numbers: Team Match Stats
Koppel Gamblers: 65% Rolling (35 for 54) | 79% Shooting (19 for 24)
Wickliffe Barbarians: 47% Rolling (18 for 38) | 68% Shooting (19 for 28)
Player of the Match Nominees (Sun Cruiser POTM)
Anthony Capogreco (Gamblers): An absolute masterclass. Moved back to the Lead Hitter spot, Capogreco went an unbelievable 14 for 15 (93%). As the broadcast noted, he had the energy, the fire, and was the undisputed leader on the court.
Levi Policaro (Gamblers): The ultimate two-way performance. He locked down the wall with 80% rolling (8 for 10) and stepped up to hit a perfect 1-for-1 when called upon. His 2 AM practice sessions paid off in spades.
Mike "MHP" Pisano (Gamblers): Returning to his natural Hammer position, MHP was a stabilizing force at the back of the court. He rolled 67% (10 for 15) and hit 75% (3 for 4), bringing ice-cold execution when the Gamblers needed to close out frames.
Post-Match Quotes from the Locker Room
Matt Taylor (Gamblers) on if this is the "real" Gambler squad:
"Yeah. Took 18 weeks and 36 games to get there. But we put everyone on notice."
Bob Gallese (Barbarians) on the team's struggles and the new additions:
"It felt great to be back on the OBL scene! I was finally able to meet Cody who I’ve only spoken to via phone until last night. Great guy and great player! Unfortunately, last night’s losses were a huge disappointment. The Gamblers played well and rolled in when needed. As a team, the Barbarians did not roll well and left many points on the court all night. The lack of pointing opened the door too many times for the Gamblers! Nonetheless, I know that my guys will right the ship as we cruise into the last few weeks of the regular season... Yes, the Barbarians are a different team this year BUT we have a ton of potential moving forward."
Chris Chmielewski (Gamblers) on the team finding their rhythm:
"Of course it is, we are all ballers and found our rhythm. If any team thinks that they can walk on us they have a rude awakening coming. We are a force; once we figure out the best way to focus talents, we will be unstoppable."
Jonathon Vivo (Gamblers) on embracing his role off the bench:
"Yeah it was fun, but I think the team is starting to understand that I know the court and now that I’m telling them little ins and outs and they’re actually working... they are starting to trust me."
Mike "MHP" Pisano (Gamblers) on if this is the team fans should expect to see:
"That’s the expectation."
Anthony Capogreco (Gamblers) on moving back to the Lead Hitter role and finding "Gambler Bocce": "That’s how we're supposed to play right there. Finally. Gambler bocce. [Matt] Taylor goes, 'What do you want to do? You want to lead shoot, roll? What do you want to do?' I said, 'You know what I want to do. Got to put on the display.' Right now, we're trying to see what works and who plays the best together. Obviously, that was our best lineup so far this year... so we'll probably switch it up next week. You know, that's what we do."
April 15th, 2026
S2 Week 6 Match 1 Recap
Bad Blood, Big Shots: SVBC and Flash Split the Grudge Match as Steel Valley Seizes the South
By BBN Staff
Lorenzino’s Bocce Club — Youngstown, OH
The tension inside Lorenzino's Bocce Club was thick enough to cut with a knife.
Before the first pallino was even thrown in Week 6, Youngstown Flash Captain Dante Chiovitti and SVBC Captain Mike Robertson brought their two-week social media war directly into the BBN broadcast booth. Chiovitti immediately went on the offensive, looking at Robertson and demanding, "Look how much skinnier you look than I do. Look at them little arms. What the [ __ ] are you going to carry with them? You can't even hold the balls."
Robertson didn't blink. He reiterated his "B-Rabbit vs. Papa Doc" mentality and laid out SVBC's intentions for the night: "It's about sending a message. We're taking three points."
While SVBC didn't get the sweep Robertson guaranteed, they did get the last laugh. In a gritty, fiercely contested heavyweight split (14-6, 10-14), SVBC won the aggregate point differential (24-20) to secure two standings points and officially seize outright control of the South Division.
Game 1: The Return of the Bear (14-6 SVBC)
Game 1 was an absolute masterclass from SVBC, who played with the cold, terrifying efficiency of a team tired of hearing about last season's playoff ghosts. The catalyst? The return of star hitter Ron Capogreco.
Capogreco missed Week 5, but he stepped onto the synthetic surface completely locked in, shooting an unbelievable 88% (21 for 24) on the night to completely dismantle the Flash's front-end sets.
"Well you know who started 'don't poke the bear'??? It was me in my younger days, and now my sons have inherited it and I am back and more focused," Capogreco stated emphatically after the match. "When people put things on social media, watch out. We are coming for you. Direct quote."
With Sean New dropping his rolls into the deep corners at an elite 82% clip (23 for 28), Capogreco and Robertson cleared the wood with ease, suffocating the Flash 14-6 to take Game 1 and secure enough footage for Robertson's dreaded "Ass Beating of the Week" segment.
Game 2: The Flash Strike Back (14-10 Flash)
As the bad blood spilled into Game 2, the Flash proved exactly why they are a legitimate championship threat. Despite being blown out in the first game, Youngstown's front end adjusted, largely on the shoulders of Lead Pointer Tim Wilson.
Wilson put on an absolute clinic, rolling a staggering 79% (22 for 28) against SVBC's lethal wall rotation. Even SVBC's Sean New had to tip his cap to his opponent after the match: "Timmy was on fire today. He rolled awesome, man. He's one of the best."
With Wilson building the runway, Dante Chiovitti backed up every single word of his pregame trash talk. Stepping into a heavy shooting role, the Flash Captain hit a clinical 83% (15 for 18) to keep SVBC on their heels.
Sensing the game slipping away early in Game 2, SVBC owner Jim Fisher didn't hesitate, immediately subbing his starters back onto the court to stop the bleeding. "I felt I waited one frame too long last week and it cost us," Fisher explained. "We were struggling early in Game 2 vs the Flash and more importantly, we wanted to get the starters back in to secure and win the match."
The SVBC starters stabilized the game, but the Flash wouldn't be denied. In a defining sequence, Flash hitter Tess Romeo stepped up to the wall with SVBC sitting on four points. Faced with immense pressure, she hit a perfect bailout shot to steal a point. "Dante couldn’t possibly have made this any harder for me," Romeo joked afterward. "If you look back on the clip you’ll see me back there just giggling to myself... Stealing the point was just an added bonus."
The Flash secured Game 2, 14-10, to salvage a crucial point in the standings.
By The Numbers: Team Match Stats
Steel Valley Bocce Club (SVBC): 66% Rolling (61 for 92) | 72% Shooting (28 for 39)
Youngstown Flash: 67% Rolling (48 for 72) | 55% Shooting (21 for 38)
Player of the Match Nominees (Sun Cruiser POTM)
Ron Capogreco (SVBC): He is the ultimate equalizer. Returning to the lineup with a chip on his shoulder, Ron Cap hit an absurd 21 for 24 (88%). When he shoots like this, SVBC is nearly unbeatable.
Tim Wilson (Flash): The quiet table-setter who kept the Flash in the match. Rolling against the best front-end in the league, Wilson held his ground, putting up an elite 22 for 28 (79%) to build the runway for the Game 2 victory.
Dante Chiovitti (Flash): He talked the talk, and he walked the walk. Dante was absolutely lethal on the back end, shooting 15 for 18 (83%) to punish SVBC's mistakes and secure the Game 2 win.
Sean New (SVBC): Another day at the office for the #1 Roller in the OBL. Sean New rolled 23 for 28 (82%), constantly forcing the Flash into uncomfortable bailout situations.
Post-Match Quotes from the Locker Room
Mike Robertson (SVBC) on if his Game 1 win was enough to dance on the tables:
"I just wanted to perform to the best of my ability for my team. That goes for any week I play." (Editor's Note: Sean New quickly chimed in, noting that the Game 1 blowout definitely "qualifies for the Ass Beating of the Week.")
Mike Robertson on taking outright control of the South and looking ahead to the Hitmen:
"We are definitely aware [of the standings], but as we have said all year, our goal is to win the whole league. The division is in our hands to take care of business. We have all division games to end the season. We will be ready for the Hitmen….. no question about that."
Tess Romeo (Flash) on hitting the high-pressure wall shot to steal a point:
"I’m not a huge fan of shooting off the wall but I also knew in order to take multiple points away it was our best option. Stealing the point was just an added bonus."
Jim Fisher (SVBC Owner) on pulling the trigger early on his substitutions in Game 2:
"I have full confidence in our bench and they will continue to get reps; and I expect them to get better and produce like they did in our first two matches of Season 2. But we wanted to get the starters back in to secure and win the match after dominating in Game 1."
April 13th, 2026
Week 6 Match 2 Preview
Matchup: Koppel Gamblers (1-2) T-1st North vs. Wickliffe Barbarians (1-2) T-1st North
Time: 8:05 PM EDT
Location: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club
Line: Wickliffe Barbarians -1 total points
Historical Record: Wickliffe Barbarians 2-1 (Season 1 OBL Playoffs)
The nightcap of Week 6 features a massive playoff rematch with the entire North Division hanging in the balance.
Last season, the Wickliffe Barbarians outlasted the Koppel Gamblers in a grueling 3-game series (2-1) to reach the OBL Championship. Tonight, these two heavyweights meet again. Both teams enter the synthetic surface deadlocked with a 1-2 match record and 3 points in the standings. The winner of this match seizes outright control of the North Division and the inside track for the coveted first-round playoff bye.
But beneath the standings lies a chaotic web of blockbuster trades, shocking benchings, and late-night 1v1 preparation.
The Blockbuster Trade Aftermath
The Barbarians arrive tonight with a brand new look. Earlier this week, Wickliffe sent shockwaves through the league by trading Season 1 Finals MVP Steve "Bubba" Infante to the Hellhounds in exchange for veteran pointer Russ Meraglio.
Wickliffe owner Bob Gallese didn't mince words when addressing the locker room shift.
"This latest trade is not one I anticipated or pursued, but Bubba wanted to play with Jimmy P and the Hellhounds," Gallese stated. "Rocco and I had a good discussion and we both felt that having an unhappy player wasn’t good for either team. Anytime a player wants to be elsewhere, their mental state is not where it needs to be... Does the trade make us better? Yes! Be a BAR-liever!!"
The trade completely restructures Wickliffe's depth. Gallese returns from Florida to take the Lead Pointer role, while Meraglio, Cory Wittway, and rookie sensation Cody Holecko—who is currently the #1 S2 Qualified Hitter—give the defending champs an entirely new, incredibly deep bench.
"I loved playing with Bubba," Captain Doug Carter noted. "But Russ, Ron Dawg, and I play a lot of tournaments together and I love having them as teammates. I think Russ and Bob as true number 1 pointers makes it easier to substitute and puts everybody else at their true positions."
Lineup Roulette: The Gamblers Bench Their Stars
While Wickliffe found depth through a trade, the Gamblers are searching for answers by tearing up their rotation.
Coming off a brutal sweep at the hands of the Hitmen, Koppel is rolling out a brand new starting lineup. Pat Pezzin steps in as the Lead Pointer, Levi Policaro takes the Second Roller spot, Mike "MHP" Pisano moves back to his natural Hammer position, and the legendary Anthony Capogreco returns to Lead Shooter.
The collateral damage? Jonathon Vivo (hitting 81% in S2) and Chris Chmielewski (hitting 75% in S2) have both been benched to start the match.
"Yeah, 100% it just makes me feel like I’m not getting the job done and that’s never a good thing," Vivo admitted when asked about his disappointment. "But if it makes our team better and get us wins, then do what I have to do to be a good teammate."
The new starters, however, are taking the opportunity incredibly seriously. To prepare for Wickliffe's elite hitting gallery, Levi Policaro revealed his grueling prep work: "Key to success: play Pat [Pezzin] 1v1 'til 2 AM. He is a great player. Challenges me to the limit. I had a great time and got some quality reps. Looking forward to playing with him tonight."
As for MHP moving back to the Hammer spot? The veteran kept it completely icy: "It’s all the same to me, just want to do my part."
Tale of the Tape: Starting Lineups & Season 2 Stats
Get your popcorn ready. In a sheer statistical anomaly, the top four career hitters with qualified percentages in OBL history will all be stepping onto the same court tonight.
Wickliffe Barbarians
Bob Gallese (Lead Pointer): Returning from Florida to stabilize the front end. Career 60.8% Roller.
Carl Greenaway (Second Roller): 70.0% Rolling (Ranked #8 Qualified Roller in OBL S2). Sliding back to his natural flex spot.
Ron Reeher (Hammer): 76.3% Hitting (Ranked #4 Qualified Hitter in OBL S2).
Doug Carter (Lead Shooter): 57.1% Hitting (Career #5 Hitter). * (Bench Depth: Russ Meraglio brings his 72.1% career rolling, while rookie Cody Holecko sits ready to deploy his league-leading 90.0% hitting rate).
Koppel Gamblers
Pat Pezzin (Lead Pointer): 55.7% Career Roller. Stepping up to spark the offense.
Levi Policaro (Second Roller): 71.4% Rolling. Fresh off 2 AM practice sessions, he looks to lock down the wall.
Anthony Capogreco (Lead Shooter): 70.0% Hitting (Career #1 OBL Hitter). Moving back to his primary shooting role.
Mike "MHP" Pisano (Hammer): 60.3% Rolling / 50.0% Hitting. Returning to the anchor position.
(Bench Depth: Jonathon Vivo (#3 S2 Hitter at 81.0%), Chris Chmielewski (#5 S2 Hitter at 75.0%), and Matt Taylor give the Gamblers a terrifying second unit).
BBN Match Prediction
Barbarians 2, Gamblers 1 (Barbarians cover the -1 line)
The Gamblers possess the most talented roster from top to bottom, but they are clearly searching for an identity right now by benching their two hottest Season 2 shooters. Conversely, the Barbarians just shed a distracted player via trade and survived a brutal dogfight split against the undefeated SVBC. Wickliffe's locker room is aligned, their roles are defined, and the addition of Russ Meraglio to the bench gives them too much tactical flexibility. Expect the defending champs to out-execute Koppel in the late frames to take control of the North Division.
April 13th, 2026
Week 6 Match 1 Preview
Matchup: Steel Valley Bocce Club (3-0) 2nd South vs. Youngstown Flash (2-1) 3rd South
Time: 6:05 PM EDT
Location: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club
Line: SVBC -3 total points
Historical Record: Youngstown Flash 1-0 (Season 1 Playoffs)
The Ohio Bocce League schedule makers knew exactly what they were doing when they circled Week 6.
Tonight, the undefeated Steel Valley Bocce Club (SVBC) squares off against the Youngstown Flash. This isn’t just a battle for control of the South Division—it is a deeply personal grudge match fueled by playoff ghosts, social media warfare, and endless trash talk.
The standings implications are massive. With the Mahoning Valley Hitmen currently resting on a bye week at the top of the South Division with 9 points, the door is wide open for a hostile takeover. SVBC enters with an unblemished 3-0 match record and 8 points; if they secure 2 points tonight, they take outright control of the division lead. The Flash enter at 2-1 with 6 points; if they can pull off a dramatic sweep (3 points), they will leapfrog SVBC and tie the Hitmen for first place.
The Ghost of Season 1
To understand the bad blood, you have to rewind to the Season 1 playoffs. SVBC entered the postseason as the dominant #2 seed and South Division champions, while the Flash snuck in as the #6 seed. But in a stunning upset, the Flash eliminated SVBC to punch their ticket to the Championship, a game that ended with SVBC Captain Mike Robertson missing a crucial, game-winning shot.
Flash Captain Dante Chiovitti has not let Robertson forget it.
For weeks, Chiovitti has been relentlessly trolling Robertson on social media, utilizing AI-generated songs and highlight loops of Robertson's missed playoff shot. Robertson, meanwhile, has been using his viral "Ass Beating of the Week" segment to put targets on the backs of the rest of the league.
When asked if Chiovitti's social media antics provided extra motivation for tonight, Robertson didn't flinch.
"No. He has endless pages of AI prompts dedicated to me and me alone. I live rent free in his head," Robertson fired back. "He’s Papa Doc and I’m B Rabbit... I know everything he’s about to say against me. How's the end result going to be tonight? Sweep. Get the brooms ready folks. I will be dancing on the food prep table in the kitchen by 8 PM!"
The Locker Room Reaction
The relentless trash talk hasn't just stayed between the captains; it has permeated both locker rooms, setting the stage for an incredibly intense atmosphere.
"I usually stay out of that stuff, but I do think it adds fuel to the fire," said SVBC’s star roller Sean New. "As far as affecting someone’s play, I think both players have played enough big games that it’s not going to negatively affect them. Dante thinks he is the best at getting under everyone’s skin before, during, and after a match—that’s never going to change."
Over on the Flash sideline, the players are embracing the chaos.
"Love it. Adds a little flavor to the game," said Flash hitter Gianni Colaizzi. "These are all top players in the area, on each team, and they can compete with anyone around the country, so no affects whatsoever."
Flash teammate Matt Estes echoed the sentiment, knowing full well what happens if you don't show up against Steel Valley. "Back and forth doesn’t really bother me much, those two are the ones who have to ‘put up or shut up’. I think it adds a little spice to the match. Better lock in when you play Steel Valley or you’ll end up on the ‘Ass Beating of the Week’..."
Tale of the Tape: Starting Lineups & Season 2 Stats
Beneath the drama is a phenomenal, heavyweight bocce matchup. Let’s look at the Season 2 numbers for the players stepping onto the court tonight.
Steel Valley Bocce Club (SVBC)
SVBC gets significantly stronger tonight as star hitter Ron Capogreco returns to the lineup after missing Week 5. They will lean on the most dominant front-end roller in the league to set the tone early.
Sean New (Lead Pointer): 80.6% Rolling (Ranked #1 Qualified Roller in OBL S2)
Bobby Mittal (Second Roller): 68.6% Rolling (Ranked #10 Qualified Roller). He will lock down the wall rotation.
Ron Capogreco (Lead Hitter): 66.7% Hitting (Ranked #14 Qualified Hitter). Returning from absence.
Mike "Buckets" Robertson (Hammer): 73.3% Hitting / 64.7% Rolling. He is the undisputed engine at the back of the court.
(Bench Depth: Jeff Policaro (#3 S2 Roller at 71.4%), Nic Ottaviani (#8 S2 Hitter at 73.0%), and Rock DeLisio (71.4% Hitting) make this the most terrifying bench in the league).
Youngstown Flash
The Flash are sticking with the exact same lineup that has kept them firmly in the division race, relying heavily on volume and clinical table-setting.
Tim Wilson (Lead Pointer): 73.6% Rolling (Ranked #2 Qualified Roller in OBL S2). He builds the runway for the Flash offense.
Bobby Gentile (Second Roller)): 66.1% Rolling (Ranked #13 Qualified Roller). He will be tasked with neutralizing the SVBC deep corners.
Pete Barac (Lead Hitter): 72.4% Hitting (Ranked #9 Qualified Hitter). Tied for the most S2 hits in the league, Pete brings massive volume.
Gianni Colaizzi (Hammer): 77.8% Hitting / 57.9% Rolling. The silent assassin at the back end.
(Bench Depth: Matt Estes (#11 S2 Roller at 67.9%), Tess Romeo (#5 S2 Hitter at 75.0%), and Captain Dante Chiovitti (62.5% Rolling) are ready to check in and shift momentum).
The On-Court Strategy
When asked about his strategy for hitting against pointers like Tim Wilson who utilize the deep right wall, Ron Capogreco kept it simple: "Angles first, and walls depending on how far it is off the wall."
If Capogreco is hitting his angles and Sean New continues his historic rolling pace, the Flash will have to play a perfect match to pull off another upset.
BBN Match Prediction
SVBC 2, Flash 1 (SVBC covers the -3 line)
The Flash will undoubtedly feed off the emotional energy and Chiovitti's relentless mind games, but SVBC is playing with terrifying efficiency right now. With Ron Capogreco returning to stabilize the hitting rotation and Sean New rolling at a historic clip, SVBC has too much firepower to be swept. Expect a gritty, hostile split in the games, with SVBC ultimately winning the aggregate point differential to take the match and seize the top spot in the South Division.
How to Watch
Before the pallino is even rolled, the fireworks will start in the broadcast booth. Mike Robertson and Dante Chiovitti will be sharing the booth for a live pre-game interview at 5:50 PM EST. You do not want to miss it.
Tune in to the Bocce Broadcast Network (BBN) on YouTube to catch every roll, every hit, and every word of trash talk in the match of the season.
April 11th, 2026
BLOCKBUSTER NORTH DIVISION TRADE
Wickliffe Barbarians and Cleveland Hellhounds Swap Veteran Talent
BOARDMAN, OH — April 10, 2026 — The Ohio Bocce League (OBL) landscape shifted dramatically this afternoon with the announcement of a blockbuster one-for-one trade within the North Division. The Wickliffe Barbarians have agreed to trade Season 1 Finals MVP Steve "Bubba" Infante to the Cleveland Hellhounds in exchange for veteran roller Russ Meraglio.
The trade sends shockwaves through the North Division as both franchises look to ignite their rosters midway through Season 2.
The Details of the Deal:
Cleveland Hellhounds Receive: Steve "Bubba" Infante
Wickliffe Barbarians Receive: Russ Meraglio
For the Cleveland Hellhounds, who are currently fighting to climb out of an 0-3 match hole, acquiring Infante brings immediate championship pedigree to the locker room. Bubba is etched in OBL history as the Season 1 Finals MVP, possessing the proven ability to handle the pressure of the playoff spotlight. He provides Cleveland with a massive emotional spark and a versatile two-way game to pair with Robert "Stuey" Stuart.
For the Wickliffe Barbarians, who currently sit at 1-2 in match play but are coming off a gritty split against the undefeated SVBC, the acquisition of Meraglio adds elite rolling consistency. Meraglio boasts a stellar Career Rolling percentage of 72.1% (106 for 147). His arrival gives Wickliffe Captain Doug Carter another highly efficient, clinical weapon on the front end as the Barbarians look to defend their Season 1 title.
Quote from the Commissioner’s Office: "When a trade involves a reigning Finals MVP, the entire league takes notice," said OBL Commissioner Danny Catullo. "Both Wickliffe and Cleveland are looking to make a massive push in the back half of Season 2, and this move completely shakes up the dynamics of the North Division. The fans are going to be absolutely electric the next time these two squads step onto the synthetic surface."
Both players are expected to be available and in uniform for their respective teams heading into Week 6.
April 8th, 2026
Week 5 Match 2 Recap
A Sweep in the Valley: Hitmen Bounce Back, Dismantle the Surging Gamblers
By BBN Staff
The nightcap of Week 5 featured a franchise in crisis mode against the hottest team in the North. The Mahoning Valley Hitmen were tearing their playbook down to the studs—Captain Dante DeLisio and Mike Trivisonno benched themselves for accountability, introducing a completely new rolling rotation.
On the other side, the Koppel Gamblers entered on fire, boasting their dreaded "Three-Headed Monster" front end and the #1 projected hitter in the league, rookie Jonathon Vivo.
But on this night on the synthetic surface at Lorenzino's Bocce Club, the crisis was averted. The Hitmen executed flawlessly, silencing the Gamblers and the critics with a dominant 14-5, 14-5 sweep to get their season completely back on track.
Total Domination: The Palumbo Pivot & Brother vs. Brother
Game 1 and Game 2 were carbon copies of Mahoning Valley dominance. The Hitmen front end was an absolute clinic in efficiency. Nick Capogreco, making his first start on the wall, went head-to-head against his older brother, Anthony Capogreco. The younger brother completely stole the show, posting an absurd 91% rolling mark (10 for 11).
The sibling rivalry reached a boiling point midway through the match. Nick applied constant pressure to the wall, forcing Anthony into a tough bailout shot that caught a terrible bounce. Meanwhile, Joe Palumbo, freed from his rolling woes going 2 for 2 on the night, was absolutely lethal as the Lead Shooter. He took on a massive workload and shot 16 for 21 (76%) on the night, clearing the wood with ruthless decisiveness.
The "Human Rain Delay" & The Substitution Controversy
The Gamblers struggled to find the magic that allowed them to sweep the North just a week ago, but the real story was the internal frustration boiling over regarding in-game management.
Koppel's rookie sensation Jonathon Vivo—affectionately dubbed the "Human Rain Delay" by the broadcast booth for his elusive nature—was hitting at an elite 70% clip. However, in two crucial, frame-defining moments during Game 2, Gamblers Captain Matt Taylor opted not to sub Vivo in to shoot, leaving roller Levi Policaro on the court to take the hits.
The broadcast booth felt the tension building during a massive sequence: "Listen, I know this is the shot that Levi's going to want. Three points there. Vivo [wants it] as well. Coach Taylor's going to have a decision to make... Two timeouts burnt. Here comes Levi... Oh, shoots his own ball. I hate that call."
The decision to leave points on the board sparked immediate post-game friction.
"I feel like I was the only one in that situation thinking that we needed somebody that could come in and shoot to stick around and take the pallino out of play," Vivo stated bluntly after the match. "If we make two points there, or even one, it’s only like a one-point game or close to being tied up. Twice in that situation... You have to play better as a team and not worry about that stuff. I think a couple situational things we could’ve done different with a couple calls and a couple times we might’ve been able to sub."
The missed opportunities compounded the Gamblers' misery. Despite the bad bounces and a poor start, Matt Taylor stubbornly refused to pull himself from the lineup. The broadcast caught his frustration live: "Matt Taylor has not started this game very good. He said, and I quote, 'I'm playing.'"
The final aggregate score of 28-10 served as a harsh reality check for Koppel.
By The Numbers: Team Match Stats
Mahoning Valley Hitmen: 73% Rolling (38 for 52) | 77% Shooting (30 for 39)
Koppel Gamblers: 66% Rolling (39 for 59) | 73% Shooting (24 for 33)
League Leaders in Action
The sheer talent on the court was staggering. Following this match, players from both rosters sit firmly inside the OBL Top 10 for Season 2 Qualified % Rank, making a serious run for the individual crowns:
Top 10 Hitters (Qualified % Rank): Jonathon Vivo, Gamblers (#3), Chris Chmielewski, Gamblers (#5), Joe Palumbo, Hitmen (#7), Anthony Capogreco, Gamblers (#10)
Top 10 Rollers (Qualified % Rank): Nick Capogreco, Hitmen (#5), Mike Nardone, Hitmen (#6), Mike Pisano, Gamblers (#7), Matt Taylor, Gamblers (#8)
Player of the Match Nominees
Nick “Who’s the Wild Man Now” Capogreco (Hitmen): The sibling rivalry goes to Nick. Stepping into the starting wall rotation under immense pressure, he rolled an incredible 10 for 11 (91%) to set the tone for the entire sweep.
Joe “Bossman” Palumbo (Hitmen): The "Bossman" thrived in his new role. Abandoning the wall to focus purely on hitting, Palumbo went 16 for 21 (76%) and routinely bailed out frames.
Dante “ The Maestro” DeLisio (Hitmen): He benched himself to start the match, but his mix-and-matching of the roster and perfect game-calling left the Gamblers completely confused. As a player, he lead off game two 7 for 10 (70%) and kept pressure on the lethal Koppel shooters.
Standings Update & What's Next
With the massive 3-point sweep, the Hitmen jump right back into the thick of the playoff race, proving that their 7-deep roster is dangerous enough to adapt and win against anyone. After their bye week next week, they will face the #1 SVBC. The Gamblers suffer a brutal setback, losing crucial ground in the standings. Koppel must quickly head back to the drawing board to figure out how to reclaim their momentum against the Barbarians next week.
Post-Match Quotes from the Locker Room
Joe Palumbo Owner (Hitmen) on the sweep and the Gamblers' frustration: "Last night’s sweep of the Koppel Gamblers was very satisfying. Any time you can get 3 pts in our league AND listen to Matt Taylor complain about not getting breaks the entire night, you don’t complain. All joking aside, we didn’t force anything. We just played really well. It’s funny how the bounces work out in bocce. It’s impossible to get a break if you don’t hit anything. We caught some criticism after dropping two straight, but those stretches don’t define a team."
Dante’ DeLisio (Hitmen) on whether he likes starting game 1 or 2:“I don't give a [__]. I mean, I might have played a little better tonight in the second game, but it doesn't matter to me. The guys in the first game, the guys in the second game... we're all good players. We all have confidence in each other. We just picked each other up all night. Let's be honest, we got every single bounce tonight. Especially the first game. We got a lot of bounces and you need that in bocce. We played good, but we got every bounce.”
Matt Taylor Owner(Gamblers) on the team's performance: "Nothing good. We are miserable. We know, not feel, we have the best roster and for whatever reason we can’t do shit. We lost 28-10. Completely embarrassing."
James Selvaggio (Hitmen) on the team effort: "It felt great, but it was a true team effort. Everyone rolled/shot at a high level. Sweeps don’t happen unless everyone is locked in. I’m really proud of the way we played. It’s something we can build on as we head into the bye week."
Jonathon Vivo (Gamblers) on what went wrong: "Team is pretty upset with the result we got. I know in bocce teams get breaks and some teams don’t get breaks, but you can’t judge it off of that. You have to play better as a team and not worry about that stuff. I think a couple situational things we could’ve done different... but at the end of the day, we just have to play better and not leave points out there."
Chris Chmielewski (Gamblers) on finding consistency: "We have to be better. We can't have 1 or 2 guys playing well, we all have to be clicking. The team needs to find consistency period."
Nick Capogreco (Hitmen) on executing the new game plan: "It feels great, but more importantly, I’m proud of how our team executed and got back to playing bocce how we are capable of."
April 8th, 2026
Week 5 Match 1 Recap
A Tale of Two Matches: SVBC Suffocates Early, Defending Champs Clutch Up Late in Heavyweight Split
By BBN Staff
It was the heavyweight clash everyone had circled on their calendars. The undefeated Steel Valley Bocce Club (SVBC), looking to validate their historic regular-season point differential from Season 1, stepped onto the synthetic surface to face the defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians.
The storylines were set before the first pallino even rolled. SVBC was missing star hitter Ron Capogreco, pushing Nic Ottaviani into the spotlight. Wickliffe, scrambling their lineup, forced utility veteran Carl Greenaway to step out of his comfort zone and into a heavy rolling position for the first time in a decade. Meanwhile, SVBC’s Mike Robertson stepped onto the court with a massive target on his back, knowing any slip-up would land him on his own “Ass Beating of the Week” blooper reel.
What followed was a brutal, physical split that proved SVBC is as terrifying as advertised, and Wickliffe’s championship DNA is alive and well.
Game 1: The SVBC Woodchipper (14-3 SVBC)
Game 1 was over almost before it started. SVBC stormed out to an 8-0 lead in the blink of an eye and never looked back, closing out the game in just 11 frames.
The catalyst was an absolute masterclass on the front end by Sean New, who shot an absurd 93% (13 for 14) on the night. Time and time again, New dropped his rolls perfectly into the "Deep Water" corner, creating an impenetrable fortress that completely suffocated the Barbarians.
"Sean New is definitely one of the best rollers not only in the OBL, but I would say in bocce period," said SVBC rolling partner Bobby Mittal after the match. "He makes everyone on his team play better by consistently leading the frame off with a good ball."
With New setting the table, SVBC's "7-deep" mentality was on full display. Nic Ottaviani, tasked with replacing Ron Cap, didn't just survive on the wall—he dropped bombs. The broadcast booth described his incredible hitting streak as "World War II," with Ottaviani finishing the night a highly efficient 16-for-21 (76%). SVBC laid down a 14-3 beating to take the first game.
Game 2: The Heart of a Champion & The Frame 10 Turning Point (14-11 Wickliffe)
Getting blown out 14-3 is usually enough to fracture a team's confidence, but the Barbarians didn't panic. They simply adjusted.
"I don’t feel we played bad that first game. They played extremely well, and when there were chances for the pallino to go our way, we did not get the bounces," said Wickliffe's Carl Greenaway. "Game two was different. We were really focused and made the shots when we needed to."
Game 2 devolved into a gritty, back-and-forth street fight. With the game tied 4-4 early, SVBC managed to pull ahead 6-4. The defining sequence of the match actually began with a chaotic near-disaster in Frame 10. Poised to score three points for Wickliffe after being down 8-7, rookie Cody Holecko rolled in but accidentally bumped an SVBC ball to give Steel Valley the point instead. Despite feeling like he let his team down, the new free agent acquisition remained completely calm under immense pressure and clutched up, hitting his next shot to bail out the frame.
Sensing the momentum shifting after Holecko's hit, SVBC franchise hammer Mike Robertson and captain roller Sean New debated subbing themselves back into the game for Frame 11 to close the door. They waited exactly one frame too long. “Looking back, if we bring the starters back in the frame prior maybe it’s a different outcome, but that’s easy to say now.” said Sean New,”(but)I still have the utmost confidence that our reserves can play with anyone in the OBL.”
In Frame 11, Wickliffe executed a devastating, flawless 4-point frame to break the game wide open to 13-7. SVBC’s starters finally jumped back onto the wood to orchestrate a terrifying late comeback—scoring in consecutive frames to cut the lead to 13-11—but it was too little, too late. Wickliffe secured the final point in Frame 15 to ice the game and secure the split.
By The Numbers: Team Match Stats
Steel Valley Bocce Club: 74% Rolling (49 for 66) | 73% Shooting (27 for 37)
Wickliffe Barbarians: 67% Rolling (47 for 70) | 64% Shooting (25 for 39)
League Leaders in Action
The sheer talent on the court was staggering. Following this match, several players from both rosters sit firmly inside the OBL Top 10 for Season 2 Qualified % Rank, making a serious run for the individual shooting and rolling crowns:
Top 10 Hitters (Qualified % Rank): Cody Holecko, WB (#1), Ron Reeher, WB (#4), Nic Ottaviani, SVBC (#8)
Top 10 Rollers (Qualified % Rank): Sean New, SVBC (#1), Jeff Policaro, SVBC (#3), Bobby Mittal, SVBC (#10)
Player of the Match Nominees
Sean "Smooth" New (SVBC): An absolute machine. 13 for 14 (93%) rolling. When Sean is putting the pallino exactly where he wants it, SVBC is almost impossible to beat. He set the tone for the entire night.
Nic “Gentle Giant” Ottaviani (SVBC): The ultimate plug-and-play weapon. Stepped into the primary hitting role and went 16 for 21 (76%). He proved SVBC's bench depth is a terrifying reality for the rest of the league.
Carl “The Surgeon” Greenaway (Wickliffe): The selfless veteran. Moved into a heavy rolling role to save the lineup and delivered 17 good rolls (71%) on a staggering 24 attempts, plus a perfect 2-for-2 on his hits. He stabilized the Barbarians and orchestrated the Game 2 bounce-back.
Standings Update & What's Next
With the split but overall match win, SVBC maintains a stranglehold on the top spot in the South Division getting 2 points, keeping their unblemished Match Record intact. Wickliffe secures a crucial match point, grinding their way back into the fierce North Division playoff hunt and our currently tied for 1st with the Gamblers.
Looking ahead, Wickliffe continues their title defense through their division rival and co-leader Gamblers, while SVBC prepares for a massive showdown against the Youngstown Flash.
SVBC’s Mike Robertson is already stoking the rivalry fires. "I'm getting the Flash. I want [Dante] Chiovitti in the booth, too," Robertson demanded post-game. "I want me and Chiovitti next to each other in the booth before next week's game. That's the one I've been waiting for!:
Post-Match Quotes from the Locker Room
Jim Fisher (Owner - SVBC) on the Game 2 Struggles
“We discussed sticking with the same lineup as game 1 to maintain our undefeated record, but decided to continue to utilize our entire roster. I have confidence in all our players to perform and execute. We did similar changes in prior weeks resulting in sweeps. When we were struggling slightly in game 2, I could have and probably should have switched back to the starters sooner than I did. Also, had some situations to put in a substitute roller and passed on those opportunities which cost us multiple points on some frames. In the end, we secured the match and move onto next week!”
Bob Gallese (Owner - Wickliffe) on if Carl Greenaway will permanently play the 2-Roll position:
"Absolutely you will see more of Carl. He’s a game-changer not to mention being a natural leader with a calm demeanor. I would go to war with him! That's how much I enjoy having him on my side of the fence. The Barbarians may be down for the moment, but we are farrrrr from out! Too much talent, too many great players, and a ton of competitive spirit throughout the team."
Cody Holecko (Wickliffe) on avoiding the sweep and joining as a free agent:
"You never want to get swept, so it was great that we were able to get that win in the second game. First game didn’t go our way but feel like we played a lot better than what the score reflected. I did feel that I had a little chip on my shoulder coming into the league, so I definitely wanted to take advantage of the opportunity when I had it. That and just looking to help our team out anyway I can, whether that’s hitting, rolling, or coming off the bench."
Cory Wittway (Wickliffe) on Game 2's adjustments:
"The moment was huge for the team, boosting confidence instantly. We hesitated to change the lineup because our first game wasn’t actually that bad — we just faced unfortunate breaks, and SV played flawlessly without making errors. They performed at an extraordinary level in that initial game. On a side note, remember that great things don't happen overnight. Take that as you will."
Mike Robertson (SVBC) on avoiding the 'Ass Beating of the Week' segment: "Let me tell you something right now. The Barbarians are going on 'Ass Beating of the Week' tomorrow. First thing tomorrow morning, I don't care if we lose one game. Alright? They're still going on it. That's just going to happen."
March 29th, 2026
Week 5 Match 2 Preview
The Hitmen Shakeup Meets the Gamblers' Surge
written by BBN staff
Matchup: Koppel Gamblers (1-1, 1st North) vs. Mahoning Valley Hitmen (2-3, 3rd South)
Time: 8:00 PM EDT
Location: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club
Line: Gamblers -5.5 total points
Historical Record: Hitmen lead 2-0 (+13 pts in Season 1)
As the sun sets on Week 5 at Lorenzino’s, the nightcap features two franchises in radically different headspaces. The Koppel Gamblers are riding the high of a season-altering sweep, while the Mahoning Valley Hitmen are tearing their playbook down to the studs.
With playoff positioning tightening in both divisions, tonight’s 8:00 PM EDT clash is a desperation "get-right" game for the Hitmen and a "statement" game for the new-look Gamblers.
The Storyline: Dante’s "Bossman" Request Revealed
The biggest question mark heading into tonight surrounded the Mahoning Valley bench. Following a sweep at the hands of the Flash last week, Hitmen Captain Dante DeLisio was noticeably frustrated and told BBN he had made a "request to the bossman (Owner Joe Palumbo)."
Today, the details of that request were revealed, and it’s a massive shakeup. DeLisio and Mike Trivisonno—who have started every game they were both available for this year—are benching themselves.
"Ultimately it’s Joe’s call, but accountability is a key factor in being a good leader," DeLisio stated when asked about the genesis of the decision to bench himself and Triv in favor of Freddie Sablack and Nick Capogreco. "Was an easy decision for me to suggest making a change. I’ve been too inconsistent rolling and that sets the tone."
Stepping up into the starting lineup are two situational stars. Freddie “Ballgame” Sablack will get his first-ever start as Lead Pointer. Meanwhile, Nick “Cruising” Capogreco will start at Second Roller, bringing a staggering 79.6% Season 2 rolling average to the floor.
The X-Factor: The Capogreco Collision
With Nick Capogreco moving into the Hitmen's starting rotation, we get an incredible matchup across the court: brother vs. brother.
Nick will be rolling against the Gamblers' high-impact hammer, Anthony “Capo” Capogreco. While Nick has established himself as one of the best rollers in the league (76.3% Career Rolling), Anthony is the historic benchmark for OBL shooters. Currently ranked as the #2 Career Hitter in OBL history (80.2%), Anthony has thrived since moving to the Hammer position last week making his typical dynamic hits later in the frame but isn’t rolling to his typical capability.
"I just love having last ball to make a hit," Anthony noted. "I want to win more than anyone... as long as we’re clicking towards the end of the season and in the playoffs we can make a run." Expect intense chatter across the lanes when Nick tries to freeze a frame and force his brother into a difficult cover shot.
Nick has thrived being the swiss army knife with timely hitting (13 for 16 shooting) to go with his dynamic rolling out of the middle of the lineup. Whichever team wins will most likely get the better Capogreco for the night.
The Strategy: Koppel’s Three-Headed Monster vs. the Steady Eddies
The Koppel Gamblers found their soul in Week 4. By moving Matt “Jackie Moon” Taylor to Lead Pointer and Mike “MHP” Pisano to Second Roller, they provided a "veteran calm" that stabilized the floor.
This foundation allowed their hitting core to play with zero hesitation. Jonathon “Rain Delay” Vivo has emerged as a legitimate superstar, boasting an 85.2% Season 2 hitting average. Paired with Capogreco and the efficiency of backup and game 2 starter Chris “The Alphabet” Chmielewski, the Gamblers possess an offensive monster that can clear a board in a single frame.
To counter this, the Hitmen are relying on the most stable position for them to make them roll: their hitters. Joe “Bossman” Palumbo has been subbing himself out of the rolling spot that has plagued him this season (37.5% S2) to focus purely on what he does best: shooting. Palumbo will continue to start at Lead Shooter, while James “MVP” Selvaggio stays in the Hammer role. If Palumbo (74.0% S2 Hitting) can focus entirely on clearing the wood without the mental fatigue of his rolling slump (along with the infinite shakeup of the rolling lineup), the Hitmen offense immediately becomes more dangerous. Add in back up Mike “High Shorts” Nardone’s career 71% shooting and the steadiest part of the Hitmen lineup might be forcing Capogreco, Vivo and Chmielwski to roll more than they are comfortable.
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPS & ADVANCED STATS
KOPPEL GAMBLERS
Matt Taylor (LP)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 69.2% / N/A
Career Roll/Hit: 73.4% / 16.7%
#4 Ranked Career Roller
Mike Pisano (2R)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 69.6% / 58.3%
Career Roll/Hit: 60.7% / 64.4%
Playing with massive confidence in new role
Jonathon Vivo (LS)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 66.7% / 85.2%
Career Roll/Hit: 66.7% / 85.2%
#2 Ranked S2 Hitter; Breakout star
Anthony Capogreco (H)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 66.7% / 83.7%
Career Roll/Hit: 54.7% / 80.2%
#2 Ranked Career Hitter; facing his brother
MAHONING VALLEY HITMEN
Freddie Sablack (LP)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 72.6% / N/A
Career Roll/Hit: 69.9% / N/A
Making his first career start as Lead Pointer
Nick Capogreco (2R)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 79.6% / 71.4%
Career Roll/Hit: 76.3% / 81.2%
#2 Ranked Career Roller entering starting lineup
Joe Palumbo (LS)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 37.5% / 74.0%
Career Roll/Hit: 31.4% / 73.9%
Elite volume shooter; shifting out of rolling duties
James Selvaggio (H)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 72.9% / 80.0%
Career Roll/Hit: 73.3% / 75.5%
Ranked #5 in Rolling and #8 in Hitting
BBN Prediction
The Gamblers have all the momentum, but the Hitmen have the history, having outscored Koppel by 13 points in their previous meetings. The Hitmen's radical accountability shakeup is exactly the kind of move that sparks a dormant locker room. With Freddie and Nick rolling against Taylor and Pisano, this match will be won and lost in the first 10 feet of the court.
The Pick: Hitmen pull the upset, winning 2-1.
Tune in to the Bocce Broadcast Network (BBN) at 8:00 PM EDT for the nightcap, exclusively on the BBN YouTube Channel.
March 29th, 2026
Week 5 Match 1 Preview
The Undefeated Machine Meets the Defending Champs
written by BBN staff
Steel Valley Bocce Club (2-0) 1st South vs. Wickliffe Barbarians (1-1) 2nd North
Time: 6:05 PM EDT
Location: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club (The Fast Wood)
Line: SVBC -2 total points
Historical Record WB 1-0 +4pts (season 1)
The Ohio Bocce League has given us some incredible storylines through the first month of Season 2, but Week 5 brings us the matchup everyone circled on their calendars.
At 6:05 PM EDT, the undefeated Steel Valley Bocce Club (SVBC) squares off against the defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians. This isn't just an inter-division clash; it's a proxy war for the Season 1 championship that SVBC feels they let slip away. With radical lineup changes, missing stars, and a brewing social media beef, tonight's doubleheader at Lorenzino’s is must-watch bocce.
Here’s everything you need to know before the pallino drops.
The History: The Ghost of Playoffs Past
The history between these two franchises is heavy. SVBC watched the Barbarians hoist the Cup in Season 1—a championship SVBC feels they lost due to their own late-game execution errors.
"Our motivation comes from wanting to finish the job of winning an OBL championship which we felt slipped through our fingers in season 1," said SVBC's Sean “Smooth” New. "We beat ourselves and didn’t execute down the stretch last season."
Adding fuel to the fire is the absence of SVBC starting hitter Ron “Papa Cap” Capogreco. Capogreco is out tonight on a family vacation. The only other time he has missed a game? The devastating Season 1 playoff loss to the Youngstown Flash, where SVBC was eliminated. Nic “Gentle Giant” Ottaviani (50% S2 Hitting) will step into the starting rotation, facing massive pressure to keep the undefeated SVBC machine rolling against the team wearing the rings.
The Beef: "Ass Beating of the Week"
If the playoff history wasn't enough, the off-court chatter has reached a boiling point. SVBC’s primary hitter, Mike Robertson, recently launched a social media segment dubbed the "Ass Beating of the Week" to highlight his team's dominant wins.
Naturally, this caught the attention of the rest of the league. Players from rival teams quickly flooded the comments with screenshots of the Season 1 playoff bracket,and Dante Chiovitti jokingly calling Robertson the "Flash's best player" because of his missed game-winning shot last season.
Robertson is entering tonight highly motivated to ensure SVBC isn't the subject of his own segment. "The extra motivation now comes (with the) team's weekly social media segment," Robertson said with a laugh. "So we will be ready." Given his current 80.0% Season 2 shooting clip, an angry Mike Robertson is a terrifying prospect for the Barbarians.
The Strategy: The Iron Core vs. Radical Realignment
Tactically, this match is a fascinating contrast in philosophies.
SVBC boasts the most consistent starting lineup in the OBL. Sean”Smooth” New, Bobby “Robert Redford” Mittal, and Mike “Buckets” Robertson have started every single game for the franchise. They rely on mathematical dominance. Sean New is currently the #1 ranked roller in Season 2 (80.6%), and backup lead pointer Jeff “Pap” Policaro remains the #1 ranked career roller in OBL history (77.8%). Their game plan is simple: win the wall, choke the lanes, and let Robertson clean up the board.
The Barbarians, conversely, are throwing their traditional playbook in the trash following a stagnant 1-1 start.
Wickliffe is starting Cory “Witt” Wittway at Lead Pointer and Carl “Green Light” Greenaway at Second Roller. For context, Wittway has primarily played tournaments over the last three years in the second rolling position, and Greenaway is traditionally a hammer or lead shooter.
"Forget traditional Pallino strategies—I prefer to keep our approach dynamic and adaptable," Wittway told BBN. "I look forward to the challenge of neutralizing our opponents' 1st hitter and delivering some decisive 'death balls.'"
Greenaway echoed the team-first mentality. "Helping the team in any way I can has always been the approach," he noted. "We have a pretty selfless team and I just want to do my part to help us win."
The X-Factor: The "Dawg" Mentality
If the Barbarians are going to upset the undefeated SVBC squad with an experimental lineup, it will come down to their Franchise Player: Ron "Dawg" Reeher.
Reeher has started every game over the last two years and is moving into the high-pressure Hammer position tonight. He holds a career 69.2% rolling and 77.8% hitting mark, making him one of the most versatile dual-threat players in the league.
"For me as the Franchise player, I need to be the best player on the floor and play to my capability," Reeher stated bluntly. "I feel like the team energy comes from my performance. The goal this week is to win both matches and try to take 3 points."
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPS & ADVANCED STATS
STEEL VALLEY BOCCE CLUB STARTERS
Sean New (LP)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 80.6% / N/A
Career Roll/Hit: 76.2% / 50.0%
#3 Ranked Career Roller. S2 Leader.
Bobby Mittal (2R)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 68.6% / N/A
Career Roll/Hit: 68.2% / 73.9%
The anchor of SVBC's "Iron Core" starters
Nic Ottaviani (LS)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 50.0% / 68.8%
Career Roll/Hit: 57.9% / 73.6%
#6 S2 Shooter
Mike Robertson (H)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 64.7% / 80.0%
Career Roll/Hit: 58.2% / 72.6%
#11 Ranked Career Shooter
WICKLIFFE BARBARIANS STARTERS
Cory Wittway (LP)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 55.9% / N/A
Career Roll/Hit: 67.7% / 50.0%
#17 Ranked Career Roller
Carl Greenaway (2R)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 69.2% / 60.0%
Career Roll/Hit: 66.1% / 65.4%
The selfless utility knife sliding into the 2-spot.
Doug Carter (LS)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 33.3% / 67.6%
Career Roll/Hit: 27.3% / 76.1%
#6 Career Hitter.
Ron “Dawg” Reeher (H)
Season 2 Roll/Hit: 72.7% / 66.7%
Career Roll/Hit: 69.2% / 77.8%
#4 Career Hitter #12 Career Roller.
BBN Prediction
SVBC is playing the best, most consistent bocce in the league. Their rolling duo of New and Mittal is a nightmare to play out of deficits against. However, the absence of Ron Capogreco is a massive variable, and the Barbarians' chaotic new lineup might be exactly what is needed to disrupt SVBC's rhythm.
Expect a grueling, tactical series that goes down to the final frames.
The Pick: SVBC wins 2-1 (Match goes to OT).
Tune in to the Bocce Broadcast Network (BBN) starting at 5:45 PM ET to catch all the live action, exclusively on the BBN YouTube Channel.
April 1st, 2026
WEEK 4 MATCH 2 RECAP: YOUNGSTOWN FLASH VS. MAHONING VALLEY HITMEN
The Youngstown Flash have sent a clear message to the South Division. In a high-intensity rematch of last week’s one-point thriller, the Flash secured a dominant sweep over the Mahoning Valley Hitmen at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, vaulting themselves into sole possession of first place in the South.
RESULT: FLASH SWEEP (2-0)
Game 1: Flash 14, Hitmen 8
Game 2: Flash 14, Hitmen 9
Following a narrow victory last week, the Flash left no doubt in the rematch. The story of the night was the clinical efficiency of the Flash’s starting rotation. Tim Wilson and Bobby Gentile provided a relentless one-two punch in the rolling department, consistently winning the wall and forcing the Hitmen into low-percentage middle-court plays.
The Hitmen struggled to find a counter-rhythm. While Joe Palumbo continued to show why he is the league’s most active shooter, the team was haunted by bad situational rolling as Nick Capogreco (normally a top 5 OBL roller) subbing in for Joe, went 1-4 in those situations.
The Flash's depth was on full display as Dante Chiovitti made his return to the court, providing a "different energy" that helped stabilize the back end of frames. With Pete Barac and Gianni Colaizzi cleaning up the board, the Flash looked like a team perfectly in sync, closing out both games with veteran composure.
For the Hitmen, the sweep is a tough pill to swallow, dropping them to third in the division. Captain Dante DeLisio noted that changes may be on the horizon as the team looks to "catch fire" before the playoff push.
Sun Cruiser POTM Nominees & Match Stats
Pete Barac (Flash):
Match Stats: Hit 19/25 (76%) | Rolled 1/1 (100%)
Season Stats: Qualified % Rank: 7 in Hitting (72%)
Tim Wilson (Flash):
Match Stats: Rolled 9/13 (69%)
Season Stats: Qualified % Rank: 3 in Rolling (74%)
Matt Estes (Flash):
Match Stats: Rolled 8/11 (73%)
Season Stats:Qualified % Rank: 11 in Rolling (68%)
POST-MATCH QUOTES
Tim Wilson (Flash): "It’s all about the trust my teammates have in me to lead us. They don't tell me where to roll, they just let me be me. That makes me comfortable... It's all about the TEAM! Go FLASH."
Bobby Gentile (Flash): "I love being in a position to make necessary rolls and/or hits especially when the game is on the line. Not to mention, I have to live up to that back wall nickname now."
Gianni Colaizzi (Flash): "Our goal is to always play our players and win, we heard the chatter last year about our record, but guess what we made the Championship. Put up a hell of a fight with a short bench."
Dante DeLisio (Hitmen): "The best takeaway: it was Week 3 and 4 and the Flash, who were dead last after 10 weeks, could’ve and maybe should’ve won it all in Season 1. As far as changes, I’ve made a request to the bossman that I feel is right for our current situation."
Matt Estes (Flash): "Dante Chiovitti is like the little engine that could! No matter what the situation of the game is, he knows what he wants to do and has full belief in his abilities. It was a pleasure to have him out there."
Tess Romeo (Flash): “I love having him there. His presence brings a different energy to the team” regarding Dante’s return
Nick Capogreco (Hitmen): "Coming in as a situational sub is harder than starting… you have to jump in cold, adapt instantly, and make an impact with no warm-up which can be mentally demanding."
Mike Nardone (Hitmen): ”I have 100% confidence in our owner Joe Palumbo. He wants to win and he may shake things up to give us a spark.My role on this team is to bring energy and make big shots when called upon.”
NEXT UP
The Youngstown Flash look to extend their lead in the South after a bye next week, while the Hitmen face a crucial matchup against the Koppel Gamblers as they fight to climb back up the standings.
April 1st, 2026
WEEK 4 MATCH 1 RECAP: KOPPEL GAMBLERS VS. CLEVELAND HELLHOUNDS
The Koppel Gamblers have officially arrived. In a high-stakes North Division clash at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, the Gamblers secured a season-defining sweep over the Cleveland Hellhounds, vaulting themselves to the top of the North Division standings.
RESULT: GAMBLERS SWEEP (2-0)
Game 1: Gamblers 14, Hellhounds 11
Game 2: Gamblers 14, Hellhounds 11
After struggling to find their rhythm early in the season with two bye weeks and a previous sweep, the Gamblers debuted a radical new lineup that paid immediate dividends. Captain Matt Taylor moved from the bench to the starting lead pointer position, a move that provided the "veteran calm" the team had been missing. The tactical shift also saw Mike “MHP” Pisano move to the second roller spot and Anthony “Capo” Capogreco slide into the hammer role while newcomer Jonathon “Rain Delay” Vivo started at lead shooter.
The move to have 3 natural hitters in the lineup gave a performance that neutralized the Hellhounds' new lineup with a "Point eavy" strategy. Although Anthony struggled rolling in game 1, Taylor stayed with no substitutions and let everything play out. “I love why we did.. treating it like a tournament said Capogreco, “my rolling will be better in the future.. I just love having last ball to make a hit.” The substitutions proved to be just as deadly as the starters as POTM nominees Levi “Ah Man” Policaro and Chris “The Alphabet” Chmielewski played just as good as who they replaced (MHP and Vivo).
The Hellhounds, led by Captain Jimmy “DA BULL” Pisano, showed flashes of momentum with their new look lineup and nearly clawed back in both games, but unforced errors in critical late frames allowed the Gamblers to pull away. For Cleveland, the 0-4 start is a wake-up call. Owner Rocco Guerrieri was blunt about the performance: "Back to the drawing board. This team has too much talent to not be at the top of the standings."
Robert “Stuey” Stuart who hit an astonishing 94% and rolled a respectable 73% lamented after the game, “The new line up worked just as I thought it would, we as a team just have to capitalize in big moments and make extra points and learn to close out a team when we can. I think us leaving points out there and not being able to close out was our biggest flaw in the match up with the koppel gamblers”. Russ “pretty, pretty, pretty good” Meraglio took responsibility for his performance by saying this new lineup can work long term “only if I play better.”
Sun Cruiser POTM Nominees
Chris Chmielewski (Gamblers):
Match Stats: Hit 10/12 (83%) | Rolled 1/1 (100%)
Season Stats: Qualified % Rank: 10 in Hitting (68.4%)
Mike Pisano (Gamblers):
Match Stats: Hit 3/5 (60%) | Rolled 9/11 (82%)
Season Stats: Qualified % Rank: 8 in Rolling (69.6%)
Levi Policaro (Gamblers):
Match Stats: Hit 2/2 (100%) | Rolled 8/11 (73%)
Season Stats: Qualified % Rank: 13 in Rolling (66.7%)
POST-MATCH QUOTES
"Stability is key. Everyone played confidently. We are a problem." – Matt Taylor (Gamblers), on the team's new-found chemistry.
"I want to win more than anyone... as long as we’re clicking towards the end of the season and in the playoffs we can make a run." – Anthony “Capo” Capogreco, on the switch to the Hammer position.
"I think if it came to a situation that Anthony wasn’t in the game I definitely would be up for the challenge just because I already know I can get that job done." – Jonathon Vivo, on potentially playing the Hammer position if Cap’s rolling doesn’t improve
"Watch out, Fish. That’s all I’m saying. Watch out, Fish!" – Mike Pisano, issuing a warning to the SVBC owner about his claims to be the best team in the league.
Jimmy “DA BULL” Pisano (Hellhounds): "I honestly think we got some momentum this week. A few bad bounces and myself missed a few easy shots cost us.. I think this team will be beyond playoff ready."
Levi Policaro (Gamblers): "Any time you come away with a sweep, it’s a positive, but we’re not getting ahead of ourselves. ... What we did like was the way the guys competed—good energy, attention to detail, and executing the game plan."
Chris Chmielewski (Gamblers): "I do feel like the gamblers were firing on all cylinders yesterday. Everyone picked everyone up and we are starting to gel, only going higher from here."
NEXT UP
The Gamblers look to maintain their momentum next week against the Hitmen and defend their new lead in the North, while the Hellhounds will be off for 2 straight bye weeks until search for a win to get momentum before the playoffs.
March 29th, 2026
THE REVENGE MATCH—CAN THE HITMEN HEAT EXTINGUISH THE FLASH MOB?
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The tension at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club is at a boiling point. In a rare back-to-back scheduling quirk, the Mahoning Valley Hitmen and Youngstown Flash are set for an immediate rematch this Monday at 8:00 PM. Last week, the Flash escaped with a 1-point total match victory (26-25) despite the teams splitting the games. Now, with the South Division lead hanging in the balance, the Hitmen are hunting for redemption while the Flash look to prove their "Calm" is the new standard.
LAST TIME THEY FACED:
The Disaster Frame: A Gamble Gone Wrong
The shadow of last week’s "Disaster Frame" looms large over this rematch. With Game 1 tied at 10-10, the Hitmen held a strong defensive position with two cover balls tightly sandwiching a Flash point ball. In a high-stakes tactical decision, Captain Dante DeLisio called for Michael Trivisonno (typically a second roller) to attempt a precision hit to clear the Flash point.
The result was catastrophic: Trivisonno accidentally struck both Hitmen cover balls, clearing his own team's protection. The Flash pounced, rolling in two additional balls for a 3-point frame, jumping to a 13-11 lead and effectively stealing the match.
"That frame was the match," Dante noted. "We had the position, we took the shot, and it backfired in the worst way possible. You can't give a veteran team like the Flash that kind of opening."
MATCHUP TO WATCH: THE SPECIALISTS
The Flash Mob (Youngstown Flash) The Flash proved last week that their wall-side dominance—led by Timmy Wilson (75% Season Rolling)—is the ultimate equalizer. When the "Flash Mob" of "Pistol" Pete Barac (70% Hitting), Gianni “Sexy Shorts” Colaizzi (85% Hitting) and Tess "Sleeveless" Romeo (73% Hitting) finds their rhythm, they can erase any lead in a single frame.
The Hitmen Heat (Mahoning Valley Hitmen) The Hitmen rely on their "Game 2" surge. Look for the trio of Freddie "Ball Game" Sablack, Nick "Cruising" Capogreco, and Mike "High Shorts" Nardone to provide the high-energy spark needed to close out the night. If the Hitmen can fix their rolling (which dipped below 62% for several starters last week), their point-scoring potential is unmatched.
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPS & SEASON 2 STATS
MAHONING VALLEY HITMEN (1st South, 6pts)
Lead Pointer: Dante’ “The Decision Maker” DeLisio (Captain)
59% Rolling | 100% Shooting (1-for-1) / 19th in Rolling %
Second Roller: Michael “Ain’t So Funny Now” Trivisonno
68% Rolling | 33% Shooting (1-for-3) / 12th in Rolling %
Hammer: James “MVP” Selvaggio
69% Rolling | 69% Shooting (24-for-35) / 7th in Rolling %
Lead Shooter: Joe “Joe” Palumbo
14% Rolling | 75% Shooting (38-for-51) | League Leader in Hits
YOUNGSTOWN FLASH (3rd South, 3pts)
Lead Pointer: Timmy “Hat Nod” Wilson
75% Rolling (30-for-40) / 3rd in % and Total Good Rolls
Second Roller: “Back Wall” Bobby Gentile
66% Rolling | 67% Shooting / 4th in Total Good Rolls
Hammer: Gianni “Sexy Shorts” Colaizzi (Captain)
66% Rolling | 85% Shooting (11-for-13) / 2nd in Hitting %
Lead Shooter: “Pistol” Pete Barac
45% Rolling | 70% Shooting (23-for-33) / 7th in Hitting %
RE-MATCH REACTIONS: THE ROAD TO REDEMPTION
The Hitmen Perspective: The Hitmen enter Week 4 with a chip on their shoulder and a focus on internal consistency.
Mike Trivisonno: "I do not think it's advantageous to play the same team back-to-back. Bocce isn't a game where you find a weakness and take advantage... However, losing the series (even though we shoulda won) is motivation for us to come out and kick their ass this week."
Joe Palumbo on his Rolling: “There will NEVER be a situation where I take myself out at the beginning of a game for a roller. EVER... I have struggled rolling in OBL because I haven’t rolled. I need the reps. Synthetic leaves way less room for inconsistency. I will figure it out.”
Dante DeLisio on the "Triv Shot": “I don’t know honestly (if I would have pulled him if given a 2nd chance)… I have the utmost confidence in all our players to make pretty much any shot or roll. In hindsight? Maybe Nardone was the better option there, but I’ve also seen Triv make some of the biggest shots in the biggest moments in the bocce scene."
The Flash Perspective: The Flash are bracing for a storm, knowing that a desperate Hitmen squad is a dangerous one.
Timmy Wilson: "I don’t think it’s advantageous. Any team can win on any given day... I imagine the Hitmen will want revenge and will play a lot better next week."
Bobby Gentile: “Everyone knows what they have to do to win games no matter what which team you’re playing, even if it’s back to back. I imagine the Hitmen will want revenge and will play a lot better next week.”
Gianni Colaizzi: “When you lose and face that team b2b you want to win and avenge that loss. You want to be more focused and play better. Give them more pressure shots to make... but dont forget the winning team knows this, so they are out there doing the same things you are to win again.”
BROADCAST INFORMATION
Match Time: 8:00 PM EST (Second Match of the Doubleheader)
Venue: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, 128 Jacobs Road, Youngstown, OH
Live Stream:Bocce Broadcast Network on YouTube
March 29th, 2026
NORTH DIVISION DISARRAY: HELLHOUNDS AND GAMBLERS BATTLE FOR IDENTITY AND DIVISION LEAD
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The North Division takes center stage this Monday at 6:15 PM at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, as two franchises in search of their footing face off in a high-stakes clash. The Cleveland Hellhounds (0-2, 1pt) and the Koppel Gamblers (0-1, 0pts) have both struggled with early-season consistency, but with the division-leading Barbarians sitting at only 2 points, the winner of this match is positioned to seize control of the North.
The Hellhounds: Searching for the "Hellfire"
After a social media strategy intended to bully the opposition backfired into a rout by SVBC last week, the Hellhounds are retooling. The big question remains: how to best utilize Robert “Stuey” Stuart. Despite being traded for to be a superstar hammer, Stuart has spent much of the season rolling to cover rather than making his patented "Duey" (two-point) splash plays.
“I’m hopeful we get the chance to play together and show the Hellhounds and the league that we are a strong and dominant 1-2 punch,” said Russ “Pretty, Pretty, Pretty Good” Meraglio, referring to the new point-heavy rolling duo of himself and Ben Diaz. “Don’t let us get in a groove!!”
“Idk, gotta change something up,” admitted Captain Jimmy “DA BULL” Pisano. “We have too much talent to not be competing at a higher level tbh.”
The Gamblers: New Look, New Identity
The Gamblers are undergoing a radical shift, moving the league's best shooter from last year, Anthony “Capo” Capogreco, into the hammer position. After two bye weeks and a sweep, the team is desperate to find a combination that "gels." Michael “MHP” Pisano who has had his struggles shooting in the OBL (65%) is making the move to roller to give them a very hit friendly violent lineup that may be the jolt they need against his brother Jimmy.
Captain Matt “Jackie Moon” Taylor is tired of watching from the sidelines. After seeing the team struggle with identity and rhythm, Taylor is inserting himself directly into the lineup to lead from the front. “I’m playing. No more will you see the best roller in the league just sitting the bench,” Taylor asserted. “Whoever is out on the court is going to have play at a high level or changes will be made”
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPS & SEASON 2 STATS
CLEVELAND HELLHOUNDS (2nd North)
Lead Pointer: Russ “Pretty, Pretty, Pretty Good” Meraglio
74% Season Rolling | 10-for-14 last match
Second Roller: “Bad News” Ben Diaz
69% Season Rolling | 83% Match Rolling in Week 3
Hammer: Jimmy “DA BULL” Pisano (Captain)
55% Season Rolling | 75% Shooting (3-for-4)
Lead Shooter: Robert “Stuey Duey” Stuart
81% Season Shooting
KOPPEL GAMBLERS (3rd North)
Lead Pointer: Matt “Jackie Moon” Taylor (Captain)
60% Season Rolling / 75% Last Season Rolling
Second Roller: Mike "MHP" Pisano
58% Season Rolling / 59% Last Season Rolling
Hammer: Anthony “Capo” Capogreco
59% Season Shooting| 81% Last Season Shooting (Last Season Lead)
Lead Shooter: Jonathon “The Human Rain Delay” Vivo
92% Season Shooting (11-for-12)
QUOTES FROM THE COURT
Ben Diaz (Hellhounds): “Russ is a legend. One of the best teammates I’ve ever got to play with... it’s an honor to roll behind him. Plus, if 'Bad News' is rolling 2nd, then you probably have to shoot twice.”
Jonathon “The Silent Assassin” Vivo (Gamblers): “I’m just focused on my targets. The stats are nice, but we need the match points.”
Anthony “Capo” Capogreco (Gamblers): “I love having the last ball, I make plays. I want to win more than anyone... we’re just trying to feel out who gels together.”
Rocco “Glasses” Guerrieri (Hellhounds Owner): “Look for the Hellhounds to mix it up a little next week. This team has too much talent to not be at the top of the standings. Just need to find the right combination to unleash our potential.”
BROADCAST INFORMATION
Match Time: 6:15 PM EST (First Match of the Doubleheader)
Venue: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, 128 Jacobs Road, Youngstown, OH
Live Stream: Bocce Broadcast Network on YouTube
March 24th, 2026
RECAP: SVBC MOVES TO TOP OF THE SOUTH WITH DOMINANT SWEEP OF HELLHOUNDS
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – On a night built on decades of history and a week of social media firestorms, the Steel Valley Bocce Club (SVBC) left no doubt about who runs the South Division. In a clinical performance at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, SVBC dismantled the Cleveland Hellhounds with a clean match sweep (14-5, 14-12), catapulting them to the top of the standings.
Koppel Rivalry Ignites Early
The match served as a homecoming for the "Koppel Connection." Captains Jimmy Pisano (Hellhounds) and Sean New (SVBC) grew up together in Koppel, PA, but the friendly roots didn't stop the verbal warfare. SVBC came out "chirpier" than usual, backed by an immediate 8-0 lead in Game 1 that silenced the Cleveland faithful.
The highlight of the night occurred during a high-tension halftime dual interview. OBL Commissioner and lead broadcaster Danny Catullo brought Franchise Player Mike Robertson and Hellhounds Owner Rocco Guerrieri together, presenting them with each other's pre-match quotes. The result was the "emotional battle" Catullo had promised fans, as both sides exchanged barbs before returning to the court.
Game 1: The Mirror Strategy (SVBC 14, Hellhounds 5)
In a display of tactical irony, Sean New dominated the opening game by implementing the exact strategy Jimmy Pisano had planned to use against him. New relentlessly placed the ball in front of the pallino on the wall side with almost no space, effectively "taking away the walls" and neutralizing the Cleveland attack.
The strategy made life miserable for Cleveland’s new star, Robert “Stuey” Stuart. Stuey looked visibly frustrated as he was restricted to just one shot attempt the entire game. Instead of attacking, Stuey spent his frames desperately rolling the final ball to prevent disaster, often looking back to see two or three SVBC players ready to pounce on any mistake.
Game 2: The Tactical Chess Match (SVBC 14, Hellhounds 12)
The Hellhounds adjusted in Game 2, deploying a "double-pointer" strategy featuring both Russ Meraglio and Ben Diaz. The move briefly starved SVBC of their typical scoring opportunities and kept the game competitive deep into the night.
However, SVBC Owner Jim Fisher showcased his team's superior depth. By rotating "Super Subs" Jeff Policaro, Rock DeLisio, and Nic Ottaviani into a mixture with starters Sean New, Mike Robertson, and Ronnie Capogreco, SVBC maintained a fresh and versatile attack.
“Everybody understands we're here for one goal and it's to win Season 2 and the championship,” said Jim Fisher. “This year we did it a little different. Our four starters are going to be our four starters. Then we bring in the three guys off the bench and we try to pick our best player who played the best in the first game and then bring him in with those four... substitutions as needed.”
The Standings: A Tale of Two Trajectories
With the win, Steel Valley Bocce Club (2-0) moves to the top of the South Division with 6 points. Their +24 point differential is now the best in the entire OBL. Conversely, the Cleveland Hellhounds (0-2) fall to second in the North with 1 point and a -16 differential, the second-worst mark in the league.
Post-Match Reactions: "Zero Egos"
“It feels like exactly what I said would happen,” said Mike Robertson. “Too much pressure for them, too much execution. SVBC runs the South until further notice. We have full and entire chemistry on this team—all the pieces fit.”
Rock DeLisio attributed the success to the team's selfless culture: “7 HUNGRY guys pulling for each other every frame of every game… No egos!”
Captain Sean New added, “The banter is all fun and games. I’m used to it. My teammates responded well to the added pressure and executed in big moments. I just wish I had thrown more bad balls so the Hellhounds had more material for their next video clip.”
When asked if there would be any changes to their strategy moving forward, Hellhounds Owner Rocco Guerrieri remained optimistic. "Look for the Hellhounds to mix it up a little next week. This team has too much talent to not be at the top of the standings. Just need to find the right combination to unleash our potential."
Match Statistics
Steel Valley Bocce Club
| Player | Good/Att | Season Rolling % | Hits/Att | Season Hitting % |
| Sean New | 16/18 | 81% | N/A | N/A |
| Mike Robertson | 5/7 | 65% | 5/5 | 80% |
| Bobby Mittal | 7/10 | 69% | N/A | N/A |
| Jeff Policaro | 10/14 | 71% | N/A | N/A |
| Rock DeLisio | 6/12 | 57% | 1/1 | 50% |
| Ronnie Cap | 1/4 | 33% | 8/16 | 67% |
| Nic Ottaviani | 0/1 | 50% | 5/8 | 69% |
Cleveland Hellhounds
| Player | Good/Att | Season Rolling % | Hits/Att | Season Hitting % |
| Russ Meraglio | 10/14 | 74% | N/A | N/A |
| Ben Diaz | 10/17 | 69% | N/A | N/A |
| Tony Donofrio | N/A | 0% | 9/13 | 68% |
| Jimmy Pisano | 7/16 | 64% | 2/2 | 100% |
| Rocco Guerrieri | N/A | N/A | 4/7 | 56% |
| Ray Brooke | 1/3 | 55% | N/A | N/A |
| Robert Stuart | 4/10 | 0% | 6/9 | 67% |
Up Next:
Steel Valley heads into a Week 4 bye before a massive Week 5 showdown against the defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Hellhounds look to get back into the North Division mix next week as they face the last-place Koppel Gamblers.
March 24th, 2026
FLASH SURGE: YOUNGSTOWN EDGES HITMEN IN DRAMATIC "TOTAL POINTS" BATTLE
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – In a clash of South Division rivals that lived up to the "Chaos vs. Calm" billing, the Youngstown Flash survived a gritty comeback attempt by the Mahoning Valley Hitmen to secure a critical match victory at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club. While the teams split the games, the Flash walked away with the overall match win by a razor-thin total point margin of 26-25.
The story of the night was the tactical mastery of the Flash pointers and the resilience of a Hitmen squad that refused to go down without a fight, setting the stage for an immediate rematch next week.
Game 1: The Wall and the Pistol (Flash 14, Hitmen 11)
Rolling was uncharacteristically "sloppy" for both sides in the opening frames, but the Flash found their footing first behind Timmy “Hat Nod” Wilson. Wilson abandoned the middle of the court to "own the wall," a strategy that suffocated the Hitmen’s pointers. With the court congested, “Pistol” Pete Barac took advantage, firing off 16 hits to lead the Flash to a 14-11 Game 1 win.
Joe Palumbo was the bright spot for Mahoning Valley in the opener, hitting at a high clip to keep the game within reach. His performance earned him the start in Game 2 as the Hitmen looked to level the match.
Game 2: Grit, Subs, and the Return of the MVP (Hitmen 14, Flash 12)
The Hitmen showed a "never say die" attitude that was night-and-day different from their Season 1 struggles. After Palumbo missed a couple of early shots, Captain Dante DeLisio made the call to bring back in James Selvaggio. The reigning MVP responded with a performance reminiscent of his championship run, hitting massive balls to help the Hitmen build an early lead.
“Momentum is everything… one sweep can set the tone for the next,” said James Selvaggio. “For me, coming into a new team, we have a different dynamic. I’m focusing on the mental game—not putting too much pressure on myself to be perfect. It’s about winning the title.”
However, the Flash didn't make it easy. Gianni Colaizzi put on his best OBL rolling performance to date (73% Match), while Tess Romeo entered the lineup as a starter and immediately ignited the crowd with a clinical hitting display.
Ultimately, the Hitmen's rolling—usually their greatest strength—faltered, with Nick Capogreco (57%), Dante DeLisio (62%), Freddie Sablack (56%), and Mike Trivisonno (46%) all finishing below their season averages. Despite the uncharacteristic rolling, the Hitmen’s grit allowed them to close out Game 2 with a 14-12 victory.
Post-Match Reactions: "The 1 Point Mentality"
“It’s very important… you never want to get swept, especially when you’re in a heated battle with a team like the Flash,” said Nick Capogreco. “It gives us a better chance to control our own destiny when we still have to play them head-to-head.”
Michael Nardone echoed the sentiment regarding the seeding race: “Once they got to 12, we focused on getting a point. Sometimes that 1 point can be huge down the stretch for seeding. We were able to buckle down and make the best out of the situation.”
On the Flash side, Captain Gianni Colaizzi focused on the team's cohesion: “I made it a point to get my rolling up... We’re here to win.”
The Standings: A South Division Deadlock
The Flash’s "Total Points" victory earns them 4 match points, moving them into a tie for second in the South. The Hitmen remain in first place with 6 points, but the gap is closing fast. With Steel Valley (+24) and the Flash (+7) boasting superior point differentials, every frame counts for the Hitmen (+1) moving forward.
Match Statistics
Youngstown Flash
Player | Good/Att | Season Rolling % | Hits/Att | Season Hitting %
Tim Wilson | 15/18 | 75% | N/A | N/A | |
Gianni Colaizzi | 11/15 | 66% | 6/7 | 85% | |
Pete Barac | 3/8 | 45% | 16/25 | 70% | |
Bobby Gentile | 13/23 | 66% | 1/2 | 67% | |
Tess Romeo | 5/10 | 46% | 5/7 | 73% | |
Matt Estes | 11/17 | 65% | N/A | N/A |
Mahoning Valley Hitmen
Player | Good/Att | Season Rolling % | Hits/Att | Season Hitting %
Dante DeLisio | 10/16 | 59% | 1/1 | 100% | |
Nick Capogreco | 8/14 | 76% | 2/3 | 89% | |
Michael Nardone | 7/10 | 78% | 5/7 | 64% | |
Joe Palumbo | 0/2 | 14% | 11/17 | 75% | |
Freddie Sablack | 9/16 | 67% | N/A | N/A | |
James Selvaggio | 7/10 | 69% | 15/20 | 69% | |
Mike Trivisonno | 6/13 | 66% | 0/2 | 33% |
UP NEXT: THE REMATCH There is no rest for the weary. In a rare OBL scheduling quirk, the Mahoning Valley Hitmen and Youngstown Flash will face off again next week for back-to-back rivalry matches. The Hitmen will look to fix their uncharacteristic rolling, while the Flash aim to prove that their "Calm" can once again conquer the "Chaos."
March 23rd, 2026
OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE "FIRE NIGHT CAP" SHOWDOWN: KOPPEL ROOTS FUEL INTENSE RIVALRY AS STEEL VALLEY MEETS CLEVELAND
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The intensity of Ohio Bocce League (OBL) Season 2 reaches a fever pitch this Monday at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club. In the second match of the Week 3 doubleheader, the Steel Valley Bocce Club (1-0) takes on the Cleveland Hellhounds (0-1) in a contest defined by tactical mastery and a lifelong personal rivalry.
A Tale of Two Captains: The Koppel Connection
While the match features two of the league’s most successful franchises, the real story lies in the relationship between Hellhounds Captain Jimmy “DA BULL” Pisano and Steel Valley Captain Sean “The OG Semi Pro” New. Both grew up together in the small town of Koppel, PA, a historic hotbed for bocce talent. This shared history is the catalyst for the relentless trash-talking and psychological warfare seen on social media this week.
“I obviously know Sean very well,” said Hellhounds Captain Jimmy Pisano. “He hates the balls upfront, as do most elite pointers. Taking the walls away is massive. Winning is everything... and SVBC probably has the best team on paper, so this week is extra big.”
Steel Valley: The "Relentless" Machine
Steel Valley enters the match with a focus on discipline and team chemistry. Hammer Mike “Buckets” Robertson made it clear that SVBC isn't just playing for stats, but to dismantle their opponents' composure.
“SVBC prides itself on team chemistry and our goal is to win the match. We showed that Week 1 and will show it again tonight,” said Robertson. “Our relentless pressure will agitate the agitator. The constant pressure and execution from our team will break them. Watch for the hat throw, the head tilt, the arms crossed... that’s when you know we got him. Sean’s with us this time—he’s not there to bail him out in this league.”
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPS & SEASON 2 STATS
(Stats sourced from Regular Season Team Stats 2)
STEEL VALLEY BOCCE CLUB (2nd South)
Lead Pointer: Sean “The OG Semi Pro” New (Captain)
69% Rolling (11-for-16)
Second Roller: Bobby “Mitt” Mittal
68% Rolling (17-for-25) | Season-High 14 Consecutive Good Rolls
Hammer: Mike “Buckets” Robertson
60% Rolling (6-for-10)
Lead Shooter: Ronnie “Papa Cap” Capogreco
86% Shooting (12-for-14) | 4th in OBL
CLEVELAND HELLHOUNDS (2nd North)
Lead Pointer: “Bad News” Ben Diaz
83% Rolling (10-for-12)
Second Roller: Jimmy “DA BULL” Pisano (Captain)
64% Rolling (14-for-22) | 100% Shooting (2-for-2)
Hammer: Robert “Stuey Duey” Stuart
67% Shooting (6-for-9)
Lead Shooter: Rocco “Glasses” Guerrieri
56% Shooting (5-for-9)
The Matchup: Tactical Execution vs. Verbal Warfare
The Hellhounds have spent the week mimicking SVBC’s rolling styles in viral videos, but Steel Valley remains unfazed. The strategy remains simple: take away the walls and force the Hellhounds into high-percentage shots. For Cleveland, the mission is to leverage Stuey’s elite shot-making to keep the SVBC pressure at bay.
Commissioner’s Statement
"This 'Fire Night Cap' is exactly why we created the OBL," said Commissioner Danny Catullo. "Knowing the history between Jimmy Pisano and Sean New—two guys from Koppel who have been competing against each other since they were kids—adds an incredible layer to this match. Steel Valley is clinical and composed, while the Hellhounds are loud and aggressive. It’s a clash of cultures that the fans are going to love."
Broadcast Information
Match Time: 8:15 PM EST
Venue: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, 128 Jacobs Road, Youngstown, OH
Live Stream:Bocce Broadcast Network on YouTube
March 23rd, 2026
OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE WEEK 3 PREVIEW: UNBEATEN HITMEN FACE LEAGUE-LEADING SHARPSHOOTERS YOUNGSTOWN FLASH
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The Ohio Bocce League (OBL) Season 2 continues this Monday at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club with a primetime South Division clash that pits the league’s most vocal powerhouse against its quietest assassins. The first-place Mahoning Valley Hitmen (2-0) look to maintain their perfect record as they take on the Youngstown Flash (0-1) in a match defined by a contrast in styles: "Chaos vs. Calm."
The Hitmen: High Volume, High Precision
The Mahoning Valley Hitmen enter Week 3 as the most efficient rolling team in the OBL, boasting a league-leading 71% rolling average. The squad has been energized by the historic trade for reigning MVP James Selvaggio and the emergence of super-sub Nick “Cruising” Capogreco, who has been nearly flawless with an 83% rolling average and a perfect 6-for-6 record in shooting.
“Momentum is everything… one sweep can set the tone for the next,” said Hitmen Hammer James Selvaggio. “For me, coming into a new team, we have a different dynamic. I’m focusing on the mental game—not putting too much pressure on myself to be perfect, even coming off an MVP season. It’s all about winning the title.”
The Flash: Silent But Deadly
Despite their 0-1 start, the Youngstown Flash remain the most dangerous shooting team in the league. They currently hold a staggering 83% team shooting average, with four different hitters—including franchise player Gianni Colaizzi—shooting 75% or better.
“Winning the match is very important to keep the momentum going. A sweep would be nice, but the win is what we want,” said Hitmen Captain Dante DeLisio. “When you play against a great pointer like Tim Wilson, you have to try to make him as uncomfortable as possible.”
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPS & SEASON 2 STATS
(Stats sourced from Regular Season Team Stats 2)
MAHONING VALLEY HITMEN (1st South)
Lead Pointer: Dante’ “The Decision Maker” DeLisio (Captain)
58% Rolling (25-for-43)
Second Roller: Michael “Ain’t So Funny Now” Trivisonno
77% Rolling (17-for-22) | 100% Shooting (1-for-1)
Hammer: James “MVP” Selvaggio
69% Rolling (11-for-16) | 60% Shooting (9-for-15)
Lead Shooter: Joe “Joe” Palumbo
79% Shooting (27-for-34) | Leads League in Total Hits
YOUNGSTOWN FLASH (3rd South)
Lead Pointer: Timmy “Hat Nod” Wilson
68% Rolling (15-for-22)
Second Roller: “Back Wall” Bobby Gentile
76% Rolling (16-for-21) | 100% Shooting (1-for-1)
Hammer: Gianni “Sexy Shorts” Colaizzi (Captain)
57% Rolling (8-for-14) | 83% Shooting (5-for-6)
Lead Shooter: “Pistol” Pete Barac
67% Rolling (2-for-3) | 88% Shooting (7-for-8)
Commissioner’s Statement
"This match is a classic OBL storyline," said Commissioner Danny Catullo. "You have the Hitmen, who are the loudest and arguably the most animated team in the league, going up against a Flash squad that is incredibly quiet but leads the league in shooting accuracy. It’s a battle for the soul of the South Division, and seeing if Joe Palumbo’s league-leading 27 hits can overcome the precision of the “Croatian Sensation”, Pete Barac is going to be spectacular."
Broadcast Information
Fans can watch the action live this Monday on the Bocce Broadcast Network.
Match Time: 6:15 PM EST
Venue: Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, 128 Jacobs Road, Youngstown, OH
Live Stream: [Bocce Broadcast Network on YouTube]
March 16th, 2026
MATCH 1 PREVIEW: STEEL VALLEY BOCCE CLUB VS. KOPPEL GAMBLERS
Season 2, Week 2 Venue: Lorenzino’s (Youngstown, OH)
Betting Line: SVBC – 3.5 Total Match Points
The second half of the Season 2 opening slate features a battle of "what could have been." Both Steel Valley Bocce Club (SVBC) and the Koppel Gamblers saw their Season 1 title dreams vanish in the Semi-Finals—SVBC in a heartbreaking final-frame loss to the Flash, and the Gamblers at the hands of the eventual champion Barbarians. As they debut for the new season, both squads are hungry to prove that their postseason exits were merely a prologue to a championship run.
Steel Valley: The Gold Standard of Continuity
Steel Valley enters Season 2 with a clear philosophy: if it isn't broken, don't fix it. They return the most statistically dominant roster from last year’s regular season. Led by franchise player Mike “Big Robs” Robertson, SVBC is the definition of "best on paper."
The starting four remains a nightmare for opponents, featuring the tactical precision of Sean “Smooth” New and the reliable hitting of Ronnie “Cap” Capogreco. While they rarely used their bench last year, their depth is terrifying; they boast the league's #1 roller in Jeff Policaro, the #2 player in plus/minus in Rock DeLisio, and a top-10 shooter in Nic Ottaviani. The question for SVBC this year: can they translate those elite paper stats into a final-frame victory when the lights are brightest?
SVBC Starting Lineup:
Lead Pointer: Sean “Smooth” New (Captain)
Second Roller: Bobby “Mitt” Mittal
Hammer: Mike “Big Robs” Robertson
Lead Shooter: Ronnie “Cap” Capogreco
Bench: Jeff “Pap” Policaro, Rock “Sexy Grandpa” DeLisio, Nic “O” Ottaviani
Koppel: The High-Stakes Evolution
While Steel Valley chose continuity, the Gamblers chose aggression. Owner Matt Taylor spent the offseason overhaulng his bench to ensure that Captain Anthony “The Capo” Capogreco—statistically the best shooter in the league (hitting at a staggering 83.7% clip)—always has the support he needs.
The additions of Jonathon “The Rain Delay” Vivo and Chris “The Alphabet” Chmielewski give the Gamblers an entirely new dimension of "hit-first" versatility. Furthermore, bringing in Pat Pezzin from Canada provides a specialized pointing depth that was occasionally missing during their Season 1 stretch. If the starting trio of Taylor, Pisano, and Policaro can set the table, "The Capo" and his new-look bench are more than capable of cleaning it up.
Gamblers Starting Lineup:
Lead Pointer: Matthew “Jackie Moon” Taylor
Second Roller: Levi “Yeah Man” Policaro
Hammer: Michael “MHP” Pisano
Lead Shooter: Anthony “The Capo” Capogreco (Captain)
Bench: Pat “Gambling Man” Pezzin, Jonathon “The Rain Delay” Vivo, Chris “The Alphabet” Chmielewski
The Key Matchup: The Battle of the Capogrecos
All eyes will be on the shooting lane. Ronnie Capogreco vs. Anthony Capogreco . Both father and son are the engines of their respective teams. In a match where the line is set at 3.5 points, every frame where a shooter can "save" a point or "crack" a frame will be the difference between a Week 1 win and an early season hole.
Prediction: SVBC has the statistical edge and the chemistry advantage of a returning squad, making them the -3.5 favorites. However, the Gamblers' new "firepower" on the bench makes them a dangerous underdog if the match goes the distance.
Watch LIVE on BBN at 5:45pm ET
March 16th, 2026
MATCH 2 PREVIEW: WICKLIFFE BARBARIANS VS. MAHONING VALLEY HITMEN
Season 2, Week 2 Venue: Lorenzino’s (Youngstown, OH)
Time: Tonight, 8:00 PM EST
Betting Line: Wickliffe – 4.5 Total Match Points
The Week 2 nightcap features a clash between two squads coming off polar-opposite Week 1 emotional rollercoasters. While both the Wickliffe Barbarians and Mahoning Valley Hitmen dropped their opening games, both clawed back to secure match victories. Now, they face off in a battle of momentum, roster depth, and resilience.
Mahoning Valley: Playing for More Than Points
The Hitmen enter Week 2 with heavy hearts following the passing of Michael Trivisonno’s mother. The "Hitmen Hooligans" will surely be out in force as the team looks to rally around Captain Dante DeLisio. The squad proved their grit in Week 1; after a bizarre "wrong ball" hit by their former teammate Stuey cost them Game 1, they regrouped for a dramatic comeback.
Nick “Not So Little Brother” Capogreco was the story of Week 1, putting up a flawless 100% statistical performance in both rolling and hitting. With Michael “Triv” Trivisonno out this week, the Hitmen will lean even more heavily on Nick and the veteran shooting of Joe Palumbo and James Selvaggio. To cover the +4.5 spread, the Hitmen must maintain the "watertight" composure they showed in their Season 2 debut.
Hitmen Projected Lineup:
Lead Pointer: Dante DeLisio (54% Rolling)
Second Roller: Nick Capogreco (100% Rolling/Shooting)
Hammer: James “MVP” Selvaggio (60% Roll / 67% Shoot)
Lead Shooter: Joe “Watertight” Palumbo (73% Shooting)
Bench: Michael “NarDOG” Nardone (67% Shooting)
Wickliffe: The Champions' Refinement
The defending champions looked uncharacteristically vulnerable in their 14-6 Game 1 loss to the Flash last week. After sideline friction and uncharacteristic errors, the Barbarians did what champions do: they made a move. The insertion of Cory “CeeDubs” Wittway stabilized the ship, and a dominant 91% performance from Ron “Dawg” Reeher secured an overtime victory.
The fallout from that shaky start was swift—the release of Frank Popio and the signing of free agent sharpshooter Cody “Fire in the Hole” Holecko. Holecko makes his highly anticipated OBL debut tonight, adding a layer of "firepower" to a lineup already featuring the heavy-hitting Doug “Lumber” Carter. If the Barbarians can keep the internal "vibes" as high as their stats, they are more than capable of covering the 4.5-point spread.
Barbarians Projected Lineup:
Lead Pointer: Steve “Bubba” Infante (68% Rolling - Captain)
Second Roller: Cory “CeeDubs” Wittway (71% Rolling)
Hammer: Ron “Dawg” Reeher (91% Roll/Shoot)
Lead Shooter: Doug “Lumber” Carter (74% Shooting)
Bench: Carl “Lights Out” Greenaway, Cody “Fire in the Hole” Holecko
The Key Matchup: The "Dawg" vs. The "MVP"
The Hammer position will be the focal point of this match. Ron Reeher is currently playing at a different level, coming off a near-perfect Week 1. He faces James Selvaggio, the reigning MVP who is still finding his rhythm in the Hitmen blue. Whoever controls the final balls of the frame will dictate whether the Hitmen can pull the upset or if the Barbarians continue their "Repeat Tour" march.
Prediction: Wickliffe is the favorite for a reason, especially with the addition of Holecko. However, with the Hitmen playing with a "win it for Triv" mentality, expect a high-intensity battle that could be much closer than the 4.5-point line suggests.
Watch LIVE on BBN at 5:45pm ET
March 12th, 2026
CHAMPIONS REINFORCE ROSTER
WICKLIFFE BARBARIANS SIGN FREE AGENT PHENOM CODY HOLECKO FOR TITLE DEFENSE
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians have signaled they are not resting on their laurels. Today, the club announced a major roster acquisition as they prepare for their Season 2 "Repeat Tour," signing high-profile free agent Cody “Fire in the Hole” Holecko. To make room for the addition, the club has released veteran Frank "Pope" Popio.
Holecko joins the Barbarians in peak form, fresh off a dominant stretch on the Lorenzino Bocce Courts. His recent accolades include a second-place finish in a premier doubles (Jimmy “The Bull”) tournament alongside partner Russ Meraglio (From the Cleveland Hellhounds) and a fourth-place finish in the prestigious 120-player "Best of the Best" singles competition.
A Perfect Fit for the Barbarians Culture
Barbarians Owner/Player Bob Gallese emphasized that Holecko’s character was just as important as his skill set when making the move, while offering a grateful farewell to a championship teammate.
"The Wickliffe Barbarians are proud to announce the signing of Cody Holecko! Cody is as great a teammate as he is a bocce player," said Gallese. "Team chemistry is super important in any sport, so having such a class act and great player join us is exciting! I watched him play in a two-man tourney in which he played solid on both sides of the ball—hitting and pointing! We want to thank Frank for his contributions last season and wish him the best. I look forward to defending our Season 1 title!"
Holecko expressed his readiness to join the league’s most disciplined squad: “First off, I want to thank owner Bob Gallese for reaching out and giving me the opportunity to play for the Barbarians. I'm excited to be part of the OBL and can’t wait to play with this group of guys and help them defend the championship.”
Commissioner’s Statement
"The Wickliffe Barbarians are proving that staying on top is just as hard as getting there," said OBL Commissioner Danny Catullo. "Releasing a championship piece like 'The Pope' is never an easy decision, but adding a talent like Cody Holecko is a game-changer. Cody has been dominant on the tournament scene lately, especially at Lorenzino's. Seeing how he integrates into the most disciplined roster in the league is going to be a major storyline for Season 2."
UPDATED PROJECTED STARTING LINEUP: WICKLIFFE BARBARIANS
Lead Pointer: Steve “Bubba” Infante
Second Roller: Carl "Show them the" Greenaway
Hammer: Ron “Dawg” Reeher
Lead Shooter: Doug “Lumber” Carter
Bench:
Owner/Roller: Bob Gallese
Utility/Roller: Cory "CeeDubs" Wittway
Utility/Hitter: Cody “Fire in the Hole” Holecko
March 3rd, 2026
OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE UNVEILS SEASON 2 KICKOFF
GRUDGE MATCH AND CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH SET FOR MARCH 9
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The Ohio Bocce League (OBL) is officially back. Today, Commissioner Danny Catullo announced that Season 2 will kick off with a high-octane doubleheader on Monday, March 9th, starting at 6:15 PM EST. The evening features a primetime lineup that pairs the league’s most bitter new rivalry with a high-stakes rematch of the inaugural OBL Championship.
Match 1: The Grudge Match (Hellhounds vs. Hitmen) The season opens with a clash that has dominated headlines all offseason. Following the biggest trade in professional bocce history, reigning League MVP James “Got It” Selvaggio debuts in Hitmen blue against his former squad. Across the court, the Hellhounds unveil their new weapon: All-Star MVP Robert “Stuey” Stuart, who looks to lead the #BangBangHellhoundGang to a statement victory. Fans are advised to have the popcorn ready for this "Alphas vs. Alphas" showdown.
Match 2: The Championship Rematch (Flash vs. Barbarians) The second half of the doubleheader features the Youngstown Flash seeking redemption against the defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians.
The Flash enter Season 2 at full strength after franchise player Gianni “Cool as a Cucumber” Colaizzi and owner Dante “Not for Nothing” Chiovitti missed the championship due to travel delays. They are joined by the "Croatian Sensation," “Pistol” Pete Barac, who was statistically the league's best player over the final month of Season 1 and is ready to fire away at the team that hoisted the trophy in their stead.
The Barbarians begin their "Repeat Tour" with a tactical roster shift. With emotional leader Chris Chmielewski departed, the champions have added the stoic precision of Cory “CeeDubs” Wittway. The "Dawg and Lumber" duo of Ron Reeher and Doug Carter remains intact, flanking a lineup that defines championship pedigree.
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPS
MAHONING VALLEY HITMEN
Lead Pointer: Michael “Triv” Trivisonno
Second Roller: Dante “Italian Stallion” DeLisio (Captain)
Hammer: James “Got It” Selvaggio
Lead Shooter: Joe “Real American” Palumbo
CLEVELAND HELLHOUNDS
Lead Pointer: Ben “Bad News” Diaz
Second Roller: Jimmy “Bull” Pisano (Captain)
Hammer: Robert “Stuey” Stuart
Lead Shooter: Rocco “Volo” Guerrieri
YOUNGSTOWN FLASH
Lead Pointer: Timmy “Pleased to Meet You” Wilson
Second Roller: “Backwall” Bobby Gentile
Hammer: Gianni “Italia” Colaizzi (Captain)
Lead Shooter: “Pistol” Pete Barac
WICKLIFFE BARBARIANS
Lead Pointer: Steve “Bubba” Infante
Second Roller: Frank “Pope” Popio
Hammer: Ron “Dawg” Reeher
Lead Shooter: Doug “Lumber” Carter (Captain)
Commissioner’s Statement "The storylines for Season 2 feel like they were written in Hollywood," said Commissioner Danny Catullo. "From an MVP facing his old team to the Flash finally getting their full roster on the court at Lorenzino's against the champs, the energy is at an all-time high. The OBL continues to evolve, and these matches prove why we are the premier destination for professional bocce."
How to Watch The Season 2 Kickoff Doubleheader airs live Monday, March 9th.
Venue: Lorenzino's, 128 Jacobs Road, Youngstown, OH
Time: 6 PM EST
Platform: Bocce Broadcast Network (YouTube)
March 1st, 2026
THE FUTURE IS NOW
OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL "FUTURES GAME" SHOWCASING NEXT GENERATION OF STARS
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The Ohio Bocce League (OBL) is proud to announce the first ever OBL Futures Game, set to take place this Sunday at 3:00 PM EST. The star-studded exhibition will be broadcast live to a national audience on the Bocce Broadcast Network.
This landmark event highlights the premier youth talent in the region, featuring players who are not only vying to be the next generation of OBL icons but who also carry the prestigious legacies of some of the greatest names in the sport.
The South Roster: A Legacy of Excellence The South Futures team enters the arena with a roster steeped in bocce royalty. Led by a group of players who have grown up on the courts of the OBL and the national circuit, the South is prepared to demonstrate that the future of the game is in capable hands.
Parker Robertson (12) – Captain: Carrying the torch for the Robertson name, Parker is the son of Mike Robertson, the franchise player for the Steel Valley Bocce Club. Known for his tactical mind, Parker will captain the South squad.
Luciano Catullo (12): The son of OBL Commissioner and Co-Founder Danny Catullo, Luciano brings a lifetime of league insight and a competitive edge to the shooting position.
Andie “Peanut” Hardy (16): Looking to continue the dominant legacy of her mother, Jen Hardy of the world-renowned F4tal Four, Andie brings championship pedigree and a veteran-like presence to the court.
Evan Newbrough (11): The son of Jim Newbrough, one of the circuit’s most feared hitters, Evan looks to replicate his father's impact in the rolling rotation.
Lorenzo Gutierrez (9): As the son of elite pointer Ruben Gutierrez, Lorenzo provides the South with the foundational precision needed to control the frame.
The North Roster: The Next Generation of Greatness The North Futures team counters with a lineup of young phenoms who represent the elite training grounds of the Cleveland and Koppel regions.
Chase Zelesnak (17) – Captain: The son of the chaotic and charismatic Eric “The Unit” Zelesnak, Chase brings a different energy to the court. While his father is known for a high-intensity style, Chase is described as calm, cool, and calculating.
Milania Woodward (17): Boasting a powerhouse lineage, Milania is the daughter of Carmelina Iamurri, one of the nation’s best female rollers, and stepdaughter to Anthony Capogreco, the Koppel Gamblers' All-Star shooter.
Domenic Guerrieri (15): The son of Rocco Guerrieri, owner and lead shooter of the Cleveland Hellhounds, Domenic has the blueprint for high-stakes leadership in his DNA.
Esteban Diaz (12): Following in the footsteps of his father, Ben Diaz, the lead pointer for the Hellhounds, Esteban aims to master the touch and finesse required at the professional level.
Jaxson Carbone (8): The youngest player in the field and son of Patsy Carbone, one of the most respected shooters in the game, Jaxson represents the early start of a potential lifelong career in the OBL.
Starting Lineups:
Lead Point
Lorenzo Gutierrez (South)
Milania Woodward (North)
Second Roll
Evan Newbrough (South)
Domenic Guerrieri (North)
Hammer (C)
Parker Robertson (South)
Chase Zelesnak (North)
Shooter
Luciano Catullo (South)
Esteban Diaz (North)
Shooter/Pointer
Andie Hardy (South)
Jaxson Carbone (North)
Commissioner’s Statement "This is a special moment for our league," said OBL Commissioner Danny Catullo. "The OBL was founded on the principles of community, competition, and tradition. Seeing these young players—many of whom have watched their parents compete—take the court to start their own journey is exactly what this league is about. These aren't just kids playing a game; these are the future MVPs and franchise players of the Ohio Bocce League."
How to Watch Fans can catch all the high-stakes action live this Sunday.
Event: OBL Futures Game
Time: 3:00 PM EST
Platform: Bocce Broadcast Network (YouTube)
January 22nd, 2026
OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE SHOCKED BY BLOCKBUSTER TRADE:
REIGNING MVP JAMES SELVAGGIO SWAPPED FOR ALL-STAR ROBERT “STUEY” STUART
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – In what is being hailed as the biggest transaction in Ohio Bocce League (OBL) history, the Cleveland Hellhounds and the Mahoning Valley Hitmen have finalized a massive trade involving two of the league's most elite talents. The deal sends reigning OBL League MVP and North All-Star starter James Selvaggio to the Hitmen in exchange for franchise player, MVP candidate, and South All-Star starter Robert “Stuey” Stuart.
The trade sends shockwaves through the league as both teams aggressively reshuffle their rosters for Season 2. Selvaggio, a "Cinderella story" who rose from a 6th-round draft pick to become the league's most valuable player, now heads to a Hitmen team looking for a new identity. Stuart, widely regarded as one of the premier shot-makers in the nation, brings his high-octane energy to the Cleveland Hellhounds.
Hitmen Secure the MVP
Mahoning Valley Hitmen Owner/Player Joe Palumbo identified the need for a leadership and cultural shift after a challenging second half of Season 1.
"I really hate to lose Stu. I took him as my franchise player for a reason—because he’s really good. He is a shot-maker," said Palumbo. "However, we had to mix it up. We had a strong roster on paper, and it was clicking early. It just didn’t work at all the last half of the year. We needed to get someone that could step in immediately and also not be distracted by our dysfunctional group of alphas. The only player that I could trade and still get what I wanted was Stu. James will bring a calm demeanor and big shot-making ability to the Mahoning Valley Hitmen. He will be a welcome addition to our squad."
Selvaggio expressed his gratitude for his time in Cleveland while looking forward to the future. "I want to start by thanking my owner Rocco Guerrieri for believing in me and taking me in the draft," said Selvaggio. "I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and for all my Hellhound teammates. I’m also excited to start this next chapter with the Hitmen and want to thank Joe Palumbo for making this trade happen."
Hellhounds Gain Elite Precision
Cleveland Hellhounds Owner/Player Rocco Guerrieri thanked Selvaggio for his championship-level contributions while welcoming the competitive edge Stuart provides.
"We want to sincerely thank James for everything he brought to this team. His commitment, sportsmanship, and contributions helped shape who we are today," Guerrieri stated. "At the same time, we’re excited to welcome Stuey to the organization. He brings a competitive edge and skill set that we believe fits our vision and elevates our roster."
Jimmy Pisano, Captain and franchise player for the Hellhounds, added: "Since we were able to get the steal of the draft, I knew James just needed that confidence to have his abilities shine through. I truly enjoyed watching James blossom. BUT... getting the TOP shot-maker in the Ohio Bocce League is a deal we couldn't pass up. Get your Hellhound gear ready!"
Stuart, ever the entertainer, shared his excitement for the move: "I really thought I would be a Hitman forever, but there's a bigger picture to this trade. Joe, you're the GOAT and I'm forever grateful! Now on to my future team the Cleveland Hellhounds. I didn't think Rocco had it in him to trade away his MVP for a guy who didn't even make top 3 in voting—but hey, I've seen weirder things! I won't let you down Rocco and the Hellhound community! #bangbanghellhoundgang"
Commissioner’s Statement
OBL Commissioner Danny Catullo highlighted the trade as a testament to the league’s growth and the professional trajectory of its players.
"The storylines of the Ohio Bocce League seem like they have been written by the best Hollywood writers," said Catullo. "6th Round Pick James Selvaggio was ready to leave the draft room dejected before I called his name at the podium. Since he put on the Hellhounds cap, he's been nothing short of amazing. Seeing him now become the Hitmen's franchise-tagged player shows how players can use the OBL to springboard their careers. I'm also excited to see one of the league's most entertaining players (Stuart) team up with captain Jimmy P. They will surely put on a show!"
By the Numbers: Regular Season Stats
James Selvaggio (to Hitmen):
Shooting: 80.0% (60/75)
Rolling: 72.9% (70/96)
Robert "Stuey" Stuart (to Hellhounds):
Shooting: 74.4% (32/43)
Rolling: 76.3% (61/80)
January 21st, 2026
OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE ANNOUNCES ROSTER CHANGES FOR KOPPEL GAMBLERS
VETERAN JARED NASH RETIRES; TOP PROSPECT JONATHON VIVO SIGNED
YOUNGSTOWN,OH – The Ohio Bocce League (OBL) Commissioner’s Office announced today a significant transition for the Koppel Gamblers roster. Veteran player Jared Nash has officially retired from professional play, while the club has moved quickly to sign highly-touted free agent Jonathon Vivo to fill the vacancy.
The move marks a strategic shift for the Gamblers as they look to build upon their inaugural season. Nash, a respected figure in the league known for his experience in competitive sports development, leaves a legacy of sportsmanship and team-first play.
A Grateful Farewell from Jared Nash
In a heartfelt statement, Nash reflected on his return to the court and his decision to step aside for the next generation of talent.
"After being away from the game of bocce for a number of years, I decided on a whim to throw my hat into the ring of the Ohio Bocce League draft," said Nash. "I was met with understandable skepticism and then also with old friendships being reborn and making some killer new ones as well. I played mediocre through limited court time but prided myself on being a good teammate. I quickly realized the game had evolved way past what I could compete with on limited time and a rusty skill set. I grossly misjudged how much the talent has improved in the game since I was last on the scene but am humble enough to admit I was in well over my head but proud I gave it. I loved every second of it—the competitiveness, the camaraderie and the execution of a well laid out plan and I got to see it all up close and personal. I write this today to officially step down as a player on the Koppel Gamblers and thus give them a chance to pick up another awesome talent that deserves to be on the court with these top flight players."
The Vivo Era Begins in Koppel
Gamblers Owner/Player Matt Taylor didn't wait long to address the opening, identifying Jonathon Vivo as the ideal addition to the squad. Taylor cited Vivo’s hunger and skill as key factors in the signing.
"I looked at the available free agent list and saw some really talented players on there," said Taylor. "Vivo was one that stood out. I know he was frustrated with the original draft and not getting picked. But he can play and he now gets the opportunity to show what he can do. Looking forward to him joining the Gamblers."
Vivo, who has spent years honing his craft at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
"I’m excited to join the Koppel Gamblers as their newest teammate," Vivo said. "Over the past several years, I’ve put in the time to learn this beautiful game of bocce, spending many of those hours at Lorenzino’s Bocce Club. Being part of the Ohio Bocce League and having the opportunity to compete alongside some of the best players in the country, both on and off the court, is an honor, and I’m grateful for the challenge ahead."
Commissioner’s Statement
OBL Commissioner Danny Catullo praised Nash’s contributions to the league’s growth and welcomed the energy Vivo brings to the Koppel roster.
"Jared was a tremendous asset to the Ohio Bocce League with his experience growing the game and business of cornhole," said Catullo. "We look forward to continuing to lean on Jared in an unofficial advisory role. I also couldn't be happier for Jonathon. He is one of the hardest working bocce players out there and will bring a force to the shooting position for the Koppel Gamblers. The Ohio Bocce League provides a tremendous opportunity for the stars to shine and we are excited to see the talent and energy of Mr. Vivo being part of the fold."
By the Numbers: Jared Nash’s Regular Season
Shooting Percentage: 50.0% (3/6)
Rolling Percentage: 55.2% (16/29)
Teammate Impact: Widely recognized as a core cultural leader for the Gamblers during Season 1.
December 19, 2025
OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE ANNOUNCES BLOCKBUSTER TRADE
CHAMPIONSHIP PIECES SWAPPED BETWEEN KOPPEL AND WICKLIFFE
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – Ohio Bocce League (OBL) Commissioner Danny Catullo officially announced today a high-stakes player transaction that sends championship-winner Chris “Chim” Chmielewski to the Koppel Gamblers in exchange for standout pointer Cory “Witt” Wittway, who joins the defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians.
The trade marks a pivotal moment for both franchises as they prepare for Season 2. Chmielewski departs a Barbarians squad he helped lead to the first-ever OBL title, while Wittway moves from a Koppel team looking to secure the final pieces of a championship-caliber roster.
Strategic Depth for Koppel For the Koppel Gamblers, the acquisition of Chmielewski provides the elite shooting and veteran leadership necessary to contend for a title. Gamblers Owner/Player Matt Taylor moved aggressively to secure the veteran.
“After the Gamblers fell short of our goal in the playoffs, I took a hard look at the Gambler roster,” said Taylor. “Quickly realizing that we needed more depth at the shooting position, I moved aggressively to fill that need. Chris fell to my lap for the price of Cory. Knowing the caliber of player and teammate Cory is, my heart hurt, but it was certainly in the best interest of the Gamblers. The addition of Chris adds an enormous amount of roster versatility. The Barbarians refused to use him in enough big spots, and Chris will get plenty of those opportunities here.”
Chmielewski expressed his readiness for the new challenge: “Honored to be a part of a team that wants me to help them. I am ready to bring my heart and soul and be the last piece of the puzzle that brings the Gamblers the next OBL CHAMPIONSHIP. I also want it known that I love being a part of the Barbarians and was proud of what we accomplished.”
Enhancing the Barbarians’ Dynasty The Wickliffe Barbarians receive Wittway, a player known for his composure and precision. Barbarians Owner/Player Bob Gallese believes “Witt” is the perfect fit for their campaign to repeat. “I will miss Chris’ intensity and knowledge of the game of bocce. He was our emotional leader and helped the Barbarians win the first-ever OBL championship!” said Gallese. “I know he will get much more court time, which he deserves, and help the Gamblers with his hitting. Cory is someone I’ve watched play over the years. He’s a top-notch pointer and doesn’t get rattled by much. Although the Barbarians have some great pointers, Cory will only enhance our pointing position and I’m sure he will gel very well with all the Barbarians! Welcome aboard, Cory, and I look forward to season two!”
Wittway shared his gratitude for the move: “First, I want to thank owner Matt Taylor for the opportunity to be part of the Ohio Bocce League. Playing with the Koppel Gamblers has been a valuable experience, and I hold it in high regard. I am now eager to bring my skills and knowledge to the championship team, the Wickliffe Barbarians, for the upcoming season. I also want to thank owner Bob Gallese for this opportunity to perform for the Barbarians for our bid to repeat as champions.”
Commissioner’s Approval OBL Commissioner Danny Catullo approved the trade, noting the shift in the league’s competitive balance. “This trade demonstrates the commitment our owners have to winning,” said Catullo. “Seeing a championship contributor and great shooter like Chmielewski move to a hungry Koppel team creates an incredible storyline for the upcoming season. The Barbarians are also hungry in their quest for a second championship and are getting an outstanding roller with a cool, calm demeanor on and off the court. The OBL continues to evolve and moves like this keep our fans on the edge of their seats.”
By the Numbers: Regular Season Stats
Chris Chmielewski (to Gamblers):
Shooting: 68% (19 for 28)
Rolling: 55% (6 for 11)
Cory Wittway (to Barbarians):
Shooting: 50% (1 for 2)
Rolling: 72% (67 for 93)
September 28, 2025
Koppel Gamblers release Jordan Hasson and select Free Agent Cory Wittway.
September 20, 2025
Wickliffe Barbarians trade their picks in Round 3 (Pick 14) and Round 4 (Pick 23) to the Koppel Gamblers for their picks in Round 3 (Pick 18) and Round 4 (Pick 19).