The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) has recently announced the realignment for the upcoming two-year enrollment cycle for winter sports. Among the changes, the Franklin Regional Panthers basketball teams will be moving into a new section, creating an exciting new-look for the upcoming season.
The boys’ basketball team, which achieved the WPIAL runner-up position last season, will now be competing in Section 1-5A. They will be facing off against strong opponents such as Albert Gallatin, Gateway, Latrobe, Laurel Highlands, McKeesport, Penn-Trafford, and Uniontown. Meanwhile, the girls’ team will be battling it out in Section 1-5A against challengers like Armstrong, Fox Chapel, Gateway, Penn Hills, Plum, and Shaler.
In addition, Franklin Regional’s wrestling team will now compete in Section 9-3A, while the swimming teams will be vying for victory in Section 1-3A. The changes in sections bring new and exciting opportunities for the Panthers to showcase their skills in these sports.
In another thrilling development, Franklin Regional graduate and Major League Baseball umpire Jeremie Rehak recently made history as part of an all-Black officiating crew. This groundbreaking event took place during a game featuring the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Francisco Giants at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, the oldest baseball park in America. According to The Athletic, this was the first time an all-Black officiating crew had worked a game in the history of the American League and National League.
Rehak, along with crew chief Adrian Johnson, home plate umpire Alan Porter, and fellow umpires C.B. Bucknor and Malachi Moore, made their mark on the historic game. The tribute game, held as a homage to the Negro Leagues, also saw the umpires wearing patches commemorating Emmett Ashford, the first Black MLB umpire. Rehak, who made his MLB umpiring debut in 2018, has been recognized for his significant contribution to the sport and is a source of pride for Franklin Regional.
Moreover, the Franklin Regional wrestling team’s annual summer camp welcomed a star-studded lineup of guest speakers. Arizona State head coach Zeke Jones, Franklin Regional alum and Bucknell assistant Tyler Smith, Panthers alum Michael Kemerer, and Pitt head coach Keith Gavin all shared their expertise with the campers, providing valuable insights and inspiration.
In an additional sports-related development, the Franklin Regional boys volleyball team is hosting open gyms this summer, providing an opportunity for young athletes to improve their skills and build camaraderie.
The changes and achievements across various sports at Franklin Regional indicate an exciting period for the school’s athletic programs. As the teams gear up for the upcoming season, the community eagerly awaits the opportunity to support and cheer on the Panthers as they continue to make their mark in the world of sports.