Erica Gribble
School: Greensburg Central Catholic
Class: Senior
Sport: Basketball
Claim to fame: Gribble became just the seventh girl in Westmoreland County history — 46th in WPIAL girls basketball history — to score 2,000 career points when she poured in 27 in a 65-24 victory over Deer Lakes. The Richmond commit increased her total to 2,028 with another 27-point game in an 89-21 victory over Steel Valley.
What went through your mind when you hit the 3-pointer to reach 2,000 points?
I was excited. It was a testament to all my hard work I put into the game, and I could not have done it without my teammates.
Did you envision getting the milestone on a 3, or another way?
I didn’t think much about the type of shot I would get it on. I thought it was cool that I hit it on a 3-pointer just like how I got my 1,000-point milestone.
Did you ask for the game ball?
No.
Did your phone blow up with congratulatory messages?
Yes, I heard from my family and coaches.
What was the best message?
The best message was from my future head coach at Richmond (Aaron Roussell).
Would you have rather scored your 2,000th at home?
I think it would have been nice to, but either way I am still glad I got it.
Are you glad the chase for the school record and 2,000 points are over and you can focus on team goals more?
Yes. I didn’t put much pressure on myself as I knew they would come. I have been focused on my team from the start.
What did you girls learn from the loss to Shady Side Academy, and what will you have to do better in the rematch?
We need to take care of the basketball better and improve our defense.
Do you feel like GCC and Shady Side have developed a rivalry?
Definitely, we are two very evenly matched and competitive teams.
Is Karis Thomas the best player you have faced this season?
In Florida, we played a very well-rounded team with several D-I girls on it.
What does the team need to work on as the season heads toward the playoffs?
I think we need to work on our defense, communication and taking care of the ball in high-pressure situations.
You have more career (high school) points than your sisters, Alayna and Olivia. Have you taken advantage of the bragging rights?
I don’t think I will get any of the bragging rights until college.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
Focusing on my faith and getting ready for college.
What do you plan to major in at Richmond?
Business.
Any idea what type of NIL deal you might get there?
Yes.
Do you think Mike Tomlin made the right decision to resign?
Yes.
Who is going to win the NBA title and Super Bowl?
Honestly, no idea (but …) San Antonio Spurs and Buffalo Bills.
Michael Ruane
School: Derry
Class: Junior
Sport: Wrestling
Claim to Fame: Ruane defeated Norwin freshman Noah Curran, 11-3, and Penn-Trafford’s Logan Matrisch, 16-3. He owns a 25-3 record. He also won the NursePro Plus tournament and took eighth at Powerade tournament.
How was your season?
We are undefeated as a team. We want to win another WPIAL title. We host Norwin on Wednesday. I see a lot of improvement in myself. Getting big and getting strong has helped me.
What was the key to winning your county title?
Coming into the county tournament I was wrestling well. I was winning, but I was not sharp. I met up with Micky Phillippi and Pitt before the semifinals, and he helped me out a lot with my focus. We worked on a couple things, and it worked in the finals.
Are you related to Penn-Trafford football coach John Ruane?
Yes.
What are your goals?
I want to be top four at PIAAs and win the WPIAL championship.
What are the team goals?
We want to place at states and win the WPIAL title.
How old were you when you started to wrestle?
I was 7 years old. I was coming from football and baseball, and the wrestling coach told me I needed to be on the mat. I placed sixth in the state my first year.
Did you have any memorable moments this season or during your career?
Winning the WPIAL title and the section title last year. During my seventh grade year I was going through a tough time. My coach told me it happens a lot. After his talk I kept working hard. Middle school was rough. I was still eligible to compete at 12U, and I ended up taking fourth.
Do you play any other sport?
I golf for fun.
Is there another sport you wish you could play?
I still wish I could play football and baseball. I miss hitting home runs and hitting people in football.
What is your favorite class?
Algebra 2. I like the concept from not understanding to understanding.
What is special about your school?
Our academics are really good.
Where do you and your teammates head for a snack after practice or a game?
Chipotle or Applebee’s. I get a bowl with white rice. Chicken and shredded cheese at Chipotle and Buffalo bone-in wings at Applebee’s.
What is your favorite meal?
Steak and pasta.
What sport do you enjoy watching?
Wrestle ball, a full-contact sport that combines basketball, rugby and wrestling.
Who is your pick to win in the Super Bowl?
The Patriots.
What is the last movie you watched?
“The Godfather”
What type of music do you listen to?
Hip-hop, rap
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
Hilton Head, S.C.
Where do you hope to visit in the future?
Turks and Caicos.
Where is a place you would like to visit?
Fargo, N.D.
If you were to have lunch or dinner with someone special, who would it be?
Tom Brady. We would talk about how he worked hard and became so great.